bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of the Late Phase Response to Anti‐IgE in Humans by Indomethacin
Authors: GRÖNNEBERG R. , ZETTERSTRÖM O.
Published: May 2007

The hypothesis of cyclooxygenase derivates of arachidonic acid as putative mediators of late phase skin reactions (LPR) was evaluated by studying the effect of indomethacin and naproxen on anti‐IgE elicited skin reactions in healthy volunteers. Indomethacin 50 mg t.i.d., 48 h prior to and up to 24 h following challenge with anti‐IgE 1/3300 (v/v), produced a slight attenuation of the flare response and a 35% inhibition of the LPR (P < 0.05) at 1‐24 h as compared with placebo (n = 11). Naproxen, 250 mg, b.i.d. showed analogous anti‐LPR effect (n = 4, P < 0.05). Intradermally (i.d.) injected indomethacin, 75 μg (7 × 10−3 mol/1), attenuated the flare and LPR to anti‐IgE 1/330 at 1‐6 h (n = 12, P < 0.01). Indomethacin, oral and i.d., enhanced the LPR to various dilutions of anti‐IgE in 30% of the individuals. The results suggest that prostaglandins and thromboxanes participate in the development of an LPR in human skin.
Mediators of Hypersensitivity and “Fog”‐Induced Asthma
Authors: SHAW R. J. , ANDERSON S. D. , DURHAM S. R. , TAYLOR K. M. , SCHOEFFEL R. E. , GREEN W. , TORZILLO P. , KAY A. B.
Published: May 2007

Seven asthmatic and five normal subjects inhaled increasing amounts of nebulized water (“fog”). Neutrophil chemotactic activity (NCA), histamine and FEV1 measurements were undertaken before and at time intervals after challenge. In asthmatics, the mean maximal reduction in FEV1 (± 1 SD) was 46.6%± 11.5; whereas, in normal subjects, the reductions were less than 20% of pre‐challenge values after the inhalation of 33 ml of water. There were no significant differences in the pre‐challenge values for NCA between the asthmatics and the normal controls. When the highest values for NCA during the 30 min after challenge in the asthmatics were compared with controls there was a significant increase (P < 0.02). The percentage change in NCA was also significantly greater in the asthmatics compared with the controls at 10 min after challenge (P < 0.05). Fog‐induced NCA was shown to be associated with proteins with approximate molecular weight of 600,000 daltons (as assessed by gel filtration chromatography on Sephacryl‐S400). There was an increase in plasma histamine in the asthmatics after challenge but this was not significantly greater than the controls. These findings support the view that mediators might be involved in fog‐induced asthma, possibly as a result of mast cell degranulation by “osmotic shock”.
Treatment of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis with Budesonide and Disodium Cromoglycate
Authors: BJERRUM P. , ILLUM P.
Published: May 2007

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and side effects of budesonide and disodium Cromoglycate (DSCG) in seasonal allergic rhinitis. In a double‐blind, double‐dummy comparative study, 43 patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis were either treated with budesonide (200 fig b.d.) or DSCG (5.2 mg 5 times daily). After a 1 week run‐in period treatment was given for 3 weeks. The patient scorings for nasal secretion, nasal itching, sneezing bouts and total nasal symptoms were significantly different between the treatment groups during the whole treatment period. The scorings for nasal blockage were significantly different during the last 2 weeks of treatment. All differences were in favour of budesonide treatment. The patients' assessment of the treatment favoured budesonide (P < 0.02). Side effects were few and mild, but one patient from the budesonide group stopped treatment because of headache.
Bronchial and Basophil Reaction to Polymyxin B in Asthmatic Patients
Authors: GÓRSKI P. , ROZNIECKI J. , KUŹMIUŹSKA B. , GRZEGORCZYK J.
Published: May 2007

The hypothesis that increased reactivity to polymyxin B in asthmatic patients is not limited to the bronchi but also exists in basophils was investigated in 26 atopic asthmatic subjects. Quantification of basophil degranulation induced by polymyxin B was performed using a flow‐cytometric method. Significant degranulation was noted in 17 patients, but in none of 10 healthy controls. There was close relationship between basophil “releasability” to polymyxin B and bronchial reactivity to inhaled polymyxin B. These findings support the hypothesis.
Workplace Allergenicity of a Psyllium‐Containing Bulk Laxative
Authors: GAUSS W. F. , ALAREE J. P. , KAROL M. H.
Published: May 2007

IgE antibodies specific to psyllium were demonstrated by RAST in a patient with workplace‐related asthmatic and dermatological reactions. Antibodies were not cross‐reactive with the related plant, English plantain.
Reproducibility of Standardized Bronchial Allergen Provocation Test
Authors: Frølund L. , Madsen F. , Gerner Svendsen U. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Standardized bronchial allergen provocation was performed twice (with an interval of median 14 days (range 14‐44)) in 19 extrinsic, well‐defined asthmatic patients to study the reproducibility of the bronchial response. Smoking and medications were strictly withheld prior to the provocation. Ten‐fold increasing concentrations of allergen solution 0.9 ml were inhaled by tidal volume breathing for 5 min at 10‐min intervals. The acutal dose given was expressed by the concentration of the solution used. Forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) was used to determine responses, and the provocation continued until an allergen concentration (allergen PC20) was reached which caused at least 20% decrease of the post‐saline FEV1. All provocations were followed by a bronchial reaction within clinically acceptable limits. The reproducibility was high, evaluated by the Spearman rank correlation coefficient Rho = 0.90 (P < 0.01). It is concluded that bronchial provocation with allergens performed as outlined in this study represents a reproducible test which can be applied in routine allergy diagnostics, and in further investigations concerning specific bronchial reactivity.
Ipratropium Bromide (Atrovent®) as Inhalation Powder
Authors: Maesen F. P. V. , Smeets J. J. , Bernsen R. , Cornelissen P. J. G.
Published: May 2007

The bronchospasmolytic effects of 40 μg ipratropium bromide (Atrovent®) given either as an aerosol (2 puffs of 20 μg) or as a powder inhalation were compared in a double‐blind cross‐over study. Following a randomisation list the drug was given on 2 successive days to 20 patients with stable bronchospasm in whom it had previously been shown that the bronchial obstruction was reversible after administration of 40 μg ipratropium bromide as an aerosol (with an increase over‐ the baseline value of the FEV1 of at least 15% 1 h after drug administration). The effects of the two presentations of ipratropium bromide were followed by respiratory function tests from 15 min to 6 h after administration of the drug. With both formulations excellent bronchospasmolytic effects were noted in each of the parameters measured. The peak of the effects was noted approximately 1 h alter the inhalations. Six hours later there was still a significant improvement in comparison with the baseline values. There was no significant difference between the results with the two different formulations. Inhalation powder of ipratropium bromide was well tolerated and there were no complaints of irritation or coughing. It would appear, therefore, to be a valuable alternative to the pressure aerosol.
Lowered Glutathione‐Peroxidase Activity in Asthmatic Patients with Food and Aspirin Intolerance
Authors: Malmgren R. , Unge G. , Zetterströ O. , Theorell H. , de Wahl K.
Published: May 2007

In analogy with findings from animal experiments, people with low glutathione‐peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activity could be expected to have altered sensitivities to effects of drugs, chemicals and possibly food. We have investigated GSH‐Px activity in 12 patients with intrinsic asthma and food and aspirin intolerance. Ten of the 12 patients had very low or low GSH‐Px activity and the frequency of low GSH‐Px activity in this group was statistically significant (P < 0.001) compared with the control material of age‐ and sex‐matched healthy individuals. Our finding of lowered GSH‐Px activity in patients with aspirin intolerance may indicate the involvement of hitherto unknown mechanisms in the pathogenesis of asthmatic disorders.
Food and Fasting Absorption of a Single Dose of a Sustained Release Theophylline Sprinkle Formulation in Children
Authors: Pedersen S. , Steffensen G.
Published: May 2007

The bioavailability and absorption pattern of theophylline from a single dose of a slow release theophylline sprinkle product (Somophyllin®) were investigated in 10 asthmatic children both in Fasting conditions and after a standerdized breakfast. Theophylline given intravenously was used as a reference. The fasting absorption of. Somophyllin was rather fast with peak serum theophylline levels 3–5 h (mean 3.7 h) after dosing. Food produced a small bin statistically significant reduction in the rate of absorption of theopylline. so that the mean time to peak serum theophyllne level was 5.6 h (range 4–8 h) after food. In no case was there any important difference between the absorption) profiles on the test days, and the bioavailability was complete after both fasted and fed intake of the product (92.5% and 105%, respectively). It is suggested hat to obtain the optimum absorption profile children should take Somophyllin with food rather than between meals.
Allergen‐Specific IgE Antibodies against Antigenic Components in Cow Milk and Milk Substitutes
Authors: Gjesing B. , ØSterballe O. , Schwartz B. , Wahn U. , Lowenstein H.
Published: May 2007

Crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis (CRIE) was used to study the presence of scrum IgE against antigenic components of Cow milk in 21 selected milk‐allergic patients. The amount of each IgE specificity was estimated by a scoring system. The milk‐allergic children had mainly IgE against α‐lactalbumin, β‐lactoglobulin, albumin and immuno‐globulin, the four major proteins of bovin whey as well as IgE against three cascin components. A serum pool from 1000 normal adults had IgE against the same whey protein, but in smaller amounts, and no IgE against the casein components. Eight cow milk‐based formulae, commonly used for infant feeding, and goat milk were studied by the same method. It was found that six of the milk substitutes did not differ significantly from cow milk in antibody binding, but the two hydrolysed casein products. Nutramigen® and Pregestimil®, consisted of such small molecules that the rabbit antisera could not precipitate the Indrolysed proteins in the gels on the CRIE plates. It was therefore not possible to study their IgE binding, if any, by this method.
Diagnosis and Immunotherapy of Mould Allergy
Authors: Malling H.‐J. , Dreborg S. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Thirty‐three adult asthmatic patients suspected of mould allergy were investigated by in vitro and in order to tests in order to establish a specific diagnosis of asthma caused by the mould speciesCladosporium. The patients were evaluated by daily symptom scores in the peakCladosporiumseason, bronchial provocation test (BPT), skin prick test (SPT), RAST, histamine release from basophil granulocytes (HIST), and crossed radio‐immunoelectrophoresis (CRIE), and the results were scored as negative (score 0), equivocal (score 1) or positive (score 2). Based on daily symptom scores and the result of BPT the patients were classified as being manifest allergic (asthma) toCladosporium(positive allergy), inconclusive or negative. Positive allergy was defined as asthma symptoms oscillating with the spore concentration and a BPT score 2 (positive at allergen concentration < 10,000 BU). Negative allergy was defined as NO asthma symptoms and a negative BPT (score 0) and inconclusive in the case of symptoms and BPT sum of score 1‐3. According to the classification a final diagnosis (positive or negative) could be established in 85% of the patients. “False positive” tests were found: for BPT in 27%, SPT 18%, RAST 0%, HIST 18%, and CRIE 0%. The corresponding figures for “false negative” were; BPT 0%, SPT 0%, RAST 27%, HIST 18%, and CRIE 23%. The relative risk of being allergic in spite of a negative test result was 0 % for BPT and SPT, and 25‐30 % with RAST, HIST, and CRIE. In the case of positive test the risk was 90‐100%. Excluding BPT, SPT was found to be the optimal single test to predict/rule out clinical allergy. A stepwise combination of positive SPT and positive RAST was found exclusively in patients clinically evaluated as positive, and does not call for an additional BPT. Using a potent allergenic extract a negative SPT excluded clinically important allergy. The primary conclusion of the study, however, is that the final diagnosis ofCladosporiumasthma could not be based on a positive BPT alone (due to “false positive”), but only on a combination of clinical symptoms during the spore season and a positive BPT.
Predictors of Atopic Disease: Cord Blood IgE and Month of Birth
Authors: Cronicr S. , Kjellman N.‐I. M.
Published: May 2007

The cumulated incidence of atopic disease before 7 years of age was highly influenced by the cord blood IgE concentration and moderately influenced by the month of birth: obvious atopic disease was more than twice as common in children with high cord blood IgE and born in May than in children with a similar IgE and born in November (P < 0.05). There was no similarly increased risk for atopic disease among those born in May with low cord blood IgE. Environmental factors thus seem important merely for a high risk population. The findings lend support to family planning when there is especially high genetic risk for atopic disease.
Histopathological Support of Antagonism of Allergen‐Induced Mast Cell Mediator Release in Human Skin by a Beta2‐Agonist
Authors: Gronnkberg R. , Lagerholm B.
Published: May 2007

The site of antagonistic action on allergen‐induced early skin reactions by the beta2‐agonist terbutaline was studied by light microscopy in 10 atopic subjects. Pretreatment with 1 μg terbutaline intradermally 5 min prior to challenge with horse dander allergen produced an approximate inhibition of 85 and 55% of flare and wheal responses respectively (P < 0.001) Biopsy specimens obtained from skin sites injected with allergen alone showed a reduced number of remaining stainable mast cells as compared to sites injected with terbutaline prior to allergen (P < 0.05, Sign test). The data support the concept of in viva inhibition of the mast cell mediator release reaction in atopic skin by terbutaline.
Onset of Penicillin Rashes: Relation between Type of Penicillin Administered and Type of Immune Reactivity
Authors: de Haan P. , Bruynzkel D. P. , van Ketel W. G.
Published: May 2007

In 90 patients with clinical symptoms of penicillin allergy, the onset of the skin reaction was related lo the type of penicillin administered (small‐ or broad‐spectrum) and to the type of immune reactivity Early onset reactions (urticaria, Quincke's edema, Arthus‐reactions) were frequently seen after the use of benzylpenicillin. while late onset reactions, mostly macular papular rashes, were mainly seen after the use of aminopenicillins. The clinical symptoms of penicillin hypersensitivity were not related to one single of immunological (cellular or humoral) reactivity.
A Preliminary Study of Immunotherapy with a Monomethoxy Polyethylene Glycol Modified Honey Bee Venom Preparation
Authors: ÖHman S. , Björkandkr J. , Dreborg S. , Lanner Å. , Malling H.‐J. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Monomethoxy polyethylene glycol (mPEG) modified honey bee venom (HBV) immunotherapy (IT) has been studied in 14 patients allergic to honey bee venom. Doses could be increased more rapidly and higher doses were reached compared to regular venom immunotherapy. No general side effects were seen, although large local swellings found somewhat more often than with regular HBV. Most patients could easily be switched from the modified to the unmodified venom. Eight patients experienced and tolerated field stings. Skin testing showed a decreased allergenicity of the mPEG‐HBV. The mean HBV‐specific IgE level was below pretreatment level already after only weeks of IT. The HBV‐specific IgG response was very good.
IgG and IgE Antibody Patterns after Immunotherapy with Monomethoxy Polyethyleneglycol Modified Honey Bee Venom
Authors: Nordvall S. L. , Uhlin T. , ÖHman S. , Björkander J. , Malling H.‐J. , Wheke B. , Dreborg S. , Lanner Å. , Einarsson R.
Published: May 2007

Antibody responses to honey bee venom (HBV) were studied in 13 patients during a 4‐month course of immunotherapy with monomethoxy polyethyleneglycol (mPEG) modified venom. There was a rise of HBV‐specific IgG antibodies as measured by IgG‐RAST in all patients and a slight decrease of IgE antibody in most of them. The IgG‐antibody responses during mPEG‐HBV treatment as examined by crossed radio‐immunoelectrophoresis were directed to phospholipase A, hyaluronidase, acid phosphatase and to another allergen, antigen 1. Thus, despite a high degree of mPEG‐ modification of HBV, the immunogenicity of the most important HBV allergens was retained.
Immunotherapy with Yellow Jacket Venom
Authors: Mosbech H. , Malling H.‐J. , Biering I. , Böwadt H. , Søborg M. , Weeke B. , Løwenstein H.
Published: May 2007

Thirty‐two patients with previous systemic allergic reaction to yellow jacket stings were randomly allocated to three groups receiving immunotherapy with different preparations of yellow jacket venom: 1) extract adsorbed to aluminium hydroxide (Alutard®‐SQ), 2) Pharmalgen® extract or 3) non‐adsorbed extract from Allergologisk Laboratorium (ALK aq.). Regular examinations showed a decrease in skin prick test size in nearly all patients. Specific IgE‐antibody (RAST and CRIE scores) showed a similar, but not significant tendency to decrease in all three groups. Specific IgG‐antibody increased considerably in the Alutard group only; after 2 years, however, no difference could be detected between the three groups. During dose increase, patients treated with ALK aq. generally had smaller local reactions to injections than those treated with Pharmalgen. Few systemic reactions occurred in all three groups. Nineteen patients treated for 21/2–31/2 years were challenged in‐hospital with stings from yellow jackets. No systemic and only minor local reactions occurred. Consequently, with the dose regimens applied all three extracts seem effective even though no common changes in either specific IgE or IgG could be demonstrated.
Occurrence of Aspergillus umbrosus Antibodies in Danish Farmers
Authors: Hjort C. , Andersen P. , Schønheyder H. , Stenderup A.
Published: May 2007

Antibodies to Aspergillus umbrosus were investigated in 181 Danish farmers, 137 farmers spouses and a control group of 104 male blood donors with no relation to farming. By enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) higher levels of IgG antibodies were found in farmers than in their spouses and in non‐farming controls (P < 0.0001). By double immunodiffusion precipitating antibodies occurred in 11 farmers, in none of farmers' spouses and in one control subject. Farmers and farmers' spouses who were non‐smokers had higher IgG antibody levels than smokers in the same groups (P < 0.04). Farmers more than 30 years of age had higher IgG antibody levels than younger farmers (P < 0.04). Farmers rearing cattle tended to have higher IgG antibody levels than farmers without cattle. No correlation between antibody levels and respiratory symptoms or lung function parameters (FEV1 or FVC) could be demonstrated.
Errors in Inhalation Technique and Efficiency in Inhaler Use in Asthmatic Children
Authors: Pedersen S. , Frost L. , Arnfred T.
Published: May 2007

256 asthmatic children receiving regular inhalation therapy demonstrated how they used their inhalers. Pulmonary function measurements (PFM) were made before and after the demonstrations, and errors in technique were recorded. 242 children had revisable airway obstruction on the day of study. In only 109 (45 %) did die inhalation technique in an increase in FEV1≥ 15% (efficient technique). An efficient inhalation technique was found in 46% of children who demonstrated a pressurized aerosol, 59% who demonstrated a rotahaler, and 46% who demonstrated. a rotahaler, and the frequency of technique varied from 17 % to 84% between six different groups of instructors. 87 % of children controlled and 25% not controlled with PFM at the time of prescription had an efficient technique. Children under 6 years had a more inefficient and a more faulty technique than older children, but otherwise age did influence the result. Neither was time since instruction of any importance for efficiency or number of errors. The errors recorded that seem to influence efficiency most were: coordination problems, rapid inspirations, ceasing to inspire when the aerosol was fired, and inhalation through the nose. The results emphasize the paramount importance of clear instructions and control of inhalation technique at the time the treatment is prescribed.
Influence of Bacterial Endotoxins on Basophil Histamine Release Potentiation of Antigen‐ and Bacteria‐Induced Histamine Release
Authors: Norn S. , Bæk L. , Jensen C. , Skov P. Stahl , Permin H. , Jarløv J. O. , Koch C.
Published: May 2007

The histamine‐releasing capability of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) was examined in human leukocyte suspensions. LPS alone did not release histamine, but was found to enhance the histamine release caused by anti‐IgE. Also the IgE‐mediated histamine release caused by specific antigens (allergens or bacteria) in sensitized individuals was enhanced by LPS. The potentiating effect of LPS was observed in grass pollen and dog dander allergic patients as well as in patients sensitized to E. coli or Staph, aureus bacteria. No potentiation was obtained by exposure to unspecific allergens or bacteria to which the persons were not sensitized. Bacteria can release histamine by immunological or nonimmunological mechanisms, and only the immunological histamine release was found to be potentiated by LPS. It is speculated that endotoxins reinforce release of histamine caused by allergens in allergic patients or by bacteria in persons sensitized to these microorganisms.
A Double‐Blind, Multicenter Immunotherapy Trial in Children, Using a Purified and Standardized Cladosporium herbarum Preparation II. In Vitro Results
Authors: Karlsson R. , Agrell B. , Dreborg S. , Foucard T. , Kjellman N.‐I. M. , Koivikko A. , Einarsson R.
Published: May 2007

This double‐blind immunotherapy trial in children, using a purified and standardized Cladosporium herbarum allergen preparation, has shown that children with mould asthma and/or rhinoconjunctivitis, responded to immunotherapy with a decrease in specific IgE and a significant increase in specific IgG. There was a marked increase in tile ratio specific IgG/specific IgE, as a result of active treatment. IgE‐CRIE radiostaining patterns showed no pronounced changes after 10 months' active treatment and no “new sensitivities” could be detected in the studied patients, IgG‐CRIE radiostaining, primarily directed towards the important allergens, was significantly increased in the active group and particularly towards Ag‐12 (partially identical to a previously described major allergen in Cladosporium herbarum. Ag‐54). Children treated with histamine placebo showed no change antibody patterns during 10 months of treatment.
A New Inhalation Technique for Improved Effect of Aerosolized Drugs in Asthma “The Shrug of the Shoulder Method”
Authors: Laurskn L. C.
Published: May 2007

A new, simple technique for inhalation of aerosolized drugs is described; During the breathholding period after inhalation from a pressurized aerosol the patient lifts his right and lowers his left shoulder and vice versa to “disperse” the drug as well as possible in the lungs. Twenty outpatients suffering from reversible bronchial obstruction inhaled two puffs from a pressurized terbutaline aerosol in the morning on two consecutive days using the new inhalation technique on one day and their ordinary technique on the other in this randomised, cross‐over trial. Compared with the conventional method the new inhalation technique significantly improved bronchodilation as measured by forced expiratory volume in 1st s and forced vital capacity during a period of 6 h. The new method of inhalation may improve treatment with aerosolized chugs.
Comparison of Enprofylline and Theophylline for Intravenous Treatment of Acute Asthma
Authors: Haahtela T. , Venho K. , Eriksson G.
Published: May 2007

Thirty‐nine patients with asthma requiring acute treatment were included in a randomized, double‐blind, paralle1 study which compared the effect of enprofylline (1.0 mg/kg) and theophylline (3.0 mg/kg). The drugs were given intravenously over a period of 10 min. Peak flow (PEF), heart rate and plasma concentrations of the drugs were determined before and after the injection. Both enprofylline and theophylline significantly increased the PEF 30 min after the injection, the mean increases over the baseline values being 21 % and 23 %, respectively. The clinical effects assessed by the patient and the physician and the significant decreases in heart rate were similar for the two drugs. Side effects were rare. Thus, 1.0 mg/kg of enprofylline was comparable to 3.0 mg/kg of theophylline in the treatment of patients with acute asthma.
The Requirements for Transferrin‐Dependent Adherence of Human Granulocytes to Pollen Grains
Authors: Mackay J. A. , Sass‐Kuhn S. , Moqbel R. , Walsh G. M. , Kay A. B.
Published: May 2007

Human granulocyte/pollen binding protein (GPBP), previously identified as serum transferrin, promoted prolonged firm adherence of neutrophils to Timothy grass pollen. Some characteristics of this adherence reaction are reported. GPBP‐induced binding was time‐, temperature‐ and concentration‐dependent. Maximal adherence was observed by 2 h and was only slightly decreased at 18 h. The optimal temperature for adherence was 37° C. Concentrations of GPBP as low as 1.25 μ g/ml gave significantly greater binding than the albumin or lactoferrin control. Eosinophils, monocytes and lymphocytes did not appear to participate in GPBP‐induced pollen binding reactions at concentrations up to 300 μg/ml. In the presence of GPBP, neutrophils adhered to a range of grass, weed and tree pollens. These included timothy, meadow, false oat, rye, giant and short ragweed, plantain, silver birch and ash. GPBP did not facilitate the adherence of granulocytes to inert particles of similar size such as Sephadex beads and agarose. The adherence was Mg++ ‐ but not Ca++ ‐ dependent and was not inhibited by a monoclonal antibody to the transferrin receptor (OKT9). Transferrin/GPBP did not bind to either neutrophils or pollen grains. A purified commercial transferrin reacted in all respects like GPBP in these pollen binding studies. These observations indicate that GPBP/transferrin‐induced adherence of granulocytes to pollen grains is a hitherto unrecognized property of transferrin which appears unrelated to iron transport or the conventional transferrin receptor.
Bronchial Histamine Challenge in the Diagnosis of Asthma The Predictive Value of Changes in Airway Resistance Determined by the Interrupter Method
Authors: Madsen F. , Holstein‐Rathlou N.‐H. , Frølund L. , Weeke B. , Svendsen U. G.
Published: May 2007

The predictive value of a bronchial challenge with histamine was determined in a prospective survey on a population with a high prevalence of asthma (0.62). Without knowledge of the bronchial responsiveness 133 patients were classified as asthmatics (83) or non‐asthmatics (50) according to variation in peak expiratory flow rate and medical history. Response to challenge was determined by the interrupter method, and the concentration of histamine inducing a 40% increase in resistance to breathing (PC40‐Rt) was calculated from the log dose response curve. When defining a positive test as a test giving PC40‐Rt‐values below 2.00 mg/ml, the predictive value of a positive test was 0.75 and the predictive value of a negative test was 0.72. By decreasing the limit for a positive test to 0.25 mg/ml the corresponding predictive value was increased to 0.91. When further increasing the limit to 4.00 mg/ml the predictive value of a negative test in the diagnosis of asthma was increased to 0.81. The interrupter technique is suitable for diagnostic purposes in the detection and exclusion of bronchial asthma.
Intracutaneous and Skin Prick Testing with Serotonin and Histamine
Authors: Tønnesen P.
Published: May 2007

Skin prick and intracutaneous tests were performed with serotonin, histamine and a mixture of both in 32 normal persons, two rhinitis patients and 12 asthmatics. Skin prick tests with serotonin produced a triple response, but the weal reactions were small. Serotonin had no potentiating effect on the histamine reaction. Intracutaneously, serotonin tests also induced a triple response, but with smaller weal reactions than with histamine, and the weal surfaces were wrinkled. Constriction of the large subcutaneous veins was observed locally after serotonin injection. No quantitative or qualitative difference in reaction to serotonin was observed between normal subjects and allergies. The role of serotonin in the immediate allergic reaction in the skin was minimal.
Nitrocellulose‐Based RAST to Detect IgE Antibodies in Workers Hypersensitive to Diphenylmethane‐4,4′‐Diisocyanate
Authors: Grunewalder E. , Karol M. H.
Published: May 2007

RAST was performed using both nitrocellulose (NC) and paper discs to compare these solid supports for ability to detect IgE antibodies in sera from two patients with hypersensitivity to the industrial chemical, diphenylmethane‐4,4′‐diisocynate (MDI). NC discs had distinct advantages in case of coupling the hapten‐conjugate antigen to discs, and in use of lesser amounts of antigen. With regard to sensitivity, NC discs were better able to distinguish the positive sera from 34 control sera including those with elevated levels of total IgE. In both RAST systems, inhibition studies indicated high specificity of antibodies for MDI, with no reactivity detected toward the serum albumin portion of the MDI‐HSA conjugate antigen. However, only in the NC RAST did antibodies from both patients react with p‐tolyl isocyanate inhibitor. Based on the above results, NC discs displayed several advantages in RAST and are recommended for routine serological assay of isocyanate‐specific antibodies.
Characterization of the in Vitro Effects of Glucocorticosteroids on NK Cell Activity
Authors: Pedersen B. K. , Beyer J. M.
Published: May 2007

The NK cell activity of mononuclear cells as well as monocyte‐depleted, Percoll‐fractionated, NK cell‐enriched effector cells against K 562 target cells was inhibited by methylprednisolone (MP) and hydrocortisone (HC) in a dose‐dependent manner. The effector/target cell conjugate formation was studied in a single cell agarose assay, and it was shown that MP and HC partly inhibited the NK cell activity by inhibition of the adhesion of effector cells to target.
Paranasal Sinus Pathology in Allergic and Non‐Allergic Respiratory Tract Diseases
Authors: De Cleyn K. M. , Kersschot E. A. , De Clerck L. S. , Ortmanns P. M. , De Schepper A. M. , Van Bever H. P. , Stevens W. J.
Published: May 2007

Two hundred and seventy patients with asthma and/or rhinitis (162 or 60% allergic, 108 or 40 % non‐allergic) were studied for sinus pathology by means of standard X‐rays and tomograms. Sinus pathology was defined as abnormal sinus X‐rays, either on standard or tomography. Fifty‐four percent of the X‐rays were classified as abnormal based on mucosal thickening, loss of translucency of the cavities or polyps. Asthma was significantly more often associated with sinus X‐ray abnormalities (65.1 %) than rhinitis and/or chronic cough (44.4%). Loss of translucency of the cavities is more frequent in children, whereas mucosa thickening becomes more frequent with progressing age. Since in this prospective study the taking of X‐rays of the sinuses was not dependent on or related to temporarily occurring symptoms which could be attributed to acute sinusitis, the presence of sinus abnormalities on X‐rays can be considered as an indicator of the chronicity of airways diseases and might provide an indication for prophylactic therapy of the associated airway disease in a continuous way. The importance of sinus tomograms is stressed, since only 32.5% of the patients with mucosa thickening could be detected on standard X‐rays.
The Glucocorticosteroid, Budesonide, Partially Blocks Histamine Release from Human Lung Tissue in Vitro
Authors: Bergstrand H. , Lundquist B. , Petersson B.‐Å.
Published: May 2007

IgE‐receptor dependent, but not A23187‐induced, histamine release from passively sensitized chopped human lung tissue, or from a dispersed lung cell population obtained from the tissue after enzymatic digestion, is reduced after incubation overnight of cells/tissue with the glucocorticosteroid budesonide (10‐7M). Since the inhibitory effect of budesonide is reduced in the continuous presence of diluted reagin‐rich serum used for passive sensitization, but not in the presence of heat‐inactivated serum, it is suggested that the glucocorticosteroid acts by reducing the binding of IgE‐antibody to the target cell(s).
Comparative Evaluation of the Multiple RAST and Discrete RAST for Inhalant Allergy
Authors: De Clerck L. S. , Verhelst J. A. , Bleys W. , Blockx P. , Stevens W. J.
Published: May 2007

With the conventional, discrete RAST various tests are required to detect IgE of different specificities in the same serum. To overcome this problem and to reduce the costs, a multiple RAST with seven different mixtures was compared with the individual mixture constituents and with the 12 individual allergens currently in use in our department. One grass pollen mixture (gx3), two weed pollen mixtures (wx3, wx4), two tree pollen mixtures (tx5, tx6), one mould mixture (mx1) and one epithelial mixture (ex1) were used. A mixture of mites was not evaluated as there is only one important pathogenic organism in our regions (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus or House dust mite). For grasses the gx3 mixture offered no advantage over the discrete RAST. The weed mixture wx3 was more sensitive than the most common discrete RAST's but at the cost of specificity. The wx4 mixture should not be used because the specificity is too low. The tree mixtures were not significantly more sensitive than the most common individual tree allergens, and were less specific. Mould mixtures should not be used because there is little cross‐reactivity between the individual allergens, thus using a mixture would necessitate the subsequent determination of individual allergens, and the number of tests and the cost would be even higher. Neither should a mixture be used for epithelia because one wants to detect allergies to individual allergens. Moreover, the sensitivity of the epithelial mixture was too low. In general, we suggest the use of a limited panel of discrete RAST's instead of mixtures.
Antigen‐Specific Down‐Regulation of Bronchial Reactivity in Rats Sensitized Daily without Adjuvant
Authors: Ahlstedt S. , Alving K. , Olaisson E.
Published: May 2007

Daily sensitization with ovalbumin (OA) and dog serum albumin (DSA) without adjuvant was performed in rats for 2‐week periods. When the antigen was administered subcutaneously (s.c.), antibody responses were induced, as assessed in serum and bronchial lavage, and strong increases in transpulmonary pressure (TPP) after intravenous (i.v.) challenge with antigen. Sensitization without adjuvant with antigen as aerosol for similar periods also evoked pronounced antibody formation, although only weak increases of TPP were seen after challenge. Animals sensitized s.c. with OA and simultaneously exposed to OA as aerosol exhibited suppression of the TPP increase after challenge, whereas the antibody responses were not affected to any great extent. In contrast, the increase of TPP after challenge in animals similarly sensitized s.c. with DSA were not suppressed by OA given simultaneously as aerosol or vice versa.
Methodological Aspects of Nasal Allergen Challenges Based on a Three‐Year Tree Pollen Immunotherapy Study
Authors: Wihl Jan‐Åke
Published: May 2007

During 3 years of immunotherapy with tree pollen extracts, 31 patients were provoked annually. Changes in nasal reactivity were followed by registration of expiratory nasal peak flow, number of sneezes, and amount of secretion. The reproducibility of the peak flow measurements was studied. The results from all three parameters were used to form a total nasal provocation score which, better than each parameter separately, could demonstrate the variation in sensitivity. Provocation with an allergen concentration of 1 HEP was the most effective means of showing changes in specific sensitivity of nasal mucosa.
Chemotactic Activity of LTB4 in Man
Authors: Bisgaard H. , Helqvist S. , Boudet L. , Venge P. , Dahl R. , Søndergaard J.
Published: May 2007

An improved skin window chamber technique has been developed and used for a quantitative study of the chemotactic effect of leukotriene B4 (LTB4). LTB4 (0.5 μM) was exposed to a skin window on the forearm of eight healthy volunteers, while phosphate buffered saline served as control in a skin window on the other forearm. Skin window exudates and samples of blood draining the skin window areas were collected after 1, 2, 4, 8, and 24 h. The samples were quantitated for the different types of leukocytes as well as the intra‐ and extracellular concentration of the eosinophilic cationic protein and lactoferrin as markers of eosinophil and neutrophil granulocytes. A significantly increased migration of neutrophil granulocytes into the skin window chamber containing LTB4 was found from the 2nd to the 8th hour after the initial LTB4 exposure. The eosinophils reached a significant peak at the 4th hour. The rise in the actual number of eosinophil cells did not reach significance, whereas measurements of the eosinophilic cationic protein in the cellular fraction of the exudate exhibited a significant increase as a reflection of the number of eosinophils. This highlights the potential clinical value of eosinophilic cationic protein measurements to reveal eosinophilic instead of the traditional eosinophil counts. Extracellular eosinophilic cationic protein and lactoferrin did not change significantly in the LTB4‐exposed skin window, implying that LTB4 does not activate the eosinophils and neutrophils to exocytosis of their enzymes. The present in vivo results support the concept of LTR4 being a potent chemoattractant to neutrophil and less so to eosinophil granulocytes in humans, a chemoattractant that recruits the leukocytes but does not seem to activate them.
Collection of House Dust for Analysis of Mite Allergens
Authors: Mosbech H. , Lind P.
Published: May 2007

To assess allergen‐reducing effect of dust collection from mattresses, patients were asked to vacuum clean the entire surface of their mattresses for 5 min with their household cleaners at specified intervals ranging from 1‐21 days. Ten patients performed four collections, nine patients only two. Amounts of dust, concentrations and amounts of major allergens from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp42), Dermatophagoides microceras (Dm6), and Dermatophagoides farinae (Df6) were determined. The first sampling caused a statistically significant reduction in the absolute amounts of allergens in a following sample. The same tendency was seen in dust weight but not in concentrations of allergens. At intervals of 1 or 3 weeks no consistent changes could be registered. Differences were small and good reproducibility of the sampling and analysing procedure could be assumed. Since the self‐administered procedure is much cheaper and easier to handle than sampling done by technicians with special equipment, it can be recommended for sequential analysis of allergen exposure.
Humoral Immunity to Dietary Antigens in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Husby S. , Schultz Larsen F. , Ahlstedt S. , Svehag S‐E.
Published: May 2007

IgG subclass antibodies to two dietary antigens, ovalbumin (OA) and beta‐lactoglobulin (BLG) were measured with quantitative ELISA‐techniques in 16 patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) (6‐21 years old) and closely matched controls. In addition, IgE‐antibodies to OA, BLG and milk were determined with RAST. IgG subclass antibodies were frequently detected in IgG1 and IgG4 for both AD‐patients and controls, quantitatively dominated by IgG4. The IgG4 anti‐BLG antibody levels were significantly higher (P < 0.001) in AD‐patients (median: 1.1 μg/ml, range: 0‐24.0 μg/ml) than in controls (median: 0.05 μg/ml, range: 0‐1.05 μg/ml). No relation was found between IgG4 anti‐BLG antibody levels, levels of IgE antibodies to milk or BLG, or severity of disease.
Purification and Characterization of a Major Allergen from the House Dust Mite Dermatophagoides farinae
Authors: Holck A. , Dale S. , Sletten K.
Published: May 2007

A major allergen from an extract of the house dust mite, Dermatophagoides farinae, was shown to be extremely heterogenic with respect to charge. A slightly basic component of this allergen with a pI of 8, was purified by isoelectric focusing m two steps. The purified component, denoted antigen 19/20 IIa, seemed to be representative for the allergenic activity of the major allergen. The amino acid analysis suggested that antigen 19/20 IIa had a molecular weight of 9400 and contained one residue of galactosamine. SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis did indicate a somewhat higher molecular weight of 14,500. Antibodies against the purified component cross reacted with a crude extract of the mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus.
Epidermal Langerhans Cells in Patients with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Oxholm P. , Oxholm A. , Manthorpe R.
Published: May 2007

IgG‐binding to the surface of Langerhans cells (LC) is a feature of primary Sjögren's syndrome and might be associated with qualitative and quantitative defects in LC. Fifteen patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome and 15 healthy controls had a punch biopsy performed from clinically unaffected skin. LC were enumerated in epidermal sheets by an immunoperoxidase technique, as well as demonstrated by immunofluorescence in vertical sections, which were furthermore examined for in vivo deposits of immunoglobulins, fibrinogen and C3. A significant (P < 0.05) reduction in number of LC, measured on epidermal sheets, was found in patients as compared with controls. Examination of vertical sections did not reveal abnormalities in morphology or localisation of epidermal LC, Intraepidermal IgG deposits were demonstrated in 7/15 patients. In vivo deposits were not found in any of the controls. The density of epidermal LC was not correlated to the presence of intraepidermal IgG deposits.
Antinuclear Antibodies and Anti‐DNA Antibodies in Scleroderma
Authors: Serup J. , Staun‐Olsen P.
Published: May 2007

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), including anti‐DNA antibodies, and rheumatoid factors (RAT, Waaler‐Rose) were determined prospectively during a 3‐year period in 40 patients with localized scleroderma (LS) compared with 77 patients with generalized scleroderma (GS). ANA were increased in 25% of patients with LS, and in 47% with GS, anti‐DNA antibodies m 23% of patients with LS, and in 34% with GS. Thus, the anti‐DNA antibody level was lower compared with the known level in systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatoid factors were present in 6–7% of patients with LS, and in 14–15% of patients with GS. Increased antinuclear antibodies were not associated with any specific type of localized scleroderma, nor with internal disorders, and no case of clinical overlap to discoid or systemic lupus erythematosus was observed. However, six patients with localized scleroderma and complaints of arthralgia all presented increased antibodies, and one patient showed overlap to rheumatoid arthritis. It is suggested that increased ANA and anti‐DNA antibodies in localized scleroderma, associated with joint manifestations, represents a systemic component m this type of scleroderma, with activation of the immune system and similarities with generalized collagen diseases.
Human IgE Synthesis in vitro
Authors: Knutti‐Müller J. M. , Stadler B. M. , Magnusson C. M. , De Weck L.
Published: May 2007

Using monoclonal anti‐human IgE antibodies recognizing the Dɛ1 or Dɛ2 epitope, we have developed a sandwich radioimmunoassay (RIA) to determine IgE in human cell cultures. With the help of this assay, various methods of measuring an actual de novo IgE synthesis were compared. It was necessary to substract preformed IgE from released IgE in the culture supernatant and the IgE associated to the cultured cells, in order to determine a net IgE synthesis which would reflect de novo synthesized IgE. Using this differential in vitro IgE assessment, no net IgE synthesis could be demonstrated in culture conditions which lead to strong IgG synthesis. Actual net in vitro IgE antibody production was only found in approximatively 30% of cell cultures from atopic donors. This spontaneous IgE synthesis did not correlate to the serum IgE levels of the patients. However, correlations were found between serum IgE levels and amount of preformed, released or cell‐associated IgE of the cultures.
Inhibition of Leukotriene (SRS‐A)‐Mediated Acute Lung Anaphylaxis by Azelastine in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Chand N. , Nolan K. , Diamantis W. , Perhach J. L. , Sofia R. D.
Published: May 2007

Azelastine hydrochloride, chemically known as l(2H)‐phthalazinone, 4‐[(4‐chlorophenyl)methyl] ‐2‐(hexahydro‐l‐methyl‐lH‐azepine‐4‐yl)‐, monohydrochloride, is a novel, orally effective, long‐acting, antiallergic/antiasthmatic agent. The ability of azelastine and selected antiallergic drugs to inhibit SRS‐A (leukotriene)‐mediated acute lung anaphylaxis in guinea pigs (Konzett‐Rossler method) was investigated. Azelastine and ketotifen were administered p.o. 2 and 24 h before antigen challenge; disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) was administered i.v. immediately before antigen challenge. The oral dose of azelastine required to inhibit leukotriene‐mediated allergic bronchospasm by 50% (ID50: mg/kg) was 0.063 at 2 h and 0.120 at 24 h. Ketotifen at a dose of 0.05 to 10 mg/kg at 2 and 24 h, p.o., as well as DSCG at a dosage of 0.3 to 10 mg/kg at 0 min, i.v., produced weak, inconsistent and nondose‐related antianaphylactic effects. Azelastine is an orally effective and long‐acting inhibitor of in vivo synthesis and/or release of leukotrienes.
Release of Immune Complexes Bound to CR1 on Erythrocytes; Suramin Inhibits Factor I in the Presence of EDTA
Authors: Thomsen B. S. , Nielsen H. , Bendixen G.
Published: May 2007

An experimental model was established in order to study the release of immune complexes (IC) bound by complement C3b receptors (CR1) on human erythrocytes (RBC). Soluble tetanus toxoid anti‐tetanus toxoid complexes were incubated with RBC in the presence of autologous serum at optimal conditions for binding. The RBC carrying complement‐opsonized complexes were incubated with appropriate serum reagents, and ii was shown that factor I was required for release of the complexes, which occurred without loss of CR1. Suramin was, irrespective of factor I, found to induce release of CR1‐bound IC in the absence of EDTA, whereas factor I‐mediated release was inhibited by soramin in the presence of EDTA. EDTA probably interfered through a charge‐dependent interaction. These observations are decisive for the interpretation of in vitro experiments involving these reagents. The combination of EDTA and suramin was found inappropriate for use in quantitative determination of in vivo CR1‐bound IC.