Effects of centrifugal and roller pumps on survival of autologous red cells in cardiopulmonary bypass surgery

Background: Either a roller pump or a centrifugal pump can be used in the extracorporeal circuit during surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. In this study, we assessed the effect of these two pumps on the 24-h post–transfusion survival values of autologous red blood cells (RBC). Study design and methods: Fourteen male patients subjected to extracorporeal bypass procedures were studied. In seven patients, the autologous red cells were collected following the cardiopulmonary bypass procedure using the roller pump, and in seven patients, autologous red cells were collected following the cardiopulmonary procedure using the centrifugal pump. The 24-h post–transfusion survival values of the autologous RBC were measured using the 51 disodium chromate/99m technetium double isotope procedure. The effects of the extracorporeal bypass procedures using the roller pump and the centrifugal pump were also assessed by the measurements of hematocrit, platelet count, plasma hemoglobin, and serum lactate dehydrogenase levels. Results: The 51 disodium chromate 24-h post–transfusion survival values of the autologous RBC were similar whether the roller pump or the centrifugal pump was used in the extracorporeal circulation, as were the hematocrit, platelet count, plasma hemoglobin and serum lactate dehydrogenase levels. Conclusion: The 24-h post–transfusion survival values of autologous RBC, measured by the 51 disodium chromate/99m technetium double isotope procedure, were not significantly different, whether the roller pump or the centrifugal pump was used in the extracorporeal circuit using membrane oxygenators during cardiopulmonary surgical procedures.

Two cases of asbestosis and one case of rounded atelectasis due to non-occupational asbestos exposure

Asbestos is a well-known cause of several neoplastic (malignant mesothelioma, lung cancer) and non-neoplastic (asbestosis, pleuropathies) occupational diseases. Lower-level exposure in the general environment may induce pleural plaques and thickenings, and is associated with an increased mesothelioma risk. We present two patients (a 68-year-old man and a 72-year-old woman) who developed asbestosis (in association with pleural plaques and calcifications), and a 78-year-old man who developed rounded atelectasis (with pleural plaques and benign effusion), after living for several decades in the proximity of large Italian asbestos-cement plant. None of them had been exposed to asbestos occupationally. Besides living in a contaminated area, the woman used to clean the work clothes of her brother, who was employed in the local asbestos factory. The three cases indicate that non-neoplastic, long-latency asbestos-related diseases which are usually observed as a consequence of occupational exposures, may rarely develop in subjects living in contaminated geographical sites and buildings. These unusual environmental diseases raise the diagnostic problem of differentiating them from other, more common respiratory illnesses, and impose the duties of patient notification, assessment and follow-up, to assess the possibility of progression of disease and increased neoplastic risk.

[Rhabdomyolysis in a worker exposed to paraffinic mineral oils. Unusual association with bronchiolitis obliterans and organizing pneumonia (BOOP)]

We describe a 29-year-old worker; exposed to metal dust, sawdust and paraffinic mineral oils in a factory producing accessories for leather articles and clothing, who came to observation with fever (39 degrees C), chest pain and marked increase of muscular enzymes. Chest computed tomography showed two areas of lung consolidation, that subsequently appeared enlarged with central escavation. Lung biopsy lead to the diagnosis of BOOP. The case has been reported to the judicial and workers' compensation authorities as probable occupational toxic myopathy. Indeed, exposure to paraffinic mineral oils is a known, though unusual, cause of rhabdomyolysis. The association with BOOP has never been previously described.

Photostabilization of 1,4-dihydropyridine antihypertensives by incorporation into beta-cyclodextrin and liposomes

Inclusion compounds of eleven dihydropyridine drugs were formed and investigated for protection against photo-induced drug degradation. Formulations of cyclodextrins and liposomes were prepared and their photoprotective ability for the encapsulated drug was monitored. Drug photodegradation was spectrophotometrically followed during exposure of the formulations to light of a Xenon lamp. ICH guidelines for photostability testing were applied. A comparison with common pharmaceutical formulations revealed optimal protection for both formulations. The use of the liposome and cyclodextrin inclusion complexes resulted in a mean drug recovery of 77 and more then 90% respectively, after a light exposure until to 30 minutes with an intensity of 21 kJ x min(-1) m(-2). Lercanidipine and Manidipine only did not show a satisfactory increase of photostabilization in the studied supramolecular complexes, due to their low inclusion in both the systems.

Correlation between in vitro aggregation and thromboxane A2 production in fresh, liquid-preserved, and cryopreserved human platelets: effect of agonists, pH, and plasma and saline resuspension

BACKGROUND

Some of the tests used to assess the quality of fresh and preserved platelets (PLTs) include PLT number, PLT morphology, pH of the PLT medium, PLT response to hypotonic stress, and PLT aggregation to agonists. This study was performed to assess the function of fresh and preserved PLTs by their response to aggregation and their production of thromboxane A2 after in vitro stimulation with agonists.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

PLTs isolated by apheresis procedures were stored at 22 degrees C for as long as 5 days and then frozen with 6 percent dimethyl sulfoxide, stored at -80 degrees C, thawed, washed, and resuspended in medium. The effects of agonists and the pH and composition of the medium on PLT aggregation and PLT production of thromboxane A2 after stimulation were measured.

RESULTS

The agonists and the pH and composition of the medium affected both the aggregation response and the production of thromboxane A2 by the fresh and preserved PLTs. PLT aggregation response to arachidonic acid (AA) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) was significantly lower in the cryopreserved PLTs than in the fresh and preserved PLTs. After stimulation with AA and ADP, the cryopreserved PLTs produced more thromboxane than did the fresh and liquid-preserved PLTs.

CONCLUSIONS

The agonists and the pH and composition of the medium affected the response to aggregate and produce thromboxane in vitro in both the fresh and the liquid-preserved PLTs. PLT thromboxane A2 production may be a better in vitro test than PLT aggregation to assess PLT function in vivo.

Accelerated photostability study of tretinoin and isotretinoin in liposome formulations

The photodegradation of retinoic acids, tretinoin and isotretinoin, in ethanol and liposomes was studied. The light irradiation was performed according to the conditions suggested by the ICH Guideline for photostability testing by using a Xenon lamp within a wavelength range of 300-800 nm. The photodegradation process was monitored by UV spectrophotometry. In ethanol solution, tretinoin and isotretinoin undergo complete isomerization just within a few seconds of light exposure to give 13-cis and 9-cis isomers, respectively. The 13-cis isomer from tretinoin undergoes in turn a slow isomerization to the same 9-cis isomer. Both retinoic acids incorporated in liposome complexes showed an increased stability in comparison to the ethanol solutions. In particular for tretinoin, a residual concentration of 60% was still present after a light irradiance of 3470 kJ/m(2), by means of a 250 W/m(2) light power for 240 min, versus a residual value of just 8% measured at the same time in ethanol solution. Moreover, the isomerization rate in liposomes resulted reduced for isotretinoin and practically irrelevant for tretinoin. The degradation rate was found to be dependent on the drug concentration. The better stability of the tretinoin in liposome complex was supposed to be related to its higher incorporation value due to the linear structure of the molecule.

Survival of baboon biotin-X-N-hydroxysuccinimide and 111In-oxine-labelled autologous fresh and lyophilized reconstituted platelets

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

In accordance with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, platelets can be stored in the liquid state at 22 degrees C for only 5 days. Platelets frozen with 6% dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) can be stored at -80 degrees C for 2 years, and platelets frozen with 5% DMSO can be stored at -150 degrees C for 3 years. Studies are being conducted to determine the effects of lyophilization of platelets. In the present study, we assessed the survival of autologous lyophilized-reconstituted platelets in the baboon.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We studied fresh baboon platelets and baboon platelets that had been treated with paraformaldehyde, frozen, lyophilized, thawed and reconstituted. Aliquots of these platelets were labelled with (111)In-oxine or biotin-X-N-hydroxysuccinimide (biotin-X-NHS) before autotransfusion, and measurements were made of the in vivo recovery and lifespan. We also evaluated the response of fresh and lyophilized platelets to in vitro agonists by measuring the level of platelet surface markers and heterotypic aggregates in the peripheral blood following the autotransfusions.

RESULTS

The (111)In-oxine- or biotin-X-NHS-labelled lyophilized, reconstituted platelets exhibited survival times of less than 15 min. These platelets did not respond to stimulation with agonists to decrease platelet GPIb and increase platelet P-selectin and platelet GPIIb-IIIa levels 1 min post-transfusion and they accumulated more procoagulant factor V than did the fresh platelets.

CONCLUSIONS

Lyophilized reconstituted baboon platelets labelled with (111)In-oxine or biotin-X-NHS before autotransfusion exhibited an in vivo circulation time of less than 15 min. Further study of the lyophilized, reconstituted platelets is required to evaluate their haemostatic function.

In vitro testing of fresh and lyophilized reconstituted human and baboon platelets

BACKGROUND

Studies have been performed on human fresh, liquid-preserved, and cryopreserved platelets (PLTs) to assess PLT-adhesive surface receptors, PLT membrane procoagulant activity, PLT aggregation, and thromboxane production. Lyophilization has been developed as a method to preserve PLTs. This study was performed to evaluate these measurements on human and baboon fresh and lyophilized reconstituted PLTs.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In both human and baboon fresh and lyophilized PLTs, aggregation response and PLT production of thromboxane A2 were measured after stimulation, and PLT surface markers P-selectin, glycoprotein (GP) Ib, GPIIb-IIIa, and factor (F) V were measured before and after stimulation.

RESULTS

Fresh PLTs responded to the dual agonists arachidonic acid and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to aggregate and produce thromboxane A2, and in both the PLT surface markers P-selectin and GPIIb-IIIa increased and GPIb decreased after stimulation. Neither human nor baboon lyophilized reconstituted PLTs aggregated to dual agonists, and neither produced thromboxane A2, increased PLT surface markers P-selectin or GPIIb-IIIa, or decreased PLT GPIb after stimulation. Nevertheless, after recalcification the lyophilized reconstituted PLTs accumulated FV to a significantly greater degree than fresh PLTs.

CONCLUSIONS

Lyophilized reconstituted PLTs exhibited modification of the PLT membrane that interfered with aggregation and thromboxane production, prevented increases in PLT P-selectin and GPIIb-IIIa and decreases in GPIb after stimulation, and increased FV accumulation after recalcification. The in vitro data suggest that lyophilized PLTs may have reduced in vivo survival. In vivo studies are needed to determine the survival and function of lyophilized PLTs.

Design and monitoring of photostability systems for amlodipine dosage forms

Photostability of amlodipine (AML) has been monitored in several pharmaceutical inclusion systems characterized by plurimolecular aggregation of the drug and excipients with high molecular weight. Several formulations including cyclodextrins, liposomes and microspheres have been prepared and characterized. The photodegradation process has been monitored according to the conditions suggested by the ICH Guideline for photostability testing, by using a light cabinet equipped with a Xenon lamp and monitored by spectrophotometry. The formulations herein tested have been found to be able to considerably increase drug stability, when compared with usual pharmaceutical forms. The residual concentration detected in the inclusion complexes with cyclodextrins and liposomes was 90 and 77%, respectively, while a very good value of 97% was found for microspheres, after a radiant exposure of 11,340 kJm(-2).

Restoration of red blood cell volume following 2-unit red blood cell apheresis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Blood donors who weigh at least 130 lbs (59 kg) and have a haematocrit of at least 40 V per cent can donate 2 units of blood, from which a 360-ml volume of red blood cells (RBC) can be isolated. This study was carried out in seven healthy male blood donors to assess the restoration of the RBC volume 1 month following a 2-unit RBC apheresis procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RBC volumes were measured prior to donation and 4 weeks after the 2-unit RBC apheresis procedure without oral iron supplementation.

RESULTS

Four weeks after the removal of 2 units of RBC from the male donors not supplemented with oral iron, the RBC volume was restored to 92% of the precollection value. The 360-ml volume of RBC collected represented 12-19% of the donor's original RBC volume.

CONCLUSIONS

Male donors can safely donate 2 units of RBC and will restore a mean of 92% of their RBC volume within 1 month without iron supplementation.

[Reliability of the Karasek scale in the assessment of perceived occupational stress and gender-related differences in scores. The SEMM study]

In recent years more attention has been paid to the relationship between work organization and job stress and chronic-degenerative diseases. Aims of this report are the assessment of the reliability and internal consistency of the Karasek's Job Content Questionnaire-JCQ and to assess age-specific distributions of core JCQ scores between the gender groups. The study has been carried out in a large group of employees (n. 7871 subjects, 5270 women and 2601 men) of the Municipality of Milano in the years between 1992 and 1996. Decision Latitude (DL), Psychological Job Demand (PJD) and Social Support at Work (SSW) scores were calculated. Reliability of the JCQ was satisfactory, with Cronback's alpha suitable values for DL and SSW and acceptable for PJD. From the distribution of gender- and age-specific mean scores, women show reduced probabilities of developing a favorable career and of perceiving satisfactorily the support from colleagues and supervisors than men when they get older. This results suggest that the Karasek's JCQ is an effective toll to describe perceived job stress conditions in this Italian work setting.

Circulation and distribution of autotransfused fresh, liquid-preserved and cryopreserved baboon platelets

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Studies were carried out in five healthy male baboons to determine the 111indium oxine (111In-oxine) survival of autologous fresh, liquid-preserved and cryopreserved platelets. Simultaneous organ-distribution studies were performed to determine the percentage uptake of platelets by the spleen and/or liver.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Each of five baboons was transfused, on three different occasions, with autologous fresh platelets stored at 22 degrees C for 18 h, liquid-preserved platelets stored at 22 degrees C for 5 days and washed previously frozen platelets, labelled with 111In-oxine.

RESULTS

In vivo recovery at 2 h was 81% for the fresh platelets, 54% for the previously frozen platelets and 44% for the 5-day-old liquid-preserved platelets. The weighted mean life span was 5.4 days for fresh platelets, 4.2 days for previously frozen platelets and 2 days for liquid preserved platelets. Increased radioactivity was detected over the liver 2 h after transfusion for both the previously frozen and liquid-preserved platelets.

CONCLUSIONS

Cryopreserved platelets and liquid-preserved platelets stored at 22 degrees C for 5 days had reduced survival 2 h post-transfusion and reduced life span values compared to fresh platelets. In addition, the finding of increased radioactivity over the liver in the baboons that received cryopreserved and liquid-preserved platelets suggested that the liver was the site for removal of the non-viable platelets.

Survival and function of baboon RBCs released from clotted blood and washed before autologous transfusion

BACKGROUND

One alternative to an allogeneic transfusion is the salvaging of the patient's own shed blood. In this study, baboon blood was allowed to clot and the RBCs that were released from the clotted blood lysed with and without urokinase were washed before autologous transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Forty-four studies were done in 13 baboons (Papio cynocephalus or Papio anubis) over a 3-year period. In 24 studies, a 50-mL volume of blood was collected without an anticoagulant and stored at 22 degrees C for as long as 72 hours before washing and autologous transfusion. In 20 other studies, a 50-mL volume of blood was collected without an anticoagulant and allowed to clot for 30 to 60 minutes. Urokinase, ranging from 2,500 to 10,000 units per mL, was added, and the blood was stored at 22 degrees C for 24 hours before washing and autologous transfusion.

RESULTS

RBCs that were stored at 22 degrees C without urokinase for 24 hours exhibited an in vitro recovery value of 45 percent, a (51)Cr 24-hour posttransfusion survival of 86 percent, and an index of therapeutic effectiveness of 39 percent. The (51)Cr T(50) value was normal at 14 days, and RBC oxygen-transport function was slightly reduced. RBCs that were stored at 22 degrees C for 24 hours with 10,000 units per mL of urokinase exhibited an in vitro recovery value of 89 percent, a (51)Cr 24-hour posttransfusion survival value of 86 percent, and an index of therapeutic effectiveness of 76 percent. The (51)Cr T(50) value was normal at 14 days, and the RBC oxygen-transport function was only slightly reduced.

CONCLUSION

Autologous baboon RBCs isolated from clotted blood treated or not treated with urokinase and washed before transfusion have excellent survival and normal or only slightly reduced oxygen-transport function.

Survival, function, and hemolysis of shed red blood cells processed as nonwashed blood and washed red blood cells

BACKGROUND

Shed nonwashed blood and shed washed red blood cells (RBC) are being used as alternatives to allogeneic liquid-preserved RBC for patients during thoracic and cardiovascular surgical procedures.

METHODS

Mongrel dogs were bled a volume of blood into the abdominal cavity and the shed blood was reinfused as nonwashed blood or washed RBC. The 51Cr RBC volumes were measured before, immediately after, and 24 hours after the exchange transfusion to assess the recovery of the shed RBC and the 24-hour posttransfusion survival. Compatible dogs were given allogeneic transfusions of 51Cr-labeled nonwashed blood and washed RBC, and 24-hour posttransfusion survival and half-life were measured.

RESULTS

Immediately after the 100% exchange transfusion, the recovery value was 62% for the nonwashed shed blood and 82% for the washed RBC. Both the nonwashed blood and the washed RBC had 24-hour posttransfusion survival values of 90% and normal oxygen transport function after the exchange transfusion. Compatible allogeneic 51Cr-labeled nonwashed blood and washed RBC had normal 24-hour posttranfusion survival and 51Cr half-life values.

CONCLUSIONS

The survival, function, and hemolysis of shed nonwashed blood and shed washed RBC were similar to fresh blood in the dog that underwent a 100% exchange transfusion.

Autologous platelet-rich plasma isolated using the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 and Haemonetics MCS+ for the preparation of platelet gel

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

We compared three methods of isolating platelet-rich plasma (PRP) using the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 and one method of isolating PRP by plateletpheresis using the Haemonetics MCS+. PRP contains both platelets and fibrinogen, which are used in the preparation of haemostatic agents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

When the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 was used, 500 ml of blood from each of 30 normal volunteer donors was collected into 70 ml of citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) anticoagulant. In a further 14 normal volunteers, the Haemonetics MCS+ was used to isolate PRP by plateletpheresis using an acid citrate dextrose (ACD) to blood ratio of 1 : 9. In a separate study, CPD-anticoagulated whole blood from another 30 volunteers was used for measurement of fibrinogen levels in the plasma and cryoprecipitate.

RESULTS

A larger volume of PRP can be collected using the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 than by using the Haemonetics MCS+. The platelet concentration and the total number of platelets were higher in the PRP isolated using the Haemonetics MCS+ than in the PRP isolated by the three methods used with the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5, with differences in platelet concentration and PRP volume among the four methods. The mean fibrinogen level in the plasma was 253 mg % +/- 47 (SD) and in the cryoprecipitate was 1085 mg % +/- 304 (SD).

CONCLUSIONS

The most appropriate method of PRP isolation for preparation of platelet gel is dependent upon the specific surgical procedure to be undertaken and the patient's needs.

Anemia-induced increase in the bleeding time: implications for treatment of nonsurgical blood loss

BACKGROUND

Preoperative bleeding time (BT) does not correlate with postoperative bleeding in patients subjected to surgical procedures. A significant positive correlation has been reported between the BT 2 hours after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery and the nonsurgical blood loss during the first 4 hours after bypass surgery. This study was done to investigate the effect of Hct and platelet count on the BT measurement in normal, healthy men and women.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

To assess the relative effect of RBCs and platelets on the BT, 22 healthy male and 7 healthy female volunteers were subjected to the removal of 2 units of RBCs (360 mL), followed by the return of the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from both units and the infusion of 1000 mL of 0.9-percent NaCl. Four of the men and all seven women received their RBCs 1 hour after their removal. Shed blood levels of thromboxane B(2) (TXB(2)), 6-keto prostaglandin F(1 alpha), and peripheral venous Hct were measured. BTs were measured in 15 men and 13 women before and after a plateletpheresis procedure to collect 3.6 x 10(11) platelets per unit.

RESULTS

The 2-unit RBC apheresis procedure produced a 60-percent increase in the BT associated with a 15-percent reduction in the peripheral venous Hct and a 9-percent reduction in the platelet count. The plateletpheresis procedure produced a 32-percent decrease in the platelet count, no change in peripheral venous Hct, and no change in the BT. After the removal of 2 units of RBCs, the shed blood TXB(2) level decreased significantly. Reinfusion of 2 units of RBCs restored the BT and restored the TXB(2) level to the baseline levels.

CONCLUSION

The acute reduction in Hct produced a reversible platelet dysfunction manifested by an increase in BT and a decrease in the shed blood TXB(2) level at the template BT site. Return of the RBCs restored both the BT and the shed blood TXB(2) level to normal. The platelet dysfunction observed with the reduction in Hct was due in part to a reduction in shed blood TXB(2) and other, unknown mechanisms.

A multicenter study of in vitro and in vivo values in human RBCs frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol and stored after deglycerolization for 15 days at 4 degrees C in AS-3: assessment of RBC processing in the ACP 215

BACKGROUND

The FDA has approved the storage of frozen RBCs at -80 degrees C for 10 years. After deglycerolization, the RBCs can be stored at 4 degrees C for no more than 24 hours, because open systems are currently being used. Five laboratories have been evaluating an automated, functionally closed system (ACP 215, Haemonetics) for both the glycerolization and deglycerolization processes.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Studies were performed at three military sites and two civilian sites. Each site performed in vitro testing of 20 units of RBCs. In addition, one military site and two civilian sites conducted autologous transfusion studies on ten units of previously frozen, deglycerolized RBCs that had been stored at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for 15 days. At one of the civilian sites, 10 volunteers received autologous transfusions on two occasions in a randomized manner, once with previously frozen RBCs that had been stored at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for 15 days after deglycerolization and once with liquid-preserved RBCs that had been stored at 4 degrees C in AS-1 for 42 days.

RESULTS

The mean +/- SD in vitro freeze-thaw-wash recovery value was 87 +/- 5 percent; the mean +/- SD supernatant osmolality on the day of deglycerolization was 297 +/- 5 mOsm per kg of H(2)O, and the mean +/- SD percentage of hemolysis after storage at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for 15 days was 0.60 +/- 0.2 percent. The paired data from the study of 10 persons at the civilian site showed a mean +/- SD 24-hour posttransfusion survival of 76 +/- 6 percent for RBCs that had been stored at 4 degrees C for 15 days after deglycerolization and 72 +/- 5 percent for RBCs stored at 4 degrees C in AS-1 for 42 days. At the three sites at which 24-hour posttransfusion survival values were measured by three double-label procedures, a mean +/- SD 24-hour posttransfusion survival of 77 +/- 9 percent was observed for 36 autologous transfusions to 12 females and 24 males of previously frozen RBCs that had been stored at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for 15 days after deglycerolization.

CONCLUSION

The multicenter study showed the acceptable quality of RBCs that were glycerolized and deglycerolized in the automated ACP 215 instrument and stored in AS-3 at 4 degrees C for 15 days.

In vivo survival of apheresis RBCs, frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol, deglycerolized in the ACP 215, and stored at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for up to 21 days

BACKGROUND

The FDA has approved the storage of frozen RBCs at -80 degrees C for 10 years and the postwash storage at 4 degrees C for no more than 24 hours. The 4 degrees C postwash storage period is limited to 24 hours, because the current deglycerolization systems are functionally open systems.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Two units of RBCs were collected from each of 13 healthy male volunteers. The RBCs were collected in CP2D by the FDA-approved protocol for an automated apheresis device (MCS, LN8150, Haemonetics) and were stored at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for 6 days. Using a single disposable glycerolization set in an automated, functionally closed system (ACP 215, Haemonetics) each unit was transferred to a 1000-mL PVC plastic bag and glycerolized to a concentration of 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol and frozen at -80 degrees C. A single disposable deglycerolization set in the ACP 215 was used to deglycerolize the 2 units from the same donor. The deglycerolized RBCs were stored at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for as long as 21 days.

RESULTS

The mean +/- SD freeze-thaw-wash recovery value was 89.4 +/- 3 percent. The residual hemolysis in the RBCs stored at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for 21 days after deglycerolization was 0.9 +/- 0.2 percent, and the units were negative for both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The mean Nageotte WBC count was 9 x 10(6) per unit. When the deglycerolized RBCs were given as an autologous transfusion after storage at 4 degrees C in AS-3 for the 7- to 18-day period, the mean +/- SD 24-hour posttransfusion survival was 77 +/- 7 percent, and the index of therapeutic effectiveness was 69 +/- 8 percent.

CONCLUSION

Two units of human RBCs collected from a single donor by apheresis in the MCS using an LN8150 set can be glycerolized sequentially with a single disposable set and deglycerolized sequentially with another single disposable set in the ACP 215. The previously frozen RBCs stored in AS-3 for 7 to 18 days at 4 degrees C had acceptable hemolysis and an acceptable mean 24-hour posttransfusion survival value and index of therapeutic effectiveness.

In vitro and in vivo measurements of gamma-radiated, frozen, glycerolized RBCs

BACKGROUND

Transfusion-associated GVHD results from the presence of viable lymphocytes in transfused allogeneic blood components. Viable immunocompetent lymphocytes have been detected in RBCs that were frozen with glycerol and washed before transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The study reported here assessed the effect of irradiation on human RBCs frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol and stored at -80 degrees C. In vitro and in vivo testing was done on human RBCs that were frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol at -80 degrees C, with some units exposed to 2500 cGy of gamma radiation and others not irradiated, and that, after thawing and washing, were stored in a sodium chloride-glucose solution at 4 degrees C for 3 days before autologous transfusion.

RESULTS

The glycerol-frozen RBCs treated with 2500 cGy before deglycerolization had a mean freeze-thaw-wash recovery of 87 percent and a mean 24-hour posttransfusion survival of 86 percent after storage for 3 days at 4 degrees C in a 0.9-percent NaCl and 0.2-percent glucose solution. For the nonirradiated units, the mean freeze-thaw-wash recovery was 85 percent and the mean 24-hour posttransfusion survival was 83 percent.

CONCLUSION

These data show similar, acceptable results for RBCs frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol at -80 degrees C and treated in the frozen state with 2500 cGy of gamma radiation and for RBCs that were not irradiated, all of which were washed and then stored in a sodium chloride-glucose solution for 3 days before autologous transfusion.

An experiment with glycerol-frozen red blood cells stored at -80 degrees C for up to 37 years

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Red cells frozen using 40% W/V glycerol are currently FDA approved for frozen storage at -80 degrees C for up to 10 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Red cells frozen with 40% W/V glycerol and stored at -80 degrees C for up to 37 years were thawed, deglycerolized, and stored at 4 degrees C for 24 h.

RESULTS

Red cells frozen for up to 37 years had mean freeze-thaw-wash recovery values of 75%, less than 1% hemolysis, and normal ATP, 2,3-DPG and P50 levels, and 60% of normal RBC K(+) levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Red cells frozen with 40% W/V glycerol can be stored at -80 degrees C for up to 37 years with acceptable in vitro results.

In vitro and in vivo measurements of human RBCs frozen with glycerol and subjected to various storage temperatures before deglycerolization and storage at 4 degrees C for 3 days

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to assess the effects of changes in storage temperature of frozen RBCs such as might occur during a malfunction of the -80 degrees C mechanical freezer or during shipment.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Fifteen participants donated blood for autologous transfusion of RBCs; all RBCs were frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol. Five subjects received RBCs that were stored at -80 degrees C alone before transfusion. Five subjects received RBCs that were stored initially at -80 degrees C, then at -40 degrees C for 4 weeks, and finally at -80 degrees C before transfusion. Five subjects received RBCs that were stored at -80 degrees C, then at -20 degrees C for 2 weeks, and finally at -80 degrees C before transfusion. After deglycerolization, the RBCs were stored at 4 degrees C in a sodium chloride-glucose solution for 3 days before transfusion.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed in freeze-thaw recovery, freeze-thaw-wash recovery, 24-hour posttransfusion survival, index of therapeutic effectiveness, or RBC ATP levels. Greater hemolysis and reduced RBC K+ levels were observed in the units stored at -80 degrees C/-40 degrees C/-80 degrees C and in those stored at -80 degrees C/ -20 degrees C/-80 degrees C compared with the units stored at -80 degrees C alone, but these differences did not affect the 24-hour posttransfusion survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicated that RBCs frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol can be stored at -40 degrees C for 4 weeks or at -20 degrees C for 2 weeks between periods of frozen storage at -80 degrees C with satisfactory results.

24-hour 51Cr post-transfusion survival, 51Cr life span and haemolysis of red blood cells stored at 4 degrees C for 56 days in AS-3

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Red blood cells (RBC) were collected either by a manual method using a 16-gauge needle or by an apheresis procedure using an 18-gauge needle, and were stored at 4 degrees C in a solution of CP2D (anticoagulant)/AS-3 (Nutricel) for 56 days. The purpose was to compare the outcome of the autotransfused red cells collected by both techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five healthy male volunteers were studied on two occasions.

RESULTS

The autotransfusions of the manual and apheresed RBC resulted in a mean 24-h post-transfusion survival of 71%, a normal mean 51Cr RBC life span, a 2,3 DPG level that was less than 10% of normal, and 0.6% haemolysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Whether collected manually or by apheresis, the outcomes were similar for RBC stored at 4 degrees C for 56 days in CP2D/AS-3.

The survival, function, and hemolysis of human RBCs stored at 4 degrees C in additive solution (AS-1, AS-3, or AS-5) for 42 days and then biochemically modified, frozen, thawed, washed, and stored at 4 degrees C in sodium chloride and glucose solution for 24 hours

BACKGROUND

A study was done to assess the quality of RBCs stored at 4 degrees C in AS-1, AS-3, or AS-5 for 42 days before biochemical modification and freezing.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

RBCs were stored at 4 degrees C for 42 days in AS-1, AS-3, or AS-5 and then biochemically modified with pyruvate, inosine, phosphate, and adenine solution (Rejuvesol), frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol, and stored at -80 degrees C for at least 2 months. The RBCs were deglycerolized by the use of a cell washer (Haemonetics 115), and stored for 24 hours at 4 degrees C in a 0.9-percent sodium chloride and 0.2-percent glucose solution before the autologous transfusion.

RESULTS

The mean freeze-thaw-wash recovery process produced RBC recovery values of 85 percent, with the mean 24-hour posttransfusion survival at 75 percent, and the mean index of therapeutic effectiveness at 64 percent for the RBCs stored at 4 degrees C in AS-1, AS-3, or AS-5 for 42 days before biochemical modification and freezing. All the units exhibited normal or slightly higher than normal 2,3 DPG levels after deglycerolization and postwash storage at 4 degrees C for 24 hours.

CONCLUSION

RBCs stored in AS-1, AS-3, or AS-5 at 4 degrees C for 42 days and then biochemically modified with pyruvate, inosine, phosphate, and adenine and glycerolized, frozen, washed, and stored at 4 degrees C for 24 hours before autologous transfusion had acceptable in vitro and in vivo measurements.

Posttransfusion survival (24-hour) and hemolysis of previously frozen, deglycerolized RBCs after storage at 4 degrees C for up to 14 days in sodium chloride alone or sodium chloride supplemented with additive solutions

BACKGROUND

Previously frozen human RBCs currently are glycerolized and deglycerolized by the use of open systems that limit storage of the deglycerolized RBCs at 4 degrees C to only 24 hours.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Healthy male volunteers who met AABB requirements for blood donors (n = 38) were studied. A volume of 450 mL of blood was collected into CPDA-1. The RBC concentrates were stored at 4 degrees C for 3 to 6 days before being frozen with 40-percent (wt/vol) glycerol and stored at -80 degrees C. The RBCs were deglycerolized, resuspended in 0.9-percent sodium chloride and 0.2-percent glucose (SG) solution or SG solution supplemented with AS-1, AS-3, or AS-5, and stored in the resuspension medium at 4 degrees C for 14 days.

RESULTS

The mean +/- SD freeze-thaw-wash process recovery was 90.0 +/- 4.0 percent for all 38 units. The mean 24-hour posttransfusion survival value was 79 percent for deglycerolized RBC stored at 4 degrees C for 7 days in SG alone, SG plus AS-3, or SG plus AS-5. Deglycerolized RBC that were stored at 4 C for 14 days in SG supplemented with AS-1, AS-3, or AS-5 had a mean 24-hour posttransfusion survival of 74 percent. After 7 days of storage of deglycerolized RBCs in SG alone, the mean hemolysis was 3. 7 percent. After 14 days of storage of deglycerolized RBCs in SG supplemented with AS-1, AS-3, or AS-5, the mean hemolysis was 2.5 percent.

CONCLUSIONS

The levels of hemolysis did not correlate with the 24-hour posttransfusion survival values.

Fresh, liquid-preserved, and cryopreserved platelets: adhesive surface receptors and membrane procoagulant activity

BACKGROUND

A study in humans showed that the transfusion of previously frozen human platelets after cardiopulmonary bypass, despite decreased survival, resulted in better hemostatic function than that of liquid-preserved platelets stored at 22 degrees C for 3 to 4 days.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In this study, fresh, 3- to 4-day-old liquid-preserved, and cryopreserved human platelets were studied by the use of monoclonal antibodies directed against p-selectin, glycoprotein (GP)Ib, activated GPIIb/IIIa, and coagulation factor V in a three-color flow cytometric method.

RESULTS

The fresh and liquid-preserved platelets had normal surface levels of GPIb, while the cryopreserved platelets were composed of distinct subpopulations of GPIb-normal and GPIb-reduced platelets. On the basis of the binding of factor V, both subpopulations of cryopreserved platelets exhibited greater surface binding of factor V than did fresh and liquid-preserved platelets. Activated GPIIb/IIIa was elevated on GPIb-normal platelets, but not on GPIb-reduced platelets. Baboon platelets frozen by a procedure identical to that used to freeze human platelets also had GPIb-normal and GPIb-reduced subpopulations after the freezing-thawing-washing procedure. Autologous cryopreserved baboon platelets labeled with biotin-X-N-hydroxysuccinimide showed a rapid removal of GPIb-reduced platelets during the 5-minute postinfusion period, whereas GPIb-normal platelets had an in vivo recovery of 48 percent and a lifespan of slightly less than 6 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Improved in vivo function of cryopreserved platelets may be related to the rapid hemostatic effect of the GPIb-reduced subpopulation secondary to increased binding of factor V and expression of p-selectin.

Platelet surface p-selectin, platelet-granulocyte heterotypic aggregates, and plasma-soluble p-selectin during plateletpheresis

BACKGROUND

Plateletpheresis components have been shown to contain p-selectin-positive platelets after collection and storage. P-selectin mediates binding of activated platelets to granulocytes and monocytes. This study was undertaken to assess platelet activation, granulocyte activation, platelet-granulocyte heterotypic aggregate formation, and the plasma-soluble p-selectin level during plateletpheresis performed on a particular instrument (MCS+, Haemonetics).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Flow cytometry was used to assay platelet surface p-selectin, granulocyte iC3b receptor, and platelet-granulocyte aggregates in the platelet component, residual blood in the disposable polycarbonate bowl of the MCS+, and in the donor blood with and without the addition of in vitro agonists before, during, and after plateletpheresis. The plasma-soluble p-selectin levels in the platelet component, disposable bowl, and donor venous blood were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Levels of p-selectin-positive platelets, activated granulocytes, and platelet-granulocyte aggregates were greater in the disposable bowl than in the preapheresis donor blood. Levels of p-selectin-positive platelets, activated granulocytes, and platelet-granulocyte aggregates in the postapheresis donor blood were similar to those in the preapheresis donor blood. The platelet components contained no activated granulocytes or detectable platelet-granulocyte heterotypic aggregates, and only about 10-percent activated platelets. The plasma-soluble p-selectin level in the platelet component was significantly greater than that in the preapheresis donor blood, the residual blood in the disposable bowl, or the postapheresis donor blood.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurements of platelet surface p-selectin, platelet-granulocyte heterotypic aggregates, and plasma-soluble p-selectin can be used to detect platelet activation during plateletpheresis.

Effect of 24-hour whole-blood storage on plasma clotting factors

BACKGROUND

The current requirements for the preparation of fresh-frozen plasma within 8 hours of whole-blood collection were designed to maintain clotting factor activities. These requirements, however, limit the production of fresh-frozen plasma in a large blood center. There are few data on the effect of the extension of CPD whole-blood storage to 24 hours on clotting factor activity.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A 500-mL unit of whole blood was collected from 10 volunteer donors. At 1 hour after collection, a plasma sample was separated by centrifugation, and each unit was equally divided into 2 half-units, with 1 half-unit stored at 4 degrees C (range, 1-6 degrees C) and 1 half-unit stored at 22 degrees C (range, 20-24 degrees C) for 8 hours after collection. Each half-unit was then placed at 4 degrees C for further storage for 16 hours. At 8 and 24 hours after collection, plasma samples were separated from each half-unit. All plasma samples were frozen at -18 degrees C. Factors V, VII, VIII, and X; fibrinogen; antithrombin III; protein C; and protein S were measured.

RESULTS

No significant changes were noted in factors V, VII, and X; fibrinogen; antithrombin III; protein C; and protein S over the 24-hour storage period. Factor VIII in both half-units was significantly reduced, by 13 percent, from the baseline sample as compared to the level in the 8-hour storage sample (p<0.05). Factor VIII was further reduced by 15 to 20 percent after the 24-hour storage period (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The coagulation factor activity for all factors measured, with the exception of factor VIII, showed no significant change over the 24-hour storage period. Factor VIII was significantly decreased by 13 percent in 8-hour storage and by an additional 15 to 20 percent in 24-hour storage. For clinical situations not requiring the replacement of factor VIII only, 24-hour frozen plasma has properties comparable to those of fresh-frozen plasma.

Propofol assay in biological fluids in pregnant women

A rapid, accurate and sensitive UV derivative method was described for measuring the Propofol concentration in some biological fluids. Furthermore two alternative procedures, a gaschromatographic and a colorimetric, were also defined, and the results of the three methods, when applied on blood samples spiked with known amounts of analyte, were compared. The samples were preliminary purified by a solid phase extraction on octadecyl C18 cartridge. The UV derivative method was applied to a pharmacokinetic study on pregnant women undergoing cesarean sections. After an induction dose administration of 2.5 mg kg-1, the maternal and umbilical vein blood were found to have comparable concentrations of propofol, with a mean half like of about 3.5 min; on the contrary no detectable levels of the drug were found in amniotic fluid. The drug recoveries > 98% and the response was linear over the range 0.05-40 micrograms ml-1.

The effect of disinfection on viability and function of baboon red blood cells

Methods that have been optimized for disinfection of red blood cells before transfusion must be evaluated for their effect on red blood cell viability and function in vitro and in vivo. This study evaluates (1) in vitro effects of Panavirocide treatment and benzoporphyrin (BPD) photosensitization on baboon and human red blood cell parameters and (2) in vivo effects of five disinfectant treatments on 24 h posttransfusion survival and cell lifetimes for baboon red blood cells. The in vitro studies showed that both disinfection methods resulted in a significant reduction in red blood cell potassium, suggesting that intracellular potassium is a sensitive measure of red cell injury during disinfection. The in vivo studies demonstrated significant reductions in the 24 h posttransfusion survival of baboon red blood cells and reductions in cell lifespan treated with a Panavirocide solution, BPD photosensitization and 15 mM nonactivated sodium chlorite. No effects were seen with 250 ppm formaldehyde, aluminum phthalocyanine photosensitization or activated sodium chlorite. These in vivo data showing effects of disinfection treatments support the use of baboons in studying disinfection procedures of autologous red blood cells before attempting studies in humans.

Nasal spray bromocriptine: effects on serum prolactin in puerperal women

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a single nasal spray administration of 0.8 mg bromocriptine in reducing PRL serum levels.

METHODS

Eighteen physiologically hyperprolactemic women in the early days of puerperium were randomized to receive nasal bromocriptine or placebo; PRL serum levels were measured by RIA at 45, 30 and 15 minutes before the administration and after the following times: 15, 30, 45, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300, and 480 minutes.

RESULTS

After the administration of bromocriptine serum levels of PRL decreased rapidly; the reduction was statistically significant after 45 minutes. Four hours after the administration mean serum levels of PRL resulted in the normal range (< 20 micrograms/l); at the eighth hour the PRL levels were still normal. No one patient complained of any local or systemic side-effects.

CONCLUSION

Nasal route seems to be an effective and probably safe administration route for bromocriptine.

Effect of heparin on fibrinolytic activity and platelet function in vivo

Heparin, a polyanionic glycosaminoglycan, is used routinely before the induction of cardiopulmonary bypass. Earlier observations in our laboratory suggested that the postoperative bleeding that occurs, despite neutralization of heparin with protamine, is secondary to hypothermia and dilutional anemia during bypass. An additional, potential mechanism for excessive bleeding following cardiopulmonary bypass is that heparin activates the fibrinolytic system, which may, in turn, adversely affect hemostasis. To understand better the effects of heparin administration on the fibrinolytic system in vivo, we simulated the anticoagulant regimen of cardiopulmonary bypass by administering increasing doses of intravenous heparin to five adult baboons over 60 min. We measured fibrinolytic parameters serially following heparinization and demonstrated that heparin induces activation of the fibrinolytic system. We showed that the fibrinolytic system was activated in vivo as evidenced by an increase in plasmin activity and immunoreactive plasmin light chain, as well as an increase in immunoreactive fibrinogen fragment E in vitro. These results demonstrate that the fibrinolytic system is activated in vivo by the administration of heparin during cardiopulmonary bypass. These data suggest that, despite administration of a neutralizing agent such as protamine, heparin may contribute to postoperative bleeding complications following cardiopulmonary bypass surgery owing principally to its longer lived effects on the fibrinolytic system.

Safety and therapeutic effectiveness of reinfused shed blood after open heart surgery

This prospective study was designed to determine whether use of nonwashed shed mediastinal blood exacerbated platelet and related hematologic dysfunctions after cardiopulmonary bypass, compared with the alternative use of autologous and homologous standard liquid preserved blood for volume support. Thirty-two patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass for open heart operations were randomized to receive either nonwashed shed mediastinal blood (group 1; n = 16) or liquid preserved packed red blood cells (group 2; n = 16) for transfusion therapy in the management of postoperative bleeding. Patient blood samples and bleeding times were obtained preoperatively, after cardiopulmonary bypass but before transfusions, 2 and 24 hours after transfusion, and on postoperative days 2, 3, and 7. Group 1 patients received an average of 710 +/- 90 mL (range, 300 to 1,700 mL) of nonwashed shed mediastinal blood containing significantly greater (p < 0.0001) amounts of fibrin degradation products and D-dimer protein. Of the hematologic, microaggregate, and plasma protein measurements performed, only the protein C level was significantly greater in group 1 (p < 0.05) after transfusion. Patient bleeding times were not significantly different between the groups at any of the time points, and the total postoperative blood loss was not different between the groups. There was a trend toward less need for homologous transfusion in group 1 (p < 0.1). This study documents the safety and ease of using nonwashed shed mediastinal blood as a primary blood volume support after an open heart operation.

Hematologic changes during and after cardiopulmonary bypass and their relationship to the bleeding time and nonsurgical blood loss

The hemostatic dysfunction induced by cardiopulmonary bypass is due, in part, to a platelet dysfunction evidenced by a postoperative extension of the bleeding time; it leads to increased postoperative blood loss and morbidity. This study, which was conducted in 85 patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass, was designed to characterize the hematologic changes during and after cardiopulmonary bypass and to elucidate the relationships between these changes, the extension of the bleeding time, and the magnitude of the postoperative nonsurgical blood loss. Variables were measured before, during, and 2, 24, 48, and 72 hours after cardiopulmonary bypass. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed with either the 2-hour postbypass bleeding time or the 4-hour postbypass blood loss as the dependent variables. The reversal of the extension of the bleeding time in the postoperative period was accompanied by a significant increase in the mean platelet volume and by a significant increase in the level of thromboxane B2 measured in the blood shed from the site of the bleeding time determination. The postoperative bleeding time correlated with the postoperative blood loss, and both parameters were dependent on the duration of cardiopulmonary bypass. In addition, the postoperative bleeding time correlated with the skin temperature and the plasma level of D-dimer, while the postoperative blood loss also correlated with temperature and the plasma levels of C3. These data establish a direct relationship between the postoperative bleeding time, the postoperative blood loss, and temperature. They indicate that the reversal of the postoperative extension of the bleeding time is due in part to rewarming and to the release of larger platelets into the circulation, and they suggest that hyperfibrinolysis and complement activation may play an important role in the cardiopulmonary bypass-induced platelet dysfunction.

Effect of skin temperature on platelet function in patients undergoing extracorporeal bypass

Thirty-seven patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass operations were studied to assess the effect of skin temperature on platelet function. Differences in skin temperature between the two arms were created during bypass, at the completion of bypass, and at 2 and 24 hours after the completion of bypass. In each of 37 patients the temperature of one arm was increased with a water-filled blanket set at 40 degrees C. In 11 of these patients the other arm was allowed to equilibrate with the environment, and in the other 26 patients the arm was cooled with ice. Except for the differences in local skin temperature between the two arms, all factors known to affect the patient's bleeding time were similar. Measurements were made of bleeding times and the levels of thromboxane B2 and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha in shed blood obtained at the template bleeding time site. In the 33 patients not treated with aspirin, local hypothermia produced an increased bleeding time and a significant reduction in the thromboxane B2 level at the bleeding time site, but no reduction in 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha level. Local rewarming produced a significant increase in the shed blood thromboxane B2 level. In the four patients treated with aspirin, local hypothermia produced no differences in bleeding times or shed blood levels of thromboxane B2 or 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha. These data show the benefits of rewarming patients with hypothermia who have nonsurgical blood loss to restore to normal both core and peripheral temperatures before resorting to the transfusion of homologous blood products.

Nasally-administered progesterone: comparison of ointment and spray formulations

The aim of the study was to compare the bioavailability and clinical usefulness of progesterone (P) administered nasally in spray or ointment form. Twenty healthy post-menopausal women were randomly allocated to treatment by either intranasal spray (4 doses of an oil-based P solution at a concentration of 2 mg/0.1 ml, corresponding to a total dose of approximately 11 mg of P) or an ointment (quantity 0.1 ml, P concentration 20 mg/0.1 ml). Circulating P levels were calculated at various time intervals following administration. The spray formulation yielded a mean maximum concentration (CMax) of 3.75 ng/ml after 60 min (TMax) and the area under the curve (AUC) 0-720 min was 1481.6 +/- 343 ng.h/ml. The ointment yielded a mean CMax of 1.19 ng/ml at TMax = 30 min, the AUC 0-720 value being 404.35 +/- 148 ng.h/ml. The study findings confirmed that the intranasal route is a potentially useful alternative for the administration of natural sex steroid hormones, making it possible to avoid first-pass liver metabolism. P administered by spray showed greater bioavailability than it did when administered in ointment form, while both formulations seemed to be acceptable to patients and were probably clinically safe.

Progesterone administration by nasal spray

The bioavailability and the clinical usefulness of the P administered by nasal spray were investigated. Ten healthy menopausal women received an IN spray administration (4 doses of an oleic P solution 20 mg/mL, corresponding to nearly 11.2 mg of P) and the circulating P levels were calculated. Sixty minutes after administration, the maximum concentration (CMax, 3.75 +/- 0.214 ng/mL) was reached. High P levels (greater than 2 ng/mL) lasted until 360 minutes, and the AUC 0 to 720 was 1,481.6 +/- 343 ng.h/mL. Progesterone administration by spray formulation has proven to be effective in reaching therapeutic levels and to be acceptable to patients and, probably, clinically safe.

A rapid evaluation of tetracycline and its dehydration products by UV derivative spectrophotometry

This paper described a rapid ultraviolet spectrophotometric assay for simultaneous determination of tetracyclines (TC + ETC) and their anhydroderivatives (ATC + EATC), by using third- or fourth-derivative spectra recorded on samples in ethanol or dioxane. The analytical procedures are based on linear relationships between specific peak-trough values and the relative concentrations of tetracycline and of ATC-EATC, in mixtures containing TC, ATC and EATC. The toxic EATC can be estimated about half of the anhydrotetracyclines concentration values. The determination limit of anhydroderivatives is 0.05%. A simple purity test of the antibiotic is also reported. Accuracy, precision and linearity are discussed. The method is particularly applicable to routine analysis of products containing TC, in bulk and in some pharmaceutical formulations.