Glucose absorption and production following oral glucose: comparison of compartmental and arteriovenous-difference methods.

Both whole-body models and the regional arteriovenous (AV)-difference method have been used to calculate systemic glucose rates of appearance (Ras) under non-steady-state conditions. Although whole-body models have been experimentally validated in the dog, direct comparison of the whole-body and regional-balance approach has not been made in man. We reanalyzed published data obtained by combining the double-tracer technique ([3H]glucose infusion with ingestion of a [14C]glucose-labeled load) with hepatic vein catheterization.

Heart rate spectral analysis for assessing autonomic regulation in diabetic patients.

Spectral analysis of the R-R variability signal has been used for assessing the autonomic regulation of heart rate in control subjects and in diabetic patients affected by autonomic neuropathy. Modifications of the parasympathetic-sympathetic balance following postural changes, as observed in normal subjects, were not significant in autonomic patients. In addition, the overall reduction of power occurring in diabetics at all frequencies indicates the impairment of both autonomic components.

Diagnostic factors in pediatric primary headache.

Primary headaches are frequent in children. They are difficult to diagnose because there is much disagreement about the interpretation of the historical data and the use of signs and/or symptoms in diagnosis. It would be useful, therefore, to standardize this procedure.