bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of allergenic components of Bermuda grass pollen by monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Chang Z. N. , Tsai L. C. , Chi C. W. , Wang M. C. , Shen H. D. , LEE D. T. , Han S. H.
Published: May 2007

A panel of 16 monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) directed against Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) pollen (BGP) were generated for identification and purification of the major allergenic components of the eliciting antigen (Ag). Radioimmunoprecipitation (RIP) analysis revealed that there were at least eight antigenic components with molecular weights (MW) ranging from 12 kilodalton (12 kDa) to 200 kDa. Each of these components has distinct biochemical characteristics based on sodium dodecyl sulfate – polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and isoelectric focusing(IEF). Among them, Cyn d Bd67K and Cyn d Bd58K were basic proteins, Cyn d Bd35K consisted of at least four isomeric components with isoelectric points ranging from 6.2 to 7.2. The other antigens Cyn d Bd68K, 48K, 38K, Cyn d Bd200K, Cyn d Bd46K, Cyn d Bd25K and Cyn d Bd12K) were all acidic proteins. The IgE binding capacity of all these antigens was determined with sera from 11 BGP‐allergics by using a modified radioallergosorbent test. All but one of the antigens (Cyn d Bd200K) were found to react with human IgE from sera of BGP‐allergic patients. Among those human IgE‐binding molecules, Cyn d Bd35K. reacted with allergic sera most frequently (10 of 11), followed by Cyn d Bd58K (8 of 11) and Cyn d Bd46K (7 of 11) respectively. Our results suggest that Cyn d Bd35K, Cyn d Bd58K, and Cyn d Bd46K are major allergens of BGP, and the MoAbs we obtained should be valuable tools for further purificaiton of these allergens.
Histamine measurement in whole blood and cell supernatants
Authors: Rotz B. , Savaser A. , Werthmann I , Lau S. , Wahn U.
Published: May 2007

Histamine as an important mediator of the allergic reaction has been measured by a number of methods both in whole blood and cell supernatants after in vitro release. We compared the fluorometric histamine assay with two radioimmunoassays and studied detection limit, recovery, cross‐reactivity and accuracy in buffer‐based standards as well as the sensitivity after IgE‐mediated in vitro release from washed cells and whole blood. Our data indicate that the double‐antibody RIA (Pharmacia) can be used for studies of basophil histamine release in both whole blood and cell supernatants. Due to significant cross‐reactivity to N‐methyl‐histamine it cannot be used for histamine determinations in plasma. The second radioimmunoassay using succinyl‐glycin as an acylating reagent and monoclonal antibodies, which have been raised to acylated histamine, is the most sensitive assay without any cross‐reactivity with methylhistamine.
Inhibitory effect of inhalation of a thromboxane synthetase inhibitor on bronchoconstriction induced by aerosolized leukotriene C4 and thromboxane A2 analogue in anesthetized guinea pigs
Authors: Fujimura M. , Ogawa H. , Saito M. , Sakamoto S. , Miyake Y. , Matsuda T.
Published: May 2007

Effect of aerosol administration of a thromboxane synthetase inhibitor (OKY‐046) on bronchoconstriction induced by aerosol leukotriene C4, histamine and a thromboxane A2 analogue (STA2) was studied In anesthetized, artificially ventilated guinea pigs in order to evaluate the effectiveness of inhalation of OKY‐046 on an unfavorable mechanism of secondary release of thromboxane A2 0.01‐1.0 μg/ml leukotriene C4, 25‐400 μg/ml histamine and 0.033‐1.0 μg/ml STA2 inhaled from an ultrasonic nebulizer developed for small animals caused a dose‐dependent increase of pressure at the airway opening (Pao), which is considered to be an index representing bronchial response. Pretreatment of the animals with aerosol OKY‐046 (0.035 and 0.35 mg/animal) significantly reduced the airway responses produced by inhalation of leukotriene C4 and STA2, in a dose‐dependent manner, while the pretreatment did not affect the histamine dose‐response curve. These findings suggest that aerosol leukotriene C4 and STA2 activate thromboxane synthesis in the airway, and inhalation of OKY‐046 may be useful for preventing the secondary release of thromboxane A2, which is an unfavorable mechanism in asthma.
Medication requirements and house dust mite exposure in mite‐sensitive asthmatics
Authors: Vervloet D. , Charpin D. , Haddi E. , N'Guyen A. , Birnbaum J. , Soler M. , Brempt X. Van Der
Published: May 2007

To better understand the clinical consequences of exposure to house dust mites (HDM), we investigated the relationship between treatment requirements to control symptoms in mite‐allergic asthmatic patients and HDM‐allergenic levels in their mattresses. This study included 49 asthmatic subjects recruited from an outpatient clinic. The protocol consisted of a questionnaire about the number of asthma attacks and treatment requirements in the last 3 months. Patients provided a sample of house dust collected from their mattresses by a standardized vacuum cleaning procedure. Mean antigen P1 equivalent defined as the sum of major allergens Der pI and Der fI (Ag P1 Eq) level was 1.34 μg/g dust in patients who had no treatment, 5.4 μg/g dust in patients who took puffs of beta2‐agonists only when required and 17.8 μg/g dust in patients who required daily long‐term treatment. Similar relation ships were demonstrated between mean Ag P1 Eq levels and the number of asthma attacks. These data support the clinical role of allergenic exposure in HDM‐allergic asthmatics.
Association of features of atopy and diagnostic parameters in hymenoptera venom allergy*
Authors: Przybilla B. , Ring J. , Grieshammer B.
Published: May 2007

In a total of 525 patients with hypersensitivity reactions to hymenoptera stings diagnostic parameters of hymenoptera venom (HV) allergy (severity of reactions, skin test threshold and RAST for bee and vespid venoms) were investigated for their relationship to the following indicators of atopy: positive history of atopic diseases, elevated (≤ 100 kU/1) total scrum IgE and positive prick test reactions to common inhalant allergens (CIA) (grass pollen, cat epithelium, house dust mite). There was a conclusive history of atopic disease in 25%, a total serum IgE ≥ 100 kU/1 in 48%, and at least one positive reaction to CIA in 53%. Total IgE ≥ 100 kU/l correlated with a higher frequency of RAST classes ≥ 2 (P < 0.01) and with less severe reactions to hymenoptera stings (P < 0.05). In the presence of at least one positive reaction to CIA, there were more frequently skin test thresholds ≤ 10 μg/ml (P < 0.05) and RAST classes ≥ 2 (P < 0.01) for HV than in CIA prick test negative individuals. There was no significant relationship between the other pairs of parameters evaluated. Thus, reactivity to HV in diagnostic tests is increased in the presence of certain indicators of atopy. This has to be considered in the interpretation of skin test and RAST results obtained with HV.
Specific IgE to reindeer epithelium in Finnish reindeer herders
Authors: Reijula K. , Halmepuro L. , Hannuksela M. , Larmi E. , Hassi J.
Published: May 2007

Reindeer herding is a major source of living for more than 4200 inhabitants in northern Finland. To determine the prevalence of allergic symptoms among reindeer herders clinical examinations and skin prick tests (SPT) with nine inhalant allergens were performed in 211 randomly selected men from 21 to 69 (mean 45) years. Specific IgE antibodies to reindeer epithelium (RE) and total serum IgE were evaluated in 99 herders, five persons who handled reindeer leather indoors, 21 atopic patients with cow allergy and another 20 subjects with specific IgE to other inhalant allergens. Positive SPT to RE was detected in one and specific IgE by using enzyme allergosorbent test (EAST) (≥ 0.8 PRU/ml) in seven herders. Specific IgE to RE was also demonstrated in one control. Using RAST inhibition a patient with cow allergy did not show cross‐reactivity between cow and RE while another patient did. Thus, RE should be included in the allergy test panel when hypersensitivity to RE is suspected.
Immunologic tests of specific antibodies to organic acid anhydrides
Authors: Welinder H. , Nielsen J.
Published: May 2007

The outcome of immunologic tests of antibodies directed against hapten conjugates of organic acid anhydrides and human serum albumin (HSA) has been studied in workers exposed to phthalic anhydride (PA), methyltetrahydroplithalic anhydride (MTHPA), hexahydrophthalic anhydride (HHPA), and methylhexahydrophthalie anhydride (MHHPA). HSA conjugates of PA, MTHPA, HHPA, MHHPA, and nialeic anhydride (MA) have been prepared and used in the tests. The hapten densities (HD) of the conjugates were varied by different molar ratios of hapten and macromolecule in the preparative procedure. Skin prick reactions to MTHPA‐HSA increased with rising HD over the range 6‐13 mol/mol. The achieved HD was tested by spectrometric and gas chromatographic methods. In RAST of IgE antibodies MTHPA‐HSA with HD six and 25 showed significantly lower bindings than conjugates with intermediate HD. There was a good correlation between skin prick tests and RAST. Of 234 workers tested [MTHPA (n= 145), and HHPA (n= 89)], 45 had a skin prick reaction > 50% of the histamine reaction (1 mg/ml). All but two of these were RAST positive (RAST value > 0.3%; 0.3% upper range in 147 controls; MTHPA, n= 63; HHPA, n= 84). Nine RAST positive workers had no obvious skin prick reaction. However, their RAST values were low (<0.8%). In exposed workers, the ELISA value of specific IgG antibodies to MTHPA‐HSA showed optimal values when tested with the HD 13 conjugate. The specific antibodies in workers exposed to either MTHPA or HHPA/MHHPA showed a marked cross‐reactivity to MTHPA‐HSA, HHPA‐HSA, and MHHPA‐HSA as proven by skin prick tests, RAST, and RAST inhibition. In workers exposed lo PA (here was less cross reactivity to the other anhydrides.
Oral allergy syndrome: the effect of astemizole
Authors: Bindslev‐Jensen C. , Vibits A. , Skov P. Stahl , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

The effect of treatment with astemizole (Hismanal®) on symptoms elicited by ingestion of hazelnuts in birch pollen‐allergic patients (the oral allergy syndrome) was investigated. Thirty patients with a well‐documented allergy to silver birch, experiencing symptoms when ingesting hazelnuts, were included in the study. All had a positive skin prick test (SPT) to birch, whereas 29 and 27, respectively, showed a positive RAST and basophil histamine release test (HR) to birch. In contrast, only 15 patients had a positive SPT to hazelnut, 13 had a positive RAST, whereas 24 had a positive HR. Alter two oral provocations with hazelnuts the patients were randomized to receive either 10 mg of astemizole or placebo daily for 2 weeks in a double blind protocol followed by two oral provocations. Treatment with astemizole significantly reduced the symptoms compared with placebo (P= 0.004); however, without completely abolishing the symptoms.
Egg protein sensitization in patients with bird feather allergy
Authors: Bausela B. Añibarro , Estekban M. Marjín , Alzamora F. Martínez , Marcos C. Pascual , Casas J. A. Ojeda
Published: May 2007

We have studied the hypersensitivity lo hens egg protein and chicken meal in 25 adults with a previous diagnosis of bronchial asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis due to bird feather sensitization. Seventeen of the 25 reported good tolerance to the ingestion of egg and chicken meat. The skin tests were negative to both antigens in 15 of them, and positive for egg in two. All 17 patients had negative RAST to chicken meat and egg protein. The remaining eight patients had intolerance to egg, and three of them also to chicken meat ingestion; in seven of the eight eases allergic to egg, the alimentary intolerance began after the clinical symptoms of bird feather sensitization. In all eight cases the skin tests were positive to egg yolk, and in live of them also to egg white and chicken meal. These patients evidenced specific serum IgE antibodies to egg yolk, four of them to egg while, and seven to chicken meat. These results demonstrate (he high frequency (32%) of the association of sensitization lo egg proteins, particularly egg yolk, in a selected population of patients with known allergy to bird feathers, thus suggesting that in some patients feather sensitization could trigger or somehow facilitate the later sensitization to egg yolk proteins.
Allergenicity suppression in natural latex surgical gloves
Authors: Leynadier F. , Xuan T. Tran , Dry J.
Published: May 2007

By a revised manufacturing process we aimed to obtain latex surgical gloves without immediate allergenicity, and also to determine a simple physical technique by which to estimate this allergenicity. Five glove samples were evaluated for allergenicity by physical and biochemical methods and by skin texts at the University Allergy Centre, Three groups of allergic patients with documented anaphylaxis to surgical gloves, positive skin test to latex extract and specific IgE to latex (RAST Pharmacia & class II), volunteered for the study. The protein content, the in vitro allergenic potency of glove supernatants (RAST inhibition) and the skin test results with glove supernatants were lower in washed gloves than in non‐washed samples (P < 0.02 to P < 0.009). The supplementary effect of glove sterilization at 120°C (for 1 h in saturated steam) was obvious. The protein content became undetectable in four of the five glove supernatants, and skin tests results with sample supernatants were decreased (M±SEM = 0.68±0.29 mm vs 3.06±0.61 mm with non‐sterilized gloves), P < 0.009 by Wilcoxon test. With the Spearman test there was a significant correlation (P= 0.029) between the mean wheal size, obtained with supernatants (Groups 1 and 2) and electrical conductivity. Skin tests through pieces of gloves randomly distributed and coded were decreased by sterilization: 0.66±0.25 mm vs 2.86±00,45 mm, p 0.0001. Thus, it is possible to decrease glove allergenicity by washing them after mould forming and then sterilizing with steam. Electrical conductivity may be a simple parameter for revealing allergenicity.
Regulation of histamine release from human basophil leucocytes: role of H1, H2 and H3 receptors
Authors: Tedeschi A. , Lorini M. , Arquati M. , Miadonna A.
Published: May 2007

A novel class of histamine receptors (H3, controlling histamine synthesis and release, was described in rat and human brain and peripheral nerve endings. The present study was undertaken to evaluate whether H3, receptors contribute to the regulation of histamine release from human basophils. Basophil leucocytes were incubated with a H., antagonist (thioperamide; concentrations ranging from 1 nM to 10 μM) or with a H3 agonist ((R)αmethyl‐histamine; concentrations ranging from I to 100 μM), and subsequently were stimulated with optimal doses of anti‐IgE and formyl‐methionyl‐leueyl‐phenyl‐alanine (f‐met peptide). No significant modifications of histamine release were observed after incubation either with the H3 agonist or with the H3 antagonist. By contrast, a H3 antagonist (cimetidine; concentrations ranging from 1 to 100 μM) exerted a dose‐dependent enhancing effect on anti‐IgE‐ and, to a lesser extent, on f‐met peptide‐induced histamine release. A H, antihistamine (chlorpheniramine; concentrations ranging from 100 nM to 1μM), at the highest concentration employed, displayed an inhibitory activity on IgE‐dependent and IgE‐independent histamine release. Exogenous histamine was shown to exert a dose‐dependent inhibitory effect on two‐staged anti‐IgE‐induced histamine release. Taken as a whole, these results suggest that H3 receptors are not involved in the regulation of histamine release from human basophils; by contrast, H2 receptors participate in controlling histamine release from human basophils, as previously demonstrated by other authors.
Bronchial asthma due to Cannabis sativa seed
Authors: Vidal C. , Fuilnte R. , Iglesias A. , Sáez A.
Published: May 2007

A 51‐year‐old man with asthmatic attacks due to Cannabis sativa seed inhalation was studied. Specific IgE against this seed was demonstrated by in vivo (skin and bronchial challenge tests) and in vitro methods (reverse enzyme immunoassay and histamine release from basophils), suggesting a Type I immunologic reaction.
Delayed‐type hypersensitivity and circulating basophils: A population study
Authors: CHAVANCE M. , HERBETH B. , LESOURD B.
Published: May 2007

The factors related to delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) have been investigated in two samples of elderly non‐hospitalized (n= 375) and hospitalized subjects (n= 409). Percent basophils was found to be consistently related to the number of positive responses to seven common antigens in the different samples or subsamples considered. The mean number of responses, after adjustment for age, sex and sample was 1.55 below 0.5% basophils, 1.87 between 0.5 and 1.5% and 1.96 over 1.5% (P < 0.01). No relation was observed between percent basophils and the mean diameter of the positive responses, suggesting that basophils might be related to the early phase of DTH reactions. As previously reported, the number of positive responses was found to be lower in women than in men and to be inversely related to age.
Total serum IgD is increased in atopic subjects
Authors: PENG Z. , FISHER R. , ADKINSON N. FRANKLIN
Published: May 2007

We have developed a sandwich‐type ELISA system for measuring total IgD levels in the serum of atopics and non‐atopic controls. In this ELISA system, affinity purified goat anti‐human IgD was used for capture. Results were superior to those obtained with monoclonal anti‐human IgD antibody. No cross‐reactivity could be demonstrated to IgG. IgM, IgA or IgE. The assay showed minimal non‐specific binding even with initial serum dilutions of 1:2. The results obtained were reproducible among replicates (Mean CV ± SEM = 0.03 ± 0.002; n= 251), between dilutions (CV = 0.08 ± 0.006; n= 108), and between assays (CV = 0.05 ± 0.12; n= 5). We used routine radioimmunoassay for measuring total serum IgE. Using these assays total serum IgD and IgE levels were measured in 75 atopic patients and 33 normal subjects. None of the atopics had recent immunotherapy. As expected, the geometric mean serum IgE in atopics (373 ng/ml) was significantly higher than that in normal subjects (49 ng/ml) (P < 0.01). However, geometric mean serum IgD was also significantly higher in atopics (20.3 μg/ml) than that in normal subjects (8.4 μg/ml) (P < 0.02). In both atopic and normal groups, mean serum IgD level did not differ significantly on the bases of age, sex or asthmatic status. Furthermore, total serum IgD was not significantly correlated with total serum IgE (r = 0.14; P= 0.14; n= 108), indicating that immunoregulatory control of the basal levels of the two isotypes is not linked. In a subset of more thoroughly studied atopic patients, total serum IgD but not serum IgE was correlated with D2O‐induced basophil histamine release (r = 0.34: P < 0.05; n= 37). There was no correlationship of serum IgD or serum IgE to methacholine inhalation challenge, to spontaneous basophil histamine release or that induced by anti‐IgE, calcium icnophore, or a platelet‐derived histamine releasing factor (PD‐HRF). However, among poor responders to PD‐HRF, serum IgD was also correlated with PD‐HRF induced histamine release (r = 0.59; P < 0.025; n= 21). Our preliminary results indicate that the role of IgD in atopic disorders deserves further investigation.
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 Chironomus and Glyptotendipes; 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.
Evaluation of a new reactive solid phase for radioimmunoassay of serum specific IgE against muscle relaxant drugs
Authors: GUEANT J. L. , MATA E. , MONIN B. , MONERET‐VAUTRIN D. A. , KAMEL L. , NICOLAS J. P. , LAXENAIRE M. C.
Published: May 2007

Until now, immunoassays for detection of anti‐muscle relaxant IgE in serum have been performed with the drug coupled to epoxy‐activated Sepharose or to RAST papers dics. In the present work we have used a quaternary ammonium‐Sepharose in which the quaternary ammonium reactive group (choline chloride) was directly coupled to Sepharose via an ether linkage. 50 μl of the quaternary ammonium solid phase (QAS) was incubated with 50 μl of serum for 3 h, washed, incubated 18 h with 125I‐anti‐IgE and washed again. The results were expressed as the percentage of 125I‐anti‐IgE adsorbed onto the solid phase. The results were at 1.3±0.5% for 20 control sera, with an upper normal limit estimated to 2.3%. The within‐run reproducibility ranged from 3.2% to 10.0%. The results were significantly correlated with those obtained with either alcuronium‐epoxy‐Sepharose, choline‐epoxy‐Sepharose, the RAST‐alcuronium or with the RAST‐succinyl choline (respectively, r ‐ 0.66, r = 0.80, r = 0.81, r = 0.40 and r = 0.85). The values obtained with the sera of 83 patients ranged from 0.3 to 38.5%. The sensitivity was estimated at 87.9%, 66.7% and 40.7% with the QAS‐RIA, the RAST‐succinyl choline and the RAST‐alcuronium, respectively. The inhibition of adsorption of specific IgE onto the gel ranged from 13.0 to 90.6% in presence of 130 nmol of soluble muscle relaxants. In 83.3% of 30 cases, the highest inhibition was obtained with the muscle relaxant which was clinically incriminated. In conclusion, the reactive‐solid phase which was used in the present work significantly increased the sensitivity of detection of anti‐muscle relaxant IgE in serum.
Tryptase in nasal lavage fluid after local allergen challenge: Relationship to histamine levels and TAME‐esterase activity
Authors: JULIUSSON S. , HOLMBERG K. , BAUMGARTEN C. R. , OLSSON M. , ENANDER I. , PIPKORN U.
Published: May 2007

The activation of mast cells is generally considered to be an important trigger mechanism in the immediate allergic response. This study focused on the determination of three markers of mast cell activation after an allergen challenge. Nasal allergen challenges were performed in 25 subjects with seasonal allergic rhinitis using three allergen doses increasing in 10‐fold steps in a standardised nasal lavage model for the subsequent recovery of the markers of mast cell activation. The levels of histamine and tryptase in the nasal lavage fluid were determined using radioimmunoassays, while the TAME‐esterase activity was determined using a radiochemical technique. The nasal symptoms obtained on challenge were assessed using a scoring technique. The allergen challenge resulted in significant increases in the levels of all three markers, tryptase, histamine and TAME‐esterase. In the individual measurements after the challenges there was a highly significant correlation between the TAME‐esterase levels and the tryptase levels (r = 0.71; P < 0.001), while the generation of histamine and tryptase was not significantly correlated. When comparing the cumulative generation of the three markers, significant correlations were found between all three. Allergen challenges in six non‐allergic controls using the same technique did not result in any increase in tryptase levels. The findings suggest that the determination of tryptase in nasal lavage fluid may be a valuable indicator of mast cell activation in the upper airways.
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 angioedema 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.
Delayed‐type hypersensitivity and circulating basophils: A population study
Authors: Chavance M. , Herbeth B. , Lesourd B.
Published: May 2007

The factors related to delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) have been investigated in two samples of elderly non‐hospitalized (n= 375) and hospitalized subjects (n= 409). Percent basophils was found to be consistently related to the number of positive responses to seven common antigens in the different samples or subsamples considered. The mean number of responses, after adjustment for age, sex and sample was 1.55 below 0.5% basophils, 1.87 between 0.5 and 1.5% and 1.96 over 1.5% (P > 0.01). No relation was observed between percent basophils and the mean diameter of the positive responses, suggesting that basophils might be related to the early phase of DTH reactions. As previously reported, the number of positive responses was found to be lower in women than in men and to be inversely related to age.
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. , Turn 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 withOlea europaeaextracts; 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.
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.
Total serum IgD is increased in atopic subjects
Authors: Peng Z. , Fisher R. , Franklin Adkinson N.
Published: May 2007

We have developed a sandwich‐type ELISA system for measuring total IgD levels in the serum of atopics and non‐atopic controls. In this ELISA system, affinity purified goat anti‐human IgD was used for capture. Results were superior to those obtained with monoclonal anti‐human IgD antibody. No cross‐reactivity could be demonstrated to IgG, IgM, IgA or IgE. The assay showed minimal non‐specific binding even with initial serum dilutions of 1:2. The results obtained were reproducible among replicates (Mean CV SEM = 0.03 0.002; n= 251), between dilutions (CV = 0.08 0.006; n= 108), and between assays (CV = 0.05 0.12; n = 5). We used routine radioimmunoassay for measuring total serum IgE. Using these assays total serum IgD and IgE levels were measured in 75 atopic patients and 33 normal subjects. None of the atopics had recent immunotherapy. As expected, the geometric mean serum IgE in atopics (373 ng/ml) was significantly higher than that in normal subjects (49 ngiml) (P < 0.01). However, geometric mean serum IgD was also significantly higher in atopics (20.3 μg/ml) than that in normal subjects (8.4 μg/ml) (P < 0.02). In both atopic and normal groups, mean serum IgD level did not differ significantly on the bases of age, sex or asthmatic status. Furthermore, total serum IgD was not significantly correlated with total serum IgE (r = 0.14; P= 0.14; n = 108), indicating that immunoregulatory control of the basal levels of the two isotypes is not linked. In a subset of more thoroughly studied atopic patients, total serum IgD but not serum IgE was correlated with D2O‐induced basophil histamine release (r = 0.34: P < 0.05; n = 37). There was no correlationship of serum IgD or serum IgE to methacholine inhalation challenge, to spontaneous basophil histamine release or that induced by anti‐IgE, calcium ionophore, or a platelet‐derived histamine releasing factor (PD‐HRF). However, among poor responders to PD‐HRF, serum IgD was also correlated with PD‐HRF induced histamine release (r = 0.59; P < 0.025; n= 21). Our preliminary results indicate that the role of IgD in atopic disorders deserves further investigation.
Evaluation of a new reactive solid phase for radioimmunoassay of serum specific IgE against muscle relaxant drugs
Authors: Gueant J. L. , Mata E. , Monin B. , Moneret‐Vautrin D. A. , Kamel L. , Nicolas J. P. , Laxenaire M. C.
Published: May 2007

Until now, immunoassays for detection of anti‐muscle relaxant IgE in serum have been performed with the drug coupled to epoxy‐activated Sepharose or to RAST papers dics. In the present work we have used a quaternary ammonium‐Sepharose in which the quaternary ammonium reactive group (choline chloride) was directly coupled to Sepharose via an ether linkage. 50 μl of the quaternary ammonium solid phase (QAS) was incubated with 50 μl of serum for 3 h, washed, incubated 18 h with 125I‐anti‐IgE and washed again. The results were expressed as the percentage of 125I‐anti‐IgE adsorbed onto the solid phase. The results were at 1.30.5% for 20 control sera, with an upper normal limit estimated to 2.3%. The within‐run reproducibility ranged from 3.2% to 10.0%. The results were significantly correlated with those obtained with either alcuroniumepoxy‐Sepharose, choline‐epoxy‐Sepharose, the RAST‐alcuronium or with the RAST‐succinyl choline (respectively, r = 0.66, r = 0.80, r = 0.81, r = 0.40 and r = 0.85). The values obtained with the sera of 83 patients ranged from 0.3 to 38.5%. The sensitivity was estimated at 87.9%, 66.7% and 40.7% with the QAS‐RIA, the RAST‐succinyl choline and the RAST‐alcuronium, respectively. The inhibition of adsorption of specific IgE onto the gel ranged from 13.0 to 90.6% in presence of 130 nmol of soluble muscle relaxants. In 83.3% of 30 cases, the highest inhibition was obtained with the muscle relaxant which was clinically incriminated. In conclusion, the reactive‐solid phase which was used in the present work significantly increased the sensitivity of detection of anti‐muscle relaxant IgE in serum.
Tryptase in nasal lavage fluid after local allergen challenge: Relationship to histamine levels and TAME‐esterase activity
Authors: Juliusson S. , Holmberg K. , Baumgarten C. R. , Olson M. , Enander I. , Pipkorn U.
Published: May 2007

The activation of mast cells is generally considered to be an important trigger mechanism in the immediate allergic response. This study focused on the determination of three markers of mast cell activation after an allergen challenge. Nasal allergen challenges were performed in 25 subjects with seasonal allergic rhinitis using three allergen doses increasing in 10‐fold steps in a standardised nasal lavage model for the subsequent recovery of the markers of mast cell activation. The levels of histamine and tryptase in the nasal lavage fluid were determined using radioimmunoassays, while the TAME‐esterase activity was determined using a radiochemical technique. The nasal symptoms obtained on challenge were assessed using a scoring technique. The allergen challenge resulted in significant increases in the levels of all three markers, tryptase, histamine and TAME‐esterase. In the individual measurements after the challenges there was a highly significant correlation between the TAME‐esterase levels and the tryptase levels (r = 0.71; P < 0.001), while the generation of histamine and tryptase was not significantly correlated. When comparing the cumulative generation of the three markers, significant correlations were found between all three. Allergen challenges in six non‐allergic controls using the same technique did not result in any increase in tryptase levels. The findings suggest that the determination of tryptase in nasal lavage fluid may be a valuable indicator of mast cell activation in the upper airways.
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 insumation 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 insumation 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: Stauger J. , Wuuthrich 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 celery‐mugwort 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.

CLINICAL ASPECTS

Allergy to spices is often observed in celery‐allergic patients. In cases with the mugwort‐celery association pattern several high RAST values (up to class 3) were seen to various spices from Apiaceae as well as from unrelated botanical families (celery‐mugwort‐spices association). This sensitization can be of clinical importance, as anaphylactic reactions to spices in food are well documented. The birch‐celery association pattern gave some positive RAST results of classes 1–2 to the spices from the Apiaceae family only ‐ suggesting cross‐reactivity between Apiaceae and Betulaceae, probably due to thermolabile allergens.
Detection of airborne reindeer epithelial antigen by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay inhibition
Authors: Reijula K. , Virtanen T. , Halmepuro L. , Anttonen H. , Mäntyjärvi R. , Hassi J.
Published: May 2007

Hypersensitivity reactions to reindeer epithelial (RE) allergens have been recently demonstrated among reindeer herders. To determine the concentration of airborne RE antigens a method based on inhibition of the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed. Dust samples were collected in workshops were reindeer leather was processed and the workers had inhaled dry epithelial dust during their working shifts. Specific IgE to RE allergen could be detected in one of 5 workers. RE antigen concentrations varied from 0.01 μg to 3.9 μg/m3 in the air of the workshop. All workers except one claimed work‐associated respiratory symptoms.
Allergic symptoms up to 4–6 years of age in children given cow milk neonatally A prospective study
Authors: Lindfors A.T. B. , Danielsson L. , Enocksson E. , Johansson S. G. O. , Westin S.
Published: May 2007

In a previously published prospective study, we followed the development of allergic symptoms in term infants with a slightly reduced birthweight (− 1 SD to − 2 SD). These children received, according to local routing early feeding with cow milk formula in order to diminish such neonatal problems as hypoglycemia and hyperbilirubinemia. Of 216 infants 207 were observed for allergic symptoms up to 18 months of age. One group (F) received cow milk formula during the first days of life before the mother's breastmilk production started and was then breastfed; the other (B) was not given any formula before normal breastfeeding started. Unexpectedly, we found fewer allergic symptoms, in particular allergic skin problems, in the group fed cow milk, the difference being concentrated to children with a family fistory of allergic symptoms. At 5 Years of age 183 of the 207 children have been reinvestigated. Mild symptoms of allergy (suspected and obvious) were found in 22% (F) and 27% (B) respectively(NS). Moderate and severe symptoms of allergy (obvious) were found in 4.2% (F) and 4.5% (B). In the subgroup with a double family history of allergic symptoms, 28% (7/25, F) and 59% (10/17, B) had symptoms of allergy (p<0.05). This difference was even more pronounced when laboratory tests in favour of atopic diagnosis were included, 1.4% (F) and 53%(B) respectively (p< 0.05). Thus at 5 years we still find a significantly lower frequency of allergic symptoms in the subgroup fed cow milk formula early with a family history of allergic symptoms. This difference was mainly caused by a reduced incidence of mild symptoms, some of which might not be true allergic symptoms. The incidence of moderate to severe disease was not affected, which can possibly be due to the relatively small number of children, expecially in the high risk group. Thus feeding with a high allergenic load during the first days of life seems, in the long run, to be ineffective in inhibiting the development of Significant (moderate and severe) atopic disease.
Comparison of the Phadebas RAST with the Pharmacia CAP system for insect venom
Authors: Jeep S. , Kirchhof E. , O'Connor A. , Kunkel G.
Published: May 2007

Determination of specific IgE by RAST is a well‐established method in the diagnosis of immediate allergic reactions. In this study, we have compared the RAST with the ImmunoCAP, a novel test system which is based on a new type of solid phase. A total of 123 sera from 111 insect venom‐allergic patients (74% female) were investigated. All patients had their diagnosis confirmed on the basis of their history and skin tests with insect venom. The patients’ age showed a mean ± S of 44.2 ± 14.6 years. The total serum IgE levels ranged from 4‐1712 kU/1, with a median of 108 kU/1. The results of specific IgE, as determined by RAST and CAP, showed a significantly higher sensitivity, by almost one class, with the CAP compared with the RAST system. The quotient of specific IgE to total IgE, determined with the CAP system, could not be shown to be an expression of sensitization, compared with the severity of sting reactions (Müller classification (16)). A conversion factor for vespid venom RAST to CAP was calculated from the present data by subtracting the RAST from the CAP values. The mean delta value ± SD was found to be 0.9 ± 0.65, with a range from −0.8 to 2.7 and a median of 0.9. The data clearly show the differences between RAST and CAP‐RAST classes, indicating that the CAP‐system has a higher sensitivity and that patients with a low level sensitization are missed by the RAST method.
Immunologically induced purulent anterior segment inflammation of the guinea pig eye
Authors: Sompolinsky D. , Lundberg L. , Prause J. U.
Published: May 2007

A single conjunctival application of ovalbumin to inbred guinea pigs (IMM/S 209) immunized with the same antigen in Freund's complete adjuvant provoked an acute purulent inflammation of the anterior segment of the eyes with a duration of up to 1 week. Intense conjunctival injection and chemosis were followed by a purulent discharge. A corneal haze was observed regularly, and a considerable proportion of the animals developed a pronounced pannus and corneal ulcers. Tear fluid cytology revealed a rapid increase in cell concentration, from the normal level (< 108/1) to > 1011/1.Seventy to 95% of the cells were polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Histological examination revealed an acute inflammatory reaction which radiated from the conjunctival fornices to the entire anterior segments of the eyes. The process was characterized by an intense oedema, vasodilation and perivascular aggregations of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and to a lesser extent eosinophilic granulocytes which characteristically infiltrated and penetrated the epithelial layers. Ncovascularization could be observed early after challenge in the stroma of all parts of the outer eye. Ulcerations of the conjunctival and corneal epithelia were observed frequently. After a number of reiterations of the antigenic challenge, a marked infiltration with lymphocytes and basophils/mast cells was observed, and significant scarring of the conjunctival mucosa developed. In several animals, a slight, but significant co‐reaction of the contra‐lateral, non‐challenged eye was observed.
Immediate adverse reactions to immunotherapy in allergy
Authors: Tamir R. , Levy I. , Duer S. , Pick A. I.
Published: May 2007

We report our experience of adverse reactions to immunotherapy (IT) in patients with insect venom allergy and inhalant respiratory allergy. Adverse reactions included large local reactions, generalized cutaneous reactions or systemic reactions. Among 87 patients treated for venom allergy, 43% had adverse reactions during the course of IT, averaging 2.5 reactions per patient and per course of IT. Nine had systemic reactions, of which 7 required adrenaline administration. Among 52 patients treated with inhalant allergen extracts, 40% had adverse reactions averaging 3 reactions per patient per course of treatment. Ten patients had systemic reactions but only 2 required adrenaline administration. There was no difference between the rate of adverse reactions in the venom and the inhalant treatment groups. IT has an inherent risk which has to be weighed against its benefits.
Parietaria pollinosis: a review
Authors: D'Amato G. , Ruffilli A. , Sacerdoti G. , Bonini S.
Published: May 2007

Species of the genus Parietaria (pellitory) are a prevalent cause of allergy in the Mediterranean area and the most important in some European regions such as southern Italy and coastal Spain (14, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 36, 59, 69). Up to now, however, Parietaria has received little attention in northern Europe and the US because of its limited regional distribution. Therefore, less is known about Parietaria allergy than about other inhalant allergens such as those of grasses, ragweed, and mites.

During the last 5 years, only 31 reports on Parietaria allergy have appeared in the literature, as compared with 37 papers on birch pollen. This ratio may appear unbalanced, considering that millions of people suffer from pollinosis caused by Parietaria, while a much smaller number have rhinitis and/or asthma caused by birch pollen.

The increasing movement of people throughout Europe and to and from the US is reason to broaden our knowledge of patterns of inhalant allergy in each geographic area, especially where tourism and immigration are high.

This paper briefly reviews available data and personal studies on the botanical, aerobiological, immunochemical, and clinical features of Parietaria allergy.
Heterozygous α1‐antichymotrypsin deficiency may be associated with cold urticaria
Authors: Lindmark B. , Wallengren J.
Published: May 2007

Proteins of the serpin family (serine protease inhibitor) control key steps in the inflammatory, coagulation and complement systems. C1‐inhibitor deficiency predisposes to hereditary angioneurotic oedema, and other serpins control proteolytic enzymes that may cause complement activation or the forming of oedema. We investigated whether deficiency of proteins of the serpin family may predispose to cold urticaria and therefore screened 7 male patients with severe cold urticaria for the presence of deficieney alleles of some of the members of the serpin antiprotease family. There were no findings of C1‐inhibitor, α1‐antitrypsin, α2‐antiplasmin, antithrombin III, tissue plasminogen activator inhibitor or thyroxine binding protein deficiency. The prevalence of heterozygous α1‐antichymotrypsin deficieney was significantly higher than expected (prevalence ratio 25.8 (95% confidence interval 6.0‐112), p< 0.0001). This finding is in concert with previous studies that have shown lower mean levels of α1‐antichymotrypsin among patients with cold urticaria and suggests that heterozygous deficiency of this antiprotease, which controls neutrophil eathepsin G and mast cell chymase may predispose to cold urticaria. The present series is, however, small and the results need confirmation in larger materials.