bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEK inhibition induces caspases activation, differentiation blockade and PML/RARα degradation in acute promyelocytic leukaemia
Authors: Barbarroja Nuria , Siendones Emilio , Torres Luis Arístides , Luque Mª Jose , Martinez Julio Manuel , Dorado Gabriel , Velasco Francisco , Torres Antonio , López‐Pedrera Chary
Published: April 2008

The hallmark of acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) is the reciprocal translocation t(15;17), which leads to the expression of the promyelocytic leukaemia/retinoic acid receptor α (PML/RARα) fusion protein and a cell differentiation blockade at the promyelocytic stage. PML/RARα is directly targeted by all‐trans‐retinoic acid (ATRA), which degrades the oncoprotein and induces complete remission of malignancies. The aberrant function of PML/RARα, together with the constitutive activation of the mitogen‐activated protein/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (MEK/ERK) signalling pathway, regulates the ability of haematopoietic cells to proliferate, differentiate, and escape from apoptotic episodes. The role of the MEK/ERK pathway in PML/RARα expression, differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis in APL cells was analysed using specific MEK inhibitors. The blockade of MEK/ERK pathway resulted in caspase‐dependent degradation of PML/RARα, and attenuation of the cell differentiation induction. To our knowledge, this is the first report to show that PML/RARα was suppressed by MEK/ERK inhibition, through a mechanism dependent on caspase activation. ATRA co‐operated with MEK inhibitor to increase degradation of PML/RARα and exhibited a convergence point in caspase activation with MEK inhibitors. Taken together, our data suggest a new role of MEK/ERK pathway in the pathogenesis of APL, thus supporting the use of MEK/ERK inhibitors as an efficient therapeutic strategy for this haematological malignancy.
The description of sorption curves
Authors: Barrow N. J.
Published: April 2008

In this paper I discuss sorption curves: choosing them, fitting them, and interpreting them. The Langmuir equation is not appropriate for reaction of ions with soil. Despite some disadvantages, the Freundlich equation is the best simple equation. Fitting sorption equations causes statistical difficulties because sorption is usually calculated from the change in concentration. The two variables are therefore not independent. If this is ignored, the errors in the coefficients of the fitted curves will be small, but there will be larger errors in the measures of goodness of fit and tests of significance will not be valid. If mild but nevertheless adequate mixing of soil and solution are chosen, sorption and desorption will be the opposites of each other. We can therefore learn much about the rates of desorption by studying the rates of sorption. If a sink is used to capture desorbed nutrients, the potential rate of desorption will be underestimated, as no sink can instantly and completely remove all the nutrients from solution. Especially with phosphate, continuing reaction makes the surface potential more negative. This means that re‐application is made to a soil of smaller buffering capacity. This effect has been insufficiently studied. It influences both the response to further applications, and the ability of soil to store nutrients.
Effects of mineral surface iron on the CPMAS 13C‐NMR spectroscopic detection of organic matter from soil fractions in an agricultural topsoil with different amendments
Authors: Séquaris J.‐M. , Philipp H. , Narres H.‐D. , Vereecken H.
Published: April 2008

The decrease of NMR visibility of the C signal in soil samples due to the association between organic carbon (OC) and the topsoil mineral surface was investigated. CPMAS 13C‐NMR spectra were obtained for soil particle‐size fractions (< 2 μm, 2–20 μm, > 20 μm) and bulk soils from an agricultural topsoil (Chernozem) that had received three different amendments (no fertilization, mineral fertilization (NPK), mineral (NPK) and organic (cattle manure) fertilizations) at Bad Lauchstädt, Germany. The soil organic carbon content of the three soils depended on the degree of soil fertilization. There was no constant relationship between the total NMR signal intensity and the total amount of organic carbon (TOC) for all size fractions. Indeed, a key role played in the C signal intensity by the paramagnetic ferric ion from the clay content in soil fractions and bulk soils was confirmed. Thus, we describe the variations of C signal intensity by taking into account the distribution of clay‐associated OC and non‐associated OC pools. Depending on the amendment, the C signal visibility was weakened by a factor of 2–4 for the clay‐associated OC. This estimation was rendered possible by combining mineral specific surface area (SSA) measurements with the N2 gas adsorption method (BET method) and determination of TOC and iron concentrations. This approach contributes to the quantitative evaluation of the CPMAS 13C‐NMR detection.
Microbial biodiversity in groundwater ecosystems
Authors: GRIEBLER C. , LUEDERS T.
Published: April 2008

1. Groundwater ecosystems offer vast and complex habitats for diverse microbial communities. Here we review the current status of groundwater microbial biodiversity research with a focus on Bacteria and Archaea and on the prospects of modern techniques for enhancing our understanding of microbial biodiversity patterns and their relation to environmental conditions.

2. The enormous volume of the saturated terrestrial underground forms the largest habitat for microorganisms on earth. Up to 40% of prokaryotic biomass on earth is hidden within this terrestrial subsurface. Besides representing a globally important pool of carbon and nutrients in organisms, these communities harbour a degree of microbial diversity only marginally explored to date.

3. Although first observations of groundwater microbiota date back to Antonie van Leeuwenhoek in 1677, the systematic investigation of groundwater microbial biodiversity has gained momentum only within the last few decades. These investigations were initiated by an increasing awareness of the importance of aquifer microbiota for ecosystem services and functioning, including the provision of drinking water and the degradation of contaminants.

4. The development of sampling techniques suitable for microbiological investigations as well as the application of both cultivation‐based and molecular methods has yielded substantial insights into microbial communities in contaminated aquifers, whereas knowledge of microbial biodiversity in pristine habitats is still poor at present.

5. Several novel phylogenetic lineages have been described from groundwater habitats, but to date no clearly ‘endemic’ subsurface microbial phyla have been identified. The future will show if the rather low diversity generally found in pristine oligotrophic aquifers is a fact or just a result of low abundances and insufficient resolution of today’s methods. Refined approaches complemented by statistically rigorous applications of biodiversity estimates are urgently needed.

6. Factors identified to control microbial diversity in aquifers include spatial heterogeneity, temporal variability and disturbances such as pollution with chemical anthropogenic contaminants. Although first insights into the importance of individual biogeochemical processes may be obtained from surveys of microbial diversity within functional groups, direct links to groundwater ecosystem functioning have rarely been established so far.
Deletion of PAX9 and oligodontia: a third family and review of the literature
Authors: GUALA ANDREA , FALCO VITTORIO , BREEDVELD GUIDO , DE FILIPPI PAOLA , DANESINO CESARE
Published: April 2008

Objective.  This study was conducted to report a family affected by benign hereditary chorea in which a large deletion including TTF1, PAX9, and other genes was identified and results in oligodontia.

Methods.  Clinical and radiological studies of the two affected members (mother and daughter) were used to describe the oligodontia present in both of them.

Results.  The missing teeth in both patients are described in detail, and these data are compared with the dental anomalies observed in the only two other families with deletions of PAX9 and with the data available for 12 previously reported families carrying different types of PAX9 mutations.

Conclusions.  There is a clinical relevance for recognizing such families, and offering available therapies since childhood is stressed. Some genotype–phenotype correlations between PAX9 mutations and dental anomalies can be drawn.
Prevalence and risk factors of maladaptive behaviour in young children with Autistic Disorder
Authors: Hartley S. L. , Sikora D. M. , McCoy R.
Published: April 2008

Background  Children with Autistic Disorder (AD) evidence more co‐occurring maladaptive behaviours than their typically developing peers and peers with intellectual disability because of other aetiologies. The present study investigated the prevalence of Clinically Significant maladaptive behaviours during early childhood and identified at‐risk subgroups of young children with AD.

Method  Parents rated their child's maladaptive behaviours on the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) in 169 children with AD aged 1.5 to 5.8 years.

Results  One‐third of young children with AD had a CBCL Total Problems score in the Clinically Significant range. The highest percentage of Clinically Significant scores were in the Withdrawal, Attention, and Aggression CBCL syndrome scales. There was a high degree of co‐morbidity of Clinically Significant maladaptive behaviours. Several subject characteristic risk factors for maladaptive behaviours were identified.

Conclusions  Findings highlight the need to include behavioural management strategies aimed at increasing social engagement, sustained attention and decreasing aggressive behaviour in comprehensive intervention programmes for young children with AD.
Differential Appetite‐Related Responses to Central Neuropeptide S in Lines of Chickens Divergently Selected for Low or High Body Weight
Authors: Cline M. A. , Prall B. C. , Smith M. L. , Calchary W. A. , Siegel P. B.
Published: April 2008

The anorexigenic 20 amino acid neuropeptide S (NPS) has not been studied in an animal model of hypo‐ or hyperphagia. The present study aimed to elucidate whether central NPS appetite‐related effects are different in lines of chickens that had undergone long‐term divergent selection for low (LWS) or high (HWS) body weight and that were hypo‐ and hyperphagic, respectively. It took a longer time for food intake to be reduced in LWS than HWS chicks administered the lowest dose of NPS tested (0.14 nmol) and, at the highest dose tested (0.56 nmol), they had a greater reduction in food intake than did HWS chicks. HWS chicks responded with a similar magnitude of food intake reduction that was independent of NPS dose. Although water intake was reduced concurrently with food intake after central NPS in both lines, blood glucose concentrations were not affected. Hypothalamic signalling was different between the lines. Although both lines respond to central NPS with decreased c‐Fos immunoreactivity in the lateral hypothalamus, the periventricular nucleus had increased c‐Fos immunoreactivity in LWS but not HWS chicks. After central NPS treatment, there was increased c‐Fos immunoreactivity in the paraventricular nucleus in HWS but not LWS chicks. These data support the notion of differences in the central NPS system between the LWS and HWS lines and infer that central NPS may differentially affect appetite‐related processes in other species that contain hypo‐ and hyperphagic individuals.
Temporal and Spatial Regulation of CRE Recombinase Expression in Gonadotrophin‐Releasing Hormone Neurones in the Mouse
Authors: Wolfe A. , Divall S. , Singh S. P. , Nikrodhanond A. A. , Baria A. T. , Le W. W. , Hoffman G. E. , Radovick S.
Published: April 2008

Gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) neurones located within the brain are the final neuroendocrine output regulating the reproductive hormone axis. Their small number and scattered distribution in the hypothalamus make them particularly difficult to study in vivo. The Cre/loxP system is a valuable tool to delete genes in specific cells and tissues. We report the production of two mouse lines that express the CRE bacteriophage recombinase in a GnRH‐specific manner. The first line, the GnRH‐CRE mouse, contains a transgene in which CRE is under the control of the murine GnRH promoter and targets CRE expression specifically to GnRH neurones in the hypothalamus. The second line, the GnRH‐CRETeR mouse, uses the same murine GnRH promoter to target CRE expression to GnRH neurones, but is modified to be constitutively repressed by a tetracycline repressor (TetR) expressed from a downstream tetracycline repressor gene engineered within the transgene. GnRH neurone‐specific CRE expression can therefore be induced by treatment with doxycycline which relieves repression by TetR. These GnRH‐CRE and GnRH‐CRETeR mice can be used to study the function of genes expressed specifically in GnRH neurones. The GnRH‐CRETeR mouse can be used to study genes that may have distinct roles in reproductive physiology during the various developmental stages.
Antiviral therapy of hepatitis C in chronic kidney diseases: meta‐analysis of controlled clinical trials
Authors: Fabrizi F. , Ganeshan S. V. , Lunghi G. , Messa P. , Martin P.
Published: April 2008

Summary.  Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains frequent in patients with chronic kidney disease and the detrimental role of HCV on survival is well‐established in this population. Several authors have reported on efficacy and safety of antiviral therapy for hepatitis C in this polulation but there is no clear consensus on management. To evaluate efficacy and safety of antiviral therapy for hepatitis C in patients with chronic kidney disease, we performed a systematic review of the published medical literature and completed a meta‐analysis of controlled clinical trials. The primary outcome was sustained virological response (as a measure of efficacy); the secondary outcome was drop‐out rate (as a measure of tolerability). We used the random effects model of Der Simonian and Laird, with heterogeneity and sensitivity analyses. We identified 13 studies including 539 unique patients; 10 (76.9%) concerned patients on maintenance dialysis. Only prospective, controlled clinical trials were included. Pooling of study results showed a significant increase of viral response in study (patients treated with antiviral therapy) than control patients (patients who did not receive therapy), the pooled odds ratio (OR) of failure to obtain a sustained viral response was 0.081 [95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.029–0.230], P = 0.0001. The pooled OR of drop‐out rate was significantly increased in study vs control patients, OR = 0.389 (95% CI, 0.155–0.957), P = 0.04. The studies were heterogeneous with regard to viral response and drop‐out rate. In the subset of clinical trials (n = 6) involving only dialysis patients receiving interferon (IFN) monotherapy for chronic HCV, there was a significant difference in the risk of failure to obtain a sustained viral response (study vs control patients), OR = 0.054 (95% CI, 0.019; 0.150), P = 0.0001 (random‐effects model). No significant (NS) heterogeneity was found (Q = 14.604, P = 1.0). No difference in the drop‐out rate between study and control patients was shown, OR = 0.920 (95% CI, 0.367; 2.311), NS. This result being homogeneous (Q = 3.639, P = 0.388). Our meta‐analysis showed that the viral response was greater in patients with chronic kidney disease who received antiviral therapy than controls. No difference in the drop‐out rate between study and control patients occurred in the subgroup of dialysis patients on IFN monotherapy. These results support IFN‐based therapy for hepatitis C in patients on maintenance dialysis.
First record of greater white‐toothed shrew Crocidura russula in Ireland
Authors: TOSH DAVID G. , LUSBY JOHN , MONTGOMERY W. IAN , O'HALLORAN JOHN
Published: April 2008

Skeletal remains of greater white‐toothed shrew Crocidura russula were recovered from barn owl Tyto alba and kestrel Falco tinnunculus pellets collected at 15 locations in Counties Tipperary and Limerick in Ireland in September 2007 and March 2008. Seven greater white‐toothed shrews were trapped at four locations in Tipperary in March 2008. This is the first Irish record of C. russula and compelling evidence that the species is established in Ireland.

The absence of C. russula from earlier surveys of owl pellets and small mammals in Ireland suggests a recent introduction by uncertain means, possibly since 2001. It seems likely that C. russula will expand its range in Ireland. Its impact on the ecology of habitats in which it is found is uncertain but may be considerable.
Tissue ghrelin level and gastric emptying rate in adult patients with celiac disease
Authors: Rocco A. , Sarnelli G. , Compare D. , De Colibus P. , Micheli P. , Somma P. , Marotti B. , Cuomo R. , Nardone G.
Published: April 2008

Abstract  Celiac disease (CD) patients show a number of gastrointestinal motor abnormalities. Ghrelin, a gastric peptide implicated in short‐term feeding control and long‐term body weight regulation, has been recently considered a key regulator of gastric motility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the gastric emptying rate of solids and the density of ghrelin‐immunopositive cells in adult CD patients before and at least 1 year after starting a gluten‐free diet. Twenty CD patients (M 8/F 12; mean age 36 years) and 10 controls underwent endoscopy with gastric and duodenal biopsies and 13C‐octanoic acid breath test to measure gastric emptying of solids. Celiac disease patients repeated the protocol at least 1 year after starting gluten‐free diet. Ghrelin tissue levels were evaluated by immunohistochemistry on gastric mucosa specimens. Gastric emptying time was normal in all control subjects (t1/2 = 89 ± 16 min) while it was delayed in CD patients prior to gluten‐free diet (t1/2 = 252 ± 101 min; P < 0.005). The mean number of ghrelin‐positive cells/field (×400) was 14.4 ± 2.7 in controls and 25.3 ± 5.7 in CD patients respectively (P < 0.0001). Gluten withdrawal was effective in normalizing gastric emptying time in all CD patients (97 ± 14 min; P < 0.0001) and resulted in a significant reduction of the density of ghrelin‐immunopositive cells (19.8 ± 5.4; P < 0.0001). The density of ghrelin‐positive cells correlated directly with the degree of duodenal damage (P < 0.001) and inversely with the body mass index of CD patients (P < 0.0001). However, in neither CD patients nor controls, a correlation between tissue ghrelin levels and gastric emptying rate was detected. In conclusion, tissue ghrelin level does not correlate with gastric emptying rate in adult CD patients and in controls.
Sodium cromoglycate as a replacement for inhaled corticosteroids in mild‐to‐moderate childhood asthma
Authors: Petersen W. , Karup‐Pedersen F. , Friis B. , Howitz P. , Nielsen F. , Strömquist L.‐H.
Published: April 2008

We investigated whether sodium cromoglycate 10 mg three times daily, delivered as an aerosol via Nebuhaler (in addition to terbutaline 0.5 mg three times daily), could replace inhaled steroid in children with mild‐to‐moderate asthma. Children (mean age 10.3 years) were randomly allocated to 12‐week treatment with sodium cromoglycate 10 mg plus terbutaline 0.5 mg (group A; n= 30) or placebo plus terbutaline 0.5 mg (group B; n= 32), both taken three times a day. The daily steroid dose was reduced by 50 μg/week for 4 weeks from a starting dose of 200 μg. Fewer patients withdrew owing to worsening asthma from group A (n= 1) than group B (n = 11). Symptom scores, morning and evening peak flows, and additional β2‐agonist usage, recorded on diary cards, were better in group A than group B. Lung function measured at clinic visits was unchanged in either group. Overall opinions of efficacy favoured Group A. Adverse events were similar in the groups. Sodium cromoglycate plus terbutaline substituted effectively for inhaled steroid therapy.
Allergenicity of acid protease secreted by Candida albicans
Authors: Akiyama K. , Shida T. , Yasueda H. , Mita H. , Yanagihara Y. , Hasegawa M. , Maeda Y. , Yamamoto T. , Takesako K. , Yamaguchi H.
Published: April 2008

We have previously reported the cases of Candida albicans (C. alb) acid protease (CAAP)‐induced atopic asthma. In this study, the allergenicity of the released enzyme CAAP was examined among asthmatic patients with positive immediate skin response to crude C. alb antigen. Among 49 patients with positive skin response to crude C. alb, anti‐crude C. alb IgE antibodies were detected in 40 and anti‐CAAP IgE antibodies were detected in 18. Moreover, anticrude C. alb IgE antibodies were detected in all of the patients in whom anti‐CAAP IgE antibodies were detected. No correlations between IgG antibodies to both antigens or between IgE and IgG antibodies to CAAP were observed. CAAP induced significant T‐cell proliferation in 20/28 patients showing positive T‐cell proliferation response to crude C. alb antigen. Most of the patients showing positive conjunctival response to crude C. alb antigen also showed positive response to CAAP. Most of the patients showing high levels of serum IgE antibody and positive histamine‐release response of peripheral blood leukocytes to CAAP showed positive conjunctival response. The results indicate that CAAP is an important allergen in C. alb‐related mucosal allergy.
Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) in pollinosis patients after eating pistachio nuts: Two cases with two different patterns of onset
Authors: Liccardi G. , Mistrello G. , Noschese P. , Falagiani P. , D'Amato M. , D'Amato G.
Published: April 2008

We describe two uncommon cases of oral allergy syndrome (OAS) after eating pistachio nuts (p.n.) in subjects (a 54‐year‐old man and a 3‐year‐old girl) with exclusive skin prick test (SPT) positivity to Parietaria (P.) and pistachio nut (p.n.) allergens. Serologic P.‐ and p.n.‐specific IgE determinations were also carried out. A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) was performed, for ethical reasons, only in the adult patient, but we observed a positive intraoral reaction only after slight scratching of the oral mucosa. Since this patient had put three whole p.n. with their shells into his mouth, breaking them with his teeth, before the onset of symptoms, we suggest that slight injury of the oral mucosa may enhance the local response. Preliminary results with SDS‐PAGE and immunoblotting demonstrate the occurrence of a slight degree of cross‐reactivity between these allergens, hut further studies are necessary to obtain a definite conclusion.
An electrical impedance technique for assessment of wheals
Authors: Nyrén M. , Ollmar S. , Nicander I. , Emtestam L.
Published: April 2008

In previous studies of the electrical impedance of the skin, we introduced a set of physical indices which could be used to distinguish between the cutaneous effects produced by different irritants and allergic contact reactions. In this study, wheals were induced in 10 allergic patients by performing prick tests on the forearm with the relevant allergen and histamine, respectively. Normal skin was used for control. The wheals were evaluated by visual scoring, laser Doppler, and electrical impedance. As expected, there was a close agreement between the visual and laser Doppler readings. Compared to the controls, there were significant changes in the electrical impedance of the wheals, especially in the index related to the phase angle. The changes in the indices were found to follow a particular pattern, which diverged from those obtained in contact skin reactions of both allergic and irritant type. Our results indicate that, by the application of the impedance technique, it will be possible to characterize objectively and quantify the wheal reaction. The results also suggest that cutaneous reactions of completely different causes, such as allergic skin reactions of the late and immediate type, and irritant contact reactions, may be distinguished on the basis of their effects on the electrical impedance of the skin.
Monomeric chemically modified allergens: immunologic and Physicochemical characterigation
Authors: Mistrello G. , Brenna O. , Roncarolo D. , Zanoni D. , Gentili M. , Falagiani P.
Published: April 2008

Allergenic extracts (Der p, grass, and Parietarin) or single allergens such as Par j I (the major allergen of Parietaria) and ovalbumin (OA), a food allergen widely used in animal models, were chemically modified by reaction with potassium cyanate (KCNO), which transforms the &‐amino group of the lysine of proteinaceous allergens into ureido groups. KCNO‐modified (carbamylated) allergens have low allergenic potency, as demonstrated in vitro (RAST inhibition) and in vivo (passive cutaneous anaphylaxis). When used to immunize rabbits, carbamylated allergens still induce IgG antibodies able to cross‐react with native allergens (immunoblotting experiments). An interesting feature distinguishing carbamylated allergens from other chemically modified allergens is the preservation of the native monomeric dimension as demonstrated by SDS‐PAGE analysis. Results are discussed from the perspective of clinical application of carbamylated allergens.
Histamine releasability of basophils and skin mast cells in chronic urticaria
Authors: Zuberbier T. , Schwarz S. , Hartmann K. , Pfrommer C. , Czarnetzki B. M.
Published: April 2008

In order to clarify the pathogenetic role of basophils and mast cells in chronic urticaria, histamine and leukotriene (LT)C4 release was examined in washed mixed leukocytes (n= 8) and skin mast cells (n= 5) from patients with chronic urticaria and compared with the same cells from normal controls (n= 9). Anti‐IgE‐stimulated basophil histamine release was significantly reduced in urticaria patients (median 2.9%vs 15.1% in normal controls), whereas histamine release to A23187. FMLP, and PAF, as well as anti‐IgE‐induced LTC4 release, showed no differences in both groups. In contrast, anti‐IgE‐stimulated skin mast cells from urticaria patients reacted similarly to those of controls (median histamine release 11.4%vs 14.2% in normal controls). Pretreatment of the cells with interleukin (IL)‐3 upregulated responsiveness of basophil histamine release to anti‐IgE in urticaria patients (median histamine release 14.3%), but pretreatment with the H2‐antagonist cimetidine showed no effect. These data show that reduced basophil histamine releasability in chronic urticaria is not H2 mediated. It is a stimulus, mediator‐, and cell type‐restricted phenomenon that can, at least partially, be reversed in the presence of the cytokine IL‐3.
Epitope analysis of HLA‐DR‐restricted helper T‐cell responses to Der p II, a major allergen molecule of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
Authors: Okano M. , Nagano T. , Nakada M. , Masuda Y. , Kino K. , Yasueda H. , Nose Y. , Nishimura Y. , Ohta N.
Published: April 2008

Okano M, Nagano T, Nakada M, Masuda Y, Kino K. Yasueda H, Nose Y, Nishimura Y, Ohta N. Epitope analysis of HLA‐DR‐restricted helper T‐cell responses to Der p II, a major allergen molecule of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus.

T‐cell epitopes of Der p II, a major allergen of Dermatophagoidees pteronpssinus, were analyzed by using human T‐cell clones. We tested 38 cloned T cells from two Japanese patients with allergic rhinitis, and identified at least two peptides (K33–T47 and 158–C73) as helper T‐cell epitopes. The former epitope was shown to be restricted by HLA‐DRBI* 1502, and the latter by HLA‐DRB1 *0405, both of which are typical Japanese HLA‐DR alleles, suggesting that those T‐cell epitopes might be important for the onset of house‐dust mite allergy in the Japanese population. We prepared 15 analog peptides of the HLA‐DRB1*1502‐restricted 15‐mer peptide. Of those 15 residues, five (F35, L37, A39, F41. and E42) were critical for the epitope activity, and three residues (F35, A39, and E42) seemed to be included in anchor motifs for HLA‐DRB1*1502. The epitope peptide was also recognized by HLA‐DRB1*1502‐positive healthy donors; however. only allergic T cells showed Th2 functions. Antigen‐presenting cells of nonallergic donors were able to activate allergic T cells to express Th2 function. This seemed to suggest that antigen recognition of T cells, as well as additional unknown factors which promote Th2, rather than Th1, responses, might be important for the onset of house‐dust mite allergy.
Allergen avoidance in a day‐care center
Authors: Munir A. K. M. , Einarsson R. , Dreborg S.
Published: April 2008

The predominant sensitizing allergens in Swedish asthmatic children are furred pet animals. Poor ventilation and increased indoor humidity cause accumulation of pet allergens indoors. Indirect contacts with cats also increase pet allergen exposure. We investigated whether the concentration and the total amount of cat (Fel d I) and dog (Can f I) allergen in dust from various surfaces in a day‐care center were influenced by extensive renovation, installation of a new ventilation system, ventilation of floors, and avoidance by families and personnel of direct and indirect contacts with pets. The cleaning routine in the day‐care center was changed extensively after renovation. Old mattresses, pillowcases, curtains, sofas, and soft toys were removed, and new materials were purchased. Dust was collected from various surfaces before and after renovation from table and chair surfaces, floors, curtains, mattresses, pillows, cushion‐like toys, and sofas on five occasions during a 12‐month period. Fel d I and Can f I allergen levels were determined by sandwich ELISA. The reduction in the total amount of both Fel d I and Can f I/sampling area was more pronounced than the reduction in the concentration of allergen/g of dust. After renovation, the mean cat and dog allergen concentration was decreased by six and 10 times, respectively. After 1 year, the total amount of cat allergen was lower in all areas (from 24 ng to<1 ng/sampling area, P< 0.05). Already at the first sampling after renovation, the total amount of dog allergen had decreased more than 10 times. In a previous study, we found the median concentration of cat and dog allergen to be 10–30 times higher in ordinary day‐care centers. Our present study demonstrates that children changing from a normal center to the renovated center would be exposed to much lower levels of cat and dog allergen. Combined measures such as installation of mechanical ventilation, ventilated floors, regular extensive cleaning, and, probably most important, avoidance of direct and indirect contacts with pets, should decrease cat and dog allergen exposure in day‐care centers.
Occupational asthma due to different spices
Authors: Sastre J. , Olmo M. , Novalvos A. , Ibañez D. , Lahoz C.
Published: April 2008

We describe a 27–year‐old subject who developed rhinitis and asthma symptoms 1 year after starting to prepare a certain kind of sausage. He was previously diagnosed as having allergy to coconut, banana, and kiwi and allergic rhinitis to horse, cat, dog, and cow. A positive immediate skin prick test (SPT) for paprika (dry powder of Capsicum annuum [Solanaceae]), coriander (Coriandrum sutivum [umbelliferous]), and mace (shell of nutmeg, Myristica fragrans [Myristicaceae]) at a concentration of 10% (w/v) was obtained. SPT with other sausage ingredients, mites, pollens, and molds were negative. By ELISA, specific IgE antibodies to paprika, coriander, and mace were demonstrated. By ELISA‐inhibition assays, a partial cross‐reactivity was found among IgE‐binding components from paprika and mace. The immunoblot analysis showed two IgE‐reactive protein bands able to bind to IgE from mace of 20 and 40 kDa and two other bands from coriander extract of 50 and 56 kDa. No bands were detected from paprika extract. Specific bronchial inhalation challenges showed an immediate asthmatic reaction to extracts from paprika, coriander, and mace with a maximum fall in FEV, of 26%, 40%, and 31%, respectively, with no late asthmatic reactions. In summary, we demonstrate that inhalation of dust from paprika, coriander, and mace can result in an IgE‐mediated reaction to these spices. In this patient, occupational asthma was due to spices from botanically unrelated species.
The effectiveness of benzyl benzoate and different chemicals as acaricides
Authors: Kalpaklioglu A. F. , Ferizli A. G. , Misirligil Z. , Demirel Y. S. , Gürbüz L.
Published: April 2008

Several observations have indicated that house‐dust mites (HDM) play an important role in allergic diseases. Thus, the primary form of treatment should aim at reducing exposure to HDM for these patients. Allergenavoidance measures in homes have been demonstrated to be beneficial in decreasing the risk of sensitization, severity of symptoms, bronchial reactivity, and basophil sensitivity. Various chemical methods, as well as physical measures, have been tried to eliminate mite allergens from house dust. However, none have gained wide acceptance because of the lack of effectiveness and safety, and the high cost. It is clear that new approaches are required for effective long‐term control of HDM allergens. This study compared the acaricidal activities of phenyl salicylate. tea leaf extract (high tannic acid content), and essential oils (eucalyptus and laurel) with that of benzyl benzoate. The contact, short‐duration persistence, and residual effects of various concentrations of these chemicals and benzyl benzoate were assessed in laboratory conditions with specially designed wells. Our data suggest that benzyl benzoate may not be effective when applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, but may be effective when applied more frequently (i.e., three to four times a year) and for longer periods (up to 24 h) even with lower concentrations (0.4%).

Essential oils were shown to have little acaricidal activity, but virtually no effect was observed with tea. Among the chemicals used, phenyl salicylate seems to be promising as an alternative acaricide.
Dermal and bronchial hyperreactivity in urticarial dermographisrn and urticaria factitia
Authors: Henz B. M. , Jeep S. , Ziegert F. S. , Niernann J. , Kunkel G.
Published: April 2008

For investigation of a possible relationship between cutaneous and bronchial hyperreactivity, 74 subjects were grouped according to the presence (n= 33) or absence (n= 41) of urticarial dermographism after application of a standardized shearing pressure with a dermographometer (12.7 × 105 Pa). The two groups did not differ in age, sex, smoking habits, presence of urticaria and atopy, or serum IgE levels. Erythema of the dermographic test sites was always significantly greater (P< 0.001) in the group with urticarial dermographism at 2, 4, and 8 min, and cutaneous reactivity with titrated prick tests was significantly increased in this group with low concentrations of histamine, 0.01% and substance P (0.25 mM) (P<0.05). After bronchial provocation with acetylcholine, 51 of the 74 subjects, 25 with and 26 without urticarial dermographism, exhibited bronchial hyperreactivity. However, significantly more subjects with urticarial dermographism had an increase in airway resistance and a decrease in specific airway conductance (P<0.05). In the subgroup (n= 9) of subjects with symptomatic urticarial dermographism (urticaria factitia), these differences were even more significant (P< 0.001). These subjects also had larger skin test reactions and significantly higher IgE levels (P<0.01). Thus, the present data show an association, which may be based on common mechanisms of allergic inflammation, between cutaneous and bronchial hyperreactivity.
Interaction of allergens from house‐dust mite and from cereal flours: Dermatophagoides pteronyssinusα‐amylase (Der p 4) and wheat and rye α‐amylase inhibitors
Authors: Sánchez‐Monge R. , García‐Casado G. , Barbe D. , Salcedo G.
Published: April 2008

Major wheat and rye allergens associated with baker's asthma have been identified as specific inhibitors of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinusα‐amylase (Der p 4). The most active inhibitors were the wheat tetrameric one and the rye dimeric RDAI‐1. These data suggest that interaction between mite and cereal allergens (α‐amylase/inhibitor complexes) might occur in house‐dust‐mite‐infected flours. In contrast to the strong inhibition of the D. pteronyssinus enzyme by the wheat and rye inhibitors, the amylases from D. farinae, Lepidoglyphus destructor, and Tyrophagus putrescentiae were much less affected. Moreover, the D. pteronyssinus amylase showed higher pH optimum (6.5 versus 5.0) and activity level (2–6 times/mg of protein in whole‐mite extracts) than those from the three other mite species.
Fever from caffeine
Authors: Daroca P. , Rodriguez J. , Reaño M. , Canto G. , Miranda P.
Published: April 2008

Since childhood, a 53‐year‐old women had developed chills, high‐grade fever, myalgia, and cephalea after the ingestion of coffee, tea, cola beverages, and some oral “antiflu” compounds. Skin prick tests performed with all the implicated substances were negative. Single‐blind oral challenges with both caffeine and theophylline were positive, reproducing exactly the same clinical symptoms and fever. Oral challenge with pentoxifylline was negative. We report a case of caffeine‐induced fever in which we have demonstrated cross‐reactivity with theophylline, but not with pentoxifylline.
The sting challenge test in Hymenoptera venom allergy Position paper of the subcommittee on Insect Venom Allergy of the European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology
Authors: Ruëff F. , Przybilla B. , Müller U. , Mosbech H.
Published: April 2008

Ruëff F, Przybilla B, Müller U, Mosbech H. The sting challenge test in Hymenoptera venom allergy. Position paper of the Subcommittee on Insect Venom Allergy of the European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology. Allergy 1996: 51: 216–225. © Munksgaard 1996.
Prevalence of allergic diseases in schoolchildren in relation to family history, upper respiratory infections, and residential characteristics
Authors: Åberg N. , Sundell J. , Eriksson B. , Hesselmaf B. , Åberg B.
Published: April 2008

The prevalences of asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR), and eczema were analyzed in relation to retrospective risk factors from birth in a questionnaire study of schoolchildren in two areas covering the whole climatic span of Sweden: the Göteborg area on the southwestern coast (7‐year‐olds, n= 1649) and Kiruna, a mining town in the northernmost inland mountains (7–9‐year‐olds, n= 832). The strongest background factor, a family history of the diseases, was more common in children with another strong risk factor, particularly for asthma: high frequency of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Other significant risk factors related to high indoor humidity caused an increased prevalence of both allergic diseases and URTI. Active mechanical ventilation of the homes caused a slight reduction of the prevalence of allergic diseases, and repainting or new wallpaper in the bedroom of the child after birth caused a moderately increased risk of allergic disease. This study illustrates the interaction between genetic and environmental risk factors with special emphasis on factors related to an unventilated indoor climate, which may have substantially contributed to the current increase of the diseases in the country.
Reactive airways dysfunction syndrome induced by exposure to a mixture containing isocyanate: functional and histopathologic behaviour
Authors: Lemiere C. , Malo J.‐L. , Boulet L.‐P. , Boutet M.
Published: April 2008

A 31‐year‐old machinist experienced acute symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis, coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing after sudden exposure to fumes containing isocyanates and solvents. Lung function tests carried out 11 days after the event showed reduced flow rates. Forty days after the acute inhalational injury, expiratory flows improved, and the PC20 was 0.8 mg/ml, showing moderate bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Six days later, the subject underwent bronchoscopy. Bronchial biopsies showed a marked loss of epithelial cells, severe subepithelial oedema, and inflammatory cells infiltrate (mainly lymphocytes). The subject was given inhaled steroids. The PC20 was back to normal 42 days later. Bronchial biopsies then showed incomplete regeneration of the epithelial layer with few ciliated cells and persistence of inflammation (lymphocyte infiltrate) in epithelia and connective tissue. We conclude that irritant exposure to a mixture of isocyanates and solvents can cause occupational asthma without a latency period, i.e., reactive airways dysfunction syndrome.
Accelerated cell‐mediated broncho‐obstructive reaction to inhaled stepronin: a case report
Authors: Romano A. , Fonso M. Di , Mormile F. , Quaratino D. , Giuffreda F. , Venuti A.
Published: April 2008

We describe the case of a 20‐year‐old man who developed an obstructive bronchial reaction accompanied by a maculopapular facial rash 8 h after an aerosol treatment with the mucolytic drug stepronin. The results of intradermal and patch testing with stepronin, together with those of bronchial challenge and histologic findings in patch‐tested skin, indicate that the patient's reaction involved an accelerated cell‐mediated mechanism of hypersensitivity. Bronchial challenges with methacholine demonstrated a transient increase in nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity.
Preseasonal intranasal immunotherapy in birch‐alder allergic rhinitis: A double‐blind study
Authors: Cirla A. M. , Sforza N. , Roffi G. P. , Alessandrini A. , Stanizzi R. , Dorigo N. , Sala E. , Torre F. Della
Published: April 2008

A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was carried out to test the clinical efficacy and safety of local nasal immunotherapy (LNIT) in powder form. Twenty‐two patients suffering from allergic rhinitis strictly associated with early spring symptoms, with positive skin prick tests and RAST for birch‐alder, all responders to a specific nasal provocation test (NPT), received randomly active or placebo treatment for 4 months. Immunotherapy consisted of administration of a set of capsules containing progressively increasing amounts of birch (Betuh pendula) and speckled alder (Alnus incana) allergens in powder form with controlled granulometry. The active (birch‐alder) and placebo (lactose) group completed the treatment according to a similar schedule. During the pollen season (March‐April), the patients who took the active treatment reported less sneezing and rhinorrhea than the placebo group, on the basis of a symptoms score, and the differences were statistically significant; the need for drugs (terfenadine) was also significantly reduced. These findings agreed well with the results of specific NPT after the treatment; only patients in the active group had a higher threshold dose of nasal specific reactivity to birch‐alder allergens than in tests before the LNIT.
Characterization of soybean allergens causing sensitization of occupationally exposed bakers
Authors: Baur X. , Pau M. , Czuppon A. , Fruhmann G.
Published: April 2008

Fourteen bakers suffering from workplace‐related respiratory symptoms and sensitized to soybean were studied. Twelve of them were also allergic to wheat flour, 10 to rye flour, and five to α‐amylase of Aspergillus oryzae (Asp o 2). IgE estimation by RAST strongly indicated that the trypsin inhibitor and lipoxidase are major allergens of soybean. Various allergenic components could be characterized by immunoblotting after two‐dimensional electrophoresis. Our RAST and immunoblotting results show an interindividually different allergic response to inhalative soybean constituents, and that the trypsin inhibitor (20 kDa, pI˜4.5) is an important inhalative soybean allergen recognized by IgE antibodies in the sera of 86% of the examined sensitized bakers.
Molecular analysis of allergenic proteins in bovine dander
Authors: Rautiainen J. , Pentikäinen J. , Rytkönen M. , Linnala‐Kankkunen A. , Pelkonen J. , Virtanen T. , Mäntyjärvi R.
Published: April 2008

An analytic procedure was established to characterize bovine dander proteins with allergenic properties. The proteins from dander extract were separated by size‐exclusion gel filtration, and the fractions were studied with SDS‐PAGE followed by immunoblotting. An 11‐kDa allergen was found in the same gel filtration fractions as 20‐ and 22‐kDa allergens, and this suggests that the 11‐kDa allergen is a dimer in its native form. Our method also detected two separate 22‐kDa allergens. The primary structure of the major bovine dander allergen (BDA20) was also studied. A protein sequencer was used to determine the amino acid sequences of enzymatically cleaved peptides. The homology searches revealed that BDA20 is not a previously known bovine protein.
Identification of casein as the major allergenic and antigenic protein of cow's milk
Authors: Docena G. H. , Fernandez R. , Chirdo F. G. , Fossati C. A.
Published: April 2008

Docena GH, Fernandez R, Chirdo FG, Fossati CA. Identification of casein as the major allergenic and antigenic protein of cow's milk. The objective of this study was to analyze both the allergenicity and immunogenicity of cow's milk proteins. To this end, 80 milk‐atopic patients were selected on the basis of the presence of cow's milk‐specific IgE antibodies in serum and compatible clinical history. Fifteen patients allergic to other allergens and 10 nonatopic subjects were studied as controls. The specificity of serum IgG and IgE antibodies was determined by immunoblotting, employing both cow's milk and milk components, i.e., α‐ and β‐casein, β‐lactoglobulin, and α‐lactalbumin separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE). The experiments showed that casein‐specific IgE antibodies were present in all (80/80) sera examined; 10/80 showed reactivity to β‐lactoglobulin, and 5/80 showed reactivity to α‐lactalbumin. None of the 25 negative control sera analyzed showed the presence of specific IgE antibodies against milk proteins. These results were similar to those corresponding to the detection, by the radioallergosorbent test, of IgE antibodies against the milk components coupled to paper disks. All sera from milk‐atopic patients also showed IgE reactivity against a high‐molecular‐mass fraction that hardly enters the gel. This fraction, after separation by gel filtration and treatment with β‐mercaptoethanol and urea, was shown by SDS‐PAGE analysis to be formed by casein monomers. All sera analyzed by immunoblotting reacted against the components corresponding to casein monomers. Inhibition of immunoblotting by adsorption with different milk components confirmed that those high‐molecular‐mass aggregates are formed by casein components. The results presented here strongly suggest that casein is the major allergenic component of cow's milk.