bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and assessment of an objective method of colour change measurement for acrylic denture base resins
Authors: LIBERMAN R. , COMBE E.C. , PIDDOCK V. , PAWSON C. , WATTS D.C.
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYCurrent standard specifications for the laboratory evaluation of denture base materials require subjective assessment of colour stability. This study evaluates a new objective measurement technique for translucent denture base materials, by comparing quantitative data with the results obtained from a standard subjective method. Preliminary work on three representative commercial acrylic materials resulted in the selection of a white background for the quantification of colour change of these translucent materials. One half of each sample was exposed to artificial sunlight for 24 h.

The colour of both exposed and unexposed resin was measured on the CIE L*a*b* scale using a photoelectric colorimeter. Significant changes in the b* and E* values (P < 0.001) were observed following light exposure. Objective data for a wide range of commercial materials were compared with the results of a subjective evaluation and it was shown that a change in b* of 1.5 units was discernable subjectively by eye for 100% of the cases. It is suggested that this method and limit value could form the basis of a new objective colour change specification for polymeric dental materials.
Activity recognition in long‐term electromyograms
Authors: GALLO L.M. , PALLA S.
Published: June 2007

SUMMARY
Long‐term electromyography with portable recorders allows the study of muscle activity in the natural environment to Investigate whether muscle overuse or oral habits may contribute to initiate or perpetuate a myoarthropathy of the masticatory system. At present, little is known about the behaviour of masticatory muscles over long time periods. The aim of this preliminary study was to define parameters which allow the automatic recognition of different types of oral activities from the electro‐ myogram form. A programme with functional and parafunctional activities was performed by four volunteers (total of 333 functional and 82 parafunctional recordings). Electromyograms of the masseter and temporal muscles were recorded by means of a self‐ developed portable intelligent solid state recorder. Signal mean level (mw) and dynamics (dw) within a sliding window were determined. Temporal muscle recordings allowed better discrimination between function and simulated parafunction. The average of mw for clenching was 51.4 ± 3.5% and for tooth grinding 21.2 ± 2% of the peak electromyogram value at maximum voluntary clench. At 0.96s sliding window duration, clenching, tooth grinding and chewing signals had maximum separation, using dw/mw as parameters (average: 0.16 ± 0.01 for clenching, 0.39 ± 0.01 for teeth grinding and 0.88 ± 0.01 for chewing).
Surgical and prosthodontic training of general practitioners for single tooth implants: a study of treatments performed at four general practitioners' offices and at a specialist clinic after 2 years
Authors: ANDERSSON B. , ÖDMAN P. , LINDVALL A.‐M. , BRÅNEMARK P.‐I.
Published: June 2007

summary
Both the surgical and the prosthodontic procedures will be performed by one and the same general practitioner (GP) for many implant patients, as access to specialists is limited or non‐existent in a large number of places. However, treatment by GPs has not been documented to the same extent as treatment performed by specialists. This lack of knowledge was the reason for the present study, in which four GPs performed both the surgery and the prosthodontics on patients requiring single tooth implant replacements. The treatments were performed after an initial training of the GP and his/ her dental assistant for 8 days. The treatments by the GPs exhibited clinical results corresponding to those achieved at a specialist clinic. The outcome indicates that complete single tooth implant treatments might be performed by GPs who have passed an initial training and demonstrated an interest in a close cooperation with specialists in oral surgery/periodontics and prosthodontics. Such a co‐operation should be based on the distribution of complicated cases to the specialists and of non‐complicated cases to the GPs.
Self‐assessment of pain and discomfort in patients with temporomandibular disorders: a comparison of five different scales with respect to their precision and sensitivity as well as their capacity to register memory of pain and discomfort
Authors: MAGNUSSON T. , LIST T. , HELKIMO M.
Published: June 2007

summary
Five different scales of self‐assessment of pain were tested in patients with temporomandibular disorders. The precision and sensitivity and the capacity to register memory of pain and discomfort were compared for each of the five scales. The behaviour rating scale was found to be superior to the other four scales in respect of precision and sensitivity to pain and discomfort and when recording the memory of these two variables. This scale was also considered by the patients to be the most relevant and the simplest to understand. From these results, the behaviour rating scale can be recommended when measuring pain and discomfort in patients with temporomandibular disorders.
Three‐dimensional distortion of gold alloy castings and welded titanium frameworks. Measurements of the precision of fit between completed implant prostheses and the master casts in routine edentulous situations
Authors: JEMT T.
Published: June 2007

summary
Thirty routine patients, provided with fixed prostheses supported by osseointegrated Brånemark implants in edentulous lower jaws, were arranged into three different groups with regard to design of the metal framework. Ten patients received cast gold alloy frames and the other two groups were provided with two different designs of welded titanium frames. The fit of the completed prostheses was measured in three dimensions (3‐D) in relation to the master cast, by means of a photogrammetric technique, prior to insertion. Mean 3‐D distortion of the centre point of the gold cylinder was 42 (s.d. 8) microns for the cast framework. The corresponding mean distortion for the two designs of titanium frameworks was 43 (s.d. 16) and 36 (s.d. 10) microns, respectively. Least distortion was observed in vertical direction for all three designs. None of the different designs of metal frames showed a significantly better fit (P > 0.05), but the cast and oldest titanium framework design presented a much wider range of distortion. This indicated a higher risk of sectioning and resoldering during the fabrication of the prostheses as compared to the more consistently fabricated prostheses, with a new titanium framework design.
The importance of a multidisciplinary approach to the assessment of patients with obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: L'ESTRANGE P.R. , BATTAGEL J.M. , NOLAN P.J. , HARKNESS B. , JORGENSEN G.I.
Published: June 2007

summary
Obstructive sleep apnoea may present with a wide range of symptoms resulting in a variety of referral pathways. A multidisciplinary approach to examination and diagnosis helps to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual. The subject is seen by each member of the team, appropriate investigations undertaken and a further meeting arranged at which all opinions are discussed. A reasoned treatment regime is produced, taking into consideration the patient's wishes and overall medical condition. This paper describes the team approach currently employed in the Department of Thoracic Medicine at The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Australia. The thoracic physician and ENT surgeon work in close collaboration with their dental colleagues: an orthodontist, prosthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon. An outline of the examination and investigations made by each is described and the multidisciplinary approach is illustrated by a description of the management of five subjects with suspected obstructive sleep apnoea.
Relationships between facial morphology and activity of orofacial muscles in patients with a complete upper and a partial lower denture
Authors: TALLGREN A. , TRYDE G.
Published: June 2007

summary
In a sample of 30 partially edentulous subjects, provided with an immediate complete upper denture and a partial lower denture and followed for 2 years, a correlation analysis was performed between facial morphology, as measured by lateral head films, and EMG peak mean voltages of the anterior temporal and masseter muscles when clenched and during swallowing and chewing, and of the lip muscles during swallowing. At the pre‐treatment stage, when the patients occluded on a residual anterior dentition, correlations between facial morphologic characteristics and peak mean voltages of the jaw closing muscles indicated stronger muscle activity in individuals with a square facial type. No significant associations were observed between muscle activity and the age of the subjects, which ranged from 36 to 71 years. After placement and use of the dentures a significant forward–upward rotation of the mandible with a decrease in overbite occurred, as a result of resorption of the edentulous maxillary ridge. At the 1 year stage of denture use, the elevator activity showed no significant correlations with facial morphology. On the other hand, negative correlations were observed especially between the anterior temporal activity and anterior overbite. Similar negative correlations were observed for the lip activity during swallowing, especially of the upper lip. These findings suggest occlusal contact between the incisors during the various functions in subjects with a small overbite. The findings further suggest that the anterior temporal and the upper lip muscles are sensitive to changes in anterior occlusal relations of the dentures.
Dental state and functional capacity in 75‐year‐olds in three Nordic localities
Authors: ÖSTERBERG T. , ERA P. , GAUSE‐NILSSON I. , STEEN B.
Published: June 2007

summary
The aims of the study were to compare dental state in three Nordic 75‐year‐old populations and to evaluate dental state as a marker of functional ageing. The study is part of a Nordic comparative study of 75‐year‐olds in Glostrup, Göteborg and Jyväskylä. In the dental studies, 411 subjects in Denmark, 308 in Sweden and 310 in Finland participated. Odontological history was obtained from interviews. Other methods, which are described elsewhere, were used to measure various functional parameters. In Goteborg, 23% of the 75‐year‐olds reported they were edentulous and 27% that they had more than 20 of their own teeth. The corresponding figures in Glostrup were 45% and 15% and in Jyväskylä 58% and 9%, respectively. In all three localities, economic factors and lifestyle factors, such as tobacco smoking, low physical activity and low social activity, were significant predictors for impaired dental health. The number of teeth was significantly associated with, for example, spirometry parameters, reaction time, body extention and body flexion in males. In females, significant associations were obtained with spirometry parameters, reaction time, handgrip, body extension and body flexion. Internordic differences regarding dental state were obvious. Dental state was associated with functional capacities. We suggest that dental state is a marker of functional capacity in elderly populations.
Radiographic amelocemental junction and alveolar crest: effect of X‐ray beam angulation
Authors: JENKINS S.M. , DUMMER P.M.H. , NEWCOMBE R.G.
Published: June 2007

summary
The effect of X‐ray beam angulation on the radiographic images of the amelocemental junction (ACJ) and alveolar crest (AC) and their positions relative to one another were assessed using a new laboratory model for radiographic studies. A total of 39 teeth with 62 usable approximal surfaces were included in the investigation. When all tooth types were combined, changes in vertical or horizontal angulation from baseline through 20° had no significant effect on the distance between the marked (true) ACJ and marked (true) AC. However, the distance between the apparent (radiographic) ACJ and apparent (radiographic) AC was significantly reduced by varying the beam angulation in either a vertical or horizontal direction. Results for individual tooth types were qualitatively similar but larger discrepancies were found in molars followed by premolars and incisors. The results emphasize the importance of maintaining the ideal X‐ray beam, tooth, bone, film relationship when taking radiographs for the assessment of periodontal destruction.
In vitro investigation of various attachments for overdentures on osseointegrated implants
Authors: BESIMO CH. , KEMPF B.
Published: June 2007

summary
Primary splinting of fixtures with bar attachments has proved to be clinically effective for overdentures on osseointegrated implants in the edentulous mandible. However, in vitro investigations indicate that a more favourable force transfer to the individual fixtures can be attained by secondary splinting of four implants with conical double crowns. This observation could be confirmed in the present study by measurement of implant deflection in a model of the mandible by means of interferometric optical holography. Telescope crowns with conical interface brought about functionally more even movement characteristics of the implants compared to rigid or jointed bar attachments. Moreover, the conical double crowns always ensured a stable position of the denture in contrast to jointed attachments. These results underscore the need to test conical double crowns clinically as anchors for overdentures on osseointegrated implants.
The effect of glaze on restorative glass‐ionomer cements
Authors: HOTTA M. , HIRUKAWA H. , AONO M.
Published: June 2007

Summary
The surface texture changes of three kinds of glass‐ionomer cements were compared with various glazed and polished cement surfaces after the initial finishing. Method 1–the glazing agent–was used, and method 2 consisted of four different Shofu Super Snap discs. In method 3 specimens were compressed with a glass plate. The glazed and polished surfaces were used for investigating various properties such as the surface roughness, colour change, gloss, hardness, toothbrush wear, and were also subject to SEM (scanning electron microscope) observation in the laboratory. The period of 48 h after mixing was chosen for the various testing data. The smoothest surface was formed after compression with a glass plate, however, the glazing agent gave the highest gloss surface for glass‐ionomer cement. The lower roughness generally observed was for glazing compared to polishing. The glazed surface is effective as a glass‐ionomer cement restoration.
Changes in gnathosonic and tooth contact characteristics induced by experimental occlusal interferences created using a full‐cast double crown
Authors: ASAZUMA Y. , ISOGAI Y. , WATANABE K. , HARA K.
Published: June 2007

Summary
Occlusal sounds, contact timings and time moments were measured and analysed on 10 subjects onto whom an occlusal interference was created experimentally. A full‐cast double crown was unilaterally set on the upper first molar of each subject, then gradually elevated for 0.06, 0.10, 0.20 and 0.30 mm by inserting a pre‐calibrated metal folio. Occlusal sound was measured with an analyser designed for the purpose. Timings and time moments were analysed with a T‐scan system. All measurements were performed at least 10 times per subject. The results showed that prolonged occlusal sound duration, changes in acoustic signal waveform and increased shift of the centre of effort were observed concomitantly with crown elevation. Differences in these values at 0.06mm as compared with those at baseline were not statistically significant. This could be explained through a physiological compensation by the periodontal ligament. The differences with baseline were statistically significant from 0.10mm ongoing. The distribution of occlusal conacts was determined by the use of a newly developed parameter. Referred to as ‘Tap Score’, the parameter consists of converting contact timings occuring in seven ranges into least‐square‐based weighted scores. Analysis of the tap score disclosed evident imbalance between the crowned and the non‐crowned side starting from 0.10mm elevation, whereby a forward shift of the major contact point was observed on the non‐crowned side. Our study demonstrated that evident changes in gnathosonic and T‐scan parameters are likely to occur at a crown elevation within a 0.06–0.10 mm range. Not only did the results show the analytical capacity of the combined use of occlusal sound analyser and T‐scan, but also they confirmed that a method using simple chairside devices, e.g. T‐scan and Dental Sound Checker, could be helpful in bringing further understanding and information on occlusal interference.
Tooth contact during dynamic lateral excursion in young adults
Authors: HOCHMAN N. , EHRLICH J. , YAFFE A.
Published: June 2007

Summary
Tooth contact in mediotrusion as well as the signs and symptoms of periodontal and mandibular dysfunction were recorded in healthy patients aged between 20 and 31 with Angle class I or II. Non‐functional side contact (NFSC) was found in 94% of the patients, indicating that it is a common phenomenon. In cases of NFSC, the entire range of movement, and not only the final stage of tip‐to‐tip contact on the working side, should be recorded. Slight positive mobility with tooth faceting, as compared to the adjacent and contralateral teeth, was observed in 56 patients. There was no correlation between mediotrusion and mandibular dysfunction. The cumulative effects of NFSC are not well documented, and longitudinal follow‐up studies should be carried out to clarify these.
Factors influencing gelation time of tissue conditioners
Authors: IWANAGA H. , MURAKAMI S. , MURATA H. , SHIGETO N. , HAMADA T.
Published: June 2007

Summary
To investigate the effects of the composition and structure on the gelation of tissue conditioners, we measured gelation time with an oscillating rheometer. Also, the plasticizer factor was determined using linear multiple regression equations with the dependent variable of gelation time and the independent variables of molecular weight, molar volume, solubility parameter and viscosity of plasticizers. The results obtained were (i) gelation time decreased as the average particle size of poly‐ethyl‐methacrylate was decreased and its weight average molecular weight increased; (ii) gelation time decreased as ethanol content in the liquid increased. It varied depending on the type of plasticizer; (iii) it was suggested that gelation time was explained by linear multiple regression equations with independent variable of molar volume, solubility parameter and viscosity of plasticizer. In particular, the most influential factor was suggested to be molar volume.
Recurrent systemic bacterial infections in homozygous C2 deficiency
Authors: Fasano M. B. , Hamosh A. , Winkelstein J. A.
Published: June 2007

Homozygous deficiency of the second component of complement (C2) occurs in one in 10, 000 individuals. Its clinical manifestations range from essentially no symptoms to recurrent infections or evidence of collagen‐vascular disease. We present here a case report and a review of the literature focusing on recurrent systemic infections in C2‐deficient individuals. Thirteen of 20 patients vi'ith C2 deficiency and a history of invasive bacterial infections have had recurrent episodes of bacteremia or meningitis. Most of these patients were children, and Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most common pathogen reported. The use of prophylactic antibiotics. Haemophilus influenzae type b and pneumococcal vaccines, and prompt medical attention for any febrile illness should be encouraged in children with documented C2 deficiency. Although there are no studies to date to document their efficacy, the above measures may serve to diminish the frequency of recurrent systemic bacterial disease in these children.
Prenatal diagnosis and carrier detection of inherited immunodeficiency disorders
Authors: Pelham A. , Kinnon C. , Levinsky R. J.
Published: June 2007

Clinical immunodeficiency states may arise as a consequence of genetic defects in the immune system. An increasing number of such diseases are now being identified and in some cases the underlying defects are well understood. In some disorders the outlook has been improved by advances in available treatment, but in most the prognosis is still very poor with death in early infancy in many cases. Recently, there have been significant advances in techniques for prenatal diagnosis and carrier detection for some of these disorders. These include the use of gene tracking by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and deletion analysis, detection of defective gene products, assessment of cellular dysfunction, cell series analysis, and X‐chromosome inactivation studies for carrier detection.
Fungal allergy in children
Authors: Nordvall S. L , Eriksson M. , Rylander E. , Strömquist L. ‐H.
Published: June 2007

One hundred and thirty‐nine children (85 hoys) from a paediatric allergy clinic were included in a study which aimed to relate disease traits of fungal allergy to measured serum IgE antibodies to fungi. A structured case history was recorded and the children were subject to a panel of skin prick tests which included common inhalant allergens and two fungi, Cladosporium herbarum and Alternoria alternata. Serum IgE antibodies to 16 different fungi were assayed by RAST using the Pharmacia extended panel. Forty‐seven of the children were positive to fungal RAST and many of them were positive to multiple fungi. C. herbarum gave the highest frequency of positive results. The best combination of three fungi for detecting fungal sensitization was C. Herbarum, Penicillium notatum and Mucor racemosus. Skin prick test (SPT) failed to uncover fungal sensitization in many children with broad RAST sensitivity. Children with RAST positivity to fungi generally had more severe asthma and more frequently recognised summer and autumn to be a difficult period compared with children without such positivity. In stepwise regression analysis, positive SPT for cat had the best explanatory value for asthma and positive C. herbarum RAST the second best. Children with fungal RAST positivities were not over‐represented among cases with allergic rhino‐conjunctivitis but there was a strong association to eczema. The latter is possibly explained by concomitant sensitization to fungi colonizing the human skin. It is suggested that the identification of fungal allergy in asthmatic children will help ensure that proper anti‐inflammatory treatment is instituted during peak spore periods.
The influence of exposure to house dust mite, cat, pollen and fungal allergens in the home on primary sensitisation in asthma
Authors: Warner J. A. , Little S. A. , Pollock I. , Longbottom J. L. , Warner J. O.
Published: June 2007

The homes of 68 atopic asthmatic children were studied to estimate the concentrations of perennial and seasonal aeroallergens (Der pl, Fel d1, grass pollen, tree pollen, Cladosporium, Aspergillaceae and Alternaria) to which children were likely to have been exposed during their first few months of life, by sampling in the child's month of birth. There was a strong association between the presence or absence of the house dust mite allergen Der p1 in the air with the skin test and IgE antibody test results (p < 0.001), with a similar association for cat allergen Pel d 1 (p < 0.01), when using a low volume sampler (equivalent to the minute tidal volume of a small baby). No significant correlation was found between levels of allergen in carpet dust and air in the same room. There was a strong indication that the presence of a cat at birth was linked with a higher risk of development of allergy to cat, but high levels of Fel d 1 were sometimes found in homes even when there was no cat present, indicating that allergen may be introduced from other sources. The levels of tree pollen were significantly higher in the homes of tree pollen‐allergic children than in the homes of patients without this sensitivity (p < 0.01); and the degree of sensitivity, determined by RAST, correlated significantly to the level of tree pollen in the home (p < 0.001). However, no relationship was found between specific sensitivity and the levels of Cladosporium, Aspergillaceae, Alternaria or grass pollen measured in the homes. The effect of high allergen exposure was most prominent in children under 7 yr and not beyond that age.
High dose astemizole in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
Authors: Andlin‐Sobocki P. , Möller C.
Published: June 2007

In a double blind manner 38 children with hayfever due to birch pollinosis and weighing 25–80 kg (mean 45 kg) were treated with either astemizole 5 mg/d or placebo for 2 wks before the start of the birch pollen season. At the start of the season all children were given astemizole in doses increasing every week, i. e. 5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/d. This part of the study was blind in that patients did not know the actual dose administered and the physiscians did not know the plasma concentrations of the drug. Blood was drawn before the start of the medication and after each week in the single blind phase of the trial. Despite the long half‐life of astemizole. prophylactic treatment gave no improvement during the first week of the pollen season. Increasing daily doses from 0. 1 mg/kg body weight gave i'ewer hayfever symptoms up to 0. 25 mg/kg, corresponding to a plasma concentration of 4 ng/ml of astemizole plus hydroxyluted metabolites. Still higher doses up to 40 mg/d, corresponding to 0. 5–1. 6 mg/kg/d. gave littie improvement. Sedation and other side effects did not increase with higher doses. Analyses of various laboratory tests did not reveal any abnormalities that were judged to be a result of the medication. However, liver enzymes increased during the treatment period although all values were within normal limits. Thus, astemizole is safe even in higher doses, but neither prophylactic treatment nor daily doses above 0. 25 mg/kg/d improve treatment results in hayfever. The statistical lime series model used correlating symptoms with pollen exposure allowed a good evaluation of the dose‐response of astemizole in hayfever despite the limited number of patients
Prediction of atopic disease in infancy by determination of immunological parameters: IgE, IgE‐ and IgG‐antibodies to food allergens, skin prick tests and T‐lymphocyte subsets
Authors: Lilja G. , Öman H.
Published: June 2007

The possibility of predicting the development of atopic diseases up to 18 months of age, by using IgE, IgE‐ and IgG‐antibodies (Ab) to food allergens, skin prick tests (SPT) and T‐lymphocyte subsets, was prospectively studied in 163 infants with atopic heredity. IgE determinations in cord blood showed a positive allergy‐predictive value of only 21%, using an optimal cut‐off limit (? 0.9 kU/l). The corresponding figure for a weakly positive RAST (? 0.15 < 0.35 PRU/ml) to ovomucoid (OVO) or β‐lactoglobulin (BLG) at 6 months of age was 25% and for a positive RAST ? 0.35 PRU/ml 100%. The predictive value of positive SPT to ovalbumin (OA), OVO, BLG and whole cow's milk varied between 67 and 100% and for IgG‐Ab levels to the same food allergens the predictability did not exceed 30%. Total numbers of T cells (CD2, CD3) were higher (p < 0.05) at delivery among atopic infants, but neither in cord blood nor in blood samples, taken at 2 and 6 months of age, could absolute T‐cell subset numbers or the CD4/CD8 ratios predict atopic diseases in more than 45% of the cases. A low sensitivity was observed in most of the parameters studied. Thus, none of the tests used in the present study seems suitable for predicting the development of atopic diseases during early infancy.
Milk and ovalbumin‐specific IgG4 in childhood atopic eczema: serum levels in relation to dietary changes
Authors: Sloper K. , Brostoff J.
Published: June 2007

Serum levels of cow milk‐specific IgG4 (IgG4‐milk) and ovalbumin‐specific IgG4 (IgG4‐ova) were found to be raised in a group of children with atopic eczema. Patients with the highest levels had IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity to some foods but no correlation with IgG4 results. Initial IgG4 levels did not predict whether the eczema would improve after a diet eliminating cow milk, egg and some other foods. Changes in IgG4‐milk during double‐blind milk challenges did not correlate with clinical changes in patient's eczema as measured by skin assessment. There seems to be no clinical value in measuring IgG4 antibodies to milk and ovalbumin in children with atopic eczema, the high titres reflecting antigen response only.
Reduced levels of IgG subclasses and IgA in young children with asthma
Authors: Loh R. K. S. , Thong Y. H. , Harth S. C. , Ferrante A.
Published: June 2007

Serum immunoglobulins including IgG subclasses were measured in 73 unselected children with asthma. The results showed that 22 (30%) had partial IgA and/or IgG4 subclass deficiency. Clinical assessment showed that 21 children were infection‐prone, and 52 were not. Further analysis showed that infection‐prone children were significantly different from non‐infection‐prone children with regard to familial history of allergy (29% vs 60%, p = 0.015), elevated IgE (62% vs 33%, p = 0.021), IgA deficiency (38% vs 15%, p = 0.38) and IgG subclass deficiency (24% vs 4%, p = 0.018). These results suggest that there may be subgroups of children with asthma who are also immunodeficient.
Exposure to indoor allergens and development of allergy
Authors: Lau‐Schadendorf S. , Wahn U.
Published: June 2007

House dust contains several indoor allergens which can elicit hypersensitivity and various atopic symptoms, especially in childhood. This review article focusses on house dust mite hypersensitivity to one of the most important species, Dermatophagoides, as a model. A clear dose‐response relationship has been demonstrated between house dust mite allergen exposure in mattress dust samples and sensitization, i.e. serum IgE to Dermatophagoides and positive histamine release from basophil leukocytes to one of the major allergens from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Der p I. 2 μg major allergen of Dermatophagoides/g of dust and 8 μg major allergen of cat/g of dust have been suggested to be threshold concentrations above which the risk of sensitization in genetically predisposed atopic children is significantly increased. Epidemiological studies showed house dust mite allergens to be one of the most important risk factors in the development of atopic airway disease. A relation between age at onset of the first wheezing episode and house dust mite allergen exposure at the age of 1 year has been observed. There are various factors influencing house dust mite growth, and many studies have been performed to reduce house dust mite allergen exposure. Until now, none of the approaches appeared to have achieved sufficient mite and mite allergen reduction.
Evaluation of a screening test for detection of IgA antigliadin antibodies in coeliac disease
Authors: Tosoni C. , Apollonio A. , Cattaneo R. , Soldati F. , Ranzini C.
Published: June 2007

The reliability of antigliadin antibodies of IgA and IgG classes for the diagnosis and follow‐up of coeliac disease was evaluated by ELISA tests. Forty coeliac patients, 41 patients with other gastrointestinal diseases and 50 healthy subjects were studied. IgA antigliadin antibodies were detected in all patients on unrestricted diet and in those on a challenge with a gluten‐containing diet. A low incidence of positivities was found in patients on a gluten free‐diet, while no positivity was found in controls or gastrointestinal patients. IgG determination, in contrast, showed poor specificity. Our data suggest that a positive IgA antigliadin test may be a reliable marker for the presence of active coeliac disease, which should be confirmed by intestinal biopsy; it is, moreover, a good marker for monitoring patients, since elevated values might suggest non‐compliance with the diet.
Respiratory virus infection and airway hyperreactivity in children
Authors: Stark James M. , Busse William W.
Published: June 2007

A significant portion of infants and young children develop acute lower airway obstruction (wheezing) accompanying viral lower respiratory infections. These wheezing‐associated respiratory illnesses, particularly bronchiolitis, are often associated with evidence of prolonged airway obstruction and airway hyperreactivity following the initial infection. The factors that determine the type of clinical infection that initially develops and long‐term respiratory consequences of this infection are complex, including the genetic background of the child, the age at the time of infection, the respiratory virus involved, and environmental factors such as exposure to cigarette smoke. Several animal models have been developed to describe the pathophysiology of viral respiratory infection and have helped to define several potential mechanisms for the resulting airway obstruction. Data from these studies and studies in humans emphasize the importance of the immune system and of neural modulation of airway smooth muscle tone in determining the outcome of respiratory virus infection. These observations also help define the pivotal role of the airway epithelium in the regulation of airway smooth muscle tone and the host inflammatory response in the airway. Consequently, the interplay of host and environmental factors, as well as the relative importance of the different mechanisms potentially active in airway obstruction, determine the acute clinical outcome of infection for an individual child and the propensity of that child to develop recurrent episodes of wheezing (asthma).
Graft versus graft and graft versus host reactions after HLA‐identical bone marrow transplantation in a patient with severe combined immunodeficiency with transplacentally acquired lymphoid chimerism
Authors: Friedman N. J. , Shiff S. E. , Ward F. E. , Schiff R. I. , Buckley R. H.
Published: June 2007

We describe a patient with severe combined immunodeficiency and transplacental transfer of maternal T cells who received an unfractionated HLA‐identical sibling bone marrow transplant without prior conditioning. He presented prior to transplantation with a dermatitis later diagnosed as mild graft versus host disease. He had a normal absolute lymphocyte count, but proliferative responses to mitogens were very low. Antigens of the noninherited maternal HLA haplotype were detected on his blood lymphocytes. After transplantation, he developed a severe reaction including fever, cutaneous erythema and hepatosplenomegaly. Lymphocytes carrying the noninherited maternal HLA haplotype disappeared from his circulation, and his unprimed mononuclear cells became spontaneously cytotoxic to maternal lymphoblasts. He subsequently developed a lymphocytosis of 69,000/mm3, diarrhea, elevated transaminases and a worsening rash, necessitating treatment with immunosuppressive agents. Full T‐cell engraftment and evidence of B‐cell function later ensued and spontaneously cytotoxic lymphocytes against maternal cells disappeared by 47 days post‐transplantation. We postulate that the patient's constellation of signs and symptoms after transplantation represented a combination of severe graft versus graft and mild graft versus host reactions.
Humoral immunity in children with proven bronchiectasis, bronchial deformations and chronic bronchitis
Authors: Zielen S. , Baktai G. , Márialigeti T. , Ahrens P. , Székély E. , Hofmann D.
Published: June 2007

In 70 children with defined chronic chest disease, immunoglobulins, IgG subclass levels and antibody concentrations specific for Haemophilus influenzae b (Hib), and pneumococcal antigen, were related to disease severity. Bronchological examinations revealed 30 children with chronic bronchitis, 21 with bronchial deformations and 19 with bronchiectasis. Of the 70 children 12 (17.1%) showed an underlying immunodeficiency. The commonest finding was an IgG subclass deficiency, 7 were IgG2 and 1 IgG3 deficient, followed by IgA deficiency in 3 patients. All patients had normal IgG and IgM levels except one who had immunodeficiency with elevated IgM. Pneumococcal antibody levels were found to increase between patient groups in the order healthy children < chronic bronchitis < bronchiectasis < bronchial deformations (p < 0.01), but this was not the case for Hib antibodies. We found no selective deficiency of pneumococcal and Hib antibodies in our patients. Pathogens were detected in bronchial cultures from 10% of patients with chronic bronchitis, 33% of those with bronchial deformations and in 63% with bronchiectasis. This increase (p < 0.01) reflects a more severe inflammation of the respiratory tract in such patients. However, immunodeficiencies were equally distributed between patient groups. We conclude that only a subgroup of children with chronic chest disease have an underlying immunodefiency, but most patients (83%) do synthesize normal or even high antibodies in the presence of a bacterial load.
Case report of common variable immunodeficiency with functional T‐helper defect and reduced CD4+ LAM−1 T cells
Authors: Esser M. , Bouic P. , Nel N. , Cooper R. , Daniels J.
Published: June 2007

A 10 year‐old boy presenting with an empyema and a previous medical history of recurrent and disseminated infections was investigated immunologically. The serum immunoelectrophoresis showed hypogammaglobulinaemia. The in vitro lymphocyte proliferation to T‐cell mitogens (PHA and Con A) was diminished and the response to a T‐dependent B cell mitogen (PWM) was severely diminished. Phenotypic analysis of his lymphocytes with monoclonal antibodies revealed normal CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+ cells with a normal CD4: CD8 ratio. Double immunofluorescence with Leu 8 antibody revealed a selective deficiency of the CD4+ LAM 1− subset. Co‐culture experiments between patient's B cells and supernatants from normal T cells showed that the patient's B cells could secrete Ig in vitro. We suggest that the Leu 8 monoclonal antibody may be useful in defining abnormalities in the regulatory subsets of T lymphocytes and that these abnormalities may be relevant in the pathogenesis of common variable immunodeficiency.
Local and serum antibody response in full–term and premature infants after artificial colonization of the intestine with E. coli strain Nissle 1917 (Mutaflor®)
Authors: Lodinová–Žaadniková R. , Tlaskalová–Hogenová H. , Sonnenborn U.
Published: June 2007

After oral colonization with the non–enteropathogenic E. coli strain Nissle 1917 (E. coli SK22, Mutaflor®) in 22 full–term and 9 premature infants, the strain was detected in the stools from day 3 after administration and persisted throughout the study. The presence of E. coli SK22 in the intestine evoked a pronounced local, as well as a serum antibody response. The anti–SK22 antibodies of IgA and IgM isotypes in stool filtrates and in serum were significantly higher in colonized infants than in controls. Full–term infants had higher titers of IgA and IgM isotypes in stool filtrates than premature infants. The specific response against E. coli SK22 was higher than the antibody response against a control E. coli strain.
Molecular biology and allergy: current status and future prospects
Authors: Markert M.L.
Published: June 2007

Techniques of molecular biology are now being applied to all fields of clinieal medicine. Molecular biology shows particular promise in the field of allergy. Already, cloning studies are defining the protein sequence of many allergens and allowing recombinant allergens to be synthesized. Soon these reeombinant allergens will be added to immunotherapy extracts so that extracts will contain standard amounts of clinically important allergens. Molecular biology may fundamentally change the practice of allergy. The receptors for IgE on mast cells and basophils have been cloned. Mechanisms of regulation of IgE are being elucidated. It will soon be possible to design recombinant molecules i) to specifically inhibit the synthesis of IgE, ii) to inhibit the binding of IgE to its receptor, and iii) to prevent the transmission of signals which result in the release of mediators. The allergist may soon be able to attack the underlying atopic diathesis in his or her patients, not just treat the allergic symptoms.
Longitudinal measurement of non‐specific bronchial hyperresponsiveness in non‐allergic children and adolescents
Authors: Hopp R. J. , Brennan B. , Degan J. , Biven R. E. , Bewtra A. K. , Townley R. G.
Published: June 2007

Non‐speeifie bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) is intimately associated with the clinical condition recognized as asthma. BHR ean be present, however, in non‐asthmatic subjects, most notable in siblings of sthmatic subjects. What is not well understood, however, is whether inereased bronchial responsiveness, once present, persists over time. In this regard we report on our longitudinal study of BHR in non‐allergic children and adolescents. The reported subjects are part of a larger on‐going study in a selected population of asthma families, normal families, and twins. Initiated in 1972, t he subjects reported here are those who have had at least one follow‐up visit through 1990, and did not have asthma or allergic histories at either their initial or follow‐up(s). Subjects completed a standardized respiratory questionnaire, had skin tests, a serum IgE level and a determination of non‐specific BHR using a methacholine challenge. Subjects were 6 to 21 years at initial visit. Non‐allergic subjects trom asthma families (n = 25), twins (n = 37), and normal families (n = 28) were followed longitudinally, and their age at subsequent visits was not restricted. In this study, we found subjects from asthma families and twins had significantly increased BHR when compared to subjects from normal families. This increased BHR persisted over time and was not influenced by the atopic status of the studied subjects.
Increased respiratory burst response and alkaline phosphatase activity in human cord blood neutrophils
Authors: Khalfan L. , Björksten B. , Dahlgren C. , Follin P.
Published: June 2007

The priming effect of a bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on subsequent respiratory burst activity induced by either the chemoattractant formylmethionyl‐leucyi‐phenylalaninc (fMLP) or phorbol myristate acetate (PMA; a protein kinase C activator) was studied in human ncutrophils isolated from cord blood and adult peripheral blood. Cells from adults, but not from newborn babies, were primed by LPS pretreatment. The content and release of β‐glucuronidase and vitamin‐B12 binding protein, or marker for the azurophilic and specific granules, respectively, was similar for cells from infants and adult controls. In contrast, alkaline phosphatase activity was significantly increased in the cord blood neutrophils compared to neutrophils from adult peripheral blood. The latency of the alkaline phosphatase activity was, however, similar. Thus, the primed response of cord blood neutrophils could not be explained by an increased release of azurophilic or specific granule content. If the increased alkaline phosphatase activity of curd cells represents an increased number of secretory vesicles, however, then this would indicate a rapid turnover leading to delivery of new receptors and oxidase components to the cell membrane.
Breast milk of atopic mothers provides their infants with normal amounts of w‐6‐fatty acids
Authors: Schroten H. , Schöls K. , Melnik B. , VonKries R. , Wahn V. , Biggemann B.
Published: June 2007

Impaired function of the enzyme δ‐6‐desaturase has been proposed as a pathogenetic factor for atopic disease, especially eczema. Such a defect would lead to an increase in linolic acid and a decrease of its metabolic products (e. g. γ‐linolenic acid and arachidonic acid). If a general defect were present in atopic mothers it would be detectable from the distribution of w‐6‐fatty acids in breast milk. We analysed the fatty acid pattern of breast milk samples of 29 healthy, 23 atopie mothers with allergic rhinitis or allergic bronchial asthma and of 20 mothers with atopic eczema. Fatty acid patterns in the breast milk of atopic mothers with rhinoconjunctivitis or bronchial asthma, non‐atopic mothers and in those with atopic eczema were almost identical with respect to the mean values, 95% confidence intervals of the mean and ranges of the individual values of fatty acids. Additionally, the ratio of linoleic acid/dihomo‐γ‐linolenic acid + arachidonic acid as a measure of δ‐6‐desaturase activity did not differ between the groups. Our results do not confirm an impaired activity of δ‐6‐desaturase in breast milk of atopic mothers. Thus, the biochemical basis and rationale for supplementing lactating atopic mothers with γ‐linolenic acid preparations seem questionable.
Immunopathophysiology of asthma: mechanisms and relation to food allergy
Authors: Rosenwasser L. J.
Published: June 2007

An overview of the potential pathophysiology of various inflammatory cells in asthmatic allergic inflammation. The cells reviewed include the contribution of T cells, mast cells, eosinophils, macrophages in the generation of inflammatory reactions in the airway. It also provides an overview of potential mechanisms to be considered in relationship to the airway irritation that food allergy may generate and a context provided for understanding the ways in which food allergen may penetrate the airways.
Food composition: antigens
Authors: Yunginger J. W.
Published: June 2007

Relatively few food antigens have been purified to homogeneity and completely characterized. These include Gad c I from codfish; Sin a I from mustard seed; casein and beta‐lactoglobulin from cow's milk; and ovalbumin, ovomucoid, and conalbumin from eggs. Multiple allergens are present in crustaceans, legumes, and cereal grains. Most vegetable seed allergens are proteins; refined oils from these seeds (peanut, soybean, sunflower) contain no nitrogen and are thus non‐allergenic. Many food allergens are shared with pollens, so that pollen‐sensitive persons may exhibit itching of the tongue and palate when the cross‐reacting food is ingested.
Respiratory reactions induced by food challenges in adults
Authors: Bindslev‐Jensen C.
Published: June 2007

Respiratory symptoms (asthma and/or rhinoconjunctivitis) upon oral intake of foods is most frequently seen in children, although sensitization in adulthood occurs. The diagnosis of food allergy must ecxlusive be based on the outcome of Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Food Challenges (DBPCFC) false positive results in the challenge tests and resulting unnecessary diet therapy. Only a proportion of true food allergic patients also develop respiratory symptoms, the most predominant symptoms being skin‐ and gastrointestinal sympoms upon intake. A striking feature in DBPCFC positive patients, is the concomitant development of symptoms and signs from more than one organ system (respiratory, skin and/or gastrointestinal). Treatment of food induced respiratory symptoms should be strict avoidance, since no pharmacologie agents has convincingly been shown to protect against development of asthma.
Prevalence of food allergy in asthma
Authors: Bousquet J. , Neukirch F. , Noyola A. , Michel F. ‐B.
Published: June 2007

Methodological problems limit the evaluation of the prevalence of food allergy in asthma. Methods commonly used in epidemiologic studies of allergic diseases (e. g. skin tests and eventually serum‐specific IgE) are not reliable. Only double‐blind food challenges combined with skin tests or specific IgE can screen asthmatics allergic to foods, but this method cannot be used in epidcmiologic studies. Thus, either epidemiologic studies are performed in a random population with inappropriate methods, or they are performed in selected populations with appropriate techniques. The prevalence of asthma due to food allergy is small, what ever patient group is considered, except in infants. In childhood asthma it may be considered that 4–7% of asthmatics have food‐induced symptoms, but in adults it is under 2%.