bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences with dual protein bound aqueous vitamin B12 absorption test in subjects with low serum vitamin B12 concentrations.
Authors: Gozzard D I , Dawson D W , Lewis M J
Published: June 2007

A dual isotope vitamin B12 absorption test in which vitamin B12 is given both in aqueous solution and bound to protein (chicken serum), was evaluated in 26 controls and 68 patients with subnormal serum vitamin B12 concentrations (19 with pernicious anaemia, 13 with iron deficiency, seven after partial gastrectomy, seven with malabsorptive states, five with folate deficiency, four with chronic alcoholism and 13 in whom no cause was apparent). In control patients protein bound absorption decreased with age; isotope excretion was 1.0% or over in those aged under 60 and 0.5% or over in those aged 60 and above. Malabsorption of protein bound vitamin B12 with normal aqueous absorption occurred in five patients with iron deficiency, three with alcoholism, two after partial gastrectomy, two with folate deficiency and in one with a malabsorptive state. In alcoholics abstinence produced an improvement in protein bound absorption. All patients in the group for whom no cause could be found for the subnormal serum vitamin B12 concentration had normal aqueous absorption but four had malabsorption of protein bound vitamin. Although the dual isotope test gave reproducible results and was consistent with the standard Schilling test some anomalies were detected; nine patients had reduced aqueous absorption with normal protein bound absorption. Despite this the dual test may prove useful in determining the importance of a subnormal vitamin B12 concentration where the cause is not clinically apparent. Further development is needed before it can be considered for routine use.
Changes in plasma beta 2 microglobulin concentrations after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation.
Authors: Norfolk D R , Forbes M A , Cooper E H , Child J A
Published: June 2007

Plasma concentrations of beta 2 microglobulin (B2M), the light chain of the class I major histocompatibility complex, were measured serially in 26 patients undergoing allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT). The concentrations fell after conditioning treatment, and recovered when the marrow was transplanted. Bacterial infection did not influence B2M concentration, but nine of 22 episodes of acute graft versus host disease were associated with raised concentrations. Increased plasma B2M concentrations were also a feature of eight episodes of chronic graft versus host disease, and these fell after treatment. Reactivation of herpes simplex, varicella zoster, or cytomegalovirus infections were also accompanied by raised B2M concentrations. Three patients with cytomegalovirus pneumonitis had high concentrations of plasma B2M, the rise starting between five and 22 days before onset of symptoms. Although it is non-specific, serial measurement of plasma B2M in patients undergoing BMT may be clinically useful in monitoring chronic graft versus host disease.
Routine full blood counts as indicators of acute viral infections.
Authors: Nixon D F , Parsons A J , Eglin R P
Published: June 2007

Over a period of three weeks about 9000 full blood counts were analysed on the Technicon H6000 automated haematology machine. From these, 62 patients were identified who had abnormally high numbers of large unstained white cells; these patients were followed up for evidence of viral infection. Seventeen were either lost to follow up or in chronic renal failure; of the remaining 45 patients, 40 had viral infections, 26 of which were due to Epstein-Barr virus. In the presence of a raised number of large unstained white cells, an IgM test for Epstein-Barr virus is recommended, followed by routine serology when necessary.
Antibody responses to tetanus toxoid in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.
Authors: Watmough D , French M A , Triger D R
Published: June 2007

The primary and secondary antibody responses to tetanus toxoid were measured in 18 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis and compared with those in age and sex matched controls. Although the primary antibody response in the two groups was similar, the secondary IgM antibody response in primary biliary cirrhosis was significantly higher than that in control subjects. There seems to be a correlation between secondary IgM antibody titre and total serum IgM concentration, although this fails to reach significance (p = 0.069). These results show that in primary biliary cirrhosis there is a failure to switch from IgM to IgG antibody synthesis in response to foreign antigens, and this may account for the increased serum IgM concentrations that are usually found in this disease.
Role of fine needle aspiration cytology in breast cancer screening.
Authors: Lamb J , Anderson T J , Dixon M J , Levack P A
Published: June 2007

In a six year period up to the end of December 1985 fine needle aspiration cytology specimens of the breast were obtained from 562 apparently healthy women invited to participate in a breast cancer screening programme. Of these, 397 had a biopsy and 173 cancers were confirmed histologically. For the diagnosis of cancer, the procedure was less successful than in symptomatic cases. The main factors influencing success were the aspirator, the small size of many cancers, and the occult nature of the lesions seen only on mammography. Retrospective analysis of the figures shows that combining the results of FNA cytology in a triple assessment with physical and mammographical findings for restricted selection means that the number of benign biopsy specimens could be reduced considerably.
Immunohistology of oestrogen receptor and D5 antigen in breast cancer: correlation with oestrogen receptor content of adjacent cryostat sections assayed by radioligand binding and enzyme immunoassay.
Authors: Giri D D , Dangerfield V J , Lonsdale R , Rogers K , Underwood J C
Published: June 2007

Two monoclonal antibodies recognising epitopes associated with oestrogen receptor protein were evaluated against the assayable soluble oestrogen receptor concentration in a series of 149 breast carcinomas. One antibody (anti-ER) recognises the hormone binding unit of oestrogen receptor and gives nuclear staining; the other antibody (anti-D5) was raised to a component of soluble oestrogen receptor and gives cytoplasmic staining. To minimise variations attributable to tumour heterogeneity and sampling error immunohistology using the two monoclonal antibodies, radioligand binding assays, enzyme immunoassays, and quantitative histology were done on adjacent frozen sections. Thirty nine per cent, 48%, 54%, and 43% of the tumours were found to be oestrogen receptor positive by radioligand binding assay, anti-ER and anti-D5 immunohistology, and enzyme immunoassay, respectively. Strong correlations (p less than 0.0005) were found between anti-ER immunohistology and the radioligand binding assay. Only weak correlations were found between anti-D5 immunohistology and the results of other assay methods for oestrogen receptor. Nuclear staining of human breast cancers with the anti-ER monoclonal antibody thus seems to be an acceptable alternative to biochemical assays, with the additional advantage of showing intercellular and regional heterogeneity for oestrogen receptor content.
Lymphoid stromal reaction in gastrointestinal lymphomas: immunohistochemical study of 14 cases.
Authors: Jarry A , Brousse N , Souque A , Barge J , Molas G , Potet F
Published: June 2007

The lymphoid stromal reaction, particularly the T lymphoid reaction, was studied immunohistochemically on cryostat sections in 14 cases of primary gastrointestinal B lymphomas, and compared with the type and distribution of lymphoid cells in three cases of gastric lymphoid hyperplasia. A pronounced T lymphoid reaction, mainly of the T helper phenotype, occurred in both lesions. Most of these T cells bore HLA-DR antigens, but only a few of them had the receptor for interleukin 2. The T lymphoid reaction was observed inside the lymphomas in seven of a total of 14 cases, and around the lymphomas in four of the six cases clinically classified as stage I. Perivascular mucosal and submucosal nodules, entirely composed of T cells, seemed characteristic of gastric lymphoid hyperplasias. A T lymphoid reaction in lymphoid hyperplasias suggests an amplification of the cell mediated immune response; in lymphomas it could represent a host reaction against the lymphomatous infiltrate, therefore favouring a better prognosis.
Non-cytotoxic antibodies in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.
Authors: MacLeod A M , Minford E J , King D J , Dawson A A , Bennett N B , Catto G R
Published: June 2007

Non-cytotoxic Fc receptor blocking antibodies against autologous B lymphocytes were sought in sera from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), using a rosette inhibition assay. They were found in 11 of 52 (21%) of patients with CLL, but were not associated with previous blood transfusion or pregnancy, suggesting that they were unlikely to have resulted from allogeneic stimulation. Fc receptor blockade was more commonly detected in sera from patients with stage B rather than stage A CLL (Binet classification), though this did not achieve significance beyond the 90% level, and it was noted in 62.5% of those with lymphocyte doubling times of less than one year, compared with 36.3% of those whose lymphocyte doubling time was more than one year. The results indicate that autologous Fc receptor blocking antibody activity occurs in sera from patients with CLL, is more likely to be generated by the tumour itself than by allogeneic stimulation, and is associated with increased tumour load. Such antibodies may permit tolerance of tumour by the host.
Accumulation of ceroid in smooth muscle indicates severe malabsorption and vitamin E deficiency.
Authors: Stamp G W , Evans D J
Published: June 2007

Four patients had accumulation of ceroid in smooth muscle (lipofuscinosis), which indicated severe or uncontrolled malabsorption, with confirmed vitamin E deficiency in three cases. The distribution of the pigment was systematic, and there seemed to be an association between malabsorption syndrome and vitamin E deficiency. Vitamin E supplementation seems to be indicated in such patients, and it is suggested that studies of smooth muscle function should be made in cases of heavy accumulation of ceroid.
Nutritional survey of patients in a general surgical ward: is there an effective predictor of malnutrition?
Authors: Neithercut W D , Smith A D , McAllister J , La Ferla G
Published: June 2007

A survey of patients in a general surgical ward was undertaken to establish biochemical and anthropometric standards which could be used to detect malnourished patients in hospital. Results of biochemical and anthropometric tests of nutritional status were compared with assessment by a clinician and the quick nutritional index of Seltzer. Triceps skinfold thickness and serum albumin concentrations indicated that 29% and 35% of patients, respectively, were undernourished compared with 16% by clinical assessment and 17% by the quick nutritional index. Significant correlations (p less than 0.001) between serum albumin and transferrin concentrations and arm muscle area were found for men but not for women. Poor nutritional specificity and sensitivity of some anthropometric and biochemical tests may account for the difference in the level of undernutrition found by these tests and clinical assessment. This shows the importance of the choice of test in influencing the level of undernutrition detected.
Microcomputer software to facilitate costing in pathology laboratories.
Authors: Stilwell J A , Woodford F P
Published: June 2007

A software program is described which will enable laboratory managers to calculate, for their laboratory over a 12 month period, the cost of each test or investigation and of components of that cost. These comprise the costs of direct labour, consumables, equipment maintenance and depreciation; allocated costs of intermediate operations--for example, specimen procurement, reception, and data processing; and apportioned indirect costs such as senior staff time as well as external overheads such as telephone charges, rent, and rates. Total annual expenditure on each type of test is also calculated. The principles on which the program is based are discussed. Considered in particular, are the problems of apportioning indirect costs (which are considerable in clinical laboratory work) over different test costs, and the merits of different ways of estimating the amount or fraction of staff members' time spent on each kind of test. The computer program is Crown copyright but is available under licence from one of us (JAS).
Simple method of monitoring colonising microbial load in chronic bronchial sepsis: pilot comparison of reduction in colonising microbial load with antibiotics given intermittently and continuously.
Authors: Currie D C , Higgs E , Metcalfe S , Roberts D E , Cole P J
Published: June 2007

Aerobic and anaerobic culture of sputum on selective bacteriological media, combined with a new method of plating and plate reading, permitted rapid identification and quantitation of three genera of bacteria commonly associated with chronic bronchial sepsis (Haemophilus spp, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus) and avoided time consuming serial dilution of sputum and subculture of organisms. The accuracy of this new technique was assessed in patients with chronic bronchial sepsis and was used to detect changes in the colonising microbial load of Haemophilus spp and Ps aeruginosa in patients with bronchiectasis receiving one of three different antibiotic regimens: intermittent seven day courses of amoxycillin for exacerbations; or a six month course of continuous oral or nebulised amoxycillin. The colonising microbial load of Haemophilus spp was reduced only temporarily (+++ to ++) after each intermittent course of antibiotic, but a sustained and greater reduction in the colonising microbial load of both Haemophilus spp (+++ to +) and antibiotic resistant P aeruginosa (+++ to +) was seen during both continuous treatments. Sputum purulence decreased in parallel with colonising microbial load, reflecting a reduction in host inflammatory response to the colonising microbial load.
Protein A and coagulase expression in epidemic and non-epidemic Staphylococcus aureus.
Authors: Roberts J I , Gaston M A
Published: June 2007

Strains of Staphylococcus aureus were divided into groups on the basis of antimicrobial sensitivity and epidemiology and tested for protein A expression in a simple microtitre test, which detected the non-immunological binding of immunoglobulin to protein A on whole cells of S aureus. Isolates of the methicillin resistant strain prevalent in south east England (EMRSA) showed a low expression of protein A compared with the other strains of methicillin resistant S aureus (MRSA), other multiple resistant strains, and sensitive strains. Protein A and coagulase expression in 27 strains of MRSA from 15 countries associated with hospital outbreaks were compared with 27 strains of MRSA from 11 countries reported to be sporadic isolates. Twenty four of the 27 outbreak associated MRSA showed low expression of protein A and high expression of coagulase. Conversely, sporadic strains generally gave higher levels of protein A and a wide variety of coagulase reactions. The results suggest that many epidemic strains of MRSA may have phenotypic characteristics that distinguish them from sporadic strains.
Use of monoclonal antibodies in an ELISA to detect IgM class antibodies specific for Toxoplasma gondii.
Authors: Balfour A H , Harford J P , Goodall M
Published: June 2007

Two monoclonal antibodies CH6 and C1E3 were used in an antibody class capture assay for the detection of IgM antibodies specific for Toxoplasma gondii. CH6 was used on the solid phase to capture human IgM. After a Toxoplasma gondii antigen had been added, specifically bound material was detected using C1E3 coupled to horseradish peroxidase. The assay was compared with an established system using polyclonal antisera at both the capture and antigen detection stages. A good correlation was found, with 97.3% (125 of 128) of sera giving the same classification in both assays. Three sera were positive only in the polyclonal system. No false positive results were found when 118 negative sera were examined. The two monoclonal antibodies provide a viable alternative to the use of polyclonal sera at the capture and antigen detection stages in the antibody class capture assay for the measurement of specific IgM against T gondii.
Rapid technique of DNA-DNA in situ hybridisation on formalin fixed tissue sections using microwave irradiation.
Authors: Coates P J , Hall P A , Butler M G , D'Ardenne A J
Published: June 2007

The relative sensitivities of different protocols for detecting cytomegalovirus nucleic acid sequences in histological specimens, using a biotinylated cDNA probe, were assessed. Several commonly used pre-treatment steps were not essential, nor was the use of a highly sensitive detection system. The choice of enzyme used for proteolytic digestion of tissue seems to be important, and increasing the temperature of denaturation of tissue and probe DNA to above 100 degrees C greatly increased the sensitivity of the method. Difficulties in achieving such high temperatures in a controlled manner were overcome by the use of a rapid microwave heating method that can be used routinely in laboratories. This technique detected cytomegalovirus infections in formalin fixed, paraffin processed tissue sections within a single working day.
Effect of decalcification agents on immunoreactivity of cellular antigens.
Authors: Athanasou N A , Quinn J , Heryet A , Woods C G , McGee J O
Published: June 2007

The effects of several strong acids, weak acids, a proprietary decalcifier, and edetic acid on the immunohistochemical staining of cryostat and fixed paraffin embedded sections of tissue from a variety of normal and pathological calcified and uncalcified specimens were studied. Even decalcification in strong acids (HCl, HN03, 5% trichloracetic acid, HCl-edetic acid did not diminish the reactivity of many useful antigens (including leucocyte common antigen, intermediate filaments, S100 protein and epithelial membrane antigen). Weaker acids (formic acid, acetic acid) and edetic acid decalcified more slowly and generally showed greater preservation of antigenic reactivity with better morphology and staining quality. Trichloracetic acid was also useful as a quick one step fixation and decalcifying agent for both cryostat and routinely processed sections. Knowledge of the preservation of antigenic reactivity in decalcified tissue will be useful in the diagnosis of tumours of uncertain histogenesis and origin which affect calcified tissues.
Evidence for the presence of lactoferrin in odontogenic keratocyst fluids.
Authors: Douglas C W , Craig G T
Published: June 2007

Investigations into the possibility that X (an antigen consistently present in aspirated odontogenic keratocysts, but not in most fluids from other cyst types), represented a keratinocyte component failed to identify the antigen as a keratin, involucrin, or one of the blood group substances. Antigen X was detected in human mixed and parotid saliva and in colostrum, as well as in a commercially obtained preparation of colostral IgA. The antigen was similar biochemically to both secretory component and lactoferrin but proved to be identical antigenically with lactoferrin. The origin of lactoferrin in keratocyst fluids remains uncertain, though the lining epithelium seems a more likely source than does the very variable, and often negligible, inflammatory infiltrate found in these lesions.
Reporting colorectal cancer.
Authors: Jass J R , Morson B C
Published: June 2007

Reporting colorectal cancer comprises two phases: the careful collection of pathological data; and the division of patients into groups with differing prognoses. Dukes' classification of rectal cancer was the outcome of this dual approach. It evolved over many years, and full details of its final form were not published until 1958, towards the end of his career. Others modified the classification during its evolution, and numerous rival pathological and clinicopathological systems now exist. The resulting confusion that surrounds the Dukes classification may make it impossible to compare pathological findings and the results of treatment between different centres. The importance of meticulous dissection and examination of surgical specimens is emphasised and a simple set of recommendations made. It is shown how modern statistical methods may identify pathological variables that have independent clinical importance. On the basis of this information a new system of prognostic categorisation for patients receiving apparently curative surgery for rectal cancer has been developed, which is superior to the Dukes classification in that it can place many more patients into groups with clear prognostic implications.
Cellular oncogenes in neoplasia.
Authors: Chan V T , McGee J O
Published: June 2007

In recent years cellular homologues of many viral oncogenes have been identified. As these genes are partially homologous to viral oncogenes and are activated in some tumour cell lines they are termed "proto-oncogenes". In tumour cell lines proto-oncogenes are activated by either quantitative or qualitative changes in gene structure: activation of these genes was originally thought to be a necessary primary event in carcinogenesis, but activated cellular oncogenes, unlike viral oncogenes, do not transform normal cells in culture. In experimental models cooperation between two oncogenes can induce transformation of early passage cells, and this has become the basis of an hypothesis for multistep carcinogenesis. Proto-oncogene products also show sequence homology to various components in the mitogenic pathway (growth factors, growth factor receptors, signal transducing proteins and nuclear proteins), and it has been postulated that they may cause deregulation of the various components of this pathway. In human tumours single or multiple oncogene activation occurs. The pattern of oncogene activation in common solid malignancies is not consistent within any one class of tumour, nor is it uniform between classes, with three exceptions. In neuroblastoma, breast cancer, and perhaps in lung cancer there is relatively consistent activation of N-myc, neu, and c-myc/N-myc, respectively. Amplification of these genes generally correlates with poor prognosis. The introduction of methods for the direct study of oncogene transcription and their products will undoubtedly broaden our vision of cancer biology in man and, hopefully, add diagnostic and prognostic precision to tumour typing.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae: a versatile pathogen.
Authors: Easmon C S , Ison C A
Published: June 2007

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is one of the most important causes of sexually transmitted disease. We do not fully understand the pathogenesis of infection with this organism, although recent improvements in immunological and molecular techniques have brought us closer to an answer. These techniques are now also being used to detect and identify N gonorrhoeae and to analyse the epidemiology of gonorrhoea. Plasmid and chromosomal mediated antibiotic resistance increases the difficulty of controlling gonorrhoea. Resistant strains occur all over the world and new patterns of resistance are still emerging. A better understanding of gonococcal pathogenicity is necessary for the development of an effective vaccine. Despite work on pili and outer membrane proteins no vaccine yet exists. The control of gonorrhoea still depends on diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiological control, facilities that are not widely available in many of those parts of the world where gonorrhoea is a major problem.
Interpretation of the metabolic effects of trauma and sepsis.
Authors: Stoner H B
Published: June 2007

John Hunter suggested that the body's responses to injury were defensive and had survival value. Now, many years later, we are still uncertain about this. Although our appreciation of the endocrine and metabolic responses to injury, both physical and bacterial, has increased enormously our knowledge of these events, particularly at a molecular level, is still very incomplete. Patterns have been identified, however, in the sphere of energy metabolism, and this provides a basis for interpreting at least some of the biochemical responses to injury. The views developed support the idea that the responses are defensive--initially against the impact of the injury and then to meet the demands of the new "organ" which the wounds or septic focus seem to have added to the body. A reason for wanting to interpret these responses is to improve patient care. Current interpretations at least help to clarify our view of what is happening in the injured or septic patient and sometimes indicate lines of treatment. Nevertheless, many serious problems, particularly changes in protein metabolism, remain to be solved before we can advise on the metabolic care of patients at all stages from accident to recovery.
The HLA system: structure and function.
Authors: Bodmer W F
Published: June 2007

The HLA system is the major histocompatibility system of man and was found through a search for blood group-like determinants on white blood cells that would be effective in matching for transplantation. The HLA system has its counterparts in other species of mammals, birds, and reptiles including the much studied H2 system of the mouse. The HLA system started from a series of antigens defined by a combination of relatively crude serology and genetics, supported by extensive statistical analysis. It has turned out to be a complex genetic region determining two major sets of cell surface products which mediate essential functional interactions between cells of the immune system, and so have a major role in the control of the immune response. Polymorphism in the HLA region is thus associated with a wide variety of diseases with an immune aetiology.
Molecular pathology of single gene disorders.
Authors: Weatherall D J
Published: June 2007

Recent studies using recombinant DNA technology have led to an understanding of the basic molecular pathology of single gene disorders. Furthermore, methods are being developed for finding genes for conditions, whose underlying biochemistry is still not understood, or which may contribute to polygenic systems that underlie common diseases. As well as providing new approaches to carrier detection, prenatal diagnosis, and treatment of single gene disorders, these advances promise to provide important information about the pathophysiology of many common polygenic diseases.
Histopathology and immunohistochemistry of peripheral T cell lymphomas: a proposal for their classification.
Authors: Suchi T , Lennert K , Tu L Y , Kikuchi M , Sato E , Stansfeld A G , Feller A C
Published: June 2007

Based on the results of histological and immunohistochemical observations of a large number of peripheral T cell lymphomas from China, England, Germany and Japan, histological and cytological morphology were correlated with immunophenotype, aetiological association with HTLV-1, and clinical behaviour to produce a working classification of the T cell lymphomas. This classification, based mainly on cytological criteria, divides the peripheral T cell lymphomas into tumours of low grade and high grade malignancy. Adult T cell lymphoma/leukaemia (ATLL) is caused by HTLV-1 and belongs chiefly to the high grade category. Some tumours are characterised by an admixture of other cells (epithelioid cells, follicular dendritic cells, etc) and structures (high endothelial venules, follicles), which may indicate the secretion of lymphokines by the tumour cells. Clear cells seem to be specific for T cell lymphomas and may occur in various types of peripheral T cell lymphoma.
Use of immunohistochemical staining panel for characterisation of ovarian neoplasms.
Authors: Ashorn P , Helle M , Helin H , Ashorn R , Krohn K
Published: June 2007

Eighty five ovarian epithelial and non-epithelial tumours were studied by peroxidase histochemical staining for their reactivity with six monoclonal human milk fat globule (HMFG) antibodies, peanut agglutinin (PNA) lectin, and a monoclonal cytokeratin antibody. HMFG IIIC12 and cytokeratin antibodies distinguished epithelial from non-epithelial tumours. The staining patterns of mucinous and serous tumours were essentially different from each other; poorly differentiated anaplastic carcinomas showed similar antigenic content to that of the serous cystadenocarcinomas. Furthermore, staining with PNA lectin and HMFG antibodies was useful in distinguishing clear cell carcinomas from other malignant epithelial tumours of the ovary.
Nucleolar organiser regions in fibrous proliferations of childhood and infantile fibrosarcoma.
Authors: Egan M J , Raafat F , Crocker J , Smith K
Published: June 2007

A silver colloid technique to identify nucleolar organiser region associated protein (AgNOR) was applied to 16 fibrous proliferations of childhood and six low grade fibrosarcomas. The fibrous proliferations comprised five cases of infantile digital fibromatosis, seven of infantile desmoid type fibromatosis, and four of infantile myofibromatosis. The AgNORs were visualised as dots within the nuclei of the cells, and on the basis of their relative mean numbers of AgNORs fibrous proliferations of childhood could be easily differentiated from low grade infantile fibrosarcoma. The differences observed were significant (0.01 greater than p greater than 0.001). This technique, previously the province of the cytogeneticist, may be of use to the pathologist in differentiating infantile fibrous proliferations.
Comparison of immunoperoxidase staining with indirect immunofluorescence, ELISA, and Western blotting assays for detecting anti-HTLV-I antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus.
Authors: Yamaguchi K , Matutes E , Kiyokawa T , Nishimura Y , Ishii T , Takatsuki K , Catovsky D
Published: June 2007

Serum antibodies against human T cell leukaemia virus type I (HTLV-I) were investigated in 12 patients by four methods: indirect immunoperoxidase staining, indirect immunofluorescence, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and strip radioimmunoassay based on the Western blotting assay. Seven patients had systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and five various autoimmune diseases with one or more circulating autoantibodies. Serum samples from three patients were found to be HTLV-I-positive by the ELISA assay and sera from five patients showed a non-specific reaction by indirect immunofluorescence. These sera were negative when tested by indirect immunoperoxidase staining and Western blotting assay. All four methods gave positive results when tested with samples from 19 HTLV-I carriers and 16 patients with adult T cell leukaemia. Indirect immunoperoxidase staining and Western blotting assay are probably useful and more specific assays for the detection of anti-HTLV-I antibodies in samples from patients with autoimmune diseases.
What is colitis? Statistical approach to distinguishing clinically important inflammatory change in rectal biopsy specimens.
Authors: Jenkins D , Goodall A , Drew K , Scott B B
Published: June 2007

Measurements of mucosal dimension, architecture, and cell counts in both lamina propria and epithelium were made on rectal biopsy specimens from 20 patients with irritable bowel syndrome ("normal" controls); 54 patients with ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and non-specific proctitis; eight patients with small bowel Crohn's disease; and 34 in whom the rectal biopsy specimen was not diagnostic. Discriminant analysis was applied to multiple variables based on the measurements, and three variables were identified as of high predictive value. The most powerful discriminant was increased lamina propria cellularity in all forms of chronic colitis. The ratios of surface length to mucosal length and of surface epithelial height to crypt epithelial height also emerged as discriminants. Chronic inflammatory bowel disease was distinguished from normal in 95% of cases with a definite pathological diagnosis, and 85% of borderline cases were correctly classified as either normal or inflammatory when judged by the final diagnosis after follow up. This study provides a basis for automated diagnosis of rectal biopsy specimens and provides objectively validated criteria which can also be applied in routine histological diagnosis.
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of Neisseria gonorrhoeae: a trial organised as part of the United Kingdom national external quality assessment scheme for microbiology.
Authors: Snell J J , Brown D F
Published: June 2007

Six strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae were distributed to 411 United Kingdom laboratories who were asked to test the susceptibility of the strains to penicillin, cefuroxime, tetracycline and spectinomycin and to test for production of beta-lactamase. Details of methods used were requested by means of a questionnaire. The number of reports recording sensitive strains as resistant was 5% for penicillin, 0.7% for cefuroxime, 3% for tetracycline and 4% for spectinomycin. The number of reports recording resistant strains as sensitive was 7% for penicillin (0.2% with beta-lactamase producing strains, 20% with non-beta-lactamase producing strains), 96% for cefuroxime, 76% for tetracycline and 8% for spectinomycin. There was an association between greater error rates and the use of high content discs for testing tetracycline, the use of low content discs for testing spectinomycin, failure to dilute the inoculum, and use of acidimetric methods rather than methods that use a chromogenic cephalosporin for detecting beta-lactamase.
Beta-2-microglobulin expression in the liver after liver transplantation.
Authors: Hubscher S G , Adams D H , Elias E
Published: June 2007

The distribution of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class 1 antigens was studied in the liver after transplantation by immunoperoxidase staining for beta-2-microglobulin (beta 2m), a subunit of the class 1 antigen system. Paraffin wax sections were examined from 25 "time zero" biopsy specimens, taken immediately after insertion of the graft, and 87 biopsy specimens taken after transplantation in seven diagnostic categories: acute cellular rejection (n = 22); resolving acute rejection (n = 8); chronic rejection (n = 22); pure cholestasis (n = 14); ischaemia/infarction (n = 5); biliary obstruction (n = 8); massive haemorrhagic necrosis (n = 8). Staining was graded semiquantitatively on a scale of 0-3+ in bile ducts, hepatocytes, sinusoidal lining cells and vascular endothelium. Using the "time zero" biopsy specimens as a baseline for comparison, increased expression of beta 2m was seen in bile ducts, hepatocytes, and endothelial cells after transplantation. These changes were most pronounced in cases of rejection but also occurred in other graft conditions. The degree of hepatocyte and endothelial staining was significantly higher in cases of rejection and massive haemorrhagic necrosis than in the other categories. These findings may have implications for the pathogenesis and diagnosis of rejection of the transplanted liver.
Intraplacental choriocarcinoma: a report of two cases.
Authors: Fox H , Laurini R N
Published: June 2007

Two examples of intraplacental choriocarcinoma are described. Both were small and had arisen in otherwise normal third trimester placentas. The covering mantle of many of the villi adjacent to the choriocarcinomas was formed, either focally or wholly, of neoplastic trophoblastic tissue: it is only at this stage of the development of a choriocarcinoma that villous structures are present, and a study of these cases adds further evidence for an origin of choriocarcinoma from villous trophoblast. Intraplacental choriocarcinomas can give rise to both maternal and fetal metastases during pregnancy, and it is suggested that such lesions also serve as an origin for those choriocarcinomas which follow a term pregnancy.
Urinary excretion of albumin and retinol-binding protein during normal pregnancy.
Authors: Beetham R , Dawnay A , Menabawy M , Silver A
Published: June 2007

In a cross sectional study of 88 pregnant women urinary excretion of albumin, when expressed as a ratio to creatinine concentration, was not significantly different from that in a non-pregnant control group of similar age (p greater than 0.05) and did not change significantly during pregnancy. Only when albumin excretion was expressed as a fractional clearance was the urinary excretion significantly increased in the third trimester compared with the first trimester (p less than 0.05), although it was still not significantly different from that in the non-pregnant control group. Excretion of retinol-binding protein was significantly increased during all three trimesters of pregnancy (p less than 0.01 in each case) and more so in the second and third trimesters than in the first. It is concluded that the increased total protein excretion that has been described during pregnancy is not explained by an increased excretion of albumin which remains essentially normal. In contrast, the tubular absorption of proteins is decreased.
An ELISA to detect antipseudomonal IgA antibodies in sera of patients with cystic fibrosis.
Authors: Brett M M , Ghoneim A T , Littlewood J M
Published: June 2007

An enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure free serum IgA antibodies to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with cystic fibrosis is described. Results were reproducible and there was no interference from crossreacting antibodies directed against other Gram negative bacteria. Titres were high in patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection and differed according to the stage of the infection. These preliminary results suggest that this assay may be of value in assessing the state of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in patients with cystic fibrosis.
Accurate automated leucocyte differential counts despite profound leucopenia.
Authors: Kinsey S E , Watts M J
Published: June 2007

The differential white cell counts produced by the Technicon H*1 Autoanalyser in profoundly leucopenic specimens were compared with those carried out by manual differential counting by light microscopy of peripheral blood smears stained with May-Grünwald-Giemsa stain. The correlation achieved allowed the H*1 derived differential count to be reported with confidence.
TOXBASE: a microcomputer database for post mortem toxicology.
Authors: Robinson K , Marsh I , Forrest A R
Published: June 2007

A cheap microcomputer program for the storage, retrieval, and analysis of the results of toxicological investigations on samples obtained at necropsy was devised. The program was written using FoxBASE+, a dBase III clone, which is both cheaper and faster than other comparable software. The hardware requirements are an IBM PC compatible microcomputer, preferably with both hard and floppy disc drives, and a suitable printer. The system was found to be particularly useful when preparing reports for coroners and in retrieving data for administrators concerned with aspects of work in the laboratory. The system is flexible and can be readily adapted to other uses.
Campylobacter pylori: clinical, histological, and serological studies.
Authors: Musgrove C , Bolton F J , Krypczyk A M , Temperley J M , Cairns S A , Owen W G , Hutchinson D N
Published: June 2007

The presence of Campylobacter pylori, histologically diagnosed gastritis, and antibodies to C pylori were determined in a series of 113 patients undergoing endoscopy. Paired biopsy specimens from the fundus, body, and antrum were collected from 59 patients and from the antrum of 54 patients. The presence of C pylori was confirmed by either culture or silver stain in 30 of 59, 31 of 59, and 54 of 103 biopsy specimens from the fundus, body, and antrum, respectively. Of the specimens which contained C pylori 20 of 30 (66%) from the fundus, 25 of 31 (80%) from the body, and 54 (100%) from the antrum showed gastritis. C pylori and gastritis were shown in seven of nine (78.1%) of patients with gastric ulcers and in nine of 11 (82%) of patients with duodenal ulcers. Using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique to detect IgG antibody to C pylori, all patients with histologically diagnosed gastritis and organisms present had titres of greater than or equal to 640; eight of 39 (21%) of patients without gastritis and without organisms gave similar titres. Hence the presence of C pylori was associated with gastritis and with raised titres of IgG antibody.
An unusual interpodocyte cell junction and its appearance in a transplant graft kidney.
Authors: Harrison D J , Jenkins D , Dick J
Published: June 2007

In a case of focal and segmental glomerulonephritis unusual cell junctions were discovered between podocytes. These most closely resembled lesions described in aminonucleoside induced nephrosis in rats and were unlike anything previously seen in our experience. Shortly after renal transplantation nephrotic syndrome recurred and biopsy specimens showed recurrent focal and segmental glomerulonephritis, with the appearance of these unusual interpodocyte junctions in the graft kidney. This may be related to circulating factors in the blood of the patient.
Polymorphonuclear leucocytes in Crohn's disease and ulcerative proctocolitis: association between enhanced adherence to nylon fibre and disease variables.
Authors: Cason J , Ainley C C , Wolstencroft R A , Thompson R P
Published: June 2007

The adherence of polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMN) to nylon fibre was investigated in patients with Crohn's disease, ulcerative proctocolitis, and anorexia nervosa, and compared with changes of circulating PMNs, C reactive protein concentrations, erythrocyte sedimentation rates, and clinical assessment of disease activity. PMN adherence was in excess of the maximum value detected for healthy subjects in 14 of 25 patients with Crohn's disease and two of 10 with proctocolitis, but it was within the normal range for all eight with anorexia nervosa. High adherence in Crohn's disease, however, was not associated with quantitative or qualitative changes of PMN populations, absolute concentrations of C reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rates, disease severity, drug regimens, malnutrition, or zinc deficiency. High PMN adherence in Crohn's disease may therefore reflect the activation in vivo of normal PMN by humoral factors.
Expression of major histocompatibility class II antigens by Langerhans' cells in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia.
Authors: Hughes R G , Norval M , Howie S E
Published: June 2007

Cervical biopsy samples from 67 patients who had various grades of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) or who showed evidence, in the form of koilocytosis, of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of the uterine cervix, and from 10 women with normal cervices were examined. Cryostat sections from the biopsy samples were stained using monoclonal antibodies to T6, a Langerhans' cell marker, and to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II antigens (HLA-DP, DQ, and DR). Epithelial Langerhans' cells were reduced in number and showed changed morphology and distribution in koilocytic lesions and in all grades of CIN (p less than 0.01) except CIN I. HLA-DR expression by Langerhans' cells was significantly increased in koilocytic lesions and in CIN grades I and II (p less than 0.05); HLA-DQ expression was significantly increased in all grades of CIN (p less than 0.05) with the increase being most pronounced in CIN I (p less than 0.01). Columnar epithelium expressed MHC class II antigens in all samples tested and squamous epithelium in four of 29 cases of CIN III. These findings support the view that there is a localised disturbance of immune function in both neoplastic cervical epithelium and that infected with papillomavirus.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes associated with laryngeal papilloma.
Authors: Corbitt G , Zarod A P , Arrand J R , Longson M , Farrington W T
Published: June 2007

Biopsy specimens from 14 patients treated for laryngeal papillomatosis were tested for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) genome by the technique of DNA-DNA hybridisation. According to the age of initial presentation, cases were subdivided into juvenile (less than 16 years) and adult onset (older than 16 years) groups. Histological investigation confirmed that it was impossible to distinguish the groups on this basis. Molecular virology using both dot blot and Southern transfer techniques showed that 10 cases carried the HPV type 6 genome, three cases HPV type 11, and in one case no HPV DNA was detected. All six adult onset cases carried HPV 6 sequences while the juvenile onset group comprised four HPV 6 and three HPV 11 cases. In the juvenile onset group more females were affected; in the adult onset group more males were affected. Two of the patients shown to have HPV type 11 sequences in their biopsy material were the most resistant to treatment. One of the adult onset cases subsequently developed a squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx in which HPV 6 DNA was detected. As far as we know this is first time that HPV-DNA has been confirmed in laryngeal papilloma undergoing malignant change.
Lectin binding to serous ovarian tumours.
Authors: Söderström K O
Published: June 2007

Sections of normal ovarian surface epithelium, benign serous cystadenomas, borderline serous cystadenomas and serous cyst-adenocarcinomas were stained with a pattern of lectins (Con A, WGA, SBA, DBA, UEA I, PNA and RCA I) to determine the different glycoproteins and their cellular changes. The epithelial cells stained with Con A, WGA, UEA I and RCA, although the intensity of the staining was generally higher in the malignant tumours. PNA stained only the malignant cells of the cystadenocarcinoma and DBA only the benign epithelial cells. These findings show that ovarian epithelial cells contain different glycoconjugates and that malignant transformation is accompanied by changes in the composition of these glycoconjugates.
Zinc concentrations in leucocytes of patients receiving antiepileptic drugs.
Authors: Yuen W C , Whiteoak R , Thompson R P
Published: June 2007

To determine whether some of the side effects of antiepileptic drugs could be due to zinc depletion within tissues, zinc concentrations in the polymorphonuclear leucocytes in 26 epileptic patients receiving valproate or carbamazepine and 14 controls were assessed. There was no difference in zinc concentration in leucocytes among the three groups and no evidence of zinc depletion. Valproate and carbamazepine may affect the intracellular distribution of zinc.
Techniques for obtaining differential cell counts from bone marrow trephine biopsy specimens.
Authors: Wilkins B S , O'Brien C J
Published: June 2007

Differential cell counts were performed on 200 paired bone marrow aspirates and trephine biopsy specimens to compare the distribution of cell types. Relatively more immature myeloid cells were found in the trephine biopsy specimens and relatively more polymorphs and lymphocytes in the aspirates. Two methods for sampling areas of the trephine biopsy specimens for counting were assessed, and the differences between aspirates and trephine specimens were found to be more consistent when the second, more extensive, sampling method was used. This method also permitted quantitation of some features of bone marrow topography and provided information that would not normally be obtainable from aspirated material. The techniques were easy to apply and took relatively little time to perform. They could offer useful information in the study of bone marrow disorders, particularly those such as myelodysplastic syndromes in which disturbances of marrow architecture are prominent.