Whilst looking for the hemacytometer reference for Allen, I came across the following reference which may be of use in the debate. I haven't read it myself so am not sure what it says.
Rinderer, T., Baxter, J., Carter, C., Mornhinveg, L. (1979). Empty combs stimulates honey production. Amer. Bee Journal. 119 (1) : 40-42.
Trevor Weatherhead
AUSTRALIA