Day 1 :
Keynote Forum
C D Atreya
Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, USA
Keynote: Small regulatory RNAs in blood component storage and hemophilia A disease manifestation
Time : 10:00-10:40
Biography:
Abstract:
Discovery of small noncoding RNAs (e.g. microRNAs) have revolutionized the field of cell biology with the seminal discovery that that these tiny molecules are the gene regulators impacting almost all aspects of the cellular processes in human health and disease. MiRNAs are small (17-22 nucleotides) single-stranded noncoding RNAs that bind to their specific target sites on mRNAs via Argonaute-2 (AGO-2) protein-associated miRNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). Such functional complexes have been identified in a variety of cells. Blood cells stored for transfusion undergo several physiological changes and several miRNAs were identified to be differentially expressed during platelet storage that either can serve as predictors of poor quality of the stored product or, regulators of cellular processes. Recently it was identified in stored platelets that miR-570 interacts with and down regulates the expression of mitochondrial ATPase subunit g (ATP5L) encoding mRNA and several miRNAs associated with AGO-2 in stored red blood cells (RBC) suggesting their role in RBC both in vivo and in storage. MicroRNAs also play a role in hereditary blood disorders such as hemophilia A (HA). It has been shown that miR-1246 expression is high in HA patients and was inversely correlated with factor VIII expression in cell culture. Subsequently several miRNAs have been identified in HA patients that have the potential to serve both as biomarkers and regulators of HA disease phenotype. Overall, the advances made in the small regulatory RNA field with regards to stored cellular blood components and hemophilia A clearly suggest that these RNAs are critical players that needs to be studied to develop strategies to enhance the quality of stored blood components and to improve therapies for HA patients.
Keynote Forum
Chava Kimchi-Sarfaty
Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, USA
Keynote: New platform technologies for biotherapeutics and emerging rewards and risks
Time : 10:40-11:20
Biography:
Abstract:
Therapeutic proteins now represent a growing and critical component of drug development. Biotherapeutics such as antibodies, recombinant enzymes, gene and cell therapies continue to revolutionize the treatment of many diseases. The production and regulatory approval of these complex molecules are not without their own inherent challenges. A growing list of protein engineering strategies exists to improve the circulating half-life, bioavailability, function and stability of recombinant protein therapeutics. To aid in biomanufacturing, protein therapeutics are often strategically designed with synonymous and/or non-synonymous mutations to eliminate rate-limiting transcriptional/translational features in the native expression sequence. In a technique known as codon optimization, hundreds of synonymous mutations are strategically incorporated into the expression vectors of recombinant therapeutic proteins. We seek to understand how protein biogenesis can be modulated by genetic variants in the coding sequence using model recombinant proteins regulated by CBER. To this end, we have evaluated existing and new laboratory assays that are sensitive to transcriptional, translational and posttranslational processes. These emerging technologies for recombinant protein design are regularly evaluated at FDA’s CBER, which encompasses a holistic view of protein therapeutic development and monitors the process from the bench to the bedside to ensure effective development and product licensing. CBER’s goals include development and enforcement of laboratory standards by evaluating technologies and reagents as well as the assessment of pre-clinical models and clinical approaches. These goals are in line with CBER’s vision to improve the safety of biological products and ultimately advance public health.
- Hematology | Blood Disorders | Hematology and Oncology
Location: Johnson
Chair
C D Atreya
Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, USA
Session Introduction
Chava Kimchi-Sarfaty
Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, USA
Title: Assay-dependent results of ADAMTS13 activity in sickle cell disease
Biography:
Abstract:
Nahla Osman
Menoufia University, Egypt
Title: Higher mTOR mRNA is associated with poor outcome in AML patients
Biography:
Abstract:
Neetu Dahiya
Food and Drug Administration, USA
Title: Study of miRNAs and mRNAs in stored platelets identifies the potential functional pathways relevant to platelet storage lesions
Biography:
Neetu Dahiya has expertise in understanding cellular gene regulation by small noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNAs). Her recent work is focused on the changes in expression of both miRNAs and mRNAs in platelets during storage. Some of these studies already identified miRNA:mRNA interactions that demonstrate the role of miRNAs in platelet biology during ex vivo storage and the results and concepts have been published in peer-reviewed journals.
Abstract:
Shahtaj Khan
Hayatabad Medical Complex hospital, Pakistan
Title: Pattern of adulthood hematological malignancies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Biography:
Shahtaj Khan is an Assistant Professor of Hematology and Head of the Department of Pathology at Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan. She is also working as Consultant Hematologist at Rehman Medical Institute. Her research interests reflect in her wide range of publications in various national and international journals.
Abstract:
Objective: To evaluate the frequency of adulthood hematological malignancies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa population.
Material & Method: This descriptive observational study was carried out at Diagnostic Laboratory Rehman Medical Institute (RMI), and Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar Pakistan, from December 2014 to December 2017. A total of 571 adult patients suspected to have hematological malignancies were included in the study. All these patients were examined in clinics by different physicians and referred to pathology department for bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy. Two millilitre of peripheral blood was collected in EDTA vacutainer tube and complete blood count, retic count along with peripheral film examination was done. Bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy samples were taken from all the patients. Aspiration and trephine biopsy slides were examined and further immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry was done for complete diagnosis. All the data was recorded, analyzed and presented in tables.
Results: Out of the 571 cases referred for bone marrow examination. 259 adult patients were diagnosed with different types of hematological malignancies. Out of 259, 186 (71.8%) were males and 73 (28.2%) were females. The age range of studied population was from 18 to 84 years with average age of 46.21 years. Out of them, 96 (37.1%) were diagnosed with myeloid hematological malignancies and 163 (62.9%) were diagnosed with lymphoid hematological malignancies. Acute myeloid leukemia (22.3%), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (21.6%) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (18.9%) were more prevalent hematological malignancies in this region while plasma cell leukemia, polycythemia rubra vera and hairy cell leukemia were least common hematological malignancies. The frequencies of other hematological malignancies were lymphoma (10.4%), multiple myeloma (9.7%), chronic myeloid leukemia (7.3%), primary myelofibrosis (2.7%), myelodysplastic syndrome (2.7%) and essential thrombocythemia (1.1%) in total hematological malignancies.
B Yusuf Jamoh
Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Title: Soluble CD36 as a determinant of disease severity among patients with sickle cell anaemia in Nigeria
Biography:
B Yusuf Jamoh has completed his MBBS programme from Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria and had MSc Cancer Biology, with commendation, from Kingston University, London. He is a Fellow of National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria and was appointed as Honorary Consultant Physician, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, Nigeria. He is the Head of Clinical Haematology Unit, ABUTH. He has published 12 papers in reputed journals and he is currently acting Postgraduate Coordinator, Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.
Abstract:
Background: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was aimed at determining the relationship between soluble CD36 (sCD36; a cell adhesion marker), levels of % Hb F, haematological parameters and disease severity in adults with SCA in Kano, Nigeria.
Methods: One hundred and forty subjects with SCA in steady state were purposively selected and compared with 70 apparently healthy controls. Ten milliliters of venous blood was obtained to determine CBC (using auto haematology analyzer), % Hb F (estimated by modified Betke’s method) and sCD36, using Human Soluble CD36 Elisa Kit (ADIPO Bioscience Inc., USA). Severity was assessed by El-Hazmi’s scoring system. Student t-test and Pearson’s correlation were used as statistical test and P-value ≤ 0.05 was used to define statistical significance.
Results: The median sCD36 was significantly higher (P<0.01) in subjects with SCA (22.3 ng/ml) than in the controls (14.8 ng/ml). A direct correlation was observed between sCD36 and WBC count (ρ=0.7410; P<0.001), an inverse correlation was observed between sCD36 and % Hb F (ρ=-0.5406; P<0.001) and a direct correlation was observed between sCD36 and severity score (ρ=0.5808; P<0.001) in the subjects. No such relationship was observed among the parameters in the control group. Complications like ACS, stroke, retinopathy and AVN of the femoral head were observed to be associated with high sCD36 levels. A multiple logistic regression modeling revealed that WBC count predicted the most significant odds (OR=3.87; P<0.001) for sCD36 positivity.
Conclusion: The level of sCD36 is a marker of disease severity and may predict the occurrence of vascular-related complications of adults with SCA; and WBC alone may be used as a surrogate marker of sCD36 level.
- Leukaemia | Hematology Oncology
Location: Johnson
Chair
Iman Atteya eltounsi
Menoufia University, Egypt
Session Introduction
Haytham Dahlawi
Taif University, Saudi Arabia
Title: Impact of anthocyanin chemical structure found in pomegranate juice on leukaemia treatment
Biography:
Haytham Dahlawi has completed his PhD from Sheffield Hallam University. He is the Vice-Dean and Head of Exam Committee of College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University. He has published more than eight papers. He is interested in polyphenols and their potential effect on treatment of blood.
Abstract:
Anthocyanins are an abundant group of flavonoids present in pomegranate juice. Anthocyanidins lack the sugar component of the parent anthocyanin. Anthocyanins are the mono and diglycosylated forms of anthocyanidins with substitutions at the 3 and 5 positions. The six most abundant anthocyanins in pomegranate juice are cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3,5- di-O-glucoside, delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, delphinidin-3,5-di-O-glucoside, pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside and pelargonidin- 3,5-di-O-glucoside. Anthocyanins and anthocyanidins have demonstrated cancer chemopreventive properties in breast, skin, lung and gastrointestinal carcinogenesis. In this study we investigated the effect of anthocyanin chemical structure found in pomegranate juice on leukaemia cells. The anti-cancerous effect of eight different anthocyanins was investigated on four leukaemia cell lines (CCRF-CEM, MOLT-3, HL-60 and THP-1). Cells were treated with 0 μM to 100 μM anthocyanins for 24 hours. Cell proliferation was assessed using CellTiter-Glo® luminescent cell viability assay. The pro-apoptotic actions of anthocyanins were assessed by two assays: Annexin V/Propidium iodide staining and staining for caspase3-activity using flow cytometry. Delphinidin was found to have the greatest inhibitory effect on cell proliferation which was found to be significantly greater than that shown by cyanidin and pelargonidin. Delphinidin also significantly induced apoptosis in all four cell lines. Cyanidin induced apoptosis only in CCRF-CEM and pelargonidin failed to induce apoptosis in any cell lines. Anthocyanins containing sugar molecules showed decreased toxicity which correlated with the size of sugar molecule. These results provide evidence that anthocyanins show anti-cancer effects which are dependent on chemical structure and association with sugar molecules.
Mario da Silva Garrote Filho
Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
Title: Influence of resistance training on erythrocyte stability and hematologic, and biochemical variables in breast cancer survivors
Biography:
Mario da Silva Garrote Filho completed his PhD from Federal University of Uberlândia, and is currently developing Postdoctoral studies at the same university. He has published more than 15 articles in renowned journals. He also develops interactive animations in Animate CC and has great knowledge in Statistics, with special abilities in the use of SPSS and Excel.
Abstract:
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of resistance training (RT) on hematologic, biochemical and erythrocyte membrane stability variables in a population (n=14) of breast cancer survivors (BCS). Blood collections and laboratory tests were performed before and after the training period. The RT program contributed to the promotion of significant declines in triglycerides and total and LDL cholesterol, and a significant elevation in HDL-cholesterol. There were also significant declines in erythrocytes count, although values have still remained within the reference range of these variables. The observed decline in the RBC count was associated with increasing levels of HDL C and decreasing levels of LDL-C, with no association with changes in the erythrocyte stability variables. This is immensely relevant and should mean that the reduction of lipidemia should not be seen as an isolated goal, outside the hematologic context. The results also shows the importance of monitoring any type of treatment of BCS, even physical exercise, with periodic hematologic and biochemical evaluations.
Viola Maria Popov
Colentina Clinical Hospital, Romania
Title: The analyses of influence of platelet membrane fluidity in platelet receptors expression in chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms patients
Biography:
Viola Maria Popov has completed his PhD from Carol Davila University Bucharest. He is the project Manager of one research project - the role of microparticles in thrombotic complication in chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms patients. He has published more than 10 papers in journals A and B+
Abstract:
Background: Patients with chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) had qualitative and quantitative modifications of platelet membrane receptors that are involved in alteration of platelet function. These modifications of platelet functions determined thrombotic complications. The aim of our study was to determine if changes of platelet membrane fluidity could be correlated with alterations in expression of platelet receptors.
Materials & Methods: This retrospective study included 60 patients with MPNs as well as 10 patients with thrombosis not associated with MPNs. The group of patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms included 12 patients with chronic myeloid leukemia and 38 patients with MPNs Ph negative (essential thrombocythemia, polycythemia vera and idiopathic myelofibrosis). Depending on thrombosis presence in medical history of patients enrolled, we divided the MPNs patients into two groups: patients without thrombosis (50 patients) and patients with thrombosis in their medical history (stroke, myocardial infarction and splanchnic thrombosis). The determination of platelet membrane fluidity was performed by fluorescence anisotropy measurements using as marker 1-(4-trimethylammoniumphenyl)-6-phenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene p-toluenesulfonate (TMA DPH). Fluorescence anisotropy (FA) was analysed depending the expression of platelet membrane receptors measured by flow cytometry analyses. We examined the flow cytometry markers of platelet adhesion (CD42a, CD42b), aggregation (CD41, CD61) and CD36.
Results & Discussion: The expression of CD41 receptor was lower in MPNs group (min 28.58, max 100.75) compared with controls group (min 43.58, max 89.46), p=0.02. We did not obtain statistical difference between expressions of CD61, CD42a, CD42b and CD 36. The fluorescence anisotropy of platelet membrane in MPNs group is higher than control group, p=0.05 The CD36 expression had a positive correlation with value of fluorescence anisotropy in MPNs patients group. (rho=0.75-95%; CI 0.308-0.925; p=0.005). We did not obtain any correlations between the rest of platelet receptors and FA modification.
Conclusions: MPNs patients have a lower membrane fluidity corresponding to higher FA. The expression of CD36 is higher in MPNs patients and was direct correlated with FA modifications. Platelet receptor CD36 recognizes oxidized lipids in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) particles, a process that determines the thrombosis process. The direct role of CD36 in thrombosis process has to be determined.
Haytham Dahlawi
Taif University, Saudi Arabia
Title: Prevalence of hemoglobinopathies in Taif city, Saudi Arabia
Biography:
Haytham Dahlawi has completed his PhD from Sheffield Hallam University. He is the Vice-Dean and Head of Exam Committee of College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University. He has published more than eight papers. He is interested in polyphenols and their potential effect on treatment of blood.
Abstract:
Hemoglobin variants can be either hemoglobinopathies which are responsible for diseases or non-pathological variants which couldn’t make any detectable disorder. Carriers with structural variant haemoglobin have 30 to 50% of the variant haemoglobin in their red blood cells. The most common variant haemoglobin is hemoglobin S, which accounts for 40% of carriers and responsible for more than 80% of disorders related to hemoglobinopathies. According to the WHO there are at least 948,000 new carrier couples, and over 1.7 million pregnancies to carrier couples every year. Thus, it is very important to provide a systematic carrier screening program specially among at-high risk couples. This might help to prevent or/and reduce the incidence of blood disorders that related to variant haemoglobin. In this study, a total of 9008 blood samples were studied among Saudi male and female, who attending to the centre of premarital screening at Taif city. Of these, 118 cases were displayed abnormal hemoglobin fractions on HPLC. The result of this study showed that Hb S heterozygous was presented as the major abnormality with 58.5% followed by beta thalassemia minor with 21%. Clear understanding the genetics and the prevalence of these diseases will provide opportunities for prevention or and reduce the incidence. Thus, this study suggests that in addition to the huge efforts already accomplished by the Saudi Ministry of Health to prevent at-risk marriages, the early diagnosis for these disorders might be offered for young adults as they can discuss the issue in the early stage of the marriage proposal.
Erhabor Osaro
Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Nigeria
Title: Some haematological parameters and ascorbate deficiency among children of African descent with protein energy malnutrition in Sokoto, Nigeria
Biography:
Erhabor Osaro is a Professor of Haematology, Transfusion Medicine and Laboratory Total Quality Management. He received his PhD in Immuno-Haematology from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology in Port Harcourt Nigeria. He is also an Alumni of University of Greenwich in the United Kingdom and Francis Tuttle College of Technology in Oklahoma, USA. Currently, he is working as Professor in Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria. His experience spans both Africa and Europe. He is on the Science Council of the United Kingdom register as a Chartered Scientist. He is Fellow and an Examiner (Registration Portfolio Verifier) for the Institute of Biomedical Science of London. He is the author of 4 scientific books and 6 chapters of scientific books.
Abstract:
Protein energy malnutrition is the most widespread nutritional deficiency disorder of mankind and continues to be a major public health burden in developing countries. The aim of this case-control study was to determine the changes in some haematological parameters and ascorbic acid levels among children of African descent with PEM in Sokoto, North Western Nigeria. The study included a total of 90 children (47 subjects with protein energy malnutrition and 43 apparently healthy controls) aged 6 months - 5 years, admitted to the Pediatric Units of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital and Specialist Hospital, Sokoto. Some haematological parameters (packed cell volume, total white blood cell count and platelet count) were analyzed using the auto-hematology analyzer (Genesis, HA6000). Ascorbic acid levels were assayed by a standard chemical method. Nutritional status was determined using the Wellcome Trust Classification. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22.0 statistical package. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered significant in all statistical comparisons. The result indicated that subjects with protein energy malnutrition had a lower mean packed cell volume (25.50±0.996%) compared to controls (32.73±1.004%) (p=0.0001). The mean total white cell count was significantly higher among subjects with protein energy malnutrition (12.16±0.72x109/l) compared to controls (7.59±0.49x109/l) (p=0.0001). There were no statistically significant differences in the mean value of platelet counts of subjects (260.40±21.71x109/l) and controls (237.61±15.13x109/l) (p=0.400). The mean value of ascorbic acid was significantly lower among subjects (0.82±0.04 mg/dl) compared to controls (1.06±0.02 mg/dl) (p=0.0001). Children with kwashiorkor had higher value of packed cell volume compared to those with marasmickwashiorkor (p=0.0001). Children with marasmic-kwashiorkor had a higher total white cell count when compared with other types of protein energy malnutrition (p=0.0001). Underweight subjects had lower ascorbic acid levels when compared with other types of protein energy malnutrition (p=0.0001). Platelet count showed no significant difference within the various types of protein energy malnutrition (p=0.331). This study has shown that children with protein energy malnutrition have lower packed cell volume and ascorbic acid levels compared to controls. The total white cell count was higher among children with protein energy malnutrition compared to controls. Protein energy malnutrition was more prevalent among children from low socioeconomic class whose mothers have no formal education. Marasmus was the most common type of protein energy malnutrition. Children with kwashiorkor have a higher packed cell volume compared to other types of protein energy malnutrition. Total white blood cell count of children with marasmic-kwashiorkor was significantly higher compared with other types. Immune boosters (vitamins and other micronutrient) should be provided for school children particularly children with protein energy malnutrition. There is need for infant feeding practice to be strengthened by promoting exclusive breast feeding. There is need for increased enrollment of women in schools, enlightenment on nutritional education and empowerment so as to improve their socioeconomic status.
- Blood Cancer | Diagnosis | Treatment
Location: Johnson
Chair
Soad K Al Jaouni
King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
Session Introduction
Rosa Visone
G. D’Annunzio University, Italy
Title: MiR-181b in B cells of chronic lymphocytic leukemia is regulated by cellular interaction with CD4+ T cells and increases the CTL toxicity versus the leukemic clone
Biography:
Rosa Visone has her expertise in studies related to microRNAs as diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic tools in cancer. She developed this interest during her Postdoctoral position in Dr. Croce’s Laboratory. She identified microRNAs that can mark chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) progression facilitating decision making for management of CLL patients. Her research also highlighted the cryptic promoter of miR-15a and miR-16-1, which seems to have a role in B-CLL cells from patients with more severe course of the leukemia.
Abstract:
Statement of the Problem: Clinical progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by immune cell dysfunction due, at least in part, to T cell defects, such as decreased expression of CD40L and reduced signaling via the TCR CD3. This compromise the ability of T cells to respond and to eliminate leukemic cell from CLL patients. Changes in microRNAs expression also characterize clinical progression of CLL with a strong decrease of miR-181b/a and miR-130a associated with the more aggressive phase of the disease. The miR-181b targets anti apoptotic proteins, such as BCL-2 and MCL1.
Aim: The purpose of this study is to find how these microRNAs are deregulated in CLL and if they are involved in the immune escape that characterize this disease.
Methodology & Findings: We co-cultured pure CLL-B cells with either activated (CD2, CD3 and CD28 antibodies, used to mimic antigen-presenting cells) or non-activated CD4+ T cells from healthy donors or from PBMC of CLL patients. We observed a significant increase of miR-181b and miR-130a expression in CLL B-cells after co-culture with activated CD4+ T cells. By the use of specific antibodies, we established that this effect is a T/B contact-dependent signaling mediated through CD40L-CD40 interaction. We determine that increased expression of the 3 miRs occurs at the transcriptional level. In this context, miR-181b enhanced the maturation and activity of cytotoxic T cells and consequently, the apoptotic response of CLL cells. This phenomenon was due, at least in part, to miR-181b-induced depletion of interleukin 10, which is a strong inhibitor of the immune response in CLL. In vivo experiments in NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ mice confirmed that miR-181b induces the death of CLL cells in vivo only when functional T cells are restored.
Conclusion & Significance: In conclusion, we demonstrate that the down-regulation of miR-181b in CLL cells is involved in the immune dysfunction that characterizes this disease. Restoration of physiological miR-181b activity in B CLL cells may be a challenging novel approach to the treatment of CLL patients.
B Yusuf Jamoh
Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Title: Prevalence of Lewis, Kidd, Duffy, Kell and M blood group antigens among blood donors in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
Biography:
B Yusuf Jamoh has completed his MBBS programme from Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria and had MSc Cancer Biology, with commendation, from Kingston University, London. He is a Fellow of National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria and was appointed as Honorary Consultant Physician, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, Nigeria. He is the Head of Clinical Haematology Unit, ABUTH. He has published 12 papers in reputed journals and he is currently acting Postgraduate Coordinator, Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.
Abstract:
Background: Haemolytic transfusion reactions are generally the result of transfusion of ABO incompatible blood. However, weak antibodies notably of the Rh, Kell, Kidd, Duffy, MNS and Lewis blood groups that do not seem to be clinically significant in vitro have also been reported to cause antibody formation, severe transfusion reactions and haemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN).
Aim: To determine the prevalences of Lewis, Kidd, Duffy, Kell and M antigens among blood donors in Kano.
Method: Consecutive blood sample of consenting blood donors at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital blood donor bay were tested with potent commercially prepared anti Lea, anti Leb, anti Jka, anti Jkb, anti Fya, anti Fyb, anti k and anti M antisera.
Result: One hundred and six samples were screened each with the eight anti sera. The prevalence of the different antigens are as follows: Lea: 26.4%, Leb: 15.1%, M: 20.8%, k (cellano): 21.7%. The Duffy (anti Fya, anti Fyb) and Kidd (anti Jka anti Jkb) antigens were not detected among the donors.
Conclusion: The finding of this study highlights high prevalence of the Lewis, M and Kell antigens among our donor population, which can serve as an additional data towards provision of safe blood transfusion. Incorporation of extended blood group phenotyping prior to transfusions will go a long way in reducing the rate of antibody formation, transfusion reaction and HDN especially among transfusion dependent patients in our environment.
Rana Ghazi Zaini
Taif University, Saudi Arabia
Title: Differential interactions of falcarinol combined with anti-tumor agents on cellular proliferation and apoptosis in human lymphoid leukaemia cell lines
Biography:
Rana Ghazi Zaini has completed her PhD from Sheffield Hallam University. She is an Assistant Professor in Hematology, Head of Clinical Laboratories Department at College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University. She has published more than 20 papers in several journals and has been serving as an Editorial Board Member in two journals; Journal of Heart Diseases: Current Research and Journal of Transmitted Diseases & Immunity.
Abstract:
Leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer, and whilst recent advances in therapy have improved survival, current treatments are still limited by their side effects. Thus, new therapies are urgently needed; this study investigated the effects of falcarinol, a polyacetylene isolated from carrots (Daucus carota) in combination with chemotherapy agents, anti-cancer agents and other apoptosis inducers. Inhibition of cellular proliferation and induction of apoptosis were investigated in three human lymphoid leukaemia cell lines. Cellular proliferation was determined via ATP quantification using the Cell Titer Glo® assay. Induction of apoptosis was investigated using caspase 3 activity assay and confirmed by nuclear morphology using Hoechst 33342. The study demonstrated that CCRF-CEM cells failed to induce synergistic response with any of the investigated chemotherapies, but importantly no inhibition was observed either. Jurkat cells showed a significant synergistic induction of apoptosis following joint treatment with falcarinol and a death receptor 5 agonist (DR5), whereas CCRF-CEM cells showed only an additive response. Conversely within MOLT-3 cells falcarinol partially inhibited the induction of apoptosis by DR5 agonist although this failed to reach significance. However MOLT-3 cells demonstrated synergistic induction of apoptosis when falcarinol was combined with either bortezomib (proteosome inhibitor), or sulforaphane (histone deacetylase inhibitor). Identification of interactions between natural bioactive compounds with anti-cancer drugs may provide new pathways to target cancerous cells. Furthermore, since some combinations enhance apoptosis but some inhibit apoptosis it may be important to consider these interactions for dietary advice during therapy.
Sonam Mishra
Wellington Regional Hospital, New Zealand
Title: Haemochromatosis: Evaluating the effectiveness of a novel patient self-management approach to venesection as blood donation
Time : 13:40-14:10
Biography:
Sonam Mishra completed her Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery with distinction from the University of Otago, New Zealand in 2011. She is currently a Hematology Advanced Trainee working at Wellington Regional Hospital, New Zealand.
Abstract:
Aim: We set out to evaluate the effectiveness of a new model of self-management of haemochromatosis whereby patients with stable ferritin control were discharged from the New Zealand Blood Service (NZBS) therapeutic venesection clinic and educated to manage their own venesection by regular blood donation and annual serum ferritin check by their general practitioner.
Methods: Data regarding the frequency of blood donation and serum ferritin level were collected from the NZBS and Concerto records of haemochromatosis patients in the Wellington region who had been discharged back to the care of their general practitioner between January 2014 and June 2015.
Results: Of the 107 patients, 93% continued to donate blood after discharge. A serum ferritin level was checked in 78% of patients by their general practitioner. The mean number of blood donations per year decreased after discharge, with a corresponding rise in the average ferritin level (difference 28 mcg/L; range 13-43 mcg/L; p<0.005).
Conclusions: The new model of self-management was effective for the majority of patients who were discharged from the therapeutic venesection clinic. Longer follow up is required to assess the overall pattern of ferritin control in patients who selfmanage their haemochromatosis by regular blood donation.
Rana Ghazi Zaini
Taif University, Saudi Arabia
Title: The frequency rates of iron deficiency anaemia among Saudi female who attending to before marriage clinic examination
Biography:
Rana Ghazi Zaini has completed her PhD from Sheffield Hallam University. She is an Assistant Professor in Hematology, Head of Clinical Laboratories Department at College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University. She has published more than 20 papers in several journals and has been serving as an Editorial Board Member in two journals; Journal of Heart Diseases: Current Research and Journal of Transmitted Diseases & Immunity.
Abstract:
Iron deficiency anaemia is the most severe consequence of iron depletion, is still considered as the most severe and important nutritional deficiency worldwide. According to the World Health Organization and World Bank, iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) have been ranked as the third leading cause of disability adjusted life years (DALYs) lost for women of reproductive age. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and frequency rates of iron deficiency anaemia among un-married Saudi female of reproductive age, who attending to before marriage clinic examination, in Taif city. The majority of female participant’s samples 94% were characterized with low haemoglobin and red blood cells with low serum iron, serum ferritin and high iron binding capacity. However, the results of total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) were variable among participants sample. All participants were free of any chronic diseases and aged between 18-40 years. In this study measuring serum iron and serum ferritin were the main diagnostic tests used for IDA. Thus, the results of this study illustrated that iron deficiency anemia is highly prevalent (94%) among females in the study area.
- Pediatric Hematology | Case reports and Epidemiology
Location: Johnson
Chair
Shahtaj Khan
Hayatabad Medical Complex hospital, Pakistan
Session Introduction
Shahtaj Khan
Hayatabad Medical Complex hospital, Pakistan
Title: Childhood leukemias in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Afghanistan children, visiting Hayatabad Medical Complex Hospital
Biography:
Shahtaj Khan is an Assistant Professor of Hematology and Head of the Department of Pathology at Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan. She is also working as Consultant Hematologist at Rehman Medical Institute. Her research interests reflect in her wide range of publications in various national and international journals.
Abstract:
Objective: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the frequency of childhood leukemias in the children from different districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Afghanistan presenting to Hayatabad Medical Complex Hospital, Peshawar.
Material & Method: This descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in Pathology Department Hayatabad Medical Complex Hospital, Peshawar. Duration of the present study was, from January 2014 to December 2016. A total number of 605 children were enrolled up to 18 years of age, who suspected to have leukemia went through bone marrow examination by different department clinicians. 3 ml blood was collected in EDTA tube (purple top) and complete blood count was performed by hematology analyzer (Ruby cell dyne, Abbott, USA). By aseptic techniques bone marrow aspiration and bone marrow trephine biopsy samples were collected from all patients. Slides were papered from bone marrow aspirates, fixed with methanol and stained with Giemsa, myeloperoxidase and periodic acid Schiff stain. Trephine biopsy slides were stained with hematoxylene & eosin and reticulin stain. Immunohistochemistry was done after initially seeing of bone marrow aspirate slides. All data was documented and statistical analysis was performed by SPSS-20 software.
Results: Among 605 children, 173 (61.6%) were males and 108 (38.4) were females and their age range from 3 months to 18 years with median age of 9.8 years. In total children 281 (46.5%) were diagnosed different type of leukemias. Out of 281 cases, 208 (74.03%) were diagnosed to have acute lymphoblastic leukemia and rest of the children were 61 (21.70%) acute myeloid leukemia, 7 (2.49%) chronic myeloid leukemia, 3 (1.07%) had juvenile chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (JCMML).
Conclusion: In the present study acute lymphoblastic leukemia were more prevalent leukemia in the children of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Afghanistan. Juvenile chronic myelomonocytic leukemia was found less commonest leukemia in the present study.
Violeta Grajçevci-Uka
Clinical University Center of Kosovo, Kosovo
Title: Syderopenic anemia in children and infection disease
Biography:
Violeta Grajçevci-Uka is Chief of Hematology Unit in Pediatric Clinic at University Clinical Centre of Kosovo, Kosovo. She has publications in more than 5 books and she has attended approximately 60 national and international conferences.
Abstract:
Introduction: The body needs iron to make hemoglobin. If there isn't enough iron available, hemoglobin production is limited, which in turns affects the production of red blood cells (RBCs). A decreased amount of hemoglobin and RBCs in the bloodstream is known as anemia. Because RBCs are needed to carry oxygen throughout the body, anemia results in less oxygen reaching the cells and tissues, affecting their function.
Aim of the study: To present the patients with sideropenic anaemia associated with other diseases.
Material & Methods: In our study we have included 200 children of different group ages with sideropenic anaemia hospitalized in Hemato-Oncology Department of Pediatric Clinic. The diagnose is made based on history, physical examination and laboratory data.
Results: Anemia associated with any other disease was present in 117 cases (58.5%) while as the main disease was present in 83 cases (41.5%). Sideropenic anaemia as a main disease has showed significant difference (Chitesti=5.78). In the total number of our patients with sideropenic anaemia the most frequent associated diseases were gastrointestinal diseases with 30 cases (25.6%), followed by respiratory diseases in 27 cases (23.1%), haematological disease with 21 cases (17.9%), with urogenital disease 13 cases (11.1%), cardiovascular diseases with five cases (4.3%) and malnutrition with four cases (3.4%).
Conclusion: The most common diseases that have followed sideropenic anaemia were respiratory infections, gastrointestinal and hematological diseases. Repeated infections have an impact on the appearance of sideropenic anaemia in children.
Biography:
Rufadie Maxhuni is working as a pediatrician in Pediatric Clinic in Prishtina, Hematology and Oncology. She is specialist in Hematology Oncology department of Pediatric Clinic in Prishtina with 12 years experience. She has published papers in reputed journals and attended may of the national and international educational programs.
Abstract:
Introduction: Wilms’ tumor (nephroblastoma) is the second most common malignant retroperitoneal tumor. It is the most common primary renal tumor of childhood.
Purpose: It was preterm newborn baby, 36 gestational week, male, presents in delivery room with birth weight: 3100 g, A/S: 5/6. Signs of respiratory distress, Skin: cyanotic, hematoma in the right forearm, Abdomen: distended, in the left epigastric region palpable mass. Other systems within referral range.
Materials & Methods: Prenatal history shows polihydroamnion; Amniocentesis: Kariogramin Investigations include: Biochemical examinations showed within normal range of Chatecholamines-negativ; X ray chest and abdomen- Echo of abdomen: right kidney normal but with adrenal hypertrophy Left kidney polycystic, with a heterogenic mass approximately 50 mm. CT of abdomen with contrast: left kidney presents with a solid mass with axial dimensions 65 mmx70 mm, suspected for expansive process right kidney presents with hypodense oval mass maybe with adrenal origine, 30 mm(pseudocyst) "The possible condition outcomes can be either Organised Hoematoma or Bilateral Nephroblastoma (these are radiologist discriptions)". MRI of abdomen: Expansive process in the left kidney and no evident lesions in the right adrenal gland.
Results: Surgery was done in Albania. Child underwent total left nephrectomy Biopsy of kidney: Wilms tumor stage II. At the age of 1.5 months presents in our ward Body weight: 4300g, Body Length: 56cm, S: 0.25m2. Weight percentile: 50. Length percentile: 75 Blood pressure: We treatment, Chemotherapy (ACT- D, VCR), with 50% of doses according to protocol, until age of six months then to give 2/3 of doses per m2. First 16 weeks of chemotherapy with 50% of dose From 17th week with 2/3 of doses. The whole treatment went with no side effects or complications. Follow up with biochemistry, FBC, MRI of abdomen within normal range.
Conclusion: Based on the diagnosis and in our experience this case was the youngest one until now that was treated in our ward. It was a real challenge for the patient and for the stuff. According to follow up, child is in a stable health condition within normal range for age. The child is in the regularly controls in our ward.
John Ekow Aidoo
Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana
Title: Laboratory diagnosis of hematological conditions in Ghana
Biography:
John Ekow Aidoo works as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in West Africa, Ghana, since 2001. He is the Technical Supervisor at the Department of Haematology of the hospital’s Central Laboratory. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences from the School of Allied Health Science, University Of Ghana.
Abstract:
Haematological tests are very essential for the day to day management of all patients with haematological disorders. Ghana is a middle-income country which is under resourced when it comes to facilities and techniques in medical laboratory diagnosis. As a developing country, the laboratory scientists try their best to make use of the little resources available to help improve the health status of Ghanaians. The objective is to highlight on the various haematological tests, methods and techniques that are being performed in Ghana compared with that of the developed countries. This will throw more light on the gap between the two groups and to determine how this gap can be bridged. As laboratory diagnosis for haematological conditions has gotten to molecular levels in the advanced countries which make it faster, accurate and accreditable, Ghana is still diagnosing haematological conditions including malignancies at cellular level; hence patients care may be compromised. It is rather unfortunate when patients die because one or more other tests could not be performed to diagnose or to determine the stage of their conditions because laboratories lack the major equipments and techniques. While there is a possibility of transporting patient’s sample to such advanced countries, it comes with huge cost to the poor patients. In 2009, Parkins et al., undertook a research using the two biggest and leading Hospitals in Ghana, Korle- Bu Teaching Hospital and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital to evaluate the feasibility of a UK based real time, lymphoproliferative disorder diagnostic service which included morphology, flowcytometry, immunohistochemistry, immunophenotyping, cytogenetics and molecular genetics to improve the management of patients in Ghana. Patients enrolled in this study had their required samples sent to Haematology Malignancy Diagnostic Service (HMDS), Leeds, United Kingdom (UK). Initial diagnosis was done on samples locally before couriered to UK. Results comparison and analysis showed that HMDS would have changed management of 31% of the patients. While this is quiet significant, another issue would be how many can afford these services if samples would have to be couriered across to more advanced countries. Though Ghana has chalked some successes in diagnosing most of the haemoglobinopathies, a lot still needs to be done since most of the facilities perform the horizontal alkaline electrophoresis using cellulose acetate paper on routine basis. This method makes it difficult to detect certain haemoglobin types accurately and their quantitation impossible. There is also the difficulty of detecting the thalassemias. Due to lack of modern diagnostic methods in less resourced medical laboratories in Ghana, most definitive diagnosis cannot be achieved, hence, the need for proper restructuring of our laboratories and human resource development.
Flora Selimi
University Clinical Centre of Kosovo, Kosovo
Title: Chemotherapeutic treatment of langerhans cell histiocytosis
Biography:
Flora Selimi is working in Hematology Unit in Pediatric Clinic at University Clinical Centre of Kosovo, Kosovo. She has attended national and international conferences and also is an author for many scientific publications.
Abstract:
Introduction: Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease involving clonal proliferation langerhans cell, abnormal cell deriving from bone marrow and capable of migrating from lymph nodes. Clinical manifestations range from isolated lesions to multiple diseases. LCH in bone is called different granuloma eosinophilic of bone which described in 1940 and referred to as being from cell histiocytosis. Children may have solitary lesion or multiple lesions.
Purpose: Presentation of the case with LCH, which was presented to the hematology-oncology unit at pediatric clinic and has received chemotherapy treatment.
Materials & Methods: A male child, six years old, who initially presented pain and fever, tumefact in mastoid bone and iliac bone, CT scan of head, chest and abdomen, initially demonstrated bone destruction in this region. The tumor mass appeared a few months ago that when it appeared pain, and has been increasing in size since then. At Hospital Hygeia in Tirana, the patient was operated, and the tumor was removed. Detailed histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses has shown that the removal part of him was Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. The diagnosis of the patient was made based on anamnesis, clinical examination, laboratory test, radiological analyses (CT head, chest and abdomen, RMI head and pelvic), scintigraphy of bone, HP analysis, immunohistochemistry. After the diagnosis, the treatment protocol of chemotherapy for LCH (Prednisonol, vinblastin, MTX, 6MP) for 12 months was indicated. The child was admitted in our ward to start chemotherapy, and treatment was continued by doctors. Disease monitoring, chemotherapy, laboratory chest, radiological images (CT Head, Chest, abdomen, pelvic), scintigraphy of bone were made by our ward, Institute of University Clinical Center of Kosovo (UCCK).
Conclusion: Resection of the tumor mass, the application of the protocol for LCH multifocal, supportive care, continuous monitoring of the chemotherapy toxicity has resulted in absence of minimal residual disease, which is confirmed by the follow up of his clinical status, laboratory tests, radiology tests (RM Head , PET CT scan) has resulted the absence of secondary deposits.