bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative studies on check‐bite and central‐bearing‐point method for the remounting of complete dentures
Authors: UTZ K.‐H. , MÜLLER F. , BERNARD N. , HÜLTENSCHMIDT R. , KURBEL R.
Published: June 2007

summary
Thirty‐six complete dentures were remounted both with check‐bite as well as central‐bearing‐point (CBP) registration. The mandibular or denture position was registered in the condylar area three times with each method. Two independent operators carried out the registrations. One half of patients had their occlusion equilibrated according to the check‐bite registration, the other half in the central‐bearing‐point position. After individual determination of the hinge axis the upper dentures were mounted by a face‐bow transfer into a Dentatus® articulator. A total of six registrations was performed and repeatedly compared in the condylar area in three dimensions using a computer supported measuring device. The reproducibility of the check‐bite registration was 0.37 ±0.33 mm, with a maximum of 1.77 mm. For the central‐bearing‐point method this was 0.29±0.26 mm with a maximum of 1.56 mm. The mean difference in condylar position between both methods was 0.66±0.55 mm with a maximum of 4.02 mm. A third independent operator re‐examined 30 of the patients 2–3 weeks after the remounting and evaluated the adaptation to the new dentures. Those patients whose dentures were equilibrated with the central‐bearing‐point method tended to cope better with their dentures and suffered on average from fewer pressure spots.
Studies on adaptation to complete dentures. Part I: Oral and manual motor ability
Authors: MÜLLER F. , HASSE‐SANDER I. , HUPFAUF L.
Published: June 2007

summary
The assessment of an edentate patient's ability to adapt to new dentures is still a problem in prosthetic treatment. In this study the oral and manual motor abilities were compared with a patient's ability to adapt in 60 experienced denture wearers who had new dentures inserted 2–3 weeks before the experiment. To assess the oral muscular co‐ordination ability a modification of the muscular ability (MA) test was used. To determine the manual motor ability a ‘pinhole‐board’ test and a ‘margin‐cutting’ test were employed. The degree of adaptation to the new dentures was assessed by a questionnaire. The results show that a patient's age only roughly indicates the capability of adaptation. In contrast to the manual motor ability, the oral motor ability seems to correlate to the patient's adaptation to new dentures (r=0.55). The manual motor ability was clearly more strongly (r=0.61) age‐related than the oral motor ability (r=0.33). The permanent altered oral perception through denture wearing and a training effect by the permanent challenge of intra‐oral denture management are discussed.
Some physical and mechanical properties of shellac dental baseplate material
Authors: HARRISON A. , HUGGETT R. , AZOUKA A.
Published: June 2007

summary
The historical and general use of shellac is discussed and its particular value in dentistry outlined. The effects of variations in the mica and aluminium content of shellac are evaluated. Measurements of elastic modulus, modulus of rupture and glass transition temperature are reported.
Experimental occlusal interferences. Part II. Masseteric EMG responses to an intercuspal interference
Authors: CHRISTENSEN L.V. , RASSOULI N.M.
Published: June 2007

summary
In 12 subjects, a rigid unilateral intercuspal interference (minimum mean height of 0.24 mm) was placed on either the right or left mandibular second premolar and first molar (sagittal physiological equilibrium point of the hemimandibular dental arch). During brisk and forceful clenching on the interference, bipolar surface electromyograms were obtained from the right and left masseter muscles. On the side opposite the interference, myoelectric clenching activity was significantly reduced. Correlation analyses showed that the interference elicited a non‐linear (complex) co‐ordination of the amplitude, but not the duration, of bilateral masseteric, clenching activity, i.e. frequently there was significant motor facilitation on the side of the interference, and significant motor inhibition on the side opposite the interference. Theoretical considerations predicted that brief clenching on the interference would easily lead to frontal plane rotatory motions of the mandible which, indeed, occurred clinically.
Observations of the bone activity adjacent to unloaded dental implants coated with Polyactive® or HA
Authors: MEIJER G.J. , RADDER A. , DALMEIJER R. , DE PUTTER C. , VAN BLITTERSWIJK C.A.
Published: June 2007

Summary
In addition to bone‐bonding bioma‐terials such as calcium phosphate ceramics and Bioglass/glass ceramics, an elastomeric poly(ethylene oxide) poly(butylene terephthalate) (PEO/PBT) segmented block co‐polymer (Polyactive®) was recently introduced. In contrast to ceramic bioma‐terials, Polyactive® is a flexible material. In a previous three‐dimensional finite element analysis study, it was stated that application of a flexible Polyactive® coating simulates the function of the periodontal ligament. The topic of this investigation was to compare the bone‐bonding capacity of Polyactive®‐coated titanium implants with hydroxylapatite (HA) coated implants. The implants were inserted bilaterally in the edentulous part of the mandibular bone of 12 goats. After 3 weeks, the implants were in close contact with the cortical bone, but no cortical bone reaction or remodelling was observed. After 9 weeks, an extensive bone reaction was seen around the HA and Polyactive®‐coated implants and contact was frequently encountered between newly formed bone and the implants. Within the surface of the Polyactive® coating, a considerable amount of calcification was present. After 25 weeks, cortical remodelling was still apparent. A striking finding was the apparent association between osteon formation and calcification within the surface of the Polyactive® layer. Back‐scatter analysis of the non‐decalcified Polyactive® bone interface showed the presence of a calcium phosphate layer in the implant material that apparently formed a continuity with the mineral matrix of bone, suggesting bone‐bonding. In general, it was observed that the bone reactions to HA and Polyactive® were comparable. A swelling of the coating, just beneath the cortical layer (champagne‐cork effect) was often seen. This increase in volume, caused by water uptake, might result in a more intimate initial bone/Polyactive® contact, as compared with other implant materials.
Dentine hypersensitivity: uptake of toothpastes onto dentine and effects of brushing, washing and dietary acid –SEM in vitro study
Authors: ABSI E.G. , ADDY M. , ADAMS D.
Published: June 2007

Summary
Toothpastes are commonly used in the treatment of dentine hypersensitivity. One mode of action could be to block patent dentinal tubules with toothpaste ingredients or by abrasion to form a smear layer. Studies in vitro have shown that tooth‐paste abrasives have variable affinity for the dentine surface but retention may be limited. This SEM study extended previous work and determined the uptake in vitro of toothpaste ingredients onto the dentine surface and their retention when challenged by washing with water or orange juice. All products were seen to leave variable residues on the surface of etched or unetched dentine specimens, furthermore brush application produced some smearing with closure of previously open tubules. Washing with water and more particularly orange juice removed most residues and orange juice etched the dentine to open previously closed tubules. One product with an artificial silica abrasive was relatively resistant to both water and orange juice washings and in a pilot experiment showed some penetration into tubules not seen with another desensitizing product. These findings suggest that some abrasives may be usefully employed in desensitizing products, but without consideration of erosive factors in the aetiology of dentine hypersensitivity recurrences of the condition will be common.
Extracting direction and curvature features of jaw movement traces with chain code
Authors: SHI C.S. , MAO Y.
Published: June 2007

Summary
Frontal chewing patterns have been classified in a manual and visual way on recorded movement tracks. The main aim of this study was to use a chain code method to extract the direction and curvature features of the tracks in the frontal plane. The test results indicate that the chain code can stand for the direction and curvature. The chewing movement tracks in the frontal plane can be clustered into chain code values. The method therefore appears to be useful in the classification of chewing movements.
Development of atopic disease in relation to family history and cord blood IgE levels
Authors: Croner S. , Kjetlman N. ‐I. M.
Published: June 2007

The cumulative incidence of atopic disease from birth to about 11 yr of age and the prevalence during the 11th year was investigated in a cohort of 1654 non‐selected children by an evaluated questionnaire. The total cumulative incidence of obvious atopic disease was 32. 5%, of bronchial asthma 5. 3%, and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis 14. 4%. The prevalence of itopic disease was 23. 7%. Obvious atopic disease developed in 67% of children with cord blood IgE ≥ 0.9 kU/l and a further 15% developed probable atopic disease. The positive predictive value of a family history of atopic disease was 45%. Children with a high cord blood IgE had a 5‐fold increased risk for developing bronchial asthma. The sensitivity of cord blood IgE determination using 0.9 kU/l as cut‐off was only 26%. Therefore, it can not without modifications be recommended as a single screening test. Neonatal IgE determination is., however, suitable, if used in conjunction with the family history, for identifying candidates at high risk for early development of atopic disease, e. g. for evaluation of the effect of preventive measures. Parents tend to forget symptoms (25%) that their children presented some years ago. Questionnaires are thus more suitable for establishing prevalence compared with cumulative rate of atopic disease.
FcɛRII on T cells and IgE‐binding factors in children with atopic asthma
Authors: Matsumoto T. , Miike T. , Takahashi H. , Hosoda M. , Kawabe T. , Yodoi J. , Hirashima M.
Published: June 2007

Expression of low‐affinity receptors for IgE (FcɛRII) on T and B cells was examined with monoclonal antibodies to cell surface antigens of FcɛRII (CD23), T cells (CD3) or B cells (CD 19) by two‐dimensional analysis under laser flow cytometry system. The majority of cells bearing FcɛRII were B cells; however, a small proportion of T cells (1. 6%) bore FcɛRII in children with atopic asthma and elevated serum level of IgE. The occurrence of FcɛRII positive B cells was also increased in children with atopic asthma compared with non‐atopic controls (p < 0.001). The numbers of T and B cells hearing Fc receptors for IgG (FcɛR) did not differ between atopic and non‐atopic children. T cells were isolated from venous blood by rosetting with sheep erythrocytes, and then cultured in vitro with phytohemagglutinin plus phorbol‐myristate‐acetate. The amount of IgE‐binding factors (IgE‐BF), a soluble form of FcɛRII, was determined by means of enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The level of IgE‐BF was increased in cultures from children with a atopic asthma compared with non‐atopic controls (p < 0.01). The possible involvements of FcɛRII on T cells and their soluble products, IgE‐BF, in the pathogenesis of atopic asthma is discussed.
Heterogeneity of IgA deficiency in childhood
Authors: Pignata C. , Monaco G. , Ciccimarra F.
Published: June 2007

Fifty‐one children with total or partial IgA deficiency were compared for clinical and laboratory features. Serum IgG were higher in total IgA deficiency. Moreover, while no subject with partial IgA deficiency showed autoantibodies, 48% of the group with total IgA deficiency showed one or more autoantibodies. These data support the notion that total and partial deficiencies are two distinct entities.
Aspergillus allergy and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Nikolaizik W. H. , Brueton M. J. , Warner J. O.
Published: June 2007

We have found allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in 8.6% of 105 children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Its development was significantly associated with colonisation of the respiratory tract by Pseudomonas aeroginosa but not necessarily by the use of nebulised antibiotics. At the same time, 30% of the 105 CF children had A. fumigatus growing in their sputum, 30% had positive prick skin tests to A. fumigatus, 23% had a positive IgE antibody to A. fumigatus and 19% positive A. fumigatus precipitins (IgG antibodies). All of these features were significantly associated with the use of nebulised antibiotics but more strongly associated with Pseudomonas colonisation. It is possible that the Pseudomonas facilitates sensitisation to A. fumigatus or, alternatively, that A. fumigatus facilitates colonisation by Pseudomonas. Both hypotheses require investigation.
Natural history of IgE‐mediated food allergy in fully breast‐fed babies
Authors: Cantani A. , Ragno V. , Businco L.
Published: June 2007

We have studied 21 babies with IgE‐mediated food allergy (FA) sensitized via breast milk. The diagnosis of IgE‐mediated FA was based on the response to elimination diet and challenge tests, and was confirmed by positive RAST and skin tests. The children exhibited immediate symptoms, such as urticaria, angioedema, and asthma. Only 5/21 children developed tolerance to the offending food at the median age of 14 years. The children who failed to develop tolerance still have high levels of IgE antibodies towards the offending food. In conclusion, the results of our long‐term follow‐up study show that the natural history of FA in children sensitized via breast milk may be less optimistic than generally reported.
Atopic disease in preadolescence ‐ an evaluation of questionnaires, association with cord blood IgE and month of birth
Authors: Croner S. , Kjellman N.‐I.M.
Published: June 2007

During a prospective study of 1654 children, followed from birth for 11 years, we evaluated the validity of a detailed questionnaire for establishing the prevalence of atopic disease in preadolescence. In 133 randomly selected children the questionnaire‐based diagnoses were accurate in 128 (96.2%). If the cord blood IgE concentration was high (? 0.9 kU/l) then it was 1.7 times more common to have any prevalent atopic disease. The corresponding relative risk for multiple atopic disease was 11.5. Boys had high IgE levels significantly more often than girls, regardless of the degree of pubertal maturation. Sensitization to timothy pollen developed more often in children born during May compared to November. At least one allergy test (IgE, Phadiatop or SPT) was positive in 20 of 70 (28.6%) 11‐year‐old children with no history of atopic disease, indicating latent allergy. Among the healthy children with positive tests, those with cord blood IgE ? 1.3 kU/l were over‐represented. IgE concentrations at 11 years of age corresponded poorly with neonatal IgE concentrations, indicating that after birth environmental influences are more important for the present IgE level than genetic factors.
Antigenicity and allergenicity of cow milk hydrolysates intended for infant feeding
Authors: Oldæus G. , Björkstén B. , Einarsson R. , Kjellman N.‐I. M.
Published: June 2007

Allergenicity and antigenicity of various commercially available cow milk hydrolysates intended for infant feeding were analysed in 45 children with cow milk allergy. The hydrolysates included the whey hydrolysates Beba HA® (Good Start HA®) and Profylac®, and the casein hydrolysates Alimentum® and Nutramigen®. Positive skin prick tests were recorded against Beba HA in 10 of 41 tested children (24%), against Profylac® in 5/34 (15%) and in one each (2.5%) against Alimentum and Nutramigen. Double‐blind placebo‐controlled oral challenge tests were performed in 11 children with cow milk allergy using Alimentum, cow milk (positive control) and their regular well‐tolerated formula (Nutramigen or soy) used as negative control. One child reacted to Alimentum. This patient was the only one with circulating antibodies against the product, as indicated by a positive RAST. High density SDS‐PAGE electrophoresis showed that Beba HA contained a number of unresolved proteins, and non‐degraded or partially degraded whey proteins in the range of 5–20 kD. Profylac contained strongly stained protein material in the low molecular weight region 1–10 kD. No protein bands could be identified in the casein‐based hydrolysates. Residual antigenicity was tested by measuring the content of betalactoglobulin in the hydrolysates. Three of the hydrolysates contained < 0.06 μg/g dry weight, while the concentration in Beba HA was 200 μg/g dry weight. Positive RAST against Beba HA was detected in 11/45 sera (24%) compared to 7–13% against the other hydrolysates. RAST inhibition with the hydrolysates using cow milk discs was very low for all of them. Using dot immuno‐binding assay a weak IgE binding with Alimentum was detected in 4 sera, Beba HA and Profylac in each 2 sera and with Nutramigen in one. The data taken together show that all 4 tested hydrolysates retain some allergenicity. There were differences between the products, one of the whey hydrolysates being substantially more allergenic and antigenic than the other tested formulas. The casein hydrolysate Alimentum showed few reactions in vivo and in vitro in this selected group of children but one child reacted when challenged with Alimentum, indicating that there is a risk for general reactions when using any hydrolysed product in subjects allergic to cow milk.
Safety of measles immunization in egg‐allergic children
Authors: Businco L. , Grandolfo M. , Bruno G.
Published: June 2007

Measles vaccines are prepared in chick embryo fibroblast culture and used throughout the world. Since 1963 dramatic reductions in the incidence of measles have been observed where the vaccination was extensively applied in the pediatric population. The best results were observed when the target population in the initial phase was that which produced over 90% of cases in the pre‐vaccinal era. A possible limiting factor to the diffusion of measles vaccination is the assumption that allergy to egg proteins is a contraindication. In this paper current knowledge about the safety of measles immunization in children with egg allergy is discussed.
Metachromatic cells and eosinophils in atopic children A prospective study
Authors: Borres Magnus Persson
Published: June 2007

Metachromatic cells and eosinophil leukocytes were studied prospectively in 64 newborns with and without a family history of atopic disease (FH). Cell findings in nasal mucosa and peripheral blood were related to development of atopic symptoms up to 18 months of age. For this purpose, a gentle scraping method suitable for infants was developed. Nasal metachromatic cells were more prevalent in atopic than in non‐atopic infants. The cells were found in infants with respiratory allergy as well as in infants with eczema. Non‐atopic infants with metachromatic cells all had FH. The cells were detected prior to, or at the time of diagnosis. Thus, metachromatic cells are associated with atopic propensity as defined by development of atopic disease and/or a FH. Infants with respiratory allergy more frequently had acute otitis media than infants with eczema and non‐atopic infants. Presence of nasal metachromatic cells was associated with increased middle‐ear morbidity in atopic and non‐atopic infants, and high cell scores correlated with high frequency of otitis media. Infants with respiratory allergy may have otitis media as a result of the allergic condition. Blood eosinophils were studied in 154 infants and were found to decrease with age. Blood eosinophilia at 3 months preceded atopic development but was not associated with FH. Nasal eosinophilia was a common finding in atopic and non‐atopic infants. In conclusion, presence of nasal metachromatic cells and blood eosinophilia is associated with atopic disease, even before the appearance of clinical symptoms.
Cord blood and maternal total eosinophil counts in relation to infant allergy
Authors: Haus M. , Hall J. M. , Heese H. de V. , Weinberg E. G. , Berman D.
Published: June 2007

The predictive value of raised cord blood (CB) total eosinophil counts (TEC) with regard to atopic sensitisation was studied prospectively for 1 year in 53 Black, 52 White and 57 Mixed full‐term newborns. The maternal TEC, in relation to the stress of labour, were also studied. Ethnic differences in the CB TEC were shown between the Black/White (p = 0.03) and the White/Mixed (p = 0.05) groups. The newborns sex, anatopic family history (aFH) and the method of birth had no influence on the CB TEC in any ethnic group. There were no unequivocal differences in CB TEC between those newborns who became atopic during infancy and those who did not in any of the ethnic groups, although in the Black infants, there was a marginal trend towards significance (p = 0.05). Raised CB TEC values do not, therefore, seem to be an inherited factor in terms of a predisposition for atopic disease.
Basophils and eosinophils in human milk in relation to maternal allergy
Authors: Vassella C. C. , Hjälle L. , Björkstén B.
Published: June 2007

Forty–three specimens of human milk were obtained from allergic and non–allergic women 3–6 days post–partum and analyzed for their eventual content of eosinophils and metachromatically staining cells. Eosinophils and metachromatically staining cells were identified in all milk samples; however, in lower numbers than in peripheral blood (0.082 to 4. 44% and 0.002 to 0.098% resp. of total cell numbers). Possible contamination of milk fluid with peripheral blood was ruled out. As no mast cells were detected with monoclonal anti–tryptase antibodies, the metachromatically staining cells were basophils. The numbers of basophils and eosinophils in milk were positively correlated to each other (p < 0.05) and to blood eosinophil counts (p0 < 0.001 and p1= 0.01, respectively), suggesting migration of these cells from blood to the mammary glands. Significantly higher numbers of eosinophils, but not of basophils were encountered in milk of allergic women compared to milk of non–allergic mothers (p0 < 0.01 and p1 > 0.05, respectively). As histamine release in the gut increases gut permeability and thereby probably the risk for sensitization to food allergens, basophils in milk might represent an allergy risk factor for the suckling neonate.
Risk factors in early childhood for sensitization to airborne allergens
Authors: Wickman M. , Nordvall S. L. , Pershagen G.
Published: June 2007

To examine the association between environmental exposure during the first two years of life and development of atopic disease later in child‐hood, 115 children sensitized to airborne allergens and 54 non allergic controls were investigated. Fifty‐seven of the atopic children were skin prick test (SPT) positive to house dust mites (HDM). Information on exposure was obtained from questionnaires. Parental allergy was a more important risk factor for development of atopy than any of the environmental risk factors. Exposure during the 2 first yr of life to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and home dampness was more frequently found among the HDM‐sensitized children than among the controls (OR = 2. 8, CI 1. 0‐7. 3 and OR = 4. 6, CI 1. 4‐15. 0 respectively). A combination of these two factors seemed to be particularly harmful (OR = 8. 7, CI 2. 3‐33. 1). Similar but less pronounced effects were seen for children with other allergies. Later in life exposure both to dampness and ETS was of the same magnitude in the atopic children as in the controls. It appears that exposure to environmental factors during the first few years of life may trigger for development of atopic disease and that interactions may be of particular importance.
Serum immunogiobulin G subclasses and serum immunogiobulin A in healthy Norwegian children and adults
Authors: Carisen K. ‐H. , Mellbye O. J. , Fuglerud P. , Johansen B. , Solheim A. B. , Belsnes D. , Danielsen A. , Menrichson L. , Eeg‐Olofsson O. , Wannag E.
Published: June 2007

IgG subclass concentrations were determined by a capture ELISA antibody assay using monoclonal antibodies to IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4. All the antibodies had been tested for specificity in an IUIS/WHO collaborative study, and this was confirmed by us by testing against purified myeloma proteins representing the 4 subclasses. The sera to be tested were diluted to obtain optimal sensitivity in the lower normal range for each subclass. With these serum dilutions, the lower limit of reading was 1. 2 g/l for IgG1, 0. 25 g/l for IgG2, 0.04 g/l for IgG3 and for IgG4. Age specific reference limits of the IgG subclass concentrations were determined in serum samples from 138 healthy infants and children under 14 years of age and 66 adults. The reference limits for each age group were determined by calculating the mean ± 2 SD of the logarithms to the values and then taking the antilog of the results. IgA was determined by a turbidimetric method with a reading limit of 0. 1 g/l, and the reference limits were calculated from serum samples from the 138 children under 14 years of age and from 31 healthy adults. The age specific reference limits of the IgG subclasses and IgA are given. Several infants and children had IgG4 levels below the lower reading limit. To determine lower reference limits of IgG4 below the age of 7 years was therefore of little clinical significance.
Development of immune response markers in the trachea in the fetal period and the first year of life
Authors: Stoltenberg L. , Thrane P. S. , Rognum T. O.
Published: June 2007

Immunoglobulin (Ig)‐producing cells. T cells (CD3) and epithelial expression of seeretory component (SC) and HLA class II determinants (DR, ‐DP, ‐DQ) were studied by immunohistochemistry in 16 fetal and 15 postnatal specimens from the tracheal wall. Small amounts of secretory component (SC) was present in the traeheal surface and gland epithelium in the fetal period and inereased towards term. A few IgM‐, IgD‐ and IgG‐producing cells were present in some fetal specimens but no IgA‐ and IgE‐produeing cells were found. Only very few CD3 + T‐cells were present in fetal specimens and intraepithelial T‐cells were virtually absent until after birth. Premature infants that lived for 1 week had less SC epithelial expression than mature infants of the same age. The density of CD3 + T‐cells. IgA‐, IgM‐producing cells as well as the epithelial SC expression increased rapidly after birth. Epithelial MHC class II expression was absent in fetal specimens. HLA‐DR was detected on the apical border of the surface epithelium one week after birth and was extensively expressed throughout the remaining postnatal period. E‐pithelial DP and PQ expression were virtually absent during this same period. These features probably reflect local activation of the immune system in response to environmental factors.
Interferon‐γ production by cord‐blood mononuclear cells is reduced in newborns with a family history of atopic disease and is independent from cord blood IgE‐levels
Authors: Rinas U. , Horneff G. , Wahn V.
Published: June 2007

For newborn children both elevated serum IgE levels in the cord blood and a positive family history of atopic disease have been shown to be risk factors for the manifestation of atopic diseases. In adult patients with atopic dermatitis, in vitro interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) production is reduced and a negative correlation with serum IgE levels has been shown. We have now raised the question if newborn infants at risk for the development of atopic disease have similar abnormalities of cytokine production at birth. In vitro production of interleukin 2, interleukin 6 and interferon‐γ by peripheral blood mononuclear cells was measured in 53 newborns: 21 had cord blood IgE levels above 0. 9 kU/1, 21 had a positive family history, 7 had both elevated IgE and a positive family history; 18 newborns with no identitiable risk for atopic disease served as controls. Umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells were stimulated with PHA or monoclonal antibody OKT3. In vitro production of interleukin 2 and 6 was comparable in all groups. Compared to controls IFN‐γ production of peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMC) from newborns with elevated cord blood IgE was not different, but PMBC from newborns with a familial risk showed a significant decrease in PHA induced IFN‐γ production (p < 0.005, U‐test). No correlation between umbilical cord blood IgE and diminished IFN‐γ production was found in newborns with or without a positive family history. We conclude that immunoregulatory abnormalities in newborns of atopic families are detectable already at birth and are unrelated to cord blood IgE.
Wiskott Aldrich syndrome: an immunodeficiency syndrome not rare in Western Australia
Authors: Someryille C. , Forsyth K. D.
Published: June 2007

Wiskott Aldrich syndrome, a combined cellular and humoral X‐linked immunodeficiency, is generally considered to be rare. The aim of this study was to ascertain the true prevalence in the paediatric population in Western Australia, describe the clinical features, and summarise the current literature on this unusual condition. All cases of Wiskott Aldrich syndrome presenting to Princess Margaret Hospital in Perth during the period from January 1960 to January 1990 were identified by a retrospective review of case records and by interviewing hospital immunology, haematology and general clinical staff. Nine cases of Wiskott Aldrich syndrome are described, demonstrating that the prevalence of Wiskott Aldrich syndrome in Western Australia is nine times that expected from previous reports. Death occurred in a number of patients before the correct diagnosis was recognised. The clinical features in this group are quite variable. Low isohaemagglutinins, elevated IgE, blunted DTH skin multitest, and very low CDS numbers are however consistent features. Wiskott Aldrich syndrome may be more prevalent than previously recognised, and should be considered in males with thrombocytopenia and infection.
Usefulness of neonatal eosinophil counts as a marker of atopy?
Authors: Calbi M. , Scarpellino B. , Giacchetti L.
Published: June 2007

Eosinophil count (EC) were obtained from 312 newborns with and 172 without family history of atopy (FHA). The EC were higher in infants with than without FHA. Elevated EC were recorded in babies of parictaria sensitive mothers born in the spring, as compared to other seasons. The predictive value of EC with regard to development of atopic diseases up to 18 months of age was prospectively studied in 103 newborns with FHA. Using 5 × 108 cells/1 as cut‐off level the predictive allergy value was 41%. Elevated EC appears to be a marker of atopy in newborns.
Why do asthmatic children need referral to an emergency room?
Authors: Ashkenazi S. , Amir J. , Volovitz B. , Varsano I.
Published: June 2007

Asthmatic attacks continue to be a major cause of referral to the emergency room (ER), despite currently available effective treatments. We have prospectively evaluated 100 consecutive children who were referred to the ER with acute asthma and were followed by their primary physicians. Only 46% were able to recognize acute attacks, and 26% had the knowledge and skills for self‐management. The prophylactic therapy recommended was usually appropriate, but the compliance was poor and mean serum theophylline levels (STL) was 6. 8 μg/ml, with subtherapeutic values (<10 μg/ml) in 44 (88%). We studied an additional group of 50 consecutive children who were on a routine follow‐up in the hospital asthma clinic. All were examined periodically and were instructed on the disease. The compliance of these children was much better and STL were within the therapeutic range in 73%, significantly higher than in the ER patients (p < 0.001). Their need for ER treatment or hospitalization was much lower than the former group. Poor compliance is a major factor causing referral of asthmatic children to ER, and careful education can improve patient compliance with reduced referral and subsequent hospitalization.
Atopic family history. Validation of instruments in a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Bergmann R. L. , Forster J. , Schulz J. , Bergmann K. E. , Bauer C. P. , Wahn U.
Published: June 2007

In order to identify newborns at risk for atopic diseases, we developed a family questionnaire and selected specific answers which were suitable to identify atopic family members. The validity of the questionnaire was evaluated by the Phadiatop lest results of 793 mothers and 353 fathers. As both screening instruments do not measure the same, the Phadiatop test identifies scnsitization to inhalant allergens and the history reflects the clinical manifestation of atopic disease, the agreement between sensitization and manifestation is incomplete. Sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaire screening conditions to reproduce the Phadiotop lest result was 64% and 84% for mothers, and 58% and 88% for fathers, respectively. The relative risk for lifetime prevalence of atopic manifestations in Phadiatop positive over negative mothers was calculated to be 3. 88 (95% confidence interval = 3. 12 to 4. 81), and for Phadiatop positive over negative fathers to amount 4. 84 (95% confidence interval 3. 25 to 7. 23). A few relevant answers of 20 were identified by logistic regression analysis to predict the Phadiatop test result nearly, as well as the total questionnaire.
Appearance of IgE antibodies to ingested and inhaled allergens during the first 12 years of life in atopic and non‐atopic children
Authors: Hattevig G. , Kjellman B. , Björkstén B.
Published: June 2007

The appearance and course of serum immunoglobulin E‐antibodies (IgE‐ab) to egg‐white (EW). cow's milk (CM) and inhalants (pollen, danders and mite) were followed from birth to 12 years of age in 84 children unselected for family history of atopy. During the follow‐up 36 children developed atopic symptoms and 48 children did not. IgE‐ab to EW and CM reached a peak prevalence at 8 months of age — with high concentrations almost exclusively in atopies and disappeared successively during childhood. IgE‐ab to inhalants appeared from 2 years of age and then in increasing frequency during childhood. Similar to the pattern of IgE‐ab to EW and CM, transient low levels of IgE‐ab to inhalants were commonly encountered in non‐atopic children while high concentrations without tendency to decline were almost exclusively seen in atopies. High responders to EW‐antigen during infancy were usually also high responders to inhalants during childhood. Clinical allergy to EW and CM and subsequent tolerance appeared early in childhood, whereas allergy to inhalants appeared later and did not disappear. The temporary low‐grade IgE antibody response in non‐atopic individuals to eaten and inhaled allergens is similar to the results of animal studies demonstrating a transient IgE production followed by tolerance.
Immunologic disturbances in cow's milk allergy, 1: delayed maturation of suppressor activity
Authors: Suomalainen H. , Soppi E. , Isolauri E.
Published: June 2007

To assist in identifying pathogenetic mechanisms in different subtypes of cow's milk allergy (CMA), the function of immunoregulatory T‐lymphocytes was studied. The study population consisted of 23 patients, mean [95% confidence interval] age of 25. 6 [19. 5, 33. 6] months, who had challenge‐proven cow's milk allergy manifested with either skin (n=9) or gastrointestinal (n=14) symptoms; in addition, 13 age‐matched disease controls were studied. Patients with challenge‐proven CMA were rechallenged to establish whether they had acquired clinical tolerance to cow's milk. The suppressor activity of isolated lymphocytes was measuredin vitroby a cell coculture at rechallenge and in 10/23 patients at diagnosis. At diagnosis, patients with CMA (n=10) showed a decreased mean [95% CI] suppressor activity, induced by either Concanavalin A, 7[‐2, 15]%, or cow's milk, 3[‐8, 14]% as compared with disease controls (n = 13), 19[15, 24]% and 24[17, 31]%; F = 7. 1, p = 0.004 and F = 6. 7, p = 0.005, respectively. At rechallenge the suppressor activity, induced both by Concanavalin A and cow's milk, reached the level of disease controls only in patients who had acquired clinical tolerance to cow's milk (n = 13/23), but not in those retaining CMA (n = 10/23). Our results indicate that the maturation of suppressor function is delayed in CMA, which might be of primary importance in the etiopathogenesis of CMA.
Serial IgG and IgM serum levels after infusion of different Ig‐preparations (IgG or IgM‐enriched) in preterm infants
Authors: Amato M. , Hüppi P. , Lmbach P. , Llanto A. , Bürgi W.
Published: June 2007

Intravenous administration of Immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been used for prevention or treatment of neonatal sepsis. However, therapeutic efficacy of IVIG is dependent on pharmacokinetic factors. There have been no comparative studies in neonates between licensed IgG and IgM enriched preparations. The aim of this study was to investigate serial IgG and IgM serum levels during the neonatal period in two groups of non‐septic, preterm infants treated prophylactically with IVIG. Twenty‐two very low birth weight (VLBW) patients (1001‐1500g) (gestational age 31.8±2.0 weeks and 1265±245g birth weight) and 12 extremely low birth weight (ELBW) patients (<1000g) (gestational age 28.6±2.5 weeks and 910‐85g birth weight) received at random three standard doses of Sandoglobulin (SG) (0. 5 g/kg/day) or IgM enriehed Pentaglobin (PG) (5 ml/kg/day). IgG and IgM concentrations were assayed by rate nephelometry before treatment and at day 3, 5, 7, 14 and 28 of life. At any time IgG levels were higher in the SG‐VLBW group (p < 0.01). no difference being observed in the ELBW group (p>0.5). IgM levels were higher at day 3 and 5 in the PG‐VLBW group and until day 7 in the ELBW group (p < 0.01). This study indicates a wide range of IgG and IgM kinetics in the healthy premature and suggests frequent monitoring of immunoglobulin serum levels during efficacy studies.
Roles of eosinophils and catecholamines in pathophysiology of exercise‐induced asthma
Authors: Tsuda H. , Tsuda A. , Ito M. , Nambu M. , Mayumi M. , Mikawa H.
Published: June 2007

To study the roles of eosinophils and catecholamines in the pathophysiology of exercise‐induced asthma [EIA], an exercise challenge test was performed in 22 asthmatic children, using a bicycle ergometer, and the changes in lung function, plasma norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (E) and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) levels with exercise were evaluated. Subjects were classified into three groups from the results of lung function test, respectively: EIA‐negative group. EIA‐positivc groups with good recovery and poor recovery. Eosinophil counts before exercise in the EIA‐positive groups were significantly higher than those in the EIA‐negative group. The ECP levels rose with exercise in all groups. Five minutes after exercise, ECP values fell to the pre‐cxercise level in the EIA‐negative group, hut rose to higher levels in EIA‐positive groups. Plasma E levels rose with exercise and showed 4‐fold increase in the EIA‐negative group, whereas only 1. 5‐fold increase of plasma E levels was observed in the EIA‐positive group with poor recovery. From these findings, a possible contribution of sympathoadrenal hypofunction and a probable involvement of eosinophils in the pathophysiology of EIA have been suggested.
Indirect contact with pets can confound the effect of cleaning procedures for reduction of animal allergen levels in house dust
Authors: Munir A. K. M. , Einarsson R. , Dreborg S.K.G.
Published: June 2007

To investigate the capacity of common vacuum cleaners and chemical treatment to reduce cat (Fel d I) and dog (Can f I) allergen content in house dust, 52 families with allergic children and no pets at home were recruited. Five groups of 10–11 families used their central vacuum cleaners (n = 10), their own old vacuum cleaners plus either tannic acid (n = 10) or placebo (n = 10) applied to carpets and upholstry after the first sample was collected on Day 0 or new vacuum cleaners equipped with either HEPA (high efficiency particulate air)‐ (n = 11) or micro‐filters (n= 10). Dust samples were collected from carpets and upholstered furniture in the living rooms and from the mattresses of the children on Days 0, 7, 21, and 35. Fel d I and Can f I allergens were determined by sandwich ELISA methods. Central, micro‐filter and HEPA‐filter vacuum cleaners did not reduce the concentrations nor the total amount/sampling area of Fel d I or Can f I. Tannic acid initially reduced (p < 0.05) both the concentration and the total amount of Fel d I by 30% and Can f I by 10%, but only for one week. The levels increased to base‐line after 21–35 days. The concentrations of Fel d I increased 10–30 times in homes visited by cats or cat owners. We conclude, that tannic acid treatment reduced pet allergen concentrations and total amounts in dust for one week only. Central vacuum cleaners or vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA‐ or micro‐filter did not reduce the pet allergen load in homes of allergics. Indirect contacts with cats caused a pronounced increase in cat allergen levels.
Effect of interferon‐γ on HLA Class 2 expression by antigen‐presenting cells inducing Dermatophagoides farinae‐specific interleukin‐2 responsiveness of lymphocytes in asthmatic children
Authors: Ichikawa K. , Baba M. , Kawano Y. , Noma T.
Published: June 2007

As previously reported, antigen‐specific IL‐2 responsiveness of lymphocytes from patients with bronchial asthma was induced by stimulation with Dermatophagoides farinae, antigen‐specifically, in the context of HLA‐DQ antigen. We analysed the antigen‐presenting processes in the induction of IL‐2 responsiveness. Non‐adherent responder cells cultured with Df‐pulsed autologous adherent cells acquired IL‐2 responsiveness, which decreased after prolonged culture of adherent cells for 72 h before recombination with fresh autologous non‐adherent cells. HLA‐DQ expression on cultured adherent cells also decreased in parallel with the reduction of their ability to induce IL‐2 responsiveness. However, the treatment of adherent cells with IFN‐γ restored the expression of these HLA‐Class 2 antigens mainly on CD14+ antigen‐presenting cells (monocytes.), but not on CD20+ cells (B cells), which overcame the decrease of Df‐induced IL‐2 responsiveness during prolonged culture. These data suggest that IFN‐γ potentiates the up‐regulation of Df‐specific IL‐2 responsiveness, which is likely to depend on the restoration of HLA‐DQ expression on monocytes.
Detection of GM‐CSF in the sera of children with Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis
Authors: Emile J.‐F. , Tartour E. , Brugières L. , Donadieu J. , Deist F. Le , Charnoz I. , Fischer A. , Fridman W.H. , Brousse N.
Published: June 2007

GM‐CSF induces proliferation and activation of Langerhans’ cells in vitro. The density of Langerhans’ cells in human tumours is correlated to the in situ density of GM‐CSF, and intradermal injection of GM‐CSF induces local accumulation of Langerhans’ cells. Therefore, we investigated the presence of GM‐CSF in the sera of children with Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis (LCH). We detected GM‐CSF in the sera of all children with disseminated and active LCH, but not in the sera of patients with localized (i.e. bone) LCH. These results suggest that GM‐CSF level is related to extent and the activity of LCH.
A prospective study of humoral immune responses to cow milk antigens in the first year of life
Authors: Kaila M. , Arvilommi H. , Soppi E. , Laine S. , Isolauri E.
Published: June 2007

Previous studies have shown that in cow milk allergy the specific immune response to dietary cow milk antigens is deficient. This study aimed at delineating the development of humoral immune response to cow milk antigens in healthy infants. Twenty‐five healthy newborns were enrolled, and seen at scheduled visits at the ages of three, six and eleven months, and they formed two groups: those breastfed and those fed adapted cow milk formulae. The local immune response in the gut was approximated using the ELISPOT assay of circulating antibody secreting cells. At the age of three months, in the formula fed group, cells secreting specific IgA to cow milk antigens were detected despite low levels of IgA serum antibodies. The total number of IgA secreting cells increased with age (p = 0.001). The milk in the infant diet directly influenced this development so that the age related increase was significantly greater in the formula fed group (p = 0.04). The results indicate that diet has a significant effect on the developing immune system, and that healthy infants are able to respond in an antigen specific fashion to dietary antigens, which may be central in attaining clinical tolerance of such antigens.
Altered T lymphocyte phenotype at birth in babies born to atopic parents
Authors: Miles E. A. , Warner J. A. , Lane A. C. , Jones A. C. , Colwell B.M. , Warner J. O.
Published: June 2007

Flow cytometry was used to analyse the cord blood T cells of 33 babies at high risk ‘HR’ for developing allergy (born to at least one atopic, asthmatic parent), and 10 low risk ‘LR’ babies (born to non‐atopic parents), following normal term deliveries. Significantly lower numbers of CD25+, (activated) T cells (p<0.005) were seen in the cord blood of the HR babies who had developed both allergic symptoms and positive skin prick tests by one year of age when compared with the LR group. CD45RO+ (memory) T cells were detected in both HR and LR babies with a trend for lower numbers of memory cells to be detected in HR infants who later developed allergic symptoms and/or positive skin prick tests. Significantly lower numbers of CD4+/CD45RO+ were seen in the cord blood of HR babies who developed allergic symptoms compared to HR babies who showed no sign of allergy by one year and to the LR babies (p<0.05 and p<0.005). The presence of activated and memory T cells at birth implies intra‐uterine priming. The significantly lower numbers of memory T cells in the HR babies suggests a suppression of T cell activation or lack of antigenic priming in this group. This prenatal influence on babies born to atopic parents may have important implications with regard to the mechanisms underlying atopic sensitisation.
Relationship between pollinosis and fruit or vegetable sensitization
Authors: Caballero T. , Martin‐Esteban M. , Garcia‐Ara C. , Pascual C. , Ojeda A.
Published: June 2007

The prevalence of vegetable sensitization in children with pollinosis (Group A; n = 48) and the prevalence of pollen sensitization in children with fruit or vegetable allergy (Group B; n = 42) were studied by means of prick‐test and determination of serum specific IgE to several pollens, fruits and vegetables. Fifteen patients from Group A (31%) showed sensitivity to fruits and/or vegetables, but only three of them had any symptoms after ingestions. Twenty nine patients from Group B (69%) showed pollen sensitization, mainly to grass andCompositaepollen. An association was found between sensitivity toCompositaepollen and sensitivity to several fruits and vegetables (Compositae, Fagaceae, Brassica, BetulaceaeandLeguminoseae.)
High levels of IgA in HIV‐1‐perinatally‐infected children. Antigen specificity and possible role of increased substance P plasma levels
Authors: Rossi M. E. , Resti M. , Azzari C. , Calabri G. , Martino M. De , Galli L. , Carbonella R. , Vierucci A.
Published: June 2007

The specificity of IgA against food, inhalant, bacterial and fungine antigens as well as for HIV‐1 proteins was investigated in 14 HIV‐1‐infected children (CDC stage P‐2) and 15 controls. IgA against food‐ and inhalant antigens as well as against tetanus toxoid were significantly more often present in the HIV positive children than in controls. No difference between the two groups was present for IgA against Candida albicans. A significant increase of substance P, a strong IgA synthesis inducing neuropeptide, was demonstrated in the plasma of HIV‐1 infected children. In conclusion, high levels of IgA seem to reflect a complex immune dys‐function in which many factors are involved. The importance of neuro‐immune dysregulation is discussed.