The Inflammatory Relationship Between Hepatitis C Virus With Coronary and Carotid Atherosclerosis.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV), a global health concern, has been linked to various hepatic and extrahepatic deleterious manifestations. Several observational studies have either supported the increased likelihood of coronary and carotid atherosclerosis after infection with HCV or refuted it. To date, there has been no clear consensus to support either train of thought, as randomized, controlled clinical trials have not been completed.

Gastrointestinal permeability in patients with irritable bowel syndrome assessed using a four probe permeability solution.

Background: Abnormal gastrointestinal permeability has been linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The lactulose-to-mannitol ratio is traditionally used to assess small intestine permeability while sucralose and sucrose are used to assess colonic and gastric permeability respectively. We used a single 4-probe test solution to assess permeability throughout the gastrointestinal tract in IBS patients and healthy controls by measuring the recovery of the probes in urine after ingestion using a modified liquid chromatography mass spectrometry protocol.

Stress and gene expression of individuals with chronic abdominal pain.

Background: Research examining the role of stress in gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as chronic abdominal pain (CAP) is controversial. The purpose of this study was to examine the expression of genes involved in metabolic stress and toxicity in men and women with high and low levels of perceived stress with and without CAP.

Methods: Data and samples were collected and the expression of genes involved in metabolic stress and toxicity was analyzed in 26 individuals who had consented to participate in a natural history protocol.