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Biomedical subjects

C Beglinger

Publications and source records attributed to C Beglinger.

At least 127 records · Page 7Linked to original sources
PubMed1995

Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in infants and family contacts in a poor Bangladesh community.

Although H. pylori is well established as an etiological agent of type B gastritis and a predisposing factor for peptic ulcer, knowledge about its transmission is unclear. In this study we examined the prevalence of H. pylori infection in the family members of index infants infected with this organism as indicated by positive [13C]-urea breath test (UBT). We performed UBT among family members of 15 predominantly breastfed infants, eight with and seven without H. pylori infection. Infection rates were 82% and 91% in family contacts of the infected and noninfected infants respectively, the average infection rate being 85%, which is rated to be high. There was no difference in infection rates among the parents of the infected and noninfected infants. Fifty percent and 70% families belonging to infected and noninfected infants, respectively, were found to have all members infected with H. pylori. No evidence of sex predilection of infection was found. We conclude that in communities with high prevalence of H. pylori infection, there is almost an equal infection rate among the family contacts of infected and noninfected infants, suggesting that environmental factors may be more important than intrafamilial transmission.

Adult↗
PubMed1995

Gastrointestinal motor and secretory responses to cholinergic stimulation in humans. Differential modulation by muscarinic and cholecystokinin receptor blockade.

The present study investigated how a cholinergic agonist modifies interdigestive motility and secretion of the upper gastrointestinal tract and how muscarinic and cholecystokinin receptor blockade interfere with this direct cholinergic stimulation. In eight healthy volunteers, gastrointestinal motor and secretory responses to bethanechol (12.5, 25, and 50 micrograms kg-1 h-1) with and without a background of atropine (5 micrograms kg-1 h-1) or loxiglumide (10 mg kg-1 h-1) were studied. Stepdoses of bethanechol caused a parallel stimulation of antroduodenal motility and gastropancreatic secretion (P < 0.01) without inducing a fed pattern. However, duration of phase I was shortened (P < 0.05). Only high doses of bethanechol enhanced gastrin (P < 0.05), cholecystokinin (P < 0.05), and pancreatic polypeptide (P < 0.01) release. Atropine completely antagonized motor and secretory responses to cholinergic stimulation. Loxiglumide left cholinergically stimulated motility and pancreatic enzyme secretion unaltered. With co-infusion of bethanechol and loxiglumide, PP release dropped by 63% (P < 0.01); gastric acid output, gastrin and CCK release increased by 56%, 16%, and 25%, respectively (P < 0.05). We conclude that stimulation by a cholinergic agonist preserves the interdigestive pattern. Low dose muscarinic receptor blockade abolishes cholinergic stimulation over the full dose range. Inhibition of somatostatin release would explain stimulation of gastrin release and gastric acid secretion with co-infusion of bethanechol and loxiglumide. Endogenous CCK appears to interact with direct cholinergic stimulation at the pancreatic PP cell and the gastric D-cell but not at pancreatic acinar and antroduodenal smooth muscle cells.

Adult↗
PubMed1995

Influence of age, gender, hormonal status and smoking habits on colonic transit time.

The factors that influence colonic transit time in healthy humans are not yet clearly defined. The aim of this study was therefore to determine (a) if there are differences in colonic transit time between men and women and (b) if age, female hormonal status or smoking habits are associated with alterations in these parameters. Colonic transit time was measured in 164 asymptomatic subjects (80 males, 84 females) by a radio-opaque marker technique with one single plain abdominal X-ray. Colonic transit time was significantly shorter in men than in women (30 +/- 2 vs. 42 +/- 3 h, P < 0.05). Colonic transit time in non-smoking males was significantly shorter compared with smoking males (26 +/- 2 vs. 40 +/- 5 h, P < 0.05). In females only height and menstrual cycle influenced colonic transit times. We conclude that gender and smoking habits should be considered when studying colonic transit time in health and disease.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1995

Plasma secretin determination as a test of gastric acid secretion: effect of a marker perfusion technique on validation.

OBJECTIVE: To examine whether plasma secretin levels can be used as a diagnostic measure of gastric acid output. METHODS: A marker perfusion technique was used to quantify gastric acid output. Blood samples were drawn for secretin radioimmunoassay at specified intervals before and after pentagastrin stimulation in six healthy volunteers and six patients suspected of having abnormal gastric acid secretion. RESULTS: Linear relationships were found between integrated secretin response and maximal acid output as well as between peak acid output and acid output at 2 h (P < 0.01). Similar correlations were also observed with secretin levels 52, 60 and 68 min after pentagastrin stimulation. Discrimination between low, average and high gastric acid secretors was possible at 52 and 60 min after stimulation. Plasma secretin did not increase after pentagastrin stimulation in the 12 subjects when acid was continually aspirated, nor did correction for gastric acid loss improve the correlation or discrimination. CONCLUSION: One or two measurements of plasma secretin about 1 h after pentagastrin administration may provide a useful quantitative estimate of gastric secretory capacity for epidemiological or clinical purposes.

Gastric Acid↗
PubMed1994

Effects of BIM26226, a potent and specific bombesin receptor antagonist, on amylase release and binding of bombesin-like peptides to AR4-2J cells.

Using AR4-2J rat pancreatic carcinoma cells, the effects of a novel bombesin (BN) receptor antagonist [D-F5Phe6, D-Ala11]BN(6-13)OMe (BIM26226) on BN- or GRP-stimulated amylase release and binding of radio-labeled bombesin-like peptides to these cells were examined and compared to [D-Phe6,Leu13 psi(CH2NH)Leu14]BN(6-14) (Psi Bn(6-14)), one of the most potent BN receptor antagonists presently known. BN and GRP both stimulated amylase release with EC50 values in the nanomolar range. Both antagonists were devoid of agonist activity when tested alone. BIM26226 was most potent, antagonizing BN- or GRP-stimulated amylase release with IC50 values in the nanomolar range, whereas Psi Bn(6-14) was approximately ten times less potent. With 125I-[Tyr15]GRP bound to these cells, the binding affinities were BIM26226 > GRP > Psi Bn(6-14) >> neuromedin B. BIM 22626 was not able to inhibit binding of radio-labeled CCK-33, gastrin-17 or VIP. These results suggest that BIM26226 is one of the most potent and specific bombesin receptor antagonists in vitro and seems to be a useful tool to define the physiologic role of GRP in vivo.

Amylases↗
PubMed1994

[Helicobacter pylori resistance against metronidazole in Switzerland: implications for eradication therapy?].

Gastroduodenal ulcers are strongly associated with Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection. Successful eradication drastically diminishes ulcer recurrence. Most of the eradication schemes include metronidazole (Flagyl). The present study was designed to establish the metronidazole resistance rate in Switzerland. Antral biopsies were taken in 153 patients with suspected ulcers (115 men, 38 women, mean age 46 +/- 16 [SD] years) during upper endoscopy for bacteriological testing. Metronidazole resistance (> 8 micrograms/ml) was found in 47/153 (31%) of the isolates. Resistance was found in no case to amoxicillin (Clamoxyl) (0/104 = 0%) and only in 3% (2/66) to clarithromycin (Klazid). Metronidazole resistance of HP in a third of the isolates studied is comparable to numbers found in other European countries. These findings raise the question whether eradication schemes including metronidazole without prior sensitivity testing are justified. Amoxicillin and clarithromycin appear to be valid alternatives.

Adult↗
PubMed1994

[Endoscopic findings in volunteers and dyspeptic patients].

Although more than a fourth of the adult population reports dyspeptic complaints, little is known about the prevalence of clinically relevant UGI endoscopic findings in these patients in comparison with asymptomatic volunteers. This type of information is required in order to assess the relative risks of organic dyspepsia and the sensitivity and specificity of dyspeptic complaints for peptic lesions. In an attempt to fill this gap, the authors compared two trials carried out in the German-speaking part of Switzerland: (a.) 172 adult asymptomatic volunteers (age 20-78 years, 74 females, 98 males) participated in an epidemiological trial to measure the prevalence of positive CLO-urease tests and of upper GI-tract lesions. (b.) 119 patients (age 18-84 years; 68 females, 51 males) consulting their family doctor because of upper digestive symptoms of at least 1 month's duration (epigastric pain or discomfort, heartburn, acid regurgitation, early satiety, bloating, etc.) were referred for UGI endoscopy as a screening procedure; functional dyspeptics were thereafter randomized to a double blind drug trial (not reported here). In both trials the gastric presence of Helicobacter pylori was measured by means of the CLO-urease test. Prevalences of lesions and of positive urease-tests in the dyspeptic population were compared with the sex and age adjusted prevalences registered in the control population.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Adolescent↗
PubMed1994

[The colon-J-pouch anal reconstruction following total rectum resection: functional aspects].

Coloanal reconstruction is a sphincter saving operation following total rectal resection to treat rectal cancer 3 to 11 cm above the dentate line. Total rectal resection in this situation is justified from the oncological and surgical viewpoint because the local recurrence rate and morbidity are not different from the "gold standard", abdominoperineal resection sacrificing the anal sphincter. Although patients undergoing straight coloanal reconstruction preserve continence, they are often disturbed by high stool frequencies and imperative urge. We set out to establish whether construction of a colon-j-pouch could ameliorate the quality of defecation and thus prove useful. In this study the pre- and postoperative results of a pilot study with 4 consecutive patients following colon-j-pouch-anal reconstruction are presented. Perioperatively, 3 of 4 patients suffered from intermittent disturbances of urinary voiding. Sexual function was disturbed in 3 of 4 patients. All patients were completely continent. The preliminary results showed a decreased sphincter pressure at rest of 40 mm Hg (SD: 5) and a normal squeeze pressure. Endoanal ultrasound demonstrated a normal anal sphincter morphology. Pouch compliance yielded 4.7 ml/cm H2O and was better than after straight coloanal reconstruction in the control group (2.8 ml/cm H2O). The stool frequency at 6 months was 3/24 hours without imperative urge. The colon transit time lasted 49 hours and was in the normal range. No pouch evacuation disorders were observed. These results show a minimal morbidity in colon-j-pouch-anal reconstruction with preservation of complete continence in the follow-up time.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Adult↗
PubMed1994

Two molecular forms of peptide YY (PYY) are abundant in human blood: characterization of a radioimmunoassay recognizing PYY 1-36 and PYY 3-36.

Two endogenous forms of PYY are abundant in man and dog, PYY 1-36 (PYY-I) and PYY 3-36 (PYY-II). PYY-II is a major molecular form of PYY in human colon, but it is not known, whether PYY-II is also released into the circulating blood. Several radioimmunoassays for measuring PYY-I in plasma have been developed, but it has not been reported, whether they equally detect PYY-II. We characterize a radioimmunoassay for measuring PYY in human plasma which equally recognizes PYY-I and PYY-II. Using this radioimmunoassay and reversed phase HPLC we demonstrate the existence of two forms of PYY in human blood, coeluting with synthetic PYY-I and PYY-II.

Adult↗
PubMed1994

[The value of shockwave lithotripsy].

The standard treatment for symptomatic cholecystolithiasis remains surgery, the present method of choice being laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Noninvasive treatment options are available, but should be restricted to selected cases. Extracorporal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is an alternative to noninvasive treatment, provided the patients are carefully selected. The main disadvantages include prolonged administration of gall salts and the problem of stone recurrence.

Bile Acids and Salts↗
PubMed1994

Effect of cholecystokinin on gastric motility in humans.

Gastric emptying after food ingestion is regulated by neural and hormonal factors. However, the relative contributions of each pathway is not yet clearly defined. The classic gut hormone CCK seems to be involved in the regulation of gastric emptying in humans. Experimental evidence is best for gastric emptying of liquid meals that release CCK from the duodenum: (1) CCK infused at postprandial plasma concentrations inhibits gastric emptying of a liquid and a semisolid meal. (2) Administration of the CCK antagonist loxiglumide significantly accelerated gastric emptying of a liquid mixed meal and a glucose meal. Discrepant results with the antagonist MK329 are difficult to explain considering the marked acceleration of gastric emptying rates by the specific and potent antagonist MK329 shown in several animal studies. Taken together, current information favors the conclusion, however, that CCK mainly controls gastric emptying of the liquid but not the solid components. Thus, CCK is involved in the physiologic regulation of gastric emptying and gastric motility in man. Blocking CCK-A receptors accelerates gastric emptying of liquid meals and abolishes the gastrocolonic reflex. Therefore, CCK may play a role as a common regulator of postprandial gallbladder contraction and pancreatic enzyme secretion as well as of gastric emptying rates under certain conditions. Such common control would optimize the nutrient-to-digestive juices concentration ratio. The importance of endogenous CCK on gastric emptying of solid meals, however, is poorly understood and remains to be defined. Only very limited information is available on gastric motility. Much more work has to be done before a clear concept can be developed.

Benzodiazepinones↗
PubMed1994

[Helicobacter and peptic ulcer: history, diagnosis and therapy--when, in whom and how?].

The pathogenesis of peptic ulcer disease is complex. It is associated with a spiral organism, Helicobacter pylori, which induces chronic gastritis. The evidence for a causal association between H. pylori and peptic ulcer disease stems primarily from the observation that eradication therapy with bismuth and various antibiotics may produce normalization of gastritis and possible cure of ulcer disease. The prevalence of H. pylori infection and potential implications for therapy are discussed. Who should undergo eradication therapy, and how? The problem remains that--despite the fact that a cure is possible--no simple therapy is available.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗
PubMed1994

Gastric emptying of liquid meals measured noninvasively in humans with [13C]acetate breath test.

The aim of the present study was to develop a breath test to measure liquid gastric emptying rates that would be without radiation exposure and applicable to field testing. Four different test meals were investigated: a glucose meal, an amino acid meal, a fat meal, and a mixed meal (Ensure). The test meals were labeled with two markers, [13C]acetate and PEG-4000 (polyethylene glycol 4000). Gastric emptying rates were measured simultaneously by both breath test and the double-indicator technique in eight healthy male subjects. The appearance of 13CO2 in the breath closely reflected gastric emptying of the four test meals as measured by the double-indicator technique. It is concluded that the [13C]acetate breath test is a reliable, noninvasive test to measure gastric emptying rates of liquid test meals.

Acetates↗
PubMed1994

Effect of intravenous human gastrin-releasing peptide on food intake in humans.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Bombesin and gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) are closely related peptides. Both have been proposed to serve as a satiety signal in animals. METHODS: To explore further the role of GRP in humans, its effects on satiety and eating behavior were investigated by infusion of GRP into healthy men at three dosages (10, 40, and 160 pmol/kg per hour) and compared with saline infusions. RESULTS: GRP produced a significant reduction in calorie intake (P < 0.05) but only a 19% (nonsignificant) reduction in food intake. Fluid ingestion was not affected by GRP. No overt side effects were produced by GRP, but subjects experienced d less hunger and early fullness in the premeal period during GRP infusion but not when receiving saline (P < 0.05-0.01). CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that intravenous infusions of GRP can decrease spontaneous food intake at concentrations that produce physiological effects, such as stimulation of acid or pancreatic secretion or gallbladder contraction. The data imply that GRP-like peptides can act as satiety signals in humans, confirming data previously reported in animals.

Adult↗
PubMed1994

Platelets in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease express functional interleukin-1 and interleukin-8 receptors.

Tissue and plasma concentrations of several cytokines are increased in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Platelets play an important role in inflammation and circulate in an activated state in patients with IBD. This study assesses the expression of IL-8 and IL-1 receptors on the surface of platelets from patients with IBD using phycoerythrin (PE)-labelled recombinant human rhIL-1 beta and rhIL-8 and flow cytometry. The percentage IL-1R expressing platelets (median and interquartile range IQR) in the IBD group was 8.7% (5.5-18.2) compared to 4.2% (2.3-6.1) in controls (P = 0.02). The percentage IL-8R expressing platelets in the IBD group was 22.5% (16.5-27.9) and 9.2% (4.3-9.6) in controls (P < 0.001). Furthermore, platelet IL-1R expression in patients with IBD was inversely related to the total daily dose of steroids (r = 0.71, P < 0.01 linear regression analysis). Finally, platelet rich plasma from healthy controls was stimulated with rhIL-1 beta and rhIL-8 and assessed for activation dependent expression of platelet aGPIIb/IIIa and CD62 (p-selectin, GMP-140). IL-1 beta and IL-8 in vitro significantly and specifically activated the platelets. The surface membrane of platelets is able to express functional IL-1R and IL-8R, the expression of which is significantly increased in IBD. Interleukin-1 beta and IL-8 modulate platelet activation in vitro indicating a target role for platelet function in inflammation.

Adolescent↗