bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soluble fibrin (ethanol gelation test) and fibrin(ogen) degradation products in suspected thrombosis with reference to the 125I‐fibrinogen uptake test for detection of thrombus formation
Authors: HAMBORG T. , SKJENNALD A. , GODAL H.C. , BROSSTAD F.
Published: August 2010

When symptoms of deep vein thrombosis is confirmed by venography (established DVT), the 125I‐fibrinogen uptake test (FUT) will discriminate between thrombi which incorporate the isotope (FUT+) and those who do not (FUT−). These are probably forming and non‐forming thrombi, respectively. The aim of the present study was to compare the occurrence of fibrinaemia, using the ethanol gelation test (EGT), in patients with FUT+ and FUT− thrombi. Fibrin(ogen) degradation products (FDP) were also analysed.

The study included 64 medical patients with suspected DVT, confirmed by venography in 43 and precluded in 21 patients. Isotope studies included 12 patients with FUT+ and 13 with FUT− thrombi.

Significant concordance between hemostatic parameters and venography was found only for FDP. The sensitivity of FDP on admission was 53%, but also patients without DVT had increased values (5%, P < 0,001).

Among patients with documented DVT, a positive EGT was specific for those with FUT+ thrombi which incorporated the isotope in at least 4 recording positions, whereas the sensitivity on admission was 89% (P < 0,005). A positive EGT was not associated with other variables, including disorders other than DVT. The strong association between abnormal isotope findings and a positive EGT suggests that FUT+ thrombi may induce fibrinaemia.
Qualitative Platelet Defect in a Case of Heparin‐Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Chong B. H. , Grace C. S. , Rozenberg M. C. , Castaldi P. A.
Published: August 2010

A qualitative platelet defect was demonstrated in a patient with heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia. His platelets showed impaired aggregation to collagen and arachidonate and absent second wave aggregation to adenosine diphosphate and epinephrine but normal response to ristocetin. These aggregation abnormalities were similar to those reported in idiopathic thrombocytopenia and systemic lupus erythematosus. This platelet function defect may contribute to haemorrhagic complications which appear to be common in heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia.
Megakaryoblastic transformation of chronic myelogenous leukaemia in a child
Authors: Hanada Takashi , Nakazawa Masaki , Sakuma Hideo , Takahashi Masahiko , Kondo Ikuko , Takita Hitoshi
Published: August 2010

A child with megakaryoblastic transformation of Ph1‐positive chronic myelogenous leukaemia, complicated by myelofibrosis, is reported. The blastic cells were negative for myeloperoxidase by ultrastructural cytochemistry. They had Factor‐VIII antigen and platelet glycoprotein but were negative for platelet peroxidase activity. This discrepancy seemed to be due to neoplastic origin of blastic cells.
Phenotypical heterogeneity of Japanese adult T‐cell leukaemia
Authors: TAGAWA SHINICHI , KONISHI ICHIRO , TOKUMINE YUKIHIRO , KURATSUNE HIROHIKO , MACHII TAKASHI , KITANI TERUO
Published: August 2010

The leukaemic cells of 11 patients with Japanese adult T‐cell leukaemia (ATL) were characterized in terms of phenotype employing various monoclonal antibodies against T‐cell surface antigens. The leukaemic cells of all ATL patients except patient no. 11 displayed the phenotype OKT4+/OKT8‐. However, the % of OKT3+cells varied from 3 to 98. In 1 case, cells with phenotype OKT4+/OKT8+, which is characteristic of T‐cells at an early stage of differentiation, were found. These results suggest that some ATL cells may be in an immature differentiation stage.

Among the 11 patients, 2 with unusual ATL cell phenotypes (1 case with OKT3‐cells and 1 case with Ia+/EAC+cells) showed spontaneous regression of leukaemic cells. Characterization of leukaemic cells from a larger number of ATL patients may demonstrate a significant relationship between cell phenotype and prognosis.
Platelet Cyclo‐Oxygenase Deficiency in a Japanese
Authors: Nakanishi Kozo , Hato Takaaki , Imai Atsuko , Kaneko Hitoshi , Murakami Akira , Kuwashima Keiichi , Ikeda Kyoichi , Fujita Shigeru , Kobayashi Yuzuru , Kaido Hidetoshi , Kondo Masaru , Hattori Akira
Published: August 2010

A case of platelet cyclo‐oxygenase deficiency in a Japanese was investigated. There was a marked decrease of aggregation with collagen and absence of aggregation with epinephrine and arachidonic acid. The platelet response to a labile aggregation stimulating substance (LASS) was normal. There was no biosynthesis of prostaglandin endoperoxides from arachidonate. The platelets, including granular volume, showed no ultrastructural abnormalities. The responses to various inducers of platelet aggregation, except for arachidonate, were different from the cases described by others. It is concluded that the defective platelet function, due to a deficiency of platelet cyclo‐oxygenase, is heterogeneous.
Cytochemistry of Human T Lymphocyte Subpopulations in Peripheral Blood
Authors: Hirt A. , Auner H. L. , Wagner H. P.
Published: August 2010

With sequential investigation of immunological and cytochemical markers on single cells, T lympocyte subsets defined by monoclonal antibodies were examined in the peripheral blood of healthy adults. Leu‐3a+ T cells (helper/inducer) were 80.0 ± 6.6% dot positive with unspecific acid alpha‐naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE) and 52.2 ± 15.8% dot positive with diaminopeptidase IV (DAP IV) staining, as compared to 52.6 ± 7.6% ANAE and 29.1 ± 10.9% DAP IV dot positivity in Leu‐2a+ T cells (suppressor/cytotoxic). Although these differences were significant (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively), the rather high % of dot positivity in Leu‐2a+ cells precludes ANAE or DAP IV staining as a simple method for the determination of T lymphocyte subsets. In acid phosphatase staining, no significant difference in focal positivity between Leu3a+ and Leu‐2a+ T cell subpopulations was detected (63.3 ± 10.9% and 52.3 ± 10.0%, respectively; P > 0.1).
In vivo metabolism of human tissue‐type plasminogen activator
Authors: Nilsson Torbjörn , Wallén Per , Mellbring Göran
Published: August 2010

The turnover of human tissue‐type plasminogen activator (t‐PA), purified from cell culture fluids and radiolabeled with 125I, was studied in 2 healthy males. After injection, the plasma radioactivity initially disappeared with a half‐life of about 3 min, but after 30 min reached a plateau level which persisted for several hours. The radioactive material had then already been converted to forms soluble in 10% trichloroacetic acid (TCA). Surface counting rates indicated a rapid uptake in the liver during the first 10 min after injection, followed by a rapid release from the liver, beginning already at 25 min, which coincided with the appearance of the TCA‐soluble radioactive material. After 18 h, about 80% of the injected dose had already been excreted in the urine. We conclude that, in humans, injected t‐PA is rapidly cleared from the circulation, mainly by the liver, and within 30 min metabolized to low molecular weight forms which ultimately (within 1 d) appear in the urine.
Biochemical markers in non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma stages III and IV and prognosis: A multivariate analysis
Authors: Hagberg H. , Glimelius B. , Gronowitz S. , Killander A. , Källander C. , Schröder T.
Published: August 2010

The prognostic value of different pretreatment laboratory and clinical findings at diagnosis was assessed in a series of 141 patients with generalized non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. Univariate and multivariate survival analysis (Cox's regression model) was performed, using serum analysis of deoxythymidine kinase (S‐TK), β2‐microglobulin, lactic dehydrogenase, α1‐acid glycoprotein = orosmucoid (S‐α1AGP), haptoglobin and ferritin. In addition, Hb and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were measured. The clinical variables were age, presence or absence of B‐symptoms, histopathology (‘low‐grade’; ‘intermediate grade’ and ‘high‐grade’ malignancy) and bone marrow involvement. Of the 8 biochemical markers, all except Hb and the ESR showed a significant relationship to survival. Among the clinical variables, this finding was made for B‐symptoms and histopathology. Using a multivariate analysis on all variables, S‐TK was found to be the best factor for predicting duration of survival. The only significant additional information was provided by S‐α1AGP. When only the clinical variables were taken into account, it was found that histopathology added significant information to that yielded by B‐symptoms in the prediction of the survival time. When the biochemical variables were added to this model, only S‐TK was of significant additional prognostic value.
Immunological monitoring of bone marrow transplant recipients
Authors: Ekblom Marja , Ruutu Tapani , Volin Liisa , Leskinen Ritra , Renkonen Risto , Häyry Pekka
Published: August 2010

In the recipients of an allogeneic HLA‐identical sibling transplant the blood leucocytes were reconstituted within 3 to 4 weeks but the level of lymphocytes remained low throughout the observation period of 20 weeks. Of the different lymphoid cell subsets, the large granular lymphocytes (LGL) reconstituted fastest, followed by DR‐expressing lymphocytes. The reconstitution was accompanied by a significant lymphoid blastogenesis in the blood. The frequency of OKT4 and OKT8 lymphocytes was initially low; the number of OKT8‐positive lymphocytes reached normal levels by the 6–8th week whereas the number of OKT4‐positive lymphocytes and, consequently, the OKT4/8 ratio remained low. The responses to the T mitogens, phyto‐haemmagglutinin and concanavalin A, were strongly suppressed. Only a few significant changes were observed before and during acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD): the frequency of LGL, lymphoid blasts and OKT8‐expressing lymphocytes was depressed before aGVHD and the frequency of lymphoid blasts remained depressed throughout the episode. We conclude that reproducible changes occur in the leucocyte subset frequencies during reconstitution, but the characteristic changes prior to and during aGVHD are not particularly prominent and hardly of diagnostic use.
Immunoglobulin abnormalities in malignant non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Economidou J. , Terzoglou K. , Anagnostou D. , Nikiforakis E. M. , Papajannis A.
Published: August 2010

The association of monoclonal gammopathy and lymphoma was investigated in 100 consecutive, untreated cases of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) of B‐cell type, classified according to the criteria of Lukes & Collins (9). The overall incidence of monoclonal immunoglobulins (Ig) was 24%. The highest incidence (57%) was seen in plasmacytoid lymphocytic lymphoma and the lowest (7.9%) in cases of CLL. IgM was the predominant class of monoclonal Ig. It is concluded that the presence of monoclonal gammopathy in NHL reflects the stage of differentiation and maturation of the malignant B‐cell clone.
Freezing of Plasma to Obtain Better Yield of Factor VIII:C
Authors: Carlebjörk G , Blombäck M
Published: August 2010

Plasma was frozen in two types of ampoules with different freezing equipments. Changes in temperature were recorded with thermocouples and the quality of frozen plasma determined by analysis of F VIII:C. Temperature decreased rapidly to the freezing point where it stayed during the phase change to ice and was followed by a second rapid decrease down to the final temperature. The time for duration at the freezing point decreased with thinner plasma layers. Freezing was accomplished faster with ‐40°C ethanol baths than with different types of freezeboxes. Use of flat 750 ml ampoules resulted in shorter freezing times than with cylindric 1,500 ml ampoules. The factor VIII:C recovery in frozen plasma increased with faster rate of freezing. The purity and recovery of F VIII:C in cryoprecipitates increased with fast freezing of plasma.
Arthroscopic Synovectomy in Hemophilic Arthropathy of the Knee
Authors: Wiedel J. D.
Published: August 2010

Five patients with chronic hemophilic arthropathy of the knee underwent arthroscopic synovectomies between June of 1980 and June of 1981. Four of the five patients have had no spontaneous bleeds and have had no recurrence of synovial hypertrophy. Two of these patients did have a trauma‐induced bleed. One patient, who did not have a posteromedial synovectomy, had a persistent posteromedial synovial hypertrophy which was the site of recurrent bleeds, requiring a repeat synovectomy. All patients obtained their preoperative range‐of‐motion, and only two patients required manipulation. No complications occurred as a result of these arthroscopic synovectomies. From this preliminary report, arthroscopic synovectomy in the hemophilic knee proved to be a safe and effective procedure.
The Impact of Donor Selection in Avoiding Hepatitis Virus Transmission
Authors: Warson S I
Published: August 2010

Concerning hepatitis B one remaining problem is the occurrence of so called “low‐level” hepatitis B virus carriers who are HBsAg‐negative by routine RIA‐testing but positive when the sample is retested for instance after pepsin digestion and polyethyleneglycol precipitation. A simple and reproducible technique for the detection of these low‐level HBV carriers would be of great value. IgM anti‐HBc does not seem to accomplish this purpose.

For the detection of non‐A, non‐B hepatitis viruses, reliable techniques are still lacking. ALT‐determinations are not ideal and the reported prevalence of non‐A, non‐B virus carriers among donors based on ALT‐elevation studies in recipients may be an overestimation. An upcoming problem if and when ALT‐screening will be introduced is the significant number of donors with ALT‐elevations. What are we going to tell them? What are we going to do with them in terms of medical evaluation? These are questions which ought to be answered before large‐scale ALT‐screening is introduced. Furthermore, no randomized study has shown that exclusion of blood from donors with ALT‐elevations lowers the incidence of post‐transfusion hepatitis.

The use of as small donor populations as possible and preferably volunteer donors of high socio‐economic status when manufacturing clotting factor concentrates is of course of utmost importance for patients with severe hemophilia who need these products. In patients with infrequent bleeding episodes who requires treatments for special situations only, the “small pool concept” in preparation of cryoprecipitates ought to be generally accepted.

The use of DDAVP preparations in donors and in hemophiliacs who have some endogenous activity of F VIII in order to increase the yield or decrease the demand, respectively, is interesting and may possibly reduce the number of donors required for production of F VIII concentrates.
Obtention Production and Use of Factor VIII in Costa Rica
Authors: Cordero R , Montero C
Published: August 2010

The National Blood Commission integrated by members of the Costa Rican Red Cross, the Voluntary Blood Donors and the National Health System has an excellent program to obtain blood, plasma, platelets and cryoprecipitates. The blood is obtained on voluntary basis from several sources such as universities, high schools, industries and public workers.

The daily fresh plasma obtained in this form is processed by Dr. Pool's method to produce cryoprecipitates, which are used at the National Hemophilia Center. The obtention of cryoprecipitates produces an annual average of 500,000 U F VIII. In order to fulfill the requirements for home care and rural hospitals, it is necessary to import commercial concentrates of F VIII. There is a possibility to either lyophilize cryoprecipitates or exchange the remanent plasma for concentrates. It is suggested that a regional plasma fractionating plant is installed in order to fill the needs of Central America and the Caribbean area.
Myxoedema in a case of acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Grützmeier Sven
Published: August 2010

A 42‐year‐old woman developed myxoedema during the course of acute myeloid leukaemia. The possible association with cytostatic treatment, especially thioguanine, and the role of levothyroxine for the growth of the leukaemic cell mass are discussed.
Characterisation of the tolerant state in a patient with haemophilia B after removal of high‐titre factor IX antibodies
Authors: Zettervall Olle , Sundqvist Siv‐Britt , Nilsson Inga Marie
Published: August 2010

In a patient with severe haemophilia B and antibodies against factor IX in high titre, and known for many years to be a really high responder, it was possible to suppress the secondary antibody response after treatment with high doses of intravenous IgG (Gammonativ®, KabiVitrum AB) combined with factor IX and cyclophosphamide. After 2 further treatments, including IgG, a total disappearance of the IX:C inhibitor was noted. The patient now treats himself at home with weekly infusions of only factor IX concentrate. Survival of IX:C is normal, though IX antigen (IX:Ag), as measured with the original antibody in an immunoradiometric assay, persists for at least a week after concentrate infusion. We have not been able to demonstrate an anti‐idiotypic antibody. Instead the antigenic factor IX material circulates complexed to a ‘new’ antibody without anticoagulant activity. Theoretically at least, the persistence of such immune complexes may be important for sustaining the patient's tolerance to the anticoagulant antibody's epitope. The initial IgG treatment appears as a crucial factor for induction of tolerance in this case.
IRON STATUS OF 38‐YEAR‐OLD WOMEN IN GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN
Authors: Rybo Elisabeth , Bengtsson Calle , Hallberg Leif
Published: August 2010

Blood haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, blood cell counts, serum iron concentration, total iron binding capacity, bone marrow iron content, sideroblast count, iron absorption and menstrual blood loss were studied in 372 38‐year‐old women who were representative of the general female population of that age resident in Gothenburg, Sweden. The distributions of serum iron concentration, serum total iron binding capacity, and transferrin saturation were slightly skewed, whereas the distributions of iron absorption, reticulocyte count, sideroblast count, and menstrual blood loss were markedly skewed. The other variables studied were mainly normally distributed. One‐third of the women (32 %) had no reticuloendothelial iron and another 14 % only traces of reticuloendothelial iron in smears from sternal bone marrow. Serum iron concentration and total iron binding capacity were rather high and menstrual blood loss low in women taking oral contraceptives, while factors such as country of origin, socio‐economic group, blood donation, previous oral iron therapy or recent infection seemed to have no or only a slight influence on variables reflecting the iron status.
Multiple myeloma: Current therapy and a glimpse of the future
Authors: Kyle Robert A.
Published: August 2010

Patients with benign monoclonal gammopathy or smouldering multiple myeloma should not be treated. The plasma cell labelling index utilizing tritiated thymidine or a monoclonal antibody to 5‐bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine is helpful in differentiating patients with benign monoclonal gammopathy or smouldering myeloma from those with overt myeloma. Although combinations of chemotherapeutic agents seem to produce a greater number of objective responses than does melphalan‐prednisone, a significant difference in survival has not been proved. Possibilities for future treatment include chemotherapy with large intravenous doses of melphalan, very small doses of cyclophosphamide or melphalan, the administration of hydroxyurea before chemotherapy, combination of interferon with alkylating agents, autologous bone marrow transplantation, and improvement of the soft‐agar colony‐forming assay for myeloma cells. The therapeutic use of monoclonal antibodies to plasma cell antigens may be possible in the future. Much more needs to be learned about the biologic basis of myeloma before real progress can be made.
Mechanisms for adherence of eosinophils to an antibody‐coated surface
Authors: Winqvist Ingemar , Olofsson Tor , Olsson Inge
Published: August 2010

Eosinophils may act by degranulation after attachment to a surface. As the mechanisms of adherence are not understood, we have investigated the dependency on Fc(IgG) receptors and other mechanisms by studying the adherence of human eosinophils to albumin‐Sepharose beads coated with either specific rabbit IgG antibody, F(ab’)2 antibody fragments or serum under different conditions. Adherence to Sephadex beads and albumin‐coated microtitration plates was also investigated. 50% of the eosinophils adhered spontaneously to all 3 different surfaces not coated with the antibody, whereas only 25% of neutrophils and less than 10% of mononuclear cells adhered. A small but significant increase in adherence to albumin‐Sepharose or albumin‐coated plastic occurred after addition of the IgG‐antibody, but not after addition of F(ab’)2 fragments, indicating that the Fc region was responsible for some increase in adherence. Incubation of eosinophils with IgG‐Fc fragments prevented the additional antibody‐mediated adherence. As Fc receptor‐negative eosinophils adhered almost as well as Fc receptor‐positive cells, it appears that the Fc receptors are of minor importance and instead, a nonspecific adherence mechanism, possibly unique for the eosinophil, seems to be the most important in eosinophil adherence to antibody‐coated surfaces.
The lymphocyte acid phosphatase‐positive lysosomes in patients with malignancies
Authors: Lisiewicz Jerzy , Moszczyski Paulin , Sulowicz Wladyslaw
Published: August 2010

Patients with various malignancies are characterized by decreased numbers of intact acid phosphatase‐positive lysosomes within the peripheral blood lymphocytes as compared to the control groups of healthy subjects.
Idiopathic (autoimmune) thrombocytopenic purpura with a complement‐fixing autoantibody and response to plasma exchange
Authors: Szatkowski Nancy S. , Aster Richard H.
Published: August 2010

A 69‐year‐old male presented with severe, life‐threatening thrombocytopenia, subsequently diagnosed as autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura (ATP). A potent complement‐activating platelet‐specific autoantibody was present in the patient's serum. The IgG autoantibody induced lysis of autologous and isologous platelets but was nonreactive with red cells and lymphocytes. It reacted in an indirect immunofluor‐escence test with platelets from 50 control subjects and with thrombasthenic platelets but failed to react with platelets from a patient with the Bernard‐Soulier syndrome (BSS), suggesting that it recognizes a glycoprotein absent from BSS platelets. Treatment by exchange transfusion and plasmapheresis was followed by disappearance of the autoantibody and sustained remission.
Adoptive immunotherapy for acute non‐lymphocytic leukaemia: A long‐term follow up
Authors: Denegri Jorge F. , Thomas John W.
Published: August 2010

Immune cells cultured in vitro against autologous blast cells were infused twice in 8 patients with ANLL after achieving complete remission. 3 of the 8 patients remained in first remission for 74–94 months and they appeared to be cured of their leukaemia. These 3 patients reveiced significantly higher numbers of in vitro sensitized immune cells as well as having a better recovery of the in vitro cultured cells. The other 5 patients relapsed within a year of diagnosis; 3 of them had had organomegaly and a preceding myeloproliferative disorder at diagnosis. None of 20 ANLL patients in complete remission treated simultaneously with similar chemotherapy at our institution remained in first complete remission, nor were long‐term survivors. Adoptive immunotherapy with in vitro sensitized immune cells may be effective treatment in acute leukaemia. The therapeutic potential of infusion of in vitro stimulated autologous immune cells requires further investigation.
Megakaryoblastic transformation of myelofibrosis with expression of the c‐sis oncogene
Authors: Marcus Robert E. , Hibbin Jill A. , Matutes Estela , Whittle Nigel , Waterfield Michael D. , Goldman John M.
Published: August 2010

We describe a case of primary myelofibrosis which terminated in an acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia with massive marrow fibrosis and osteosclerosis. The megakaryocyte lineage of the terminal phase was confirmed by ultrastructural and surface marker studies of the blast cells. The leukaemic phase was associated with the presence of large numbers of progressively more immature megakaryocyte progenitors in the peripheral blood. The expression of c‐sis mRNA in these blast cells was significantly higher than in normal mononuclear cells. Activation of the c‐sis proto‐oncogene leading to increased production of platelet‐derived growth factor could be related to the progressive fibrosis observed.
HTLV‐III seropositivity in symptom‐free Italian haemophiliacs. Correlation with consumption of commercial concentrate and abnormalities of T and B lymphocytes
Authors: Giudizi M. G. , Biagiotti R. , Almerigogna F. , Mazzetti M. , Alessi A. , Massai G. , Longo G. , Scano G. , Morfini M. , Romagnani S.
Published: August 2010

Various immunological parameters exploring both T‐ and B‐cell functions were determined in a group of 74 symptom‐free Italian haemophiliacs treated with commercial concentrate imported from the USA and were correlated with the presence in their serum of antibody to HTLV‐III. There was a strong correlation between HTLV‐III seropositivity and the amount of concentrate consumed. A significant correlation between HTLV‐III seropositivity and T‐cell alterations, such as T4/T8 ratio less than 1 and reduction in the absolute number of T4+ lymphocytes, or B‐cell alterations such as hypergammaglobulinaemia and enhanced spontaneous IgG synthesis in vitro, was also observed.
A primary extranodal lymphoma associated with IgM‐κ paraproteinaemia: Different secretory capacities of cutaneous and circulating lymphoma cells
Authors: Saeki K. , Kanayama Y. , Ohnishi M. , Kuyama J. , Katagiri S. , Tamaki T. , Tsubakio T. , Yonezawa T. , Tarui S.
Published: August 2010

We report a patient with non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma of small lymphocytic type with IgM‐κ monoclonal gammopathy who developed extranodal involvement with orbital and nasal manifestations, followed by generalized subcutaneous nodules. Immunological study disclosed that the peripheral blood and the subcutaneous nodule were both involved in a common monoclonal proliferation of B cells at various stages of differentiation, including secretory cells which accounted for the serum paraprotein. The secretory capacity was far greater in the peripheral blood than in the subcutaneous tissue. These clinical and immunological manifestations might reflect the physiological behaviour of a particular B cell subset which shows a preference for mucocutaneous sites to secrete IgM in the peripheral blood.
Monocyte‐associated acid phosphatase isoenzyme profiles as determined in acute myeloid leukaemia cells
Authors: Drexler H. G. , Gaedicke G. , Klein M. , Menon M. , Minowada J.
Published: August 2010

The acid phosphatase (acP) isoenzymes from the blast cells of 102 cases of acute myeloid leukaemia were separated by isoelectric focusing on horizontal polyacrylamide gels. The cases were classified on the basis of the FAB cooperative group criteria. Several single bands were combined into groups (I‐IV). An increase in the number of acP isoenzymes was noted which paralleled the assumed maturation along the granulocytic cell lineage from FAB M1 to FAB M3 and along the monocytic cell lineage from FAB M4 to FAB M5. One isoenzyme which was resistant to tartrate inhibition was found in 40% of the monocytic variants FAB M4 and M5, but not in the nonmonocytic cases FAB M1‐M3 and M6. This particular isoenzyme, which has been described as being characteristic for hairy cell leukaemia, also appears to be a marker of the monocyte/macrophage system and the respective neoplastic counterparts. The FAB M4 and M5 patients expressed a characteristic profile of group I isoenzymes which allows for the discrimination between monocytic and nonmonocytic cells.
Kinetics of heat‐damaged homologous red blood cells in patients with homozygous ß‐thalassemia in relation to blood transfusion
Authors: Germenis A. , Dimitriou P. , Kasfiki A. , Antipas S. E.
Published: August 2010

The kinetics of heat‐damaged homologous red blood cells (HDE) was studied prior to and 7–10 d following blood transfusion in 14 patients with homozygous ß‐thalassemia. On the basis of our results, ß‐thalassemic patients were classified into two distinct groups. In the first group the pretransfusion HDE extraction efficiency of the spleen was significantly lower than that of the second group and it increased dramatically following blood transfusion. On the contrary, the relatively higher pretransfusion HDE extraction efficiency of the patients of the second group showed a significant decrease after blood transfusion. These differences between the two groups of ß‐thalassemics might be attributed to the different qualitative as well as quantitative alterations of the splenic vascular bed occurring in these patients during the course of their disease. Furthermore, there was convincing evidence that part of the HDE mixture was extracted by RES sites outside the spleen, a function which is also affected by blood transfusion.
Simultaneous occurrence of acute monoblastic leukemia and an abnormal B‐cell clone with both cell types characterized by specific cytogenetic and immunological markers
Authors: Hagemeijer A. , Bolhuis R. L. H. , van Dongen J. J. M. , Sizoo W.
Published: August 2010

2 different, unrelated, abnormal clones of cells were found in a patient with acute leukemia, each clone being characterized by specific cytogenetic abnormalities and a distinct immunological phenotype. Bone marrow morphology and cytochemistry indicated an acute monoblastic leukemia, a diagnosis supported by the finding of a t(9;11) in bone marrow cells. In PHA‐stimulated blood culture, another abnormal karyotype was found in 16% of the metaphases: 47, XY, +12, inv(13), t(14;18). Immunologically, the blood contained 3 types of mononucleated cells (MNC): 1) large cells (about 70% of the MNC) with a phenotype consistent with monoblastic/monocytic leukemic cells (My7+, My8+, My906+, My4+, Leu‐M3+); 2) small lymphocytic cells with either T‐cell characteristics (6% of the MNC); or 3) B‐cell monoclonal features (24% of the MNC). The monoclonal B‐cell population was Sm K+, μ +, δ+, BA‐1+, B1+, Y29/55+ and FMC7+. The possible origin of this abnormal (malignant) B‐cell population is discussed. However, this B‐cell clone was clinically silent and the patient' death precluded further observations.
Hereditary thrombocytopenia with excessively prolonged bleeding time, corrected by infusions of platelet poor plasma
Authors: Stavem P. , Abrahamsen A. F. , Vartdal F. , Nordhagen R. , Rootwelt K.
Published: August 2010

In a family with hereditary thrombocytopenia, transfused normal platelets as well as their own platelets had a shortened survival in the patients' circulation (11). On the other hand, the patients' platelets survived normally when transfused to a normal recipient. Platelet‐associated immunoglobulins or circulating platelet antibodies were not detected (immunofluorescence method). About 200 ml platelet poor plasma (PPP) from each of 4 normal donors was infused daily for 5 consecutive d to 1 afflicted family member, causing a rise of platelet count from 65 × 109/1 to 163 × 109/1 and a decrease of bleeding time from 28 to 11 min 7 d after the PPP was discontinued. The platelet count then gradually decreased and was 65 × 109/1 with a bleeding time of 30 min 16 d after the PPP was discontinued. In a repeated PPP infusion experiment a similar response was evoked. It is concluded that the afflicted family members must have a deficiency of some plasma principle necessary to keep platelets fit and circulating.
RES phagocytosis in children with homozygous β‐thalassemia in relation to blood transfusion
Authors: Dimitriou P. , Giamouris J. , Nicolaidou P. , Antipas S. E. , Fretzayas A. , Messaropoulos T. , Karpathios T.
Published: August 2010

In order to investigate the effect of blood transfusion on the RE cell function in thalassemia major, 14 children with homozygous β thalassemia were studied prior to and 7 to 10 d following blood transfusion, when, according to previous studies, spleen reaches its minimum size. The denatured human albumin (DHA) low and large dose clearance techniques were used in order to estimate the maximum RES phagocytic capacity. It is shown that, despite the confirmed post‐transfusion high hepatosplenic circulation, the RE cell phagocytic capacity is not significantly affected. Furthermore the RES phagocytic capacity of β‐thalassemics is shown to be significantly higher than that of normal controls, and this can probably be attributed to the RES hyperplasia accompanying the disease.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in 2 siblings: Defective platelet function and plasma factor deficiency occurring simultaneously
Authors: Waage Anders , Siegel Jorun , Thorstensen1 Ketil , Lamvik Jon
Published: August 2010

In 2 siblings with recurring attacks of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, platelet aggregation was found to be decreased during attacks. In contrast with reported observations in other patients, aggregation was found decreased also in symptom‐free periods. ATP/ADP ratio in platelet rich plasma was normal. The cause of decreased aggregation was not uraemia, alcohol or drugs. In a healthy sister, platelet aggregation induced by ADP was subnormal. The attacks in 1 of the patients responded to infusion of fresh frozen plasma.
The Joys of Interdisciplinarity: Current Literary Scholarship in Denmark
Authors: Sell Roger D.
Published: August 2010

For the past ten or twenty years interdisciplinarity has been very much in the air and, especially, in the polytechnics and new universities of Britain.1 The feeling there is that the highly developed specialization of linguistic, literary and historical research during the middle years of this century was achieved at the price of a regrettable fragmentation. Scholars lost sight of the bearing of one thing upon another.
Fetal alcohol syndrome and developing craniofacial and dental structures – a review
Authors: Sant'Anna LB , Tosello DO
Published: August 2010

Structured abstract

Authors – Sant'Anna LB, Tosello DO

Objectives – Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a collection of signs and symptoms seen in children exposed to alcohol in the prenatal period. It is characterized mainly by a distinct pattern of craniofacial malformations, physical and mental retardation. However, with the increased incidence of FAS, there is a great variation in the clinical features of FAS.

Design – Narrative review.

Results – This review describes data from clinical and experimental studies, andin vitromodels. Experimental studies have shown that alcohol has a direct toxic effect on the ectodermal and mesodermal cells of the developing embryo, particularly in the cells destined to give rise to dentofacial structures (i.e. cranial neural crest cells). Other effects, such as, abnormal pattern of cranial and mandibular growth and altered odontogenesis are described in detail. The exact mechanism by which alcohol induces its teratogenic effects remains still unknown. The possible mechanisms are outlined here, with an emphasis on the developing face and tooth. Possible future research directions and treatment strategies are also discussed.

Conclusion – Early identification of children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure leads to interventions, services, and improved outcomes. FAS can be prevented with the elimination of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. We need to provide education, target high‐risk groups, and make this issue a high priority in terms of public health.
REGULATION OF THE PROTEINASE PRODUCTION IN TWO STRAINS OF AEROMONAS
Authors: Dahle Hans Kolbein
Published: August 2010

Cultures of Aeromonas liquefuciens' and Aeromonas salmonicida, grown in a basic salt medium, were examined for proteinase production after the addition to the medium of simple compounds, such as amino acids and sugars, and after the addition of compounds of higher molecular weight, such as casein, trypsinised casein, peptone, neopeptone and gelatin. Ae. liquejaciens grew in the basic medium, without any proteinase production, but it was possible to induce the production of proteinases by raising the pH from the original 6.2 to above 7.0 prior to the addition of arginine, asparagine, histidine, monosodium glutamate and, particularly by the addition of the higher molecular weight compounds. Growth of Ae. salmonicida could not be induced by the addition of amino acids, and proteinase production was dependent on the presence of higher molecular weight compounds. In addition a distinct difference wis demonstrated between casein on one hand, and trypsinised casein, neopeptone and gelatin on the other, in that casein inhibited the proteinase production while the others were potent inducers. Gelatin was particular in that it only induced the production of proteinase B of the two known proteinases (A and B) of Ae. liquefaciens. In using these inducable proteinases for taxonomical purposes it‐ is recommended that the examinations be performed in defined media under standard conditions as far as pH, incubation temperature and incubation time are concerned.
Studies on Bacterial Surface Translocation
Authors: Henrighsen JØrgen , Frøholm Leif Oddvar , Bøvre Kjell
Published: August 2010

Three strains ofMoraxella nonliquefaciens, three strains ofM. bovisand three strains ofM. kingiithat all have been separated into fimbriated variants, forming spreading and corroding colonies, and non‐fimbriated variants, forming non‐spreading and non‐corroding colonies, were examined. It was found that spreading in all cases takes place by means of the type of surface translocation called twitching. Some possible implications of this are briefly discussed.
ASSOCIATION OF METHICILLIN RESISTANCE TO PRODUCTION OF ENTEROTOXIN B AND OTHER FACTORS IN COAGULASE‐POSITIVE AND COAGULASE‐NEGATIVE STAPHYLOCOCCI
Authors: Hallander Hans O. , Sanderson Hugh
Published: August 2010

Methicillin resistance in S. albus strains isolated from clinical sources was of two types. One type was heterogeneous and highly resistant, the other, non‐heterogeneous and less resistant. Of 80 methicillin resistant strains of S. aureus, 82.5 per cent were enterotoxin B procedures, but none of the methicillin resistant strains of S. albus produced enterotoxin B. Experiments to determine whether any linkage existed between enterotoxin B, nuclease and coagulase production showed that all three characters could vary independently.
Fimbriation Associated with The Spreading‐Corroding Colony Type in Moraxella Kingii
Authors: Frøholm Leif Oddvar , BøVRE Kjell
Published: August 2010

In four out of five Moraxella kingii strains examined, strongly corroding and usually spreading colony forms (named SC type) could be isolated, as well as non‐spreading and non‐corroding or weakly corroding forms (N colony type). Electron microscopical preparations made from SC colonies always contained numerous fimbriae, whereas usually no fimbriae could be detected in preparations made from cultures of the N type. In the case of weakly corroding forms, a few fimbriae could be observed in some preparations, their occurrence apparently corresponding in time with the slowly developing corrosion. The fimbriae of M. kingii were of the same approximate dimensions (60–85 Å) as observed for spreading‐corroding colony variants of M. nonliquefaciens and M. bovis. In one strain, low‐frequent spontaneous variation from the N to SC type was observed, with a corresponding gain of fimbriation. Spontaneous variation in the other direction, from SC to N, accompanied by loss of fimbriation, was also seen in this strain. The latter variation was probably also always of a low frequency. When it had occurred, the N variant cells easily outnumbered the SC type in mixed culture.
ELECTRON MICROSCOPICAL AND CULTURAL FEATURES OF NEISSERIA MENINGITIDIS COMPETENCE VARIANTS
Authors: Froholm Leif Oddvar , Jyssum Kaare , Bøvre Kjell
Published: August 2010

Competent and incompetent variants of five strains of Neisseria meningitidis were examined by negative stain electron microscopy with the aim of detecting a possible correlation between the competent state in DNA mediated transformation and the presence of special surface structures. As previously reported for species of Moraxella, a correlation between the occurrence of fimbriae at or near the cells and a high level of competence was found. Various conditions of cultivation were investigated to see if small, previously unnoticed, differences in type of growth could exist between the competent and incompetent variants. No difference could be detected in colony morphology on solid medium. However, in statically incubated broth the competent variants were distinguished by forming a surface pellicle after one to two days of growth.
OCCURRENCE OF OCHRATOXIN A AND CITRININ IN CEREALS ASSOCIATED WITH MYCOTOXIC PORCINE NEPHROPATHY
Authors: Krogh P. , Hald Benedicte , Pedersen E. Jonas
Published: August 2010

A survey of the nephrotoxic mycotoxins ochratoxin and citrinin in cereals used as feed for bacon pigs was conducted, employing thin‐layer chromatography techniques, in districts of Denmark where the incidence rate of mycotoxic porcine nephropathy was high. A total of 58 per cent of the samples contained ochratoxin A and 9 per cent contained citrinin, always together with ochratoxin A. The detection of the two mycotoxins was confirmed by derivative formation and, for selected samples, by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). The maximal concentration of ochratoxin A and citrinin was 27.5 ppm and 2 ppm, respectively. About half of the contaminated samples contained more than 200 ppb, which is the level at which development of porcine nephropathy is possible. This is the first report which elucidates the association of ochratoxin A and citrinin and a naturally occurring disease in domestic animals.
EFFECT OF GLUCOSE ANALOGS ON THE SYNTHESIS OF STAPHYLOCOCCAL ENTEROTOXIN A
Authors: SMITH J. L. , BENCIVENGO M. M. , BUCHANAN R. L. , KUNSCH C. A.
Published: August 2010

Glucose, 2‐deoxyglucose (2‐DOG), and α‐methylglucose (α‐MG) inhibited staphylococcal enteroxin A (SEA) synthesis by Staphylococcus aureus 196E whereas β‐methylglucose (β‐MG) and 3‐0‐methylglucose (3‐0‐MG) did not inhibit even at high concentrations. Glucose and β‐MG decreased the pH (< 6.0) whereas the pH with 2‐DOG, α‐MG was above 8.0 at 24 h. Glucose (at levels not inhibitory to SEA synthesis) potentiated the inhibition of toxin synthesis by 2‐DOG and β‐MG and the glucose‐analog combinations had a decreased pH. The inhibition of SEA synthesis by glucose, glucose analogs, or glucose‐analog combinations does not appear to be directly related to a decline in pH. The inhibitory effects shown by glucose and its analog suggest that SEA synthesis may be regulated by a mechanism similar to catabolite repression.
LEGISLATIVE RESPONSE TO THE “BUREAUCRACY PROBLEM”: STATE AND LOCAL PATTERNS
Authors: Argyle Nolan J.
Published: August 2010

“… out where the services of the government are delivered, the performance of the bureaucracy constitutes the biggest crisis facing the country today.”
MEASURING INFLUENCE IN A SOUTHERN STATE LEGISLATURE
Authors: Whistler Donald E. , Ellickson Mark C.
Published: August 2010

Summary and Conclusions

To observe influence in the personalized ephemeral politics of a southern legislature, we used three measures. The first — attributes of influences — employed individual, district, and ideological characteristics. The second — reputation for influence — utilized reputation for effectiveness in the legislative process and reputation as one from whom advice is sought. The third measured actually getting something from the legislative process. We devised a new method of indexing this, developing a Ten‐Point Continuum which indicated how far members' bills had gotten along the legislative route.

Before summarizing the above relationships, it should be noted that bills are handled (conflict resolved) in a definite pattern in this southern state legislature, and this pattern is consistent over time and across chambers. The pattern is first that most bills are enacted. The personalized style of southern politics is reflected in a “politics of accommodation” of as many members as possible. Second, among those bills not enacted, most (about half) are stymied at the very earliest stage, either by the sponsor withdrawing it or the committee simply taking no action. Third, the remaining half of bills not enacted are defeated over the wide variety of possible maneuvers.

Regarding relationships, in general the two measures of influence are affected by individual legislator and district characteristics only weakly to mildly, while seniority and institutional position display moderately strong associations. Success at getting bills passed is weakly influenced by any personal, district or institutional factors. Moreover, the direction of the relationships are not always consistent. The association between the measures of influence and success at bill‐enactment is very weak to non‐existent. (The two measures of reputation are moderately related).

We are not surprised to find these relationships in a legislature that operates on personalized politics. In such a system, as many members are accommodated as possible. This is reflected in the bill‐passage rate, which is the highest among American state legislatures (Rosenthal: 258). If most members get what they want, then individual and district characteristics, as well as reputation for influence are not crucial. Seniority and institutional positions provide the bases for reputational influence and contribute mildly to members' capacity to get their bills enacted. The exceedingly low or non‐existent relationship between gender and influence/bill‐passage success is encouraging; the slight, but negative relationship between race and bill‐passage success requires continued attention and study. Finally, we suspect that variables not conceptualized in this research may account for considerable influence in one party‐no party state legislatures, variables such as interpersonal skills, ambition, and willingness to work at legislative tasks other than dealing with one's district.
RELATIVISM, AMERICAN EDUCATION, AND DEMOCRACY
Authors: Lawler Peter Augustine
Published: August 2010

I want to consider a few of the challenges relativism poses to American educators. The thought has been present in the world, since the time of Socrates, that relativism is perhaps the obstacle in a sophisticated, democratic regime to genuinely thought‐provoking and soul‐forming education. This thought has been reinvigorated impressively by Allan Bloom's justly celebrated and genuinely controversial The Closing of the American Mind.1
THE CLOSING OF THE MIND OR THE OPENING OF THE DIALOGUES? THE OFTEN ELUSIVE PURSUIT OF TRUTH ON CAMPUS
Authors: Van Tassell Darin
Published: August 2010

Let us note that in everyone of us there are two guiding and ruling principles which lead us whither they will; one is the natural desire of pleasure, the other is an acquired opinion which aspires after the best; and these two are sometimes in harmony and then again at war, and sometimes the one, sometimes the other conquers. I had better say further that the irrational desire. which overcomes the tendency of opinion toward right is called love.