bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of human eosinophil activation by complement protein C5a and platelet‐activating factor: similar functional responses are accompanied by different morphologic alterations
Authors: Zeck‐Kapp G. , Kroegel C. , Riede U.N. , Kapp A.
Published: May 2007

The complement system is an important amplification system for the propagation of allergic as well as pseudoallergic inflammatory reactions. In the present study, the effect of the major anaphylatoxin C5a was compared with that of platelet‐activating factor (PAF) on highly purified eosinophils (≥95%) by functional as well as morphologic criteria. Upon stimulation with C5a, eosinophils maintained their spheric structure, developing short, pseudopodia‐like protrusions, whereas PAF induced the generation of a number of digitating protrusions. As shown by functional and ultrastructural assay systems, both stimuli provoked significant extracellular and intracellular H2O2 production in eosinophils, which was inhibited by cytochalasin B. With C5a, a pronounced H2O2 production was detected within the small cytoplasmic vesicles, whereas PAF‐induced H2O2 production was observed on the outer surface of the plasma membrane in the contact zones between adjacent cells. Morphologic signs of degranulation induced by C5a and PAF were accompanied by the significantly increased release of eosinophil cationic protein and eosinophil peroxidase in the presence of cytochalasin B. Like PAF, C5a induced a significant production of reactive oxygen species in eosinophils. as measured by lucigenin‐dependent chemiluminescence (CL) responses in eosinophils. Maximal responses, comparable with those of interleukin‐5 (100 U/ml), were observed at concentrations of 105‐‐10‐6 and 10‐7‐10‐8 M for PAF and C5a, respectively. Separation of eosinophils by discontinuous density gradients revealed the existence of two hypodense eosinophil populations, one of them showing significantly reduced CL responses upon stimulation with C5a and PAF. In addition, CL responses upon stimulation with C5a and PAF were abrogated by cytochalasin B, staurosporine, and wortmannin, and were almost completely blocked by pertussis toxin. In conclusion, these data indicate that C5a induces events in human eosinophils comparable to those induced by PAF in the assay systems tested. Thus, C5a, generated after activation of the complement system, may be of major importance for the eosinophil activation observed in eosinophil‐related disease.
Demonstration of specific high‐affinity Fcɛ‐receptors on the human basophil‐like leukemia cell line KU812 by flow cytometry
Authors: Magnusson C. G. M. , Håård J. , Matsson P. , Karlsson T. , Nilsson K. , Johansson S. G. O.
Published: May 2007

specificity of IgE binding to a human basophil‐like cell line (KU812) was studied by flow cytometry. Four IgE myeloma proteins, representing both light‐chain types, one chimeric IgE protein, and polyclonal serum IgE blocked the direct binding of FITC‐labeled IgE(DES) myeloma protein to KU812 cells in a dose‐dependent and nearly equimolar way. Although not as efficiently as human IgE (from five to eight times less on a molar basis), both rat and mouse IgE blocked IgE(DES)‐FITC binding to KU812 cells. In sharp contrast, all four human IgG subclasses, both IgA subclasses, and IgM myeloma proteins, as well as monomeric and heat‐aggregated polyclonal human IgG, were unable to block significantly IgE(DES)‐FITC binding to KU812 cells (≤0.5/0 on a molar basis). The cytophilic epitope on IgE was heat‐susceptible (56 °h), lost after reduction alkylation, and resident in the papain‐derived Fcɛ ‐fragment, but not in the papain‐derived F(ab') 2ɛ.‐ and Fcɛ‐fragments nor in the pepsin‐derived F(ab')2ɛ‐ and Fcɛ.'‐fragments. Washing and displacement experiments indicated that a major part of IgE reacted with high affinity to KU812 cells. The results indicate that the binding of IgE to KU812 cells is highly specific and involves the classical high‐affinity FcɛRI‐receptor. Although the density of receptors is low, this human cell line offers a unique model to study IgE/FcɛRI interactions.
Allergen challenge in asthma: association of eosinophils and lymphocytes with interleukin‐5
Authors: Sur S. , Gleich G. J. , Offord K. P. , Swanson M. C. , Ohnishi T. , Martin L. B. , Wagner J. M. , Weiler D. A. , Hunt L. W.
Published: May 2007

To test whether eosinophil recruitment after pulmonary allergen challenge is associated with interleukin (IL)‐5 in patients with asthma, we performed segmental bronchoprovocation (SBP) with saline, and with low and high dosages of ragweed extract in six patients with allergic asthma. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of the challenged segments was performed 5 min after challenge (immediate BAL fluid) and repeated 24 h later (late BAL fluid). Allergen challenge resulted in recruitment of eosinophils, and increased levels of eosinophil‐active cytokines. A bioassay showed the predominant eosinophil‐active cytokine in the late BAL fluids to be IL‐5. Analysis of the late BAL fluids revealed that IL‐5 levels correlated with the numbers of eosinophils and lymphocytes. This study provides evidence that IL‐5 is a critical cytokine associated with eosinophil and lymphocyte recruitment into the airways of patients with asthma following exposure to allergen.
Anaphylactic reaction caused by neoallergens in heated pecan nut
Authors: Malanin K. , Lundberg M. , Johansson S. G. O.
Published: May 2007

An atopic girl experienced an anaphylactic reaction after eating cookies containing pecan nuts. Investigations revealed that she had developed IgE antibodies exclusively specific against allergenic determinants present in aged or heated pecan nuts, but not in fresh pecans. These neoallergenic determinants were located on protein(s) with a molecular weight of approximately 15 kDa. Neoallergens appearing during heating or storing of foods may be important in some anaphylactic reactions.
*Inhaled formoterol dry powder in the treatment of patients with reversible obstructive airway disease
Authors: Steffensen I. , Faurschou P. , Riska H. , Rostrup J. , Wegener T.
Published: May 2007

Inhaled formoterol is a potent selective β2‐agonist with rapid onset and at least 12‐h duration of bronchodilation. The aim of the study was to compare the bronchodilating effect of inhaled formoterol dry powder ‘dp) 12 μg b.i.d. with salbutamol dp 400 μg q.i.d. and placebo in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease ‘ROAD). The study design consisted of a closed 12‐week double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicenter trial followed by an open noncomparative, multicenter, 12‐month follow‐up trial, in which the tolerability of formoterol dp was assessed. A total of 304 patients ‘146 men, 158 women) aged 18‐79 years, ill during 0.1‐64 years, were randomized. No demographic or baseline differences were found among the different treatment groups. The bronchodilating effect of formoterol, assessed by morning premedication PEFR, was significantly superior to placebo ‘P < 0.0001) and salbutamol ‘P < 0.0001). Efficacy was maintained during the open follow‐up study with 12 μg b.i.d. in most of the patients. A few patients, however, needed 24 μg b.i.d. to control their ROAD. Formoterol 12 μg b.i.d. significantly reduced morning and evening asthma symptoms and sleep disturbances, and reduced significantly the need for rescue medication. The tolerability of the three treatment groups was comparable. In conclusion, formoterol 12 μg dp b.i.d. was significantly superior to both salbutamol 400 μg dp q.i.d. and placebo, and reduced asthma symptoms significantly. Overall, formoterol showed a tolerability profile comparable to that of salbutamol, and no tachyphylaxis was observed during 1 year of treatment.
Basic aspects related to penicillin‐allergy skin testing: on the variability of the hapten‐paratope interaction
Authors: Bondaruk J. , Curcio‐Vonlanthen V. , Schneider C. H.
Published: May 2007

Ampicillin and benzylpenicillin conjugated to human serum albumin were used as immunogens in order to obtain antihaptenic IgG responses in outbred guinea pigs according to different schedules, all involving complete Freund's adjuvant. The individual responses were characterized by ELISA and by ELISA inhibition using ampicillin, benzylpenicillin, and carbenicillin peptidic conjugates for coating and for inhibition. In several instances, drastically reduced cross‐reactivity and even its absence were observed, although the penicillin antigens differ only in the side‐chain. The notion that the invariantly present thiazolidine ring will always provide significant binding to antibodies against all penicillins differing only in the side‐chain has to be dropped. The experiments were performed in relation to newer findings of clinical penicillin‐allergy skin testing which suggest that benzylpenicillin‐based reagents alone are not able to detect or predict all reactions against semisynthetic penicillins. The experimental evidence here obtained corroborates this conclusion.
A comparison of the pharmacodynamics of H1‐receptor antagonists as assessed by the induced wheal‐and‐flare model
Authors: Juhlin L.
Published: May 2007

Juhlin L. A comparison of the pharmacodynamics of H1‐receptor antagonists as assessed by the induced wheal‐and‐flare model.
Specific review of the psychometric effects of cetirizine
Authors: Volkerts E. R. , van Laar M.
Published: May 2007

Volkerts ER, van Laar M. Specific review of the psychometric effects of cetirizine.
Eosinophils: from low‐ to high‐affinity immunoglobulin E receptors
Authors: Capron M. , Gounni A. Soussi , Morita M. , Truong M. J. , Prin L. , Kinet J.‐P. , Capron A.
Published: May 2007

Several experimental approaches have been used to identify immunoglobulin (IgE) binding molecules expressed by human eosinophils. After the description that Fee RII/CD23 identified on eosinophils could participate in IgE binding and IgE‐mediated cytotoxicity, Mac2/ε binding proteins belonging to the S‐type lectin family were also detected on human eosinophits. Anti‐Mac2 monoclonal antibodies inhibited eosinophil‐dependent cytotoxicity towards parasitic targets. More recently, Fcε RI was demonstrated on human eosinophils from hypereosinophilic patients. The 3 components of Fcε RI, α, β and γ chains, were detected in eosinophils. The α chain of Fcε RI was shown to be involved in IgE binding to eosinophils and in the selective release of eosinophil peroxidase. The participation of Fcε RI‐bearing eosinophils in a protective immune response against a parasitic infection indicates a so far unsuspected function of Fcε RI. The interactions between the different types of IgE binding molecules are discussed.
Immune tolerance and protection against allergic sensitization
Authors: Holt P. G.
Published: May 2007

Recent studies in our laboratory have focused on the nature of the primary T‐cell response to inhaled allergens in the regional lymph nodes (RLN) draining the upper airways, in immunologically naive mice and rats. In general terms, the first detectable response involves activation of allergen‐specific interleukin 4 (IL‐4) secreting CD4+ Th‐0/Th‐2 cells, which triggers (at least in genetically high‐immunoglobuUn E (IgE)‐responders) an initial burst of IgE antibody synthesis. This is followed by a rapidly expanding interferon γ (IFN‐γ) response in the RLN, which terminates IL‐4 secretion and IgE production. We have presented evidence that the initial source of IFN‐γ in this response is a population of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I restricted CD8+ T‐cells, which respond specifically to the allergen. The initial activation of these CD8+ T‐cells requires a source of exogenous IL‐2, which appears to be supplied by the Th‐0/Th‐2 cells, which are themselves eventually suppressed by the cytokine products of the CD8+ T‐cells. It is hypothesized that the IFN‐γ‐rich milieu created by the allergen‐specific CD8+ T‐cells eventually selects for allergen‐specific Th‐1 cells, which, with chronic stimulation, eventually outgrow the CD8+ population and become dominant in the allergen‐specific T‐cell memory pool. Our most recent experiments have identified a previously covert hut highly potent effector cell subset within the CD8+ T‐cell population, in the form of allergen‐specific TcR1 (γ/8) T‐cells. Less than 500 of these cells, purified by positive sorting, are required to regulate the CD4 T‐cell response in adult mice or rats, in adoptive transfer experiments. This suggests that these CD8+ Tγ/8 cells exert their function via a powerful amplification loop that involves the rapid recruitment of other “Th‐2 inhibitory” effector cells during the initial stages of the immune response.
Antigenicity of the pollen proteins of various cultivars of Olea europaea
Authors: Waisel Y. , Geller‐Bernstein C. , Keynan N. , Arad G.
Published: May 2007

The incidence of positive skin test responses among alopic subjects with suspected respiratory allergy was investigated with commercial and autochthonous pollen extracts of various cultivars of Olea europaea. Pollen was collected from olive trees of well‐defined cultivars, extracted, and separated by SDS‐PAGE. Immunoblots were used to identify the various IgE‐binding proteins of the pollen extracts of the various cultivars. The results revealed six predominant IgE‐binding bands, some of which appear in all the cultivars examined. The 18–20‐Da band (Ole e 1) appeared in only eight of the cultivars, but not in the nine others. The presence of specific IgE‐binding bands in the various pollen extracts and their correlation with the incidence of positive skin tests are discussed.
Diagnostic significance of in vitro T‐cell proliferative responses to house‐dust mite Der p 1 in children with dust‐mite allerev
Authors: Horneff G. , Schou C. , Wahn V.
Published: May 2007

The study aimed to investigate the possible diagnostic significance of T‐cell proliferative responses to purified Der p 1 antigen in allergic children with and without allergic sensitization to house‐dust‐mite (HDM) allergens. T‐cell reactivity to purified Der p 1antigen was analyzed in 24 children with allergic sensitization to HDM demonstrated by RAST and/or positive skin prick tests. Twelve healthy young adults and 11 children with allergic sensitizations other than HDM served as controls. Of 25 HDM‐allergic patients, 16 displayed strong T‐cell reactivity to Der p 1 (stimulation indices >3): nine patients showed no T‐cell proliferation despite the presence of specific IgE, and five showed no responses despite positive skin prick test. In two patients, a weak T‐cell response to Der p 1 could be demonstrated in the absence of specific IgE and negative skin test result. The two affected subjects did not show evidence of mite allergy. No T‐cell responses were observed in adult controls (stimulation indices<3). We conclude that the assessment of T‐cell reactivity to Der p 1 is of little value for the diagnosis of HDM allergy. The importance of T‐cell proliferative responses for the study of the pathogenesis of HDM allergy remains unchallenged.
Identification of a masked allergen, α‐lactalbumin, in baby‐food cereal flour guaranteed free of cow's milk protein
Authors: Frémont S. , Kanny G. , Bieber S. , Nicolas J. P. , Moneret‐Vautrin D. A.
Published: May 2007

We report on a baby food, cereal flour P (CFP), which, although guaranteed free of cow's milk protein, caused failure to thrive and diarrhea, vomiting, and coughing fits in a 22‐month‐old child. The purpose of this study was to identify the allergen involved. The investigation used prick tests, RAST, and the RAST inhibition method. Specific IgE was elevated to 100 kU/l for cow's milk and to 15.3 kU/1 for a‐lactalbumin (2.5 kU/1 for casein, 0.7 kU/1 for β‐lactoglobulin). Antibovine IgG IgEs were associated. RAST inhibition experiments demonstrated the presence of α‐lactalbumin in “food‐quality” lactose used in this flour, at a dose of 1–5 μg/g of CFP. The daily intake of a‐lactalbumin was found to be less than 70 μg. This exquisite clinical sensitization was attributed to the intestinal hyperpermeability (IH) which favors the access of milk allergen to the blood, leading to an ever‐growing state of hypersensitivity. It could have been due to egg‐ and mustard‐associated allergies as well as to giardiasis and intestinal candidosis. This work underlines the risk of masked food allergens and the need of thoroughly informative labeling.
Reduction of latex‐allergen content in Swedish medical catheter balloons – a survey of 3 years' production
Authors: Lundberg M. , Wrangsjö K. , Eriksson‐Widblom K. , Johansson S. G. O.
Published: May 2007

Anaphylactic reactions after intravascular exposure to natural rubber latex (NRL) have been reported. Thus, there is an urgent need to produce medical devices with the lowest possible latex‐allergen content. The latex‐allergen concentration in extracts prepared from 92 lots of medical catheter (MC) balloons, manufactured by Nolato Polymer AB, Torekov, Sweden, from April 1993 to March 1996, was measured with an EAI (IgE antibody inhibition) assay. Inhibitory capacity was expressed in arbitrary units/ml (U/ml) in relation to reference NRL sap, given an arbitrary value of 1000 U. Extracts from randomly selected lots were measured for protein by the modified Lowry method. Water leaching, chlorination, and treatment with savinase were used experimentally to study reduction of the latex‐allergen content. The latex‐allergen content in extract from the regular MC balloons varied from 0.1 to 2.9 U/ml. All the methods used to reduce the allergen content were effective, and increased leaching stabilized the allergen content at a low level. The protein concentration of the extracts varied between 9 and 100 mg/1. No correlation was found between protein and allergen content. As a result of this study, the manufacturer has extended the stage of water leaching in the production process. This study shows that cooperation between immunologists and manufacturers may result in product development and improvement.
Incidence of asthma in adults – report from the Obstructive Lung Disease in Northern Sweden Study
Authors: Rönmark E. , Lundbäck B. , Jonsson E. , Jonsson A.‐C. , Lindström M. , Sandström T.
Published: May 2007

Incidence studies offer a better opportunity to study risk factors for asthma than do prevalence studies. However, regular prospective follow‐ups of large cohorts are difficult to perform, and that is why direct measurement of the incidence rate of asthma is almost impossible. Thus, cross‐sectional follow‐up studies of defined cohorts can be used to provide data on incidence. In 1986, a postal questionnaire survey on respiratory symptoms and diseases was performed in the northernmost province of Sweden. The population sample comprised all subjects born in 1919—20, 1934—5, and 1949—50 in eight representative areas of the province, which comprises 25% of the total area of Sweden. Completed answers were given by 5698 subjects (86%) of the 6610 subjects invited to the study. In 1992, the cohort was invited to a follow‐up survey during the same season as in 1986, and 6215 subjects were traced. Of the 5393 subjects who answered the questionnaire, 4932 had participated in the 1986 survey, or 87% of those who participated in 1986. For the period 1986—92, the cumulative incidences of asthma were 4.9 and 5.0%, respectively, as assessed by the questions, “Have you ever had asthma?” and “Have you been diagnosed as having asthma by a physician?” Thus, the results indicate a mean annual cumulative incidence of asthma of 0.8%. After correction of the results for subjects who were diagnosed as having asthma in the clinical part later in the 1986 study, the mean annual cumulative incidence of asthma was found to be 0.5%. Risk factors were family history of asthma (OR 3.46) and current and former smoking, while female sex was a strong trend.
Comparison of four different measures of bronchial responsiveness in asthmatic children
Authors: Şekerel B. E. , Saraçlar Y. , Kalayci Ö. , Çetinkaya F. , Tuncer A. , Adalioǧlu G.
Published: May 2007

Although several tests are available to assess the presence and severity of bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), there is no agreement on the most appropriate stimulus. The most commonly used stimuli are methacholine, histamine, and exercise. Daily peak expiratory flow (PEF) variation has been reported to correlate with the severity of BHR, and in recent years this has been widely used because of its noninvasiveness and ease of performance. This study was carried out to determine the relationship among these four commonly used measures of bronchial responsiveness in asthmatic children. For this purpose, 12 asthmatic children of varying disease severity were recruited. Subjects underwent three challenges on 3 separate days in 1 week. During the week preceding the challenges (methacholine, histamine, and exercise), patients recorded PEF three times a day. All patients had PC20 less than 8 mg/ml with methacholine and histamine. Patients with PC20 greater than 3.5 mg/ml for both methacholine or histamine had negative exercise challenges. The strongest correlation was between histamine and methacholine (r=0.95). Exercise‐induced bronchospasm had substantial and significant correlation with the other three measures. No significant correlation was observed between PEF variability and histamine or methacholine. The varying degrees of relationships among the four commonly used measures suggests that each method yields information on different but related phenomena. More than one measure may be required to detect the different aspects of asthmatic bronchial responsiveness.
Links between hospital diagnoses of bronchiectasis and asthma
Authors: Säynäjäkangas O. , Keistinen T. , Tuuponen T. , Kivelä S.‐L
Published: May 2007

In view of the conflicting notions of the relationship between bronchiectasis and asthma, we have analysed the use of hospital services by bronchiectasis and asthma patients and evaluated the links between these diseases, employing data from the Finnish Hospital Discharge Register of over 21 million hospitalization periods recorded in 1972–92. We conclude that asthma is common in hospitalized bronchiectasis patients and appears to be consequent upon this disease.
Exercise tests in large groups of children are not a suitable screening procedure for undiagnosed asthma
Authors: Johansson H. , Foucard T. , Pettersson L.‐G.
Published: May 2007

Schoolchildren (n= 473), 12–13 years of age, from five schools, and without known asthma, participated in a screening test for exercise‐induced asthma (E1A). The children were tested in large groups of 10–15 pupils. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) was measured before, immediately after, and 6–8 min after 6 min of running exercises in a gymnasium. A fall in PEF of at least 10% on two separate test occasions was considered an abnormal result. Children with abnormal results were given an asthma questionnaire and then tested individually in hospital with a standardized exercise test measuring FEVb PEF, and flow/volume curve. In the screening test, 23 (4.9%) of the 473 children had an abnormal result. When tested in hospital, five (1%) children had a decrease in PEF and/or FEV, of at least 10% (10–14%) after exercise. Furthermore, three of these five children had a history indicating mild EIA. We conclude that the use of PEF measurement as a screening method for EIA in large groups of schoolchildren cannot be recommended because it yields many false‐positive results.
Comparison of allergenic potentials of timothy (Phleum pratense) pollens from different pollen seasons collected in the Belgrade area
Authors: Gavrović M. Dj. , Trtić T. , Vujčić Z. , Petrović S. , Jankov R. M.
Published: May 2007

We investigated extracts of timothy grass pollen from four seasons (1989, 1990, 1991, and 1994) by protein content, SDS‐PAGE, immunoblot, RAST, RAST inhibition, and crossed immunoelectrophoresis. Extract of the pollen from 1991 showed the lowest yield in quantitative assays. SDS‐PAGE, crossed immunoelectrophoresis, RAST, and RAST inhibition expressed approximately comparable patterns for all extracts except that from 1991. Obviously, the quality of grass pollens, as shown for some ragweed (Ambrosia elatior) pollens depend on year of collection. Our findings are partially in agreement with some earlier examinations of the quality of timothy pollen from different pollen seasons.
Allergenicity of α‐caseins from cow, sheep, and goat
Authors: Spuergin P. , Walter M. , Schiltz E. , Deichmann K. , Forster J. , Mueller H.
Published: May 2007

The allergic potential of α‐caseins from bovine, ovine, and goat's milk sharing more than 85% identical amino acids was compared. Caseins were purified by anion‐exchange chromatography and used for a specific IgE and IgG ELISA with diluted human sera. Sera were from 17 children with immediate‐type allergy to cow's milk, from 59 children with atopy but without food allergy, and from 27 healthy children without atopic disease. The sera of cow's milk‐allergic children showed a significantly higher IgE and IgG binding to α‐caseins from all three species than the sera of the other groups. All groups showed an increased antibody binding to bovine a‐casein compared to the sheep and goat proteins, but the differences were significant only in the groups of atopic children and of healthy controls. Furthermore, inhibition of the IgE binding to bovine α‐casein with α‐casein from cow, goat, and sheep revealed that the a‐caseins from these species are highly cross‐reactive, on the basis of the small differences in their primary structure. In conclusion, the milk of goat and sheep harbor an allergic potential and is not suitable for the nutrition of milk‐allergic patients.
Eosinophilopoietic factors prime eosinophils for increased interleukin‐8 generation
Authors: Miyamasu M. , Misaki Y. , Hirai K. , Izumi S. , Takaishi T. , Matsushima K. , Morita Y. , Kasahara T.
Published: May 2007

Recent studies have identified eosinophils as a cellular source of various cytokines, indicating that eosinophils play not only an effector role but also a regulatory role within the allergic inflammatory cell network. Because eosinophilopoietic factors are known to stimulate various functions of eosinophils, we examined the effect of interleukin (IL)‐5 on chemoattractant‐induced IL‐8 generation from eosinophils. Although IL‐5 alone induced little or no IL‐8 production from eosinophils, short‐term preincubation with IL‐5 markedly enhanced the eosinophil IL‐8 generation caused by C5a plus cytochalasin B (CB). IL‐3 also potentiated C5a‐induced IL‐8 generation. Both factors were active at picomolar concentrations. Furthermore, competitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiments revealed that the enhancement occurred at the pretranslational level. Since eosinophils in allergic inflammation are believed to be activated by these eosinophilopoietic factors, eosinophil‐derived cytokines may play more important roles in the allergic inflammatory cell network than has been previously supposed.
Food allergy to pumpkinseed – characterization of allergens
Authors: Fritsch R. , Ebner H. , Kraft D. , Ebner C.
Published: May 2007

In recent years, pumpkinseed has become increasingly popular as a foodstuff. Here we report the occurrence of allergic reactions (itching and swelling of oral mucosa, and asthma) to this member of the Cucurbitaceae family. We investigated three patients suffering from symptoms after ingestion of roasted pumpkinseed. All the patients fished for sport and used pressed pumpkinseed flour as bait. Sera were tested by the immunoblot technique for IgE reactivity with proteins of pumpkinseed extract. The immunoblot revealed pumpkinseed allergens of 13, 14, 36, 48, 77, and 87 kDa. Inhibition experiments with recombinant birch profilin were performed: IgE binding to the 14‐kDa allergen was completely blocked by preincubation of the sera with recombinant birch profilin. In conclusion, type I allergy to pumpkinseed is rare, and the patients' histories suggest inhalation of pumpkinseed flour during fishing to be the relevant route of sensitization, leading to food allergy to pumpkinseed.
Fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray compared with oral loratadine in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis*
Authors: Géhanno P. , Desfougeres J.‐L.
Published: May 2007

The effectiveness and safety of fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray (200 μg once daily for 4 weeks) were compared with those of loratadine (10 mg once daily for 4 weeks) in 114 adults and adolescents with seasonal allergic rhinitis in this multicenter, double‐blind, double‐dummy, randomized, parallel‐group study. Patients recorded their nasal symptoms (nighttime and daytime obstruction, sneezing, itching, rhinorrhea, and overall discomfort) using a 4‐point scale (0=no symptoms, 3=very frequent symptoms) in daily diaries. Clinicians assessed patients' nasal symptoms (nighttime and daytime obstruction, sneezing, itching, and rhinorrhea) using a 4‐point scale at every scheduled visit. Clinicians and patients assessed the overall effectiveness of treatment at the end of the study. Fluticasone propionate improved clinician‐rated total nasal symptom scores (defined as the sum of five nasal symptoms) more than loratadine at the 2‐week and 4‐week assessments (P≥0.008). Clinicians gave fluticasone propionate better global ratings than loratadine (P=0.04). After 4 weeks of treatment, between‐group differences in clinician‐rated individual nasal symptoms favored fluticasone propionate (P<0.05), with the exception of nasal itching (P=0.11). These findings were confirmed by between‐group differences in the percentages of symptom‐free days calculated from patient‐recorded daily diary‐card data. Both treatments were well tolerated. The incidence of adverse events between groups was similar. Fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray 200 μg administered once daily in the morning was more effective than loratadine 10 mg administered once daily for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Comparison of concentrations of Cry j 1 and Cry j 2 in diploid and triploid Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) pollen extracts
Authors: Kondo Y. , Ipsen H. , Løwenstein H. , Karpas A. , Hsieh L.‐S.
Published: May 2007

Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) pollinosis has been a serious allergic disease in Japan. There are two kinds of Japanese cedar trees; the popular one is diploid, the less popular is triploid. These trees are not very different morphologically. However, the relative allergenicity of their pollens is unknown, although both major allergens, Cry j 1 and Cry j 2, have been purified and cloned from the diploid line. Triploid trees are sterile and the allergenicity of their pollen may differ. Using Japanese‐cedar‐allergic patient sera, we compared the concentration of these two major allergens in both kinds of pollen. Pollen collected from different years and regions was also studied. The results indicate that triploid tree pollen extract has lower concentrations of both major allergens; therefore, the pollen may be less allergenic.
Rapid expression of the CD69 antigen on T cells and natural killer cells upon antigenic stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cell suspensions
Authors: Werfel T. , Boeker M. , Kapp A.
Published: May 2007

The CD69 antigen has been identified as the earliest activation marker on the surface of cytokine‐ or mitogen‐activated lymphocytes. The expression of this molecule may be a useful early marker of antigen‐ or allergen‐specific activation of lymphocytes in vitro. We evaluated the expression of the CD69 and CD25 antigens on antigen‐ or allergen‐stimulated lymphocytes and the proliferative responses as detected by thymidine incorporation. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of allergic patients sensitized to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, bovine casein, or nickel sulfate were cultured in the absence or presence of clinically relevant allergens, tetanus toxoid, or recombinant interleukin (IL)‐2. The respective binding of CD69 or CD25 antibodies to PBMC and thymidine incorporation were measured. An early expression of CD69, but not of CD25, antigen was detectable after 24‐72 h of stimulation on up to 80% of natural killer (NK) cells and up to 10% of CD4+ T cells in PBMC cultures. Anti‐IL‐2 antibodies inhibited these increases of CD69 on NK cells and T cells by up to 60%. After 6 days of antigenic stimulation, the rates of both CD25+ and CD69+ lymphocytes were higher. Seventy‐four percent of the CD25+ PBMC but only 55% of the CD69+ cells were CD3+ T lymphocytes at this time. No qualitative differences were detectable in allergen‐ or tetanus‐toxoid‐stimulated PBMC from allergic patients. The high expression of CD69 on NK cells in antigen‐stimulated cultures suggests that these cells are easily activated by cytokines from antigen‐stimulated T cells. CD69+ NK cells may serve as early‐indicator cells in cultures with antigen‐ or allergen‐stimulated mononuclear cells.
Evaluation of the prevalence of skin prick test positivity to Alternaria and Cladosporium in patients with suspected respiratory allergy
Authors: D'Amato G. , Chatzigeorgiou G. , Corsico R. , Gioulekas D. , Jäger L. , Jäger S. , Kontou‐Fili K. , Kouridakis S. , Liccardi G. , Meriggi A. , Palma‐Carlos A. , Palma‐Carlos M. L. , Aleman A. Pagan , Parmiani S. , Puccinelli P. , Russo M. , Spieksma F. Th. M. , Torricelli R. , Wuthrich B.
Published: May 2007

D'Amato G, Chatzigeorgiou G, Corsico R, Gioulekas D, Jäger L, Jäger S, Kontou‐Fili K, Kouridakis S, Liccardi G, Meriggi A, Palma‐Carlos A, Palma‐Carlos ML, Pagan Aleman A, Parmiani S, Puccinelli R Russo M, Spieksma FThM, Torricelli R, Wüthrich B. Evaluation of the prevalence of skin prick test positivity to Alternaria and Cladosporium in patients with suspected respiratory allergy. A European multicenter study promoted by the Subcommittee on Aerobiology and Environmental Aspects of Inhalant Allergens of the European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology.

This trial was undertaken to study, in several geographically spread European countries, the prevalence of skin prick test (SPT) positivity to Alternaria (A) and Cladosporium (C) in subjects with nasal and/or bronchial symptoms of suspected allergic cause. Each patient completed an anamnestic questionnaire and underwent SPT with a panel of common inhalant allergens and also A and C supplied by three different laboratories, to allow for manufacturer bias. Specific scrum IgE determination was carried out only in subjects with SPT positivity to A and/or C with an immunoassay system. In nine European allergology centers, a total of 877 subjects was enrolled in the trial; 83 of them showed SPT positivity to A and/or C; only nine patients showed monosensitization to A, and none to C The highest percentage of positive subjects was found in Spain (20%); the lowest in Portugal (3%). In the other seven centers, the variation was 7–10%. The age range of mold‐positive subjects was 5–60 years. Rhinitis was by far the most common symptom, whether associated or not with asthma and/or conjunctivitis.
Severity scoring of atopic dermatitis: a comparison of three scoring systems
Authors: Sprikkelman A. B. , Tupker R. A. , Burgerhof H. , Schouten J. P. , Brand P. L. P. , Heymans H. S. A. , van Aalderen W. M. C. , Sprikkelman A. B.
Published: May 2007

In studies on atopic dermatitis (AD), different scoring systems are used to evaluate the severity of the disease. The objective of this study was to investigate agreement between observers in the assessment of the overall severity of AD, and interobserver variation in the assessment of severity of AD for each scoring item separately, using the Simple Scoring System (SSS), the Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index, and the Basic Clinical Scoring System (BCSS), and, furthermore, to investigate agreement between these three scoring systems in the assessment of the overall severity of AD. Eighty‐two patients (42 male) with AD, mean age 13.4 years (range 0.2−67.0), were included. Agreement between observers in assessing the overall AD severity scores, and interobserver variation in assessing AD severity of each scoring item separately were determined in 34 of these 82 patients by two physicians scoring the severity of AD by the three scoring systems. To determine agreement between the scoring systems, one physician scored the severity of AD in all patients with the three scoring systems. Agreement between observers and agreement between the three scoring systems was calculated by Cohen's kappa (κ) and by the measure of agreement according to Bland & Altaian. κ>0.4 represents fair agreement; κ>0.75 excellent agreement. In addition, interobserver variation for each scoring item separately was calculated by the Wilcoxon signed rank test. The mean differences (d) and the limits of agreement (d±2 SD of the differences) between observers by the SSS and the SCORAD were −0.82±5.58 and −0.28±7.49, respectively. κ between observers for the BCSS was 0.90 (95% CI 0.79−1.03). By the SSS, significant interobserver variation was found in assessing the severity of excoriations (P=0.02) and scales (P=0.02). By the SCORAD, significant interobserver variation was found in assessing the severity of edema/papulation (P=0.04), erythema (P=0.04), and excoriations (P=0.01). No significant interobserver variation was found in assessing the extent of AD. The mean difference and the limits of agreement between the SSS and the SCORAD were −4.17±9.52. k between the SSS and the BCSS was 0.21 (95% CI 0.09−0.33), and k between the SCORAD and the BCSS was 0.38 (95% CI 0.26−0.51). We found good agreement between observers assessing the overall severity of AD in the lower and higher scoring rates by the SSS and the SCORAD, and excellent agreement by the BCSS. Significant interobserver variation was found on the isolated intensity items scales, excoriations, edema/papulation, and erythema. We found poor agreement between the three scoring systems in assessing the overall severity of AD, indicating that the SSS, the SCORAD, and the BCSS cannot be used interchangeably to assess the overall severity of AD.
Anaphylactoid shock – a common cause of death in heroin addicts?
Authors: Edston E. , van Hage‐Hamsten M. , Edston Erik
Published: May 2007

We measured mast‐cell tryptase in postmortem blood from 22 heroin addicts dying suddenly after injection. In 32%, the concentration of tryptase was elevated (≥10 μg/1), and the mean value of tryptase was significantly different from a control group dying from known, nonimmunologic causes (P<0.05). The increased tryptase concentrations indicate that death was preceded by systemic mast‐cell degranulation. All victims of drug deaths had morphine in blood, most below 0.2 μg/ml. In 71% of the victims of drug‐related deaths with tryptase values ≥10 μg/1, the intermediate degradation product, 6–monoacetyl‐morphine, was not found in blood, whereas this was the case in only two victims with values below that cutoff point. This indicates that those with high tryptase concentrations survived longer than those with lower values. No correlation was found between the IgE levels and tryptase in either group, supporting the hypothesis that tryptase release was not mediated by an allergic reaction. The well‐known property of opiates to stimulate unspecifically the liberation of histamine and other constituents of mast‐cell granules offers one explanation of our observations. The results suggest that many heroin fatalities are caused by an anaphylactoid reaction.
Group 5 determination in Pooideae grass pollen extracts by monoclonal antibody‐based ELISA. Correlation with biologic activity
Authors: Ramírez J. , Obispo T. M. , Duffort O. , Carpizo J. A. , Chamorro M. J. , Barber D. , Ipsen H. , Carreira J. , Lombardero M.
Published: May 2007

A solid‐phase, monoclonal antibody‐based ELISA was set up to quantitale group 5 allergens in pollen extracts of wild and cultivated Pooideae grasses. The method was able to evaluate group 5 concentration in mass units with a sensitivity in the ng/ml range and a practical working range of 1–100 ng/ml. The group 5 ELISA was compared with rocket immunoelectrophoresis for determination of allergen levels in several Phleumpratense extracts, and a very good quantitative correlation was found (r=0.98; P<0.0001). A highly significant correlation (r>0.8) was also obtained in comparing allergenic potency determined by RAST inhibition to group 5 content in several wild and cultivated grass species. The results proved the usefulness of the method in the standardization of Pooideae pollen extracts employed in diagnosis and treatment.
Predictors of early‐ and late‐phase reactions to bronchial allergen challenge
Authors: Haugaard L. , Iversen M. , Dahl R.
Published: May 2007

The influence of inhaled steroids and predictive factors on the response to bronchial allergen challenge (BCA) was evaluated in. 80 asthmatics allergic to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p). All underwent BCA with Der p and measurement of early (EAR) and late asthmatic reaction (LAR). The cumulative dose of allergen producing 20% fall in FEV1, in the EAR (PD20) was calculated. Bronchial histamine provocation, conjunctival provocation test (CPT), and skin prick test with Der p extract were performed. Specific IgE to Der p in serum (RAST), blood eosinophil (EOS) count, serum eosinophil cationic protein, and eosinophil protein X were measured. Thirty patients (38%) were treated with inhaled steroids. All patients had at least a 20% fall in FEV1 in EAR. Some 42% of nonsteroid‐ and 33% of steroid‐treated patients had LAR with fall in peak flow of at least 20%. For patients not treated with steroid, 35% of variation in PD20 was explained by RAST and histamine reactivity, and 53% of variation of observed PD20 could be predicted. The baseline FEV1, EOS, and EAR explained 28% of variation in LAR, and 28% of variation in observed LAR could be predicted. For patients treated with steroids, 38% of variation in PD20 was explained by EOS and histamine reactivity, and only 18% of variation of observed PD20 could be predicted. For patients treated with steroids, it was impossible to predict LAR. We conclude that to achieve a quantitative estimation of allergen‐specific EAR and LAR, BCA cannot be replaced by the tests used in this study. Treatment with inhaled steroids modifies the response to BCA, making quantitative prediction of EAR less accurate and prediction of the magnitude of LAR impossible.
Eosinophilic pneumonia caused by Alternaria alternata
Authors: Ogawa H. , Fujimura M. , Amaike S. , Matsumoto Y. , Kitagawa M. , Matsuda T.
Published: May 2007

We describe a patient who presented with hypoxemia and diffuse bilateral pulmonary infiltrates. The diagnosis of eosinophilic pneumonia was confirmed by bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial lung biopsy. The remarkable characteristic was reappearance of the symptoms on the patient's return home, suggesting the existence of etiologic agents in his house. An environmental survey of the patient's house yielded Alternaria alternata. A high liter of anti‐A alternata antibody (IgG) was detected in his serum, and the inhalation bronchoprovocation test with A. alternata antigen was positive. This case indicates that A. alternata is a probable cause of eosinophilic pneumonia.
IgA antiendomysium antibodies in human umbilical cord sections as a screening test in relatives of patients with celiac disease
Authors: Bagnasco M. , Montagna P. , De Alessandri A. , Castellano E. , Pesce G. P. , Gatti R.
Published: May 2007

We performed the serum IgA antiendomysium antibody (EmA) assay by indirect immunofluorescence on human umbilical cord sections in 86 subjects with celiac disease, in 187 first‐degree relatives of such patients, and in a control group of 68 unrelated subjects, to investigate the suitability of the method in the screening of populations at risk of gluten sensitivity. Conventional EmA assay using monkey esophagus sections was performed in parallel experiments. The results obtained showed a perfpect correlation between the two methods. All the celiac patients and none of the controls were positive for EmA. EmA positivity was also observed in 11 apparently healthy relatives: intestinal biopsy performed in five of them invariably showed villous atrophy and increase of mucosal lymphocytes. Taking into account the low cost of EmA assay on human umbilical cord, especially when compared to monkey esophagus sections, the method is probably suitable and effective in identifying latent, asymptomatic gluten sensitivity in at‐risk populations.
Prevalence of allergic sensitization to inhalant allergens among blood donors in Kuwait ‐ a desert country
Authors: Ezeamuzie C. I. , Al‐Mousawi M. , Dashti H. , Al‐Bashir A. , Al‐Hage M. , Al‐Ali S.
Published: May 2007

Kuwait is a desert country where the prevailing high temperatures, low humidity, and scant vegetation suggest a low prevalence of allergy. We evaluated the prevalence of atopic sensitization (presence of allergen‐specific IgE) among young adult blood donors by screening a total of 505 subjects (male : female ratio 1.6) with mean age of 28.4 years (range 18–50 years). The Pharmacia CAP‐Phadiatop® test, which detects serum IgE specific to most common airborne allergens, was used. Some of the specific sensitizing allergens were also identified by the related CAP‐RAST method. Sensitization was detected in 223 of the 505 subjects (44.2%) screened. Kuwaiti nationals had a significantly higher prevalence rate (50.2%) than non‐Kuwaitis (34.2%) (χ2= 8.6, P<0.003). The highest prevalence rate was found among male Kuwaitis (53.8%). The prevalence of current or previous allergic disease (subject‐reported) was 20.6%. Bermuda grass, house‐dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus), and Chenopodium album were the most prevalent sensitizing allergens, with frequencies of 53.6%, 52.7%, and 50.9%, respectively, among the sensitized subjects (corresponding to 23.7%, 23.3%, and 22.5%, respectively) for the entire population. Sensitization increased with age, but only among the expatriates, younger Kuwaitis being as frequently sensitized as the older ones. Polysensitization was found to be common. Of the 109 CAP‐RAST‐positive subjects, 71 (65.1%) were sensitized to more than one allergen, and 30 of these (42.3%) were sensitized to four or more allergens. These results show that atopy is highly prevalent among young adults in Kuwait, and the higher prevalence rate among nationals than expatriates suggests the involvement of genetic or local environmental factors. The results also confirm that mite and plant pollens may be major sensitizing allergens even in a desert environment.
Voice reactions to histamine inhalation in asthma
Authors: Leinonen L. , Poppius H.
Published: May 2007

Susceptibility to voice reactions during a histamine provocation test was studied in 21 asthmatics and 21 healthy subjects. Speech samples were recorded before, and 5 and 15 min after histamine inhalation, and the samples were rated by six speech pathologists. Deterioration of voice quality occurred in 2/12 asthmatic men and in 3/9 asthmatic women within 5 min after histamine inhalation; no change was observed between 5 and 15 min. Voice reactions were not related to the degree of bronchial obstruction: the subjects with the most pronounced decrease in peak expiratory flow (PEF) (60–61% in three subjects) did not develop voice reactions, and PEF did not decrease in one subject with voice reactions. No voice reactions were observed in the healthy subjects.