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Background: Anemia is a significant health concern around the world, and it is particularly prevalent in developing nations like India. A red blood cell (RBC) histogram is a graphic representation of particle size distribution (cell frequencies vs size). The goal of this study was to examine various types of anemia in patients and compare RBC histograms and results from peripheral smears. Methods: The study involved a total of 600 anemic patients. A histogram was produced with the use of a 5-part differential automated analyzer, following the complete mixing of the 3 mL of the EDTA blood sample. Additionally, a peripheral smear was prepared simultaneously and stained using Giemsa stain per standard operating procedures (SOP). The peripheral smear findings were then correlated with the histogram charts from the cell counter, taking into account the relevant clinical history. Results: Out of 600 cases, 339 were females, with a female-to-male ratio of 1.3:1. The 56.2% showed moderate anemia, 31.3 % showed mild anemia, and 12.5 % showed severe anemia. Among the histogram patterns, 52.7% exhibited a left shift, 35.5% showed the normal curve, 8.6% showed a broad base curve, 1.8% showed a right shift, and 1.3% showed a bimodal curve. Blood samples were evaluated along with the corresponding peripheral smear findings. The type of anemia was diagnosed by peripheral smear. 32.8 % of the cases were normocytic normochromic anemia, and 57.0% were microcytic hypochromic anemia. Macrocytic anemia was observed only in 2.5 % of cases, and dimorphic anemia was observed only in 8.0 % of cases diagnosed with PBS. The majority of times, peripheral smear findings and histogram patterns corresponded in cases of normocytic normochromic, microcytic hypochromic, and macrocytic anemias. In 600 cases, 420 had typing findings that accorded with those of the 2 methods, while 180 had discordant typing. Conclusion: Through its graphical representation of anemia typing, the automated analyzer helps decrease the total burden; nonetheless, it should always be verified through microscopy. As a result, it is concluded that in the era of molecular analysis and automation, the histogram alone could be used as a screening method. When combined with PBS findings, they act as a useful supplement, and by correlating the results of both methods, we could diagnose the majority of anemias.

Background: Anemia is a significant health concern around the world, and it is particularly prevalent in developing nations like India. A red blood cell (RBC) histogram is a graphic representation of particle size distribution (cell frequencies vs size). The goal of this study was to examine various types of anemia in patients and compare RBC histograms and results from peripheral smears. Methods: The study involved a total of 600 anemic patients. A histogram was produced with the use of a 5-part differential automated analyzer, following the complete mixing of the 3 mL of the EDTA blood sample. Additionally, a peripheral smear was prepared simultaneously and stained using Giemsa stain per standard operating procedures (SOP). The peripheral smear findings were then correlated with the histogram charts from the cell counter, taking into account the relevant clinical history. Results: Out of 600 cases, 339 were females, with a female-to-male ratio of 1.3:1. The 56.2% showed moderate anemia, 31.3 % showed mild anemia, and 12.5 % showed severe anemia. Among the histogram patterns, 52.7% exhibited a left shift, 35.5% showed the normal curve, 8.6% showed a broad base curve, 1.8% showed a right shift, and 1.3% showed a bimodal curve. Blood samples were evaluated along with the corresponding peripheral smear findings. The type of anemia was diagnosed by peripheral smear. 32.8 % of the cases were normocytic normochromic anemia, and 57.0% were microcytic hypochromic anemia. Macrocytic anemia was observed only in 2.5 % of cases, and dimorphic anemia was observed only in 8.0 % of cases diagnosed with PBS. The majority of times, peripheral smear findings and histogram patterns corresponded in cases of normocytic normochromic, microcytic hypochromic, and macrocytic anemias. In 600 cases, 420 had typing findings that accorded with those of the 2 methods, while 180 had discordant typing. Conclusion: Through its graphical representation of anemia typing, the automated analyzer helps decrease the total burden; nonetheless, it should always be verified through microscopy. As a result, it is concluded that in the era of molecular analysis and automation, the histogram alone could be used as a screening method. When combined with PBS findings, they act as a useful supplement, and by correlating the results of both methods, we could diagnose the majority of anemias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lateral root primordia (LRPs) of Arabidopsis can be directly converted to shoot meristems (SMs) by the application of exogenous cytokinin. Here, we report that Arabidopsis POLYAMINE OXIDASE 5 (AtPAO5) contributes to this process, since the rate of SM formation from LRPs was significantly lower in the pao5-2 knockout mutant. Furthermore, the presented experiments showed that AtPAO5 influences SM formation via controlling the thermospermine (T-Spm) level. Gene expression analyses supported the view that the pao5-2 mutation as well as exogenous T-Spm downregulate the expression of the class 3 haemoglobin coding genes AtGLB1 and AtGLB2. AtGLB1 and 2 have been reported to augment cytokinin sensitivity, indirectly inhibiting the expression of type-A ARABIDOPSIS RESPONSE REGULATORs (ARRs). In agreement, the same ARR-coding genes were found to be upregulated in the pao5-2 mutant. Although GLB proteins might also control cytokinin-induced nitric oxide (NO) accumulation, we could not find experimental evidence for it. Rather, the negative effect of NO-donor treatment on AtPAO5 gene expression and SM formation was seen. Nevertheless, a hypothetical pathway is set up explaining how AtPAO5 may affect direct shoot meristem formation, controlling cytokinin sensitivity through T-Spm and GLBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Anaemia can be a pointer of underlying severe disease, including undiagnosed malignancy. Subsequent blood tests are essential to classify the anaemia into subtypes and to facilitate targeted diagnostic investigation to ensure timely diagnosis of underlying disease. Objective We aimed to describe and classify anaemia based on laboratory tests from patients with new-onset anaemia detected in general practice. An additional aim was to analyse associations between patient characteristics and unclassified anaemia (not classifiable according to an algorithm). Design Population-based cross-sectional study. Setting Danish general practice. Subjects A total of 62,731 patients (age: 40–90 years) with new-onset anaemia were identified in Danish laboratory information systems and nationwide registries, and data were obtained for 2014–2018. Main outcome measures We measured the proportion of patients classified into subtypes of anaemia based on blood tests requested by general practitioners within 31 days of the anaemia index date. Results Of the 62,731 patients with new-onset anaemia, we identified unclassified anaemia in 78.9% (95% confidence interval (CI): 77.3–80.5) of men and 65.1% (CI: 63.4–66.9) of women. The likelihood of unclassified anaemia increased with age, increasing comorbidity and decreasing severity of anaemia. Conclusion The majority of patients with new-onset anaemia could not be classified through a simple algorithm due to missing blood tests, which highlights a potential missed opportunity for diagnosis. Standardised laboratory testing of patients with anaemia is warranted to ensure adequate follow-up and early detection of underlying severe disease.KEY POINTS Anaemia can be a sign of malignancy, and anaemia classification is an important step in the diagnosis of underlying disorders. The majority of patients with anaemia could not be classified according to a simple algorithm due to missing blood tests. Some patient characteristics were associated with a high risk of unclassified anaemia: high age, high comorbidity, and severe anaemia. Standardised laboratory testing in patients with anaemia is needed to inform targeted diagnostic investigation to ensure timely diagnosis.

Lateral root primordia (LRPs) of Arabidopsis can be directly converted to shoot meristems (SMs) by the application of exogenous cytokinin. Here, we report that Arabidopsis POLYAMINE OXIDASE 5 (AtPAO5) contributes to this process, since the rate of SM formation from LRPs was significantly lower in the pao5-2 knockout mutant. Furthermore, the presented experiments showed that AtPAO5 influences SM formation via controlling the thermospermine (T-Spm) level. Gene expression analyses supported the view that the pao5-2 mutation as well as exogenous T-Spm downregulate the expression of the class 3 haemoglobin coding genes AtGLB1 and AtGLB2. AtGLB1 and 2 have been reported to augment cytokinin sensitivity, indirectly inhibiting the expression of type-A ARABIDOPSIS RESPONSE REGULATORs (ARRs). In agreement, the same ARR-coding genes were found to be upregulated in the pao5-2 mutant. Although GLB proteins might also control cytokinin-induced nitric oxide (NO) accumulation, we could not find experimental evidence for it. Rather, the negative effect of NO-donor treatment on AtPAO5 gene expression and SM formation was seen. Nevertheless, a hypothetical pathway is set up explaining how AtPAO5 may affect direct shoot meristem formation, controlling cytokinin sensitivity through T-Spm and GLBs.

Anaemia can be a pointer of underlying severe disease, including undiagnosed malignancy. Subsequent blood tests are essential to classify the anaemia into subtypes and to facilitate targeted diagnostic investigation to ensure timely diagnosis of underlying disease. We aimed to describe and classify anaemia based on laboratory tests from patients with new-onset anaemia detected in general practice. An additional aim was to analyse associations between patient characteristics and unclassified anaemia (not classifiable according to an algorithm). Population-based cross-sectional study. Danish general practice. A total of 62,731 patients (age: 40–90 years) with new-onset anaemia were identified in Danish laboratory information systems and nationwide registries, and data were obtained for 2014–2018. We measured the proportion of patients classified into subtypes of anaemia based on blood tests requested by general practitioners within 31 days of the anaemia index date. Of the 62,731 patients with new-onset anaemia, we identified unclassified anaemia in 78.9% (95% confidence interval (CI): 77.3–80.5) of men and 65.1% (CI: 63.4–66.9) of women. The likelihood of unclassified anaemia increased with age, increasing comorbidity and decreasing severity of anaemia. The majority of patients with new-onset anaemia could not be classified through a simple algorithm due to missing blood tests, which highlights a potential missed opportunity for diagnosis. Standardised laboratory testing of patients with anaemia is warranted to ensure adequate follow-up and early detection of underlying severe disease. Anaemia can be a sign of malignancy, and anaemia classification is an important step in the diagnosis of underlying disorders. The majority of patients with anaemia could not be classified according to a simple algorithm due to missing blood tests. Some patient characteristics were associated with a high risk of unclassified anaemia: high age, high comorbidity, and severe anaemia. Standardised laboratory testing in patients with anaemia is needed to inform targeted diagnostic investigation to ensure timely diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multispectral and hyperspectral imaging (HSI) are emerging imaging techniques with the potential to transform the way patients with wounds are cared for, but it is not clear whether current systems are capable of delivering real‐time tissue characterisation and treatment guidance. We conducted a systematic review of HSI systems that have been assessed in patients, published over the past 32 years. We analysed 140 studies, including 10 different HSI systems. Current in vivo HSI systems generate a tissue oxygenation map. Tissue oxygenation measurements may help to predict those patients at risk of wound formation or delayed healing. No safety concerns were reported in any studies. A small number of studies have demonstrated the capabilities of in vivo label‐free HSI, but further work is needed to fully integrate it into the current clinical workflow for different wound aetiologies. As an emerging imaging modality for medical applications, HSI offers great potential for non‐invasive disease diagnosis and guidance when treating patients with both acute and chronic wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: This study aimed to describe how haemoglobin trajectories in pregnant Australian women were associated with subsequent postpartum haemorrhage, blood transfusion and other outcomes. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in two tertiary public hospitals in Australia, using routinely collected maternity and hospital data on singleton pregnancies (2011–2015). Latent class growth modelling defined trajectories among those with at least one haemoglobin in each of three antenatal time periods (0–15, 16–30 and 31+ weeks; n = 7104). Observed over expected ratios were calculated after predicting expected outcomes with adjusted logistic regression. Results: The mean minimum haemoglobin levels across the three periods were 127·9, 116·5 and 119·3 g/l. We identified seven groups of women with similar haemoglobin trajectories: five with parallel U‐shaped trajectories, one with increasing and one with decreasing trajectory. Thirty‐eight women (0.5%) had very low haemoglobin across the pregnancy and the highest adverse outcomes, including higher than expected blood transfusion risk. One hundred thirteen women (1.6%) with a progressively decreasing trajectory also had higher risk of transfusion. Women with high haemoglobin across the antenatal period had higher than expected risk of preterm birth, small for gestational age and infants transferred to higher care. Conclusions: Haemoglobin trajectories across pregnancy can predict women at higher risk of requiring transfusion around birth. Women who maintain high haemoglobins across the pregnancy are worthy of increased surveillance as they carry increased risks of newborn morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a group of non-biting midges (Chironomidae, Diptera), which due to the eutrophication of inland waters in urban and suburban areas have become very numerous. Some species of Chironomidae belong to oxygen deficit tolerant organisms, owing to a high content of haemoglobin in their larvae (bloodworms). Due to their high abundance in all types of fresh water bodies (they are the basic food component of invertebrates and vertebrates), freeze-dried and ground larvae of chironomid midges have become a source of fish food used by aquarists. It soon turned out that the ground haemoglobin, whose granules are smaller than 10 µm in diameter, may cause allergy in both aquarists and in people engaged in production of fish-food (occupational allergy). A high density of chironomid larvae in eutrophicated waters terminates in mass midge emergence; the males form then swarms over reservoirs and adjoining terrains. Particularly well-known is their nuisance in Florida, Japan, and Venice. Mainly in these areas, worries over the adults of these non-biting insects being possible sources of biologically active factors causing allergy have appeared (environmental allergy). Certain allergists claim that such source cannot be haemoglobin, because the enzymatic degradation of this protein during the metamorphosis takes place, but this causes mostly insect body fragments flying in air, such as squams, and setae, etc. In turn, others believe that the degradation is not perfect in all species and their meconium (the first excreta of the emerged adult, "fishy smelling") is the chironomid allergen made available for inhalation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teleost haemoglobins vary in polymorphisms and primary structure, although display similar functional properties. Key amino acids for Root effect (a reduction in oxygen-carrying capacity and loss of cooperativity with declining pH) are conserved throughout fish evolution. For the first time, we cloned and characterised Sparus aurata L. embryonic globin chains (eα1, eα2, eβ). We also studied haemoglobins (eHbI, eHbII) behaviour in normal and low-oxygen conditions. Several amino acids in fry globins are different in chemical type (e.g. polar → non-polar and vice versa), compared to adult globins. His55α1, crucial for Root effect, is substituted by Ala in fry, presumably enhancing oxygen capture, transport and reducing the dependence of Root effect from pH. Phylogenetic trees demonstrate that eα1 globin diversified more recently than eα2; moreover, eα1, eα2 and eβ globins evolved earlier than adult α and β globins. In low-oxygen conditions, fry haemoglobins display the same behaviour of the adult haemoglobins (probably, embryonic and adult-type I Hbs display a higher oxygen affinity than type II Hbs, operating through a rapid cycle of heme-Fe auto-oxidation/reduction). Therefore, based on our results and on the comparison with adult haemoglobins, we hypothesise that embryonic haemoglobins have evolved to better adapt fry to variable habitats. We studied Sparus aurata for its economical relevance in Mediterranean aquaculture. The information we provide can help understand Sparus aurata behaviour in the wild and in rearing conditions. Further studies with functional assays will deepen the knowledge on the molecular mechanisms of fry haemoglobin physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: BOLD imaging is a quantitative MRI technique allowing the evaluation of the balance between supply/demand in myocardial oxygenation and myocardial haemorrhage. We sought to investigate the ability of BOLD imaging to differentiate reversible from irreversible myocardial injury as well as the chronological progression of myocardial oxygenation after reperfusion in patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).Methods: Twenty-two patients (age, 60 ± 11 years; 77.3% male) with STEMI underwent cardiac MRIs on four occasions: on days 1, 3, 7 and 30 after reperfusion. BOLD MRI was obtained with a multi-echo turbo field echo (TFE) sequence on a 3-T scanner to assess myocardial oxygenation in MI.Results: T2* value in MI with intramyocardial haemorrhage (IMH) was the lowest (9.77 ± 3.29 ms), while that of the salvaged zone was the highest (33.97 ± 3.42 ms). T2* values in salvaged myocardium demonstrated a unimodal temporal pattern from days 1 (37.91 ± 2.23 ms) to 30 (30.68 ± 1.59 ms). T2* values in the MI regions were significantly lower than those in remote myocardium, although the trends in both were constant overall. There was a slightly positive correlation between T2* in MI regions and EF (Rho = 0.27, p < 0.05) or SV (Rho = 0.22, p = 0.04) and a slightly negative correlation between T2* in salvaged myocardium and LVEDV (Rho = - 0.23, p < 0.05).Conclusions: BOLD MRI performed in post-STEMI patients allows accurate evaluation of myocardial damage severity and could differentiate reversible from irreversible myocardial injury. The increased T2* values may imply the pathophysiological mechanism of salvaged myocardium. BOLD MRI could represent a more accurate alternative to the other currently available options.Key Points: • Myocardial oxygenation and haemorrhage after myocardial infarction affect BOLD MRI values • BOLD MRI could be used to differentiate irreversible from reversible myocardial damage • Changed oxygenation implies the pathophysiological mechanism of salvaged myocardium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anaemia is a global public health problem among children. However, few studies have examined anaemia prevalence and risk factors among Chinese children of different ages, particularly in poor rural areas. This study investigated these two aspects among children aged 6 to 23 months in poor rural areas of China., Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1132 children aged 6 to 23 months in three prefectures of the Qinba Mountains area. A finger prick blood test for haemoglobin and anaemia was conducted, along with household surveys of socio-demographic characteristics, illness characteristics, and feeding practices. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were used to determine predictors of anaemia., Results: Overall, 42.6% of children in the study displayed anaemia. Children aged 6 to 11 months had the highest anaemia prevalence (53.6%). Anaemia risk factors differed among age-groups and throughout the overall sample. Bivariate and multivariable regression results showed that continued breastfeeding, any history of formula feeding, and consumption of iron-rich or iron-fortified foods were prominent risk factors for anaemia. However, continued breastfeeding and any history of formula feeding had the greatest impact across age-groups (both P<0.05)., Conclusion: Anaemia remains a severe public health problem among children aged 6 to 23 months in rural China. Healthy feeding practices, nutritional health knowledge, and nutrition improvement projects are needed to reduce the burden of anaemia among children in rural areas of China., Competing Interests: All authors have disclosed no conflicts of interest.

Introduction: Based on international experiences and altering demography the reference intervals (Rl) for haemoglobin (Hb) concentrations in blood were changed in Denmark in 2013 from 113 -161 g/L to 117 -153 g/L for women and from 129 - 177 g/L to 134 - 170 g/L for men. The aim of this study was to determine the derived change in prevalence of anaemia and the change in yearly health care costs of diagnostic investigations associated with the expected, as we hypothesized, increased prevalence and health care costs. Materials and methods: Data from 96,314 non-hospitalised patients (55,341 females and 40,973 males, aged 18 -105 years) from general practitioners and community specialists of Funen, Denmark, were extracted from the laboratory information system. The prevalence of anaemia according to the new and the old Rl were investigated, and additional costs were calculated based on estimated additional blood analyses and nationally recommended endoscopic procedures. Results: Changing the Hb Rl increased the number of anaemic patients by 52% (3450 patients) over a two-year period. With new Rl the proportion of anaemic elderly above 80 years was 20.5% for females and 43.9% for males. Annual costs of derived additional assessments due to the altered Rl were estimated to be 5.7 million €, which equals the cost of 1214 knee replacement surgeries in Denmark. Conclusions: Changing the Hb Rl has been expensive, despite the fact that no outcome studies have justified the alteration. The methodological approach for establishing new Rl, here particularly for Hb, should be thoroughly considered. In general, physicians should use Rl with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitric oxide cytotoxicity arises from its rapid conversion to peroxynitrite (ONOO − ) in the presence of superoxide, provoking functional changes in proteins by nitration of tyrosine residues. The physiological significance of this post-translational modification is associated to tissue injury in animals, but has not been yet clarified in plants. The objective of this study was to establish new approaches that could help to understand ONOO − reactivity in plants. A recombinant Fe-superoxide dismutase from cowpea ( Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), r Vu FeSOD, was the target of the ONOO − -generator SIN-1, and the anti-nitrative effect of plant antioxidants and haemoglobins was tested in vitro. Nitration on r Vu FeSOD was evaluated immunochemically or as the loss of its enzymatic activity. This assay proved to be useful to test a variety of plant compounds for anti-nitrative capacity. Experimental data confirmed that rice ( Oryza sativa L.) haemoglobin-1 (r Os HbI) and cowpea leghaemoglobin-2 exerted a protective function against ONOO − by diminishing nitration on r Vu FeSOD. Both plant haemoglobins were nitrated by SIN-1. The chelator desferrioxamine suppressed nitration in r Os HbI, indicating that Fe plays a key role in the reaction. The removal of the haem moiety in r Os HbI importantly suppressed nitration, evidencing that this reaction may be self-catalyzed. Among small antioxidants, ascorbate remarkably decreased nitration in all tests. The phenolic compounds caffeic acid, gallic acid, pyrogallol, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and the flavonoid gossypin also diminished tyrosine nitration and protected r Vu FeSOD to different extents. It is concluded that small plant antioxidants, especially ascorbate, and haemoglobins may well play key roles in ONOO − homeostasis in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Prognostic factors and complicated prognostic models have been proposed for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). This study was designed to stratify MPM prognosis by using a simple model. Methods: Patients diagnosed with MPM in the past 10 years ( n = 122) were examined retrospectively. Data on the presence of chest pain, performance status (PS), asbestos exposure, smoking status, white blood cell count (WBC), haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, platelet count (PLT), lactate dehydronate (LD), histology, stage, and date of death or censored status were collected. After the factors were examined in the univariate analysis, recursive partitioning analysis was performed. Results: Statistically significant factors related to survival were the type of histology, stage, PS, WBC, PLT, Hb concentration, and LD. Histology, stage, PS, and Hb concentration were used in multivariate analysis. Stage and Hb concentration showed good statistical significance, whereas PS was borderline significant. The survival analyses were stratified into five groups by PS, stage, Hb concentration, and chest pain using recursive partitioning analysis. Group A comprised patients showing the most favourable prognoses (PS 0-2 and Hb concentration >12.1 g dL or PS 0-2 and Hb concentration ≤12.1 g dL without pain), and group B comprised the remaining patients. The median overall survival in groups A and B was 563 days (95 % confidence interval [CI] 502-779) and 157 days (95 % CI 115-224), respectively (hazard ratio of 5.44 [3.46-8.53, P < 0.0001]). Conclusions: The MPM patients with PS 0-2 and Hb concentration >12.1 or ≤12.1 g dL without chest pain had favourable prognoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Members of the Actinobacillus minor/“porcitonsillarum” complex are common inhabitants of the swine respiratory tract. Although avirulent or of low virulence for pigs, these organisms, like pathogens, do grow in vivo and must, therefore, be able to acquire iron within the host. Here, we investigated the abilities of six members of the A. minor/“porcitonsillarum” complex to acquire iron from transferrin and various haemoglobins. Using growth assays, all six strains were shown to acquire iron from porcine, bovine and human haemoglobins but not from porcine transferrin. Analyses of whole genome sequences revealed that A. minor strains NM305T and 202, unlike the swine-pathogenic actinobacilli, A. pleuropneumoniae and A. suis, lack not only the transferrin-binding protein genes, tbpA and tbpB, but also the haemoglobin-binding protein gene, hgbA. Strains NM305T and 202, however, were found to possess other putative haemin/haemoglobin-binding protein genes that were predicted to encode mature proteins of ∼72 and ∼75kDa, respectively. An affinity procedure based on haemin-agarose allowed the isolation of ∼65 and ∼67kDa iron-repressible outer membrane polypeptides from membranes derived from strains NM305T and 202, respectively, and mass spectrometry revealed that these polypeptides were the products of the putative haemin/haemoglobin-binding protein genes. PCR approaches allowed the amplification and sequencing of homologues of both haemin/haemoglobin-binding protein genes from each of the other four strains, strains 33PN and 7ATS of the A. minor/“porcitonsillarum” complex and “A. porcitonsillarum” strains 9953L55 and 0347, suggesting that such proteins are involved in the utilization of haemoglobin-bound iron, presumably as surface receptors, by all six strains investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Peri-operative fluid therapy continues to be an exercise in empiricism, with nagging questions about efficacy and complications. Pharmacokinetics is used for studying the time dependency of administered drugs. Volume kinetics is a pharmacokinetic approach describing the peak effects and clearance of intravenously infused fluids. It clarifies the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of an intravenous fluid bolus. This could possibly allow for more rational design of intravenous fluid paradigms to improve clinical fluid therapy. This chapter briefly summarizes currently accepted principles of fluid therapy, discusses the general approach to kinetic analysis of fluid therapy, reviews currently available data defining kinetic responses to fluid therapy, and speculates about future applications of this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To report reference intervals for haematological variables during normal pregnancy and postpartum. Material and methods: The series comprised 434 healthy ethnic Danish women with a normal pregnancy ≥37 wk duration and a normal delivery with newborns weight >2500 g. Blood samples were obtained at 18, 32 and 39 wk gestation and at 8 wk postpartum. The following variables were analysed: Haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit (Hct), blood erythrocyte count, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, white cell count, platelet count, erythrocyte folate, plasma folate, plasma cobalamin, plasma methylmalonic acid, plasma total homocysteine, serum ferritin, serum soluble transferrin receptor and plasma creatinine. Reference intervals were calculated using log10-transformed values (which showed normal distributions) as mean ± 1.96 × SD. Results: The lower reference value for Hb during pregnancy was 6.45 mmol/L (105 g/L) and 7.3 mmol/L (118 g/L) postpartum. The lower reference value for Hct was 0.31 in pregnancy and 0.35 postpartum. There was a gradual decline in the lower reference value for erythrocyte folate during pregnancy and postpartum from 0.46 to 0.29 μmol/L and in plasma folate from 6 to 4 nmol/L. Lower reference value for plasma cobalamin declined during pregnancy from 96 to 71 pmol/L, but increased postpartum to 148 pmol/L. Upper reference value for plasma homocysteine increased gradually during pregnancy and postpartum from 11.0 to 20.6 μmol/L. Geometric mean serum ferritin at 18 wk gestation was 32 μg/L. Plasma creatinine values were low during pregnancy and displayed a significant increase postpartum. Conclusion: The characteristic changes occurring in haematological indices during pregnancy and postpartum are described in this study. The results may be used as reference values in the assessment of health status of pregnant women with a similar socio-economic and racial background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Histophilus somni is an important pathogen of cattle and sheep. H. somni requires iron and can use ruminant transferrins as iron sources for growth. Here, we investigated the abilities of bovine (strains 649 and 2336) and ovine (strains 9L and 3384Y) isolates of H. somni to acquire iron from haemoglobins. Using growth assays, the bovine isolates were shown to acquire iron from bovine haemoglobin, but not from ovine, porcine or human haemoglobins; the ovine isolates, however, failed to use any of these haemoglobins as iron sources for growth. In solid phase binding assays, the bovine isolates, grown under iron-restricted conditions in the presence of bovine haemoglobin, bound not only bovine but also ovine and human haemoglobins. Competition binding assays indicated that all three haemoglobins were bound by the same receptor(s) and SDS-PAGE of membrane fractions revealed that expression of haemoglobin-binding activity was associated with the production of an ∼120-kDa outer membrane protein. PCR approaches allowed the amplification and sequencing of hgbA, and also hugX and hugZ homologues from strains 649, 9L and 3384Y. While hgbA of strain 649 was predicted to encode an HgbA precursor that is processed to yield a mature, 123.9-kDa haemoglobin-binding protein, the hgbA genes of strains 9L and 3384Y were predicted to give rise to truncated products. RT-PCR experiments revealed that in strain 649, hugX, hugZ and hgbA are co-transcribed and iron-regulated and additional sequencing suggested that in strain 2336, expression of HgbA is subject to phase variation involving a poly C tract within hgbA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Actinobacillus suis is an important swine pathogen. As with other pathogens, the ability of A. suis to acquire iron within the host is crucial for virulence. Here, we investigated the ability of seven strains of A. suis to acquire iron from haemoglobins. In growth assays, all strains could use porcine, bovine and human haemoglobins as iron sources for growth. Using solid phase binding assays, membranes derived from all strains, grown under iron-restricted conditions, were shown to bind all three haemoglobins. Competition binding assays indicated that these haemoglobins were bound by the same receptor and an affinity procedure allowed the isolation and identification of an iron-repressible, haemoglobin-binding polypeptide (∼105kDa) from all strains. Nucleotide sequence analyses revealed that A. suis possesses a gene (hgbA) that encodes a homologue of the Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae haemoglobin-binding protein, HgbA. hgbA, encoding a mature protein of 105kDa, was shown to be preceded by a hugZ homologue; putative promoter sequences and a putative Fur box were located upstream of hugZ and RT-PCR revealed that hugZ and hgbA are co-transcribed and iron-repressible. It is concluded that the acquisition of haemoglobin-bound iron by A. suis involves a single-component receptor that is up-regulated in response to iron restriction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

It is now known that there are several classes of haemoglobins in plants. A specialized class of haemoglobins, symbiotic haemoglobins, were discovered 62 years ago and are found only in nodules of plants capable of symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Plant haemoglobins, with properties distinct from symbiotic haemoglobins were discovered 18 years ago and are now believed to exist throughout the plant kingdom. They are expressed in different organs and tissues of both dicot and monocot plants. They are induced by hypoxic stress and by oversupply of certain nutrients. Most recently, truncated haemoglobins have been shown to also exist in plants. While hypoxic stress‐induced haemoglobins are widespread in the plant kingdom, their function has not been elucidated. This review discusses the recent findings regarding the function of these haemoglobins in relation to adaptation to hypoxia in plants. We propose that nitric oxide is an important metabolite in hypoxic plant cells and that at least one of the functions of hypoxic stress‐induced haemoglobins is to modulate nitric oxide levels in the cell. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background. Concomitant iron supplementation is required in the great majority of erythropoietin (Epo)‐treated patients with end‐stage renal failure. Intravenous (i.v.) iron supplementation has been demonstrated to be superior to oral iron therapy in Epo‐treated haemodialysis patients, but comparative data in iron‐replete peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients are lacking. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Introduction Haemoglobin concentrations decrease with age. Abnormally low and high haemoglobin concentrations are associated with reduced cognition; however, the evidence for these associations in cohort data is limited. This study aims to assess the relationship between haemoglobin concentration and cognition in a well-characterised cohort of older adults. Methods Two hundred and fifty-two healthy participants were drawn from the Aberdeen Children of the 1950s cohort, aged between 59 to 65 years. Participants underwent cognitive tests of processing speed, memory, verbal and nonverbal reasoning, and language ability and these were used to construct a global cognitive score, g , using principal component analysis. Haemoglobin concentration in the blood was measured concurrently. Hierarchical multiple regression models were constructed assessing the relationship between haemoglobin concentration and each cognitive measure and these were corrected for age, sex, education, C-reactive protein, hypertension, and body mass index. Results Significant linear association between haemoglobin concentration and nonverbal reasoning demonstrated that low haemoglobin levels are associated with lower scores. A quadratic relationship was found for haemoglobin concentration and immediate memory scores in which low and high haemoglobin levels were associated with lower scores. Conclusions Haemoglobin concentration was found to have a significant linear association with nonverbal reasoning scores and a significant quadratic association with memory scores. The results from this study help to understand the association between haemoglobin and different aspects of cognition., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2022, Bashir et al.)

Haemoglobins of ten tilapia species of the genera Oreochromis, Sarotherodon and Tilapia, three subspecies of the Nile tilapia, O. niloticus, and an artificial hybrid cross were analysed by isoelectric focusing aimed at characterizing the taxonomic value of these oxygen-binding molecules. Heterogeneous haemoglobin phenotypes were observed in haemolysate samples of all the fishes, and species-characteristic as well as subspecies-characteristic patterns could be identified. F1 hybrids were distinguishable from pure parental specimens. Globin chain studies by AU- and AUT-PAGE systems confirmed the heterogeneity and species specificity observed by isoelectric focusing of the tetrameric molecules. A total of eight different α-chains and eight different β-chains were detected by AU-PAGE and species-characteristic globin chain variants were shown to occur in almost all species. Globin chain profiles of hybrid specimens were characterized by the presence of all parental globin chain variants. © Rapid Science Ltd. 1998 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were undertaken for analysing haemoglobins and eye lens proteins in 6 Indian rodent genera from chaemotaxonomic point of view. The report reveals a distinct segregation of Rattus and Bandicota from Mus and other two murine genera. Revisionary studies of the entire subfamily Murinae for reconsidering the taxonomic placement of Rattus and Bandicota in the subfamily has been suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foram analisadas 7.657 amostras de sangue provenientes de 48 cidades das regiões de São José do Rio Preto e de Presidente Prudente, com o objetivo de detectar e conscientizar os portadores de hemoglobinas anormais. As análises efetuadas mostraram que 3,47% tinham hemoglobinas anormais, sendo 2,26% portadores de variantes moleculares (Hbs, AS, AC, SS, SC, AJ, AB2) e 1,21% de talasse-mias (alfa e beta). Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram que estudos semelhantes, além de propiciar o melhor conhecimento das causas genéticas, bioquímicas e hematológicas dessas alterações hereditárias, oferecem também a oportunidade de estimar a importância que essas patologias representam para a saúde pública do nosso país. A ação preventiva foi estabelecida por meio de reuniões de esclarecimentos médicos e biológicos aos portadores de hemoglobinas anormais.A study of abnormal haemoglobins among the inhabitants of S. José do Rio Preto and Presidente Prudente was conducted, using blood samples collected from 7,657 subjects attending health clinics in 48 towns of those regions during 1983-1984. For purposes of analysis the subjects were grouped by region of origin and racial features, 6,941 being classified as "caucasoid" and 716 as "negroid", the latter category including negroes, dark mulattoes, and light mulattoes. Electrophoretic techniques were used to detect abnormal haemoglobins, to determine the presence of haemoglobin types S and C, and isolate the polypeptide chains of other abnormal haemoglobins. Tests for quantification of haemoglobin A2 and fetal haemoglobin were performed as needed. Alpha and beta thalassaemias were diagnosed in accordance with principles established by the World Health Organization. These procedures detected abnormal haemoglobin in 266 (3.47%) of the study subjects. These included 173 specific molecular variants (169 of them being type S or type C variants) and 93 thalassaemias (4 of them being alpha thalassaemia and 89 beta thalassaemia, both in heterozygous state). Overall, the prevalence of abnormal haemoglobins was found to be higher among negroids (7.68%) than among the caucasoids (3.02%), and this difference was statistically significant (x²1; 0.01 = 6.64 x²1; 0.05 = 3.84). While the overall prevalence of abnormal haemoglobins among the S. José do Rio Preto subjects did not differ from prevalence among Presidente Prudente subjects, the prevalence of the genotypes detected among the populations analysed of these two cities, and their respective regions, was different. For S. José do Rio Preto and region, the Hb AS was more prevalent among the abnormal haemoglobins (63%), next came heterozygous beta thalassaemia (17%). For Presidente Prudente the prevalences of Hb AS and heterozygous beta thalassaemia, among the abnormal haemoglobins, were 46% and 40%, respectively. The preventive action to be taken was established by means of meetings at which medical and biological explanations were given to the carriers of abnormal haemoglobins. Overall, the results showed that similar studies offer better knowledge of genetic, biochemical and haemotological causes of these hereditary anaemias, and also provide the opportunity of discovering the importance that these pathological states have in the public health of the Brazilian population.

In a world of increasing immigration of a diverse range of nationalities, hereditary hemoglobin variants will be increasingly encountered, and should be considered in infants and children presenting with low saturations. We present a case report of an infant presenting with low oxygen saturations, who was extensively investigated before the correct diagnosis became apparent. Initial haemoglobin electrophoresis was normal, but subsequently abnormal on repeat testing. With further screening, a number of affected family members have since been identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]