antigens which make them the

antigens which make them the target for destruction by antibodies, defense proteins in the liealthy person's blood. In earlier studies. Dr. Hoesaini worked with Dr. Henry E. Wilson of Ohio State University to see if antibodies and antisera tests would show whether white cells contained antigens, as red cells do. The tests showed that white cells lo bear antigens, and this now becomes an important consideration in the conduct of transfusions. Infusing the wrong type of blood cells, platelets ar serum may be useless and even damaging—perhaps not as dramatically dangerous as Incompatible red cells, but harmful nevertheless. Dr. Hossaini then conducted new experiments using lectins Instead of antisera. During the course of these studies, he came across a lectin which would agglutinate all .normal white cells but which did not agglutinate the white cells of three patients with acute leukemia.

Although it is much too early to hope that this antigenic difference will prove to be absolute in all leukemics, it is another forward step in the Society’s intensive efforts against leukemia. Dr. Hossaini is one of 73 recipients of American Cancer Society grants totaling $2,344,145 awarded this year to scientists conducting research directly or indirectly related to leukemia.

Flying Squirrel More

Heard Than Seen

One of the most common of our wild animal neighbors is more often heard than seen. It is a rodent, like the mice and rats, that has partially conquered the air and is able to glide distances of 100 to 150 feet. Less than afoot long, including the tail, and weighing no more than a quarter of a pound, the flying squirrel is appropriately named. It has been referred to as *the silver gray mouse that flys” and is thought by some to be the most beautiful squirrel, with huge, soft eyes and fur