New method for simultaneous determination of dissolved organic carbon and its stable carbon isotope ratio in liquid samples: environmental applications.

This study reports the development of an all-in-one elemental analyser isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA-IRMS) system modified for simultaneous analysis of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration and its stable carbon isotope footprint (C) in aqueous samples. The method involves a quantitative oxidation of DOC in a 200 µL liquid sample to CO, after sample acidification and stripping by nitrogen. The detection limit of the method for DOC quantification was 0.

Helicobacter pylori infection diagnosis in hospitalised elderly patients: the stool antigen test (HpSA) in comparison with other methods.

Background And Aims: Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection prevalence increases with age. In elderly patients, who often do not collaborate and who are affected by multiple pathologies, worldwide-recognised invasive and non-invasive methods (histology and Urea Breath Test) are not easy to apply. A new test based on the detection of Hp antigens in the stool (HpSA test) is now available.

Incidence of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension after pulmonary embolism.

Background: Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTPH) is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Its incidence after pulmonary embolism and associated risk factors are not well documented.

Methods: We conducted a prospective, long-term, follow-up study to assess the incidence of symptomatic CTPH in consecutive patients with an acute episode of pulmonary embolism but without prior venous thromboembolism.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in elderly subjects: impact on functional status and quality of life.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an important cause of morbidity and disability. Many studies have investigated factors influencing quality of life (QoL) in middle-aged COPD sufferers, but little attention has been given to elderly COPD. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of COPD on QoL and functional status in the elderly.