bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of patient‐related allergens for hyposensitization
Authors: Poulsen L. K. , Søndergaard I. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

An affinity chrormatography method for preparation of patient‐related antigens from commercially available allergen extracts has been investigated. IgC1,2,4 from a patient previously hyposensitized with dog hair and dandruff allergen was bound to protein A‐sepharosc, Secondly, commercial allergen extract was applied to the immunosorbent, and patient‐related antigens were selectively absorbed by the specific antibodies from the patient serum. Finally, immune complexes containing antigen and IgG were eluted. Alternatively, the antigens alone were purified by retaining the IgG on the column by means of a covalent reinforcement of the protein A‐IgC‐binding. Purified, patient‐related antigens were investigated in crossed immunoelectrophoresis and identity to IgG‐and IgE‐binding antigens (as determined by the CRIE‐technique) was suggested. The affinity purified IgG was unaltered with regard to protein A‐binding, binding of antigen and affinity for monoclonal antibody to human IgG‐subclasses. Further, it was demonstrated that the antigen‐binding capacity of IgG in the immune complexes was intact as evidenced by strong affinity to antigens even at low pH. The antigens eluted together with IgG were predominantly found in immune complexes with a molecular weight of > 300 kdalton equivalent to 2 or more molecules of IgG. The possibility of employing a similar method with IgE instead of IgG for preparation of patient‐related allergens instead of antigens, is discussed.
Dose response curve of allergen and histamine in skin prick tests
Authors: Harris R. I. , Stern M. A. , Watson H. K.
Published: May 2007

Twenty‐six Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (D.pt.) sensitive subjects were skin prick tested in duplicate with 15 concentrations of D.pt. ranging from 0.0018 to 17.8 mg/ml, 15 concentrations of the major allergen of D.pt., antigen P1, ranging from 0.0002 to 1.88 mg/ml and 15 concentrations of histamine dihydrochloride solution ranging from 0.048 to 114.0 mg/ml. Weal areas and concentrations were transformed by taking logs and linear and non‐linear regression curves fitted, allowing for confounding variables, such as subject, and interactions. The weal areas over all concentrations fitted “S” shaped curves with essentially straight central portions, parallel between materials, with differences between subjects but parallel within subjects. The dose response curves of P1 and D.pt. were coincident when the concentrations were adjusted to allow for differences in potency. The concentrations of allergen and histamine commonly used for standardisation purposes will give weals that can be plotted along a straight line, but at higher and lower concentrations the response will tail off. This accounts for previously ambiguous results. Standardisation of allergens using 10 mg/ml histamine is preferable to 1 mg/mg.
Bambuterol: clinical effects of three doses of bambuterol once daily in asthmatic patients
Authors: Clelmmensen I. H. , Pedersen B. K. , Ravn S. , Laursen L. C. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Twenty‐two asthmatics received bambuterol solution, a terbutaline pro‐drug, once every evening. The following doses were each given orally for 7 days in a double‐blind crossover study: 0.185, 0.270 and 0.400 mg/kg. Bambuterol 0.270 mg/kg was preferable regarding clinical effects and side effects. The plasma concentration of generated terbutaline showed a slow linear decrease at all doses. Tests of two methods for objective measurements of tremor in five patients did not add any new data compared with the subjective recordings.
SS‐B/La antigen purification, and ELISA detection of anti‐SS‐B/La antibodies in sera from patients with inflammatory connective tissue diseases
Authors: Hansen B. , Larseb P. , Manthorpe R.
Published: May 2007

SS‐B/La antigen was purified by immunoadsorbent columns with immunoglobulin from a patient with primary Sjögren's syndrome. Monitoring of the purification was facilitated by the fused rocket‐immunoelectrophoresis technique. Technical ELISA variables for the detection of serum antibodies against the SS‐B/La antigen were evaluated, and a recommended procedure is described. Prospective investigation of anti‐SS‐B/La antibodies in 103 blood donors and 131 patients with chronic inflammatory connective tissue diseases, including 43 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome was performed. Anti‐SS‐B/La antibody concentrations were above normal in 65% of the patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (verified by the strictly objective Copenhagen criteria for keratoconjunctivitis sicca and xerostomia) and 9% of patients with other chronic connective tissue diseases. The predictive value for primary Sjögren's syndrome among patients with increased levels of the anti‐SS‐B/La antibodies attending a rheumatology clinic was 78%.
Duration of the inhibitory activity on histamine‐induced skin weals of sedative and non‐sedative antihistamines
Authors: Almind M. , Dirksen A. , Nielsen N. H. , Svendsen U. G.
Published: May 2007

The inhibitory effect of orally administered dexchlorfeniramine (4 mg/day), cyproheptadine (8 mg/day), astemizole (20 mg/day), loratadine (40 mg/day) and terfenadine (120 mg/day) on the size of histamine‐induced weals was tested by skin prick test with histamine in an open study including 23 healthy individuals. The antihistamines were administered for 2 days in the nationally recommended therapeutic doses. For all drugs the maximal weal suppression with the dosage chosen was recorded the day after the last dosage, being 29% (for dexchlorfeniramine), 72% (for cyproheptadine), 50% (for astemizole), 62% (for loratadine), and 56% (for terfenadine) of the baseline value. For the drugs in the same order the duration of the inhibitory effect of the drugs after the last dose administered was between 3–4, 7–11, 17–28, 4–7, and 4–7 days, respectively.
Immediate and late phase allergic cutaneous reactions are not inducers of unspecific or specific local hyperreactivity
Authors: Andersson M. , Pipkorn U.
Published: May 2007

The present study evaluates the possibility of allergen‐induced unspecific and specific dermal hyperreactivity with special reference to the presence of late cutaneous reactions and allergen‐induced nasal hyperreactivity. Twenty‐six patients with strictly seasonal allergic rhinitis participated. All had a positive skin prick test for birch (Betula verrucosa) and/or timothy (Phleum pretense). Ten patients had previously displayed an allergen‐induced nasal hyperreactivity and six patients a late cutaneous reaction. An initial skin prick test with a relevant pollen allergen was done in triplicate. The immediate skin reactions were recorded after 15 min and any late‐phase reaction after 6 h. Twenty‐four hours later the patients were retested. The same pollen allergen was sited in the first flare reaction from the previous day. A histamine prick test was sited in the weal as well as in the third reaction from day 1. A histamine control was also performed in a previously unaffected area. The allergen‐induced weal reactions decreased significantly at re‐challenge compared with the results from the previous day (P < 0.05). The histamine tests resulted in similar skin reactions regardless of whether or not they were done on a previous allergen test site. This was true for both specific and unspecific reactions when the subgroups of patients with previously demonstrated allergen‐induced nasal hyperreactivity or late‐phase skin reactions were evaluated separately. These results indicate that allergen‐induced hyperreactivity is not a general feature of allergic inflammation but is a phenomenon restricted to specific sites, such as the airway mucosa.
Immuno‐electronmicroscopic identification and localization of the antigenic proteins of tree pollen grains
Authors: Grote M. , Vik H. , Elsayed S.
Published: May 2007

The localization of antigenic proteins on ultrathin sections of pollen grains represents an interesting approach to understanding the release mechanisms of these antigens when the pollen grains come in contact with various physiological fluids. Using different rabbit antibodies we have demonstrated the locations of these antigens in the various structures of pollen grains. We further demonstrated the cross‐reactivities between alder (Alnus incana), birch (Betula verrucosa) and hazel (Corylus avellana) pollen allergens. Ultrathin sections of the pollen grains were prepared and allowed to react with two individually raised rabbit antibodies, (Ab‐BV and Ab‐ALK), against birch pollen. The sites of the Ag/Ab complex on the sections were labelled by protein A/gold, and identified in a transmission electron microscope. The two birch antibodies showed either quantitative or qualitative differences regarding their binding to various structures on the pollen sections. Using Ab‐BV, the antigen‐binding sites were located in the apertural region of the pollen grain and in the cytoplasm, while almost no gold labelling could be seen on the pollen surface. With the other antibodies (Ab‐ALK), we could visualize the antigen‐binding locations on the surface material of the pollen grains, particularly in the exine part of the wall and in the cytoplasm. A few gold particles could also be seen in the apertural region of the pollen. In hazel and alder pollen the exine part of the wall was the most densely labelled, whereas the cytoplasm and the aperture bound smaller numbers of gold particles. Cross‐incubations: birch pollen incubated with antibodies against hazel (Ab‐GA), or alder (Ab‐AI), showed various intensities of gold labelling for each of the three species. Statistically, the differences in the number of gold particles bound per μm2grain section between birch, hazel and alder, were highly significant. The cross‐reactivities between these antigens from the three pollen species were further tested using house‐produced rabbit antisera against antigens of the three species by means of electrophoretic and autoradiographic techniques (GIE and GRIE). The three antibodies could precipitate the major IgE‐binding antigen from all three pollen species.
Epidemiology of asthma in western Europe
Authors: Charpin D. , Vervloet D. , Charpin J.
Published: May 2007

Asthma deaths are uncommon, but have recently increased in some countries due to problems in the management of the disease. Morbidity rates show large variations, which can be attributed to differences in defining the disease, but also to genuine variations, with a trend towards less asthma in northern Europe. It has been suggested that allergic diseases as a whole, and asthma in particular, may exhibit an upward secular trend. Risk factors include a genetic background and environmental triggering factors. The importance of genetic factors is illustrated by family studies and by extreme prevalence rates observed in some communities. Environmental factors include rapid air pollution variations which act as a trigger for asthma attacks. However, at levels currently prevailing in western Europe, air pollutants do not induce a higher incidence of asthma. Altitude generates a gradual decrease in Dermatophagoides, thus explaining both the clinical improvement in asthmatics living in altitude and a lower prevalence of asthma in populations born and living there. Among the other aero‐allergens, grass pollens plays a major role in spring, elicitating asthma attacks. Some natural allergens transformed by man (castor bean, soja) can be responsible for asthma epidemics.
Frequency of allergy to Alternaria and Cladosporium in a specialist clinic
Authors: Frost A.
Published: May 2007

In the literature there is considerable variation in the frequency of allergy to the moulds Alternaria iridis and Cladosporium herbarum. In 1985 a 6‐month frequency study was performed in a specialist clinic with a patient population similar to the average specialist and out‐patient clinics in Denmark as regards sex, age, and diagnoses. Allergy was confirmed by use of a purified and standardized extract, and SPT, CPT and RAST were performed. Among the 292 first referrals nine had allergy to Alternaria, and two to Cladosporium, corresponding to a frequency of 3.1 (1.0–6.5)% and 0.7 (0.1–3.6)%, respectively, with 99 % confidence limits. Most of the patients were multi‐allergies suffering from rhinoconjunctivitis as well as asthma.
Multidisc RAST: a reliable method for screening of specific IgE antibodies in serum?
Authors: Pletscher M. , Peitrequin R. , Perroud S. , Frei P. C.
Published: May 2007

“Multidiscs” (md) are cellulose discs to which several allergens are coupled, allowing the simultaneous screening of several specific IgE antibodies. We compared RAST performed with md to RAST performed with the corresponding individual allergens coated on single discs (sd). One hundred and twenty‐two RAST positive samples were analysed for four different allergen groups: moulds, cereals, weed pollens and tree pollens. We found lower RAST sensitivity when screening with mds than with the individual sds in all allergen groups except cereals. In 30 to 70% of the samples, the results were concordant. In 25.5 to 66.7%, md values were lower and in 1.3 to 26.3% higher than sd values. When only qualitative results were considered, the loss of sensitivity appeared acceptable; only 6.7 to 16.7% of the sd positive samples were not detected by md screening. A cost‐benefit analysis, calculated on local data, confirmed economic advantages.
Development of atopic disease after early administration of cow milk formula
Authors: Lindfors A. , Enocksson E.
Published: May 2007

We prospectively studied the incidence of atopic disease in healthy term infants with a birth weight between ‐1 and ‐2 SD who were fed a cow milk formula during the first few days of life. A total of 216 infants were randomized to receive either early feeding with formula before normal breastfeeding was started (n= 112) or “normal feeding” with breastmilk (n= 104). Symptoms of allergy developed in 18%% of the infants before 18 months of age in the formula fed group, as compared to 33% in the breastfed group (P < 0.05). The difference was confined to the group of infants with a history of allergy in two family members. Thus, 11% of the formula‐fed infants developed allergy symptoms, as compared to 61% of the control infants (P < 0.01). Our study implies that early feeding during the first days of life with a cow milk formula, before the introduction of breastmilk, may reduce the incidence of allergy symptoms before 18 months of age in infants with a family history of allergy.
Down‐regulation of natural killer cell activity by autologous polymorphonuclear leucocytes
Authors: Pedersen B. K. , Kharazmi A. , Svenson M.
Published: May 2007

It has been recently reported that neutrophils are involved in the regulation of NK cell activity. However, the mechanism of such regulation is unclear. The present study was designed to investigate the mechanisms involved in the regulation of NK cytotoxicity by human neutrophils. The role of indomethacin, an anti‐inflammatory drug, in this interaction was studied. NK cells were purified from peripheral blood obtained from normal individuals. NK cell cytotoxicity was tested on K 562 cell line by Cr release assay, Autologous neutrophils obtained from peripheral blood were stimulated by opsonized zymosan either in the presence or absence of indomethacin. The role of neutrophil supernatant containing oxygen radicals and prostaglandins on NK cytotoxicity was examined. It was shown that supernatants from stimulated neutrophils significantly inhibited (P < 0.05) the autologous NK cell cytotoxicity. The presence of indomethacin in the in vitro reaction mixture, or given orally to donors, partially or completely abolished the inhibitory effect of neutrophil supernatant. Indomethacin inhibited prostaglandin E2 release, and luminol‐enhanced, myeloperoxidase‐mediated chemiluminescence of activated PMN. Diafiltration of neutrophil supernatant showed that the inhibitory activity was present in the fraction containing molecules lower than 5,000 daltons. In conclusion, our findings indicate that down‐regulation of NK cytotoxicity is mediated by prostaglandins produced by stimulated neutrophils and possibly by oxygen radicals.
High‐dose local steroid treatment in bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: Heinig J. H. , Weeke E. R. , Groth S. , Schwartz B.
Published: May 2007

Two patients with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) have been treated with a high dose (1600 μg daily) of inhaled corticosteroid for 18 months. A beneficial effect with regard to asthmatic symptoms was observed in both patients. During the first 14 months of the observation period no significant changes were observed in lung function parameters. Bronchial histamine challenge showed decreased hyperreactivity. IgE decreased in both patients, while specific IgE and IgG remained the same. After 14 months of treatment one of the patients developed severe, acute exacerbation of the ABPA and was treated with high‐dose prednisolone and local steroid. The patient is now fully recovered and has continued on local steroid therapy. The other patient had no episodes of exacerbation and remains stable on this treatment.
Allergy to rabbits
Authors: Price J. A. , PLongbottom J. L.
Published: May 2007

Quantitative immunoelectrophoretic techniques have been used to study the antigenic components found in extracts of dust collected from rabbit housing areas. To determine the possible source of these antigens, comparisons have been made to rabbit saliva, urine, fur and dander. Specific antisera for the rabbit extracts were raised in guinea pigs. One major component of the dust (Ag R1) was also found in large amounts in saliva, slightly less in fur and in only minimal amounts in urine and dander. Crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis (XRIE) of the dust, performed with sera from 14 rabbit allergic individuals who were RAST positive to rabbit saliva, urine and dust identified four IgE‐binding constituents. Individual responses varied but all sera reacted with Ag R1, identifying this as a major rabbit allergen. Dust RAST inhibition studies with rabbit dust, saliva and urine indicated saliva to be closely related to the dust. Ag R1 is a glycoprotein which appears to be very heterogeneous in nature. It produced a broad biphasic precipitin peak on immunoelectrophoresis and eluted from Sephacryl S‐200 gel filtration over the molecular weight range 30–50 Kd, although a molecular weight of 17 Kd was indicated by sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and gradient gel electrophoresis. The RAST inhibition results and the antigenic similarity of saliva to the dust suggest this to be the most likely source of the major rabbit allergen, Ag R1.
Purification and molecular weight studies on the components of a parietaria pollen extract
Authors: Bolzacchini E. , Gregorio G. Di , Nali M. , Rindone B. , Tollari S. , Falagiani P. , Riva G. , Crespi G.
Published: May 2007

The pollen extract of the allergenic plant Parietaria judaica, growing throughout the Mediterranean region, has been purified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) operating in size‐exclusion followed by ion exchange. Molecular weight determination of the components and isoelectrofocusing studies on the enriched material have been performed.
Diagnosis and immunotherapy of mould allergy
Authors: Malling H.‐J. , Djurup R.
Published: May 2007

The IgG subclass response was evaulated by a sensitive allergen‐ and subclass‐specific solid phase immunoradiometric assay during a 1‐year placebo‐controlled, double‐blind study of immunotherapy with Cladosporium herbamm in 22 adult asthmatics. The IgG response was mainly restricted to subclasses 1 and 4 but a few patients were IgG2 and IgG3 responders. An intense and early IgG1 response was observed during the first clusters of injection followed by a levelling down of the titer. The IgG4 response had a later onset and showed slowly increasing levels during the 12 months of immunotherapy. The graded clinical efficacy estimated by symptom‐medication score was significantly correlated to the preseasonal IgG1 value, with high values indicating a deleterious response of immunotherapy (deterioration of disease activity). Likewise, the fold increase of IgG1 and IgG4 after two clusters of immunotherapy (i.e. after 4 weeks) was significantly related to the clinical outcome, Little or no increase of IgG1 and IgG4 was associated with improvement, i.e. decrease in symptom‐medication score. The magnitude of the IgG1 response during the dose‐increase phase was directly correlated to the number of systemic side effects. No relation of IgG1, IgG4 or IgG4/IgG1 ratio to changes in the IgE‐mediated parameters (skin prick test, bronchial challenge and circulating specific IgE) was observed. Our data, which are based on few patients and only one allergen system, do not support the hypothesis of IgG acting as blocking antibody being the immunologic mechanism of immunotherapy. The association between high IgG4 values and a deleterious efficacy of immunotherapy might be caused by IgG4 acting as sensitizing antibodies. This explanation, however, is opposed by the lack of relation to systemic side effects.
Antiallergic drugs and the immune response
Authors: Canonica G. W. , Ciprandi G.
Published: May 2007

Since the pharmacological treatment of allergic diseases is used in patients with alteration of the immune response due to atopy and possible concomitant infections, we have investigated the possible effects of such drugs as cromolyn, theophylline, ketotifen, oxatomide, astemizole, fenoterol, pirenzepine, and rosaprostol on the in vitro immune response, in order to obtain experimental data and, as a consequence, clinical conclusions. In a series of investigations by our group and other authors the following immunological parameters have been considered: T cell activation induced by different pathways (i.e. autologous stimulation, PHA, anti‐CD3, ‐CD2 and ‐CD28 monoclonal antibodies), and lymphokine production (i.e. IL‐1, IL‐2 and gamma‐IFN). For a more detailed experimental model the experiments have been performed both in bulk culture and by using T cell clones derived from the peripheral blood. The results show cromolyn to have an enhancing effect, theophylline and ketotifen a suppressing effect, whereas the remainder show no effect on the immune response. These data are considered and discussed from the aspect of their possible clinical relevance and also in light of the in vivo data previously reported.
Evaluating the penetration of Cladosporium spores into the human respiratory system on the basis of aerobiological sampling results
Authors: Rantio‐Lehtimäki A.
Published: May 2007

The penetration of Cladosporium spores and spore aggregates into human airways was studied using three different spore sampling methods: 1) a Burkard spore trap for determining the aggregation degree of Cladosporium; two samplers, simulating the human respiratory system, 2) a 6‐stage Andersen 2000 sampler, and 3) a new size‐selective bioaerosol sampler (SSBAS), designed specifically for immunochemical and chemical analyses. The aggregation degree of Cladosporium spores varied between 1.0 and 1.3 spores per dispersal unit. Grouping seems to be of little if any importance to the penetration ability of Cladosporium spores into the respiratory tract. The distribution of spores in the Andersen and SSBAS differed significantly in the largest size class (spores < 7 μm in diameter); with the Andersen sampler only 10.8% of the spores were detected in stage 1, compared with 43% with the SSBAS. On the Andersen culture plates 95% of all colonies were detected in stages 1–4, where particles >2.1 μm in diameter are trapped. In the SSBAS altogether 99.4% of spores were found in the first two filter stages (cutoff point approx. 2.5 μm in diameter). Conclusions regarding the penetration of spores to the lungs on the basis of aerobiological results should always be based on the use of properly calibrated spore traps.
Nasal histamine release following hyperosmolar and allergen challenge
Authors: Krayenbuhl M. C. , Hudspith B. N. , Brostoff J. , Scadding G. K. , Guesdon J. L. , Latchman Y.
Published: May 2007

Allergic rhinitis is characterised by symptoms of sneezing, itching of the nose with watery secretions, and nasal obstruction. We have previously shown that patients can have the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis confirmed by nasal provocation tests and assessment of nasal inspiratory peak flow (NIPF) after specific allergen or hyperosmolar challenge. We now show that histamine is released into the nasal lavage fluid in response to such challenges. Saline lavage alone results in detectable histamine levels in the order of 5 ng/ml, but in the presence of allergen (HDM) there is a significant increase in histamine release in atopies but not in control subjects. With hyperosmolar challenge, atopies showed a biphasic response in that histamine release was increased with 1.8% and 3.6% saline but returned to baseline with 5.4% and 7.2% saline, then showing a further increase with 9.0% saline. This raises the possibility of two populations of responsive mast cells. Hyperosmolar challenge leads to symptoms of nasal itch and sneezing as well as histamine release in atopics but not in controls. This suggests that hyperosmolar challenge can be used as a simple diagnostic test for allergic rhinitis and may provide a model for nasal hyper‐reactivity.
Histamine control affects the weal produced by the adjacent diluent control in skin prick tests
Authors: Terho E. O. , Husman K. , Kivekäs J. , Riihimäki H.
Published: May 2007

The effect of histamine chloride control (10 mg/ml) on the weal reaction produced by the adjacent test solution (buffered glycerol‐saline diluent control) in skin prick tests was studied among 270 peat workers and 214 lumberjacks. The diluent control was placed on the skin at two test sites: 3–4 cm and 18–19 cm from the site of the histamine control. Prick‐test lancets (Dome/Hollister‐Stier) were used to prick the skin. Weal areas of 6 mm2 or larger were considered to be positive reactions. In both populations the diluent control caused positive reactions nearly three times more often when the test site was 3–4 cm from the site of the histamine control than when it was 18–19 cm away from the control (P< 0.001). Similar relationships might be found between histamine control and allergen solutions. This finding should be taken into account in histamine‐based standardization of the results of skin prick tests as well as in biological standardization of allergen solutions.
Influenza A virus enhances allergic histamine release
Authors: Clementsen P. , Hannoun C. , Norn S.
Published: May 2007

Histamine release was examined in leukocyte suspensions from patients allergic to house dust mite, grass pollen, birch pollen or cat dander. Influenza A virus was found to enhance the antigen‐induced mediator release, but did not cause release of histamine from the cells per se. Also histamine release induced by anti‐IgE in cell suspensions from normal individuals was enhanced by virus. The potentiating effect of influenza A virus might be due to neuraminidase on the surface of virus, since a similar effect was caused by a purified neuraminidase obtained from Vibrio cholerae, and the effect of virus as well as the neuraminidase was completely abolished by a potent neuraminidase inhibitor. The synergistic enhancement in IgE‐mediated histamine release by virus could be of significance for the conversion from latent to manifest asthma.
Influenza A virus enhances Staphylococcus aureus‐induced basophil histamine release in normal individuals and patients with intrinsic asthma
Authors: Clemensten P. , Jensen C. B. , Jarløv J. O. , Hannoun C. , Søborg M. , Norn S.
Published: May 2007

Influenza A virus was found to enhance Staphylococcus aureus‐ histamine release in human leukocyte suspensions, but did not per se release histamine. This potentiating effect was found to be similar in cells from normal individuals and from patients with intrinsic asthma. The enhancement of mediator release could be due to viral neuraminidase on the surface of the virus, since a similar potentiating effect was caused by a purified neuraminidase preparation obtained from Vibrio cholerae, and the effect of virus as well as of the purified neuraminidase was completely abolished by a potent neuraminidase inhibitor. The potentiating effect of virus on bacteria‐induced mediator release might be of importance for the conversion from latent to manifest asthma in upper respiratory tract infections.
Immunochemical estimations of allergenic activities from outdoor aero‐allergens, collected by a high‐volume air sampler
Authors: Jensen J. , Poulsen L. K. , Mygind K. , Weeke E. R. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

To quantify airborne allergens in amorphus and morphological particles, a survey with collection of aero‐allergens on glass fibre filters by means of a high‐volume air‐sampler (HIVOL) was conducted. In preliminary laboratory experiments we compared various filter elution techniques, and the pulverizing elution technique was found to be optimal with regard to yield and convenience. When a surfactant, Tween 20 (0.5% v/v), was added to the elution buffer, a recovery of 80% could be obtained. Allergens in eluates were analysed by means of an IgG‐subclass RAST inhibition assay. This immunochemical method for quantification of airborne allergens was validated, as a high recovery of timothy grass pollen allergens was eluted from air filters, and eluates were shown specific by RAST inhibition. The amount of Immunochemically measured airborne timothy and birch allergens collected by means of the HIVOL sampler was highly correlated with pollen counts obtained with a Burkard sampler (pollen trap) situated in the same place.
Changes in airway responsiveness and β‐ and α‐adrenergic receptors in the lungs of guinea pigs with experimental asthma
Authors: Motojima S. , Yukawa T. , Fukuda T. , Makino S.
Published: May 2007

The effects of inhaled allergen on airway responsiveness and on β‐ and α‐1‐adrenergic receptors on lung membrane were investigated in guinea pigs. After measuring the respiratory threshold to histamine (RT‐HIS), one group of guinea pigs passively sensitized for ovalbumin was challenged by allergen inhalation (challenged group). Measurement of the RT‐HIS 24 h following challenge revealed a significant decrease from 687 μg/ml (mean, n= 16) to 407 μg/ml (P < 0.05). In addition the RT‐HIS 24 h after challenge was also significantly lower in the challenged group than in controls (n= 9, P < 0.05). The density of α‐adrenergic receptors on the lung membrane of the challenged group was 594 ± 32 (mean ± SE) fmol/mg protein (n= 11) compared with 712 ± 24 fmol/mg protein (n= 9) in the controls, a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). A significant correlation was found between the RT‐HIS and density of β‐adrenergic receptors. From these results, we concluded that the exaggerated airway responsiveness 24 h after allergen challenge is in part due to a decrease in the density of P‐adrenergic receptors. There was no difference in the density of β‐1‐adrenergic receptors nor a significant correlation between the RT‐HIS and the number of α‐1‐adrenergic receptors in the challenged vs. the control groups.
Characterization of Micropolyspora faeni antigens by human antibodies and immunoblot analysis
Authors: Iranitalab M. , Jarolim E. , Rumpold H. , Steiner R. , Ebner H. , Feldner H. , Scheiner O. , Kraft D.
Published: May 2007

IgG, IgM and IgA antibody responses against Micropolyspora faeni (Mf) antigens were studied by means of immunoblotting experiments using 70 sera derived from three groups of farmers, namely patients with extrinsic allergic alveolitis (EAA) due to thermophilic actinomycetes (n= 25), patients without EAA but with hay exposure (n= 14), and patients suspected to have EAA (n= 31), and 27 sera from two groups of control persons (healthy laboratory workers, n= 13; healthy farmers, n= 14). Patients with EAA showed IgG, IgM and IgA antibody responses mainly against the antigens with molecular weights (MW) of 11, 12, 25, 35 and 60 kD (“major antigens”), and in addition, but less often, against six antigens with MW in the range of 15 to 62.5 kD (“minor antigens”). The other two groups of patients and also the exposed control persons showed very similar results; however, the antibody response in healthy farmers was substantially weaker in comparison to the three groups of patients and was almost limited to the major antigens with MW 11, 25 and 60 kD. Although patients with proven EAA had higher amounts of antibodies, there was no correlation between this antibody response and the onset of disease. The results indicate the necessity of including at least the major antigens with MW of 11, 25 and 60 kD in all extracts used for in vitro diagnosis of Mf‐induced EAA.
T cell responses to a Parietaria judaica pollen extract: comparison between Parietaria‐sensitive patients, other atopics and healthy controls
Authors: Di Felice G. , Mari A. , Mucci N. , Afferni C. , Bruno G. , Pini G.
Published: May 2007

We investigated the in vitro proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from Parietaria‐allergic subjects, atopic patients with other sensitizations and healthy controls to Parietaria judaica pollen extracts. PBMC from almost all 44 subjects, divided into five groups (Parietaria‐, grass‐, Parietaria and grass‐, Dermatophagoides‐sensitive patients and normal individuals) were able to proliferate in response to the extract without statistically significant differences between groups. Mean values of the stimulation indexes for the five groups were respectively: 10.73, 3.18, 5.50, 10,56, 9.28. The results of separation experiments showed that the responding cells were T lymphocytes. Mitogenic effect of the Parietaria pollen extract was excluded by the absence of proliferative PBMC response from cord blood of seven newborns. These results indicate that Parietaria‐sensitive, other atopics and normal individuals have Parietaria‐specific T cells able to proliferate in vitro to Parietaria allergens.
Occupationally related respiratory symptoms in trout‐processing workers
Authors: Sherson D. , Hansen I. , Sigsgaard T.
Published: May 2007

All eight production workers from a small trout‐processing factory were studied because of respiratory or rhinitis symptoms when working next to the automatic gutting machine. Seven of the eight had positive histamine provocation tests. Four patients had elevated total IgE levels while one had a slightly elevated eosinophil count. All workers had either weakly or moderately positive RAST against contaminated water from the outlet drain of the gutting machine. This water contained 1 μg endotoxin/ml. We concluded that five of the workers had probably developed occupationally related asthma from inhalation of contaminated aerosol from the gutting machine. Inhalation of endotoxin from gram‐negative bacteria may be the cause of this disorder. An alternative explanation is a Type I allergy caused by fish or bacterial protein with or without a simultaneous effect of endotoxin.
Eosinophils and eosinophil cationic protein in nasal lavages in allergen‐induced hyperresponsiveness: effects of topical glucocorticosteroid treatment
Authors: Andersson M. , Andersson P. , Venge P. , Pipkorn U.
Published: May 2007

Airway challenges with allergen are frequently followed by an increase in responsiveness to both specific and unspecific stimuli. This phenomenon in the lower airways has been linked to the presence of a late phase response to allergen challenge. One of the hallmarks of the late phase response is a tissue infiltration of granulocytes, specifically the eosinophils. A hypothesis for the increase in responsiveness has been that local activation of these eosinophils with subsequent release of the toxic granular constituents leads to a decrease in the barrier function of the airway epithelium. The aim of the present study was to further explore this hypothesis. Ten patients with previously demonstrated nasal allergen‐induced hyperresponsiveness participated in a double‐blind cross‐over study involving pretreatment for various periods with topical glucocorticosteroids. The patients were challenged intranasally with allergen on one day, rechallenge 24 h later and the increase in responsiveness noted. In a nasal lavage performed immediately prior to challenge the number of eosinophilic granulocutes and the level of eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) was determined. As expected, the placebo‐treated patients demonstrated an increase in nasal responsiveness at rechallenge accompanied by a tendency for an increase in eosinophils as well as ECP in the lavage preceding the rechallenge compared with the initial allergen challenge 24 h previously. The amount of ECP found in the lavage on the second day correlated with the TAME‐esterase activity, a marker of ongoing inflammatory activity (r = 0.64; P<0.05) in the same lavage, suggesting participation of the eosinophilic granulocyte in the inflammatory response to allergen. However, there were no correlations between number of eosinophils or ECP content in the nasal lavages on the first or second day and the degree of the increased responsiveness obtained on the second day. Further, topical treatment with glucocorticosteroids, which totally abolished the increased responsiveness, did not appear to significantly change the levels of ECP in the nasal lavage prior to the initial or re‐challenge. It is therefore suggested that the increase in responsiveness seen after an airway allergen challenge is not only a result of eosinophil activation but is a more complex phenomenon.
Childhood asthma in a rural county
Authors: Holmgren D. , ÅRberg N. , Lindberg U. , Engström I.
Published: May 2007

As part of a questionnaire study of allergic diseases in Swedish children, information about asthma reported in a rural county was evaluated. Of a total population of approx. 9,000 children 4, 7, 10 and 14 years of age, 5.1% reported a history of asthma and 2.4% reported symptoms during the last year. The incidence was highest during the first 2 years of life. A higher incidence in boys than in girls was found only during the first 4 years of life. Cessation of symptoms was most common in children with onset during the first 2 years of life. By checking the medical case records, a high accuracy of the reported information was confirmed.
Formoterol fumarate, a new β2‐adrenoceptor agonist
Authors: Löfdahl C.‐G. , Svedmyr N.
Published: May 2007

Four double‐blind, double‐dummy, randomized, crossover studies were performed in nine asthmatic patients to evaluate β2‐adrenoceptor selectivity and the duration of effect of formoterol. One study with cumulatively increasing doses of formoterol and salbutamol showed that with the inhaled route, formoterol was 5–15 times more potent than salbutamol with respect to bronchodilation. In a second study, 6 μg formoterol and 0.1 mg salbutamol were given for comparison of effect duration. Five hours after salbutamol inhalation the FEV1 values were back to basal. Eight hours after formoterol inhalation about 75% of the maximum bronchodilation remained and the FEV1 was significantly higher than after salbutamol inhalation. By oral route, a study with cumulatively increasing doses showed that as a bronchodilator formoterol was about 50 times more potent than salbutamol. The same potency difference was seen for increase of heart rate and decrease of diastolic blood pressure, indicating that the clinical selectivity for β2‐adrenoceptors is equal for the two drugs. In a fourth study comparable doses by oral route did not show any difference in the duration of bronchodilation. We conclude that inhaled formoterol is 5–15 times more potent than salbutamol. Inhaled formoterol produces longer duration of bronchodilation, with clinically relevant bronchodilation for at least 8 h. The prolonged duration of formoterol was not seen with oral treatment.
Combination of parenteral and oral immunotherapy in grass pollen‐allergic children
Authors: Trede N. S. , Urbanek R.
Published: May 2007

Twenty patients with a proven sensitization to grass pollens were treated with parenteral “priming” and subsequently with either oral “booster” (n‐10) or placebo (n=10) extension course. The study was carried out in a double‐blind manner. Cumulative preseasonal parenteral dosage was 3,100 NU (Noon Units), patients in the oral group subsequently received 123.9 mg of grass pollen extract during the pollen season. No side effects were noted after intake of the oral preparation. No significant differences (95% confidence interval) were noted comparing results of in vivo (skin prick test and conjunctival provocation test) and in vivo tests (specific serum IgE‐ And IgG‐antibodies) between the two groups. Analysis of symptom and medication scores as well as subjective assessment of patients revealed no superiority of oral “booster” over placebo. Data obtained in this study does not support the concept of combined parenteral and oral treatment. This is in contrast to work reported previously.
Effects of topical treatment with H1 and H2 antagonists on clinical symptoms and nasal vascular reactions in patients with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Holmberg K. , Pipkorn U. , Bake B. , Blychert L.‐O.
Published: May 2007

Fifteen asymptomatic subjects with allergic rhinitis participated in a double‐blind, randomized, crossover, placebo‐controlled study. The subjects were pretreated intra‐nasally with a single dose of a selective H1 receptor antagonist, levocabastine, and/or selective H2 receptor antagonist, ranitidine, prior to a nasal allergen challenge. The nasal symptoms obtained at the challenge were assessed using a scoring technique 15 min after the allergen exposure. The nasal airway resistance was determined twice prior to and once after the allergen challenge using anterior rhinomanometry. The nasal mucosal blood flow was determined before and 15 min after allergen challenge using the 133Xe wash‐out technique. After pretreatment with the H1 antagonist there was a statistically significant reduction in the number of sneezes and rhinorrhea compared to pretreatment with placebo. Pretreatment with the H2 receptor significantly decreased the rhinorrhea but not the sneeze. The nasal blockage was unaffected by both the H1 and the H2 antagonists. Pretreatment with the H1 and/or the H2 antagonists inhibited the reduction in the nasal mucosal blood flow induced by the allergen challenge to a significant degree. The present findings suggest that topical treatment with the highly selective histamine antagonist, levocabastine, inhibits allergen‐induced reflex‐mediated symptoms. H1 and H2 receptors do not appear to be involved in the regulation of the tone of the capacitance vessels. This indicates that a more complex mechanism participates in the induction of nasal blockage than the direct effect of histamine on H1 and H2 receptors on the capacitance vessels of the nasal mucosa alone. Both H1 and H2 receptors are of importance for the regulation of nasal mucosal blood flow during the allergic reaction.
A multiple dose powderinhaler (Turbuhaler®) compared with a conventional aerosol
Authors: Osterman K. , Norborg A.‐M. , Stäuhl E.
Published: May 2007

Nineteen patients with asthma completed an open, randomized, crossover study in which 0.5 mg terbutaline sulphate was administered either via Turbuhaler® or via the metered dose inhaler (MDI) for 2‐week periods. The clinical effect of the two treatment forms was comparable; both provided adequate bronchodilator therapy. Patients also considered Turbuhaler and MDI equally effective, with a small preference for the MDI. Turbuhaler seems to be a valuable alternative to bronchodilator MDI therapy.
Cofactor levels of mono‐ and diamine oxidase in atopic eczema
Authors: Ionescu G. , Kiehl R.
Published: May 2007

We have recently shown that increased plasma histamine levels were associated with significantly lowered diamine and type B monoamine oxidase activities in platelet rich plasma of atopic eczema patients. We now report almost normal cofactor (pyridoxal phosphate and Cu2+) levels for diamine oxidase but lowered cofactor (flavin adenine dinucleotide and Fe2+) levels for type B monoamine oxidase.
Seasonal variation in suppressor T cell subsets and non‐specific suppressor cell function in hay fever sufferers
Authors: Fennerty A. G. , Jones K. P. , Fifield R. , Davies B. H.
Published: May 2007

The helper/suppressor T cell ratio, as defined by monoclonal antibodies, was significantly higher in hay fever sufferers compared with controls (P < 0.05), but only during or shortly after the pollen season. This was due to a reduction in the suppressor subset, which returned to control values in the winter. There was no significant difference in the non‐specific concanavalin A‐induced suppressor cell function compared with controls. The mean summer value was significantly lower than the winter value (P < 0.05), but we cannot be sure that this was not the result of changes in laboratory conditions. No relationship was found between T cell subsets or suppressor cell function and total or specific IgE levels, or between T cell subsets and suppressor cell function. Our findings suggest that in hay fever, reduction in suppressor cell numbers and function is a secondary phenomenon.
Allergy in patients with acute maxillary sinusitis
Authors: Savolainen S.
Published: May 2007

The occurrence of allergy was studied in 224 patients with verified acute maxillary sinusitis by means of an allergy questionnaire, skin testing, and nasal smears. Allergy was found in 56 patients (25%), In addition, allergy was considered probable in 14 patients (6.5%). The corresponding percentages in the control group were 16.5 and 3, respectively. The difference is statistically significant P < 0.05). However, the frequency of allergy is lower in the present series than in those previously reported on chronic sinusitis. There were no differences between allergic and non‐allergic patients in the number of prior acute sinusitis episodes or of previously performed sinus irrigations. Bacteriological and radiological findings did not differ significantly between the groups.
Allergen‐containing immune complexes used for immunotherapy of allergic asthma
Authors: Poulsen L. K. , Lunddberg L. , Søndergaard I. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Guinea pigs inbred for their ability to develop respiratory anaphylaxis to experimental antigens have been used for comparison of different forms of immunotherapy (IT). Passive, active and combined (immune complexes between antigen and specific IgG) IT were compared with placebo. The bronchial reactivity of the animals to the antigen was monitored regularly before, during (35 weeks) and after IT (20 weeks). Animals treated with passive IT did not improve clinically. Active and combined IT abolished most symptoms within 7 weeks of treatment. During the post‐treatment period, animals from both groups surprisingly recovered their original sensitivity to inhalation of the antigen.
Farmer's lung in infants and small children
Authors: Thorshauge H. , Fallesen I. , ØStergaard P. Aa
Published: May 2007

A boy and a girl, 10 weeks and 3 years of age, respectively, were admitted to our department with low temperature, dry cough, fatigue and weight loss. In both patients pulmonary X‐rays showed diffuse, bilateral, micronodular infiltrations, and sparse signs of fibrosis. Serum IgG and blood eosinophils were abnormally high. After a stay in hospital for 3 weeks, the patients recovered slowly. However, after a few days at home, they were readmitted with the same symptoms. Family histories revealed that the children lived on farms with huge grain magazines and dryers, where moist grain and straw were stored. Massive amounts of mould spores were cultured from the residential areas, and, in addition, the male patient had an elevated titer to Micropolyspora faeni and the female patient, elevated titers to Thermoactinomyces vulgaris, Micropolyspora faeni, Aspergillus fumigatus and Alternaria alternans. The patients and their families moved from the farms and, for approximately a year, have been without lung symptoms. Farmer's disease in infants and small children is extremely rare. However, the incidence may be increasing due to the tendency in latter years to decentralize grain dryers and store moist grain and straw in big magazines, often close to residential areas.