Abstract: End capping a filter cartridge. The filter cartridge contains a hollow central core for passage of fluid, a membrane around the central core through which the fluid also passes, at least one support for the membrane in intimate contact with the membrane, a cage for holding the membrane and the support in contact with the central core, and an end cap for sealing the cartridge.

Abstract: There is disclosed, in one aspect, a composition for improving the storage stability of blood platelets comprising the platelets, a container for the platelets, and a sialyl compound having the structural formula (I) ##STR1## wherein Ac is an acetyl group, R is a carbohydrate group, n is an integer of 1 or more, preferably 1, and the R and N-acetyl groups replace hydrogen atoms or hydroxyl groups on the ring. In another aspect, there is disclosed a method for increasing the storage stability of these platelets. This method comprises admixing with the platelets a compound having the structural formula (I) described above, wherein Ac, R, and n have the meanings described above.