Quality and standardization in blood component preparation with an automated blood processing technique

The use of automated blood processors in combination with bottom and top blood containers has been found to improve the standardization and quality of blood components. A study was performed to validate a new type of processor (Optipress® II) and compare its performance with a first generation processor (Optipress® I). Primary separation on the Optipress II was investigated on 570mL (± 10%) of anticoagulated blood in a nonpaired study. In addition, the quality of the products in routine production was compared between the results of the Optipress I and Optipress II. The whole blood units were kept overnight at room temperature (20 ± 2°C). Separation was performed under conditions to obtain 55mL buffy coats with a 50% haematocrit (ht). Platelet concentrate preparation was investigated in a paired study and compared to the routine manual method using PAS II additive solution. Parameters studied were volume, red cell, white cell and platelet counts, ht, haemoglobin (hb, total and free). Primary separation was more efficient in the Optipress II because the platelet count was lower in the erythrocyte concentrates (P<0.0001), platelets were lower in plasma (P<0.0001) and platelet counts were higher in buffy coats (P<0.0001). Buffy coat volume showed less variation (Optipress II VC=4%, Optipress I VC= 7.4%). Secondary separation did not show differences between the Optipress II and manual method but was advantageous because of the automatic termination of the procedure. Further improvement of standardization in blood component preparation is possible with an automated blood processor, leading to improvement of the quality of blood products for patient care

Functional characteristics of S-59 photochemically treated platelet concentrates derived from buffy coats

Background: A photochemical treatment (PCT) process for inactivation of infectious pathogens and leukocytes has been developed and evaluated using single-donor platelet concentrates. This study assessed the application of PCT to platelets prepared from pooled buffy coats. In this study, in vitro functional characteristics of PCT platelets were compared to control platelets prepared from pooled buffy coats using the approved platelet-additive solution T-Sol®. Platelets in platelet PAS III additive solution without PCT were evaluated as well. PCT also included the use of a psoralen (S-59) reduction device (SRD). Materials and Methods: Four types of platelet concentrates were compared: (1) platelet concentrate in plasma/T-Sol; (2) platelet concentrate in plasma/PAS III; (3) platelet concentrate in plasma/PAS III, PCT, 9 h SRD and (4) platelet concentrate in plasma/PAS III, PCT, 16 h SRD. PCT occurred on the day after whole-blood collection. In vitro assay parameters included: pH, pO 2, pCO 2, HCO 3,/ - platelet count, mean platelet volume, plasma glucose, plasma lactate, total ATP, expression of p-selectin, hypotonic shock response and electron microscopy. Results: The results indicate that PCT is compatible with platelet concentrates prepared from pooled buffy coats for up to 7 days of storage. Conclusion: The PCT process resulted in acceptable in vitro platelet functional characteristics and is currently in clinical trials to evaluate the haemostatic efficacy of PCT platelets in thrombocytopenic patients requiring multiple platelet transfusions. Copyrigh

Health and prolonging working lives: an advisory report of the Health Council of The Netherlands

Objective This paper summarizes the main findings and recommendations of an advisory report on health and prolonging working life, which was requested by the Dutch Minister of Social Affairs and Employment. Methods The advisory report was compiled by a multidisciplinary committee of ten scientists appointed by the Health Council of The Netherlands. The committee's aims were to (i) describe the health of the ageing population, (ii) describe how prolonging working life influences health, (iii) describe determinants, besides health, for prolonging working lives, and (iv) review the literature on interventions aimed at retaining or improving employability of older workers. Results The report was presented to the Minister on 26 June 2018. As the likelihood of health problems increases with age, prolonging working life may be difficult. In general, life expectancy increases and gains in life years and health seem mainly attributable to people aged >75 years. Work is good for mental health. However, it may be beneficial for mental health to stop working around the retirement age. Besides health, financial factors, lifestyle, motivation to work, and working conditions play a role in prolonging working life. A systematic review of the evidence indicated that interventions such as worksite health promotion or career development workshops can support older workers in this matter. Conclusions The Health Council advised the Dutch Government to focus on worksite health promotion and career development interventions as well as the improvement of their implementation. This requires a tailored approach as there is a large diversity in health among older workers and particularly between low- and higheducated people. With this in mind, it was further recommended to explore whether flexible pension schemes might better suit this diversit