Increased vagal modulation in atopic dermatitis.

Background: Atopic dermatitis has been shown to be associated with neurogenic and psychosocial factors. In related atopic diseases such as rhinitis or asthma, a shift in autonomic balance towards a parasympathetic modulation has been described. On the other hand, the psychiatric symptoms known for atopic dermatitis are often associated with decreased vagal modulation.

Influence of foscarnet on HIV-associated Kaposi's sarcoma derived cell lines.

Recent reports showed a positive therapeutic effect of foscarnet on Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) in HIV-positive patients. We investigated the therapeutic effect of foscarnet on KS-derived cell lines. Three KS spindle cell cultures of HIV-positive patients as well three fibroblast cell cultures of HIV-positive as HIV-negative patients were established.

Cytokine profile of HIV-positive Kaposi's sarcoma derived cells in vitro.

Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is the most frequent neoplastic complication observed in HIV-infected patients. Cutaneous KS is the most common manifestation but visceral and lymph node involvement may occur. HIV-infection does not only lead to a decrease of certain cell types (CD4 T-lymphocytes), but also modifies the function of non-infected cells such as B-lymphocytes and NK-cells by upregulating cytokine release of IL-1, IL-6, GM-CSF, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha.

Effects of antipsoriatic therapies on hepatic microsomal enzyme activity in patients with psoriasis.

Objective: The influence of several antipsoriatic therapies on microsomal enzyme activity was assessed by comparing measurements of antipyrine kinetics prior to and two weeks after initiation of therapy.

Methods: Serum and urine analysis was carried out by means of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Each form of therapy was examined separately.