Increased serum levels of ceruloplasmin in severe chronic airflow obstruction.

Serum levels of ceruloplasmin were investigated in 20 patients with severe chronic airflow obstruction (CAO) and emphysematous changes, but in whom no acute exacerbation was present. For comparison, 20 age- and sex-matched controls with a similar current tobacco consumption were investigated. Also 20 age- and sex-matched non-smoking controls were investigated.

Eye symptoms and signs in buildings with indoor climate problems ('office eye syndrome').

Break-up time measurements and Lissamine green staining were performed on 169 office workers in 4 town halls in Copenhagen where the occupants complained about the indoor air quality. In a questionnaire investigation one year before the study it was found that 25% of all the employees had eye irritation several times a week. A statistically significant association (P less than 0.

Increased serum levels of alpha-2-macroglobulin in severe chronic airflow obstruction.

Serum levels of alpha-2-macroglobulin, the major proteinase inhibitor besides alpha-1-antitrypsin, were investigated in 20 patients with severe Chronic Airflow Obstruction (CAO), as compared to 20 age- and sex-matched controls. Alpha-2-macroglobulin was assessed by rocket immuno-electrophoresis, and alpha-1-antitrypsin by a laser-nephelometric method. All patients had spirometric values determined, including diffusing capacity.

[Assay of free urinary cortisol by inverted phase liquid chromatography and radiocompetition. Reference values in adults].

The authors present an assay method for free urinary cortisol using inverted phase liquid chromatography for purification and radiocompetition for the assay. The usual values for adult men and women were established. The results of 150 routine assays were compared with those of 17 OHCS, revealing the value of this assay.

Trypsin-inhibitory activities of acid-stable fragments of the inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor in inflammatory and uraemic conditions.

The concentration in serum of the acid-stable Mr 30.000 fragment of the Inter-alpha-Trypsin Inhibitor (SPI), and the acid-stable Mr 14.000 fragment of the inhibitor prepared by trypsin by digestion of the acid-precipitated serum proteins (API) was determined.