bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meat wrapper's asthma: identification of the causal agent
Authors: PAULI G. , BESSOT J. C. , KOPFERSCHMITT M. C. , LINGOT G. , WENDLING R. , DUCOS P. , LIMASSET J. C.
Published: April 2006

Meat wrapper's asthma is a typical example of occupational asthma due to emissions from chemical products. The authors report three new cases due to the use of the now classic meat packaging techniques in supermarkets. The chemical agents involved were identified. Inhalation tests have been carried out in one patient with the complete wrappings, i.e. the PVC film and the price labels, and separate tests were performed with eight additives of the PVC film, and with phthalic anhydride and di‐cyclohexyl‐phthalate emitted from heated price labels. These tests incriminate two products: phthalic anhydride seems to be the principal causal agent and epoxidized soybean oil can be suspected as a secondary agent causing this occupational asthma.
Aspergillus hypersensitivity in asthmatics in Cape Town
Authors: BENATAR S. R. , KEEN G. A. , NAUDE W. DU TOIT
Published: April 2006

An analysis of skin prick reactions in 500 consecutive patients referred for investigation and management of asthma showed that 240 patients had multiple positive reactions. Of these patients 46% had positive reactions to Aspergillus and they differed from patients with multiple positive reactions excluding Aspergillus by having onset of asthma at a younger age and being more atopic. Precipitins to Aspergillus were present in the serum of twenty‐six of seventy‐one consecutive patients in whom these were looked for. Thirteen of the patients with positive precipitins had chest radiograph shadows compatible with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and in eight of these there was sufficient evidence to make a diagnosis of ABPA. These results were obtained in a region where ABPA had never been previously recognized and they highlight the importance of routine skin prick testing with Aspergillus antigen and of awareness of ABPA in making this diagnosis.
A method for estimation of circulating immune complexes after oral challenge with ovalbumin
Authors: INGANÄS M. , JOHANSSON S.G.O. , DANNAEUS A.
Published: April 2006

Sera from forty‐two children orally challenged with ovalbumin were analysed for the presence of IgG‐ovalbumin immune complexes. The technique used is based on the adsorption of the IgG of the complex to immobilized protein‐A and detection of the ovalbumin of the complex on the solid phase, using isotope‐labelled, pepsin‐digested antibodies to ovalbumin. Children with high serum levels of antibody to ovalbumin had significantly higher concentrations of IgG‐ovalbumin complexes than children with low antibody levels. In both groups the appearance of the complexes in the serum was accompanied by a significant decrease of the complement factor C3 (P < 0.05). The duration of the decrease in C3 was correlated to the amount of IgG‐ovalbumin complexes, suggesting a consumption of C3 by these immune complexes.
P1 incompatibility in pigeon breeders
Authors: RADERMECKER M. , BRUWIER M. , BURY J. , FILLET G.
Published: April 2006

Pigeon breeders of the P2 blood phenotype may develop anti‐P1 haemagglutinins as a consequence of natural immunization to pigeon dust. The half‐life of labelled P1 erythrocytes was determined in two P2 pigeon breeders otherwise compatible except for the presence of anti‐P1 antibodies and in four compatible controls without anti‐P1. The half‐life of tagged cells was within the normal range in one breeder but significantly reduced in the other, indicating that P1 incompatibility may occur in vivo. Since anti‐P1 antibodies are found in about 20% of P2 pigeon breeders, it is suggested that this group may be prone to developing an incompatibility to transfused P1 red cells.
Complement activation by commercial allergen extracts of cereal grains*
Authors: OLENCHOCK S. A. , MULL J. C. , MAJOR P. C.
Published: April 2006

Commercial allergen extract preparations of whole cereal grains were examined in vitro for their reactivity with the human haemolytic complement cascade. Total haemolytic complement was consumed in a dose‐dependent manner which did not correlate with the protein nitrogen content or bacterial endotoxin contamination of the extracts. Alternative pathway activation was shown by C3 conversion in the presence of EGTA while classical complement components C1, C4 and C2 were also much decreased in serum which was free of detectable specific antibody. Very small amounts of allergen extract initiated the formation of complement‐dependent factors which were chemotactic for human polymorphonuclear leucocytes. These data suggest a potential for complement activation in vivo by ingestion, inhalation, or injection of cereal grain products.
Standardization of allergen extracts by inhibition of RAST, skin test, and chemical composition
Authors: TURNER K. J. , STEWART G. A. , SHARP A. H. , CZARNY D.
Published: April 2006

Five allergen extracts of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Lolium perenne, Alternaria tenuis, Aspergillus fumigatus and Cladosporium herbarum, obtained from four different manufacturers, were examined by inhibition of RAST, content of protein and carbohydrate, contents of phosphorylcholine (Pc) and tridacnin reactive components, and by skin test. Inhibition of RAST was used as a primary method for establishing allergenic potency and demonstrated wide variations for each preparation supplied by the different manufacturers. The extracts also varied widely in protein and carbohydrate content and in the ratio of these parameters, indicating internal heterogeneity. Pc content was significantly related to RAST potency for extracts of A. fumigatus and A. tenuis, suggesting that Pc content may be used as a primary standarization procedure for these extracts. Skin test reactions undertaken at a single concentration did not show any significant variation in weal size between preparations of a given allergen extract. However, of particular importance to practising clinicians is the finding that varying numbers of patients showed negative skin reactions to one preparation of a particular allergen yet were positive to the corresponding preparations supplied by the other companies.
Long‐term study of flunisolide treatment in perennial rhinitis with special reference to nasal mucosal histology and morphology
Authors: SAHAY J. N. , IBRAHIM N. B. N. , CHATTERJEE S. S. , NASSAR W. Y. , LODGE K. V. , JONES C. W.
Published: April 2006

Ten patients with allergic perennial rhinitis completed a 3‐month course of treatment with flunisolide nasal spray†. Biopsy of the nasal mucosa was carried out before the initiation of treatment and at the end of the treatment period.

The flunisolide was administered as a 0.025% solution twice daily at a total daily dose of 200μg. No histological abnormalities which could have been attributed to the effects of the drug were found in the post‐treatment biopsies.

Comparison of the pre‐ and post‐treatment histological features showed either that there had been no apparent changes or that there had been a reduction in the oedema and/or cellular infiltration which had been present initially. All except one patient improved clinically and in this case the pre‐treatment nasal biopsy demonstrated features of atrophic rhinitis.
Intranasal topical flunisolide therapy in children with seasonal allergic rhinitis
Authors: GALE A. E. , SOLOMON E. , TAO B. S. K.
Published: April 2006

This study tested the effectiveness of flunisolide in the treatment of children with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Thirty‐five children between the ages of 5 and 14 years used an intransal preparation of either flunisolide (200 μg/day) or placebo for a 6‐week double‐blind parallel trial consisting of a 2‐week baseline phase and a 4‐week treatment phase, conducted during a period of ‘high’ pollen counts in Adelaide, South Australia.

Flunisolide was effective in reducing four symptoms of hay fever: sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose and eye itch. Sixty‐four percent of the flunisolide‐treated group and 33% of the placebo‐treated group noted substantial or total control of their hay fever symptoms (P <0.05).

The effect of the intranasal administration of flunisolide on the pituitary‐adrenal axis was monitored by performing plasma cortisol measurements (a.m. and p.m.) and 24‐hr urinary free cortisol excretion studies for each patient. The data confirmed that 200 μg/day intranasal flunisolide does not suppress the pituitary‐adrenal‐axis in this young patient population.
The role of calcium in the generation of intracellular SRS‐A in passively sensitized human lung challenged with antigen
Authors: HUTCHCROFT B. J. , ORANGE R. P.
Published: April 2006

Calcium deprivation inhibits the formation and subsequent release of SRS‐A as well as histamine from passively sensitized human lung fragments challenged with antigen. Antimycin A inhibits the release of histamine and SRS‐A in a dose dependant fashion, while causing a mild inhibition of SRS‐A formation throughout the dose range studied. These data suggest that the influx of calcium is the critical event for the generation of SRS‐A within the cell.
The atopic syndrome: in vitro immunological characteristics of clinically defined subgroups of atopic subjects
Authors: TURNER M. W. , BROSTOFF J. , MOWBRAY J. F. , SKELTON ANTOINETTE
Published: April 2006

Total IgE, selected specific IgE antibody levels, C2 and yeast opsonization were measured in four clinically defined subgroups of atopic patients who had previously been HLA‐typed. Each group was characterized by a distinctive mean total IgE level and profile of specific IgE responses. All groups gave comparable levels of IgE antibodies to Timothy grass pollen but in patients initially presenting with infantile eczema and who subsequently developed asthma and/or hay fever, IgE antibodies to bovine milk proteins, egg ovalbumin and cat dander were frequently observed whereas in patients initially presenting with hay fever later in life these antibodies were usually absent. Computer assisted analysis failed to show any association between IgE antibody responses and (a) the HLA phenotypes A1,B8 and A3,B7 (b) C2 levels and (c) the yeast opsonization index.
Inhibition of platelet aggregation by tartrazine and a pyrazolone analogue in normal and allergic individuals
Authors: GALLAGHER J. S. , SPLANSKY G. L. , BERNSTEIN I. L.
Published: April 2006

The effect of tartrazine (T) (yellow dye No. 5) and one of its metabolites an aminopyrazolone analogue (1‐sulphophenyl‐3‐carboxy‐5‐hydroxypyruzole, SCHP) upon collagen‐induced platelet aggregation (C‐PA) was investigated in fourteen atopic patients and fourteen normal subjects. Both T and SCHP inhibited C‐PA in atopic patients at significantly lower doses than in normal volunteers. The mean inhibitory concentrations of SCHP were similar to aspirin in both atopic and normal individuals. Although the precise mechanism by which these chemicals block C‐PA has not been elucidated, this in vitro system may be a useful method of assessing non‐immune mechanisms involved in reactions to tartrazine.
Pulmonary disease in workers exposed to papain: clinico‐physiological and immunological studies
Authors: NOVEY H. S , KEENAN W. J. , FAIRSHTER R. D. , WELLS I. D. , WILSON A. F. , CULVER B. D.
Published: April 2006

Of the twenty‐three employees at a pharmaceutical plant manufacturing a new product containing papain, twelve had respiratory symptoms of cough, wheezing, dyspnoea, or chest paint. Most were studied with in‐depth interviews by a doctor, extensive pulmonary function tests, and imnunoserological tests for IgE and precipitating antibodies specific for papain, as well as total IgE levels and IgE antibodies to common natural allergens.

There were significant correlates (all P values <0.05) between the presence of specific IgE antibodies to papain and decreases of FEV1, FEF75–85, RV, and response to bronchodilators as percentage change from baseline for all spirographic flow rates. Atopic workers developed pulmonary symptoms and antipapain antibodies significantly sooner after papain exposure than did the others.

Duration of exposure had no effect on symptomatology, pulmonary function, or immunological response. However, those judged to have the greatest amount of dust exposure per work‐day had significantly more pulmonary symptoms (P < 0.005).

Papain produced lung diseases by acting as an inhalant allergen rather than a proteolytic enzyme, Papain is a potent sensitizer in humans for the production of respiratory disease. The pulmonary reactions, based on physiological data, seem to involve small airways, alveolar, and interstitial lung tissue in an inflammatory rather than destructive manner, and thus resemble bronchitis and interstitial lung disease rather than pulmonary emphysema or typical bronchial asthma.
Oesophagitis—a complication of inhaled steroid therapy
Authors: HEMSTREET M. P. B , REYNOLDS D. W. , MEADOWS J.
Published: April 2006

The hazards of steroid therapy, both inhaled and oral, in the asthmatic patient are well recognized. The following case report presents an unusual complication of steroid therapy, namely, that of a concomitant Candida and Herpes simplex oesophagitis occurring in a steroid‐dependent 15‐year‐old asthmatic who had been maintained on inhaled beclomethasone for approximately 15 months. Oesophagoscopy revealed a ‘cottage cheese’ appearance of the distal oesophagus. Cultures of the biopsy specimens obtained during oesophagoscopy grew Candida and Herpes simplex virus. Lymphocyte stimulation studies were consistent with a primary cellular response, although the neutralizing antibody titres to the Herpes simplex virus were intially high and remained stable throughout the illness and convalescent period. The patient responded well to oral nystatin therapy and developed no evidence of disseminated herpes. Eleven months after the initial episode, the patient's oropharynx cultured Herpes simplex virus but not Candida.

Doctors who care for asthmatic patients need to be aware of the possibility of a herpetic as well as a candidal oesophagitis as a significant complication of inhaled steroid therapy.
Prick testing for allergens standardized by using a precision needle
Authors: BROWN H. M. , SU S. , THANTREY N.
Published: April 2006

A new standardized precision needle which virtually removes operator variation from skin prick testing with allegens is described. The instrument is simple and robust, and the results of its use are demonstrated. The most important finding was that the use of strong pollen extracts produced very inconsistent and irregular weals, but when suitably diluted, or used on mildly sensitive skins, reproducibility of the response was excellent and it is therefore ideal for titration of skin sensitivity and biological assessment of the potency of allergens. The standard needle was also compared with two other methods of skin prick testing. Results were similar but the standard needle showed the least variation.
A pulmonary survey of grain handlers in the West of Scotland
Authors: PATEL K. R. , SYMINGTON I. S. , POLLOCK R. , SHAW A.
Published: April 2006

A pulmonary survey was undertaken in a large granary in the West of Scotland. The lung functions and respiratory symptoms were compared in nineteen atopic and fifty‐six non‐atopic grain handlers with reference to their smoking habits and also to forty‐eight control subjects with no previous exposure to grain dust. Cigarette smokers from the granary workers and the control group had more respiratory symptoms and significantly lower PF, FEV1, V25 and V50. The atopic grain handlers, on the other hand, had better ventilatory functions compared to non‐atopic workers. This difference in the atopic group may be related to their lower cigarette consumption, shorter service in the granary or the process of self selection. The grain handlers with wheeze or breathlessness at work had significantly higher incidence of restrictive type MEFV curves and this could not be attributed to increased cigarette consumption, atopy or longer duration of employment and there was no correlation between severity of symptoms and occupational exposure. Although PF, FEV1, FVC, V25, V50 and V75failed to show significant differences in granary workers and controls, the shape of MEFV curve may have significance as a sensitive indicator of the effect of grain dust as a preclinical stage.
Anaphylaxis due to succinylcholine
Authors: MONERET‐VAUTRIN D. A. , LAXENAIRE M. C. , MOELLER R.
Published: April 2006

The antigen non‐specific release of histamine by synthetic neuromuscular blocking agents is well known, though our review of thirty‐two cases reported in the literature of anaphylactoid reactions to succinylcholine, shows that there is insufficient evidence to determine whether the signs are due to anaphylactic or to anaphylactoid reactions.

We have examined thirteen cases in whom evidence of anaphylactic sensitization was examined by direct skin tests (in eleven cases) Prausnitz‐Küstner tests (in five), rabbit basophil degranulation, Shelley test (in twelve) and human basophil degranulation (in seven). These tests were done on two to four occasions, and the optimal period for the first test ascertained to be 6 to 12 weeks after the episode. All eleven patients examined by direct skin tests showed evidence of anaphylactic sensitivity, and in three of five cases the sensitivity could be transferred by the Prausnitz‐Küstner procedure. In one of these P‐K tests there was evidence of both IgE and of IgG S‐TS antibodies (heat‐stable antibody conferring sensitivity for 2 hr).

Particular susceptibilities to adverse reactions to this drug appear to be prior drug allergy (in 50% of cases), several previous anaesthetics, and atopy.
A study of immunoglobulin G subclasses in patients with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: STOKES T. C. , TURTON C. W. G. , TURNER‐WARWICK M.
Published: April 2006

Total IgG, IgG subclass and total IgE levels were measured in thirty‐one patients with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (APBA), and age‐matched groups of extrinsic asthmatics and normal controls. Compared to controls, total IgG was significantly greater in ABPA (P < 0.01) and asthmatics (P0.01); IgG1 levels were also greater in ABPA (P < 0.01) and asthma (P < 0.01). In ABPA alone the levels of IgG2 (P < 0.05), IgG3 (P < 0.01) and IgG4 (P < 0.05) were greater than in controls, while the asthmatics did not differ significantly from either of these groups. There was no correlation between total IgE and any of the subclases in the three groups.
An open comparison of dosage frequencies of beclomethasone dipropionate in seasonal allergic rhinitis
Authors: MUNCH E. , GOMEZ G. , HARRIS C. , LACK R. P. , EDWARDS V. A. , O'CONNOR P. , SNOWDEN D. V. , MYGIND N.
Published: April 2006

In an open group‐comparative study, 123 adult patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis were allocated at random to one of three treatment groups; each of which received a daily dose of 400 μg beclomethasone dipropionate as (1) one puff in each nostril four times daily, (2) two puffs in each nostril twice daily and (3) four puffs in each nostril once per day. The result of treatment was assessed on daily symptom scores and the use of antihistamine tablets. There were no statistically significant differences between the three groups. The results indicate that it is unnecessary to give beclomethasone dipropionate nasal spray four times daily, and treatment in the morning and in the evening is recommended.
Increased release of histamine by anti‐IgE from leucocytes of asthmatic patients and possible heterogeneity of IgE
Authors: ASSEM E. S. K. , ATTALLAH N. A.
Published: April 2006

A study was made of the significantly increased amounts of histamine released by anti‐IgE from the leucocytes of asthmatic and allergic patients, particularly in patients with a low level of serum IgE. By measuring cell‐bound IgE and histamine release with anti‐IgE, particularly after passive sensitization of human leucocytes, it was possible to show that serum IgE in some allergic patients differed from that in normal subjects in two respects. Firstly, it appeared to have a relatively high leucocyte binding affinity, though this could not be proved conclusively. Secondly, and more importantly, IgE of some patients could more readily mediate histamine release with anti‐IgE, that is to say it had a greater efficacy. These properties should be differentiated from another feature of allergic individuals, that is the more ready releasability of histamine from the patients' own leucocytes.
Human antibodies against antigens of the sparrow, blackbird, weaver finch, canary, budgerigar, pigeon and hen using the indirect immunofluorescent technique
Authors: SENNEKAMP J. , LANGE GABRIELE , NERGER K. , BERDEL D. , MEIER‐SYDOW J.
Published: April 2006

Detection of antibodies against various birds, particularly against exotic birds, can be facilitated using the sensitive immunofluorescent technique on avian fixed‐intestine cryostat sections. Different fluorescent patterns corresponding to different human anti‐avian antibodies have been observed. Sixty of 100 human sera containing antibodies against one avian species, predominantly pigeon, reacted also with all other avian species intestines; the remaining forty were more specific and reacted with a few species only. Cross reactions with antigens in song bird intestines indicate the presence of a broad spectrum of antibodies in patients with bird fancier's lung.
A clinical comparison of topical clobetasone butyrate and sodium cromoglycate in allergic conjunctivitis
Authors: FRANKLAND A. W. , WALKER S. R.
Published: April 2006

Clobetasone butyrate (0.1%), a new topical corticosteroid eye preparation for the treatment of ocular inflammation, has been compared with sodium cromoglycate (2%) eye drops in thirty‐nine patients experiencing allergic conjunctivitis during the hay fever season. In this double‐blind, within‐patient comparative study both preparations were effective in relieving the patients' symptoms of conjunctivitis. However, clobetasone butyrate was clinically more effective than sodium cromoglycate as determined by symptom score card analysis (P<0.01) and the patients' overall assessment of treatment (P<0.05). Patients' preference for the treatment of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis was markedly in favour of clobetasone butyrate (P<0.001).
Sodium cromoglycate delivered by pressurized aerosol in the treatment of asthma
Authors: SO S. Y. , YU D. Y. C.
Published: April 2006

Sodium cromoglycate (SCG) powder often clumps in the presence of high humidity, making inhalation ineffective. A pressurized aerosol containing 1 mg SCG per actuation was made; and a double‐blind cross‐over trial in twenty‐four young patients with perennial extrinsic asthma over 8 weeks showed that 2 mg of SCG aerosol was as effective as 20 mg of the powder, and almost all patients preferred using the aerosol.
Modulation of Fc receptors of thymus‐derived lymphocytes by antigen E in ragweed‐sensitive and ragweed non‐sensitive subjects
Authors: ONG K. S. , GRIECO M. H.
Published: April 2006

In ragweed‐sensitive and ragweed non‐sensitive subjects the proportions of T lymphocytes bearing receptors for the Fc portion of IgG (Tγ) and IgM (Tμ) were examined as obtained from the blood, and after treatment in vitro with ragweed antigen E or concanavalin‐A.

The proportion of Tγ and Tμ cells, from the peripheral blood of ragweed‐sensitive and ragweed non‐sensitive persons, untreated in vitro, were not statistically different. However when T cells from ragweed‐sensitive subjects were exposed to ragweed antigen E, the Tμ subpopulation was significantly increased (P < 0.001) without change in the Tγ population. The reverse change occurred when cells of ragweed non‐sensitive subjects were treated with antigen E; there was an increase in the Tγ subpopulation (P= 0.01) but no change in number of the Tμ cells. Cells from both the sensitive and non‐sensitive groups showed increase in number of Tγ and reduced numbers of Tμ cells when incubated with concanavalin A.

Since Tγ and Tμ cells appear to have a regulatory function on B lymphocyte differentiation and antibody production, the pattern of responses of Tγ and Tμ subpopulations in vitro to antigen E in ragweed‐sensitive and ragweed non‐sensitive subjects may reflect a difference in the cellular control of the immune response to ragweed antigen E.
Amplification of the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for measuring allergen‐specific IgE and IgG antibody
Authors: METZGER W. J. , BUTLER J. E. , SWANSON PRISCILLA , REINDERS* E. , RICHERSON H. B.
Published: April 2006

The amplified enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (a‐ELISA) has been successfully applied to the measurement of allergen‐specific IgE and IgG antibodies. Data presented indicate a high positive correlation among measurements of IgE‐specific antibodies to ragweed antigen E using the a‐ELISA, RAST and radiometric assay of Zeiss. Similarly, a high correlation between allergen‐specific IgG antibodies measured by the a‐ELISA and Farr assay was also observed. Data presented indicate that the measurement of serum IgE antibodies in the linear region of the ELISA titration plot is unaffected by competition with IgG antibodies. The assay is sensitive, reliable, and without risk to laboratory personnel. It is capable of measuring both IgE and IgG antibodies in patients using the same assay system.
Chronic urticaria and angioedema
Authors: SMALL P. , BARRETT DOREEN , BISKIN NATALIE , CHAMPLIN EUNICE
Published: April 2006

Of 231 patients evaluated for chronic urticaria and angioedema (CUA), 192 were diagnosed as having an idiopathic condition. The roles of serum IgE, complement (CH50), and immune complexes (IC) were investigated in 112 patients with idiopathic CUA. Immediate skin tests were not helpful, but total IgE was elevated in 13%, equally divided between dermographic (D) and non‐dermographic (ND) patients. Depressed haemolytic complement (CH50) was noted in 10% of CUA, all of whom were D. Serum IC were elevated in 38%, equally divided between D and ND patients. There was no relationship between depressed CH50and elevated IC. Skin biopsies, evaluated by both light and immunofluorescent techniques, were negative for all specimens tested.

The pathophysiology of idiopathic CUA is multifactorial, with a variety of immunological mechanisms involving serum IgE, CH50, and IC. The relationship between depressed CH50and dermographism was noted but unexplained by serum or tissue studies.
Asthma associated with a circulating IgG antibody to Calliphora maggots
Authors: STOCKLEY R. A. , HILL S. L. , DREW R.
Published: April 2006

The case report of an angler with delayed onset asthma, following fishing with Calliphora (Blue Bottle) maggots, is presented. The investigations showed that the symptoms were associated with the presence of a circulating IgG antibody to a crude water soluble maggot extract. The patient progressed to develop symptoms suggestive of immune complex disease.
Specific serum IgE antibodies to bacterial antigens in allergic lung disease*
Authors: TEE ROSEMARY D. , PEPYS J.
Published: April 2006

A radio‐allergosorbent test (RAST) to measure specific IgE antibodies in man to whole bacterial cells of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcasaureus and Haemophilus influenzae was developed to investigate different well‐defined lung diseases (chronic bronchitis, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, cystic fibrosis) and also in urticaria as compared with non‐atopic blood donors, in addition, total IgE values and skin prick tests were assessed in these patients.

The ABPA group gave the highest specific IgE RAST scores to all three bacteria. whilst the chronic bronchitis and cystic fibrosis groups also gave raised RAST scores withH. influenzae.

There was a positive correlation between the patients' Sta. aureus and Str. pneumoniae immediate‐type skin reactions and their RAST scores and total serum IgE concentrations, but there was only a low incidence of immediate‐type skin test positivity to H. influenzae.
Eosinophilia VI, spontaneous synthesis of chemokinetic, chemotactic, complement receptor‐inducing activities for eosinophils by bronchial T lymphocytes of asthmatic‐bronchitic patients
Authors: PARISH W. E. , LUCKHURST E.
Published: April 2006

T lymphocytes were separated from the bronchial mucus of five patients with extrinsic asthma and chronic mild bronchitis and who had numerous eosinophils in the bronchial mucus but no significant blood eosinophilia. The bronchial lymphocytes spontaneously, that is without treatment with antigens or mitogens, released into serum‐free synthetic medium one or more substances in the molecular weight range of 30 000 to 60 000 daltons. These substances when tested on eosinophils of normal persons stimulated random movement (chemokinesis), attracted them (chemotaxis), enhanced their chemotactic response to activated complement, and increased the expression of C4 and C3b receptors. Chemokinetic and chemotactic activity for neutropils was weak. No eosinophil‐stimulating activity was found in cultures of bronchial lymphocytes treated with puromycin to inhibit synthesis. The blood lymphocytes did not spontaneously synthesize the substance(s).

It is not known if the several eosinophil‐stimulating activities are due to one or more substance(s), but the nature of the eosinophil responses, molecular weight and other features, indicate similarities with the ‘eosinophil stimulation promoter‐chemotactic’ factor reported to be released from mouse or human lymphocytes treated with antigen.

Eosinophil stimulation resulting in increased expression of specific receptors, and potential for non‐specific adherence, by trapping or arresting randomly migrating cells, is believed to mediate accumulation of cells in an affected organ. Prolonged synthesis of such products, as from activated lymphocytes in the lung, could account for much of the local eosinophilia.
Specific IgA and IgE in childhood asthma, eczema and food allergy
Authors: TAYLOR B. , FERGUSSON D. M. , MAHONEY G. N. , HARTLEY W. A. , ABBOTT J.
Published: April 2006

Allergen‐specific IgA and IgE antibodies were compared in 250 children with asthma (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, rye grass pollen), in eighty‐six children with eczema (whole egg, cow's milk) and in two groups of children with egg and cow's milk allergy.

In each of the conditions investigated, food allergy, asthma and eczema, increasing atopy was associated with increasing specific IgE levels to relevant allergens.

There was no association of high IgE antibody levels with low IgA antibody levels in any of the conditions or allergens studied. There was, however, a tendency for subjects with more severe asthma to have high IgA levels with high IgE levels. IgA deficiency does not appear to be associated with atopic conditions of childhood.
The use of cultures and immunologic procedures to predict oropharyngeal candidiasis in patients on steroid aerosols
Authors: SPECTOR S. L. , WANGAARD CAROLYN , BARDANA E. J.
Published: April 2006

Sixty‐seven asthmatic individuals treated with either beclomethasone diproprionate or flunisolide were sequentially evaluated for up to 32 months to determine the incidence of oropharyngeal candidiasis as well as laboratory parameters which might be predictive of this complication. Throat cultures and measurements of Candida antibody by immunodiffusion and radioimmunoassay were performed and compared over time and treatment groups. Unlike other studies, pre‐treatment Candida precipitins did not predict increased risk for clinical thrush nor did quantitative determinations of Candida antibody. Those patients with positive cultures pre‐trial, however, had a significantly higher incidence of clinical thrush than those with negative cultures (P < 0.01).

No significant changes occurred over time or between drugs for any of the parameters. Symptomatic thrush, however, was slightly more common in those patients treated with beclomethasone.
Elemental diet in the management of severe eczema in childhood
Authors: HILL D. J. , LYNCH BETTY C.
Published: April 2006

Eight children with severe, generalized, childhood eczema, uncontrolled by standard dermatological treatment, underwent a period of dietary antigen‐avoidance, using an elemental based diet. For the group, there was statistically significant improvement in eczema during treatment with the elemental diet, and relapse of eczema followed within 6 weeks of returning to a normal diet. The results suggest dietary factors are important in childhood eczema.
Suppressor cells in asthmatic children
Authors: HUGHES D. A. , HUTCHINS P. , HINDOCHA P. , WOOD C. B. S.
Published: April 2006

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from thirteen asthmatic children, and from normal control subjects, were pre‐incubated with and without concanavalin A (con A), washed, and cultured with fresh allogenic PBMC from healthy donors. The con A pre‐treated cells from fifteen of seventeen normal controls clearly suppressed the blast transformation response to con A by normal allogeneic PBMC. However, con A‐generated suppressor activity was found in only seven of the asthmatic patients studied, most of whom could be classified as ‘short‐term’ asthmatics. It is thus possible that either dysfunction or a reduction of the (con A)‐inducible, T‐suppressor cell subpopulation in peripheral blood is frequent among ‘long‐term’ asthmatic patients. This may suggest that a different pathogenesis may be operating in early‐onset, long‐continued asthma, when compared with those investigated early in the course of asthma which has begun later in childhood.
House dust mites in Bristol
Authors: CARSWELL F. , ROBINSON D. W. , OLIVER J. , CLARK J. , ROBINSON P. , WADSWORTH J.
Published: April 2006

A survey of bedding in Bristol revealed reducing mite concentrations on children's toys, mattresses, overblankets and pillows.

Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus was the commonest mite found. A vacuuming schedule was devised for removing mites so that a double blind trial could be carried out. Investigation suggests that even with expert utilization of efficient vacuum cleaners the clinical efficacy would be limited as the mites appear to rapidly migrate back into the bedding.
The effect of Iodoxamide tromethamine on the immediate asthmatic response to allergen provocation
Authors: OLLIER S. , GRAHAM V. A. L. , BENTLEY S. , DAVIES R. J.
Published: April 2006

The inhibition of immediate allergen‐induced airflow obstruction by lodoxamide tromethamine (LT), a new drug with properties considered to be similar to those of sodium cromoglycate, was studied in twelve young asthmatic volunteers. Single aerosolized doses of 0.01 mg LT, 0.1 mg LT or placebo were administered by inhalation 15 min prior to allergen provocation at weekly intervals, in a double‐blind random order study. Following inhalation of both doses of LT a significantly greater amount of allergen had to be administered to cause a 20% fall in the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) from control levels than was the case following placebo pre‐treatment (P < 0.001). After single‐dose inhalation of LT only minor unwanted effects were recorded; in particular a transient feeling of heat in the upper respiratory tract after inhalation of the higher dose of drug.
IgD antibodies: in vitro blocking activity of IgE mediated reactions
Authors: BRINGEL H. , VELA C. , URENA V. , GURBINDO D. , GARCIA R. , LAHOZ C.
Published: April 2006

Sera from 177 atopic patients treated by immunotherapy were screened in order to detect IgD antibodies against a purified fraction of Lollium perenne (fractions C). IgD antibodies were found in 23% of the subjects. Eight of these sera were selected and their IgD isolated by means of immunoabsorption. The in vitro biological activity of the IgD antibodies against fraction C was tested by three methods: basophil degranulation, histamine release and RAST inhibition test. In all these assays, the data obtained indicated a possible blocking effect of the IgD antibodies upon the IgE in vitro mediated reactions.
Serum IgA, IgG, IgM and IgD in allergic (type I) and non‐allergic respiratory diseases
Authors: STEVENS W. J. , de BACKER W. , VERMEIRE P. A.
Published: April 2006

Serum immunoglobulin levels A, G, M, D have been studied in 902 patients suffering from allergic or non‐allergic asthma, rhinitis and cough or various combinations of these disorders. In addition, a control group of asymptomatic persons was included. Serum IgA and IgD levels were significantly lower in both the allergic and non allergic groups of patients as compared to the control group, indicating that this decrease is a common feature for all patient groups studies. Serum IgA was significantly increased in amount in smokers. Serum IgA and IgG levels increased significantly with age. Females showed significantly higher serum IgM levels as compared to males. Atopic eczema did not seem to influence the serum level of immunoglobulin classes A, G, M or D.
Radioallergosorbent testing with p‐tolyl monoisocyanate in toluene diisocyanate workers
Authors: BUTCHER B. T. , O'NEIL C. E. , REED M. A. , SALVAGGIO E.
Published: April 2006

Sera from 149 occupationally exposed toluene diisocyanate (TDI) workers were tested by RAST with p‐tolyl monoisocyanate human serum albumin (TMI‐HSA). Of the seven positives, one had a history suggestive of TDI asthma and one had a rash which may have been TDI related. These results indicate that false positive RAST with TMI‐HSA may occur in asymptomatic workers.
New in vitro method for detecting asthma allergen
Authors: KIMURA I. , TANIZAKI Y. , GODA Y. , SASAKI Y. , AKAGI K. , KOBAYASHI M. , SODA R.
Published: April 2006

Changes in the morphology and number of basophils were examined after the addition in vitro of house dust extract in cells from seventy‐seven patients with bronchial asthma. Morphological changes (reactive basophils) showed a close relation to the end‐point titrations of antigen in skin tests, RAST score and bronchial provocation tests, but changes in number of basophils did not. With a RAST score of 2 or greater the change in reactive basophils varied from 40 to 80% (mean 58‐1%), which was much greater than seen in persons with no RAST, score 0. Patients with positive bronchial inhalation tests, showed 40 to 80% (mean 57.8%) reactive basophils, whereas persons with a negative bronchial challenge test showed a range of reactive basophils from 0 to 50% (mean 28.9%). The difference in percentage of reactive basophils between the positive and negative groups of persons tested by bronchial inhalation was statistically significant.
Stabilization of a diluted aqueous mite allergen preparation by addition of human serum albumin
Authors: NAERDAL Å. , VILSVIK J. S.
Published: April 2006

Stability of diluted Spectralgen Dermatophagoides farinae allergen preparations in phenol‐saline with, and without human serum albumin (HSA) has been studied by intracutaneous tests in mite‐allergic patients. The phenol‐saline reconstituted mite allergen preparation lost activity to less than 1/10 of initial activity within 1 week, while mite allergen preparation reconstituted with solvent containing HSA was stable for at least 8 months after reconstitution. Human serum albumin probably prevents adsorption of allergens to glass surfaces which may be a problem for very diluted allergen preparations.
The late bronchus‐obstructive response to bronchial challenge with pigeon faeces and its correlation with precipitating antibodies (IgG) in the serum of patients having long‐term contact with pigeons
Authors: PELIKAN Z. , SCHOT J. D. L. , KOEDIJK F. H. J.
Published: April 2006

From a total of 160 patients with allergic bronchial asthma or chronic asthmatic bronchitis, eighteen (11.3%) patients reported being regularly exposed to pigeons. In these eighteen patients, bronchial provocation tests with pigeon faeces were performed and the precipitating antibodies (IgG) in their serum against pigeon faeces and serum were estimated. Of the eighteen patients, seven (39%) demonstrated a ‘late bronchus‐obstructive response’ to pigeon faeces. Three patients developed only an ‘isolated late response’ and in the other four patients the late response occurred as a part of the ‘dual response’. In the seven patients with the positive late bronchial response, the precipitating antibodies in their serum to pigeon faeces were positive in five (71%) and to pigeon serum in two (28%) of them. The late skin responses to pigeon faeces were positive in five (71%) patients, the blood eosinophilia increased in six (86%) of them, a slight pyrexia occurred in two (28%) and general malaise symptoms appeared in six (86%) of them. None of these patients developed changes on the chest X‐ray during the late response. The remaining eleven patients did not develop any bronchial response to pigeon faeces challenge, although in six (55%) of them the late skin responses were positive, and two (18%) had precipitating antibodies in the serum to pigeon faeces and one (9%) to pigeon serum. It is concluded that positive precipitating antibodies in the serum to pigeon faeces and serum are important parameters for detection of pigeon breeder's disease in exposed individuals, however confirmation of this diagnosis should be provided by the bronchial provocation tests.
Site of airflow obstruction in immediate and late reactions to bronchial challenge with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinum
Authors: MACINTYRE D. , BOYD G.
Published: April 2006

The density dependence of maximum flow in ten atopic asthmatics was assessed by response to breathing a helium‐oxygen mixture. They were then subjected to bronchial challenge by Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and density dependence re‐assessed during early and late bronchial reactions. There was considerable individual variation in the density dependence before challenge and in the change in density dependence during induced bronchospasm. However, for any given individual the results were similar during early and late reactions. This suggests that the major site of airflow obstruction may vary from one asthmatic to another but that when antigen challenge is followed by a dual early and late reaction the site of obstruction is similar at each stage.
Venom‐specific IgE and IgG antibodies as a measure of the degree of protection in insect‐sting‐sensitive patients
Authors: URBANEK R. , KRAUSS U. , ZIUPA J. , SMEDEGÅRD G.
Published: April 2006

Venom‐specific IgE and IgG antibodies were measured in the sera of bee‐venom‐sensitive patients during a 3‐year hyposensitization period. The level of specific IgG antibodies initially increased, and 2 months after the start of therapy, this increase was on average five‐fold. A concomitant hut non‐significant increase in specific IgE antibodies was also observed initially. Later during the treatment period specific IgE antibodies showed a continuous decline and after 3 years the level was one third of the pre‐treatment level. Venom‐specific IgG antibodies, however, remained above the pre‐treatment level. The disappearance of the severe allergic reactions was related to the level of both IgE and IgG antibodies as demonstrated in seventy‐six bee sting challenges. In patients with specific IgG antibody levels above 400 u/ml, no severe reactions were observed even if the patient had levels of specific IgE‐ antibodies of RAST class 3 or 4. These data suggest that the relationship between venom‐specific IgE and IgG antibodies permits an evaluation of the state of immunity to insect stings.
The effect of ketotifen on aspirin‐induced asthmatic reactions
Authors: DELANEY J. C.
Published: April 2006

The effectiveness of prophylactic treatment with ketotifen was assessed in ten asthmatic patients with aspirin idiosyncrasy in a randomized double blind trial. Increased airways obstruction following challenge with aspirin was significantly reduced when patients were pre‐treated with ketotifen.
Mould counts and exacerbations of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: RADIN R. C. , GREENBERGER P. A. , PATTERSON R. , GHORY ANN
Published: April 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine whether exacerbations of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) were associated with the total outdoor mould counts in the Chicago area. From 1976–1980, forty‐nine flares of ABPA (new pulmonary infiltrate with elevation in total serum IgE) occurred in nineteen patients. Thirty‐eight (77.5%) of flares occurred during months June through November in association with increased outdoor mould counts in Chicago. This association confirms earlier observations from the U.K. where during the peak mould season which occurs in winter months, there was an increased number of pulmonary infiltrates and average prednisone doses required in ABPA.
Human nail dust and precipitating antibodies to Trichophyton rubrum in chiropodists
Authors: DAVIES R. R. , GANDERTON M. A. , SAVAGE M. A.
Published: April 2006

The toe‐nail dust produced in chiropodial practice causes allergic hypersensitivity and Trichophyton rubrum is the most common fungal cause of nail dystrophy. Use of drills and burrs to reduce the thickness of hyperkeratotic nails generates dust and chiropodists develop precipitins to T. rubrum. A survey into the prevalence of these antibodies in 11.2% of state‐registered chiropodists is described and 14% of the profession estimated to have antibodies to T. rubrum. In response to a questionnaire 49% stated that toe‐nail dust troubled them; complaints of nasal and eye symptoms were 72 and 41% respectively. In 384 chiropodists ventilatory function was tested with a vitalograph. Restrictive lung disease appears to be more common in chiropodists than other sedentary workers.
A community survey of IgG4 antibody levels
Authors: MERRETT J. , BURR M. L. , MERRETT T. G.
Published: April 2006

Precise and specific radioimmunoassays have been developed to quantify IgG4 and IgG4 antibodies. A community survey has demonstrated that men have significantly higher total serum lgG4 levels than women: geometric mean values of 0.581 mg/ml versus 0.302 mg/ml. This sex difference was extended to total IgE values. Circulating levels of IgG4 antibodies against foods, especially egg‐and milk, were normally higher than those against the three most common U.K. inhalant allergens–grass pollen, house dust mite and cat epithelium,
Allergy to inhaled egg material
Authors: EDWARDS J. H. , MCCONNOCHIE K. , TROTMAN D. M. , COLLINS G. , SAUNDERS M. J. , LATHAM S. M.
Published: April 2006

The use of a spray system to coat meat rolls with egg solution resulted in the development of asthmatic type symptoms in eight of thirteen workers exposed to the spray. Symptoms were severe in five workers, less severe in two, and one worker experienced vague symptoms. Even though precipitins were present in nine of the workers there were no pyrexial episodes nor influenza‐like symptoms occurring some hours after inhaling the egg material to suggest extrinsic allergic alveolitis.

All sera with precipitins reacted against an antigen in egg yolk, two sera only to this antigen but no precipitins to ovalbumin were detected. Lung function, X‐ray and haematology provided no evidence that the inhalation of egg had lasting detrimental effects.

There was no correlation between clinical response, skin testing, IgE levels and precipitins, hence, for each individual none of these parameters is predictive. However, collectively the results show sensitization and this has been confirmed by lack of symptoms when a different method of coating the pastry was adopted.