bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volumetric Aerobiological Survey of Conidial Fungi in the North‐East Netherlands
Authors: Beaumont F. , Kauffman H. F. , de Monchy J. G. R. , Sluiter H. J. , de Vries K.
Published: May 2007

A study was undertaken to see whether the principal airborne fungi in the North‐East Netherlands were also found to be the most reactive in skin testing. Atmospheric samples were taken weekly with the Andersen sampler, from April 1981, up to and including, June 1983, At the same time skin tests of 833 patients referred to the outpatient Departments of Pulmonology and Allergology, because of recurrent bronchial obstructive complaints and a suspected allergy, were studied for strongly positive skin reactivity to fungi. 4.6% of the patients reacted with a wheal of 10 mm diameter or more to one or more of the tested fungi. Almost three‐quarters of the airborne fungal “flora” was composed of seven genera, namely (in order of occurrence); 1) Cladosporium (42,6 %), 2) Botrytis (8.6 %), 3) Yeasts (7 %), 4) Penicillium (5.8%), 5) Basidiomycetes (5.7%), 6) Aspergillus (3.7%), and 7) Altenaria (0.9%), In skin‐testing, however, a different order of occurrence existed; namely: 1) Beauveria (6.8%), 2) Botrytis (6.1%), 3) Aspergillus (4.7%), 4) Mucor (3.8%), 5) Epicoccum (3%), 6) Cladosporium (2.3%), and 7) Altenaria (1.1%), It is concluded that the most prevailing airborne moulds are not necessarily the most potent allergens, at least in skin testing. Aspergillus and Botrytis showed a high sensitization rate, while Cladosporium and Altenaria did not. Botrytis deserves further study because of its frequent airborne occurrence and marked allergenic properties.
A Trial of Tiaramide in Asthma
Authors: Harvey J. E. , Jones P. , Tanser A. R.
Published: May 2007

Tiaramide hydrochloride is a new non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory agent previously shown to inhibit allergic responses both in vitro and in vivo. Clinical studies in asthmatic adults and children have also shown benefit. We report a double blind cross‐over study in 35 adult asthmatic patients comparing oral tiaramide 200 mg four times daily with oral salbutamol 4 mg four times daily and placebo. Symptoms and bronchodilator inhaler usage were recorded in diary cards and morning and evening peak expiratory flow rates were also monitored. Both tiaramide and salbutamol had a significant therapeutic effect compared with placebo. More patients preferred tiaramide than salbutamol and there were fewer side effects during treatment with tiaramide. Tiaramide may be a useful oral therapy in asthma particularly for those patients intolerant of oral beta‐adrenergic agonists.
Sensitive Glass Microfibre‐Based Histamine Analysis for Allergy Testing in Washed Blood Cells
Authors: Stahl Skov P. , Mosbech H. , Norn S. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

The new microfibre method for allergy testing is based on basophil histamine release after challenge with suspected allergens in samples of 50 μl washed blood cells. Released histamine is bound to microfibres and measured after removal of interfering substances by washing. The microfibre method was compared with the conventional leukocyte histamine release assay in 18 allergic patients tested with 10 different allergens. It was found that the same individuals responded with histamine release to the same allergens in both assays, and the number of responders was almost identical. Also the dose‐response curves and the cell sensitivity were almost identical, which further substantiated identity between the results obtained by the new microfibre method and the conventional assay. A comparison between the microfibre method and in vivo provocation tests showed good agreement when comparing the number of positive and negative responses in these test. The new method overcomes the problems in allergy testing, where only small amounts of blood are available and many tests have to be carried out.
ELISA in Diagnosis of Respiratory Allergy
Authors: Negrini A. C. , Troise C. , Voltolini S.
Published: May 2007

An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), employing beta‐galactosidase conjugated anti‐IgE, was used for the determination of specific IgE antibodies to common inhalant allergens (Dermatophagoides pt. and f., Parietaria and four grass pollens) in serum samples from 82 adult patients with asthma and/or rhinitis. A total of 194 analysis were carried out and the results were compared with those of skin tests and RAST. The correlation coefficient (r) between ELISA and RAST results was high (r= 0.95); the correlation between skin tests and ELISA (r= 0.93) was greater than that between skin tests and RAST (r= 0.90). No significant differences were found among the allergens used. We conclude that the version of ELISA used develops an overall good correlation with skin tests and RAST and seems to provide a satisfactory alternative to RAST for allergy diagnosis.
Long‐Term Modification on Histamine‐Induced Bronchoconstriction by Disodium Cromoglycate and Ketotifen versus Placebo
Authors: Gozalo Reques F. , Colas Sanz C. , Senent Sanchez C. , Rubio Sotes M. , Herrero Lopez T. , de Barrio Fernandez M.
Published: May 2007

In order to compare long‐term changes induced on a wide spectrum of bronchial hyperreactivity (BH) by the antiallergic drugs disodium cromyglycate (DSCG) and ketotifen, 56 asthmatic patients (age range 15–55 years) were studied. Patients were allocated to three groups with similar age and BH level. During 2 months, 15 individuals inhaled 20 mg DSCG four times a day, 14 took ketotifen 1 mg twice a day orally and 14 one placebo (lactose) capsule twice a day. After preliminary results, an additional group of 13 patients took clemastine 1 mg orally twice a day for 1 week. Only the ketotifen and clemastine groups differed significantly from the placebo group on shifting log doseresponse curves of inhaled histamine. In addition, no significant difference was seen between the ketotifen and clemastine groups. These results suggest that changes induced by ketotifen were mainly related to its powerful antihistamine action; similarly, nonspecific BH is not wholly dependent on mediator release.
Clinical and Immunological Aspects of a Case of Monoclonal Hyper‐IgE
Authors: Malling H.‐J. , Djurup R. , Stahl Skov P. , Permin H. , Magnusson C. G. M. , Søsborg M. , Søsndergaard I. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

A case of monoclonal IgE type lambda with IgE levels about 1 mg/ml has been followed for 6 years. Except for a slight asthma no signs of malignancies, parasitic infestations or other known diseases compatible with hyper‐IgE have been found. By the combination of fractional ammonium sulphate precipitation, gel filtration, chromatofocusing, and subtraction affinity chromatography the IgE protein was isolated in an immunochemically pure and homogeneous form. Immunofluorescence of bone marrow cells showed about 1 % IgE plasma cells. The amount of basophil bound IgE was 42 ng/106 cells, and histamine release from basophils challenged with anti‐IgE was not different from that in atopic control persons, indicating a within‐allergic‐patients normal amount of IgE receptors. The protein‐A reactivity was 0.4% equivalent to well‐known IgE myeloma proteins. No antigen specificity of the IgE protein was found. Only a few cases of asymptomatic hyper‐IgE are known, and it cannot be ruled out that this represents a premyeloma condition, since a similar case terminated in a malignant lymphoma.
Immune Stimulated Regional Inflammatory Responses Mediating Lung Reactivity in Rats
Authors: Ahlstedt S. , Bjøurkstéan B. , Hesselmar B. , Nygren H. , Alving K. , Olaisson E.
Published: May 2007

Daily sensitization of SPF BNxWi/Fu rats with ovalbumin (OA) in aerosol during 2‐week periods with a 4‐week interval resulted after 7 weeks in IgE, IgA and IgG antibodies in serum and bronchial fluid. After cultivation of the regional, axillary, brachial and mediastinal (ABM) lymph node cells, IgE antibodes were found in the culture supernatant. Such antibodies were not found in culture supernatants of spleen and inguinal lymph nodes. Regional formation of IgE antibodies was also noted in the ABM lymph node cell culture supernatants after subcutaneous (s.c.) injections of 100 ng OA in the neck region. When the injections were given in the tail‐root region, the inguinal but not the ABM lymp nodes produced the IgE antibodies. The s.c. sensitization induced inconsistent and rather low IgG and no IgA antibody responses. The aerosol but not the s.c. sensitization induced accumulations of mononuclear cells and mucous cells in the lungs. Clinically, the rats sensitized s.c. in the neck region reacted to aerosol and intravenous (i.v.) challenge as early as 1 week after sensitization had started, whereas the animals sensitized in the tail‐root regions reacted 7 and 8 weeks after repeated sensitization. The animals sensitized by aerosol showed only weak clinical reactivity after i.v. challenge.
Immunochemical and Biological Characterization of a Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) Pollen Extract
Authors: Ipsen H. , Formgren H. , Løswenstein H. , Ingemann L.
Published: May 2007

A reference extract of mugwort pollen (Artemisia vulgaris) was characterized by crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE), crossed radio immunoelectrophoresis (CRIE) and quantitative skin prick test (QSPT). CIE revealed that the extract contained at least 42 distinct antigens of which 24 migrated towards the anode and 18 towards the cathode at pH 8.6. A CRIE analysis of the crude mugwort pollen extract, performed with sera from 29 mugwort‐allergic patients, showed that 10 antigens may be considered allergens; one was classified as a major allergen, five as intermediate allergens, and four as minor allergens. The QSPT performed on the same 29 allergic patients established that 17.4 μg lyophilised reference mugwort pollen extract per ml had a biological potency of 1 HEP (histamine equivalent by prick test).
Prevalence of Bronchial Asthma and Respiratory Symptoms in Schoolchildren in Oslo
Authors: Skarpaas I. J. K. , Gulsvik A.
Published: May 2007

During the school year 1980–81 a survey questionnaire was carried out among schoolchildren aged 7 to 15 years in Oslo. The survey population comprised 39,162 children attending compulsory primary school. The questionnaire was distributed to a random sample of 1772 children in 81 classes, forms 1 to 9, and the response rate was 95%. The prevalence of physician‐diagnosis of current and cumulative asthma was 1.6% and 3.1%, respectively. Of those with current asthma 68% used asthma drugs regularly. Occasional wheezing and attacks of breathlessness were reported by 9% and 4%, respectively. Wheezing and breathlessness on exposure to pollen (4.5%), animals (3.1%) and exercise (5.5%) was reported more frequently than physician‐diagnosis of asthma. The cumulative prevalence of either hay fever, eczema, urticaria or asthma was 17%. More boys than girls under the age of 12 had a physician‐diagnosis of asthma.
Fenoterol Inhalation Powder and Aerosol in the Treatment of Asthma
Authors: Kiviranta K.
Published: May 2007

Twenty patients with asthma were studied. They were given either fenoterol powder or fenoterol MDI for 2‐week periods using a double‐blind cross‐over design. Identical doses of fenoterol (0.2–0.4 mg 2–4 times daily) were given to an individual patient throughout the 4‐week study period. Both forms of treatment produced an almost identical bronchodilation, and there were no statistically significant differences in symptoms or side effects. It is concluded that fenoterol powder and fenoterol aerosol are equally effective.
Effects of Ca2+ Antagonist, Nicardipine, on Experimental Asthma With Special Reference to Slow Reacting Substance of Anaphylaxis
Authors: Koshino T. , Fujimura M. , Nishioka S. , Okafuji K. , Minami S. , Kanamori K. , Matsuda T. , Ishizaki T. , Saga T. , Miyabo S.
Published: May 2007

Slow reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS‐A) is an important chemical mediator of bronchial asthma. Leukotriene C4 is a component of SRS‐A and is synthesized from arachidonic acid. Its synthesizing and releasing processes are found to he Ca2+‐dependent. We developed an in vivo inhalation asthma model, mainly mediated by SRS‐A, and elucidated the relationship between a Ca2+‐antagonist, nicardipine, and SRS‐A. In the asthmatic model, mediated by endogenous SRS‐A induced by antigen inhalation, continuous intravenous infusion of nicardipine 7 μg/kg/min depressed the open airway pressure by about 60% compared with the saline‐treated group. Inhibition of mean pulmonary resistance (RL) was about 50% and that of the inverted value of dynamic compliance (1/Cdyn) about 36%. However, the same concentration of nicardipine did not significantly affect the airway response in the asthmatic model induced by the inhalation of leukotriene C4. These results suggest that nicardipine, at the concentration used in the present study, did not block the direct effect of SRS‐A on the smooth muscle, but blocked the Ca2+ influx required for the synthesis of SRS‐A and its release.
A Study of Serum Antibody Activity in Workers with Occupational Exposure to Diphenylmethane Diisocyanate
Authors: Tse K. S. , Johnson A. , Chan H. , Chan‐Yeung M.
Published: May 2007

The prevalence of sensitization was studied in a group of 76 foundry workers with occupational exposure to diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI). Ten workers had clinical evidence of asthma, 40 had non‐asthmatic respiratory symptoms, and 26 were asymptomatic. Specific IgE antibodies to MDI were found in two workers (2.6%) and specific IgG antibodies, in five workers (6.6%). The prevalence of IgE and IgG antibodies was higher in the 10 subjects with asthma than in the non‐asthmatic group. The prevalence of anti‐paratolyl‐monoisocyanate antibodies was not significantly different from that of anti‐MDI antibodies, and both haptenic determinants displayed a high degree of cross‐reactivity in the RAST inhibition test. The role of humoral immunological mechanisms in MDI‐induced asthma is unclear in view of the rather low prevalence of these serum antibodies in this group of workers.
Nasal Challenge with Serotonin and Histamine in Normal Persons
Authors: Tønnesen P. , Mygind N.
Published: May 2007

In order to study the nasal response to serotonin, 14 normal persons, in a double‐blind study, were provoked in the nose with serotonin and histamine. Itching and the number of sneezes were noted, the amount of secretion measured, and nasal airway resistance recorded by active posterior rhinomanometry. Serotonin induced significant nasal itching, sneezing and hypersecretion, similar to the effects of histamine. The effect of serotonin on nasal airway resistance, on the other hand, was slight (+ 10%) and insignificant in contrast to that of histamine in equipotent doses (+ 48 %) (P < 0.001). In conclusion, we have shown that serotonin provocation can induce a rhinitis response in the human nose. The nasal symptoms suggest an effect on sensory nerves with reflex‐induced sneezing and hypersecretion, while there appears to be little direct effect on capacitance vessels. The possible role of serotonin as a mediator of rhinitis remains speculative.
Diagnosis and Immunotherapy of Mould Allergy
Authors: Malling H.‐J.
Published: May 2007

To determine reproducibility and the optimal way of expressing skin sensitivity, simultaneous skin prick tests (SPT) and intradermal tests (ICT) were performed on 25 mould‐allergic patients. The patients had a well‐documented history of allergy to Cladosporium and Alternaria and were tested with partially purified standardized extracts of these two mould species. Skin prick tests were carried out on the volar side of the forearm and intradermal tests on the backs of the patients. The skin tests were performed as titration using quadruplicate determinations of 10‐fold allergen dilutions. The area of the skin reactions measured by planimetry were plotted in a log‐log system as a function of the allergen concentration. The reproducibility (SD/mean area × 100%) of the ICTs was significantly higher than that of the SPTs (17% versus 29%). A very low reproducibility was found with wheal areas < 5 mm2. The dose response curve of the SPT wheal area was steeper than that obtained with ICT, both concerning ICT wheal and flare. Increasing the allergen concentration with a factor 10 resulted in a doubling of the wheal area in SPT, in contrast to a factor 1.7 using ICT. The coefficient of correlation using linear regression on the dose response curve was always higher than 0.9 with SPT and ICT wheal, but significantly lower with ICT flare. Skin sensitivity was estimated as end‐point and histamine equivalent reaction. No significant correlation between SPT and ICT end‐point titration was found contrary to the histamine equivalent reaction. The difference in allergen concentration between end‐point and histamine equivalent reaction was a factor 500 (median) for both SPT and ICT. Due to the lower reproducibility of small skin reactions, the histamine equivalent reaction is to be preferred as an estimate of skin sensitivity. The simplicity and the steeper dose response curve of SPT outweigh the lower reproducibility compared with ICT, and with the use of potent allergen extracts, ICT has no advantages over SPT.
A Comparison of Intranasal and Oral Flunisolide in the Therapy of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Kwaselow A. , McLean J. , Busse W. , Bush R. , Reed C. , Metzger W. , Richerson H. , Shulan D. , Koshiver J. , Chaplin M.
Published: May 2007

Intranasal flunisolide is an effective treatment for allergic rhinitis. Flunisolide has high bioavailability when administered to normal subjects (50 % of an intranasal dose reaches the systemic circulation) with minimal systemic effects. Bioavailability in patients with active rhinitis averages 62.4 ± 15.7%. The oral dose bioequivalent to 100 μg intranasally is 500 μg. To define the comparative trial and systemic effects of intranasal flunisolide in patients with active allergic rhinitis, a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was conducted during the 1983 ragweed hayfever season. Ninety‐nine patients with ragweed hayfever for ≥2 years and positive prick skin tests to ragweed were randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: 0 = oral flunisolide 500 μg b.i.d. and intranasal placebo b.i.d.; N = intranasal flunisolide 50 μg per nostril b.i.d. and oral placebo b.i.d.; P = intranasal and oral placebo b.i.d. Treatment continued for 4 weeks. Patients kept daily symptom scores. Patients were evaluated by a blinded observer every 2 weeks and were globally evaluated at the study's end. Data were analyzed for each center and pooled. There were no significant differences in symptom severity of sneezing, nasal congestion, and throat itch in the 0 (oral flunisolide) and P (placebo) groups. N (nasal flunisolide) was significantly more effective than 0 or P (P ≤= 0.005) for each symptom for at least one 2‐week period. Global evaluation demonstrated control of overall hayfever severity for N (nasal flunisolide) but not for 0 (oral flunisolide). We conclude that the therapeutic efficacy of flunisolide is achieved by topical and not by systemic action.
Persistent Subcutaneous Nodules in Children Hyposensitized with Aluminium‐Containing Allergen Extracts
Authors: Frost L. , Johansen P. , Pedersen S. , Veien N. , AabelØstergaard P. , Nielsen M. H.
Published: May 2007

A follow‐up study of 202 children who had received hyposensitization with aluminium‐containing allergens showed that 1–3 years after cessation of hyposensitization 13 children still had severely pruiginous treatment‐resistant subcutaneous nodules in their forearms. Because of their long persistence the nodules of six children were studied in detail. Histologically, the nodules showed infiltration with lymphocytes (forming germinal centres), macrophages, plasma cells, mast cells and a few cosinophils. In five patients aluminium crystals were found scattered between the cells and, in addition, the phagosomes of the macrophages contained aluminium. Patch tests for aluminium were positive in four of the six patients. It is concluded that persisting nodules during hyposensitization with aluminium‐containing allergens may indicate development of aluminium hypersensitivity, and if this is confirmed hyposensitization should be discontinued.
The Subclass Nature and Clinical Significance of the IgG Antibody Response in Patients Undergoing Allergen‐Specific Immunotherapy
Authors: Djurup R.
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the methodological difficulties in quantitation of human IgG subclass antibodies to allergens, to describe the subclass nature of the IgG antibody response in patients undergoing allergen‐specific immunotherapy, and to discuss the possible immunological functions and clinical significance of allergen‐specific IgG antibodies of different subclasses. Based on results obtained by use of assays with documented specificity it is concluded that the IgG antibody response during allergen‐specific immunotherapy is IgG1 and IgG4 restricted, although low levels of IgG2 and IgG3 antibodies to some allergens may occur. In most patients the early IgG antibody response is IgG1 dominated and the late IgG4 dominated. A too early or too pronounced IgG4 dominated antibody response seems to indicate a poor clinical outcome of immunotherapy with inhalant allergens, whereas a pronounced early IgG1 antibody production has been found to be associated with a decrease in synthesis of IgE antibodies to an insect venom. It is therefore proposed that an early IgG1 dominated response is necessary to induce suppression of the ongoing IgE antibody production, which in its turn may be a prerequisite for long‐lasting clinical effect. The possibility of induction of an early IgG1 dominated response in every patient by use of alternative immunotherapy procedures is discussed.
Serum Aluminium in Hyposensitized Allergics
Authors: Vind Joelt S. , Malling H.‐J. , Gerner Svendsen U. , Taudorf E. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

The concentration of serum aluminium was examined in hyposensitized subjects receiving subcutaneous injections of solutions of allergens precipitated with or adsorbed to aluminiumhydroxide and in non‐hyposensitized allergies. No correspondence between the serum values and the quantity of aluminium mediated with the injections was found. It was concluded that the investigation did not incriminate this type of treatment in causing rising serum concentrations of aluminium.
Effects of Enprofylline and Theophylline on Exercise‐Induced Asthma
Authors: Laursen L. C. , Johannesson N. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Eight asthmatic out‐patients with a history of exercise‐induced asthma (EIA) were randomly treated with intravenously administered enprofylline 1.5 mg/kg b.wt., theophylline 5 mg/kg b.wt., and placebo immediately prior to a 6‐min exercise provocation in this double‐blind crossover comparison. A reduction in peak flow of more than 20% was seen in all patients after placebo pre‐treatment. Mean plasma concentrations at the start of the exercise test were 3.3 mg/1 and 13.2 mg/1 after 20 min infusion of enprofylline and theophylline, respectively. The corresponding figures 25 min later were 2.3 and 11.7, respectively. Maximal fall in peak expiratory flow (PEF) after exercise in percent of pre‐exercise PEF was 49%± 6% (mean ± SEM), 39%± 6% and 24%± 5% after infusion of placebo, enprofylline, and theophylline, respectively. Theophylline produced a statistically significant better protection against EIA compared to enprofylline and placebo. Enprofylline produced a slight protection from EIA not statistically significantly different from placebo.
Immunochemical Characterization of Reference Alder (Alnus glutinosa) and Hazel (Corylus avellana) Pollen Extracts and the Partial Immunochemical Identity between the Major Allergens of Alder, Birch and Hazel Pollens
Authors: Ipsen H. , Bøwadt H. , Janniche H. , Nüchel Petersen B. , Munch E. P. , Wihl J.‐Å. , Løwenstein H.
Published: May 2007

Dialysed extracts of alder (Alnus glutinosa) and hazel (Corylus avellana) pollens were characterized by immunochemical methods. The alder pollen extract contained at least 33 distinct antigens of which one, antigen 5, was classified as a major allergen, three, antigens 4, 10, and 17, were classified as intermediate allergens and two, antigens 19 and 23, were classified as minor allergens. The molecular weight and pI of the major allergen were determined to be 19,000 D and 5.2, respectively. The hazel pollen extract contained at least 40 distinct antigens, two of which were classified as major allergens, antigens 8 and 13, three as intermediate allergens, antigens 12, 17, and 26, and seven as minor allergens, antigens 6, 11, 16, 18, 29, 39, and 40. The molecular weights and pI's of the major allergens of hazel pollen were determined to be: antigen 8; Mw = 12,000 D, pI = 5.1 and < 3.5, antigen 13; Mw = 26,000 D, pI = 5.1. Further, crossed line immunoelectrophoresis and tandem crossed immunoelectrophoresis of alder, birch and hazel strongly indicate that there exists an immunochemical partial identity between the major allergens (antigens 5 (alder), 23 (birch), and 13 (hazel)) from these tree pollens.
Failure of Verapamil in Inhibiting Allergen‐Induced Histamine Release in Vivo
Authors: Ting S. , Mansfield L. E. , Raults D. O.
Published: May 2007

In order to evaluate the effect of Verapamil on human cutaneous anaphylactic responses, ragweed‐sensitive individuals were skin tested with ragweed, ragweed plus Verapamil, and Verapamil alone. In addition, using a skin chamber technique, the effect of Verapamil on antigen‐induced histamine release in vivo was investigated. The results suggest that Verapamil, applied locally in non‐irritant doses, does not affect Type I hypersensitivity skin reactions.
Histamine Release from Human Leucocytes by IgG4 Subclass in the Sera of Allergic Children
Authors: Hindocha P. , Wood C. B. S.
Published: May 2007

Our studies on histamine release from normal washed leucocytes sensitised with sera of children allergic to various inhaled and ingested allergens show that besides IgE, IgG4 present in these sera was capable of sensitising leucocytes of normal donors, and these leucocytes released histamine on challenge with anti‐IgG4. By contrast, antisera of other subclasses of IgG released very small amounts of histamine from sensitised leucocytes. A discordant correlation between skin tests and RAST IgE was observed in some children. Significantly greater amounts of histamine were released from normal leucocytes sensitised with serum from these children when challenged with anti‐IgG4 compared to anti‐IgE. These studies indicate that IgG4 merits further study as a reaginic marker in atopic diseases of the children with possible prognostic significance.
Experimental Assessment of the Allergenicity of a Psyllium Containing Laxative
Authors: Gauss W. F. , Alarie J. P. , Karol M. H.
Published: May 2007

The allergenicity of psyllium was investigated using the Guinea Pig Maximation Test. Four of 12 animals gave positive skin reactions. Subsequent inhalation challenge of the same animals yielded respiratory hypersensitivity reactions in four of the animals. Two animals gave both skin and respiratory responses. The mosaic of respiratory and dermatologic symptoms demonstrated by animals resembled the pattern of findings reported in clinical studies. Results of SDS‐acrylamide gel electrophoresis, immunoblot and protein determinations of aqueous psyllium extracts failed to indicate the presence of protein. Spectrophotometric studies suggested that the extract was a gum with a molecular weight greater than 14,000 daltons.
Dual Cutaneous Reactions to Anti‐Human IgE; No Change in Plasma Level of the Split Product Complement C3d or Effect of Heparin
Authors: Gröonneberg R.
Published: May 2007

The possible dependence of the dual cutaneous reaction (DCR) on activation of the complement and coagulation systems was further elucidated. Heterologous whole anti‐human IgE was injected intradermally (i.d.) on the volar aspect of the forearms of 17 drug‐free healthy volunteers and venous samples for the selected laboratory test collected from the adjacent cubital vein. Plasma level of C3 split products (C3d) did not change significantly 6 h and 96 h after the injection of anti‐IgE inducing immediate cutaneous reactions (ICRs) or DCRs as compared with prechallenge values. Conventional heparin, a compound with anti‐coagulant and anti‐complementary effects, injected i.d. (200 IE) concomitantly with and by s.c. (1000 IE) infiltration of the whealing 15 and 90 min subsequently to anti‐IgE challenge produced no significant inhibition of the resulting ICRs or DCRs. The results suggest that the previously reported involvement of the coagulation process is a secondary phenomenon and do not support the concept that activation of the complement system is necessary for the evolution of DCRs.
Humoral Autoimmune Manifestation in Subacute Thyroiditis
Authors: Bliddal H. , Bech K. , Feldt‐Rasmussen U. , Høier‐Madsen M. , Thomsen B. , Nielsen H.
Published: May 2007

To study the autoimmune manifestations in subacute thyroiditis (SAT), the patterns of thyroid antibodies, thyroglobulin and circulating immune complexes were investigated in 10 patients during the course of the disease. Eight patients were thyrotoxic at diagnosis, and became euthyroid during recovery with a median observation of 8 months (4–30 months). Thyroid stimulating immunoglobulins were measured as TSH binding inhibiting immunoglobulins (TBII) and as thyroid stimulating antibodies (TSAb). TBII were present in all patients at least once during the observation period and remained detectable in six patients after recovery. TSAb were detected in three patients without relation to the hyperthyroid state. Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) were present in four patients and persisted in three, while microsomal antibodies (MAb) were negative. Thyroglobulin (Tg) in the TgAb negative patients (n = 6) was high at diagnosis (median 229 μg/1, range 55–375) and fell rapidly during the course of SAT. Circulating immune complexes (CIC), which were found in all patients, reached maximal levels shortly after the onset of the disease and persisted after recovery. No correlation could be demonstrated between the different thyroid antibodies, and there was no clear relation between the levels of CIC and presence of the autoantibodies. However, the changes in CIC paralleled the changes in TBII, and it is suggested that immune complex formation is a major feature of the regulatory mechanisms controlling the immune responses in SAT.
Breast Feeding, Cow Milk Feeding, and Allergy
Authors: Ståhlberg M.‐R.
Published: May 2007

Information about every 10th child aged 14 to 38 months was collected by means questionnaire in Turku, Finland in March, 1983. This paper reports on the occurrence of allergy in relation to the duration of breast feeding and to the age of the child cow milk feeding was started. The average duration of breast feeding was 5.7 months and the average age at the introduction of cow milk‐based products was 4.3 months. Allergy was reported in family members of 47.6% of the children. In 30.3% the himself was reported allergic. The occurrence of allergy was unaffected by the duration breast feeding and the age at introduction of cow milk feeding.
HEP versus PNU Standardization of Allergen Extracts in Skin Prick Testing
Authors: Dirksen A. , Mallinc H.‐J. , Mosbech H. , Søborg M. , Biering I.
Published: May 2007

During 1 year, all patients referred to an allergy outpatient clinic for adults were skin prick tested with a panel of standard allergen extracts from two manufacturers using different methods of standardization. One company referred to the histamine equivalent prick (HEP) and the other used the more traditional protein nitrogen units (PNU). Standard extracts and a five‐fold dilution were tested. The results indicate that the ratio of concentration between two extracts of the same allergen should be measured by the absolute difference of the wheal diameters. We found significant differences between corresponding extracts from the two manufacturers.
Inhibitory Effect of N‐(3′, 4′‐dimethoxycinnamoyl) Anthranilic Acid (N‐5′) on SRS‐A Mediated Bronchoconstriction in the Guinea Pig in Vivo
Authors: Fujimura M. , Koshino T. , Ishizaki T. , Minami S. , Saga T. , Miyabo S.
Published: May 2007

Slow‐reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS‐A) is an important factor mediating bronchoconstriction in asthma. We developed a guinea pig model for SRS‐A‐mediated bronchoconstriction induced by antigen inhalation. Using this model, we investigated the effect of N‐(3′, 4′‐dimethoxycinnamoyl) anthranilic acid (N‐5′), a new anti‐allergic drug, on the bronchoconstriction. FPL 55712 inhibited most of the bronchoconstriction induced by antigen inhalation. N‐5′inhibited the antigen‐induced bronchoconstriction in a dose‐dependent fashion. Intraperitoneal administration of 200 mg/kg N‐5′was effective for 40 min after antigen inhalation, while the effect of 60 mg/kg lasted only 7 min. On the other hand, 200 mg/kg N‐5′showed no inhibitory effect on the bronchoconstriction caused by direct inhalation of leukotriene C4, a component of SRS‐A. These findings indicate that one of the anti‐allergic actions of N‐5′is due to inhibition of synthesis and/or release of SRS‐A.
Diagnosis and Immunotherapy of Mould Allergy
Authors: Malling H.‐J. , Agrell B. , Croner S. , Dreborg S. , Foucard T. , Kjellman M. , Koivikko A. , Roth A. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

In order to screen for mould allergy, extracts of five common atmospheric moulds (Cladosporium, Alternaria, Penicillium, Aspergillus and Mucor) from various manufacturers were investigated in 130 patients (5–60 years old) with clinical symptoms indicating possible mould allergy. The patients were screened by skin prick test (SPT) and radioallergosorbent test (RAST). SPT seemed to be more sensitive than RAST as a diagnostic screening procedure (80% positive reactions to one or more species compared to 50%). With a partially purified, standardized preparation of Cladosporium herbarum more positive reactions were obtained than with crude extracts without evidence of any unspecific reactions. The difference between commercial and standardized extracts is most probably a result of a variation of both the biological potency of allergenic determinants and the allergenic composition. A considerable number of negative RAST reactions with standard discs were found in patients with positive skin reactions to partially purified Cladosporium, but RAST seemed to be more sensitive than SPT with the other commercial mould extracts. Based on the screening, a very convincing tendency to IgE‐reactivity to other moulds was found in patients reacting to Cladosporium, the most common cause of mould allergy. The results confirm the inadequacy of most mould extracts used in diagnostic procedures and strengthen the value of using standardized extracts.
In Vitro Production of IgE and IgG Protein by Blood Mononuclear Cells from Non‐Atopic and Atopic Donors
Authors: Cook R. M. , Deards M. J. , Rhodes E. L. , Moran D. M.
Published: May 2007

The production of IgE and IgG protein by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells in culture has been examined. Cells obtained from 18 grass‐sensitive donors during the grass, pollen season and From 11 atopic dermatitis patients (total serum IgE levels > 960 ng/ml). spontaneously produced significant amounts of IgE but not IgG with time. Similar results were obtained using B‐cell enriched preparations from both groups. Cells from 16 non‐atopic donors had mean levels of pre‐formed IgE similar to those of grass pollen‐sensitive donors, but there was no increase in culture IgE with time, Treatment of mononuclear cells with pokeweed mitogen did not influence the production of IgE but markedly increased the amount of IgE synthesized by non‐atopic and atopic donr cells Slight, but significant in crease in culture IgE. but not IgG. were seen following a 7‐day lymphoblastoid B‐cell line, Raji, Treatment of cells with 50 HA units of inøluenza A/Hong Kong/1/68 (H3N2) virus or with 0.02% v/v (240 IU/ml) of a purified β‐interferon preparation did not alter IgE or IgG produced.
A Mononuclear Cell‐Derived Histamine Releasing Factor in Asthmatic Patients
Authors: Alam R. , Rozniecki J.
Published: May 2007

In an attempt to study the role of lymphokines in asthma, lymphocytes from asthmatic patients were stimulated in vitro with skin test‐positive allergen (dust mite) or with non‐specific mitogen‐phytohaemagglutinin for 4h, then washed carefully and cultured alone for 16h. Cell‐free supernatants were subsequently collected and applied in the basophil histamine release test in vitro and in bronchial provocation test and skin prick test in vivo. Supernatant of non‐stimulated lymphocytes from asthmatic patients released significant amounts of histamine from basophils. Stimulation of lymphocytes with specific allergen or phytohamagglutinin augmented the supernatant‐induced histamine release. Lymphocyte supernatants from the majority of patients also induced bronchoconstriction and elicited skin wheal and flare reaction in vivo.
The Effect of Aspirin during Aspirin “Desensitisation” on Compound 48/80 and Histamine‐Induced Skin Responses in Aspirin‐Sensitive Asthmatics
Authors: Kowalski M. L. , Szmidt M. , Grzelewska‐Rzymowska I. , Rozniecki J.
Published: May 2007

In a group of aspirin‐sensitive asthmatics we studied skin weal and flare responses to intradermal injections of compound 48/80 and histamine during oral aspirin (ASA) provocation and after ASA “desensitisation”. During provocation (bronchospasm accompanied by naso‐ocular symptoms) the mean weal area after compound 48/80 increased to about 42.4% (P < 0.05). Neither the threshold (provocative) doses of ASA nor 600 mg ASA, when given after ASA‐desensitisation, significantly influenced the weal reactions to compound 48/80 (mean changes of area were –1.8% and –16.5% respectively). Aspirin did not change flare reactions to compound 48/80 and weal and flare reactions to histamine on any of the three study occasions. Initial (pre‐aspirin) weal reactions to compound 48/80 after desensitisation to the threshold ASA doses were significantly reduced, but after desensitisation to 600 mg ASA were significantly increased as compared with the reactions before. These data suggest that ASA‐“desensitisation” may influence the skin reactivity to non‐specific mast cell degranulating stimulus in ASA‐sensitive asthmatics.
Bronchial Challenge with Serotonin in Asthmatics
Authors: Tønnesen P.
Published: May 2007

Bronochial challenge with serotonin creatinine in phosphate buffer was performed in 20 stable asthmatics. In contrast to some earlier studies we observed no changes in FEV1 or FVC 0 and 2 min after provocation with increasing conecntrations of serotonin (maximal conecntration 20 mg/ml). In the first eight patients the PC20 histamine was 0.125–0.65 mg/ml, performed on a separate day. In three other asthmatics serotonin chloride 20 mg/ml did not affect lung function or produce any subjective symptoms. Serotonin can not be used to evaluate non‐specific bronchial hyperreactivity in asthmatics.
Activity of Allergenic Proteins from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
Authors: Wahn U. , Müuller‐Krampe B. , Lind P.
Published: May 2007

Two purified allergens from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dp 42 (identical to P1) and Dp X were studied for their ability to induce histamine release from washed leukocytes and to bind to IgE antibodies from the serum of 27 mite‐sensitive children. Almost all patients were demonstrated to be sensitive to both proteins by both assays. Dp 42 was found to have the highest allergenic activity, releasing histamine from leukocytes at a median concentration 10 times lower than for Dp X. There was a positive correlation between basophil sensitivity to both proteins and allergen specific serum IgE concentrations.
Standardization of the Prick Test
Authors: Basomba A. , Sastre A. , Peláez A. , Romar A. , Campos A. , GWarcía‐Villalmanzo A.
Published: May 2007

The different needles and methods used in the prick test give rise to disparate results. This has significance when carrying out multi‐centre studies and when using the technique in the standardization of allergenic extracts. With test reliability as our objective, prick tests were carried out on 30 subjects: 10 patients sensitive to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus received a glycerine extract of known allergenic potency, 10 healthy individuals 2.5% codeine phosphate in a glycerine solution, and another 10, histamine 1/1000. The total prick tests per individual was 27 with each of the needles employed (Allergy Pricker, the Morrow‐Brown needle and Insulin needle in accordance with Pepy's procedure). The tests were carried out systematically by three different testers, and the total number of prick tests performed was 810. With the Allergy Pricker, no differences were observed among results obtained by the same tester, nor when the results of the three testers were compared. With the Morrow‐Brown needle, the results varied in the same person and from one tester to another, and on many occasions the test was negative. With the Pepys method, no falsely negative results were obtained, but there was considerable variation in the size of the wheal. The variation coefficient is 41 % with the Allergy Pricker, and 115 % and 64 % with the Morrow‐Brown and Pepys method, respectively. In conclusion, the results obtained clearly indicate that the highest degree of reproducibility is obtained with the Allergy Pricker.
Cytokines Cause Functional and Structural Damage to Isolated Islets of Langerhans
Authors: Mandrup‐Poulsen T. , Bendtzen K. , Nielsen J. Høiriis , Bendixen G. , Nerup J.
Published: May 2007

Cytokines are soluble, antigen non‐specific, non‐immunoglobulin mediators produced and secreted by blood mononuclear cells interacting in the cellular immune‐response. To test the possibility that cytokines participate in the autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic beta‐cells leading to insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus, isolated human or rat islets of Langerhans were incubated for 7 days with cytokine‐rich, cell‐free supernatants of blood mononuclear cells from healthy human donors stimulated with or without purified protein derivative of tuberculin or phytohaemagglutinin. Glucose stimulated insulin‐release, and contents of insulin and glucagon in islets incubated with cytokine‐rich supernatants were markedly reduced. This impairment of islet function was due to a cytotoxic effect of cytokine‐rich supernatants as judged by disintegration of normal light‐microscopic morphology.
Clinical and Biological Evaluation of Semi‐Rush and Ordinary Immunotherapy Schemes in Type I Allergic Respiratory Diseases
Authors: Stevens W. J. , Verhelst J. A. , van den Bogaert W. , Bridts C. H.
Published: May 2007

Forty‐three patients with type I allergic respiratory diseases received aqueous grass pollen immunotherapy in a prospective study designed to compare the clinical and biological effects of a semi‐rush hyposensitization (20 patients) with ordinary hyposensitization (23 patients). Before the start of the therapy (end of previous grass pollen season, tl) and before (t2) and after the next grass pollen season (t3), total serum IgE (tIgE), grass pollen‐specific IgE (GPsIgE), grass pollen‐specific IgG (GPsIgG) and complement factors C3 and C4 were determined. GPsIgE and GPsIgG levels increased significantly more during immunotherapy in patients receiving the semi‐rush scheme as compared with the ordinary scheme. There were no significant changes between the two schemes at any times for tIgE, C3 and C4. GPsIgG was already higher in allergic patients before the start of therapy as compared with non‐allergic patients and controls. Clinical improvement was the same in patients treated with the semi‐rush scheme as in the ordinary group. The number of side effects was not statistically different between the two groups. In neither group was there a correlation between the change in biological parameters and change in clinical symptoms. As the semi‐rush scheme gives the same results immunologically as well as clinically, it could be used in a number of patients since it reduces the time course of the initial therapy by about 2 months.
Effect of Theophylline on the Proportion and Function of T‐Suppressor Cells in Asthmatic Children
Authors: Lahat N. , Nir E. , Horenstien L. , Colin A. A.
Published: May 2007

T‐cell subpopulations and their function were studied in asthmatic children with or without theophylline therapy. A decreased proportion and function of theophylline‐sensitive T‐suppressor cells was found in fresh peripheral blood of asthmatic children. Following peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) incubation in theophylline‐free medium, the proportion of theophylline‐sensitive T‐cells in asthmatic children treated with theophylline was elevated to normal values. However, their suppressive effect on control lymphocyte proliferation was unchanged.
Protective Effect of a New Anti‐Asthmatic Agent (Minocromil) in Bronchial Allergen Challenge Tests
Authors: Svendsen U. G. , Frølund L. , Madsen F. , Weeke B.
Published: May 2007

Ten patients were included in a double‐blind crossover trial, designed to compare the effects of a new anti‐asthmatic agent Minocromil, an organic decarboxylic acid, and placebo on bronchial allergen challenge. The challenges were performed at weekly intervals. Significant differences in favour of Minocromil were found in the concentration of antigen reached at which FEV1 fell below 20 % of baseline. This was confirmed by analysis of the decrease in FEV1 recorded at the highest concentrations of antigens, which showed statistically significant differences in favour of Minocromil.
Allergy to Weeping Fig ‐A New Occupational Disease
Authors: Axelsson G. , Skedinger M. , Zetterström O.
Published: May 2007

During the last decade green plants have become more common in interior decoration. There are companies specializing in the leasing of green plants to public buildings and offices. Weeping fig is one of the most popular green plants. Dust and dry components of the plant are usually removed by vigorous shaking. In this way the allergen becomes airborne. During a few months we have seen several plant keepers who have developed airway allergy to weeping fig. Two of them have been thoroughly investigated. Both are atopics. Extracts were made from leaves and branches and both patients had positive skin prick tests and RAST. The risk of sensitization in plant keepers who work with weeping fig is probably considerable.
Characterization of IgE and IgG Antibody Responses to Dermatophagoides farinae in Rats
Authors: NORDVALL S. L. , DALE S. , BJÖRKSTÉN B.
Published: May 2007

Rats (Brown Norway/Wistar Fu) that were pretreated or not pretreated with cyclophos‐phamide were immunized with varying amounts of Dermatophagoides farinae allergen extract with alum as adjuvant. Sera were analysed by RAST and by crossed radioimmunoelectro‐phoresis (CRIE). The highest IgE antibody responses were recorded in animals pretreated with cyclophosphamide that had received low immunizing doses of antigen. The IgE antibody pattern in CRIE was, however, not influenced by the dose of antigen or by cyclophosphamide pretreatment. The IgG pattern in CRIE closely resembled the IgE pattern, demonstrating a similar specificity of the antibody responses of the two isotypes. This indicates non‐class specific control of the specificity of antibody responses.
Immunogenetic Studies of Respiratory Anaphylaxis in Selectively Bred Guinea Pigs
Authors: CLAUSEN J. T. , SPÄRCK J. V. , WERDELIN O. , LARSEN S. O. , LUNDBERG L.
Published: May 2007

The genetic and immunological basis of respiratory anaphylaxis was studied in two strains of guinea pigs selectively bred for either high or low respiratory anaphylactic response to inhalation of ovalbumin. Individuals of the parental strains, Fl‐hybrids and backcross offspring were examined for class II MHC type and asthmatic response to ovalbumin. Analysis of the results revealed an association of asthma phenotype and MHC class II type. Apart from the gene(s) in the MHC several other genes seem to be involved in the control of guinea pig asthma.