bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dermatophagoides sp. and IgE anti‐D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae detection in a Venezuelan community at more than 2000 m above the sea level
Authors: Rangel  , Salmen  , MUÑoz  , GarcÍA  , HernÁndez  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundIt has been reported that the concentration of Dermatophagoides sp. population, the main trigger of asthma in sensitized atopic subjects, is inversely related with altitude and probably directly with humidity and that this population are scarcely found over 1750 m above sea level.ObjectiveWe studied the presence of Dermatophagoides sp. in a Venezuelan community between 2040 and 2600 m above sea level, and also the IgE response to D. pteronnyssinus and D. farinae in atopic subjects living on that region.MethodsThe presence of Dermatophagoides sp. was determined by microscopic identification of mites in dust, obtained by brushing the mattresses surface in 93 randomly selected houses between 2040 and 2600 m above sea level. The indoor relative humidity was also measured. The specific IgE serum levels were studied in 65 subjects classified as asthmatics, allergic non‐asthmatics and non‐allergic.ResultsA mean concentration of 188 mites/g of room dust was determined in 82.4% of houses with an indoor relative humidity ranging from 89% and 92% independently of altitude. The density of Dermatophagoides sp. was sufficiently high to sensitize the atopic subjects, IgE levels were 6.8 PRU mean value for asthmatic, against 0.38 PRU in non‐atopic.ConclusionsWe conclude that: (a) Dermatophagoides sp. can be found up to 2600 m above sea level in a Venezuelan neotropical region where a high indoor relative humidity is characteristic of most dwellings; (b) sensitization by D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae were demonstrated in atopic subjects resident at that region.
Allergen challenge‐induced extravasation of plasma in mouse airways
Authors: ErjefÄlt  , Andersson  , Gustafsson  , Korsgren  , Sonmark  , Persson  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundMouse models are extensively used to study genetic and immunological mechanisms of potential importance to inflammatory airway diseases, e.g. asthma. However, the airway pathophysiology in allergic mice has received less attention. For example, plasma extravasation and the ensuing tissue‐deposition of plasma proteins, which is a hallmark of inflammation, has not been examined in allergic mice.ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the vascular permeability and the distribution of plasma proteins in mouse airways following exposure to allergen and serotonin. Methods Extravasated plasma was quantified by a dual isotop technique using intravascular (131I‐albumin) and extrasvascular (125I‐albumin) plasma tracers. Histological visualization of fibrinogen and colloidal gold revealed the tissue distribution of extravasated plasma.ResultsAllergen aerosol exposure (3% OVA, 15min) of sensitized animals resulted in a marked plasma extravasation response in the trachea (P < 0.01) and the bronchi but not in the lung parenchyma. A similar extravasation response was induced by serotonin (P < 0.001). Extravasating vessels (assessed by Monastral blue dye) were identified as intercartilaginous venules. Extravasated plasma abounded in the subepithelial tissue but was absent in the epithelium and airway lumen. The allergen‐induced response was dose‐dependently inhibited by iv administration of formoterol (P < 0.001), a vascular antipermeability agent.ConclusionThe present study demonstrates that serotonin and allergen challenge of sensitized mice increase airway venular permeability to cause transient extravasation and lamina propria distribution of plasma in the large airways. We suggest that the extravasation response is a useful measure of the intensity and the distribution of active inflammation
Occupational respiratory hypersensitivity caused by preparations containing acrylates in dental personnel
Authors: PiirilÄ  , Kanerva  , Keskinen  , Estlander  , HytÖnen  , Tuppurainen  , Nordman  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundAllergic contact dermatitis caused by acrylate compounds is common in dental personnel; they also often complain of work‐related respiratory or conjunctival symptoms.ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to report the cases of acrylates induced respiratory hypersensitivity in dental personnel diagnosed in Finland during the last 6 years.MethodsOccupational asthma, rhinitis, laryngitis and pharyngitis cases were diagnosed according to patient history, PEF monitoring, and a work‐simulating provocation test.ResultsTwelve cases of respiratory hypersensitivity caused by acrylates diagnosed in dental personnel (six dentists and six dental nurses) in 1992–97 are reported. During this period one case of conjunctivitis and one of laryngitis have been published separately. Nine cases of occupational asthma, two rhinitis cases, and one laryngitis case were verified according to the challenge tests with dental acrylate compounds (acrylates, methacrylates and epoxy acrylates). Only three patients had positive skin‐prick test reactions to common environmental allergens, and none reacted to acrylates in the skin‐prick tests. Five patients had an elevated total IgE (>110 kU/L). PEF follow‐up showed an occupational effect in all examined eight patients with diagnosed asthma. The mean duration of exposure to acrylates was 22 years, and the duration of respiratory symptoms 8 years.ConclusionsThe results indicate that acrylates constitute an important hazard for dental workers. The mechanism of respiratory hypersensitivity is still unknown, and it is probably not IgE‐mediated.
Responses of human birch pollen allergen‐reactive T cells to chemically modified allergens (allergoids)
Authors: Dormann  , Ebner  , Jarman  , Montermann  , Kraft  , Reske‐Kunz  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundAllergoids are widely used in specific immunotherapy for the treatment of IgE‐mediated allergic diseases.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to analyse whether a modification of birch pollen allergens with formaldehyde affects the availability of T‐cell epitopes.MethodsEfficient modification of the allergens was verified by determining IgE and IgG binding activity using ELISA inhibition tests. T‐cell responses to birch pollen allergoids were analysed in polyclonal systems, using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of five birch pollen‐allergic individuals, as well as birch pollen extract‐reactive T‐cell lines (TCL), established from the peripheral blood of 14 birch pollen‐allergic donors. To determine whether the modification of natural (n)Bet v 1 with formaldehyde or maleic anhydride results in epitope‐specific changes in T‐cell reactivities, 22 Bet v 1‐specific T‐cell clones (TCC), established from nine additional birch pollen‐allergic individuals, were tested for their reactivity with these products.ResultsThe majority of PBMC and TCL showed a reduced response to the birch pollen extract allergoid. Bet v 1‐specific TCC could be divided into allergoid‐reactive and ‐non‐reactive TCC. No simple correlation between possible modification sites of formaldehyde in the respective T‐cell epitopes and the stimulatory potential of the allergoid was observed. Mechanisms of suppression or of anergy induction were excluded as an explanation for the non‐reactivity of representative TCC. All TCC could be stimulated by maleylated and unmodified nBet v 1 to a similar extent.ConclusionThese results demonstrate differences in the availability of T‐cell epitopes between allergoids and unmodified allergens, which are most likely due to structural changes within the allergen molecule.
Altered antigenicity of M‐177, a 177‐kDa allergen from the house dust mite Dermatophagoides farinae, in stored extract
Authors: Fujikawa  , Uchida  , Yanagidani  , Kawamoto  , Aki  , Shigeta  , Wada  , Suzuki  , Jyo  , Ono  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundA high molecular weight allergen, M‐177 (177 kDa) was isolated from Dermatophagoides farinae using a specific antibody raised to an allergenic clone Mag 3, which was obtained by immunoscreening a mite cDNA library. The potent IgE reactivity of M‐177 is comparable with that of Der f 2.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to analyse the molecular characteristics and the allergenic activity of M‐177 in stored mite extracts.MethodsAntigens were analysed by immunoblotting and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; inhibition). Allergenic activity was estimated from IgE reactivity and the results of a histamine release assay.ResultsThe intact M‐177 molecule was present in high concentrations in fresh extract obtained from purified mite bodies, but was only detected in small amounts in stored extracts. Instead of the intact molecule, anti‐Mag 3 antibody detected various cross‐reactive antigens in the stored preparations. Studies of a stored liquid extract showed that these cross‐reactive antigens were produced by the degradation of M‐177, and that this change was suppressed by the addition of protease inhibitors. Interestingly, the allergenic activity of the fragmented M‐177 (sM‐177) isolated from the stored extracts was greater than that of the intact antigen. Specific IgE reacted with sM‐177 in 84.2% of 38 sera samples from patients allergic to mites, while 65.8% were positive for M‐177‐specific IgE. Similarly, the histamine release test showed that sM‐177 had greater allergenic activity in vitro. ELISA inhibition indicated that the increased allergenic activity resulted from alteration of the antigenicity with the degradation of M‐177.ConclusionsM‐177 is a protease‐sensitive allergen. The breakdown products of M‐177 provoked higher allergenic activity than the intact allergen.
Indoor survey of moulds and prevalence of mould atopy in Israel
Authors: Katz  , Verleger  , Barr  , Rachmiel  , Kiviti  , Kuttin  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundMoulds are ubiquitous indoor as well as outdoor allergens and therefore potential candidates for indoor environmental control measures. However, very few studies have been performed to examine the significance of indoor moulds in allergic diseases and the effectiveness of measures to reduce the quantity of indoor moulds has not been established.ObjectiveTo determine the significance and the contribution of moulds to allergic manifestations.MethodsPrevalence of allergic rhinitis and asthma in 395 members of a rural community were examined by questionnaire and examination of medical files. The atopic status in general and allergy to moulds was determined by skin‐prick tests (SPTs) to a panel of aeroallergens including Aspergillus, Penicillium, Alternaria and Cladosporium. A study of indoor mould levels was performed by placing SDA plates in 59 houses. The type of fungi and the number of colonies from each species were recorded.ResultsForty‐two subjects, comprising 10.9% of the study group had positive SPT to moulds, 61.9% of those were classified as symptomatic. When taking into account individuals with a borderline positive SPT to moulds, an additional 23 had positive results. Of the 65 mould‐positive subjects, 48% were symptomatic and of the 13 who were allergic to moulds alone, only two had allergic symptoms. Viable moulds were recovered from all 59 houses examined. The most common isolated genus was Aspergillus, followed by Penicillium, Alternaria and Cladosporium. Aspergillus was also the most abundant mould in houses. There was no significant correlation between the abundance of moulds, positive SPT to that mould and symptomatology.ConclusionsViable moulds are common in houses in temperate climates. Allergy to moulds itself has a low predictive value to development of allergic symptoms, but allergy to moulds in otherwise atopic subjects increases the risk of symptomatic allergic disease.
Effect of fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray on allergen‐induced inflammatory changes in the nasal airways of allergic rhinitics following exposure to nitrogen dioxide
Authors: Wang  , Devalia  , Rusznak  , Bagnall  , Sapsford  , Davies  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundThe authors have recently demonstrated that prior exposure for 6 h to 400 p.p.b. nitrogen dioxide significantly enhances the early phase response of eosinophils in the nasal airways of allergic rhinitics to subsequent allergen provocation.ObjectiveTo investigate whether treatment with fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray (FP) can alter the inflammatory response in the nasal airways under these conditions.MethodsSixteen allergic, rhinitic patients were recruited for this double‐blind, randomized, cross‐over study and received either topical FP 200 μg once daily or matched placebo for 4 weeks. At the end of treatment, all underwent nasal lavage followed by a 6 h exposure to 400 p.p.b. NO2. Following exposure to NO2, nasal allergen challenge was performed and nasal lavage repeated. After a 4 week washout period, patients were given alternate treatment and tested as above.ResultsAnalysis of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) in lavage samples from patients treated with placebo, demonstrated that this was significantly increased from a median value of 2.3 ng/mL (range: 1.0–7.1) to 15.1 ng/mL (range: 1.5–40.0; P = 0.001) following exposure to NO2 and allergen challenge. However, in patients treated with FP, ECP concentrations only increased from 3.3 ng/mL (range: 0.2–9.2) to 5.1 ng/mL (range: 0.3–20.0; P = 0.034) following exposure to NO2 and allergen challenge. The difference of the changes in ECP concentration between the placebo and the FP‐treated group was significant (P = 0.003). Similarly, there was a significant increase in the number of eosinophils in nasal lavage after exposure to NO2 and allergen challenge in the placebo group, and this increase was inhibited in FP group (P = 0.002).ConclusionThese results suggest that FP influences NO2‐ and allergen‐induced changes in eosinophil function, as well as eosinophil number in the nasal airway of allergic rhinitics.
The relationship between anthropometric measurements at birth: asthma and atopy in childhood
Authors: Gregory  , Doull  , Pearce  , Cheng  , Leadbitter  , Holgate  , Beasley  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundRecent studies have reported that a large head circumference at birth is associated with an increased risk of raised serum IgE in adult life, and asthma during childhood.ObjectiveTo examine the relationship between head circumference and other anthropometric measurements at birth and asthma and indices of atopy in childhood.MethodsThe presence of asthma and measures of atopic status (total serum IgE level and skin prick tests to common allergens) were assessed prospectively in offspring of families participating in a community‐based genetic study in Southampton, UK. Measures of perinatal variables including birth weight, head circumference at birth, and gestational age were obtained from hospital records of 239 offspring aged 6–23 years.ResultsChildren with a head circumference of 37 cm or more at birth had a relative risk of an elevated serum total IgE (> 150 IU) of 3.2 (95% CI 1.0–10.4). There were no consistent relationships between head circumference at birth and either skin prick positivity or the development of clinical asthma. There was no significant association between other perinatal markers and measures of atopic status or clinical asthma.ConclusionThe study has identified that a large head circumference at birth is associated with an increased risk of an elevated total serum IgE in childhood. The reasons for this association, and the lack of an association with asthma are unclear and will require further research.
Do mite avoidance measures affect mite and cat airborne allergens?
Authors: Carswell  , Oliver  , Weeks  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundEffective mite allergen avoidance measures are presumed to reduce airborne allergens yet the quantity in the air is rarely measured.ObjectiveTo monitor airborne allergen during a placebo‐controlled mite allergen avoidance study.MethodsBedrooms of 56 atopic asthmatic children were randomly allocated to hot washing and encasing covers + acaricide (active regime) or placebo treatment. Dust was collected from the mattress, bedding and carpets; airborne allergen was measured using Casella samplers and dust settling in open Petri dishes. Der p 1, Der p 2 and Fel d 1 were measured.ResultsAfter 24 weeks of mite allergen avoidance the Casella air‐samplers collected Der p 1 less frequently in active than placebo‐treated bedrooms (0 vs 29%, P < 0.05) and Petri dishes in the active group collected less than baseline (0.2 vs 0.6 ng/day P < 0.05). Homes without cats had less cat allergen than cat‐owning homes and when actively treated for 24 weeks showed a greater reduction (P = 0.03) in mattress cat allergen than the placebo group.ConclusionEncasing covers and hot washing of bed linen reduced mite aeroallergen (and mattress cat allergen in the absence of cats). This could mean dual benefits to a patient sensitive to both mite and cat.
Allergenic differences between the domestic mites Blomia tropicalis and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
Authors: CHEW  , YI  , CHUA  , FERNANDEZ‐CALDAS  , ARRUDA  , CHAPMAN  , LEE  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundHouse dust mite allergens are the most important indoor allergens associated with asthma and rhinitis in Singapore and the tropics. Recent data to suggest that besides the Dermatophagoides spp., the domestic mite Blomia tropicalis (Bt) is also an important source of allergens in these regions.ObjectiveTo evaluate the degree of allergenic cross‐reactivity between Bt and D. pteronyssinus (Dp).MethodsCross‐reactivity between extracts of Bt and Dp was evaluated by fluorescent allergosorbent (FAST) inhibition studies and cross enzyme immunoelectrophoresis. Additionally, the major Dp allergens — Der p 1, Der p 2 and Der p 5, were also compared with the Bt extract by dot blot inhibition. Skin prick and intradermal end‐point titration were then carried out to compare the homologous allergens of the mite species, Blo t 5 and Der p 5.ResultsFAST inhibition studies showed low to moderate cross‐reactivity between the two dust mite extracts (maximum cross‐inhibition, 60%). Native allergens studied by cross enzyme immunoelectrophoresis using mite allergic sera also showed similar results but with at least four cross‐reactive IgE binding antigens. Dot blot inhibition studies using allergens of Dp, Der p 1, Der p 2, and Der p 5, showed little cross‐reactivity between these allergens with components of the crude Bt extracts. Further, evaluation of a recombinant allergen of Bt, Blo t 5, showed low levels of cross‐reactivity even with its homologous Dp counterpart, Der p 5.ConclusionThese results provide evidence that Bt allergens are distinct and have relatively low to moderate cross‐reactivity with Dermatophagoides spp. allergens. Bt allergens should therefore be included in the diagnostic panel for the evaluation of allergic disorders in the tropics, and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies should include allergens of Bt.
IgE reactivity and cross‐reactivity of Japanese monkeys (Macaca fuscata) to Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) pollen allergens
Authors: KOBAYASHI  , NIGI  , SAITO  , IDE  , TANIGUCHI  , INOUYE  , SAKAGUCHI  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundThe natural occurrence of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica, CJ) pollinosis has been reported in Japanese monkeys (Macaca fuscata). However, the reactivity to Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa, CO) pollen allergens in these monkeys has not yet been reported.ObjectivesThe present study was designed to investigate the reactivity to CO pollen allergens in monkeys sensitized to CJ pollen allergens.MethodsSerum samples from 40 monkeys naturally sensitized to CJ pollen allergens were collected from four troops. We measured the specific IgE to CO pollen allergens and examined the reactivity to the allergens by intradermal test. Cross‐reactivity between CJ and CO pollen allergens was examined by ELISA inhibition method. Furthermore, we examined the sensitivity to the allergens by histamine release assay from leucocytes.ResultsAll 40 monkeys had specific IgE to crude and purified major allergens (Cha o 1) of CO pollen. The monkeys showed a positive reaction to CO pollen allergens in the intradermal test. Allergenic cross‐reactivity between Cha o 1 and Cry j 1 (a major allergen in CJ pollen) was also observed. Specific histamine release to both the major allergens was noted in two monkeys with CJ pollinosis.ConclusionJapanese monkeys sensitized to Japanese cedar pollen allergens also demonstrate reactivity to Japanese cypress pollen allergens.
Allergy to bovine β‐lactoglobulin: specificity of immunoglobulin E generated in the Brown Norway rat to tryptic and synthetic peptides
Authors: Miller K. , Meredith C. , Selo I. , Wal J.‐M. 
Published: March 2003

BackgroundAnimal models which reflect the induction and development of food‐allergic reactions are important in the identification of allergenic potential of food proteins and peptides. A number of rat strains, including PVG, Hooded Lister and Brown Norway have been shown to produce immunoglobulin (Ig) E antibodies to food proteins as well as to inhaled allergens. Previous work in our laboratory using the Brown Norway (BN) rat has shown that specific IgE is produced following administration of ovalbumin and milk products via both enteral and parenteral route; this has allowed us to rank ovalbumin, lactoferrin and bovine serum albumin in terms of their inherent allergenic potential and has enabled us to demonstrate that milk protein allergens recognized by the systemically‐sensitized animal are consistent with those recognized by sera from cow's milk‐allergic patients (the most common allergens recognized were β‐lactoglobulin and the α, β and κ‐caseins).ObjectiveTo demonstrate that the BN rat model can be used to identify the major IgE‐binding peptides from β‐lactoglobulin, a known human food allergen, and that those IgE‐binding peptides are similar to those recently identified using sera from cow's milk‐allergic patients.MethodsBN rats were exposed to β‐lactoglobulin or to semiskimmed milk via the intraperitoneal route in the presence of the adjuvant carrageenan. Specific IgE raised against β‐lactoglobulin was determined by a direct enzyme immunoassay using acetyl‐cholinesterase substrate; specific IgG responses were also monitored. Overlapping synthetic peptides and tryptic peptides were used within the ELISA to identify the major and minor IgE‐binding immunoreactive sequences.ResultsIn terms of comparative immunogenicity, there appeared to be sequences that were predominantly IgE‐ or IgG‐reactive. IgE‐dominant regions were amino acid sequences 21–40, 41–60, 107–117 and 148–168 whereas sequences 1–24, 67–77, 82–92, 85–95 and 117–127 appeared more selective for IgG antibody recognition. An increased capacity to induce specific IgE was observed when the allergen was present in the context of whole food.ConclusionsThese studies provide evidence that the immune system of the BN rat and humans — at least in the case of milk allergens — is recognizing similar protein allergens and indeed, at the molecular level, similar peptide epitopes.