bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitation of the major allergen of severalParietariapollens by an anti‐Par 1 monoclonal antibody‐based ELISA. Analysis of crossreactivity among purified Par j 1, Par o 1 and Par m 1 allergens
Authors: AYUSO R. , CARREIRA J‐ , POLO F.
Published: April 2006

BackgroundPlants of the genusParietaria, Urticaceae family, represent a major cause of pollinosis in the Mediterranean area. DifferentParietariaspecies crossreuct to a great extent, but studies on the crossreactivity among the major allergens of these pollens have not been carried out so far.

ObjectiveTo develop an immunochemical method to quantify the majorParieiarin judaicaallergen. Par j 1, as well as to verify the presence of Par j 1‐like proteins in different Urticaceae pollens. These proteins would be purified in order to study the cross‐reactivity among them.

MethodsImmunoaffinity chromatography with a monoclonal antibody, solid‐phase enzyme‐linked immunoassays and SDS‐PAGE.

ResultsA monoclonal antibody‐based ELISA for the quantisation of Par j 1 has been developed. The assay has a sensitivity of 0.2 ng/mL and shows a high correlation with the allergenic activity ofP. judaicaextracts determined by radioallergosorbent assay (RAST) inhibition.

By means of this assay, proteins homologous to Par j I were detected inP. officinalisandP. mauritanica. These proteins (Par o 1 and Par m 1, respectively) were purified by affinity chromatography using the same monoclomal antibody employed in the ELISA. Crossed‐inhibition experiments demonstrated that Par j 1. Par o 1. and Par m 1, competed for the binding of specific IgE from aP. judaica‐sensitive patients serum pool.

ConclusionThe results here described suggest that shared allergenic epitopes are present in the three main allergens investigated, which may simplify the diagnosis and therapy forParietariaallergy.
Molecular cloning and immunological characterization of the house dust mite allergen Der f 7
Authors: SHEN H.‐D. , CHUA K.‐Y. , LIN W.‐L. , HSIEH K.‐H. , THOMAS W. R.
Published: April 2006

Background
The allergen Der p 7 from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus has been defined by molecular cloning and shown to be an important specificity in 50% of miteallergic patients.

Objective
This study compares the cDNA sequence and serological reactivity of Der f 7 from D. farinae with Der p 7.

Method cDNA encoding Der f 7 was amplified by polymerase chain reaction. sequenced and expressed as a fusion with glutathione‐S‐transferase for IgE and monoclonal antibody binding studies.

Results
Der f 7 cDNA encoded a 213 polypeptide containing a predicted 17 amino acid leader sequence, no cysteines and a single N‐glycosylation site similar to Der p 7. The predicted 196 residue mature polypeptide had 86% identity lo Der p 7 and a calculated molecular weight of 22 34SDa. No homologues were found in searches of the data banks. The Der f 7 fusion protein showed a single band of 46 k Da by sodium dodccyl snlfute‐polyaerylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGF) and reacted with IgE antibodies in 19/41 (46%) of sera from asthmatic children. The degree of binding was usually 30% of that to Der p 7 consistent with the exposure of the patients to D. Pteronyssinus. Monoclonal antibodies (WH9 and WH22) against Der p 7 reacted with Der f 7 but inhibition studies showed a 10‐fold difference in reactivity.

Conclusion
Der f 7 has a predicted 213 residue polypeptide with 86% homology and serological cross reactivity to Der p 7.
Fine‐structure mapping of genes providing susceptibility to asthma on chromosome 5q31–q33
Authors: LEVITT R. C. , HOLROYD K. J.
Published: April 2006

In summary, the fine‐structure mapping of chromosome 5q31–q33 for genes providing susceptibility to asthma will involve multiple steps. High resolution linkage analyses, will better define the‘critical’ region harbouring a gene(s) determining risk factors such as BHR and elevated serum IgE in asthma. The chromosomal region specified will be subcloned (YACs) and assembled into overlapping fragments providing a physical map that includes the relative positions of markers and candidate genes. Gene candidates will be scrutinized for genetic mutations on the basis of their chromosomal location and the likelihood of their involvement in the pulmonary inflammatory response central to the patho‐physiology of asthma. If none of the known candidate genes mapped to the critical region of chromosome 5q are shown to cause asthma, new genes expressed within cells in lung and potentially important in asthma will be identified by direct selection and exon trapping. These reagents and studies will facilitate the process of gene discovery in allergy and asthma, and lead to new diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic approaches to this common disorder.
Early and late onset asthmatic responses following lysine‐aspirin inhalation in aspirin‐sensitive asthmatic patients
Authors: PARK H. S.
Published: April 2006

Inhalation of aerosolized lysine‐aspirin (L‐ASA) has been described as an alternative diagnostic method in aspirin‐sensitive asthma. To further understand the pathogenetic mechanism of aspirin‐sensitive asthma, we performed L‐ASA (Inyesprin®) bronchoprovocation test (BPT) in 51 asthmatic patients (45 non‐atopic and six atopic asthma). Twenty‐six patients showed significant bronchoconstriction after the inhalation of L‐ASA. Bronchoprovocation test produced immediate asthmatic responses in 13 cases as well as dual asthmatic responses in four cases, whose late onset asthmatic response was noted at 4–7 h after L‐ASA inhalation. We conclude that L‐ASA bronchoprovo‐cation might be a useful method for the diagnosis and investigation of aspirin‐sensitive asthma. However, L‐ASA inhalation can also induce late onset asthmatic responses.
Mite (Der p I, Der f I), cat (Fel d I) and dog (Can f I) allergens in dust from Swedish day‐care centres
Authors: MUNIR A. K. M. , EINARSSON R. , DREBORG S. K. G.
Published: April 2006

Early exposure to allergens is important for sensitization to inhalant allergens and it has been reported that there is a causal relationship between allergen exposure and bronchial asthma. We investigated the levels of major mite (Der p I/Der f I), cat (Fel d I) and dog (Can f I) allergen levels in dust collected from various locations in seven day‐care centres (22 sections). The allergen levels were related to the characteristics of the day‐care centres. Children and staff were questioned about contacts with animals, and cleaning personnel were asked about methods and frequency of cleaning. Mite allergen was found in nine of the 22 sections. The concentrations varied between < 16 ng/g and 106 ng/g dust (median < 16 ng/g). Mite allergen was not detected in any floor dust sample. Cat and dog allergen was detected in all centres and sections. The concentrations of dog allergen (median 4.3 μg/g; range < 60 ng‐21 μg/g) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of cat allergen (median 1.6 μg/g; range < 16 ng‐22.8 μg/g). Higher amounts of both Fel d I and Can f I were observed on mattresses/sofas/cushion like toys and curtains than on tables/chairs and floors. The levels of cat or dog allergen on floors significantly correlated with the total number of children and staff with either a cat or a dog at home and or frequent contacts with them. Neither cleaning methods nor the frequency of cleaning influenced the allergen concentrations. The concentration of Fel d I was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in washed than in never washed curtains. We conclude that Fel d I and Can f I allergens are ubiquitous in day‐care centres. The allergens are probably carried there in the clothes of children and staff. Day‐care centres should be considered a cause of exposure to indoor allergens. Curtains, toys and upholstery were the most important reservoirs. We suggest that the concentration of allergen in curtains reflects long‐term exposure to airborne indoor allergens, since they are mainly exposed to airborne allergens.
Chronic cough with eosinophilic bronchitis: examination for variable airflow obstruction and response to corticosteroid
Authors: GIBSON P. G. , HARGREAVE F. E. , GIRGIS‐GABARDO A. , MORRIS M. , DENBURG J. A. , DOLOVICH J.
Published: April 2006

The purpose of this study was to examine airway responsiveness, sputum cells and the effects of inhaled corticosteroid in the chronic cough syndrome associated with eosinophilic bronchitis. We studied nine consecutive referrals with chronic cough, sputum with >10% eosinophils, normal spirometry, and normal methacholine airway responsiveness. Clinical assessment, sputum analysis, allergy skin tests and a methacholine inhalation test were performed at the first visit. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) was measured twice daily for 1 week followed by an adenosine monophosphate (AMP) inhalation test. Subjects were then treated with inhaled beclomethasone 0.4 mg twice daily for 7 days. Sputum analysis and measurement of methacholine responsiveness were then repeated. Excessive airway narrowing to methacholine was not present in any of the subjects. A methacholine plateau response was present in five subjects. Hyperresponsiveness to AMP was absent in six of the nine subjects, and PEF variability was not increased for eight subjects. Corticosteroid therapy led to a reduction in sputum eosinophil counts from 40.1 (so 21.4)% to 4.0 (4.5)% but there was no significant change in metachromatic cell counts (0.8 so 0.5% vs 0.6 sd 0.6%) or total cell counts. Methacholine responsiveness improved within the normal range in the three subjects in whom it could be determined. Chronic cough associated with eosinophilic airway inflammation can occur in the absence of variable airflow obstruction (asthma) and can improve after treatment with inhaled corticosteroid. This treatment can reduce the level of methacholine responsiveness within the normal range and reduces sputum eosinophils but not mast cells. These results suggest that the occurrence of variable airflow obstruction depends on the baseline level of methacholine responsiveness, the degree of eosinophilic infiltration and the degree to which methacholine responsiveness becomes heightened.
The allergen of Ficus benjamina in house dust
Authors: BIRCHER A. J. , LANGAUER S. , LEVY F. , WAHL R.
Published: April 2006

Ficus benjamina, a member of the Moraceae family, is a tropical, non‐flowering green plant which is widely used for ornamental purposes. It is an occupational allergen in plant keepers but sensitization is also increasingly found in non‐occupationally exposed atopic and non‐atopic patients. The allergen of Ficus benjamina is located in the plant sap, also‐called latex. By radioallergosorbent test‐(RAST)‐inhibition studies allergen could also be demonstrated in the dust collected from the leaf surface and in dust samples from the floor of rooms where the plant was placed. These findings could result in more extensive preventive measures in patients sensitized to Ficus benjamina, In addition there is some evidence that possibly a crossreactivity between latex of Ficus benjamina and latex from the rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis, a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, may exist.
Purification and characterization of the serotype‐specific polysaccharide antigen of Trichosporon cutaneum serotype II: a disease‐related antigen of Japanese summer‐type hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Authors: MIZOBE T. , ANDO M. , YAMASAKI H. , ONOUE K. , MISAKI A.
Published: April 2006

Summer‐type hypersensitivity pneumonitis (SHP) is a unique type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis and the most prevalent in Japan. Our previous study clarified that the causative agent of the disease is Trichosporon cutaneum, and that the patients with SHP have high litres of antibodies against the serotype‐specific antigen of polysaccharide nature which exist in the high molecular weight fraction of the culture supernatant of the yeast. In this study, we purified the serotype‐specific antigen of serotype II T. cutaneum by gel filtration and affinity chromatography using a monoclonal antibody, D‐8, specific for a high molecular weight antigen of serotype II T. cutaneum, and elucidated the structure of the antigen. This affinity‐purified antigen was shown to be an essentially acidic polysaccharide comprising mannose, xylose, and glucuronic acid (6:44:4.7). Chemical analysis showed that this polysaccharide antigen contains a (1–3)‐linked mannan backbone attached with short side chains of (1–4)‐linked mannose and a small proportion of (1–2)‐linked xylose residues by substituting the 2‐ or 4‐positions of the (1–3)‐linked mannose residues of the main chain. Approximately one‐fifth of the side chains were terminated with glucuronic acid residues. The antigenic epitope of the serotype‐specific antigen was shown to involve the terminal glucoronic acid residues as revealed by immunodiffusion test and sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay using monoclonal antibody D‐8.
Identification of crossreacting wheat, rye, barley and soya flour allergens using sera from individuals with wheat‐induced asthma
Authors: SANDIFORD C. P. , TEE R. D. , NEWMAN‐TAYLOR A. J.
Published: April 2006

We have conducted radio allergosorbent test (RAST), competitive RAST inhibition, sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and Western blotting using sera from patients with wheat‐induced asthma to investigate the immunological relationship between wheat, rye, barley and soya, and to identify common proteins between these flours. RAST showed strong associations between the levels of specific IgE to wheat flour and those of rye and barley flour. Competitive RAST inhibition showed that wheat, rye, barley and soya flours contained crossreacting proteins, in decreasing concentrations. Wheat, rye and barley flours had similar protein profiles on gel electrophoresis. Soya flour contained a number of high molecular weight proteins not present in the other cereals. Western blotting using sera from 21 wheat flour hypersensitive individuals identified a large number of allergens in the different flours. Proteins of 69, 33, 26, 21 and 12 kDa were identified as major wheat flour allergens. Rye flour proteins of 21 and 12 kDa, and barley flour proteins of 69, 52 and 10 kDa were the major allergens identified by serum from wheat hypersensitive individuals. The major common protein of soya and wheat flour had a molecular weight of 21 kDa. The majority of crossreacting allergens identified between the different flours have molecular weights similar to those of known flour enzymes or enzyme inhibitors.
Benzalkonium chloride in nasal decongestive sprays has a long‐lasting adverse effect on the nasal mucosa of healthy volunteers
Authors: HALLÉN H. , GRAF P.
Published: April 2006

Twenty healthy volunteers participated in the present study on the long‐term effects of a nasal decongestive spray composed of either a combination of oxymetazoline nasal spray and benzalkonium chloride or of oxymetazoline nasal spray alone. Three months before the present study the participants had undergone treatment with nasal decongestants for 4 weeks. Ten of the subjects had been treated with oxymetazoline nasal spray without bezalkonium chloride and 10 of them had been treated with oxymetazoline nasal spray with benzalkonium chloride. In a double‐blind study the subjects who had been treated with oxymetazoline nasal spray and benzalkonium chloride were again treated with the same combination of substances as before, and the subjects who had been treated with oxymetazoline nasal spray alone were also treated again with oxymetazoline nasal spray alone, but on this occasion only for 10 days. Three variables were studied before and after the 10 days of treatment, i.e. nasal mucosa congestion, nasal reactivity and symptom scores. It was found that only the subjects who were treated with the combination of oxymetazoline nasal spray and benzalkonium chloride had increased nasal stuffiness, estimated by symptom scores and measurements of nasal mucosa swelling after 10 days of treatment. It is concluded that a nasal decongestant spray composed of a combination of vasoactive substance and benzalkonium chloride has a long‐term adverse effect on the nasal mucosa.
Characterization of the house dust mite allergen Der p 7 by monoclonal antibodies
Authors: SHEN H.‐D. , CHUA K.‐Y. , LIN W.‐L. , HSIEH K.‐H. , THOMAS W. R.
Published: April 2006

The house dust mite allergen Der p 7, which was defined by cDNA cloning, has been shown to react with about 50% of allergic sera and corresponds to or is antigenically related to at least three different sized components in mite extracts. To characterize these entities, monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) were generated by immunizing BALB/c mice affinity‐purified Der p 7‐GST (glutathione S‐transferase) fusion protein. MoAbs WH9 and WH22 showed positive reactivity to recombinant Der p 7 negative reactivity to GST and the Der p 5‐GST fusion protein in ELISA and immunoblotting. The specificity of both MoAbs was confirmed by inhibition of the ELISA activity by recombinant Der p 7 but not by the recombinant Der p 5. Immunoblot analysis demonstrated that both MoAbs showed reactivities to components with molecular weights (mol. wt.) of 31, 30 and 26kDa reactive to both MoAbs. At least six major forms with different pI or size were indicated by 2‐D gel analysis. In addition to characterization of Der p 7, both MoAbs may also be considered for use in the standardization of Der p 7 in mite extracts.
Occupational respiratory and skin sensitization caused by polyfunctional aziridine hardener
Authors: KANERVA L. , KESKINEN H. , AUTIO P. , ESTLANDER T. , TUPPURAINEN M. , JOLANKI R.
Published: April 2006

Polyfunctional aziridine (PFA) is increasingly used as a water‐based crosslinker in two‐component paints, paint primers, lacquers, topcoats and other protective coatings. The crosslinker is made by reacting multifunctional acrylic monomer with a highly reactive aziridine compound. Respiratory allergy or hypersensitivity from PFA has not been reported previously. During 1978–1991 we came across nine cases with hypersensitivity from PFA: two had allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), four had occupational asthma and three had both of them. Five of the patients were parquet layers, two were fibre‐board painters, one was a spray painter and one was a salesman of PFA products, ACD was diagnosed by positive allergic patch test reactions with PFA in a dilution series in petrolatum: 0.32%‐0.5% gave a 2+‐3+ allergic reaction in the five cases with ACD but 0.1% gave only a weak reaction in one case, whereas the methacrylale patch test series was negative. The diagnosis of seven cases of occupational asthma due to PFA hardener was based on symptoms related to exposure to PFA hardener at work, and on positive provocation tests with PFA hardener. One had an immediate type reaction, one a dual reaction, and the others had late reactions. The positive reactions with the PFA hardener and the negative reactions with the acrylate compounds indicate that PFA caused ACD which is different from the previous reports in which acrylates present as impurities in the PFA hardener caused the sensitization. Patch testing with 0.5% PFA hardener should be performed in patients with contact dermatitis if exposure to PFA has occurred. PFA hardener may also cause occupational asthma. The cause‐effect relationship can be verified with chamber challenge tests. The mechanism of the asthmatic reaction is obscure as with many other low molecular weight chemicals. The exposure to PFA hardener should be minimized at the workplaces to prevent sensitization. Careful protection of both the skin and the respiratory tract is mandatory.
Detection of IgE antibody against Candida albicans enolase and its crossreactivity to Saccharomyces cerevisiae enolase
Authors: ITO K. , ISHIGURO A. , KANBE T. , TANAKA K. , TORII S.
Published: April 2006

Candida albicans 46 kDa protein, a glycolytic enolase enzyme, is an important allergen of the yeast. The purpose of the study was to detect circulating IgE and IgG antibodies against C. albicans enolase (CAE). We isolated CAE using sequential DEAE Sephacel and Pl 1 column chromatography from spheroptasts of C. albicans, and delected IgE and IgG antibody against CAE by immunoblotting. Crossreactivity of enolose of C. albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae was also examined by immunoblotting and immunoblot inhibition test. Among 54 sera with positive IgE RAST to C. albicans, IgE antibody against CAE was detected in 20 sera (37%) and IgG antibody in 27 sera (50%). The allergenic potency of CAE was confirmed using a skin‐prick test in three patients. Simultaneous IgE binding to S. cerevisiae enolase was only observed in four out of 20 sera reacting to CAE. Pre‐treatment of sera with CAE completely inhibited IgE binding to S. cerevisiae enolase. Whereas the latter only partially inhibited IgE binding to CAE. These results suggest that CAE shares some crossreacting epitopes with S. cerevisiae enolase, representing minor components of CAE but dominant segments of S. cerevisiae enolase.
Effect of rhinovirus 39 (RV‐39) infection on immune and inflammatory parameters in allergic and non‐allergic subjects
Authors: SKONER D. P. , DOYLE W. J. , TANNER E. P. , KISS J. , FIREMAN P.
Published: April 2006

The economic impact and medical complication rate of the common cold are well documented, but many of the physiological, inflammatory, and immune responses to common cold viruses have only recently been investigated. The purpose of this study was to compare selected systemic immune and inflammatory responses to experimental rhinovirus (RV)‐39 challenge in seronegative allergic rhinitis and non‐allergic rhinitis subjects. Peripheral blood was obtained before (baseline), during (acute), and 23 days after (convalescent) RV‐39 intranasal challenge and assayed for leucocyte histamine release, serum immunoglobulins, allergen‐specific IgE antibodies, plasma histamine. and platelet aggregation. All subjects were infected, as manifested by viral shedding in nasal secretions or seroconversion. RV‐39 infection induced significant acute increases in serum IgE. leucocyte histamine release, and platelet aggregation, but caused no changes in serum IgG, serum IgA, serum IgM, and plasma histamine. The first change was confined to the allergic rhinitis subjects. There was no evidence that the acute rise in total serum IgE was due to an elevation of a pre‐existing, pollen‐specific serum IgE antibody. The results show that intranasal challenge with RV‐39 induced changes in systemic immune and inflammatory parameters with a unique response pattern in allergic rhinitis subjects.
Evaluation by SDS‐PAGE and immunoblotting of residual antigenicity in hydrolysed protein formulas
Authors: RESTANI P. , VELONÀ T. , PLEBANI A. , UGAZIO A. G. , POIESI C. , MURARO A. , GALLI C. L.
Published: April 2006

Background
Extensively hydrolysed protein formulas are widely used as an alternative diet for children with cow's milk allergy. Partially hydrolysed protein formulas have been noted in some studies as useful in the prevention of allergy in infants at high risk of atopy. Although normally well tolerated, these ‘hypoallergenic’ products have been reported to cause serious immunological reactions in very sensitive subjects.

Objective
Starting from these considerations, we studied some commercial hydrolysed formulas in search of biological data supporting the observed clinical reactions.

Methods
We set up an electrophoretic method sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) which allowed us to study the molecular weight of peptides contained in hydrolysed products. Then, using the immunoblotting technique we evaluated the reactivity of circulating IgE (from serum of children allergic to cow's milk proteins) with the residual intact proteins and with the peptides present in these formulas.

Results
Both group of milk proteins (caseins and whey proteins) were important allergens for children included in this study. The presence of high‐molecular polypeptides was shown in partial hydrolysed formulas as such and in extensive hydrolysed products after protein enrichment by trichloroacetic acid (TCA) precipitation. Intact residual proteins were mainly responsible for the formation of FgE‐antigen complexes observed in immunoblotting. More rarely, polypeptides of partial hydrolysed formulas were involved in immunological responses.

Conclusions
Both partial and extensive hydrolysed formulas could induce clinical reactions in very sensitive subjects. These responses are mainly associated with allergy to the small amounts of residual intact proteins.
A combined approach to reduce mite allergen in the bedroom
Authors: WEEKS J. , OLIVER J. , BIRMINGHAM K. , CREWES A. , CARSWELL F.
Published: April 2006

Background Asthma is a common chronic disease of childhood. House dust mite (HDM) are known to be a major source of allergen affecting atopic asthmatics. No single control method has been demonstrated to consistently reduce asthma.

Objective We investigated the effect of a combination of two methods of HDM allergen control on HDM allergen content in the bedding and carpets of asthmatic children.

Methods This was a double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial treating the bedrooms of 56 mite‐sensitive asthmatic children. The carpel and the mattress, duvet and pillows (bedding) in the bedroom of children of the active group were treated with the acaricide Acarosan (benzyl benzoate). The bedding was then encased in vapour permeable waterproof fabric (Intervent cotton coated with polyurethane) for 24 weeks. The carpet and bedding of the control group were treated with placebo and the bedding encased in cotton covers for 24 weeks. Dust samples were collected from all these items in a standard manner at regular intervals and Der p I content analysed.

Results The group with active treatment had a median reduction of 480 ng (100%) in mite allergen from the mattress vs 215 ng (53%) reduction in placebo‐treated group by 6 weeks. The Der p I content of the active group's bedding was always less than the placebo group after treatment (P < 0.01). The acaricide applied to the carpets or inside the mattress covers was ineffective in reducing allergen content.

Conclusion This study confirms the effectiveness of encasing covers in reducing the mile allergen exposure but indicates there is no further advantage in applying acaricide simultaneously.
Der p I concentrations in mattress surface and floor dust collected from infants' bedrooms
Authors: VAN STRIEN R. T. , VERHOEFF A. P. , VAN WIJNEN J. H. , DOEKES G. , DE MEER G. E. A. , BRUNEKREEF B.
Published: April 2006

Background Allergen exposure in early childhood is thought to be important for sensitization and subsequent development of asthma. Not much is known, however, about exposure of young children to allergens in the home.

Objectives This study was designed to document dust mite allergen exposure in young children, and to determine wheither infants from atopic mothers (=‘high‐risk’ infants) are exposed to lower concentrations of house dust mite alkrgen than infants from non‐atopic parents (=‘low‐risk’ infants).

Methods Dust samples were taken in the homes of 104 infants (48 ‘high‐risk’ and 56 ‘low‐risk’ infants, selected by questionnaire) aged 3–15 months, from floors in different rooms and from the child's mattress surface.

Results The majority of the infants were found to be exposed to Der p I concentrations of more than 2000 ng/g in dust collected from the surface of their mattresses. Lower Der p I concentrations were found in mattress surface dust from the beds of infants from atopic mothers than of infants from non‐atopic parents. Also, lower Der p I concentrations were found in floor dust from the homes of infants from atopic mothers, Infant beds equipped with new mattresses, new blankets and top plastic sheeting had significantly lower Der p I concentrations than beds equipped with used mattresses and blankets, without top plastic sheeting.

Conclusions Young children in the Netherlands are exposed to significant concentrations of Der p I in mattress surface dust. Allergic parents appear to provide their children with environments somewhat less rich in mite allergen than non‐allergic parents.
Increasing dose regimen in children with reactions to ceftazidime
Authors: BATTERSBY N. C. , PATEL L. , DAVID T. J.
Published: April 2006

Background Of 87 consecutive patients with cystic librosis treated with 859 courses of intravenous ceftazidime, 15 patients experienced reactions to drugs.

Objective To see if by varying the means of administration further courses of treatment with ceftazidime could be tolerated in subjects who had experienced drug reactions.

Methods Starting with a dose of 1 mg per hour, and doubling the dose every hour, ceftazidime was administered at increasing dosage by continuous infusion, reaching a rale of 150–300 mg/kg/day. Thereafter the full daily dose was given in three divided bolus doses. For patients who tolerated the maximum infusion rate but reacted adversely to bolus doses, the procedure was restarted, and once the normal daily dose rate had been achieved, treatment was completed by continuous intravenous infusion rather than boius doses.

Results Of the 15 patients, three patients with urticaria and four patients with non‐urticarial itchy rash tolerated further courses of ceftazidime without adverse reactions, and two patients have not had further treatment with intravenous antibiotics. The increasing dose regimen was tolerated in five of the remaining six patients, and further courses of treatment were tolerated in the four patients in whom this was required. One patient had recurrent urticaria despite three attempts at using the regimen, and treatment was given with alternative antibiotics.

Conclusion A continuous drug infusion regimen of starting at a very low dosage and then increasing the dosage offers the potential for further treatment in some children with cystic fibrosis with adverse reactions to ceftazidime.
Sensitivity and maximal response to methacholine in perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis
Authors: PRIETO J. L. , GUTIÉRREZ V. , BERTÓ J. M. , CAMPS B.
Published: April 2006

Background
Airway hyperresponsiveness to pharmacological agonists is a common feature in subjects with allergic rhinitis.

Objective
The aim of this study was to investigate differences in threshold value and shape of the concentration‐response curves to methacholine between subjects with perennial allergic rhinitis and subjects with seasonal rhinitis.

Methods
We studied a sample of 72 non‐asthmatic patients with allergic rhinitis. They were subdivided into two groups: subjects with only seasonal symptoms and skin sensitization to grass and/or Parietaria pollen allergens (seasonal group, n= 38), and subjects with perennial symptoms and skin sensitization to house dust mite, alone or with other allergens (perennial group, n = 34). They were challenged with methacholine (up to 200mg/mL), and concentration‐response curves were characterized by the threshold value (PC20= provocative concentration of methacholine required to produce a 20% fall in FEV1) and maximal response plateau, if possible. The measurements in the seasonal group were done within the pollen season.

Results
The geometric mean methacholine PC20 for subjects of the perennial group was 6.9mg/mL, compared with 23.4mg/mL in subjects of the seasonal group (P 0.01). A plateau response was detected in 16 subjects of the perennial group and in 28 subjects of the seasonal group (p 0.05). Moreover, the level of plateau was higher in subjects of the perennial group when compared with subjects of the seasonal group (23.8 ±2.0% vs 19.2 ±1.6%, P 0.05).

Conclusion
In subjects with allergic rhinitis, sensitization to perennial allergens is associated not only with lower methacholine threshold values, but also with lower prevalence and higher level of plateau than sensitization to pollen allergens.
Detection of allergen‐specific IgE in tears of grass pollen‐allergic patients with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
Authors: HOFFMANN‐SOMMERGRUBER K. , FERREIRA F. D. , EBNER C. , BARISANI T. , KORNINGER L. , SCHEINER D. KRAFT. O. , BAUMGARTNER I.
Published: April 2006

Background
Allergic conjunctivitis is a common symptom amongst Type I (IgE‐mediated) allergic diseases; and mosl frequently seen as rhinoconjunctivitis. However, the site of production and the significance of allergen specific IgE needs further elucidation.

Objective
We investigated whether the presence of IgE in tears of grass pollen allergic patients correlated with disease and clinical symptoms, whether the IgE binding pattern to the different grass pollen antigens was diflferent in sera and tears, and whether IgA antibodies to grass pollen allergens were present in tears. Finally, we looked whether specific IgE was produced locally or was exudated from serum. Methods Sera from 44 grass pollen allergic patients suffering from either allergic rhinitis (n=11) or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (n= 33) and from healthy controls (n= l) were used for the experiments. Binding of specific IgE and IgA antibodies to the differyent groups of grass pollen allergens (Phleum pratense) was evaluated by means of immunobtotting.

Results
Specific IgE was detected in sera as well as in tears of allergic patients, whereby tear‐derived allergen‐specific IgE exerted similar specificities to the corresponding IgE from serum. The correlation between symptoms of ocular allergy and the presence of allergen‐specific IgE in tears was highly significant (P 0.0001). In contrast, only a poor correlation was found between specific and/or total IgE in sera and the manifestation of ocular allergy (P = 0.73).

Conclusion
Allergen‐specific IgE antibodies in tears seem to be produced locally rather than exsudated from serum. IgE in tears seems to be responsible for allergic conjunctivitis. IgA in tears cannot exert a protective function since the IgA antibodies recognize different antigens in a grass pollen (Phleum pratense) extract than IgE antibodies. The highly significant correlation between allergic conjunctivitis and the presence of specific tear IgE emphasizes the diagnostic value of immunoblots with tear IgE, especially in cases in which serum provides inconclusive results.
Increased levels of hyaluronan and albumin after intestinal challenge in adult patients with cow's milk intolerance
Authors: BENGTSSON U. , KNUTSON T.W. , KNUTSON L. , DANNÆUS A. , HALLGREN R. , AHLSTEDT S.
Published: April 2006

BackgroundThe mechanisms for adverse reactions to foods in the gastrointestinal tract are poorly understood. Presently, only hmited possibilities are available for identification of adverse immunological reactions to different foods.

ObjectiveThe intestinal inflammatory reactions in adult patients with a history of milk‐related gastrointestinal symptoms were studied after intestinal challenges by a jejunal perfusion technique and compared with the reactions in a control group.MethodsFive skin‐prick test and radioallergosorbent test negative and lactose tolerant patients with a history of milk‐related gastrointestinal symptoms, verified by double‐blind placebo‐controlled challenge, and eight healthy controls were investigated. Perfusions were performed allowing analyses of a well‐defined ‘closed’ jejunal segment. Milk perfusions were performed in patients and controls after an overnight fast. Ten millilitres of milk were administered to the segment at 3 mL/min, The jejunal fluid levels of hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid) and albumin were measured.

ResultsIn the five patients the milk challenges induced as a mean fivefold increased levels of hyaluronan compared with prcstitnulation values, whereas no such increases were seen in the control subjects. Albumin, as a marker of plasma leakage, was also increased in the patients but not in the control subjects.

ConclusionThe underlying mechanisms for locally increased levels of hyaluronan and also albutnin in the intestinal lumen may be secretion of lymph rich in hyaluronan and reflect the mucosal oedetna. This capacity of the intestinal mucosa to react with lymph leakage towards a locally infused allergen may be a possible way lo delineate gastrointestinal reactions in food‐related disorders.
Delayed hypersensitivity skin tests and subsequent renal transplant outcome
Authors: KUMAR P. , THOMPSON J. J. , FREY D. J. , VIRA M. A. , SHAHANE A. , SANDER M. S. , ELSTON R. C. , PEPYS J.
Published: April 2006

Background
Some studies in the literature have supported, while others have denied, the relationship between results of delayed hypersensitivity skin tests (DHST), renal allograft and patient survival rates. Several factors contribute to the unreliability of these studies. For example, most of these studies were performed in the precyclosporine era, furthermore, other variables which influence renal allografts and patient survival rates were not controlled in those studies.

Objective
The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between results of DHST performed in the pretransplant period with the subsequent renal transplant outcome in the cyclosporine era.

Methods
The study included 103 first cadaveric renal transplant recipients. DHST were performed during pretransplant evaluation by intradermal injections of a battery of recall antigens. Based on skin‐test results, the patients were assigned to two groups —those with a positive skin test (STP+) and those with a negative (anergic) skin test. These two groups were compared with each other regarding allograft survival, patient survival, and other variables known to influence survival rates.

Results
The mean age, sex and racial distribution, degree of HLA matches between recipients and donors, number of acute rejection episodes, and number of patients with acute tubular necrosis were similar between the two groups. Renal allograft survival rates in the anergic group at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years were 97%, 90% 84%, and 57%, respectively. The survival rate for renal allografts in the STP+ group for the same time points was 90%, 86%, 80%, and 72%, respectively. Patient survival rates for the anergic group at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years were 95%, 94%, 89%, and 85%, respectively, while those for the STP+ group were 98%, 98%, 98%, and 97% respectively. Differences between the STP+ and anergic groups, with regard to patient and allograft survival rates, were not significant.

Conclusion
We conclude that DHST is not helpful in predicting outcome of patient or renal allograft survival rates over a 3‐year time period.
Selective allergic reaction to oral cloxacillin
Authors: TORRES M. J. , BEANCA M. , FERNANDEZ J. , ESTEBAN A. , MORENO F. , VEGA J. M. , GARCIA J.
Published: April 2006

Background
Previous observations indicate that in some instances subjects allergic to penicillins may experience an allergic reaction alter taking the drug by one route but have good tolerance after being administered the same drug by a different route.

Objective
The purpose was to establish if cloxacillin (CLX) induced a selective response only after oral route administration in a suspected case and to study if there were differences between the oral and parenteral formulations.

Methods
Skin tests were carried out using benzylpenicillin (BP) conjugated to poly‐l ‐lysine (BPO‐PLL), minor determinant mixture of benzylpenicillin (MDM), ampicillin (AMP), amoxicillin (AX) and cloxacillin (CLX). Radioallergosorbent assay (RAST) was carried out using BPO‐PLL, AX‐PLL and CLX‐PLL sensitized discs. In the case the skin tests and RAST were negative, a controlled challenge administering the drug by both oral and parenteral route was made. Urine samples were taken at prechallenge (basal levels) and at three periods after challenge (1–3, 3–6 and 6–9 h). Analysis of oral and parenteral formulations was made by HPLC chromatography.

Results
All skin tests and RASTs were negative. With the challenge tests the patient tolerated parenteral BP and oral phenoxymethyl penicillin (PV) and oral and parenteral AMP up to therapeutic concentrations. Parenteral CLX (500mg) was also tolerated but 30 min after administering 50 mg by the oral route progressive generalized erythema with pruritus, facial angioedema and tachycardia developed. Urine samples taken during the challenge tests showed an increased excretion of N‐methyl histamine (N‐MH) 3h after challenge with oral CLX but no change in N‐MH levels after challenge with parenteral CLX or the other penicillins, indicating that histamine was released during the allergic episode with oral CLX. HPLC analysis of the oral and parenteral CLX formulations indicated that there were no differences and that neither polymers nor other contaminant materials were present.

Conclusion
Although the nature of the allergenic determinant involved in the induction of the reaction is not yet known, the oral route may have favoured the production of a metabolite not generated by the parenterai route.
Asthma and anaphylaxis induced by royal jelly
Authors: THIEN F. C. K. , LEUNG R. , BALDO B. A. , WEINBR J. A. , PLOMLEY R. , CZARNY D.
Published: April 2006

Background
Asthma, together with, In some cases, anaphylaxis, was observed in seven subjects following ingestion of royal jelly, a secretion of honey bees which is used as a health tonic.

Objective
To determine if reactions were lgE‐mediated and to identify ailergenic components of royal jelly.

Methods
Skin‐prick tests, immunoassays for specific IgE antibodies and protein blotting studies using patients’ sera and anti‐IgE second antibodies were employed. Results Immunoassays detected IgE antibodies to royal jelly proteins in sera of subjects who reacted to the substance. A total of 18 different IgE‐binding components were detected on blots following electrophoretic separation of royal jelly under dissociating conditions. Examination of 63 sera from subjects allergic to bee venom showed that there is no direct relationship between IgE antibody reactivity to bee venom allergens and to royal jelly proteins although 38% of the sera reacted with a royal icily solid phase. IgE antibody reactivity to royal jelly proteins was also detected in 52% of 75 subjects with allergies to inhalant and/or food allergens. Antibody binding of blotted royal jelly proteins was most marked in the molecular weight region 25–55 kDa and one component of MW∼55 kDa was detected by all of the reactive sera from roya jelly‐allergic and control allergic subjects.

Conclusions
Symptoms of asthma and anaphylaxis seen in subjects following ingestion of royal jelly were true IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity reactions. The clinical significance of the antibodies found in the sera of control subjects is not known but they may arise in response to common inhalant allergens that show allergenic cross‐reactivity with royal jelly.
Distinct patterns of cow's milk allergy in infancy defined by prolonged, two‐stage double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenges
Authors: BAEHLER P. , CHAD Z. , GURBINDO C. , BONIN A. P. , BOUTHILLIER L. , SEIDMAN E. G.
Published: April 2006

Background
The clinical manifestations of cow's milk allergy (CMA) are highly variable, and challenges usually identify only immediate. IgE mediated reactions.

Objective
To clearly identify CMA of immediate and delayed types using a two‐stage. double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenge (DBPCFC), and to prospectively compare the clinical history and analyses of specific IgE antibodies to milk in predicting outcome of DBPCFC.

Methods
A total of 69 patients (33 girls, 36 boys) were recruited for sludy based on a history highly suggestive of CMA and resolution of symptoms on a bovine protein‐free diet. After skin‐prick tests (SPTs) and search for allergen‐specific serum IgE antibodies by enzyme allergosorbent test (EAST), a two‐stage DBPCFC was performed over several days.

Results
Of 16 patients (mean age 36.9 months) classified as probable immediate reactors based on the history, 10 (62.5%) had a positive DBPCFC with similar patterns to historical adverse reactions (≥ 2 h after milk exposure). The other 53 (77%) patients (17.3 months) had a history of probable delayed type CMA presenting with predominantly gastrointestimal symptoms from 2h and up to 6 days after milk exposure. Of these. 15 (28.8%) had a positive DBPCFC. again with a symptom pattern similar to the history. Sensitivity/specificity of SPT was similar to that of EAST for both immediate (70/83% and 62/83% respectively. NS) or delayed (0/97% and 0/97%) CMA confirmed by DBPCFC.

Conclusions
Using our two‐stage, prolonged DBPCFC, we clearly identified two groups of children with CMA, reflecting different pathogenesis of either immediatetype IgE‐dependent, or delayed‐type IgE‐independent allergy. Although useful in immediate reactors. IgE antibody determination cannot predict the outcome of DBPCFC in delayed reactors. A thorough clinical history was the mo.st helpful tool to predict the type of response in challenge positive patients.
IgE and monoclonal antibody binding by the mite allergen Der p 7
Authors: SHEN H.‐D. , CHUA K. Y. , LIN W. L. , CHEN H. L. , HSIEH K.‐H. , THOMAS W. R.
Published: April 2006

Background
The recently characterized group 7 house dust mite allergens give positive skin‐test reactions in 53% of allergie patients.

Objective
This study was performed to compare the IgE bindinig activity of natural and recombinant Der p 7, to measure the binding in allergic sera in comparison to major allergen Der p 2 and characterize the response by competitive inhibition with monoclonal antibodies.

Methods
IgE anti Der p 2 and Der p 7 antibodies against the recombinant allergens and monoclonal binding activities were measured by a solid phase radioimmune assay. Reslts A competitive binding assay showed that rDer p 7 inhibited 91% of IgE‐binding to natural Der p 7 in 2 sera and 73% in a further two. The IgE binding of rDer p 2 and Der p 7 from 41 sera was then compared. Of the sera 88% and 46% respectively showed positive binding. All of the 19 sera which bound Der p 7 also bound Der p 2 but 11 (58%) had bound IgE to Der p 7 as high or higher than the binding to Der p 2. These sera were mostly high responders to both allergens. A panel of six monoclonal antibodies produced against either rDer p 7 or rDer f 7 was used for epitope analysis. All of these reaeted with eaeh allergen by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblotting. Two patterns of cross inhibition of monoclonal antibody binding were observed and of five monoclonal antibodies tested, lour could inhibit the binding of IgE (WH9, WH22. WPS and HD19) while one (WH14) could not.

Conclusions
Although Der p 7 only reacts with 50% of allergic sera it often has a high IgE binding activity and may be more important than the major Der p 2 allergen in a high percentage of subjects. The combined competitive inhibition experiments show the IgE response is directed at several specilieities.