bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oscillations of Granulocytic and Megakaryocytic Progenitor Cell Populations in Cyclic Neutropenia in Man
Authors: Jacobsen Niels , Broxmeyer Hal E.
Published: August 2010

The concentration of granulocytic progenitor cells in the bone marrow of 2 patients with cyclic neutropenia was assessed at intervals during the cycle. Syncroneous oscillations were observed for cells forming neutrophilic and megakaryocytic colonies in diffusion chambers in viva (CFU‐D), suggesting a close relationship between the two cell types. However, an almost reverse relationship was observed between CFU‐D and cells forming colonies in agar culture1 in vitro (CFU‐C), which cycled out of phase with CFU‐D. This supports the concept that CFU‐D and CFU‐C denote different cell types.
Three Different Acid Phosphatase Patterns in Leukaemic Lymphoid T‐Cells
Authors: Søndergaard‐Petersen Helena , Boesen Anne Marie
Published: August 2010

The acid phosphatase pattern was studied in leukaemic cells from 8 patients with T‐cell leukaemia (5 ALL and 3 CLL). In 2 cases the enzyme activity was focal granular with paranuclear localization as earlier demonstrated by other authors, while ‐ in contrast to these findings ‐ the enzyme activity in 4 cases demonstrated universal granular distribution. Almost all the cells from each patient showed the same picture. In the last 2 cases a mixed focal and universal granular pattern was observed, where half the cells possessed the focal form and the other half the universal form of granular activity. The two first‐mentioned patterns were observed in cases of T‐ALL as well as of T‐CLL, while the mixed pattern was seen only in cases of T‐ALL.
Human Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia Surface Markers and Activation of Lymphocytes
Authors: Autio K. , Turunen O. , Erämaa E. , Penttilä O. , Schröder J.
Published: August 2010

Cell surface markers and the responses of lymphocytes to T‐ and B‐cell mitogens were studied in 10 patients with CLL. T cells were identified as cells rosetting with sheep red blood cells (SRBC), and S‐Ig was used as a marker for B lymphocytes. Most cells from all patients had detectable amounts of S‐Ig, and the percentage of cells rosetting with SRBC was low in all cases. Of the lymphocytes from these patients, 3–74 % (mean 33 %) were positive for the acid esterase (ANAE), which has been claimed to be a T‐cell marker. However, some patients had cells that were positive for both S‐Ig and ANAE. Acid esterase staining is therefore not a valid T‐cell marker in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.

In cultures containing the T‐cell mitogen leucoagglutinin (LA) and the T‐ and B‐cell mitogen pokeweed mitogen (PWM) the reactivity of the lymphocytes was low. The cells responded vigorously to the T‐ and B‐cell mitogen protein A (PA); however, the response was serum‐dependent, being strong in a culture medium containing foetal calf serum (FCS), but impaired in the presence of human AB serum. Only 1 patient had cells that responded to the B‐cell mitogen LPS.
Hodgkin's Disease and Infectious Mononucleosis
Authors: Green John A. , Dawson Audrey A. , Valerio David
Published: August 2010

Sequential sero‐positive infectious mononucleosis is described in 3 sibs, 2 of whom subsequently developed Hodgkin's disease. EB virus antibodies were present in the serum of both cases.
Massive Platelet Transfusion after Splenectomy in a Case of Myelofibrosis
Authors: Toolis Francis , Paton L.
Published: August 2010

A patient with myelofibrosis complicated by massive splenomegaly underwent splenectomy to alleviate the increasing transfusion requirements and iron overload. The platelets exhibited qualitative defects pre‐operatively. Following splenectomy the patient bled profusely and required massive blood and platelet transfusions. The postoperative haemorrhage was controlled by giving sufficient platelets to normalize the platelet aggregation.
Composition of Human Granulocytic Colonies as a Function of the Purification Stage of CSF
Authors: Scarrà G. L. Bianchi , Ajmar F. , Barresi R. , Ferraris A. M. , Sessarego M.
Published: August 2010

Granulopoietic colonies grown in presence of human placental conditioned medium (HPCM), before and after partial purification, were characterized in terms of number of colonies, colony size and cellular composition. Our data demonstrate that the removal of inhibitors present in crude HPCM preparations results in a higher number of CFUc, which are wider in size and with different cellular composition.
Acute Non Lymphoid Leukaemia Following Hodgkin's Disease Clinical, Biological and Cytogenetic Aspects of 3 Cases
Authors: Papa Giuseppe , Alimena Giuliana , Annino Luciana , Anselmo Anna Paola , Ciccone Fabrizio , Luca Anna Maria De , Granati Lucia , Petti Nicola , Mandelli Franco
Published: August 2010

In a group of 254 patients treated for Hodgkin's disease with a follow up period of minimum 2 years, 3 cases of acute non lymphoid leukaemia (ANLL) were observed: erythroleukaemia, myelomonocytic and myeloblastic leukaemia, respectively. The crude incidence of leukaemia in all patients was 0.0128 and patient year risk was estimated to be 0.003652. All 3 patients had received radiation therapy and chemotherapy. In all cases a haemopoietic dysplasia preceded ANLL.

Bone marrow chromosome investigations showed an abnormal karyotype in all patients: chromosomal changes were present in 100 % of cells and revealed a non‐random distribution, the most frequent involvement being clustered to chromosomes nos 11, 17 and 21. Hypodiploidy was prevalent and multiple structural rearrangements, such as markers, rings and minutes, were present in a high percentage of cells. Other changes involved chromosomes nos 5, 7 and 14.

Our results are compared with other previously reported cases and possible pathogenetic implications are discussed.
Adherent Cell Dependent Colony‐Stimulating Activity in Human Serum: A Granulopoietic Regulator?
Authors: Francis G. E. , Berney J. J. , Murray V. S. G. , Jackson B. , Hoffbrand A. V.
Published: August 2010

Bacterial infections and trauma which increase production of granulocytes and monocytes by the bone marrow, may do so through factors in serum capable of stimulating growth of granulocyte‐macrophage cells in vitro. Human serum possesses two types of colony stimulating activity (CSA), one which stimulates granulopoietic progenitor cells directly, and another which results from the interaction of serum and bone marrow adherent cells (monocyte‐macrophages) or peripheral blood leucocytes: adherent cell dependent CSA. These activities are due to different factors which may be separated by gel filtration.

Sera of 7 patients undergoing hystectomy who developed post‐operative infection showed post‐operative elevation of the adherent cell dependent activity in all cases but no change in direct acting CSA. These results suggest that the direct acting CSA in human serum does not represent the principal humoral ‘message’ to the bone marrow from sites of trauma and infection in the tissues and that granulopoiesis may be controlled indirectly by the action of a different humoral factor which increases production of CSA by marrow monocyte‐macrophages. Preliminary experiments suggest that lymphocytes stimulated by bacterial products may be one source of this factor.
Collection of Large Quantities of Granulocyte/Macrophage Progenitor Cells (CFUc) in Man by Means of Continuous‐Flow Leukapheresis
Authors: Körbling Martin , Fliedner Theodor M. , Pflieger Horst
Published: August 2010

Continuous‐flow leukapheresis using the AMINCO Celltrifuge® was performed in 35 adult volunteers for the procurement of large quantities of granulocyte/macrophage progenitor cells (CFUc) as part of the mononuclear leucocytes.

The donor blood volume processed was 12 1 at a flow rate of 50 ml per min. The centrifuge speed was 800 rpm. The mean yield of mononuclear cells (MNC) per run was 12.0 times 109 and that of CFUc, 8.7 times 105. The leukapheresis did not much affect the donor blood cell concentration except the platelet concentration; this must be considered as a limiting factor for leukapheresis. The mean granulocyte contamination of the leukapheresis‐derived leucocytes was only about 10%.

Successive leukaphereses (with short‐term intervals) in 7 donors led to significant increases in CFUc yield.

The possible therapeutic application of blood stem cells in the treatment of haemopoietic failure in man is discussed.
2 Translocations, t(11;14) and t(l;6), in a Patient with Plasma Cell Leukaemia and 2 Populations of Plasma Cells
Authors: Gahrton Gösta , Zech Lore , Nillsson Kenneth , Lönnqvist Berit , Carlström Anders
Published: August 2010

2 translocations, t(11;14) and t(1;6), were found in 24 out of 46 metaphases in bone marrow cells from an untreated patient with plasma cell leukaemia. The predominating cell population produced only kappa chains while a minute population produced IgG kappa. All serum Ig's were low and only minimal amounts of monoclonal IgG kappa were found in the serum and very small amounts of kappa light chains in the urine. Analyses of ours and 2 other reported patients indicated the possibility that the location of breakpoints on the chromosomes may be of etiologic importance for the type of light chain and perhaps for the class of heavy chain.
Platelet Aggregation in Neonates with Hyperbilirubinaemia
Authors: Hiçsönmez Gönül , Prozorova‐Zamani Vahide
Published: August 2010

In 19 jaundiced newborns who had no evidence of kernicterus the effect of bilirubin on adenosine‐5′‐diphosphate (ADP), epinephrine and collagen‐induced platelet aggregation was studied. Compared to 20 normal adult controls, no significant difference was found for ADP and collagen‐induced platelet aggregation in jaundiced infants. However, with epinephrine, significantly decreased aggregation was observed, but this was also the case for non‐jaundiced infants. This suggests that the reduced response to epinephrine in hyperbilirubinaemic infants is related to age rather than to bilirubin. Increased bilirubin is therefore not responsible for any increased bleeding tendency due to impaired platelet function.
Long‐Term Influence of Splenectomy on Immune Functions in Patients with Hodgkin's Disease
Authors: Björkholm Magnus , Askergren Jutta , Holm Göran , Mellstedt Håkan
Published: August 2010

Immunological functions of 9 non‐splenectomized and 8 splenectomized patients with Hodgkin's disease were studied before and after treatment. The two groups compared well with regard to age, clinical and immunological findings at diagnosis and observation time. When retested, all patients had enjoyed an unmaintained complete remission for 2 to 5 years following total nodal radiotherapy. After therapy, total lymphocyte and T‐lymphocyte counts decreased in non‐splenectomized patients but remained unchanged in splenectomized patients. The blood lymphocyte DNA synthesis after activation by concanavalin A or pokeweed mitogen persisted at the same low level after treatment. The delayed skin hypersensitivity and the lymphocyte activation by PPD antigen were restored in several patients in both groups. The IgM concentration decreased after therapy independent of splenectomy. The IgA level was low in non‐splenectomized patients.

Splenectomy seems to protect from the therapy‐induced lymphocytopenia. No alterations of immunoglobulins and blood lymphocyte functions could be ascribed to splenectomy.
Alkaline Phosphatase Activity of Chronic Granulocytic Leukaemia Neutrophils in Agar Culture
Authors: Hellmann Andrzej , Goldman John M.
Published: August 2010

We measured the concentration of granulocyte‐committed progenitor cells (CFU‐c) and the alkaline phosphatase activity of neutrophils harvested from colonies cultured from the peripheral blood of 30 patients with high‐count chronic granulocytic leukaemia (CGL) in the chronic phase. Neutrophils in colonies cultured from marrow of normal donors or patients with acute myeloid leukaemia in remission served as controls. CFU‐c numbers in CGL peripheral blood were on average 3 times higher than in normal marrow (130.1 + 126.2 (SD) versus 43.0 + 25.2 per 1 × 105 cells plated, respectively). The mean NAP scores in cultured CGL neutrophils were substantially higher than control values (89.9 + 48.0 versus 55.9 + 33.0 units, respectively). There was a tendency for peak values of NAP in culture to be reached at earlier points in CGL cultures with high CFU‐c numbers (i.e. high proliferative rates) than in those with lower CFU‐c numbers (lower proliferative rates). Our data accord with the concept that low NAP levels in CGL in vivo result from modulating influences external to the neutrophil.
Stereological Studies on Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia and Hairy Cell Leukaemia
Authors: James V. , Jupe D. M. L. , Procter J.
Published: August 2010

Using stereological techniques at the ultrastructural level, 7 quantitative parameters for 7 patients with hairy cell leukaemia, 27 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, and 8 normal individuals. These quantitative data show clear differences between normal lymphocytes, CLL cells and the abnormal cells of HCL. They also show that it may be possible to subdivide CLL into distinct groups on quantitative criteria.
THROMBOPLASTIN REFERENCE PREPARATIONS
Authors: Denson K.W.E.
Published: August 2010

The need for standardization of methods for the control of anticoagulant therapy was apparent 25 years ago. With the development of the ratio method for comparing the sensitivity of different thromboplastin preparations it became possible to equate the value obtained with one preparation in terms of the value which would be obtained with any other preparation, and the need for a reference to serve as a yardstick for comparison became obvious. The first trial reference preparation was developed in 1965 and three small international trials on the calibration of different thromboplastin preparations were conducted. The first international reference preparation was laid down in 1967 coded 67/40, and other preparations containing ox brain, human brain and rabbit brain and coded 68/434, 69/223 and 70/178 followed. Further collaborative studies were carried out in 1970 and 1973, and a large international trial undertaken in 1974, using 70/178 as the reference preparation. These preparations have remained stable over a period of 9 to 12 years and their usefulness for purposes of calibration and international trials has been proven. Three further reference preparations were laid down in 1979 and a further international collaborative study has been undertaken.
Critical Appraisal, Clinical Usefulness, and Implementation of the Thromboplastin concept of Prothrombin‐Time Standardization
Authors: Loeliger E.A. , van den Besselaar A. M. H. P. , Bertina R.M.
Published: August 2010

The thromboplastin concept of standardization of the prothrombin‐time according to Biggs and Denson survived criticism, obtained support from many countries, and recently proved to be applicable in the clinical practice of monitoring long‐term oral anticoagulation of the individual patient. Reference thromboplastins certified by the Bureau Communautaire de Référence of the European Economic Communities are now being produced, to be used in calibration by manufacturers of thromboplastin preparations. Assayed normal and abnormal plasmas will enable both manufacturers and clinical laboratories to implement the thromboplastin concept in the practice of prothrombin‐time standardization.

The present basic World Health Organization reference thromboplastin human combined (preparation 67/40 of the British National Institute for Biological Standards and Control) is, for various reasons, supposed to be replaced by a thromboplastin human plain (a batch of British Comparative Thromboplastin) as soon as it becomes available and has been approved.

Expression of the coumarin induced coagulation defect in terms of International Calibrated Ratios in addition to conventional terms will greatly facilitate understanding individual patient results as well as optimal therapeutic ranges to be aimed at.

To create, for stability checking of reference thromboplastins and reference plasmas, stable reference points, unmistakable quantification of the coumarin‐induced enzyme defect is mandatory.
Quantification of Ineffective Erythropoiesis in Megaloblastic Anaemia by Determination of Endogenous Production of14CO after Administration of Glycine‐2‐14C
Authors: Lindahl J.
Published: August 2010

The determination of the early peak of14CO production that results from haem turnover after administration of glycine‐2‐14C was studied in patients with pernicious anaemia. The accuracy of this technique in measuring ineffective erythropoiesis was assessed by comparison with other measurements of the severity of the disease. 6 patients were studied before specific treatment and 2 of these also after treatment. The endogenous production of14CO was calculated from determinations of the production of CO by a rebreathing technique and of the specific activity of CO washed out from the body CO store by oxygen breathing. The early labelled peak was increased 7–39 times compared to that in healthy control subjects and represented 35–86% of the total production of14CO as compared to 13% in controls. The early labelled peak was significantly correlated to the Hb concentration, mean red cell volume and endogenous production of CO. 2 patients, twice examined, showed a moderately increased early labelled peak also after specific treatment. This was attributed to persistence of some ineffective erythropoiesis in 1 patient and possibly increased hepatic haem turnover in the other. The magnitude of the early labelled peak and the maximal activity of14CO found in the samples of CO collected from the body CO store were significantly correlated. In conclusion, with the present method the early peak of14CO reflected the ineffective erythropoiesis in patients with pernicious anaemia. The early labelled peak could be predicted from the maximal activity of14CO found in the samples of CO washed out from the body CO store.
Myelopoietic Stem Cells (CFUc) in the Blood and Bone Marrow of Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia and Lymphosarcoma, Cultivated without an Exogenous Supply of Colony Stimulating Factor (CSF)
Authors: Prindull G. , Meulen N. V. D. , Jentsch E. , Prindull B. , Schröter W.
Published: August 2010

26 children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and 7 additional patients with lymphosarcoma in leukaemic transformation (LSA) have been studied with respect to the content of myelopoietic stem cell (CFUc) in blood and bone marrow. The methylcellulose culture technique (Iscove et al 1974) was employed in the absence of an exogenous source of colony stimulating factor (CSF). During active disease, CFUc colony formation was absent from patients with ALL, but was present in 2 patients with LSA. 2 therapeutic regimens were employed. Colony formation from bone marrow CFUc was highly variable during remission maintained by either regimen, with no clear relation to clinical stage, number of monocytes or circulating neutrophils. Patients with LSA consistently had high numbers of bone marrow CFUc. CFUc were low or absent from the blood. In conclusion, CFUc are absent from the bone marrow in active ALL, but may be present in active LSA. For the purpose of monitoring children with ALL during therapy, determination of blood or bone marrow CFUc was not found in this study to be helpful.
Red Cell Changes in Top, Middle and Bottom Layer of Packed Red Cells in Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Authors: Magnus Erik M.
Published: August 2010

Surviving macroreticulocytes are released to peripheral blood during the first 4 d following a B12 injection to vitamin B12 deficient patients with grave anaemia. Marked increase in number of reticulocytes, together with corresponding reduction in reticulocyte size is noted in the top layer of the centrifuged packed red column from d 4 to 6 after medication. This ‘remodelling’ of the ‘stress‐reticulocytes’ seems best explained by a division of the cells into 2 equal, surviving, normal‐sized reticulocytes. The macroreticulocytes, which probably result from skipped division in the marrow, may thus complete their last cytoplasmatic division in the peripheral blood. The numerous schistocytes, which are found in the top layer of the centrifuged packed red cell column, disappear during the first few days after treatment, and it is assumed that these cells are fragments from the relatively few megalocytes which have reached the peripheral blood prior to medication.

Macroreticulacytes seem to have a maximum deformability on d 5 after the B12 injection, shortly after the cell division has started.
Acute Plasma Cell Leukaemia Followed by Extramedullary Plasmacytoma
Authors: Lewinski U. H. , Klein B. , Gafter U. , Djaldetti M.
Published: August 2010

A 54‐year‐old male was hospitalized because of lethargy, weight loss, an upper abdominal mass, hepatosplenomegaly and peripheral blood plasmacytosis of 66%. The diagnosis of acute plasma cell leukaemia was established, and after chemotherapy was initiated, the patient entered complete remission. 6 months later, he developed extra‐medullary plasmacytoma with involvement of the gastrointestinal tract, right inguinal lymph nodes and right orbit. Response to chemotherapy was poor and he died without evidence of plasma cell leukaemia. The possibility of the existence of extramedullary plasmacytoma at the onset of the disease, expressed by the appearance of plasma cell leukaemia only at the beginning and by extramedullary spreading at the terminal stage is discussed.
Studies of the Haemopoietic Microenvironments
Authors: Noordegraaf E. M. , Ploemacher R. E.
Published: August 2010

The possible relation between haemopoietic activity and glycosaminoglycan levels in the haemopoietic microenvironment was examined in ectopic erythropoiesis, induced by phenylhydrazine treatment, in the liver of adult mice. The hepatic glycosaminoglycan content in the liver was determined biochemically over a period of 9 d following induction of haemolytic anaemia. After induction sulphated glycosaminoglycan levels increased up to d 4, then decreased to subnormal levels on d 5 and returned to normal values on the following days. The pattern of changes in GAG content coincided with changes in the number of CFU‐S and with the number of erythroblasts in the liver. This observation fits in with the hypothesis of McCuskey et al (1972) stating that high sulphated glycosaminoglycan levels are favourable for stem cell proliferation, whereas low sulphated glycosaminoglycan levels favour erythropoiesis.
3H‐Thymidine Uptake in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia Cells
Authors: Simonsson Bengt , Nilsson Kenneth
Published: August 2010

The clinical variability of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is well known. The short and long term prognosis is usually difficult to predict in the individual case. In the present work the proliferative activity in peripheral CLL cells of 38 patients was analysed by 3H‐thymidine uptake and a proliferative index (PI = labelling index × white blood cell count/l × 10−9) was calculated. A strong correlation between PI and clinical disease activity was found. Thus 22 out of 23 patients with non‐progressive disease had normal values (PI < 10). 8 out of 8 cases with PI > 20 had a clear disease progression in all blood variables. The PI interval 10–20 comprised both patients with progressive and patients with non‐progressive disease. Variations in PI correlated well to variations in clinical disease activity in 8 patients examined at intervals during long term treatment. The results indicate that determination of PI might be used as therapy guide since it was normalized during successful treatment.
Antibody‐Dependent Monocyte‐Mediated Cytotoxicity
Authors: Kragballe Knud , Ellegaard Jørgen , Herlin Troels
Published: August 2010

Among mononuclear cells isolated from human blood monocytes exclusively mediated antibody‐dependent cytolysis of human type B erythrocytes. Adherent monocytes detached from plastic surfaces by lowering the temperature to 4°C expressed the same cytotoxicity as monocytes contained in the unseparated mononuclear cell fractions. No difference was observed in the cytotoxicity of non‐adherent monocytes and of monocytes remaining adherent at 4°C and subsequently mechanically removed. Removal of carbonyl‐iron phagocytosing monocytes reduced the number of latex‐phagocytosing monocytes without influencing cytotoxicity of the remaining monocytes. In vitro cultivation for 24h of unseparated mononuclear cells and of purified monocyte suspensions increased the number of latex‐positive cells, leaving the number of esterase‐positive cells and the cytotoxicity unchanged.
Expression of Common Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia Antigen and Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase in Normal Mononuclear Blood Cells during Diffusion Chamber Culture
Authors: Jäger Gundula , Lau Barbara
Published: August 2010

Peripheral mononuclear blood cells of 2 healthy individuals were cultured over a 13 d period in diffusion chambers. A high percentage of cALL antigen positive cells and later on TdT containing cells appeared during culture. The cALL+ cells could be clearly distinguished into 2 groups: a population with weak and diffuse fluorescence and a small number of ring‐like brightly dyed cells. The first group develops into TdT+ cells and therefore resembles immature T‐cells. The interpretation of the ring‐like stained cells is still preliminary, but it cannot be excluded, that these cells represent a cell population with more than lymphatic differentiation capacity.
Recurrent and Multicentric Giant Lymph Node Hyperplasia
Authors: Sindram M. T. M. , Fedder G.
Published: August 2010

A case of giant lymph node hyperplasia in a 46‐year‐old female is described with a history of relapses of 8 years duration. Clinical investigations revealed involvement of inguinal, pelvic and para‐aortal lymph nodes and the spleen. Only surgical treatment was given. The entity of giant lymph node hyperplasia is briefly discussed.
High Prevalence of Increased Osmotic Fragility of Red Blood Cells among Norwegian Blood Donors
Authors: Godal H. C. , Heistø H.
Published: August 2010

Increased osmotic fragility of red blood cells was found in 9 out of 1008 Norwegian blood donors. In addition, increased osmotic fragility was found in 3 out of 23 first grade relatives and in 1 out of 4 spouses of individuals with the same condition. Finally, there was a positive correlation between increased osmotic fragility and morphological signs of spherocytosis (P < 0.05). No definite conclusions with respect to underlying mechanism(s) for this high prevalence of non‐symptomatic increased osmotic fragility can be offered, but very mild hereditary spherocytosis, environmental factors and even a normal variant, never associated with haemolysis, may have contributed. Furthermore, until more specific and sensitive laboratory techniques have been introduced, a proper distinction between these 3 conditions cannot be made.
Haem Biosynthesis in Refractory Sideroblastic Anaemia Associated with the Preleukaemic Syndrome
Authors: Pasanen A. V. O. , Vuopio P. , Borgstrom G. H. , Tenhunen R.
Published: August 2010

The activities of 5 enzymes of the haem biosynthetic pathway and the protoporphyrin concentrations have been measured in peripheral red blood cells of 23 patients having a preleukaemic syndrome with refractory sideroblastic anaemia. A decreased δ‐aminolaevulinic acid synthase (ALA‐S) activity, an increased uroporphyrinogen I synthase activity and an increased red cell protoporphyrin concentration were consistent findings. Patients with abnormal leucocyte and/or platelet counts in the peripheral blood as well as patients with an excess of blast cells in the bone marrow had the lowest ALA‐S activities. A further decrease in ALA‐S activity was observed in 3 patients after leukaemic change in the disease. Patients having cytogenetic abnormalities showed no unique enzyme abnormalities. These results indicate that enzymatic disturbances of haem synthesis cannot be used as prognostic indicator of leukaemic transformation in refractory sideroblastic anaemia, but a very low ALA‐S activity appears to accompany the development of a leukaemia in such patients.
Congenital Deficiency of Cyclo‐Oxygenase in a Woman with Generalized Atherosclerosis
Authors: Boda Z. , Tamás E. , Altorjay I. , Pfliegler G. , Rak K.
Published: August 2010

The case of a 52‐year‐old woman with congenital cyclo‐oxygenase deficiency, signs of generalized atherosclerosis and a moderate bleeding tendency is reported. Secondary platelet aggregation was absent. Platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid failed totally while that induced by calcium ionophore was normal. No malondialdehyde formation could be detected in her platelet‐rich‐plasma. The life‐long deficiency of cyclo‐oxygenase had not protected her from progressive vascular disease. This case suggests that the chronic intake of large doses of aspirin cannot prevent arterial disorders.
A Clinicopathological Study of 13 Danish Cases of Burkitt's Lymphoma
Authors: Kerndrup G. , Pallesen G.
Published: August 2010

During a 4‐year period 24 cases of malignant non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas were proposed to be of the Burkitt‐type (BL) by at least 1 of 5 pathologists of the Lymphoma Registry in Jutland, Denmark. When the histological material was critically reviewed the diagnosis could be maintained in only 13 cases. 9 of the remaining 11 cases were immunoblastic lymphomas (IBL). Immunohistochemical stainings for cytoplasmic Ig‐chains revealed generally weak reactions in the cases of BL. A distinct B‐zone homing phenomenon first appearing in the lymphocytic mantle zone was observed in several lymph nodes from 2 patients with BL. In the BL‐group the correlation between initial clinical stage and survival was satisfactory, the 2‐year survival rate being 38 % in the total BL‐group. The incidence of BL was 2.1 % of the malignant non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas in the registry.
Spontaneous Immunoglobulin Changes in Human Plasma‐Cell Dyscrasia
Authors: Carter A. , Spira G. , Manaster J. , Tatarsky I.
Published: August 2010

A series of spontaneous changes affecting the nature of the immunoglobulin secretion of plasma cells is described in a patient initially diagnosed as IgG lambda benign monoclonal gammopathy. After several years a slight increase in the amount of serum monoclonal immunoglobulin occurred; shortly thereafter an aggressive form of multiple myeloma was diagnosed. Unexpectedly a rapid spontaneous decrease of the monoclonal immunoglobulin, accompanied by the appearance in the serum of increasing quantities of a complex containing intact lambda light chains, then occurred. Concomitantly a fragment of the corresponding free light chain was detected in the urine.

A parallel is drawn between the facts observed in this patient and in an animal model recently proposed to explain the different types of structural immunoglobulin abnormalities in multiple myeloma.
Primary Myelofibrosis with Myeloid Metaplasia and Cytogenetically Abnormal Clones in 2 Children with Down's Syndrome
Authors: Ueda Kazuhiro , Kawaguchi Yoshinori , Kodama Mariko , Tanaka Yoshito , Usui Tomofusa , Kamada Nanao
Published: August 2010

2 children with Down's syndrome showed severe anaemia, leucocytosis with blastic cells, thrombocytopenia and hepatosplenomegaly. Bone marrow aspirations were near‐dry tap and marrow biopsy revealed primary myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia (MMM). Their course was short with a blood picture similar to that of leukaemia. They expired 2 months and 2½ months after diagnosis, respectively. The cases were thought to represent an acute childhood variant of MMM.

Cytogenetic study of circulating white cells by 24 h culture without phytohaemagglutinin stimulation revealed aneuploidy in both cases, the first case showing marked aneuploidy with a predominant karyotype of 50, XX,+8, + 19, + 19,+21 and the second case a mosaic of 47,XX,+G/48,XX, + G, + G. The karyotype of phytohaemagglutinin stimulated lymphocytes was 47,XX,+G in both cases.

These findings suggest that the abnormal karyotypes are those of circulating blastic cells which are abnormal clones of haematopoietic cells responsible for MMM. In Down's syndrome, MMM might not be so rare as reported.
Serum Ferritin in Young Men during Prolonged Heavy Physical Exercise
Authors: Vidnes Arne , Opstad Per Kristian
Published: August 2010

The levels of serum ferritin were investigated in 44 young men during strenuous ranger training courses lasting 4–5 d. These cadets were continuously subjected to heavy physical activities, almost without sleep and with a caloric deficit amounting to 29000–39000 kJ per 24 h. Ferritin concentrations were consistently increased during the courses, and were still significantly elevated 2 d after the end of the courses. The increase of ferritin appeared to be correlated with decreased Hb values and increased total bilirubin. The results indicate that iron released from disintegrated erythrocytes probably causes increased ferritin synthesis in the reticuloendothelic cells and a subsequent release of ferritin in blood.
Cellular and Humoral Immunity in Hodgkin's Disease
Authors: Skovmann‐Sørensen O. , Schrøder H. , Møller‐larsen Anné , Haahr S.
Published: August 2010

Cell‐mediated and humoral immunity to herpes simplex virus (HSV), cytomegalovirus (CMV) and varicella zoster virus (VZV) were examined in 37 patients with Hodgkin's disease in continuous long term remission. This group had lower blast‐transformation than a matched control group to all 3 antigens.

Patients originally showing B‐symptoms had higher transformation to VZV than those with A‐symptoms. Patients treated with irradiation only had higher transformation than those treated with either chemotherapy or a combination of chemotherapy and irradiation. There was a clear tendency towards lower transformation in patients having been in remission for 2 years or less.

Phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) stimulation gave lower response in the patient group than in the control group. Patients with B‐symptoms had lower response than those with A‐symptoms. Interferon production was specially impaired in patients with B‐symptoms. The patient group had higher CF titers against HSV and CMV while the control group had higher titers against VZV. B‐symptom patients had higher titers against VZV than A‐symptom patients.

It is concluded that HD patients have impaired immune function many years after discontinuation of therapy, but there are certain differences regarding the in vitro immunity within the patient groups.
Decreased Antibody‐Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity in Various Types of Leukaemia in Man
Authors: Jakóbisiak Marek , Janowska‐Wieczorek Anna , Dobaczewska Hanna , Kańtoch Michal , Marczak Maria , Oblαkowski Piotr , Lasek Witold , Sosnowska Marzena
Published: August 2010

Antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) by cells from peripheral blood was studied in patients with: chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), chronic granulocytic leukaemia (CGL), acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), acute non‐lymphoid leukaemia (ANLL) and compared with that of healthy donors. The ADCC activity in all the types of leukaemia was on the average lower as compared with the control values, being especially low in both CLL and CGL. Further, it has also been shown that the ADCC activity of non‐leukaemic blood cells in ANLL was lower as compared with control values. The latter observation indicates that, at least in ANLL, the reduced ADCC potential of peripheral blood cells is not due to dilution of effector cells by poorly‐ or non‐active leukaemic cells.
The Applicability of Simple Blood and Bone Marrow Variables in Prediction of Acute Leukaemia in Patients with Acquired Bi‐ or Pancytopenia
Authors: Clemmesen L. , Hansen M. Mørk , Mortensen L. , Thiede T. , Videbaek Aa.
Published: August 2010

A retrospective study of 44 patients presenting with acquired bi‐ or pancytopenia (B/PC) and no evidence of any causal disorder was carried out. 12 patients developed acute non‐lymphoblastic leukaemia after 2–51 months. Compared to the nonleukaemic subjects the preleukaemic patients at the onset of B/PC had significantly higher counts of myeloblasts and other myelopoietic cells in the bone marrow, more cellular marrows due to more dense cellularities of all compartments, higher blood granulocyte and monocyte counts, more pronounced anisocytosis, and in some cases a small number of circulating myeloblasts. A stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis identified 3 combinations of variables displaying significant simultaneous association with subsequent leukaemic transformation. Among these the combination of marrow myeloblast percentage and blood granulocyte count might be applicable to early prospective identification of patients with preleukaemic B/PC.
Granulocyte Demargination by Epinephrine in Evaluation of Hypersplenic States
Authors: Schaffner Andreas , Fehr Jorg
Published: August 2010

The usefulness of the epinephrine stimulation test in detecting granulocytic hypersplenism is evaluated. In 8 hypersplenic patients, an increment of the granulocyte count of 170 % over baseline values was found, compared to 38 % (P < 0.001) in normal subjects and 44 % (P < 0.002) in patients neutropenic from other causes. No overlap of individual test results was found among the hypersplenic and the control groups. Epinephrine test discriminates between neutropenia from hypersplenism and neutropenia from other causes. Furthermore, this test is found to be a valuable adjunct to the hydrocortisone stimulation test in kinetic evaluation of neutropenia from any cause.
Phenotypic Changes in a Case of Blast Crisis of CML: Characterization by TdT, Cytochemistry, and Cytogenetics
Authors: Paietta E. , Schwarzmeier J. D.
Published: August 2010

Phenotypic changes in blast crisis of a case of Philadelphia chromosome (Ph1)‐positive chronic myelogenous leukaemia were characterized by serial terminal transferase (TdT) determinations simultaneously related to cytochemical and cytogenetic data. At the onset of the blast crisis, 90% of the blast cells were acid phosphatase‐positive (focal pattern), Ph1‐positive, lymphoid cells. The TdT activity amounted to 29 units/108 mononuclear cells in the peripheral blood and to 57 units/108 mononuclear cells in the bone marrow. Therapy with vincristine and prednisone caused the elimination of the TdT‐positive cell population. 4 months later, there was an increase in TdT‐negative, myeloid blasts which was brought under control with busulfan. Cytogenetic analysis of the myeloid blasts still revealed Ph1 positivity in 100 % of the metaphases examined and the lack of additional chromosomal abnormalities. A second relapse was again dominated by TdT‐containing cells with the 46,XX,Ph1 karyotype. This time, the patient failed to achieve remission with vincristine and prednisone. Even though the TdT activity was markedly decreased, the lymphoid blast count remained elevated and the cells showed resistance to further therapy. This failure of morphology, cytochemistry as well as cytogenetics to distinguish between the individual phenotypes emerging during the course of blast crisis of CML characterized the TdT as a cell marker of important diagnostic and therapeutically prognostic value.
Iron Overload in β‐Thalassaemia Minor
Authors: Parfrey P. S. , Barnett Myra , Sachs J. A. , Pollock D. J. , Turnbull A. L.
Published: August 2010

23 descendents of a 74‐year‐old Englishman who had β‐thalassaemia trait, and died of hepatoma, were studied to discover whether thalassaemia minor alone could predispose to iron overload. Serum ferritin and HLA antigens were assessed in all members, and adults underwent radioiron investigations and liver biopsy.

2 members of the second generation and 1 of the third generation, all of whom had thalassaemia trait, had elevated liver iron concentration, indicating preclinical iron overload. This was not associated with any HLA type. None of the subjects had been treated with exogenous iron. The one member of the second generation who had thalassaemia minor but not iron overload was female, and the 5 members of the third generation with the trait, but with normal serum ferritin levels, were all under the age of 15 years. Members of the family without β‐thalassaemia minor had normal iron metabolism. It is possible that the development of iron overload in 4 members of this family was related to the presence of thalassaemia minor, and not to the inheritance of another abnormal gene causing idiopathic haemochromatosis.
Metabolic Activity of Lymphoma Cells and Clinical Course in Non‐Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
Authors: Monti M. , Brandt L. , Ikomi‐Kumm J. , Olsson H. , Wadö I.
Published: August 2010

By microcalorimetry the metabolic activity of malignant cells from 21 patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma was monitored. Heat production, a measure of the metabolic activity of cells, showed positive correlation with the clinical‐course of the disease. The heat produced by tumor cells from patients with progressive disease was 5.5 pW/cell, while that from patients responding to treatment was 3.1 pW/cell. The difference between the 2 groups is significant (P < 0.05). A higher heat production was obtained in tumor cells from 7 out of 10 patients who were unresponsive to the therapy when compared with cells from 11 patients who had become asymptomatic as a result of the same therapy. Also heat production from blood lymphocytes was found to be higher (P < 0.005) in the group of patients with progressive disease as compared to the group of patients who responded to therapy. The present results indicate an association between high heat production in lymphoma cells and blood lymphocytes and a poor prognosis.
Acute Depression of Serum Folate in Surgical Patients During Preoperative Infusion of Ethanol‐Free Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Tennant G. B. , Smith R. C. , Leinster S. J. , O'Donnell J. E. , Wardrop C. A. J.
Published: August 2010

Total parenteral nutrition for 48 h with Aminoplex solutions and a calorie source led to statistically similar, severe depression of the serum folate concentration (by 63–77%) irrespective of whether the calorie source contained ethanol, sorbitol, lipid or glucose. Folate levels were also depressed following infusion of other ethanol‐free regimens (Freamine and glucose, 59%; Vamin and glucose, 44%). Least depression (31%) followed use of Aminosol and glucose, a regimen based on casein hydrolysate. It seems important, therefore, to give prophylactic folate to all patients receiving parenteral nutrition, regardless of whether the calorie source is ethanol.
Granulocyte and Platelet Adhesiveness in Malignant Paraproteinaemia, Leukaemia and Myeloproliferative Diseases
Authors: Hopen Gunnar
Published: August 2010

Granulocyte and platelet adhesiveness were measured in 36 patients with haematologic diseases, using a glass bead column assay. Platelet adhesiveness (PA) was reduced in malignant paraproteinaemia (13/20), leukaemia (10/11) and myeloproliferative diseases (3/5). Granulocyte adhesiveness (GA) was reduced in most patients with paraproteinaemia and leukaemia, but results of measurements in whole blood and in suspensions of leucocytes in autologous plasma were poorly correlated due to the influence of abnormal platelet function and/or concentration on the measurement of GA in whole blood.

The results of experiments combining leucocytes and plasma from patients and controls indicate that impaired GA in paraproteinaemia is due to a plasma factor, whereas a cellular defect is responsible for the reduced GA in leukaemia.
Selective Hypoplasia of Pelvic Bone Marrow
Authors: Ferrant A. , Rodhain J. , Cordier A. , Symann M. , Michaux J. L. , Sokal G.
Published: August 2010

6 patients with thrombocytopenia and anaemia had fatty marrow replacement at the site of an iliac crest. 52Fe scans showed marked abnormalities of bone marrow distribution. Particularly, the uptake of radioiron into the pelvis was almost absent. The sternal marrow was cellular. Studies of the bone marrow which included cytology, histology and electron microscopy failed to reveal why the pelvic marrow was aplastic. Occasional vascular lesions could be seen in the iliac crest bone marrow sections. The cellular morphology showed slight maturation abnormalities. Ferrokinetics were consistent with erythroid marrow hypoplasia. The pelvic and sternal marrow cellularity in patients with pancytopenia may not be representative of the cellularity of the whole marrow, and the pelvic marrow especially may be prone to aplasia.
B‐Thromboglobulin Content of Human Blood Platelets
Authors: Bolton A. E. , Amess J. A. L. , Lekhwani C. P. , Elliott P.
Published: August 2010

There was a reduction in the B‐thromboglobulin content of human blood platelets in patients with leukaemia after chemotherapy which inhibited platelet production. Thus, in these patients, as the circulating platelet population ages, B‐thromboglobulin leaks out of, or is actively secreted by, platelets which remain in the circulation.
The Computer Leucocyte
Authors: Rydgren  , Brodin H. , Håkansson C.‐H. , Norberg A. , Norberg B. , Westrup C.
Published: August 2010

In vital preparations moving polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) disappear from the visual field. The present study provides evidence by means of geometrical analysis and computer simulation, that this disappearance is due to a heterogeneous distribution of the PMNs at the beginning of observation. The path of random‐moving computer leucocytes is more tortuous than the path of comparable vital PMNs without obvious attractant, i.e. vital PMNs supposed to be random‐moving. This finding is in agreement with the Allan‐Wilkinson observation of ‘persistent random walk’ of vital cells.
Reversible Dementia and Neuropathy Associated with Folate Deficiency 16 Years After Partial Gastrectomy
Authors: Enk C. , Hougaard K. , Hippe E.
Published: August 2010

A 57‐year‐old woman developed dementia and peripheral neuropathy 16 years after a partial gastrectomy (Billroth II). Serum cobalamin was 198 pmol/l (reference interval 150–550), and the vitamin B12 absorption test (Schilling) showed decreased absorption (1.7% without and 2.2% with intrinsic factor). In spite of 20 months' therapy with vitamin B12, the neurological symptoms progressed. Folate deficiency was suggested by a very low erythrocyte folate and a slightly abnormal FIGLU test. There were no other signs of general malabsorption. A few months' treatment with folic acid significantly improved the massive neurological manifestations which were verified neurophysiologically as well as histologically. A common role of vitamin B12 and folate in the development of neuropathy is suggested.
Severe Antithrombin III Deficiency in a Patient with Pre‐Eclampsia.
Authors: Büller Harry R. , Weenink Ad H. , Treffers Pieter E. , Kahlé Laurens H. , Otten Hans A. , ten Cate Jan W.
Published: August 2010

Severe acquired antithrombin III (AT III) deficiency was observed in a patient with severe pre‐eclamptic toxaemia. Plasma AT III concentration of 0.25 U/ml was found in both functional and immunological assays. The patient was treated with human AT III concentrate as a result of the development of progressive disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), the further deterioration of renal function, the risk for thromboembolic complications and the possible adverse effects of heparin therapy. The selective correction of AT III activity resulted in a rapid disappearance of coagulation abnormalities. The patient underwent uncomplicated caesarian section. This observation indicates that acquired severe AT III deficiency may occur as an early feature of DIC in severe pre‐eclamptic toxaemia.
Fluorescing Particles (F‐Bodies) in Lymphocytes in Chronic
Authors: Lisse Ida Maria , Thomsen Jørgen L. , Holländer Niels Henrik
Published: August 2010

The finding of fluorescing Y‐body‐like particles (F‐bodies) in lymphocytes in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is reported. This finding may have diagnostic and pathogenetic implications.