Abstract: An apparatus for the preparation of cells for implantation into a living body is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a vessel substantially impermeable to gaseous oxygen; and fluid within said vessel, the fluid having a maximal dissolved oxygen capacity substantially equivalent to normal saline yet having a hypoxic oxygen concentration between about 0% to about 5% of said maximal dissolved oxygen capacity. The bag oxygen concentration level remains low when the apparatus is stored at 22°-25° C. in normal atmospheric conditions for a period of at least 30 days. The present invention simplifies the process of achieving donor cell hypoxic preconditioning for cell implantation, and may be used to bathe said cells to be transplanted for a sufficient time to activate the hypoxic metabolic pathway.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for storing platelets to preserve the function and freshness of the platelets. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of a preservative composition having an antiplatelet agent, an anticoagulant, and an oxygen carrier, for maintaining the freshness of platelets. Additionally, the composition may also contain an ultra-short acting broad spectrum anti-microbial agents. The preservative composition may be used to store platelets in a liquid state, a frozen state, or a freeze-dried state.

Abstract: Method for validating the accuracy of automated analyzers by performing an improved dye method procedure that uses at least first and second dye solutions in combination with gravimetric measurement of selected test solutions.

Abstract: Methods of repairing and regenerating hard or soft tissue and reducing inflammation, anti-angiogenesis and anti-osteogenesis in a mammal and related methods of removing PF4 from platelets containing blood preparations. In one embodiment, the method comprises administering to a mammal platelets containing blood preparation where the PF4 has been reduced from the platelet containing blood preparation to repair and regenerate hard and soft tissue in the mammal.

Abstract: The invention features devices and methods for detecting, enriching, and analyzing circulating tumor cells and other particles. The invention further features methods of diagnosing a condition, e.g., cancer, in a subject by analyzing a cellular sample from the subject.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are centrifuge-free self-contained systems for aseptically separating components of whole blood comprising at least one cassette for receiving whole blood; at least one red blood cell exclusion filter; at least one leukocyte reduction filters; at least one platelet exclusion filter; a plurality of product cassettes; and optionally a plurality of pumps and valves; and wherein the filters, pumps, valves, and cassettes are fluidly connected by tubing and the system does not include a centrifuge. Also disclosed are methods for obtaining blood components using the system.

Abstract: A device isolates a substance from blood. The substance includes particles with an effective diameter that is within a range defined by effective diameters of constituents of blood. The device comprises a first sheet of graphene including a first plurality of apertures. The first plurality of apertures are configured to pass objects with an effective diameter less than or equal to the effective diameter of the particles of the substance. The device comprises a second sheet of graphene including a second plurality of apertures. The second plurality of apertures are configured to pass objects with an effective diameter less than the effective diameter of the particles of the substance. The device may be configured to include a conduit system. The device may be configured to operate according to a reversible cycle.

Abstract: A method for performing a photopheresis procedure is provided comprising collecting MNCs in a suspension comprising RBCs and plasma and lysing the red blood cells in the solution, preferably by combining the suspension with a solution to cause lysis. In one example, the solution for causing lysis of the red blood cells comprises ammonium chloride, and the suspension including the ammonium chloride is incubated to cause lysing. After lysing, the suspension may be washed to remove plasma and hemoglobin freed by the lysis of the red blood cells, and an ultraviolet light activated substance is added to the suspension. The suspension is then irradiated with ultraviolet light.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method performed ex vivo for removal of tumor cells from intraoperatively collected blood salvage, to antibodies and scaffold proteins which mimic antibodies for use in said ex vivo method, to the use of said ex vivo method for removal of tumor cells from intraoperatively collected blood salvage followed by reintroducing the so obtained purified blood salvage or of concentrates of erythrocytes purified by said method to a patient from whom said intra-operatively collected blood was obtained, as well as to blood salvage or a concentrate of erythrocytes, both obtainable by said method for reinfusion to said patient.

Abstract: Blood-derived plastic articles prepared from compositions including blood and, in some embodiments, at least one crosslinking agent and/or at least one biological response modifier, that can be useful for biological applications such as wound repair and tissue grafts; methods of making and using the same; methods for assessing the concentration of a biological response modifier in an article; and systems for preparing blood-derived plastic articles are provided.

Abstract: Livestock with sperm labeled to indicate an X and/or Y chromosome. Male livestock that produce progeny of only one gender. Sperm that have a marker.

Abstract: A method for the re-anticoagulation of platelet rich plasma in a blood apheresis system includes priming the blood apheresis system with anticoagulant, such that a volume of anticoagulant is transferred to a PRP container. The method may then transfer the anticoagulant within the PRP container to a red blood cell container, and collect a volume of platelet rich plasma within the PRP container. The platelet rich plasma may be collected in a plurality of cycles. Between collection cycles, the method may transfer a portion of the volume of anticoagulant from the red blood cell container to the PRP container.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods for treating red blood cell compositions with a pathogen-inactivating compound under conditions which provide suitable pathogen inactivation while maintaining cell vitality. Also provided methods of reducing dehydration in red blood cells, as well as treated red blood cell compositions.

Abstract: An antibody preparation suitable for intravenous administration in humans includes IgG, IgA and at least 5% IgM antibodies by weight of the total amount of antibodies. The preparation is prepared from human plasma, has specific complement activating activity, and, in an in vitro assay with human serum suitable to determine the ability of the antibody preparation to activate complement unspecifically, the antibody preparation generates substantially no C5a and/or substantially no C3a. The antibody preparation can have medical uses.

Abstract: The invention features methods for separating cells from a sample (e.g., separating fetal red blood cells from maternal blood). The method begins with the introduction of a sample including cells into one or more microfluidic channels. In one embodiment, the device includes at least two processing steps. For example, a mixture of cells is introduced into a microfluidic channel that selectively allows the passage of a desired type of cell, and the population of cells enriched in the desired type is then introduced into a second microfluidic channel that allows the passage of the desired cell to produce a population of cells further enriched in the desired type. The selection of cells is based on a property of the cells in the mixture, for example, size, shape, deformability, surface characteristics (e.g., cell surface receptors or antigens and membrane permeability), or intracellular properties (e.g., expression of a particular enzyme).

Abstract: A red blood cell storage composition includes a composition of red blood cells and biochemistry altering reagents, the biochemistry altering reagents being present at a concentration so as to reduce the percent hemolysis of the red blood cells during the freeze-thaw cycle below that of the percent hemolysis of the red blood cells in the absence the biochemistry altering reagents. The red blood cell storage composition preferably includes reagents selected from: modifiers of glycolytic/metabolic components, modifiers of antioxidant potential, effectors of intracellular ionic distribution, modifiers of membrane fluidity, modifiers of cytoskeletal structure, effectors of the cyclooxygenase second messenger pathway, effectors of the lipoxygenase second messenger pathway, effectors of the hexose monophosphate second messenger pathway, effectors of the phosphorylation second messenger pathway, modifiers of specific messenger molecules, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one nonmetabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions.

Abstract: Tolerogenic populations of dendritic cells are provided, where the dendritic cells are characterized by expression of select tissue-specific homing receptors including the chemokine receptors CCR9; or CMKLR1; or the integrin CD103. The dendritic cells may be conventional/myeloid or plasmacytoid dendritic cells. The cells may be isolated from lymphoid tissue, from blood, or from in vitro culture, e.g. bone marrow culture, etc. Methods are provided for their identification, isolation and targeting in immunotherapeutic interventions in suppressing inflammatory disorders including autoimmunity, transplantation responses and allergic diseases. In some embodiments dendritic cell populations are fixed to render them immunosuppressive, thus allowing the cells to be typed and banked for future use.

Abstract: A method for analysis of red blood cell production dynamics is disclosed. The method comprises: (ai) separating RBCs in the blood sample into ordered subsets of RBCs based on relative age-related physical parameter of the RBCs, or (aii) obtaining a pair of estimates simultaneously, the pair of the estimates comprising a first estimate and a second estimate, the first estimate being a measurement of the size of individual RBCs, the second estimate being a measurement of the activity or concentration of the biomarker, sorting the pair into ordered subsets of data based on the first estimate to obtain paired estimates; (b) generating a mathematical pattern or a graphical pattern based on the paired estimates or the ordered subsets of data; and (c) comparing the mathematical pattern or the graphical pattern with established patterns to determine the RBC production dynamics in the person.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for pathogen reduction in blood by illuminating with UV light while taking steps for preservation of blood components and reducing oxidative damage from reactive oxygen species generated during UV light exposure. Fresh whole donor blood or products derived therefrom may be submitted to UV light treatment while in a low oxygenation state defined by a partial oxygen pressure below a normal level. Such low oxygenation state occurs naturally shortly after blood collection or may be induced by exposure to low-oxygen environment, reducing temperature or by other disclosed steps.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for improving viability and/or stress tolerance of viable biological material and using the said material comprising applying hydrostatic pressure to said biological material; keeping the said viable biological material at the hydrostatic pressure for a predetermined time period; releasing the hydrostatic pressure; and using the said material for any desired purpose in accordance with any useful protocol. The usage of the said biological material incorporates any techniques, protocols that are applicable in the field of assisted reproductive techniques, biotechnical and/or biotechnological manipulations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to materials and methods for hypothermic collection of whole blood, and components thereof, which can extend the holding time of blood beyond the current usable limit. Additionally, blood can be drawn directly into a hypothermic preservation solution without the addition of standard anticoagulants. This is enabled by providing sustained cellular viability under hypothermic conditions using a nutrient matrix devoid of animal proteins and containing energy substrates, free-radical scavengers, and impermeants that is ionically balanced for storage of biologic materials at low temperatures to prevent cellular stress-induced apoptosis.

Abstract: A multiple polymer layer test cartridge includes an input to receive a sample containing cells, multiple lysing channel structures on alternate layers of the multiple layer test cartridge coupled to each other to pass the sample in sequence between the lysing channel structures, and a test chamber to receive the sample from the multiple lysing channel structures.

Abstract: Synthetic aqueous storage solutions are disclosed for use in the processing and the storing of red blood cells prepared from whole blood including cells derived from whole blood held for an extended period at room temperature.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an injectable composition for local administration for treating hemorrhoids, which contains hydroxychloroquine. Specifically, the composition contains a solution of hydroxychloroquine in physiological saline for injection, together with a local anesthetic and an antioxidant.

Abstract: Methods for improving the functionality and/or fertility of sperm, for example, by enhancing motility and extending the lifespan of sperm in the FRT, by adding functional molecules of interest attached to a membrane anchoring agent-PEG conjugate to the surface of the sperm are provided. Such methods may be used in AI to reduce the number of sperm needed for insemination and to improve conception rates.

Abstract: A method for reducing the number of selected antibodies in a subject's blood, the method comprising removing blood from the subject, passing the blood along an enclosed pathway, wherein the pathway comprises one or more semi-permeable hollow fibers with one or more membranes having surfaces positioned substantially perpendicular to the length of the one or more hollow fiber and antigens specific for the antibodies immobilized on the one or more membranes, returning the treated blood to the internal circulation of the subject, wherein the returned treated blood has a reduced number of selected antibodies compared to before treatment.

Abstract: The present invention provides an approach for the simultaneous determination of the activation states of a plurality of proteins in single cells. This approach permits the rapid detection of heterogeneity in a complex cell population based on activation states, and the identification of cellular subsets that exhibit correlated changes in activation within the cell population. Moreover, this approach allows the correlation of cellular activities or properties. In addition, the use of potentiators of cellular activation allows for characterization of such pathways and cell populations.

Abstract: The device comprises a loading portion (2a) for loading biological material thereon, and a channel (C) arranged for conducting a warming solution there through and for applying it over said biological material while loaded on said loading portion (2a), for an in-situ warming. The use comprises simultaneously warming and transferring a cryopreserved biological material loaded on a device loading portion, by conducting and applying a warming solution on the biological material loaded on the device loading portion.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, kits, and compositions for medical imaging relating to fluorescent dyes entrapped in erythrocytes. Also disclosed therein are methods, and compositions further comprising erythrocytes entrapping at least one therapeutically active agent, as well as methods for releasing the entrapped therapeutically active agent(s). Disclosed herein also are methods for preparation of the cells entrapping dye and therapeutically active agent(s) in a freeze-dried form that makes them readily available and easy to use in a clinical environment.

Abstract: The invention provides methods, compositions, and medical kits comprising a nitrite-reductase promoter, such as an allosteric modulator of hemoglobin, for use in treating medical disorders and preservation of blood products. In one aspect, the invention provides methods, compositions, and medical kits comprising an inorganic nitrite salt and a nitrite-reductase promoter, such as an allosteric modulator of hemoglobin, for use in treating medical disorders, such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, ischemic conditions, hemolytic conditions, and bacterial infections. Exemplary inorganic nitrite salts include sodium nitrite and arginine nitrite. Exemplary allosteric modulators of hemoglobin described herein include alkyl-substituted and acyl-substituted di-nitroheterocycles.

Abstract: A multiple-use blotting device for blotting blood from a fingertip includes a substrate, and a blood absorbing pad secured to the substrate. The blood absorbing pad has a plurality of blood absorbing sections that are evenly spaced from one another. The blotting device includes a protective cover overlying the blood absorbing pad, the protective cover having a window formed therein for exposing the blood absorbing pad. The cover is coupled with the substrate and is adapted to rotate relative to the substrate and the blood absorbing pad for sequentially aligning the window of the cover with each of the blood absorbing sections for exposing, one at a time, each of the blood absorbing sections. After one section of the pad has been used to blot blood, the cover is rotated for exposing a clean, unused section of the pad, while covering the used, blood-soaked section of the pad.

Abstract: Certain aspects of the present invention are directed to new fully human fusion partner cell lines called human Karyochi cells, and to methods for making them. Human Karyochi cells are then fused with human antibody-secreting lymphoid cells to make fully human hybridomas called Karyochi-based hybridomas, which likewise secrete fully human monoclonal antibodies. Human Karyochi cells are made by isolating a donor nucleus that is substantially free of cytoplasm from either a first malignant B-lymphocyte cell line or a normal B-lymphocyte, and transferring the donor nucleus into the cytoplasm of a recipient cell from a second T- or B-lymphoid cell line. With time the nuclei synchronize and fuse to form the chimeric Karyochi fusion partner cell line. Nuclear transfer can be accomplished using intra-cytosolic nucleus injection or by impact-induced nucleus administration.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include method, system and apparatus for storing fluids (including whole blood or any of the components thereof) to thereby enhance viability of the fluids being stored outside a living body. Embodiments of the present invention include, for example, exposing an electric, magnetic, electromagnetic, field or combinations thereof to one or more storage mediums containing the fluids. Embodiments of the fields exposed to the blood or components thereof thereby causing one or more cells to be repelled from the field to reduce the risk of the one or more cells from sticking together. Embodiments of the claimed invention advantageously extend the viability or shelf life of the blood or components thereof. Embodiments of the present invention can further include a pump for circulating the fluids and a warmer to maintain a constant temperature.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for separating cells from a sample containing erythrocytes. The method is for recovering desired cells from a sample containing the desired cells, erythrocytes and undesired cells comprising: a) contacting the sample with a composition, said composition comprising: i) an erythrocytes aggregation reagent ii) at least one antigen recognizing moiety coupled to a magnetic particle, wherein said particle with said at least one antigen recognizing moiety specifically binds to at least one antigen specific for one or more undesired cellular components; b) applying simultaneously i) gravity sedimentation for sedimentation of erythrocytes and ii) a magnetic field gradient to said sample for immobilizing said magnetic particle generating a pellet and a supernatant phase, and c) recovering the desired cells from the supernatant phase. Compositions for the use within the present method are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved method for preparing hydrogels, such as alginate hydrogels. The hydrogels of the present invention is in particular useful for immobilisation and preservation of biological material, such as cellular material, e.g. spermatozoa.

Abstract: This document provides methods and materials for enhancing the storage capabilities of red blood cell preparations. For example, methods and materials for using CO2 to store red blood cells in a manner that (a) reduces the level of glucose or 2,3-DPG consumption of or reduces the level of 2,3-DPG production by a red blood cell preparation, (b) reduces the level of lactate formation by a red blood cell preparation, and/or (c) reduces the pH level of a red blood cell preparation are provided. Such methods and materials can result in prolonging the useful lifespan of the red blood cells of the red blood cell preparation. This document also provides methods and materials involved in prolonging useful storage of platelet preparations. For example, methods and materials for storing platelets in a manner that reduces platelet metabolism, that preserves platelet function, and/or that reduces the risk of bacterial contamination are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for visual detection of hemolysis in a whole blood sample, comprising at least one visible detection compartment and a transfer passage connected to said visible detection compartment, said transfer passage being arranged to permit transfer of a volume of plasma from said sample to said detection compartment and wherein said transfer passage further is arranged with a separation device (4) for separating plasma from blood cells within said whole blood sample before said plasma reaches the detection compartment, wherein said device is arranged with subpressure means providing a subpressure inside said detection compartment for generating a force urging said volume of plasma to be transferred from said whole blood sample to said detection compartment through said transfer passage and via said separation device.

Abstract: Compounds of general formula I: and compositions comprising compounds of general formula I that modulate pyruvate kinase are described herein. Also described herein are methods of using the compounds that modulate pyruvate kinase in the treatment of diseases.

Abstract: Described are systems and methods for monitoring administration of nitric oxide (NO) to ex vivo fluids. Examples of such fluids include blood in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuits or perfusion fluids used for preserving ex vivo organs prior to transplanting in a recipient. The systems and methods described herein provide for administering nitric oxide to the fluid, monitoring nitric oxide or a nitric oxide marker in the fluid, and adjusting the nitric oxide administration.

Abstract: A blood fractionating apparatus that enables aseptic fractionation and storing of fractionated blood components, comprises a centrifuge tube including three chambers separated by constricted sealable passages, an open operative upper end chamber, a closed operative lower end chamber and a middle chamber defined between the upper end chamber and the lower end chamber and connected by means of the sealable passages. A stopper with a flapper valve is provided at the opening of the upper end chamber to control flow of fluid to and from the chambers. This apparatus enables separating the chambers to obtain a hermetically sealed operative lower chamber containing the corpuscle component and a hermetically sealed middle chamber containing the plasma component that can be stored at ambient temperature.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an apparatus for segregating particles on the basis of their ability to flow through a stepped passageway. At least some of the particles are unable to pass through a narrower passageway bounded by a segregating step, resulting in segregation of the particles. The breadth of the leading edge of at least one step of the apparatus is significantly greater than the overall width of the passageway in which the step occurs, permitting high and rapid sample throughput. The apparatus and methods described herein can be used to segregate particles of a wide variety of types. By way of example, they can be used to segregate circulating tumor cells from a human blood sample.

Abstract: Synthetic storage media are disclosed for use in the processing and the storing of platelets. The storage media includes a platelet storage solution and less than 20 percent plasma to preserve platelet function after at least 7 days of storage.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions and methods for continuous stabilization of pH of cell culture medium notwithstanding change from one distinct environment to another environment. The methods include providing a buffering system that includes a sodium bicarbonate buffer and at least two zwitterionic buffers having concentrations significantly reduced as compared to conventionally used media buffers utilizing a single zwitterionic buffer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing RBC wherein electromagnetic stimulation such as applying an electrical current or magnetic field to the stored blood extends the viability or shelf life of the stored RBC.

Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a bag for storing blood previously withdrawn from a subject. The bag can comprise a flexible, closed container and at least one removable heat transfer member adhered to an outer surface portion of the container. The container can include an inlet therein that forms part of the container. The inlet can be adapted for fluid-tight connection to a tube member through which the blood is caused to flow.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the production of red blood cells from hematopoietic stem cells, by differentiating such cells in the presence of a protein that induces cell survival and proliferation.

Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a bag for storing platelets or contaminated blood previously withdrawn from a subject. The bag can comprise a flexible, closed container and at least one removable heat transfer member adhered to an outer surface portion of the container. The container can include an inlet therein that forms part of the container. The inlet can be adapted for fluid-tight connection to a tube member through which the platelets or contaminated blood are caused to flow.

Abstract: The invention relates to use of hemopexin (Hx) to sequester extravascular hemoglobin and thereby reduce or prevent inflammation of non-infectious etiology in a subject (e.g., a human).

Abstract: A blood treatment apparatus adapted to preserve a blood treatment unit between blood treatment sessions. The blood treatment apparatus is configured to i) perform a blood treatment session and thereby use the blood treatment unit, ii) fill the blood treatment unit with a preservation fluid comprising at least one treatment fluid concentrate of a type that is used to prepare the treatment fluid, iii) maintain the preservation fluid in the blood treatment unit until a next blood treatment session is prepared, iv) dispatch the preservation fluid from the blood treatment unit in preparation of a next blood treatment session, and v) perform a next blood treatment session and thereby extend the use of the blood treatment unit. A related method is also described.