bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and temporal variation in a suite of life‐history traits in two species of wolf spider
Authors: REED DAVID H. , NICHOLAS AMY C.
Published: April 2008

Abstract 1. Life‐history traits and density were assayed in seven populations of two sympatric species of wolf spider for three consecutive years. The goal of the study was to quantify population dynamics and its relation to spatial and temporal life‐history variation.

2. Adult female body size and fecundity varied significantly, among field sites and among years, in both species. Female spiders of both species differed in mean relative reproductive effort among sites, but not among years. The size of offspring was invariable, with no significant differences due to site or year.

3. All populations of both species tended to either decrease or increase in density during a given year and this was tightly correlated with changes in prey consumption rates.

4. Since life‐history patterns are determined primarily by selection, it is concluded that size at sexual maturity for females is phenotypically plastic and responds to changes in prey availability. Offspring size however is not plastic and it is likely that other selection forces have determined offspring size. Temporal fluctuations in population size are correlated over a large area relative to dispersal capabilities for these species and conservation efforts for invertebrates must take this into consideration.
Resources exploitation by ants facilitates lizard egg survival
Authors: HUANG WEN‐SAN
Published: April 2008

Abstract 1.  This study investigated the interaction between eggs of the lizard Mabuya longicaudata Hallowell and two species of ant: a lizard egg commensalist (Paratrechina longicornis Latreille), and an egg predator (Pheidole taivanensis Forel). The ecological interaction between P. longicornis and lizard eggs was tested, and it was predicted that when the interaction was removed, lizard eggs would be attacked by P. taivanensis.

2. Field observations showed that both ant species actively searched for lizard eggs, and that P. taivanensis typically found new lizard nests earlier than P. longicornis did. Left undisturbed, P. taivanensis predation dramatically reduced lizard egg survival. While P. longicornis usually found nests later, they were able to displace P. taivanensis. As a result, proportional egg survival was higher in nests with P. longicornis (0.95 ± 0.04 eggs) compared to nests without either ant species (0.65 ± 0.09 eggs), or nests occupied by P. taivanensis (0.07 ± 0.02 eggs).

3. When P. longicornis ants were experimentally excluded from lizard nests, the proportion of eggs surviving significantly decreased because of increased P. taivanensis predation. Paratrechina longicornis benefits from water that condenses on the eggs. When this resource disappears P. longicornis abandons the nest, leading to predation of the eggs by P. taivanensis.
MRI studies of flow and dislocation of model NAPL in saturated and unsaturated sediments
Authors: Nestle N. , Wunderlich A. , Baumann T.
Published: April 2008

In this article, we explore the possibilities of studying transport phenomena that involve non‐aqueous phase liquids (NAPL) by means of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a paramagnetic contrast agent. We studiedn‐octanol as a model NAPL, especially in alcohol flooding in a water‐saturated sediment, and flood‐drainage‐cycles in a temporally unsaturated sediment column. While the ‘natural’ relaxation time contrast between water andn‐octanol often allows a distinction of the two liquids in a quartz‐sand sediment, the use of Mn2+‐ions dissolved in the water phase as a ‘biphasic’ contrast agent allows much better discrimination between the different liquid phases and also considerably faster imaging. Using a 3D FLASH sequence, a NAPL‐saturated region can be visualized against a background of water‐saturated sediment in 11 s with a resolution of 1.9 × 1.9 × 3.2 mm3.
Low levels of WWOX protein immunoexpression correlate with tumour grade and a less favourable outcome in patients with urinary bladder tumours
Authors: Ramos D , Abba M , López‐Guerrero J A , Rubio J , Solsona E , Almenar S , Llombart‐Bosch A , Aldaz C M
Published: April 2008

Aims:  To correlate the immunohistochemical detection of WWOX with histological measures and disease progression within the whole spectrum of urothelial bladder neoplasms.

Methods and results:  One hundred and one patients with primary bladder tumours were retrospectively analysed. Immunohistochemically, a polyclonal antibody was utilized and the level of WWOX protein expression was analysed by using a combined score system based on intensity of the reaction and percentage of immunoreactive tumour cells. WWOX protein expression was consistently expressed in non‐neoplastic urothelium, whereas a progressive loss of immunoreactivity was observed as tumour grade and stage increased (P < 0.05). Principal component analysis showed that reduced WWOX immunoexpression was significantly associated with high histological grades (P = 0.001), advanced stage (P = 0.002), tumour size (P = 0.04) and cancer progression (P = 0.028). Invasive urothelial carcinomas of the bladder with squamous metaplasia presented the lowest levels of WWOX protein. Kaplan–Meier analyses demonstrated a significant correlation between loss of WWOX expression and a shorter progression‐free survival (P = 0.042), whereas the prediction of overall survival achieved borderline significance (P = 0.053).

Conclusion:  Loss of WWOX immunoexpression strongly correlates with classical clinicopathological factors and appears to be a potential predictive marker of progressive disease.
The molecular and cellular basis of exostosis formation in hereditary multiple exostoses
Authors: Trebicz‐Geffen Meirav , Robinson Dror , Evron Zoharia , Glaser Tova , Fridkin Mati , Kollander Yehuda , Vlodavsky Israel , Ilan Neta , Law Kit Fong , Cheah Kathryn S.E. , Chan Danny , Werner Haim , Nevo Zvi
Published: April 2008

The different clinical entities of osteochondromas, hereditary multiple exostoses (HME) and non‐familial solitary exostosis, are known to express localized exostoses in their joint metaphyseal cartilage. In the current study biopsies of osteochondromas patients were screened with respect to a number of cellular and molecular parameters. Specifically, cartilaginous biopsy samples of nine HME patients, 10 solitary exostosis patients and 10 articular cartilages of control subjects were collected and cell cultures were established. Results obtained showed that one of the two HME samples that underwent DNA sequencing analysis (HME‐1) had a novel mutation for an early stop codon, which led to an aberrant protein, migrating at a lower molecular weight position. The EXT‐1 mRNA and protein levels in chondrocyte cultures derived from all nine HME patients were elevated, compared with solitary exostosis patients or control subjects. Furthermore, cell cultures of HME patients had significantly decreased pericellular heparan sulphate (HS) in comparison with cultures of solitary exostosis patients or control subjects. Immunohistochemical staining of tissue sections and Western blotting of cell cultures derived from HME patients revealed higher levels of heparanase compared with solitary exostosis patients and of control subjects. Further investigations are needed to determine whether the low pericellular HS levels in HME patients stem from decreased biosynthesis of HS, increased degradation or a combination of both. In conclusion, it appears that due to a mutated glycosyltransferase, the low content of pericellular HS in HME patients leads to the anatomical deformations with exostoses formation. Hence, elevation of HS content in the pericellular regions should be a potential molecular target for correction.
TMD chronic pain and masseter silent period in psychiatric patients on antidepressive therapy
Authors: IVKOVIC N. , MLADENOVIC I. , PETKOVIC S. , STOJIC D.
Published: April 2008

Summary  The aim of the study was to evaluate the long‐term effects of antidepressive therapy on chronic pain and related disability, and masseter silent period in psychiatric depressive patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The study included hospitalized psychiatric depressive patients on antidepressive therapy protocol (tetracyclic antidepressant‐maprotiline and anxiolytic‐diazepam) (n = 30) and non‐psychiatric patients seeking prosthodontic treatment (control group, n = 38). TMD were diagnosed by Research Diagnostic Criteria for temporomandibular disorders proposed by Dworkin and LeResche. The surface electromyography was recorded from left and right masseter muscles and masseter inhibitory reflex (masseter silent period) was recorded after mechanical stimulation. The incidence of TMD appearance was very similar, of aproximately 40% in both group of patients. The results of the study also indicated a higher prevalence of joint related TMD, a lower prevalence of muscular subtype of TMD and a lower grade of chronic pain and related disability in the psychiatric group of patients on antidepressive therapy in comparison with findings in the control group. In the patients on antidepressive therapy with TMD masseter silent period was not prolonged, while in the control group of patients with TMD the prolongation of the silent period was observed. The study provided evidence that long‐term, combined therapy (maprotiline and diazepam) in psychiatric depressive patients significantly modulated signs and symptoms of TMD in comparison with the control group.
Dental occlusion: a critical reflection on past, present and future concepts
Authors: TÜRP J. C. , GREENE C. S. , STRUB J. R.
Published: April 2008

Summary  For nearly a century, the diversity of concepts about ‘normal’ and ‘ideal’ dental occlusal relationships has led to confusion in trying to describe the occlusion of any individual patient. In addition, a similar controversy arises when trying to formulate treatment plans for patients who need extensive dental restorations or orthodontic treatment. And finally, the application of occlusal concepts to patients with temporomandibular pain and dysfunction has created a third area of debate. Over the past few decades, however, an appreciable part of the tenacious dogmatic heritage of this topic has been challenged. As a result, the acceptance of morphological and functional variability of the stomatognathic system has gained increasing support, and this change has important consequences for modern dental practice. In this article, the past, present and future of the subject of occlusion will be considered.
The Arabidopsis sweetie mutant is affected in carbohydrate metabolism and defective in the control of growth, development and senescence
Authors: Veyres Nicolas , Danon Antoine , Aono Mitsuko , Galliot Sonia , Karibasappa Yashoda Byrappa , Diet Anouck , Grandmottet François , Tamaoki Masanori , Lesur David , Pilard Serge , Boitel‐Conti Michèle , Sangwan‐Norreel Brigitte S. , Sangwan Rajbir S.
Published: April 2008

Sugars modulate many vital metabolic and developmental processes in plants, from seed germination to flowering, senescence and protection against diverse abiotic and biotic stresses. However, the exact mechanisms involved in morphogenesis, developmental signalling and stress tolerance remain largely unknown. Here we report the characterization of a novel Arabidopsis thaliana mutant, sweetie, with drastically altered morphogenesis, and a strongly modified carbohydrate metabolism leading to elevated levels of trehalose, trehalose‐6‐phosphate and starch. We additionally show that the disruption of SWEETIE causes significant growth and developmental alterations, such as severe dwarfism, lancet‐shaped leaves, early senescence and flower sterility. Genes implicated in sugar metabolism, senescence, ethylene biosynthesis and abiotic stress were found to be upregulated in sweetie. Our physiological, biochemical, genetic and molecular data indicate that the mutation in sweetie was nuclear, single and recessive. The effects of metabolizable sugars and osmolytes on sweetie morphogenesis were distinct; in light, sweetie was hypersensitive to sucrose and glucose during vegetative growth and a partial phenotypic reversion took place in the presence of high sorbitol concentrations. However, SWEETIE encodes a protein that is unrelated to any known enzyme involved in sugar metabolism. We suggest that SWEETIE plays an important regulatory function that influences multiple metabolic, hormonal and stress‐related pathways, leading to altered gene expression and pronounced changes in the accumulation of sugar, starch and ethylene.
Effect of local allergen priming on early, late, delayed‐phase, and epicutaneous skin reactions
Authors: Weller F. R. , Weller M. S. , Jansen H. M. , de Monchy J. G. R.
Published: April 2008

Allergic disease is reflected in a chronic inflammatory response to an allergen. It is thought that local allergen priming underlies this chronicity. To assess the effect of allergen priming on the amplitude and histologic effect of the allergic reaction, four sequential, intracutaneous skin tests were done with 48‐h intervals in 13 patients allergic to the house‐dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dpt). Reactions were measured at 15 min, and at 6, 24. and 48 h. Subsequently, epicutaneous tests were done on Dpt‐primed spots (n= 5). At 6, 24, and 48 h, reactions increased after priming (P < 0.006), with unaltered early reactions. Epicutaneous reactions to Dpt on primed spots were larger than in epicutaneous controls on similarly primed skin. Local intradermal priming results in greater inflammatory responses at both intra‐ and epicutaneous challenge. This mechanism may explain the chronicity of allergic reactions at epithelial surfaces.
Ultrastructural changes in the duodenal mucosa induced by ingested histamine in patients with chronic urticaria
Authors: Kanny G. , Grignon G. , Dauca M. , Guedene J. C. , Moneret‐Vautrin D. A.
Published: April 2008

Histamine in food may be responsible for some cases of food intolerance. We previously demonstrated disturbances in the metabolism of ingested histamine in patients with chronic urticaria (CU) and proposed that this could be related to increased intestinal permeability to histamine. The present study was undertaken to look for ultrastructural changes in the intestinal tract that might explain this abnormality. We examined duodenal biopsies from seven patients with CU before and after intraduodenal administration of histamine (120 mg). Five subjects had clinical symptoms (diarrhea, urticaria, headache, accelerated heart rate. and drop in blood pressure) within 1 h of duodenal histamine challenge (DHC). Ultrastructural changes. including edema of the interstitial tissue, enlargement of the basal intercellular spaces, slight congestion of the endothelial cells, and pericapillary edema, were observed in six subjects 45 min after DHC. In all the biopsies, the epithelium was normal, and the tight junctions were not modified by DHC. This morphologic study demonstrates that histamine can induce edema in the basal intercellular spaces of the duodenal mucosa and in the submucosa without evident change in the integrity of intercellular junctions. The most plausible route for histamine to have taken would appear to be an intracellular one.
Antiallergic activity of topical lodoxamide on in vivo and in vitro models
Authors: Ciprandi G. , Buscaglia S. , Catrullo A. , Paolieri F. , Riccio A. M. , Fiorino N. , Canonica G. W.
Published: April 2008

Lodoxamide is an antiallergic drug acting as a mast‐cell stabilizer, which is effective in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of lodoxamide eye‐drops on the inflammatory early‐phase reaction (EPR) changes induced by allergen‐specific conjunctival challenge (ASCC). This was a cross‐over, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized study, including 10 outpatients suffering from allergic rhinoconjunctivitis due to Parietaria judaica. Patients received one drop of lodoxamide tromethamine 0.1% or placebo 30 min before each ASCC. Clinical evaluation and cytologic assessment were done at baseline and 30 min after each ASCC. Lodoxamide induced a reduction in total symptom score and hyperemia during the EPR (P < 0.05). Lacrimation, itching/ burning, and eyelid swelling were only slightly (nonsignificantly) reduced. Lodoxamide induced a reduction in the total number of inflammatory cells and neutrophils during the EPR (P < 0.02). Eosinophil and lymphocyte number and ICAM‐1 expression showed only a slight, not statistically significant decrease. Placebo did not affect the studied parameters. Lodoxamide reduced early clinical events and cellular changes after ASCC consistently with its activity as mast‐cell stabilizer. Moreover, lodoxamide was able to downregulate in vitro ICAM‐1 expression on the continuously cultured, differentiated conjunctival cell line WK. This was shown both in basal conditions (P < 0.05) and upon interferon‐gamma stimulation (P < 0.03), although at high concentration.
The atopy trait in hypersensitivity to nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs
Authors: Bochenek G. , Niżankowska E. , Szczeklik A.
Published: April 2008

The prevalence of atopy was evaluated in two groups of subjects with hypersensitivity to nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAID):

78 patients with aspirin‐induced asthma (AIA) confirmed by oral or bronchial provocation challenges

42 subjects with hypersensitivity to pyrazolone drugs (case history and positive skin tests to noramidopyrine/aminophenazone) who tolerated aspirin well.

Fifty sex‐ and age‐matched persons from an unselected general population, with no hypersensitivity to NSAID, formed the control group. Atopy was estimated from the results of the following clinical and biologic parameters:

1) personal and family history of atopic diseases

2) skin prick tests with 16 aeroallergens

3) serum levels of specific IgE to five aeroallergens

4) total serum IgE level.

Different definitions of atopy were used, consisting of constellations of two or three of the above‐mentioned features. The results of the study revealed that the prevalence of atopy varied according to the criteria used for its definition. Irrespective of the definition used, a similar distribution of atopy was observed in both groups of patients with hypersensitivity to NSAID. Atopy was more frequent in either group of patients with intolerance of NSAID than in the control group. Thus, atopy is related to adverse drug reactions to NSAID.
Allergen‐induced inflammation in the nose: a comparison of acute and repeated low‐dose allergen exposure
Authors: Roquet A. , Ihre E. , van Hage‐Hamsten M. , Halldén G. , Zetterström O.
Published: April 2008

To investigate allergic rhinitis induced by two experimental provocation models, we compared local inflammation with markers of eosinophil activity in peripheral blood. Patients with strictly seasonal allergic rhinitis were selected and investigated outside the pollen season. An acute challenge with increasing doses of allergen every 15 min until symptoms occurred was performed in nine patients. Nasal lavage and blood samples were taken before and 4 and 24 h after challenge. After a 6‐week washout period, 10 patients were submitted to 7 days of repeated low allergen exposures. One small dose (≅/100 of the acute dose) was given each day. Blood and lavage samples were taken prior to and after the period. As control four patients were challenged with diluent only. The acute challenge resulted in sneezing and nasal discharge and blockage and was accompanied by a rise in histamine and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) in lavage fluid after 4 h and continuing after 24 h, when there also was a rise in the number of eosinophils and ECP in peripheral blood. The repeated low‐dose exposures caused very few symptoms but produced increased ECP in the lavage Auid and a trend toward increased histamine concentration. There were no changes in ECP, intracellular EG2 binding, or number of eosinophils in the blood. No changes were seen in the control group. Our findings show that changes in eosinophil mediator release in nasal lavage can be seen after very low, but repeated, allergen exposures despite no, or minimal, clinical symptoms.
Allergic urticaria and angioedema caused by a hemostatic sponge of bovine fibrin used in tooth extraction
Authors: Wüthrich B. , Bianchi‐Kusch E. , Johansson S. G. O.
Published: April 2008

We report the case of a 54‐year‐old woman with no history of atopic diseases or drug allergies who developed a generalized anaphylactic reaction with urticaria and angioedema a few hours after tooth extraction. The skin scratch and RAST tests demonstrated IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity to the product Hémofibrine, a hemostatic sponge made of bovine fibrin. Of all RAST controls, only one serum with known positivity to bovine serum albumin (BSA) showed a low degree of positivity to Hémofibrine. Bovine fibrin should be added to the list of medical products that can elicit allergic reactions following dental treatment.
Occupational conjunctivitis associated with type IV allergy to methacrylates
Authors: Estlander T. , Kanerva L. , Kari O. , Jolanki R. , Mölsä K.
Published: April 2008

On rare occasions, exposure to methacrylates (MAS) may induce mucosal symptoms. Three patients, two dental laboratory workers and one hearing aid laboratory worker, are presented. All three had allergic contact dermatitis from MAS which disappeared after avoidance of contact with uncured MA compounds. Two of the patients, the dental laboratory assistant and the hearing aid worker, had also developed symptoms of conjunctivitis. Both were exposed to chemically curable and light‐curable MAS. The association between their conjunctivitis and type TV allergy to MAS was supported by the following observations: 1) sensitization to several MAS including methyIMA, 2‐hydroxyethylMA, ethyleneglycol diMA, triethyleneglycoldiMA, tetrahydrofurfuryldiMA, and 1,4‐butanedioldiMA, as well as to pentaerythritol triacrylate; 2) simultaneous appearance of their eye symptoms and allergic contact dermatitis; 3) high exposure to MAS because of disturbances of ventilation; 4) disappearance of the eye symptoms during holidays; and 5) opthalmologist's findings of follicular conjunctivitis with some papillae, eosinophilia, and lymphocytosis in conjunctival scrapings corresponding to allergic contact conjunctivitis. In addition, the activation of eosinophils in the conjunctival scrapings was demonstrated with the monoclonal antibody technique, and an elevated level of eosinophilic cationic protein was found in the tear fluid. Our cases suggest that conjunctivitis may be caused by type IV allergy to MAS, although type I allergy (even though prick tests were negative), other hypersensitivity mechanisms, or irritation cannot be excluded. 4H‐Gloves® seem to give adequate hand protection even to allergic patients. More attention should be paid to ventilation systems if MA exposure occurs. In some cases, patients with eye symptoms need to be patch tested
Airway eosinophilic inflammation, epithelial damage, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness in patients with mild‐moderate, stable asthma
Authors: Oddera S. , Silvestri M. , Balbo A. , Jovovich B. O. , Penna R. , Grimi E. , Rossi G. A.
Published: April 2008

Allergic asthma is characterized by chronic recruitment of eosinophils in the airways. Once activated, eosinophils release toxic products, including eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), able to damage airway epithelial cells. To test the hypothesis that also in mild‐moderate stable asthma, a significant eosinophil activation could occur, we studied 25 asthmatic patients (34 ± 19 years old), of whom 18 were allergic (27 ± 12 years) and seven nonallergic (42±10 years), with FEV1 values ±70% of predicted, and eight normal volunteers (controls, 33 ±11 years). All subjects underwent methacholine (MCh) challenge on the first visit, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) on the second visit (approximately 3–4 days later). BAL cells were counted and albumin (Alb) (as index of protein dilution in BAL fluid) and ECP levels (as index of eosinophil activation) in BAL fluid were measured. As compared to controls, a significant increase in BAL eosinophil and in BAL epithelial cell numbers was observed in asthmatic patients (P>0.05, each comparison), with no differences between the two asthmatic patient subgroups. Detectable ECP levels (>2 μg/1) were found in BAL of 18 asthmatic patients (14 allergic and four nonallergic asthmatic patients), while Alb levels were measurable in 25 BAL fluids and found to be similar in controls and asthmatic patients, and in the two asthmatic patient subgroups (P>0.05, each comparison). In BAL of asthmatic patients, positive correlations were found between eosinophil numbers and 1) ECP/Alb levels (r= 0.50, P = 0.020); 2) epithelial cell numbers (r = 0.S0, P = 0.014). In asthmatic patients, a significant negative correlation was found between bronchial reactivity to MCh (log Pd15) and ECP/Alb levels in BAL fluid (r=‐0.6, P= 0.005), whereas no correlation was found between log Pd15 MCh and BAL eosinophil or epithelial cell number (P>0.1, each correlation). These data suggest that bronchial eosinophil recruitment and activation may occur also in mild‐moderate stable asthma and that bronchial epithelium damage and airway responsiveness may be partially associated with the eosinophilic inflammatory reaction.
The role of the bone marrow in allergy and asthma
Authors: Denburg J. A. , Inman M. O. , Leber B. , Sehmi R. , O'Byrne P. M.
Published: April 2008

The above studies have begun to address the fundamental question of the mechanisms of bone marrow involvement and response to allergen challenge in allergic asthmatics. Further studies in this area should complement our investigations in human asthma — which suggest that a particular bias toward differentiation of Eo‐Baso progenitors characterizes the atopic state — as well as our findings in the dog model of allergen‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness, which indicate that the bone marrow responds to inhalation of allergen or corticosteroids. Taken in the context of previous indications that IgE and bronchial responsiveness may both be transferrable through bone marrow transplantation (log), these findings indicate a physiologic role for the bone marrow in allergic inflammation. Likewise, these concepts provide a basis for making certain predictions regarding management and novel therapeutic interventions in atopy and asthma.
Betahistine‐induced bronchospasm
Authors: Jiménez I. , Antón E. , Picáns I. , Jerez J.
Published: April 2008

Betahistine is a cerebral vasodilator structurally related to histamine, which stimulates H1 bronchial and vascular receptors. We report the case of a 28‐year‐old female patient who presented bronchospasm during treatment with betahistine hydrochloride. The prick test was negative. The oral challenge test showed bronchospasm and urticarial lesions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of betahistine‐induced bronchospasm reported in the literature. The study carried out failed to reveal the mechanism of the reaction.
Can early asthma be confirmed by laboratory tests?
Authors: Metso T. , Kilpiö K. , Björkstén F. , Kiviranta K. , Haahtela T.
Published: April 2008

We examined the performance of a number of laboratory tests in 23 patients who had had symptoms suggesting asthma, such as cough, sputum secretion, and chest tightness with wheezing, for less than a year. Even the best test, histamine challenge, had a sensitivity of only 48%. When more tests were added, sensitivity rose: with peak expiratory flow added, the sensitivity was 65%; with sputum eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) added, to 74%; and with serum ECP added, to 78%. Thus, a combination of tests measuring lung function and activation of eosinophils yielded fair, if not good, results. It appears that sensitivity could be increased further through the development of improved sputum tests.
ELISA method for detection of mite allergens in barn dust: comparison with mite counts
Authors: Härfast B. , Johansson E. , Johansson S. G. O. , van Hage‐Hamsten M.
Published: April 2008

ELISA (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay) inhibition with a monoclonal antibody (mAb) (42B6) to Lepidoglyphus destructor was used to detect and quantify the storage‐mite allergens in 30 dust samples collected from barns. Regarding the mite fauna, microscopic inspection of the barn dust and mite counts showed that L. destructor infested all 30 barns investigated (range 430–195400 mites/g dust). In 29/30 barns, L. destructor constituted more than 70% of the Astigmata species. Acarus siro was found in 26 samples, the highest value being 16 155 nites/g. No Dermatophagoides species were found. As to mites of the suborder of Prostigmata, species belonging to seven different families were detected. Besides the predominant L. destructor, allergens derived from other storage mites such as Glycyphagus domesticus, A. siro, and Tyrophagus putrescentiue have previously been assessed by this ELISA method. The correlation between number of mites and concentrations of mite antigen as measured by ELISA was assessed by linear regression (r2= 0.83). Thus, inhibition of mAb 42B6 in ELISA would seem to offer a simple and reliable method to detect levels of dust‐mite species belonging to the Acaridae and Glycyphagidae families.
Psyllium laxative‐induced anaphylaxis, asthma, and rhinitis
Authors: Vaswani S. K. , Hamilton R. G. , Valentine M. D. , Adkinson N. F.
Published: April 2008

A 69‐year‐old nurse was evaluated for a recent episode of anaphylaxis that had occurred after psyllium ingestion. She had experienced recurrent rhinitis and asthma related to psyllium exposure for the past 15 years. The diagnosis of psyllium hypersensitivity was established by a positive psyllium puncture skin test, an elevated psyllium‐specific IgE level in serum, and a confirmatory soluble‐antigen competitive inhibition test. The patient was symptomatic for several years, and this diagnosis was not considered until she suffered potentially life‐threatening anaphylaxis. Psyllium hypersensitivity may be a more common phenomenon than is currently appreciated by physicians and other health‐care providers.
Allergenic epitopes of bovine αs1‐casein recognized by human IgE and IiG
Authors: Spuergin P. , Mueller H. , Walter M. , Schiltz E. , Forster J.
Published: April 2008

B‐cell epitopes of bovine αs1‐casein, one of the major allergens of cow's milk, were identified by a screening method based on synthetic peptides. According to the known amino acid sequence of αs1‐casein, a set of 188 overlapping sequential decapeptides shifted by one amino acid was manually synthesized on polyethylene pins by the 9‐fluorenyl‐methoxycarbonyl (Fmoc) method. Peptides were screened by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) specific for human IgE and IgG. Bound antibodies were detected by successive incubation with up to three polyclonal antibodies, the last one conjugated to horseradish peroxidase. Tested sera were from 15 patients with acute clinical reactions to cow's milk and IgE‐specific reactions to bovine a‐casein in the ELISA and immunoblot. Sera from 10 healthy subjects without remarkable reactions to cow's milk proteins were used as controls. All sera from allergic subjects showed reactions with three regions of αs1‐casein, corresponding to amino acids 19–30, 93–98, and 141–150. Furthermore, individual sera showed reactions with other parts of the protein. No essential differences in the epitope specificity of IgE and 1gG were found. Inhibition of IgE binding to αs1‐casein with soluble synthetic peptides confirmed the results and revealed peptide CN‐2 as the most inhibiting one.
Erythema multiforme due to pyrazinamide
Authors: Perdu D. , Lavaud F. , Prévost A. , Deschamps F. , Cambie M.‐P. , Bongrain E. , Barhoum K. , Kalis B.
Published: April 2008

Drug‐induced erythema multiforme is reported with many antimicrobial and antipyretic medications. We present one patient who experienced erythema multiforme and urticaria after administration of pyrazinamide for treatment of cutaneous tuberculosis. The side‐effects of pyrazinamide include hepatic or dermatologic disorders, but erythema multiforme has not yet, to our knowledge, been described. Clinical features and discontinuation and reintroduction of the drug led us to consider pyrazinamide the cause of the erythema multiforme, but allergologic studies remained negative, except for the presence of circulating immune complexes. The mechanism of this eruption remains obscure. and definite withdrawal of pyrazinamide seems to be the best therapeutic choice.
Interleukin‐4 and interferon‐gamma production by peripheral bloGd mononuclear cells from food‐allergic patients
Authors: André F. , Pène J. , André C.
Published: April 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate whether patients with food allergy had a cytokine imbalance of interleukin (1L)‐4 and interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) production. Diagnostic procedures including skin prick tests, determination of food‐specific serum IgEs, and positive double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, food challenges identified 15 adult patients. They were compared with 15 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy subjects. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were incubated for 24, 48, and 72 h in the presence of phytohemagglutinin plus phorbol myristate acetate. After mitogen stimulation, culture supernatants from patients with food allergy contained significantly less IFN‐γ but increased IL‐4 when compared with healthy controls. Secretion of IL‐4 was maximal at 24 h and IFN‐γ secretion was maximal at 72 h. There was no correlation between cytokine secretion in vitro and serum IgE level. These findings demonstrated that an imbalance of IL‐4 and IFN‐γ production is present in food allergy, as documented in other allergic diseases, but other mechanisms are probably also involved.
Hypersensitivity to pollen of Olea europaea in Israel
Authors: Geller‐Bernstein C. , Arad G. , Keynan N. , Lahoz C. , Cardaba B. , Waisel V.
Published: April 2008

The incidence of skin‐tested sensitivity to olive pollen allergens among subjects with suspected atopic respiratory allergy was investigated in various populations of Israelis. This incidence was correlated with the olive cultivars, with the abundance of trees in the patients' neighborhoods, and with the history of exposure of the studied populations to olive pollen. Positive skin reactions to olive pollen, among atopic patients of the Jewish population, is rather high where olive trees are abundant (66%), and lower (29%) where trees are scarce (P<0.003). Sensitization was significantly lower (P< 0.003) among a population of Israeli atopic Arabs (16%), though these Arabs have lived in an olive‐rich area for several generations.
Ex vivo pharmacologic modulation of basophil histamine release in asthmatic patients
Authors: Lebel B. , Arnoux B. , Chanez P. , Bougeard Y.‐H. , Daures J. P. , Bousquet J. , Campbell A. M.
Published: April 2008

Histamine is one of a range of mediators which play an important role in asthma, and the “releasability” of basophils has been shown to be upregulated in this disease. In vitro, β2‐agonists and to a lesser extent corticosteroids have been shown to reduce histamine release. The ex vivo effects of salmeterol and inhaled corticosteroids on histamine release were studied in 78 asthmatic patients with variable disease severity and 20 control subjects. Spontaneous and anti‐IgE‐induced histamine release was measured in all subjects. Fifteen patients were not receiving any form of treatment, 42 were treated with inhaled corticosteroids, and 21 received inhaled corticosteroids and salmeterol. Seven patients treated with inhaled corticosteroids and seven patients treated with inhaled corticosteroids and salmeterol were tested twice to assess the effect of salmeterol on histamine release. Nine patients treated with inhaled corticosteroids were tested before and after 1 month of salmeterol treatment to determine the possible inhibition by salmeterol. Patients who were treated with inhaled corticosteroids and salmeterol showed significantly lower levels of spontaneous histamine release (median: 2.5%) than untreated (5.2%) and inhaled corticosteroids‐treated asthmatics (3.4%). No tachyphylaxis to salmeterol was observed when patients were tested twice at a 3‐month interval. This study suggests that salmeterol may have an additive anti‐inflammatory effect with inhaled corticosteroids, although this hypothesis must be tested by further studies involving cells obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage and studies with bronchial biopsies.
Isotypic analysis of grass‐pollen‐specific antibodies in human plasma.
Authors: Batard T. , Laroze A. , David B. , Peltre G. , Basuyaux B.
Published: April 2008

Since it has been shown that autoanti‐IgE may be mistaken for antiallergen antibodies, thus appearing as pseudo‐allergen‐specific antibodies, it is crucial to separate true‐ from pseudo‐allergen‐specific antibodies and to determine to what extent autoanti‐IgE appeared as pseudo‐allergen‐specific antibodies. For this purpose, human Ig pools were affinity‐purified successively on a grass‐pollen column and then on an antihuman‐IgE column. IgG 1–4, IgA, and IgM antibodies that were eluted from the grass‐pollen column separated into pseudo‐ (˜30–40%) and true‐allergen‐specific antibodies that were coretained and not coretained, respectively, with the IgE on the anti‐IgE column. Levels of autoanti‐IgE were determined in individual plasma samples by surface plasmon resonance and statistically compared to the concentrations of allergen‐specific antibodies obtained previously in the same plasma samples. A positive correlation between IgM autoanti‐IgE levels and grass‐pollen‐“specific” IgM concentrations (P< 0.0002), and negative correlations between IgA autoanti‐IgE and both IgE anti‐grass pollen and IgG2 autoanti‐IgE levels (P<0.03, in both cases) were observed for the first time. This supports the contentions that: (1) autoanti‐IgE antibodies appeared as pseudo‐grass‐pollen‐specific antibodies (2) they hid IgE antibodies when the latter were measured, and (3) they compete with one another in binCling IgE. Lastly, a model of large Ig complexes is discussed.
A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of immunotherapy with grass‐pollen extract Alutard SQ during a 3–year period with initial rush immunotherapy
Authors: Dolz I. , Martinez‐Cócera C. , Bartolomé J. M. , Cimarra M.
Published: April 2008

Thirty patients with asthma and/or monosensitized allergic rhinitis caused by grass pollen whose ages ranged from 15 to 35 years were selected. Two groups were established at random: an active group and a placebo group, and a double‐blind study was done on treatment with immunotherapy for a period of 3 continuous years, with initiation doses administered according to the rush immunotherapy technique. Grass‐pollen allergen extract Alutard SQ and histamine as a placebo were used. The objective parameters of efficacy evaluated were end‐point cutaneous tests, conjunctival provocation, bronchial provocation, and symptom/medication scores, as well as specific immunoglobulin determinations. The statistical evaluation of the results was significant for the differences existing between the initial and final time of the active group, and there were significant differences between the two groups for all of the parameters considered. We found no relationship between clinical improvement and the range of specific immunoglobulin E values. Regarding the safety of the treatment, systemic adverse effects were manifested only in the initial phase (rush immunotherapy). and were easily controlled by treatment. We conclude that the efficacy and safety of immunotherapy with grass pollen make it possible to consider this treatment fundamental in these patients.
Transient sensitization to house‐dust mites: a studv on the influence of mite exposure and six
Authors: Wickman M. , Korsgaard J.
Published: April 2008

This study aimed to evaluate the prognosis of a previous positive skin test to house‐dust mites (HDM) in relation to environmental exposure. A total of 115 children. 50 from Stockholm and 65 from northern Sweden, all with a previous (average 2.5 years) positive Phazet (Pharmacia AB, Uppsala, Sweden) skin prick test (SPT) to extracts of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dpt) and/or D. farinae (Df) were included. Dust samples were collected from the children's mattresses, and the total (Dpt, Df, and D. microceras [Dm]) amount of major mite allergen was measured by ELISA (50 children) and expressed as microgram allergen per gram of dust, or was measured by microscopy (65 children). The results of microscopic mite counts were transformed to approximate allergen levels as 2 μg equals 100 mites per gram of dust. Of 115 originally SPT‐positive children, only 48 (48%) remained positive at retest, while the majority (58%) were SPT negative after 2 years. Among the 67 converted children, 11 were still exposed to mite allergen, but only to low concentrations (only one converted child being exposed above the suggested threshold level [TLV] of 2 pg/g), compared to 15/48 children still SPT positive who were exposed above the TLV. This shows that continued mite exposure is a major risk factor (OR=30, CI 4.8–184) for continued positive SPT to HDM. A minor risk factor for continued sensitization was sex, boys having a higher risk than girls (OR = 2.2, CI 1.0–4.8). In conclusion. a surprisingly high rate of SPT conversion occurred, mainly as a result of a favorable indoor environment with low exposure to HDM and, to a lesser degree, as a result of sex. The present results support the view that the risk level of exposure is 2 μg mite allergen per gram of dust.
Effects of interleukin (IL)‐3 and IL‐5 on human eosinophil degranulation induced by complement components C3a and C5a*
Authors: Takafuji S. , Tadokoro K. , Ito K.
Published: April 2008

It is suggested that eosinophils (Eos) play an important role in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma by releasing cytotoxic cationic eosinophil granule proteins and damaging bronchial epithelial cells. However, the exact nature of the actual inducer of eosinophil degranulation in vivo is unclear. We examined eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) release from human Eos in response to soluble agonists such as C5a, C3a, platelet‐activating factor, and FMLP with or without interleukin (IL)‐3 or IL‐5 priming. Eosinophil degranulation induced by these soluble agonists required the pretreatment of Eos by cytochalasin B even in IL‐3 priming. Among four agonists, C5a was the most effective stimulus of ECP release either with or without IL‐5 priming. IL‐3 and IL‐5 remarkably enhanced ECP release in Eos triggered by C3a and C5a. The enhancement of ECP release by IL‐3 and IL‐5 occurred at 0.1–0.3 ng/ml and became maximal at 10–30 ng/ml, concentration‐dependently. The enhancement of ECP release by cytokines became optimal at an interval of 10 min. Our data support the importance of complement components and cytokines in eosinophil degranulation in vivo.
Once‐daily mometasone furoate aqueous nasal spray (Nasonex®) in seasonal allergic rhinitis: an active‐ and placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Hebert J. R. , Nolop K. , Lutsky B. N.
Published: April 2008

Mometasone furoate aqueous nasal spray (Nasonex®) was compared with beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) aqueous nasal spray in a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐dummy, parallel‐group study of adults with moderate to severe seasonal allergic rhinitis. Patients allergic to at least one tree and/or grass aeroallergen received one of the following regimens for up to 4 weeks: mometasone furoate 100 pg once daily [OD] (n = 126) or 200 μg OD (n= 126), BDP 200 μg twice daily (n = 126), or only placebo spray (n= 123). Physician‐rated nasal and total symptom scores. and global evaluation of overall condition and therapeutic response by physicians and patients, showed that the three active treatments were equally effective, and all three were significantly superior to placebo at most time points. Overall, mometasone furoate 200 μg OD demonstrated somewhat greater numerical, but not statistical, superiority to mometasone furoate 100 μg OD at the earliest evaluation time poinl. At the end of treatment, complete or marked relief was obtained in 77% of patients with mometasone furoate 100 pg/day, 79% with mometasone furoate 200 pg/day, and 74% with BDP, compared with 54% of placebo vehicle control patients. Mometasone furoate and BDP were equally well tolerated. It was concluded that mometasone furoate adequately controls symptoms of moderate to severe seasonal allergic rhinitis, offers the advantage of OD treatment, and is well tolerated.
Tear tryptase levels and allergic conjunctivitis
Authors: Magrini L. , Bonini S. , Centofanti M. , Schiavone M. , Bonini S.
Published: April 2008

We measured tryptase, a neutral prolease stored in the secretory granules of mast cells, by solid‐phase radioimmunoassay in tears of 12 subjects with vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) during remission phases, nine subjects with seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis, and eight healthy controls. Mean values of tear tryptase levels were significantly (P<0.02) increased in VKC patients (14.5 ± 13 pg/l) when compared to those measured in patients with seasonal or perennial allergic con, junctivitis (0.6 ± 0.1 pgA) and in controls (3.3 ± 3.2 μg/l). In subjects with allergic conjunctivitis, the levels of tryptase, almost undetectable before allergen conjunctival challenge, showed a significant increase in the challenged eye 20 min ‐ but not 6 h ‐ after provocation in 5/9 cases. Our results indicate that VKC, a severe ocular disease characterized by an increased number and abnormal distribution of mast cells in the conjunctiva, also shows elevated levels of tryptase in tears even during remission phases. Evidence of mast‐cell activation, as revealed by a significant increase of tryptase levels in tears, is documented during the early‐phase reaction, but not during the late‐phase reaction, of allergic conjunctivitis patients challenged topically by specific allergen.
Further characterization of IgE‐binding antigens in horse dander, with particular emphasis on glycoprotein allergens
Authors: Johnsen T. K. , Thanh D. B. , Ly Q. , Paulsen B. Smestad , Wold J. K.
Published: April 2008

IgE‐binding components in an extract of horse dander were analyzed, especially with regard to the glycoprotein allergens. After SDS‐PAGE under reducing conditions and blotting, several of the glycoprotein IgE‐binding components, including two distinct bands of 27 and 31 kDa, were detected. Together with several other bands, they were shown to bind to the lectins Sambucus nigra agglutinin (SNA) and Datura stramonium agglutinin (DSA), indicating terminal sialic acid linked α2→6 to galactose, and galactose linked β1→ 4 to N‐acetylglucosamine, respectively. Carbohydrate analysis after SDS‐PAGE and blotting showed the presence of mannose, galactose, N‐acetylglucosamine, and N‐acetyl neuraminic acid in the 27‐kDa band. The 14.4‐kDa glycoprotein component lost its IgE‐binding activity after periodate oxidation. Minor differences in allergenic activity in the other glycoprotein allergenic components were also detected, indicating that the carbohydrate part of the molecule seems to play a role in the IgE‐binding activity. Two‐dimensional electrophoresis and subsequent immunoblotting were performed to estimate the approximate number, molecular mass, and pI of IgE‐binding components. This resulted in a cluster of such components on the blot membrane.