Red Blood Cell Parameters Research Articles

Comparative Study of Red Blood Cell Parameters in Different Hemoglobinopathies Diagnosed by HPLC at a Tertiary Care Hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat

Background: Inherited disorders of hemoglobin (hemoglobinopathies) are the most common genetic disorders in the world with 7% prevalence. Thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are the most prevalent hemoglobinopathies in India. Screening and diagnosis of hemoglobinopathies require a comprehensive evaluation combining clinical and family history, blood counts, red blood cell indices, and molecular analysis. Aims and Objective: (1) To differentiate the type of hemoglobinopathies on the basis of red cell parameters, (2) to assess the spectrum of hemoglobinopathies, and (3) to study the age at diagnosis and genderwise distribution of various hemoglobinopathies. Material and Methods: A prospective observational study over a period of 1 year (August 2020 to July 2021) at a tertiary care hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat. All indoor patients’ samples were sent for complete blood count (CBC), peripheral smear examination, reticulocyte count, sickling test, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Result: A total of 140 subjects were included in the final analysis. The mean age at diagnosis was 24.7 ± 10.5 years; 48 participants were male, and the remaining 92 were female with an M:F ratio of 0.5:1. The most common hemoglobinopathy in this study was sickle cell trait (40 cases, 28.6%). Conclusion: To reduce the burden of various hemoglobinopathies, screening is recommended as a part of antenatal checkup and in infants after 6 months of age in high-prevalence districts for particular hemoglobinopathies via CBC including RBC indices and HPLC.

Effect of Smoking on Red Blood Cell Parameters: A Cross-sectional Study in a Divisional City of Bangladesh

Background: Several metabolic and biochemical processes, hormone secretion, and the haematological system are all affected by smoking. Numerous studies have found that smoking is associated with higher levels of haemoglobin concentration (Hb%), total red blood cell count (RBC), and red cell distribution width (RDW). Objectives: To study the RBC parameters in healthy male smokers and non-smokers among adults. Methodology: This research was carried out in the Department of Physiology of Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College, from July, 2021 to June, 2022. A total of 200 participants were included with healthy adult smokers and age-matched healthy adult non-smokers. History and physical examinations were used to evaluate each individual. We measured height and weight, and calculated body mass index of the subjects. Calculations were made on cigarette smoking intensity and duration. Blood was collected to determine RBC parameters, such as total RBC count, haemoglobin level, haematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and red cell distribution width (RDW) by using Sysmex 500i automatic haematology analyzer (Japan). Results: Among the 200 participants, 100 were adult smokers and another 100 age-matched healthy adult non-smokers. The RBC indices were significantly elevated in smokers compared to non-smokers group: mean haemoglobin concentration (g/dl)+ standard deviation (SD) were 14.17 ± 2.13 versus 13.27 ± 1.39 respectively with p<0.001, mean haematocrit (HCT) (percent)+ SD were 41.60 ± 6.88 versus 39.13 ± 5.46 respectively with p=0.005, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (fl) + SD 91.13 ± 8.86 versus 88.33 ± 5.58 respectively with p=0.033, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) (pg) + SD 31.16 ± 3.26 versus 30.05 ± 3.0 respectively with p=0.016 and mean red cell distribution width (RDW) (percent)+ SD 14.74 ± 1.63 versus 14.00 ± 1.57 respectively with p=0.001. However, RBC count (×106/μl) (4.60 ± 0.80 versus 4.46 ± 0.60; p=0.143) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) (g/dl) (34.23 ± 2.11 versus 34.11 ± 2.32; p=0.707) did not differ significantly between smoker and non-smoker groups. There was no statistical difference between mild, moderate, and severe smokers, according to the study's variables. Conclusion: MCV, MCH, RDW, haematocrit, and haemoglobin concentration were all significantly higher in smokers. Journal of Monno Medical College December, 2023; 9 (2):41-46

Impact of Gold Nanoparticles Intraperitoneal Injection on Mice's Erythrocytes and Renal Tissue.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of two different types of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) delivered by intraperitoneal (IP) injection on blood and kidney tissue changes in a mouse model. Three groups of fifteen adult male BALB/c healthy mice, weighing approximately 25-30 g, were used for the experiment and designated G1, G2, and G3, respectively. G1 mice received vehicle, whereas G2 and G3 received an IP injection of 10 mg/kg body weight of methoxy poly ethylene glycol gold nanoparticles (PEG-AuNPs) and fluorescently dye labeled gold nanoparticles (Dye-AuNPs), respectively. Hematological parameters were measured based on the standard complete blood cell count (CBC) technique. The two nanoparticles, i.e., PEG-AuNPs and Dye-AuNPs, significantly reduced most red blood cell (RBC) parameters in the groups with the exception of a nonsignificant effect on hemoglobin (HBG) levels. Both gold nanoparticles, i.e., PEG-AuNPs and Dye-AuNPs, led to a reduced RBC count, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) level when compared with the control. Notably, Dye-AuNPs and PEG-AuNPs resulted in a considerably higher RBC distribution RDW-(CV % and SD fL). Glomerular injury was suggested based on the development of hydropic degeneration and the presence of a protein-rich fluid inside the tubules. Renal tissue and blood indices changed significantly in response to the two nanoparticles, suggesting possible organ injury.

A-143 Comparative Evaluation of K2EDTA Performance in Multinational Vacutainers: A Case Study of “DBO” by Schraubg and “BD” by Becton, Dickinson

Abstract Background This research paper presents a thorough comparison of the anticoagulant properties of K2EDTA in two multinational vacutainer brands, “DBO” by Schraubg and “BD” by Becton, Dickinson, with a specific focus on critical hematological parameters. The study encompassed the analysis of 50 samples, spanning a wide range of values from 60 fl to 110 fl, evaluating key parameters such as Hemoglobin (Hb), Hematocrit (HCT), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC), and Red Blood Cell (RBC) count. Methods Peripheral blood samples were gathered from 50 outpatient participants using the specified tubes. The samples underwent assessment for six hematological analytes, including RBC Count, hemoglobin, HCT, MCV, MCH, and MCHC. Comparative analysis was performed using the paired t-test. Differences exceeding the total allowable error were considered clinically significant. To assess stability, initial results were compared with those obtained from samples preserved for a duration of 2 hours Results Our findings indicate that the use of “DBO” vacutainers resulted in slightly higher values for Hb, HCT, MCV, MCHC, and RBC count compared to the “BD” vacutainers. Notably, the statistical significance was observed in MCV, HCT, and MCHC across nearly all samples, while Hb and RBC parameters showed no significant changes. Given the crucial role of K2EDTA as an anticoagulant in maintaining the hypotonicity of Red Blood Cells (RBCs), ensuring accurate hematological analyses is imperative. Conclusions Although the T-value for Hemoglobin did not exhibit statistical significance, the study identified notable differences in Hematocrit (HCT) and Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV). This underscores the importance of selecting the appropriate vacutainer brand to ensure reliability and accuracy in hematological measurements, particularly when assessing MCV, where even slight variations can carry clinical implications. The results underscore the necessity for clinicians and laboratories to carefully consider the choice of vacutainers based on their specific requirements and the critical nature of the hematological parameters under analysis.

The Diagnostic Value of Ret-He in Predicting Latent Iron Deficiency in Female Blood Donors

To explore the application value of reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent (Ret-He) for diagnosing latent iron deficiency in female plateletpheresis donors. A total of 230 female plateletpheresis donors in Fujian Blood Center from January to February 2022 were selected as the research group and divided into three groups: normal group, iron depletion (ID) group and iron deficient erythropoiesis (IDE) group, according to the severity of iron deficiency. The level of hemoglobin (HGB), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), coefficient of variation of red cell distribution width (RDW-CV) and Ret-He were measured by using the Sysmex XN automated hematology analyzer. Chemiluminescence immunoassay was used to detect iron biochemical indexes. Receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curve analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnosic value of relevant indicators in female blood donors with latent iron deficiency. Ret-He in ID group was 32.55 (31.15,33.10)pg, which was significantly lower than that in the normal group ［33.80(32.73，34.70)pg］ （P <0.05）, and significantly higher than that in IDE group ［30.40(28.70,31.50)pg］ （P <0.05）. ROC analysis in diagnosis of IDE demonstrated that the area under the curves (AUCs) of HGB, MCV, MCH, RDW-CV and Ret-He were 0.892, 0.843, 0.909, 0.890, 0.931, respectively. When the critical value of Ret-He was 32.05 pg, its sensitivity and specificity were 85.90% and 92.60%, respectively. However, all red blood cell parameters had poor diagnostic value for ID. Ret-He is a perfect predictor for latent iron deficiency in female blood donors. Detection of Ret-He can advance the diagnosis of iron deficiency in female blood donors to the IDE stage.

Accuracy of the model derived from red blood cell indices in predicting α0-thalassemia trait among non-anemic pregnant women

BackgroundThe study aims to establish prediction model derived from red blood cell indices to improve the accuracy of α0-thalassemia trait screening in non-anemic pregnant women. MethodA diagnostic study as secondary analysis on the prospective database was conducted. The participants were pregnant women, undergoing α0-thalassemia screening at first visit antenatal care using red blood cell indices with confirmation by PCR method. Diagnostic performance of each of red blood cell parameter and their combination derived from logistic regression analysis in predicting α0-thalassemia trait were determined. FindingsThe total 587 Thai pregnant women were included in the analysis, consisting of 136 cases of α0-thalassemia trait and 451 normal controls. Diagnostic performance analysis revealed that, the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) provided a sensitivity of 98.5 % and a false positive rate of 20.2 %. While The mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) provided a sensitivity of 99.3 % and a false positive rate of 15.7 %. The combined-parameters prediction model including hemoglobin (Hb), MCV, MCH, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red cell distribution width (RDW), and red blood cell (RBC) count, demonstrated excellent diagnostic performance with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.992, sensitivity of 99.3 %, and much lower false positive rate of 4 %. InterpretationThe combined-parameter prediction model provided excellent diagnostic performance with low false positive rate. The application of the prediction model could decrease unnecessary PCR method for α0-thalassemia testing, thereby decreasing the cost of investigation. Our proposed model can possibly have a great impact or significant change in clinical practice, especially in Southeast Asia.

Pre-exercise supplementation with curcuma xanthorrhiza roxb has minimal impact on red blood cell parameters but reduces oxidative stress: a preliminary study in rats.

This study examined the effects of longterm pre-exercise Curcuma xanthorriza Roxb supplementation on red blood cell indices along with circulating malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in response to endurance exercise to address previously inconsistent findings. Male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus; n = 20, aged 12-16 weeks) were divided equally into an exercise-only group (C) and three groups supplemented with Curcuma extract at dosages of 6.75 (T1), 13.50 (T2), and 20.25 mg (T3). Curcuma extract supplementation was administered for 28 d immediately prior to exercise. Following 28 d of exhaustive swimming, the hematocrit and erythrocyte count increased by 15% (p = 0.06). Pre-exercise Curcuma supplementation did not significantly affect mean corpuscular volume or mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Longterm exercise intervention resulted in elevated MDA levels by 41% (p <0.001), while Curcuma supplementation (13.50 mg) attenuated this increase by 16.6% (p = 0.09). Additionally, Curcuma supplementation resulted in a dose-dependent increase in SOD levels, with an 82.6% increase observed at 20.25 mg (p = 0.028). Our preliminary findings indicated that pre-exercise supplementation with Curcuma extract had a negligible effect on changes in red blood cell markers, but it mitigated the increase in oxidative stress induced by exercise training. Our future research direction will involve applying the findings to humans.

Effects of 90-Minute Football Match on Red Blood Indices in Sedentary Young Males

While exercise-induced haemorheological alterations are well-documented in various sports, the specific impact of a football match on red blood cell (RBC) parameters remains unknown. This study investigates the acute effects of a 90-minute football match on RBC indices in sedentary young males. After inclusion and exclusion criteria, twenty (20) moderately active, non-smoking male volunteers (mean age: 20.00 ± 0.4 years) participated in the study. Venous blood samples were collected pre- and post- football match to assess RBC count, haematocrit (HCT), and plasma volume (PV). Data generated were subjected to paired student's t-tests using SPSS, to compare values between pre- and post-match measurements. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered indicative of statistical significance. The results showed a statistically significant decrease in haematocrit (HCT) and red blood cell count (RBC) after the match (p &lt; 0.05) when compared to pre-match values. This was accompanied by a significant increase in plasma volume (PV) (p &lt; 0.05), which was higher than pre-match values. These changes suggest that the physiological demands of the football match influenced blood parameters, likely due to fluid shifts and haemodilution during intense physical activity. These findings suggest potential implications for exercise physiology, diagnosis, and therapy in sports medicine.

Anemia in patients with cartilage hair hypoplasia: a narrative review and recommendations.

Cartilage hair hypoplasia (CHH) can lead to the development of anemia as a possible complication of this rare genetic disease. Despite various publications on anemia in CHH patients, a comprehensive review on this topic has not been conducted. This article reviews publications on anemia in CHH patients published from 1981 to 2022. Most authors have reported macrocytic anemia and blood transfusion as a common treatment approach in this patient group. Recommended guidelines for managing anemia in CHH patients include iron chelation therapy for those requiring multiple blood transfusions, regular assessment of anemia symptoms, red blood cell parameters, and immune system function. Future studies should evaluate the erythroid system in a larger cohort of CHH patients, considering key factors such as concurrent illnesses, age, height, and weight.

Gender Differences in the Effects of Cadmium Exposure on Hematological Parameters in Wistar Rats

This study aims to investigate the gender dimorphism in cadmium exposure on hematological parameters in male and female Wistar rats. Twenty Wistar rats (120g-150g) were divided into four groups: male control, male cadmium-treated, female control, and female cadmium-treated. Cadmium chloride (50 mg/kg) was administered orally to the experimental groups for 45 days. Hematological parameters were analyzed using an auto hematological analyzer. Data were statistically evaluated using two-way ANOVA with significance set at p &lt; 0.05. Cadmium exposure significantly increased white blood cell (WBC) counts in male rats compared to controls, with notable decrease in neutrophils and an increase in lymphocytes. Female rats showed significant increase in monocyte and basophil levels. Furthermore, red blood cell (RBC) parameters showed significant reductions in hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) in female cadmium-treated rats. No significant effects were observed on platelet count or distribution width in both male and female rats. The study concluded there are gender-specific hematological alterations due to cadmium exposure in Wistar rats. These findings underscore the need for gender-specific approach in the understanding and amelioration of cadmium toxicity.

Reference values for reticulocyte haemoglobin equivalent in healthy Chinese children under 5 years and its associations with various blood parameters

BackgroundReticulocyte haemoglobin equivalent (RET-He) is a useful tool for evaluating recent iron usage irrespective of inflammatory status. This study aims to establish a reference for RET-He among Hong Kong healthy...

UHPLC-DAD/ESI-TOF-MS Phytochemical Characterization and Evaluation of the Impact of Eleutherococcus senticosus Fruit Intractum on Biochemical, Hepatological, and Blood Parameters in Balb/c Mice.

Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim. (ES) has gained popularity for its adaptogenic, immunostimulant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of overexploitation of the roots, the species is considered to be endangered and has been put on the Red List in some countries (e.g., the Republic of Korea). Therefore, the fruits of E. senticosus might be explored as a new sustainable source of compounds with adaptogenic activity. This study aimed to assess the chemical composition and the safety profile (hepatotoxicity, blood morphology, biochemical parameters of blood plasma) of E. senticosus fruit intractum in Balb/c mice after oral administration of 750 and 1500 mg/kg b.w. UHPLC analysis coupled with DAD and MS detectors was used to quantify the metabolites. For the first time, oleanolic and ursolic acids were quantified in the intractum (16.01 ± 1.3 and 2.21 ± 0.17 µg/g of oleanolic and ursolic acids, respectively). Regarding polyphenols, chlorogenic acid (0.92 mg/g of dried extract), caffeic acid (0.43 mg/g), dicaffeoylquinic acids (in total: 1.27 mg/g), and an unidentified caffeic acid ester (0.81 mg/g) were identified. The results in Balb/c mice revealed that the intractum does not cause significant variations in red blood cells parameters. In turn, a significant decrease in the total number of leukocytes was observed (5.8 × 103 µL), with a percentage increase in lymphocytes among the groups (80.2, 81.8, and 82.6). The ability of the intractum to decrease alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels may indicate its anti-inflammatory activity. Our observations justify that the fruits of E. senticosus are safe in the doses used and do not cause significant changes in the activity of the liver enzymes or in blood parameters.

Novel Insights into Hb Shaare Zedek Associated with β0-Thalassemia: Molecular Characteristics, Genetic Origin and Diagnostic Approaches.

Hemoglobin Shaare Zedek (Hb SZ) is a rare structural α-Hb variant. Characterizing its genotype-phenotype relationship and genetic origin enhances diagnostic and clinical management insights. We studied a proband and six family members using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), capillary electrophoresis (CE), PCR, and sequencing to analyze α- and β-globin genes and α-globin haplotypes. Pathogenicity predictions and a rapid diagnostic method were developed. The proband, his father, grandfather, and aunt had Hb migrating to the HbH-zone on CE and elevated fetal hemoglobin (HbF) on HPLC. Direct sequencing identified an A to G mutation at codon 56 of the α2-globin gene, characteristic of Hb SZ. Additionally, the proband carried a β-globin gene mutation [HBB.52A>T]. Mild thalassemia-like changes were observed in the proband, whereas individuals with only the Hb SZ variant did not exhibit these changes. Pathogenicity predictions indicated that Hb SZ is benign. The variant can be identified using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and allele-specific PCR. The Thai variant of Hb SZ is associated with the haplotype [- - M - - - -]. Hb SZ is a non-pathological variant that minimally affects red blood cell parameters, even when it coexists with β0-thalassemia. HPLC and CE systems cannot distinguish it from other Hbs, necessitating DNA analysis for accurate diagnosis.

Impact of Different Red Blood Cell Storage Solutions and Conditions on Cell Function and Viability: A Systematic Review.

Red blood cell (RBC) storage solutions have evolved significantly over the past decades to optimize the preservation of cell viability and functionality during hypothermic storage. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the effects of various storage solutions and conditions on critical RBC parameters during refrigerated preservation. A wide range of solutions, from basic formulations such as phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), to advanced additive solutions (ASs), like AS-7 and phosphate, adenine, glucose, guanosine, saline, and mannitol (PAGGSM), are systematically compared in terms of their ability to maintain key indicators of RBC integrity, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, morphology, and hemolysis. Optimal RBC storage requires a delicate balance of pH buffering, metabolic support, oxidative damage prevention, and osmotic regulation. While the latest alkaline solutions enable up to 8 weeks of storage, some degree of metabolic and morphological deterioration remains inevitable. The impacts of critical storage conditions, such as the holding temperature, oxygenation, anticoagulants, irradiation, and processing methods, on the accumulation of storage lesions are also thoroughly investigated. Personalized RBC storage solutions, tailored to individual donor characteristics, represent a promising avenue for minimizing storage lesions and enhancing transfusion outcomes. Further research integrating omics profiling with customized preservation media is necessary to maximize post-transfusion RBC survival and functions. The continued optimization of RBC storage practices will not only enhance transfusion efficacy but also enable blood banking to better meet evolving clinical needs.

Change in Tacrolimus Concentration Measured in Whole Blood Correlates With Changes in Red Blood Cell Parameters After Red Blood Cell Transfusion in Kidney Transplant Recipients

BackgroundTacrolimus (TAC) is a narrow therapeutic range drug that requires therapeutic drug monitoring. TAC concentration is measured using whole blood owing to its high red blood cell (RBC) transfer rate of 95%. The distribution and whole-blood TAC concentration may be affected by the transfusion of red cell concentrates (RCCs); however, this has not been studied in kidney transplant recipients (KTR). Therefore, we investigated the relationship between changes in whole-blood TAC concentration and RBC parameters before and after RCC transfusion in KTR. MethodsFifteen KTR who received TAC and RCC transfusions were enrolled. The change rates of RBC parameters (RBC count, hemoglobin [Hgb], hematocrit [Hct]), and TAC concentration/dose before and after transfusion were calculated. The correlation between each RBC parameter and the TAC rate was evaluated. ResultsThe TAC concentration and rate increased after RCC transfusion. Moreover, the TAC rate showed a significant and strong correlation with RBC count, Hgb, and Hct, with RBC count showing the highest correlation coefficient (r = 0.811, 0.766, and 0.764, respectively; p < .01). Serum creatinine and potassium levels remained stable, suggesting the absence of typical adverse effects associated with TAC, such as acute kidney injury or hyperkalemia. ConclusionChanges in whole-blood TAC concentration and RBC parameters were correlated, and whole-blood TAC concentration increased after RCC transfusion. Therefore, the TAC dose should be adjusted accordingly.

Consistency analysis of two fingertip capillary blood sampling methods for complete blood count

This study was performed to analyze fingertip capillary blood sampling in pediatric patients using microcapillary blood collection tubes and microhematocrit tubes and to compare the blood cell analysis results obtained via these two blood collection methods. Finger capillary blood was collected from 110 outpatients using microcapillary blood collection tubes and microhematocrit tubes and complete blood count analysis was performed with a Sysmex XS-900i hematology analyzer and manual microscopy for blood cell morphology. Paired data was evaluated for agreement and bias using the microhematocrit samples as the reference group and the samples from the microcapillary blood collection tubes as the observation group. The two blood collection methods demonstrated good agreement for measuring red blood cell (RBC) parameters (i.e., RBC, Hb, Hct, MCV, MCH and MCHC), wherein the relative bias was > allowable total error (TEa) in 0.91%, 1.82%, 11.82%, 1.82%, 0.91% and 8.18% of the parameter measures, respectively. According to industry requirements, the proportion of samples meeting the acceptable bias level should be > 80%. Additionally, the estimated biases at each medical decision level were within clinically acceptable levels for RBC, Hb, Hct, and MCV. However, the proportion of WBC and PLT counts with relative bias > TEa was 25.45% and 35.45%, respectively. Furthermore, the relative bias of the WBC count at the medical decision level of 0.5 × 109/L and that of the PLT counts at the medical decision levels of 10 × 109/L and 50 × 109/L were clinically significant. Bland–Altman analysis further showed a mean bias of 0.66 × 109/L (95% LoA, − 0.79 to 2.11) for the WBC count and 39 × 109/L (95% LoA, − 46 to 124) for the PLT count from the blood samples collected in the microcapillary blood collection tubes compared with the counts of those collected in the microhematocrit tubes. Neutrophil, monocyte, lymphocyte, eosinophil, and PLT counts increased significantly in the microcapillary blood collection tubes compared with those in the microhematocrit tubes, along with an elevated number of instrument false alarms (P < 0.05). The two capillary blood collection devices exhibit performance differences. Therefore, clinicians should pay attention to the variation in results caused by different blood collection methods.

Effects of Breed on the Morphometric Parameters of Erythrocytes in Horses

Various factors have a distinct impact on the quantity and dimensions of red blood cells across diverse animal species. These factors encompass age, sex, elevation, time of year, and lineage. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of breed on the morphometric parameters of red blood cells in horses. To examine the impact of various horse breeds on the diameter, circumference, and surface area of red blood cells, blood samples were obtained from a total of 90 healthy horses. These horses belonged to three different breeds, including Arab Thoroughbred, English Thoroughbred, and Barbe. Each breed consisted of 30 individuals, with an equal distribution of males and females. The collected blood specimens were then divided into two separate batches for further analysis. The age range of all horses included in the study was between 5 and 12 years old. Smears were made and stained using the May-Grünwald Giemsa technique. The morphometric measurements were performed while using the OPTIKATM Vision Pro special software. The obtained results showed that there were no significant differences in the red blood cell diameters across different horse breeds. However, this factor appears to influence significantly both the circumference and surface area of erythrocytes. Specifically, the circumference and surface of Barbe red blood cells were highly smaller than both Arabian and English purebred horses. The present study demonstrated that the circumference and surface of red blood cells appear to be more indicative and representative in detecting variations in the erythrocyte morphometry between different horse breeds.

Effects of Aloe Vera Gel on Red Blood Cell-parameters in Phenylhydrazine-induced Anaemic Wistar albino Rats

Background &amp; objective: Anaemia is the most significant disorder of the blood. Many researchers have developed the concept of using medicinal plants as an alternative source of treatment for anaemia with fewer side effects. Aloe vera, being a medicinal plant, is popularly used as a natural drug in haematological disorders. The present study was intended to observe the effects of Aloe vera gel on red blood cell parameters in phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced anaemic Wistar albino rats. Methods: This Experimental study was conducted in Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from July 2021 to June 2022. A total of 24 healthy Wistar albino rats were selected for the study. After procurement, the rats were initially kept in a standard laboratory condition on a 12/12-hour light/dark cycle for 14 days of acclimatization before 21 days of the experiment. All the rats had free access to basal diet and normal saline during the period of acclimatization and experiment. After acclimatization for 14 days, the rats were divided into three groups-Group A (baseline control group, n = 8), Group B (PHZ-treated group, n = 8), and Group C, the Experimental Group (PHZ-induced and Aloe vera gel treated group, n = 8). To induce anaemia, Group B and Group C received intraperitoneal injection of PHZ at a dose of 0.5 ml/100 g body weight on days 1, 3, 5 and day 7. Moreover, the experimental group (Group C) received Aloe vera gel orally at a dose of 0.6 ml/kg body weight from Day 8 to Day 21. On day 22, rats were sacrificed to test their blood samples for haematologic variables (RBC count, Hb conc., and PCV) and haematological indices (MCV, MCH and MCHC). Result: All the haematological parameters and indices were almost similar among the study groups at baseline (on Day 1). On Day 8, rats of groups B and C demonstrated a drastically reduced count of RBC (2.66 ± 0.53 and 2.69 ± 0.52 million/μl respectively) compared to the rats of group A (8.16 ± 0.76 million/μl). On Day 22, the RBC count in rats of Group C staggeringly increased to 7.63 ± 0.64 million/μl; however, the RBC count in rats of Group B remained almost the same as was found on Day 8. A significant decrease in Hb conc. and PCV in PHZ-induced control on Day 8 compared to that on Day 1 was also observed. The mean MCV in all the study groups on Day 1 was around 50 fl, which abnormally increased to 85 and 87 fl in Groups B and C respectively on Day 8. On Day 22, Group B further exhibited an increase in MCV to &gt; 87 fl. Meanwhile, the MCV in Group C (Aloe vera-treated group) favourably decreased to 55 fl. On the 8th Day of intervention, the MCH level significantly decreased in Groups B and C. Although no significant change in MCH was observed in Group B from Day 8 to Day 22, group C demonstrated a significant increase in the mean MCH to nearly 18 pg during the same period. The mean MCHC significantly dropped to &lt; 23% in Groups B and C on Day 8 from the baseline figure of 34%. While no significant change in MCHC was evident in Group B from Day 8 to Day 22, it significantly improved to about 28% in Group C during the same period. Conclusion: From the study, it can be concluded that Aloe vera has significant erythropoietic potentials which result in the improvement of red blood cell parameters (RBC count, Hb conc., PCV, MCV, MCH and MCHC) in PHZ-induced anaemic rats. Ibrahim Card Med J 2023; 13 (1&amp;2): 40-46

Geometrical characterization of healthy red blood cells using digital holographic microscopy and parametric shape models for biophysical studies and diagnostic applications

Modeling of the red blood cell (RBC) shape is an integral part of the experimental and computer simulation investigations of light scattering by these cells for fundamental studies as well as diagnostic applications in techniques like cytometry and quantitative phase imaging. In the present work, a comprehensive study of the geometrical characterization of healthy human RBCs using digital holographic microscopy (DHM) and six frequently employed parametric shape models is reported. It is shown that the comparison of the optical phase profiles, and the thickness profiles given by the models with the DHM results gives a better judgment of the appropriateness of the parametric shape models. It is also shown that the RBC parametric models offer a simpler solution to the refractive index-thickness decoupling problem in QPI methods. Results of geometrical characterization of 500 healthy RBCs in terms of volume, surface area (SA), and sphericity index (SI) led to the classification of the parametric models in two categories based on the nature of variation of these quantities with the cell diameter. In light of the variability of the healthy RBC shapes, our findings suggest that the parametric models exhibiting a negative correlation between the SI and the cell diameter would provide more reliable estimates of the RBC parameters in diagnostic applications. Statistical distributions and descriptive statistics of the RBC volume, SA and SI serve as a guide for the assessment of the capability of the studied parametric models to give a reliable account of the variability of the healthy RBC shape and size.

Evaluation of stored red blood cell quality after washing using immune indices

Washed red blood cells (RBCs) can be used to treat immune-related diseases. However, whether the washing process changes the quality of RBCs and affects the curative effect of transfusion therapy remains unclear. We retrospectively analysed the clinical data of patients who received blood transfusion. The physiological and biochemical parameters of RBCs were tested on an automated haematology-biochemical analyser. CD47 and phosphatidylserine (PS) plasma membrane expression were analysed using flow cytometry. Morphological changes in RBCs were observed using scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the curative effect on patients who received washed RBCs was weaker than that on those who received non-washed RBCs. Physiological and biochemical parameters of RBCs were not significantly different. RBC immune indices changed significantly after washing. The expression of “don't eat me” signals was weakened, whereas the intensity of “eat me” signals was enhanced. This study suggests that the current use of physiological and biochemical parameters as indicators to evaluate the quality of RBCs may not be comprehensive and that evaluation of the real status of RBCs requires other effective parameters. Immune molecules in RBCs are expected to become supplementary markers for evaluating RBC quality.