bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Variation of Mantle Viscosity and the Presence of Cratonic Mantle Inferred From 8 Years of Postseismic Deformation Following the 2010 Maule, Chile, Earthquake
Authors: Li Shaoyang , Bedford Jonathan , Moreno Marcos , Barnhart William D. , Rosenau Matthias , Oncken Onno
Published: August 2018

Postseismic displacements following great subduction earthquakes show significant long‐wavelength and time‐dependent patterns caused primarily by transient viscoelastic relaxation processes occurring broadly at depth. However, the Earth's viscosity structure and time‐dependent variations are still poorly understood, especially in the years immediately following a great earthquake. Here we investigate the spatiotemporal variation of mantle viscosity proximal and distal to the southern Andes using 8 years of continuous high‐resolution GPS observations following the 2010 Mw 8.8 Maule earthquake in south Central Chile. We remove the potential influences of relocking and afterslip on far‐field GPS displacements and estimate viscosities that can explain the 3‐D displacements. The optimal viscosity structure exhibits a low‐viscosity (~1018Pa s) mantle beneath the Andean volcanic arc and high‐viscosity (>1022Pa s) cratonic mantle, indicating a dependence of transient viscosity on temperature. Comparisons of the viscosity distributions at different times show that mantle viscosities increase with time throughout the study region. Viscosity increase is generally fastest in the mantle wedge beneath the Andes and slows down with increasing distance from the source region of the Maule earthquake. Such temporal viscosity evolution may indicate a stress dependence of the viscosity proximal to the rupture zone, while regions east of the Andes act as a relatively rigid body (i.e., cratonic mantle) with much higher viscosity. Our results thus suggest that both temperature structure and stress state contribute to spatiotemporal variations of the mantle viscosity. Heterogeneous spatiotemporal variations of viscosity seem to control the expansion and duration of the postseismic deformation and therefore the postseismic stress evolution.
Atomic Oxygen Abundance Retrieved From SCIAMACHY Hydroxyl Nightglow Measurements
Authors: Zhu Yajun , Kaufmann Martin
Published: August 2018

We present a new atomic oxygen data set based on Scanning Imaging Absorption Spectrometer for Atmospheric CHartographY (SCIAMACHY) hydroxyl short‐wave infrared data. The OH spectra stem from the OH(9‐6) ro‐vibrational transition. These data and atomic oxygen obtained from SCIAMACHY O(1S) green line measurements, which is an independent data set in terms of methodology and radiometry, typically agree within 10–20%. This confirms the corresponding models of OH and O(1S), in particular, the relevance of the reaction between atomic oxygen and ozone in the photochemical model. The agreement between the SCIAMACHY data and the most recent Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) atomic oxygen data set of Mlynczak et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1029/2018GL077377) is significantly better than for the previous SABER data set of Mlynczak et al. (2013, https://doi.org/10.1002/jgrd.50401). The agreement decreases if the SCIAMACHY forward model parameters are applied to SABER data. A similar agreement is achieved with the data of Panka et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1029/2018GL077677), which was retrieved from SABER data using a principally different retrieval approach.
Publisher Correction: Classical and alternative complement activation on photoreceptor outer segments drives monocyte-dependent retinal atrophy
Authors: Katschke Kenneth J. , Xi Hongkang , Cox Christian , Truong Tom , Malato Yann , Lee Wyne P. , McKenzie Brent , Arceo Rommel , Tao Jianhua , Rangell Linda , Reichelt Mike , Diehl Lauri , Elstrott Justin , Weimer Robby M. , van Lookeren Campagne Menno
Published: August 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Study to Probe Subsistence of Host-Guest Inclusion Complexes of α and β-Cyclodextrins with Biologically Potent Drugs for Safety Regulatory Dischargement
Authors: Rajbanshi Biplab , Saha Subhadeep , Das Koyeli , Barman Biraj Kumar , Sengupta Swarnab , Bhattacharjee Arindam , Roy Mahendra Nath
Published: August 2018

Host-guest interaction of two significant drugs, phenylephrine hydrochloride and synephrine with α and β-cyclodextrins were studied systematically. Initially two simple but reliable physicochemical techniques namely conductance and surface tension were employed to find out saturation concentration for the inclusion and its stoichiometry. The obtained 1:1 stoichiometry was further confirmed by two spectrometric methods, UV-Vis study and spectrofluorimetry. Significant shifts in IR stretching frequency also support the inclusion process. Relative stabilities of the inclusion complexes were established by the association constants obtained from UV-Vis spectroscopic measurements, program based mathematical calculation of conductivity data. Calculations of the thermodynamic parameters dictates thermodynamic feasibility of the inclusion process. Spectrofluorometric measurement scaffolds the UV-Vis spectroscopic measurement validating stability of the ICs once again. Mass spectroscopic measurement gives the molecular ion peaks corresponding to the inclusion complex of 1:1 molar ratio of host and guest molecules. The mechanism of inclusion was drawn by 1H-NMR and 2D ROESY spectroscopic analysis. Surface texture of the inclusion complexes was studied by SEM. Finally, the cytotoxic activities of the inclusion complexes were analyzed and found, Cell viability also balances for non-toxic behavior of the ICs. Moreover, all the studies reveal the formation of inclusion complexes of two ephedra free, alternatively emerging drugs (after their banned product having ephedra) SNP, PEH with α and β-CD which enriches the drug delivery system with their regulatory release without any chemical modification.
An integrated total neutron scattering – NMR approach for the study of heterogeneous catalysis
Authors: Leutzsch Markus , Falkowska Marta , Hughes Terri-Louise , Sederman Andrew J. , Gladden Lynn F. , Mantle Michael D. , Youngs Tristan G. A. , Bowron Daniel , Manyar Haresh , Hardacre Christopher
Published: August 2018

By combining total neutron scattering with nuclear magnetic resonance (NeuNMR) in a single experimental apparatus, new insights into the kinetics and mechanisms of heterogeneous catalytic reactions occurring in situ, within the catalyst pore space, are possible.
Correlation between microstructure and cathodoluminescence properties of Mg(OH)2 (brucite) nanoparticles: effect of synthesis method
Authors: Gomez-Villalba L. S. , Sierra-Fernandez A. , Quintana P. , Rabanal M. E. , Fort R.
Published: August 2018

The study shows a correlation between microstructure, atomic-scale observations and intrinsic cathodoluminescence from two types of nano-brucite (Mg(OH)2) synthesized by hydrothermal and sol–gel methods, and a third one that was commercially acquired.
Bulk phase behavior of lithium imide–metal nitride ammonia decomposition catalysts
Authors: Makepeace Joshua W. , Wood Thomas J. , Marks Phillip L. , Smith Ronald I. , Murray Claire A. , David William I. F.
Published: August 2018

Lithium imide is a promising new catalyst for the production of hydrogen from ammonia. This study reports the use of neutron and X-ray powder diffraction to investigate the presence of ternary nitrides in lithium-imide/metal nitride composite catalysts.
Ultrafast spectroscopic studies of composition-dependent near-infrared-emitting alloyed CdSeTe quantum dots
Authors: Wu Wenzhi , Ren Shiwei , Han Qiuju , Gao Yachen , Kong Degui
Published: August 2018

In this study, ultrafast optical properties of composition-dependent near infrared-emitting alloyed CdSeTe quantum dots are measured and analyzed.
Double resonance rotational spectroscopy of He–HCO+
Authors: Salomon Thomas , Töpfer Matthias , Schreier Philipp , Schlemmer Stephan , Kohguchi Hiroshi , Surin Leonid , Asvany Oskar
Published: August 2018

The ground state of He–HCO+ is investigated using a recently developed double resonance technique, consisting of a rotational transition followed by a vibrational transition into a dissociative state.
The selective formation of a 1,2-disilabenzene from the reaction of a disilyne with phenylacetylene
Authors: Sugahara Tomohiro , Guo Jing-Dong , Hashizume Daisuke , Sasamori Takahiro , Nagase Shigeru , Tokitoh Norihiro
Published: August 2018

A stable 3,5-diphenyl-1,2-disilabenzene was selectively synthesized by the reaction between the isolabe disilyne TbbSiSiTbb (Tbb = 2,6-[CH(SiMe3)2]2-4-t-Bu-phenyl) with phenylacetylenes.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of triazole and isoxazole-tagged benzothiazole/benzoxazole derivatives as potent cytotoxic agents
Authors: Dadmal Tulshiram L. , Appalanaidu K. , Kumbhare Ravindra M. , Mondal Tanmoy , Ramaiah M. Janaki , Bhadra Manika Pal
Published: August 2018

Cancer is a major health problem and the most upsetting disease in humans, leading to death in both developed and developing countries.
Cd(ii) and Cu(ii) coordination polymers constructed from the expanded 1,4-bis(4-pyridyl)-2,3-diaza-1,3-butadiene ligand: conventional and ultrasound-assisted synthesis, crystal structure, luminescence and magnetic properties
Authors: Rad-Yousefnia Negar , Shaabani Behrouz , Zahedi Mansoureh , Kubicki Maciej , Aygün Muhittin , Lloret Francesc , Julve Miguel , Grześkiewicz Anita M. , Zakerhamidi Mohammad Sadegh , Kazak Canan
Published: August 2018

Metal nodes in extend 1D and 3D structures with N,N′-donor linker: the co-ligands decides!
A highly HDAC6-selective inhibitor acts as a fluorescent probe
Authors: Ho Yi-Hsun , Wang Kuang-Jui , Hung Pei-Yun , Cheng Yi-Sheng , Liu Jia-Rong , Fung Sheang-Tze , Liang Pi-Hui , Chern Ji-Wang , Yu Chao-Wu
Published: August 2018

HDAC6 receives great attention because of its therapeutic potential for the treatment of various diseases.
A cobalt hydroxide-based compressible electrode material for asymmetrical all-solid supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Tu Yuan , Zhu Pengli , Zhang Leicong , Li Tingxi , Zheng Hairong , Sun Rong , Wong Chingping
Published: August 2018

A compressible supercapacitor is a promising energy storage device for wearable flexible electronic devices.
Experimental and engineering approaches to intracellular communication
Authors: Albeck John G. , Pargett Michael , Davies Alexander E.
Published: August 2018

Communication between and within cells is essential for multicellular life. While intracellular signal transduction pathways are often specified in molecular terms, the information content they transmit remains poorly defined. Here, we review research efforts to merge biological experimentation with concepts of communication that emerge from the engineering disciplines of signal processing and control theory. We discuss the challenges of performing experiments that quantitate information transfer at the molecular level, and we highlight recent studies that have advanced toward a clearer definition of the information content carried by signaling molecules. Across these studies, we emphasize a theme of increasingly well-matched experimental and theoretical approaches to decode the data streams directing cellular behavior.
Fluency-Enhancing Strategies for Hypokinetic Dysarthria Exacerbated by Subthalamic Nucleus Brain Stimulation: A Case Study
Authors: Snyder Gregory J. , Williams Molly Grace , Gough Molly E. , Blanchet Paul G.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Speech disorders associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) and the pharmaceutical treatments of PD are well documented. A relatively recent treatment alternative for PD is deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN), which is used to manage the symptoms of PD as the disease progresses. This case study documented the speech characteristics of a unique client with PD STN-DBS and reported initial findings on a variety of fluency- and intelligibility-enhancing strategies.

Method

A speech-language pathologist referred a 63-year-old man, previously diagnosed by a speech-language pathologist with neurogenic stuttering as a result of an STN-DBS battery change, for a speech evaluation, reporting lack of success with traditional stuttering treatment strategies. The client's speech was assessed, and a variety of fluency- and intelligibility-enhancing techniques were tested during trial therapy.

Results

The client's speech exhibited the hallmark characteristics of hypokinetic dysarthria, including speech disfluencies. A variety of pacing and prosthetic strategies were tested, revealing that auditory and tactile prosthetic speech feedback provided optimal improvements in fluency and intelligibility.

Discussion

These results suggest that the prosthetic speech feedback provided optimal intelligibility and fluency enhancement and could potentially improve articulation and speech volume, which are also common in cases of hypokinetic dysarthria.
Positive filter synthesis for sliding‐mode control
Authors: Trindade Nascimento Felipe , Cunha José Paulo V. S.
Published: August 2018

The synthesis of externally positive filters that can be used to modulate control signals of output‐feedback sliding mode controllers is presented. These filters are useful to estimate the norm of unmeasured signals in systems with parametric uncertainties. These norm observers are a robust alternative to state observers, that may be difficult to design for uncertain systems. The first step of the synthesis is the search of the envelope function, which is an upper bound for the norm of each admissible impulse response of the uncertain system. After this step, the approximation of a positive filter with an impulse response that is an upper bound for the envelope function is carried out. The search of the envelope function and the synthesis of the approximation filters are formulated as non‐convex optimisation problems that can be solved by genetic algorithms. It is important to design norm observers that are not too conservative, because the modulation signals should be kept small in order to reduce the amplitude of the control signals, power losses, and undesirable chattering effects that may occur in sliding‐mode control. The proposed methods are illustrated by numerical examples.
Power factor angle consistency control for decentralised power sharing in cascaded‐type microgrid
Authors: Li Lang , Sun Yao , Han Hua , Hou Xiaochao , Su Mei , Liu Zhangjie
Published: August 2018

The microgrid with cascaded H‐bridge micro‐converters (cascaded‐type microgrid) is an effective way to integrate the distributed generators (DGs) into medium/high‐voltage distribution energy system. Just like the islanded microgrid composed of paralleled inverters, achieving accuracy in power sharing and high voltage quality is a serious challenge in cascaded‐type microgrid without communication. In this article, a decentralised control scheme is proposed to share the active and reactive power accurately under the resistance‐inductance and resistance‐capacitance loads. The power factor angle of each DG is assigned to be consistent in the steady state via regulating both the frequency and voltage. The proposed scheme can be easily implemented only based on the local measured signals. Meanwhile, excellent load voltage quality is achieved. Small‐signal analysis method is performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, and a guide for designing the power sharing coefficient is given. The cascaded‐type microgrid model is developed through simulations and experiments to verify the performance of the proposed scheme.
STA-MCA-Bypass zur Behandlung einer chronischen Durchblutungsstörung des Gehirns bei einer Moyamoya-Erkrankung
Authors: Heise Julia , Hecht Nils
Published: August 2018

Die Behandlung einer chronischen Durchblutungsstörung des Gehirns bei einer Moyamoya-Erkrankung dient dazu, das Schlaganfallrisiko der betroffenen Patienten zu
senken. Um den zerebralen Kollateralblutfluss zu verbessern, wird ein von extra- nach intrakraniell verlaufender Bypass angelegt. Unsere Autoren von der
Neurochirurgischen Klinik der Charité stellen das OP-Verfahren vor.
Wechsel der Herausgeberschaft der Aktuellen Rheumatologie
Authors: Keyßer Gernot
Published: August 2018

Liebe Leserinnen und Leser der Aktuellen Rheumatologie,

seit Jahresbeginn habe ich die interessante Aufgabe übernommen, die Ihnen vorliegende Zeitschrift als Editor in Chief – gemeinsam mit den Kollegen Prof. Dr. med. Eugen Feist und Prof. Dr. med. Stefan Rehart – zu betreuen.
Nahrungsmittelprovokationen im Kindesalter ganz praktisch
Authors: Ziegert M. , Trendelenburg V.
Published: August 2018

Im Säuglings- und Kleinkindalter gehören IgE-vermittelte Nahrungsmittelallergien zu den häufigsten allergischen Erkrankungen. Insbesondere die orale Nahrungsmittelprovokation stellt hier einen Grundpfeiler einer fundierten Diagnostik dar. Der Goldstandard ist die doppelblinde, Placebo-kontrollierte Nahrungsmittelprovokation (DBPCFC; double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge). Sie hilft, v. a. bei unklarer Anamnese, die klinische Relevanz einer Sensibilisierung gegen Nahrungsmittel zu überprüfen oder neu zu evaluieren. Im Säuglings- und Kleinkindalter ist eine genaue Diagnostik besonders relevant, um unnötig einschränkende Eliminationsdiäten zu vermeiden oder den Patienten bzw. deren Eltern hinsichtlich einer individuell angepassten spezifischen Ernährungstherapie zu beraten. Dieser Artikel beschreibt praktische Vorgehensweisen für die Durchführung oraler Nahrungsmittelprovokationen im Kindesalter mit Fokus auf die am häufigsten vorkommenden IgE-vermittelten Nahrungsmittelallergien (Kuhmilch, Hühnerei, Erdnuss).
First Example of C–H Functionalisation in the 6-Nitroazolo[5,1-c]triazine Series
Authors: Gorbunov Evgeny , Ulomsky Evgeny , Voinkov Egor , Drokin Roman , Lyapustin Daniil , Rusinov Gennadiy , Rusinov Vladimir , Charushin Valery , Chupakhin Oleg
Published: August 2018

The reaction of 6-nitroazolo[5,1-c]triazines with O-methylated polyphenols, with pyrrole and its benzo analogues, and with thiophene has been studied. Methods for the reduction of the nitro group in the resulting σH-adducts and subsequent oxidative aromatisation have been developed.
Detection of an Abnormal Plasma Clot Structure by a Simple Rigidity Assay
Authors: Carr Marcus E , Blatt Philip M , Roberts Harold R , Brooker Jeff Z , Hermans Jan
Published: August 2018

We report here on a patient whose abnormal fibrin clot was detected via the measurement of clot rigidity with a simple buoyant inner cylinder elastometer. The patient’s clinical coagulation studies were all within normal limits except for prolonged thrombin and reptilase clotting times and a high level of fibrin split products. The measured rigidity of the patient’s clot was approximately ten times lower than that of a clot formed from normal pooled plasma. Light scattering studies indicated that this modified structure was not caused by a gross change in gel fiber morphology. Antithrombin activity was eliminated as a possible cause of the altered clot structure; this suggests the possibility of a modified fibrinogen. Abnormalities in the reptilase time and fibrinogen levels in two siblings support the hypothesis that the modification is an inherited defect. We suggest that the simple measurement of rigidity can be used routinely to detect abnormalities in plasma clot structure. The screening for such disorders should be of importance to clinician, patient, and biochemical researcher.
The Isoelectric Point of Thrombin and its Behaviour Compared to Prothrombin at Some Solid Surfaces
Authors: Berg Walter , Hillvärn Birgitta , Arwin Hans , Stenberg Manne , Lundström Ingemar
Published: August 2018

We have shown that the isoelectric point of thrombin is high and that thrombin is a cation at the pH of blood. On the other hand, prothrombin has a low isoelectric point, being more anionic at the pH of blood. It was also found that thrombin adsorbs readily to surfaces, especially negatively charged surfaces, like behenic acid surfaces at pH 8.2. Furthermore, thrombin adsorbed onto behenic acid was active in the sense that it coagulated fibrinogen.

The significance of the electric charge of the thrombin molecule in the mechanism of atherosclerosis is discussed.
An Acquired Abnormal Fibrinogen Associated with Thromboembolic Disease and Pseudotumor Cerebri
Authors: D’Souza Leo , Coots Macie C , Glueck Helen I
Published: August 2018

An abnormal fibrinogen was found in a patient associated with disabling recurrent phlebitis and pulmonary emboli, pseudotumor cerebri, gout and endometriosis. The fibrinogen is characterized by (1) abnormal side-to-side and end-to-end polymerization, (2) abnormal fibrinopeptide release, (3) a delayed γ-γ dimerization of the non cross-linked fibrin, (4) a pH optimum of 7-7.8, and (5) a deviation from normal amino acid composition with regard to lysine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid and serine. Since no defect has been found in any of her three children, and since the prothromin and partial thromboplastin times vary from time to time, it is assumed that the defect is acquired. Liver disease, usually associated with acquired abnormal fibrinogen, has been excluded as an etiological cause since liver function tests and biopsy are completely normal.
Fibrin Suspension as a Substrate for Plasmin: Determination and Kinetics
Authors: Kanai Shozo , Okamoto Hiroshi , Tamaura Yutaka , Yamazaki Shojiro , Inada Yuji
Published: August 2018

Fibrin polymers formed from fibrinogen with thrombin in the presence of EDTA were suspended in a medium containing glucose, arabic gum and imidazole-HCl buffer and were sonicated at 20 kHz for 20 min to make a suspension containing fibrin particles of small size. The fibrin suspension was used as a substrate of plasmin for determining the enzymic activity of plasmin and plasminogen activated with urokinase. The kinetic study on the reaction of the fibrin particles with plasmin in the presence and the absence of fibrinogen revealed that Km value of fibrin for plasmin is 4.2 × 10-7 M and the Ki value of fibrinogen is 1.2 × 10-5 M.
Platelet Function and Serum High Density Lipoproteins
Authors: Nordøy A , Refsum Nina , Thelle D , Jæger S
Published: August 2018

Two groups of healthy male subjects one with low (mean 1.03 mmol/1), and the other with normal (mean 1.80 mmol/1), concentrations of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in plasma were investigated. A series of in vitro platelet function tests were performed in order to investigate a possible connection between low HDL concentration, which has been defined as an independent risk factor for the occurrence of CHD, and disturbances in platelet function.

No significant differences in platelet function were observed between the two groups. A positive correlation was found between platelet factor 3 activity both in platelet rich and platelet poor plasma and the plasma concentration of HDL.
The Interaction Between Heparin and Plasmin on Amidolysis
Authors: Kohn Sukehiro , Sakurama Shoki , Morioka Tokiyo , Ito Yoshito , Yasukouchi Taro , Nakagawa Shoichi
Published: August 2018

The effect of the interaction between heparin and plasmin not only on fibrinolytic, caseinolytic and esterolytic activities but also on amidolytic activity, since plasmin has amidolytic or amidase activity, was investigated.

Following were the results obtained from these investigations:

1. Heparin enhanced amidolytic activity of a fixed level of plasmin which was prepared by activating plasminogen with urokinase within the range from 2 to 64 units/ml of the final concentration of heparin

2. Heparin also enhanced amidolytic activity of a fixed level of plasmin which was prepared by converting plasminogen with insolubilized urokinase.

3. Heparin did not enhance or inhibit fibrinolytic, caseinolytic and esterolytic activities of a fixed level of plasmin which was prepared by activating plasminogen with urokinase, in the fibrinolytic activity within the range from 0.032 to 125 units/ml, in the caseinolytic activity within the range from 0.0125 to 100 units/ml, and in the esterolytic activity within the range from 0.016 to 128 units/ml, of the final concentration of heparin respectively.
Thrombin Time Dilution Test: A Simple Method for the Control of Heparin Therapy
Authors: Pizzuto Javier , Garcìa-Méndez Sergio , de-la-Paz Reyna Marìa , Morales Manuel R , Avilés Agustìn , Zavala Beatrìz , Gaos Carlos
Published: August 2018

A modification of the thrombin time test (TT), which permits quantitative measurement of plasma heparin activity during therapy is described. The prolonged TT of plasma containing heparin can be corrected by dilution with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Clinical heparin activity is considered adequate when prolonged TT of the plasma can be corrected at dilutions of from 1:4 to 1:8 (±20%). In vitro studies of 30 PRP samples containing different amounts of heparin showed that 1:4 and 1:8 dilutions did not correct prolonged TT (P<0.05) in the presence of more than 0.2 and 0.3 U of heparin/ml respectively, indicating that the adequate dose of heparin should fall between those levels which show correction at these dilutions, using the diluted TT method.

Patients treated with 100 U of heparin/kg every 4 or 6 h were studied: 52 without previous coagulation defects and 22 with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). The results in the first group showed adequate dosage in 29 cases, overdosage in 12 and underdosage in 11. Hemorrhage occurred in 5 of the overdosage group. In the DIC series, 4 with underdosage of heparin did not improve; in 13 of 18 with adequate dosage, both hemorrhage and coagulapathy disappeared, while the other 5, with more severe complications did not improve. Based on these findings, the diluted TT appears to be a useful test in the assessment of heparin therapy, even in patients with previous coagulation abnormalities.
Spectrophotometric Assays of Prothrombin in Plasma of Patients Using Oral Anticoagulants
Authors: Bertina R M , Nieuwkoop W van der Marel-van , Loeliger E A
Published: August 2018

Two spectrophotometric assays for prothrombin have been developed and compared with a one stage coagulant and an immunological assay. One of these assays (called the XAPC assay) uses a combination of factor Xa, phospholipid, Ca2+ and factor V as activator of prothrombin, and measures only normal prothrombin. The second (the ECAR assay) uses Echis carinatus venom as activator. This assay measures both normal prothrombin and PIVKA II (protein induced by vitamin K antagonists/absence). Combination of the results obtained by the XAPC and ECAR assays provides rapid and reliable information on the degree of “subcarboxylation” of prothrombin (oral anticoagulation, vitamin K deficiency).

For patients on long term anticoagulant treatment the prothrombin time (Thrombotest) shows better correlation with the ratio prothrombin/prothrombin plus PIVKA II (XAPC/ ECAR) than with the factor II concentration. For patients starting the anticoagulant treatment there is no correlation between the Thrombotest time and the XAPC/ECAR ratio.

It seems doubtful that (a) spectrophotometric factor II assay(s) will be as useful as the prothrombin time in the control of oral anticoagulation.
Affinity Chromatography of Human Factor VIII Using Human and Rabbit Antibodies to Factor VIII
Authors: Lane Janet L , Ekert H , Vafiadis A
Published: August 2018

Factor VIII, purified by gel filtration on Sepharose 2B, has an 8 band multiple subunit structure, with molecular weights ranging from 30,000 to 230,000, on reduction and SDS-PAGE at a protein concentration of 400 μg/gel. Affinity chromatography of this factor VIII preparation with insolubilized haemophilic antibody to factor VIII showed that 45-81% VIII:C and 0-33% VIILRag were attached to the column. Elution of the column with 0.25 M CaCl2 did not show VIII:C or VIILRag in the eluate. NH4SCN dissociation of the column, followed by reduction and SDS-PAGE of the dissociated protein, showed that 95 % of the protein bound by haemophilic antibody had a molecular weight similar to the low molecular weight subunits of the reduced factor VIII.

In control experiments with normal Human IgG, 3% of VIII:C and 5% of VIILRag were attached to the column. NH4SCN dissociation of the column, followed by reduction and SDS-PAGE of the protein, showed 2 faint bands with molecular weight consistent with heavy and light chains of IgG.

Similar experiments with antibody to factor VIII showed that 67-83% of VIILC and 61-76% of VIII:Rag were attached to the column. Elution of the column with 0.25 M CaCl2 showed 10% of the applied VIII:C, but no VIII:Rag in the eluate. NH4SCN dissociation of the column, followed by reduction and SDS-PAGE of the dissociated protein, showed an 8 band subunit structure similar to the reduced factor VIII.
Role of Reduced Glutathione on Platelet Functions
Authors: Matsuda Shigeyoshi , Ikeda Yasuo , Aoki Makoto , Toyama Keisuke , Watanabe Kiyoaki , Ando Yasuhiko
Published: August 2018

The role of reduced glutathione (GSH) on platelet functions was investigated utilizing thiol oxidizing agent, “diamide”. Diamide reacted rapidly with GSH in platelets, but not with protein thiols. Platelets treated with diamide showed inhibition of platelet aggregation induced by ADP, epinephrine and collagen in a concentration dependent manner. Clot retraction was grossly inhibited by diamide. Platelet interaction with polymerizing fibrin was examined by the method of Niewiarowski et al. (1972). There was no interaction observed between diamide-treated platelets and polymerizing fibrin. Ultrastructural observation of clots formed in the presence of diamide also showed no direct contact between platelets and fibrin strands. Platelets retained their granular contents, but showed loss of microtubules and dilatation of open canalicular system. Our findings may further support the idea that GSH plays an important role on platelet functions.
In Vitro Thrombogenicity Tests of Factor IX Concentrates
Authors: Prowse C V , Chirnside A , Elton R A
Published: August 2018

Various factor IX concentrates have been examined in a number of in vitro tests of thrombogenicity. The results suggest that some tests are superfluous as in concentrates with activity in any of these tests activation is revealed by a combination of the non-activated partial thromboplastin time, the thrombin (or Xa) generation time and factor VIII inhibitor bypassing activity tests. Assay of individual coagulant enzymes revealed that most concentrates contained more factor IXa than Xa. However only a small number of concentrates, chiefly those that had been purposefully activated, contained appreciable amounts of either enzyme.
Determination of the Biological Activity of Heparin by Use of a Chromogenic Substrate
Authors: Bartl Knut , Dorsch Elfriede , Lill Helmut , Ziegenhorn Joachim
Published: August 2018

We describe a new method for determining the biological activity of heparin in plasma with use of thrombin and the substrate Tos-Gly-Pro-Arg-pNA. The procedure is based on the photometric determination of the inactivation of thrombin after incubation with plasma in the presence of endogenous antithrombin III (At III). The method allows the specific determination of heparin concentrations from 0.02 USP to 0.8 USP/ml of plasma in the presence of normal At III levels. It has been carried out manually by use of an Eppendorf spectrum line photometer or automatically by use of a Vitatron Akes analyzer. For evaluation, the results were compared with two standard samples which contained heparin in the low and high therapeutic range, respectively.
Effects of Antimycin A and 2-Deoxyglucose on Energy Metabolism in Washed Human Platelets
Authors: Holmsen Holm , Robkin Linda M
Published: August 2018

(1) Human platelets were incubated with [14C]adenine in plasma, washed and resuspended in salt solutions. The effects of incubating the cells with antimycin A and 2- deoxyglucose on the radioactivity of ATP, ADP, AMP, IMP and inosine + hypoxanthine, the total level of ADP and ATP and lactate production were studied. The metabolic inhibitors only affected the cytoplasmic, [14C]-labelled nucleotides, and were apparently without effect on the granular, non-labelled ATP and ADP. (2) Antimycin A caused a rapid, shortlasting decrease in [14C]ATP which was independent on glucose and enhanced by 2- deoxyglucose. Lactate production increased about 3-fold with and without 2-deoxyglucose. The initial fall in [14C]ATP was therefore thought to be due to a failure to immediately substitute for the lost oxidative ATP production. (3) After the initial fall in [14C]ATP no changes took place when glucose was present, while [14C]ATP and the adenylate energy charge decreased when glucose was absent and more so when 2-deoxyglucose was present. Thus, glycogenolysis, corresponding to an ATP turnover of 29.8 nmoles × min-1 × mg-1 protein did not maintain ATP homeostasis in platelets. (4) The changes in [14C]ATP, adenylate energy charge and lactate production under the various conditions strongly suggested that regulation of ATP consumption in the cells was a major mechanism to maintain ATP homeostasis. (5) The changes in the [14C]nucleotides in washed platelets were qualitatively similar to those previously described in platelet-rich plasma (Holmsen et al. 1974); quantitative differences were apparent and found to be due to binding of antimycin A to plasma proteins and counteraction of the effects of 2-deoxyglucose by plasma glucose. In particular, the rapid, initial fall in [14C]ATP occurred only with washed cells and clearly demonstrated a conversion of ATP to hypoxanthine ADP, AMP, IMP and inosine. (6) The cellular AMP deaminase reaction was found not to be related by the adenylate energy charge, in contrast to studies with semipurified enzyme (Chapman & Atkinson 1973). Our results suggested that AMP deamination occurred when [AMP] rose from its resting value of 0.07 mM and was inhibited when [ATP] fell below 2 mM within the cell.
Human Blood Platelet Membrane Glycoproteins
Authors: Jenkins C S P , Ali-Briggs E F , Zonneveld G T E , Sturk A , Clemetson J
Published: August 2018

The separation of the major platelet membrane glycoproteins of normal subjects and subjects with well defined platelet membrane glycoprotein abnormalities have been examined using four different polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic techniques (continuous and discontinuous). The mobilities of the resolved glycoprotein bands have been correlated with the glycoprotein nomenclature proposed for the conventional sodium dodecyl sulphate- phosphate buffer system. Since the glycoprotein distribution varies depending on the system used, the merits of each method should be considered before application to a specific problem.
Platelet Adhesiveness in Permanent Residents of High Altitude
Authors: Sharma Subhash C , Drummond Maureen M , Balasubramanian V , Chadha K S
Published: August 2018

Platelet adhesiveness (PA) has been studied in 43 permanent residents of high altitude (highlanders) and in an equal number of age matched low landers for comparison. The importance of our findings in the light of our earlier observations in young low landers developing ischaemic cerebral stroke at high altitude and the development of ill effects of high altitude induction in fresh unacclimatised inductees is discussed.
Repeatability of Three-Dimensional Computed Tomographic Volumetric Measurement of Lumbosacral Intervertebral Foramina in German Shepherd Dogs
Authors: Gordon Stefan , Bridges Janis , Tomlin Susan , Hartman Angela , Worth Andrew
Published: August 2018

Objectives This article determines the repeatability of a recently reported method of volumetric measurement of the lateral intervertebral neurovascular foramina at the lumbosacral junction in German shepherd dogs.

Materials and Methods Batch files including the intervertebral neurovascular foramina were derived from previously obtained computed tomography studies of the extended lumbosacral junction of 20 German shepherd dogs and converted into volume datasets. Three observers independently performed five measurements of the left and right lumbosacral intervertebral neurovascular foramina in each dog, using an Extended Brilliance Workstation (Phillips, The Netherlands) to generate a volume of the lumbosacral intervertebral foramina in cubic millimetres, as described by Worth and colleagues in 2017. The inter-observer repeatability of the mean of the five-volume measurements (40 foramina) was assessed using the Bland–Altman limits of agreement method. One observer, blinded to the previous measurements, repeated the volumetric analysis on 20 lumbosacral intervertebral foramina for an assessment of intra-observer repeatability using the same statistical methods.

Results This method of volumetric analysis showed good intra- and inter-observer repeatability with 95% of paired comparisons falling within two standard deviations of the mean difference between them.

Clinical Significance This method of measuring the volume of the lumbosacral intervertebral neurovascular foramina is repeatedly reliable and may be a useful tool when testing the effects of motion and disease on the lumbosacral junction, and could help guide surgical intervention when foraminal narrowing is implicated in the clinical signs.
Comparison of Simultaneously Collected Kinetic Data with Force Plates and a Pressure Walkway
Authors: Sandberg Gabriella , Torres Bryan , Berjeski Amanda , Budsberg Steven
Published: August 2018

Objective This article compares simultaneously collected kinetic data (percent limb distribution and limb symmetry) with force plates (FP) and a pressure walkway.

Animals This study included 18 healthy client-owned adult dogs.

Methods Vertical ground reaction force and pressure data were collected during two sessions 1 week apart (days 1 and 7) using both FP and pressure mat systems. Vertical ground reaction forces and vertical pressure data were each collected alone as well as simultaneously. A mixed effects model was used to test for differences in force, force percent data and symmetry indices (SI) that were calculated for the thoracic and pelvic limb pairs, between collection systems. A Pearson's correlation was used to test for correlations between force, force percentage and SI.

Results There was no difference in peak vertical force (PVF) or total pressure index (TPI) data collected alone or when collected with pressure mat overlay the FP. Small but significant differences were found in percent limb distribution between PVF% and TPI%. Significant differences were found in the calculated SI for forelimbs and hindlimbs. Correlations between the PVF% and TPI% distribution were significant in both the fore- and hindlimbs. While there was a significant correlation between the forelimb SI, there was no significant correlation between the SI in the hindlimbs.

Clinical Significance The method of calculating PVF and TPI percentages allowed for comparison between the collection methods. Significant differences were noted in the calculated SI between the collection methods and direct comparisons is not advisable.
Action of Brinase on Human Fibrinogen and Plasminogen
Authors: Vanhove Ph , Donati M B , Claeys H , Verhaeghe R , Vermylen J
Published: August 2018

Brinase added to human plasma in vitro caused a decrease in fibrinogen concentration, positive paracoagulation tests and formation of a friable clot in sequence. Agarose gel filtration of these samples revealed the presence of fibrinogen derivatives both larger and smaller than the parent molecule. Infusion of the enzyme in vivo resulted in a decreased fibrinogen level, a prolonged thrombin time and an increase in fibrinogen related antigen (FRA) in serum. The elution pattern of FRA in the plasma samples obtained after infusion of Brinase was similar to that of the in vitro samples. The plasma pool of fibrinogen was partially consumed by infusion of Brinase, but the turnover of plasminogen remained unaffected. Purified plasminogen was partially degraded by addition of the enzyme but this was not accompanied by a generation of proteolytic activity. These findings confirm that Brinase induces a proteolytic degradation of fibrinogen in plasma without activation of the plasminogen-plasmin system. Exposure of polymerization site(s) in the fibrinogen molecule is probably responsible for the reported clot promoting effect of the enzyme.
The Effect of Agents which Modify Platelet Behaviour and of Magnesium Ions on Thrombus Formation In Vivo
Authors: Adams J H , Mitchell J R A
Published: August 2018

The ability of potential anti-thrombotic agents to modify platelet-thrombus formation in injured cerebral arteries in the rabbit was tested. Low doses of heparin were without effect, while higher doses produced variable suppression of white body formation but at the expense of bleeding. Aspirin did not inhibit white body formation but another non-steroid anti-inflammatory agent, flurbiprofen was able to do so, as was the anti-gout agent, sulphinpyrazone. Magnesium salts both topically and parenterally, suppressed thrombus formation and increased the concentration of ADP which was required to initiate thrombus production at minor injury sites.
Extracellular Factors Influencing the In Vitro Protein Synthesis of Platelets
Authors: Plow Edward F
Published: August 2018

Regulation of platelet protein synthesis by selected extracellular factors and events have been examined. Protein synthetic function was assessed by the incorporation of 3H-leucine into trichloroacetic acid-precipitable protein and was characterized by: a) incorporation of 0.1 μ moles leucine/hr/1088 platelets; b) sensitivity to puromycin but not actinomycin D; and c) synthesis of multiple size species. Inhibition and potentiation of the rate of protein synthesis by extracellular factors was demonstrable. Plasma and serum both inhibited protein synthesis, and the inhibitory effect appeared to be dependent upon a cooperative effect of two distinct plasma factors. The inhibitory effect may reflect a decrease in the rate of protein synthesis and/or an increase in the rate of protein catabolism. Fibrinogen and its plasmic cleavage products X, Y and E did not affect platelet protein synthesis; but the D: E complex and D fragment produced approximately 50% increases in the rate of synthesis. Protein synthesis and the release reaction appeared to be independent cellular functions as ADP, thrombin, AMP, ATP, adenosine and dibutyryl derivatives of cyclic AMP and GMP did not influence protein synthesis. Epinephrine at 1 mM inhibited the initial rate of protein synthesis by 45%; however, this effect appeared to be independent of the release reaction. It is concluded that platelet protein synthesis in vitro is independent of selected platelet hemostatic functions such as the release reaction but is susceptible to regulation by agents which occur in vivo.
The Acelerating Effect of Fibrinogen and Early Fibrinogen Degradation Products on Erythrocyte Sedimentation
Authors: Marsh N A
Published: August 2018

The fibrinogen molecule has a number of biological activities and some of these are shared by the larger degradation products. This study was carried out to investigate the erythrocyte sedimentation-accelerating property of fibrinogen and how this property might be modified by proteolytic digestion with plasmin.

The sedimentation rate of washed human red cells suspended in saline, was found to be directly proportional to the concentration of added purified human fibrinogen, down to 250 mg%, below which there was no difference from saline controls. Plasmic digestion of fibrinogen yielding fragment X, did not reduce the accelerating affect on erythrocyte sedimentation, indicating that the intact carboxyl terminal end of the Aα chain is unnecessary for this phenomenon. Further digestion to fragment Y reduced the effect slightly but digestion to fragments D and E abolished the accelerating effect completely.
The Effects of Citrate and Extracellular Calcium Ions on the Platelet Release Reaction Induced by Adenosine Diphosphate and Collagen
Authors: Hepinstall Stanley , Taylor Patricia M
Published: August 2018

The ADP-induced release of 3H-serotonin from human platelets in heparinized platelet rich plasma is markedly stimulated by the addition of sodium citrate. The aggregation and release that is induced by collagen is less affected by citrate. Data is presented that supports the view that the effects of citrate on both ADP-and collagen-induced release are largely via alteration of the concentration of ionized calcium in plasma.

Collagen can induce release of 3H-serotonin via extracellular calcium-independent and -dependent mechanisms. The possibility that the calcium-dependent mechanism is aggregation-dependent and that the calcium is required for platelet aggregation rather than directly involved in the release reaction is discussed.
Dose Requirement for Replacement Therapy in Hemophilia A
Authors: Allain Jean-Pierre
Published: August 2018

In order to determine the correlation between different doses of F. VIII and their clinical effect,. 70 children with severe hemophilia A were studied after treatment with single doses of cryoprecipitate. The relationship between plasma F. VIII levels or doses calculated in u/ kg of body weight and clinical results followed an exponential curve. Plasma F. VIII levels of 0.35 and 0.53 u/ml corresponded to 95 and 99% satisfactory treatment, respectively. Similar clinical results were obtained with 20 and 31 u/kg. When the in vivo recovery of F. VIII after lyophilized cryoprecipitate was 0.015 u/ml for each u/kg injected, plasma F. VIII levels of 0.30 and 0.47 u/ml respectively were achieved. Since home treatment is largely based on single infusions of F. VIII, it is suggested that moderate and severe hemorrhages be treated with a dose which will provide a plasma F. VIII level of 0.5 u/ml.
Purification and Properties of an Antiactivator Fraction from Bovine Serum
Authors: Nanninga L B , Guest M M
Published: August 2018

A method is described for the purification of antiactivator from bovine euglobulin-free serum by means of gelfiltration and ion exchange chromatography. The purified antiactivator has no antifibrinolytic activity. It has a molecular weight of about 115,000 and it appears to be a gamma globulin. The dissociation constant of its complex with urokinase is 1.6 X 10-9 M and the maximum urokinase binding is close to 2000 CTA units per mg. Its concentration in bovine serum is 0.37%. Flufenamate displaces urokinase from the antiactivator at very low concentrations, about 10-4 M. Cysteine restores its activity if lost by standing. Also an antifibrinolysin fraction is obtained free of antiactivator activity.
Engineering bright fluorescent nitrogen-vacancy (NV) nano-diamonds: Role of low-energy ion-irradiation parameters
Authors: Kumar Ravi , Pandit Priyanka , Pal Prabir , Dhakate S. R. , Pant R. P. , Kumar Raj , Avasthi Devesh K. , Singh Dilip K.
Published: August 2018

Bright emission from fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) is highly desirable for optical bio-imaging applications. Here we report about optimized ion-irradiation and heat treatment conditions for efficient creation of Nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in high pressure high temperature (HPHT) grown type Ib Nanodiamond samples irradiated in energy range (20-50 KeV) and at varying fluence (1012-1016 ions/cm2). Different low energy ion irradiations are not detrimental for the crystallinity of nanodiamonds as confirmed by X-ray diffraction and HRTEM. The concentration of defects near the outer surface (non-diamond carbon) has been increased for highest ion dose (50 KeV, 1016 ions/cm2) as compared to lower ion dose (50 KeV, 1013 ions/cm2). The relative emission intensity of characteristic Zero-phonon lines of NV°, NV- centers as compared to broad emission in the range 550-750 nm was monitored with varying NV creation conditions. Sample irradiated at 50 KeV and with fluence of 1013 ions/cm2 show maximum emission in the phonon side band (550-750 nm) with maxima at 680 nm. These optimized ion irradiation conditions leads to the fabrication of 12.5±0.8 ppm concentration of NV- centers in nanodiamonds. This is desirable for their use as biomarker. This work provides a recipe for creating bright nanodiamonds for optical imaging applications.