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Old tunnels are generally supported by masonry structure. Nowadays, these constructions present many instability problems (cracks, collapses, convergence, etc.) due to aging phenomena on both blocks and mortars. After the analysis of blocks mechanical behaviour over time [Idris, J., Verdel, T., Al-Heib, M., 2008a. Numerical modelling and mechanical behaviour analysis of ancient tunnel masonry structures. Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology 23, 251-263.], we try in this paper to simulate the evolution of masonry joints mechanical behaviour in built tunnels and to quantify the influence of their mechanical proprieties on the tunnel behaviour by the help of the experimental design method and distinct elements numerical modelling

IgE-mediated allergy to fish is a frequent cause of severe anaphylactic reactions. Parvalbumin, a small calcium-binding protein, is the major fish allergen. We have recently isolated a cDNA coding for carp parvalbumin, Cyp c 1, and expressed in Escherichia coli a recombinant Cyp c 1 molecule, which contained most IgE epitopes of saltwater and freshwater fish. In this study, we introduced mutations into the calcium-binding domains of carp parvalbumin by site-directed mutagenesis and produced in E. coli three parvalbumin mutants containing amino acid exchanges either in one (single mutants; Mut-CD and Mut-EF) or in both of the calcium-binding sites (double mutant; Mut-CD/EF). Circular dichroism analyses of the purified derivatives and the wild-type allergen showed that Mut-CD/EF exhibited the greatest reduction of overall protein fold. Dot blot assays and immunoblot inhibition experiments performed with sera from 21 fish-allergic patients showed that Mut-CD/EF had a 95% reduced IgE reactivity and represented the derivative with the least allergenic activity. The latter was confirmed by in vitro basophil histamine release assays and in vivo skin prick testing. The potential applicability for immunotherapy of Mut-CD/EF was demonstrated by the fact that mouse IgG Abs could be raised by immunization with the mutated molecule, which cross-reacted with parvalbumins from various fish species and inhibited the binding of fish-allergic patients' IgE to the wild-type allergen. Using the hypoallergenic carp parvalbumin mutant Mut-CD/EF, it may be possible to treat fish allergy by immunotherapy. Copyright © 2007 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

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