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This page shows you the latest news and research items in this category.

Wasp transcriptome creates a buzz
New research delivers a sting in the tail for queen wasps. Scientists at the University of Bristol have sequenced the active parts of the genome – or transcriptome – of primitively eusocial wasps to identify which part makes a queen or a worker. (Source: University of Bristol news)
Source: University of Bristol news - February 27, 2013 Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: news_text Tags: Press releases Source Type: news

Signal transduction: DNA damage sensor in the interferon response
Nature Reviews Immunology 13, 155 (2013). doi:10.1038/nri3418 Author: Maria Papatriantafyllou A new study links DNA damage sensors with the type I interferon (IFN) response to cytosolic DNA. Stimulator of IFN genes (STING) is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-residing protein that promotes IFN signalling downstream of cytosolic nucleic acid sensors. Kondo et al. observed that cytoplasmic (Source: Nature Reviews Immunology)
Source: Nature Reviews Immunology - February 25, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Maria Papatriantafyllou Tags: Research Highlight Source Type: research

Pedal coral injury: A case report - Palmanovich E, Brin YS, Laver L, Kish B, Nyska M.
We describe a large boney injury in th... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))
Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) - February 23, 2013 Category: Global & Universal Tags: Non-Human Animals and Insects Source Type: news

Chris Hadfield: the superstar astronaut taking social media by storm
Previously unheralded Canadian veteran brings space's beauty and banality to new generation – helped by his web-savvy sonsA few weeks ago, Chris Hadfield did not generate much name recognition, even in his native Canada. The 53-year-old may have been the country's most experienced astronaut, the first Canadian to walk in space and a veteran of two Shuttle missions, but few people would have stopped him in the street to ask for an autograph. Then, on December 21, Hadfield arrived at the International Space Station for his latest mission and everything changed.In a deliberate campaign to take Earth by storm, Hadfield harn...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - February 22, 2013 Category: Science Tags: United States Nasa World news Social media guardian.co.uk Canada Science Space Source Type: news

Insect bite reactions
Sanjay Singh, Baldeep Kaur MannIndian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2013 79(2):151-164Insects are a class of living creatures within the arthropods. Insect bite reactions are commonly seen in clinical practice. The present review touches upon the medically important insects and their places in the classification, the sparse literature on the epidemiology of insect bites in India, and different variables influencing the susceptibility of an individual to insect bites. Clinical features of mosquito bites, hypersensitivity to mosquito bites Epstein-Barr virus NK (HMB-EBV-NK) disease, eruptive pseudoangiom...
Source: Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology - February 22, 2013 Category: Dermatology Authors: Sanjay SinghBaldeep Kaur Mann Source Type: research

Nature's Oracle: The Life and Work of WD Hamilton by Ullica Segerstrale – review
The most important evolutionary theorist since Darwin had an eye for patterns but a blindness for peopleHow to be a hero? Self-sacrifice, taken to the ultimate, is a pretty good bet. Laying down your life for your friends gets a top biblical commendation. There is no greater love. The modern biologists' bible, however, has a harder time with self-sacrifice. Darwin's On the Origin of Species prescribes survival. You are more likely to out-reproduce the competition if you first outlive them. If self-sacrifice is extended to the sacrifice of descendants, it's clear that this road to glory is an evolutionary dead end.As a...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - February 21, 2013 Category: Science Tags: The Guardian Genetics Evolution Jon Turney Culture Biography Reviews Books Science and nature Source Type: news

Mosquitoes Can Become Desensitized to DEET
Disease-causing bugs ignore repellent's smell several hours after exposure, study finds Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Page: Insect Bites and Stings (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)
Source: MedlinePlus Health News - February 20, 2013 Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news

DNA sensing unchained.
Abstract In two recent reports in Science, James Chen and colleagues provide compelling evidence that detection of cytosolic DNA triggers the production of a novel second messenger, cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), which in turn activates a signaling pathway that induces type I interferons (IFNs) in a STING-dependent manner. They further unravel a key role for a so far uncharacterized murine protein E330016A19 (human homolog: C6ORF150), now termed cGAMP synthetase (cGAS), to act as the DNA sensor that generates cGAMP. PMID: 23419517 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Cell Research)
Source: Cell Research - February 19, 2013 Category: Cytology Authors: Ablasser A, Hornung V Tags: Cell Res Source Type: research

Bee venom could take the sting our of back pain
In a new trial, bee venom injections will be compared with salt-water injections for the treatment of chronic low back pain. (Source: the Mail online | Health)
Source: the Mail online | Health - February 18, 2013 Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news

Novel c-di-GMP recognition modes of the mouse innate immune adaptor protein STING
The mammalian ER protein STING (stimulator of interferon genes; also known as MITA, ERIS, MPYS or TMEM173) is an adaptor protein that links the detection of cytosolic dsDNA to the activation of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) and its downstream transcription factor interferon regulatory factor 3 (IFN3). Recently, STING itself has been found to be the direct receptor of bacterial c-di-GMP, and crystal structures of several human STING C-terminal domain (STING-CTD) dimers in the apo form or in complex with c-di-GMP have been published. Here, a novel set of structures of mouse STING-CTD (mSTING137–344) in apo and complex forms...
Source: Acta Crystallographica Section D - February 16, 2013 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Chin, K.-H.Tu, Z.-L.Su, Y.-C.Yu, Y.-J.Chen, H.-C.Lo, Y.-C.Chen, C.-P.Barber, G.N.Chuah, M.L.-C.Liang, Z.-X.Chou, S.-H. Tags: mouse STING c-di-GMP innate immune receptors π -helix research papers Source Type: research

Simultaneous intradermal testing with hymenoptera venoms is safe and more efficient than sequential testing
ConclusionOur skin test protocol with four simultaneously injected concentrations of two hymenoptera venoms is safe and permits the investigator to draw rapid conclusions about the individual's sensitization pattern. (Source: Allergy)
Source: Allergy - February 14, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: B. Strohmeier, W. Aberer, D. Bokanovic, P. Komericki, G. J. Sturm Tags: Brief Communication Source Type: research

Molecular cloning and biochemical characterization of the first Na(+)-channel α-type toxin peptide (Acra4) from Androctonus crassicauda scorpion venom.
Abstract Due to the medical importance played in Turkey by stings of the scorpion Androctonus crassicauda, its venom has been studied with more attention. In this communication we report a new toxic peptide, named Acra4, because it is the fourth peptide completely characterized from venom of this scorpion. The peptide contains 64 amino acid residues stabilized by four disulfide bridges, with a molecular weight of 6937 Da. Purification of the lethal peptide was performed by three steps of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separations, and the molecular weight was determined by mass spectrometry analysis...
Source: Biochimie - February 5, 2013 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Caliskan F, Quintero-Hernández V, Restano-Cassulini R, Coronas-Valderrama FI, Corzo G, Possani LD Tags: Biochimie Source Type: research

Empiric 6-food elimination diet induced and maintained prolonged remission in patients with adult eosinophilic esophagitis: A prospective study on the food cause of the disease
Background: Although empiric exclusion from the diet of the 6 food groups most likely to trigger allergies achieves eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) remission in children, data on its prolonged efficacy and effects on adults are lacking.Objective: We sought to evaluate the efficacy of a 6-food elimination diet in inducing and maintaining prolonged remission in patients with adult EoE.Methods: Sixty-seven consecutive patients with adult EoE were prospectively recruited and treated exclusively with a diet avoiding cereals, milk, eggs, fish/seafood, legumes/peanuts, and soy for 6 weeks. Subsequent challenge was undertaken by se...
Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology - February 4, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Alfredo J. Lucendo, Ángel Arias, Jesús González-Cervera, José Luis Yagüe-Compadre, Danila Guagnozzi, Teresa Angueira, Susana Jiménez-Contreras, Sonia González-Castillo, Benito Rodríguez-Domíngez, Livia C. De Rezende, José M. Tenias Tags: Food, drug, insect sting allergy, and anaphylaxis Source Type: research

Pediatric allergy and immunology in Israel
Abstract After the geographic and sociodemographic settings as well as the health care in Israel are briefly described, the scope of pediatric allergy and immunology in Israel is presented. This includes specific disorders commonly encountered, the environment that induces symptoms, the specialists who treat them, and the common challenges of patients, parents, doctors, and allied health personnel who collaborate to manage the maladies and patient care. Allergies usually affect some overall 15–20% of the pediatric population. The main allergens are inhaled, ingested, or injected (insects stings). Generally, the incidence...
Source: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology - February 3, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Carmi Geller‐Bernstein, Amos Etzioni Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

O death where is thy sting? Immunologic tolerance to apoptotic self.
Abstract In higher organisms, innate scavenging cells maintain physiologic homeostasis by removal of the billions of apoptotic cells generated on a daily basis. Apoptotic cell removal requires efficient recognition and uptake by professional and non-professional phagocytic cells, which are governed by an array of soluble and apoptotic cell-integral signals resulting in immunologically silent clearance. While apoptosis is associated with profound suppression of adaptive and innate inflammatory immunity, we have only begun to scratch the surface in understanding how immunologic tolerance to apoptotic self manifest at...
Source: Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS - February 3, 2013 Category: Cytology Authors: Ravishankar B, McGaha TL Tags: Cell Mol Life Sci Source Type: research

Epicutaneous sensitization results in IgE-dependent intestinal mast cell expansion and food-induced anaphylaxis
Conclusion: Epicutaneously sensitized mice, but not mice orally immunized with antigen plus CT, have expansion of intestinal MCs and IgE-mediated anaphylaxis after single oral antigen challenge. IgE is necessary but not sufficient for food anaphylaxis, and MC expansion in the gut can play an important role in the development of anaphylaxis. (Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology)
Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology - February 1, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Lisa M. Bartnikas, Michael F. Gurish, Oliver T. Burton, Sabine Leisten, Erin Janssen, Hans C. Oettgen, Jacqueline Beaupré, Christopher N. Lewis, K. Frank Austen, Stephanie Schulte, Jason L. Hornick, Raif S. Geha, Michiko K. Oyoshi Tags: Food, drug, insect sting allergy, and anaphylaxis Source Type: research

Anaphylaxis in a tertiary adult allergy clinic: a retrospective review of 516 patients.
CONCLUSION: In this study, the second pattern of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID) and the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) diagnostic criteria for anaphylaxis predominated among adult patients. Drugs were the leading triggering factor, followed by Hymenoptera stings, foods, latex, and exercise, respectively. Atopy, asthma, and allergic rhinitis were rarely detected. PMID: 23352528 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology)
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - January 30, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Gelincik A, Demirtürk M, Yılmaz E, Ertek B, Erdogdu D, Colakoğlu B, Büyüköztürk S Tags: Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol Source Type: research

Identification and isolation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING): an innate immune sensory and adaptor gene from camelids
Summary The mechanism by which type I interferon–mediated antiviral response is mounted by hosts against invading pathogen is an intriguing one. Of late, an endoplasmic reticulum transmembrane protein encoded by a gene called stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is implicated in the innate signalling pathways and has been identified and cloned in few mammalian species including human, mouse and pig. In this article, we report the identification of STING from three different species of a highly conserved family of mammals – the camelids. cDNAs encoding the STING of Old World camels – dromedary camel (Camelus dromeda...
Source: International Journal of Immunogenetics - January 30, 2013 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: A. Premraj, A. G. Aleyas, B. Nautiyal, T. J. Rasool Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

RRH: envenoming syndrome due to 200 stings from Africanized honeybees.
This report reveals that because of the small volume of distribution, having fewer stings does not exempt a patient from experiencing an unfavorable outcome, particularly in children, elderly people or underweight people. PMID: 23328728 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de Sao Paulo)
Source: Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de Sao Paulo - January 29, 2013 Category: Tropical Medicine Authors: Silva GA, Pires KL, Soares DC, Ferreira MR, Ferry FR, Motta RN, Azevedo MC Tags: Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo Source Type: research

In This Issue [This Week in PNAS]
Unraveling inflammation triggered by bee stingspnas;110/5/1563/UNFIG01F1unfig01European honey bee. Image courtesy of Wikimedia/Alvesgaspar.Bee venom can trigger harmful inflammatory reactions, and approximately 3% of the population in the United States alone is known to be allergic to bee stings, which kill nearly 100 people every year through anaphylactic shock. Noah Palm and... (Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences)
Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences - January 29, 2013 Category: Science Tags: This Week in PNAS Source Type: research

Blastocystis hominis Associated Acute Urticaria.
Abstract ABSTRACT:: Acute urticaria has many causative factors, which may include infections, medications (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, contraceptives and others), insect bites, physical stimuli, allergens or underlying systemic disorders. Blastocystis spp, although ubiquitous in developing countries, is rarely implicated in causing disease in the developed world. The authors present a case of acute urticaria caused by Blastocystis hominis (protozoon parasite) in an elderly farmer in rural United States. This case vignette emphasizes the importance of checking stool for ova and parasites to lo...
Source: The American Journal of the Medical Sciences - January 28, 2013 Category: Journals (General) Authors: Verma R, Delfanian K Tags: Am J Med Sci Source Type: research

Motor aphasia: A rare complication of scorpion sting
We present herein a case of scorpion sting in a 9-year-old boy who developed pulmonary edema and gradually developed cytotoxic cerebral edema with infarct leading to motor aphasia with upper motor neuron facial palsy. (Source: Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences)
Source: Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences - January 25, 2013 Category: Neuroscience Authors: Vinayak Y KshirsagarMinhajuddin AhmedSylvia M Colaco Source Type: research

Immunotherapy with Commercial Venoms Is Efficacious for Anaphylactic Reactions to Vespa orientalis Stings
Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2013;161:174–180 (DOI:10.1159/000345139) (Source: International Archives of Allergy and Immunology)
Source: International Archives of Allergy and Immunology - January 23, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Source Type: research

Sporty student paralysed after treading on a SEA URCHIN while on holiday
Callum Hall, 20, from Leeds, developed a rare and deadly infection after he trod on the creature. The sting had caused an abscess to develop on his spine. (Source: the Mail online | Health)
Source: the Mail online | Health - January 23, 2013 Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news

Rhododendron tomentosum (Ledum palustre). A review of traditional use based on current research.
Abstract Rhododendron tomentosum Harmaja (previously: Ledum palustre) is a fragrant evergreen shrub found in peaty soils in northern Europe, Asia and North America, commonly referred to as wild rosemary, marsh tea, marsh rosemary or northern Labrador tea. At least since the eighteenth century it has been used in ethnomedicine for the treatment of various ailments, such as rheumatism, cough, cold and insect bites, as well as a repellent. The essential oil of wild rosemary with the rich polyphenolic fraction possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal and insecticidal potential, demon...
Source: Fitoterapia - January 23, 2013 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Dampc A, Luczkiewicz M Tags: Fitoterapia Source Type: research

Syphilis or Jealousy? Analysis of a figure in Bronzino's painting 'Allegory of Venus and Cupid' (National Gallery, London)
In Bronzino's ‘Allegory of Venus and Cupid’, the figure often identified as Jealousy in the left halfway down corner is looking down showing shock and horror. The darkened skin of the figure below suggests syphilitic rupia: the hands are pressed on the head through a strong headache; the sclera are reddened and some teeth are missing; the fingers show periarticular nodal swellings and there is evidence of sanguinous discharge; and salivation and alopecia with anochia further suggest the effects of syphilis or its treatment with mercury.1 Further supporting the identification of this figure as Syphilis, rather t...
Source: Sexually Transmitted Infections - January 21, 2013 Category: Sexual Medicine Authors: Tagarelli, A., Lippi, D., Piro, A. Tags: Letters Source Type: research

Scorpion stings presenting to an emergency department in Singapore with special reference to Isometrus maculatus - Tan HH, Mong R.
We describe the epidemiology and clinical features of scorpion stings presenting to an emergency department in Singapore, including that of the venomous species Isometrus maculatus. A management approach to scorpion stings is proposed. METHODS... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))
Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) - January 19, 2013 Category: Global & Universal Tags: Non-Human Animals and Insects Source Type: news

In Reply to Evidence-Based Treatment of Jellyfish Stings in North America and Hawaii
Ward et al conclude, among other things, “Our review suggests that vinegar causes pain exacerbation or nematocyst discharge in the majority of species.” I disagree with this conclusion. What is the nature and quality of the evidence presented in this article? (Source: Annals of Emergency Medicine)
Source: Annals of Emergency Medicine - January 18, 2013 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Paul S. Auerbach Tags: Correspondence Source Type: research

Component‐resolved diagnosis of wasp (yellow jacket) venom allergy
ConclusionComponent‐resolved diagnoses with the wasp‐specific recombinant allergen components Ves v 1 and Ves v 5 is a reliable method to diagnose yellow jacket allergy and can help to take out the sting of difficult cases. However, as the number of patients with doubt after conventional tests is small, larger collaborative studies are needed to draw more definitive conclusions. Whether the rVes v 5 supplemented yellow jacket allergosorbent constitutes an asset in the diagnostic management of wasp venom allergy remains to be further established. (Source: Clinical and Experimental Allergy)
Source: Clinical and Experimental Allergy - January 18, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: D. G. Ebo, M. Faber, V. Sabato, J. Leysen, C. H. Bridts, L. S. Clerck Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Importance of serum basal tryptase levels in children with insect venom allergy
ConclusionsOur results indicate that sBT levels are associated with a higher risk of severe SR in children with insect venom hypersensitivity. Determination of sBT levels may help clinicians to identify patients under risk of severe SRs and optimal and timely use of therapeutic interventions in children with venom allergy. (Source: Allergy)
Source: Allergy - January 18, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: S. T. Yavuz, C. Sackesen, U. M. Sahiner, B. Buyuktiryaki, E. Arik Yilmaz, B. E. Sekerel, O. U. Soyer, A. Tuncer Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Comparative pharmacokinetic profiles of picroside I and II from kutkin, Picrorhiza kurroa extract and its formulation in rats.
This study attempts to determine the in vivo pharmacokinetic profile of picroside I and II in rats after oral administration of three different preparations namely, kutkin (a mixture of picroside I and II), P. kurroa extract and Picrolax® capsule (marketed formulation). A simple, precise, specific and sensitive method was developed for simultaneous quantification of picroside I and II in rat plasma and was applied for the pharmacokinetic study. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated from the observed plasma concentration of picroside I and II. The results showed a significant difference (p≤0.05) in oral bioavailabil...
Source: Fitoterapia - January 17, 2013 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Upadhyay D, Dash RP, Anandjiwala S, Nivsarkar M Tags: Fitoterapia Source Type: research

Paediatric bullous dermatoses
Answers to the following quiz questions can be found on page 31. QUESTION 1 Case 1: A 13-month-old boy presented with multiple pruritic tense blisters on the lower abdomen, lower extremities, groin, perineum and perioral areas for the past 1 week. There was no family history of skin disease, and no history of recent upper respiratory tract infections or drug intake prior to the onset of blistering. Physical examination revealed annular erythema with circumferential vesicles and blisters giving a ‘cluster of jewels’ appearance. There was no mucosal involvement. What is the diagnosis? Select one best answer ...
Source: Archives of Disease in Childhood - Education and Practice - January 16, 2013 Category: Pediatrics Authors: Chattopadhyay, M., Burrows, N. P. Tags: Immunology (including allergy), Drugs: infectious diseases, TB and other respiratory infections, Epilepsy and seizures, Child health, Dermatology, Poisoning, Trauma, Occupational and environmental medicine, Injury Dermatophile Source Type: research

Skin disorders encountered in a Swiss pediatric emergency department.
CONCLUSIONS: We identified a high frequency, broad spectrum and diagnostic difficulties of paediatric skin conditions. Our data highlight the need for educational measures and close collaboration between the two specialities to improve management of these children. PMID: 23297057 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Swiss Medical Weekly)
Source: Swiss Medical Weekly - January 13, 2013 Category: Journals (General) Authors: Landolt B, Staubli G, Lips U, Weibel L Tags: Swiss Med Wkly Source Type: research

The sting in the tail: antiseptics and the neuraxis revisited
(Source: Anaesthesia)
Source: Anaesthesia - January 9, 2013 Category: Anesthesiology Authors: D. Bogod Tags: Errata Source Type: research

Parasitic Wasps Master Microbiology In Addition To Neurochemistry
"Oh, beauty is a beguiling call to death, and I'm addicted to the sweet pitch of its siren." - Johnny Quid, RocknRolla [caption id="attachment_2371" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Female of the Emerald cockroach wasp Ampulex compressa manipulating an American cockroach, Periplaneta americana , which has been made docile by wasp venom and that will serve as food for the wasp larva. Image courtesy of Gudrun Herzner."] [/caption]Glinting in shimmering shades of blue and green, the emerald cockroach wasp is surely a thing of beauty, but its shimmering exterior masks its cruel nature. The emerald cockroach wasp is one...
Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed - January 7, 2013 Category: Science Tags: Evolution,Health,More Science Source Type: research

Hepatitis C virus NS4B protein targets STING and abrogates RIG‐I–mediated type I interferon‐dependent innate immunity
Conclusion: NS4B suppresses RIG‐I–mediated IFN‐β production signaling through a direct protein interaction with STING. Disruption of that interaction may restore cellular antiviral responses and may constitute a novel therapeutic strategy for the eradication of HCV. (HEPATOLOGY 2013) (Source: Hepatology)
Source: Hepatology - January 7, 2013 Category: Internal Medicine Authors: Sayuri Nitta, Naoya Sakamoto, Mina Nakagawa, Sei Kakinuma, Kako Mishima, Akiko Kusano‐Kitazume, Kei Kiyohashi, Miyako Murakawa, Yuki Nishimura‐Sakurai, Seishin Azuma, Megumi Tasaka‐Fujita, Yasuhiro Asahina, Mitsutoshi Yoneyama, Takashi Fujita, Mamor Tags: Viral Hepatitis Source Type: research

When preschool entertainment and vaccination controversy collide | Dean Burnett
"Get Well Soon" on Cbeebies has recently come under fire from a group opposed to vaccination, for showing that vaccines are safe and necessary, a position that all medical experts agree with. Although it may seem somewhat ridiculous to get so irate about a TV show for children, many people feel passionate about children's entertainment for numerous valid reasons. However, none of these reasons lend credibility to the anti-vaccination campaignersMy son is 10 months old. Thanks to him, we now watch a lot more children's television in my house. I don't think he's actually watching it himself; he's still quite young, it's just...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - January 4, 2013 Category: Science Authors: Dean Burnett Tags: Psychology Blogposts Health guardian.co.uk Vaccines and immunisation Television Science Source Type: news

Climate Change May Bring Another Mosquito-Borne Illness to U.S.
Study uses computer model to assess risk of Chikungunya virus Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Climate Change, Insect Bites and Stings, Viral Infections (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)
Source: MedlinePlus Health News - January 3, 2013 Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news

Systemic mastocytosis as a risk factor for severe Hymenoptera sting–induced anaphylaxis
We read with interest the recently published article by Stoevesandt et al about the over- and underestimated parameters in Hymenoptera-induced anaphylaxis. In this article, the authors report that the absence of urticaria/angioedema is an indicator for severe anaphylaxis and possibly also for mastocytosis, requiring assessment of baseline serum tryptase. Despite the large number of cases analyzed, authors mainly focused their goal on the evaluation of risk factors for severe anaphylaxis due to Hymenoptera field stings, particularly as regards details related to the sting reactions and concurrent medication. Conversely, th...
Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology - January 2, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Iván Alvarez-Twose, Patrizia Bonadonna, Almudena Matito, Roberta Zanotti, David González-de-Olano, Laura Sánchez-Muñoz, José Mário Morgado, Alberto Orfao, Luis Escribano Tags: Correspondence Source Type: research

Reply
We thank Alvarez-Twose et al for their valuable comments on our recent study investigating clinical signs and parameters of severe Hymenoptera venom-induced anaphylaxis. Alvarez-Twose et al refer to their previous articles implementing the Spanish Network on Mastocytosis (REMA) score as a clinical tool to individually predict the risk of mast cell clonality in patients with symptoms of systemic mast cell activation, pointing out that they have likewise defined the absence of urticaria/angioedema during episodes of anaphylaxis as an indicator of systemic mastocytosis. As specified in our Results section, screening for und...
Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology - January 2, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Johanna Stoevesandt, Johannes Hain, Axel Trautmann Tags: Correspondence Source Type: research

The natural history of milk allergy in an observational cohort
Objective: There are few studies on the natural history of milk allergy. Most are single-site and not longitudinal, and these have not identified a means for early prediction of outcomes.Methods: Children aged 3 to 15 months were enrolled in an observational study with either (1) a convincing history of egg allergy, milk allergy, or both with a positive skin prick test (SPT) response to the trigger food and/or (2) moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) and a positive SPT response to milk or egg. Children enrolled with a clinical history of milk allergy were followed longitudinally, and resolution was established by mean...
Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology - January 2, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Robert A. Wood, Scott H. Sicherer, Brian P. Vickery, Stacie M. Jones, Andrew H. Liu, David M. Fleischer, Alice K. Henning, Lloyd Mayer, A. Wesley Burks, Alexander Grishin, Donald Stablein, Hugh A. Sampson Tags: Food, drug, insect sting allergy, and anaphylaxis Source Type: research

Efficacy of venom immunotherapy given every 3 or 4 months: a prospective comparison with the conventional regimen.
CONCLUSION: The EMD is as effective and safe as the CMD. An increased maintenance seems to be the best option in term of convenience and economic savings. PMID: 23244659 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology)
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - January 1, 2013 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Simioni L, Vianello A, Bonadonna P, Marcer G, Severino M, Pagani M, Morlin L, Crivellaro M, Passalacqua G Tags: Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol Source Type: research

Major histocompatibility complex and other allergy-related candidate genes associated with insect bite hypersensitivity in Icelandic horses.
Abstract Insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) is an allergic dermatitis of horses caused by bites of insects. IBH is a multifactorial disease with contribution of genetic and environmental factors. Candidate gene association analysis of IBH was performed in a group of 89 Icelandic horses all born in Iceland and imported to Europe. Horses were classified in IBH-affected and non-affected based on clinical signs and history of recurrent dermatitis, and on the results of an in vitro sulfidoleukotriene (sLT)-release assay with Culicoides nubeculosus and Simulium vittatum extract. Different genetic markers were tested for ...
Source: Molecular Biology Reports - December 30, 2012 Category: Molecular Biology Authors: Klumplerova M, Vychodilova L, Bobrova O, Cvanova M, Futas J, Janova E, Vyskocil M, Vrtkova I, Putnova L, Dusek L, Marti E, Horin P Tags: Mol Biol Rep Source Type: research

Sublingual immunotherapy for peanut allergy: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trial
Background: There are presently no available therapeutic options for patients with peanut allergy.Objective: We sought to investigate the safety, efficacy, and immunologic effects of peanut sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).Methods: After a baseline oral food challenge (OFC) of up to 2 g of peanut powder (approximately 50% protein; median successfully consumed dose [SCD], 46 mg), 40 subjects, aged 12 to 37 years (median, 15 years), were randomized 1:1 across 5 sites to daily peanut or placebo SLIT. A 5-g OFC was performed after 44 weeks, followed by unblinding; placebo-treated subjects then crossed over to higher dose peanu...
Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology - December 27, 2012 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: David M. Fleischer, A. Wesley Burks, Brian P. Vickery, Amy M. Scurlock, Robert A. Wood, Stacie M. Jones, Scott H. Sicherer, Andrew H. Liu, Donald Stablein, Alice K. Henning, Lloyd Mayer, Robert Lindblad, Marshall Plaut, Hugh A. Sampson, Consortium of Food Tags: Food, drug, insect sting allergy, and anaphylaxis Source Type: research

366 days: 2012 in review
Nature 492, 7429 (2012). http://www.nature.com/doifinder/10.1038/492324a Author: Richard Van Noorden This epic year for science saw the discovery of the Higgs boson and Curiosity’s arrival on Mars, but researchers also felt the sting of austerity. (Source: Nature)
Source: Nature - December 19, 2012 Category: Research Authors: Richard Van Noorden Tags: News Source Type: research

Review: Application of heat or hot water reduces pain from jellyfish stings.
CONCLUSION Evidence from randomized controlled trials suggests that heat or hot water reduces pain from Physalia species and Carybdea alata jellyfish stings, but few studies were found.Interventions for reducing pain from jellyfish stings (6 randomized controlled trials)SpeciesnComparisonsResultsPhysalia spp.96Hot water immersion vs ice packHot water reduced pain more than ice pack.54Hot shower vs ice packHot showers reduced time to complete relief and had greater overall pain reduction at 15 minutes.20Vinegar vs Stingose* vs methylated spirits vs saltwaterVinegar and Stingose reduced pain; methylated spirits increased pai...
Source: Annals of Internal Medicine - December 18, 2012 Category: Internal Medicine Authors: Buckley NA, Isbister GK Tags: Ann Intern Med Source Type: research

Our Top 10 Preparedness Tips of 2012
It’s that time of the year again, when people are round up the “Top 10 This” or “Top 50 That” lists. Because it’s been such a busy year, I decided to do a little round up based on some of the top preparedness tips I’ve learned throughout this year. Today, I bring you tips 1-5. Tip #1: Know First Aid I’m clumsy and prone to accidents. This year’s list of things requiring first aid included: – Bee Sting – Bacon Grease Attack – Falling Up Stairs (that take special talent) – And my all time repeated classic, grabbing the pot handle after...
Source: Red Cross Chat - December 17, 2012 Category: Global & Universal Authors: Kristiana Almeida Tags: Preparedness Uncategorized bacon bee burn cardiac arrest cpr diet evacuation first aid food heart red cross running stairs Source Type: news

Bed Bugs Ignore Alleged Ultrasonic Annoyers
Your worst fears about those insect bites on your leg have been confirmed--your home has bed bugs. Don’t panic. There are ways of dealing with these blood-sucking pests. Unfortunately, they do not include gadgets that promise to get rid of bed bugs using ultrasonic frequencies. [More] (Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed)
Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed - December 17, 2012 Category: Science Tags: Technology,Consumer Electronics,Everyday Science,More Science,Biology,Technology Source Type: research

Bedbugs Ignore Alleged Ultrasonic Annoyers
Your worst fears about those insect bites on your leg have been confirmed--your home has bedbugs. Don’t panic. There are ways of dealing with these blood-sucking pests. Unfortunately, they do not include gadgets that promise to get rid of bed bugs using ultrasonic frequencies. [More] (Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed)
Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed - December 17, 2012 Category: Science Tags: Technology,Consumer Electronics,Everyday Science,More Science,Biology,Technology Source Type: research