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Guoshuai Shi,1 Ni Zhu,2 Lin Qiu,3 Hong Yan,1,4 Lingxia Zeng,1 Duolao Wang,5 Shaonong Dang,1 Zhaoqing Li,1 Yijun Kang,1 Tao Chen,6 Chao Li1 1Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Shaanxi Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Control and Prevention, Shaanxi Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China; 4Nutrition and Food Safety Engineering Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China; 5Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine Pembroke Place, Liverpool, Merseyside, L3 5QA, UK; 6Department of Public Health, Policy & Systems, Institute of Population Health, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3GB, UKCorrespondence: Chao LiDepartment of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail lcxjtu@xjtu.edu.cnTao ChenDepartment of Public Health, Policy & Systems, Institute of Population Health, The University of Liverpool, Whelan Building, Quadrangle, Liverpool, L 69 3GB, UKEmail Tao.chen@liverpool.ac.ukPurpose: This study aimed to estimate the impact of the 2020 China Diabetes Society’s (CDS) guideline on the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and eligibility for antidiabetic treatment in China.Material and Methods: Baseline data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS, 2011– 2012) were used to estimate the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and compare the recommendations for antidiabetic medication and intensification of therapy between the 2017 and 2020 CDS guidelines.Results: According to the 2017 CDS guideline, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 12.56% among Chinese adults who were ≥ 45 years of age. However, according to the 2020 CDS guideline, 0.65% (0.35%, 1.20%), or 3.54 (2.50, 4.57) million Chinese adults who were ≥ 45 years would additionally be diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Among Chinese adults not taking antidiabetic medications, 1.06% (0.87%, 1.28%), or 5.37 (4.36, 6.38) million Chinese adults with diabetes mellitus were recommended to start antidiabetic medication according to the 2017 CDS guideline, while 1.27% (1.01%, 1.58%), or 6.44 (5.29, 7.60) million Chinese adults with diabetes would be recommended to initiate antidiabetic medication according to the 2020 CDS guideline. Among Chinese adults taking antidiabetic medication, 51.59% (44.19%, 58.93%), or 18.35 (15.58, 21.12) million Chinese adults with diabetes received antidiabetic treatment but had a hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level higher than that mentioned in the 2017 and 2020 CDS guidelines.Conclusion: The addition of HbA1c in the 2020 CDS guideline will result in a modest increase in the number of Chinese adults who are diagnosed with diabetes and diabetes patients recommended for antidiabetic medication; however, the 2020 CDS guideline does not affect the number of diabetes patients eligible for intensification of treatment.Keywords: China Diabetes Society, diabetes, glycated hemoglobin A1c

Roxadustat is one of the oral hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors (HIF-PHIs) that stimulates erythropoiesis and regulates the genes related to iron metabolism. The treatment of HIF-PHIs is useful compared with that of erythropoietin stimulating agent (ESA) using various instruments and procedures. Few clinical researchers have examined the efficacy and safety of switching treatment from Darbepoetin to Roxadustat in Japanese hemodialysis (HD) patients. However, HIF-PHIs have severe adverse drug reactions, such as thrombotic events. In the present study, we evaluated the lower dose of roxadustat in HD patients receiving high dose of ESA therapy. Eighteen anemic HD patients receiving an ESA, that is,, darbepoetin over 40 μg per week, were enrolled in this study. The treatment of these patients was changed to 20 mg of roxadustat three times weekly for 6 months, after which doses were adjusted to achieve a hemoglobin (Hb) target of 10.0-12.0 g/dL. An increase of 58.1 ± 32.5 mg roxadustat three times weekly increased Hb. It also achieved and then maintained levels within the target range at month 6. Ferritin levels of more than 100 ng/mL or TSAT levels of more than 20% were maintained during the 6-month treatment periods with oral or intravenous iron supplementation. It seems unnecessary to increase the initial dose of roxadustat for patients using high doses of ESA. It is suggested that a reconsideration of the starting dose of roxadustat in Japanese HD patients is needed. (Ikegami General Hospital, Medical Corporation SHOWAKAI、Approval number: 2020-4).

Before death, patients commonly experience impaired consciousness for a significant period, frequently preventing family and others from final interactions with the patient. Some of these episodes of cognitive impairment may be treatable, with treatment not offered owing to the perception of ultimate futility or expense, or both. One of the causes of terminal loss of consciousness or decreased lucidity can be inadequate cerebral oxygen delivery. We report five cases from four institutions where an infusion of a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier to patients who were unconscious or not lucid owing to acute severe anemia (hemoglobin range, 2.1-5.2 g/dL) resulted in awakening or lucidity. We review briefly human cognitive function and anemia and remark about the use of a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier for acute severe anemia when red cell transfusion is not an option.

In this population-based study, the authors constructed age-specific and sex-specific hemoglobin percentiles from values reported for a defined healthy population in the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS). Age-specific and sex-specific 5th percentiles of hemoglobin derived for this healthy population was used as the study cut-off to define anemia. These were compared with the existing WHO cut-offs to assess significant differences between them at each year of age and sex for quantifying the prevalence of anemia in the entire CNNS sample. From the CNNS survey 41210 participants had a hemoglobin value, 8087 of whom were included in this study and comprised the primary analytical sample. Compared with existing WHO cut-offs, the study cut-offs for hemoglobin were lower at all ages, usually by 1–2 g/dL, but more so in children of both sexes aged 1–2 years and in girls aged 10 years or older. Anemia prevalence with the study cut-offs was 19·2 percentage points lower than with WHO cut-offs in the entire CNNS sample with valid hemoglobin values across all ages and sexes (10·8% with study cut-offs vs 30·0% with WHO cut-offs). The authors concluded that these findings support the re-examination of WHO hemoglobin cut-offs to define anemia.

New tools for the rapid diagnosis of hemoglobinosis could encourage the extension of their screening in Africa. Our goal was to assess the analytical performances of a rapid hemoglobin S and C detection test, the Sickle Scan. This was a cross-sectional study carried out in March 2019 at the Yopougon Teaching Hospital. The subjects followed for hemoglobinosis as well as the subjects seeking out an electrophoresis of their hemoglobin were included. We carried out the hemogram, the electrophoresis of hemoglobin at alkaline pH (reference method) coupled with the metabisulfite sickling test (Emmel test) and the rapid detection test to be evaluated. This immunochromatographic test is capable of detecting hemoglobins A, S, and C, and to infer the hemoglobin phenotype from there. The study recruited 191 individuals. The test detected hemoglobins S and C with a sensitivity of 99.4% and 97.7% respectively; a specificity of 93.3% and 99.3%. The positive likelihood ratio for hemoglobins S and C was 15 and 144 respectively. The negative likelihood ratio was 0.01 for hemoglobin S, and 0.02 for hemoglobin C. The intrinsic characteristics obtained make this test an interesting screening tool for hemoglobinosis S and C. Keywords: Diagnostic test, hemoglobinosis, Abidjan, sensitivity, specificity.

Background/Aim: A significant predictive factor for the occurrence of complications after gastrectomy in elderly gastric cancer patients is yet to be determined. We aimed to evaluate the clinical factors associated with overall complications including remote infection after gastrectomy in elderly gastric cancer patients. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data of 101 patients aged over 80 years, who underwent curative gastrectomy. We analyzed the clinicopathological factors that were independently associated with the occurrence of overall complications or remote infection by a logistic regression model. Results: The overall complication rate was 24.8%. We identified pneumonia as a remote infection, and the occurrence rate of remote infections was 5.9%. On multivariate analysis, hemoglobin (240 min) were significantly correlated with the occurrence of overall complications. Regarding the occurrence of remote infection, performing total gastrectomy and a hemoglobin level

espanolLa anemia es la disminucion de la masa eritrocitaria normal de una persona, siendo insuficiente para un transporte optimo de oxigeno a los tejidos. El sindrome anemico es el conjunto de signos y sintomas derivados de este hecho y de los mecanismos compensadores segun la gravedad y duracion de la hipoxia. La poliglobulia se refiere a un aumento de la concentracion de hemoglobina y/o hematocrito en sangre periferica. El diagnostico de la causa especifica de poliglobulia es importante para el manejo adecuado del paciente. La anemia es el resultado de una o mas combinaciones de tres mecanismos basicos: perdida de sangre, disminucion de la produccion de hematies o aumento de la destruccion de hematies (hemolisis). Segun la clasificacion etiopatogenica, las anemias son regenerativas («perifericas») o arregenerativas («centrales»). El diagnostico de anemia en la practica clinica se realiza con la cifra de hemoglobina por debajo de los valores de referencia establecidos por la OMS y otros parametros eritrocitarios disponibles en un hemograma. Una historia clinica completa con anamnesis y exploracion fisica exhaustiva, junto con pruebas de laboratorio ademas del hemograma, como el frotis de sangre periferica, reticulocitos, prueba de Coombs y patron ferrico, entre otros, nos permitiran establecer el diagnostico diferencial inicial de la anemia basandonos en criterios morfologicos (microcitica, normocitica o macrocitica) y etiopatogenicos (regenerativas o arregenerativas). EnglishAnemia is a decrease in a person's normal red cell mass, making it insufficient for the optimal transportation of oxygen to tissues. Anemic syndrome is the set of signs and symptoms arising from this phenomenon and the compensatory mechanisms according to the severity and duration of the hypoxia. Polycythemia refers to an increase in the hemoglobin and/or hematocrit concentration in peripheral blood. The diagnosis of the specific cause of polycythemia is important for proper management of the patient. Anemia is the result of one or more combinations of three basic mechanisms: blood loss, a decrease in red blood cell production, or an increase in red blood cell destruction (hemolysis). According to the etiopathogenic classification, anemias are regenerative («peripheral») or non-regenerative («central»). A diagnosis of anemia is made in clinical practice with a hemoglobin figure below the reference values established by the WHO and other red blood cell parameters available on a complete blood count. A complete medical record with a comprehensive anamnesis and physical examination along with a complete blood count and laboratory tests, such as a peripheral blood and reticulocyte smear, Coombs test, and pattern of iron, among others, will allow us to establish an initial differential diagnosis of the anemia based on morphological (microcytic, normocytic, or macrocytic) and etiopathogenic (regenerative or non-regenerative) criteria.

ObjectivesThe US Food and Drug Administration requires donated blood to be tested for various infectious diseases to ensure safety and purity. However, testing for hemoglobin variants is not required, despite reported occurrences of hemoglobin variant transfusion and concerns about the safety of such transfusions. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of hemoglobin variants within the blood supply.MethodsWe performed a 2-part study. First, we tested all RBC units in our blood bank by high-performance liquid chromatography for the presence of hemoglobin variants. Second, we performed a retrospective analysis of hemoglobin variant testing completed for routine management of sickle cell disease patients at our institution over a 5-month period to identify cases of hemoglobin variant transfusion.ResultsWe found that 2 of 476 (0.4%) RBC units in our blood bank contained a hemoglobin variant, and 5 of 563 (0.9%) sickle cell patients seen at our institution in a 5-month period were transfused with RBCs containing a hemoglobin variant.ConclusionsWe confirmed that hemoglobin variants are present within the blood supply, and the frequency of hemoglobin variant transfusion is elevated for patients with sickle cell disease given the increased prevalence of hemoglobin variants in the population of matched donors.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficiency of multiple-tract percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) as a day surgery for the treatment of complex renal stones. A mature protocol for day surgery was implemented. Forty-six patients who underwent planned day-surgery PCNL via multiple tracts for the treatment of complex renal stones were retrospectively reviewed. All procedures were performed by an experienced surgeon. The outcomes were recorded. The mean stone size and burden were 4.8 cm and 990.2 mm2, respectively. There were 26 (56.5%) and 20 (43.5%) patients with staghorn stones and multiple stones, respectively. Totals of two, three, and more than three tracts (with up to 7 tracts) were established in 22, 11, and 13 patients, respectively. The tract sizes ranged from 14 to 24 Fr. One to four nephrostomy tubes were placed in most patients, and a tubeless process was accomplished in only 3 (6.5%) patients. The mean surgery time was 116 min with a hemoglobin drop of 22.1 ± 16.8 g/L. Eight (17.4%) patients developed postoperative complications, with severe complications (Clavien grades III–IV) in two cases (4.4%). 39 (84.8%) patients were discharged within 24 h after surgery, and 7 (15.2%) patients were fully admitted. Only 1 (2.2%) patient required readmission. The stone clearance rate was 84.8%. Day-surgery PCNL can be safely performed via multiple percutaneous tracts by experienced surgeons and is an efficient strategy for the treatment of complex renal stones.

Diabetes is associated with increased risk of stillbirth and shoulder dystocia. Compared with uncomplicated pregnancies, diabetic patients have a 4-6x risk of stillbirth and 2-3x risk of shoulder dystocia. A 34 yo G2P0010 presented with a 40+3 wga IUFD with nonstandard antenatal glucose screening. Admission labs included a hemoglobin A1c of 6.6. She had a vaginal delivery complicated by a 30-minute shoulder dystocia that was not relieved by McRoberts, suprapubic pressure, Rubin II, Wood’s Screw, or posterior arm delivery. Nitroglycerine was administered, after which Wood’s Screw was successful resulting in delivery of an infant weighing 4190 grams (85th percentile for gestational age). A 31 yo G1 presented with a 37+1 wga IUFD. Her 28 wga three-hour GTT was notable for an elevated value at one hour (216 mg/dL). Admission labs included a hemoglobin A1c of 6.6. She had a vaginal delivery complicated by a 30-minute shoulder dystocia that was relieved via posterior axillary sling after failure of McRoberts, suprapubic pressure, Rubin II, Wood’s Screw, and Gaskin’s, resulting in the delivery of an infant weighing 3590 g (92nd percentile for gestational age). We present two cases of severe shoulder dystocia in patients who both presented with term IUFD and diabetic-range hemoglobin A1c. There is minimal literature on diabetic patients with pregnancies affected by both stillbirth and shoulder dystocia. These cases underscore the importance of glucose screening and control to prevent catastrophic obstetric outcomes.

Infantile pyknocytosis is a rare cause of neonatal hemolytic anemia, which presents in the first few weeks of life. We report a classic case of infantile pyknocytosis that presented to our institution with rebound hyperbilirubinemia after receiving phototherapy. The infant was found to have a hemoglobin of 5.8 g/dL, requiring a total of 15 mL/kg of red blood cells (in 2 separate transfusions) before discharge. The diagnosis was ultimately made by a review of the peripheral blood smear. We review the literature and suggest pediatricians consider infantile pyknocytosis on their differential when hemolytic anemia presents in the newborn period.

Background Anemia rates are over 60% in disadvantaged children yet there is little information about the quality of anemia care for disadvantaged children. Methods Our primary objective was to assess the burden and quality of anemia care for disadvantaged children and to determine how this varied by age and geographic location. We implemented a cross-sectional study using clinical audit data from 2287 Indigenous children aged 6–59 months attending 109 primary health care centers between 2012 and 2014. Data were analysed using multivariable regression models. Results Children aged 6–11 months (164, 41.9%) were less likely to receive anemia care than children aged 12–59 months (963, 56.5%) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.48, CI 0.35, 0.65). Proportion of children receiving anemia care ranged from 10.2% (92) (advice about ‘food security’) to 72.8% (728) (nutrition advice). 70.2% of children had a hemoglobin measurement in the last 12 months. Non-remote area families (115, 38.2) were less likely to receive anemia care compared to remote families (1012, 56.4%) (aOR 0.34, CI 0.15, 0.74). 57% (111) aged 6–11 months were diagnosed with anemia compared to 42.8% (163) aged 12–23 months and 22.4% (201) aged 24–59 months. 49% (48.5%, 219) of children with anemia received follow up. Conclusions The burden of anemia and quality of care for disadvantaged Indigenous children was concerning across all remote and urban locations assessed in this study. Improved services are needed for children aged 6–11 months, who are particularly at risk.

Since the Transfusion Requirements in Critical Care trial, studies have shown that acutely ill patients can drift as a low as 5 g/dL. This study reviews a transfusion trigger change to 6.5 g/dL, which we hypothesize will conserve resources and improve quality of care. This is a retrospective chart review at an urban Level I trauma center from January through December 2015 after our trauma service changed the transfusion trigger from 7 to 6.5 g/dL. Outcomes in patients before (TT7) and after (TT6.5) the change in transfusion threshold were then compared. One hundred thirty-one discrete patients were included in this trial, with 285 instances of a hemoglobin of 7 g/dL or less and 178 transfusions. Seventy-two patients were before the change in threshold and 59 after. There was no change in length of hospital stay, ICU stay, ventilator days, mortality, and organ system failure after change in the transfusion threshold. After initiation of a more conservative threshold, 72 units of blood were saved. Decreased transfusion threshold was associated with no worse outcomes associated with decreased resource utilization.

Background: Ex-vivo normothermic perfusion (EVNP) has been used as an alternative to static cold storage (SCS) to improve allograft quality in solid organ and vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA). Perfusates containing red blood cells (RBCs) have shown to improve outcomes during ex vivo normothermic organ perfusion when compared to acellular perfusates. However, the use of blood products is challenging due to limited availability, the need for cross-matching, and potential blood-borne infection transmission. To avoid limitations associated with the use of blood-based products, we evaluated the feasibility of EVNLP utilizing a polymerized Hemoglobin-Based Oxygen Carrier-201 (HBOC-201). Methods: Twenty-four porcine forelimbs were procured from Yorkshire pigs following euthanasia. Six forelimbs underwent EVNLP with an HBOC-201 based perfusate, six with an RBC-based perfusate, and twelve served as static cold storage (SCS) controls. EVNLP termination criteria included systolic arterial pressure ≥115 mmHg, fullness of compartments, or tissue oxygen saturation drop by 20%. Limb contractility, weight change, compartment pressure, tissue oxygen saturation, oxygen uptake rates (OUR) were assessed. Perfusate fluid-dynamics, gases, electrolytes, metabolites, methemoglobin (MetHb), creatine kinase (CK), and myoglobin concentration were measured. Limb viability was assessed with indocyanine green (ICG) angiography, infrared thermography (IRT), and muscle histology. Results: Warm ischemia time before EVNLP was 35.50±8.62 min in HBOC-201 perfused limbs and 30.17±8.03 min in RBC-perfused limbs (p=0.07). EVNLP duration in HBOC-201 and RBC-perfused limbs was 22.5±1.7 and 28.2±7.3 hours, respectively (p=0.04). Vascular flow (325±25 vs. 444.7±50.6 ml/min; p=0.39), OUR (2.0±1.45 vs. 1.3±0.92 mlO2/min*g of tissue; p=0.80), lactate (14.66±4.26 vs. 13.11±6.68 mmol/L; p=0.32), and perfusate pH (7.53±0.25 HBOC-201; 7.50±0.23 RBC; p=0.82) were not significantly different between treatment groups. Additionally, flexor (28.3±22.0 vs. 27.5±10.6; p=0.99) and extensor (31.5±22.9 vs. 28.8±14.5; p=0.82) compartment pressures, contractility (3±2 vs. 4±1 p=0.57), and percent weight change (23.1±3.0% vs. 13.2±22.7%; p=0.07) were not significantly different between HBOC-201 and RBC groups. In HBOC-201 perfused limbs, MetHb levels increased, reaching 47.8±12.1% at endpoint. Methemoglobin saturation did not affect OUR (ρ = -0.15, r2 = 0.022; p=0.45). Distal tissue preservation was confirmed by IRT and ICG angiography in both EVNLP groups. Hypoxic cell clusters were identified in the SCS control group at endpoint and were absent in both treatment arms. Conclusion: HBOC-201- and RBC-based perfusates similarly support isolated limb physiology, metabolism, and function. Optimization of modifiable factors, including HBOC-201 oxidation, may extend EVNLP durations employing HBOC-201 and overcome logistical constraints of the utilization of traditional blood products.

The effectiveness of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in quickly increasing normal hemoglobin concentration and replenishing body iron reserves up to 6–12 wk is known; however, its long-term effectiveness is unknown. In this study conducted in northern India during August 2018 to February 2019, 100 postpartum women within 48 h of delivery with a hemoglobin concentration between 5.0 and 9.9 g/dL were included. A single dose of intravenous FCM was administered. The hemoglobin and serum ferritin concentrations were measured at baseline and at 6 mo. Out of 100 women recruited, 57 (57%) returned for the follow-up visit at 6 mo. The mean (± SD) hemoglobin and serum ferritin concentrations at baseline were 8.6 ± 1.1 g/dL and 15.8 ± 17.2 ng/mL, respectively, and at 6 months were 12.5 ± 1.2 g/dL and 72.0 ± 52.0 ng/mL, respectively. The mean increase in hemoglobin concentration was 3.9 (95% CI: 3.5, 4.3) g/dL (P

In 1986, the surprising identification of a hemoglobin (VHb) in the bacterium Vitreoscilla greatly extended the range of taxa in which this oxygen binding protein functions. Elucidation of many of its biochemical properties and relation to overall cell physiology, as well as the sequence of the gene encoding it and aspects of control of its expression were determined in the following years. In addition, during the early years following its discovery, strategies were developed to use its expression in heterologous microbial hosts to enhance processes of practical usefulness. The VHb discovery also served as the foundation for what has become the fascinatingly rich field of bacterial hemoglobins. VHb’s position as the first known bacterial hemoglobin and its extensive use in biotechnological applications, which continue today, make a review of the early studies of its properties and uses an appropriate and interesting topic thirty-five years after its discovery.

Although vertebrates are indispensable to biomedical research, studies are often limited by factors such as cost, lengthy internal review, and ethical considerations. We present the earthworm as an alternative, low-cost, invertebrate applicable to certain preliminary vasculature studies. Due to the surgical availability of the earthworm's dorsal vessels, ventral vessels, and five pairs of pseudo hearts, earthworms are readily accessible, offer low-cost maintenance, and require administration of only small doses of a given compound. The earthworm model provides a simple closed vascular circulatory system with a hemoglobin structure similar to human blood. A protocol is provided for anaesthetizing the earthworms and performing surgical incisions to expose relevant blood vessels. Micropipettes for compound administration are formed by heating and pulling glass with a pipette puller and using a beveling system to create a micron-scale fine needle tip. The tips are then used with a micropositioner and microinjector to inject arbitrary compounds into the vascular system of an earthworm, repeatably, with the availability of large sample sizes and small compound volumes. Details on the intricacies of injection procedure are provided. The small vessel size of the earthworm is challenging, particularly in the case of the ventral vessel; however, mastery of the techniques presented offers high repeatability as a low-cost solution, making studies of very large sample size practical.

Percutaneous renal biopsy is an essential tool for diagnosing various renal diseases, however, little is known about whether renal biopsy performed by physicians with short nephrology experience is safe in Japan. This study included 238 patients who underwent percutaneous renal biopsy between April 2017 and September 2020. We retrospectively analyzed the frequency of post-renal biopsy complications (hemoglobin decrease of ≥10%, hypotension, blood transfusion, renal artery embolization, nephrectomy and death) and compared their incidence among physicians with varied experience in nephrology. After renal biopsy, a hemoglobin decrease of ≥10%, hypotension and transfusion occurred in 13.1%, 3.8% and 0.8% of patients, respectively. There were no cases of post-biopsy renal artery embolism, nephrectomy, or death. The composite complication rate was 16.0%. The incidence of post-biopsy complications was similar between physicians with ≥3 years and &lt, 3 years of clinical nephrology experience (12.5% vs. 16.8%, p = 0.64). Furthermore, the post-biopsy composite complication rates were similar between physicians with ≥6 months and &lt, 6 months of clinical nephrology experience (16.3% vs. 15.6%, p &gt, 0.99). Under attending nephrologist supervision, a physician with short clinical nephrology experience can safely perform renal biopsy.

In patients with T2DM and ESRD, insulin is the antidiabetic medication of choice with a hemoglobin A(1c) target of 6 to 8%, using fructosamine levels or other measures for better assessment of glycemic control.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects millions of people throughout the world. Hemoglobin S (HbS) polymerization is the fundamental cause of SCD pathophysiology, which leads to hemolysis, increased viscosity, and acute vaso-occlusive episodes. Novel agents have been developed to target the pathophysiology of SCD and decrease the frequency of SCD complications. Voxelotor (Oxbryta) is an HbS polymerization inhibitor that is approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for the treatment of SCD in adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older.

An 18-year-old, previously healthy female was admitted for urgent evaluation and management of symptomatic anemia after presenting to her primary care physician with fatigue and shortness of breath. The initial outpatient evaluation was remarkable for hypochromic, microcytic anemia with a hemoglobin of 6.7 g/dL.

Transfusion is a major therapy for severe postpartum hemorrhage but there are few population-based descriptions of practice. The objective of this retrospective French population-based study was to describe transfusion practices in women with severe postpartum hemorrhage and the compliance with guidelines.Study data were sourced from a prior prospective population-based study of 182 309 deliveries in France between 2012 and 2013. Transfusion practices and compliance with French national guidelines were described for all women with severe postpartum hemorrhage who had been transfused with red blood cells.In 1495 women with severe postpartum hemorrhage (0.8% of all deliveries), 35.1% were not transfused, 50.0% were transfused during active bleeding and 14.9% exclusively after control of bleeding. Among 697 women with a hemoglobin level7 g/dL, 21.4% were not transfused. In 747 women transfused during active bleeding, 68.8% also received fresh frozen plasma (fresh frozen plasma to red blood cell ratio between 0.5 and 1 in 80.4%). Forty-four percent received fibrinogen concentrate (including 37.4% with a plasma fibrinogen level2 g/L) and 8.6% had a massive transfusion. Among 223 women transfused after bleeding was controlled, 5.4% received fresh frozen plasma and 13% had a hemoglobin level7 g/dL.One in five women with severe postpartum hemorrhage and a low hemoglobin concentration did not receive blood transfusion, which does not comply with French national recommendations. Over-transfusion occurred in women in whom bleeding had been controlled. The use of tools to help clinicians with transfusion decision-making should be developed.

Anemia is a global public health problem with major consequences for human health. About a quarter of the world population shows a hemoglobin concentration that is below the recommended thresholds. Non-invasive methods for monitoring and identifying potential risk of anemia and smartphone-based devices to perform this task are promising in addressing this pathology. We have considered some well-known studies carried out on this topic since the main purpose of this work was not to produce a review. The first group of papers describes the approaches for the clinical evaluation of anemia focused on different human exposed tissues, while we used a second group to overview some technologies, basic methods, and principles of operation of some devices and highlight some technical problems. Results extracted from the second group of papers examined were aggregated in two comparison tables. A growing interest in this topic is demonstrated by the increasing number of papers published recently. We believe we have identified several critical issues in the published studies, including those published by us. Just as an example, in many papers the dataset used is not described. With this paper we wish to open a discussion on these issues. Few papers have been sufficient to highlight differences in the experimental conditions and this makes the comparison of the results difficult. Differences are also found in the identification of the regions of interest in the tissue, descriptions of the datasets, and other boundary conditions. These critical issues are discussed together with open problems and common mistakes that probably we are making. We propose the definition of a road-map and a common agenda for research on this topic. In this sense, we want to highlight here some issues that seem worthy of common discussion and the subject of synergistic agreements. This paper, and in particular, the discussion could be the starting point for an open debate about the dissemination of our experiments and pave the way for further updates and improvements of what we have outlined.

INTRODUCTION: Ex-vivo normothermic limb perfusion (EVNLP) has been proven to preserve limb viability better than standard cold storage. Perfusates containing packed red blood cells (pRBC) improve outcomes when compared to acellular perfusates. Limitations of pRBC-based perfusion include limited availability, need for cross match, mechanical hemolysis, and activation of pro-inflammatory proteins. Hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier (HBOC)-201 (Hemopure) is a solution of polymerized bovine hemoglobin, characterized by low immunogenicity, no risk of hemolytic reaction, and enhanced convective and diffusive oxygen delivery. This is a preliminary study on the feasibility of EVNLP using HBOC-201 as an oxygen carrier. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three porcine forelimb perfusions were performed using an established EVNLP model and an HBOC-201-based perfusate. The perfusion circuit included a roller pump, oxygenator, heat exchanger, and reservoir. Electrolytes, limb temperature, weight, compartment pressure, nerve conduction, and perfusion indicated by indocyanine green angiography and infra-red thermography were monitored. Histological evaluation was performed with hematoxylin and eosin and electron microscopy. RESULTS: Three limbs were perfused for 21.3 ± 2.1 hours. Muscle contractility was preserved for 10.6 ± 2.4 hours. Better preservation of the mitochondrial ultrastructure was evident at 12 hours in contrast to crystallization and destruction features in the cold-storage controls. CONCLUSIONS: An HBOC-201-EVNLP produced outcomes similar to RBC-EVNLP with preservation of muscle contractility and mitochondrial structure.

Objectives Discuss the ethical issues in the management of postoperative hemorrhage in pediatric patients whose parents are Jehovah's Witnesses (JW) and 2) Describe a framework for shared decision making in this population. Methods A recall review of pediatric otolaryngology patients with parents of the JW faith and postoperative hemorrhage was performed over a year long period at a single institution. The literature on transfusions for JW minors was reviewed. Results Two patients were identified. The first patient had a severe post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage requiring multiple emergency operative interventions. The child developed a hemoglobin of 5.2 g/dl and received an emergent transfusion against parents’ wishes. The child subsequently did not require further intervention. The second patient hemorrhaged after a supraglottoplasty and was administered erythropoietin and iron infusion but did not require transfusion (hemoglobin nadir 7.9 g/dl). In both cases hematology was consulted, and extensive discussion with the families and the JW Hospital Liaison Committee occurred. Conclusions The risks of hemorrhage should be discussed with JW parents of patients undergoing even routine otolaryngologic surgery. In these cases, early shared decision making with family, the JW Hospital Liaison committee, and hematology was pursued regarding mutually acceptable interventions. Aggressive non-transfusion based resuscitation was carried out to minimize the likelihood of transfusion. In the first case, danger to the patient's life eventually necessitated transfusion in accordance with the patient's best interest and previous case law. A defined framework involving all stake-holders, including Pastoral Care, in the event of postoperative hemorrhage is critical.

The article presents the results of studies on the influence of cadmium sulfate in different doses on the organism of poultry. The purpose of the work was to investigate the effect of cadmium sulfate in doses of 2 and 4 mg/kg body weight on the morphological parameters of blood of the Laying Hens. By the evaluation of the morphological analysis of the quantitative and qualitative composition of blood, it is possible to deem objectively about the functional state of the hematopoietic system of the body of the bird for cadmium loading. For research were formed three experimental groups: control group and two research groups. The control group chickens were in the usual diet, they were fed with combined feed and drank water without cadmium sulfate. To the drinking water of chickens of experimental groups added cadmium sulfate for 30 days: the first group – 2 mg/kg body weight of cadmium sulfate, the second group – 4 mg/kg body weight of cadmium sulfate. The conditions and microclimate parameters in the room for all keeping chickens groups were similar. Blood from Laying Hens was taken from the subclavian (axillary) vein in the following periods: before taking the drugs and cadmium sulfate, on the first, seventh, fourteenth, twenty-first and thirtieth day of the experiment. Hematologic studies give an opportunity to study in detail the influence of cadmium on the body of chickens, on the basis of which a more correct development of the scheme of treatment and prevention of cadmium toxicity in poultry is possible. Drinking cadmium sulfate in doses of 2 and 4 mg/kg of body weight contributed to a decrease in the number of erythrocytes to 2.69 ± 0.13 and 2.36 ± 0.14 T/l, a hemoglobin level of 86.61 ± 1.11 and 72.17 ± 0.73 g/l and an increase in the number of leukocytes to 34.9 ± 0.60 and 35.8 ± 0.66 g/l. Probable changes in morphological parameters are observed on the 21st day of the experiment in the second experimental group of Laying Hens, which were released cadmium sulfate at a dose of 4 mg/kg body weight. The hematocrit value represents the ratio between the formed elements and the blood plasma. After chickens drinking with cadmium sulfate at doses of 2 and 4 mg/kg of body weight, the hematocrit value gradually decreased. The hematocrit value was low in the second experimental group on day 21 of the experiment, where, respectively, it was 34.11 ± 0.63%.

International audience; Sickle cell disease, a hemoglobin disorder with autosomal recessive transmission, is one of the most common genetic diseases screened in France. Thanks to early management, 95% of sickle cell patients reach adulthood and require transition from pediatric care to adult care. Through a retrospective study of records from serious sickle cell patients over 17 years old, followed in the hematology-oncology pediatric unit of Reims University Hospital Center in France, we analyzed transition conditions, compared pediatric and adult management, and proposed a plan for transition care. As of 1 January 2016, out of 19 sickle cell patients meeting the inclusion criteria, 12 had made the transition from pediatric care to adult medicine. Among the transition group, the transition was proposed by the pediatrician in 92% of cases. The average age of transition was 19.4 years. The time between receiving the information and the last pediatric visit was 2.4 months. Seven out of the 12 patients were informed of their transition during the last pediatric visit. The age of the first adult visit was 20.3 years. There was no alternate or joint consultation. The treatments prescribed during the last pediatric visit were not modified during the first adult visit. The average number of hospitalizations per patient was 2.7 in pediatric care and 3.4 in adult care with a median value of 2 in both groups. Three out of 12 patients died, the average age of death being 26.7 years. Transition is an important milestone in chronic disease patients. More than age, the maturity of the patient must be taken into account. The transition to the adult structure requires early preparation in the teenage years and investment of the adolescent and his family as well as investment of pediatric and adult caregivers. This study points out the need to establish a transition plan within our hospital in collaboration with adult physicians. Continuity of care is necessary to increase the quality of managing patients and cannot be done without a close relationship between pediatric specialists and adult physicians.

We present the case of a novel β-globin gene variant associated with early-onset transfusion-dependent anemia compatible with a β-thalassemia major (β-TM) phenotype in a patient of British descent....

Overuse of laboratory and X-ray testing is common in the intensive care unit (ICU). This review highlights focused strategies for critical care clinicians as outlined by the Critical Care Societies Collaborative (CCSC) as part of the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation’s Choosing Wisely® campaign. The campaign aims to promote the use of judicious testing and decrease unnecessary treatment measures in the ICU. The CCSC outlines five specific recommendations for reducing unnecessary testing in the ICU. First, reduce the use of daily or regular interval diagnostic testing. Second, do not transfuse red blood cells in hemodynamically stable, non-bleeding ICU patients with a hemoglobin concentration greater than 7 mg/dl. Third, do not use parenteral nutrition in adequately nourished critically ill patients within the first 7 days of ICU stay. Fourth, do not deeply sedate mechanically ventilated patients without a specific indication and without daily attempts to lighten sedation. Finally, do not continue life support for patients at high risk of death without offering patients and their families the alternative of comfort focused care. A number of strategies can be used to reduce unnecessary testing in the ICU, including educational campaigns, audit and feedback, and implementing prompts in the electronic ordering system to allow only acceptable indications when ordering routine testing. Greater awareness of the lack of outcome benefit and associated costs can prompt clinicians to be more mindful of ordering tests and procedures in order to reduce unnecessary testing in the ICU.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a devastating monogenic disorder that presents as a multisystem illness and affects approximately 100,000 individuals in the United States alone. SCD management largely focuses on primary prevention, symptomatic treatment and targeting of hemoglobin polymerization and red blood cell sickling. Areas covered: This review will discuss the progress of SCD over the last few decades, highlighting some of the clinical (mainly cerebrovascular) and psychosocial challenges of SCD in the United States. In addition, focus will also be made on the evolving science and management of this inherited disease. Expert commentary: Until recently hydroxyurea (HU) has been the only FDA approved therapy for SCD. However, advancing understanding of SCD pathophysiology has led to multiple clinical trials targeting SCD related thrombo-inflammation, abnormal endothelial biology, increased oxidant stress and sickle cell mutation. Yet, despite advancing understanding, available therapies are limited. SCD also imposes great psychosocial challenges for the individual and the affected community, which has previously been under-recognized. This has created a pressing need for complementary adjuvant therapies with repurposed and novel drugs, in addition to the establishment of comprehensive clinics focusing on both the medical treatment and the psychosocial issues associated with SCD.

BackgroundIron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia affect billions of people worldwide. Infants and young children are the most vulnerable. The Niños Primeros en Salud pediatric clinic aims to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendation to screen all children at 12 months of age, a vital period for development and the time of greatest risk.ObjectivesTo evaluate the clinic's performance screening for, diagnosing, and treating iron deficiency anemia; and to describe the prevalence and severity of anemia in infants and children attending a perirural clinic in the Dominican Republic.MethodsA total of 293 charts were reviewed for hemoglobin tests performed between 9 and 15 months of age. If a hemoglobin screening was performed, then sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, and laboratory data were collected. If blood tests revealed anemia, then the presence or absence of documented anemia diagnosis as well as the presence or absence of documented provision of iron therapy were recorded.FindingsLess than one-third (87, 29.7%) of patients had a documented hemoglobin test performed in this age range. Of these, 89.6% indicated anemia and nearly half (48.6%) revealed moderate anemia. One-third (34%) of hemoglobin results revealing anemia were not accompanied by a documented diagnosis. The vast majority (86.5%) of results indicated microcytosis, yet just more than half (50.8%) of anemic patients received iron therapy.ConclusionsMany children at the clinic were not screened for iron deficiency anemia during the period of highest risk. In the participants screened, iron deficiency anemia was underdiagnosed and often untreated. Anemia is a significant burden in this community—one demanding reliable screening and universal supplementation.

SummaryBackground Noninvasive measurements of hemoglobin in the pediatric perioperative setting could be helpful to avoid venipunctures in children. The present study aims to evaluate this by using a noninvasive device for hemoglobin determination. We compared noninvasively obtained hemoglobin with laboratory hemoglobin concentrations in children during their preoperative assessment. Methods In an observational study, 122 nonanemic children (age 4.2 ± 1.6 years) who were scheduled to undergo different surgical procedures under general anesthesia were included. In their preoperative preparations, single invasive blood samples for laboratory hemoglobin concentrations were routinely taken following hospital policy and compared to simultaneous noninvasive determinations of hemoglobin. A preoperative invasive value ≤9 g/dL would have caused cancelation of surgery and implied further investigations. Results A Bland-Altman plot showed that the average difference between noninvasively obtained hemoglobin and laboratory hemoglobin concentration was −0.44 g/dL (bias) with a standard deviation of the mean bias of 1.04 g/dL. A hemoglobin error grid showed that the noninvasive device could identify almost all invasive hemoglobin values >9 g/dL. In total, there were 4 false-positive values where noninvasively obtained hemoglobin observations were below while the paired invasive values were above 9 g/dL. Conclusion The data in this pediatric setting suggest that the device may eliminate the need for venipuncture in nonanemic children.

Objective The objective of this study was to compare the use of hemoglobin A1C to oral glucose tolerance testing to diagnose overt type 2 diabetes in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study used a nonexperimental descriptive design to compare the use of the hemoglobin A1C test results to oral glucose tolerance test results. Methods The study used a sample of 45 women at high risk for type 2 diabetes in the first trimester of pregnancy. Participants were consented to draw a hemoglobin A1C with their ordered oral glucose tolerance testing for comparison of the two tests' ability to diagnose overt type 2 diabetes. Results Hemoglobin A1C tests were highly positively correlated with oral glucose tolerance testing for diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in women in the first trimester of pregnancy. Conclusion The research provides beginning evidence that the hemoglobin A1C should be considered as a first-tier diagnostic test for overt type 2 diabetes in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Background Anemia is a substantial contributor to poor pregnancy outcomes in low- and middle-income countries. Access to laboratory facilities is limited; therefore, on-site testing warrants attention. Objectives To determine the accuracy of on-site tests to detect anemia in pregnancy. Search strategy MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from inception until March 2016, with no language restrictions, using the terms “pregnancy,” “an(a)emia,” and “h(a)emoglobin.” Selection criteria Studies that evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of on-site hemoglobin tests versus laboratory-based reference tests during pregnancy were included. Data collection and analysis Study characteristics and true positive, true negative, false positive, and false negative rates were extracted. Sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, and post-test probabilities were calculated. Anemia was defined as a hemoglobin level of less than 110 g/L. Main results Ten studies (4239 participants) were assessed. Copper sulfate provided 97% sensitivity (95% confidence interval [CI] 88%–100%) and 71% specificity (95% CI 55%–85%); the Sahli method provided 86% sensitivity (95% CI 75%–94%) and 83% specificity (95% CI 68%–93%); and HemoCue provided 85% sensitivity (95% CI 79%–90%) and 80% specificity (95% CI 76%–83%). Conclusions Some on-site tests are accurate and should be made widely available to improve detection of anemia in pregnancy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

The efficiency to remove polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was determined using a hemoglobin-catalyzed biocatalytic reaction. The present study employed pyrene as a model of PAHs to study its oxidative removal in the presence of H2O2 and hemoglobin in mass ratio of 3:1. The extent of pyrene removal reached up to 91.1% in the presence of H2O2 and hemoglobin. However, the extent of pyrene removal was 21.3% in the presence of H2O2 only. The results indicate that pyrene removal might be due to pyrene oxidation by the biocatalytic reaction. Overall, this study demonstrated that hemoglobin-catalyzed biocatalytic reactions could remediate pyrene effectively.

Objective This study aims to compare the accuracy of visual, quantitative gravimetric, and colorimetric methods used to determine blood loss during cesarean delivery procedures employing a hemoglobin extraction assay as the reference standard. Study Design In 50 patients having cesarean deliveries blood loss determined by assays of hemoglobin content on surgical sponges and in suction canisters was compared with obstetricians' visual estimates, a quantitative gravimetric method, and the blood loss determined by a novel colorimetric system. Agreement between the reference assay and other measures was evaluated by the Bland–Altman method. Results Compared with the blood loss measured by the reference assay (470 ± 296 mL), the colorimetric system (572 ± 334 mL) was more accurate than either visual estimation (928 ± 261 mL) or gravimetric measurement (822 ± 489 mL). The correlation between the assay method and the colorimetric system was more predictive (standardized coefficient = 0.951, adjusted R2 = 0.902) than either visual estimation (standardized coefficient = 0.700, adjusted R2 = 00.479) or the gravimetric determination (standardized coefficient = 0.564, adjusted R2 = 0.304). Conclusion During cesarean delivery, measuring blood loss using colorimetric image analysis is superior to visual estimation and a gravimetric method. Implementation of colorimetric analysis may enhance the ability of management protocols to improve clinical outcomes.

These results of hematological studies in dairy cows for the prophylaxis microelements insufficiency by inorganic and organic compounds of scarce micronutrients. The purpose of our research was to investigate the impact of inorganic and organic compounds of trace elements on the state of hemopoesis in dairy cows for the prophylaxis microelement insufficiency. The material for the research was the blood of experimental animals, where was determined: the number of erythrocytes, white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, the value of hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), the average content of hemoglobin in erythrocyte (ICSU). The given indicators were determined on an automatic hematology analyzer type «Mythic 18 vet» (Switzerland). According to the results of hematological studies in clinically sick animals it was set oligochromemia, decrease in hematocrit values against the background of a sufficient number of erythrocytes, that helped to reduce the MCH and MCV, and also ICSU growth. These changes of hemopoesis indicate the development of hypochromic microcytaric anemia. Application of basic diet of organic and inorganic compounds of scarce microelements in the composition of feed to clinically sick dairy cows promoted the normalization of hemopoesis. It was established a better therapeutic effect in animals of second experimental group, which were fed with chelated compound of scarce microelements in the form of methionates and lysinates. At the end of the experiment, in the blood of animals of the second experimental group, was set up probable increase in a hemoglobin content, hematocrit values, МСН та MCV, and also decrease of ICSU, indicating a recovery of hemopoesis.

Anemia may be defined as a reduction in red blood cell mass or blood hemoglobin concentration. Physiologically, this represents a hemoglobin level that is too low to meet cellular oxygen demands. Practically, the lower limit of normal is set at 2 standard deviations below the mean based on age, gender, and ethnicity/race. Anemia can lead to impaired growth, development, and poor neurocognitive outcome. As such, it is essential for pediatricians to recognize and conduct appropriate testing for a child with anemia. [ Pediatr Ann . 2020;49(1):e10–e16.]

Amaç: Bu çalışmanın amacı derin anemisi olan hastalarda demir eksikliği anemisi sıklığını belirlemek ve demir eksikliği anemisi olan ve olmayan hastalar arasında hematolojik parametrelerdeki farklılığı incelemek ve karşılaştırmaktır.Gereç ve Yöntemler: Bu çalışmada Ocak 2012 ve Temmuz 2014 tarihleri arasında derin anemi tanısı almış olan toplam 119 hasta geriye dönük olarak incelendi. Derin anemi hastalarının demografik ve klinik özellikleri değerlendirildi. Hastalar demir eksikliği anemisi açısından değerlendirildi ve demir eksikliği anemisi olan ve olmayan hastaların klinik özellikleri ve laboratuvar bulguları karşılaştırıldı.Bulgular: Yüz on dokuz olgunun 49 (%41,2)’u erkek, 70 (%58,8)’i kız olup ortalama yaş 6,7±6,2 yıl idi. Hastalarda çeşitli eş zamanlı hastalıklar vardı. Tüm hastalarda, hemoglobin değeri 6 gr/dL’nin altında olan grup, 6 gr/dL’ye eşit ve üstünde olanlara göre anlamlı şekilde daha düşük trombosit sayısına sahipti (p=0,037). Tüm vakaların 52 (%43,7)’sinde demir eksikliği anemisi olduğu bulundu ve bunların 27 (%51,9)’si 5 ile 18 yaş arasında idi. Demir eksikliği anemisi olan hastaların ferritin düzeyi demir eksikliği anemisi olmayan hastalara göre daha düşük (p, Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of iron deficiency anemia in patients with severe anemia, and to investigate and compare the difference in the hematological parameters between patients with and without iron deficiency anemia.Material and Methods: A total of 119 patients diagnosed with severe anemia between January 2012 and July 2014 were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Demographic and clinical characteristics of severe anemia patients were evaluated. Patients were evaluated in terms of iron deficiency anemia, and clinical characteristic and laboratory findings of the patients with and without iron deficiency anemia were compared.Results: Of the 119 cases 49 (41.2%) were male and 70 (58.8%) were female, mean age was 6.7±6.2 years. Various comorbidities were present in the patients. In all patients, the group with a hemoglobin value below 6 g/dL had a significantly lower platelet count than those equal to or above 6 g/dL (p=0.037). It was found that 52 (43.7%) of all cases had iron deficiency anemia and 27 (51.9%) of them were aged 5 to 18 years. Patients with iron deficiency anemia had lower ferritin level (p

Background: We developed a Hemoglobin vesicles (HbV), which are artificial substitute for Red blood cells (RBCs). Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of HbV for alternative treatment instead of RBCs transfusion in rabbits with hemorrhagic shock due to post-partum hemorrhage. Methods: New Zealand white rabbits at late gestation underwent uncontrolled hemorrhagic shock by transecting a right mid-artery in the myometrium, after cesarean section of right side uterus. Initially, in the simulated ordinal treatment of bleeding, rabbits received colloid fluids (Voluven®) through an femoral vein with equivalent volume of the bleeding every 5 minutes. Once blood loss achieved 100ml, animals subsequently faced on critical hemorrhagic situation, where mean arterial pressure (MAP) reduced to approximately 48mmHg. They were randomly divided into three isovolemic resuscitation regimens: continuing colloid fluid resuscitation (n=4); transfusion of autologous washed RBCs with plasma (n=4); HbV infusion combining 5% human serum albumin (n=4). After 60 minutes of bleeding, all animals underwent surgical control of bleeding and cesarean section of left side uterus. Results: At the point of critical hemorrhagic situation, Hb concentration reduced to 4.8 g/dl. At the end of resuscitation, HbV infusion regained MAP and restored Hb concentration as well as RBCs transfusion, besides colloid fluid resuscitation exaggerated the severe hemorrhagic shock as shown in the table. Conclusions: HbV treatment may be effective in the management of post-partum hemorrhagic shock.

Over the past decade, few reports suggested that the drug thalidomide (HbF inducer) may be of value in a subset of transfusion-dependent and non-transfusion dependent thalassemia patients. A cohort of 37 patients with symptomatic β-thalassemia syndrome [14 transfusions dependent thalassemia (TDT), and 23 Non-transfusion dependent Thalassemia (NTDT)], who were unable to pursue conventional therapy with transfusion and chelation, were recruited over 3 years in a center in Iraqi Kurdistan. After taking informed consent, patients were put on low dose Thalidomide (2–10 mg/kg), with regular follow up after that for a minimum of 8 months for a response. Patients with TDT were considered responders if their yearly transfusion requirement dropped by 25% or more, while NTDT responders were those who had a hemoglobin raise of 1 g m/dL or more. The median age of enrolled patients was 10 years (range 3–43) and included 21 males and 16 females. After a mean of 1.7 months (SD 0.76), responses were documented in 28 patients (75.7%). Among NTDT patients, a significant increase in hemoglobin from a mean of 7.83 (SD 1.07) to 9.96 g/dL (SD 1.11 g m/dL) was documented. While among TDT patients, there was a significant drop in yearly transfusions from 27 (SD 17.7) to 7.79 (SD 7.5) blood unit per year. The response in both categories was sustained after a median follow up of 15 months (8–36 m). Only minimal side effects were documented throughout in the form of constipation and only one patient developed extramedullary hemopoietic abdominal masses. A significant response to thalidomide was documented in the majority of TDT and NTDT patients, a response which was obtained after a mean of 1.7 months, and the response was sustained with limited side effects. The results support a possible role for this medication in a subset of thalassemia patients.

Micronutrient Powder (MNP) is beneficial to control anemia, but some iron-related side-effects are common. A high level of iron in the groundwater used for drinking may exacerbate the side-effects among MNP users. We conducted a randomized controlled trial examining the effect of a low-dose iron MNP compared with the standard MNP in children aged 2&ndash, 5 years residing in a high-groundwater-iron area in rural Bangladesh. We randomized 327 children, who were drinking from the &ldquo, high-iron&rdquo, wells (&ge, 2 mg/L), to receive either standard (12.5 mg iron) or low-dose iron (5.0 mg iron) MNP, one sachet per day for two months. Iron parameters were measured both at baseline and end-point. The children were monitored weekly for morbidities. A generalized linear model was used to determine the treatment effect of the low-dose iron MNP. Poisson regressions were used to determine the incidence rate ratios of the morbidities. The trial was registered at ISRCTN60058115. Changes in the prevalence of anemia (defined as a hemoglobin level &lt, 11.0 g/dL) were 5.4% (baseline) to 1.0% (end-point) in the standard MNP, and 5.8% (baseline) to 2.5% (end-point) in the low-dose iron MNP groups. The low-dose iron MNP was non-inferior to the standard MNP on hemoglobin outcome (&beta, = &minus, 0.14, 95% CI: &minus, 0.30, 0.013, p = 0.07). It resulted in a lower incidence of diarrhea (IRR = 0.29, p = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.11&ndash, 0.77), nausea (IRR = 0.24, p = 0.002, 95% CI: 0.09&ndash, 0.59) and fever (IRR = 0.26, p &lt, 0.001, 95% CI: 0.15&ndash, 0.43) compared to the standard MNP. Low-dose iron MNP was non-inferior to the standard MNP in preventing anemia yet demonstrated an added advantage of lowering the key side-effects.

Hemoglobin is one of the most important components of the blood because it is a metalloprotein in the erythrocytes, that is capable of binding oxygen and deliver it from lungs to the rest of the body. This paper will present a prototype of a hemoglobin analyzer that will measure the amount of hemoglobin from a capillary sample using a real-time algorithm based on image processing technology. The novelty consists in using an USB camera that is connected to a mobile platform that contains the software for the hemoglobin and hematocrit analysis. The prototype is cheap, reliable and does not contain any reagent for the measurement.