Abstract: A computer system operable in two modes for creating and selectively reproducing an individual's handwriting allows a user to produce text such as by word processing and display that text in their own handwriting. In a Create mode, the user separately inputs the characters of a character set in their own handwriting into a computer system. The input characters are then stored in a memory of the computer system. Each store character is associated with a key stroke on a keyboard. In a Reproduce mode, a desired character of the character set can be reproduced in the individual's handwriting by actuating the key stroke on the keyboard associated with the desired character.

Abstract: A computer system operable in two modes for creating and selectively reproducing an individual's handwriting allows a user to produce text such as by word processing and display that text in their own handwriting. In a Create mode, the user separately inputs the characters of a character set in their own handwriting into a computer system. The input characters are then stored in a memory of the computer system. Each store character is associated with a key stroke on a keyboard. In a Reproduce mode, a desired character of the character set can be reproduced in the individual's handwriting by actuating the key stroke on the keyboard associated with the desired character.

Abstract: A cutout or dimple is provided in an orthodontic bracket and is sized to receive a projection of a measuring instrument to facilitate positioning of the bracket on a tooth. Preferably, the cutout is a conical dimple sized to receive the tip of a Boone gauge or other measuring instrument.

Abstract: A generally flat, elongated edge-sealed polymeric blood bag having a length to width ratio of at least 2 to 1 and one end portion in tapering communication with a connected single tubing which in turn is in closed communication via a Y-connector with both a bag access port and at least one other Y-connector. The second Y-connector is in closed communication with at least one auxiliary bag, preferably two auxiliary bags. Once the upper neocyte portion is expressed from the elongated blood bag the lower, more dense gerocytes can be saved in the original elongated bag or expressed into another connected bag via the Y-connector assembly for subsequent use or storage. The bag system is especially useful for separating and isolating both components of a neocyte/gerocyte red blood cell mixture in an open system and for providing a means for saving the otherwise discarded gerocytes for subsequent use.

Abstract: Platelet concentrate containing less then 10.sup.6 white blood cells and prepared from a unit of whole blood sample in a closed multiple blood bag system within less than about eight hours after the whole blood is removed from a human. The concentrate is contained in a platelet storage bag made from polyvinyl chloride plasticized with either trioctyltrimellitate or ethylene vinyl acetate.

Abstract: Plastic blood bag system including a bag having a generally longitudinal seal extending from the top of the bag and between two blood bag ports downwardly to at least the lower half of the bag but not to the bottom of the bag, thereby leaving the sole passageway within the bag and between two ports located in the lower half of the bag.

Abstract: Filtration of white blood cells (WBCs) directly from platelet rich plasma (PRP) rather than from subsequently made platelet concentrates (PC). Earlier filtration is effective at removing most WBCs with minimal platelet loss and permits storage of platelets for at least 5 days. The filtration is preferably done with a closed, ready-to-use system comprising a WBC filter disposed between a first blood bag and at least two empty secondary bags. A fourth bag may be included in the closed system to contain a platelet additive solution. System can remove at least 95% of the WBCs with less than 10% loss in platelets. In very preferred embodiments at least 99.5% of the original WBCs are removed by filtration prior to platelet storage.

Abstract: A generally flat, elongated edge-sealed polymeric blood bag having a length to width ratio of at least 2 to 1 and one end portion in tapering communication with a connected tubing. When the bag is filled with a mixture of blood components which are then separated, the tapering end portion expands to form a funnel-like guide for directing a separated component from the bag through the tubing in a substantially unobstructed manner. Bag is especially useful for separating and isolating the components of a neocyte/gerocyte red blood cell mixture.

Abstract: A generally flat, elongated edge-sealed polymeric blood bag having a length to width ratio of at least 2 to 1 and one end portion in tapering communication with a connected tubing. When the bag is filled with a mixture of blood components which are then separated, the tapering end portion expands to form a funnel-like guide for directing a separated component from the bag through the tubing in a substantially unobstructed manner. Bag is especially useful for separating and isolating the components of a neocyte/gerocyte red blood cell mixture.

Abstract: A plastic bag containing a platelet concentrate is disclosed wherein the viability of platelets remains at a high level even after storage at 22.degree. C. for up to five days. The bag in which the platelet concentrate is stored comprises walls of polyvinyl chloride film containing tri 2-ethylhexyl trimellitate as plasticizer together with epoxidized vegetable oils for heat stabilization of the film. The film may also contain metal soaps in preferred formulations.