Allergic Type Research Articles

Aeroallergen sensitization patterns in children with allergic rhinitis from Guangzhou and Liuzhou in southern China

<sec><title>Background</title><p>The sensitization patterns of allergic rhinitis (AR) to allergens exhibit global variations, influenced by diverse geographical, climatic, cultural, and genetic determinants. We aimed to contrast the allergen profiles among children belonging to distinct ethnic groups residing in two disparate provinces of China, with the objective of elucidating the impact of environmental and genetic factors on the types of allergens.</p></sec><sec><title>Methods</title><p>A comparative analysis was conducted on allergen sensitizations among children with allergic rhinitis (AR) in Guangzhou and Liuzhou from 2019 to 2023. The specific IgE response to a range of inhalant allergens was evaluated utilizing the ImmunoCAP 100 system. Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS 20 software package. For comparisons, the Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was employed, depending on the nature of the data and the assumptions of each test.</p></sec><sec><title>Results</title><p>A total of 9684 AR children from Guangzhou and 1679 from Liuzhou were enrolled in the study. Notably, the sensitization rates toward D. <italic>farinae</italic>, <italic>D. pteronyssinus</italic>, cat dander, dog dander, common ragweed, and mugwort were significantly elevated in Guangzhou compared to Liuzhou. However, the sensitization rates to cockroaches exhibited no notable disparities between the two cities.</p></sec><sec><title>Conclusions</title><p>The allergen composition in AR children is similar between Guangzhou and Liuzhou, with <italic>D. farina</italic> and <italic>D. pteronyssinus</italic> as the main allergens. However, the sensitization rates of all allergens except for cockroaches in Guangzhou are higher than those in Liuzhou. Our results suggest that the causes of allergen sensitization are complex, and genetic and environmental factors cannot be ignored.</p></sec>

Compound D from Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. attenuated type 2 inflammatory cytokine-induced tight junction disruption in airway epithelial cells.

Barrier disruption in the airway mucosae has been implicated in allergic type 2 inflammatory diseases such as allergic rhinitis and asthma. Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. has long been used in traditional medicine to treat allergic diseases. The active compound, namely compound D, has proven anti-inflammatory benefits. However, the effect of compound D on allergic inflammation remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of compound D on allergic inflammation-induced barrier disruption. Type 2 cytokine (IL-4 and IL-13)-exposed 16HBE human bronchial epithelial cells were treated with compound D. After 24, 48, and 72 h, cytotoxicity, epithelial integrity, and tight junction (TJ) disruption were determined by viability assays, transepithelial electrical resistance measurement, and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. Moreover, the mechanism of action of compound D was investigated by western blotting. Compound D (100 and 200 µM) prevented IL-4/IL-13-induced barrier disruption at 24 and 48 h with no effect on cell viability. Compound D rescued the localization of ZO-1 to pericellular areas, and the barrier-protective effect of compound D was mediated by inhibiting STAT6 signaling. Compound D can suppress IL-4/IL-13-induced epithelial inflammation and TJ disruption through STAT6 inhibition. The agent is a promising candidate for therapeutic or adjunctive treatment of type 2 inflammation-associated diseases, including asthma.

Main Airborne Pollen Species and Characteristics of Allergic Rhinitis Patients with Pollen-Related Allergies in 13 Northern Chinese Cities.

Pollen allergies have a high prevalence in northern China, whereas, the types of pollen allergens and population characteristics among different regions remain unclear. To study the species and temporal distribution of the main allergenic pollen, as well as the characteristics of patients with pollen-related allergic rhinitis (AR) in different cities in northern China. Pollen data were obtained from pollen-monitoring stations in 13 cities of northern China between 2020 and 2021. Questionnaire surveys and allergen testing were conducted in 494 patients with pollen-related allergies from Beijing in Central, Shenyang in Northeast, and Xi'an in Northwest China. In 13 cities of northern China, the main sources of pollen were cypress, poplar, elm, pine, birch and ash in spring, and mugwort, goosefoot, hop and ragweed in autumn. In Northwest China, the spring and autumn pollen periods started earlier and lasted longer than that in Central and Northeast China, and the pollen counts in autumn in was significantly higher than that in Central and Northeast China. Furthermore, the nasal, ocular and respiratory symptom and quality of life scores of AR patients in Northwest China were significantly higher than that in Central and Northeast China. 69.32-73.28% of patients had annual cost of anti-allergic medication between 500-5000 yuan. However, 40.93-48.86% of patients reported minor control of symptoms. Our results can be used as a basis for developing effective prevention and management measures for patients with pollen-related allergy in these regions, including timely pollen monitoring, patient guidance on protective measures, early intervention, and specific immunotherapy, to improve pollen-related allergy management.

A Retrospective Comparison of Aeroallergen Sensitization Among Different Allergic Diseases in Guangzhou, China.

Objective: Numerous studies have reported on the types of aeroallergen sensitization in various pediatric allergic diseases, but limited data compared the types of aeroallergen sensitization across different pediatric allergic diseases. The aim of this study is to explore the nature and significance of aeroallergen sensitization in diverse pediatric allergic conditions. Methods: A comparative analysis was carried out on aeroallergen sensitization in children suffering from allergic diseases who visited the Otolaryngology, Respiratory, and Dermatology Departments between January 2019 and December 2023. The evaluation of the specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) response to various inhalant allergens was done using the ImmunoCAP 100 system. Results: Mites remain the main aeroallergen for skin and respiratory allergic diseases, especially respiratory diseases. Dog dander, grass pollen, and mold are more common in skin allergic diseases. The differences in dog dander and grass pollen among the three groups are more pronounced in children aged 1-6, while the differences in fungi are more pronounced in children aged 7 years and above. Seasonal changes have a greater impact on the sensitization rates of cockroaches, grass pollen, and molds. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate the distribution and differences of allergen types among common pediatric allergic diseases, providing a theoretical basis for preventing the development of different allergic diseases and avoiding aeroallergens.

Impact of Aeroallergen Sensitization on Chronic Rhinosinusitis.

This study investigated the impact of aeroallergens on the development and progression of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), with a focus on the specific associations between aeroallergens and CRS according to allergen type, number, and extent of sensitization. The medical records of 256 CRS patients were retrospectively analyzed. All were divided into nonallergic, house dust mite (HDM)-allergic, pollen-allergic, and double allergic groups via specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) testing. Clinical characteristics, computed tomography (CT) scores, olfactory functions, and demographic data were compared. Correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationships between the extent of allergen sensitization and CRS severity. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for hyposmia and anosmia. The allergic group exhibited higher total CT scores than the nonallergic group (P = 0.001). Sensitivity to HDM or pollen allergens alone was not significantly associated with increased CRS severity. No significant differences were observed between the effects of HDM and pollen allergens on CRS severity. However, the double allergic group exhibited significantly higher CT scores (P < 0.001, < 0.001, and 0.003) than the other groups. Although the prevalence rates of anosmia and hyposmia were notably higher in the double allergic group, the difference was not statistically significant. The maximum specific IgE levels to HDM and pollen allergens positively correlated with the CT scores (P = 0.001 and 0.001, respectively). Allergen sensitization, particularly to multiple common allergens, contributed to CRS severity. CRS patients sensitized to both HDM and pollen allergens tended to experience the diminished olfactory function. These findings underscore the importance of considering the allergen sensitization pattern when assessing CRS severity and its potential progression.

Study on the distribution pattern of allergen sIgE in patients with respiratory allergic diseases in a hospital in Shanxi Province

To explore the allergen sensitization status of patients with respiratory allergic diseases in Shanxi Province, and to provide a basis for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of allergic diseases. It is a cross-sectional study, a total of 1 680 patients with allergic rhinitis and/or asthma diagnosed at the Department of Allergic Reaction of Shanxi Bethune Hospital from July 2021 to June 2023 who underwent allergen sIgE testing and/or skin prick test were retrospectively enrolled.There were 772 males and 908 females.The age range was 3 to 88 years. The median age was 35 years.There were 108 cases in the child group (≤12 years old), 102 cases in the adolescent group (13-17 years old), 819 cases in the youth group (18-40 years old), 498 cases in the middle-aged group (41-65 years old), and 153 cases in the elderly group (>65 years old). There were 333 cases in the allergic rhinitis group, 827 cases in the allergic asthma group, and 520 cases in the allergic rhinitis with asthma group. There were 1 254 urban patients and 426 rural patients.There were 253 cases in the northern Shanxi region, 1 195 cases in the central Shanxi region, and 232 cases in the southern Shanxi region. Statistical analyses were performed using the χ 2 test or Fisher's exact probability method to compare the differences in allergen sIgE positivity rates by sex, age, disease, living environment, and geography. The results showed that 1 027 patients (61.1%) were positive for at least one allergen sIgE, with Artemisia having the highest rate of positivity (603/1 680, 35.9%), followed by ragweed (302/1 680, 18.0%) and dust mite combinations (245/1 680, 14.6%). The number of individuals with single-allergen sIgE positivity was 357 (357/1 027, 34.8%), with the highest number of single-allergen sIgE positive results associated with Artemisia (114/357, 31.9%). The number of multiple-allergen sIgE positive results was 670 cases (670/1 027, 65.2%), with the highest number of patients having 2 allergen sIgE positive results (243/670, 36.3%). The overall positivity rate for allergen sIgE was significantly higher among males than among females (65.7% vs. 57.3%, χ2=12.405, P<0.001). Overall positivity for inhalant allergen sIgE was higher in the child and adolescent groups (88.0% vs. 88.2% vs. 59.8% vs. 40.2% vs. 19.0%, χ2=223.372, P<0.001), and food allergen sIgE positivity was highest in the child group (54.6% vs. 36.3% vs. 26.0% vs. 18.9% vs. 21.6%,χ2=66.383,P<0.001). The sIgE positivity rate of inhalant allergens was significantly higher in the allergic rhinitis group and the allergic rhinitis with asthma group than in the allergic asthma group, except for cockroaches and molds (P<0.05). The overall positive rate of allergen sIgE was significantly higher among urban patients than among rural patients (66.2% vs. 46.2%, χ2=53.230, P<0.001). The difference in the overall positive rate of allergen sIgE among patients from different regions was not statistically significant (56.1% vs. 62.0% vs. 62.1%, χ2=3.140, P=0.208). The sIgE positivity of dust mite combinations was significantly higher in the central Shanxi region and the southern Shanxi region than in the northern Shanxi region (15.5% vs. 18.1% vs. 7.1%,χ2=14.411, P=0.001). In conclusion, artemisia was the most important sensitizer for respiratory allergic diseases in Shanxi Province. The types of allergens and positivity rates were different for different sexes, ages, diseases, living environments, and regions. Therefore, patients with allergic diseases should be tested for allergens to help with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of allergic diseases.

Risk factors of systemic allergic reactions caused by subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy

Objective: To investigate the incidence and risk factors of systemic allergic reactions induced by subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) in patients undergoing SCIT injections in Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). Methods: This is a single center retrospective cohort study. Using the outpatient information system of PUMCH, the demographic information and injection-related reaction data of patients undergoing SCIT injection in Allergy Department of PUMCH from December 2018 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed to count the incidence and risk factors of systemic allergic reactions caused by SCIT. Mann-Whitney nonparametric test or chi-square test was used for single-factor analysis, and multiple logistic regression was used for multiple-factor analysis. Results: A total of 2 897 patients received 18 070 SCIT injections in Allergy Department during the four years, and 40 systemic allergic reactions occurred, with the overall incidence rate of 0.22%. The incidence of systemic allergic reaction was 0.37% when using imported dust mite preparation and 0.15% when using domestic multi-component allergen preparation. The risk factors significantly related with SCIT-induced systemic allergic reactions in patients using imported dust mite preparation were age less than 18 years old (OR=3.186,95%CI: 1.255-8.085), highest injection concentration (OR value could not be calculated because all patients with systemic reactions were injected with highest concentration), and large local reaction in previous injection (OR=22.264,95%CI: 8.205-60.411). The risk factors for SCIT-induced systemic allergic reactions in patients using domestic allergen preparation were 5 or more types of allergens (OR=3.455,95%CI: 1.147-10.402), highest injection concentration (OR=3.794,95%CI: 1.226-11.740) and large local reaction in previous injection (OR=63.577,95%CI: 22.248-181.683). However, SCIT injection in pollen allergic patients during the pollen season did not show a correlation with systemic allergic reaction. Conclusion: The incidence of SCIT-induced systemic allergic reactions was low in the Chinese patient population of this study. Patients with one or more risk factors, such as multiple allergen injection, highest injection concentration, large local reaction in previous injection, should be given high attention and vigilance against systemic allergic reactions.

Effects of different inhalant allergens on lung functions in adult patients with bronchial asthma.

To analyze the effects of different types of inhalant allergens on the lung functions of adult patients with bronchial asthma. This cross-sectional study included a total of 47 adults diagnosed with bronchial asthma at the Respiratory Outpatient Department of Tianjin First Central Hospital. Patients were divided into non-sensitized and sensitized groups based on the number of positive allergens detected and classified into four groups (the dust mite mixed group, animal dander mixed group, pollen-mixed group, and mold mixed group) based on the type of positive allergen detected. They were tested for the serum concentration of allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) using a fluorescence immunoassay analyzer, and lung function was assessed using a pulmonary function testing machine. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare normally distributed data, while the rank sum test was utilized for non-normally distributed data. There was no statistically significant difference in lung function indicators between these two groups (p > .05). There were statistically significant differences in forced expiratory volume in one second as a percentage of the predicted value (FEV1 %pred) (p = .028), FEV1 /forced vital capacity as a percentage of the predicted value; (FVC%pred) (p = .016), peak expiratory flow as a percentage of the predicted value (PEF%pred) (p = .001), forced expiratory flow at 50% of the predicted value of forced vital capacity (FEF50%pred) (p = .003), forced expiratory flow at 75% of the predicted value of forced vital capacity (FEF75%pred) (p = .023), and maximal midexpiratory flow (MM)EF75/25%pred (p = .002) among the four groups. The pollen-mixed group had higher PEF%pred (pollen vs. animal dander, p = .067; pollen vs. dust-mites, p = .008; pollen vs. molds, p = .001) and MMEF75/25%pred (pollen vs. animal dander, p = .048; pollen vs. dust-mites, p = .003; pollen vs. molds, p = .001) than the other three groups. The pollen-mixed group had higher FEF50%pred than the dust-mites mixed group (p = .008) and molds-mixed group (p = .001). The pollen-mixed group had higher FEF75%pred (p = .005), FEV1 %pred (p = .001), and FEV1 /FVC%pred (p = .001) than the molds-mixed group. Different inhalant allergens had different effects on lung functions in adults with asthma.

Impact of ultra-low temperature storage on serum sIgE detection and allergic disease biobank feasibility

Research has shown that the concentration and composition of biological samples may change after long-term ultra-low temperature storage. Consequently, this study examined the effect of ultra-low temperature storage on serum sIgE detection by comparing sIgE concentrations at various durations from the time of sample storage to subsequent testing. We selected 40 serum samples from the Guangzhou Medical University Affiliated First Hospital Biobank, which had been tested for house dust mites, dog hair, tobacco mold, cockroaches, and cow milk allergen sIgE. Samples were categorized by storage duration: 14 samples stored for 10 years, 12 for 5 years, and 14 for 3 years. They were also classified by sIgE positive levels: 15 samples at levels 1–2, 15 at levels 3–4, and 10 at levels 5–6. The allergen sIgE of these samples was retested using the same technology. Regardless of the type of allergen or the level of positivity, the majority of sIgE concentrations measured at the time of storage were higher than the current measurements, but the difference was not statistically significant. The correlation between the sIgE results at the time of storage and the current results was high for samples stored for 10 years (rs = 0.991, P < 0.001) and 5 years (rs = 0.964, P < 0.001). Serum allergen sIgE is stable when stored under ultra-low temperature conditions, making the construction of a biological sample bank for allergic diseases feasible. This will facilitate researchers in quickly obtaining samples, conducting technical research, and translating findings, thereby promoting the development of the field of allergy through integration of industry, academia, and research.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Other Medications Associated With Angioedema.

Angioedema is a localized swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissues, and/or submucosal tissues caused by fluid extravasation into these tissues. Angioedema is associated with certain vasoactive molecules and is typically mediated by histamine or bradykinin. It manifests clinically as facial edema, swelling of the extremities and urogenital area, and potential involvement of the larynx, leading to dyspnea and inspiratory stridor, which can become life-threatening. Histamine-mediated angioedema is associated with urticaria and pruritus and will show classic signs of allergic (type 1 hypersensitivity) reactions. Bradykinin-mediated angioedema is often familial (hereditary angioedema) and is more often associated with gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), edema of the extremities and trunk, and a lack of urticaria and pruritus. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are a class of medications commonly prescribed for hypertension, heart failure, and diabetic nephropathy. ACEIs are associated with an increased risk of angioedema, which can range from a mild reaction to severe and life-threatening. ACEI-induced angioedema is a bradykinin-mediated reaction that can occur in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Other medications, such as angiotensin receptor blockers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and certain antibiotics, most notably those in the beta-lactam class, can also cause drug-induced angioedema. The present investigation describes current knowledge of the pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, predisposing factors, and management of drug-induced angioedema.

Identification of Pla a 7 as a novel pollen allergen group in Platanus acerifolia pollen

Platanus acerifolia is recognized as a source of allergenic pollen worldwide. Currently, five Platanus acerifolia pollen allergens belonging to different protein families have been identified, in which profilin and enolase were characterized by our group recently. Besides, we also screened and identified a novel allergen candidate as triosephosphate isomerase, which was different from already known types of pollen allergens. However, the role of this novel allergen group in Platanus acerifolia pollen allergy was unclear. Therefore, we further investigated the allergenicity and clarify its clinical relevance in this study. The natural triosephosphate isomerase from Platanus acerifolia pollen was purified by three steps of chromatography and identified by mass spectrometry. The cDNA sequence of this protein was matched from in-house transcripts based on internal peptide sequences, which was further confirmed by PCR cloning. The recombinant triosephosphate isomerase was expressed and purified from E. coli. Allergenicity analysis of this protein was carried out by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, immunoblot, and basophil activation test. A novel allergen group belonging to triosephosphate isomerase was firstly identified in Platanus acerifolia pollen and named as Pla a 7. The cDNA of Pla a 7 contained an open reading frame of 762bp encoding 253 amino acids. The natural Pla a 7 displayed 41.4% IgE reactivity with the patients' sera by ELISA, in which the absorbance value showed correlation to the serum sIgE against Platanus acerifolia pollen extract. Inhibition of IgE-binding to pollen extracts reached 26%-94% in different Pla a 7-positive sera. The recombinant Pla a 7 exhibited weaker IgE-reactivity in ELISA than its natural form, but showed comparable activity in immunoblot. The allergenicity was further confirmed by basophil activation test. Triosephosphate isomerase (Pla a 7) was first recognized as pollen allergen in Platanus acerifolia pollen, which is a completely different type of pollen allergen from those previously reported. This finding is essential to enrich information on allergen components and pave the way for molecular diagnosis or treatment strategies for Platanus acerifolia pollen allergy.

Relationship Between the Type of Allergen and Night Sweat in Allergic Children.

Atopic diseases can accompany allergic sensitization. The amount of allergen is as important to know since allergen exposure affects sensitization development. Some allergic children complain of intense sweating during the first few hours of transition to sleep especially at night. This study was carried out to investigate the relationship between the type of allergen to which children are sensitized and night sweating. Children aged two to 18 years old with single allergic sensitization were included. A specific immunoglobulin E (IgE)skin prick test results were obtained from the medical records of the patients. Then, the patients' families were asked to evaluate the levels of sweating from 0 to 10 with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) questionnaire and the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC). Sensitization to mites was more prevalent in the group of patients with night sweating (p<0.001), and pollen allergy was more prevalent in the group of patients without night sweating (p<0.001). Conclusion: The amount of mites and wetness in bed sheets might be responsible for allergic sensitization. A change in clothes and bed sheets for those with intense sweatingmight ensure better sleep and reduce the severity of the atopic symptoms. Such a recommendation might provide a better clinical outcome in these patients.

Novel mechanistic insights underlying fungal allergic inflammation.

The worldwide prevalence of asthma and allergic disorders (allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, food allergy) has been steadily rising in recent decades. It is now estimated that up to 20% of the global population is afflicted by an allergic disease, with increasing incidence rates in both high- and low-income countries. The World Allergy Organization estimates that the total economic burden of asthma and allergic rhinitis alone is approximately $21 billion per year. While allergic stimuli are a complex and heterogenous class of inputs including parasites, pollens, food antigens, drugs, and metals, it has become clear that fungi are major drivers of allergic disease, with estimates that fungal sensitization occurs in 20-30% of atopic individuals and up to 80% of asthma patients. Fungi are eukaryotic microorganisms that can be found throughout the world in high abundance in both indoor and outdoor environments. Understanding how and why fungi act as triggers of allergic type 2 inflammation will be crucial for combating this important health problem. In recent years, there have been significant advances in our understanding of fungi-induced type 2 immunity, however there is still much we don't understand, including why fungi have a tendency to induce allergic reactions in the first place. Here, we will discuss how fungi trigger type 2 immune responses and posit why this response has been evolutionarily selected for induction during fungal encounter.

Pattern and Severity of Allergic Rhinitis Correlated with Patient Characteristics: A Rural Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Allergic Rhinitis (AR) is rising in incidence in both developed and developing countries. Genetics and epigenetics have a potential role to play. The pattern and severity of AR have implications with regard to choice of treatment, which itself could be related to patient specific genetic and epigenetic factors. Hence, the present study was undertaken to correlate the patient characteristics with AR pattern and severity, in order to understand the pathophysiology of AR. The study also aimed to find out the allergen sensitivity pattern among patients attending a tertiary care centre of rural central India, where climatic variations make it a high prevalence zone. Prospective Observational study on 90 patients with clinically diagnosed Allergic Rhinitis confirmed by Skin Prick Tests. Patient characteristics like demographic data, data relevant to allergen exposure, occupation, family history of atopy and gender; and Disease characteristics like severity (mild, mod-severe), pattern (continuous/ intermittent), type of disease (seasonal/perennial) were noted, analysed and correlation studied. Majority of the patients with AR were in the age group of 15-40 years. Medical students (52%) suffered from moderate to severe type of Allergic Rhinitis, with Persistent disease in approximately 80%. Similarly, 70.59% of farmers had moderate to severe type of the disease, with persistent disease in 70%. In the present study, in clinically diagnosed allergic rhinitis patients, Mite was the commonest allergen found on Skin Prick Test overall and in Medical students, whereas Pollen sensitivity was more common among farmers. 56.66% of the patients had negative family history of atopy. Severity and type of AR depend on allergen exposure. In farmers and medical professionals, persistent and moderate to severe type of disease was more common, as they were persistently exposed to different type of allergens, mites in case of medical professionals and pollens in farmers. Hence, the Disease characteristics, as defined by ARIA guidelines, should not be taken in isolation and management should consider the Patient characteristics for deciding and devising protocols. In the present study, more than 50% patients were without family history of atopy. Hence, the role of various environmental factors, leading to epigenetic changes could be a major contributor in the increase in incidence of allergic rhinitis in recent times. Occurrence of perennial moderate to severe form of disease, in majority of farmers, defies the phenomenon of "Hygiene Hypothesis", focusing on the role of epigenetic changes and various outdoor allergens in the development of allergic rhinitis in them.

Allergen Differences and Correlation Analysis in Siblings Diagnosed with Respiratory Allergic Diseases

Introduction: Many parents of children with allergies are worried whether their subsequent children will have allergic reactions to the same allergens. Much of the current research on sibling allergens has been focused on twins; however, in real life, very few children are twins. Our study provides an opportunity to initially explore the sensitivity to allergens in siblings diagnosed with respiratory allergic diseases. Methods: Siblings diagnosed with bronchial asthma and/or allergic rhinitis in the Outpatient Department of Allergy Department of Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital from January 2018 to December 2021 were selected. The siblings were divided into elder group and younger group. Data of gender, age, feeding history, serum total IgE (TIgE), absolute eosinophil counts, and allergen-specific IgE (sIgE) were collected and analyzed. The sIgEs of allergens were divided into six categories and analyzed. Results: A total of 98 sibling pairs of patients were included in this study. There were no differences in the positive rates of the different types of allergens, TIgE values, and the absolute eosinophil values between the elder and younger groups and between different genders. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the elder siblings allergic to dust mites, fungi, weed pollens, or food had a statistically significant increased risk of having their younger sibling sensitive to these types of allergens (all p <0.05), and the risk of allergy to dust mites, weed pollens, and tree pollens of younger group increased with age (all p <0.05). Except for the sIgE values of dust mites, the sIgE values of the other allergens were significantly correlated between the two groups (all p <0.05). Conclusion: The positive rates of different allergens were similar between siblings. Elder siblings with dust mites, fungi, weed pollen, or food allergen positivity will have younger siblings sensitive to the same types of allergens.

Recent Advances in Polymer-Based Biosensors for Food Safety Detection.

The excessive use of pesticides and drugs, coupled with environmental pollution, has resulted in the persistence of contaminants on food. These pollutants tend to accumulate in humans through the food chain, posing a significant threat to human health. Therefore, it is crucial to develop rapid, low-cost, portable, and on-site biosensors for detecting food contaminants. Among various biosensors, polymer-based biosensors have emerged as promising probes for detection of food contaminants in recent years, due to their various functions such as target binding, enrichment, and simple signal reading. This paper aims to discuss the characteristics of five types of food pollutants-heavy metals, pesticide residues, pathogenic bacteria, allergens, and antibiotics-and their adverse effects on human health. Additionally, this paper focuses on the principle of polymer-based biosensors and their latest applications in detecting these five types of food contaminants in actual food samples. Furthermore, this review briefly examines the future prospects and challenges of biosensors for food safety detection. The insights provided in this review will facilitate the development of biosensors for food safety detection.

The Prevalence of Atopic Diseases Among Pediatric Food Allergic Patients.

Introduction Food allergy is an immunological reaction that occurs in response to particular proteins in food. As food allergy can affect multiple body organs, symptoms usually include pruritus, urticaria, rash, cough, dyspnea, and wheezing. Atopic diseases are common in patients with food allergies, and multiple significant associations have been made between them. As such, the presence of food allergy in atopic patients can be used as an indicator of disease severity. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of atopic diseases in food allergy patients. Methodology This was a retrospective cohort study that included pediatric patients aged 0-14 with confirmed food allergies between January 2016 and June 2022. Data was retrieved from electronic medical records and included patients' demographics, type of food allergens, symptoms of food allergy, presence of atopic diseases, and the utilization of healthcare services. Categorical variables were reported as frequencies and percentages, with Chi-squared being used for comparison. Results A total of 228 patients were included in the study. Half of them (114, 50%) were diagnosed with an atopic disease. Seventy-four (64.9%) had asthma, 57 (50%) had atopic dermatitis, and 45 (39.5%) had allergic rhinitis. The most common food allergens in atopic patients were eggs and milk products, in 53 (46.4%) and 42 (36.8%), respectively. There was a significant association between allergy to eggs (p=0.0005), bananas (p=0.0242), and strawberries (p=0.0393), and the presence of an atopic disease. No significant difference was found between atopic and non-atopic patients in terms of utilization of outpatient (p=0.09), inpatient (p=0.50), or ER visits (p=0.31) due to food allergy. Conclusion The current study demonstrates the prevalence of atopic disease in patients with food allergies. Although certain foods were associated with the prevalence of atopic diseases, both atopic and non-atopic patients have similar utilization of health care services such as outpatient, inpatient, and ER.

Aeropalynological Profile Of Cherepovets And Vologda, The Cities Of Vologda Region, Nw Russia

The article presents data on the composition and seasonal dynamics of airborne pollen in Cherepovets and Vologda. The study was carried out from April 10 to September 30, 2014 and from April 16 to August 31, 2015 in Cherepovets, and from June 3 to September 30, 2019 in Vologda. Pollen data were obtained from the Durham gravimetric samplers. Samples were collected daily. Twenty-one types of pollen have been identified, ten of which are the most common allergenic types (Alnus, Artemisia, Betula, Fraxinus, Salix, Plantago, Poaceae, Quercus, Rumex, Urtica), which account for more than 50% of all pollen that has been registered. The article contains pollen calendars showing two peaks of pollen grain quantity: spring (from last decade of April to May), summer (from the end of June to the middle of July). Betula (30%) and Asteraceae (28%) pollen dominate in the pollen spectrum. Pinus (20%), Plantago (6%) and Poaceae (5%) also play an important role in the regional spectrum. The results show the presence of allergenic pollen from different taxa throughout the study. The proportion of damaged pollen grains is approximately 2%, which corresponds to the norm in natural population in normal condition. This data can become the basis for developing recommendations for reducing the level of pollinosis in the Vologda Region.

A review of current evidence on food allergies during pregnancy.

Food allergy is the reaction of the immune system of the body that occurs after consuming specific foods. During specific physiological ages of pregnancy, women are more prone to different allergic reactions and mostly these reactions may prolong and have long-term effects. The hypersensitivity of different types of allergens is mainly linked with the adversity of reactions. The chances of suffering food allergies in women are greater than in men; women are usually more prone to get allergic to some foods during their specific physiological age of pregnancy. Food allergies are more common in pregnant women as every fifth pregnant woman is affected by some kind of allergy. The specific reasons and evidence of the causes of these food allergies during pregnancies have yet to be explored. A pregnant woman should take a balanced diet and avoid consuming known allergic foods to minimize the risk and complications. This review aimed to broaden the knowledge on food allergies during pregnancies, their onset in the babies, and to make it easy for pregnant women to cope with the complications caused by these food allergies. It also aimed to figure out the certain food that might be responsible for the onset of allergies in women during pregnancy and the effect of these allergies on their babies.

Analysis of Multimorbidity of Moderate to Severe Allergic Rhinitis in Children: A Real-World Study

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis (AR) in children is associated with various comorbidities, posing challenges for treatment and management. There have been few investigations of these multimorbidities in Chinese children with AR. Here, we investigated the prevalence of multimorbidities in children with moderate to severe AR and analyzed the influencing factors using real-world data. Methods: In total, 600 children who visited the outpatient clinic of our hospital and were diagnosed with moderate-severe AR were prospectively enrolled. All children underwent allergen detection and electronic nasopharyngoscopy. Parents or guardians completed a questionnaire that included age, sex, mode of delivery, feeding pattern, and familial history of allergy. The multimorbidities investigated included atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma, allergic conjunctivitis (AC), chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), adenoid hypertrophy (AH), tonsil hypertrophy (TH), recurrent epistaxis, and recurrent respiratory tract infections (RRTIs). Results: The AR multimorbidities reported in children were as follows: recurrent epistaxis (46.5%), AC (46.3%), AD (40.7%), asthma (22.5%), RRIs (21.3%), CRS (20.5%), AH (19.7%), and TH (12.5%). In univariate logistic regression analysis, age (<6 years), birth mode, familial history of allergy, and single dust mite allergy were associated with AR multimorbidity (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that a familial history of allergy was an independent risk factor for AC (odds ratio [OR] = 1.539, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.104–2.145) and AH (OR = 1.506, 95% CI: 1.000–2.267) (p < 0.05). Age (<6 years) was independently associated with the risk of AD (OR = 1.405, 95% CI: 1.003–1.969) and RRTIs (OR = 1.869, 95% CI: 1.250–2.793) (p < 0.05), cesarean section with AR and CRS risk (OR = 1.678, 95% CI: 1.100–2.561), and single dust mite allergy with asthma (OR = 1.590, 95% CI: 1.040–2.432) and CRS (OR = 1.600, 95% CI: 1.018–2.515) risk (p < 0.05). Further, non-dust mite allergy was independently associated with AR and CRS (OR = 2.056, 95% CI: 1.084–3.899). Conclusion: AR was found to be accompanied by different comorbidities, including both allergic and non-allergic comorbidities, complicating disease treatment. These findings demonstrated that age (<6 years), familial history of allergy, types of allergens, and cesarean section were risk factors for different multimorbidities associated with AR.