bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simplified polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based sexing assists conservation of an endangered owl, the Norfolk Island Boobook Ninox novaeseelandiae undulata
Authors: Double Michael , Olsen Penny
Published: May 2019

In 1986 a single Norfolk Island Boobook Owl Ninox novaeseelandiae undulata remained. As part of a re-establishment programme, two male New Zealand Moreporks N. n. novaeseelandiae were introduced, one of which survived to pair with the female in the wild and breed successfully. By 1995 the population numbered 12 or 13 individuals of which seven were second generation (F2). However, there were only two breeding pairs. As the 11 hybrids could not be sexed using morphometrics we developed a molecular method based on a recently described avian polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based sexing technique. The population was found to contain six females and five males. A scarcity of mature males was established as the main factor slowing the recovery effort.
Notes on breeding sites of Pelecaniformes in Micronesia
Authors: de Korte J. , Meltofte H.
Published: May 2019

During a tourist cruise with M.V. Academik Shokalski from Cairns (Australia) to Chuuk (Micronesia) between 20 March and 3 April 1996 we visited a number of seabird islands in Micronesia described by Nelson (1978). On these and other islands visited, we asked local people for further information on breeding seabirds. After the cruise H.M. visited Ant Atoll at Pohnpei.

This note presents the results. Time did not allow us to undertake real counts so we provide only rough estimates of numbers of breeding pairs, in orders of magnitude.
Parent Views on the Placement of Students with Special Needs in Regular Classrooms at an Australian Primary School
Authors: Wright Susan , Sigafoos Jeff
Published: May 2019

The present study surveyed the views of parents about the education of students with special needs in regular classrooms. The survey involved 81 parents of students without disabilities and 29 parents of students with special needs. The children attended an Australian primary school. The school provided special education to 35 students with special needs and some of their education was provided in regular classrooms. Both groups of parents provided a range of supportive comments, but also expressed concerns about the implementation of special education in regular classrooms. Specific concerns included the extra time and added stress of educating children with special needs in the regular classroom, the potential disruption and disadvantage to other students, and the lack of support and resources, which may decrease the amount of learning. These views are consistent with those expressed by teachers and students without special needs as reported in the companion paper (Wright & Sigafoos, 1997) to the present study.
Transmission Electron Microscopy Microstructure Characterization of YBCO/SrRuO3/YBCO Josephson Junctions
Authors: Huang Y. , Merkle K.L. , Char K.
Published: May 2019

Abstract: The microstructure of YBCO/SrRuO3/YBCO junctions in the edge geometry have been studied by high resolution electron microscopy. Various defects in the YBCO and SrRuO3 films are observed and analyzed. The most striking defects in the c-axis-oriented YBCO film are a-axis particles, which cause bending and interruption of lattice planes as well as high steps and cracks in the subsequent layers. The SrRuO3 layer in the ramp-edge junction region consists of small domains with slightly different orientations. This leads to the formation of steps on its surface and large variation in SrRuO3 thickness. Mechanisms for forming this defective layer are suggested based on the growth mode and the crystal structure of SrRuO3. We find evidence for strain fields at the SrRuO3/YBCO interface. The oxygen deficiency in YBCO caused by this interface strain may to a large part be responsible for the excess resistivity of this junction. In addition to the defective SrRuO3 layer, the occurrence of various defects in the junction area, including Y2O3 and a-axis YBCO particles, seem to be the cause for the wide scatter in the junction electrical characteristics. The formation of steps and large thickness variation in the barrier layer may be the reason for the rather large critical thickness of the SrRuO3 superconductor-normal-superconductor (SNS) junction. In addition to the junction interfaces, the microstructure of SrRuO3/LaAlO3 and SrRuO3/SrTiO3 interfaces have also been studied.
Observation of Dislocation Cutting Ω Phase and its Strengthening Mechanism in an Al-Cu-Mg-Ag Alloy
Authors: Li Bernard Q. , Wawner Franklin E.
Published: May 2019

Abstract: This investigation presents the interaction of dislocations and semicoherent precipitates (Ω phase) in an Al-Cu-Mg-Ag alloy. The study shows that the semicoherent precipitate is cut by dislocations during deformation. Conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high resolution TEM (HRTEM) observations demonstrate that shearing of precipitates by dislocations occurs by multiple cutting in the precipitate. The step height caused by cutting on the Ω precipitate is only several atomic layers of the Ω phase. The Ω phase is strengthened after shearing by dislocations. A strengthening mechanism is proposed on the basis of this observation. The strengthening mechanism is not only applicable to the Ω precipitate in Al-Cu-Mg-Ag alloys but also to the other semicoherent precipitates in other alloys.
Reversal Mechanisms in Lithographically Defined Magnetic Thin Film Elements Imaged by Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: McVitie Stephen , Chapman John N.
Published: May 2019

Abstract: The magnetic behavior of lithographically defined thin film elements of permalloy imaged by Lorentz microscopy is described. Elements of thickness <100 nm, with in-plane dimensions in the micron and sub-micron range and of varying shape, have been subjected to in situ fields using an electron microscope that has been optimized for magnetic imaging. The information provided from the imaging modes has identified the details of the magnetization reversal mechanisms in the elements during the course of a hysteresis cycle. In particular, domain wall clusters which form at the edges of the elements are observed prior to switching of the magnetization. Results are described from elements with near single and multidomain structures with different geometry.
Low-Voltage Scanning Electron Microscopy of Mammalian Fertilization In Vitro: Preparation of Oocytes
Authors: Tengowski Mark W. , Schatten Gerald
Published: May 2019

Abstract: To optimize specimen-processing protocols for investigations of fertilization in mammals, with high-resolution, low-voltage scanning electron microscopy (LVSEM), bovine oocytes matured in vitro were prepared by either aldehyde fixation, conductive staining, or high-pressure cryoimmobilization with freeze-substitution. Samples prepared by these different preparative techniques were coated with either platinum or gold and imaged with an LVSEM operating at 1.5 keV. Additionally, aldehyde-fixed oocytes, sputter-coated with gold, were imaged with a conventional scanning electron microscope (cSEM). The results show that bovine oocytes prepared by aldehyde fixation or cryoimmobilized by high-pressure freezing produced superior images of the zona pellucida (ZP) compared with those from the conductive stained samples. A comparison of LVSEM and cSEM images suggests that the gold-coating employed in cSEM preparation obscures the ZP detail seen with the LVSEM, but not with the cSEM. Application of these procedures provide not only a new view of the ZP but may be useful in elucidating the molecular mechanism of gamete interactions during the fertilization process.
Use of Monoclonal Antibodies to Visualize Capsular Material of Bacterial Pathogens by Conventional Electron Microscopy
Authors: Jacques Mario , Gottschalk Marcelo
Published: May 2019

Abstract: Because of their chemical properties, bacterial capsules tend to collapse during dehydration before electron microscopy. The purpose of this study is thus to evaluate the use of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against capsular material to stabilize and visualize bacterial capsule. Two important porcine pathogens with a known ultrastructure, namely, Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and Streptococcus suis, were used. Our data indicate that mAbs, either immunoglobulin G (IgG) or IgM, preferably from ascite fluids, can be used to stabilize bacterial capsular material in preparation for electron microscopy. However, because of their low antibody titer, the use of mAbs from culture supernatants is not recommended.
Effect of Fluid Chemistry on the Interfacial Composition, Adhesion, and Frictional Response of Calcite Single Crystals—Implications for Injection‐Induced Seismicity
Authors: Diao Yijue , Espinosa‐Marzal Rosa M.
Published: May 2019

While it has been shown that the mechanical properties and the reactivity of carbonate‐bearing rocks may be influenced by the chemical composition of the fluids, little is known about how the fluid composition affects their frictional response. Here, we have used atomic force microscopy to investigate the frictional characteristics of single calcite crystals in calcium carbonate saturated solutions and in two brines, NaCl and CaCl2, at a wide range of geologically relevant concentrations. Surface forces were measured to determine the ion‐specific composition of the confined fluid films and the adhesion between the confining surfaces. The effect of fluid chemistry on calcite's (dynamic) frictional response significantly depends on the normal stress. At low stresses, the confined fluid film lubricates the single‐asperity contact efficiently, resulting in low friction coefficients, especially in the case of NaCl solutions. When the pressure solution of calcite is triggered at sufficiently high stress, a significant reduction of the friction coefficient was observed, and in this case, CaCl2 solutions were shown to promote this frictional weakening more significantly than NaCl. This is the first experimental investigation of the ion‐specific frictional characteristics of calcite at the level of a single‐asperity contact. The presence of infiltrated fluids in carbonate faults may also play a critical role in fault dynamics. Hence, the results of this nanoscale study are extrapolated to carbonate fault friction in the presence of infiltrated fluids, and they contribute to advance our understanding of induced seismicity at geological scale.
The Swarm Satellite Trio Studies Earth and Its Environment
Authors: Bouffard J�r�me , Floberghagen Rune , Olsen Nils
Published: May 2019

8th Swarm Data Quality Workshop; Frascati, Italy, 8–12 October 2018
A Stratigraphic Framework for the Preservation and Shredding of Environmental Signals
Authors: Toby Stephan C. , Duller Robert A. , De Angelis Silvio , Straub Kyle M.
Published: May 2019

The stratigraphic record contains unique information about past landscapes and environmental change. Whether landscapes faithfully transmit signals of environmental change to stratigraphy is unknown because autogenic processes, such as river avulsion, can obscure signals prior to long‐term stratigraphic storage. We develop a theoretical framework that predicts when a sediment flux signal will be transferred from the landscape to stratigraphy. This threshold magnitude is a function of signal duration. The magnitude is set by the maximum rate of autogenic volume change of the landscape, which decreases with increasing time window. Physical delta experiments, specifically designed to test our theory, demonstrate that only sediment supply signals with a magnitude greater than the threshold are stored in stratigraphy, supporting our theory. This framework allows us to assess the fidelity of the stratigraphic record to archive past signals of environmental change and predict the short‐ and long‐term impact of current anthropogenic forcing on landscapes.
A novel nonsense SMC1A mutation in a patient with intractable epilepsy and cardiac malformation
Authors: Chinen Yasutsugu , Nakamura Sadao , Kaneshi Takuya , Nakayashiro Mami , Yanagi Kumiko , Kaname Tadashi , Naritomi Kenji , Nakanishi Koichi
Published: May 2019

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a cohesinopathy caused by genetic variations. We present a female with SMC1A-associated CdLS with a novel SMC1A truncation mutation (p. Arg499Ter), transposition of the great arteries, and periodic intractable seizures from 40 months of age. A review of the literature revealed that a seizure-free period after birth of at least 15 months is required for these patients to be able to walk, irrespective of the epileptic course.
Ecological traits of the world’s primates
Authors: Galán-Acedo Carmen , Arroyo-Rodríguez Víctor , Andresen Ellen , Arasa-Gisbert Ricard
Published: May 2019

Ecosystems largely depend, for both their functioning and their ecological integrity, on the ecological traits of the species that inhabit them. Non-human primates have a wide geographic distribution and play vital roles in ecosystem structure, function, and resilience. However, there is no comprehensive and updated compilation of information on ecological traits of all the world’s primate species to accurately assess such roles at a global scale. Here we present a database on some important ecological traits of the world’s primates (504 species), including home range size, locomotion type, diel activity, trophic guild, body mass, habitat type, current conservation status, population trend, and geographic realm. We compiled this information through a careful review of 1,216 studies published between 1941 and 2018, resulting in a comprehensive, easily accessible and user-friendly database. This database has broad applicability in primatological studies, and can potentially be used to address many research questions at all spatial scales, from local to global.
Targeting the neuronal calcium sensor DREAM with small-molecules for Huntington’s disease treatment
Authors: Lopez-Hurtado Alejandro , Peraza Diego A. , Cercos Pilar , Lagartera Laura , Gonzalez Paz , Dopazo Xose M. , Herranz Rosario , Gonzalez Teresa , Martin-Martinez Mercedes , Mellström Britt , Naranjo Jose R. , Valenzuela Carmen , Gutierrez-Rodriguez Marta
Published: May 2019

DREAM, a neuronal calcium sensor protein, has multiple cellular roles including the regulation of Ca2+ and protein homeostasis. We recently showed that reduced DREAM expression or blockade of DREAM activity by repaglinide is neuroprotective in Huntington’s disease (HD). Here we used structure-based drug design to guide the identification of IQM-PC330, which was more potent and had longer lasting effects than repaglinide to inhibit DREAM in cellular and in vivo HD models. We disclosed and validated an unexplored ligand binding site, showing Tyr118 and Tyr130 as critical residues for binding and modulation of DREAM activity. IQM-PC330 binding de-repressed c-fos gene expression, silenced the DREAM effect on KV4.3 channel gating and blocked the ATF6/DREAM interaction. Our results validate DREAM as a valuable target and propose more effective molecules for HD treatment.
Cobalt(-i) triphos dinitrogen complexes: activation and silyl-functionalisation of N2
Authors: Apps Samantha L. , Miller Philip W. , Long Nicholas J.
Published: May 2019

Co(-i)–N2 complexes supported by triphos ligands show high degrees of N2 activation and N2 functionalisation reactivity with SiMe3Cl.
Importance of controlling phosphate concentration in nitritation–anammox reactor operation
Authors: Yang Sen , Xu Shengnan , Florentino Anna P. , Mohammed Abdul , Ashbolt Nicholas J. , Liu Yang
Published: May 2019

The effect of phosphate on anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) was investigated in an integrated fixed film activated sludge-sequencing batch reactor (IFAS-SBR) treating raw digester sludge thickening lagoon supernatants before and after Ostara® treatment (for phosphorus recovery).
A new tetraphenylethene-based Schiff base: two crystalline polymorphs exhibiting totally different photochromic and fluorescence properties
Authors: Sun Hao , Sun Shan-Shan , Han Fang-Fang , Ni Zhong-Hai , Zhang Ran , Li Ming-De
Published: May 2019

Different photoinactivation ways resulting from different crystal packing may account for different photochromic and fluorescence properties of the title polymorphs.
High-efficiency exciplex-based white organic light-emitting diodes with a new tripodal material as a co-host
Authors: Zhang Yuan-Lan , Ran Quan , Wang Qiang , Fan Jian , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: May 2019

An evident enhancement in the performance of exciplex-based WOLEDs utilizing an effective strategy using multi-exciplex-forming co-hosts (MEHs) was achieved.
Probability of defect detection in pulse compression favourable frequency modulated thermal wave imaging
Authors: Kher V. , Mulaveesala R.
Published: May 2019

Infrared thermography plays a vital role in the thermal non‐destructive testing and evaluation (TNDT) due to its merits such as whole‐field, remote and quantitative defect detection capabilities. Among the various TNDT methods, recently proposed, pulse compression favourable thermal wave imaging gained its importance due to its merits in terms of defect detection sensitivity and resolution. This Letter attempts to compare different post‐processing schemes to compare their sub‐surface defect detection capabilities for a glass fibre reinforced polymer test sample. Results obtained clearly show defect detection probability of the matched filter‐based post‐processing approaches are far superior to that of the conventional frequency domain phase approach.
Fast HSI super resolution using linear regression
Authors: Song Lingfei , Fu Ying , Huang Hua , Chen Yufeng
Published: May 2019

Hyperspectral imaging has great achievements in agriculture, astronomy, surveillance, and so on. However, the inherent low spatial resolution of hyperspectral imaging, unfortunately, limits its more widespread applications. Recently, hyperspectral image (HSI) super resolution addresses this problem by fusing a low spatial resolution HSI (LR‐HSI) with a high spatial resolution multispectral image (HR‐MSI), but most of these methods did not consider real‐time restoration of high spatial resolution HSI. In this study, the authors propose a fast HSI super‐resolution method which fills this blank. Specifically, they model the hyperspectral super resolution as a linear regression problem according to the fact that the imaging process is a linear transform and the inverse of this transform can be approximately estimated, as the spectra of a typical scene lie in a very low‐dimensional space. To further exploit the low‐dimensional nature of the spectra, they divide the HR‐MSI and LR‐HSI into several patches and learn the inverse transform patch‐by‐patch. Experiments on several public datasets show that their method approximates state‐of‐the‐art methods in accuracy, but is several orders of magnitude faster than all of them. Furthermore, they provide an efficient C language implementation of their methods, which can meet the real‐time request.
Age‐related craniofacial differences based on spatio‐temporal face image atlases
Authors: Xavier Igor R.R. , Giraldi Gilson A. , Gibson Stuart James , Gattas Gilka J.F. , Rueckert Daniel , Thomaz Carlos E.
Published: May 2019

A number of studies have been developed recently in order to explore associations between craniofacial differences and genetics. Most of these works have been based on spatial face image models, adjusted for the counter effects of age. This approach provides a limited understanding of normal and abnormal craniofacial development owing to the lack of age progression information. Here, the authors propose and implement an imaging framework that combines facial landmark positioning, non‐rigid registration, novel age‐dependent face modelling and common distance metrics to disclose the most facial differences that vary across the time due to the subjects' age. All the experiments carried out and corresponding results presented here are based on a database comprising ordinary two‐dimensional (2D) frontal face images of Down Syndrome (DS) and control sample groups. A number of craniofacial metrics have been successfully identified that highlight statistically significant and clinically relevant differences between the controls and the faces associated with DS within the age range from 1 to 18 years old, producing realistic unbiased face models with similar level of detail at all age‐intervals, despite the small sample size available.
Operation of the full‐bridge three‐level DC–DC converter in unbalanced bipolar DC microgrids
Authors: Van den Broeck Giel , Beerten Jef , Dalla Vecchia Mauricio , Ravyts Simon , Driesen Johan
Published: May 2019

As compared to two‐wire, unipolar DC microgrids (DCμGs), bipolar DCμGs apply a positive, neutral and negative conductor to increase the power transfer capability while retaining two voltage levels for supplying low‐ and high‐power devices at an appropriate voltage. However, connecting devices between the positive or negative pole and the neutral conductor will result in unbalanced currents causing voltage to unbalance. Therefore, power electronic converters with voltage balancing capability are essential. Instead of installing dedicated voltage balancing converters, this study proposes to apply three‐level DC–DC converters. These converters can interface battery storage with bipolar DCμGs and balance the pole‐to‐neutral voltages at the same time. However, high levels of unbalanced currents drive three‐level DC–DC converters towards their theoretical unbalanced operating limits. To derive these, a method is presented which decomposes the governing equations in balanced and unbalanced components. Although the method is generally applicable to the three‐level converters, the full‐bridge three‐level converter serves as a comprehensive example. The method enables to derive the unbalanced operating area of three‐level DC–DC converters and to appropriately size the filter inductor. Furthermore, a novel modulation strategy is introduced in order to lower the inductor current ripple in unbalanced conditions, supported by experimental results.
Analysis of mechanical behaviour of single‐phase austenitic stainless steels based on microstructure deformation mechanism
Authors: Shi Ya , Zhou Jianqiu
Published: May 2019

The single‐phase austenitic stainless steel has attracted widespread attention from scientists because of its special composition. This steel with single‐phase but duplex microstructure consists of coarse non‐recrystallised grains with nanotwinned austenitic (nt‐γ) structures and soft statically recrystallised matrix. Additionally, during uniaxial tension, microstructure deformation – deformation twins will occur. Owing to its bimodal grain size distribution and the effect of nt‐γ structures, this steel can make a balance between strength and toughness. To analyse the mechanical behaviour of single‐phase austenitic stainless steels, the authors proposed a theoretical model based on their physical deformation mechanism. It was found that the flow stress of single‐phase austenitic stainless steels will be affected by five factors – the twin spacing, the volume fraction of twins, grain sizes of coarse‐grained phase and matrix phase and the ratio of volume fractions of the two phases.
Machinability of SMART Forging Process Materials in Intermittent Cutting: 2nd Report : Machinability in Normal Cutting Region and Selection of Optimum Cutting Condition
Authors: Murata Mitsuaki , Hino Makoto , Kuwano Ryoichi , Kurokawa Syuhei
Published: May 2019

Transmission used in automobiles is indispensable from the viewpoint of improvement of maximum speed, quietness and fuel consumption even if the power source of automobile is changed from internal combustion engine to electric motor in the future. We are studying a heat treatment process for imparting machinability to the forged material after hot forging used for a transmission of automobiles. In the past, the heat stored in the material after hot forging was merely released into the atmosphere. We succeeded in imparting machinability to the material by cooling while well controlling the heat stored in the forged material after hot forging. In the previous paper [1], we reported the progress of tool wear of this forged material in the high-speed cutting region with the cutting speed of 200 m/min or more in intermittent cutting. In this report, we conducted cutting experiments on the machinability of this developed forged material in the normal cutting speed region with the cutting speed less than 200 m/min. As a result, at the cutting speed V of V=157 m/min or less, it reached the conclusion that the built-up edges frequently occurred and the tool was chipped due to it. From the previous report and the results of this experiment, it was found that the cutting speed V of about V=213 m/min is optimum for cutting these forged materials with cemented carbide.
A robust and fast sliding mode controller for position tracking control of permanent magnetic synchronous motor
Authors: Jiang Junfeng , Zhou Xiaojun
Published: May 2019

The permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is important in position tracking applications. A performance degradation is caused by the internal uncertainties and external load disturbance. To achieve a high control performance, a fast and precise control scheme with great robustness has to be applied. In this paper, we propose a composite control method for PMSM systems by combing the extended state observer (ESO) technique with fast terminal sliding mode (FTSM) control. The FTSM guarantees the fast convergence rate and the ESO can estimate the disturbance accurately. The proposed method has a fast response and a good disturbance rejection property compared with other sliding mode methods. Simulations are carried out to show the effectiveness of this method.
Status and first results from the ARCA and ORCA lines of the KM3NeT experiment
Authors: Fermani Paolo , Di Palma Irene
Published: May 2019

KM3NeT is a network of submarine Cherenkov neutrino telescopes under construction in two different sites in the Mediterranean Sea [1]. The detector at the Italian site, close to the Sicilian coast and named ARCA, will be devoted to the detection of high-energy astrophysical neutrinos coming from sources in the Universe, while the detector at the French site, in the Toulon bay and named ORCA, will exploit atmospheric neutrinos to determine the neutrino mass hierarchy. The telescopes are an array of flexible strings anchored to the sea floor and held close to vertical by submerged buoys. The strings are instrumented with digital optical modules hosted within pressure-resistant glass spheres, each housing 31 3” photomultipliers tubes and the readout electronics. The geometry of the detectors has been adapted to their physics goals. The first calibrations and results of ARCA and ORCA are presented.
New solar modulation modeling of the galactic proton flux measured by the AMS02 and PAMELA experiments
Authors: Fiandrini E. , Bertucci B. , Tomassetti N. , Khiali B.
Published: May 2019

A thorough understanding of solar effects on the galactic cosmic rays is relevant both to infer the local interstellar spectrum characteristics and to investigate the dynamics of charged particles in the heliosphere. We present a newly developed numerical modulation model to study the transport of galactic protons in the heliosphere. The model was applied to the 27-day averaged galactic proton flux recently released by the PAMELA and AMS02 experiments, covering an extended time period from mid-2006 to mid-2017.
Ultrahigh-Energy multi-messengers at the Pierre Auger Observatory
Authors: Pedreira Francisco
Published: May 2019

The study of correlations between observations of different messengers from extreme sources of the Universe has emerged as an outstanding way to make progress in astrophysics. The Pierre Auger Observatory is capable of significant contributions as an ultra-high energy particle detector, particularly through its capability to search for inclined showers produced by neutrinos. We describe the neutrino searches made with the Observatory with particular emphasis on the recent results following the detections of gravitational waves from binary mergers with Advanced LIGO and VIRGO, leading to competitive limits.
Using multiple indicators to assess spatial and temporal changes in ecological condition of a drinking water reservoir in central China
Authors: Huang Guojia , Chen Yushun , Wang Xiaoqing , Hughes Robert M. , Xu Luowei
Published: May 2019

Monitoring the ecological status of drinking water reservoirs is very important for assessing risks to the safety of drinking water supplies. Because of the huge number of potential organic and inorganic contaminants in water, we focused our study on common water quality variables and three ecological indices. In this study, we used the modified Carlson trophic status index, Shannon diversity index, and the phytoplankton functional group index to assess the changing ecological status of Zhushuqiao Reservoir, a drinking water source in central China. Stratified water sampling for abiotic and biotic variables was conducted bimonthly from April 2016 to February 2017. All three indices indicated that upper reservoir water quality and ecological condition were worse than those in the lower reservoir. Also, the dominant phytoplankton species in the upper reservoir differed significantly from those in the lower reservoir. The reservoir was eutrophic from June to October, especially in June. During the other months, it was mesotrophic, with the best water quality in winter. Water temperature was the main driver of seasonal changes in both biotic and abiotic indicators, although hydrological condition also affected water quality. Total phosphorus (TP) was the limiting factor for phytoplankton, but phytoplankton biomass increased greatly when both TP and total nitrogen increased. Each index had weaknesses; but applying all three together yielded a comprehensive ecological assessment of Zhushuqiao Reservoir and could do so for other similar reservoirs.
Prostacyclin Production By Autogenous Venous Grafts In Dogs
Authors: Eldor A , Hoover E L , Pett S B , Gay W A , Alonzo D R , Weksler B B
Published: May 2019

Arteries are capable of producing significantly larger quantities of prostacyclin than veins. Experiments were designed to compare the production of prostacyclin by venous autografts to that of normal veins and arteries, and to test the hypothesis that prostacyclin production by the vessel wall is related to blood pressure and flow. In 20 dogs a segment of jugular vein was interposed into the carotid system; a sham dissection was done on the opposite side. Six weeks later specimens of venous autograft, jugular vein and carotid artery were taken for histology and radioimmune assay of prostacyclin. “Arterialized” vein grafts showed prominent intima lined by endothelium, medial smooth muscle proliferation and fibrotic proliferation in adventitia. Spontaneous and arachidonic acid stimulated prostacyclin production was not significantly different in venous autografts and jugular veins. Significantly larger amounts of prostacyclin were synthesized by the carotid artery; table shows mean ± S.E. in ng/ml.

We conclude that the histological and rheological changes in vein grafts do not affect prostacyclin production. While normal veins never develop atheroma, atherosclerosis is prevalent in venous autografts. The above may be explained in part by the impairment of one of the vascular defense mechanisms, namely the decreased prostacyclin production in venous grafts.
The Synthesis Of 111In. Tetraphenyl Porphyrine (TPP InCl.) And Its Use In Platelet Labelling
Authors: Vuillemin L , Cloutour C , Pommié M , Reiffers J , Ducassou D
Published: May 2019

The synthesis of TPP InCl was realized using a modified method of A.D. Dunn previously reported (1979).

In order to optimize the labeling conditions we performed a study of different parameters: incorporation of carrier-free Indium (InCl) into tetraphenyl porphyrine (TPPH2), kinetic of insertion, different concentrations of TPPH2 and InCl.

The most reproducible yield (88%) was obtained using 8.108M.TTPH2 (50μg) and 3.25 × 1010M. InCl (50μCi) heated to reflux in acetic acid (250μl) for 20 hours. The purification was performed by a chloroform extraction followed by sterilisation. This radiochemical compound was used for in vitro labeling of human platelets.

A comparative study with In-oxine exhibited a higher labeling efficiency, even in 10 ml of pure plasma medium (95% for 1.6 × 1010 cells).

The optimal concentration of TTP InCl for which we observed no functional alteration by in vitro tests (aggregation with ADP or collagen, hypotonic stress) was 15μg/10ml suspension.

The absolute number of platelets necessary for an acceptable labeling efficiency (40%) was 5×l07 cells.

TPP InCl has a good platelet labeling efficiency in pure plasma medium and appears to be an interesting tracer. However further studies (elution from labeled cells, kinetics and distribution of labeled platelets) are necessary before introducing TPP InCl as a physiological platelet label.
Evaluation Of An Automated Amidolytic Antiplasmin Assay
Authors: Kahlé L , Lamping R , tenCate J
Published: May 2019

The manual antiplasmin (AP) assay (Teger-Nilsson,Scand.J.Clin.Lab.Invest. 1977) has been adapted for automatically performance on an Automated Kinetic Enzyme and Substrate analyzer. Comparison of the automated method with the manual method revealed good correlation (r=0. 98). No significant differences were found when EDTA or citrate plasmas were used. Normal values from 160 healthy individuals were 101% (79%–125%). Addition of purified AT III to plasma had ho effect on the AP assay. Also no effect was observe after infusion of AT III concentrates in patients with decreased AT III levels. In patients with liver cirrhosis AP levels were 74% ±14%, which were significantly higher than their AT III levels (62% ±12%).The same was observed in newborns, where the mean AP activity was 81% ±17%,while their AT III activities were 49% ±15%. From the AP assay in 985 patients only 5% (52) showed a decreased level (below 80%) and only 3% below 70. For the AT III activities these figures were 20% and 12% respectively. Assay of both AP and AT III activity discriminates between Dissiminated Intravascular Coagulation and systhemic fibrinolysis.
Photometric measurement of fibrinolytic activities during urokinase therapy
Authors: Nienhaus Kh , Wenzel E , Jäger H , Pfordt L , Biewer I
Published: May 2019

The biochemical reactions on administrated Urokinase (N = 12 patients suffering from deep vein thrombosis; N = 3 patients with DIC; N = 5 patients with acute arterial stenosis) were tested by evaluating amidolytic activities photometrically using chromogenic substrates (Chromozym UK resp. Chromozym PL, Pentapharm Basel, S 2227 Kabi). In addition, conventional coagulation tests were performed, and the bleeding time, platelet count and volume distribution of platelets were Controlled. A significant drop in plasminogen in all of the UK-treated patients proved that the administered UK produced plasminogen activation, but did not necessarily result in severe fibrinolysis as indicated by the conventional coagulation parameters. In correlation with these findings, the biochemical data seemed to show that plasmin activities increased parallel with the decreasing concentrations of plasminogan (Mancini), When the initial dose of UK was administered (150,000CTA/30 min.), a rapid increase in plasmin-activity as well as in UK-activity followed. Both activities decreased (8-12 h), when UK was infused continuously (75,000/h/70 kg b.w.). An increase in Platelet count during therapy was proven statistically. This phenomenon was also observed in patients suffering from DIC. No typical changes in the platelet volume were observed in patients suffering from acute chronic deep vein thrombosis during the UK-therapy.
Comparison of variability of different methods of measuring fibrinolytic activity
Authors: Chakrabarti R , Thompson S , Meade T
Published: May 2019

The Northwick Park Heart Study has drawn attention to the variability, especially within-person, of the dilute blood clot lysis time (DBCLT). However, this method has considerable practical advantages in large-scale surveys. The variability of DBCLT has therefore been compared with that of the euglobulin lysis time (ELT) and the euglobulin fibrin plate area (EFPA). Each measurement has been made 10 times over a 9 month period in each of 12 healthy people; fibrinogen levels have also been measured. As expected, highly significant correlations (r) have been obtained between the three methods: DBCLT and ELT, + 0.63; DBCLT and EFPA, - 0.47; ELT and EFPA, - 0.54 (P<0.001 in each case). The between-person variance, distinguishing one person from another, accounts for 60% of the total variance in DBCLT, 35% in ELT and 10% in EFPA. For fibrinogen, the value is nearly 90%. The rest of the variance in each case is accounted for by biological within-person variation and laboratory error. Thus, while DBCLT is a variable method of determining an individual’s characteristic level of fibrinolytic activity, it is probably less so than other commonly used methods. The results of this experiment suggest that a previous estimate of the within-person variability of DBCLT (Meade and North, 1977, British Medical Bulletin, 33, 283) may have been too high.
Experience with Aspirin-Dipyridamole Prophylaxis in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Alkjaersig N , Chaplin H , Fletcher A
Published: May 2019

Crisis in sickle cell disease (SSD) patients is associated with reproducible sequential hemostatic changes indicative of intravascular fibrin formation and marked disturbance of platelet economy. With crisis onset, plasma high molecular weight fibrin(ogen) complexes are elevated and there is a transient fall in platelets. Subsequently fibrinogen and platelet counts rise, reaching their peaks respectively one and two weeks alter onset. Three SSD patients have been followed by weekly clinical and laboratory examinations for a two year control and a two year prophylactic treatment period (aspirin 650 mg, dipyridamole 50 mg b.d.). Patient symptomatic status was classified weekly as 1 (asymptomatic) through 4 (hospitalized). Increase in fibrinogen concentration was significantly correlated with patient disease status. While on treatment, the patients were asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic for 85% of the time compared to 73% of the control time.

Analysis of the clinical status data (2 × n Chi square) showed a statistically significant difference in favor of the treatment (p < 0.0l) and the time spent in hospital was significantly reduced during treatment (p < 0.02).
Structural Aspects of Calcium Binding to Fibrinogen
Authors: Marguerie G
Published: May 2019

The important role of Ca++in the clotting of fibrinogen has been known for some time. In order to elucidate the mechanism by which this cation influences the structure and the function of this protein the Ca++-fibrinogen interaction has been examined. Equilibrium dialysis experiments at pH 7.4 have shown that fibrinogen possesses three Ca++ binding sites of high affinity with an apparent association constant Kd = 2 × 10-6M. The specificity for Ca++was established and a partial identification of the binding sites demonstrated that Ca++is tightly bound to the protein through a chelate system. Binding studies at different pH also demonstrated that these sites do not behave as homogeneous population and at least two distinct classes of sites could be demonstrated. Whereas physicochemical analysis established that the binding of Ca++to fibrinogen does not entail a gross overall conformational change, protection against denaturation could be demonstrated indicating that Ca++is part of the structure of the fibrinogen molecule and might stabilize a more compact molecular conformation which is structurally and functionally different. This was corroborated by studies of the influence of this cation on two basic reactions of fibrinogen, namely proteolysis by thrombin ana plasmin. It was found that: 1) resistance to proteolysis by plamin is observed when Ca++ is bound fibrinogen. The rate of the cleavage of the earliest plasmin-susceptible bound is reduced, 2) Ca++ catalyzes the proteolytic reaction between thrombin and fibrinogen. Based upon these observations a proposal is tentatively made to explain the role of Ca++ on the structure:function relationship of fibrinogen.
Effect of Platelet Suppressants on Experimental Arterial Thrombosis
Authors: Gomezi H , Berzins A , Kwaan H
Published: May 2019

A reproducible model of platelet rich thrombi was produced in canine arteries by a previously described technique of intravascular insertion of metal tubing. The effect of platelet suppressants including sulfinpyrazone and ticrynafen, a clofibrate analog, on the rate and nature of thrombus formation was studied. ADP and epinephrine induced platelet aggregation of the animal's platelet rich plasma was monitored during the experiment. Platelet aggregation was impaired after the intravenous administration of either sulfinpyrazone (30 mg/kg body weight) or ticrynafen (100 mg/kg body weight). The rate of thrombus formation was not significantly altered by sulfinpyrazone when compared to the control, but histochemically, the thrombus studied showed a greatly diminished platelet content. In contrast, ticrynafen was able to prevent a complete occlusion of the involved vascular segment and a weak thrombus composed mostly of fibrin was produced instead. This effect of ticrynafen was dose related with minimal changes observed at a dose of 75 mg/kg. The results suggest that this arterial thrombosis model is of value in evaluating antithrombotic agents. They also indicate a potential value of ticrynafen as a therapeutic agent which should be further studied.
Functional Properties of Two Different Molecular Forms of α2-Plasmin Inhibitor
Authors: Clemmensen I , Thorsen S , Müllertz S
Published: May 2019

The α2-plasmin inhibitor in plasma exists in at least two molecular forms (1). One form (PB) binds to plasminogen-Sepharose. The other form (NPB) comprising around 0.4 of the total amount of the inhibitor in plasma does not bind to plasminogen-Sepharose. PB was purified by affinity chromato-graphy (1) while NPB was partially purified by conventional methods (2). Both inhibitor forms inhibited plasmin in a fast reaction and the change in catalytic concentration of plasmin with increasing concentrations of both forms was a linear function. At identical active site concentrations of the two forms (titrated with pNPGB-titrated plasmin) PB produced a more marked inhibition of urokinase-induced fibrinolysis. Similanly PB produced a more marked decrease of the binding af Lys-plasminogen to fibrin than NPB. The results indicate that an equilibrium between the 2 forms may be important for the biological regulation of the inhibition of plasmin.
An Assessment of Red Cell Deformability Using a Simple Filtration Method
Authors: Drummond M , Lowe G , Belch J , Forbes C , Barbenel J
Published: May 2019

We investigated the reproducibility and validity of a simple method of measuring red cell deformability (filtration of whole blood through 5 µ sieves) and its relationship to haematocrit, blood viscosity, fibrinogen, white cell count, sex and smoking. The mean coefficient of variation in normals was 3. 7%. Tanned red cells showed marked loss of deformability. Blood filtration rate correlated with haematocrit (r = 0. 99 on dilution of samples, r = 0. 7 in 120 normals and patients). After correction for haematocrit, deformability correlated with high shear viscosity, but not low shear viscosity, fibrinogen or white cell count. In 60 normals there was no significant difference between males and females, or smokers and non-smokers, but in 11 smokers there was an acute fall in deformability after smoking 3 cigarettes (p<0. 05). Reduced deformability was found in acute myocardial infarction (n = 15, p<0. 01) and chronic peripheral arterial disease (n = 15, p<0. 01). The technique is reproducible, detects rigid cells and appears useful in the study of vascular disease.
Detection of Circulating Platelet Aggregates in Thrombo-Embolic Disease
Authors: Scrobohaci Marie , Petrilă Teodora , Constantinescu M. , Stadler Magdolnra , Mihšilă Doina , Pop I. , Popa D.
Published: May 2019

The method of Wu and Hoak in determining circulating platelet aggregates in vivo was used.

In different cardiac and vascular states, a low aggregation index is found: aorto-iliac occlusion(Leriche syndrome)- 38 cases(index X ± SD 0.52 ±0.05 in comparison with normal subjects 0.91± 0.05):valvular diseases - 24 cases (0.40±0.006); during extracorporeeal circulation- 14 cases(0. 5±0.021) ; thrombophlebitis-25 cases(0.84±0.065).

After an antiaggregation treatment(Dipiridamol) in 12 cases of aorto - iliac ocdusion the value of the aggregation index normalised(0.84±0.065) Experimentally, lo rabbits were perfused with thrombin so ution(2 u./body weight k.);the lower values of the aggregation index(0.91±0.085 before and 0.43±0.035 after the thrombin perfusion) prove the fidelity of the method.

The simplicity of the technique, the reproductibility in experimental conditions and the normalisation of the values after treatment prove the practical value in determining the circulating platelet aggregates.
Evidence for Two Separate Receptors Mediating The Stimulation of Platelet Adenylate Cyclase By Prostaglandin I2 (PGI2), PGD2 and PGE1
Authors: Mils D. C. B. , Macfarlane D. E.
Published: May 2019

Prostacyclin (PGI2), and prostaglandins D2 and E1, all inhibit aggregation of human platelets by stimulating adenylate cyclase. in platelets prelabelled with l4C adenine, PGI2 has a higher intrinsic activity than either PGD2 or PGE1, as well as a higher apparent affinity. PGE1 but not PGD2, inhibits the action of high concentrations of PGI2, both when added simultaneously with PGI2 and when added 3 min later. in the latter case the slow spontaneous fall in intracellular cyclic AMP is accelerated by PGE. but not by PGD2. PGF1α, at concentrations up to 100 μM neither stimulated the cyclase 1 by itself, nor did it inhibit the effects of PGI2, PGE1, or PGD2. PGF2α, which did cause a small increase in cyclic AMP, inhibited PGD2 strongly, PGE1 not at all, and PGI2 slightly at high concentrations. N0164, an inhibitor of aggregation induced by bis-enoic prostaglandins, inhibited cyclase stimulation by PGD2 but not by PGE1, PGE2, PGD1 or PGI2, though it reduced PGI2-induced inhibition of platelet aggregation. Preaddition of PGE1, but not of PGI2 or PGD2, at submaximal concentrations, inhibited subsequent response to high dose PGI2. The results suggest that PGE1 and PGD2 probably act on the same enzyme, but through a different receptor. PGE1 acts as a partial agonist for the receptor for PGI2, but in addition causes a tachyphylaxis not seen with PGI2 or with PGD2.
Effects of PGI2 and Its More Stable Forms on the Aggregation and on the Camp Content of Human Platelets
Authors: Nemesánszky E. , Blaskó I. , Stadler I. , Sas G. , Pálos L. A.
Published: May 2019

The authors investigated the anti-aggregating properties of some relatively stable derivatives of PGI2 concurrently determining the intracellular cAMP content of platelets. The ethyl-ester derivative of PGI2 and the complexes of PGI2-ethyl ester with β-cyclodextrine proved to be more stable than PGI2-sodium salt. Their stimulating effect on adenyl-cyclase correlated with the potent inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation as well. The enhancing effect of these compounds for the intracellular cAMP content have a prolonged duration time -lasting 300 minutes- compared with the only a few minutes’ effect of PGE1.

These stable forms of PGI2 might be clinically useful as highly effective antiaggregating compounds.