Plasma leucocyte elastase concentrations in smokers

Article Abstract:

It is well known that smoking cigarettes increases the risk for chronic lung diseases such as emphysema, which leads to progressive difficulty in breathing. Leukocytes (white blood cells), particularly the type known as neutrophils, appear to play a major role in the process by which smoking damages lung tissue. Leukocytes release an enzyme called leukocyte elastase into the blood, which is thought to be involved in the causation of emphysema. To further investigate the relationships among leukocyte elastase in the blood plasma, smoking habits, and lung function, a study was conducted with 148 white men. Forty were ex- smokers, 72 were current smokers, and 36 had never smoked. All had been followed for 10 years as part of a study of lung function. Leukocyte elastase concentrations in the blood were higher, and lung function was worse (and had declined more quickly over the 10 years) in smokers than in ex-smokers or nonsmokers. Within the group of smokers, however, plasma leukocyte elastase level was not correlated with number of cigarettes smoked per day, the current level of lung function, or the annual decrease in lung function. It is concluded that increased amounts of leukocyte elastase are released from the neutrophils of some male smokers, but more research is needed to identify the mechanism behind this, as the enzyme has been implicated in the development of lung disease. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Risk factors, Lung diseases, Leukocytes, White blood cells, Elastases

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Variations in cotinine levels in smokers during and after pregnancy

Article Abstract:

Cotinine levels in pregnant smokers may be lower than levels in nonpregnant smokers, even when cigarette consumption is the same. Researchers measured cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine, in the saliva of 40 women during and after pregnancy. During pregnancy, the average cotinine level was 3.5 nanograms (ng) per cigarette smoked. After pregnancy, cotinine levels averaged 9.9 ng per cigarette. Standard formulas equating cotinine levels with cigarette consumption may not be accurate when used during pregnancy.

Pregnant women, Smokers, Cotinine

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The effect of ascorbic acid on plasma lipids and oxidizability of LDL in male smokers

Article Abstract:

The study revealed that there is no correlation between ascorbic acid intake and plasma concentration. Neither was there any effect on the oxidizability of low density lipoprotein (LDL). The reasons for this lack of effect may be attributed to the methodology used for determining LDL oxidation and the experimental design. It should be noted, however, that modest quantities of ascorbic acid supplementation can protect against coronary heart disease.

Analysis, Nutritional aspects, Vitamin C, Vitamin C in human nutrition

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