bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The batch‐to‐batch variation of the potency of dog– and cat–allergen‐coated lancets
Authors: Dreborg S.
Published: May 2007

In clinical work I formed the impression that the potency of Phazet® lancets, for cat and dog allergens, was lower than earlier and too low to diagnose all clinically sensitive children with cat and dog allergy. Therefore, I decided to investigate the potency of newly produced and several years old Phazet lancets coated with dog and cat allergens. Twenty‐six adults with case histories of cat and/or dog allergy and skin reactive to extracts of either dog dander or cat epithelium were skin prick tested in duplicate with one old batch and one newly produced batch of Phazet dog and/or cat lancets as well as the in‐house reference of cat and/or dog allergen, 100 000 BU/ml.

The potency of Phazet lancets in relation to the standard was evaluated by the median slope of the allergen dose‐response relationship. The potency of the old dog lancets (mean 48 900 BU/ml) was higher (NS) than that of the newly produced lancets (mean 28 000 BU/ml), and the potency of both types of lancets was significantly less (P<0.001) than that of the dog allergen in‐house standard. On the other hand, the potency of newly produced (123 000 BU/ml), but not old (108 000), cat‐allergen‐coated Phazet lancets was higher than that of the cat allergen in‐house reference extract (P = 0.048).

There was a marked variation in potency between patients. Most of this variation was due to factors varying between patients, not between lancets, indicating that the composition of the allergen on the lancets was partly different from that of the standard.

The results indicate that skin prick tests must be used for the batch control of allergen‐coated lancets and that such lancets used in scientific work must be calibrated against a standard by skin prick testing.
Soluble CD23 (sCD23) serum levels and lymphocyte subpopulations in peripheral blood in rhinitis and extrinsic and intrinsic asthma
Authors: Sánchez‐Guerrero I. , Albaladejo M. D. , García‐Alonso A. M. , Muro M. , Hernández J. , Alvarez M. R.
Published: May 2007

To determine serum levels of IgE and sCD23 and lymphocyte subpopulations, we studied 37 control subjects and 84 patients (27 with allergic rhinitis, 27 with extrinsic asthma, and 30 with intrinsic asthma). A rise in surface CD23 on B and monocyte cells and sCD23 serum levels was exhibited by patients with rhinitis and extrinsic asthma. Unexpectedly, in intrinsic asthmatic patients, high CD23 expression on monocytes and high sCD23 levels were seen that did not result in IgE production. It appears that CD23, in its soluble form, could be a good disease marker, especially in asthma. Atopic patients yielded a significantly lower proportion of CD4+ T cells than intrinsic asthmatic patients and normal persons. Otherwise, CD4+ CD29+ CD45RA ‐ and CD4+ CD29 – CD45RA + T‐cell subsets were significantly decreased in all patient groups.
Asthma mortality rate in Swedish children and young adults 1973–88
Authors: Foucard T. , Graff‐Lonnevig V.
Published: May 2007

To investigate the asthma mortality rate in Sweden for the period 1973–88, we reviewed all death certificates for suspected death from asthma coded as 493 of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)‐8 and ICD‐9 for the age group 1–24 years. Age‐related mortality rates were calculated and compared with the results from a previous Swedish study of 1952–72. To identify factors contributing to death, we assessed hospital records. The mortality rate was 3.46 for the period 1973–88 and 3.31 for the earlier period, a net increase of 5%. This small overall increase includes a minor decrease in deaths for the age group 1–14 years and a rather pronounced increase for 15–24‐year‐old asthmatic patients. More deaths among “mild” asthmatic patients were found in the higher age group for 1986–8 than 1973–81. In younger children, asthma was more severe, and no difference was found between the two periods of the study. Asthma mortality is increasing in Sweden in adolescents and young adults, and there is a tendency to increasing mortality from less severe asthma not treated with anti‐inflammatory drugs.
Optimization and characterization of freeze‐dried multilamellar liposomes incorporating different standardized allergen extracts
Authors: Genin I. , Barratt G. , Thao Tran Xuan , Delattre J. , Puisieux F.
Published: May 2007

Desensitization therapy for type I allergy is now current practice. Liposomes have been proposed as a support for allergens to improve safety and effectiveness. The aim of this work was to optimize liposomal formulations of three different standardized allergen extracts and to test their allergenicity in vitro and in a preclinical trial. Allergen extracts (Dactylis glomerata, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, and cat hair and dander) were associated with multilamellar liposomes of varying compositions at different pH. Liposome‐bound allergens were quantified by RAST inhibition after ultracentrifugation, and analyzed qualitatively by SDS‐PAGE followed by immunoblotting. Their allergenicity was assessed by basophil degranulation in vitro, as compared with the allergenicity of an aqueous extract, and by skin tests in allergic subjects. The best association, about 50% of the added allergen, was obtained with negatively charged liposomes, when the pH of the allergen solution was adjusted so as to impart a net positive charge to the proteins. One‐third of the liposome‐associated allergens was located on the surface of the liposomes and was free to interact with antibody, as shown by RAST inhibition assays and the basophil degranulation test; the remaining two‐thirds was encapsulated within the liposomes. AH the major immunoreactive proteins in the extract were included. These liposomes could be readily freeze‐dried and reconstituted without changing their properties. This study reveals the allergenic characteristics of liposomes and suggests their potential use in the treatment of allergic patients.
Influence of hyposensitization on soluble interleukin‐2 receptor, eosinophil cationic protein, in vitro lymphocyte proliferation, in vitro lymphocyte adhesion, and lymphocyte membrane markers in childhood asthma
Authors: Moens M.M. , Van Bever H. P. , Stevens W. J. , Mertens A. V. , Bridts C. H. , De Clerck L. S.
Published: May 2007

Soluble interleukin‐2 receptor (sIL‐2R), eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), the lymphoproliferative response to house‐dust mite (HDM), adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), and lymphocyte membrane markers were studied in three groups of children: healthy children, asthmatic children without hyposensitization (HS), and asthmatic children with HS. HS was associated with significantly lower numbers of peripheral blood eosinophils (PBE) and lower sIL‐2R serum levels and with a tendency to lower ECP serum levels and lymphoproliferative response to HDM. There were no changes in the T‐lymphocyte phenotypic markers CD4 and CDS among the three groups. The interleukin‐2 receptor (IL‐2R, CD25) on HDM‐stimulated T lymphocytes increased over unstimulated T lymphocytes in the three groups. The CD25 expression was higher on HDM‐stimulated lymphocytes in both asthmatic groups than in healthy children. Adhesion of lymphocytes on HUVEC increased significantly after HDM stimulation in asthmatic children without HS, whereas no change was observed in the two other groups. However, there was no change in the expression of adhesion molecules CD29 and CD1 la on lymphocytes in either of the groups. This study provides further evidence that HS can modify lymphocyte and eosinophil functions.
Dander is the best epithelial source for dog allergenic extract preparations
Authors: Martinez A. , Martinez J. , Sanz M. L. , Bartolome B. , Palacios R.
Published: May 2007

Four different commercially available raw materials of dog epithelia (dander, hair and skin scraping, skin scraping, and whole skin) were compared by means of biochemical methods such as SDS‐PAGE and chromatography with the SMARTTM System, immunochemical methods such as RAST and SDS‐PAGE immunoblotting, and cutaneous tests. Dander extract clearly exhibited the highest IgE binding and in vivo allergenic activity. The dog major allergens Can f I and the 19‐kDa protein were adequately detected only in dander extract. Thus, it is concluded that dander is the most suitable epithelial source for preparing dog allergenic extracts.
Increased levels of blood platelet‐activating factor in bronchial asthmatic patients with active symptoms
Authors: Kurosawa M. , Yamashita T. , Kurimoto F.
Published: May 2007

Levels of platelet‐activating factor (PAF) in blood from 12 bronchial asthmatic patients (six atopic and six nonatopic) were measured by radioimmunoassay after lipid extraction and separation by high‐performance liquid chromatography. None of the patients were given disodium cromoglycate and prednisolone, and they were instructed to take only regular medications during the tests. Blood was drawn from the patients in a fasting state, and PAF levels were compared between the times when they were free of asthmatic symptoms and when they had mild spontaneous attacks. Ten (six atopic and four nonatopic) out of 12 patients, when they had the asthmatic attacks, showed higher levels of PAF than when they were free of the symptoms. Blood PAF levels of the patients with the active symptoms were significantly higher than those of normal healthy control subjects, suggesting that PAF may play a role in bronchial asthma.
Comparative detection of mite allergens in house dust of homes in Moscow by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and acarologic analysis
Authors: Zheltikova T. M. , Ovsyannikova I. G. , Gervazieva V. B. , Platts‐Mills T. A. E. , Chapman M. D. , Petrova‐Nikitina A. D. , Stepanova G. N.
Published: May 2007

The present study revealed that 73% of surveyed apartments in Moscow whose residents included children with the atopic form of bronchial asthma and sensitization to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergens were infested with the pyroglyphid mites D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae. The number of mites in the surveyed apartments varied between 0 and 154 mites/g of dust for D. pteronyssinus and between 0 and 162 mites/g of dust for D. farinae. The levels of mite allergens in these apartments ranged from 0.5 to 165.8 μg/g for Der p I and from 0.3 to 91.3 μg/g of dust for Der f I. The Der p I allergen was found to predominate, and its concentration in one‐third of the apartments was more than 10‐fold greater than that of Der f I. Correlation between the number of pyroglyphid mites and the concentration of group I allergens was established for both D. pteronyssinus (r= 0.4932; P< 0.01) and D. farinae (r= 0.6748; P<0.01). In most of the apartments, high and moderate levels of Der I allergens were detected.
Seasonal occupational asthma in an agricultural products merchant — a case report
Authors: Merget R. , Heger M. , Wahl R. , Cromwell O. , Rasche K. , Schultze‐Werninghaus G.
Published: May 2007

A 52‐year‐old agricultural products merchant reported mild occupational asthma and rhinitis throughout the year, with severe asthma from February to May. He had been exposed to various substances, particularly grain, insecticides, fungicides, and fertilizers over 35 years. We identified a castor‐bean‐containing fertilizer as the cause of the disease by skin prick test and bronchial provocation test. Specific IgE against castor bean was detected by enzyme allergosorbent test, and proteins with mol. mass of less than 14.4 kDa and masses of 15.5, 29.5, and 30.5 kDa were identified as allergens by Western blot analysis. The seasonal character of symptoms could be explained by a more frequent use of the fertilizer during spring. Six months after avoidance of the allergen, the patient reported chronic bronchitis without asthma. Occupational allergy to castor bean should be considered in subjects with seasonal asthma and exposure to “natural” fertilizers.
Twenty‐four‐hour time course of eosinophil granule proteins ECP and EPX during bronchial allergen challenges in serum of asthmatic children
Authors: Niggemann B. , Kleinau I. , Schmitt M. , Wahn U.
Published: May 2007

To study in vivo monitoring variables for bronchial allergen challenges, we investigated the time course of the eosinophil granule proteins, eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and eosinophil protein × (EPX) after allergen provocation in serum. Thirty‐two asthmatic children sensitive to house‐dust mites and six healthy young adult controls were challenged by bronchial allergen provocations with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and D. farinae. Blood samples were taken at regular intervals up to 24 h. Base‐line concentrations of ECP (P<0.004), EPX (P<0.002), and eosinophils (P<0.001) were found to be increased in asthmatic children, as compared with healthy controls. ECP and EPX concentrations showed a uniform pattern with two characteristic features: 1) a rapid increase for both mediators up to 30 min after provocation over base‐line values (P<0.0001 and P<0.001), followed by a rapid decrease nearly to base‐line values in the next 30 min; and 2) a steady increase for ECP and EPX up to 10 h (P<0.02 and P<0.01), and even higher levels at 24 h, after challenge (P<0.002 and P<0.003). We conclude that although eosinophils are activated in asthmatic children after bronchial allergen challenge, ECP and EPX concentrations are not suitable monitoring variables. Base‐line eosinophils seem to predict the occurrence of a late‐phase asthmatic reaction after allergen provocation.
Four‐year stability of Der p I in house dust under simulated domestic conditions in vitro
Authors: Kort H.S.M. , Kniest F.M.
Published: May 2007

For almost 4 years, the stability of Der p I was assessed by RAST inhibition in house‐dust samples incubated under simulated domestic conditions (5 or 25°C and 75% relative humidity). Der p I concentrations were determined before heating dust samples at 60°C to kill the mites, and at 0, 6, 14, 21, and 47 months after heating. Heating at 60°C for 24 h caused no significant change in Der p I concentration. After a 47‐month incubation under simulated domestic conditions, reduction of Der p I was still not obvious. It is concluded that even after extermination of mites, home textiles remain allergen reservoirs for an extended period of time. Avoidance schemes should take this into account.
Adhesion molecules of allergic inflammation: recent insights into their functional roles
Authors: Canonica G. W. , Ciprandi G. , Buscaglia S. , Pesce G. , Bagnasco M.
Published: May 2007

Canonica GW, Ciprandi G, Buscaglia S, Pesce G, Bagnasco M. Adhesion molecules of allergic inflammation: recent insights into their functional roles.
Immune responses to nematode exoantigens: sensitizing antibodies and basophil histamine release
Authors: Nielsen B. Windelborg , Lind P. , Hansen B. , Reimert C. M. , Nansen P. , Schiøtz P.O.
Published: May 2007

Windelborg Nielsen B, Lind P, Hansen B, Reimert CM, Nansen P, Schiotz PO. Immune responses to nematode exoantigens: sensitizing antibodies and basophil histamine release.

High levels of IgE and eosinophilia are found in both allergy and helminth infections, but allergic symptoms are rare in naturally acquired helminth infections. The interrelation of specific IgE antibodies and in vitro basophil histamine release (HR) induced by exoantigens from the larval stages (L‐2/L3) of the nematodes Toxocara canis and Ascaris suum was examined in 148 patients visiting an outpatient clinic for parasitic diseases. The antigen sensitivity of the basophils was found to be dependent not only on the absolute amount of antigen‐specific IgE present in patient plasma, but also on the ratio between specific and total IgE. Thus, large HR was observed in some patients in response to helminth antigens despite low levels of both specific and total IgE content in plasma. Patients with eosinophilia showed greater IgE‐mediated HR than the other patients examined. In contrast, only five patients showed HR after challenge with anti‐IgG4, despite the presence of high levels of antigen‐specific IgG4 and IgGl in all patients showing specific IgE antibodies.
Population analysis of cellular responses to synthetic peptides of Der p II, a major allerg molecule of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, in allergic and nonallergic subjects
Authors: Okano M. , Nagano T. , Kino K. , Yasueda H. , Baba Y. , Saito C. , Masuda Y. , Ohta N.
Published: May 2007

Okano M, Nagano T, Kino K, Yasueda H, Baba Y, Saito C, Masuda Y, Ohta N. Population analysis of cellular responses to synthetic peptides of Der p II, a major allergen molecule of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, in allergic and nonallergic subjects.

Responses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to synthetic oligopeptides of Der p II, one of the major allergen molecules of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, were compared between allergic and nonallergic subjects. Healthy subjects showed positive responses to crude extracts of D. pteronyssinus, but only allergic subjects showed elevated cellular responses to Der p II. We synthesized three oligopeptides of Der p II in which motifs of a possible T‐cell epitopc were included. Of 14 subjects with positive response to Der p II, three responded to all three peptides, while five did not respond to any peptide tested. In 11 allergic patients who showed positive response to Der p II, responsiveness to the peptide K33‐T47 was significantly higher than that to other peptides (P<0.05). All the responding patients were also positive for scratch test to Der p II, suggesting that those epitopcs induced IgE‐promoting helper T‐cell response in allergic persons. On the other hand, the in vitro cellular responses were not necessarily correlated to IgE production against Der p II in healthy subjects.
Allergens causing bird fancier's asthma
Authors: Tauer‐Reich I. , Fruhmann G. , Czuppon A. B. , Baur X.
Published: May 2007

Tauer‐Reich I, Fruhmann G, Czuppon AB, Baur X. Allergens causing bird fancier's asthma.

The study investigates to what extent bird feathers contain relevant allergens/antigens involved in bird fancier's asthma. The study group consisted of two budgerigar fanciers, two parrot fanciers and one canary fancier. All subjects complained of asthmatic symptoms, caused by contact with their birds, and they showed a significant bronchial hyperreactivity to acetylcholinc. Positive IgE antibody reactions to bird sera as well as to extracts of feathers were observed in RAST. Well‐defined major allergenic bands could be detected and identified in the IgE immunoblots with feather extracts as well as with serum proteins of budgerigar, parrot, pigeon, canary, and hen (mol. mass 20‐30 kDa and 67 kDa). The most pronounced bands appeared with the extracts of species to which an exposure had taken place. Weaker IgG‐binding patterns were also observed. Our results show that inhalable feather dust contains several allergenic components which cross‐react with serum allergens/antigens of the same as well as of other bird species. This emphasizes the significance of bird feathers for immediate‐type allergic reactions.
Farm workers’occupational allergy to Tetranychus urticae: clinical and immunologic aspects
Authors: Astarita C. , Franzese A. , Scala G. , Sproviero S. , Raucci G.
Published: May 2007

A group of 46 farm workers (32 men), affected by a recurrent “occupational disease of undetermined origin”, underwent an immunologic investigation with a Tetranychus urticae (TU) whole‐body extract (TU‐WBE) prepared in our laboratory. The patients suffered from seasonal attacks of rhinitis, during the summer and autumn periods, when working in open fields (30 subjects) or in greenhouse flower cultivation (16 subjects). In most patients, rhinitis was associated with bronchial asthma (16 subjects), urticaria (14 subjects), or both (three subjects). Allergic alveolitis or other common allergic diseases had been excluded, and a diagnosis of “occupational disease of undetermined origin” had been made before by other medical centers. Ten healthy farm workers and 10 atopic townsmen were chosen as control groups. An in vivo and in vitro diagnostic trial by skin prick testing (SPT) and serum specific IgE dosage with TU‐WBE were done in all subjects. Thirty‐six patients (78%) were found to be positive to both SPT and the IgE enzyme allergosorbent test (EAST), with a good correlation between IgE serum levels and cutaneous wheal size. Control groups did not show any reaction. The IgE‐EAST homologous inhibition test was positive. The IgE‐EAST cross‐inhibition test excluded cross‐reactivity between TU and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. The TU‐exposure test was positive for the 36 patients with TU‐WBE‐specific IgE. Three patients who were negative for TU‐WBE‐specific IgE reacted to the TU‐exposure test; in these patients, the scratch‐chamber test (Finn chamber) with eggs and droppings from TU was positive. We suggest the possibility of a TU allergy also in those subjects in whom clinical symptoms can be attributed to other common allergens.

Astarita C, Franzese A, Scala G, Sproviero S, Raucci G. Farm workers’occupational allergy to Tetranychus urticae: clinical and immunologic aspects.
Allergen‐specific conjunctival challenge in children with allergic asthma: a clinical tool
Authors: Ciprandi G. , Tosca M. A. , Fasce L. , Canonica G. W.
Published: May 2007

Ciprandi G, Tosca MA, Fasce L, Canonica GW. Allergen‐specific conjunctival challenge in children with allergic asthma: a clinical tool.
Prospective study of laboratory‐animal allergy: factors predisposing to sensitization and development of allergic symptoms
Authors: Renström A. , Malmberg P. , Larsson K. , Sundblad B.‐M. , Larsson P. H.
Published: May 2007

In a prospective study of laboratory technicians, selected indicators of allergy and atopy were studied in an attempt to determine predictors of laboratory‐animal allergy (LAA). Laboratory technicians underwent spirometry, methacholine provocation tests, and blood sampling, and responded to a questionnaire during training and after 2 years' work. Among 38 laboratory‐animal‐exposed subjects, total IgE before exposure gave the best correlation (P < 0.01; Mann‐Whitney U‐test) to reported symptoms caused by laboratory animals (n= 8) at follow‐up. The prevalence of atopy and allergic symptoms had increased in exposed technicians at follow‐up, but this was also found among unexposed matched referents (n= 36 pairs). One subject in the exposed group reported asthma before exposure, compared with seven at follow‐up (P < 0.05; Fisher's exact test). However, the prevalence of asthma had increased from two to six (not significant) also among unexposed technicians. There were no significant differences between the groups in any measured variable at follow‐up. Among 43 subjects who later worked with laboratory animals, 21%, had a positive skin prick test for common allergens, as compared with 37% among 112 without animal exposure P= 0.06; x2 test), suggesting selection for laboratory animal work.
Specificity of ELISA for IgG subclass antibodies against inhalant antigens in early childhood
Authors: Ruiz R. G. G. , Price J. F. , Kemeny D. M.
Published: May 2007

ELISA is increasingly used to measure antibodies in new circumstances. Recently, it has been applied to the measurement of IgG subclass antibodies against common antigens in early childhood. These studies have raised concerns about the specificity of some of these assays. This paper details the results of experiments which have assessed the specificity of IgG 1 binding to allergens of dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus) and ryegrass (Lolium perenne) pollen by inhibition ELISA in the sera of 2‐year‐old children of atopic parents. Six sera which showed binding of IgG 1 to D. pteronyssinus and six to L. perenne were used. All had IgG1 antibody against ovalbumin. In the children's sera, binding to D. pteronyssinus was substantially inhibited by preincubation with the homologous antigen, but not with ovalbumin, thereby confirming the specificity of the assay. However, suppression of IgGl binding to L. perenne with the homologous antigen was comparatively small, and ovalbumin could cause an equivalent inhibition, indicating poor specificity. Furthermore, the level of IgG1 binding to L. perenne was closely correlated to the level of IgG1 binding to ovalbumin (r= 0.98; P < 0.001). When the assay was reversed, IgG1 binding to ovalbumin was only slightly inhibited by L. perenne, indicating that most antibody binding to ovalbumin was specific. Thus, binding IgG1 in both adult and child sera to D. pteronyssinus appeared to be specific, while child, but not adult, IgG1 binding to L. perenne showed poor specificity. This disparity may be due to differences in the affinities of the respective antibodies, and it illustrates the importance of determining assay specificity when making measurements in early childhood.
Farmer's lung precipitins in Doubs (a department of France): prevalence and diagnostic value
Authors: Dalphin J. C. , Toson B. , Monnet E. , Pernet D. , Dubiez A. , Laplante J. J. , Aiache J. M. , Depierre A.
Published: May 2007

In a French region where farmer's lung (FL) is common, we determined the prevalence of FL precipitins in dairy farmers and analyzed the relation between the presence of FL precipitins and the clinical probability of the disease. All the exposed dairy farmers of both sexes (n= 2555) from five districts of the Doubs department were asked to respond to a medical and professional questionnaire. A total of 1763 (69%) farmers agreed to participate. Precipitins tests were conducted in 551 (31%) farmers who showed any respiratory symptom and in a random sample of 100 asymptomatic farmers. Serum for each farmer was analyzed by both double diffusion and immunoelectrophoresis against Micropolyspora faeni (MF) and extracts of moldy hay (HE) from Doubs. The 651 farmers were then divided into four groups (G 1–4) with a decreasing probability of FL (G1: typical FL symptoms; G4: asymptomatic farmers). The estimated prevalence of precipitins in the whole population was as follows: 1) by double diffusion, against HE: 83%, against MF: 27%; 2) by immunoelectrophoresis, against HE: 26%, against MF: 19%. There was a close “linear” relation between the prevalence of precipitins detected by immunoelectrophoresis against HE and the symptoms: 51% in G1, 36% in G2, 29% in G3, and 13% in G4. Precipitins detected by immunoelectrophoresis were also related to exposure and geography (more immunization in tableland area than in plain or mountain area). Presence of precipitins detected by double diffusion was not related to symptoms, exposure, or geography. This study shows that the prevalence of precipitins is high in the exposed dairy farmers of Doubs, and suggests that immunoelectrophoresis (with the antigens used) is a more effective method for the diagnosis of FL than double diffusion.
Nasal peak‐flow‐rate recording is useful in detecting allergic nasal reactions—a case report
Authors: Åhman M. , Wrangsjö K.
Published: May 2007

Serial nasal peak‐expiratory‐flow‐rate recordings have been used to detect changes in nasal patency. A hospital nurse with allergy to latex showed a marked decrease in nasal flow when exposed to latex gloves in a challenge test and in her work environment. We propose using the method as a diagnostic tool for allergic rhinitis in occupational and other exposure situations in which nasal blockage is a prominent symptom.
A new method, distribution‐analyzing latex immunoassay (DALIA), to measure specific immunoglobulin G against mite and wheat allergen in human sera
Authors: Xu J. Z. , Matsuo M. , Kamiyama N. , Matsushita H. , Sakai Y.
Published: May 2007

A distribution‐analyzing latex immunoassay (DALIA), based on the agglutination of latex particles coupled with mite or wheat allergen, was developed to determine allergen‐specific IgG in human sera. The immune complex between chemically coupled‐allergen latex and specific IgG was agglutinated specifically and efficiently by employing an IgM‐type monoclonal second antibody with strong amplification activity. The extent of agglutination was evaluated by determining the relative ratio of volumes (RV) of agglutinates to residual nonagglutinating particles with a particle counter. This method exhibited a high sensitivity (detection limit ≤ 5 munits/ml) in the determination of allergen‐specific IgG, and no influence of inhibitory factors such as competitive antibodies (specific‐IgA, ‐IgM) and nonspecific IgG (≤320 mg/ml) was observed. The concentrations of specific IgG against mite allergen in the sera of 130 allergy patients with atopic dermatitis and 52 normal subjects were 22.3 ± 12.3 and 16.5 ±4.2 units/ml, respectively, and the concentrations of specific IgG against wheat allergen in the same two groups were 5.4 ± 4.2 and 2.1 ± 2.2 units/ml, respectively. The coefficients of variation of intra‐ and interassay ranged from 3.4% to 11.2% in both cases. The present method is an excellent homogeneous immunoassay which may be used as a routine assay that can measure 50 samples per hour without prior treatment.
Quantitative analysis of peripheral allergen‐specific B lymphocytes in asthma
Authors: Burastero S. E. , Fenoglio D. , Crimi E. , Brusasco V. , Rossi G. A.
Published: May 2007

We have recently shown that the number of peripheral allergen‐specific T cells can, in part, predict, together with methacholine hyperresponsiveness, the bronchial response to inhaled allergen in asthmatic patients. This study was designed to explore the role of blood B cells committed to produce allergen‐specific IgE in asthma. Twenty‐three asthmatic patients sensitized to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and 11 control subjects were studied. Peripheral blood B cells, committed to produce allergen‐specific IgE, were enumerated by limiting dilution microcultures of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐transformed B cells. An allergen inhalation challenge was performed in all asthmatic subjects. No difference was found in the frequency of B cells committed to produce allergen‐specific IgE either between asthmatic patients and controls or between asthmatic patients with or without late‐phase bronchial response to allergen. No correlation was found between the frequency of B cells committed to produce allergen‐specific IgE and the bronchial response to the allergen inhalation challenge. We conclude that, in quantitative terms, peripheral allergen‐specific B cells are not as relevant as T cells to the development of the asthmatic response in the model of provoked asthma.
Ability of a new infant formula prepared from partially hydrolyzed bovine whey to induce anaphylactic sensitization: evaluation in a guinea pig model
Authors: Piacentini G. L. , Bertolini A. , Spezia E. , Piscione T. , Boner A. L.
Published: May 2007

In the present study we evaluated the allergenicity and immunogenicity of a whey partially hydrolysate formula (PHF) in a guinea pig model. Nine groups of 10 guinea pigs received either a conventional milk formula (CMF) or PHF for 37 days. After intravenous (i.v.) challenge with either α‐lactoglobulin (β‐L) or ultracentrifuged (u)CMF, animals fed CMF showed, respectively, 80% and 100®0 fatal reactions, whereas animals fed PHF showed no reactions when i.v. challenged both with (3‐L and uPHF. Eighty percent fatal reactions, and 10%, respectively, of severe and mild reactions have been observed in the CMF‐fed, casein‐challenge group. In contrast, only one (10%) mild reaction occurred in the PHF‐fed, casein‐challenged group. When challenged with u‐pasteurized cow's milk (uPCM), CMF‐fed animals showed 86% fatal reactions and 14% mild reactions, whereas PHF‐fed ones presented 70% no reactions, 20%, mild reactions, and one (10%) fatal reaction. Animals fed CMF showed a significantly higher level of specific IgG against cow's milk antigens than PHF‐fed ones, which, however, presented higher levels of antibodies than a water‐supplemented control group. The present results confirm that PHF is less sensitizing than CMF in a guinea pig model.
A comparison of fluticasone propionate 200 μg/day with beclomethasone dipropionate 400 μg/day in adult asthma
Authors: Leblanc P. , Mink S. , Keistinen T. , Saarelainen P. A. , Ringdal N. , Payne S.L
Published: May 2007

A total of 261 patients with symptomatic, mild to moderate asthma were randomized to treatment in this 4‐week, double‐blind, parallel‐group comparison of fluticasone propionate 200 μg/d with beclomethasone dipropionate 400 μg/d. Improvements from both treatments were seen in diary card data. Morning peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) improved from 375 to 390 and 371 to 382 1/min with fluticasone propionate and beclomethasone dipropionate, respectively. Symptom scores, percentage of symptom‐free days and nights, and use of rescue (β2‐agonist medication also improved, as did clinical lung function. With the exception of percentage of rescue‐free days, which was greater for beclomethasone dipropionate, none of the differences between the groups were statistically significant. There was a significant difference between treatments in the number of rescue‐free days over days 1–28; however, there was no difference between treatments in the number of rescue‐free days over days 1‐14, nor was there any difference in the number of inhalations of rescue medication used throughout the study. Very few adverse effects were reported. Although all mean plasma cortisol values were within the normal range, they were significantly different between treatments, rising from 402 to 429 nmol/1 with fluticasone propionate, and falling from 435 to 394 nmol/1 with beclomethasone dipropionate (P= 0.006). Mean stimulated cortisol levels 30 min after tetracosactin injection were also significantly greater with fluticasone propionate (P = 0.024). In conclusion, fluticasone propionate 200 μg/d is as effective as beclomethasone dipropionate 400 μg/d with less effect on plasma cortisol levels.
In vitro effects of H1‐antihistamines on histamine and PGD2 release from mast cells of human lung, tonsil, and skin
Authors: Okayama Y. , Benyon R. C. , Lowman M. A. , Church M. K.
Published: May 2007

Mast cells from different anatomic sites differ in cytochemistry and response to various secretory stimuli. We have investigated whether responsiveness to the second‐generation H1‐receptor antagonists, which are important first‐line drugs for the relief of symptoms in patients with chronic urticaria and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, also differs according to the site of origin of mast cells. The effects of terfenadine, ketotifen, and cetirizine were therefore examined in relation to the IgE‐dependent release of histamine and prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) from dispersed human lung, tonsil, and skin mast cells. Terfenadine had a biphasic effect on lung and skin mast cells: at low concentrations, a concentration‐dependent inhibition of histamine release from lung and skin mast cells was observed, whereas at higher concentrations the drug stimulated mediator release. Even at a high concentration, terfenadine inhibited mediator release from tonsil mast cells. Ketotifen had low potency as an inhibitor of mediator release from lung and tonsil mast cells. In skin mast cells, no inhibition of mediator release was observed below 1.0 μM, and above that concentration it induced mediator release. Cetirizine, a much less lipophilic drug than the others tested, did not induce mediator release from mast cells even at concentrations up to 100 μM. This drug showed concentration‐dependent inhibition of IgE‐dependent mediator release from lung and tonsil mast cells only. Our results show that human mast cells are heterogeneous with respect to modulation of mediator release by these H1‐antihistamines. In particular, differences were observed between skin mast cells and those dispersed from lung and tonsils.
IgE and IgG cross‐reactivity among Lol p I and Lol p II/III
Authors: van Ree R. , van Leeuwen W. A. , van den Berg M. , Weller H. H. , Aalberse R. C.
Published: May 2007

In this study, the homologous C‐termini of Lol p I Lol p II, and Lol p III were shown to contain cross‐reactive B‐cell epitopes. This was demonstrated by inhibition studies with purified Lol p I, II, and III and synthetic peptides of their C‐termini. It was ruled out that the observed cross‐reactivity was caused by cross‐contamination of the purified allergens. Both human IgE and IgG bound to the C‐terminus of Lol p I. These antibodies were cross‐reactive with Lol p II and, more specifically, with its C‐terminus. Within a small panel of allergic patients, no cross‐reactivity with Lol p III was found. A hyperimmune polyclonal rabbit antiserum against Lol p I also recognized the Lol p I C‐terminus. As for human antibodies, cross‐reactivity with Lol p II and its C‐terminus was demonstrated. Cross‐reactivity with Lol p III was demonstrated with C‐terminal peptides, but not with native Lol p III. A polyclonal rabbit antiserum against Lol p II bound to the C‐terminal peptides of both Lol p II and III. This binding was inhibited with Lol p I, confirming that cross‐reactive structures exist not only on the C‐termini of Lol p II and Lol p I, but also of Lol p III and Lol p I. The existence of cross‐reactivity between Lol p I and Lol p II and III possibly contributes to the frequently observed cosensitization for these allergens in grass‐pollen‐allergic patients.
Symptoms and immunologic markers induced by exposure to methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydride
Authors: Nielsen J. , Welinder H. , Bensryd I. , Andersson P. , Skerfving S.
Published: May 2007

A study was performed in 43 workers exposed to methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydride (MTHPA) used as a hardener in an epoxy resin system. Ten workers sensitized to MTHPA (group SS; presence of serum IgE antibodies against a conjugate of MTHPA and human serum albumin (HSA) detected by RAST) had significantly higher levels of tryptase in nasal lavage fluid than 19 nonsensitized workers with work‐related nasal symptoms (group NS) and 14 nonsensitized workers without nasal symptoms (group NN). This suggests an ongoing mast‐cell‐mediated reaction in the sensitized group. No statistically significant differences were found in the three groups concerning eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and TAME‐activity in lavage fluid. However, there was a significant increase in serum ECP in the SS group, as compared with a group of unexposed controls. Nasal challenge with MTHPA‐HSA, performed in a subsequent study in seven workers from the SS group, six from the NS group, and seven from the NN, caused a larger increase of symptom score and a more pronounced decrease in nasal inspiratory peak flow in the SS group than in the other two groups. No significant rise was recorded for tryptase and ECP in lavage fluid in any of the three groups after challenge. The combined results of the two studies indicate that specific IgE antibodies play a pathogenetic role in at least some of the cases of work‐related nasal symptoms associated with MTHPA exposure.
Inhibitory activity of loratadine and descarboethoxyloratadine on expression of ICAM‐1 and HLA‐DR by nasal epithelial cells
Authors: Vignola A. M. , Crampette L. , Mondain M. , Sauvère G. , Czarlewski W. , Bousquet J. , Campbell A.M.
Published: May 2007

Nasal epithelial cells represent the first barrier against noxious agents and allergens. In allergic rhinitis, these cells are activated and histamine may be involved in this activation. Loratadine and one of its active metabolites, descarboethoxyloratadine, were studied for their ability to reduce the activation of nasal epithelial cells by histamine. Nasal turbinates or polyps were removed during surgery from 19 subjects, and nasal epithelial cells were recovered after enzymatic digestion. The in vitro activation of epithelial cells with histamine using an optimal dose (1 μM) and an optimal time (24 h) of incubation was studied, and the effect of loratadine or descarboethoxyloratadine (l0 μM) was investigated. The expression of membrane markers (intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) and a human leukocyte class II antigen (HLA‐DR) was assessed by immunocylochemical analysis using an alkaline‐antialkaline phosphatase (APAAP) system. The spontaneous expression of both markers was not significantly different in cells recovered from nasal turbinates or polyps, and there was a highly significant increase in the numbers of cells expressing ICAM‐1 and HLA‐DR following incubation with histamine. Loratadine or descarboethoxyloratadine significantly blocked these effects. This study shows a new possible antiallergic effect of H1‐blockers and suggests that their effects on epithelial cells may be relevant in vivo.
Screening of atopic allergy in 5‐year‐old children – a comparison of the diagnostic properties of Phadiatop Paediatric and Phadiatop
Authors: Lilja G. , Kusoffsky E. , Johansson S. G. O. , Öman H.
Published: May 2007

The ability of Phadiatop Paediatric (PP), Phadiatop (P), mixed‐food RAST (MF), and the combination of P and MF to identify children with atopic allergy was evaluated among 193 children who had a family history of atopic disease, and who had an average age of 5 years. If atopy is defined as the presence of at least one positive skin prick test ( 2 +) to common food and/or inhalant allergens, P had a sensitivity of 86%, a specificity of 94%, and an efficacy of 92%. These figures were somewhat better than the results with PP. However, when P was combined with MF, the sensitivity increased to 89%, but at the expense of lowered specificity (83%) and efficacy (84%). If the tests were related only to clinical signs/symptoms of atopic disease, the sensitivity and efficacy were, at maximum, 63% and 81%, respectively. There was a discrepancy between the results of P and PP in 9% of the children. One explanation of this discrepancy may be that PP seems to be incapable of detecting children with respiratory allergies induced by pollens from birch and related trees. The results indicate that in 5–6‐year‐old children P should be preferred to PP and to the combination of P and MF for atopy screening, at least in places where birch pollen is a common allergen.
Hypersensitivity to cefuroxime with good tolerance to other betalactams
Authors: Bravo C. Marcos , Ortiz I. Luna , Vázquez R. González
Published: May 2007

A 60‐year‐old man developed an anaphylactic reaction immediately after administration of intramuscular sodium cefuroxime. By means of oral controlled challenge, the reaction was reproduced with a smaller dose of cefuroxime axetil. Cross‐reactivity with other betalactam antibiotics was ruled out by in vivo tests. This case supports once again the relevance of the side‐chain in betalactam allergy.
Latex allergens in glove‐powdering slurries
Authors: Lundberg M. , Wrangsjö K. , Johansson S. G. O.
Published: May 2007

Exposure to airborne glove powder contaminated with latex allergens is known to provoke respiratory symptoms in latex‐sensitized individuals. In the commonly used wet‐powdering process in glove manufacturing, powder is applied by dipping gloves in a cornstarch suspension, a slurry. The slurry is a potential source of allergen contamination of the powder. The protein and latex allergen contents in five different slurries and in extracts from the corresponding latex gloves were measured using the BCA assay and the IgE antibody inhibition assay (EAI assay). Latex allergens were found in all slurries and gloves. No correlation between the values of protein contents and allergen contents was found. Wet powdering of gloves induces a risk of latex protein contamination of the cornstarch.
Influence of the pH of the extraction medium on the composition of birch (Betula verrucas a) pollen extracts
Authors: Cadot P. , Lejoly M. , Van Hoeyveld E. M. , Stevens E. A. M.
Published: May 2007

Extracts from birch (Betula verrucosa) pollen were prepared at different pH, with constant pH monitoring and adjustment to preset values in the range 5.5‐8.5. The total protein content of these extracts was directly correlated with the pH. Coomassie brilliant blue‐stained isoelectric focusing and SDS‐PAGE gels and immunoblot analysis demonstrated qualitative differences: some proteins were lost while others appeared when pH was changed. At pH 8.5, formerly unknown birch pollen allergens were detected with pi 9, 9.10, and 9.30 by about 30% of birch pollen‐sensitive sera. Birch pollen extracts prepared at a pH close to neutrality, namely, 6.5 and 7.5, showed the greatest protein and different allergen diversity. Thus, extraction pH values are necessary to analyze the whole pattern of allergenic components in an extract.
The first 20 minutes after a single dose of inhaled salmeterol in asthmatic children
Authors: Barbato A. , Cracco A. , Tormena F. , Novello A.
Published: May 2007

Very little is known as yet about the effect of salmeterol in pediatric asthma, so a trial was performed on children with mild asthma to compare salmeterol with salbutamol in terms of how quickly they took effect. The double‐blind study involved 11 children (mean age 13.4 years) randomly assigned to inhale salmeterol 50 μg, salbutamol 200 μg, or a placebo three times on alternate days. Peak expiratory flow (PEF), heart rate, and blood pressure were measured before and 5, 10, 15, and 20 min after administering the medication. With salbutamol, PEF was higher at 5 and 10 min, subsequently dropping off at 15 and 20 min; with salmeterol, PEF was better at 10 and 20 min. Forced expiratory volume at 1 s (FEV1) measurements taken at the baseline and after 10 and 20 min revealed an important and consistent rise in values after salmeterol, whereas salbutamol was more effective after 10 min than after 20 min. No significant changes were recorded in heart rate or blood pressure after salbutamol; after salmeterol, there was a significant increase in heart rate after 5 min, but not at subsequent measurements. In conclusion, salmeterol begins to take effect already within 10 min of a single administration in asthmatic children, although the onset of its effect is slower than with salbutamol.
Characterization of the antibody response to a Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine in children with recurrent lower respiratory tract infection
Authors: Kristensen K. , Barington T. , Pressler T. , Heilmann C.
Published: May 2007

Children with recurrent lower respiratory tract infection (RLRI) may respond poorly to polysaccharide antigens. To examine how such children respond to a polysaccharide coupled to a protein carrier, we immunized 15 children with RLRI aged 8–69 months and 15 carefully age‐matched healthy controls once with a Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) conjugate vaccine. Total IgG subclasses, total antipolysaccharide Hib antibodies, and antipolysaccharide Hib antibodies of IgM, IgG, IgA, and IgG 1–4 specificity were determined by ELISA. There were no significant differences between the two groups in any single total IgG subclass, but total IgG measured as the sum of all four subclasses was significantly lower in the children with RLRI than in the controls (P= 0.036). Before vaccination, the children with RLRI had significantly less IgG antipolysaccharide Hib antibody than the controls (P= 0.005), whereas 1 month later they had significantly more IgM antibody (P = 0.038). No other significant differences were found between the groups before or after immunization with respect to antipolysaccharide Hib antibodies. Since naturally occurring IgG antibodies are thought to be aquired partly as a consequence of antigenic stimulation on mucosal surfaces, we hypothesize that the low level of specific IgG found before immunization, as well as the low total IgG in the children with RLRI, may reflect an impaired ability to prime through mucosal surfaces. This is supported by our finding of an increased IgM response to Hib conjugate vaccine in these children, since this isotype predominates in the primary immune response, i.e., in the absence of immunologic memory. In conclusion, children with RLRI can be protected against invasive Hib infection as well as healthy children, but may have an immunodeficiency characterized by defective ability to respond to antigenic stimulation on mucosal surfaces.