bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppresive effect of loratadine on allergen‐induced histamine release in the nose
Authors: Andersson M. , Nolte H. , Baumgarten C. , Pipkorn U.
Published: May 2007

It has been speculated whether the recently developed non‐sedating antihistamines may possess other properties than merely being antagonists at the H1‐receptors. To investigate this suggestion 12 patients with strictly seasonal allergic rhinitis participated in a double‐blind placebo controlled randomized cross‐over study outside the pollen season. At steady state levels of 10 mg loratadine, a new non‐sedating antihistamine, the patients were challenged with methacholine. This was followed by a nasal challenge with increasing doses of allergen. 24 h later the patients were rechallenged nasally with the same methacholine dose as the day before. The volume of the methacholine‐induced nasal secretion was measured and the response to allergen was determined by scoring technique. In returned nasal lavage fluid the levels of histamine and TAME‐esterase activity were measured. It was found that loratadine significantly reduced the immediate allergic nasal symptoms compared with placebo (P < 0.01). Loratadine also reduced the allergen‐induced release of histamine into the nasal cavity after the strongest allergen dose, from 9.6±1.5 (mean ± SEM) to 6.4±1.4 ng/ml (P < 0.05). A similar decrease in the TAME‐esterase activity after treatment with loratadine was observed. The TAME‐esterase activity decreased from 11.6 *103±2.47 *103 to 5.60 *103±1.45 */103 CMP (P < 0.05). There were no significant changes between the active and placebo treatments regarding the methacholine‐induced secretory response. This was true for the initial methacholine challenge as well as the secretory response 24 h later. This study shows that loratadine is an effective drug in the suppression of immediate allergic nasal symptoms. One of the beneficial effects of this drug could be a reduction in allergen‐induced histamine release. A finding which further implicates that antihistamines may possess other effects than just a blocking of the H1‐receptor.
Single‐dose inhaled budesonide in subjects with chronic asthma
Authors: Engel T. , Dirksen A. , Heinig J. H. , Nielsen N. H. , Weeke B. , Johansson S. Å.
Published: May 2007

In 30 stable asthmatics, a comparison was made between the changes in pulmonary function (FEV1, FVC, PEF, MEF75, MEF50 and MEF25) hourly for 9 h after a single dose of inhaled budesonide 1,600 μg, and placebo. All subjects used inhaled steroids daily; this medication was, however, withheld 8 days prior to the study. For all parameters of pulmonary function, a significant difference in favour of budesonide was demonstrated. The effect tended to decrease after 9 h, and had abated within 24 h. FEV1 age, sex, smoking habits, or results of an inhaled β2‐agonist reversibility test could not be demonstrated as predictors of those subjects to react with the most pronounced responses to budesonide. In conclusion, our results demonstrate an effect 3 h after administration of an inhaled glucocorticosteroid in adult outpatients with chronic asthma. These results parallel previous findings in highly selected asthmatics and after systemic administration of glucocorticosteroids. Single‐dose administration and subsequent monitoring for 8‐9 h may therefore prove valuable in evaluating new prophylactic agents for the treatment of asthma.
Lifestyle effect on total IgE
Authors: Shirakawa T. , Morimoto K.
Published: May 2007

Recent studies have demonstrated an increasing number of cases of allergy in economically developed societies. Many of these allergic reactions are mediated by IgE antibodies whose levels are under genetic control. However, this large increase of allergy prevalence cannot be explained by genetic mutations; comprehensive lifestyles may also play roles in determining total IgE levels. Total IgE levels were determined from scrum samples taken from 706 hard metal workers who responded lo a questionnaire including 17 items related to physical and mental health practices. Five actors tending to normalize IgE upward and three tending to normalize IgE downward when we keep good lifestyles were extracted using MANOVA analysis. We therefore constructed a Health Practice Index in Allergic reactions (HPIA); eight physical and mental health practices were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with cumulative elevations or suppressions of total IgE levels when sex, age and environmental factors were controlled for. Multivariate analyses demonstrated a dramatic synergism (Relative Risk > 2.0, P < 0.05) of unhealthy lifestyles determining a bipolar high risk for elevated or suppressed IgE levels which in turn may result in allergic diseases or immuno‐suppression. Maintenance of healthy lifestyles may prove beneficial for reducing the prevalence of allergic disorders.
Powder administration of pure budesonide for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis
Authors: Pedersen B. , Larsen B. BUNDGAARD , Dahl R. , Lindqvist N. , Mygind N.
Published: May 2007

The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of a pure powder formulation of budesonide, delivered from a new multi‐dose dispenser for nasal drug application, with the commercially available budesonide pressurized aerosol, and with placebo. Of 116 patients with grass pollen‐induced allergic rhinitis, 112 finished the study, which comprised a 4‐week treatment period, preceded by a 1‐week run‐in period. The patients were randomized to four parallel treatment groups: budesonide powder 400 Hg daily; budesonide powder 800 μg daily; budesonide aerosol 400 μg daily; and placebo Powder. Treatment was given once daily in the morning. The study was double‐blind regarding comparison between budesonide powder and Placebo. Assessment of efficacy, made by comparing mean scores of nasal symptoms and use of rescue medication, showed equal efficacy of all three budesonide groups compared with placebo. There were no differences between budesonide‐and placebo‐treated groups with regard to side effects. Budesonide treatment had no demonstrable effect on the HPA‐axis assessed by measurement of 24‐h urine cortisol. We conclude that budesonide, delivered as pure powder from a multi‐dose dispenser, is effective and safe for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. This new formulation is a good alternative to the commercially available preparations, as it does not contain carrier gas, preservatives or lubricants.
Existence of exine‐free airborne allergen particles of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) pollen
Authors: Takahashi Y. , Sakaguchi M. , Inouye S. , Miyazawa H. , Imaoka K. , Katagiri S.
Published: May 2007

We investigated whether exine‐free pollen allergen particles exist together with the intact pollen grains of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) in the air during the pollen season in Yamagata City. First, we separated the allergen particles in an Andersen multi‐stage air‐sampler according to their aerodynamic diameters. The amount of major allergen (Cry j I) on each stage of the sampler was determined by a sensitive fluorometric sandwich ELISA, and the pollen count of the same samples was done by light microscopy after Carberla staining. Cry j I was found in stages 1 to 6, whereas most of intact and ru|3tured pollen grains were microscopically observed only in stages 1 and 2. Second, we suctioned the air through a tandem membrane filter system (the first filter, Nuclepore filter with 5 um‐pores; and the second, Millipore filter with 0.3 μm‐pores). None of the pollen grains was detectable on the 0.3 μm‐pore filter with light microscopy. However, Cry j I was detectable in the aqueous extract from the second filter. From these results, we concluded that pollen‐free Cry j I existed in the air of Yamagata City during the pollen season.
Efficacy of an air‐cleaning device equipped with a high efficiency particulate air filter in house dust mite respiratory allergy
Authors: Antonicelli L. , Bilò M.B. , Pucci S. , Schou C. , Bonifazi F.
Published: May 2007

The efficacy of an air‐cleaning device equipped with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter (without further avoidance measures) was studied in patients allergic to house dust mite. The effects of the air‐cleaner on indoor Dermatophagoides sp. levels, symptom score and bronchial hyperresponsiveness in nine mite‐allergic patients were assessed using a cross‐over controlled study. No significant effect was demonstrated on indoor Dermatophagoides sp. levels when comparing the period of air‐cleaner activity (2 months) with the control period (2 months). The Dermatophagoides sp. levels in the houses studied were lower than the risk level for asthmatic attacks, making it difficult to assess any effect on asthma; however, neither bronchial hyperresponsiveness nor rhinitis symptom score were changed by air‐cleaner activity. During the trial period, however the mean level of Dermatophagoides sp. allergen in the houses changed spontaneously from 4.4 Hg/g (mean level in the first 2 trial months) to 1. 75 μg/g of dust (second 2 months) (P < 0.05). Owing to this change, the mean rhinitis symptom score also decreased (P < 0.05), even if no significant correlation was demonstrated (r = 0.4 P= 0.089). HEPA filter air‐cleaners appear insufficient as substitutes for standard avoidance measures in mite allergic patients.
Differences in serum IgE antibody activity to benzylpenicillin and amoxicillin measured by RAST in a group of penicillin allergic patients
Authors: Blanca M. , Mayorga C. , Sanchez F. , Vega J. M. , Fernandez J. , Juarez C. , Suau R. , Perez E.
Published: May 2007

To determine the influence of the acyl side chain on the IgE antibody specificity of the two most common penicillins inducing allergic reactions in our community, benzyl‐penicillin (BP) and amoxicillin (AX), IgE positive sera from a group of 24 patients allergic to penicillin were studied. RAST was determined in parallel to benzyl penicilloyl‐polylysine (BPO‐PLL) and amoxicilloyl‐polylysine (AX‐PLL) in each serum, and values greater than an established coefficient of variation of 15% were considered as different for either of the haptens used (BP and AX). 16 sera proved to be more positive to BP (Group A), six to AX (Group B) and in two IgE was positive to both haptens with a similar value (Group C). RAST titration concentration effect curves and RAST inhibition studies with a pool of sera from each group (A, B, C) and individual sera showed that most of them were more specific for either BPO or AX, a minority being of similar value to both. These findings indicate that the side chain structure of penicillins is relevant in the constitution of the antigenic determinant, although in some instances the common chemical structure of betalactam is recognised mainly by the IgE antibodies. The clinical relevance of these data needs to be established.
Fungi in carpeting and furniture dust
Authors: SCHOBER G.
Published: May 2007

The qualitative and quantitative species composition of fungi in carpets and upholstered furniture dust found in the living‐rooms of nine Dutch dwellings was examined in a pilot study. Numbers of spores of xerophilic fungi did not differ in dust removed from carpeting' and upholstery. Spores of hydrophilic species were found to be more predominant on floors (P < 0.05), whereas meso‐hygrophilic spores, largely dominated by allergologically relevant Penicillium species, were significantly more abundant in dust taken from regularly used furniture (P < 0.05), Our results indicate that growth conditions for fungi in the micro‐habitats of furniture differ from those in carpeting. No statistically significant differences in number of viable spores have been found in samples taken from ground‐floor level compared with those taken from 1st to 3rd floor level of dwellings. From this study, the need for a micro‐topographic analysis of the fungal flora in the human environment has become apparent. Efficient allergological home sanitation in dwellings of allergic patients requires detailed data about the colonization of the various micro‐habitats by allergenic fungi.
Safety of bronchial allergen provocation in a children's out‐patient clinic
Authors: Nielsen J. P. , Mathiasen T.
Published: May 2007

A total of 137 bronchial provocation tests (BPT) with allergen extracts were performed in an outpatient clinic. 1 10 were positive, 29 with late reaction and 81 without. The patients were observed for 6‐8 h and discharged ii they did not develop a late reaction. None of the discharged patients was admitted to hospital later, and the number of patients hospitalized was reduced by 80%.
Inhalation and nasal challenge in the diagnosis of aspirin‐induced asthma
Authors: PAWLOWICZ A. , WILLIAMS W. R. , DAVIES B. H.
Published: May 2007

Inhalation and nasal aspirin challenge has been investigated in asthma patients with co‐existing rhinitis. Eight of 39 asthma patients were diagnosed as aspirin‐sensitive on the basis of inhalation challenge. Seven aspirin‐sensitive asthmatics were subjected to nasal aspirin provocation. During nasal challenge, all seven patients experienced a fall in FEV1 of at least 15%, two showed a significant increase (>400%) in nasal airways resistance (NAR) and one developed urticaria. No significant changes in FEV, or NAR were observed in nine normal subjects after aspirin inhalation and nasal challenge. There were no significant changes in FEV1 or NAR in six aspirin‐tolerant asthmatics when aspirin was given intranasally. The results of this study show that aspirin nasal provocation impairs lung function in aspirin‐sensitive asthmatics. In comparison with inhalation challenge responses are generally milder and easier to control. Nasal challenge is also less time‐consuming than other methods of aspirin challenge and is therefore more suitable for routine use.
Changes in skin reactivity, specific IgE and IgG levels after one year of immunotherapy in olive pollinosis
Authors: MACCHIA L. , CAIAFFA M. F. , FELICE G. DI , PINI C. , BARILETTO G. , STRADA S. , TURSI A.
Published: May 2007

Changes in specific skin reactivity, specific IgE and specific IgG after immunotherapy (IT) were investigated in olive pollinosis. Thirty patients, receiving IT with commercial extracts, were studied in comparison with a control group of seven patients, receiving only drug therapy. Skin reactivity, IgE and IgG were assessed before starting IT and 1 year later. Definite changes in the three considered parameters occurred in patients given IT with Olea europaea extracts; no variation was observed in the control group. The specific skin reactivity, evaluated by means of quantitative skin prick tests, significantly decreased (Skin Index geometrical mean from 2.73 to 0.88, P<0.001); the specific IgE, measured by RAST, were surprisingly decreased (from 7.76 to 4.74 PRU/ml, P < 0.001); the specific IgG, measured by ELISA, in basic conditions were detectable only in nine patients of 30, while, after IT, they were found in almost all patients with a remarkable increase (from 5.48 to 266.89 AU/ml, P < 0.001). No correlation was found among the changes in the considered parameters, suggesting that, at least in olive pollinosis, specific skin reactivity, specific IgE and specific IgG are three variables depending on IT but reciprocally independent.
Late airway response increases at repeat allergen challenge
Authors: RASMUSSEN J. B.
Published: May 2007

The relationship between the immediate and late responses to repeated inhalations of allergen was studied. Sixteen male atopic asthmatics were challenged twice with an interval of 2 weeks. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) was measured serially over an 8‐hour period after challenge. The method of provocation used implied that only slight differences between the immediate responses on the two provocation days were observed. However, differences in the late responses were demonstrated. Thus, the maximum percent change in FEV, at the first and second provocation differed significantly in the late (P < 0.01), but not in the immediate phase. The increase in maximal late response was greater than the small change in maximal immediate response (P < 0.05). Further, the FEV1 values from 4 to 8 h post‐challenge were in each recording significantly lower on the second day suggesting a more pronounced late bronchial response to repeat challenge. The results suggest that after one challenge specific airway reactivity, i.e., reactivity to allergen, at a subsequent rechallenge is increased in the late phase. This late phase hyperreactivity seems to persist for at least 2 weeks after allergen provocation.
Dust from carpeted and smooth floors: IV. Solid material, proteins and allergens collected in the different filter stages of vacuum cleaners after ten days of use in schools.
Authors: DYBENDAL T. , WEDBERG W. C. , ELSAYED S.
Published: May 2007

The accumulation of dust, proteins and allergens from alder, birch, timothy, cat, dog, mite, hen egg white, codfish and mould in schools was investigated by analysing the content of vacuum cleaners after 10 days of use. The main goals were to compare the dust accumulation on carpeted and smooth floors and to estimate to what degree the three vacuum cleaner filter stages (i.e. the disposable bag, the main filter and the microfilter) collected dust, proteins and allergens. Carpeted floors accumulated more dust, proteins and allergens per unit area than smooth floors. Histamine release studies of some of the dust extracts showed that the dust from carpeted floors released histamine from passively sensitized basophils at concentrations for which dust from smooth floors gave low or no histamine release. The analyses showed that most of the dust, proteins and allergens were retained in the dust bags. Less than 1% of the vacuumed material had accumulated in the main filters, which, according to the manufacturer, detain 99.5% of particles >2 μm. By the use of a scanning electron microscope (SEM), particle deposits were observed in the microfilters. These deposits, which represented <0.1% of the total mass, showed no significant allergenic activity. Thus, for the field conditions of this study, the microfilters were not needed for cleaning the exit air of allergens, although they were useful for removing fine (<2 μm) particles.
Study of the effects of paf‐acether on human nasal airways
Authors: LEGGIERI E. , TEDESCHI A. , LORINI M. , BIANCO A. , MIADONNA A.
Published: May 2007

In 6 normal subjects and 6 patients with allergic rhinitis, nasal response to insufflation of paf‐acether (paf, platelet‐activating factor), lyso‐paf and histamine was evaluated. Nasal challenge with paf, at doses of 300 and 600 nM, induced nasal obstruction, associated with an increase in nasal airway resistances, measured by antherior passive rhinomanometry. Maximum increase in nasal airway resistance was observed at 30 min after challenge (mean percent change + 481 with 600 nM paf; P < 0.05). Other symptoms induced by paf insufflation were rhinorrhea (6 out of 12 subjects), itching (8 out of 12), sneezing (4 out of 12) and a burning sensation (6 out of 12). No differences were observed between normal and rhinitic subjects, concerning nasal sensitivity to paf. Neither nasal symptoms nor changes in nasal airway resistance were observed after nasal challenge with lyso‐paf (300 and 600 nM); by contrast, histamine (100 nM) induced sneezing, nasal obstruction, itching and rhinorrhea in all the studied subjects, associated with an increase in nasal airway resistance (maximum 5 min after challenge: percent change + 358; P < 0.02). Nasal effects of paf were not mediated by histamine, since no increase in histamine levels was observed in nasal washings following paf insufflation. We conclude that paf may have pathogenetic relevance in allergic rhinitis.
Spice allergy in celery‐sensitive patients
Authors: STÄGER J. , WÜTHRICH B. , JOHANSSON S.G.O.
Published: May 2007

Scratch tests (SCT) with powdered commercial spices were performed in 70 patients with positive skin tests to birch and/or mugwort pollens and celery. Positive SCT to aniseed, fennel, coriander and cumin ‐ all from the same botanical family (Apiaceae) as celery ‐ were observed in more than 24 patients. Spices from unrelated families (red pepper, white pepper, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon) elicited positive immediate skin test reactions only in three of 11 patients. Specific serum IgE to spices (determined in 41 patients with positive RAST to celery) up to class 3 were seen especially in patients with celerymugwort or celery‐birch‐mugwort association, and concerned various botanical families. Celery‐birch association pattern was linked to positive reactions (RAST classes 1–2) to spices from the Apiaceae family only.
Inhalation and nasal challenge in the diagnosis of aspirin‐induced asthma
Authors: Pawlowicz A. , Williams W. R. , Davies B. H.
Published: May 2007

Inhalation and nasal aspirin challenge has been investigated in asthma patients with co‐existing rhinitis. Eight of 39 asthma patients were diagnosed as aspirin‐sensitive on the basis of inhalation challenge. Seven aspirin‐sensitive asthmatics were subjected to nasal aspirin provocation. During nasal challenge, all seven patients experienced a fall in FEV, of at least 15%, two showed a significant increase (> 400%) in nasal airways resistance (NAR) and one developed urticaria. No significant changes in FEV1 or NAR were observed in nine normal subjects after aspirin inhalation and nasal challenge. There were no significant changes in FEV1 or NAR in six aspirin‐tolerant asthmatics when aspirin was given intranasally. The results of this study show that aspirin nasal provocation impairs lung function in aspirin‐sensitive asthmatics. In comparison with inhalation challenge responses are generally milder and easier to control. Nasal challenge is also less time‐consuming than other methods of aspirin challenge and is therefore more suitable for routine use.
Late airway response increases at repeat allergen challenge
Authors: Rasmussen J. B.
Published: May 2007

The relationship between the immediate and late responses to repeated inhalations of allergen was studied. Sixteen male atopic asthmatics were challenged twice with an interval of 2 weeks. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV,) was measured serially over an 8‐hour period after challenge. The method of provocation used implied that only slight differences between the immediate responses on the two provocation days were observed. However, differences in the late responses were demonstrated. Thus, the maximum percent change in FEV, at the first and second provocation differed significantly in the late (P < 0.01), but not in the immediate phase. The increase in maximal late response was greater than the small change in maximal immediate response (P < the FEV, values from 4 to 8 h post‐challenge were in each recording significantly lower on the second day suggesting a more pronounced late bronchial response to repeat challenge. The results suggest that after one challenge specific airway reactivity, i.e., reactivity to allergen, at a subsequent rechallenge is increased in the late phase. This late phase hyperreactivity seems to persist for at least 2 weeks after allergen provocation.
Immunological cross‐reactivity of hemoglobins in the Diptera familiy Chironomidae
Authors: Baur X. , Liebers V. , Mazur G. , Becker W.‐M. , Kagen S. L. , Kawai K.
Published: May 2007

Polyclonal human IgE antibodies of patients sensitized to one species of the Diptera family Chironomidae as well as polyclonal rabbit anti‐Chi t I hyperimmune serum recognize antigenic sites present in nearly all of the 33 species of this insect family. Evolutionary distantly related genera usually show weaker antibody binding. According to the pattern of reactivity of rabbit anti‐Chi t I‐component III, expression of the epitopes of this molecule varies considerably in the genera Chiranomus and Clyptotendipes; it appears to be almost totally absent in all other species. Of five monoclonal antibodies raised against Chi t I‐component III, two recognize an epitope which is expressed in nearly all closely related species. Three monoclonal antibodies recognize epitopes which are expressed in only a few species of the same genus. Our results demonstrate the presence of common as well as species‐specific epitopes in chironomid hemoglobins which behave as potent inhalant allergens.
Adverse reaction to pomegranate ingestion
Authors: Igea J. M. , Cuesta J. , Cuevas M. , Elias L. M. , Marcos C. , Lazaro M. , COMPAIRED J. A.
Published: May 2007

We present a non‐atopic 85‐year‐old woman, with a late‐onset recidivant tongue angio‐edema due to pomegranate intake, as proven by a double blind oral challenge test. This is the first case ever reported about adverse reaction to pomegranate. We have been unable to demonstrate an IgE‐mediated mechanism (prick test, histamine release test and RAST with pomegranate were all negative). We emphasize the importance of clinical history and oral challenge test in the diagnosis of food allergy.
Prospective estimation of IgG, IgG subclass and IgE antibodies to dietary proteins in infants with cow milk allergy
Authors: Høst A. , Husby S. , Gjesing B. , Larsen J. N. , Løwenstein H.
Published: May 2007

Prospectively, serum levels of IgE, specific IgE antibodies (AB) to whole cow milk protein (CMP), bovine se‐albumin, bovine immunoglobulin, bovine lactoferrin, bovine lactalbumin and beta‐lactoglobulin (BLG), IgG and IgG subclass antibodies to ovalbumin (OA) and BLG, and IgG4 RAST to CMP (bovine whey) were measured in 39 infants with cow milk protein allergy (CMPA) at birth (cord blood), at time of diagnosis and before and after milk challenge at the age of 12 months. Immunological measurements were also undertaken in 33 control infants without CMPA at birth, at 6 months and at 18 months. At no time, were differences found between the levels of IgG and IgG subclass AB to OA and BLG in control versus infants with CMPA. In the 39 infants with CMPA no correlation was found between the levels of IgE, IgG and IgG subclass AB in cord blood and subsequent levels of these values, irrespective of the type of CMPA (IgE‐mediated (CMA) or non‐IgE‐mediated (CMI)), and irrespective of whether remission had occurred. In cord blood 25/33 (76%) of the infants with CMPA had specific IgE‐AB to one or more of the bovine milk proteins indicating a prenatal intrauterine sensitization to cow milk protein. At 6 months the frequency of specific IgE‐AB to bovine milk proteins was significantly (p<0.05) higher in infants with CMA versus CMI, and at 12 months total serum‐IgE and the increase of these specific IGE‐AB and RAST to CMP were significantly higher (p<0.05) in infants with persistent CMA. From 6 to 12 months withholding milk resulted in a significant fall in specific IgE‐AB to CMP, and IgG, IgG, and IgG4 anti‐BLG followed by an increase after milk challenge. Decreasing levels of IgG anti‐OA from birth to 6 months reflect passive maternal transfer of IgG through the placenta, and increasing levels of IgG anti‐BLG, already from birth to 6 months, may represent an early exposure to CMP in all infants. Significantly higher levels (p<0.05) of IgG anti‐OA AB, IgG, and IgG4 anti‐BLG AB were found in infants with persistent CMA, indicating a close relation between the synthesis of IgE and IgG and between IgE and IgG subclasses (IgG, and IgG4) in symptomatic cow milk‐allergic individuals. Determination of IgG AB and IgG subclass AB (IgG, and IgG4) to BLG and bovine whey in cord blood appears unable to discern infants at high risk of development of CMPA. However, infants with persistent CMPA have an increased antibody response of specific IgE and IgG subclasses (IgG, and IgG4) to CMP exposure.
Influence of levocabastine suspension on ciliary beat frequency and mucociliary clearance
Authors: Merkus F. W. H. M. , Schüsler‐van Hees M. T. I. W.
Published: May 2007

The effects of levocabastine, a new fast‐acting, highly potent H1‐antagonist, on nasal ciliary epithelial function were investigated in an in vitro and in vivo study. In the in vitro study, a suspension of levocabastine in Locke‐Ringer solution was applied to 10 bioptic specimens of ciliated human adenoid tissue. Each specimen was exposed to the test solution for 60 min. Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) was recorded with a photoelectric recording device at 10‐min intervals. There were small, insignificant decreases in CBF, which were minimal compared to that observed with ciliotoxic agents. In the in vivo study, 8 healthy volunteers were given, intranasally, one droplet of the levocabastine suspension. Mucociliary transit time (MTT) was measured by placing a saccharin particle drenched in indigo carmine in the nose just below the top of the concha and measuring the time until appearance of the dye in the pharyngeal cavity. No statistically significant differences were found in the MTT before and after application of the levocabastine suspension. The studies thus indicate that nasally administered levocabastine does not interfere with ciliary beat frequency and mucociliary function.
Prevalence of atopic disorders among adolescents in Turku, Finland
Authors: Varjonen E. , Kalimo K. , Lammintausta K. , Terho P.
Published: May 2007

A study of the prevalence atopic disorders among 15–16‐year‐old teenagers was carried out in a coastal urban town in south‐western Finland. Altogether, 1712 children were found in that age group, all previously examined by a pediatrician. Each child who had present or previous allergic diseases was invited for a detailed study, a total of 434 (25%) pupils. Of these patients 416 (95.8%) participated in clinical examination and skin testing. The prevalence of atopic diseases was 21% in the studied group; atopic eczema was found in 9.7%, allergic rhinitis in 14%, and asthma in 2.5%. Of subjects who had rhinitis, 38% also had atopic eczema, while rhinitis ‐ as the only symptom ‐was found in 8.8%. Figures obtained from this survey suggest that the prevalence rates of atopic diseases are about the same as found 10 years age in Finland and they correspond also with other recent reports.
Immunotherapy in patients allergic to cat and dog dander
Authors: Haugaard L. , Dahl R.
Published: May 2007

Twenty‐four asthmatics allergic to cat and/or dog dander were included in a study to examine the efficacy and safety of immunotherapy (IT) with partially purified, standardized extracts of cat or dog dander. In the first placebo controlled, double‐blind part of the study, 10 patients were treated with extracts of both eat and dog, 12 with cat extracts and 2 with dog extracts. Fifteen patients received active IT and 9 placebo injections. Patients treated with both extracts received active extracts only, or placebo only. Bronchial allergen challenge after 5 months demonstrated a significant fall in sensitivity to eat (P = 0.04) in patients treated with cat extracts. No significant changes were found in sensitivity to dog after treatment with dog dander extract or in the placebo groups. During this period, bronchial sensitivity to histamine did not change significantly in any of the groups. To examine the effect of more prolonged IT, 19 patients allergic to cat (17) and/or dog (9) were treated for 12 months. Bronchial sensitivity to cat decreased further (P = 0.003), while no significant change was found in dog extract‐treated patients. In cat extract‐treated patients a significant decrease in bronchial histamine sensitivity developed (P = 0.02). Systemic side effects were few, but in some eases, local side effects were a dose‐limiting factor. This study demonstrated that IT with cat extract may benefit cat‐allergic asthmatics, whereas no influence of IT with dog extract was detected in dog‐sensitive asthmatics.
Flow cytometric analysis of intraepithelial lymphocytes in the human nasal mucosa
Authors: Okuda M. , Pawankar R.
Published: May 2007

Recently, much research has been carried out on phenotypes and the function of intraepithelial lymphocytes of the intestines. However, only few studies have been made of nasal intraepithelial lymphocytes (nIEL), and the results have been controversial. We examined the population of different subsets of the human nIEL by means of 2‐color flow cytometry after culturing lymphocytes isolated from the inferior turbinates of hypertrophic rhinitis in incubation media with monoclonal antibody against CD3. As a result, CD+8 cells (suppressor/cytotoxic T cells) and double negative T cells (CD−8 CD−8 T cells) were the most predominant. The CD+4 cells (helper/inducer T cells) to CD+8 cells ratio was 0.6. Cytotoxic T cells predominated over suppressor T cells in CD+8 cells and helper T cells predominated over inducer T cells in CD+4 cells. Double positive T cells (CD+8 CD+4 T cells) were nil and natural killer cells and CD+8 killer cells few. CD+8 cells and CD+4 cells were activated during cell culture. αβ receptor bearing T cells predominated over γδ receptor bearing T cells in CD+8 cells and CD+4 cells but γδ receptor bearing T cells predominated over αβ receptor bearing T cells in double negative T cells. To investigate the effect of cell culture on the population of each phenotype of nIEL we also examined peripheral blood lymphocytes by flow cytometry before and after culture, and found that activated T cells markedly increased and suppressor T cells, γδ bearing T cells and natural killer cells slightly decreased. From the above results, it could be concluded that nIEL heterogeneous in phenotype and characterized by a predominance of CD+8 cells, particularly cytotoxic T cells and double negative T cells with γδ receptor, which may be important for future study.
Human Th1 and Th2 lymphocytes: their role in the pathophysiology of atopy
Authors: Prete G. Del
Published: May 2007

In human beings, as in mice, two distinct patterns of cytokine secretion have been defined among CD4 + helper T‐cell clones. Human type 1 helper (Th1), but not type 2 helper (Th2), cells produce interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), gamma‐interferon (IFN‐γ), and tumor necrosis factor‐β, whereas Th2, but not Th1, cells secrete IL‐4 and IL‐5, but not IL‐2 or IFN‐γ. Other cytokines, such as IL‐3, IL‐6, GM‐CSF, or TNF‐α, are produced by both Th1 and Th2 cells. The cells, a third Th subset, show combined production of Th1‐and Th2‐type cytokines. The different cytokine patterns are associated with different functions. In general, Th2 cells provide an excellent helper function for B‐cell antibody production, particularly of the IgE class. On the other hand, Th1 cells are responsible for delayed type hypersensitivity reactions and are cytolytic for autologous antigen‐presenting cells, including B cells. Most allergen‐ or helminth‐antigen‐specific human CD4 + T‐cell clones exhibit a Th2 phenotype, whereas most clones specific for bacterial antigens show a Th1 profile. Allergen‐specific Th2 cells seem to play a crucial role in atopy. These cells induce IgE production via IL‐4 and favor the proliferation, differentiation, and activation of eosinophils via IL‐5. In addition, Th2‐derived IL‐3 and IL‐4 are mast‐cell growth factors that act in synergy, at least in vitro. Recent evidence indicates that allergen‐specific Th2 cells are selectively enriched in tissues affected by allergic inflammation, such as the bronchial mucosa of subjects with allergic asthma. However, the reason why allergens preferentially expand Th2 cells in atopics is unknown. A number of factors may influence Th subset differentiation into Th1 or Th2 cells. At present, the IL‐4 produced in the microenvironment in which antigen is presented to Th cells seems to be the major factor favoring Th2 development. In this connection, the aberrant production of IL‐4 (and IL‐5) exhibited by T cells from atopics, even in response to bacterial antigens, may be of great importance.
Evidence of a common regulation of IgE and IgG‐subclass antibodies in humans during immunotherapy
Authors: Søndergaard I. , Poulsen L. K. , Østerballe O. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Based on a 3‐year prospective study of 20 pollen‐allergic patients, where a detailed analysis of the IgE, IgG, and IgG4 immune response was performed, we propose that a common regulatory mechanism exists between the IgE and IgG1 synthesis and between IgE and IgG4 synthesis during immunotherapy. It was found that the IgE immune response to a number of antigens was quantitatively diminished during the period of immunotherapy when IgG1 was present early (week 12), and for other antigens there was a rise in IgE without an early IgG1 antibody response. Additionally, it was found that for some antigens a rise in IgE antibodies was contrasted by a fall in the IgG4 antibody response and for other antigens the opposite was true, indicating a regulatory mechanism between the IgE and the IgG4 synthesis. A statistical analysis showed that these findings were statistically significant at the 0.01 % level for the IgE/IgG1 relationship and at the 0.05% level for the IgE/IgG4 relationship. These findings could have implications for future immunotherapy regimens.
Damp housing and adult respiratory symptoms
Authors: Brunekreef B.
Published: May 2007

The relationship between home dampness and adult respiratory symptoms was investigated using data from a parent‐administered questionnaire on childhood respiratory symptoms that also included questions on parental respiratory symptoms. Questionnaires were returned by the parents of 3344 children living in the town of Helmond, The Netherlands. The response was 73%. Home dampness was characterized by reports of damp stains or mould growth on indoor surfaces and was reported by 23.6% and 15.0% of the study population, respectively. Of the homes, 25.4% had dampness and/or mould. Information about respiratory symptoms was collected for the mothers and fathers of a population of 6–12‐year‐old schoolchildren. Symptoms analysed were cough, phlegm, wheeze, asthma, and allergy to pollen or house dust. Cough and phlegm in both men and women were found to be strongly associated with living in a damp home. Weaker associations were found for wheeze and asthma, and there was little association between living in a damp home and allergy to pollen or house dust. Current smoking was strongly associated with cough, phlegm and wheeze in both men and women. Smoking was inversely associated with allergy to pollen or house dust, suggesting that allergic subjects do not start smoking, or give up the habit. The results suggest that the association between home dampness and respiratory symptoms previously reported for children also applies to adults. Suggested mechanisms include exposure to biological contaminants produced by fungi or house dust mites, but it has not yet been documented to what extent these exposures are responsible. Also, the effects of potential biases related to selective migration or home amelioration, or to over‐reporting of symptoms among subjects living in damp homes, or to over‐reporting of home dampness by symptomatic subjects, need further investigation.
Neonatal IgE levels and three different blood sampling techniques
Authors: Lilja G. , Magnusson C. G. M. , Johansson S. G. O. , Kusoffsky E. , Öman H.
Published: May 2007

Comparison was made of IgE and IgA levels in aspirated and gravity‐collected cord blood (CB) from the umbilical vein and in capillary blood samples collected on the 4‐5th day of life among 21 infants with atopic heredity. The IgA levels, but not the IgE levels, were significantly (p< 0.001) lower at days 4‐5 of life than at delivery. Further, there were significantly (p<0.05) more infants with decreasing IgA levels (20/21; 95%) than IgE levels (9/15; 60% of those with detectable IgE, i.e., ≥ 0.125 kU/1). These observations, together with the highly significant correlation observed between IgE in aspirated CB samples and at 4–5 days of age, suggest active IgE synthesis during the prenatal and postnatal periods. Contamination of CB with maternal blood, defined as an increased CBIgA level (≥ 14.1 μg/ml), was found in 3 (14%) CB samples, all of which were gravity‐collected. Of 4 CB samples (gravity‐collected) with elevated IgE (i.e., ≥ 0.9kU/l), 2 had suspected maternal contamination. Therefore, aspiration of CB or capillary collection at 4‐5 days of age should be preferred for allergy prediction. If gravity collection is used, contamination should be investigated by determining IgA in all CB samples with IgE concentrations exceeding the cut‐off point.
Analysis of antigenic determinants shared by two different allergens recognized by human T cells: house dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus) and chironomid midge (Chironomus yoshimatsui)
Authors: Nagano T. , Ohta N. , Okano M. , Ono T. , Masuda Y.
Published: May 2007

To analyse the cross‐reactivity of T‐cell‐mediated immunity between Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp) and Chironomus yoshimatsui (Cy), the most common allergens in Japan, we established antigen‐specific human T‐cell lines and clones. Some but not all of the Cy‐induced T‐cell lines showed a significant proliferative response not only to Cy, but also to Dp. No T‐cell line responded to other unrelated antigens. When we stimulated the Dp‐induced T‐cell clones with Cy, 3 of the 40 clones (7.5%) showed a significant proliferation, and 2 of the 3 clones produced interleukin‐4 and interferon‐γ, indicating their helper function, Cross‐reactivity was diminished significantly after the absorption of Dp antigen in an anti‐Cy affinity column. The cross‐reactive epitopes were thought to be expressed on the Dp molecule of 45–53 kD, The presence of helper T cells reactive to both allergens suggests a possibility that this cross‐reactivity might be involved in part in the high incidence of allergy to the 2 major allergens.
Coronary artery spasm and acute myocardial infarction in naproxen‐associated anaphylactic reaction
Authors: Cisteró A. , Urías S. , Guindo J. , Lleonart R. , Garcia‐Moll M. , Geli A. , Bayés de Luna A.
Published: May 2007

We present the case of a 43‐year‐old man who suffered an acute myocardial infarction after oral administration of 250 mg of naproxen, prescribed as antiinflammatory‐analgesic agent after tooth extraction. Both intradermal skin test and human basophil degranulation test were positive to naproxen. These findings suggest a naproxen‐associated anaphylactic reaction with concomitant coronary artery spasm and posteroinferior infarction, a clinical event previously not reported with the use of this drug.
A comparative study of four different bronchial challenge tests
Authors: Haugaard L. , Iversen M. , Dahl R.
Published: May 2007

Haugaard L, Iversen M, Dahl R. A comparative study of four different bronchial challenge tests.

The correlation between 4 commonly used tests for assessment of airway hyperresponsiveness was studied in 10 asthmatics by performing bronchial challenges with histamine, ultrasonically nebulised distilled water (UNDW), exercise, and a relevant allergen. All tests were performed within 4 weeks for each individual and at least 48 h apart. A significant correlation was found between histamine challenge and exercise challenge (r=−0.74). Other correlations were substantial (0.4–0.5) but did not reach statistical significance. This suggests that the challenges have different mechanisms or pathways leading to bronchoconstriction, and assessment of the pattern of individual patients’ bronchial hyperresponsiveness may require application of a number of different bronchial challenge tests. For routine use histamine challenge seems the most appropriate.
Natural history of bronchial asthma in childhood A prospective study from birth up to 12–14 years of age
Authors: Croner S. , Kjellman N‐I. M.
Published: May 2007

Croner S, Kjellman N‐IM. Natural history of bronchial asthma in childhood. A prospective study from birth up to 12‐14 years of age.

In a cohort of 1654 consecutively born children followed from birth, the cumulated incidence of asthma up to 11 years was 5.3% and the prevalence 3% between 10 and 11 years of age. The asthma debut was prior to 1.5 years in 1/3 and before 3 years in 1/2 of the children. Among 59 children examined at 11.5–14.5 years of age, 16 (27%) had no prevalent asthma. On the other hand, inadequate medication was found in 13, undiagnosed chest deformity in four, and wheezing in seven children. All 54 tested children including those with no prevalent asthma had a PC20 histaminc < 8 mg/ml. Tread mill test gave a significant reaction in 15 children. Animal danders and pollens were the most common allergens giving reactions at skin prick test. Compared to one earlier Swedish study an increase in mite sensitivity was found. Cord‐blood IgE concentration and a positive immediate family history of atopic disease had no predictive value for the severity of asthma at this follow‐up. A new total asthma score including number of days with functional impact of asthma during the last year and present medication was used for group comparisons. Children with a high score at 11.5–14.5 years had more exercise‐induced asthma, more concomitant allergic diseases, earlier asthma start, more chest deformity, hyperreactivity both on tread mill and histamine challenge tests, elevated IgE, positive Phadiatop and more reactions at skin prick test, especially to animals and mites. Bronchial asthma was found more often in children born during August through October, possibly due to unsuitable indoor climate and more virus infections during their first 6 months of life. The severity of the asthma was, however, not influenced by the month of birth. No significant differences were found between boys and girls regarding the age at début, asthma severity at follow‐up, or bronchial histamine threshold levels.
Genetic control of eosinophilia in guinea pig strains inbred for high or low bronchial allergic reactivity 2. A genetic study of spontaneous and immunization‐induced eosinophilia
Authors: Winthereik M. Ploug , Spärck J. V. , Lundberg L. , Sompolinsky D.
Published: May 2007

Ploug Winthereik M, Spärck JV, Lundberg L, Sompolinsky D. Genetic control of eosinophilia in guinea pig strains inbred for high or low bronchial allergic reactivity. 2. A genetic study of spontaneous and immunization‐induced eosinophilia.

In 4 inbred strains of guinea pig the tendency to develop peripheral high‐eosinophilia was shown to be genetically controlled. The development of eosinophilia with age and following immunization was examined in high‐ and low‐eosinophilic parental strains, in F1‐hybrids and in backcross offspring. The results show that probably only one or a very few segregating genes control eosinophilia, and they also indicate that different genes are involved in the determination of spontaneous (age‐related) and immunization‐induced eosinophilia.
Histamine‐induced bronchoconstriction in conscious guinea pigs measured by strain‐gauge transduction A new method
Authors: Engel A. , Lundberg L. , Faarup P. , Faurschou P.
Published: May 2007

Engel A, Lundberg L, Faarup P, Faurschou P. Histamine‐induced bronchoconstriction in conscious guinea pigs measured by strain‐gauge transduction. A new method.

A new objective method for measuring histaminedihydrochloride‐induced bronchoconstriction in conscious guinea pigs has been developed. The aim of the present work was to investigate whether identical results could be obtained when the clinical observation of conscious guinea pigs with symptoms of respiratory distress (bronchoconstriction) was compared to an objective measuring technique of this parameter. An evaluation of the repeatability of the method was made and the respiration frequence (fR) and histamincdihydrochloride challenge concentration were compared to see whether there was a correlation between the two. Consequently, an appartatus was built that allowed simultaneous recording of breathing pattern and clinical observation of the animal being challenged. The breathing pattern was recorded by a strain‐gauge transducer, connected to a measuring bridge, and the curves obtained on a jet ink x‐y writer were used for calculating changes in duration of expiratory phase (Te) and fR. During the attacks of histaminedihydrochloride‐induced bronchoconstriction a significantly prolonged Te could be calculated from the respiration curves. A high degree of agreement was found between this objective measure and clinically observed respiratory distress. The repeatability of the method was comparable to that of corresponding methods used for histaminedihydrochloride challenge in man. No obvious correlation was found between changes in fR and histamincdihydrochloride challenge concentration.