bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunologically Untreated Fresh Xenograft Implantation in a Pig‐to‐Goat Model
Authors: Sung Kiick , Kim Won Gon , Seo Jung Wook
Published: July 2010

Immunologically untreated frozen‐stored xenografts show controlled rejection and repair due to reduced cellularity in our previous study. To clarify the issue, we compared results obtained using fresh and frozen‐stored xenografts. Porcine pulmonary valved conduits were prepared without immunologic treatment and implanted in the right ventricular outflow tract of goats under cardiopulmonary bypass immediately after harvest without frozen storage (the fresh group) or after frozen storage (−70°C for 3∼7 days) (the frozen group). Four goats were assigned to be raised for 3 (N = 1) or 6 (N = 3) months postoperatively in each group. One goat in the frozen group assigned for the 6‐month observation expired at 2 months postoperatively because of thrombotic occlusion of the pulmonary valve. The other goats survived until the scheduled sacrifice. According to echocardiographic findings, one animal sacrificed at 3 months in the frozen group showed more than a moderate degree of pulmonary regurgitation, but all animals in the fresh group showed less than a mild degree. On gross examination, leaflets were slightly better preserved in the fresh group and aneurysmal dilatation of the pulmonary artery was observed at 3 months only in the frozen group. Microscopically, pulmonary arteries showed less severe degenerative changes in the fresh group. Moreover, in the fresh group, viable donor valve cells were still present until 3 months postoperatively (though it disappeared at 6 months postoperatively) and a linear endothelial lining of viable host cells was prominent on all leaflets, whereas this was not the case in the frozen group. In conclusion, fresh xenografts preserved cellular viability and showed fewer degenerative changes than frozen‐stored xenografts. Thus, immunologically untreated fresh xenografts could provide a potential valve substitute with distinctive advantages in terms of self‐healing potential as compared with frozen‐stored xenografts.
Influence of Post‐Clearing Treatment on the Recovery of Herbaceous Plant Communities in Amazonian Secondary Forests
Authors: Ribeiro Maria Beatriz N. , Bruna Emilio M. , Mantovani Waldir
Published: July 2010

Secondary forests are an increasingly common feature in tropical landscapes worldwide and understanding their regeneration is necessary to design effective restoration strategies. It has previously been shown that the woody species community in secondary forests can follow different successional pathways according to the nature of past human activities in the area, yet little is known about patterns of herbaceous species diversity in secondary forests with different histories of land use. We compared the diversity and abundance of herbaceous plant communities in two types of Central Amazonian secondary forests—those regenerating on pastures created by felling and burning trees and those where trees were felled only. We also tested if plant density and species richness in secondary forests are related to proximity to primary forest. In comparison with primary forest sites, forests regenerating on non‐burned habitats had lower herbaceous plant density and species richness than those on burned ones. However, species composition and abundance in non‐burned stands were more similar to those of primary forest, whereas several secondary forest specialist species were found in burned stands. In both non‐burned and burned forests, distance from the forest edge was not related to herbaceous density and species richness. Overall, our results suggest that the natural regeneration of herbaceous species in secondary tropical forests is dependent on a site's post‐clearing treatment. We recommend evaluating the land history of a site prior to developing and implementing a restoration strategy, as this will influence the biological template on which restoration efforts are overlaid.
Valuing Diversity in Political Organizations: Gender and Token Minorities in the U.S. House of Representatives
Authors: Kanthak Kristin , Krause George A.
Published: July 2010

Political scientists are keenly interested in how diversity influences politics, yet we know little about how diverse groups of political actors interact. We advance a unified theory of colleague valuation to address this puzzle. The theory explains how minority group size affects how members of a political organization differentially value majority and minority group colleagues, predicting that the effect of preference divergence on individual‐level colleague valuation is greatest when the minority group is smallest. We test this prediction using member‐to‐member leadership political action committee (PAC) contributions in the U.S. House of Representatives. The results obtain strong, albeit not uniform, support for the theory, demonstrating that the gender gap in colleague valuations declines as preference divergence increases in all but one instance. In contrast to conventional wisdom, the theory and evidence indicate that women serving in the U.S. House of Representatives receive less support from men colleagues as their ranks increase.
Tseudo‐lymphoid‘ leukaemia with unusual features: Ultrastructural, immunological, cytogenetic and molecular studies
Authors: Matutes Estela , Foroni Letizia , Amin S. , de Oliveira Maria P. , Brito‐Babapulle Vasantha , Luzzatto L. , Catovsky D.
Published: July 2010

An unusual case of ‘pseudo‐lymphoid’ leukaemia is described. The leukaemic cells resembled small, mature lymphocytes but lacked B‐ and T‐cell membrane markers as well as immunoglobulin (Ig) and T‐cell receptor gene rearrangements. They showed, instead, features of early myeloid cells since they expressed 2 myeloid antigens, CDW13 and My9, and displayed peroxidase activity demonstrable by electron microscopy (EM) on unfixed cells. Cytogenetic studies showed monosomy 5, t(4;17) (p12;p11), t(2;3)(p23;q14) and an abnormal chromosome 12. Abnormalities of chromosomes 4 and 5 have been previously associated with ‘pseudo‐lymphoid’ leukaemias. This case illustrates the value of sensitive methods for the characterization of blast cells and for the precise diagnosis of leukaemias with apparent ‘lymphoid’ morphology.
Immunologic and virologic findings in hemophiliacs do not correlate with ecto‐5′nucleotidase activity of peripheral blood lymphocytes. A difference with homosexual men
Authors: Massaia Massimo , Pioppo Paola , Dianzani Umberto , Guerra Maria Grazia , Peyretti Francesco , Pileri Alessandro , Tamponi Giacomo
Published: July 2010

It has been recently demonstrated that ecto‐5′nucleotidase (5′NT) activity is significantly decreased in the peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) of homosexual men. This paper reports a study of PBL 5′NT activity in 38 hemophiliacs at risk for the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The enzyme activity was correlated to the immunologic and virologic data. T‐cell subset distribution was unbalanced and directly correlated with the cumulative amount of AHF infused. PBL 5′NT activity, however, was similar to that of healthy controls. 6 patients displayed serum antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) but no decrease in PBL 5′NT activity. In conclusion, these data indicate that both heavily treated and seropositive as well as untreated hemophiliacs have normal PBL 5′NT activity. This striking dissimilarity between homosexual men and hemophiliacs suggests that some immunologic alterations leading to 5′NT deficiency occur in the former only.
Poor age‐corrected survival of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients with trisomy 12
Authors: Juliusson Gunnar , Gahrton Gösta
Published: July 2010

Analyses on the prognostic impact of cellular markers in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is hampered by the strong influence of age on survival. We have therefore used a ratio between the observed survival (or observation time) and the expected survival of age‐ and sex‐matched healthy Swedes to eliminate the age dependence. Log rank analysis of the observed/expected survival time ratio demonstrated that CLL‐patients with trisomy 12 had a poorer age‐corrected survival than other patients.
Colony inhibiting factor in mature granulocytes from normal individuals and patients with chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Bøyum Arne , Løvhaug Dagfinn , Kolstø Anne Brit , Helgestad Jon , Melby Tone
Published: July 2010

Inhibitory activity in extract from human blood granulocytes was tested on gran‐ulocyte‐macrophage colony formation in vitro. The inhibition depended on the type of serum used. With mouse BMC and FCS in the cultures, extract corresponding to 2.5 times 104 granulocytes/ml reduced the colony number by 35%, and extract from 2 times 105 cells caused maximal inhibition (80–90%). With HS and mouse BMC the colony number was reduced by only 11–12%, but stronger inhibition (55%) was observed when the serum concentration was reduced. With both types of sera the total cell number per culture plate was reduced relatively more than the colony number. Human GM‐CFC were as sensitive as mouse GM‐CFC, and extract from CML granulocytes inhibited less (p < 0.01) than extract from normal cells. Biochemical studies indicated that the inhibitor is a protein with a molecular weight of 30–60000. Lactoferrin, a putative inhibitor of CSF production, did not inhibit spontaneous or CSF‐induced colony formation in these studies.
Oxidative state of glutathione in arterial and venous red blood cells and plasma of rabbit
Authors: Costagliola Ciro , Menzione Massimo , Romano Laura
Published: July 2010

Reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione levels in arterial and venous rabbit red blood cells (RBC) and plasma are reported. No significant differences were noted between arterial and venous erythrocytes GSH and GSSG content. Plasma GSH levels were found to be the same in both arterial and venous samples. Contrarily, the concentrations of GSSG were higher in venous than in arterial plasma. These findings cannot be attributed solely to the increased RBC oxidative activity that occurs in the venous system. The phenomenon may reflect the oxidative state present in other tissues and may thus be a harbinger of differences in GSH content.
Serum deoxythymidine kinase correlates with peripheral lymphocyte thymidine uptake in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Källander C. F. R. , Simonsson B. , Gronowitz J. S. , Nilsson K.
Published: July 2010

The serum thymidine kinase (S‐TK) and proliferative activity of the leukemic cells were determined in 27 untreated patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). A significant positive correlation between S‐TK and proliferation expressed as a proliferative index (PI) was found (r = 0.70, p < 0.001). Additionally, PI (r = 0.59, p < 0.01) and S‐TK (r = 0.47, p < 0.05) correlated to peripheral blood lymphocyte count. When different variables and combinations of variables were studied in order to define their capacity for discriminating between progressive and indolent CLL, S‐TK activity and PI proved to be powerful indications. In longitudinal studies, both S‐TK and PI paralleled disease activity. A model where a combination of S‐TK and PI gives information of the degree of localized disease is proposed.
Myelodysplastic syndromes: Analysis of 131 cases according to the FAB classification
Authors: Economopoulos T. , Stathakis N. , Foudoulakis A. , Papadoulis N. , Dervenoulas J. , Papageorgiou E. , Anastassiou C. , Hadjioannou J. , Raptis S.
Published: July 2010

The clinical and haematological findings in 131 patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), none of which had previously received chemotherapy or radiotherapy, classified according to the FAB criteria, were analysed. The distribution among the 5 subgroups was: RA 31 patients, RAS 19, RAEB 23, CMML 29 and RAEBT 29 patients. There were difficulties in the classification of 24 patients. These included, first, 8 cases with myeloid hyperplasia of the bone marrow (BM) but without mono‐cytosis or excess of blasts of the BM. They were classified as RA. Second, 8 cases with sideroblastosis but with monocytosis or excess of blasts of the BM were classified 3 as RAEB, 2 as CMML and 3 as RAEBT. Finally, 8 cases with absolute monocytosis and BM blasts 15–30% were classified as CMML. 37 of 82 dead patients (45.1%) had transformed to acute non‐lymphoblastic leukaemia (ANLL). The incidence of evolution to ANLL was low for RA and RAS (6.30% and 12.5% respectively), while it was 37.5% for RAEB, 57.1% for CMML and 77.2% for RAEBT. The median survival for each subgroup was: RA 18 months; RAS 25; RAEB 13; CMML 14 and RAEBT 10 months. It is concluded that the FAB classification with some modifications recognises group of MDS with different prognosis.
Ultrastructural features in 100 cases of acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Pearson E. C.
Published: July 2010

Ultrastructural features thought to be significant in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) have been examined in 100 cases entered into the Medical Research Council 9th AML Trial. It is concluded that, of the features examined, only rarely is there a striking correlation with diagnosis which could be usefully employed with confidence. This is a consequence of there being both a large overlap of similar ultrastructural features between the different sub‐types of the disease and also wide variations in ultrastructure within the conventionally diagnosed sub‐types of AML. Thus the similarities between cells from different cases which allow them to be classified by light microscopy do not necessarily extend to the ultrastructural level. However, it is suggested that a classification on ultrastructural grounds might have a prognostic significance which would only be revealed by a long‐term study.
Graft‐versus‐leukaemia activity associated with cytomegalovirus seropositive bone marrow donors but separated from graft‐versus‐host disease in allograft recipients with AML
Authors: Jacobsen N. , Lönnqvist B. , Ringdén O. , Rajantie J. , Siimes M. A. , Volin L. , Ruutu T. , Nikoskelainen J. , Toivanen A. , Ryder L. , Andersen H. K. , Keiding N. , Gahrton G. ,   Nordic Bone Marrow Transplantation Group
Published: July 2010

To elucidate whether a relationship existed between bone marrow donor cytomegalovirus (CMV) immune status and the probability of staying in remission after transplantation, a retrospective multicentre analysis was performed in 69 patients who received allogeneic bone marrow transplantation during relapse or second remission of AML or second remission of ALL. None of 12 AML patients with CMV seropositive donors had posttransplant relapse, in contrast to 7 of 10 AML patients with seronega‐tive donors. Kaplan‐Meier estimates of the 2‐yr probability of staying in remission for the two groups were 100% and 0%, respectively (p < 0.0005). This effect was independent of disease stage, donor and recipient age, recipient pretransplant CMV immune status and the occurrence of posttransplant CMV infection in recipients, and was not mediated through an increased occurrence of overt graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD) in recipients with CMV seropositive donors. The increased probability of staying in remission was associated with an increased probability of 3‐yr disease‐free survival (p < 0.01). No similar effect was observed in patients with ALL. This study may suggest an allograft‐versus‐leukaemia effect in AML, associated with CMV seropositive donors, which seems separate from GvHD and independent of the occurrence of posttransplant CMV infection.
Myeloid regeneration after bone‐marrow transplantation monitored by serum measurements of my eloper oxidase, lysozyme and lactoferrin
Authors: Öberg G. , Simonsson B. , Smedmyr B. , Tötterman T. H. , Venge P.
Published: July 2010

Bone‐marrow regeneration after chemo‐ and radiotherapy‐induced aplasia can be monitored by serum levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), lysozyme (LYS) and lactoferrin (LF). In 10 patients with leukemia, serum measurements were performed before and after bone‐marrow transplantation. Bone‐marrow regeneration was suggested by increments in serum MPO and LYS 5 and 4 days prior to the increase in mononuclear cells (Mono) and 10 and 9 d before the increase in polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) in the peripheral blood. LF started to rise 4.5 d before detectable circulating PMNs. 2 patients with early relapses of leukemia post transplantation are shown to display atypical patterns of serum MPO and LYS. We conclude that serum measurements of MPO, LYS and LF may be used as early and sensitive means to monitor bone‐marrow activity during hematological regeneration. However, the findings also strongly support the earlier proposal that MPO alone may be used to reflect myeloid activity in the bone‐marrow in general.
Alpha‐thalassaemia in Nigeria: Its interaction with sickle‐cell disease
Authors: Falusi A. G. , Esan G. J. F. , Ayyub H. , Higgs D. R.
Published: July 2010

We have determined the molecular basis and frequency of α‐thalassaemia in Nigeria. The a‐thalassaemia determinant in this population is caused by only one type of single α globin gene deletion (‐α3.7). Comparison of the haematological features of those patients who have sickle‐cell disease with (‐α/αα, ‐α/‐α) or without (αα/αα) α‐thalassaemia showed similar trends to those reported in Jamaican and U.S. patients with these interactions. However, in contrast to studies in some other African populations we have shown that the frequency of α‐thalassaemia in Nigeria is the same (0.24) in patients with or without homozygous sickle‐cell disease (AA, AS and AC genotypes).
Stomatocytosis, abnormal platelets and pseudo‐homozygous hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Stewart G. W. , O'Brien H. , Morris S. A. , Owen J. S. , Lloyd J. K. , Ames J. A. L.
Published: July 2010

A 13‐yr‐old girl with congenital haemolytic anaemia associated with pseudo‐homozygous hypercholesterolaemia is described. The erythrocyte morphology showed 50–80% stomatocytes, but no abnormality of membrane lipid or protein composition or of cation transport was detected. The platelets were reduced in number, abnormally large and showed reduced adhesion. Successful treatment of the hypercholesterolaemia did not influence the stomatocytosis.
Pharmacodynamic aspects of aclarubicin with special reference to daunorubicin and doxorubicin
Authors: Skovsgaard Torben
Published: July 2010

A review of the pharmacodynamic properties of aclarubicin compared with other anthracyclines: Metabolism, cellular uptake and distribution, intracellular binding, cell kinetics, cytotoxicity, resistance and influence on cell differentiation.
Aclarubicin: Preclinical and clinical data suggesting less chronic cardiotoxicity compared with conventional anthracyclines
Authors: Mortensen S.A.
Published: July 2010

A survey of the adverse cardiovascular reactions elicited by treatment with the new anthracycline derivative aclarubicin is presented based on the results from selected animal experiments and available clinical data. With doxorubicin as a reference experimental studies have shown that cardiotoxicity from aclarubicin is more than ten‐fold lower, regarding both acute and chronic damage. It is premature to draw definite conclusions regarding the entire cardiotoxic profile in humans. ECG‐manifestations in the early treatment period with prolongation of the QTc‐interval may signal risk of severe ventricular arrhythmias in rare cases.

The trend when reviewing the phase I‐II trials with aclarubicin in acute leukaemia seems to be low incidence of chronic cardiotoxicity in spite of prior daunorubicin therapy — even in considerable doses. Thus, published clinical data stimulate the pursuance of randomized phase III trials comparing aclarubicin to conventional anthracyclines to substantiate the supposed improved therapeutic index of this new derivative.
Phase I‐II study of aclarubicin for treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Machover David , Gastiaburu Julio , Delgado Michel , Goldschmidt Emma , Benavides Manuel , Misset Jean‐Louis , de Vassal Francoise , Tapiero Haim , Ribaud Patricia , Schwarzenberg Léon , Mathe Georges , Hulhoven Reginal , Lotz Jean‐Pierre
Published: July 2010

Aclarubicin (ACM) was administered as induction treatment to 38 evaluable patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) who were either refractory to initial chemotherapy or in relapse. Thirteen patients received daily doses of ACM while the remaining 25 were given 10‐day courses with 10‐day intervals between courses. The overall CR rate was 34% and the incidence and severity of the toxic effects were related to the dose of ACM administered per course of therapy. Our results indicate that ACM is a major new drug for the treatment of AML.
Aclarubicin in the treatment of relapsed or resistant acute myelogenous leukaemia: a phase II trial
Authors: Evensen S. A. , Wisøff F. , Müller E. , Talstad I. , Waage A. , Johansen L.
Published: July 2010

Nineteen patients with acute myelogenous leukaemia refractory to regimens including daunorubicin (relapsed or resistant to the induction treatment) received aclarubicin as single‐agent chemotherapy in a dose of 40 mg/m2 daily for 5–7 days. Among 17 evaluable patients one achieved complete remission, and two obtained partial remission. Side effects were acceptable. The chosen dose of aclarubicin appeared to be suboptimal. However, several arguments suggest that aclarubicin in combination with other cytotoxic agents should be evaluated as first‐line chemotherapy of acute myelogenous leukaemia.
Daunorubicin versus aclarubicin in combination with cytarabine and thioguanine in elderly patients with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia, a preliminary report
Authors: Björkholm Magnus , Killander Andreas ,   Leukemia Group of Middle Sweden (LGMS)
Published: July 2010

Twenty‐three elderly patients with untreated acute nonlymphocytic leukaemia (ANLL) ranging in age from 61 to 84 yr were randomly allocated to treatment with either aclarubicin, cytarabine and thioguanine (TAA) or daunorubicin, cytarabine and thioguanine (TAD). Complete remission was achieved in 6/13 and 4/10 patients, respectively. There was no difference in the number of courses to complete remission between the two therapy protocols. There were 7 deaths during induction treatment in the TAA group and 3 in the TAD group, probably due to chemotherapy induced granulocytopenia with septicaemia. The haematological toxicity was comparable in complete responders of the two treatment arms. These data indicate that aclarubicin is an effective drug in ANLL and that older patients respond to intensive chemotherapy in a similar manner as younger patients with this disease. However, treatment related deaths are common and the need for equipotent but less toxic regimens is paramount. This is especially true for patients with signs of heart, lung, kidney and liver disease.
Aclarubicin in the treatment of acute nonlymphocytic leukemia refractory to treatment with daunorubicin and cytarabine: a phase II trial
Authors: Pedersen‐Bjergaard J. , Nissen N.I. , Brincker H. , Ellegaard J. , Drivsholm A. , Freund L. , Jensen K.B. , Jensen M. Krogh
Published: July 2010

The results of this trial have been published elsewhere (1).
A national Danish protocol: aclarubicin versus daunorubicin for the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Hansen O. Paaske
Published: July 2010

Details of the protocol will be published elsewhere together with the results from the trial.
Aclarubicin in single agent and combined chemotherapy of acute myeloid leukaemias
Authors: Mitrou P.S.
Published: July 2010

Aclarubicin (ACM), 25 mg/m2 daily for seven days, was administered as induction therapy to 40 patients with relapsing or refractory acute leukaemias. Eight complete (CR) and 1 partial (PR) remission were achieved in 29 evaluable AML patients (31%). A high CR rate was induced in patients treated at first relapse (6 out of 12 patients). A small proportion of AML resistant to daunorubicin or doxorubicin responded to ACM (3 out of 17 patients). Median remission duration was 5.5 months.

In a pilot study ACM was combined with cytarabine for remission induction in 18 previously untreated patients or patients at first relapse with AML. Both drugs were administered on 7 consecutive days. CR was induced in 13 patients (72%). From these results it appears that the present scheduling of ACM in single agent and combined chemotherapy is effective in remission induction in previously untreated or relapsing AML.
Phase II study of aclarubicin in patients with breast cancer previously untreated with adriamycin
Authors: Kerpel‐Fronius S. , Gyergyay F. , Hindy I. , Decker A. , Eckhardt S. , Sawinsky I. , Mechl Z. , Nekulova M. , Kolaric K. , Tomek R. , Röthig J. ,   A South‐East European Tumour Chemotherapy Group Study
Published: July 2010

Twenty‐five breast cancer patients previously not exposed to adriamycin, were treated with 30 mg/m2/day aclarubicin for four consecutive days. Out of the 19 evaluable cases 1 CR and 2 PR were observed giving an overall remission rate of 16%. No cardiotoxicity was observed. Myelotoxicity and hair loss were mild (WHO grades 1 and 2). Grade 2 and 3 nausea and vomiting occurred frequently.
Combination chemotherapy with aclarubicin in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Simader H. , Hausmaninger H. , Fereberger W. , Samonigg H.
Published: July 2010

Twenty‐eight women with advanced breast cancer were treated with aclarubicin, vincristine and cyclophosphamide. Aclarubicin was given to 16 patients in a two days regimen (40 mg/m2 i.v. day 1 + 2). Five of these patients experienced severe gastrointestinal toxicity and refused further therapy. Therefore aclarubicin was administered in a four days regimen (20 mg/m2 i.v. day 1–4) to another 12 patients. The overall response rate was 31% with 9% of the patients having a complete remission. This objective response is higher than that achieved when aclarubicin is given alone. Our study confirms experimental data suggesting synergism of aclarubicin, vincristine and cyclophosphamide.
Chronic T‐cell leukaemias. A variant of T‐prolymphocytic leukaemias: morphological, immunological and clinical characterization of 2 cases
Authors: Lauria F. , Foà R. , Raspadori D. , Tazzari P. L. , Migone N. , Giubellino M. C. , Lusso P. , Fierro M. T. , Motta M. R. , Tassinari A. , Buzzi M. , Tura S.
Published: July 2010

In this study we describe 2 patients who appear to suffer from a morphological, cytochemical and clinico‐haematological variant of T‐prolymphocytic leukaemia (T‐PLL). The cells were smaller than typical prolymphocytes, with a regular nucleus containing a smaller and less prominent nucleolus; the alpha‐naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE) and acid phosphatase (AP) cytochemical reactions showed a weaker pattern of positivity in this variant compared to T‐PLL. No immunological differences were found between the two conditions with regard to membrane expression and functional behaviour of the cells. The clinical course and the outcome of the patients appears to be different: aggressive and rapidly fatal in T‐PLL; thus far well‐controlled in the T‐PLL variant. From a molecular point of view, both cases showed a monoclonal rearrangement of the T‐cell receptor β‐chain gene.
The effect of an isoprenaline infusion on the splenic blood flow and intrasplenic platelet kinetics
Authors: Wadenvik Hans , Kutti Jack
Published: July 2010

The effect of a constant isoprenaline infusion on the venous platelet count, splenic blood flow and intrasplenic platelet kinetics was investigated in 6 healthy male volunteers. The study was carried out using autologous111In‐labelled platelets and dynamic gamma camera imaging of the initial distribution of radiolabelled platelets between blood and splenic platelet pool. The isoprenaline infusions were administered i.v. over 30 min in a dose of 0.03 μg/kg/min. These infusions significantly increased the splenic blood flow and the size of the exchangeable splenic platelet pool. Concomitantly, there was a decrease of labelled as well as unlabelled platelets in the peripheral blood. The intrasplenic platelet transit time was not affected. Before start of infusion, the splenic blood flow was 6.1 ± 2.9 (SD) % of total blood volume/min and the splenic platelet pool size 34 ± 9 (SD) %. During infusion the corresponding values were 8.7 ± 3.9 (SD) and 41 ± 11 (SD), respectively. It is concluded that an i.v. infusion of isoprenaline enhances splenic pooling of platelets as a result of an increase in splenic blood flow.
Plasma lipids in juvenile chronic granulocytic leukaemia
Authors: Turpin E. , Leverger G. , Erlich D. , Neel D. , Beaudry P. , Dreux C. , Goussault Y. , Schaison G.
Published: July 2010

Plasma lipid parameters (triglycerides, total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein cholesterol) were measured in 7 children with juvenile chronic granulocytic leukaemia, of whom 3 were with and 4 without xanthomas. In all cases, whatever the stage of the disease, these parameters were extremely altered. Plasma triglycerides were generally increased, total and HDL cholesterols were very low. No relationship seems to exist between these values and the occurrence of xanthomas.
Characterization of lymphocyte subpopulations in human cord blood using the immunogold staining technique
Authors: Fatunde Oluyemisi J. , Kaplan Sandra S. , Lochner Janet B. , Penchansky Lila
Published: July 2010

Lymphocyte subpopulations in human cord blood have been examined using monoclonal antibodies, visualized with immunogold. The proportions of T11, T4, T8, and B1, cells in cord blood are very similar to values in adult peripheral blood. Some evidence of lymphocyte immaturity in cord blood is suggested by the presence of 12% CALLA‐positive cells and the sum of T4 and T8 cells significantly exceeding the number of T11 cells; however, there were no TdT‐positive cells. The presence of CALLA‐positive lymphocytes in normal cord blood should be borne in mind when investigating blood smears from neonates for congenital leukemia.
Antioxidant system and serum trace elements in α‐thalassaemia and Hb Lepore trait
Authors: Gerli G. C. , Mongiat R. , Sandri M. T. , Agostoni A. , Gualandri V. , Orsini G. B. , Buso G. P. , Moschini G. , Carpani G. , Marini F.
Published: July 2010

Erythrocyte antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase were found to be significantly high in subjects with α‐thalassaemia and Hb Lepore trait, as a consequence of the increased oxidant stress which is known to exist in these conditions. Among the serum trace elements present in these enzymes, selenium was increased in subjects with Hb Lepore trait and significantly low in those with α‐thalassaemia trait, while selenium erythrocyte content was significantly increased in α‐thalassaemic subjects.
Neutrophil dysfunctions in thalassaemia major: The role of cell iron overload
Authors: Cantinieaux B. , Hariga C. , Ferster A. , de Maertelaere E. , Toppet M. , Fondu P.
Published: July 2010

The susceptibility to infections was recorded in 13 patients with β thalassaemia major (T.P.). The following parameters were also investigated in their polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN): nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction, heated yeast and Escherichia coli phagocytosis, Escherichia coli killing and myeloperoxydase activity. These results were compared to those obtained in healthy controls (H.C.). The Perls's reaction was performed on PMN and graded according to a scoring system with the aim of quantifying the iron intoxication of PMN. Phagocytosis and Perls's reaction of PMN from H.C. were also studied after 20 h of incubation with thalassaemic serum. 6 T.P. out of 13 developed septicaemia during their lifetime and in all 9 septicaemic episodes were noted. Phagocytosis was greatly impaired, disclosing both cellular and serum abnormalities. The mean percentage of Perls's positive PMN was 13% in T.P., contrasting with the constant negative reaction in H.C. The incubation of PMN from H.C. with serum from T.P. induced the simultaneous appearance of a phagocytosis defect and of a positive Perl's reaction. It was concluded that in β thalassaemia major the phagocytosis of PMN was altered due to a combination of serum and cellular abnormalities and that both may be related to the iron overload.
1α(OH)D3 (ETALPHA)® treatment and receptor studies in 16 patients with chronic and myeloproliferative disorders
Authors: Wieslander Steen Bo , Mortensen Børge T. , Binderup Lise , Nissen Nis I.
Published: July 2010

10 patients with CLL and 2 with CML were treated with gradually increasing doses of 1α(OH)D3, up to 4 μg daily during 6 wk. 3 patients with preleukemia and 1 with myelofibrosis were treated with 2 μg daily of 1α(OH)D3 for a prolonged period up to 17 wk. The treatment with 1α(OH)D3 did not result in changes of disease parameters in any of the patients under study. Receptor studies for 1,25(OH)2D3 were performed in 8 CLL patients and revealed only 1 patient with increased specific receptor binding capacity. The maximum tolerable dose of 1α(OH)D3 varied individually, but was in the range of 2–4 μg daily.
Whole blood folate values in pernicious anaemia: Relation to treatment
Authors: Magnus Erik M.
Published: July 2010

27 patients with pernicious anaemia, followed for a long period, were consecutively treated with three different vitamin B12 preparations, while during intervening period no therapy was given until signs of B12 deficiency developed. After vitamin B12 treatment, a peak whole blood folate value some 70% higher than the starting value was noted after about 75 d in patients treated with B12 injections and after about 165 d in perorally treated patients. During the same time significantly increased whole blood folate/plasma folate ratio was noted. In most of the patients, whole blood folate declined from peak to plateau level in about 150 d and thereafter remained almost unchanged until signs of cobalamin deficiency developed. The mean time from peak to plateau values was significantly longer in “long‐reactors” than in “short‐reactors”. Higher peak and plateau values were noted in patients with neuropathy and mucosal symptoms, as compared to patients with hypersegmentation.
HIV infection in Norwegian haemophiliacs: The prevalence of antibodies against HIV in haemophiliacs treated with lyophilized cryoprecipitate from volunteer donors
Authors: Evensen S. A. , Ulstrup J. , Skaug K. , Frøland S. S. , Glomstein A. , Rollag H.
Published: July 2010

334 of 389 (86%) registered Norwegians with coagulation factor defects were screened for antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in 1985/1986. 21 persons were confirmed anti‐HIV positive. They were all persons with clinically severe haemophilia A and represent 18.4% of 114 tested persons with severe haemophilia A. 3 patients have developed AIDS, 3 have persistent generalized lymphadenopathy. At least 8 of the 21 seropositive persons (38%) have been infected through lyophilized cryoprecipitates prepared from volunteer plasma donated in national blood banks. None of 10 heterosexual partners have antibodies to HIV. We conclude that the policy of using small‐pooled lyophilized cryoprecipitates instead of commercial concentrates has reduced HIV‐infection among Norwegian haemophiliacs. Today, the prevalence of HIV antibodies in the haemophilia population in Norway is among the lowest in Western Europe.
Platelet aggregability and platelet volume in the postoperative course: Problems in the platelet aggregation test derived from the measurement of platelet volume
Authors: Morikawa Shigehiro , Kumada Kaoru , Fujii Kazutoshi , Fukui Kiyoshi , Mori Keiichiro , Okada Yusaku , Yoshida Osamu
Published: July 2010

Platelet count, aggregability and volume in the postoperative course of 20 patients were examined. Platelet count was decreased on the 1st postoperative d, and increased on the 7th and 14th d compared with the preoperative value. The maximal aggregation rate of platelets induced by ADP was decreased on the 3rd postoperative d, and then recovered to the preoperative level. In contrast, platelet volume was only slightly increased on the 3rd postoperative d. In this study, there was no correlation between platelet aggregability and platelet volume in PRP. We have proposed one parameter, ‘platelet concentration ratio’ (platelet concentration in PRP/platelet concentration in whole blood). In the postoperative course, this concentration ratio changed depending on platelet volume, and possibly on other conditions of blood such as hematocrit, viscosity and specific gravity. The concentration ratio influenced the subpopulations of platelets in PRP. Platelet aggregation tests may be performed using PRP in which platelet subpopulations differ from those in whole blood, especially in the postoperative state.
Glucocorticoid receptor in multiple myeloma
Authors: Murakami Tohru , Togawa Atsushi , Satch Hiroshi , Katoh Minako , Imamura Yukio , Ohsawa Nakaaki , Takaku Fumimaro
Published: July 2010

Glucocorticoid receptor levels of myeloma cells were quantitated in 7 patients with multiple myeloma. In 4 patients, glucocorticoid receptor levels were less than 10 fmol/106 cells. In 3 patients, receptor levels were from 17.6 to 21.4 fmol/106 cells. We further examined the correlation between glucocorticoid receptor levels and effect of dexamethasone on 14C‐thymidine incorporation and cell viability using 2 myeloma cell lines, OPM‐1 and OPM‐2, established from a patient with multiple myeloma. Glucocorticoid receptor levels of OPM‐1 and OPM‐2 were 8.5 fmol/106 cells and 63.2 fmol/106 cells, respectively. The sensitivity of OPM‐1 to dexamethasone in these studies was lower than that of OPM‐2. These results suggest the possibility that the low level of glucocorticoid receptor in myeloma cells may be important for predicting a poor response to glucocorticoid therapy.
Osteolytic gamma heavy chain disease
Authors: Kanoh Tadashi , Nakasato Hideo
Published: July 2010

We report a case of gamma heavy chain disease (GHCD) with several unique features: extensive osteolytic lesions simulating advanced multiple myeloma (MM), skin involvement, under the age of 40 yr, and the appearance of a series of pathological cells with indented or lobulated nuclei. The most remarkable feature is a previously unreported extensive bone destruction. Except for the presence of this bone disease, the clinical and pathological features of the patient resembled those of GHCD rather than those of MM. We have reviewed 3 previously reported cases of GHCD associated with skeletal involvement and compared these with our case.
The value of staging bone marrow trephine biopsy in Hodgkin's Disease
Authors: Macintyre E. A. , Hudson B. Vaughan , Linch D. C. , Hudson G. Vaughan , Jelliffe A. M.
Published: July 2010

A retrospective study of pre‐treatment bone marrow biopsies was undertaken to examine the value of bone marrow staging in Hodgkin's Disease. Bone marrow biopsy revealed infiltration in 40 out of 613 cases, (6.5%). These patients were not significantly different from stage 4 patients without marrow involvement with regard to age, sex, anaemia or survival. Peripheral blood lymphopenia and lymphocyte depleted histopathological type were more common in patients with marrow involvement. Bone marrow biopsy altered individual patient management in less than 1% of 613 patients and can no longer be recommended as part of the routine staging in Hodgkin's Disease
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) associated non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas in Denmark: Report of three cases
Authors: Skinhøj Peter , Ersbøll Jens , Nissen Nis I.
Published: July 2010

High grade malignant non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) was the presenting manifestation of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in 3/81 reported cases of AIDS in Denmark (by April 2, 1986). Asymptomatic HIV infection, 1 and 5 yr prior to the onset of lymphoma, was documented in 2 cases. 1 patient became infected by Factor VIII treatment, 2 were male homosexuals. 2 patients had an uncommon tumour presentation in the oral cavity, 1 patient presented with an abdominal mass. The histologic subtypes were immunoblastic (2), and small noncleaved cell, Burkitt's (1). Helper/suppressor T‐cell ratio was decreased at onset of lymphoma in 2 cases. All 3 patients have died, 4, 6, and 24 months after diagnosis of NHL. Only 1 patient died of NHL, 1 died of an unclassified pneumonia and the third developed progressing supranuclear HIV‐associated polyneuropathy without evidence of CNS lymphoma. Thus, high grade malignant B‐cell NHL is a regular initial manifestation of AIDS, and may develop after years of asymptomatic HIV infection.
Vincristine neuropathy and a Guillain‐Barrè Syndrome: A case with acute lymphatic leukemia and quadriparesis
Authors: Norman M. , Elinder G. , Finkel Y.
Published: July 2010

A 3½‐yr‐old boy with acute leukemia rapidly developed quadriparesis during induction treatment that included vincristine. Accompanying the paralysis, spinal fluid protein was increased. This has not previously been associated with vincristine neuropathy. In addition to leukemia, we suggest that the patient had the Guillain‐Barrè syndrome, potentiating the neurotoxicity of vincristine.
Total peroxidase deficiency in eosinophils: A report on twin sisters, one with a refractory anaemia
Authors: Lepelley P. , Zandecki M. , Paquet S. , Lerche B. , Estienne M. H. , Fenaux P. , Torpier G. , Cosson A.
Published: July 2010

A total lack of EPO was fortuitously discovered in a 63‐yr‐old woman from the north of France who had primary refractory anaemia, but without dysgranulopoiesis; MPO activity was normal. Her twin sister, whose blood count was normal, also had EPO deficiency. This familial disorder was first described in the Israeli Jewish population and is very rare in Caucasians; it seems to have no pathological consequences. Microscopic studies showed no anomaly except a negativity of Sudan Black B staining which we consider to be a sign of peroxidase deficiency. Ultrastructural studies of the granules revealed normal cristalloid, but the matrix, which contains EPO in normal eosinophils, was very thin; the nature of the relation between functional and morphological anomalies has still to be elucidated.
Lethal skin cancers in hairy cell leukemia (two case reports)
Authors: Toner Guy C. , Holmes Romayne , Kennedy John T. , Schwarz Max A.
Published: July 2010

2 patients with hairy cell leukemia (HCL) complicated by multiple cutaneous and other malignancies are described. The second malignancies behaved in a much more aggressive fashion than would be expected in an immunocompetent population, and were lethal in both patients. The literature regarding second malignancies in immune compromised patients, and in HCL in particular, is reviewed.
Regrowth of granulocyte‐macrophage progenitor cells (GM‐CFC) in suspension cultures of bone marrow depleted of GM‐CFC with 4‐hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (4‐HC)*
Authors: Beran Miloslav , Zander Axel R. , Andersson B. S. , NcCredie Kenneth B.
Published: July 2010

The hematopoietic capacity of bone marrow treated with 4‐hydroperoxyclopho‐sphamide (4‐HC) was studied using long‐term suspension cultures. It was shown that, in the presence of a previously established marrow adherent cell layer (ACL), the 4‐HC treated bone marrow, deprived of GM‐CFC, generates GM‐CFC in long‐term suspension cultures in vitro. The kinetics of GM‐CFC reappearance in in vitro cultures indicate their origin from more primitive progenitors rather than from surviving GM‐CFC. In the presented modification, the suspension culture system is useful in evaluating the transplantation potential of bone marrow purged in vitro with chemo‐therapeutic or biologic agents.
A simple in vitro method of radiolabelling human erythrocytes in whole blood with 113mIn‐tropolonate
Authors: Osman S. , Danpure H. J.
Published: July 2010

A simple and rapid in vitro procedure has been developed for selectively radiolabelling erythrocytes in whole blood using 113mIn‐tropolonate. A maximum labelling efficiency of 97% was achieved, of which 95.5% was on the erythrocytes after only 5 min incubation of whole blood at room temperature. The optimum amount of tropolone for labelling whole blood was 10 μg of tropolone per ml of blood using acid‐citrate dextrose (ACD) as the anticoagulant and 50 μg of tropolone per ml of blood using heparin. Under these optimum conditions, only 2.5% of the cell‐bound 113mIn was released from the labelled cells during a 1 h in vitro incubation in cell‐free plasma, irrespective of the anticoagulant used. These results suggest that 113mIn‐tropolonate may prove to be a useful in vitro agent for labelling erythrocytes for short‐term clinical investigations, especially at centres where 99mTc and 111 In are unavailable.
Colony‐stimulating factor and leukemia cell‐growth factor produced by a murine endothelial cell line, MKM‐O
Authors: Yoshirnura Tornohide , Miyanornae Takeshi , Tanaka Mayumi , Iwai Yoshitaka , Mayumi Mitsufurni , Mikawa Haruki
Published: July 2010

A murine cultured cell line (MKM‐O) was established from a tumor of a BALB/C (nu/nu) mouse that had been subcutaneously inoculated with human hepatoma tissue fragments in the same location. The MKM‐O cell line was proven to be of endothelial origin by morphological examinations and positive staining with fluorescein‐labeled antibody against factor VIII antigen. MKM‐O cells grown in vitro produced a colony‐stimulating factor (CSF) and a leukemia cell‐growth factor (LC‐GF). CSF from MKM‐O acted on both human and murine bone marrow‐derived granulocytes and macrophage colony‐forming units (CFU‐GM). The activity of LC‐GF on human leukemia cell lines (HL‐60, HSB‐2, CEM, DAUDI and K562) was demonstrated both in conditioned medium (CM) of MKM‐O and of rat vascular endothelial cells. The CM of MKM‐O also demonstrated a limited growth promoting activity against the mononuclear cells from human cord blood and improved their survival, suggesting that endothelial cells play an important role in the proliferation and differentiation of blood cells.
Identical twin marrow transplantation for 5 patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia: Role of DNA finger‐printing to confirm monozygosity in 3 cases
Authors: Jones L. , Thein S. L. , Jeffreys A. J. , Apperley J. F. , Catovsky D. , Goldman J. M.
Published: July 2010

5 patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) have been treated by BMT from identical twin donors. Syngeneity of the twins was established by conventional methods in the first 2 patients. These included the similarity of phenotype, dermatoglyphics and anlysis of red cell isoenzymes and blood groups. 2 of the other patients had received multiple blood transfusions prior to referral for BMT thereby invalidating red cell analysis. However genetic identity was confirmed in these patients by the method of DNA ‘finger‐printing’ which demonstrated identical restriction‐fragment length polymorphisms. Conclusive proof of syngeneity in twins prior to BMT is important since it obviates the need for T‐cell depletion and/or post‐graft immunosuppression to prevent graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD). All 5 patients were conditioned with high‐dose chemoradiotherapy prior to BMT and all patients are alive and disease‐free at a median follow‐up of 12 months. In conclusion, we report a new, reliable method for determining syngeneity of twins which has bearing on the technical approach to BMT.