bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the role of nasal polyp and normal nasal mucosal epithelial cells on in vitro eosinophil survival. Mediation by GM–CSF and inhibition by dexamethasone
Authors: XAUBET A. , MULLOL J. , LÓPEZ E. , ROCA‐FERRER J. , ROZMAN M. , CARRIÖN T. , FABRA J. M. , PICADO C.
Published: April 2006

Eosinophilic infiltration of the respiratory mucosa is considered an inflammatory hallmark of allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma and nasal polyposis. However, the mechanisms involved in this infiltration have not yet been totally elucidated. The objective of this study was to investigate and compare the influence of epithelial cell secretions from both nasal polyps (NP) and normal nasal mucosa (NM) on in vitro eosinophil survival. Epithelial cells were identified by microscopy; and immunohislochemisiry. cultured to confluence, and human epithelial cell conditioned media (HECM) was generated from cultures. Eosinophits were isolated at high viability and purity (>90%) from peripheral blood and incubated with HECM. HECM from both NM and NP increased eosinophil survival in a dose‐dependent manner, this effect being maximal at a concentration of 25% for NM (73.4%±5.5%, n= 26, P< 0.001) and of 10% for NP (74.5%± 84%n= 18, P < 0.001). Incubation of monoclonal antibody to human GM‐CSF with HECM, neutralized the induction of eosinophil survival by HECM from both NM and NP. HECM from NP contained higher concentrations of GM‐CSF (111 ± 25.4 pg/ml, n= 17) than HECM from NM (97.1 ± 15.2 pg/ml. n= 8). without reaching statistical significance. Pre‐incubation of dexamethasone with eosinophils also blocked HFCM‐induced eosinophil survival from both NM (10−8‐10−5 M; IC50 = 9.5 nM) and NP (10‐7‐10‐5 M; IC50 = 83 nM). These results suggest that: firstly eosinophil infiltration into the respiratory mucosa during allergic reaction and nasal polyposis may be modulated at least in part by GM‐CSF from epithelial cells; and secondly epithelial cells from NP might have a more potent effect on inducing eosinophil infiltration of the respiratory mucosa than epithelial cells from NM. Finally, we may consider this as a reliable in vitro model to compare the role of epithelial cells from inflammatory (NP) and non‐inflammatory (NM) tissue in respiratory inflammation.
Determination of IgE antibodies to Candida albicans mannan with nitrocellulose‐RAST in patients with atopic diseases
Authors: NERMES M. , SAVOLAINEN J. , KALIMO K. , LAMMINTAUSTA K. , VIANDER M.
Published: April 2006

A nitrocellulose‐based radioallergosorbent test (RAST) was developed and used for the determination of IgE antibodies to Candida albicans mannan in patients with atopic dermatitis, asthma and allergic rhinitis. The results were expressed as mannan‐RAST index values (an inter‐ and intra‐assay coefficient for variation of 8.0‐10.2%). The normal range for mannan‐RAST index values was determined in 102 non‐atopic adults. Fifty‐three of 78 (67.9%) patients with atopic dermatitis showed elevated mannan‐RAST index values with a significant correlation to the severity of the dermatitis (r= 0.33, P < 0.01). Sixteen of 30(53 3%) patients with asthma had a positive mannan‐RAST index value: however, 12 of the 16 asthmatics (75%) who were positive also suffered from atopic dermatitis. Those who had allergic rhinitis but not atopic dermatitis showed a positive mannan‐RAST index value in 12 of 32 (37.5%) cases. Nitrocellulose‐RAST offered a sensitive method for the determination of polysaccharide‐specific IgE antibodies in alopic diseases. The results show that high values are observed mainly in atopic dermatitis and less sensitization to C. albicans occurs in respiratory allergy.
Endotoxin and pro‐inflammatory cytokines stimulate endothelin‐I expression and release by airway epithelial cells
Authors: NAKANO J. , TAKIZAWA H. , OHTOSHI T. , SHOJI S. , YAMAGUCHI M. , ISHII A. , YANAGISAWA M. , ITO K.
Published: April 2006

Endothelin is a potent bronchoconstrictor peptide first identified as a novel vasoconstrictor produced by vascular endothelial cells. Recent reports suggest that airway epithelial cells are also capable of releasing this active peptide. To investigate the regulatory mechanism of endothelin expression, we studied the effects of endotoxin and pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin‐1 and tumour necrosis factor on the expression and release of endothelin‐1 by airway epithelial cells. Both endotoxin and the cytokines stimulated endothelin‐1 release by human bronchial epithelial cells. Northern blot analysis showed increased expression of preproendothelin‐1 mRNA by these factors. These results suggested that airway epithelial cells might play a role in the local airway smooth muscle tone through the production of endothelin, which might be upregulaled by inflammatory products in the airways.
IgE to food allergens are highly prevalent in patients allergic to pollens, with and without symptoms of food allergy
Authors: BIRCHER A. J. , VAN MELLE G. , HALLER E. , CURTY B. , FREI P. C.
Published: April 2006

Serum samples from 274 patients allergic to one or more of three pollens (birch, grass, mugwort), from 36 patients allergic to cat and/or Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus but not to pollen and from 55 non‐allergic controls, as well as 20 cord blood samples, were examined for specific IgE to six ‘pollen‐associated’ food allergens In uiing a new sensitive assay (CAP). A questionnaire asking for reactions to food was also sent to all patients.

In the pollen group, 111 patients (47%) were positive (≥0.71 kU/l) fora food allergen (392 positive tests). Of these, 92 were sensitive to apple, 68 to potato, 64 to carrot, 63 to celery, 61 to peach and 44 to melon. In the non‐allergic group, no IgE to any of the food allergens tested was found, whereas in the group allergic to non‐pollen allergens, only one individual had such an IgE. The CAP assay was found to he more sensitive than RAST for the allergens studied. A history of clinical reactions (oral symptoms in 67, rhinoconjunctivitis in 65, asthma in 42 and urticaria in 39) to the corresponding food allergen was reported mainly by patients with positive CAP.

In conclusion, we found a high prevalence of IgE to some food allergens in patients allergic to pollen and Ihe absence of such antibodies in the control groups. The new in vitro assay, being moresensitue than previous ones, indicated a high prevalence of food specific IgE in pollen allergic patients, which in many cases did not correspond to clinical symptoms of food allergy.
Effect of nasal anaesthesia on lacrimal function after nasal allergen challenge
Authors: LÖTH S. , BENDE M.
Published: April 2006

Ocular symptoms in allergic rhinoconjunctivitis arise partly from direct contact of the allergen with the conjunctiva and presumably partly from a naso‐lacrimal reflex. The aim was to study the importance of this reflex in allergic rhinitis after topical anaesthesia of the nose. Ten patients with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis lo birch pollen were challenged with increasing intranasal doses of allergen until allergic symptoms occurred. The same dose of allergen was used in two other provocations, when the nasal cavity was anaesthetized with topical lidocaine in a double‐blind rundomized cross‐over manner. The effect on the eyes was evaluated by Shirmer's test, a routine method for measuring tear production. Lidocaine per se and/or allergen challenge had no significant effect on tear production. The naso‐lacrimal reflex was not involved in the eye symptoms, in allergic conjunctivitis.
Airborne birch pollen antigens in different particle sizes
Authors: RANTIO–LEHTIMÄKI A. , VIANDER M. , KOIVIKKO A.
Published: April 2006

Two particle samplers for ambient air. situated together: a static size–selective bio–aerosol sampler (SSBAS) and a Burkard pollen and spore trap were compared in sampling intact birch pollen grains through one flowering period of Betula (a total of 44 days). The SSBAS trapped pollen grains three times more efficienily than the Burkard trap, but the variations in pollen counts were significantly correlated. In contrast, birch pollen antigenic activity and the pollen count in the Burkard samples were not closely correlated. The antigenic concentration was occasionally high both before and after the pollination period. There was a high birch pollen antigenic activity in particle size classes where intact pollen grains were absent, even on days when the pollen count was very low. Correspondingly, on days with high birch pollen counts in the air, pollen antigenic activity was on several occasions low. indicating that pollen grains were empty of antigenic material. The small particle size classes are especially important to allergic, patients because they are able to penetrate immediately into the alveoli and provoke asthmatic reactions. Therefore, aerobiological information systems based on pollen and spore counts should be supplemented with information concerning antigenic activities–in the air.
Immunogenicity of a so‐called hypoallergenic formula in at‐risk babies: two case reports
Authors: BUSINCO L. , LUCENTI P. , ARCESE G. , ZIRUOLO G. , CANTANI A.
Published: April 2006

The clinical and immunologic findings of two breast‐fed babies who experienced anaphylaxis after a feeding with a partially whey hydrolysate formula (PWHF) are reported. Sensitization to this formula seems to have occurred in the first days of life in the Maternity Hospital where the babies were fed the same formula. These two case reports suggest that PWHF may be immunogenic in the IgE system. This data is in agreement with previous studies which showed intact fragments of cow's milk (CM) proteins in PWHF.
Effects of acute injection of methylprednisolone in man on immunological and non‐immunological histamine release from leucocytes and its potentiation by interleukin‐3
Authors: LOUIS R. , BURY T. , CORHAY J.‐L. , RADERMECKER M.
Published: April 2006

We investigated the effects or intravenous injection of methylprednisolone (MPR) compared with placebo (saline) on ex vivo leucocytic histamine release in eight healthy volunteers. All subjects received in a randomized and a single‐blind manner the placebo and MPR, 20 mg and 125 mg, each injection given in 2 week intervals. On each occasion blood samples were taken just before and 24 h after the intravenous injection to determine circulating leucocyte counts and leucocytic histamine release induced by anti‐IgE (1/2000) and FMP (Formyl‐Methionyl‐Phenylalanine) (10−5 M) and its modulation by IL‐3 (2 ng/ml). MPR 20 mg and 125 mg significantly increased circulating leucocyte counts (P 0.05 and P< 0.001 respectively) but decreased leucocytic histamine content (P 0.05 and P < 0.001 respectively) by 24 h. Placebo had no effect. As for circulating basophils, after 24 h they were decreased by 125 mg MPR (P < 0.05) but increased by 20 mg (P < 0.05). Anti‐IgE‐induced HR was significantly inhibited by 125 mg MPR (P < 0.05) but not by 20 mg MPR or by the placebo. In contrast, neither MPR (20 mg and 125 mg) nor placebo significantly reduced FMP‐induced HR. The strong potentiation by IL‐3 of HR evoked by anti‐IgE and FMP at baseline (P < 0.001) persisted 24 h after injection of MPR or placebo (P < 0.001 except P < 0.05 for anti‐IgE‐induced HR after 125 mg MPR). We conclude that a single injection of a high dose of MPR can, after 24 h, decrease not only the number of circulating basophils but also their ‘releasability’ to an immunological stimulus, without preventing the potentiating effect of IL‐3.
Ionic regulation of human basophil releasability. II. Non‐releasing basophils are converted into releasing basophils in a low‐Na+ medium
Authors: TEDESCHI A. , ARQUATI M. , PALELLA M. , MILAZZO N. , MIADONNA A.
Published: April 2006

The effects of different extracellular Na+ and CV2+ concentrations on histamine release from human basophils were investigated. Isosmotic replacement of extracellular Na + either with choline +, a non‐permeant Na + analogue, or glucose significantly increased spontaneous and anti‐IgE‐induced histamine release. Basophils from 12 of 49 normal subjects, which were found not to release histamine upon challenge with an optimal dose of anti‐IgE in a 135 mM NaCl buffer, were converted into releasing basophils when stimulation with anti‐IgE was performed in a low‐Na+ medium. The increase in Na + concentration in the extracellular medium was accompanied by a reduction in the magnitude of basophil response to anti‐IgE, which was significantly more pronounced in non‐releasers than in releasers (per cent inhibition by 70 mM NaCl 75.5 + 3.2 vs 43.5 + 9.0, P < 0.01). At higher Na+ concentrations a progressive and almost complete abrogation of histamine release was observed in non‐releasers, but not in releasers (maximal per cent inhibition at 140 mM NaCl 97.3+1.3 vs 50.4 + 8.6). The Na+/H+ exchanger monensin had a dose‐dependent inhibitory effect on anti‐IgE‐induced histamine release, and the concentration inhibiting 50% of histamine release was l.5 × 10−7M. When basophils were challenged in the presence of different Na+ and C2+ concentrations, it was shown that the two cations have antagonistic effects, which is to say that they down‐regulate and upregulate histamine release, respectively. Moreover, the requirement of extracellular Ca2+ was lowered in a low‐Na+ medium. These results suggest that Na+ and Ca+ ions contribute with opposite effects to the modulation of basophil response to anti‐IgE and that non‐releasing basophils are converted into releasing basophils in a low‐Na + medium.
Attenuation of allergic airway inflammation in IL‐4 deficient mice
Authors: BRUSSELLE G. G. , KIPS J. C. , TAVERNIER J. H. , VAN DER HEYDEN J. G. , CUVELIER C. A. , PAUWELS R. A. , BLUETHMANN H.
Published: April 2006

To investigate the role of IL‐4 in vivo in allergic asthma, we developed a murine model of allergen‐induced airway inflammation. Repealed daily exposures of actively immunised C57BL/6 mice to aerosolized ovalbumin (OVA) induced a peribronchial inflammation and an increase in eosinophils and lymphocytes in bronchoalveolar‐lavage(BAL) fluid. In IL‐4 deficient (IL4−/−) mice, treated in the same way, there were substantially fewer eosinophils in BAL and much less peribronchial inflammation compared with wild type mice. In this model, mast cell deficient (W/Wv) mice developed a similar degree of BAL eosinophilia and peribronchial inflammation as wild type mice, demonstrating that the mast cell is not required for the induction of chronic airway inflammation. In contrast, BAL eosinophilia and airway inflammation were absent in OVA‐treated MHC ClassII deficient (B6.Aa−/−) mice which lack mature CD4+ T lymphocytes. In conclusion, these results indicate that IL‐4 is a central mediator of allergic airway inflammation, regulating antigen‐induced eosinophil recruitment into the airways by a T cell dependent mechanism.
Measurement of airborne proteins involved in Bakers’ asthma
Authors: SANDIFORD C. P. , NIEUWENHUIJSEN M. J. , TEE R. D. , TAYLOR A. J. NEWMAN
Published: April 2006

Abstract. We have developed a competitive inhibition immunoassay to measure airborne flour, using purified polyclonal rabbit IgG antibodies to cereal flour antigens. Sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) showed different flours contained proteins of molecular weight similar to those present in air sample eluates. Western blotting demonstrated that the purified rabbit IgG antibodies bound to proteins whose molecular weights are similar to human allergens. Air sample eluates obtained from a large bakery had slopes of inhibition parallel to cereal flour when compared in the immune‐inhibition assay. The assay identified airborne proteins from several flours with a detection limit of I μg ml‐1. Using this immunoassay we have shown that a wide range of airborne flour concentrations occur in flour mills and a smaller range bakeries. This assay which allows measurement of the concentration of Hour aeroallergen in the workplace will be valuable both in epidemiological studies and in examining the effectiveness of interventions to reduce the concentration of flour in the air.
Occupational rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma caused by Tetranychus urticae (red spider mite). A case report
Authors: DELGADO J. , GÖMEZ E. , PALMA J. L. , GONZÁLEZ J. , MONTESEIRIN F. J. , MARTÏNEZ A. , MARTÏNEZ J. , CONDE J.
Published: April 2006

Abstract. This paper highlights a clinical case of a patient suffering bronchial asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis due to sensitization to Tetranychus urticae(TU), commonly known as the red spider mite, which belongs to the Prostigmata sub‐order of the Tetranychidae family, in relation to a work environment (a carnation nursery). Both prick and intradermal skin tests were positive, as well as specific bronchial challenge tests with TU extract. Specific IgE was demonstrated by RAST (Class 3). Unspecific bronchial provocation with methacholine was negative. Sodium dodecylsulfate‐polyacrylamide gel elcctrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) immunoblotting revealed the presence of seven main IgE binding proteins, the more intense bands being those appearing at 21. 17 and 15 kDa. This indicates a case of immediated type hypersensitivity to Tetranychus urticae with a clear correlation to occupational environment.
Cypress pollen allergy. Identification of allergens and crossreactivity between divergent species
Authors: PHAM N. H. , BALDO B. A. , BASS D. J.
Published: April 2006

Abstract. Studies employing sera from 34 subjects allergic to while cypress pine (Callitris glaucophvlla) pollen identified 18 IgE antibody‐binding components in the pollen of this species, five of which (MWs∼94, 68, 64, 43 and 34 kDa) were recognized by all of the sera. Protein blotting and quantitative inhibition studies revealed clear cross‐reactivity between C. glaucophylla and Cupressus sempervirens pollen proteins and striking similarities in the IgE recognition band patterns of the two pollens. Inhibition experiments with other pollen extracts revealed that sera from C. glaucophylla pollen‐allergic subjects can be divided into two groups – those inhibited only by extracts from the two Cupressaceae pollens and those inhibited both by these pollen proteins and by pollen extracts from other species. Most of the crossreactions in the latter group cannot be explained on the basis of taxonomic relationships or separate sensitizations. As with previous studies on birch and olive pollens, we conclude that pollen allergenic crossreactivity is much more wide‐ranging than generally believed.
Detection of Parietaria judaica airborne allergenic activity: comparison between immunochemical and morphological methods including clinical evaluation
Authors: D'AMATO G. , GENTILI M. , RUSSO M. , MISTRELLO G. , SAGGESE M. , LICCARDI G. , FALAGIANI P.
Published: April 2006

Abstract. Airborne pollen grains und small plant particles of respirable size are the main causes of rhinitis and asthma in pollinosis patients. Consequently, it could be useful to quantify atmospheric variations in these biological aerosols and their allergenic activity as a basis for establishing correlations with the clinical symptoms in these allergic subjects. Our study was conducted in Naples from May to August 1992 and from May to August 1993 and concentrated on Perietaria judaica (Par j) the most important hay fever‐provoking plant in southern Italy. The aim of this study was lo evaluate the day‐to‐day variation in counts of Par j. pollen, the day‐to‐day variation in allergenic activity specific for this plant, and to relate these two variables to symptom scores in patients with respiratory allergy to Par j. The airborne pollen grains were collected by a Hirst‐like volumetric trap and examined through an optical microscope, while the allergenic activity of particles trapped on glass fibre filters in a high volume air‐sampler was determined by immunochemical assay. The two devices were placed on the flat roof of the “A. Cardarelli” Hospital. The results of this preliminary study suggest that both methods could have useful clinical relevance, since these two biological parameters were significantly correlated with the symptom scores of allergic patients. However, pollen count with morphological quantification of grains/m3 of air is a more simple technique.
Confounding by severity does not explain the association between fenoterol and asthma death
Authors: BEASLEY R. , BURGESS C. , PEARCE N. , WOODMAN K. , CRANE J.
Published: April 2006

Summary. Three recent case‐control studies from New Zealand, and one from Saskatchewan, Canada, have found that fenoterol increases the risk of death in patients with severe asthma. It has been suggested that these findings may be due to confounding by severity, if fenoterol was selectively prescribed to more severe asthmatics. This ‘confounding by severity’ hypothesis has now been investigated in further analyses of data from the New Zealand case‐control studies. This analysis found that among patients whose asthma was severe enough to require hospital admission (the population in whom the case‐control studies were conducted), fenoterol was not preferentially prescribed to the more severe asthmatics. There was greater co‐prescribing of other drugs with fenoterol (compared with salbutamol) during the later years of the epidemic, but these differences did not explain the excess risk associated with fenoterol, and there was little evidence of greater co‐prescribing during the earlier years of the New Zealand epidemic of asthma deaths. There was no association between the prescription of fenoterol and markers of acute asthma severity or psychosocial problems. Patients were not selectively changed to fenoterol as a result of a severe attack resulting in a hospital admission. Most importantly, in the case‐control studies of asthma deaths, the inhaled fenoterol relative risk increased when the analysis was restricted to sub‐groups defined by markers of chronic asthma severity; whereas the relative risk would have decreased towards 1.0 in these sub‐group analyses if the overall elevated risk for fenoterol was due to confounding by severity. We conclude that in patients whose asthma is severe enough to require hospital admission, there is little evidence that fenoterol was selectively prescribed to the more severe patients and that the findings in the most severe sub‐groups effectively exclude the ‘confounding by severity’ hypothesis as an explanation for the recent case‐control findings.
Inhibition by thromboxane antagonists of airway hyperresponsiveness to histamine induced by 13,14‐dihydro‐15‐keto‐PGF2α in guinea‐pigs
Authors: KUROSAWA M. , YODONAWA S. , INAMURA H. , TSUKAGOSHI H.
Published: April 2006

Summary. We studied the effect of intravenous administration of 13,14‐dihydro‐15‐keto‐prostaglandin (PG) F27alpha; on airway responsiveness to histamine and airway wall thickening in guinea‐pigs. Guinea‐pigs were killed and the lungs were fixed in formalin. Slides from paraffin‐embedded sections of the lungs were stained and the airways that were cut in transverse section were measured by tracing enlarged images using a digitizer. Moreover, airway resistance (Raw) was determined by a pulmonary mechanics analyser and we calculated two indices, an index of airway wall thickening and the one of airway hyperresponsiveness to histamine, from changes of baseline‐Raw and peak‐Raw following intravenous administration of histamine before and after the intravenous administration of 13,14‐dihydro‐l5‐keto‐PGF2n. Intravenous administration of 10/μg/kg 13,14‐dihydro‐15‐keto‐PGF2α for 1 h did not induce an increase of the relative thickness of the airway wall by the histological examination. In analysis of airway function, intravenous administration of 10μg/kg 13,14‐dihydro‐15‐keto‐PGF2α for 1 h induced airway hyperresponsiveness to histamine without airway wall thickening. Thromboxane A2 (TXA2) receptor antagonists ONO‐NT‐126 and ONO‐8809 inhibited the 13,14‐dihydro‐15‐keto‐PGF2α‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness to histamine, suggesting that the effect of 13,14‐dihydro‐15‐keto‐PGF2α on bronchial hyperresponsiveness is likely to be mediated through TXA2.
Occupational asthma caused by chromium
Authors: PARK H. S. , YU H. J. , JUNG K.‐S.
Published: April 2006

Summary. We report four cases of occupational asthma caused by chromium salts, three of whom showed dual and one isolated early asthmatic responses on specific chromium bronchoprovocation test (BPT). All of them were ex–smokers. Two showed positive skin–prick tests to 10mg/ml of Cr2(SO4)3, but negative results on patch testing. The remaining two showed positive results on patch testing with Cr2(SO4)3. Three had airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine on initial examination. Although initial methacholine airway challenge testing showed a negative result in the remaining patient, airway hyperresponsiveness developed transiently 24 h after an isolated immediate asthmatic reaction induced by chromium. Three patients were reassessed after complete avoidance of chromium. Two subjects showed marked improvement of their symptoms with significant increases of PC20 methacholine. We conclude that chromium induces occupational asthma in exposed workers. Further investigations are needed to clarify the pathogenetic mechanism.
Effects of ipratropium bromide on bradykinin nasal provocation in chronic allergic rhinitis
Authors: BARANIUK J. N. , SILVER P. B. , KALINER M. A. , BARNES P. J.
Published: April 2006

Bradykinin (BK) induces albumin exudation and glandular secretion in chronic allergic rhinitis subjects. Since bradykinin may stimulate nociceptive sensory nerves, neural reflex arcs could contribute to the secretion process. Six chronic allergic rhinitis subjects received 1000nm bradykinin by unilateral nasal provocation using the method of Raphael et al. This dose induces optimal contralateral glandular secretion. Ipratropium bromide (80μg) or saline were applied topically before the challenges. Total protein, albumin, glycoconjugate, and lysozyme were measured in lavage fluids. On the ipsilateral side, bradykinin induced significant total protein, glycoconjugate, and albumin secretion. None of these were affected by ipratropium. On the contralateral side, total protein and glycoconjugates were increased by bradykinin, while albumin and lysozyme were not significantly affected. Ipratropium bromide completely ablated total protein and glycoconjugate secretion on the contralateral side indicating that cholinergic reflexes mediated the glandular secretion. In chronic allergic rhinitis, bradykinin directly stimulated albumin secretion, but also stimulates nociceptive neuron–parasympathetic nerve reflexes to induce glandular secretion. The reflex loop was apparent on the contralateral side to the unilateral bradykinin challenge. This loop induced mucoglycoconjugate, but not serous cell, secretion in chronic allergic rhinitis subjects and can be inhibited by iptratropium bromide.
Atopic sensitization and respiratory symptoms among Polish and Swedish school children
Authors: BRÅBÄCK L. , BREBOROWICZ A. , DREBORG S. , KNUTSSON A. , PIEKLIK H. , BJÖRKSTÉN B.
Published: April 2006

Allergic sensitization and symptoms from the airways in relation to air pollution were compared in 10–12‐year‐old school children (n= 1113) from urban Konin in central Poland and both urban and rural parts of Sundsvall in northern Sweden. The measurements included parental questionnaires, skin‐prick tests and serial peak flow measurements during 2 weeks with simultaneous monitoring of outdoor air pollutants. The skin‐prick test technique was validated by IgE antibody determinations. The levels of common industrial pollutants, SO2 and smoke particles were much higher in Konin than in urban Sundsvall and the levels of NO2 were similar. Various respiratory symptoms were more often reported among school children in Konin (except for wheezing and diagnosed asthma). Multiple logistic regression analyses yielded the following increased odds ratios for children in Konin as compared with the reference group (rural Sundsvall): chest tightness and breathlessness 348 (95% confidence interval 2.08–5.82), exercise‐induced coughing attacks 3.69 (95% confidence interval 1.68–8.10), recurrent episodes of common cold 2.79 (95% confidence interval 1.53–5.09) and prolonged cough 4–89 (95% confidence interval 2.59–9.23). In contrast, as compared with rural Sundsvall, the adjusted odds ratio for a positive skin‐prick test was decreased in Konin, but increased in urban Sundsvall, 0.58 (95% confidence interval 0.37–0.91) and 1.67 (95% confidence interval 1.15–2.42) respectively. The study confirms that living in urban, as compared with rural areas, is associated with an increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms and sensitization to allergens. These differences could be explained by air pollution. Respiratory symptoms were more common in a similar urban group of Polish children who were exposed to even higher levels of air pollution. These children, however, had a much lower prevalence of sensitization to allergens, as compared with the Swedish children. This indicates that differences in lifestyle and standard of living between western Europe and a former socialist country influences the prevalence of atopy.
Influence of prolonged treatment with topical corticosteroid (fluticasone propionate) on early and late phase nasal responses and cellular infiltration in the nasal mucosa after allergen challenge
Authors: RAK S. , JACOBSON M. R. , SUDDERICK R. M. , MASUYAMA K. , JULIUSSON S. , KAY A. B. , HAMID Q. , LÖWHAGEN O. , DURHAM S. R.
Published: April 2006

We have examined the effect of prolonged treatment with topical corticosteroid on allergen‐induced early and late nasal responses and the associated inflammatory cell infiltrate in grass pollen sensitive allergic rhinitics. Following a randomized double‐blind 6 week treatment period with fluticasone propionate 200 μg aqueous nasal spray twice daily or matched placebo spray, nasal provocation was performed using Timothy grass pollen extract. Nasal symptoms were recorded at intervals from 0 to 24 h. Nasal biopsies were performed before treatment and at 24 h after allergen and processed for immunohistology. When corticosteroid‐treated patients were compared with the placebo group there was an approximately 50% decrease in the size of the early (0‐60 min) response and almost complete inhibition of late (1–24 h) nasal symptoms after allergen challenge. After allergen challenge markedly fewer T lymphocytes and CD25+ (interleukin‐2 receptor bearing) cells were observed in both the epithelium and submucosa in fluticasone treated patients compared with the placebo group. Significantly less total and activated eosinophils were observed, particularly within the nasal epithelium. Submucosal mast cell counts were decreased, whereas increased numbers of submucosal neutrophils were observed. These results confirm that topical corticosteroid treatment inhibits allergen‐induced early and late nasal responses. This may possibly occur following a decrease in T lymphocytes and/or mast cells and their products and a consequent reduction in tissue eosinophilia.
Comparison of the levels of the major allergens Der p I and Der p II in standardized extracts of the house dust mite, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
Authors: MEYER C. H. , BOND J. F. , CHEN M.‐S. , KASAIAN M. T.
Published: April 2006

Allergy to the house dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is mediated by IgE to the major allergens Der p I and Der p II in the majority of mite‐allergic patients. In recent years, standardized preparations of D. pteronyssinus, commercially available from several sources, have become widely used for the diagnosis and immunotherapy of mite allergy. As standardization implies uniformity of allergen composition and potency, we directly compared the absolute and relative quantities of Der p I and Der p II in six different commercial standardized extracts of D. pteronyssinus. Our findings reveal variability in levels of both Der p I and Der p II, producing ratios of Der p I/Der p II ranging from 1.1/1 to 6/1. Although the content of minor allergens in the extracts was not evaluated here, their contribution to the overall reactivity of mite‐allergic patients to the commercial extracts was judged to be minimal. This was demonstrated by showing that plasma depleted of reactivity to both Der p I and Der p II had virtually no residual IgE directed against extract components. The variation in the proportion of Der p I and Der p II among different D. pteronyssinus extracts is likely to influence their biological effectiveness. Patients with reactivity against only Der p I or Der p II, who were found to comprise approximately one‐third of the mite‐allergic population, may not respond optimally to extracts containing relatively low levels of the allergen to which they are sensitive.
Pickled onion‐induced asthma: a model of sulfite‐sensitive asthma?
Authors: GASTAMINZA G. , QUIRCE S. , TORRES M. , TABAR A. , ECHECHIPÍA S. , MUÑOZ D. , CORRES L. FERNANDEZ DE
Published: April 2006

Background: Asthma elicited by sulfite ingestion has been mainly described in steroid‐dependent and in non‐atopic asthmatics. We have studied a group of 18 young extrinsic asthmatics who presented with asthma attacks immediately after eating pickled onions.

Objective: The aim of this study is to ascertain if these asthma attacks are elicited by sulfites contained in pickled onions and the influence of the dose and pH of onions.

Methods: The bronchial hyperreactivity of the patients was assessed by a methacho‐line challenge test. Oral challenge tests were performed with sodium metabisulfite (MBS) diluted in lemon juice at pH 4.2 and at pH 3.3 (only in patients who did not react with pH 4.2). Two types of pickled onion, Spanish and Dutch pickled onions, were used for oral challenge in seven of the patients. The Monier‐Williams method was used to measure the SO2 concentration in pickled onions.

Results: The oral provocation test with MBS, pH 4.2, elicited a positive response in six patients (33.3%) and the test at pH3.3 was positive in three out of 12. No significant difference in PD20 values was found between these groups. Three of the seven patients challenged with Spanish pickled onions had a positive reaction but had no reaction with Dutch pickled onions. The SC2 concentration in Spanish pickled onions varied between 765 and 1182 ppm while in Dutch pickled onions were 200 ppm; this exceeded the permitted level (100 ppm). SO2 release in Spanish pickled onion samples was nearly 2.5 times higher when the pH of the sample decreased from 4.2 to 3.3.

Conclusion: High levels of SO2 in Spanish pickled onions, and their low pH (3.3) would be the responsible factors of the asthmatic outbreaks after ingestion of Spanish pickled onions by these patients.
Leukotriene B4 production by blood neutrophils in allergic rhinitis—effects of cetirizine
Authors: CHERIA‐SAMMARI S. , ALOUI R. , GORMAND F. , CHABANNES B. , GALLET H. , GROSCLAUDE M. , MELAC M. , RIHOUX J. P. , PERRIN‐FAYOLLE M. , LAGARDE M. , PACHECO Y.
Published: April 2006

Background: Mucosal inflammatory processes in late phase of allergic diseases involve cytokine production, cell adhesion molecule overexpression and release of inflammatory mediators with chemotactic activity, such as leukolriene B4 (LTB4), We had previously observed increased production of LTB4 by neutrophils in patients with allergic rhinitis and discussed the role of granulocyte macrophage‐colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) priming. Some antihislaminic compounds were shown to diminish the production of leukotrienes by neutrophils.

Objective: In a first step, we evaluated in ex vivo and in vitro studies, the effects of cetirizine on LTB4 production by blood neutrophils from allergic and healthy subjects. In a second step, we studied the in vitro effect of cetirizine on LTB4 production by neutrophils from healthy subjects during GM‐CSF priming of these cells.

Methods: Neutrophils from both populations were purified from venous blood and LTB4 production was measured using high performance liquid cromatography (HPLC) method.

Results: In ex vivo studies, cetirizine treatment induced a decreased LTB4 production by neutrophils in allergic rhinitis. This effect of decreased LTB4 production was reproduced in vitro with 10−8–10‐6 cetirizine. Nevertheless, this anti‐Hl compound had no effect on neutrophil priming with GM‐CSF.

Conclusion: As LTB4 is an important chemotactic factor, Cetirizine could act on inflammatory cell recruitment by inhibiting LTB4 production by neutrophils.
Comparison of the effects of salmeterol and salbutamol on clinical activity and eosinophil cationic protein serum levels during the pollen season in atopic asthmatics
Authors: DI LORENZO G. , MORICI G. , NORRITO F. , MANSUETO P. , MELLUSO M. , D'AMBROSIO F. PURELLO , SANGIORGI G. BARBAGALLO
Published: April 2006

Background
In atopic asthma there is strong evidence of eosinophils playing an active role in pathogencsis. Some investigations demonstrated that eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) serum levels increased in atopic patients with asthma during pollen season.

Objective
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of short‐term (1 week) β2‐agonist treatment on lung function and eosinophil activity in asthmatic patients. Methods We used an open, randomized, cross‐over design to compare the effects of salbutamol (200μg q.i.d.) and salmeterol (50μg b.i.d.) on peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), blood eosinophil count and serum levels of ECP as a measure of eosinophil activity in 20 mild atopic asthmatics.

Results
Morning and evening PEFR values were both significantly higher during salmeterol treatment than during the salbutamol period. Conversely, both morning and evening daily asthma symptom scores were significantly lower during salmeterol treatment compared with those recorded during the salbutamol period. The mean basal eosinophil blood count on salmeterol treatment (601 ± 189mm3) was not higher than the mean count on salbutamol treatment (612 ± 204 mm3). After both treatments the mean eosinophil blood counts were unchanged (619 ± 189mm3 and 576 ±212 mm3, respectively). No significant differences in blood eosinophil counts were observed between or within treatments at any time. No significant difference was observed in baseline mean ECP serum concentration (43.8 ± 263 μg L on salmeterol treatment and 41.7 ± 29.8 μg L on salbutamol treatment, respectively). After salmeterol treatment the mean ECP serum concentration had fallen significantly to 20.9± 18.6μg/L (P < 0.01), whereas after salbutamol treatment it was unchanged (42.0 ± 25.1 μg /L). Salmeterol treatment produced a decrease in ECP serum levels without any changes in blood eosinophil count.

Conclusion
This study demonstrates that salmeterol affords a significant improvement in asthma control during the pollen season, measured by both subjective and objective parameters, compared with salbutamol. This greater efficacy may be related to inhibition of eosinophil degranulation during the pollen season.
Bronchial hyperresponsiveness and airway neutrophil accumulation induced by interleukin‐8 and the effect of the thromboxane A2 antagonist S‐1452 in guinea‐pigs
Authors: XIU Q. , FUJIMURA M. , NOMURA M. , SAITO M. , MATSUDA T. , AKAO N. , KONDO K. , MATSUSHIMA K.
Published: April 2006

Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) has been shown to be a chemotactic factor for neutrophils, T‐lymphocytes and eosinophils, but it is unknown whether the IL‐8‐induced inflammatory cell accumulation into the airways can cause the bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) characteristic of asthma. IL‐8 at a dose of 0.5 or 5μg/kg was administered intranasally to guinea‐pigs twice a week for 3 weeks. One day after the last administration, animals were anesthetized and artificially ventilated through tracheal cannula and lateral pressure at the cannula (Pao) was measured as an overall index of airway responses to increasing concentrations of inhaled histamine (25, 50, 100, and 200 μg/ml). The IL‐8 treatment significantly enhanced bronchial responsiveness to histamine in a dose‐dependent manner (ANOVA P < 0.01). The provocative concentration of histamine causing a 100% increase in Pao (PC100) at a dose of 0.5 and 5μg/kg of IL‐8 was 68.1 (Gsem 1.12) and 35.6 (Gsem 1.25) μg/ml, respectively. The latter was significantly (P < 0.01) lower than that in control animals treated with PBS (93.3 [Gsem, 1.14] μg/ml)‐ The IL‐8 treatment also induced a significant influx of neutrophils, but not eosinophils, in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid (18.3 ± 8.8 and 30.6 ± 8.3% in animals treated with 0.5 and 5 μg/kg, respectively, of IL‐8 vs 3.6 ± 0.7% in phosphate buffered saline‐(PBS)‐treated animals). Furthermore, we examined the effect of the thromboxane receptor antagonist S‐1452 (0.01 or 0.1 mg/kg, i.p. 24 and 1 h before anesthesia) on this IL‐8 induced BHR. S‐1452 significantly inhibited the BHR dose‐dependently (ANOVA P < 0.001). PC100 was 94.0 (Gsem 1.19), 137.4 (Gsem 1.17) and 43.0 (Gsem 1.24) μg/ml with S‐1452 at doses of 0.01 and 0.1mg/ml and saline, respectively. We conclude that IL‐8 causes BHR and airway neutrophil inflammation, and that thromboxane A2 is important in the development of BHR induced by IL‐8.
Proliferative activity of mast cells in allergic nasal mucosa
Authors: KAWABORI S. , KANAI N. , TOSHO T.
Published: April 2006

The proliferative activity of mast cells in the nasal mucosae of allergic (n= 14) and non‐allergic (n= 18) rhinopathic patients was studied by a sequential double immuno‐histochemistry using anti‐proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and anti‐tryptase antibodies. Two hundred to 300 tryptase‐positive cells (mast cells) were studied in each allergic nasal epithelium. In case of non‐allergic nasal mucosa, only a few mast cells existed in the epithelial layer. The total number of mast cells which we could detect in all patients was 168 cells. One of these cells contained PCNA. Three hundred to 500 mast cells were studied in each subepithelial layer and deep layer of lamina propria of both diseases. PCNA‐positive mast cells were observed in the nasal epithelia of 10 allergic patients. In the subepithelial layer, PCNA‐positive mast cells were observed eight allergic patients and four non‐allergic patients, respectively, In the deep lamina propria, PCNA‐positive mast cells were observed in a few patients with both diseases. The percentage of PCNA‐positive mast cells of all mast cells each area ranged from 0 to 1.7%. The incidence of PCNA‐positive mast cells was statistically higher in the allergic epithelium and subepithelial layer than in the deep layer of lamina propria. Moreover, that of PCNA‐positive mast cells in the subepithelial layer was higher in allergic than in non‐allergic nasal mucosa. Our results suggest that mast cell proliferation may contribute to the number of mast cells in the nasal epithelium and subepithelial layer of allergic patients.
Seasonal appearance of grass pollen allergen in natural, pauci‐micronic aerosol of various size fractions. Relationship with airborne grass pollen concentration
Authors: SPIEKSMA F. TH. M. , NIKKELS B. H. , DIJKMAN J. H.
Published: April 2006

In a study during the 1993 grass pollen season at Leiden, the relationship between atmospheric pollen allergen carried by five size fractions of pauci‐micronic (few microns) particles and the grass pollen count was investigated. Sampling was carried out on dry days, and atmospheric pollen allergen in the particle fractions was assessed by a RAST‐inhibition assay while grass pollen quantities were measured with a volumetric pollen trap. It appears that the atmospheric presence of grass pollen allergen in all size fractions is restricted mainly to the period of presence of grass pollen grains. Before and after the grass pollen season atmospheric grass pollen allergen quantities are generally very low. It is concluded that a routinely performed grass pollen count is a reliable measurement for the estimation of the amount of atmospheric grass pollen allergen, also in the pauci‐micronic particle fraction.
Differences between specificities of IgE and IgG4 antibodies: studies using recombinant chain 1 and chain 2 of the major cat allergen Felis domesticus (Fel d) I
Authors: VAN MILLIGEN F. J. , CRAIG S. , ROGERS B. L. , VAN SWIETEN P. , AALBERSE R. C.
Published: April 2006

IgE‐ and IgG4 antibodies were compared for reactivity with recombinant chain 1 and chain 2 of the cat allergen Felis domesticus (Fei d) I. Recombinanl chain 1 and chain 2 were coupled to sepharose and tested in IgE‐ and IgG4 radioallergosorbent test (RAST) experiments. Substantial IgE‐ and IgG4 binding was found. The fraction of Pel d I‐specific antibody that bound to the recombinant chains was calculated. For chain 1, the mean value of this fraction was 0.30 for IgE and 0.23 for lgG4 (P= 0.05). For chain 2, the mean value of this fraction was 0.19 for IgE and 0.13 for IgG4 (P= 0.02). These results indicate that differences in fine specificity exist between IgE and IgG4 antibodies. Moreover, these findings support our results with chemically prepared peptides derived from these two chains and suggest that the B cells producing IgE antibodies are more likely to recognize a less ‘native’ form of Pel d I, compared with IgG4.
HLA‐DR expression is induced on keratinocytes in delayed hypersensitivity but not in allergen induced late‐phase reactions
Authors: WELLER F. R. , DE JONG M. C. J. M. , WELLER M. S. , HEERES K. , DE MONCHY J. G. R. , JANSEN H. M.
Published: April 2006

In view of increasing evidence suggesting an active immunoregulatory role of the skin keratinocytes and the observation that the differentiation of allergen specific T lymphocytes is critical in the development of allergy, we evaluated epidermal expression of HLA‐DR antigen in skin reactions induced with an atopen (house dust mite) and with an non‐atopic antigen (Hemocyanin). Two groups of patients with house dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus [Der p]) allergy were compared, one group was skin tested with Der p, the other group was immunized and subsequently skin tested with Helix pomatia Hemocyanin (HPH), Biopsy specimens taken at 48 h after the HPH (n= 11) and Der p (n= 11) tests were analysed immunohistologically. Reactions in both groups were comparable in size. Immunohistological analysis showed domination by CD4 + lymphocytes. Expression of HLA‐DR antigen by epidermal keratinocytes was observed in six out of 11 of the HPH induced reactions, but in none of the Der p induced reactions. Eosinophils were spotted only throughout the Der p induced reactions, showing a good correlation with the number of CD4 positive lymphocytes. The lack of HLA‐DR expression by keratinocytes during the allergen‐induced reaction, compared with the Hemocyanin induced reaction can be the result of a difference in cytokine profile of the lymphocytes dominating the dermal infiltrate. On the other hand evidence exists that defective HLA‐DR expression by keratinocytes enhances antigen induced lymphocyte activation, and may thus contribute to the development of allergen‐specific T‐lymphocytes.