Direct determination of distribution volume and disappearance rate of native creatine kinase in humans.

Distribution volume (DV) and disappearance rate (Kd) of native creatine kinase (CK), parameters needed for enzymatic estimation of infarct size, have not been characterized in humans. Values for these parameters have been determined in experimental models and extrapolated for use in humans. During hemodynamic monitoring, 100 to 150 ml of enzyme-rich plasma was collected from 10 patients with acute myocardial infarction, stored at -30 degrees C for a maximum of 6 days, and then rapidly reinfused back to the same patient after return of CK serum activity to baseline levels.

Auto-reaction phenomenon detected by enzyme electrosyneresis in the serum of patients with viral hepatitis and other diseases with immune complexes.

The use of modified electrosyneresis by making 760 sera of healthy persons or persons suffering from various diseases with immune complexes to react with their own pronase-treated serum has shown the following results: - One of 220 sera of healthy persons, 11 were positive in ESE (5%); - Out of 123 sera of HBsAg carriers, 23 were positive (18.6%); - Out of 135 sera of patients with acute viral type B hepatitis, 132 were positive (97.7%); - Out of 168 sera of patients with acute HBsAg negative hepatitis, 127 were positive (75.

Screening of HBsAg and post-transfusional hepatitis type B.

The Authors consider the different opinions expressed about the HBsAg screening in blood donors and its usefulness in preventing post transfusional hepatitis B (PTHB). They report data on the incidence of such a disease, as observed in their transfusional experience during the last 5 years, with a comparison between results obtained after CEP and RIA screening systems. The Authors point out the results of their retrospective investigation: the transfusion blood with a low HBsAg titre showed to be more infectious than the blood with high titre.

[New method for demonstrating HBs antigen saturated by its antibodies].

The modalities for the carrying out of a technique for the detection of HBs antigen, even when it is completely saturated by the relevant antibodies, and its results are set out. The technique includes the preliminary acidification of the test serum at pH 2.4, in such a way as to detach the antibody from the antigen, subsequently, the effect of the hearing (70 degrees C) for some minutes to destroy the antibody.