Change in C-reactive protein levels and FEV1 decline: a longitudinal population-based study.

Reduced pulmonary function is an important predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms underlying this association are unknown but may involve systemic inflammation. We assessed the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1) and its decline in the general population, over a period of 8.

Maternal atopy and changes in parity.

Background: Atopic women tend to have fewer children, although atopy may favour conception.

Objective: To assess whether atopy is associated with the number of new births and whether changes in parity are associated with a change in atopy in a cohort of young women.

Methods: Women had atopy (defined as the presence of serum-specific IgE against common aeroallergens) measured in the European Community Respiratory Health Study during the years 1991--92 (n=4580).

UV-vis, IR and 1H NMR spectroscopic studies of some mono- and bis-azo-compounds based on 2,7-dihydroxynaphthalene and aniline derivatives.

The absorption spectra of mono- and bis-azo-derivatives obtained by coupling the diazonium salts of aromatic amines and 2,7-dihydroxynaphthalene have been studied in six organic solvents. The different absorption bands have been assigned and the effect of solvents on the charge transfer band is also discussed. The diagnostic IR spectral bands and 1H NMR signals are assigned and discussed in relation to molecular structure.

Do African immigrants living in France have long-term malarial immunity?

Among populations living in areas endemic for malaria, repeated parasite exposure leads to a gradual increase in protective immunity to the disease. In contrast, this immunity is assumed to disappear after several years of non-exposure. This study was designed to investigate long-term immunity in subjects removed from the risk of exposure.

Association of bronchial hyperresponsiveness and lung function with C-reactive protein (CRP): a population based study.

Background: C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of systemic inflammation, is a powerful predictor of adverse cardiovascular events. Respiratory impairment is also associated with cardiovascular risk. Although some studies have found an inverse relationship between lung function and markers of systemic inflammation, only one study has reported a relationship between lung function and CRP levels.