bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allergen sensitization of asthmatic and nonasthmatic schoolchildren in Costa Rica
Authors: Soto‐Quiros M. , Gutierrez I. , Calvo N. , Araya C. , Karlberg J. , Hanson L. A. , Belin L.
Published: May 2007

The prevalence of asthma among schoolchildren in Costa Rica is very high ‐at the level of 20‐30% ‐ and the reason is still unknown. A group of children from our previous epidemiologic study was randomly selected in order to establish the relation between asthma symptoms and allergy sensitization to common allergens. Serum samples from ciiildren with and without asthma were analyzed for the presence of IgE antibodies to 36 different allergens, for the presence of IgE antibodies to a pool of 10 common allergens, and for total serum IgE. The most prevalent IgE antibodies were those to mite, cockroach, dog, and house‐dust allergens with MAST pipettes for the serologic measurements. Positive reactions to house dust, mite, cat, and the two molds (Aiternaria and Ciadosporium), and food allergens such as egg white, peanut, and shellfish were significantly more prevalent among the asthmatics than the nonasthmatics. Sensitization was equally prevalent at different ages, but the house‐dust, mite, cat, dog, cockroach, Aiternaria, and egg‐white allergens had sensitized boys more often than girls (P<0.01). The result of the analysis of IgE antibodies to a pool of 10 common allergens by Phadiatop supported the MAST pipette results, showing allergen sensitization in 57.7% of the asthmatic children and 42.3% in the nonasthmatic group. The concentration of IgE was significantly higher among the asthmatic children (372.2 kU/1) than among the nonasthmatic children (249.1 kU/1) (P < 0.00001). Parasitic infestations were not examined i n this study, but in most of Costa Rica these have largely been eliminated and could not explain the high total IgE levels. Our data indicate that the very high prevalence of bronchial asthma in Costa Rican schoolchildren can be related to sensitization, especially to airborne indoor allergens such as those of mites, cockroaches, and dogs.
Pertussis IgE and atopic disease
Authors: Nilsson L. , Grüber C. , Granström M. , Björkstén B. , Kjellman N.‐I. M.
Published: May 2007

Background Pertussis toxin (PT) stimulates IgE production in animals, and pertussis vaccination and whooping cough may have similar effects in man. Methods We analyzed IgE responses to PT (FT‐IgE) in sera from children primarily immunized with three doses of either an acellular 2‐ or 5‐component vaccine, or a whole‐cell (We) pertussis vaccine, and in children after whooping cough. The study comprised 50 children with both atopic disease and positive skin prick test, 99 nonatopic controls, and 40 children with verified pertussis.

Results Immunoglobulin E antibodies against PT were demonstrated in 19% and 24% of sera from vaccinated children at 7 and 12 months, respectively, and in 9% at 2.5 years. At 7 months, PT‐IgE was more common after vaccination with acellular (24%) than with the We vaccine (3%, P = 0,02), PT‐IgE was also more common (P = 0.00l) after vaccination in children classified as atopic (36%) than in the control group (10%). Thirty percent of the children with pertussis had PT‐IgE, more often so in atopic than nonatopic children (P = 0.02), Conciusions Transient production of PT‐lgE seems to be common after primary pertussis immunization with acellular vaccines, and after whooping cough, particularly in atopic subjects.
The effect of dry heat on mite, cat, and dog allergens
Authors: Cain G. , Elderfield A. J. , Green R. , Smillie F. I. , Chapman M. D. , Custovic A. , Woodcock A.
Published: May 2007

Background Various techniques have been tried in an attempt to reduce allergen levels in homes. This study investigated the effect of dry heat on mite, cat, and dog allergens.

Methods Samples (50 mg) of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and D. farinae cultures, and of house dust rich in the major cat and dog allergens Fel d 1 and Can f 1 were heated for 5, 10, 15, 30, and 60 min at 60°, 80°, 100M20°, and 140°C. Control samples remained at room temperature. Extracts were assayed with the appropriate two‐site mono‐ or mono/polyclonal sandwich ELISA, Results For Der p 1, the breakdown was proportional to temperature and heating time; after 30 min at 120°C, allergen levels were reduced to < 1 % of control. Der p 2 was more heat stable, requiring 140°C for 30‐60 min to achieve >99% reduction. D. farinae groups 1 and 2 allergens showed results similar to those obtained with D. pteronyssinus. In contrast. Can f 1 and Fel d 1 were considerably more thermostable, with 50% and 70%, respectively, of allergen remaining after 60 min at 140°C.

Conciusions The effect of dry heat on allergens increased with increasing time and temperature, cat and dog allergens demonstrating greater heat resistance than mite allergens. Dry heating methods may represent an alternative technique for removal of mite allergens: however, the greater stability of Fel d 1 and Can f 1 suggests that this procedure may not be appropriate for pet allergens.
Is tyrosine kinase activation involved in basophil histamine release in asthma due to western red cedar?
Authors: Frew A. , Chan H. , Salari H. , Chan‐Yeung M.
Published: May 2007

Occupational asthma due to western red cedar is associated with histamine release from basophils and mast cells on exposure to plicatic acid (PA), but the machanisms underlying this response remain unclear. Specific kinase inhibitors were used to study the role of tyrosine kinase inhibitor methyl 2,5‐dihydroxy‐cinnamate (MDHC) attenuated histamine release from basophils triggered by anti‐IgE (29.8% inhibition; n=15; P<0.01) or grass pollen (48% inhibition; n=6; P<0.01). Inhibition was concentration‐dependent and could be reversed by washing the cells in buffer, while the inactive stereoisomer of MDHC did not affect histamine release. In contrast, the protein kinase C inhibitor staurosporin did not affect histamine release by either anti‐IgE or grass pollen. Pretreatment with MDHC partially inhibited PA‐induced histamine release from basophils of 6/9 patients with red cedar asthma (25.4% vs 33.8%; P=NS). Staurosporin gave a similar level of inhibition of PA‐induced histamine release (25.4% vs 33.8%; P=NS). Thus, signal trasduction of the human basophil FcERI appears to depend upon tyrosine kinase activation, but not on protein kinase C (serine/threonine kinase) activation. The lack of specific effect on plicatic acid‐induced histamine release in basophils obtained from patients with occupational asthma due to western red cedar suggests that tyrosine kinases are not as important in this disease as in atopic asthma, and is consistent with the view that histamine release in red cedar asthma is largely IgE‐independent.
Cross‐reactivity between terrestrial snails (Helix species) and house‐dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus). I. In vivo study
Authors: Vuitton D.‐A. , Rancé F. , Paquin M.‐L. , Adessi B. , Vigan M. , Gomot A. , Dutau G.
Published: May 2007

Clinical reports have suggested an unusual frequency in the number of patients with food allergy to snails who are also allergic to the house‐dust mite (HDM). As allergy to HDM is one of the most frequent sensitizations in atopic patients of Western countries, evaluation of the relevance of the concomitant sensitization to Eermatophagoides pteronyssinus and to snails is an important consideration. To evaluate the responsibility of different snail components and of snail mites for inducing in vivo hypersensitivity in patients allergic to HDM, the in vivo reactivity of patients with clinical symptoms after ingestion of snails was assessed by skin prick tests with tests with extracts and hemolymph from four different Helix species snails, and extracts from the snail parasitic mite, Riccardoella limacum. In addition, to obtain epidemiologic data on cosensitization to HDM and snails in allergic patient, the frequency of snail sensitization and its relationship to HDM sensitization were determined in a population of 169 allergic children. All patients allergic to snails had positive skin prick tests to the snail extracts and none to R. limacum extract. The nunber of positive skin reactions did not significantly differ whatever the species, snail part, or heating procedure used. The strongest reactions were obtained with Helix pomatia (Burgundy snail extracts; 79% of the snail‐sensitized children had sensitization to HDM; and 31% of the children allergic to HDM were found to be sensitized to snails. These results show that sanil components, and not the mite R. limacum, were responsible for the invivo hypersensitivity. These snail components reacting in vivo are present in different parts of snails, including the hemolymph. One‐third of the children allergic to HDM were sensitized to snails without any previous ingestion of snails: this observation suggests that HDM was the sensitizing agent and that the cross‐raction could be clinically relevant in countries where eating snails is common.
Sense of smell in allergic and nonallergic rhinitis
Authors: Simola M. , Malmberg H.
Published: May 2007

Hyposmia is a fairly common complaint in patients with long‐continuing aliergic or nonallergic rhinitis. Other factors such as aging, smoking, or nasal surgery may affect olfaction, but these have been little studied in rhinitisrelated hyposmia. The purpose of this study was to measure and compare olfactory thresholds in 105 rhinitis patients and 104 healthy controls and to analyze possible relationships between the sense of smell and rhinitis, age, sex, smoking, prick‐test results, nasal resistance, and history of nasal or paranasal surgery. The olfactory threshold was assessed with a commercially available kit of squeeze‐bottle pairs. The most important variables associated with the sense of smell were determined with stepwise multiple regression analysis, and intergroup differences were assessed with analysis of variance. The reference interval of olfactory thresholds by age was estimated with regression analysis. Nasal resistance was measured by active anterior rhinomanometry. Age and rhinitis were the only variables with significant effect on the olfactory threshold in the whole series. Both the proportion of hyposmic persons and the degree of the impairment of the sense of smell were significantly higher in the rhinitis group than in the control group. The nonallergic patients' sense of smell was poorer than that of seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis patients. A history of operations for nasal polyposis was associated with hyposmia, but operations for chronic maxillary sinusitis were not. Neither smoking habits nor sex were related to olfactory thresholds. In conclusion, hyposmia in rhinitis patients is partly attributable to age‐related changes, but our results indicate that the disease itself impairs the sense of smell.
Cat, dog, and house‐dust‐mite allergen levels of house dust in Finnish apartments
Authors: Raunio P. , Pasanen A.‐L. , Reiman M. , Virtanen T.
Published: May 2007

The presence of indoor allergetis iti Finnish homes was studied for the first time. Dust samples (n=30) were collected by vacuuming a 1 m2 area from a living‐room carpet in 30 apartments divided into three groups: homes with cats (n = 10), homes with dogs (n = 10). and homes without pets (n=10). The levels of major cat (Fel d 1). dog (Can f 1), and house‐dust‐mite (Der p 1) allergens were analyzed by two‐site ELISA methods. Der p 1 levels were below the detection limit in all dust samples. In the homes with cats or dogs, Fel d 1 and Can f 1 levels ranged from 147 to 2800 μg/g (geometric mean 567 μg/g), and from 86 to 1400 μg/g (geometric mean 296 μg/g), respectively, being slightly higher than those reported elsewhere. Low allergen levels, mainly below 3 (μg/g. were also detected in the homes without pets, indicating the transfer of allergens from place to place. However, in 25% of these samples, allergen levels exceeded the proposed threshold levels for cat or dog sensitization. The presence of pets was the most significant factor affecting cat and dog allergen levels in the house dust, and other factors, such as the amount of dust collected, residential time, and cleaning habits, had no or only a weak effect on allergen levels.
Sensitization to Zygophyllum fabago pollen. A clinical and immunologic study
Authors: Belchi‐Hernandez J. , Moreno‐Grau S. , Sánchez‐Gascón F. , Bayo J. , Rendueles B. Elvira , Bartolomé B. , Moreno J. M. , Quesada J. Martinez , Peláez R. Palacios
Published: May 2007

Zygophyllum fahago is a herbaceous plant found widely in the Mediterranean area. There are no previous reports of its allergenicity. An aerobiologic and clinical survey was conducted in Murcia, southern Spain, to determine the quantity of airborne pollen and establish the possible role of this pollen as a cause of allergic symptoms. With a Hirst volumetric trap, we determined the atmospheric concentrations of this pollen in 1993, 1994,1995, and 1996. Of 1180 patients tested, 181 (15,34%) had a positive skin test. To determine its allergenicity, we divided 47 patients into three groups: in group 1, all the patients had symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis plus asthma; in groups 2 and 3, rhinoconjunctivitis. In group 1, we performed a bronchial provocation test (BPT): in groups 2 and 3, we performed nasal provocation (NPT) and conjunctival provocation (CPT) tests, respectively, SDS‐PAGE was used to characterize the antigenic fractions and RAST inhibition to determine cross‐reactivity with other pollens. The pollen dispersion period is from May to September (445 grains/m3), BPT was positive in 13 of 15 patients, NPT in 14 of 16 patients, and CPT in 13 of 16 patients. RAST inhibition revealed cross‐reactivity with Mercurialis, Ricinus, Olea. and Betula. SDS‐PAGE identified 25 IgE antibody‐binding components, five of which (60, 65, 41, 38, and 15.5/14,7 kDa) were recognized by 40% of the sera. By SDS‐PAGE immunoblotting with sunflower antiprofilin rabbit serum and affinity chromatography we established that the Z. fahago extract has profilin. This study shows that this pollen becomes airborne and elicits an IgE response which triggers respiratory symptoms in allergic subjects.
Factors determining spontaneous histamine release from human basophils purified with Percoll gradients and Dynabeads
Authors: Nielsen H. V. , Shah P. M. , Schietz P. O.
Published: May 2007

Identification of factors influencing histamine release from purified and cultured basophil leukocytes is important for proper interpretation of results obtained on histamine release. This paper describes factors that influence spontaneous histamine secretion from human basophil leukocytes purified on Percoll gradients, followed by negative selection with Dynabeads. Anti‐IgE and recombinant human interleukin‐3 were used as model stimulants, and the purified basophil leukocytes were stimulated for 10 min and 6 h. The effect of the following conditions was examined: Percoll temperature, cell‐suspension density, and serum in the media. The results showed that low Percoll temperature, high cell‐suspension density, and the presence of serum in the media decreased spontaneous histamine release and increased maximal net histamine release upon stimulation.
A case of episodic angioedema associated with blood eosinophilia: upregulated C5a receptor expression on eosinophils
Authors: Nakashima K. , Sakurada T. , Imayama S. , Masukawa S. , Ember J. A. , Hugli T. E. , Abe M.
Published: May 2007

A 47‐year‐old woman was admitted to hospital complaining of swelling and pain of the extremities, accompanied by high fever and generalized erythema. Laboratory examination showed marked blood eosinophilia with elevation of IgM, IgE, and C‐reactive protein. All autoantibodies examined were negative. The heart and lungs showed no untoward findings. Biopsies of the skin and muscle revealed cellular infiltration of eosinophils around small blood vessels. Ouantitation of C5a receptor (C5aR) expression by flow cytometry using anti‐C5aR antibody showed upregulated expression of C5aR on blood eosinophils but downregulated expression on neutrophils. The abnormal C5aR expression on eosinophils and neutrophils became normal after spontaneous resolution of symptoms and blood eosinophilia. The possibility that C5aR expression on granulocytes is related to the pathogenesis of this syndrome may be considered.
The in vivo effect of isocyanate‐induced asthma on basophil histamine release
Authors: Kivity S. , Veintrov V. , Firsman E. , Agami O. , Lerman Y.
Published: May 2007

In vitro studies have suggested that basophils are involved in the asthmatic response to isocyanate. Classified by the type of airway response, three groups of patients exposed to isocyanate were studied: 1) nonreactive (n=3), 2) immediate responders (n=4), and 3) late responders (n=4). Basophil histamine release to concanavalin A (conA). FMLP, and anti‐IgE was evaluated before and during the airway response. Histamine release significantly (P=0.009 for coaA and 0.03 for anti‐IgE) increased after exposure to isocyanate only in the group which had late bronchial response. Additionally, good correlation was found between baseline FEV/FVC% and degree of histamine release of basophils stimulated with conA. These findings support a role for basophils in the late asthmatic response to isocyanate.
Visualization and quantification of birchpollen allergens directly on air‐sampling filters
Authors: Acevedo F. , Vesterberg O. , Bayard C.
Published: May 2007

A new technique is presented to detect and quantify birch (Betula pendula)‐pollen allergens directly on air‐sampling filters. It is based on the use specific antibodies, enzymatic reactions, and measurement by chemiltiminescence or densitometry. The major pollen antigens are the most important birch allergens. The antibodies used recognb.e birch‐pollen antigens which thus correspond to allergens. Calibration was done with standardized extract of birch pollen for skin prick testing. The correlation coefficient for the logarithms of luminescence and the amount of birch‐poUen allergen applied on filters was >0.98 in the range 0.04–200 SQ units. A similar correlation was found for the logarithms of the integrated densitometry values and the amount of birch‐pollen allergen applied on filters. The number of major pollen‐antigen particles or grains on filters could be estimated by counting the major stained spots produced by precipitated enzymatic products. The correlation coefficient was 0.90 for logarithms of the number of counted major antigen spots and the calculated antigen amount obtained by luminometric measurements. Our results demonstrate that birch‐pollen allergens can be determined directly on air‐sampling, Teflon®‐based filters by luminometry, optical density, or particle counting.
Determinants of bronchial responsiveness in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey in Italy: evidence of an independent role of atopy, total serum IgE levels, and asthma symptoms
Authors:   European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) – Italy
Published: May 2007

The aim of the analysis was to test whether total serum IgE levels, specific serum IgE levels, and asthma symptoms are independent predictors of bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), after controlling for known risk factors or potential confounders. The study was carried out on a sample of 875 young adults, 20–44 years old, who took part in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey in Italy The subjects underwent a dose‐response methacholine challenge test. We also measured airway caliber as the baseline FEV, in absolute terms and as percentage of forced vital capacity (FVC); skin wheal response to 11 common environmental allergens; and total and specific serum IgE levels to mites, molds, pets, and respiratory symptoms by means of a standardized questionnaire. Atopy (positive skin prick test and/or positive specific IgE assay), total IgE, asthma symptoms, airway caliher, and age appeared to be independent predictors of BHR. When all the other risk factors were taken into account, atopy and total IgE were associated with a threefold increase in BHR risk and thus emerged as the main determinants of BHR. The importance of symptom status as a determinant of BHR decreased remarkably after controlling for atopy and IgE: the odds ratio of current asthmatics to asymptomatic subjects decreased from 15.3 to 8.8. When controlling for symptoms and atopy, a family history of allergic diseases and early respiratory infections was not found to be associated with BHR. Both FEVi and FEV/FVC were strongly and inversely associated with BHR. When airway caliher was taken into account, older age was associated with decreased responsiveness, and the level of responsiveness did not differ significantly between males and females and between smokers and nonsmokers. The results from this analysis indicate that at any given age, irrespective of sex and smoking habits, total serum IgE, specific IgE, airway caliber, and asthma symptoms are the main independent factors influencing the occurrence of BHR in a young adult sample.
Prevalence of allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis among children in four regions of Finland
Authors: Remes S. T. , Korppi M. , Kajosaari M. , Koivikko A. , Soininen L , Pekkanen J.
Published: May 2007

The primary aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalences of allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis and their regional differences among Finnish children. The secondary objective was to determine whether the responses to the questions used are affected by the pollen season if asked during such a season. In 1994–5, the self‐reported prevalence of allergic symptoms in four regions of Finland was studied among 11607 schoolchildren aged 13–14 years, as part of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC). The prevalence of rhinoconjunctivitis during the preceding year was 16% in eastern Finland (Kuopio County, n=2821), 23% in southern Finland (Helsinki area, n=2771), 15% in southwestern Finland (Turku and Pod County, n=2983), and 16% in northern Finland (Lapland, n=3032). The respective prevalences of flexural dermatitis were 15%, 19%, 16%, and 18%. The surveys were performed in winter, except in the Helsinki area where the survey was carried out mainly in the spring pollen season. Among the children studied in autumn in Helsinki, the prevalence of rhinoconjunctivitis was 19% and that of flexural dermatitis 17%. In multivariate analysis, flexural dermatitis was slightly more common in Lapland than in all other areas. In contrast, no significant differences were found in rhinoconjunctivitis. The prevalences of both disorders were twice as high in girls as in boys. In conclusion, regional differences in the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis were small in our country, and the prevalence figures were rather similar to those reported from other European countries. Almost half of the children had suffered from at least one atopic disorder, and over one‐third had had symptoms in the past year. A clear season‐of‐response effect was observed; the prevalence of rhinoconjunctivitis was 25% when studied during the pollen seasons in the Helsinki area.
The potential role of interleukin‐13 in eosinophilic inflammation in nasal mucosa
Authors: Terada N. , Hamano N. , Hohki G. , Ikeda T. , Sai M. , Yamashita T. , Konno A.
Published: May 2007

Background Recent studies have revealed that interleukin (IL)‐13, as well as IL‐4, causes de novo surface expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1) on endothelial cells of the umbilical vein and accelerates selective eosinophil migration. However, its role in allergic rhinitis remains to be clarified. Of particular interest is whether IL‐13 upregulates VCAM‐1 expression in human mucosal microvascular endothelial cells (HMMECs), to which eosinophils adhere in nasal mucosa.

Methods To understand the potential role of IL‐13 in eosinophilic inflammation in nasal mucosa, we examined the effects of IL‐13 on the adhesiveness between HMMECs and eosinophils.

Results IL‐13 increased VCAM‐1 expression in HMMECs, the adhesiveness of endothelial cells to eosinophils, and the transendothelial migration. On the other hand, IL‐13 decreased the adhesiveness of eosinophils to HMMECs, and, as a result, accelerated eosinophil infiltration. Those effects are more potent than was those of IL‐4. In addition, we also report that the amount of IL‐13 in nasal mucosa was higher than that of IL‐4.

Conclusions These results strongly indicate that IL‐13. as well as IL‐4, may be important in eosinophilic inflammation in the nasal mucosa.
Environmental assessment of Dermatophagoides mite‐allergen levels in Sweden should include Der m 1
Authors: Warner A. , Boström S. , Munir A. K. M. , Möller C. , Schou C. , Kjellman N.‐I. M.
Published: May 2007

The major allergen of Dermatophagoides microceras, Der m 1, as well as the allergens of D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae, Der p 1 and Der f 1, were analyzed in the homes of 111 asthmatic children in three climatic regions in Sweden. TTie numbers and species of mites were determined by microscopy, and circulating IgE antibodies against mites were measured. Der f 1 was the predominant house‐dust‐mite (HDM) allergen, Der p 1 the least often found, and Der m 1 represented 31% of the allergen load. However, in the Linkoping area, Der m 1 was the major HDM allergen (58%). Mite counts and allergen levels correlated well. Current exposure to HDM allergens at home was associated with the serum IgE antibody response to HDM in the children with no threshold level. Of the ehildren with IgE antibodies against HDM, 67% reacted to all three mites. Mite sensitization rates were marginally increased (7%) by the addition of IgE analysis of D. microceras to the routine analysis of IgE antibodies against D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae. Thus, Der m 1 may be an important HDM allergen and should be considered when HDM exposure data are assessed in areas with a climate like that of Sweden.
Efficacy of cumulative doses of salbutamol administered via Turbuhaler® or Diskhaler® in patients with reversible airway obstruction
Authors: Carlsson L‐G. , Arweström E. , Friberg K. , Källén A. , Lunde H. , Löfdahl C.‐G.
Published: May 2007

The study aimed to estimate the relative dose potency of salbutamol inhaled via Turbuhaler® and Diskhaler®. The 24 adult patients participating had chronic reversible airway obstruction. The study was of a double‐blind, double‐dummy, crossover, randomized design. Five doses of salbutamol Turbuhaler, 50, 50. 100, 200, and 400 ng, were given on one study day at intervals of 30 min. On another study day, five doses of salbutaniol Diskhaler, 200,200,400,800, and 1600 ng, were given with the same interval. The treatment days were separated by a washout period of at least 24 h. The inhalation technique was standardized and supervised. Efficacy variables were recorded before and after each study dose. The primary efficacy variable was forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEVi). When parallel and linear cumulative dose‐response curves were statistically compared on a logarithmic scale, the dose potency of salbutamol Turbuhaler v.v salbutamol Diskhaler was 1.99 (95% confidence interval 1.52–2.54). This study indicates that only half the dose of salbutamol is required via Turbuhaler as via Diskhaler for the same bronchodilating effect.
Azelastine eye‐drops in seasonal allergic conjunctivitis or rhinoconjunctivitis.
Authors: Giede‐Tuch C. , Westhoff M. , Zarth A.
Published: May 2007

This study was carried out to assess the efficacy of 0.025% and 0.05% azelastine eye‐drops in patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis of >1 year's duration. A total of 151 patients received 0.025% or 0.05% azelastine eye‐drops or placebo b.i.d. for 14 days according to a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐dosing design; 129 patients completed the study as planned. The three target symptoms, scored on 4‐point scales, were itching, lacrimation, and redness of the eyes; responders were patients whose symptom sum score decreased by >3 from a baseline score of >6 by day 3. Mean scores of these and five other symptoms were recorded also on days 7 and 14, and patients kept daily diaries of the three main symptoms and swollen eyelids. Responder rates were 73% for 0.025% (p = 0.115 V.V placebo) and 82% for 0.05% azelastine eye‐drops (P=0.011 vs placebo) and 56% for placebo. The time courses of the mean (investigators' and patients') scores for the three main symptoms reflected the dose‐dependent effect of azelastine eye‐drops. One patient each from the two azelastine groups and three from the placebo group withdrew because of ineffieacy. Adverse drug reactions were reported by 14 and 24 patients receiving 0.025% and 0.05% azelastine eye‐drops, respectively, and by eight placebo patients. These reactions were mainly slight application site reactions and taste perversion (bitter or unpleasant taste). Azelastine eye‐drops are effective and well tolerated at a dose of 0.05% for the treatment of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
Occupational asthma and food allergy due to carmine
Authors: Acero S. , Tabar A. I. , Alvarez M. J. , Garcia B. E. , Olaguibe J. M. , Moneo I.
Published: May 2007

Carmine (E120), a natural red dye extracted from the dried females of the insect Dactylopius coccus var. Costa (eochineal), has been reported to cause hypersensitivity reactions. We report a case of occupational asthma and food allergy due to carmine in a worker not engaged in dye manufacturing. A 35‐year‐old nonatopic man, who had worked for 4 years in a spice warehouse, reported asthma and rhinoeonjunctivitis for 5 months, related to carmine handling in his work. Two weeks before the visit, he reported one similar episode after the ingestion of a red‐colored sweet containing carmine. Peak flow showed drops higher than 25% related to carmine exposure. Prick tests with the cochineal insect and carmine were positive, but negative to common aeroallergens, several mites, foods, and spices. The methacholine test was positive. Specific bronchial challenge test with a cochineal extract was positive with a dual pattern (20% and 24% fall in FEVi). Double‐blind oral challenge with E120 was positive. The patient's sera contained specific IgE for various high‐molecular‐weight proteins from the cochineal extract, as shown by immunoblotting. Carmine proteins can induce IgE‐mediated food allergy and occupational asthma in workers using products where its presence could be easily overlooked, as well as in dye manufacture workers.
Basement membrane thickening and clinical features of children with asthma
Authors: Kim E. S. , Kim S. H. , Kim K. W. , Park J. W. , Kim Y. S. , Sohn M. H. , Kim K.‐E.
Published: May 2007

Background:  Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease, characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyper‐responsiveness, and airway obstruction. Although asthma induces partially reversible airway obstruction, obstruction can sometimes become irreversible. This may be a consequence of airway remodeling, which includes a number of structural changes, such as epithelial detachment, basement membrane (BM) thickening, smooth muscle hypertrophy, and new vessel formation. This study evaluated children with asthma for the presence of BM thickening.

Methods:  Eighteen children with asthma and 24 control subjects underwent flexible bronchoscopy with endobronchial biopsy. Light microscopy was used to measure BM thickness in paraffin‐embedded biopsy sections. The association between BM thickening and age, sex, duration of asthma, asthma severity, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25–75%, methacholine PC20, eosinophil count, and presence of atopy was examined.

Results:  Basement membrane thickness was greater in subjects with asthma (8.3 ± 1.4 μM) than in control subjects (6.8 ± 1.3 μM, P = 0.0008). Multiple regression analysis revealed that sex, FEV1/FVC, total IgE, and atopy (IgE for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus >0.34 kUA/l) were significant predictive factors for BM thickness. There was no significant association between BM thickness and age, duration of asthma, FEV1, FEF25–75%, methacholine PC20, eosinophil count, or asthma severity.

Conclusions:  Basement membrane thickening has been known to be present in children with asthma. In addition, we report an association between BM thickness and sex, FEV1/FVC, total IgE, and the presence of IgE specific to D. pteronyssinus.
The Effects of Blastomere Biopsy and Oxygen Tension on Bovine Embryo Development, Rate of Apoptosis and Interferon‐τ Secretion
Authors: Kubisch HM , Johnson KM
Published: May 2007

Contents

A series of experiments was performed to examine the effects of blastomere biopsies on subsequent development of IVF‐derived bovine embryos. The first experiment was designed to assess the optimal time for blastomere removal. One blastomere was removed either 48 or 72 h after IVF. Biopsy at 48 h resulted in 17.2% of embryos proceeding to the blastocyst stage, which was lower than when biopsies were performed at 72 h (37.5%, p < 0.05). In the second experiment, embryos were cultured either under atmospheric or 5% O2 following blastomere removal. Biopsies had no effect on rate of blastocyst formation with 36% of controls and 33.7% of biopsied embryos proceeding to that stage. However, culture under 5% O2 significantly increased the number of blastocysts from 29.9% to 40.3% (p < 0.05). This effect was significant in both biopsied and control embryos. In the final experiment, biopsied embryos were again cultured under different oxygen tension. Blastocysts were collected and cultured individually for 48 h in medium droplets in their respective O2 concentration after which time the medium was assayed for concentration of interferon‐tau (IFN‐τ). Reduced O2 concentration again significantly increased blastocyst formation from 24.9% to 41.9% (p < 0.05). IFN‐τ secretion was not affected by biopsies, but culture under atmospheric O2 resulted in significantly increased IFN‐τ concentration in medium droplets (12274.0 ± 2825.9 pM vs 5046.5 ± 2562.2 pM; p < 0.05).
A NEW ECONOMIC HISTORY OF ENGLAND AND THE TASK OF THE ECONOMIC HISTORIAN*
Authors: Court W. H. B.
Published: May 2007

First the article points out the excellence and the limitations of Professor Ashton's volume of a new economic history of England and gives his definition of its task: to find answers to the questions which economists ask or should ask of the past. What are these questions and can they be answered for England in the eighteenth century? The problems of economic growth: An adequate treatment of these would require a fuller picture and a more complete analysis of English society between 1700 and 1800 than Professor Ashton permits himself. The structure of the book tends to lean towards questions of economic organisation without much reference to long‐term change and recent controversies among economists. The social consequences of industrialization are of much interest to the general historian and the politician, but they are similarly handled with a marked economy of discussion. The old melodramatic history of the Industrial Revolution is discarded here, but the picture of a society in process of violent economic change remains undrawn; this is perhaps to be done in a later volume.

Professor Ashton's book represents a reaction against old general views but avoids the substitution of new ones. The present position of economic history calls however not only for a critique of interpretations, but also for reinterpretation. The special difficulty of economic history lies in the need somehow to reconcile the economist's and sociologist's need to analyse in terms of general concepts with the historian's duty to recreate from original sources the unique historical situation which it is his wish to narrate and to explain.
MARKTSPALTUNGENa
Authors: Willgerodt Hans
Published: May 2007

The term “division of the market”, which frequently recurs in specialist literature, has as yet acquired no clear definition. It is suggested that it be used to cover those processes and situations which result in a diminution of the mutual substitution potential of goods in trade. This definition avoids the difficulties arising from the fact that the markets themselves, on account of the innumerable existing potentialities for substitution, exhibit no clearly marked boundaries. Divisions of the market can bring about the diversion of a demand from a quarter with high purchasing power into split‐off part‐markets (example: monopolistic price discrimination) or the withholding of such a demand from these split‐off part‐markets (example: rationing). Private enterprise and national‐political divisions of the market are distinguished and divided into numerous sub‐groups. A significant proportion of the division of markets in private enterprise is the expression of a legitimate competitive situation (considerable proportions of quality competition, numerous periodic divisions of the market such as long‐term supply contracts and trading in futures). It is nevertheless apparent that, contrary to a widespread assumption, trading in futures has a purely economic stabilising function, unless it is accompanied by speculation based on correct forecasts. Doubt is cast on the feasibility of damping the oscillations of a freely moving exchange rate by means of future exchange deals. Monopolistic divisions of the market are considered in most cases to involve hazard. National‐political divisions of the market (protection of demand by price ceilings and rationing; protection of supply by trade restrictions, restrictions of incoming stocks, minimum prices and minimum wages, prescription of admixture in certain products, state raw materials agreements) are adjudged critically. Attention is drawn above all to the increased crisis susceptibility of regionally isolated part‐markets.
DIE THEORETISCHE UND EMPIRISCHE BEDEUTUNG DER PATINKIN ‐ KONTROVERSE*
Authors: Heertje A.
Published: May 2007

This article deals with the empirical and theoretical significance of the so called Patinkin‐debate. Some authors are inclined to disparage the contribution of Patinkin to economic theory, others consider his writings as a new starting point of monetary economics. It is attempted to reconcile both views in stressing the consequences of the fundamental hypothesis implied in Patinkins integration of monetory and value theory, the assumption that prices are flexible. The role of administered prices is confronted with the real balance effect.

It is argued that the problem raised by Patinkin is still there as Patinkins solution applies only for perfect competition. It is a theoretical problem of major importance to integrate monetary and value theory in case of imperfect competition. In practice the whole discussion is less important as there exists always a price level determined by the amount of money and the demand for cash.
SOME BOUNDS UPON THE PARETO OPTIMALITY OF GROUP BEHAVIOR*
Authors: Tisdell Clem
Published: May 2007

This article places special, but not exclusive emphasis upon those obstacles to the Pareto optimality of group behavior which arise from the imperfection of man's knowledge. Bounds upon Pareto optimal behavior are first discussed for three limiting ‘societies’—(i) a society in which all members are independent, (ii) one in which only one‐way dependencies can arise and (iii) one in which all members are completely interdependent. These cases give insights into non‐limiting ones. Next, account is taken of the fact that few groups exist in isolation and some formal conditions, which make it impossible for a group to ensure itself of Pareto optimality, are stated. It is speculated that these conditions often arise. Further, it is shown that Pareto optimality of group behavior is, among other things, limited by factors such as individuals’ imperfect knowledge of their own preferences, barriers to discovering the preferences of others, limitations imposed by the good faith of parties to agreement, the intrusion of emotional factors, e.g., in bargaining, false notions by individuals of their own predictive powers and the willingness of others to make concessions, and by other uncertainties about possible acts and the relationship between acts and outcomes.
A SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACH TO THE STOCK MARKET
Authors: Rose Arnold M.
Published: May 2007

Social psychological factors affecting prices on markets are of two orders: The non‐economic but objective influences, such as propaganda, rumors, incorrect news, etc. which affect the individual buyer or seller; the ‘subjective’ definition of the situation with which the individual integrates all the relevant ‘information’ and which provides him motivation for his actions. These are analyzed and exemplified in this paper, based on informal interviews with persons participating in two American exchanges and on the published literature. The setting of the brokers’ offices and of the ‘floor’ of the exchange is also considered as a source of social psychological influences on the market participants. Special consideration is given to booms and panics.
DIE KRISIS DER EWG (Ein neues Kapitel der Politischen Ökonomie)
Authors: Salin Edgar
Published: May 2007

Is the sentence by Friedrich List that economic and political unions are twins still valid, has it ever been? Starting with this question the author analyses the history and present state of the European Economic Community. Its development hitherto appears to have refuted List's words. A political union evolves from an economic union only if unity is secured by political and military forces. These forces and the necessary renouncement of sovereign rights could not be established by the European states.

The author stresses particularly the problems of international finance and monetary reform. On their solution may depend the future of the European and even world economy. One important element of a new monetary system would be an European monetary union. As a condition, however, not only a common monetary policy but also common economic, transport, social and educational policies are required. Offences against these conditions are numerous. The author condemns above all independent actions by single member countries in matters of revaluation and floating of their currencies. He demands a fixed European monetary unit and the foundation of an European central bank on the basis of gold.
ERGEBNISSE EINER STATISTISGHEN ANALYSE DER ZEITLICHEN ENTWICKLUNG VON AKTIENKURSEN
Authors: Schips Bernd , Stier Winfried
Published: May 2007

In addition to the papers of Granger and Morgenstern concerning the development of stock prices at the New York and London stock market, German stock prices were analyzed by means of the method of spectral analysis using both direct and indirect estimation procedures. It is shown that short‐run movements can suitably be described by the well‐known random‐walk model. In contrast, the long‐run movements show cycles corresponding to the business cycles in the Western German economy. One of the results of the phase analysis is the lead of the stock market against the general business activity.
THE FRUSTRATION AND ENHANCEMENT OF INCOME REDISTRIBUTION
Authors: Kleiman Ephraim
Published: May 2007

When factor intensities differ among products, and factor supplies are constant, factor shares vary with the composition of output. But if the proportions in which factors are owned vary from one consumer group to another, the economy's product‐mix itself may be a function of factor shares.

A simple geometric model is developed to demonstrate the simultaneous determination of income distribution and output structure. It is then shown that transfers of income, by changing the product‐mix, may cause a further change in income distribution. With consumers preferring goods intensive in the factor they own, an income transfer's redistribution effects are enhanced; with them preferring goods intensive in factors owned by others, income transfers are partially frustrated.
EINE THEORIE DEMOKRATISCHER WIRTSCHAFTSPOLITIK
Authors: Frey Bruno S.
Published: May 2007

Die gegenseitige Beeinflussung von Wirtschaft and Politik wird durch politisch‐ökonomische Modelle empirisch erfasst. Es fragt sich, welche wirtschaftspolitischen Möglichkeiten bestehen, wenn die Regierung einen endogenen Bestandteil des politisch‐ökonomischen Systems bildet. Als Ansatzpunkte bieten sich die Information and Beeinflussung der Präferenzen der Wähler und der Regierung, die Veränderung der wirtschaftlichen Einschränkungen des Handlungsspielraumes der Regierung and der Verfassungsvertrag an. Die Ratschläge werden grundsätzlich im Interesse der wirtschaftspolitischen Entscheidungsträger gegeben – und nicht unabhängig oder gegen sie. Diese neue Sicht wird der herrschenden Lehre der (quantitativen) Theorie der Wirtschaftspolitik (insbesondere der Theorie optimaler Steuern) sowie der Theorie rationaler Erwartungen gegenübergestellt.
INTERACTION BETWEEN FOREIGN ASSISTANCE PERSONNEL AND LOCAL COUNTERPARTS
Authors: Globerson Arye
Published: May 2007

The paper is a result of a research conducted in six African French speaking countries in the years 1962–1975. The objective of the study was to learn about the attitudes of foreign assistance personnel, national counterparts their interaction as agents of development. The major findings obtained were: (a) Foreign experts, particularly of multilateral assistance, experience anxiety concerning their professional and occupational career. They are very critical to the qualities of their counterparts, the envisaged pace of development and their own institutional headquarters. Senior experts are less inclined to invest in counterpart training than are their young colleagues. A high negative correlation exists between seniority of experts and the rate of progress they envisage. (b) Scarcity of capable national counterparts is still an obstacle to many projects. Their major weakness is lack of motivation rather than formal education or vocational training. Preference for multilateral assistance indicates a desire for cooperation with donor which is politically neutral. (c) Most experts (58%) envisaged a meaningful breakthrough of the developing countries in more than 50 years, while majority (79%) of the counterparts foresaw substantial progress within 20 years. Most experts (79%) pointed to human and administrative drawbacks as major obstacles to development, as compared with only 15% of the local counterparts. The majority (76%) of the latter believe that the major obstacles are due to lack of capital and equipment. Nevertheless the vast majority (87%) of local counterparts were of the opinion that the contribution of foreign assistance personnel development is necessary or rather essential, compared within only 34% among experts of a similar opinion.
Inflation and Monetary Constitutions in Historical Perspective
Authors: Bernholz Peter
Published: May 2007

‘[The] power [to alter the quantity of money] should neither be entrusted to the state itself, nor to anybody in it; as there can be no security for the uniformity in the value of currency, when its augmentation or diminuation depends solely on the will of the issuers.’ David Ricardo [1816; in 1962, vol. 4, p. 691
The Effect of Confidence on Income Velocity in a Politically Unstable Environment: Wartime South Vietnam
Authors: Dacy Douglas C.
Published: May 2007

At the turn of this century WESLEY C. MITCHELL argued that the velocity of money could be influenced by a noneconomic variable that he called ‘confidence’; but the idea has received little attention since then. This study uses events in the long Vietnam war for statistically demonstrating the MITCHELL hypothesis. U. S. troop presence in South Vietnam boosted the peoples' confidence in their country's future thereby stabilizing the demand for fiat money and income velocity. Only two variables ‐ the previous year's rate of inflation and U. S. troop strength, which serves as a proxy for battlefield victories ‐ are needed to explain movements in velocity.