bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nurses’ use of computerised clinical decision support systems: a case site analysis
Authors: Dowding Dawn , Mitchell Natasha , Randell Rebecca , Foster Rebecca , Lattimer Valerie , Thompson Carl
Published: March 2009

Aims and objectives.  To explore how nurses use computerised clinical decision support systems in clinical practice and the factors that influence use.

Background.  There is limited evidence for the benefits of computerised clinical decision support systems in nursing, with the majority of existing research focusing on nurses’ use of decision support for telephone triage. Research has suggested that several factors including nurses’ experience, features of the technology system and organisational factors may influence how decision support is used in practice.

Design.  A multiple case site study.

Methods.  Four case sites were purposively selected to provide variation in staff experience, technology used and decisions supported by the technology. Data were collected in each case site using non‐participant observation of nurse/patient consultations (n = 115) and interviews with nurses (n = 55). Data were analysed using thematic content analysis.

Results.  Computerised decision support systems were used in a variety of ways by nurses, including recording information, monitoring patients’ progress and confirming decisions that had already been made. Nurses’ experience with the decision and the technology affected how they used a decision support system and whether or not they over‐rode recommendations made by the system. The ability of nurses to adapt the technology also affected its use.

Conclusions.  How nurses use computerised decision support appears to be the result of an interaction between a nurses’ experience and their ability to adapt the technology to ‘fit’ with local clinical practice.

Relevance to clinical practice.  One of the stated aims of introducing computerised decision support systems to assist nursing practice is to reduce variation and/or the number of errors associated with clinical practice. The study found unanticipated uses in such systems such as the routine over‐riding of recommendations which could lead to an increase rather than a decrease in variation or errors.
Sexual behaviour of institutionalised residents with dementia – a qualitative study
Authors: Tzeng Yu‐Ling , Lin Li‐Chan , Shyr Yea‐Ing Lotus , Wen Jung‐Kwang
Published: March 2009

Aims.  The purpose of this study was to explore the characteristics of and the contexts related to sexual behaviours among institutionalised residents with dementia.

Background.  Institutionalised residents with dementia are frequently unable to manage their sexual needs properly resulting in caregivers having a more conservative and passive attitude toward residents with dementia than those with higher cognitive status.

Design.  A grounded theory study.

Methods.  The participants in this study were institutionalised older people with dementia and their formal caregivers. Data were collected using in‐depth, face‐to‐face interviews of 12 formal caregivers and by observing 12 institutional older people with dementia for three days. All observations were recorded and interview data were tape recorded and transcribed verbatim.

Results.  The results indicated that the predisposing factors included having opportunity, presence of a cooperative target and personal space without privacy. The sexual expressions of institutionalised older people with dementia included: physically intimate touch, sexual expression without touching others and sexual talk. Responses by individuals to sexual behaviour from another resident included neutral response, negative response and positive response.

Conclusion.  To provide better care, it is recommended that an inventory regarding sexual expression for clinical and research usage be constructed from the research results.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The findings of this study can provide the basis to develop on‐the‐job training programmes for sexual education of residents with dementia in institutions. Regular seminars on sexual care for the residents with dementia might be beneficial for managing sexual issues among residents and to decrease caregivers’ burden.
Anti‐Tja ‐ Another Family Example
Authors: McNEIL Crichton , TRENTELMAN Elmer F. , THOMAS Miles
Published: March 2009

The 14th and 15th cases of natural isoagglutinin, anti‐Tj a are reported in sibs of Italian extraction. Two more spontaneous abortions are associated with the appearance of this antibody. The high anti‐Tja titer of the propositus was apparently due to transfusion reaction.

Deux nouveaux exemples d'isoagglutinine naturelle anti‐Tja ont été trouvés chez un homme et sa sæur, d'origine italienne. La sæur avait un enfant vivant et avait eu deux avortements. Le fait que l'anticorps du frère avait un titre fort élevé est dü à la transfusion incompatible qu'il avait reçue.

Bei zwei Geschwistern einer Familie italienischer Herkunft wurden Anti‐Tj a‐Antikörper gefunden. Die Schwester hatte ein lebendes Kind geboren und zwei Spontanaborte durchgemacht. Der hohe Titer der Anti‐Tja‐Antikörper beim Bruder ist zweifellos ad die Tja‐inkompatible Transfusion zurückzuführen.
The Use of Plasma and Plasma Fractions in the Treatment of a Patient with Von Willebrand's Disease*
Authors: Weiss Harvey J.
Published: March 2009

The effect of plasma and of fraction I on the bleeding time of a patient with von Willebrand's disease has been presented. Some fractions were highly effective, others showed little or no effect. The differences in their preparation which may have contributed to this are discussed. Fresh plasma, from blood collected in plastic bags, was also effective. The use of glass bottles appeared markedly to decrease the activity of the “anti‐bleeding” factor. The possible relationship between the deficiency of this factor and of AHG in von Willebrand's disease is discussed.

L'auteur dérrit les effets du plasma et de la fraction I sur le temps de saignement d'un patient atteint de la maladie de Willebrand. Certaines fractions ont un effet conidbrable; d'autres n'ont que très peu d'effet, voire aucun. La cause de ce phénomène peut résider dans les différents modes de préparations de substances injectées. Les plasma frais provenant de sang prélevé dans des sacs en plastic ont un bon effet. Par contre, I'utilisation de flacons en verre semhle diminuer d'une manière assez marquée I'activité du facteur «anti‐saignement». L'auteur discute du rapport possible qui existe entre la déficience de ce facteur et la déficience de la globuline anti‐hémophilique dans la maladie de Willebrand.

Es wird über die Beeinflussung der Blutungszeit durch Plasma und Fraktion I bei einer Patientin mit von Willebrandscher Krankheit berichtet. Einzelne Fraktionen erwiesen sich als hochaktiv; andere zeigten nur eine geringe oder gar keine Wirkung. Die Unterschiede in der Herstellungsweise, die diesen Wirkungsunter‐schieden zu Grunde liegen könnten, werden diskutiert. Frisches Plasma, gewonnen von Blut aus Plastiksäcken, erwies sich ebenfalls als wirksam. Glasflaschen schienen die Aktivität des «Anti‐Blutungsfaktors» deutlich herabzusetzen. Mögliehe Beziehungen zwischen dem Mangel dieses Faktors und von AHG bei der von Willebrandschen Krankheit werden diskutiert.
A Serological Study of ‐D‐ Heterozygotes in the Same Family
Authors: Lawler Sylvia D. , Marshall Ruth
Published: March 2009

A family in which the same ‐D‐ Rh complex occurs within different Rh genotypes is described. The amount of D antigen detected varied in different combinations and some variation was observed between individuals of the same type in the case of ede/‐D‐. Some effect on the amount of E and e antigens, estimated by dosage titrations, was detected. It was also concluded that ‐D‐ heterozygotes may well be more common in populations of European origin than the results of random tests would suggest.

Les auteurs décrivent une famille dans laquelle le même complexe Rhésus ‐D‐se présente parmi différents génotypes. La quantité d'antigène D mise en évidence vane dans les différentes combinaisons; on observe des variations parmi les individus du même type lorsqu'ils sont cde/‐D‐.

On a pu mettre en évidence que la quantité d'antigène E et e déterminée par titration produit un certain effet. On conclut donc que les hétérozygotes ‐D‐ peuvent être plus fréquents dans la population caucasienne que ne le laissent supposer les résultats des déterminations Rh pratiquées en série.

Es wird eine Familie beschrieben, bei welcher der Rh‐Komplex ‐D‐ in mehreren unterschiedlichen Rh‐Genotypen vorkommt. Bei den verschiedenen Rh‐Kombinationen wurde ein ungleicher Gehalt an D‐Antigen gefunden; sogar bei Individuen mit demselben Genotyp z. B. cde/‐D‐ wurde eine gewisse Variabilität festgestellt. Außerdem wurde ein gewisser Einfluß auf die Ausprägung der Antigene E und e festgestellt. Es erscheint als wahrscheinlich, daß ‐D‐Heterozygote bei Kaukasiern häufiger vorkommen, als auf Grund der Ergebnisse von Reihenuntersuchungen zu vermuten wäre.
Serum Proteins Found in Primates
Authors: Picard J. , Heremans J. , Vandebroek G.
Published: March 2009

The serum proteins of seven primates are studied by immunoelectrophoresis using heterologons immune serums anti‐Man, anti‐Cynomolgus and anti‐Lemur. The individual patterns are described and the homologies of a certain number of proteins were established with thofie of the reference species (Man, Cynomolgus and Lemur). The electrophoretic mobilities of different proteins are calculated. Zoological implications are discussed.

Les protéines sériques de sept espèces de primates ant été étudié es en immunoélectrophorèse au moyen d'immunsérums hétérologues anti‐Homme, anti‐Cynomolgus et anti‐Lemur. Les images immnno‐Clectrophoritiques sont décrites et les homologies de certaines protéines ant été établies avec celles des trois espèces de référence (Homme, Cynomolgus et Lémur). Les mobilités électrophorétiques de différentes protéines ant été calculées. Les implications zoologiques sont discutées.

Mit Hilfe der Hetero‐Immunseren Anti‐Mensch, Anti‐Cynomolgus iind Anti‐Lemur wurden die Serumeiweiße von sieben Primaten immunoelektrophoretisch untersucht. Die einzeinen Immunoelektrophoresebilder wurden beschrieben; außerdem wurde die Homologie einer Reihe van Eiweißen niit denjenigen der Bezugsarten (Mensch, Cynomolgus und Lemur) ermittelt. Die elektrophoretischen Beweglichkeiten verschiedener Eiweiße wurden berechnet. Die zoologischen Implikationen der Befunde werden diskutiert.
Change of Blood Group B in a Case of Leukaemia
Authors: Hart Mia van der , Veer Marga van der , Loghem J. J. van
Published: March 2009

A change of blood group B in a patient suffering from acute leukaemia is reported.

By elution experiments, treatment with proteolytic enzymes and lattice formation it was shown that the non‐agglutinated red cells contained B antigen.

Les auteurs rapportent sur une modification du groupe sanguin B chez un malade atteint de leucémie aiguë.

Au moyen d'épreuves d'élutions, de traitement par des enzymes protéolytiques et de réactions antigène‐anticorps en chaîne, les auteurs ont pu démontrer que les érythrocytes non agglutinés contenaient de l'antigène B.

Es wird ein Wechsel der Blutgruppe B bei einem Patienten mit akuter Leukämie beschrieben. Anhand von Elutionsversuchen, der Behandlung der Zellen mit proteolytischen Enzymen sowie mit Antigen/Antikörper‐Ketten, konnte gezeigt werden, daß die nicht agglutinablen Zellen B‐Antigen enthielten.
A Preliminary Investigation into Automatic Blood Grouping*
Authors: McNeil C. , Helmick W. M. , Ferrari A.
Published: March 2009

Preliminary investigations have been made into automatic ABO blood grouping by use of the Autoanalyzer.

All combinations could be reliably distinguished with the exception of A2B bloods which in our system typed as B.

The possibilities of improving the techniques have not been exhausted and deserve further investigation.

Des recherches préliminaires ont été pratiquées pour la détermination automatique des groupes A B O au moyen de l'Autoanalyzer.

Toutes les combinaisons ont pu être distinguées clairement à l'exception des sang A2B qui ont été diagnostiqués comme B avec notre système.

Les possibilités d'amélioration des techniques n'ont pas été épuisées et nous incitent à d'autres recherches.

Zusammenfussung

Mit Hilfe des Autoanalyzers wurden erste Untersuchungen mit dem Ziel einer automatischen ABO‐Blutgruppenbestimmung vorgenommen.

Mit Ausnahme der A2B‐Blutproben, die als B erfaßt wurden, gelang es, alle übrigen Kombinationen zuverlässig voneinander zu unterscheiden.

Die Methode kann zweifellos technisch verbessert werden; weitere Untersuchungen in dieser Richtung erscheinen angezeigt.
Delayed Haemolytic Transfusion Reactions Simulating Auto‐Immune Haemolytic Anemia
Authors: Croucher Betty E. E. , Crookston Marie C. , Crookston J. H.
Published: March 2009

Seven cases, in which the presence of a blood group iso‐antibody was unsuspected until several days after transfusion, are described. In one case the rapid appearance of multiple antibodies produced signs and symptoms simulating auto‐immune haemolytic anaemia. In two of the seven cases, antibodies were detectable in the pre‐transfusion serum only when cells containing a double dose of the corresponding antigen were used.
The Red Cell Phenotype En(a‐) and Anti‐Ena: Serological and Physicochemical Aspects
Authors: Furuhjelm U. , Myllylä G. , Nevanlinna H. R. , Nordling S. , Pirkola Anna , Gavin June , Gooch Ann , Sanger Ruth , Tippett Patricia
Published: March 2009

Summary. The lack of the very common red cell antigen Ena is a rare recessive character. En(a‐) cells are further unusual in having only about 33% of the normal amount of sialic acid and in having an electrophoretic mobility about 60% of normal. These abnormalities adequately explain other peculiarities of En(a‐) cells: their weak MN antigens, their ability to be agglutinated, though suspended in saline, by appropriate incomplete Rh antisera, and their preferential agglutination by certain seed extracts and non‐immune animal sera.

Ena is antigenic in rabbit as well as in man: an attempt to stimulate in a rabbit an antibody specific for En(a‐) cells did not succeed.

The locus responsible for Ena is shown to be genetically independent of the loci for ABO, MNSs, Rh, Duffy and haptoglobins and not to be X‐ or Y‐linked. En(a+) hetereozygous cells show some of the changes of En(a‐) cells, in a modified but recognizable way.

The physicochemical background and the nature of the genetic defect in this unusual blood group system are discussed.
Rapid Clearance of Rh Positive Blood During Experimental Rh Immunisation
Authors: Woodrow J. C. , Finn R. , Krevans J. R.
Published: March 2009

Summary. When Rh negative male volunteers were given successive small injections of Rh positive blood, it was repeatedly found that rapid clearance of the cells took place in the absence of detectable antibody. It is thought likely that primary immunisation to the D (Rho) antigen had occurred in these cases and that a similar state occurs as a result of Rh positive pregnancies in Rh negative mothers. These findings have a relevance to the assessment of trials in which gammaglobulin anti‐D is given to prevent Rh immunisation.
The Inheritance of the Blood Group Gene Mk and Some Considerations on Its Possible Nature
Authors: Metaxas M. N. , Metaxas‐Bühler M. , Romanski Y.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Although the gene Mk gives rise to none of the antigens of the MN or Ss series, its presence is revealed in the heterozygous state by the results of dosage experiments and by certain reactions related to some abnormality of the red cell surface. The corresponding character Mk may therefore be considered as dominant, and in matings of the type Mk x non‐Mk, half of the children should consequently inherit the gene, and the other half not. Seventeen matings of the type mentioned, and 5 more presumed to be of this type, were analyzed in this respect: the results correspond closely with expectation. Work on so‐called anti‐Mk sera is reviewed and the results are discussed in conjunction with considerations on the possible nature of the gene Mk. The conclusion is reached that these sera do not contain a true blood group antibody and that Mk is either an amorph or a ‘built‐in’ inhibitor gene at the MNSs locus.
The Demonstration of Anti‐HI/HI‐H Activity in Seed Anti‐H Reagents
Authors: Voak D. , Lodge T.W.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Extracts from seeds of Lotus tetragon., Cytisus sessil, and Laburnum alp. give lower titration scores with O H+ ii cells than with O H + I+ cells although both have a similar H status in studies with Ulex europ. reagent. Absorption and elution studies indicate that the Lotus extract contained anti‐HI agglutinins with little activity for O H + ii cells whereas the Cytisus and Laburnum extracts contained anti‐HI‐H agglutinins that cross‐reacted with O H + ii cells.

Lactose (7.1 g/100 ml) strongly inhibited the anti‐HI‐H reactions with little effect on the Ulex anti‐H reagent. The anti‐HI/HI‐H reagents gave maximum activity at lower temperatures whereas the Ulex anti‐H extract was just as active at 37°C as at 40°C.
Australia Antigen in Singapore
Authors: Yap E. H. , Ong Y. W. , Simons M. J. , Okochi K. , Mayumi M. , Nishioka K.
Published: March 2009

The immune adherence haemagglutination test (IAHA) was demonstrated to be more sensitive than electro‐osmodiffusion (EOD) for the detection of Australia antigen (Au) in Singapore blood donors. IAHA titres of less than 1024 are rarely detected by EOD.

Au frequency in each of the four ethnic groups showed a significant difference between the high frequency of Au found in Chinese (8.2%) in comparison to Au in Malays (4.7%), Indians (2.9%) and others (1.3%). The differential ethnic susceptibility to Au carriage is discussed.
Evaluation of a Simple Method for Determination of IgG Titre Anti‐A or ‐B in Cases of Possible ABO Blood Group Incompatibility
Authors: Reesink H. W. , van der Hart Mia , Loghem J.J.van
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Titres of IgG anti‐A or ‐B in the serum of 64 blood group O women with an obstetrical history of possible ABO blood group incompatibility were examined. Four different 2‐mercapto‐ethanol (2‐ME) techniques varying in time from 3–16 h were evaluated. No definite differences in anti‐A or ‐B titres were observed.

When AB substances were used, however, the anti‐A or ‐B titres were on the average 2–3 titration steps lower than in the 2‐ME techniques, if demonstrable at all.

Besides agglutinating IgG anti‐A or ‐B, haemolysins IgG anti‐A or ‐B could be demonstrated in part of the sera.

In 8 sera, the IgG and IgM fractions were separated on sephadex G‐200 and treated with 2‐ME and AB substances. In the IgG fraction, no definite differences in complete, incomplete and haemolysin anti‐A or ‐B titres were found before and after treatment with 2‐ME.

Using AB substances, no complete anti‐A or ‐B was found anymore, while the incomplete titres were on the average 2–3 titration steps lower.

The anti‐A or ‐B antibody activity of the IgM fraction was completely destroyed by 2‐ME and AB substances.

From this study we concluded that IgG anti‐A or ‐B could be determined by 2‐ME within a few hours and that this technique is much more reliable than the partial neutralization test with AB substances.
Observations on the Rare Phenomenon of Anti‐A Prozone and the Non‐Specific1 Blocking of Haemagglutination due to C1 Complement Fixation by IgG Anti‐A Antibodies
Authors: Voak D.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The anti‐A prozone activity of two immune anti‐A (group O) sera is described. It occurred in saline, albumen and enzyme tests at 4, 18 and 37°C but was destroyed by washing the ‘prozoned’ cells. This phenomenon is due to C1 fixation of non‐haemolytic complement by IgG anti‐A antibodies maximally sensitizing A1 and A1B cells. The addition of fresh complement restored the haemolytic activity of the sera. The nature of the blocking action is non‐specific, possibly due to the large C1 macromolecule preventing the second stage of haemagglutination by maintaining large intercellular distances.
Cold Reacting Auto‐Antibodies in Venezuelan Populations
Authors: Layrisse Z. , Layrisse M.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. A high incidence of cold auto‐haemagglutinins in several Venezuelan ethnic isolates has been found to be confined to inhabitants of a limited area of Venezuela. The antibodies were found in Yanomamo, Makiritare and Piaroa indians inhabiting an area situated between 2–3° 30′ N and 64–66° W and were absent in two of the same ethnic groups living in a different environment. Incidences above 80% were present only in Yanomamo villages situated between the Orinoco and Ocamo rivers (2–3° N and 64° 39′ to 65° 30′ W). The specificity of the cold agglutinins was confirmed as anti‐IT in most cases. Experiments using absorptions and enzyme‐treated erythrocytes showed absence of anti‐HI, AI, BI, Sp1 or mixtures of specificities. Cold agglutinins were found always associated with the serum IgM and showed both χ and Λ‐light‐chain types. Although the existence of other types of auto‐antibodies in the same population seem to indicate immunization triggered by microbial antigen (s) frequent in the area, no correlation between the agglutinins and antibodies against many microorganisms has been found.
The Detection of MNSs ‘Variants’ in Serial Tests with Incomplete Rh Antisera in Saline
Authors: Metaxas M. N. , Metaxas‐Bühler M.
Published: March 2009

In tests with incomplete Rh antisera (anti‐D and anti‐c) in saline on red cells from 6,202 blood donors, 19 samples were shown to owe their enhanced agglutinability to ‘variants’ of the MNSs system. The strongest reactors were Mk, Miltenberg Class V and possible EnaEn heterozygotes.
Bovine Erythrocyte Membrane Composition: Association with the FY and other Glycoprotein Systems
Authors: Hines H. C. , Salfner B. , Uhlenbruck G. , Schmid D. O.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The bovine blood group F, FV, and V phenotypic classes were found to differ greatly in amounts of red cell neuraminic acid, ghost material per ml packed red cells, phenol‐extracted mucoid per ml red cells, and pronase‐released mucoprotein per ml red cells. In all of these characteristics, F values were highest, FV intermediate, and V lowest. Phaseolus vulgaris nonagglutinators also had higher values for red cell neuraminic acid, ghost quantity per ml red cells, and phenol‐extracted mucoid quantity per ml red cells than agglutinators. At least three, and possibly four, groups of animals with respect to neuraminic acid values were observed. Phenol‐extracted mucoids from red cells of different FV phenotypes were nearly identical in carbohydrate composition, although mucoids from F cells may contain more glucose than those from FV or V. The F antigen was seen to be associated with a higher red cell N‐acetyl neuraminic acid/total neuraminic acid ratio than the V antigen.
Studies on Australia Antigen in India1
Authors: Kulkarni K. V. , Baxi A. J. , Patankar V. M. , Das P. C.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Investigations of the incidence of Australia antigen (HAA) have been carried out in patients with infectious hepatitis and other hepatic diseases, in multitransfused patients and in normal voluntary and paid blood donors in Bombay. The incidence of Au antigen in infectious hepatitis was about 10%, in cases of cirrhosis of the liver 3%, and in lepromatous leprosy cases 12%. Multitransfused patients had an incidence of 10% for antibody to Au antigen. These findings are discussed in light of current available data.
Antibodies against Human Immunoglobulin A Allotypes — the Genetic Marker A2m(1) of IgA
Authors: Scherz R. , Pflugshaupt R. , Bütler R.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. An antibody against the genetically determined allotype A2m(1) of the immunoglobulin A is described. The antibody was found in the serum of a patient suffering from lupus erythematodes. In her serum a selective IgA deficiency was observed. The antibody was specified and used for population studies of the A2m(1) factor. The patients family was checked for IgA deficiency and the presence of the inherited factor.
Anti‐IP: An Antibody Defining another Product of Interaction between the Genes of the I and P Blood Group Systems1
Authors: Allen F. H. , Marsh W. L. , Jensen Leila , Fink J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. We have tested a serum that reacts strongly with I, P1 red cells, weakly with I, P2 cells, more weakly with i adult, P1 cells, and not at all with I, p cells. Two iso‐antibodies were detected, one being anti‐IP1, which could be isolated in pure form by absorption of the serum with ordinary P2 cells. The second antibody, from its reactions with various P1‐negative cells, was presumably anti‐IP, indicating still another interaction product of the I and P genes.
Anti‐ce (anti‐f) in a CDe/cD‐ Mother, as a Cause of Haemolytic Disease of the Newborn
Authors: Spielmann W. , Seidl S. , von Pawel J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Anti‐ce (f) as a cause of haernolytic disease of the newborn was detected in the serum of a mother having the genotype CDe/cD‐.
Further Data on HBs Antigen Subtypes – Geographical Distribution
Authors: Couroucé‐Pauty Anne‐Marie , Soulier J.P.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. 605 HB antigens from silent carriers of different geographic areas were subtyped. Guinea pigs and goats were immunized with selected HB antigens. Subtyping was performed by CIEP using monospecific or duospecific antisera, and by ID with unabsorbed antisera if the antigen was strong enough. Eight categories of HB antigens previously described were confirmed: a1y(w), a2Iy(w), a23y(w), a3(w), ayr, a2Id(w,) a3d(w) and adr.

The relations between the four categories of a subdeterminants and ‘w’ are analysed. All the antigens with ‘w’ determinant are either a1 or a2l or a23 or a3. The ‘w’ determinant can be subdivided into the system of a subdeterminants which are mutually exclusive among themselves. r appears to be allelic with the group of the four a subdeterminants. It cannot yet be stated if r may be considered as a fifth subdeterminant of a or if it is independant of a subdeterminant. For the present time we use the following terminology a1(w), a2l(w2), a23(w3), a3(w4) and r.

By combining a(w) subdeterminants, r, d and y determinants, it is possible to greatly increase our knowledge about the geographical distribution of HB antigen: ay subtype is predominant in Africa and in Mediterranean countries but three areas can be distinguished by means of a subdeterminants: a3(w4)y being mainly found in West and Central Africa (87%) and a21(w2)y in Mediterranean countries (86%) except for Greece where a same ratio of a21(w2)y and a23(w3)y is encountered. This a23y subtype is the most frequent of ay subtypes in France and in Hungary. In these two countries, the subtypes ad(w) are predominant: 67% of a21(w2)d and 1.3% of a3(w4)d in France. adr is widespread in Asia and especially in the Thai area (Thailand and Laos), but we have found a1(w1)y in Vietnam.

Many examples are given which show that the subtype of HB antigen is related to the country of origin and does not seem to depend of the host. These findings illustrate the importance of HB antigen subtyping for epidemiology and for study of populations.
HBs Antigen in Human Plasma Fractions
Authors: Leveque P. , Drouet J. , Schmitthaeusler R. , North M. L. , Amouch P. , Malgras J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Therapeutic fractions were obtained by fractionating human plasma containing HBs antigen, by the Cohn ethanol technique modified by Nitschmann. Plasmas with various HBs antigen titers were selected. The antigen was sought in each fraction by the techniques of counterelectrophoresis and radioimmunological detection in liquid phase. With the exception of very pure albumins, all fractions were found to contain the HBs antigen, though in variable proportions. A technique for the purification of albumin, applicable on an industrial scale, is proposed. It makes it possible to obtain an albumin fraction in which the HBs antigen cannot be detected by the most sensitive techniques, even starting with a plasma which is very rich in HBs antigen (titer 1/64 by counterelectro phoresis).
Incidence of Hepatitis Associated Antigen HAA and Homologous Antibody in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Marcolongo Roberto , Debolini Alessandro
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The authors have studied the incidence of hepatitis associated antigen (HAA) and the homologous antibody in sera of patients with rheumatoid arthritis on the basis of (1) arthritis sometimes associated with viral hepatitis, (2) the possible infectious etiology of rheumatoid arthritis, and (3) observation on the possible pathogenetic role of HAA in some cases of polyarteritis nodosa. The presence of HAA and antibody titer gave constantly negative results in all subjects examined with the exception of one case which showed no signs of serological or histological hepatic involvement. On the basis of the results obtained, the negligible role of HAA in the etiopathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis is underlined. However, the authors emphasize as suggestive the hypothesis that the characteristic histopathological alterations of rheumatoid arthritis may be mediated by an immunological reaction toward an infectious agent other than HAA, but operating through mechanisms similar to those of HAA in polyarteritis nodosa.
Histocompatibility Antigens in Leprosy1
Authors: Smith George S. , Walford Roy L. , Shepard Charles C. , Payne Rose , Prochazka George J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Results of HL‐A typing are presented in 82 patients with leprosy and 50 normal Filipinos from Cebu, and 144 normal Filipino immigrants from the Luzon area. Comparisons of HL‐A antigen frequencies among the total patients and normals of Cebu showed no statistically significant differences; however, HL‐A10 was increased in frequency among the patients with lepromatous disease compared to the normals, and HL‐A5 was increased among the tuberculoid patients compared to the lepromatous patients. None of these comparisons was statistically significant when corrected for the number of antigens tested. Comparisons of HL‐A antigen frequencies between normal Filipinos of the Cebu and Luzon regions showed increased W‐5 in the Luzon population (corrected p < 0.025).
Blood Group A Antigen in Human Erythrocytic Membranes and Membrane Fractions1
Authors: Kent S. P. , McKibbin J. M. , Boggio R. , McKibbin J. B.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Erythrocytic membranes from blood group A individuals were assayed for A antigen using a quantitative hemagglutination inhibition technique. The membranes were then extracted for lipid and glycoprotein. Although some A antigen was usually found in the glycoprotein fraction, most of the activity was in the lipid fraction. The sum of A antigen activity in the lipid, glycoprotein, and membrane residue fractions only occasionally was equal to the A activity in the erythrocytic ghosts. However, when certain lipid preparations with little or no A antigen (enhancement factors) were added to the glycolipid fractions, the amount of A antigen demonstrated was usually greatly increased. Under these conditions, the sum of the fractions often was much greater than the A antigen demonstrated in erythrocytic membranes. This suggests that the organization or arrangement of A antigenic determinants in the red cell membrane may not always permit a stoichiometric reaction with anti‐A molecules.
The Problem of Platelet Autoantibodies
Authors: Mueller‐Eckhardt C. , Mersch‐Baumert Karin
Published: March 2009

Abstract. To assess two modifications of the platelet factor 3 (PF3) test for platelet antibody detection, an analysis of test conditions was performed with normal test material (serum, plasma, globulin fraction), defined HLA‐specific, complement‐fixing antisera and a quinidine‐induced antiserum. It was shown that, under standardized conditions, the PF3 test revealed known platelet antibodies confirming earlier results. Its reproducibility and, to a lesser degree, its sensitivity were inferior to platelet complement fixation. In contrast, the test did not permit the reliable determination of platelet autoantibodies in sera of 89 thrombocytopenic patients including 36 cases of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Positive results loosely corresponded to the presence of HLA antibodies in sera.
A Human Antibody to Gm (26): An Antigen Usually Present on the γ‐3 Chain of IgG When Gm (15) is Absent1
Authors: Steinberg Arthur G.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. An antibody to an antigen on IgG was found in the serum of a healthy American Negro, whose phenotype is Gm (1, 13, 15, 17). (When tested for Gm [1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 13, 15, 16, 17, 21].) Subsequent tests of serum samples from US blacks and whites, from Japanese, Ainu, San (Bushmen), Negros, Asiatic Indians and Jews from Cochin India demonstrated that the antibody detects an antigen that is usually present in a haplotype when Gm (15) is absent from it. This antigen had been identified using an antibody produced in a baboon. Tests of isolated myeloma proteins and of Fc and Fab fragments of IgG confirmed that the antigen [Gm (26) or Gm (u)—originally Gm (Pa)] is carried by the Fc portion of the γ3‐chain.
HLA and Hereditary Spherocytosis
Authors: Sengar D. P. S. , McLeish W. A. , Smiley R. K. , Luke B.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The HLA types of two families with hereditary spherocytosis (HS) suggest that the HS gene(s) may be linked with the HLA locus. If substantiated by further family studies, this linkage would place HS on chromosome 6.; Accepted: February 14, 1977
Hepatitis‐Associated Markers in the American Red Cross Volunteer Blood Donor Population
Authors: Bastiaans M. I. S. , Dodd R. Y. , Nath N. , Pineda‐Tamondong G. , Sandler S. G. , Barker L.F.
Published: March 2009

Abstract: From January 1975 to December 1978, 19,140,169 units of blood were collected by the American Red Cross at 57 regional locations. Each unit was tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) by a single commercial radioimmunoassay test system. A total of 15,954 donations were reported reactive, representing a rate of HBsAg reactivity of 0.83/ 1,000 units tested. The rate during 1975 was 0.94/1,000 units tested, decreasing to 0.71/1,000 units tested in 1978 (p<0.005). The prevalence of HBsAg among first‐time donors was 2.08/ 1,000 during 1977 and 1978, 2.7 times higher than that calculated for repeat donors (0.77/ 1,000 donors). Substantial geographic variation in the prevalence and rate of detection of HBsAg was observed.
Incidence of Paraproteinaemia in Blood Donors
Authors: Pezzoli A. , Pascali E. , Zacchi T.
Published: March 2009

Abstract: Paraproteinaemia was detected by agarose gel electrophoresis in 13 out of 3,800 apparently healthy blood donors of an Italian district. None of the subjects with a serum M component developed overt B cell malignancy over a prolonged period of observation. The incidence of paraproteinaemia was higher than that reported from previous surveys of similar populations of blood donors in other European countries, possibly due to the sensitivity of the technique adopted for the screening investigation. The main implications of the detection of monoclonal immunoglobulin abnormalities are briefly discussed with particular reference to the possible indications for routine screening of blood donors for the presence of paraproteins.
Hepatitis B and Non‐A, Non‐B in a Swedish Blood Center during 10 Years of HBsAg Screening
Authors: Iwarson Sten , Lindholm Annika , Norkrans Gunnar
Published: March 2009

Abstract. In spite of routine screening for HBsAg by a sensitive radioimmunoassay, some cases of posttransfusion hepatitis B still occur. The frequency in the Gothenburg Blood Center is 1 clinical case per 10,000 bloods units transfused. About the same incidence has been noted for clinically overt cases of hepatitis non‐A, non‐B. In contrast to findings reported by others, the latter incidence has been rather stable over the last 5 years.
Study of the Immunopotentiator Effects of Dialyzable Leukocyte Extracts Obtained Out of Leukocytes Previously Used for Interferon Production
Authors: Arala‐Chaves M.P. , Porto M.T. , Kauppinen Hanna‐Leena , Massa A.A. Guerra , Myllylä Gunnar
Published: March 2009

The existence of immunopotentiator factors able to induce blastogenesis, chemotaxis and able of inhibiting migration of leukocytes was investigated in alcohol precipitates of different batches of dialyzed leukocyte extracts (DLE). These were prepared either out of fresh leukocytes from a large pool of buffy coats obtained from all blood collected from healthy donors with irrelevant antigen sensitiveness (DLE‐NS) or from similar leukocytes which were incubated during 19 h for interferon production (DLE‐NS‐I). Alternatively, the same factors were investigated on a batch of DLE obtained from a donor exquisitely sensitive to Candida antigen (C‐DLE‐CS). It was observed that all the three batches contained equal amounts of either specific or nonspecific immunological enhancing factors. The similarity of the intensity of specific factors between the so‐called nonspecific batches (DLE‐NS and DLE‐NS‐I) and the specific batch (C‐DLE‐CS) was interpreted to be the result of the random selection of the donors for the preparation of the nonspecific batches, which consequently contain randomized relevant specificities.

It is postulated, therefore, that batches of DLE which represent a large waste of leukocytes used for interferon production can be a useful tool for double‐blind DLE therapy purposes.
Horse Anti‐Type XIV Pneumococcus Sera Behave as Cold Agglutinins Recognizing Developmentally Regulated Antigens A part from the Ii Antigens on Human Erythrocytes
Authors: Pennington Jane , Feizi Ten
Published: March 2009

Haemagglutination studies with horse anti‐type XIV pneumococcus sera have shown that they resemble cold agglutinin sera with anti‐I specificity reacting more strongly with adult human erythrocytes than cord erythrocytes. However, their substantial reaction with iadult erythrocytes suggests that they react with other developmentally regulated antigens in addition to the I and i antigens.
Cryopreservation of Platelets Isolated with the IBM 2997 Blood Cell Separator: A Rapid and Simplified Approach1
Authors: Melaragno Anthony J. , Abdu William A. , Katchis Randall J. , Vecchione John J. , Valeri C. Robert
Published: March 2009

The equivalent of 5–7 units of platelets, isolated from a single donor with the IBM Blood Cell Processor 2997 using a dual stage separation chamber, was frozen with the cryoprotectant dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). The DMSO‐saline solution was added directly to the platelets, and the platelets were frozen in a polyvinyl chloride plastic bag by storage in a ‐80°C mechanical freezer. Washing the thawed platelets with a phosphate‐buffered sodium chloride‐dextrose solution, pH of 5.0, removed about 95% of the DMSO. In vitro freeze‐thaw‐wash recovery was 80%, and in vivo 51Cr platelet recovery was 31%. Platelet dense body granules were well maintained after freezing, thawing, and washing.

This is a safe and effective method of platelet cryopreservation which can be performed in less time than other currently used methods.
Placental Transfer of Rh Antibody (Anti‐D IgG) during Pregnancy
Authors: Pollock Janet M. , Bowman John M.
Published: March 2009

Anti‐D levels in blood taken immediately postpartum from Rh‐negative women who have been given antenatal Rh immune globulin and the anti‐D levels in the cord blood of their babies were measured semiquantitatively by a low ionic polybrene Auto Analyzer technique. When both mother and baby were Rh‐negative a comparison of their anti‐D levels was made against the interval between injection of the passive anti‐D and delivery. Mothers' levels decreased as the interval increased, the regression coefficient for 73 maternal sera was ‐0.74. The drop in levels of cord blood was much less than that of the mothers' levels. The regression coefficient was ‐0.294 for 74 cord sera (one set of twins). The marked difference between cord blood and maternal blood levels of anti‐D at delivery supports the hypothesis that the transfer of IgG across the placenta is predominantly from mother to fetus and not from fetus to mother.
Posttransfusion Hepatitis in Spain. A Prospective Study
Authors: Hernández J.M. , Piqueras J. , Carrera A. , Triginer J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The incidence of posttransfusion hepatitis was prospectively investigated in 230 cardiac surgery patients. 40 patients (17.4%) developed clinical and/or biological signs of hepatitis. In 10 cases (25%), the illness was due to hepatitis B virus infection. 1 patient (2.5%) had serological evidence of cytomegalovirus infection with clinical signs of hepatitis. In 29 cases (72.5%), the hepatitis was considered to be due to non‐A, non‐B agent(s). Of the 29 patients in this latter group, 16 have persistent transaminase elevations after 1 year, thus suggesting the development of chronic liver disease.
Hepatitis B Virus Markers in Hematologic Patients: Relation to Transfusion Treatment and Hospitalization
Authors: Baraldini M. , Miglio F. , Pirillo Luigia , Cursaro Carmela , Meliconi R. , Stefanini G. F. , Gasbarrini G.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Screening tests for hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers were performed in 266 hematologic patients in order to evaluate the role of transfusion therapy in HBV infection and to identify other possible causes of the high rate of HBV markers positivity in onco‐hematologic units. As control groups we tested 99 nonhematologic polytransfused patients, 66 nonhematologic, nontransfused inpatients with various diseases and 72 subjects randomly selected from the general population. Higher HBV markers prevalence was found in hematologic patients, nonhematologic polytransfused patients and nonhematologic, non‐transfused inpatients than in the general population. HBV markers prevalence correlated with the length of hospitalization in all inpatients studied. Our data suggest that hospital admission is a major factor in HBV transmission in hematologic patients and in other inpatients studied. Blood transfusions represent a risk factor only when utilized as chronic treatment.
Frequency and Persistence of Serologic Markers Following Three Different Manifestations of Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Wilkinson R.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. 30 asymptomatic chronic carriers of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), 6 asymptomatic blood donors transiently infected with hepatitis B virus, and 38 patients with acute hepatitis B were tested for HBsAg, anti‐HBs, HBeAg, anti‐HBe and anti‐HBc.

Comparison of these results revealed significant variation in the frequency of HBeAg which was present in 1 (3.3%) carrier, 2 (33.3%) of the transiently positive donors, and in 24 (63.2%) of the patients with acute hepatitis. Anti‐HBe was found in 28 (93.3%) of the carriers, 4 (66.6%) of the transiently positive donors, and in 8 (21%) of the patients. Variation was also seen in the strength of anti‐HBc, with only the chronic carriers having titres which were consistently high (above 1,000). Retesting the two groups of donors after a period of approximately 2 years showed no change in the serologic status of the chronic carriers, while amongst the transient HBsAg positives the 2 HBeAg reactives had seroconverted, 1 of the anti‐HBe positives had become non‐reactive, and 2 of the 6 had developed anti‐HBs. 6 of the patients with acute hepatitis B were serologically reexamined during convalescence and showed results similar to those seen in the transiently HBsAg‐positive donors, with clearance of HBsAg in all, seroconversion from HBeAg to anti‐HBe in 4, and the production of anti‐HBs in 4.
Rh‐Incompatible Platelet Transfusion Therapy in Cancer Patients
Authors: Lichtiger Benjamin , Surgeon Juan , Rhorer Susan
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The clinical histories of 30 consecutive Rh0D‐negative oncology patients transfused with Rh0D‐incompatible platelet concentrates were analyzed. No evidence of sensitization to the Rh0D antigen was found whatsoever, in spite of the large numbers of Rh0D‐incompatible platelet transfusions given to these patients. The results of this work seem to indicate that patients with malignant diseases, who are undergoing various forms of antineoplastic therapy, are immunomyelosuppressed, and have severe thrombocytopenia, can safely receive platelets from Rh0D‐positive donors without developing evidence of immunization to Rh0D antigens.
Treatment of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Pisciotto P. , Rosen D. , Silver H. , Genco P. , Blumberg N. , Katz A.J. , Morse E.E.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. This report examines the results of treatment in 21 patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) diagnosed over a 4‐year time period (1976–1980) with a review of the possible role of each form of therapy in relationship to the various proposed pathogenic mechanisms. There was a 76.2% (16/21) overall survival with no significant difference in initial hematologic values in patients not surviving. Patients not surviving did not achieve a sustained platelet count greater than 150,000/μ1 at any time during their clinical course. 16 patients received steroids, antiplatelet agents and plasma exchange, with a total volume exchanged ranging from 20.8 to 1,455 ml/kg, as part of their treatment protocol. In this group of patients there was an 81.2% (13/16) survival, with 4 patients receiving additional therapy including splenectomy and/or vincristine. There was no correlation between the intensity of plasma exchange and the time to hematologic recovery. It is apparent that controlled clinical trials are necessary to better define the effectiveness of the present forms of therapy.
Improvement of Plasma Quality as Raw Material for Factor VIII:C Concentrates
Authors: Carlebjörk Göte , Blombäck Margareta , Åkerblom Olof
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Blood collected into different anticoagulants was stored in small tubes at +4 °C for up to 26 h. Seven blood coagulation analyses were performed under standardized conditions. High yield and stability of factor VIII: C were found for ACD and CPD‐adenine. No changes could be found in the other six parameters tested. Whole blood in blood bags could be stored for 2–4 h at +4 °C with maximal yield of F VIII:C, with blood stored overnight the recovery was 65%. In plasma F VIII: C was stable for at least 2 h at room temperature. F VIIIR: Ag and F VIIIR: RCoF were stable in both whole blood and plasma. No activation by plasmin as measured by Bβ 15–42 could be demonstrated. The initial FPA levels, reflecting thrombin activation, in the donated blood differed individually and in some blood bags very high concentrations were found. The levels of FPA were not correlated to the time for collection of a bag of blood.
Autoimmunity and the Kell Blood Groups: Auto‐Anti‐Kpb in a Kp(a+b‐) Patient
Authors: Manny N. , Levene C. , Sela R. , Johnson C.L. , Mueller K.A. , Marsh W.L.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. An example of auto‐anti‐Kpb in a Kp (a + b‐) patient is described. The antibody present in the patient's serum and in eluates from her red cells was IgG. It did not bind complement, and did not cause in vivo hemolysis. 9 months after recognition of the autoimmune state the direct antiglobulin test had become negative and anti‐Kpb was no longer detectable. It is postulated that autoimmunity involving the Kell blood group may be precipitated by antigens or enzymes of microbial origin.