bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative assessment of the orthodontic wire’s friction coated with zinc oxide nanoparticles by two methods of chemical precipitation and hydrothermal process
Authors: Tanbakuchi Behrad , Kharrazi Sharmin , Nikfarjam Matin , Akhoundi Mohammad Sadegh Ahmad , Shahroudi Atefe Saffar
Published: December 2022

Introduction: In orthodontic treatment with sliding technique, reduction of frictional forces could result in a more effective treatment. Recently, wire coating with nanoparticles were proposed to reduce frictional forces.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of coating wires with zinc oxide nanoparticle by two methods of chemical precipitation and direct hydrothermal process on the wire-bracket frictional force.

Materials and methods: In this study, 30 pieces of stainless-steel arch wire with and without zinc oxide nanoparticles and 30 metal brackets with a 0.022-inch slot were divided into three groups: group 1 – control (uncoated wires); group 2 – wires coated with zinc oxide nanoparticles, and group 3 – wires with a thin layer of nanostructured zinc oxide. In the first method, the nanoparticles were made by chemical precipitation method, and in the second method, nanostructure was directly formed on wires. Additionally, SEM observations were used to confirm the presence of nanoparticles on the wires. Friction between wires and brackets was measured using Universal Testing Machine. SPSS v. 20 and ANOVA test was used in order to analyze the data. The significance level was considered as p<0.05.

Results: The mean value of frictional forces were 1.73 N, 1.52 N, and 1.56 N in the control group, chemical precipitation method group and thin layer of nanostructured zinc oxide group, respectively. There was no significant difference in friction rate between brackets and stainless-steel wire coated by any of these two methods (p=0.555).

Conclusion: Coating of orthodontic wires with zinc oxide nanoparticles can reduce friction with brackets during sliding. There was no difference in the established value of friction between coating of orthodontic wires with chemical precipitation method and thin layer coating method.
Analysis and evaluation of correlation between DNA polymorphism in the genes MTHFR, PAI-1 and serum creatinine, creatinine clearance and albumin/creatinine ratio in morning urine of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Nikolov Dimitar , Stoyanova Vili K. , Vladimirova-Kitova Ludmila , Linev Alexander , Nikolov Georgi , Kitov Spas
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Diabetic nephropathy is a major microangiopathic complication of type 2 diabetes and a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Aim: To improve the diagnostic approach to early diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and methods: One hundred fifty patients were divided into three groups. Group 1 consisted of 67 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and diabetic nephropathy with stage 1 or 2 of CKD. Group 2 included 45 patients with DM2 without clinical and laboratory evidence for diabetic nephropathy. Group 3 had 38 healthy individuals. The polymorphism of the MTHFR C677T and PAI-14G/5G gene was determined by extracted genomic DNA from peripheral blood cells. All patients underwent a real-time PCR reaction. Serum creatinine, MDRD creatinine clearance, albumin/creatinine ratio were examined.

Results: The correlation analysis we performed showed a very strong correlation of serum creatinine, creatinine clearance and albumin/creatinine ratio with the C677T polymorphism of the MTHFR gene and the 4G/5G polymorphism of the PAI-1 gene. We used descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and multiple comparisons; the level of significance was set at p<0.05.

Conclusions: 1. The presence of the T allele in the MTHFR gene determines the tendency to increase serum creatinine, decrease creatinine clearance, and increase the albumin/creatinine ratio in morning urine; 2. The presence of 4G allele in the PAI-1 gene determines the tendency to increase serum creatinine, decrease creatinine clearance, and increase the albumin/creatinine ratio in morning urine.
Microhardness change of human dental enamel due to power bleaching with different gels
Authors: Moradi Zohreh , Valizadeh Sara , Farhadi Elham , Asadollahi Yasaman , Noroozian Mohammad , Chiniforush Nasim
Published: December 2022

Aim: Since the introduction of bleaching treatments in the office, different lights have been suggested to accelerate the bleaching reaction. This study aimed to evaluate the microhardness of tooth enamel after office bleaching using different materials.

Materials and methods: Thirty-three sound human upper premolars were randomly divided into 3 groups as follows (n=11): Group 1: Whitesmile HP40% gel with R&B LED light source with 3 W power output; Group 2: HP 35% Dr Smile gel with a 980 nm diode laser, 2 W power and continuous wavelength; Group 3: HP 40% Ultra boost gel according to factory instructions. Enamel surface microhardness was measured before and after the bleaching procedure in each group using the Vickers microhardness test. One-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests were used for statistical analysis. We used a SEM microscope to examine the surface of one sample from each group and one sample as a negative control.

Results: In group 1, enamel microhardness increased remarkably (p=0.013) whereas in group 2 and group 3 enamel microhardness decreased. Enamel microhardness decreased in group 3 significantly (p=0.00) but its reduction in group 2 was not significant (p=0.833). SEM examination of the enamel surfaces after bleaching revealed erosion and surface porosities in group 1, enamel structure melting, and shallow porosities in group 2, and enamel prism exposure and etching in group 3.

Conclusions: Due to the limitations of the present study, power bleaching with HP40% Whitesmile gel with LED Monitex increases microhardness, so it can have better results for treatment in the clinic. Additionally, using Dr Smile gel with a 980 nm diode laser does not reduce surface microhardness.
Alzheimer’s disease: the hypotheses, known and unknown connections between UV-radiation, mtDNA haplotypes and life span – a review
Authors: Draganova-Filipova Milena , Bojilova Vanina , Zagorchev Plamen
Published: December 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease with controversial etiology. One theory claims that AD is due to brain aging affecting mainly the functions of mitochondria, therefore, the factors leading to mitochondrial ageing should lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Another theory is that different mitochondrial DNA haplogroups can be predisposition for the onset of the condition. Here we focused on the possible connection between AD and UV radiation using the data on the monthly UV index in Europe, its correlation with mortality rate due to AD and mitochondrial DNA haplogroups distribution. If a link between the two theories is proved, it will mean that UV radiation is a risk factor not only for skin cancer but also for a large group of neurodegenerative diseases amongst which is the Alzheimer’s disease.
SEM analysis of the endodontic cavity wall after removal of restorative materials used as temporary restoration
Authors: Andonov Bogomil , Dimitrova Silviya , Zagorchev Plamen , Draganova-Filipova Milena
Published: December 2022

Aim: The aim of the present in vitro study was to analyze the endodontic cavity walls for presence of remnants of conventional glass ionomer cement and flowable light cure composite used as temporary restorative materials of endodontically treated teeth. The dentine surface of the access cavity was observed with scanning electron microscopy after the final removal of the temporary restoration using high-speed turbine and diamond bur or ultrasonic device and diamond tip.

Materials and methods: Twenty-one extracted intact human molars were selected for this study. Endodontic access, enlargement of the coronal one third of the root canals and standard irrigation were performed. Teeth were then restored with two different materials – conventional glass ionomer cement (Ketac Molar Easymix, 3M ESPE, USA) and flowable light cure composite (Vertise flow, KERR, USA) and divided in four groups according to the method of removal and type of material used for temporary restoration. One sample, positive for temporary material remnants, was used as a control group. After the removal of the restorative material, all specimens were prepared for SEM examination. Scanning Electron Microscopy (Prisma E SEM, Thermo Scientific, Eindhoven, The Netherlands) was used to examine the surface morphology of the samples. The samples were sputter-coated with gold using vacuum evaporator (JEOL JFC-1200). The images were recorded at 20 kV acceleration using various magnifications (×150, ×500, and ×1000).

Results and conclusions: Remnants were detected in all specimens, regardless of the material for temporary restoration or method of removal.
Levels of serum podocalyxin in preeclampsia and relationship with maternal echocardiographic and Doppler ultrasound parameters
Authors: Nikolov Asparuh G. , Popovski Nikola K. , Blazheva Svetla
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Podocalyxin (PCX) is an indicator of glomerular injury. Aside from the kidney, it is expressed in the endothelial cells of various organs. Echographic examinations are useful in assessing the alterations in cardiovascular structure and function during pregnancy.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate PCX concentrations in preeclampsia (PE) and to investigate the existence of association between PCX levels and maternal echocardiographic and Doppler ultrasound parameters.

Materials and methods: Fifty-five women with PE were examined. The mean age of patients was 24.9±6 years; and the mean age of the control group of 35 women with normal pregnancies was 24.7±5.4 years. ELISA was used to determine concentrations of PCX. Echocardiographic assessment of all subjects was performed. In addition, umbilical (UmA) and uterine (UtA) artery pulsatility indices (PI) were evaluated.

Results: The levels of serum PCX in PE women were statistically significantly higher than those in women with normal pregnancy: 2.66±0.67 vs. 2.40±0.33 ng/ml (p=0.03). Cut-off value at 3 ng/ml was obtained for podocalyxin in order to discriminate between PE and healthy pregnancy. Logistic regression model was statistically significant: OR=3.226, (95% CI 1.084–9.599); (p=0.019). PCX correlated with systolic blood pressure (r=0.30; p=0.004), diastolic blood pressure (r=0.35; p=0.0007), UtA PI (r=0.30; p=0.004), UmA PI (r=0.21; p=0.047), IVS (r=0.32; p=0.002), and LVPWD (r=0.28; p=0.007).

Conclusions: Healthy pregnant women with PCX levels above the cut-off value of 3 ng/ml are at a higher risk for developing preeclampsia. Elevated PCX levels indicate three times higher probability for PE development than women with values below the cut-off value. PCX might be a promising marker for diagnosis and prognosis of PE.
Priapism in an otherwise healthy man with SARS-CoV-2: case report and literature review
Authors: Dorosiev Emil , Mladenov Boris , Stoev Ivan , Velev Dimiter , Georgiev Simeon
Published: December 2022

COVID-19 disease causes acute respiratory infection – pneumonia. It is associated with an increased risk of complications such as hypercoagulopathy, which leads to thromboses. We present a case of a young man presenting with typical SARS-CoV-2 symptoms (fever, cough, fatigue, and dyspnea), who experienced ischemic priapism, most probably due to thrombosis of penile vessels caused by the novel coronavirus infection. After prompt treatment of the priapism with punctures and irrigation, lasting penile detumescence was achieved. However, despite younger age, lack of serious comorbidities and administration of anticoagulants, priapism was followed by a fatal pulmonary embolism some days later.
Robotic gastrointestinal stromal tumors surgery - initial results
Authors: Ivanov Valentin , Dimov Luboslav , Strashilov Strahil , Milkov Denis , Dzalov Nikolai , Chervenkov Lyubomir
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) usually present as an exophytic mass localized in stomach. Years ago, conventional surgery was the only option. Laparoscopic and robotic procedures have risen to prominence in recent decades as technology and surgical techniques have advanced.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of robotic surgery of GIST.

Materials and methods: All patients who underwent robotic surgery for a GIST in the University Hospital Kaspela-Plovdiv between November 2021 and April 2022 were included. Post-operative course and short oncological outcomes were analyzed.

Results: Four patients with gastric GIST, median size 50 mm [40–70 mm], underwent robotic surgery. Conversion to open surgery not occurred. We have two cases with localization in corpus, one in antrum and one in the fundus. We have registered one complications- anastomotic leakage after proximal resection treated conservatively. In others, the post-operative period was uneventful. The average hospital stay was 8.2 (4-11) days. The median operating time was 255 min (220–320 min).

Conclusions: On basis of this initial results, we can conclude that robotic gastrointestinal tumors surgery is safe, feasible, and oncological sustained. Of course, one of the weakest sides of this surgery is prolonged operative time and increased expenses.
Variation in the rates of biomass removal by soil macro-fauna in different land uses at Rashad, South Kordofan, Sudan
Authors: Eisawi Khalid A E , Prasad Subedi Indra , Yasin Emad , Yode Christine , He Hong
Published: December 2022

One of the main implications of reducing biodiversity is the loss or decline of ecosystem function. We have previously seen in the Rashad location that agricultural practices have a lower effect on ant biodiversity. However, how they affect the environmental services, they provide is unclear. The main objective of this study was to evaluate whether the conversion of native areas into agricultural systems affects the removal of biomass carried out by ants, an important ecosystem function linked to decomposition and predation. We sampled three transects from (the Rashad district). Each sampling plot consisted of a grid of 12 pitfall traps filled with sardine baits (simulating animal organisms) and bananas (as attractive vegetable resources). In addition, grass seeds (Sorghum bicolor) were applied in both natural (Campo, Kubos, and forest) and agricultural settings (soy monoculture, pastures, and organic agriculture). The Results showed that ant’s removal was highest in sardine with an average of 87.3g (σ ± 23.8), followed by banana (average of 70.5g, σ ± 31.5) and lowest in the seed (mean of 7.8g, σ ± 7.3) (highest p = 0.017). Only the soy monoculture regions showed the lowest levels of sardine removed, indicating an effect associated with the kind of land use. Because little biomass is eliminated in both natural and agricultural settings, no effect of the seeds bait has been observed. As for the banana bait, the data suggested a redundancy effect with another group of macro-fauna). Our results suggest that there is a redundancy effect with another group of macrofauna. However, macrofauna biomass (excluding ants) does not explain this biomass removal. In addition, it detected no impact of ant species composition on removed biomass. The reduction of sardine and banana biomass was correlated with ant richness, indicating that the effects on ecosystem function depend on the particularities of each evaluated role (such as resource type), the type of land use, and the ant richness in the study area.
First record and redescription of wolf spider Pardosa oriens (Araneae, Lycosidae) from India
Authors: Abhijith Raveendran Sudha , Sudhikumar Ambalaparambil Vasu
Published: December 2022

Genus Pardosa incorporates species morphologically resembling each other. As a result, a lot of discrepancies can be observed in the group. This paper reports and redescribes Pardosa species Pardosa oriens (Chamberlin 1924) for the first time from India.
Platyscelio hits again: the first record of this genus in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Popovici Ovidiu Alin , Popescu Irinel Eugen
Published: December 2022

After the presence of the genus Platyscelio was noticed and confirmed in the Neotropical realm, in this paper the genus is recorded from the Panamanian realm, in Dominican Republic. In the Neotropical realm Platyscelio is represented through P. africanus Risbec, previously considered as being present only in the Afrotropical realm, but in the Panamanian realm we found a different species – P. pulchricornis Kieffer.
Richard W. Heard (February 14, 1939 – November 2, 2022)
Authors: Guțu Modest , Petrescu Iorgu
Published: December 2022

Professor Dr. Richard Willis Heard, a longtime and outstanding collaborator of the “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History of Bucharest, passed away on November 2, 2022.

Richard was born on February 14, 1939 in Savannah, Georgia (USA). He was a graduate of Savannah Country Day School and attended the University of Georgia, receiving his BS and MS degree in Zoology. He received his PhD degree in Biology at the University of Southern Mississippi (1976). He worked for more than 35 years at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (The University of Southern Mississippi), passing through various hierarchical steps, up to that of Head of the Invertebrate Zoology Section. He was drawn to know the marine invertebrates of the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and western Atlantic Ocean. His research focused primarily on the study of peracarid crustaceans. Also he mentored many students and young researchers specializing in marine biology.
Occupy Waikīkī: pushing the borders of land, sea and story-telling in Kristiana Kahakauwila’s This is Paradise (2013)
Authors: Largeaud-Ortega Sylvie
Published: December 2022

This essay explores Kahakauwila’s short story This is Paradise from the angle of post- and decolonial studies and environmental humanities, and presents it as an ecofeminist and counterhegemonic Oceanian identitarian narrative. With special references to autochthonous antinuclear protests and claims to sovereignty (Trask, Teaiwa, Walker), it argues that female author and characters all Occupy Waikīkī, as colonials, as resistants, or as hybrid cultural agents. The beach becomes a place of Native political, environmental and cultural resistance, where American colonialism, ‘militourism’ and Globalising capitalism are being challenged. It defends the oppressed female figures from both global South and global North, metaphorically counters colonialism and restores their historical and spiritual polysemy to land, beach and ocean in Waikīkī.
Un nouveau cachet à collyres découvert à Reims/Durocortorum
Authors: Pardon-Labonnelie Muriel , Cavé Magalie , Troublard Aurélie
Published: December 2022

Un nouveau cachet à collyres, découvert lors de la fouille du complexe aqualudique de Reims en 2018, présente des caractéristiques morphologiques et épigraphiques particulièrement intéressantes pour l’histoire de la médecine. Ses magnifiques séries de lettres gravées en caractères rétrogrades confirment l’inscription de la médecine romaine dans la tradition thérapeutique grecque. Elles permettent en outre de découvrir un nouveau nom de collyre et la filiation professionnelle de deux praticiens. La découverte du cachet à collyres de Lucius Iulius Verus confirme ainsi la place incomparable de Reims/Durocortorum dans l’histoire de l’ophtalmologie gréco-romaine.
Un service de table en bronze et argent soigneusement rangé dans une cave à Reims/Durocortorum
Authors: Brunet Michaël , Médard Fabienne , Cavé Magalie , Sindonino Stéphane
Published: December 2022

La fouille réalisée à Reims préalablement à la création de la première ligne de tramway a livré dans la cave d’une domus un exceptionnel ensemble d’argenterie daté entre la fin du iie s. et le iiie s. apr. J.‑C. Celui-ci comprend uniquement de la vaisselle en bronze revêtue d’une feuille d’argent, excepté quatre cuillères en argent massif. Situé entre les simples ensembles de table en bronze et ceux en argent massif produits en Italie, il est de valeur moyenne. Les décors sont en revanche caractéristiques des éléments de vaisselle en argent. Des graffitis sont visibles sur plusieurs pièces. Outre le précieux service de table, le phénomène le plus extraordinaire tient à l’état de conservation des textiles qui enveloppent chaque pièce. L’examen détaillé des tissus a révélé des zones en parfait état, permettant de schématiser la stratigraphie du dépôt. Probablement rangé dans une logette aménagée dans la cave, ce lot de vaisselle n’est pas le reflet d’une thésaurisation, mais témoigne d’un aspect de la vie quotidienne dans une domus au iiie s.
Historicité de la radiophonie et conflictualités sociales
Authors: Sénécal Michel
Published: December 2022

Privilégiant une perspective historique de la longue durée géographiquement située et une approche critique de l’économie politique de la communication, l’auteur s’intéresse au développement de l’espace médiatique et en particulier à l’historicité de la radiophonie à s’attardant aux conflictualités sociales qui leur ont donné leur matérialité ainsi qu’aux acteurs sociaux qui les ont investis idéologiquement pour faire valoir leurs valeurs, leurs intérêts voire leur conception de la communication et, au-delà, de la société.
Freedom FM au Cameroun entre chimère et rêve brisé. Le flou juridique au service du verrouillage de l’entrepreneuriat radiophonique camerounais
Authors: Ngono Simon
Published: December 2022

Cette recherche analyse les procédés de contrôle et de verrouillage de l’entrepreneuriat médiatique au Cameroun. À partir du cas Freedom FM de Pius Njawé, elle démontre qu’en fonction du positionnement et de la liberté de ton, le pouvoir politique officiel peut décider ou non de la création d’un média ou du retrait de la licence d’exploitation à un promoteur, parfois au mépris de la règlementation déjà en vigueur. Cette réflexion scientifique met en évidence comment le pouvoir se sert parallèlement et astucieusement du droit afin d’encadrer et bloquer la naissance de médias hostiles. Elle s’inscrit dans l’approche socio-politique et juridique des médias audiovisuels notamment de la radio en contexte camerounais.
À l’écoute des situations de travail. Expériences radiophoniques dans une formation de paysagistes
Authors: Voisin Lolita , Gaudin Olivier
Published: December 2022

Cet article examine l’intégration de pratiques d’enquête sonore in situ (enregistrement, montage et radiodiffusion) dans la formation d’une école de paysage. Un groupe d’élèves a recueilli les propos de travailleurs dont l’activité tend à transformer des espaces donnés, directement sur leurs lieux de travail. À partir de cette écoute, ils ont monté et diffusé des pièces sonores caractérisées par une mise en récit qui croise les voix des personnes interrogées, afin d’imaginer et d’anticiper l’avenir des lieux visités. La manipulation de ces matériaux sonores leur a permis de mener un exercice d’imagination, mais aussi de développer une attention critique à l’égard des manières dominantes d’aménager les territoires et les lieux habités. Nous réfléchissons ici à la portée sociale et politique de ces ateliers sonores.
Immunology of Interferons
Authors: Levy-Koenig R. E. , Mundy M. J. , Paucker K.
Published: December 2022

Rabbits immunized with protective interferons prepared in allogeneic RK 13 and SIRC cells failed to develop neutralizing antibodies against either, although parallel groups of animals responded well to repeated injections of xenogeneic interferon prepared in L cells, which is non-protective for the rabbit host. All interferons which were xenogeneic and non-protective for guinea pigs elicited antibodies in that species. Significant levels of neutralizing antibodies appeared also in rabbits following immunization with two protective interferons derived from xenogeneic (human) cells. Immunologic analysis of human interferons elicited in four different types of cells revealed that minor antigenic variations may be detectable by means of antibody neutralization assays.
Measurement of Rubella Antibody by Hemagglutination Inhibition
Authors: Liebhaber Harvey
Published: December 2022

The variables which affect the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the interaction between fowl erythrocytes and rubella virus were defined and evaluated. The sensitivity of the hemagglutination reaction is at least tenfold greater at pH 6.0 to 6.5 than it is at pH 7.2, the pH of dextrose-gelatin-Veronal which is widely used as diluent for rubella hemagglutination (HA) and hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) tests. In the presence of 0.001 M Ca++ ion the reaction is two to eight times more sensitive than it is in the absence of Ca++ ion. The development of agglutinated and non-agglutinated RBC patterns that are stable and clearly distinguishable from one another is critically dependent upon the concentrations of gelatin and/or albumin in the diluent.

The diluents employed in previously published HAI test procedures differ widely with respect to pH, Ca++, gelatin and/or albumin concentration. The lack of comparability of HAI test results among laboratories may in part reflect these differences in diluent composition. In an effort to correct such difficulties, optimal conditions for the agglutination of fowl RBC by rubella virus were defined. A 0.14 M NaCl solution buffered with N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N'-2'-ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES) at pH 6.05 to 6.15, containing 0.001 M CaCl2, 1.0% bovine serum albumin and 0.00025% gelatin was shown to provide conditions for a maximally sensitive, stable and clear test. Under these conditions the outcome of the hemagglutination test is solely a function of the concentration of hemagglutinin in the test specimen.
Comparative Study of Antibodies to Native and Denatured DNA
Authors: Tan E. M. , Natali P. G.
Published: December 2022

Serum from a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) containing antibodies to native DNA was compared with antiserum from a rabbit immunized with heat-denatured DNA. DNA was fractionated on methylated albumin kieselguhr into native and denatured forms, which were used as antigens in immunologic tests. By immunodiffusion, complement fixation and immunofluorescence, rabbit antiserum reacted only with denatured DNA and was completely unreactive with native DNA. SLE serum reacted strongly with native DNA in all tests and weakly with denatured DNA in complement-fixation and immunofluorescence tests. These studies demonstrated the importance of employing purified preparations of native or denatured DNA to differentiate between DNA antibodies of different specificities. They also showed that DNA antibodies experimentally induced by immunization with heat-denatured DNA did not cross-react with purified native DNA. An immunofluorescence test was described which showed that antibodies to native DNA stained DNA in the form of strands, and antibodies to denatured DNA stained DNA in the form of aggregated granules.
Intracellular Distribution of Immunoglobulin Heavy and Light Chains Within Tissue Cultured Cells of Human Lymphoid Origin Detected by Electron Microscopy
Authors: Suzuki Ikuo , Takahashi Morinobu , Kamei Hideo , Yamamoto Tadashi
Published: December 2022

The ultrastructural localization of α heavy and κ light chains of immunoglobulin within lymphoblastoid cells of a human long term culture line, RPMI 4666, was studied by a combination of electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry. When cells were treated with peroxidase-conjugated antibodies that were monospecific for α chain or κ chain, and they were revealed cytochemically, the ultrastructural site of immunoglobulin accumulation was demonstrated as conspicuous electrondense precipitates within the cytoplasm of about 30% of the total cells.

In positive cells the κ chain was localized to the ergastoplasm, its membrane, the external layer of the nuclear membrane, and above all to ribosomes lining the ergastoplasmic membrane and the vicinity of the nuclear envelope.

On the other hand, the dominant site of α chain accumulation was in clusters of cytoplasmic polysomes, although α chain was also detected on the external layer of the nuclear envelope and on ribosomes associated with the ergastoplasmic membrane and nuclear envelope. Generalized staining of the cytoplasm suggesting diffusion of synthesized immunoglobulin to the cell surface, as reported with antibody-forming lymphoblasts in hyperimmunized animals, was never demonstrated in the present system.

The differential distribution of heavy and light chains suggests that they are formed separately at different sites and subsequently combined to each complementary chain prior to secretion even in lymphoblastoid cells.
Reaginic Activity Associated with Immunoglobulins Other than IgE
Authors: Reid Robert T.
Published: December 2022

Absorption studies using antisera to the Fc portion of the IgG molecule isolated from cord sera demonstrated that human reaginic activity belongs to more than one class of immunoglobulin. The data indicated that at least two types of protein carried reaginic activity, one of which was not an IgE immunoglobulin and probably was IgG. The non-IgE type had an intradermal half-life and latency period similar to that of IgE, and was destroyed by heating to 56°C for 4 hr.
The Antigenic Properties of Extracts of Horse Dander
Authors: O'Brien D. P.
Published: December 2022

It has been shown in previous papers by Longcope, O'Brien and Perlzweig (1) (5) that two proteins, precipitating out of colloidal solutions at different iso-electric points, can be isolated from crude extracts of horse dander; and that these proteins act as antigens in guinea-pigs and can be sharply differentiated biologically by anaphylactic reactions.

The following observations deal with skin reactions obtained with these various proteins of horse dander in patients allergic to horse emanations.

Two methods have been employed in the study of these extracts: first, direct tests have been made on the skin of patients who are subject to horse asthma; and, secondly, tests have been done to determine whether these extracts will call forth reactions in an area of skin of a normal individual which has been passively sensitized, according to the method of Prausnitz and Küstner (2), by the injection of serum from a patient allergic to horse dander.
Intestinal Uptake of Macromolecules
Authors: Walker W. A. , Isselbacher K. J. , Bloch K. J.
Published: December 2022

Rats were parenterally immunized with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant; absorption of these antigens was tested in vitro by means of the everted gut sac technique. A significant and specific decrease in uptake of BSA was noted in rats injected five times with BSA, but not in rats injected only twice. Absorption of 125I-HRP and HRP, measured enzymatically, was also significantly inhibited in rats immunized five times with HRP. The binding of 125I-BSA to intestinal secretions, mucosal extracts and serum from rats showing interference with BSA absorption (multiple injections) was 2- to 10-fold greater than that of comparable preparations from rats which did not show interference (injected twice). Antigen-binding to IgGa, IgG1, and IgM antibodies was demonstrated by radioimmunoelectrophoresis in the serum of rats with multiple injections of BSA; in addition, binding to IgGa and IgG1 antibodies was demonstrated with mucosal extracts. Although antigen uptake was inhibited in rats immunized parenterally with BSA and HRP, the number of gut sacs showing an inhibited response and the extent of the response were less than that previously observed with gut sacs obtained from rats immunized orally with the same antigens. Binding activity of 125I-BSA in mucosal extracts from this latter group of rats was the same as in rats parenterally immunized but only IgG1 antibodies were noted in mucosal extracts. It was suggested that the more consistent inhibition of antigen uptake in orally immunized vs parenterally immunized rats may be related to the type or pattern of local antibody distribution.
Cross-Reactions Among Group A Streptococci
Authors: Myoda T. Timothy , Wiley Grove G. , Bruno Pauline N.
Published: December 2022

The strain-specific (Sp-M) and the cross-protective (X-M) antigens of type G1 cocci were isolated from RNase-treated cell walls and purified by ammonium sulfate fractionation, carboxymethylcellulose and Sephadex G-200 column chromatography and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Acid hydrolysis resulted in fragmentation of the antigen molecules, but precipitin and bactericidal tests established that the major serologic activity characteristic of the native antigens, with minor exceptions, remained intact. The purified antigens absorbed their corresponding antibodies to yield specific antisera whose bactericidal activity correlated with bands of precipitate in agar gel diffusion tests. It was established that the X-M antigen has specific as well as cross-reactive activity, a determination which it was impossible to make before the purified material became available.

The purified antigens with which antisera were absorbed had a ratio of O.D. 280 nm to O.D. 260 mn of 0.79 for the Sp-M and 1.00 for the X-M. The molecular size of the Sp-M was greater and the charge smaller than those of the X-M. Also, it contained twice as much glycine and half as much aspartic acid. The average ratio of lysine and arginine for the Sp-M and X-M was 2.3 and 1.5, respectively. The observation is of interest because it has been established in other work that the Sp-M requires a free ε-NH2 group of lysine and a free guanidino group of arginine for its serologic activity. The X-M antigen does not.

The antigens were extractable as separate entities at pH values from 2 to 10 and at temperatures of 37°C and 100°C, thus demonstrating that they do not arise only by acid hydrolysis of a larger molecule with Sp-M and X-M serologic activity and may indeed exist as separate antigens on the cell wall. The molecules in alkaline extracts were larger than those in acid extracts. Acid hydrolysis of the alkaline preparation yielded products whose gel electrophoretic pattern was similar to that of the acid-extracted material. Therefore, it was possible to conclude that the smaller molecules of the latter were the result of acid hydrolysis and not the other procedures employed.
T Cells Can Bind Antigen via Cytophilic IgM Antibody Made by B Cells
Authors: Webb Susan R. , Cooper Max D.
Published: December 2022

The specificity of cell-mediated immune responses presupposes the existence of an antigen recognition unit associated with those cells responsible for this type of immunity. Evidence is accumulating which indicates the presence of immunoglobulins on thymus-dependent lymphocytes (T cells)2 and suggests that these may represent the recognition units (1–10). Much of the supporting evidence was obtained from studies in which anti-immunoglobulin reagents inhibited antigen binding by T cells as detected by direct (autoradiography and erythrocyte rosette formation) and indirect (e.g., highly radioactive antigen-induced “suicide”) techniques. Most of these studies were done in mice; in all instances the T cells studied had been associated in vivo with bone marrow dependent (B) cells and their immunoglobulin products.

Agammaglobulinemic (Aγ) chickens represent an animal model particularly well suited to studies involving T lymphocytes since they completely lack B cells and circulating immunoglobulins but have normal T cell development and cell mediated immunity.
Serologic Assay of HL-A Antigens in the Presence of Detergents
Authors: Dawson Jeffrey R. , Shasby Sandra S. , Amos D. Bernard
Published: December 2022

Although several investigators have suggested that detergent extraction of the membrane bound HL-A transplantation antigens would be a useful preparative method (1–4), technical problems involved in the use of detergents have somewhat limited their use. Since these antigens are usually insoluble in the absence of detergent (2, 3), the serologic activity of the detergent-solubilized antigens must be assayed in the presence of the detergent. Therefore, if the biologic activities thought to be associated with the serologically-defined antigens are to be tested by in vitro methods, the detergent concentration must be reduced below cytolytic doses. This report demonstrates that the serologic activity of solubilized membrane antigens can be quantitated in the presence of detergents with a modified 51Cr release cytotoxicity method (5).

Methods and Materials. A stable tissue culture cell (IM1, Dr. D. L. Mann, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md.) which has a phenotype of HL-A 3, 12, W27 was utilized (5).
Genetic Defects Affecting C3 Associated with Increased Susceptibility to Infections
Authors: Alper Chester A. , Rosen Fred S.
Published: December 2022

Since C3 occupies a crucial position in the C and properdin systems, it is understandable that defects affecting this protein produce decreased resistance to infection. We have studied three patients: 1) a 15-year-old female with homozygous deficiency of C3 whose serum C3 concentration was 1/1000th or less than normal, 2) a 27-year-old male with type I essential hypercatabolism of C3 who is homozygous for deficiency of C3 inactivator (KAF) resulting in activation of GBGase, consumption of properdin factor B, and secondary deficiencies of C3 and CVF-binding protein, and 3) a 35-year-old female with type II essential hypercatabolism of C3 who has a circulating enzyme, C3ase, that is not , not a known component of the properdin pathway, nor a known coagulation factor. The activity of C3ase is enhanced by a protein of normal serum, C3ase cofactor.

All three patients have defective serum Cmediated functions.
C Activation in Skin Disease
Authors: Provost T. T. , Tomasi T. B.
Published: December 2022

Monospecific antisera to human properdin, C3 proactivator (C3PA), C1q, C4, C3, C5, IgA, IgM, IgG, and IgE were employed in immunofluorescent studies of various skin diseases.

Immunofluorescent studies of skin biopsies of 25 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) demonstrated the deposition of immunoglobulins and C components in “normal” skin biopsy specimens of 20 of these patients. Five of these patients had deposition of properdin, C1q, C4, C3, and C5, as well as various immunoglobulins, and three also had C3PA deposition along the basement membrane (BM).

Ten of 10 patients with bullous pemphigoid demonstrated C1q, C4, C3, C5, C3PA, properdin and IgG deposition along the BM.

Six patients with dermatitis herpetiformis had IgA granular deposition in the dermal papilla beneath the BM. Three of these patients also showed C3PA deposition and one patient's biopsy had positive properdin staining. Three patients with active disease were found to have C3 deposition in the absence of C1q or C4.
Participation of C in an Experimental Model of Intravascular Coagulation
Authors: Dalmasso Agustin P. , Lee Ming , Giraudo Luis A. , Swaim William R.
Published: December 2022

The role of C in the production of intravascular coagulation was investigated by infusing brain thromboplastin (Tpl) into normal and C-deficient (def) rabbits and mice. Measurements were made of clotting and fibrinolysis factors. In normal rabbits, Tpl infusion reduced the peripheral blood platelets to 61% of preinfusion levels. In contrast, platelets were 20% above preinfusion values in C6-def rabbits. C6-def rabbits reconstituted with purified rabbit or human C6 had a thrombocytopenic response similar to, or even greater than, that of normal rabbits. After administration of Tpl into mice, platelets were reduced to 40% of preinfusion values in B10.D2-new line (normocomplementemic) but only to 78% in B10.D2-old line (C5 def). Administration of purified human C5 to C5-def mice restored the Tpl-induced thrombocytopenia to a degree identical with that of normals. The thrombocytopenic response to C5-def mice could be enhanced to approach that of normals by infusing concentrated mouse Tpl.
Coagulation Related Deficiencies of Early Components of C (C1, C4, C2) in Human Serum
Authors: Glovsky M. M. , Alenty A.
Published: December 2022

During the past 2 years we have studied the serum of a 48-year-old asymptomatic barber (R. G.) who has 0 CH50 hemolytic C activity. Hemolytic assays of the individual serum components C1–C9 reveal 1 to 5% C1, C4, and C2 and normal activity of C3, C5, C6, C7, C8, and C9. C1 esterase inhibitor titers are only partially reduced and C3 PA protein is normal. Qualitative immunoelectrophoresis analysis of serum C1q, and Ouchterlony determinations of C1r and C1s appear normal as well. When R. G. plasma, with 10 units/ml heparin, EDTA, or citrate as anticoagulants, is used C activity is spared. CH50 hemolytic activity is 60% of normal and C4, C2 are only partially reduced. C1 hemolytic activity in plasma is <1%. Since plasma rendered a protective effect on C4, C2, we wondered whether an abnormality in the coagulation sequence could account for this observation.
Mechanisms of Increased Susceptibility to C Lysis of Abnormal Human Red Blood Cells
Authors: Rosse W. F. , Adams J. P. , Logue G. L.
Published: December 2022

The cells of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and hereditary erythroblastic multinuclearity with positive acidified serum test (HEMPAS) are abnormally susceptible to lysis by C and cold-reactive antibodies, but for different reasons. For PNH cells, the fixation of antibody, C1 and C4 is the same as for normal cells. However, the amount of C3 fixed/C4 is increased 3- to 7-fold. The amount of C3 fixed for a given degree of lysis is about one-third that of normal cells. In a less sensitive variant of PNH cells, the amount of C3 fixed/C4 was about the same as for the markedly abnormal cells, but the amount of C3 fixed for a given amount of lysis was the same as for normal cells. Normal cells treated with sulfhydryl-reactive agents resembled PNH cells in these reactions.

HEMPAS cells fix 2 to 3 times as much of some, but not other, examples of anti-I. The amount of C1 fixed/Ab is normal.
Biologically Active C5 Production by C5 Deficient Mice After Cytogenetic Manipulation
Authors: Synderman Ralph , Levy Nelson
Published: December 2022

B10.D2/Sn “old” mice are genetically devoid of C5 and have an increased susceptibility to infection as well as an abnormal acute inflammatory response. B10.D2/Sn “new” mice have normal C function. Our studies showed that normal splenic macrophages produced C5 in vitro while normal murine kidney, brain, liver cells, lymphocytes and fibroblasts did not. We previously restored in vivo hemolytic C activity to C5 deficient (“old”) mice by intravenous (i.v.) administration of hybrid cells formed from “old” spleen cells and either C5 normal (“new”) kidney cells or nucleated chick erythrocytes (Levy and Latta, Nature, New Biol., 229: 51, 1971). In the present study we demonstrate the restoration of biologically active C5, MuB1 antigenicity (determined by R. Lieberman) and suggest genetic mechanisms involved in murine C5 deficiency. Cell hybridization was accomplished with inactivated Sendai virus.
Properties of Radiolabeled Rabbit C1q
Authors: Volanakis John E. , Stroud Robert M.
Published: December 2022

Rabbit C1q was purified from fresh serum through two successive euglobulin precipitation steps in low ionic strength EDTA buffers. The purified protein showed one band on acrylamide electrophoresis and had a specific hemolytic activity of 2 ng N/SFU (site-forming units). Functional integrity was also tested by agglutination of tanned red cells coated with aggregated γ-globulin. Inhibition of this agglutination reaction was observed with γ-globulin, DNA and endotoxin. Labeling with 125I was performed with chloramine-T in a 1:50 ratio followed by filtration on Sephadex G-25 to remove unreacted 125I and chloramine-T. The labeled protein (C1q*) had a specific radioactivity of 21.7 µCi/µg N, as determined by RID (radioimmunoassay). About 89% of the radioactivity was protein bound as determined by precipitation in 10% TCA. The labeled material retained only 20% of its original hemolytic activity. Incubation of C1q* with EA 1 × 109/ml in EDTA buffer, RSC 0.07 resulted in minimal binding of the label to the cells, while 25% binding was observed in the presence of 10-3 M Ca++.
Abnormal Levels of the Chemotactic Factor Inactivator in Human Sera
Authors: Ward P. A.
Published: December 2022

As shown previously, normal human serum contains a chemotactic factor inactivator (CF-I) which irreversibly inhibits chemotactic activity associated with C-derived (C3 and C5 fragments, C) and C independent (bacterial) chemotactic factors. Sera from patients with Hodgkin's disease or Bruton-type agammaglobulinemia have elevated levels of CF-I. When these sera are activated with zymosan, significantly less chemotactic activity is generated when compared with similarly treated normal human serum. For reasons that are not clear, Hodgkin's sera are lacking in CF-I activity for the C3 chemotactic fragment. A contrasting situation is found in sera from patients with deficiency of α1 anti-trypsin; their sera also lack CF-I activity. Correspondingly, zymosan activation of these sera results in significantly greater generation of chemotactic activity. The deficiency of CF-I in these sera is not due to a blocking factor, as demonstrated by retention of CF-I activity that has been added to these sera.
Secondary Structural Properties of Anaphylatoxin Preparations and Chemotactic Activity for Neutrophils
Authors: Wissler Josef H. , Stecher Vera J. , Sorkin Ernst
Published: December 2022

Classical anaphylatoxin (CAT), often demonstrated to be a split product (C5a) of C5, acts as catalytic component of the binary leukotactic serum peptide system (ACL-system) with cocytotaxin (CCT) as regulatory component (1). Both peptides, obtained in the crystalline state, do not attract significantly neutrophils (N). CAT displays chemotactic activity for N only when CCT is present. Investigations on the mechanism of chemotactic action of the ACL-system have evaluated that CCT acts within the ACL-system as Bronsted or Lewis acid inducing a reversible secondary structural transition in the CAT molecule (2). In view of the acidic function of CCT, we studied the secondary structural transitions (denaturation) of CAT by treatment and storage at low pH-values established by non-protein Bronsted acids, e.g., CH3COOH.

The chemotactically inactive CAT is rendered chemotactically active for N, with or without CCT, under the following conditions: storage in 0.02 N CH3COOH (-20°C), treatment at +20°C by solution in 0.5 N or 50% (v/v) CH3COOH.