bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A reanalysis for the seasonal and longer‐period cycles and the trends in middle‐atmosphere temperature from the Halogen Occultation Experiment
Authors: Remsberg Ellis E.
Published: May 2007

Remsberg and Deaver (2005) reported on multiple linear regression (MLR) analyses of time series of middle‐atmosphere temperature versus pressure (or T(p)) profiles from the Halogen Occultation Experiment (HALOE) for its seasonal and longer‐period cycles. Their results are extended herein to just over 14 years and updated to properly account for the effects of autocorrelation in their time series of zonally averaged data. The updated seasonal and annual average terms are provided, and they can be used to generate near‐global, temperature distributions from 2 to 0.007 hPa that are representative of the period 1991–2005. Quasi‐biennial oscillation (QBO‐like; 853‐day) and subbiennial (640‐day) terms are also resolved and provided, and they exhibit good consistency across the range of latitudes and pressure altitudes. Further, somewhat exploratory analyses of the residuals from each of the 208 time series yield significant 11‐year solar cycle (or SC‐like) and linear trend terms at a number of latitudes and levels. Where significant, those terms are included in the final MLR models. The amplitudes of the SC‐like terms for the mesosphere agree reasonably with calculations of the direct solar radiative effects for T(p). Those SC‐like amplitudes increase by about a factor of 2 from the lower to the upper mesosphere and are larger at the middle than at the low latitudes. The diagnosed T(p) cooling trends from HALOE for the low latitudes are in the range of −0.5 to −1.0 K/decade, which is in good agreement with the findings from models of the radiative effects on pressure surfaces due to known increases in atmospheric CO2. The diagnosed HALOE trends are somewhat larger than those predicted with models for middle latitudes of the upper mesosphere. Cooling trends also are found to be increasing from about −0.5 to −1.0 K/decade from 1 to 2 hPa of the upper stratosphere, also in reasonable agreement with modeled results.
Observational estimates of radiative forcing due to land use change in southwest Australia
Authors: Nair Udaysankar S. , Ray Deepak K. , Wang Jun , Christopher Sundar A. , Lyons Tom J. , Welch Ronald M. , Pielke R. A.
Published: May 2007

Radiative forcing associated with land use change is largely derived from global circulation models (GCM), and the accuracy of these estimates depends on the robustness of the vegetation characterization used in the GCMs. In this study, we use observations from the Clouds and Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) instrument on board the Terra satellite to report top‐of‐the‐atmosphere (TOA) radiative forcing values associated with clearing of native vegetation for agricultural purposes in southwest Australia. Over agricultural areas, observations show consistently higher shortwave fluxes at the TOA compared to native vegetation, especially during the time period between harvest and planting. Estimates using CERES observations show that over a specific area originally covered by native vegetation, replacement of half the area by croplands results in a diurnally averaged shortwave radiative forcing of approximately −7 W m−2. GCM‐derived estimates for areas with 30% or more croplands range from −1 to −2 W m−2 compared to observational estimate of −4.2 W m−2, thus significantly underestimating radiative forcing due to land use change by a factor of 2 or more. Two potential reasons for this underestimation are incorrect specification of the multiyear land use change scenario and the inaccurate prescription of seasonal cycles of crops in GCMs.
Substitutional B in Si: Accurate lattice parameter determination
Authors: Bisognin G. , De Salvador D. , Napolitani E. , Berti M. , Carnera A. , Mirabella S. , Romano L. , Grimaldi M. G. , Priolo F.
Published: May 2007

In this work the lattice deformation induced by substitutional B in Si is carefully determined by using different experimental techniques. The investigated Si1−xBx∕Si layers x=(0.0012÷0.005) are grown by solid phase epitaxy of B-implanted preamorphized Si and by molecular beam epitaxy. Nuclear reaction analysis both in random and in channeling geometry, secondary ion mass spectrometry and high resolution x-ray diffraction allow to quantify the total amount of B and its lattice location, the B depth profile and the B-doped Si lattice parameter, respectively. The reasons for the large spread present in the data reported so far in literature are discussed. Our results, thanks to the synergy of the earlier techniques, lead to a significantly more accurate strain determination, that is in agreement with very recent ab initio theoretical calculations.
Density steepening formation in the interaction of microwave field with a plasma
Authors: Niknam A. R. , Shokri B.
Published: May 2007

A modification of the electron density distribution of an unmagnetized plasma by the ponderomotive force of high-power microwave propagating into the plasma is studied. Using the Maxwell and fluid equations, nonlinear differential and integral equations for the electric field are obtained. The solution of these nonlinear equations shows that the profiles of the electric and magnetic field depart slightly from a sinusoidal shape, the amplitude of oscillations decreases in the plasma, and these oscillations become lengthened. Also, the period of oscillations decreases by increasing the microwave energy flux and the electron density becomes highly steepened for high microwave energy flux. Furthermore, the axial density profile shows a stationary density modulation that is phase-shifted with respect to the wave amplitude. This density modulation increases with the microwave energy flux.
Probing the aging effect in metallic polypyrrole by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy
Authors: Jeon Tae-In , Son Joo-Hiuk , Menon Reghu
Published: May 2007

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy has been carried out on a metallic film of polypyrrole (PPy doped by PF6). The sample was exposed to air to investigate how the conductivity of the film varies as a function of time. The absorption and dispersion of the film decrease during initial days, and then tend to saturate. The conductivity of unaged sample follows the Drude model, and upon aging the data fit to the localization-modified Drude model. The fitting parameters show that the number of charge carriers decreases during the aging process. The initial rapid decrease in conductivity suggests that some of the delocalized carriers are localized due to aging.
Demonstrated transparent mode in nested wire arrays used for dynamic hohlraum Z pinches
Authors: Sanford T. W. L. , Cuneo M. E. , Bliss D. E. , Jennings C. A. , Mock R. C. , Nash T. J. , Stygar W. A. , Waisman E. M. , Chittenden J. P. , Haines M. G. , Peterson D. L.
Published: May 2007

The mass of the outer and inner wire array used to drive the baseline dynamic hohlraum (DH) with pedestal target [Sanford et al., Phys. Plasmas 13, 012701 (2006)] is reversed in order to determine if the nested wire array is operating in a hydrodynamic, or transparent-like mode [J. Davis et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 70, 170 (1997)], when the outer array arrives at the radius of the inner array. In contrast to the baseline, mass reversal allows the modes to be distinguished by the difference in the timing of characteristic features of the x-ray radiation pulses in the two modes. For the reversed-mass DH, all parameters such as wire number, array radii, and target remained the same, except the diameters of the individual wires were adjusted to reverse the array masses. Measurements show unambiguously that the reversed-mass DH operates in a transparent-like mode, the outer array passing through the inner array with limited collisional interaction. Numerical simulations in the r-θ plane suggest that the underlying physics of the outer array collision with the inner between the two DHs (baseline and reversed-mass), remains similar, implying that the baseline also operates with transparency. Inflection in the rate of change of the current is measured 4–7ns after the radiation signal and is associated with the outer-inner array interaction, indicating that the rear portion of the resulting plasma shell of the outer array carries the current prior to the collision. Numerical simulations together with analytic theory describe probable dynamics of the current switching from the outer to inner array.
The influence of electron irradiation on electron holography of focused ion beam milled GaAs p-n junctions
Authors: Cooper David , Twitchett-Harrison Alison C. , Midgley Paul A. , Dunin-Borkowski Rafal E.
Published: May 2007

Electron beam irradiation is shown to significantly influence phase images recorded from focused ion beam milled GaAs p-n junction specimens examined using off-axis electron holography in the transmission electron microscope. Our results show that the use of improved electrical connections to the specimen overcomes this problem, and may allow the correct built in potential across the junction to be recovered.
Continuously broken ergodicity
Authors: Mauro John C. , Gupta Prabhat K. , Loucks Roger J.
Published: May 2007

A system that is initially ergodic can become nonergodic, i.e., display “broken ergodicity,” if the relaxation time scale of the system becomes longer than the observation time over which properties are measured. The phenomenon of broken ergodicity is of vital importance to the study of many condensed matter systems. While previous modeling efforts have focused on systems with a sudden, discontinuous loss of ergodicity, they cannot be applied to study a gradual transition between ergodic and nonergodic behavior. This transition range, where the observation time scale is comparable to that of the structural relaxation process, is especially pertinent for the study of glass transition range behavior, as ergodicity breaking is an inherently continuous process for normal laboratory glass formation. In this paper, we present a general statistical mechanical framework for modeling systems with continuously broken ergodicity. Our approach enables the direct computation of entropy loss upon ergodicity breaking, accounting for actual transition rates between microstates and observation over a specified time interval. In contrast to previous modeling efforts for discontinuously broken ergodicity, we make no assumptions about phase space partitioning or confinement. We present a hierarchical master equation technique for implementing our approach and apply it to two simple one-dimensional landscapes. Finally, we demonstrate the compliance of our approach with the second and third laws of thermodynamics.
Dinkies' and Housewives: The Regulation of Shopping Hours
Authors: Thum Marcel , Weichenrieder Alfons
Published: May 2007

The idea of deregulating shopping hours brings strong opposition from many groups in the society. Surprisingly, even many consumers oppose deregulation. The paper rationalizes this behavior by considering heterogeneous consumers who differ in their earnings abilities. If a majority of families has two income earners, long opening hours become essential and the regulation of shopping hours tends to be eliminated. If most families are single income households, the regulation may be imposed in order to keep prices low. Taking the repercussions on the labor supply decision into account, multiple equilibria can be explained.

Die Liberalisierung der Ladenöffnungszeiten ruft Widerstand in verschiedenen Gesellschaftsgrup‐pen hervor. Überraschenderweise sprechen sich sogar Konsumenten oft gegen eine Liberalisierung aus. Der Aufsatz erklärt dieses Verhalten, indem auf die Heterogenität der Konsumenten hinsichtlich ihres Erwerbsverhaltens abgestellt wird. Überwiegen im politischen Entscheidungsprozess Doppelverdienerhaushalte, für die längere Öffnungszeiten wichtig sind, wird eine bestehende Regulierung tendenziell eliminiert. Falls jedoch Haushalte mit nur einem Erwerbstätigen dominieren, wird die Regulierung aufrechterhalten, urn die Konsumentenpreise niedrig zu halten. Berücksichtigt man die Rückwirkungen unterschiedlicher Regulierungen auf die Arbeitsangebots‐entscheidung, so lassen sich multiple Gleichgewichte erklären.

La libéralisation des heures d'ouverture des magasins se heurte à un mouvement d'opposition au sein de différents groupes sociaux. Surprenant est que měme des consommateurs se prononcent contre la libéralisation. Cet essai explique ce comportement en considérant l'hétérogénéité des consommateurs quant à leur possibilityé de revenus. Si les foyers, alimentés par deux salaires, pour lesquels un prolongement des heures d'ouverture est important, forment la majorité dans le processus de décision politique, on tendra àéliminer le règlement en vigueur. Par contre, au cas où les foyers avec un seul salaire dominent, on conservera le règlement pour maintenir les prix bas. Prend on en compte les effets des différents règlements sur la décision de l'offre de l'emploi, on peut ainsi mettre en évidence de multiples équilibres.
The Economics of Religious Participation: A Cross‐country Study
Authors: Smith Ian , Sawkins John W. , Seaman Paul T.
Published: May 2007

Levels of participation in organized religion differ markedly across countries, a stylized fact which has resisted a general theoretical explanation. The claim of this paper is that the international variation in religious attendance can be understood in terms of systematic differences in socio‐economic variables. In particular, national religious participation is modelled as a function of investment in religious human capital, social interactions and religious market structure. Using data for eighteen countries derived from the religious questionnaire of the International Social Survey Programme, the empirical significance of these variables is demonstrated by estimating simple regression equations.

Es wird allgemein angenommen, dass sich die Teilnahme an kirchlichen Aktivitäten von Land zu Land unterscheidet. Für diese Annahme gibt es gegenwärtig keine überzeugende theoretische Erklärung. Dieser Artikel analysiert die Unterschiede in der Teilnahme an kirchlichen Aktivitäten anhand sozio‐ökonomischer Variablen. Nationale Unterschiede in der Religionspartizipation können vor allem durch unterschiedliche Investitionen in das religiöse Humankapital, unterschiedliche soziale Interaktionen und Unterschiede in der Struktur des Religionsmarktes erklärt werden. Mit Hilfe von einfachen Regressionsmodellen werden Daten aus 18 Ländern, die aus Fragebögen des International Social Survey Programme stammen, ausgewertet, um die empirische Signifikanz dieser Variablen zu untermauern.

Les niveaux de participation è une religion organisée different de fçon marquée entre lea pays, fait particulier qui échappe è des explications théoriques d'ordre général. Cette étude aboutit è la conclusion que les variations internationales en matière de participation religieuse peuvent se comprendre en termes des différences systématiques qui existent dans les variables socio‐économiques. En particulier, la participation religieuse nationale est modelée comme étant une fonction de l'investissement dans le capital humain religieu, les interactions sociales et la structure du marché religieu. A partir d'informations provenant de dix‐huit pays, tirées du questionnaire religieu élaboré par le Programme international d'ttude sociale, la signification empirique de ces variables est démontrée en estimant de simples équations de régression.
Oxford Miniature Vaporiser output with reversed gas flows
Authors: Donovan A. , Perndt H.
Published: May 2007

This study was undertaken to investigate and calibrate the isoflurane output of an Oxford Miniature Vaporiser (OMV) draw‐over vaporiser with reversed gas flows. Plenum or Boyles type machines have gas flowing left to right through the apparatus. Draw over anaesthesia systems, in contrast, traditionally have the carrier gas, air plus oxygen, flowing right to left through the vaporiser. There are a number of variations in the external design of the OMV vaporiser: 1) a back bar mounted draw‐over vaporiser with 23‐mm taper and left to right gas flow, 2) the Tri‐Service with 22‐mm taper and left to right gas flow, and 3) the traditional draw‐over OMV with right to left gas flow with a variety of tapers. Non‐uniformity leads to a variety of possible connections. The predictable output of the OMV vaporiser assumes the correct direction of gas flows for the device. There are many second hand right to left OMV vaporisers for sale to developing countries where the nuances of vaporiser orientation add unnecessarily to the desired simplicity of anaesthesia. A simple calibration scale for reversed gas flows through the OMV vaporiser would be useful.
Customer focused incident monitoring in anaesthesia
Authors: Khan F. A. , Khimani S.
Published: May 2007

The database of incident forms relating to anaesthesia services in an institutional risk management programme were reviewed for 2003–2005, the aim being to identify any recurring patterns. Incidents were prospectively categorised as relating to attitude/behaviour, communication breakdown, delay in service, or were related to care, cost, environment, equipment, security, administrative process, quality of service or miscellaneous. The total number of anaesthesia‐related incidents reported during the period was 287, which related to 0.44% of the total number of anaesthetics administered during the time period. In all, 170 incidents were reported by the department, 96 by internal customers and 21 by external customers. Only 30% of the complaints came from the operating room. Thirty‐four per cent of all incidents related to communication, behaviour and delay in service. A requirement to teach communication skills and stress handling formally in anaesthesia training programmes, and at the time of induction of staff into the department, has been identified.
Enteral drugs given through a central venous catheter
Authors: Nicholson Roberts T. C. , Swart M.
Published: May 2007

A 74‐year‐old lady was given verapamil oral solution and a diclofenac dispersible tablet through her subclavian central venous catheter instead of her nasogastric tube five days after major head and neck surgery. The ensuing respiratory arrest resulting from profound ventilation‐perfusion mismatch was made harder to manage by her potentially difficult airway. Information about the management of enteral drugs inadvertently given intravenously is sparse, and this sort of misrouting error is likely to be underreported. This case highlights the ease with which enteral preparations can be given by the wrong route.
Presence and identity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi influence competitive interactions between plant species
Authors: SCHEUBLIN TANJA R. , VAN LOGTESTIJN RICHARD S. P. , VAN DER HEIJDEN MARCEL G. A.
Published: May 2007

Competition for nutrients is an important factor structuring plant communities. Plant symbionts such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can have considerable influence on nutrient uptake and are therefore likely to influence plant competition. In this study we investigated the influence of different AMF isolates on the competitive relationships between a legume (Lotus corniculatus L.) and a grass (Festuca ovina L.), and between L. corniculatus and a forb (Plantago lanceolata L.).

AMF altered the competitive interactions between the investigated plant species. The legume, which was the most AMF‐dependent plant species, was favoured in the presence of AMF relative to the non‐AMF treatment in seven out of eight cases. Competition between the grass and the legume was the most strongly affected by AMF. The grass and the legume both benefited from AMF when grown alone, but in competition AMF favoured the legume and grass biomass was reduced by 38%.

The presence and also the identity of AMF influenced the competitive relationships. The extent to which AMF influenced plant competition and changed the relative abundances of the competitors depended on the specific AMF isolate.

This study shows that both presence and identity of AMF can influence plant competition. These results indicate that AMF and the composition of AMF communities regulate plant interactions and determine the structure of plant communities.
Severe hypersensitivity reaction to injectable Gallium 67 in a worker exposed to silica
Authors: Commandeur C. , Richard M. , Renzi P. M.
Published: May 2007

Gallium 67 scintigraphy is employed in the evaluation of workers with possible pneumoconiosis. To our knowledge, however, a severe hypersensitivity reaction following the intravenous injection of Gallium 67 has not been described. We report the ease of a worker chronically exposed to silica who developed an allergic cutaneous and severe articular reaction following the injection of Gallium 67 while being investigated for possible silicosis. Hilar adenopathy was noted on the chest roentgenogram and, retrospectively, circulating immune complexes were found in the patient's serum. The presence of a positive prick skin test to benzyl alcohol suggests that this preservative caused the hypersensitivity reaction.
Cord blood
Authors: Hansen L. G. , Host A. , Halken S. , Holmskov A. , Husby S. , Lassen L. B. , Storm K. , Østerballe O.
Published: May 2007

Screening of total IgE in 2814 cord blood samples was analysed by Phadebas IgE PRIST in 2 1‐year birth cohorts (1983‐1984 and 1985–1986) in Denmark (n=1189+ 1625). 48.6% of the sera contained less IgE than the detection limit 0.1 kU/1. Cord blood IgE values > 0.5 kU/1 were regarded as elevated. 13.2% of the sera contained at least 0.5 kU/1 of IgE, with a significant preponderance in boys. Geometric mean cord blood IgE was 0.13 kU/1 and 0.12 kU/1, respectively. Geometric mean cord blood IgE was significantly higher in boys. A significant seasonal variation with lowest IgE values in the autumn was found. No correlation between cord blood IgE and birth weight or gestational age was demonstrated. Only few newborns had cord blood igA values > 0.014 g/l, calculated as geometric mean cord blood IgA + 2 SD among children with no detectable cord blood IgE, indicating infrequent contamination with maternal blood.

Clinical aspects

Using a simple cord blood sampling method and a sensitive IgE analysis., Phadebas IgE Prist, reproducible results of cord blood IgE in 2 unselected series of newborns were obtained. Cord blood IgA determination is recommended in all infants with cord blood IgE ≥ 1.0 kU/1 in order to exclude contamination with maternal blood.
Cord blood IgE. II. Prediction of atopic disease
Authors: Hansen L. G. , Høst A. , Halken S. , Holmskov A. , Husby S. , Lassen L. B. , Storm K. , Østerballe O.
Published: May 2007

Screening of total IgE in 2814 cord blood samples was analysed by Phadebas IgE PRIST in 2 1‐year birth cohorts (1983‐1984 and 1985–1986) in Denmark (n = 1189 + 1625). For follow‐up we chose all infants with cord blood IgE ≥ 0.5 kU/1 and a randomly chosen group of the same size with cord blood IgE < 0.5 kU/1. A total of 762 infants were clinically evaluated at 18 months of age. A diagnosis of definite atopy, probable atopy or no atopy, including both IgE and non‐IgE mediated disease was established. Applying different cord blood IgE cut‐off values (0.3, 0.5, 0.8, 1.1) we did not find an excess of atopic infants among those with elevated cord blood IgE irrespective of the chosen cut‐off value. Atopic predisposition or family history of atopic disease was defined as at least one parent or older siblitig with atopic disease. Significantly more infants with a family history developed atopy at 18 months. In the 2 series the positive predictive values of cord blood IgE≥0.5 were 43% and 46% and the sensitivities were 17% and 15%. The predictive values of having a family history were 48% and 44% and the sensitivities were 55% and 58%.

Clinical aspects

Cord blood IgE analysed by Phadebas IgE PRIST was a poor predictor of infants developing atopic disease before the age of 18 months.
Quantification of pollen solute release using pollen grain column chromatography
Authors: Baraniuk J. N. , Bolick M. , Esch R. , Buckley C. E.
Published: May 2007

The impact of pollen on the respiratory mucosa was modeled by studying the process by which solutes are eluted from pollen grains. Rye grass (Loliuin perenne), short ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), and white oak (Quercus alba) pollens were packed between glass wool plugs in small columns. Water was pumped through the columns and the eluate solute yield was determined by measurement of the dry solute weight. Solute separation was rapid, and concentrations and osmolalities of the eluate decreased exponentially. Theoretical initial solute concentrations were 179 g/1 for rye grass, 55 g/1 for short ragweed and 349 g/1 for oak pollen eluates. Theoretical initial osmolarities of the same eluates were 321 mOsm/kg for rye grass, 196 mOsm/kg for ragweed and 424 mOsm/kg for oak pollen. Sequential separation of allergens (Lol p I, Amb a I, Ainb a V), enzymes and proteins was demonstrated by specific assays. These observations suggest that the complex stimulus produced immediately after pollen grain hydration at the respiratory mucosal fluid interface is much more intense than previously envisioned. Sequential separation of pollen components has important implications for the production of improved allergenic extracts.
Diurnal variation of urinary histamine and 1‐methylhistamine excretion in healthy children
Authors: Schulze S. , Niggemann B. , Savaser A. N. , Wahn U.
Published: May 2007

In order to establish a noninvasive method of monitoring immediate hypersensitivity reactions in children, we studied the diurnal variation of urinary histamine and 1‐methylhistamine excretion and the influence of food intake in a group of 14 healthy nonatopic children (aged 2–16 years). Histamine and 1‐methylhistamine in spontaneous urine samples were determined by radioimmunoassay. Mean variation of 2–h intervals was much higher for urinary histamine than for 1‐methylhistarnine (45% of base‐line level versus 24%). There was no circadian rhythm or influence of food intake. The short half‐life of histamine released into blood circulation may be the main reason for the higher variation of histamine excretion. In children, urinary 1‐methylhistamine is less influenced by diurnal variation and is therefore more suited to monitor immediate hypersensitivity reactions than urinary histamine itself.
Contact allergy to budesonide contained in a nasal spray
Authors: Sastre J. , Ibañez M. D.
Published: May 2007

We describe a case of contact allergic sensitization to budesonide nasal spray used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. No cross‐sensitivity to other topical corticosteroids was found.
Mite (Der p 1, Der f 1) and cat (Fel d 1) allergens in the homes of babies with a family history of allergy
Authors: Munir A. K. M. , Einarsson R. , Kjellman N.‐I. M. , Björkstén B.
Published: May 2007

Carpet and floor dust samples were collected in four different seasons, from 39 Swedish homes of babies with a family history of allergy. House‐dust mite (Der p 1, Der f 1) and cat (Fel d 1) allergen contents were determined by mab ELISA, and the levels were related to various environmental factors. Both mite and cat antigens were detected in 94% of the samples and in all homes, but the levels were low (Der p 1, range 15 ng–1944 ng/g fine dust; Der f 1, range 14 ng–264 ng/g of fine dust; Fel d 1, range 16 ng–3120 ng/g fine dust). Mite‐allergen levels were significantly higher (P<0.001) in floor dust than in carpets, and D. pteronyssinus predominated. In contrast, the levels of cat antigen were significantly (P<0.05) higher in carpets than in floor dust. There was no clear relation between mite‐allergen levels and type of house, except that the higher values were found in homes with dampness problems. Cat‐allergen levels were higher than total mite‐allergen content, and the highest levels were found in homes with a cat (P<0.05). Rather high concentrations of cat allergen were also found in homes without a cat, which may explain why cat sensitization is so common in Sweden. As the prevalence of house‐dust mite sensitivity is increasing in Swedish children, and as the individual patient threshold for eliciting symptoms varies, we suggest that sensitization may possibly occur at a lower exposure level than generally accepted as risk level for sensitization (2 μg/g dust).
Common allergenic structures in hazelnut, rye grain, sesame seeds, kiwi, and poppy seeds
Authors: Vocks E. , Borga A. , Szliska C. , Seifert H. U. , Seifert B. , Burow G. , Borelli S.
Published: May 2007

Allergy to kiwi, poppy seeds, and/or sesame seeds often occurs in patients with a simultaneous sensitization to nuts and flour. Previously cross reactions have been verified by RAST inhibition. In this study the nature of this cross‐reactivity is further characterized by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), followed by immunoblotting to nitrocellulose. The degree of cross‐reactivity among kiwi, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, hazelnuts, and rye grain was found to be very high in the patients studied. The existence of both cross‐reacting and unique components was observed; however, the cross‐reacting and unique components could be different for different patients.
Interferon (IFN)‐α, IFN‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐2, and arachidonic acid metabolites modulate IL‐4‐induced IgE synthesis similarly in healthy persons and in atopic dermatitis patients
Authors: Punnonen J. , Punnonen K. , Jansén C. T. , Kalimo K.
Published: May 2007

The role of cytokines and arachidonic acid metabolites in the regulation of IgE production in healthy persons and in atopic dermatitis patients with elevated IgE levels was studied. Interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) induced IgE production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of all donors, and no significant difference was found between the amounts of IgE produced by healthy persons and atopic dermatitis patients. Similarly, recombinant interferon (IFN)‐α and IFN‐γ, as well as IL‐2, inhibited IL‐4‐induced IgE production to a similar extent in both study groups. To evaluate the role of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolites in the regulation of IgE production, we added indomethacin, an inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase pathway, or nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), an inhibitor of the lipoxygenase pathway, to IL‐4‐treated cultures. Both indomethacin and NDGA strongly inhibited IL‐4‐induced IgE production. They also inhibited IL‐4‐induced IgG4 synthesis. No significant difference in the amount of inhibition was found between the two study groups. We were unable to restore the NDGA‐induced inhibition of IgE‐production by adding leukotrienes B4, C4, D4, or 5‐HETE to the NDGA‐treated cultures. PGE2 also failed to restore the indomethacin‐mediated inhibitory effect. Consequently, NDGA‐ and indomethacin‐mediated inhibitory effects do not appear to be mediated by any single factor studied. Collectively, our results show IFNs and IL‐2 to be similar in effect in the modulation of IL‐4‐induced IgE synthesis in healthy and atopic persons. In addition, our results show the importance of AA metabolites in the regulation of IgE and IgG4 synthesis in normal persons as well as in atopic dermatitis patients.
Is the allergen‐inhalation challenge predictive of the severity of seasonal asthmatic exacerbations?
Authors: Crimi E. , Balbo A. , Voltolini S. , Troise C. , Brusasco V. , Negrini A. C.
Published: May 2007

Fifteen asthmatic patients sensitized to Parietaria pollen were studied. Before the pollen season they underwent an allergen‐inhalation challenge which was preceded and followed by a methacholine‐inhalation challenge. Pollen count, symptom score, and drug consumption were monitored daily throughout the study. A severity score was obtained by adding symptom score and drug consumption. Patients underwent a third methacholine challenge during the pollen season, after they had been exposed to a high atmospheric concentration of pollen. The severity score during the first period of the pollen season was significantly correlated with both the early and the late asthmatic responses to the allergen observed before the season (r2=0.50; P<0.005). Bronchial sensitivity to methacholine was significantly increased both after allergen challenge and after seasonal exposure, but these increases correlated neither with each other nor with the severity score. We conclude that bronchial responses to experimental exposure to allergens, but not the changes in nonspecific airway responsiveness, can, in part, predict the severity of asthma exacerbation during the pollen season.
Occurrence of IgE antibodies against the 39‐kDa allergen component of the mite Lepidoglyphus destructor in urban and rural subjects
Authors: van Hage‐Hamsten M. , Lagging E. , Härfast B. , Johansson S. G. O.
Published: May 2007

Several species of storage mite have been shown to cause IgE‐mediated sensitization. Monoclonal antibodies (mabs) have been raised against the storage mite Lepidoglyphus destructor, and one mab (42B6) immunoprecipitated a band of 39 kDa of L. destructor. To search for the frequency of IgE antibodies in patient sera against this allergen component, we modified a radioimmunoassay (RIA), 42B6 being used as capturing antibody. Twenty of 43 sera from farmers who were RAST positive to L. destructor (46.5%) were scored as positive in this assay. There was a moderate degree of correlation between positive RAST results to L. destructor and the 39‐kDa allergen. Among 14 sera from Stockholm residents positive in RAST to both Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and L. destructor, six detected the 39‐kDa allergen component. However, three sera from urban subjects lacking IgE antibodies against both mite species also had IgE antibodies against the 39‐kDa allergen. The present study demonstrates that the 39‐kDa allergen of L. destructor is an important allergen, and that rural as well as urban subjects can become sensitized.
Effect of a bronchial provocation test with house‐dust mite on blood eosinophilia, eosinophil cationic protein, soluble interleukin‐2 receptor, and interleukin‐6 in asthmatic children
Authors: Van Bever H. P. , Moens M. M. , Bridts C. H. , De Clerck L. S. , Mertens A. V. , Bosmans E. , Stevens W. J.
Published: May 2007

Eighteen children with perennial asthma and allergy to house‐dust mite (HDM) underwent a bronchial challenge with HDM. Before and 24 h after the test, a venous blood sample was taken to determine levels of eosinophils, eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), soluble interleukin‐2 receptor (IL‐2R), and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). A histamine challenge was performed before and 24 h after the HDM challenge. All subjects showed an immediate asthmatic reaction (IAR). A definite late asthmatic reaction (LAR) was observed in 15 children, a probable LAR in two, and no LAR in one. Because of persistent bronchial obstruction (FEV1>70%), eight children were unable to perform a histamine challenge 24 h after the allergen challenge. These were the children with the lowest prechallenge provocation dose (PD20) of histamine. In the other 10 children, the mean PD20 histamine decreased after the HDM challenge (mean PD20 before was 0.56 mg/ml; after challenge it was 0.14 mg/ml; P= 0.007). After the HDM challenge, an increase was detected in the mean values of blood eosinophils (mean before was 446/mm3; mean after was 733/mm3; P= 0.002), ECP (mean before was 26.3 μg/1; mean after was 34.3 μg/1; P<0.040), and IL‐2R (mean before was 116.35 U/ml; mean after was 128.52 U/ml; P<0.040). On the other hand, IL‐6 remained unchanged after the HDM challenge (mean before was 9.47 pg/1; mean after was 9.70 pg/1; P= 0.360). Furthermore, as compared with a group of normal, age‐matched children (n =18), asthmatic children were found to have higher prechallenge levels of ECP (mean: 10.3 μg/1 compared with 26.3 μg/1) (P>0.001) and IL‐2R (mean: 80.30 U/ml compared with 116.35 U/ml) (P =0.009), but not of IL‐6 (mean: 11.34 pg/1 compared with 9.47 pg/1) (P = 0.436).

A correlation was found between the duration of asthma and the severity of the LAR expressed as area under the curve (AUCLAR) (r = 0.50; P<0.040). Furthermore, a correlation was detected between the level of total IgE and the level of ECP (r = 0.51; P<0.030). The decrease in FEV1 during the LAR tended to correlate with the increase of IL‐2R (r = 0.48; P = 0.050). This tendency was not found with the increase of eosinophils, nor with the increase of ECP. We conclude that both lymphocytes and eosinophils are activated by an allergen challenge, but that only the activation of lymphocytes tends to correlate with the LAR, suggesting that lymphocytes are also closely involved in the pathogenesis of the allergen‐induced LAR.
Increased expression of adhesion molecules (ICAM‐1 and LFA‐1) on alveolar macrophages from asthmatic patients
Authors: Chanez P. , Vignola A. M. , Lacoste P. , Michel F. B. , Godard P. , Bousquet J.
Published: May 2007

In the airways inflammation observed in asthma, activated macrophages are present in increased numbers. Adhesion molecules are required for the cell: cell contacts between leukocytes and endothelial cells or other leukocytes, and they are induced by inflammatory stimuli. We studied the expression of two adhesion molecules (ICAM‐1 and LFA‐1) on alveolar macrophages recovered by bronchoalveolar lavage from 11 normal subjects and 13 asthmatic patients by using immunocytochemistry. Two specific monoclonal antibodies were used, and the reaction was revealed by the alkaline phosphatase‐antialkaline phosphatase (APAAP) method. The percentage of cells expressing ICAM‐1 or LFA‐1 was significantly increased in asthmatic patients, as compared with normal subjects (P < 0.001 and P < 0.002, respectively; Mann‐Whitney U test), and there was a significant correlation with the percentage of cells expressing both markers in asthma (P < 0.03, Spearman rank test). This study highlights the importance of macrophages in the inflammation of asthma and suggests that macrophage interactions with other cells play a role in this inflammation.
Mucosal exudation of plasma is a noninjurious intestinal defense mechanism
Authors: Persson C. G. A. , Gustafsson B. , Erjefalt J. S. , Sundler F.
Published: May 2007

We have demonstrated in sensitized rats that the immediate response to endointestinal challenge with allergen (10‐6 M ovalbumin) is characterized by mucosal exudation of plasma with little or no concomitant change in the mucosal absorption capacity. The luminal entry of plasma macromolecules also leaves the light microscopic structure and the ultrastructure of the mucosa unaffected. It is possible that the plasticity of epithelial zonulae occludens allows a noninjurious and unidirectional paracellular flux of extravasated plasma into the gut lumen. We propose that inflammatory‐stimulus‐induced mucosal exudation of plasma belongs to the first‐line defense mechanisms of the intact lining of the intestine.
Comparison of allergic rhinitis and vasomotor rhinitis patients on the basis of a computer questionnaire
Authors: Lindberg S. , Malm L.
Published: May 2007

From 1 July 1990 to 31 December 1991, all patients referred to the Allergy Section of the ENT Department, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden, (n=678) answered a 134‐item questionnaire presented on the screen of a personal computer by pressing Y (for yes) or N (for no) on the keyboard. The objective of this study was to compare the questionnaire responses from patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) with those of patients with perennial nonallergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis (VMR). Nasal blockage was the predominant symptom in the VMR group, whereas the AR patients mainly suffered from eye irritation, sneezing, and, to some extent, rhinorrhea. Concomitant asthma was more prevalent in the AR group than in the VMR group, whose histories were characterized by symptoms associated with airway infections. About 60% of both groups reported problems with such nonspecific airway irritants as cigarette smoke and perfumes. With respect to the diagnostic reliability of the history, in the AR group the order of accuracy (according to the skin prick test results) of reported hypersensitivity to allergens was as follows: cat > timothy > birch > dust mite > mugwort. A history of hypersensitivity to molds as a cause of symptoms was of no diagnostic value. The findings suggest that there are several differences in the medical histories of AR and VMR patients that merit further investigation.
Immunoglobulin‐G‐dependent stimulation of guinea pig lung mast cells and macrophages
Authors: Al‐Laith* M. , Weyer A. , Havet N. , Dumarey C. , Vargaftig B. B. , Bachelet M.
Published: May 2007

Alveolar macrophages and mast cells isolated from guinea pig lung were passively sensitized with IgG1, IgG2, or serum obtained from guinea pigs actively sensitized with ovalbumin. The release of histamine by mast cells and of thromboxane A2 by alveolar macrophages upon ovalbumin challenge indicated that both antibodies and serum were capable of sensitizing these cells with similar effectiveness. Heating the scrum at 56°C for 4 h to inactivate IgE did not modify the antigen‐dependent response of lung cells. These results suggest a predominant role for IgG in the allergic response of the guinea pig through the activation of different cell types such as lung mast cells and alveolar macrophages.
Allergic bronchial eosinophilia: a therapeutic approach for the selection of potential bronchial anti‐inflammatory drugs
Authors: Chand N. , Harrison J. E. , Rooney S. M. , Nolan K. W. , De Vine C. L. , Jakubicki R. G. , Pillar J. , Diamantis W. , Sofia R. D.
Published: May 2007

Aeroallergen‐induced infiltration of eosinophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in guinea pigs was used as a marker of bronchial inflammation. Drugs were administered orally 4 h after aeroallergen challenge. Allergic bronchial eosinophilia in guinea pigs was inhibited by orally administered dexamethasone and methylprednisolone. Terfenadine (a newer H1‐receptor antagonist), theophylline (a nonspecific phosphodiesterase inhibitor), and salbutamol (a β2‐agonist) did not influence allergic eosinophilic infiltration. Many of these agents, administered prophylactically, have been reported to suppress allergic eosinophilic infiltration in the BALF of guinea pigs. Methylprednisolone, a steroid, inhibits allergic bronchial eosinophilia regardless of the time of administration; that is, 2 h before or 4 h after aeroallergen challenge. The therapeutic approach used in this study may facilitate drug discovery for bronchial inflammation/ asthma.
Detection of specific IgE in isocyanate and phthalic anhydride exposed workers: comparison of RAST RIA, Immuno CAP System FEIA, and Magic Lite SQ
Authors: Mazur G. , Pethran A.
Published: May 2007

Sera from 94 workers occupationally exposed to isocyanate were tested by RAST RIA, Immuno CAP FEIA, and Magic Lite SQ (ML) against the allergens HDI, MDI, TDI, and phthalic anhydride. Twenty sera showed increased levels of diisocyanate‐specific IgE antibodies, and five sera were phthalic anhydride positive. High total IgE titer was not correlated with positive specific IgE titer (r= 0.47), showing that nonspecific IgE binding was low. The results of ML and CAP correlated well (r= 0.91), but tended to be slightly higher than the results obtained with the RAST isotope test. CAP and RAST data also correlated significantly (r= 0.90), but the correlation between ML and RAST data was lower (r= 0.82). The results of the new in vitro tests, CAP and ML, showed good reproducibility (5% CV for CAP and 8% CV for ML). In summary, the CAP and ML methods were found to be appropriate for routine diagnosis of specific IgE antibodies against the allergens HDI, MDI, TDI, and phthalic anhydride.
The effect of oral drugs on the cytologic picture of nasal mucosa in hay fever
Authors: Tarchalska‐Kryńska B. , Zawisza E.
Published: May 2007

The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of H1‐antihistamine and sympathomimetic drugs given orally on eytologic smears of the nasal mucosa. Thirty‐five patients with hay fever evaluated cytologic smears of the nasal mucosa before and after a 2‐week treatment. Fourteen patients received chlorpheniramine with phenylephrine, 10 patients dexchlorpheniramine, and 11 patients pseudoephedrine. The investigated drugs significantly changed nasal cytograms. The number of eosinophils increased after chlorpheniramine with phenylephrine and after pseudoephedrine but decreased after dexchlorpheniramine. Thus, the sympathetic nervous system stimulation seems to produce local eosinophilia on the nasal mucosa. In view of such a significant correlation between hay fever symptoms and the number of eosinophils in the cytograms, it can be concluded that the combination of antihistamine and sympathomimetic drugs may adversely affect the course of the disease. Although, at the initial stage of the treatment, sympathomimetics reduce swelling and improve the patency of the nose through decongestion of the blood vessels, their negative effect can influence the immunologic mechanisms.
Anaphylactic reaction to ranitidine
Authors: Lázaro M. , Compaired J. A. , De La Hoz B. , Igea J. M. , Marcos C. , Dávila I. , Losada E.
Published: May 2007

Ranitidine is a well‐tolerated H2‐receptor antagonist with a furan ring a nucleus. Anaphylactic reactions are seldom reported despite the wide use the drug. We report a patient who presented an anaphylactic reaction with ranitidine (Zantac). The positive skin prick test and oral challenge suggest type I hypersensitivity. Specific IgE determination by RAST technique and histamine release test with ranitidine were negative. The patient did not react to other H2‐receptor antagonists or to another furan‐derivative (nitrofurantoin).
Cross‐reactivity between quinolones
Authors: Dávila I. , Diez M. L. , Quirce S. , Fraj J. , De La Hoz B. , Lazaro M.
Published: May 2007

Cross‐reactivity between quinolones in uncertain. Recently, we studied three patients who had developed suspected allergic reaction to a quinolone. For all of them we performed skin test, histamine release test, RAST, and oral provocation with the suspected quinolone and also with another quinolone of the opposite generation. Five atopic and five nonatopic subjects were used as controls. Neither skin test, histamine release test, nor RAST was useful in the diagnosis. By mean of oral controlled provocation, the reactions were reproduced, and all the patients also reacted to another quinolone. We conclude that cross‐reactivity between quinolone seems to be very important, and avoidance of any quinolone should be recommended to any patients who has suffered an allergic reaction to one of these drugs.
Topical levocabastine compared with oral loratadine for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
Authors:   Swedish GP Allergy Team
Published: May 2007

This multicenter, double‐blind, double‐dummy, parallel‐group trial was initiated to compare the efficacy and tolerability of two antihistamines, topical levocabastine (eye‐drops and nasal spray) and oral loratadine, for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in the primary care setting. A total of 95 adult patients participated in the study with a treatment duration of 5 weeks. Forty‐seven patients were randomized to receive twice daily levocabastine eye‐drops and nasal spray plus an oral placebo, and 48 to receive once daily oral loratadine with placebo eye‐drops and nasal spray. Naphazoline eye‐drops and xylometazoline nasal spray were permitted as rescue medication. No statistically significant intergroup differences in therapeutic efficacy were observed. Symptom severity was comparable in the two treatment groups throughout the trial period. At the end of the study, 86% of levocabastine‐treated patients considered global therapeutic efficacy to be excellent or good, as compared with 77% of those who received loratadine. This difference was not statistically significant. There were no significant differences in the use of rescue medication or in the incidence or severity of adverse events in the two treatment groups. In conclusion, levocabastine eye‐drops and nasal spray appear to be as effective and well tolerated as oral loratadine for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.