bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid detection and presumptive identification of Clostridium difficile by p-cresol production on a selective medium.
Authors: Phillips K D , Rogers P A
Published: June 2007

A modification of a selective medium for Clostridium difficile is described. The ability of Cl difficile to produce p-cresol from p-hydroxy phenyl acetic acid provides a means for the rapid, sensitive detection and presumptive identification of this species in faecal cultures.
Impaired bacteriological responses in babies after maternal iron dextran infusion.
Authors: Webster M H , Waitkins S A , Stott A
Published: June 2007

The effect of a total dose infusion of iron dextran in pregnancy on 15 mothers and their babies was compared with 19 controls. The bacteriostatic effect and opsonising ability of the sera, of babies born to the treated mothers, were considerably impaired. This was associated with a significantly lower transferrin concentration in these mothers. Although these in vitro tests were not associated with an increase in overt infection during the perinatal period, they suggest the need for caution in the use of total dose infusions in pregnancy.
Hepatitis and other infections in clinical laboratory staff, 1979.
Authors: Grist N R
Published: June 2007

In 1979, British laboratories participating in the American of Clinical Pathologists' survey reported five cases of tuberculosis, four of chickenpox, four of salmonellosis or shigellosis, one malaria, and one hepatitis A infection. Microbiology workers were most affected, but at least six infections were not attributable to work. All cases recovered.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for measurement of antibody against cytomegalovirus and rubella virus in a single serum dilution.
Authors: van Loon A M , van der Logt J T , van der Veen J
Published: June 2007

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were developed for quantifying cytomegalovirus (CMV) and rubella antibodies using a single serum dilution (1/800) in conjunction with a standard curve. A near linear relation was found between the logarithms of absorbance values of sera at a dilution of 1/800 and the titres as determined by an end point dilution ELISA. The reproducibility of the single dilution ELISA was good; the within-test coefficients of variation averaged 7.5% for CMV antibody and 12.4% for rubella antibody. A close correlation was found between ELISA and complement-fixing (CF) antibody titres to CMV and between ELISA and haemagglutination-inhibition (HI) antibody titres to rubella virus. The titres in ELISA were 200 to 1000 times higher than in CF for CMV and 50 to 100 times higher than in HI for rubella virus.
Occurrence of IgM antibodies against BK and JC polyomaviruses during pregnancy.
Authors: Gibson P E , Field A M , Gardner S D , Coleman D V
Published: June 2007

In a serological survey of 430 pregnant women 45 had high or rising titres of BK-virus haemagglutination-inhibiting antibodies. The presence of BK-virus-specific IgM was confirmed in 10 of these women. No BK-virus-specific IgM was detected in the samples of cord blood from the babies born to these women. The sera from 40 women known to be excreting inclusion-bearing cells during pregnancy were tested for the presence of BK-virus and JC-virus-specific IgM and IgG. The presence of BK-virus-specific IgM was confirmed in three cases and JC-virus-specific IgM in seven cases. Specific IgM persisted for several months in some pregnant women. No Bk-virus-specific IgM was detected in any of the samples of cord blood from the babies born to these women with evidence of polyomavirus infection. No JC-virus-specific IgM was detected in 36 out of 37 of the cord bloods; however, in one it is possible that minute amounts of JC-virus-specific IgM were present.
Survival of tubercle bacilli in heat-fixed sputum smears.
Authors: Allen B W
Published: June 2007

Tubercle bacilli, which survived heat fixation, were detected with a slide culture technique which allowed the entire smear to be examined. Both conventional flame fixation and the use of a controlled hot-plate failed to render tuberculous sputum smears safe for further handling. Smears which were stained with the phenol-auramine method failed to yield growth on culture. If delay between preparation and staining is unavoidable, it is recommended that smears are given additional treatment to prevent the survival of tubercle bacilli.
Evaluation of a new sensitive nitrite test as a reliable screening tool for bacteriuria.
Authors: Rabi T
Published: June 2007

A new sensitive nitrite test, the SRN test, was evaluated for its suitability as a reliable screening technique for the detection of bacteriuria. The SRN test was compared to a currently available nitrite test, the Microstix nitrite test, and the results obtained with both nitrite tests were assessed in comparison with the results of the quantitative culture method. Of 158 cases of significant bacteriuria found among 1060 randomly collected specimens, the SRN test detected 90% and the Microstix nitrite test, 30%. The higher reliability of the SRN test reflects its high capability of nitrite detection (greater than or equal to 0.1 ppm), and its ability to overcome interference by various factors, such as dark colour of the urine, presence of phenazopyridine, urobilinogen, blood, high concentration of ascorbate, and high urinary pH, all of which do interfere with the Microstix nitrite test. The high sensitivity of the SRN test allows detection of bacteriuria in urine specimens collected at random throughout the day; the test is therefore not restricted to the use of first-morning samples as are other nitrite tests. Since the SRN test was found to give a quantitative indication of the size of the bacterial population, the possibility of its use as an exact quantitative test under controlled conditions its discussed.
Distribution of fibronectin in the rectal mucosa.
Authors: Scott D L , Morris C J , Blake A E , Low-Beer T S , Walton K W
Published: June 2007

Fibronectin is a glycoprotein of high molecular weight present in tissues, plasma, and tissue fluids. Its distribution in the rectal mucosa was studied by immunofluorescent and immunoperoxidase techniques using a monospecific antiserum. Immunofluorescent reactivity for fibronectin was present in the normal rectal mucosa of control subjects in epithelial cells, on basement membranes, and as a loose cribriform network of extracellular reactivity in the lamina propria that codistributed with histochemically demonstrable reticulin. Fibronectin was demonstrated immunoelectromicroscopically on collagen fibres, on smooth muscle cells and within and between columnar epithelial cells. In the rectal mucosa of patients with colitis with marked inflammatory changes, fibronectin appeared thickened and more prominent when present on basement membranes and as sparse strands between inflammatory cells infiltrating the lamina propria. In patients with longstanding colitis and less inflammatory cell infiltration there was a diffuse increase in fibronectin which was densely and uniformly present throughout the lamina propria. Fibronectin is a structural component of the rectal mucosa and changes in its distribution may form an important part of the local reaction to inflammatory bowel disease.
Evidence for an immune complex vasculitis in neonatal necrotising enterocolitis.
Authors: Gray E S , Lloyd D J , Miller S S , Davidson A I , Balch N J , Horne C H
Published: June 2007

Despite many attractive hypotheses, neonatal necrotising enterocolitis (NNEC) remains a disease of unknown aetiology. By means of the immunofluorescent direct sandwich technique we have demonstrated immune complex deposition in the small vessels of the diseased bowel wall. We believe this is the first report of evidence of an immunological reaction occurring in this disease.
Zinc acetate as a precipitant of unstable haemoglobins.
Authors: Carrell R W , Lehmann H
Published: June 2007

Whereas the addition of four moles of zinc acetate to one of normal human haemoglobin at pH 7.4 results in a clear solution, addition to unstable haemoglobin results in precipitate formation. Within certain limits no false-positive results are obtained with methaemoglobin, and with fetal haemoglobin. With excess zinc, normal haemoglobin also precipitates, but this process is reversible and can be used for a rapid concentration of dilute solutions of normal haemoglobin.
Signet ring cell lymphoma: a rare variant of follicular lymphoma.
Authors: Harris M , Eyden B , Read G
Published: June 2007

A case of signet ring cell lymphoma, the eighth in published reports is recorded. This rare tumour is a variant of follicular lymphoma which may be mistaken for metastatic carcinoma. The case has been studied by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy and confirms that this sub-group has rather uniform characteristics. Observations on the possible origins of the vacuoles are presented.
Comparison of liquid and dried sodium citrate as the anticoagulant for Thrombotest and prothrombin time estimations.
Authors: Hoctor D , Bottomley J , Hyde K , Gowenlock A H , Maciver J E
Published: June 2007

Samples which are taken for the Quick one-stage prothrombin time estimation for the control of patients receiving oral anticoagulant treatment are by convention taken into liquid sodium citrate anticoagulant. Dried sodium citrate has been rejected on the grounds that excessive haemolysis causes activation of clotting factors and therefore falsely short clotting times. Tests were performed with both liquid and dried sodium citrate as an anticoagulant for prothrombin time and Thrombotest. No clinically significant difference between the values given by the two anticoagulants was observed.
Resistance to rifampicin and isoniazid in strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Authors: Siddiqi S H , Aziz A , Reggiardo Z , Middlebrook G
Published: June 2007

Drug susceptibility studies on strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolated from widely different populations of patients and tested by two different techniques indicated that all 55 strains resistant to rifampicin were also resistant to isoniazid, while many strains resistant to isoniazid were found to be susceptible to rifampicin. This observation, which has as yet unknown laboratory and clinical significance, may be particularly useful in management of patients. Further studies are called for to establish this relation.
Use of monoclonal antihapten antibodies for immunolocalisation of tissue antigens
Authors: Jasani B , Thomas D Wynford , Williams ED
Published: June 2007

The applicability of a hapten-antihapten sandwich technique incorporating a monoclonal antihapten bridge antibody to localisation of tissue antigen is described. The results show that the method is both versatile and selective and has the potential of being even more sensitive than currently used immunoperoxidase methods.
Double-stranded DNA antibodies: a comparison of four methods of detection.
Authors: Somerfield S D , Roberts M W , Booth R J
Published: June 2007

Thirty-four antinuclear antibody (ANA) positive systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) sera were tested for antibodies to double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) simultaneously using Farr, haemagglutination, Crithidia luciliae (CL) kinetoplast fluorescence and human metaphase chromosome fluorescence assays. Significant correlation (p less than 0 x 05) was found between the Farr and CL assays, with the two fluorescence tests (CL and metaphase) displaying the greatest degree of association (p = 0 x 00001). No correlation could be demonstrated between the haemagglutination test and any of the other three assays. Six hundred and ninety-one sera from patients with a range of provisional rheumatological diagnoses were prospectively analysed for dsDNA antibodies using Farr and metaphase assays. A correlation coefficient of 0 x 84 was obtained between the two assays. The metaphase assay provides comparable results to other more established assays, and because it is simple, reliable and sensitive, it should be seriously considered for routine use in testing for dsDNA antibodies.
Disseminated herpes simplex virus infection with hepatitis in an adult renal transplant recipient
Authors: Walker DP , Longson M , Lawler W , Mallick NP , Davies JS , Johnson RWG
Published: June 2007

A rare occurrence of disseminated herpes simplex virus infection with hepatitis in an adult renal transplant recipient is described.
Pancreatic exocrine function after truncal and highly selective vagotomy.
Authors: Mikhailidis D P , Foo Y , Ramdial L , Kirk R M , Rosalki S B , Dandona P
Published: June 2007

We have measured plasma glucose and immunoreactive trypsin concentrations and serum pancreatic amylase activities in single blood samples following truncal vagotomy (TV) in 13 patients and highly selective vagotomy (HSV) in 14 patients. Our results show that an increased incidence of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs postoperatively regardless of the type of vagotomy. Glucose concentrations were significantly higher after TV, suggesting that HSV is preferable for patients at risk of or suffering from diabetes mellitus.
Comparison of ELISA, SPACE, and electron microscopy for the routine diagnosis of rotavirus infection.
Authors: Wall R A , Mellars B J , Luton P , Boulding S
Published: June 2007

Previous studies on the serological diagnosis of rotavirus infection have utilised locally produced antibodies. In this study we have compared two commercially produced assays, an ELISA (Rotazyme, Abbott) and a newly developed assay--solid phase aggregation of coupled erythrocytes (SPACE) (Wellcome Research Laboratories), with electron microscopy (EM). The SPACE test appeared less sensitive than EM. The ELISA was shown to be as sensitive as EM but more versatile. Our experience suggests that the ELISA could be successfully incorporated into the routine of any diagnostic laboratory.
Immunoperoxidase study of the secretory immunoglobulin system in colonic neoplasia.
Authors: Isaacson P
Published: June 2007

The relation of the secretory immunoglobulin system in the colon to colorectal cancer and dysplasia has been examined by staining routine formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections from cases of carcinoma, adenoma and ulcerative colitis for secretory component (SC), IgA and J chain. In carcinomas there was a close relation between SC synthesis and differentiation and a similar relation was apparent between SC synthesis and degrees of dysplasia in adenomas. In both morphological and functional (SC synthesis) terms degrees of dysplasia in adenomas resembled degrees of differentiation in carcinomas suggesting that the essential "switch" in the progression towards neoplasia may occur at the level of the adenoma and that invasive malignancy can arise from dysplastic mucosa of varying severity. Actively regenerating mucosa in ulcerative colitis (UC) showed intense staining for SC as opposed to foci of precancerous dysplasia where, with one exception, staining was markedly reduced or absent, suggesting staining for SC could be useful in identifying foci of precancerous dysplasia in UC. In the absence of severe chronic inflammation, as in UC, the number of IgA-containing plasma cells was closely related to SC staining of neoplastic mucosa suggesting that SC may be important in the mechanism by which IgA lymphocytes home to the lamina propria of the colon.
Morphological and mucus secretion criteria for differential diagnosis of solitary ulcer syndrome and non-specific proctitis.
Authors: Ehsanullah M , Filipe M I , Gazzard B
Published: June 2007

Over a four-year period 21 cases of solitary ulcer syndrome (SUS) were studied for their clinical, histological, and mucus secretion patterns and compared with histological and mucus secretion patterns of 78 cases of non-specific proctitis collected over the same period. Normal mucus composition was found in non-specific proctitis while abnormalities of mucins with predominance of sialomucins were associated with SUS. Although histology remains the most important investigation in the diagnosis of SUS, mucin changes provide valuable additional evidence.
Investigation into paediatric bilirubin analyses in Australia and New Zealand.
Authors: Watkinson L R , St John A , Penberthy L A
Published: June 2007

A small regional survey of direct spectrophotometric methods and a larger Australian and New Zealand survey of paediatric bilirubin analyses are described. The overall performance of both groups was unsatisfactory with an unacceptable high interlaboratory variation. This interlaboratory variation was reduced significantly by the use of a spectrophotometric method with a common standard of methyl orange. The Australian and New Zealand survey also examined the "state of the art" for the measurement of conjugated bilirubin and showed that laboratories could not adequately measure conjugated bilirubin.
Applicability and significance of salicylate screening in sera of voluntary blood donors: evaluation of two analytical methods.
Authors: Sharon R , Frutkoff I , Kidroni G , Menczel J
Published: June 2007

Salicylate concentrations in 3819 sera of apparently healthy voluntary blood donors were determined in view of the significance of this drug in the induction of allergic reactions and its possible interference in platelet function. Two hundred and ninety-five sera were found by a modified colorimetric determination to contain salicylates. The colorimetric determination was compared with a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of salicylate-containing sera. Drug concentrations detected were mostly in the range of 20-100 mg/l. Such concentrations have been reported to evoke allergic reactions and to affect the haemostatic action of platelets.
Reaction of the human granulocyte system in successfully treated bacterial bronchopneumonia.
Authors: Kruszewski J , Szczylik C , Wiktor-Jedrzejczak W
Published: June 2007

The behaviour of peripheral blood granulocyte pools, nitroblue tetrazolium reduction by granulocytes, migration of granulocytes out of skin windows, serum muramidase activity and bone marrow reserve of granulocytes during uncomplicated bronchopneumonia were studied. The time course of changes in these parameters during infection was established, and suggests maximal changes on day 2 of infection with gradual regression until 30 days after the disease onset, when they disappear.
The United Kingdom national microbiological quality assessment scheme.
Authors: Snell J J , De Mello J V , Gardner P S
Published: June 2007

A comprehensive microbiological quality assessment scheme for the benefit of all clinical microbiological laboratories in the United Kingdom was established in 1974. The main emphasis of the scheme has been on the supply of simulated clinical material for proficiency testing. Of 494 laboratories currently participating in the scheme, 84 are abroad and over 500 specimens have been distributed between 1974 and 1980. A wide variety of specimens are issued. These include specimens for: general bacteriology including isolation, sensitivity testing and serology; mycobacterial bacteriology; syphilis serology; virus isolation; general viral serology; rubella serology; hepatitis B antigen detection; electron microscopy; mycology; parasitology; antibiotic assay; public health specimens including milk and water. Laboratories are requested to examine the specimens using their routine procedures and report their results to the Microbiological Quality Control Laboratory (MQCL). The reports are analysed at MQCL and the summarised results of each distribution are sent to all participants. Each participant receives details of his individual performance on current specimens and an analysis of the previous 6 months, cumulative performance. The performance of all laboratories is reviewed twice yearly and laboratories with results significantly worse than those of their peers are offered the opportunity to seek advice and help from a National Advisory Panel of their professional colleagues. The Scheme is confidential and its main role is educational.
Value of external quality assessment of the technical aspects of histopathology.
Authors: Barr W T , Williams E D
Published: June 2007

An external quality assessment scheme (EQAS) in the technical aspects of histopathology is described, and the results obtained over a two-year period assessed. The scheme involved 42 laboratories of varied work load, and the slides returned by the laboratories, both haematoxylin and eosin and special stains were marked by panels of four assessors. The reliability of assessment was checked by comparing the results of two separate panels of assessors, and by asking the same panel to assess the same set of slides on a different occasion. The participants' evaluation of the scheme was tested by questionnaire. The results show that the scheme described was considered to be of value by the great majority of the participants. The assessment of the slides by a panel was shown to be both reliable and reproducible. We believe that a general application of schemes such as the one described will maintain and improve standards in histopathology laboratories.
Improved double immunoenzyme labelling using alkaline phosphatase and horseradish peroxidase
Authors: Malik NJ , Daymon ME
Published: June 2007

Alkaline phosphatase and peroxidase complexes were applied to tissue sections simultaneously to label two antigens. An azo-coupling method was used to demonstrate the alkaline phosphatase activity. The final result gave clear contrast between the two antigens and allowed the use of haematoxylin as the nuclear counterstain.
Antinuclear antibody-negative systemic lupus erythematosus-how common?
Authors: McHardy K C , Horne C H , Rennie J
Published: June 2007

A review of five years' DNA-binding antibody results in a routine service laboratory revealed 38 patients who had high DNA-binding capacity (DNA-bc) but no antinuclear antibodies (ANA). On retrospective case note analysis, 22 patients (58%) were thought to have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), although only six (16%) fulfilled the preliminary classification criteria of the American Rheumatism Association (ARA). Our findings indicate that ANA-negative SLE is commoner than generally realised and lead us to recommended the measurement of DNA-bc in every case where clinically appropriate.
Rapid enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for Aspergillus fumigatus antibodies.
Authors: Richardson M D , Stubbins J M , Warnock D W
Published: June 2007

A rapid enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) where component incubation periods were shortened to one hour, was compared with agar gel double diffusion (AGDD) and a standard ELISA procedure for detecting antibodies to Aspergillus fumigatus in 28 asthmatic patients with suspected allergic aspergillosis. Using two A fumigatus antigens the rapid ELISA compared well with AGDD and the standard ELISA method. Eleven sera that reacted with both antigens in AGDD were all positive against antigen 1 in both forms of ELISA, but two failed to react with antigen 2 in the standard ELISA and three failed to react with this antigen in the rapid method. Thirteen AGDD-negative sera were also negative in both forms of ELISA. The rapid ELISA provides a sensitive and reproducible test for routine serological investigation of allergic aspergillosis.
The use of an anaerobic incubator for the isolation of anaerobes from clinical samples.
Authors: Berry P L , Taylor E , Phillips I
Published: June 2007

An anaerobic incubator was compared with a standard jar system for the isolation of anaerobes from clinical material. Seventy specimens were selected as likely to yield anaerobes: 342 different anaerobes were isolated in the incubator and 347 in anaebrobic jars. These included Bacteroides spp (43%), Peptococcus spp (26%), Peptostreptococcus spp (13%), Veillonella spp (7%), Fusobacterium spp (7%), Clostridium spp (2%) and miscellaneous Gram-positive nonsporing bacilli (2%). Differences in isolation rates for each system were inconsistent and minor. Sixteen anaerobes were chosen for quantitative tests at the beginning and end of the study period. Miles and Misra counts showed a slight advantage of the incubator for F nucleatum, but no difference for B fragilis, B thetaiomicron, B uniformis, B bivius, B corrodens, F mortiferum, Ps anaerobius, P prevotii or Propionibacterium acnes. In almost all cases, colonies in anaerobic jars were slightly larger than those in the incubator. Disc antibiotic sensitivity tests gave the same results in each system, at the beginning and end of the study period. The anaerobic incubator provides an effective means of isolation of anaerobes in a clinical laboratory. However, several design features of the prototype would require change if the system were introduced.
Laboratory diagnosis of peritonitis in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Fenton Patricia
Published: June 2007

A simple laboratory method for culture of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) fluids is described. Guidelines for antimicrobial therapy are discussed based on results from 18 patients studied over an 11-week period. Cephalosporins appeared to be a rational choice for therapy while awaiting laboratory results.
Bacteriuria in patients undergoing prostatectomy.
Authors: Williams M , Hole D J
Published: June 2007

A review of the literature revealed that the reported incidence of bacteriuria arising before and after prostatectomy varied considerably, that there had been little investigation of the organisms isolated, and that the value of chemoprophylaxis at the time of prostatectomy was unproven. Using standard criteria and technical procedures, 248 patients undergoing prostatectomy were studied over a two-and-a-half-year period. Preoperative bacteriuria occurred in 28% of patients. The incidence was significantly increased in patients catheterised before operation (44%) compared with those who had not been catheterised (18%). The incidence of bacteriuria was directly related to the duration of catheter drainage. Postoperatively, 40% of patients with sterile urine at the time of prostatectomy developed bacteriuria. There was an increased prevalence of Enterococcus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus isolates from postprostatectomy bacteriuria compared with preprostatectomy bacteriuria. Based on this information, suggestions can be made regarding the choice of a suitable chemoprophylactic agent and the optimum timing and duration of its administration.
A prospective study of cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus disease in renal transplant recipients.
Authors: Walker D P , Longson M , Mallick N P , Johnson R W
Published: June 2007

A prospective study of 84 renal graft recipients demonstrated cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease after transplantation in 37% of patients. Reactivation infection was found in 20 of 44 patients (46%) who were seropositive for CMV prior to transplant and primary CMV disease occurred in 11 of 40 (28%) initially seronegative patients. Nearly all cases of primary disease (91%) were associated with symptoms and in these cases CMV was probably acquired via the donated kidneys. Only 35% of the reactivation infections were associated with clinical symptoms. Actuarial life tables indicated that CMV disease did not reduce the length of graft survival. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections were diagnosed in 44 (52%) of the patients and included a fatal case of disseminated disease associated with hepatitis.
Acute myelomonocytic leukaemia presenting as xanthomatous skin eruption
Authors: O'Donnell JR , Tansey P , Chung P , Burnett AK , Thomson J , McDonald GA
Published: June 2007

A case of acute myelomonocytic leukaemia (AMMOL) is reported in which skin infiltration with xanthomatous nodules was the presenting feature. The histological, including ultrastructural, appearances are described.
Serum ferritin in normal individuals and in patients with malignant lymphoma and chronic renal failure measured with seven different commercial immunoassay techniques.
Authors: Grail A , Hancock B W , Harrison P M
Published: June 2007

A comparison of serum ferritin determination by seven different commercial immunoassay techniques gave mean coefficients of variation of 57% for normal individuals, 41 . 4% for patients with malignant lymphoma and 43 . 1% for patients with chronic renal failure. One of the immunoradiometric assays gave consistently higher serum ferritin values in both normal and patient groups; mean values were increased (greater than 100% for normal males, greater than 50% for normal females) with respect to the other assays. Underestimation of serum ferritin by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was also evident. Results were affected by storage conditions, but not by dilution of samples, in two kits. Solutions of ferritin purified from normal and malignant human and mouse tissues, and lymphoma isoferritins, were used for reference. There were overestimations of normal human liver ferritin and the most basic isoferritin. Mouse ferritin displayed minimal reactivity in all kits, and human lymphoma ferritin was often underestimated. Variability in serum ferritin determination chiefly reflects the lack of a universal standard for ferritin measurement.
Immunological localisation of beta-thromboglobulin and platelet factor 4 in human megakaryocytes and platelets.
Authors: McLaren K M , Pepper D S
Published: June 2007

Beta-thromboglobulin (beta TG) and platelet factor 4 (PF4) have been localised in megakaryocytes and platelets using immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase techniques. These studies support the concept of synthesis of the proteins by parent megakaryocytes. By immunoelectron microscopy both proteins have been visualised in the alpha granule of the platelet and megakaryocyte, supporting functional studies of the cytoplasmic localisation of these proteins. The light microscopic techniques may allow elucidation of the distribution and role of the megakaryocyte in the pulmonary circulation and, on a practical level, permit its identification and distinction from other multinucleate cells in extramedullary tissue.
A quantitative study of alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase-positive cells in Hodgkin's disease.
Authors: Crocker J , Jones E L , Curran R C
Published: June 2007

The numbers of alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE)-positive cells (other than T cells) have been counted in 32 specimens of Hodgkin's disease and two specimens of histiocytic lymphoma. The different Rye subtypes of Hodgkin's disease contain varying numbers of enzyme-positive cells, ranging from 1.8-16% in the lymphocyte-predominant form to 39.8-47% in lymphocyte-depleted Hodgkin's disease. The percentage of enzyme-positive cells in the mixed cellularity variety was from only 6.5 to 14.6%. In the two specimens of apparently genuine histiocytic lymphoma, the enzyme-positive cells constituted 95.2 and 97.5% respectively of all cells. Thus, the numbers of macrophages and macrophage-like cells in true histiocytic lymphoma are much greater than in Hodgkin's disease.
Lymphoma cells in cerebrospinal fluid confirmed by chromosome analysis
Authors: Pearson J , Ilgren EB , Spriggs AI
Published: June 2007

Two cases of malignant lymphoma are reported, in which lymphoma cells were undergoing cell division in the cerebrospinal fluid. In each case it was possible to perform chromosome counts and karyotype analyses, and in this way to establish that a neoplastic clone was present.
A simple disc technique for the presumptive identification ofLegionella pneumophila
Authors: Smith MG
Published: June 2007

A method is described for the presumptive identification ofLegionella pneumophilaby the formation of satellite colonies around filter paper discs impregnated with ferric pyrophosphate and L-cysteine hydrochloride on a deficient basal medium. This technique simplifies the differentiation of picked colonies ofL pneumophilafrom other organisms in mixed cultures from environmental and contaminated clinical samples.
The potential of bacteriocin typing in the study of Clostridium perfringens food poisoning.
Authors: Watson G N , Stringer M F , Gilbert R J , Mahony D E
Published: June 2007

A range of 49 bacteriocins was used to type 311 strains of Clostridium perfringens isolated from food poisoning outbreaks. Strains of same serotype within an outbreak showed similar patterns of susceptibility to bacteriocins, whereas strains of different serotype isolated from different sources produced many variations in bacteriocin susceptibility patterns. The 311 strains, along with isolates from a wide range of sources were screened for their ability to produce bacteriocins. A much greater proportion of the strains from food poisoning outbreaks was bacteriocinogenic than were isolates from human and animal infections, various foods and the environment.
Fatty tumours of the uterus.
Authors: Pounder D J
Published: June 2007

Uterine fatty tumours (UFT) are uncommon and have received little attention in the English literature. They have aroused interest as a consequence of occasional diagnostic confusion with sarcomas and the continuing unresolved dispute as to their histogenesis. Three cases of UFT are described and the pathological features of note discussed. The viewpoint that these tumours are hamartomas/choristomas is rejected. UFT most probably represent tumour metaplasia within a leiomyoma. There is no uniform accepted nomenclature for such tumours and it is suggested that they be designated "uterine fatty tumours" and subdivided into "lipoma" and "mixed lipoma/leiomyoma" (synonym lipoleiomyoma).
Quantitative bone histology in 38 patients with advanced renal failure.
Authors: Eastwood J B
Published: June 2007

The clinical, biochemical, radiological and histological appearances of the bones of 38 patients with advanced renal failure are presented. Thirty-three patients had histological evidence of hyperparathyroidism and 17 also showed osteomalacia. Of five showing evidence of neither hyperparathyroidism nor osteomalacia, two had borderline osteopenia. There was an inverse correlation between the plasma calcium concentration and trabecular surface covered by osteoid with a tendency for those with the lowest concentrations of plasma calcium to show histological osteomalacia. There was an inverse correlation between extent of calcification front and both volume and surface extent of osteoid. No relation was found between plasma phosphorus concentration and any of the histological measurements made. Patients with radiological hyperparathyroidism had a lower calcium and higher plasma phosphorus than those without. Phalangeal sub-periosteal erosions were as common in those with histological osteomalacia as in those with histological hyperparathyroidism alone. There was no association between plasma alkaline phosphatase activity and type of bone disease. There was no correlation between the radiological second metacarpal index and the histological volume of cancellous iliac bone.
Quantitative analysis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Authors: Abbott C R , Blewitt R W , Bird C C
Published: June 2007

A preliminary attempt has been made to characterise a small series of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) by morphometric means using the Quantimet 720 Kontron MOP/AMO3 image analysis systems. In most cases it was found that the distribution of nuclear area and correlation between mean nuclear area and frequency per unit field, corresponded closely with tumour classification determined by light microscopy. These results suggest that it may be possible to devise an objective and reproducible grading system for NHL using quantitative morphometric techniques.
Immunohistological study of human lungs by immunoperoxidase technique.
Authors: Fox B , Shousha S , James K R , Miller G C
Published: June 2007

An unlabelled antibody peroxidase-antiperoxidase method for the detection of IgG, IgM, complement (C3 and Clq), fibrinogen and albumin was applied to routinely processed paraffin sections of lung from 27 cases. The results in 11 cases were compared with those obtained by immunofluorescence using frozen sections. Tissue was obtained from surgical specimens of cases with interstitial pneumonia comprising 10 of the usual type (UIP) and three of the desquamative type (DIP). Tissue was also obtained from the specimens of cases with sarcoidosis (two cases) and granulomatous inflammation of unknown cause (one case). There were 11 control cases, nine with primary carcinoma of the lung and two with metastatic tumours of the lung. Immunoglobulins of various types and complement were seen in diseased lung tissue. Although most of these deposits were probably due to a non-immunological mechanism there was evidence of the possible implication of immune complexes in three cases of UIP and in the interstitial pneumonia present in the two cases of sarcoidosis. The immunoperoxidase technique is a more sensitive method than immunofluorescence and has the additional advantage of the easy identification of the precise sites of the various deposits.
Lysosomal localisation of parallel tubular arrays in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia of T cell origin: an ultrastructural cytochemical study.
Authors: Capron F , PErrot J Y , Boucheix C , Reynes M , Tricottet V , Bernadou A , Diebold J
Published: June 2007

An ultrastructural cytochemical study of lysosomal acid phosphatase was performed on leukemic cells in a case of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia of T cell origin (T-CLL). The cells showed inclusion bodies known as parallel tubular arrays, which often lay within acid phosphatase-positive, membrane-bound spaces. This suggests their lysosomal location.
Iron granules in plasma cells.
Authors: Cook M K , Madden M
Published: June 2007

The curious and unusual finding of coarse iron granules in marrow plasma cells is reported in 13 patients, in whom the finding was incidental. In 10 of these patients there was known alcohol abuse and serious medical complications of that abuse. Previous reports of the finding are reviewed. Haematological data of the 13 patients are presented. A hypothesis is outlined which may account for the finding.
Total CK activity and isoenzyme patterns in normal and neoplastic tissue of gastrointestinal tract.
Authors: Tsung S H
Published: June 2007

Total creatine kinase (CK) activity and isoenzyme distribution were determined in normal and tumour of gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Total CK activity per gram wet tissue appeared to be markedly reduced in malignant tumour tissue, yet it was raised in benign tumour tissue. CK-BB was the predominant isoenzyme in both normal and tumour tissue of GI tract. Alteration of isoenzyme pattern was noted between the normal and tumour tissue. In one patient, macro-CK was found in tissue homogenate.
Diagnosis of Legionella pneumophila infections by means of formolised yolk sac antigens.
Authors: Harrison T G , Taylor A G
Published: June 2007

Formolised yolk sac antigens of Legionella pneumophila serogroups 1-6 were used to test 1792 serum specimens from 1431 patients with respiratory illness of serological evidence of Legionnaires' disease (LD). Thirty-five patients showed titres against the serogroup 1 antigen diagnostic for LD. Only two further cases were considered to have non-serogroup I infections (both serogroup 4) indicating that such infections are rare. Titres of greater than 1/16 against the serogroup 1 antigen occur in only 3% of subjects without LD and thus the demonstration of such a titre in patients with pneumonia during the early phase of illness can alert the clinician to the likelihood of LD. The supply of serogroup 1 antigen from the Division of Microbiological Reagents and Quality Control to routine diagnostic laboratories will be continued and monovalent serogroup 2-6 antigens will continue to be made available to reference laboratories.
Failure of the fluorescent antibody reaction to identify penicillinase-producing gonococci.
Authors: Waitkins S A , Anderson R D
Published: June 2007

The fluorescent antibody test is now widely used to confirm the identity of Neisseria gonorrhoeae but may fail to identify penicillinase-producing strains (PPNG). This problem arises when conjugates are used that incorporate only gonococci that are not penicillinase-producers. We have shown that conjugates prepared from mixtures of PPNG and non-penicillinase producing gonococci give good fluorescent reactions. This difference in the reactions of PPNG strains is clearly related to their penicillinase-producing abilities, further study of the antigenic relation between penicillinase production and the antigenic structure of N gonorrhoeae is evidently required.
Osteomyelitis and septic arthritis caused by Kingella kingae.
Authors: Davis J M , Peel M M
Published: June 2007

The clinical and bacteriological findings in two cases of osteomyelitis and one case of septic arthritis caused by Kingella kingae are presented. This appears to be the first report providing clear evidence for a pathogenic role for this species in bone and joint infections.
Characterisation of Liver membrane autoantibodies determined by indirect immunofluorescence.
Authors: Tage-Jensen U , Permin H , Krogsgaard K
Published: June 2007

Indirect immunofluorescence studies were performed using sera and IgG-Fab2 fragments from patients with chronic active hepatitis (CAH) who were positive for a liver membrane antibody (LMA). The specificity was investigated using hepatocytes from humans as well as rabbit, rat, guinea pig and monkey. Only sera also positive for smooth muscle antibody gave staining of lymphocytes and absorption with F-actin from rabbit muscle abolished this as well as all other smooth muscle staining without influencing LMA. It was concluded that LMA, routinely detected by indirect immunofluorescence using rabbit hepatocytes, represents specific binding to non-species-specific membrane antigens which are normal constituents of human hepatocytes. The antigen is separately located, and not cross-reactive with F-actin.
Soya protein antibodies in man: their occurrence and possible relevance in coeliac disease.
Authors: Haeney M R , Goodwin B J , Barratt M E , Mike N , Asquith P
Published: June 2007

Circulating antibodies to soya-derived protein antigens have been measured in patients with duodenitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and coeliac disease. Significantly raised antibody titres were found frequently in the coeliac group, particularly those patients showing a suboptimal response to a gluten-free diet, but rarely in subjects with other gastrointestinal diseases. Antisoya activity was not necessarily accompanied by antibodies to other common dietary antigens. We suggest that some coeliacs may have an associated dietary soya sensitivity which could adversely influence their response to gluten withdrawal.
Combined immunological and histochemical analysis of skin and lymph node lesions in histiocytosis X.
Authors: Thomas J A , Janossy G , Chilosi M , Pritchard J , Pincott J R
Published: June 2007

The immunological phenotype of the cells involved in skin and lymph node lesions from two cases of histiocytosis X (H-X) were analysed by immunofluorescence techniques using combinations of heterologous and monoclonal antisera to Ia-like antigen and human cortical thymocyte (HTA-1) determinant. These cells were also characterised by a new technique using simultaneous immunofluorescence and enzyme histochemistry for acid phosphatase (ACPase). The major cell type in the lesions was found to express the same Ia+, HTA-1+ phenotype as normal epidermal Langerhans' cells (LC) and was unreactive for ACPase. Additional cell types included Ia-, HTA-1- multinucleate giant cells and residual lymphoid populations. These findings endorse previous concepts that H-X is a proliferation of abnormal LC and emphasise the heterogeneous nature of the cells involved in the disease.
Medical audit of rectal biopsy diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease.
Authors: Frei J V , Morson B C
Published: June 2007

The records of the rectal biopsy diagnoses of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease in the Department of Pathology, St Mark's Hospital, London, were reviewed. The biopsy diagnoses were compared to subsequent resection diagnoses on the same patients, and annual and seasonal variations in the frequency of these and related diagnoses were studied. The accuracy rate for the biopsy diagnosis of ulcerative colitis was about 70% and for Crohn's disease about 40% each time a biopsy was read. The low figure for the accuracy rate for Crohn's disease could be attributed to sampling error inherent in the diagnosis of a disease which is essentially patchy, showing discontinuous pathology. Also, many patients with Crohn's disease have a normal rectum which is biopsied to demonstrate the distinction from ulcerative colitis. In practical terms therefore a 40% accuracy rate in Crohn's disease is probably adequate. The rate of "false-positive" diagnoses was about 5%. There was a seasonal variation in the frequency of these two diagnoses, but no variation attributable to changes in observers, as pathology trainees in the Department change regularly. The frequency of diagnoses of non-specific inflammation and of normal colon did show such non-random variations.
Monoclonal antibodies in oncology.
Authors: Sikora K
Published: June 2007

Molecular biology has made tremendous strides over the last five years. The new biology allows us to prepare monoclonal antibodies to defined antigens; to detect, isolate and clone specific genes; and to insert these genes into defined sites in different cells giving new functions to old organisms. These revolutionary developments have been followed closely by researchers, businessmen, politicians and philosophers, as well as by those involved in the clinical care of patients. Although our understanding of human molecular biology is increasing rapidly, it is the development of monoclonal antibodies that has the most immediate application in the clinic. There have been several reports of their use in the diagnosis, localisation and treatment of human malignant disease. This review describes developments that are likely to have direct relevance to patient care in the near future.
Protein contents and binding modes of immunoglobulin-amylase complexes.
Authors: Ohtani H , Sakaguchi K , Saito M
Published: June 2007

The protein contents and binding modes of immunoglobulin-amylase complexes were investigated. Amylase staining after immunoelectrophoresis permitted identification of IgA-lambda type in three cases, IgA-kappa type in two cases and IgG-kappa type in one case. The precipitin line of Fab fragment of IgA in four patient's sera after papain digestion was found to have amylase activity. Sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation studies showed that these complexes were divided into three groups: Group I complexes were dissociated in acid pH, and at pH 7.0 the immunoglobulins, which were isolated at the acid pH, became rebound to serum amylase; Group II complexes were dissociated by acidification, but did not reform at pH 7.0; Group III complexes were unaffected by acidification. We suggest that the immunoglobulin-amylase complexes belonging to groups I and II result from an antigen-antibody reaction. Precipitin curves resulting from the addition of increasing quantities of the patient's serum containing 9 S or 11 S immunoglobulin-amylase complexes to specific antisera revealed that these complexes contained not only monoclonal IgA, but also alpha-1-antitrypsin (alpha 1 AT) and albumin. These IgA complexes could have bound non-specifically to alpha 1 AT and albumin, forming the larger macroamylase complexes.
Bilateral gonadoblastoma/dysgerminoma in a 46 XY individual: case report with hormonal studies.
Authors: Fisher R A , Salm R , Spencer R W
Published: June 2007

A case of bilateral gonadoblastoma/dysgerminoma in a 46 XY phenotypical female is presented. Increased circulating beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-HCG) and testosterone together with a decreased concentration of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) reflected the activities of these tumours. The patient is alive and well three years later, after treatment by surgery and cobalt therapy.