bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppression of Immediate and Late Anti‐IgE‐Induced Skin Reactions by Topically Applied Alcohol/Onion Extract
Authors: Dorsch Walter , Ring Johannes
Published: May 2007

In a double blind study, alcohol/onion extract (5% ethanol) was injected simultaneously with 20 IU and 200 IU rabbit anti‐human‐IgE intradermally in 12 adult volunteers (6 atopics, 6 non‐atopics). Diameters of wheals and flares were measured 10 mm after and compared with control sites challenged with 20 IL1 and 200 IL1 anti‐IgE in a 5% ethanol solution. The skin sites were then treated epidermally with 45% alcohol/onion extract and 45% ethanol under occlusion. Diameters of late cutaneous reactions were measured hourly. Oedema formation was clinically estimated according to an arbitrary scale and skin thickness measured with a calliper. In the onion‐treated skin sites the wheal areas were significantly reduced (20 IU: control: 108 ± 53 mm2: onion 69 ± 42 mm2, P < 0.05;, 200 IL anti‐lgE: control: 152 ±, 25 mm2, onion: 138 ±, 26 mm2, P < 0.02). The oedema formation during the late phase skin reaction was markedh depressed (P < 0.005 at 2 h, P < 0.01 at 4 and 6 h, P < 0.02 at 8 h). The extent of late skin reactions was slightly, but not significantly reduced. Obviously. onions contain pharmacologically active substances with anti‐inflammatory and or allergic properties.
Increased IgG Fc and C3 Rosette‐Forming Capacity of Granulocytes from Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Csató Miklós , Kabók Zita , Dobozy Attila
Published: May 2007

In the present work the proportions of IgG Fc and C3 rosette‐forming granulocytes were studied in patients with severe psoriasis. The percentages of erythrocyte‐antibody and C3 rosette‐forming granulocytes from psoriasis patients were significantly higher than those of healthy individuals. Sera from patients with psoriasis did not influence the rosette formation by granulocytes from healthy persons. The increased IgC Ft and C3 receptor activities of granulocytes in psoriasis may account for the hyperactivity of these cells enhancing the susceptibility of the polymorphonuclears for at least some naturally occurring stimuli.
Antibodies against Nuclear Components in Schistosomiasis
Authors: Bendixen G. , Hadidi T. , Manthorpe R. , Permin H. , Struckmann J. , Wiik A. , Zaghloui M.
Published: May 2007

Occurrence of autoantibodies against nuclear material was compared in groups of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA n= 22), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE. n= 24), osteoarthrosis (OA n= 25), and chronic schistosomiasis mansoni (CSM n= 28). Anti‐ds DNA antibody was detected by an ammonium sulphate precipitation radioimmunoassay, antibodies against ex tractable nuclear antigen (ENA) were detected and differentiated in RNAse‐resistant and RNAse‐sensitive components (Sm and RNP antigens with an ELISA technique. IgG organ‐non‐specific and granulocyte‐specific antinuclear antibodies (ANA) were detected by immunofluorescence technique with quantitative titration of positive reactions and determination of complement‐fixing properties, The results in groups of patients with SLE, RA and OA were of confirmative nature and supported that the different methods detect different systems of autoantibodies and nuclear autoantigens. In CSM it was demonstrated that 23 of 28 cases had positive reactions to the RNAse‐resistant part of ENA (the Sm‐antigen), a significant difference from the three other groups of patients (P < 0.001). The antibody was in all cases of IgM class, in seven cases also of IgA class. Antibodies against nuclear material in CSM arc probably a consequence of heavy disturbance of the immune system in this chronic infection with great permanent antigen load. It is a matter of discussion, whether production of these antibodies is induced by nuclear material from the host or from the parasite.
Antigenic/Allergenic Composition of Poodle/Alsatian Dandruff Extract
Authors: Uhlin T. , Reuterby J. , Einarsson R.
Published: May 2007

Poodle and Alsatian dog dandruff extracts were characterized by crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE) and crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis (CRIE) using sera from 24 individuals clinically sensitive to dogs. By using a system with intermediate gel in immunoelectrophoresis, the content of dander‐specific and serum‐specific allergens was established. 29 antigens (18 dander‐specific and 11 serum‐specific) were identified in the mixed breed Poodle/Alsation dandruff extract. Of these, 24 antigens were radiostained in CRIE. 16 allergens were dander specific and the remaining eight were serum specific. Positive dog dander RAST (e5 and Poodle/Alsatian dandruff extract) results were observed in the tested dog hypersensitive subjects. Our results suggest that the mixture of Poodle/Alsatian dandruff extract may be a suitable preparation for the diagnosis and treatment of dog allergy.
A New, Purified Dermatophagoides farinae Allergen Preparation
Authors: Moxnes A. , Dale S. , Andrew E. , Halvorsen R.
Published: May 2007

A purified, standardized and characterized allergen preparation of the house dust mite Dermatophagoides farinae (Df) was evaluated by skin prick test (SPT) and radioallergosorbent test (RAST) in 88 subjects. Skin reactions to the purified Df preparation and a corresponding crude Df preparation were compared. SPT was also performed with a crude Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dpt) preparation to compare reactions obtained with the two mite preparations. By SPT the purified Df allergen preparation was representative of the crude Df preparation (r= 0.78) and the correlation between skin reactions to Df and Dpt was high (r= 0.78). The concordance between results obtained with RAST and SPT techniques with the purified Df preparation was high (84%). The purified D. farinae preparation was well tolerated and is well suited for SPT.
Sustained Inhibition of Antigen‐Induced Histamine Release from Human Lung by the β2‐Adrenoceptor Agonist Terbutaline
Authors: Petersson Bengt‐Åke
Published: May 2007

Antigen‐induced histamine release from passively sensitized human lung tissue was inhibited in the presence of the β2‐adrenoceptor agonist, terbutaline. A sustained and statistically significant suppression was detected in the concentration interval 3 × 10−8‐1 × 10−6 M. Fifty per cent inhibition IC50, was obtained at an interpolated concentration of 5.3 × 10−8± 0.4 × 10−8 M (n= 13), when the histamine secretion was elicited with optimum concentration of antigen. Histamine release induced with a suboptimum concentration of antigen was inhibited to a greater extent than release initiated with optimum concentration. The data in the present investigation support the concept that terbutaline‐induced inhibition of mediator release from human lung tissue can contribute to the clinical effectiveness of the drug during treatment of allergic asthma.
Diameter, Thickness, Area, and Volume of Skin‐Prick Histamine Weals
Authors: Serup Jørgen
Published: May 2007

Twelve healthy persons were prick‐tested on the volar forearm with three concentrations of histamine chloride (0.1 mg/ml; 1.0 mg/ml; 10 mg/ml) and an isotonic sodium chloride control. Weal diameters were measured, and skin thickness representing weal thickness was measured by high frequency ultrasound. Relative increases in weal parameters as measured and calculated between weak and strong concentrations of histamine (0.1 and 10 mg/ml) were: mean diameter 139%, weal thickness 46%, tangential area 443%, cross‐sectional area 218%, and weal volume 680%. All the parameters of weal size measured and calculated showed significant differences between the three concentrations of histamine. However, a better distinction might be obtained by calculating weal volume. Coefficients of variation ranged from 12–28% for the weal diameter, 11–14% for the weal thickness, 24–53% for the tangential area, 14–39% for the cross‐sectional area, and 23–55% for the weal volume. The increase in thickness was correlated to weal diameter up to a diameter of 5 mm (r= 0.64; P < 0.001), after which weals only expanded tangentially. Weal thickness as measured by ultrasound is a potentially important parameter in experimental studies of inflammatory skin reactions. With this new technique it is possible to compare with normal skin and skin treated with solvent for control. For routine prick‐testing of patients with allergy, measurement of weal diameter is still a valid and easy method.
A Clinical Comparison of Aerosol and Powder Administration of Beclomethasone Dipropionate in Childhood Asthma
Authors: Bisgaard H. , Andersen J. B. , Bach‐Mortensen N. , Bertelsen A. , Friis B. , Koch B. C. , Prahl P. , Wichmann R. , ØSterballe O.
Published: May 2007

Forty children with childhood asthma were conducted through a double‐blind cross‐over study to compare the effect of 400 μg beclomethasone dipropionate administered as aerosol and powder (Rotacaps). Children with severe asthma derived more benefit from the steroid administered as aerosol judged from their peak (low performance in the morning, although neither evening peak flow nor symptom scores revealed any difference. It is concluded that the Rotacaps are an advantageous supplement to available medication for the treatment of asthmatic children, although it should be observed that, using equal amounts of BDP. powder administration seems less effective than aerosol.
Acupuncture and Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Christensen P. A. , Laursen L. C. , Taudorf E. , Sørensen S. C. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Seventeen patients with stable bronchial asthma were randomly assigned to receive either correct acupuncture or placebo acupuncture. The study lasted 11 weeks and consisted of a pre‐therapy, therapy, and post‐therapy period. The patients received 10 treatments during a 5‐week period. The effect of therapy on pulmonary function was assessed daily by the patients at home. Morning and evening peak expiratory flow rate, number of puffs beta2‐agonist aerosol needed, as well as subjective symptoms of asthma were recorded in a diary. The correctly treated group improved significantly throughout the study. Also, compared with the placebo group, a significant improvement was found in all assessed parameters 2 weeks after beginning therapy. Hereafter, no differences could be shown.
Determination of IgE‐Containing Immune Complexes in Human Sera
Authors: Djurup R. , Kappelgaard E. , Skov P. Stahl , Permin H. , Nielsen H.
Published: May 2007

We studied the polyethylene (PEC) precipitability of monomeric human IgE, and of human IgE artificially complexed with rabbit anti‐human IgE. At conditions where precipitation of monomeric IgE did not occur, from 0.2 to 20% of the complexed IgE was precipitated. The PEG precipitability of the complexes was inversely related to the IgE/anti‐IgE ratio used for preparation of the complexes. From 1.5 to 19.2% of the IgE in the redissolved precipitates could be detected by use of a two‐site IgE immunoradiometric assay, the percentage being highest for complexes formed at equivalence. We conclude that exact quantitation of circulating IgE immune complexes (IC) probably is impossible by any PEC precipitation assay. However, the optimized assay was found to be useful for identification of IgE IC in sera with total IgE concentrations below 5,000 U/ml. IgE IC were found in 5/20 sera from patients with Felty's syndrome, in 5/39 sera from patients with extrinsic allergy and high levels of specific IgE, and in 1/17 sera from immunized wasp allergies. No IgE IC were found in 20 normal human sera.
Clinical Trial of Hyposensitisation in Hay Fever: Two Methods of Relating Symptom Scores to Daily Pollen Counts
Authors: Wilkinson P. , Taudorf E.
Published: May 2007

Two methods of relating daily pollen counts to patients' symptom scores in clinical trials of hyposensitisation in hay fever are described. The problems involved in comparing results from different centres and years of a trial are discussed with particular reference to symptoms which are not pollen related. The Normalised Regression method is a powerful technique, but often the Pollen Interval method is preferable on the grounds of simplicity of communication and calculation.
Urticaria in Children
Authors: Kauppinen K. , Juntunen K. , Lanki H.
Published: May 2007

A retrospective study supplemented with follow‐up was carried out in 163 children, aged 6 months to 16 years, who were hospitalized because of acute, recurrent or chronic urticaria in 1976–1980. Etiologic agents were identified in 55% of cases. Physical factors were the commonest causes, especially in cases of chronic urticaria, while infections predominated in acute urticaria. 81% of the children participated in the follow‐up study. Follow‐up for a year or more revealed that 53% of the children had become symptom‐free, 36% still had symptoms but less frequently and in 11% urticaria are similar to those found in adults and that prognosis is favorable, particularly when the etiology is established.
Effects of Leukotrienes on Neutrophil Migration, and on Production and Action of Lymphokines
Authors: Svenson M. , Bisgaard H. , Bendtzen K.
Published: May 2007

The effect of the leukotrienes LTB4, LTC4 and LTD4 on the production of the lymphokine leukocyte migration inhibitory factor (LIF) from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells was tested. LTC4 and LTD4 failed to influence LIF production by cells stimulated by antigen or the polyclonal T cell activator, phytohemagglutinin (PHA). LTB4, at concentrations 10−7 to 10−6 M, showed significant inhibition of antigen‐induced LIF production but was without effect when cells were stimulated by PHA. The cell levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) were unaffected by 2.5 × 10−7 M LTB4 in the absence or presence of theophylline. These results indicate that LTB4 acts on the early effector stage of the immune response without affecting the cellular cAMp content.
IgE Antibody Studies in a Case of Generalized Allergic Reaction to Human Insulin
Authors: Child D. F. , Johansson S. G. O.
Published: May 2007

A patient developed a generalized reaction to purified bovine, purified porcine and human insulin. High levels of IgE antibody to bovine, porcine, human emp and human crb insulin were demonstrated. These fell dramatically following desensitization with human crb insulin. AH four types of insulin gave superimposable RAST inhibition curves indicating a common allergen determinant.
Aspirin Tolerance Induced in Aspirin‐Sensitive Asthmatics
Authors: Kowalski M. L. , Grzelewska‐Rzymowska I. , Rozniecki J. , Szmidi M.
Published: May 2007

Twenty‐nine patients with asthma and aspirin‐sensitivity were studied in an attempt to induce tolerance to aspirin (ASA). Starting with the smallest ASA doses eliciting bronchial obstruction (threshold doses) we doubled the doses on subsequent days and finally achieved good tolerance of 600 mg ASA per day in 27 patients. It was more difficult to achieve tolerance in patients with low ASA‐thresholds than in patients with high ones. Daily ASA administration led to prolongation of the refractory state but when the intervals between consecutive doses were increased aspirm hypersensitivity recurred. The pause sufficient for a recurrence of sensitivity to ASA was measured in 16 patients and ranged from 24 h to 9 days Twelve patients challenged with indomethauen after ASA‐desensitisation showed good drug tolerance.
Environmental Aerobiological Studies in Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Beaumont F. , Kauffman H. F. , Sluiter H. J. , de Vries K.
Published: May 2007

An aerobiological pilot study was undertaken to measure airborne concentrations of Aspergillus spores in and around the dwellings of two patients with allergic broncho‐pulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). The aim of the investigation was 1) to find a specific source of Aspergillus antigen, and 2) to find out whether disease activity, or exacerbation, paralleled Aspergillus spore prevalence. In the environment of the first patient heavy spore contaminated air was found in a cow‐shed, and the adjacent hayloft and scullery. The patient experienced no typical exacerbation during the study period, probably because she now scrupulously avoided this source. The environment of the second patient contained lower spore concentrations in and around the house, and the patient had no typical exacerbation, possibly due to low‐intensity exposure. Both patients, however, had increased bronchial obstruction during periods with high Aspergillus spore content in the outside air. The results suggest that avoidance of Aspergillus spore sources and low overall exposure may play a major role in preventing exacerbation of the disease.
Human Leukocyte Cyclic AMP and Cyclic GMP Levels during Chemotaxis in Delayed Type Hypersensitivity
Authors: Lerche A. , Bisgaard H. , Christensen J. Dahi. , Søndergaard J.
Published: May 2007

Ten nickel‐allergy patients and six healthy control subjects participated in a study of the morphology kinetics and evolution of the AMP and GMP concentration of migrated leukocytes, using an improved skin chambet technique. Also studied was the effect of nickel exposure in the patients Nickel exposure had a specific effect on the morphology from the 24th hour to the end of the 48 h observation period, with a significant increase in the percentages of basophils, eosinophils and lymphocytes and a decrease of neutrophils. A Significantly increased leukocyte migration rate (LMR) was observed from the 27th to 39th hour in six of the allergic patients exposed to nickel. There were no specific permanent changes in cAMP and cGMP concentration during nickel exposure. The control chambers of the allergy patients and health control had identical leukocyte morphology, LMR and leukocyte concentrations of cAMP and cGMP. However no correlations were found between LMR cAMP and cGMP in the eczema patients throughout the observation period.
Disodium Cromoglycate Relieves Symptoms in Symptomatic Young Smokers
Authors: Leitch A. G. , Lumb E. M. , Kay A. B.
Published: May 2007

We have undertaken a double blind placebo controlled study of disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) in 32 symptomatic young smokers These individuals had regular morning cough arid sputum with the sensation of wheeze, bin were not asthmatics as determined by the usual criteria. No significant changes were observed in sputum or serum eosionophils. IgE., IgG or IgA, or sputum histamine concentrations following the administration, for 3 weeks, of either DSCG (20 mg) or placebo, thrice daily. However DSCG, but not placebo, was associated with significant improvements in the symptoms of cough (P < 0.01)and wheezing (P < 0.025). We suggest that these changes may be due to an effect of DSCG on the irritant receptor mediated reflex response to cigarette smoke rather than the involvement of mast cells.
Inhibitory Effect of Glucocorticosteroids on Anti‐IgE‐Induced Histamine Release from Human Basophilic Leukocytes: Evidence for a Dual Mechanism of Action
Authors: Bergstrand Hårkan , Björnsson Anette , Lundquist Britta , Nilsson Annika , Brattsand Ralph
Published: May 2007

Anti‐IgE‐induced histamine release from human leukocytes is inhibited when the cells before challenge are cultured overnight in the presence of glucocorticoids (GCSs). The present report suggests that the GCSs might exert their effect by at least a dual mechanism of action. Histamine release was induced by a suboptimum concentration of anti‐IgE. When the release recorded in the presence of the steroid is plotted against the release recorded in its absence, the data points of several experiments fit a regression line characterized by two parameters: its slope and its intercept with the abscissa. Structure‐activity examination with selected GCSs indicates that the orders of potency for affecting these two parameters are not identical, Furthermore, pulse experiments suggest that the cells require different times of contact with the steroid to express inhibition according to the two parameters. The removal of adherent cells or platelets did not markedly affect the degree of leukocyte histamine release or its inhibition by a given GCS, suggesting that the steroid interacts directly with the basophil. Finally. steroid‐induced inhibition was not affected by the putative phospholipase A2‐inhibitor p‐bromophenacylbromide (BPB) or the 5‐lipoxygenase inhibitor nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA).
Cytodestructive Mechanisms Provoked by Food Antigens
Authors: Podleski W. K.
Published: May 2007

In vitro challenge of peripheral white blood cells (WBC) from 62 food sensitive patients and 22 asymptomatic control individuals was performed using standardized extract of cow milk, corn and wheat. 81% of the patients reacted at least toward one food antigen, showing disintegration of WBC, as measured by trypan blue exclusion technique. The presented experimental condition of the direct binding between food antigen and cell wall membrane suggests that this phenomenon is multicellular in its origin. The interpretation of these studies is of distinct value in directing human food hypersensitivity research in the future.
Effects of Long‐Term Treatment with Low Dose Cimetidine on Allergen‐Induced Airway Responses and Selected Immunological Parameters in Atopic Asthmatics
Authors: Bergstrand H. , Hegardt B. , Löuwhagen O. , Strannegård Ö. , Svedmyr N.
Published: May 2007

Twenty asymptomatic atopic asthmatics were treated with either cimetidine 100 mg orally (13 patients) or placebo (7 patients) once a day for 4 weeks. Bronchial challenges were performed with the pertinent allergen immediately before and 2 and 4 weeks after the initiation of treatment and, finally, 4 weeks after the cessation of treatment. Before each challenge blood was drawn for the determination of specific IgE antibody levels (RAST procedure) and total IgE (PRIST), allergen‐ and anti‐IgE‐induced basophil histamine release, and mitogen‐induced lymphocyte (3H)‐thymidine incorporation. Patients treated with cimetidine were found to be significantly (P < 0.0.5) less responsive to bronchial allergen challenge during the treatment than before it; patients treated with placebo were more reactive (P < 0.05) 14 days after the initiation of treatment. The difference in responsiveness to treatment between the placebo and the cimetidine groups was significant 14 days (P < 0.01) and 4 weeks (P < 0.05) after the initiation of treatment; no significant difference in allergen responsiveness was recorded between the groups 1 month after cessation of treatment. No clear‐cut changes in specific IgE antibody or total IgE levels, histamine release capacity, or mitogen‐induced lymphocyte responsiveness were observed in either group, except that lymphocytes from cimetidine‐treated patients tended to show an increased ratio of PHA‐ to PMA‐induced thymidine incorporation. Thus, it was found that the treatment of asymptomatic atopic asthmatics with low‐dose cimetidine reduced their allergen sensitivity in bronchial provocation tests by a mechanism which remains to be elucidated.
Non‐Steroid Anti‐Inflammatory Drugs in Asthma: Dangerous or Useful Therapy?
Authors: Joubert J. R. , Shephard E. , Mouton W. , Van Zyl L. , Viljoen I.
Published: May 2007

The therapeutic potential of non‐steroid anti‐inflammatory drugs in clinical asthma is offset by the real possibility of hypersensitivity and inducton of severe airways obstruction. The influence of indomethacin on the antigen‐induced asthmatic response was tested. Early and delayed asthmatic responses were recorded after antigen challenge in 13 subjects. Indomethacin pretreatment totally or partially inhibited the delayed asthmatic response in 10 of 11 subjects. Inhibition by indomethacin of products of the arachidonic cascade which participate in the pathogenesis of the delayed asthmatic response could explain this phenomenon. A similar therapeutic response was documented without adverse drug reactions when five subjects were restudied after several months. In the same group the early asthmatic response was suppressed in six, enhanced in two and unchanged in four of 12 subjects. This variable response indicates that spasmogenic prostaglandin breakdown products may be important for certain individuals, but are generally of less importance in the early asthmatic response. Clinical trials with indomethacin as a steroid saving agent in allergic asthma appear feasible and can be conducted safely.
Delayed Hypersensitivity Skin Testing of 150 Volunteers
Authors: Neuvonen P. , Salo M. , Viljanen M. , Helander I.
Published: May 2007

We studied skin test reactivity to five commonly used antigens by testing 150 healthy adults. The delayed hypersensitivity (DH) skin test is widely used to assess the immune status of patients. The battery of antigens suitable for use may vary in different countries, but the reactivity to the antigens in our population did not differ remarkably from reports of other authors. The reactivity rates were: Candida 32.7%, mumps 86%, streptokinase‐streptodornase (SK‐SD) 70%, trichophyton 0% and tuberculin 58.7%. Sixteen of the subjects were retested after 2 weeks. Only eight of them showed unchanged reactions to all five antigens. Specific IgG antibody concentrations measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) against each of the five antigens in the serum of 42 subjects before and after testing showed great inter‐individual variation. The antibody concentration did not correlate with the DH skin test results, but the testing itself increased the production of anti‐mumps‐ and anti‐SK‐SD‐antibodies.
Effect of Betamethasone on the Dual Reaction to Anti‐Human IgE in Man: Influence of Time Interval between Administration of Drug and Anti‐IgE
Authors: Gröunneberg R. , Strandberg K.
Published: May 2007

The influence of the time interval between administration of a glucocorticoid, betamethasone, and anti‐IgE on the effect of the drug on the early and late phase response (LPR) to anti‐IgE was examined in 38 volunteers in a randomized controlled study. The immediate flare and wheal responses to intradermally (i.d.) injected anti‐IgE were inhibited by approximately 20 and 30% respectively by a 10 day i.d. pretreatment period with repeated 50 μg doses (total 300 μg) of betamethasone (P < 0.01), whereas responses to histamine were not influenced. A single i.d. injection of 50 μg betamethasone 24 h prior to anti‐IgE challenge attenuated the wheal response (P < 0.05), whereas injection of the drug 2 h prior to and together with anti‐IgE had no influence on the early response. Corresponding LPRs were reduced approximately 30% throughout the observation period of 1–24 h (P < 0.01). Injecting the drug i.d. 30 min following anti‐IgE challenge had no significant influence on the total observation period (1–24 h) of the LPR but antagonized the LPR by 35% at 6–24 h (P < 0.01). It is concluded that glucocorticoids inhibit IgE‐dependent LPRs. When extending the topical pretreatment period with the compounds also the early part of the allergic reaction is attenuated.
The Regulatory Effect of Macrophages on the in Vitro Synthesis of IgE
Authors: Levo Y. , Harbeck R. J. , Kirkpatrick C. H.
Published: May 2007

The effects of indomethacin or macrophage‐depletion on the in vitro unstimulated and pokeweed mitogen (PWM)‐induced synthesis of IgG and IgE were compared. The effect on the unstimulated synthesis of IgG and IgE was similar, namely, no effect due to indomethacin and enhancement due to macrophage depletion. In contrast, the effect on PWM‐induced synthesis was dissimilar. Macrophage depletion enhanced IgG but inhibited IgE production. The effect of indomethacin paralleled that of macrophage depletion suggesting the involvement of prostaglandins. It seems that the regulatory effect of macrophages is different in the IgE system compared with the IgG system.
Quantification of Weal Reactions with Laser Doppler Flowmetry
Authors: Serup J. , Staberg B.
Published: May 2007

Skin‐prick experiments with different concentrations of histamine (0.1 mg/ml, 1.0 mg/ml, 10.0 mg/ml) and isotonic NaCl solution for control were performed on the forearms of 10 healthy volunteers. Regular recordings of the cutaneous blood flow by laser Doppler flowmetry were performed in the centre of the weals and 5, 10, 15 and 20 mm from the centre representing the zone of perilesional flare. In the weal centre the blood flow was increased but neither different concentrations of histamine nor the control reaction could be differentiated. Recordings performed 5 and 10 mm from the centre showed, however, significant differences between the different solutions of histamine tested as well as the control reaction. The better differentiation was obtained 5 and 10 min after skin‐prick. In conclusion, laser Doppler flowmetry with recordings of the perilesional flare is found useful for quantification of weal reactions.
Crossed Immunoelectrophoresis and Crossed Radioimmunoelectrophoresis Analysis of “Yellow Jacket – Common Wasp” (Vespula spp.)
Authors: Einarsson R. , Karlsson R. , Olsson B. , Uhlin T. , ÖHman S.
Published: May 2007

Crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE) pattern of Yellow jacket vespid venom showing 25 immunoprecipitates was used in crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresisis (CRIE) analysis with sera from 35 subjects allergic to vespid venom. Phospholipase A and B, hyaluronidase, acid and alkaline phosphatases and a lytic active component were demonstrated in immunoprecipitates using zymography and direct haemolysis of sheep erythrocytes. CRIE analysis proved the allergenicity of these proteins. In addition, another antigen (Ag 17) with no detectable enzymatic or lytic activity was identified as an important allergen. This allergen is most likely identical to the previously described Antigen 5 in vespid venoms. By using CIE/CRIE the presence and complexity of multiple forms of the allergenic protein components were well demonstrated.
Immunological Investigation of Possible Structural Similarities between Pollen Antigens and Antigens in Apple, Carrot and Celery Tuber
Authors: Halmepuro L. , Løswenstein H.
Published: May 2007

Crossed line immunoelectrophoresis (CLIE) was used to show that a minor allergen present in birch pollen and another present in timothy pollen shared common epitopes with antigens in apple, carrot and celery tuber. Major pollen allergens were not involved. Structural similarities were also noticed in some mugwort pollen antigens and antigens in apple, carrot and celery, but none of these mugwort antigens acted as an allergen. In crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE) of samples of apple, carrot or celery extracts towards antibodies against birch pollen, grass pollen or mugwort pollen, four to 14 distinct precipitates were observed and shown to be specific. In crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis (CRIE) none of the precipitates could be shown to act as an allergen. Using allergen detection on nitrocellulose paper, the apple, carrot and celery extracts were shown to possess IgE‐binding capacity.
The Use of a Reference Allergenic Extract in the Evaluation of Allergen Products
Authors: Ingemann L. , Formgren H. , Løswenstein H. , Ipsen H.
Published: May 2007

Two commercially available mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris (Av)) pollen extracts Av‐ALK and Av‐PS were compared with a dialysed reference mugwort pollen extract (Av‐REF) by means of crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE), crossed radio immunoelectrophoresis (CRIE), RAST‐inhibition, RAST‐screening and skin prick test. Av‐ALK and Av‐PS both contained approximately half the number of precipitation arcs detectable in Av‐REF, and Av‐PS seemed to lack two intermediate allergens and two minor allergens, while Av‐ALK seemed to lack one minor allergen. The RAST‐inhibition curve obtained for Av‐PS did not parallel the curves obtained for Av‐ALK and Av‐REF, indicating that the allergen composition of Av‐PS differs from that of the others. Further, RAst‐screening experiments support the CIE observation that Av‐PS seemed to lack two of the intermediate allergens. The HEP values determined for Av‐ALK and Av‐PS diverge considerably from those stated by the manufacturers. The results obtained demonstrate that the outcome of a comparison between a reference allergenic extract and allergenic products depends very much on the method employed.
Treatment of Acute Bronchoconstriction in Children with Use of a Tube Spacer Aerosol and a Dry Powder Inhaler
Authors: Pedersen S.
Published: May 2007

In a double blind cross‐over study 24 children suffering from acute bronchoconstriction were treated with either placebo, or terbutaline delivered by a pressurized aerosol with a tube spacer (TS), or salbutamol from a dry powder inhaler (Rotahaler = RO). Both active treatments resulted in a significant increase in FEV1 as compared with placebo (P < 0.001). Furthermore, TS treatment resulted in significantly greater improvement in FEV1 than treatment with the RO (P < 0.05). Under the conditions of marked airways obstruction problems with correct handling of the RO (loading and breaking the capsule) were prevalent and many children were unable to empty the RO capsule. These difficulties seemed to account for the smaller bronchodilation after RO treatment and were not seen under quiet circumstances. It is recommended that inhalation therapy in children is supervised by an adult during periods of marked airways disease.
Oral Administration of Grass Pollen to Hay Fever Patients
Authors: Taudorf E. , Laursen L. C. , Djurup R. , Kappelgaard E. , Pedersen C. T. , Søsborg M. , Wilkinson P. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Oral hyposensitization is still widely used in the treatment of allergic diseases, but controlled studies proving a beneficial effect are lacking. Fifty‐eight bay fever patients were admitted to a double‐blind placebo efficacy study in oral hyposensitization. An enterosoluble tablet containing timothy whole pollen or placebo was taken daily. Preseasonally, the actively treated patients received 4,315,000 PNU (880,260 AUR) and totally for 6 months 8,915,000 PNU (1,818,660 AUR). Such high doses have never been tried in similar studies. A new principle has been used ‐ “the pollen count interval method” ‐ in the evaluation of symptom and medication score. The study failed to prove any beneficial effect of oral hyposensitization measured by symptom score, medication score, nasal provocation test or skin prick test. There was no change in timothy specific IgE and IgG which could be caused by the treatment. The possibility that oral hyposensitization might be an effective treatment of hay fever in the future is discussed, but it is concluded that the present regimens cannot be recommended.
Diagnostic Tests in Allergy to Green Coffee
Authors: Osterman K. , Johanssons S. G. O. , Zetterström O.
Published: May 2007

Twenty‐two coffee roastery workers with work‐related symptoms of various degree from the eyes, nose or bronchi were tested with partly purified water‐soluble extract from dust of green coffee beans (GCB). Eighteen persons had a positive prick test, eight a positive bronchial provocation test and seven a positive nasal provocation test. Fourteen had a positive methacholine test, indicating unspecific bronchial hyperreactivity. Specific IgE antibodies to GCB extract were found in sera of 11 workers and to castor bean (CB) extract in 16. The workers measured their lung function with an air flow meter, three times a day for 1 week, and the values were lower in the second half of the week for the workers with IgE antibodies to GCB, but not for the others. It is concluded that the case history, prick test, RAST, and simple lung function tests for one or a few weeks are the best tools when investigating occupational allergy. When the allergen is unknown, but the occurrence of an IgE‐mediated allergy is suspected, serial lung function measurements and determinations of total serum IgE, in addition to taking a careful case history, are valuable methods with which to start the investigation.
Reproducibility of Histamine Skin Prick Test
Authors: Taudorf E. , Malling H.‐J. , Laursen L. C. , Lanner Å. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

The reproducibility of skin prick test using histamine dihydrochloride 1, 5, and 10 mg/ml was tested by three nurses in five non‐atopics in a double‐blind trial. The variations day‐to‐day, within‐day, between and for the same tester were calculated. Seventy‐five percent of wheal reactions obtained by histamine 1 mg/ml were < 15 mm2. With histamine 5 mg/ml there were only a few wheals < 15 mm2and none at all with bistamine 10 mg/ml. The mean coefficient of variation of wheals > 15 mm2 was between 20–30%, in contrast to figures between 30‐60% with wheals < 15 mm2. No significant day‐to‐day or within‐day variation was shown concerning histamine wheal areas. It is suggested that histamine dihydrochloride 10 mg/ml should replace histamine dihydrochloride 1 mg/ml as the positive reference in routine skin prick tests and biological standardization.
Clustered Immunotherapy with Yellow Jacket Venom
Authors: Malling H.‐J. , Djurup R. , Søndergaard I. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

To evaluate difference in clinical efficacy, side effects, in vivo and in vitro parameters, 25 patients allergic to Yellow Jacket were treated with clustered immunotherapy using either 7 or 14 days interval between clusters. Twenty‐one patients completed the 6 months’ treatment period and four were withdrawn due to adverse reactions (2 cases of anaphylactic shock). Sixteen patients were challenged by in‐hospital sting and the clinical efficacy was complete. Local side effects were observed in the majority of patients, but only rarely limited the course of immunotherapy. Skin sensitivity estimated as the venom concentration eliciting a wheal equal to histamine HCl 0.1 mg/ml using intradermal test was significantly reduced after 6 months of treatment. Specific IgE showed an initial increase, thereafter declining to pretreatment levels. IgG subclasses were determined by a triple antibody assay. Only subclasses 1 and 4 showed response. Subclass 4 showed a steady increase contrary to subclass 1 which decreased after reaching maintenance dose. No unambiguous relation between either the absolute value or the change of IgG1 and IgG4 at the time of challenge was observed in the patients who tolerated a sting. Furthermore, the IgG response was not correlated to the cumulative dose of venom administered. No simple regulatory function of IgG subclasses in the skin and IgE response was found, and the occurrence of local side effects did not seem to be determined by IgG antibodies. We conclude that clustered immunotherapy with Yellow Jacket venom is highly effective and that the frequency of side effects is acceptable. Neither the IgE nor the IgG response is significantly different with a 7‐ and 14‐day interval between clusters, indicating that a protective dose of venom might be reached within 1 month.
A Double‐Blind Evaluation of Topical Levocabastine, a New Specific H1 Antagonist in Patients with Allergic Conjunctivitis
Authors: Pipkorn U. , Bende M. , Hedner J. , Hednerm T.
Published: May 2007

Forty patients suffering from allergic conjunctivitis, due to birch pollen, participated in a double‐blind parallel group comparison between levocabastine (a potent new specific histamine (H1) antagonist) and placebo, both given as eye drops. Symptom scores were recorded during a 4‐week period. A 1‐week run‐in period was followed by a 3‐week treatment period. To enable a fair evaluation of the treatment effect on the ocular symptoms only, all patients were treated with topical nasal glucocorticoids for possible rhinitis symptoms during the whole study period. Plasma levels of levocabastine were determined in all subjects at the end of the 3 weeks' treatment period. Pollen counts for birch pollen were followed simultaneously. The evaluation of the symptom score cards revealed a significant reduction of ocular symptoms following use of the active compound. The resorption of the active substance through the conjunctiva was low. In accordance with the present trend of more topical treatment for allergic rhinitis, levocabastine may constitute a valuable compound for the topical treatment of allergic conjunctivitis.
Terbutaline Depot Tablets in Childhood Asthma
Authors: Foged N. , Høst A. , Ljungholm K.
Published: May 2007

Thirty children 8–13 years old, with perennial asthma and with a reversibility of ≥ 20 % in lung function (FEV1) were given a sustained‐release preparation of terbutaline sulphate 5 mg twice a day and ordinary tablets 2.5 mg three times a day; each treatment lasted 1 week. The design of the study was double‐blind, cross‐over, with a randomized allocation of the drugs. Both drugs improved the lung function significantly. The children had significantly less coughing during the night when they took depot tablets than when they took ordinary tablets. The side effects were few with both treatments. Most of the patients preferred the depot tablets.
Procaterol and Terbutaline in Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Dahl R. , Harving H. , Henriksen J. , Rønne K. , Schøler P.
Published: May 2007

Procaterol, a new beta‐2 adrenoceptor stimulant, was studied in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over trial in patients with bronchial asthma. Oral procaterol 50μg b.d., procaterol 100 μg b.d., and terbutaline 5 mg t.i.d., were compared when given randomly in 1‐week treatment periods. The best clinical effect was found with terbutaline. Both anti‐asthmatic and tremorgenic effects of procaterol were dose‐related. Procaterol appeared effective in the doses tested, and a twice daily regimen would appear to be suitable with this drug.
Effects of Cyclic GMP‐Agonists on Ciclosporin‐Induced Suppression of Human Lymphokine Production
Authors: Svenson M. , Bendtzen K.
Published: May 2007

Ciclosporin (Cs) inhibits the elaboration of the lymphokine leukocyte migration inhibitory factor (LIF) from human blood mononuclear cells (MNC) stimulated with recall antigen. This inhibition was counteracted by 3 × lO‐5 M dibutyryl‐cyclic GMP and 8‐bromo‐eyclic GMP and by the cyclic GMP‐agonists, sodium nitroprausside (NaNPr), ascorbic acid (As A), sodium azide (NaN3) and carbacholine. Using 5 × 10‐5 M NaNPr, 1 × 10‐3 M NaN3, or 3 × 10‐3 M As A, 25–50‐, 4–8‐ and 2–3‐fold elevations of MNC and T‐lymphocyte cyclic GMP‐levels were obtained independently of the presence of Cs. NaNPr was the most potent of these three cyclic GMP‐agonists in counteracting the effect of Cs. The results indicate that intracellular cyclic GMP is a major factor involved in the reversal of Cs induced inhibition of LIF‐production. None of the cyclic GMP‐analogues or ‐agonists by themselves possessed Interleukin 1‐like activity, measured by their ability to induce LIF‐production by macrophage‐depleted T‐lymphocytes challenged by recall antigen.
Frame Fungi on Insulated Windows
Authors: Käpylä M.
Published: May 2007

Insulated windows (fixed triple glass window elements), became common in Finland during and after the energy crisis. Moisture tends to condense along the edges causing mold growth on the frames. Nine houses with insulated glass windows and eight with other types of window were studied. Fungus samples were taken from the window edges and from the inside air and cultivated on malt extract agar. In five of the houses with insulated windows there was visible mold growth on the window edges. The predominant fungus was Aureobasidium pullulans. With other types of windows there was only one case of visible mold. The concentrations of fungi were about the same in the air of houses with both types of windows. Aureobasidium was rare in the air samples. Thus, window frame molds seem to contribute very little to airborne fungus concentrations. In situ trials were done to control the mold growth with disinfectants. Repeated spraying with aldehydes or quaternary ammonium chlorides in alcohols proved to be successful.
Increased Generation of Leukotriene C4 from Eosinophils in Asthmatic Patients
Authors: Taniguchi N. , Mita H. , Saito H. , Yui Y. , Kajita T. , Shida T.
Published: May 2007

Human eosinophils with a density of over 1.095 were isolated from peripheral blood by dextran sedimentation, centrifugation with Lymphoprep and density gradients with Percoll. After the cells (1 × l05ml) were incubated with 1 μg/ml calcium ionophore A23187 for 20 min, leukotriene C4 (LTC4) content in the supernatant was measured by radioimmunoassay. The generation of LTC4 was significantly higher in the cells from extrinsic asthmatics (23.5 ± 14.8 ng/l06 cells, mean ± SD, n= 26, P < 0.01) and intrinsic asthmatics (24.6 ± 20.6 ng/106 cells, n= 27, P < 0.01) as compared with normal healthy subjects (8.3 ± 7.7 ng/106 cells, n= 10). There was no significant difference in the generation of LTC4 between intrinsic and extrinsic asthmatics. These observations indicate that eosinophils from asthmatic patients have increased ability to release LTC4.
Bronchial Histamine Challenge
Authors: Pavlovic M. , Holstein‐Rathlou N.‐H. , Madsen F. , Svendsen U. Gerner , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

We compared the provocative concentration (PC) values obtained by two different methods of performing bronchial histamine challenge. One test was done on an APTA, an apparatus which allows simultaneous provocation with histamine and measurement of airway resistance (Rtot) by the interrupter method. The second test was a conventional tidal breathing method, with measurement of the FEV1. There was a high correlation between the PC20‐FEV1 and the PC30‐, PC40‐ and PC50‐Rtot values. The correlation coefficients were 0.85, 0.71 and 0.70 (P < 0.05) respectively. We further tested the reproducibility of the histamine challenge done on the APTA. When the PC30‐Rtot values were compared, a correlation coefficient of 0.56 (NS) was found. For the PC40‐ and PC50‐Rtot values the correlation coefficients were 0.65 (P < 0.05) and 0.70 (P < 0.02) respectively. We conclude that the APTA is useful for routine bronchial histamine challenge when 40–50% increase in basal Rtot is used as endpoint.
Increased Bronchial Hypersensitivity after Early and Late Bronchial Reactions Provoked by Allergen Inhalation
Authors: Machado L.
Published: May 2007

The non‐specific bronchial reactivity following bronchial allergen challenge was studied in 40 patients with allergic bronchial asthma, particularly in subjects without definite late reactions 6 h after the provocations (reduction in peak expiratory flow or forced expiratory volume in 1 s of less than 15% of the control value at this time). Among a group of 21 patients submitted to bronchial provocation tests, 13 carried out maximal exercise tests 6 h and 1 week after the allergen challenge. In another group of 19 patients, the bronchial hyperreactivity to methacholine was assessed before and 6 h and 1 week after challenge. Two patients with a dual response (early + late) reacted with bronchial obstruction to the exercise. Exercise tests performed after 1 week did not provoke asthma in any patient. In the methacholine group a marked increase in responsiveness to methacholine 6 h after the provocation was observed in those patients with a dual response who were tested and in those with equivocal late reactions and even in three patients with an isolated immediate reaction. The increased responsiveness was still present in many patients 1 week after challenge. The airway caliber did not influence the degree of responsiveness to methacholine. Nor did the degree of responsiveness have any influence on the patterns of reactions observed after allergen exposure.

It was concluded that in some individuals exposure to the relevant allergen predisposes them to exercise‐inducible bronchial obstruction. Further, it was confirmed that nonspecific bronchial reactivity can be increased not only in patients with late responses ‐ both definite and equivocal ‐ but also in some patients with immediate reactions alone. It is suggested that only allergens provoking late reactions or an increase in the non‐specific reactivity should be considered clinically relevant.