Haematologic variables
Administration of HbVs and RBC/PPP following the initial HES infusion gradually increased Hb concentration, and it was maintained over 6 g/dL in both groups, although the Hb concentration decreased under 2 g/dL at the end of the experiment in HES group (Figure 3A). In contrast with Hb dynamics, haematocrit (Hct) decrease was similar between HbV and HES groups, although the Hct level was increased in RBC/PPP group (Figure 3B). HbV particles used in this study did not affect the Hct level because their particle size (particle diameter: 250-280 nm) was extremely small22,29. Platelet (PLT) counts could not be measured in HbV group because the submicron HbV particle interfered with PLT counting by the current analyser. Meanwhile, the PLT counts gradually decreased in RBC/PPP group but were still significantly higher than those in HES group at the end of the experiment (Figure S1).