bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultivation of Fungi in Synthetic and Semi‐Synthetic Liquid Medium
Authors: van der Heide S. , Kauffman H. F. , de Vries K.
Published: May 2007

Four allergologically important fungi, viz. Aspergillus fumigatus, Alternaria alternata, Penicillium notatum, and Cladosporium herbarum, were cultured in a pure synthetic medium and the patterns of growth as characterized by the pH, protein and carbohydrate concentration of the culture fluid, were studied. A. fumigatus and P. notatum showed a similar growth pattern, characterized by a rapid decrease in the pH of the culture medium (pH 7.4 → 4.0), while proteins were slowly released and saccharose poorly consumed. In contrast, A. alternata and C. herbarum demonstrated a different pattern of growth, in which the pH of the culture hardly changed during incubation. Enrichment of the synthetic medium with yeast extract greatly improved the growth of all four fungi, as was confirmed by the enhanced yield of antigenic material and strongly increased consumption of saccharose. The yeast extract especially changed the growth pattern of A. fumigatus and P. notatum, which now is characterized by three phases. Phase I; fall in pH of the growth medium and excretion of proteins. phase II: increase in pH and fall in protein concentration; phase III; stabilization of pH at alkaline values and renewed excretions of proteins. It is concluded that during cultivation of the fungi, the metabolic state of the culture changes, influencing the antigenic composition of the extracts obtained after different periods of cultivation.
Cultivation of Fungi in Synthetic and Semi‐Synthetic Liquid Medium
Authors: van der Heide S. , Kauffman H. F. , de Vries K.
Published: May 2007

Four allergologically important fungi, viz. Aspergillus Fumigatus, Penicillium notatum, Alternaria alternata, and Cladosporium herbarum were cultured in a liquid synthetic medium, with or without addition of 0.1 % yeast extract (YE). After 10 and 28 days of cultivation, immunochemical properties of the fungal extracts, characterised by precipitation pattern and IgG– and IgE‐binding capacity, were studied. In pure synthetic medium no large differences were observed in number of precipitates, as measured by DID, among the four antigenic fractions of each fungus (metabolic and mycelial antigens of both early and late phase cultures). Addition of YE to the growth medium hardly changed the number of precipitates and generally caused a decrease in IgG‐binding capacity of the extracts. In contrast to these observations were the findings with the IgE–binding capacities of the fungal extracts as measured by RAST. Most allergenic fractions demonstrated an increase (sometimes strong) in IgE–binding capacity after YE was added to the growth medium. It is concluded that the time of cultivation influences the immunochemical characteristics of fungal extracts and that mycelial as well as metabolic antigens of both early and late phase cultures should be used in order to obtain a wide spectrum of allergens in extracts used for diagnostic purposes.
Phorbol Myristate Acetate ‐Fate and Usability in a Human Interleukin‐1 Assay
Authors: Remvig L. , Svenson M. , Enk C.
Published: May 2007

Phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) has been widely used to produce interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) from monocytes (Mø) of various species, including man. Supernatants from cultures of human Mø, stimulated with PMA, 2 × 10−6 M, contained IL‐1–like activity, as judged by their high co‐mitogenic effect on mitogen‐stimulated human T‐cells. However, a solution of PMA in culture medium was equally as active as the supernatants. By way of 3H‐PMA it was demonstrated that the IL‐1–like effect of PMA‐induced supernatants was non‐dialyzable, was coupled to proteins with a molecular weight ≥ 70,000 Dalton and could be dependent mainly upon the PMA content. Thus, previous reports dealing with basic immunological as well as immunopharmacological aspects of IL‐1, must be interpreted with caution if the conclusions have been based on results obtained with crude or high molecular weight forms of PMA‐induced IL‐1. It could be that PMA can be used as an IL‐1 inducer. However, it must first be demonstrated that PMA does not interfere with the detection of IL‐1 or, if so, that PMA has been removed sufficiently from the test material to avoid interference. Secondly, the specificity of PMA with respect to IL‐1 inducing effect must be demonstrated under endotoxin‐free culture conditions.
Effect of Topically Applied Atropine, Methysergide and Chlorpheniramine on Nasal Challenge with Serotonin
Authors: Tønnesen P.
Published: May 2007

Serotonin challenge in the nose produces sneezing and rhinorrhoea. To study the mode of action of serotonin in the nose, 14 normal persons, in a double‐blind, randomized study, were provoked with serotonin in three concentrations. Fifteen minutes before challenge, they were pretreated in the nose with either a cholinoceptor antagonist (atropine), a serotonin antagonist (methysergide), an H1‐histamine antagonist (chlorpheniramine) or isotonic saline. The number of sneezes was noted, and the amount of secretions measured. Serotonin induced dose‐related increase in sneezing and hypersecretion (P < 0.02). Atropine pretreatment reduced the amount of secretion (P < 0.05 and P < 0.1), but had no effect on sneering. Methysergide and chlorpheniramine had no effect on the serotonin‐induced nasal symptoms. Unilateral challenge with serotonin induced secretions from both sides, suggesting that serotonin‐induced nasal symptoms are partly reflex‐mediated.
Non‐Hereditary Angioedema Treated with Tranexamic Acid
Authors: Munch E. P. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Ten patients with frequent attacks of non‐hereditary angioedema were treated with tranexamic acid or placebo in a double blind manner, each period lasting 3 months. During the tranexamic acid period nine patients became symptom‐free, or substantially improved, while one was unaffected (P < 0.05). In four patients itching was a major accompanying complaint which was relieved in three. Diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort were more pronounced during tranexamic acid treatment (P < 0.05), but only necessitated dose reduction in one patient. Four years later contact was obtained with eight of the nine responders and six were still taking tranexamic acid regularly, while in two patients the attacks were so infrequent that the drug was not taken regularly.
Inhibitory Effect of Cyclosporin A on Histamine Release from Human Leukocytes and Rat Mast Cells
Authors: Pedersen C. , Permin H. , Skov P. Stahl , Norn S. , Svenson M. , Mosbech H. , Bendtzen K.
Published: May 2007

The influence of cyclosporin A (CyA) on human basophil histamine release induced in vitro by specific antigen, anti‐IgE, calcium ionophore A23187, or concanavalin A (Con A) was studied. CyA inhibited the release induced by these four stimulators. It is suggested that the drug acts directly on the target cell, since similar effect was obtained with isolated peritoneal rat mast cells. The basophil histamine release was not changed by a non‐immunosuppressive cyclosporin derivate.
Reproducibility of Skin Sensitivity Using a Quantitative Skin Prick Test
Authors: Malling H.‐J.
Published: May 2007

The reproducibility of repeated quantitative skin prick test titrations was evaluated in seven asthmatic patients tested 2–4 times within 6 weeks. The skin sensitivity was estimated as endpoint titration and histamine equivalent reaction using both 1 and 10 mg/ml histamine dihydrochloride. The histamine equivalent reaction had a significantly higher reproducibility compared to endpoint titration, with a coefficient of variation less than 10% for histamine 10 mg/ml. Further, using this histamine concentration, the deviation in repeated testing was for practical purposes less than 0.5 log step. The same constancy in skin sensitivity was found in one patient tested 3 times and then retested another 3 times 6 months later by a different tester. The results indicate that the quantitative skin prick test and histamine‐estimated skin sensitivity have a clinical application in the assessment of pharmacologically or immunotherapy‐induced changes in the releasability of skin mast cells.
Aluminium Hydroxide Adsorbed Allergens Used in Modified RAST
Authors: Poulsen L. K. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

A method is described in which the conventional radioallergosorbent test (RAST) for determination of allergen‐specific IgE in serum has been modified by displacing the solid‐phase sorbent by a gel of aluminium hydroxide (Al(OH)3). The optimum conditions for this new analysis (AIRAST) are determined, taking into account speed, costs and the ratio between responses of patients and normal individuals. The AIRAST fullfils the criteria for validity: it is specific and shows parallelism between serum dilution curves. The sensitivity and reproducibility are slightly lower than in the conventional RAST, but sufficient for most routine and screening procedures. The preparation of allergosorbents in AIRAST can be accomplished within 1 h, thus making it convenient for fast screening of patients against unusual allergen extracts, as well as for allergen standardization from dose‐response curves. Further, it is possible to standardize aluminium hydroxide adsorbed extracts used for immunotherapy by using the products directly as allergosorbents in the AIRAST.
Production of Leukotrienes in Human Skin and Conjunctival Mucosa after Specific Allergen Challenge
Authors: Bisgaard H. , Ford‐Hutchinson A. W. , Charleson S. , Taudorf E.
Published: May 2007

The production of leukotrienes has been monitored in tear fluids from subjects following a conjunctival provocation test, and skin blister fluids following initiation of a Prausnitz‐Kustner reaction. In tear fluids elevated levels of leukotriene C4 (LTC4)‐immunoreactive material were measured following allergen challenge as compared to control tear fluid obtained by mechanical or reflex stimulation. Analysis by high performance liquid chromatography indicated the presence of LTC4, LTD4 and LTE4. In the skin, significantly elevated levels of LTC4‐immunoreactive material were measured following allergen challenge in the Prausnitz‐Kustner reaction. HPLC analysis indicated the presence of both LTC4 and LTD4. LTB4 immunoreactive material was detected both in the tear fluid and the skin tissue fluid. However, no significant increase occurred in either tissue after the allergic reactions. These results indicate that the SRS‐A leukotrienes are released in vivo in man following allergen challenge, and indicate these mediators may be important in human allergic diseases.
Identification and Clinical Significance of Allergenic Molecules of Cat Origin
Authors: Løwenstein H. , Lind P. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Freeze‐dried extracts from cat dander and the corresponding rabbit antibodies were used for establishing the CIE reference pattern for cat dander extracts. Anti‐Cat Ag 1 and anti‐cat albumin were used for identification of the corresponding antigens. CRIE on sera from selected groups of American and Danish cat‐allergic patients demonstrated antigen‐specific IgE binding to 10 of 15 cat dander antigens (Cat Ag 1 being the major allergen). Only minor differences were found between the two groups. Four of these allergens were serum proteins. Variable amounts of many of the 10 allergens were measured by QIE in saliva, serum, urine and three cat pelt extracts. However, extremely wide ranges for content of the serum allergens and the non‐serum allergens were found. This was exemplified by an albumin/cat Ag 1 ratio between 1 and 400, smallest in cat dander. Immunoabsorption using anti‐cat dander, anti‐cat albumin and anti‐Cat Ag 1 indicated that the anti‐cat dander, anti‐cat albumin, and the anti‐Cat Ag 1 absorbed approximately 90%, 25%, and 56%, respectively, of the dander RAST activity, and 87%, 11%, and 45%, respectively, of the saliva RAST activity, confirming the major importance of Ag 1. It is concluded that cat allergenic extracts should contain only modest amounts of serum albumin and other serum‐derived antigens and that any relevant standardization must include quantification of at least Cat Ag 1 and cat albumin.
Detection of Antibody against Extractable Nuclear Antigen by an Enzyme‐Linked Immuno‐Sorbent Assay
Authors: Struckmann J. , Worning P. , Manthorpe R. , Bendixen G.
Published: May 2007

Anti‐ENA antibody determination by ELISA technique may offer a valuable diagnostic help in the discrimination of patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) from those with other chronic inflammatory connective tissue diseases. Determination of this antibody was performed in a prospective designed investigation among 101 blood donors, 154 patients with various non‐rheumatic internal medical diseases, and 229 patients with chronic inflammatory connective tissue diseases, including five patients with MCTD. A positive titre of anti‐ENA antibody was found in approximately 10% of blood donors and patients with various internal medical disorders. A highly positive anti‐ribonucleoprotein (RNP) titre was found in the patients with MCTD, but was also observed in patients with other chronic inflammatory connective tissue diseases, giving a predictive value of 56 % for MCTD. We conclude that highly positive anti‐RNP antibody values do not automatically indicate the diagnosis MCTD. Other diagnostic possibilities should still be considered.
Allergen‐Induced Release of Sulphidopeptide Leukotrienes (SRS‐A) and LTB4 in Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: SHAW R. J. , FITZHARRIS P. , CROMWELL O. , WARDLAW A. J. , KAY A. B.
Published: May 2007

Leukotrienes are a recently discovered group of arachidonic acid‐derived lipid mediators. Using radioimmunoassay and high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), we have identified the SRS‐A sulphidopeptide leukotrienes (LTC4, LTD4 and LTE4) in nasal washings from patients with allergic rhinitis who underwent nasal challenge with specific allergen. Smaller, but significant, amounts of LTB4 were also detected. The concentrations of nasal leukotrienes were directly related to the dose of allergen, and were recovered in washings in a time‐dependent fashion after challenge. When the patients were subjected to methacholine nasal challenge on a control day, we found only negligible amounts of either the sulphidopeptide leukotrienes or LTB4. These findings support the view that LTC4, LTD4 and LTE4 might contribute to the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis as a result of their recognized effects on mucous hypersecretion and vasopermeability, and that the potent chemoattractant LTB4 might be involved in the subsequent infiltration of inflammatory cells.
Allergy to Storage Mites or Cow Dander as a Cause of Rhinitis among Finnish Dairy Farmers
Authors: TERHO E. O. , HUSMAN K. , VOHLONEN I. , RAUTALAHTI M. , TUKIAINEN H.
Published: May 2007

The role of storage mites Acarus siro, Lepidoglyphus destructor, and Tyrophagus putrescentiae, compared with that of cow dander, as a cause of allergic rhinitis was studied by nasal challenges in a population of 106 non‐smoking dairy farmers. Thirty‐six of the subjects were challenged with storage mites alone, each with only one of the three species in consecutive order, 43 with cow dander alone, and 27 with both. Thus mite challenges were performed on 63 farmers and cow dander challenges on 70. Challenges with any one of the storage mite species were positive in 18% and with cow dander in 20 % of farmers with allergic rhinitis. All challenges to asymptomatic farmers were negative. Five of the eight positive reactions to storage mites were due to Lepidoglyphus destructor, and three to Tyrophagus putrescentiae. Acarus siro was not responsible for any of the positive reactions. The results indicate that, among dairy farmers, storage mites are as common as cow dander as a cause of allergic occupational rhinitis.
Equivalent Inhibition by Terbutaline of Anti‐Human IgE Skin Responses in Atopic and Non‐Atopic Subjects
Authors: GRÖNNEBERG R. , STRANDBERG K. , STÅLENHEIM G. , ZETTERSTRÖM O.
Published: May 2007

Previous studies have shown that pretreatment of skin with beta2‐adrenoceptor stimulants antagonizes anti‐human IgE elicited wheal and flare reactions in atopic and non‐atopic subjects. This experimental system was employed to further study the hypothesis that atopic disease and bronchial asthma unrelated to atopy might be associated with a beta‐adrenoceptor defect. Eight patients with extrinsic and 10 patients with intrinsic asthma deprived of oral bronchodilator treatment and corticosteroids for at least a week, and in a clinically stable condition, 10 patients with extrinsic rhinitis and on no treatment, as well as age and sex matched healthy control subjects showed almost identical dose‐response relations for the inhibitory effect of intradermally injected terbutaline (0.25–100 ng), on anti‐IgE elicited skin reactions. In four asthmatic patients the inhibitory effect of terbutaline did not change following a treatment period with oral terbutaline and theophylline. The data do not support the presence of a cutaneous mast cell beta2‐adrenoceptor defect in patients with atopy or bronchial asthma unrelated to atopy.
Effects of Killed and Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine on Symptoms and Specific Airway Conductance in Asthmatics and Healthy Subjects
Authors: KAVA T. , LAITINEN L. A.
Published: May 2007

Killed and live influenza virus vaccines were given to asthmatics and healthy subjects to investigate symptoms and alterations in their respiratory performance after vaccination. Polyvalent killed influenza virus vaccine was given to 16 asthmatics and live attenuated influenza virus vaccine to 23 asthmatics and 21 healthy subjects. Fourteen of the 16 asthmatics vaccinated with the killed vaccine displayed a significant rise in serum antibody level as measured by a single radial haemolysis in gel (SRH test). 11 of the 23 asthmatics and 14 of the 21 healthy subjects vaccinated with the live attenuated vaccine displayed a significant rise in the SRH test. Among the subjects with no measurable initial antibodies and with a significant rise in the SRH test, one asthmatic vaccinated with the killed vaccine experienced symptoms of common cold with fever and dyspnoea 1 week after vaccination. Three asthmatics and four healthy subjects vaccinated with live attenuated vaccine experienced mild symptoms, mainly rhinorrhoea, cough and sore throat 2 to 3 days after vaccination. No alterations in specific airway conductance in asthmatics or in healthy subjects were observed. We conclude that both killed and live attenuated influenza virus vaccines are tolerated well by asthmatics and appear to be safe for asthma patients.
High Dose Inhaled Budesonide in the Treatment of Severe Steroid‐Dependent Asthmatics
Authors: ÄDELROTH E. , ROSENHALL L. , GLENNOW C.
Published: May 2007

Thirty‐eight patients with chronic asthma requiring continuous oral corticosteroid treatment took part in a 2‐year study. Budesonide, a new inhalation steroid with high topical activity and low systemic effects, was given in stepwise increasing doses from 200 μg daily up to 800–1600 μg daily and prednisolone doses were decreased gradually on an individual basis. After 2 years, 18 patients had been able to cease oral prednisolone treatment, 11 had decreased the dose by 50%, three by 50% and two patients had increased their dose. At the end of the study the majority of patients (26) were using 800 ng budesonide daily and seven, 1200 μg or more daily. There were two dropouts, one due to local side effects and one to a severe pulmonary eosinophilia. Ten patients had local side effects in the form of hoarseness and/or sore throat, and 13 patients had steroid withdrawal symptoms such as arthralgia and myalgia. The asthma conditon in all patients was improved, as indicated by the reduced need for hospital admissions. The results indicate that high doses of budesonide should be tried before starting maintenance therapy with oral steroids.
Is There a Functional Heterogeneity among IgE‐Type Mast Cell‐Sensitizing Antibodies?
Authors: Bergstrand H. , Pauwels R. , Bazin H.
Published: May 2007

It has recently been established that mast cells display functional heterogeneity. The question then arises whether the IgE‐type of antibody, which avidly binds to and thereby sensitizes mast cells and basophils for allergen‐induced release of mediators, also expresses functional heterogeneity. In the present article we bring together several experimental observations, mainly from the rat system, which are difficult to explain unless one postulates that mat cell/basophil‐sensitizing antibodies of the IgE‐type re heterogeneous in their cell‐binding properties.
The Regulatory Effect of Histamine on the in Vitro Synthesis of IgE
Authors: Levo Y. , Harbeck R. J. , Kirkpatrick C. H.
Published: May 2007

The effect of histamine and its H1 and H2 antagonists, chlorpheniramine and cimetidine, on the in vitro, PWM‐induced, synthesis of IgG and IgE was studied. Histamine had no effect, and cimetidine had a slight inhibitory action. In contrast, chlorpheniramine induced marked suppression of both IgE and IgG synthesis. This effect could not be attributed to drug‐induced cytotoxicity. These results suggest that the modulatory effect of histamine on antibody production involves predominantly H, receptors.
Specific Diagnosis of Exogenous Bronchial Asthma in Children
Authors: Stafanger G. , Andersen J. Kock , Koch C. , Schwartz B. , ØTerballe O.
Published: May 2007

Twenty‐six children with exogenous asthma were studied by case history ((CH), skin tests (ST), allergen‐specific serum IgE (RAST), basophil histamine release (HR), and bronchial provocation tests (BPT). Nine standardized allergens were used from the following groups: house dust mite, animal dander, pollen, and mould fungi. For each allergen, the same batch was used throughout for all in vivo and in vitro studies, and the tests were carried out in a controlled, double‐blinded manner, independent of each other. Different allergen concentrations were used and die results graded on a semi‐quantitative scale. Approximately 120 comparable investigations. using; in vivo and in vitro tests were carried out, followed by calculations of the sensitivity and specificity for each test alone, as well as various combinations of tests, at various allergen‐concentrations, and compared with the result of BPT, i.e. the true diagnosis. In this way the results could be used to directly compare the diagnostic value of each test, and combination of tests. In general, a careful CH combined with ST gave the most reliable results, RAST was the most unreliable single analysis. When pollen or mite allergy was suspected, a combination of ST with either RAST or HR gave a further diagnostic reliability HR as a single: analysis did not seem to offer advantages over exiting methods. None of the tests, or combinations of tests offered 100% sensitivity and specificity. By altering the concentration of allergen, the sensitivity, or specificity could be increased, but only at the expense of a decrease in the other, BPT is still necessary in many instances when a specific diagnosis is required.
A Double‐Blind, Multicenter Immunotherapy Trial in Children, Using a Purified and Standardized Cladosporium herbarum Preparation I. Clinical Results
Authors: Dreborg S. , Agrell B. , Foucard T. , Kjellman N.‐I. M. , Koivikko A. , Nillson S.
Published: May 2007

A double‐blind histamine placebo controlled immunotherapy trial was performed to investigate the clinical effect of a purified and standardized Cladosporium herbarum allergen preparation. Thirty children with a clinical history suggesting mould‐induced asthma and/or rhinoconjuctivitis were included. The diagnosis was confirmed by positive skin prick test and Phadebas RAST® as well as positive bronchial and/or conjunctival provocation test to Cladosporium herbarum. Immunotherapy was given for 10 months in a double‐blind manner to randomized groups with either Pharmalgen®/Cladosporium herbarum preparation or histamine placebo. Allergic side effects to injections were common, especially during the peak of the mould season (July‐September in Scandinavia). In the active group, 13/16 patients experienced general reactions during the first 10 months of treatment. After 6 months of treatment, eye, nose and bronchial symptom scores and peak expiratory flow rates were similar for the groups, maybe because most of the children were also sensitive to many other allergens, including Alternaria alternala. However, medication scores were significantly lower in the treated group (P < 0.01). Bronchial (P < 0.01) and conjunctival sensitivity (P= 0.01) were significantly reduced in the Cladosporium‐treated group but not in the placebo group after 10 mouths of treatment. This is the first double‐blind clinical trial showing the clinical efficacy of immunotherapy in children with mould‐induced asthma.
Influence of Neuraminidase and N‐Acetylneuraminic Acid on Basophil Histamine Release in Vitro
Authors: Jensen C. , Henriksen U. , Dahl B. T. , Skov P. Stahl , Norn S.
Published: May 2007

Since N‐acetylneuraminic acid (NANA) in cell membrane glucocalyx mediates or modulates a variety of actions, such as mediator release, we examined a possible modulating role of this amino sugar in histamine release from human basophil leukocytes. Removal of NANA from the cell membrane by the enzyme neuraminidase caused a dose‐dependent histamine release. Removal of smaller amounts of NANA enhanced histamine release induced by anti‐IgE, Concanavalin A and the calcium ionophore A231B7, and reduced the interval between addition of antigen and initiation of histamine release. Pretreatment with free NANA had the opposite effects, i.e. a diminished and delayed maximal histamine release. The hypothesis that NANA in the cell membrane modulates the cellular response to stimulation was further substantiated by demonstrating that the altered response was reflected by a change in the sensitivity by the cell to extracellular calcium, NANA in the cell membrane glucocalyx thus seems to modulate the basophil response to stimulation by modulating transmembrancous calcium transport.
Long‐Term Safety and Efficacy of Budesonide Nasal Aerosol in Perennial Rhinitis
Authors: Lindqvist N. , Balle V. H. , Karma P. , Kärjä J. , Lindström D. , Mäkinen J. , Pukander J. , Ruoppi P. , Suonpää J. , ÖStlund W. , Pipkorn U.
Published: May 2007

A long‐term safety study of intranasally administered budesonide, a topical glucocorticoid, has been performed. 104 patients with perennial rhinitis, allergic or non‐allergic, participated in a multicentre study in seven ENT‐clinics utilising an identical protocol. A budesonide dosage of 400 μg/day was used as starting dose, but the patients were at liberty to reduce the daily dose to 200 μg. The patients were observed at intervals up to 12 months. At the entry and follow‐up visits the following parameters were recorded: rhinoscopic findings, nasal symptom scores, blood chemistry, hematology, urinalysis and determination of plasma cortisol levels before and after stimulation with ACTH (Synacthen®). Nasal biopsies taken from 50 of the patients at the beginning and completion of the study were examined in a blinded way by an indepndent pathologist. The analysis revealed no histopathological changes of the nasal mucosa. At rhinoscopy no signs of atrophy or Candida were reported. Lividity of the nasal mucosa was significantly reduced during the trial, which was also the case for nasal congestion and secretion. All nasal symptom parameters assessed by the patients were significantly reduced from baseline during the follow‐up period. No clinically significant changes in the hematological and blood chemistry parameters were observed. Plasma cortisol analysis before and after challenge with ACTH revealed no influence on the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis. No tachyphylaxis was observed; on the contrary, there was a clear tendency for reduction of the daily dose of budesonide necessary to keep the patients symptom‐free. The present study suggests that intransal budesonide in the dose of 400 μg/day is a safe and valuable addition to our therapeutic armory for perennial rhinitis.
Antigen‐Induced Bronchial Anaphylaxis in Actively Sensitized SD Rats
Authors: Dahlbaäck M. , Bergstrand H. , Brattsand R.
Published: May 2007

We examined the effects of glucocorticosteroids (GCS) on antigen‐induced bronchial anaphylactic reactions (BAR) in SD rats immunized with ovalbumin (OA) and alum. The animals were treated with vehicle, budesonide (BUD), dexamethasone (DEX), or hydrocortisone (HC) at various times before intravenous (i.v.) antigen challenge. The drugs were administered either intraperitoneally (i.p.) or intratracheally (i.t.); the BAR was elicited by a low or by a high challenge dose of antigen. A BAR elicited by a low challenge dose of antigen was reduced in a dose‐dependent way by all GCS after i.p. administration; al 1 mg/kg, BUD and DEX significantly reduced BAR and at 50 mg/kg all three of the examined compounds inhibited the BAR by 50 % or more. For BUD, maximum effect was recorded when it was given 12 h before test. There was only a slight variation in the inhibitory effects of the GCS with immunization conditions of test animals. I.t. instillation of the drugs did not markedly increase their inhibitory capacity as compared to i.p. administration. BAR elicited by a high antigen dose was at best marginally affected by the GCS when given either i.p. or i.t. Thus, antigen‐induced airway reactivity in rats can be reduced by GCS treatment provided that this is performed sufficiently long before the test and that the challenge dose of antigen is not too high.
Reproducibility of Exercise‐Induced Asthma in Children
Authors: Henriksen J. M.
Published: May 2007

The reproducibility of exercise‐induced asthma (ELA) was studied in children with perennial asthma, using treadmill exercise challenge tests repealed at mean intervals of 1 week (Group I, n= 20), I month (Group II, n= 20) and 1 year (group III, n= 18). The protocol was standardized with respect to 1) intensity and duration of exercise, 2) time of last medication prior to exercise, 3) air humidity, 4) use of corticosteroids, 5) asthma attacks, and 6) pollen season. The mean percentage fall in peak expiratory flow (PEF) following exercise remained significantly unchanged in the three groups. The reproducibility of EIA was improved compared with previous studies. Although the random variation of EIA tended to be greater in Group III, the individual severity of ELA was remarkably stable whatever the interval between tests. Improvements in baseline airway function between tests were not followed by a simultaneous decrease in EIA. In conclusion, the severity of EIA is reproducible in children with perennial asthma, when the exercise Protocol is standardized for factors known to influence bronchial reactivity.
Terbutaline Slow‐Release Tablets in Children with Asthma
Authors: Croner S. , Gustafsson M. , Kjellman N.‐I. M. , Säwedal L.
Published: May 2007

The effects of 5 mg slow‐release terbutaline sulphate tablets (Bricanyl® Depot) given twice daily were compared with those of ordinary oral β‐agonist treatment given three times daily. The study was open, randomized and cross‐over and was carried out over 8 weeks in 18 children with bronchial asthma. Compared with ordinary medication, the slow‐release tablets obtained higher morning expiratory peak flow values and an improvement in the asthma symptoms during the night and during exercise (P > 0.05). No differences were found in side effects in spite of a higher total daily dose during the period with terbutaline slow‐release tablets. The slow‐release tablets were preferred by 15 of 18 children and their families when the effects, side effects and dosage were evaluated.
Diagnosis and Immunotherapy of Mould Allergy
Authors: Malling H.‐J.
Published: May 2007

Twenty‐four adult asthmatics with autumnal asthma and positive bronchial provocation test to the mould species Cladosporium were evaluated by daily symptom scores during 11 weeks in the peak mould spore season. A significant association with fluctuation in Cladosporium spore count was found regarding the relative weekly symptom score (mean of subjective asthma and peak flow scores), relative use of antiasthmatic medication and the combined (total) score (mean of symptom and medication scores). The median weekly symptom, medication, and total scores were positively correlated to Cladosporium spore count, but only significantly so in the medication score. Eighteen patients were allergic to both Cladosporium and Alternaria, but asthma symptoms were not associated to Alternaria spore counts; on the contrary, a negative correlation indicated that Alternaria only played a minor role in eliciting asthma. Neither mugwort nor house dust mites seemed to be of importance. The results of diagnostic tests (bronchial provocation test, quantitative skin prick test, RAST and histamine release) were correlated to the mean absolute symptom score of the spore season. The highest correlation to asthma score, peak flow score, medication score, and the combined score was found with the bronchial provocation test. The data indicate that autumnal asthma, to a high degree, is elicited by Cladosporium spores, and further, that the specific allergic diagnosis can only be established by a combination of positive diagnostic tests and careful recording of symptoms elicited by the causative allergen.
Long‐Term Changes in Inhalant Allergy in Asthmatic Children
Authors: Kjellman B. , Dalén G.
Published: May 2007

In a representative cohort of 55 asthmatic schoolchildren the progress of the allergy per se was followed up prospectively for 8 years. Judged by clinical data, skin prick tests and RAST, a large majority of the children retained their allergies to pollen and animal danders. These allergens were predominant, whereas allergy to mites and moulds was less frequent. Serum IgE levels showed a strong tendency to remain high. Positive RAST and skin prick tests were also found in a substantial number of children with normal serum IgE concentrations.
Humoral Immunity to Dietary Antigens in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Husby S. , Schultz Larsen F. , Hyltoft Petersen P. , Svehag S‐E.
Published: May 2007

Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) employing a biotin‐avidin amplification step are described for the quantification of human serum IgG antibodies to the dietary antigens ovalbumin (QA) and beta‐lactoglobulin (BLG). The analytical quality of these assays was acceptable. Antibodies were measured in 16 patients with mild or moderate atopic dermatitis (AD), in 31 patients with a history of AD, and in closely matched controls. Levels of serum anti‐QA antibodies did not differ in patients and controls, whereas anti‐BLG antibodies tended to be higher in patients with mild or moderate AD than in controls (P < 0.05).
IgE Synthesis in vitro: Attempt to Isolate Stimulating Factors
Authors: De La Parra B. , Vulliet N. , Girard J.‐P.
Published: May 2007

Studies made in our laboratory have demonstrated the presence in atopic serum of enhancing factors(s) for in vitro IgE synthesis by peripheral blood lymphocytes (BPL). Here we show that these enhancing factors can be recovered from human serum by means of immunoabsorbents. This factor is able to stimulate in vitro IgE synthesis by PBL independent of presence of IgE.
Clinical History, Skin Prick Test and RAST in the Diagnosis of Birch and Timothy Pollinosis
Authors: Petersson G. , Djueborg S. , Ingestad R.
Published: May 2007

The diagnostic efficacy of clinical history (CH), skin prick test (SPT) and RAST was estimated in relation to nasal and conjunctival provocation tests (NPT, CPT) in 69 patients with seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis. The extracts used were freeze‐dried, and biologically standardized birch and timothy allergen preparations matched to the extracts on Phadebas RAST® discs. Based on single determinations the sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were calculated. There were highly significant (P< 0.001) correlations between all parameters: NPT, CPT, CH, SPT and RAST. For birch the combination of SFT and RAST made the PTs superfluous as both sensitivity and specificity then reached 100%. With timothy the sensitivity was 97% and with the addition of CH 100%. However, the specificity was only 79% through combining CH, SPT and RAST. The present study using the same standardized allergen preparation in all tests showed a good correlation between indirect test results and provocation tests.
Terbutaline Slow‐Release Tablets in Children with Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Wettrell G. , Anehus S. , Hattevig G. , Kjellman B.
Published: May 2007

The effect of terbutaline sulphate in slow‐release (SR) tablets (Bricanyl® Depot), 5 mg twice daily, was compared with that of terbutaline sulphate in ordinary tablets (Bricanyl®), 2.5 mg three tinges daily, in a double‐blind, randomized, cross‐over study during 2 consecutive weeks in 10 asthmatic children. Plasma concentrations and urinary excretion of terbutaline were measured at various times during both treatment periods. The SR tablets produced a higher mean plasma concentration in the morning and a smaller peak‐trough variation over the day than the ordinary ones. No differences between the two treatments were observed concerning FEV1 (forced expiratory‐ volume in 1 s). Tremor, measured with an opto‐electronic tremorgraph, was about the same for two treatments and not significantly different from tremor seen in healthy children. The reported side effects were less frequent in the SR tablet period.
Topical Sodium Cromoglycate in Atopic Dermatitis A Disappointing but Informative Trial
Authors: Kjellman N.‐I. M. , Gustafsson I. M.
Published: May 2007

Forty children with atopic eczema requiring topical steroids entered a double‐blind group comparative study over 12 weeks and were randomized to either 4% sodium cromoglycate (SCG) in an oil‐in‐water cream or matching placebo cream. The eczema was evaluated on area charts for 20 parts of the body at five clinic visits. In addition, the families kept diaries on symptoms and treatment. After 3 weeks there were small but statistically significant decreases in severity scores recorded at the clinical visits in the SCG group compared with small increases in the placebo group. However, there were no statistically significant differences in the diary card data during the first 3 weeks of treatment or in any other period, nor were significant differences found in any efficacy data collected during the other 9 weeks of the trial. There were no marked differences in treatment opinions, unusual symptoms, skin infections, use of topical steroids or drugs, or acceptability data between the groups. Staphylococcus aureus was found once or twice in cultures from eczema lesions in 31 of 40 children with no marked group difference. The trial showed that there is great need for improved information, family support and topical as well as general treatment in childhood atopic eczema, but topical SCG did not relieve the patients’eczema.
Birch Pollen Asthma in The Netherlands
Authors: Oei H. D. , Spieksma F. T. M. , Bruynzeel P. L. B.
Published: May 2007

The occurrence of birch pollen asthma is related to high birch pollen concentrations in the air, and therefore this type of asthma is rather common in Scandinavia. High birch pollen concentrations are rare in The Netherlands, but in the spring of 1984 extremely high levels were reached, whereas the concentrations of alder and hazel pollen were very low. During this period nine pollinosis patients known to the allergist developed asthmatic complaints. The appearance and disappearance of the asthmatic symptoms in these patients showed strong correlation with the course of the birch pollen concentration in the air, which strongly suggests that birch pollen asthma can occur in The Netherlands, The significance of this finding may be that this type of asthma can be observed regularly when the birch pollen concentrations are very high. This may also hold for other western European countries.
Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Determination of Major Excrement Allergens of House Dust Mite Species D. pteronyssinus, D. farinae and D. microceras
Authors: Lind P.
Published: May 2007

Species‐specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) for major excrement allergens (Dp42, Df6 and Dm6) of D. pteronyssinus, D. farinae and D. microceras in house dust were established, using immunoabsorbed, monospecific rabbit antibodies, coupled to horse radish peroxidase. The limit of detection was 13, 4 and 38 ng/ml, respectively. The coefficient of variation for the entire procedure, including dust sieving (212 μm) and extraction was 5–16% for allergen levels above 1000 ng/g dust. Allergen concentration by ELISA correlated well with the number of mite bodies identified and counted by microscopy in 31 dusts (r = 0.88, 0.86 and 0.82 for combined Dermatophagoides sp., D pteronyssinus and D farinae group, resp.) Dermatophagoides allergen was recorded in 21/22 mattress dusts (median: 26000 ng/g; maximum: 290,000 ng/g). D. pteronyssinus allergen occurred in largest amounts (median 7500 ng/g) followed by D. microceras (median 650 ng/g) and D. farinae (median 240 ng/g).
Erythrocyte CR1 Determination Using Monoclonal Antibody in a Microtiter Plate ELISA; Receptors Are Not Masked by Immune Complexes
Authors: Thomsen B. S. , Nielsen H. , Bendixen G.
Published: May 2007

The microtiter plate ELISA using monoclonal antibody is a specific, sensitive and quantitative technique for measuring CR1 on human erythrocytes. The present investigations established that receptor occupancy by immune complexes did not affect the measurements. The monoclonal anti‐CR1 antibody To5 bound unimpeded to receptors that had reacted with an excess of complement‐opsonized tetanus toxoid anti‐tetanus toxoid complexes prepared at antigen: antibody ratios between 32:1 and 1:8. The CR1 levels on erythrocytes from 11 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were not increased (P > 0.30) after release of CR1‐bound immune complexes by incubation with factor I. Neither did the serum from these patients contain blocking anti‐CR1 activity (P > 0.10). Additionally, the number of antigenic CR1 sites in 10 normals and in the 11 patients with SLE was well correlated with the number of functional receptor sites as assessed by binding of soluble complexes (P < 0.001). These data establish that the true CR1 levels are determined using the microtiter plate ELISA for quantitation of CR1 in patients with diseases involving immune complexes and/or autoantibodies.
Exercise‐Induced Bronchoconstriction
Authors: Henriksen J. M.
Published: May 2007

Statidardized exercise challenge tests, symptom scores and whole‐blood eosinophil and basophil counts were made before and during the pollen season in 32 children suffering from hay fever (n= 16) or hay fever and asthma (n= 16). All participants developed rhinitis symptoms during the season. The hay fever group showed in addition a significant seasonal increase in cough score (but in no other asthma symptom) and in circulating eosinophils (P < 0.01); mean exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) did not change despite a slight increase in a few subjects. The asthma group showed seasonal increases in EIB (P < 0.001), asthma symptom score (P < 0.002), and total eosinophil count (P < 0.001) The increase in the latter was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that in the hay fever group. The relative basophil count remained unchanged in both groups. In conclusion, the hay fever group and the asthma group could be clearly distinguished with respect to EIB during natural pollen exposure. The significantly higher increases in EIB and circulating eosinophils observed in the asthma group might possibly be due to greater pollen antigen sensitivity in the asthmatics.
Histamine‐Dependent Allergy Blood Test
Authors: Faraj B. A. , Camp V. M. , Lolies P.
Published: May 2007

Allergen‐mediated histamine release from human leukocytes represents an important model for in vitro studies of allergic reactions. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the measurement of histamine released in allergic patients by radioenzymatic assay following mixing of their blood with common allergens represents a reliable index for diagnosis of atopic allergy. Three categories of allergens were used: 1) house dust and mite; 2) cat and dog dander; 3) trees, gasses and ragweed mixture. The presence of allergy was established by clinical history and intradermal skin testing in the study group of 150 patients. A significant allergen‐mediated histamine release ranging from 4 to 65% of the total blood histamine content was observed in 96 % of the patients with skin test sensitivity of ≥ 3+. There was a significant correlation between skin testing and histamine release in terms of the allergens causing the response. Thus, the measurement of histamine by radioenzymatic technique following its release in blood in response to allergen challenge represents a clinically useful in vitro test for the diagnosis of atopic disease.
Characterization of the in vivo and in vitro Effects of Indomethacin on Human Natural Killer Cell Activity
Authors: Pedersen B. K. , Oxholm P. , Klarlund K.
Published: May 2007

The in vivo and in vitro effects of indomethacin on the natural killer (NK) cell activity against K 562 target cells were studied In vivo administration of indomethacin, 3 × 50 mg for 7 days to normal donors did not influence baseline NK cell activity, which means that treatment with prostaglandin (PG) inhibitors can be allowed in studies on NK cell activity of persons with normal PG production. The NK cell activity of fresh mono‐nuclear cells was boosted with pharmacological concentrations of indomethacin in vitro, while frozen cells were not. Our results indicate that indomethacin enhances the NK cell activity in vitro by blocking the prostaglandin production of monocytes, since monocyte depleted effector cells were not boosted by indomethacin.
Allergy Induced by Parietaria officinalis Pollen in Southern Croatia
Authors: Cvitanović S. , Marušć M. , Zekan L. , Köhler‐Kubelka N.
Published: May 2007

Pollen of Parietaria officinalis causes season‐associated respiratory symptoms. In Southern Croatia (Yugoslavia) we found 65% patients with rhinitis and/or asthma to be allergic to this pollen. They showed positive cutaneous reactions and had specific IgE antibodies to the respective isolated allergen. The finding represents the first report on Parietaria officinalis‐induced allergy on the east Adriatic coast.
Ketotifen and Methacholine‐Induced Bronchospasm
Authors: Tjwa M. K. T. , Smeets J. , Maesen F.
Published: May 2007

In a double‐blind investigation the aspecific bronchus threshold was estimated by administration of methacholine to 16 young atopic patients with proven airways hyper‐reactivity (PC20 histamine 2 mg/ml. The influence of prolonged oral administration (12 weeks) of ketotifen (2 mg/day) on the bronchus threshold value has been studied. No significant elevation was found. It could be concluded that administration of ketotifen, even in prolonged administration, has no anticholenergic effects.
Effect of Respiratory Infections on Exacerbation of Asthma in Adult Patients
Authors: Kava T.
Published: May 2007

The peak expiratory flow values and asthma symptom scores of 92 adults with extrinsic and intrinsic asthma were recorded daily from September 1981 to April 1982 in order to study the effects of symptomatic respiratory infections (SRI) on the course of asthma. During the follow‐up, 253 exacerbations of asthma were observed in 67 patients. 68 subjects had 141 episodes of SRI. 63 of 253 exacerbations (25%) were found in association with SRI. The mean duration of the exacerbations associated with SRI was 13.4 days, significantly different (P < 0.01) from the mean duration of 8.1 days recorded for the other exacerbations. The results confirm the high incidence of asthmatic exacerbations during respiratory infections and suggest that the recovery from an exacerbation is slower in association with infection.