bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APPROACHES TO ASSESSING THE LEVEL OF GOVERNMENT DEBT SECURITY
Authors: Pedchenko N. , Husakovska T.
Published: May 2021

In conditions of economic instability and the difficult military-political situation in Ukraine, debt security is becoming especially important. Insufficiently balanced debt policy can lead to a narrowing of investment support for innovative economic development, loss of financial stability of the state, macroeconomic instability, will pose a threat to state sovereignty. The choice of approaches and methods for its assessment is crucial for the effective management of the state's debt security.
The purpose of the study is to analyse and systematize existing approaches and methods to build a system of indicators for assessing the debt security of the state, as an important component of its economic security.
The research is based on the use of general scientific and special methods, in particular: analysis and synthesis, comparison and generalization, analogies, systematization, methods of induction and deduction.
The article analyses and summarizes the existing approaches to the formation of a system of indicators for assessing the level of debt security of the state. To assess the overall solvency in world practice, indicators are used that compare the amount of external debt with the main indicators of the reproduction process. Instead, the assessment of government debt security (liquidity) involves comparing the size of current (projected) payments on external debt with the available (projected) amounts of liquid resources. It is established that in domestic and world practice there is no single approach to the formation of a system of indicators and the definition of their limit values. At the same time, the differences in the threshold values ​​of indicators for different countries are justified, as potential risks and threats to different economies have their own characteristics. The necessity of taking into account the state of its economic development, and, first of all, the development of the institutional environment when determining the threshold values ​​of the indicators of debt security assessment of the state is substantiated. It is determined that the system of indicators for assessing the level of debt security of Ukraine needs to be supplemented and constantly adjusted to the limit values in accordance with changing conditions of the economic environment.
Immunohistochemical diagnosis of the viability of the strangulation furrow
Authors: Dudnyk Vadym
Published: May 2021

The aim of the research was to study the possibility of using immunohistochemical markers for the diagnosis of intravital stangulation.

Materials and methods: Fragments of the neck skin from the strnaglulation zone were selected as objects of research. The main study group included 20 deaths due to hanging (10 men and 10 women). For the control group, 10 cases of acute coronary death (5 men and 5 women) were used. Using a complex of IHC markers, the labeling of the epidermis and epithelial structures, the features of cellular immune responses, the manifestation of oxidative steress were studied.

Results: Peculiarities of morphological manifestations of strangulation furrow in mechanical asphyxia were studied. It is established that the key link of its morphogenesis is impaired vascular wall permeability with loss of type IV collagen in the basement membranes of epithelium and skin vessels, migration into tissues of activated CD15+ granulocytes, CD68+ macrophages and CD117+ labrocytes, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), fibrinogen protein and transforming growth factor β1.

Conclusion: Such changes in the tinctorial properties of skin and subcutaneous adipose tissue can be recorded by immunohistochemical (IHC) and serve as an important diagnostic criterion for the viability of the formation of the strangulation furrow.
Drug-dependent antibodies with immune hemolytic anemia in AIDS patients
Authors: González C. A. , Guzmán L. , Nocetti G.
Published: May 2021

We studied the presence of drug-dependent antibodies (D-DAbs) in 53 patients with AIDS who developed immune hemolytic anemia (IHA). We examined sera and eluates for the presence of D-DAbs. Drug antibodies were detected in 43.4 percent (23/53) of the patients with IHA. Antibodies to more than one drug were detected in 60.8 percent (14/23) of patients with drug-induced IHA (D-IHA). The DAT was positive by RBC-bound IgG in eight patients, RBC-bound IgG/C3d in nine, IgG/IgA in three, IgG/IgA/C3d in two, and one patient had RBC-bound C3d only. No drug-independent antibodies were detected. Our study demonstrates that patients with AIDS commonly develop D-DAbs. D-IHA should be included in the differential diagnosis of a falling Hb in AIDS patients receiving drugs.
Immunohematology 2003;19:10–15.
The direct antiglobulin test in a hospital setting
Authors: Cid J. , Ortín X. , Beltran V. , Escoda L. , Contreras E. , Elies E. , Martín-Vega C.
Published: May 2021

To evaluate the current use of the DAT in our hospital, we reviewed the charts of all patients who had a DAT performed in our laboratory. The collected data included DAT results and a previously completed laboratory evaluation of suspected hemolytic anemia. Four hundred sixty-three DATs were performed in our laboratory from April 1999 to October 2001.The DAT was negative in 434 (93.7%) cases and positive in 29 (6.3%) cases. A complete laboratory evaluation of suspected hemolytic anemia was seen in 179 (38.7%) cases. The incidence of a positive DAT was higher in the group of patients with > 2 signs of hemolysis (4/34 cases; 11.8%) than in the group of patients with ≤ 2 signs of hemolysis (5/145 cases;3.4%) (RR = 0.029;95% CI:0.08–1.03;p = 0.06). When a patient with anemia is being investigated, a complete laboratory evaluation for suspected hemolytic anemia should be done before performing a DAT.
Immunohematology 2003:19:16–18.
Frequencies of the major alleles of the Diego, Dombrock,Yt, and Ok blood group systems in the Chinese Han, Hui, and Tibetan nationalities
Authors: Liu M. , Jiang D. , Liu S. , Zhao T.
Published: May 2021

The frequencies of the major alleles of the Diego,Dombrock,Yt,and Ok blood group systems in the Chinese Han, Hui, and Tibetan nationalities were determined using a DNA-based PCR–sequence- specific primers (SSP) genotyping technique. The frequencies of Dia, Dib, Doa, and Dob
genes were 0.0295, 0.9705, 0.1159, and 0.8841 in 220 Chinese North Han, respectively. The Yta
gene frequencies were 0.9928, 0.9917, and 0.9983 in 277 Han, 300 Hui, and 303 Tibetan blood donors,respectively. No Ok(a–) individuals were found in 304 Han, 300 Hui, and 303 Tibetan individuals.
Immunohematology 2003;19:22–25.
Antibodies detected in samples from 21,730 pregnant women
Authors: Jovanovic-Srzentic S. , Djokic M. , Tijanic N. , Djordjevic R. , Rizvan N. , Plecas D. , Filimonovic D.
Published: May 2021

Although anti-D is still the main cause of HDN, many other antibodies have been implicated. From September 1995 to April 2000, screening for RBC antibodies was performed on samples from 21,730 pregnant women regardless of RhD type. Standard tube and gel methods were used. Anti-D was identified in 254 samples; other antibody specificities were detected in 376 samples, for a total of 630 antibodies. For this study, 522 antibodies were considered clinically significant. The incidence of potentially clinically significant antibodies was 2.4 percent. The majority belonged to the Rh system, followed by anti-M, -Fya, -S, -Jka, and -Jkb. Among antibodies of no clinical significance, the most frequent were antiH, -Lea, and -P1.
Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia due to anti-HPA-5b (Bra)
Authors: Campbell-Lee S.A. , Desantis-Parsons D. , Shirey R. Sue , Kickler T.S.
Published: May 2021

Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) results from maternal immunization against fetal platelet antigens and can occur during the first pregnancy. The most common complications of NAIT are neonatal thrombocytopenia, intracerebral hemorrhage, and fetal death. Most cases of NAIT in Causasians are caused by anti-HPA-1a (PlA1). Anti-HPA-5b (Bra) accounts for only 4.3 percent of all NAIT cases. NAIT due to anti-HPA-5b is thought to be milder and have fewer complications than NAIT caused by anti-HPA-1a because of the lower number of HPA-5b antigenic sites per platelet. This report describes a severe case of NAIT due to anti-HPA-5b that was treated by intrauterine platelet transfusion.
Patellar dislocation: a case report and a review of other uncommon adverse events associated with blood donation
Authors: Meny G.M. , Murphy S.
Published: May 2021

Patellar dislocation is a fairly common occurrence usually associated with various activities such as sports or dancing. A case report of patellar dislocation associated with blood donation in a 17-year-old female is described. A review of uncommon adverse events associated with blood donation is also presented.
A gel microtyping system for diagnosis of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
Authors: Zupanska B. , Bogdanik B. , Pyl H.
Published: May 2021

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), an acquired stem cell defect, is underdiagnosed because of its atypical symptoms in some patients and because available methods, which are time consuming and complicated, are not widely used. The hemolysis of PNH red blood cells (RBCs) is attributed to their enhanced susceptibility to complement lysis caused by a deficiency in glycosylsphos-phatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored complement regulatory membrane proteins, especially membrane inhibitor of reactive lysis (MIRL [CD59]). We evaluated the diagnostic value of a simple hemagglutination test using the gel microtyping system by comparing it with lytic tests (the Ham test and the sucrose lysis test) and with flow cytometry (FC) assessment of expression of GPI-anchored proteins (CD59 and CD55). Examining 51 blood samples from 48 patients, we found that the gel test is useful as a screening test for PNH diagnosis and can replace the Ham test and the sucrose lysis test. The threshold of the gel test is about 10 percent of defective RBCs detected by FC. It should, however, be supplemented with FC so as to analyze precisely the defective RBCs and granulocytes in patients with positive gel test results, and, in case of negative results, to detect a small clone of defective cells in atypical cases. Due to the simplicity of the gel test, its wide use can facilitate the diagnosis of PNH.
Immunohematology 2002;18:9–12.
Blood group antigen profile predicted by molecular biology— use of real-time polymerase chain reaction to genotype important KEL, JK, RHD, and RHCE alleles
Authors: Araújo F. , Pereira C. , Monteiro F. , Henriques I. , Meireles E. , Lacerda P. , Aleixo A. , Rodrigues M.J. , Celeste R. , Cunha-Ribeiro L.M.
Published: May 2021

The most clinically important blood group systems in transfusion medicine, excluding the ABO system, are the RH, Kell, and Kidd systems. Alloantibodies to antigens of these systems may be produced following blood transfusion or during pregnancy and can result in serious hemolytic transfusion reactions and hemolytic disease of the newborn.We developed rapid and robust techniques for RHD, RHCE, KEL, and JK genotyping with the use of a real-time polymerase chain reaction instrument. Two fluorescence-based methods for the detection of amplification products were used: for KEL1/KEL2, JK1/JK2, and RHE/RHe (exon 5) we used the hybridization probes protocol; for RHC/RHc the analysis was done in sequences of exon 1 for RHC and exon 2 for RHc; and for RHD,analysis was done in sequences of intron 4, exon 7,and exon 4 pseudogene using the SYBR Green I protocol. The genotyping tests were validated with samples from 85 Caucasian Portuguese and 15 Black European blood donors. Complete phenotype-genotype correlations were obtained. The potential use of the presented methods can be predicted in clinical transfusion medicine, allowing appropriate monitoring, early intervention, and improved care. When blood group genotyping techniques are necessary, this methodology is highly competitive for a routine laboratory.
Immunohematology 2002;18:59–64.
An algorithm to locate hrB– donors for individuals with sickle cell disease
Authors: Gammon R.R. , Velasquez N.D.
Published: May 2021

Many African Americans with sickle cell disease (SCD) develop alloantibodies to antigens in the Rh blood group system.Others have shown that from D– individuals, those lacking the high-incidence hrBantigen (> 98% prevalence) may be found among r’r African Americans. We describe an algorithm to locate units for African Americans with SCD and anti-hrB and -D. From 46,539 donations, 5136 listed African American as race. Our primary reference laboratory performed Rh phenotyping (D, C, c, E, e) for first-time donors and those not tested previously. Specimens typing r’r were sent to a secondary reference laboratory for hrBphenotyping after each donation.Hemoglobin S screening was performed.Of 24 donors (27 donations) who phenotyped r’r, seven donors,29.2 percent (nine donations) were hrB–.Two of seven who donated twice consistently tested hrB–. One of 24 donors initially tested hrB–, but hrB+ on repeat donation. The donor tested hrB– by a second reference laboratory. Reagents for phenotyping high-incidence antigens are often not readily available, requiring a specialized reference laboratory that adds cost and turnaround time. Our algorithm selected r’r African American donors most likely to lack hrB for further evaluation by a second reference laboratory.We felt this was the most judicious use of resources and provided the greatest opportunity to find compatible components for individuals with SCD and anti-hrB and -D.
Immunohematology 2002;18:82–84.
The Cromer blood group system: a review
Authors: Storry J.R. , Reid M.E.
Published: May 2021

The antigens of the Cromer blood group system reside on decay accelerating factor (DAF), a protein belonging to the regulators of complement activation family. The blood group system consists of eight high-incidence antigens and three low-incidence antigens. The molecular basis for the antigens is known and, with the exception of IFC, each antigen is the product of a single nucleotide polymorphism in the DAF gene and has been localized to one of the four short consensus repeat regions on the DAF protein. The red blood cells (RBCs) of people with the Cromer null phenotype, Inab, lack DAF. Antibodies to Cromer antigens are rarely encountered although there is evidence that the antibodies may cause accelerated destruction of transfused RBCs. There is no risk of hemolytic disease of the newborn associated with Cromer system antibodies because the placenta is a rich source of fetally derived DAF, which is thought to adsorb the antibodies.
Immunohematology 2002;18:95–103.
Nondetection of the S antigen due to the presence of sodium hypochlorite
Authors: Long A. , Tremblay L. , Richard L. , Lemieux R. , Goldman M.
Published: May 2021

Low concentrations of sodium hypochlorite (chlorine bleach) are known to destroy S antigen on intact fresh red blood cells (RBCs). Sodium hypochlorite is commonly used as a disinfectant. We report nondetection of the S antigen in tube and microplate saline indirect antiglobulin testing (SIAT) with a lot of commercial saline utilized in our donor screening and reference laboratories. Known S+s+ RBCs were found to be nonreactive with anti-S by SIAT in our reference laboratory. Our investigation demonstrated the presence of chlorine in the commercial saline. The saline lot was used for several days of donor screening and recall of FFP and platelet concentrates was initiated. Two lots of saline were recalled from blood banks across North America.
Immunohematology 18;3: 120–122.
Red blood cell antigen changes in malignancy: case report and review
Authors: Winters J.L. , Howard D.S.
Published: May 2021

Red blood cell (RBC) antigens represent inherited traits and as such, their expression should be constant throughout the life of an individual. We describe a patient in whom the expression of the Rh D and C antigens was lost due to the development of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). For this patient, this represented more than a blood bank curiosity but was of critical importance in determining further treatment of the leukemia.

The mechanisms behind changes in RBC antigens due to malignancy are reviewed for a number of antigens, antigen systems, and antigen collections. Previous case reports of RBC antigen changes due to malignancy are summarized.
Confirmation of positive antibody screens by solid-phase red cell adherence assay using a tube technique method with polyethylene glycol enhancement
Authors: Gammon R.R. , Lake M. , Velasquez N. , Prichard A.
Published: May 2021

Our blood bank routinely screens donors for antibodies using a solid-phase red cell adherence (SPRCA) assay. Positive results are then confirmed using a tube technique with polyethylene glycol (PEG) enhancement due to reported higher specificity than with SPRCA. Over a 5-month period, 49,084 donor serum or plasma samples were tested using the SPRCA assay. Further identification of positive samples was performed using a PEG enhancement method. Testing was performed with strict adherence to the manufacturers’ inserts. Of 49,084 samples, 313 (0.64%) were positive by the SPRCA assay. Of these, 99 (31.6%) samples remained positive when tested with PEG enhancement. The remaining 214 (68.4%) were negative, giving specificity for the SPRCA assay of 99.6 percent (48,985/ 49,199). We report a high specificity for antibody screening using the SPRCA assay. However, it is cost effective to perform a confirmatory tube test with PEG enhancement because 214 SPRCA assay samples were interpreted as having a negative antibody screen, thus allowing the release of valuable blood components for transfusion.
Immunohematology 2001;17:14–16.
Likelihood of D heterozygosity in Mestizo Mexicans and Mexican Americans
Authors: Means N. D. , Bandarenko N. , Moise K. J. , Brecher M. E.
Published: May 2021

Information on the gene frequencies of the Rh system in the Mexican or Mexican American population is currently not available in the medical literature, thus hindering management of pregnancies at risk for development of hemolytic disease of the newborn. Data from four recent large studies in the broader scientific literature of Mestizo Mexicans and Mexican Americans is reviewed. Gene frequencies are calculated from the pooled data. A table of gene frequencies in the Caucasian and African American population is provided for comparison.
Immunohematology 2001; 17:22–23.
Detection of granulocyte antibodies by flow cytometry without the use of pure granulocyte isolates
Authors: Kiekhaefer K. M. , Cipolone K. M. , Procter J. L. , Matsuo K. , Stroncek D. F.
Published: May 2021

Established methods used to detect serum antibodies to granulocytes require the isolation of granulocytes. Flow cytometric analysis of granulocytes with monoclonal antibodies eliminates the need for granulocyte isolation. The purpose of this study was to develop a method to evaluate reactions of antibodies to granulocytes without separating granulocytes from other leukocytes. Three screening cell samples for granulocyte antibody detection were prepared from whole-blood samples in which the red blood cells (RBCs) were lysed and remaining leukocytes tested against sera at 4oC. Binding of human alloantibodies to the screening cells was determined by flow cytometric analysis using phycoerythrin-conjugated antibody to human immunoglobulin. Forward and side scatter were used to analyze granulocytes separately from other leukocytes. The assay was validated by testing granulocytes with reference alloantibodies directed to NA1, NA2, 5b, and Mart antigens. Samples from 32 patients were tested, and the results of the assays were compared with the results of testing the samples in a granulocyte immunofluorescence (GIF) assay performed by a reference laboratory. In the whole-blood flow cytometric (WBFC) assay the mean fluorescence intensities of reference antisera with antigen-positive cells, expressed in arbitrary units, were anti-NA1 = 48 to 221, anti-NA2 = 24 to 69, anti-5b = 13 to 57, and anti-Mart = 42 to 72. In contrast, the mean fluorescence intensity of type AB-negative control sera ranged from 3 to 11. Of the 32 patient sera tested, 23 were positive (range = 12 to 56) and 9 were negative (range = 3 to 10). When compared with the results obtained by the reference laboratory, 27 sera were concordant between the WBFC and the GIF assays. Four of the samples were positive in WBFC (range = 11 to 31) and negative in GIF and one sample was negative in WBFC (range = 5 to 6) and positive in GIF. Leukocytes prepared from whole blood after lysis of RBCs can be used in flow cytometric analysis to detect granulocyte alloantibodies. The results of testing for granulocyte antibodies with this assay were similar to results of testing sera in GIF. Further comparative studies are indicated to confirm findings and explain the discordant results.
Immunohematology 2001;17:70–75.
PEG adsorption of autoantibodies causes loss of concomitant alloantibody
Authors: Judd W. J. , Dake L.
Published: May 2021

Use of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to promote adsorption of autoantibodies is reported to give good recovery of concomitant alloantibodies. In initial experiments, PEG and ZZAP (Ficin and DTT) adsorption procedures were compared for removal of autoantibody and recovery of alloantibody. Postadsorption studies (n = 11) were performed and hemagglutination scores compared. In subsequent studies, equal volumes of alloantibody containing sera, PEG, and antigen-negative red blood cells (RBCs) were used in twofold adsorption experiments. Saline was substituted for PEG for control purposes. Postadsorption titers and immunoglobulin levels were determined. Autoantibodies were completely removed by both methods (n = 5); better by PEG (n = 3); better by ZZAP (n = 1); and not adsorbed (n = 1), and partially adsorbed by both (n = 1). Alloantibody recovery was comparable in three cases (E, K, Jka) but weaker by at least one reaction grade in four (K,E, Jka, and antibody to low-frequency antigen). The latter anti-Jka reacted 1+ with Jk(a+b+) RBCs after ZZAP adsorption but was nonreactive with the same RBCs following PEG adsorption. Titers of six alloantibodies adsorbed with antigen-negative RBCs in PEG were markedly weaker (range 2 to 8) compared to saline controls (range 4 to 32). IgG levels for PEG adsorbed (range 128 to 243 mg/dL) were 50% lower than controls (range 265 to 505 mg/dL). Although PEG adsorption is effective in removing autoantibody, the precipitation of immunoglobulin by PEG may result in failure to detect underlying alloantibody.
Immunohematology 2001;17:82–85.
Case report: four donors with granulocyte-specific or HLA class I antibodies implicated in a case of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI)
Authors: Davoren A. , Smith O.P. , Barnes C.A. , Lawlor E. , Evans R.G. , Lucas G.F.
Published: May 2021

A 54-year-old female patient with a history of chronic liver disease and portal hypertension was admitted for an elective cholecystectomy. Preoperative evaluation revealed a prolonged prothrombin time of 17.4 seconds (control 12 to 15.5 seconds). Six units of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) were prescribed after failure of correction of the coagulopathy with intravenous vitamin K (10 mgs). During infusion of the fifth unit of FFP, the patient became acutely dyspneic. Arterial blood gas analysis revealed marked hypoxemia (PO2 6.58 kPa) and the chest X-ray showed new diffuse bilateral alveolar infiltrates. The patient remained hypoxemic with unstable oxygen saturations over the following 7 days, during which time she required 60 to 100 percent oxygen administered by face mask. Intravenous methylprednisolone (200 mgs) was given for 5 days. Mechanical ventilation was not required. The lung infiltrates gradually cleared over 3 to 4 days and the patient showed clinical improvement after 1 week. Four of the donors of the implicated units of plasma were female and all had a history of pregnancy. Two donors had HLA class I antibodies and two had granulocytespecific antibodies detectable in their serum. In crossmatch studies, granulocyte-reactive antibodies from two donors bound to granulocytes from the patient, which suggested that these antibodies were clinically relevant. These clinical and serologic findings support a diagnosis of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI).
Immunohematology 2001;17:117–121.
One thousand seventy antibodies detected only by a 2-stage papain test: wanted and unwanted positive reactions
Authors: CastellÁ D. , PanadÉs J. Cid, M. , MartÍn-Vega C.
Published: May 2021

Despite the wide use of the antibody detection test for unexpected antibodies, controversy still remains regarding the use of enzyme-treated red blood cells. Over a 6-year period, 72,573 samples from 49,863 patients submitted for pretransfusion compatibility testing were examined for unexpected antibodies. The antibody detection tests included a low-ionic-strength solution (LISS) indirect antiglobulin test and a two-stage papain (2SP) test. One thousand and seventy of the 2267 (47%) antibodies tested by 2SP were reactive only by the 2SP test. Overall, the 2SP test detected only 0.6% of antibodies considered to be clinically significant (10 examples of anti-c and 2 examples of anti-e). The slight additional safety provided by detection of clinically-significant antibodies is overshadowed by the high number of clinically-insignificant antibodies detected by the 2SP test.
Immunohematology 2001;17:122–124.
Switching donor cells as a major source of error in compatibility testing
Authors: Padget B.J. , Hannon J.L.
Published: May 2021

The most likely cause of fatality in blood transfusion is transfusion of the wrong unit of blood to a patient. This type of error is usually attributed to improper patient identification at the time of sample collection or transfusion. A retrospective analysis of the results of an external proficiency testing program identified a common source of error occurring during laboratory testing that has not been previously reported. Results were analyzed when major errors were assigned to laboratories for obviously switching donor units in compatibility testing and/or subsequent investigation. In 24 surveys sent to extended testing (Level A) laboratories and 18 sent to basic testing (Level B) laboratories, the antigenic composition of the two donor cells made it possible to determine whether the cells had been switched. Seven errors were assigned to Level A participants for switching donor units during testing, constituting 38.9 percent of the 18 major errors assessed. Level B participants were assigned eight errors for switching donor units, 26.7 percent of the 30 major errors assessed. Approximately one-third (31.3 percent) of major errors committed on 42 proficiency testing surveys were caused by switching of donor cells during compatibility testing. This type of error may result in transfusion of an incompatible donor unit.
Immunohematology 2001;17: 125–129.
A gel technology system to determine postpartum RhIG dosage
Authors: Fernandes J.R. , Chan R. , Coovadia A.S. , Reis M.D. , Inkerton P. H. P
Published: May 2021

Failures of Rh immune globulin (RhIG) prophylaxis occur when the dose is too small. We report a test using a gel technology (GT) method to replace the Kleihauer–Betke (K–B) test to assess fetomaternal hemorrhage (FMH) and assist in determining the minimum necessary dose of RhIG. Cord blood (O, D+) was mixed with adult blood (O D–) to mimic an FMH of 10 mL, 20 mL, 28 mL, and 40 mL. Test samples were incubated with anti-D at known concentrations and centrifuged. The supernatant was titrated against D+ and D– red cells using GT and an interpretation of the required RhIG dose was made. Results were compared with the K–B test. Results were easily discernible and interpretations leading to determination of recommended RhIG dosage were reproducible. Correlation to standard K–B testing was confirmed. Elapsed time for result availability by GT testing was 60 minutes, with a direct technical time requirement of 30 minutes. The GT system is easier, objective, and quantitative, and compares well to the standard K–B test. A single procedure will allow assessment of the extent of FMH in the great majority of cases. This technique works well in determining the appropriate dose of anti-D required to treat D– patients with D+ newborns. There are potential cost savings in decreased use of RhIG, less direct technical time required, and more rapid availability of results.
Immunohematology 2000;16:115–119.
Comparison of tube and gel techniques for antibody identification
Authors: Novaretti M.C.Z. , Silveira E. Jens , Filho E.C. , Dorlhiac-Llacer P.E. , Chamone D.A.F.
Published: May 2021

There are several methods for antibody detection and each technique has advantages and limitations. We compared the performance of the tube (polyethylene glycol–indirect antiglobulin test [PEG-IAT]) and gel test technique for antibody identification. From January to May 1999, we performed antibody screening tests by gel and tube techniques on 10,123 random blood samples submitted to our reference laboratory. Six hundred and twentyeight (6.2%) reactive samples were tested for antibody specificity by both methods. One hundred and ninety-six were reactive only by gel: 25 anti-D, 33 anti-C, 76 anti-E, 13 anti-c, 5 anti-e, 18 anti-K, 7 anti-Jka, 2 anti-Dia, 3 anti-S, 8 combination Rh antibodies (1 with anti-K), and 6 other antibody specificities. Two samples were reactive only by PEG-IAT: 1 anti-K and 1 anti-Dia. Four hundred and thirty were positive by the two methods: 156 anti-D, 9 anti-C, 68 anti-E, 15 anti-c, 6 anti-e, 61 anti-K, 12 anti-Jka, 17 anti-Dia, 5 anti-S, 73 combination Rh antibodies (2 with anti-K), and 8 other antibody specificities. Based on this study, the gel test is more sensitive (p <.01) than the tube test for identifying potentially clinically significant antibodies.
Immunohematology 2000; 16:138–141.
Red blood cell diluent composition is important for detection of some anti-E
Authors: Yaskanin D.D. , Jakway J.L. , Ciavarella D.J.
Published: May 2021

Commercially prepared 0.8% reagent red blood cells (RBCs) eliminate the need to manually dilute 3 to 5% RBCs for use in gel cards. Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics investigated twelve anti-E samples detected in MTS Anti-IgG gel cards using Ortho 3% reagent RBCs manually diluted to 0.8% in MTS Diluent 2™ (MTS2) that were not detected with commercially prepared Ortho 0.8% reagent RBCs. In gel tests, using additional examples of E-positive RBCs, 22 of 26 anti-E were reactive when the cells were suspended in MTS2. Only 6 of 28 anti-E were reactive with E-positive Ortho 0.8% reagent RBCs. Five anti-E were tested in gel with five R2 R2 RBCs that had been washed and resuspended in four low-ionic-strength diluents. Fiftyeight percent of tests performed in MTS2 were positive compared to 13 to 41 percent for the other diluents. Anti-E detection also varied from 6 to 56 percent based on the donor of the RBCs. Seven anti-E were characterized by their reactvity in tube techniques and were reactive using PEG and/or ficin-treated RBCs only. As a comparison, 25 archived examples of anti-E were detected using RBCs suspended in MTS2 and Ortho 0.8% reagent RBCs. These data show that some anti-E are not detected by Ortho reagent RBCs in MTS Anti-IgG gel cards. However, these anti-E have characteristics of antibodies of questionable clinical significance.
Immunohematology 2000; 16:142–146.
Quantitation of red cell-bound immunoglobulins and complement in lymphoma patients
Authors: Podberezin M. , Levina A. , Romanova L. , Margolin O. , Nasibov O. , Pivnik A.V.
Published: May 2021

Quantitative ELISA may be useful for determining the amount of red blood cell (RBC)-associated immunoglobulins (Igs) in patients with autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). In idiopathic AIHA, there is about 20 times more RBC-associated IgG and complement than in normal persons. In patients with low-grade lymphomas (particularly, B-CLL and splenic marginal zone lymphoma) autoimmune hemolysis is a component of their anemia. In highgrade malignant lymphomas (i.e, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and peripheral T-cell lymphoma), as well as in Hodgkin’s disease, autoimmune hemolysis contributes little, if any, anemia. The quantitative ELISA for RBC-associated IgG and complement is useful for following the effects of treatment in patients with immune hemolysis.
Immunohematology 2000; 16:147–153.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the due payments of Polish entreprises from selected industries
Authors: Dankiewicz Robert , Balawejder Bartłomiej , Tomczyk Tomasz , Trynchuk Viktor
Published: May 2021

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly caused many perturbations, at the same time hindering the functioning and operation of enterprises from various industries, which, due to the often inability to conduct business, found themselves in a very difficult financial situation, with a difficult ability to settle their liabilities. Too high share of receivables that are not settled in a timely manner can result in various problems for enterprises, including, in particular, financial problems that can lead to large-scale bankruptcy. Considering a huge number of connections between individual entities, the bankruptcy of one may pose a risk of a wave of bankruptcy of others. The paper aims to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the payment situation of Polish enterprises. The research was conducted on the basis of an analysis of data on the payment situation of Polish enterprises from selected industries. Basic descriptive statistics was used in the study to characterize the material. The non-parametric Wilcoxon pair order test, which is the equivalent of the Student’s t-test for related variables, was used for the research. The research proved that at enterprises from almost every industry, the value of debts at the end of the second quarter of 2020 was higher than in the first quarter. It can therefore be concluded that the outbreak of the pandemic contributed to an increase in arrears, which, in turn, resulted in an increased risk of doing business. The greater the share of arrears with contractors, the greater the risk of financial problems at the enterprise, and hence the increased risk of bankruptcy.
Customer performance and non-financial organizational performance of the Nepalese cellular telecommunications industry
Authors: Kumar Dahal Rewan
Published: May 2021

The study assessed a product or service by customers that met their needs and aspirations. It sought to examine the influence of non-financial customer performance (CP) measures on non-financial organizational performance (NFOP) in the Nepalese cellular telecommunications industry (NCTI). Using a structured questionnaire survey instrument, it employed a descriptive research approach. This study’s population included all the global system for mobile (GSM) customers of Nepal Telecom (NT) and Ncell. The sample comprised 385 customers delineated through non-probability sampling techniques. The study’s targeted respondents were postgraduate understudies, service holders, business people, and self-employed individuals. The survey instrument was composed of three sections comprising 28 data collection questions. A statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) and analysis of moment structures (AMOS) programming were used to analyze the collected data. The study applied confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), path analysis (PA), and structural equation modeling (SEM) to evaluate the significance of the hypothesized paths. It was found that CP had a positive and significant relationship with NFOP in NCTI, with customer retention (CR) being a better predictor, followed by customer loyalty (CL), customer satisfaction (CS), and customer acquisition (CA). This was a cited representative study, not exhaustive, and would help to understand the key drivers of CP in the NCTI.
Intensifying rehabilitation of combined sewer systems using trenchless technology in combination with low impact development and green infrastructure
Authors: Kvitsjøen J. , Paus K. H. , Bjerkholt J. T. , Fergus T. , Lindholm O.
Published: May 2021

Throughout Europe, there is a considerable need for investment in the upgrade of sewer systems – due to three main factors: ageing infrastructure, climate change and urban population growth. The need for investments is expected to grow significantly in the years ahead. Trenchless rehabilitation (no-dig) of sewer pipelines is a cost-efficient and environmental friendly method for upgrading existing pipelines with sufficient capacity. This study examines the possibility of applying no-dig to combined sewer systems (CS) with insufficient capacity. In this study, a concept assessment methodology that combines the analytical approaches from stormwater and sewer system assessments is presented. The methodology was tested on a case area that was part of an environmental project in Oslo, Norway. Three alternative concepts were examined; A0: no-dig and low impact development (LID), A1: no-dig, LID and green infrastructure (GI), and A2: CS up-sizing using open-cut methods. The study concludes that CS with insufficient capacity can be rehabilitated using no-dig if LID and GI. The combination of no-dig and LID reduces costs considerably but does involve the risk of damages from uncontrolled surface runoff. The main risk-reduction measure is the development of GI as an integrated stormwater management system that requires cross-sector collaboration within municipalities.
An emergent addition for the optimal systemization of wastewater utilization plants using artificial intelligence
Authors: Hasan Mohd Abul
Published: May 2021

The treatment of wastewater is an essential factor in preventing pollutants and promoting the quality of the water. The inherent complexity, influential impact and the solid waste infrastructure all lead to confusion and variance in the primary clarifier for wastewater. These inconsistencies lead to variations in the purity and capacity constraints of wastewater and the existential impact of water receipt. Water treatment is a complicated task that has chemical, technical and biochemical aspects. A credible artificial neural network (ANN) method is necessary for another wastewater treatment plant to prevent the breakdown of the processes. Virtual reality seems to have become a strong solution for preventing waste management uncertainties and problems. This is not only due to extreme changes but also to significant external disturbances that water systems are subjected to when controlling challenges. Climate is among the most significant of such disturbances. Various environmental conditions actually include different influx frequencies and levels of substances. Water contamination has become one of the extremely serious growing concerns; sewage treatment plant identification is a key major issue here and the agencies enforce tighter requirements when operating wastewater software systems. This article plans to create models of achievement and prospects when possible future guidance of recent research borders for the use of artificial intelligence in wastewater treatment plants that concurrently deal with pollutants. This study has shown us that the composite ANN provides a greater level of competence in plant prediction and systemization.

Highlight

The ANN parameters are tuned with different weights and biases to obtain effective results and a solution to achieve the best results. The proposed research methodology also suggests that this research can be made more effective by fine-tuning ANN parameters using optimization techniques. This paper explores the effective utilization of artificial intelligence for wastewater. The composite ANN has been found to deliver a higher level of competence in plant prediction and systemization in this study. The behavior of input water in wastewater treatment plants must be predicted using a neural network.
Tres para una mesa
Authors: Illán Bacca Ramón , Henríquez Torres Guillermo , Ramírez Contreras Clinton
Published: May 2021

Este libro, con los cuentos seleccionados, o con otros parecidos, debió publicarse en 1990 o un año antes. Alguna vez, en una visita a Ciénaga, Germán Vargas propuso el volumen, que recogería cuentos de Ramón Bacca, Guillermo Henríquez y Clinton Ramírez, cuya nota de presentación él afirmó tener escrita. Al morir Germán, en 1991, la idea tomó cuerpo y el libro fue armado para rendirle homenaje a él por los invaluables servicios prestados a las letras de este país, pero, de manera especial, por su cercanía con nosotros. Hará cinco años, en 2015 o 2016, quedamos con Ramón Bacca y Guillermo Henríquez en reeditar el libro, pero, otros compromisos o la falta de interés final, impidieron la concreción del nuevo proyecto. La muerte de Ramón Bacca, en enero de este año, repentina y fulminante, reactivó la idea de la reedición. Estábamos en esas, revisando los textos, transcribiéndolos, cuando muere el 30 de enero, también sin avisar y sin darnos chances a prepararnos, Guillermo Henríquez. La noticia de su muerte coincidió con la entrada al correo electrónico de la nota introductoria que el crítico y poeta colombiano Teobaldo Noriega escribió para la reedición: una noticia insólita, según sus palabras, que lo obligó a reescribirla en las siguientes dos horas en la biblioteca de su residencia de London, Canadá. Este volumen ha contado, igual que hace 30 años, con la revisión desinteresada y a la distancia del poeta Javier Moscarella, autor de la nota escrita en 1991 sobre Germán Vargas, que se conserva, igual que la breve introducción que escribió Guillermo. Yo, en esta ocasión, además de volver a transcribir y revisar los textos, he movilizado la voluntad de la Editorial de la Universidad del Magdalena, con Jorge Elías Caro al frente, para que este libro sea a la vez un testimonio de amistad y una muestra de compromiso con la divulgación del ejercicio literario en esta parte del país. Vendrán, como lo han expresado los máximos directivos de la universidad, otros textos que exalten la memoria literaria de Ramón y Guillermo.
Chemistry and Pharmacology of Natural Catechins from Camellia sinensis as Anti-MRSA Agents
Authors: Gaur Rashmi , Bao Guan-Hu
Published: May 2021

Tea, a worldwide popular beverage rich in polyphenols, contributes to the prevention of
many diseases and thus is beneficial to human health. Tea is a product through processing the fresh
leaves picked from the plant Camellia sinensis (C. sinensis, genus Camellia section Thea). To date,
systematic studies have been conducted on the phytochemicals from more than 20 tea varieties and
related tea products, resulting in the structural determination of over 400 constituents viz. different
types of polyphenols, purines, and their derivatives, mono to tetra-terpenoids, and minor other phytomolecules.
These various tea phytochemicals contribute to the anti-oxidative effects, anti-diabetes,
anti-inflammation, anti-cancer, blood lipid reduction, neuroprotection, anti-Alzheimer's disease,
hepatoprotection, and anti-microbial activities, etc. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), the significant
human pathogens, could cause nosocomial and community-acquired infections, which is also
responsible for various infectious diseases from mild to severe life-threatening conditions, such
as bacteremia (bloodstream infection), endocarditis (heart valves infection), pneumonia, and meningitis
(brain infection), leading to 2% clinical disease in of all patient admissions.

The multidrug resistance (MDR) and antibiotics losing efficacy, esp. in methicillin resistance Staphylococcus
aureus (MRSA) urge for novel antimicrobial agents. The MRSA strains are resistant
to the entire class of β-lactam antibiotics and limit effective treatment, leading to still spread of staphylococcal
infections. MRSA also exhibits resistance to cephalosporins, macrolides, fluoroquinolones,
aminoglycosides, and glycopeptides (teicoplanine and vancomycin), leading to resistant
strains-glycopeptide resistant strain (GRSA) and glycopeptide intermediate (GISA) S. aureus. In
this review, chemical constituents responsible for the anti-MRSA activity of tea are explored.
Catatonia Associated with Hyponatremia: Case Report and Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Peritogiannis Vaios , Rizos Dimitrios V.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Catatonia is a syndrome of altered motor behavior that is mostly associated with general medical, neurologic, mood and schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. The association of newly onset catatonic symptoms with hyponatremia has been rarely reported in the literature.

Case Presentation:

We present a rare case of a young female patient with schizophrenia, who presented with catatonic symptoms in the context of hyponatremia due to water intoxication. The symptoms were eliminated with the correction of hyponatremia. There are only a few reports of hyponatremia-associated catatonia in psychiatric and non-psychiatric patients. Sometimes, catatonic symptoms may co-occur with newly onset psychotic symptoms and confusion, suggesting delirium. In several cases, the catatonic symptoms responded to specific treatment with benzodiazepines or electroconvulsive therapy.

Conclusion:

Hyponatremia may induce catatonic symptoms in patients, regardless of underlying mental illness, but this phenomenon is even more relevant in patients with a psychotic or mood disorder, which may itself cause catatonic symptoms. It is important for clinicians not to attribute newly-onset catatonic symptoms to the underlying psychotic or mood disorder without measuring sodium serum levels. The measurement of sodium serum levels may guide treating psychiatrists to refer the patient for further investigation and appropriate treatment.
Çocukların Dijital Teknoloji Kullanımı ve Ebeveyn Yaklaşımları: Kesitsel Bir Çalışma
Authors: YILDIZ İlknur , KANAK Mehmet
Published: May 2021

Amaç: Bu çalışma, 0-6 yaş çocuklarda dijital teknoloji kullanım özellikleri ve annelerin yaklaşımlarını belirlemek amacıyla yapılmıştır. Yöntem: Analitik kesitsel tipteki çalışmanın örneklemini Sivas il merkezinde bulunan bir üniversite hastanesinin çocuk polikliniğine başvuran ve 0-6 yaş çocuğu olan 203 anne oluşturmuştur. Veriler; Tanıtıcı Özellikler Formu, Okul Öncesi Dönem Çocukların Dijital Oyun Oynama ve Kullanma Alışkanlıklarına Yönelik Ebeveyn Yaklaşımları Ölçeği ile toplanmıştır. Bulgular: Çalışmaya katılan annelerin yaş ortalaması 32.07±4.96 olup %51.2’si üniversite mezunu, çocukların %51.2’si erkek ve %25.6’sı 36-47 ay arasındadır. Çocukların %84.7’sinin akıllı telefonda vakit geçirmeyi sevdiği ve %74.4’ünün dijital teknolojik cihazlarda video izlediği belirlenmiştir. Annelerin %65’i çocuklarının dijital teknolojik cihazları kullanmasına bağlı sinirlilik, dikkat dağınıklığı ve göz problemleri yaşadığını ifade etmiştir. Çalışmaya katılan annelerin ölçek puan ortalaması 18.32±6.48’dir. Her gün dijital teknolojik cihaz kullanan ve dijital teknolojik cihaz kullanımına bağlı sağlık problemi yaşayan çocukların annelerinin ölçek puan ortalamalarının anlamlı şekilde yüksek olduğu belirlenmiştir. Sonuç: Çalışmada çocukların en çok akıllı telefon kullandığı, yarıdan fazlasının dijital teknolojik cihazları kullanmaya bağlı sağlık problemi yaşadığı belirlenmiştir. Dijital teknoloji kullanımına yönelik olumlu tutum gösteren annelerin çocuklarında dijital teknolojik cihazların her gün kullanıldığı ve buna bağlı sağlık problemi yaşandığı görülmektedir. Erken çocukluk döneminde dijital teknolojik cihazların etkileri konusunda ebeveynlerin bilgilendirilmesi ve bu cihazların ebeveyn denetiminde kullanılması önerilebilir.