bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproductive tract disease associated with inoculation of pregnant white-tailed deer with bovine viral diarrhea virus
Authors: Ridpath Julia F. , Driskell Elizabeth A. , Chase Christopher C. L. , Neill John D. , Palmer Mitchell V. , Brodersen Bruce W.
Published: December 2008

Objective—To inoculate white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) during the sixth or seventh week of gestation with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and observe for signs of reproductive tract disease during a 182-day period.

Animals—10 pregnant white-tailed deer (8 seronegative and 2 seropositive [control deer] for BVDV).

Procedures—Deer were inoculated with 1 of 2 deer-derived BVDV strains (RO3-20663 or RO3-24272). Serum anti-BVDV antibody titers were determined prior to and 21 or 35 days after inoculation. Virus isolation (VI) procedures were performed on tissues from fetuses and does that died and on blood samples collected from live fawns. Ear notch specimens obtained from live fawns were assessed by use of BVDV antigen-capture ELISA (ACE).

Results—Both RO3-20663–inoculated seropositive deer gave birth to apparently normal fawns. Among the RO3-24272–inoculated seronegative deer, 1 died, and 1 aborted and 1 resorbed their fetuses; among the RO3-20663–inoculated seronegative deer, 3 died, 1 aborted its fetus, and 1 gave birth to 2 fawns that were likely persistently infected. On the basis of VI and ACE results, those 2 fawns were positive for BVDV; both had no detectable neutralizing anti-BVDV antibodies in serum.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Reproductive tract disease that developed in pregnant white-tailed deer following BVDV inoculation was similar to that which develops in BVDV-exposed cattle. Methods developed for BVDV detection in cattle (VI, immunohistochemical evaluations, and ACE) can be applied in assessments of white-tailed deer. Fawns from does that had serum anti-BVDV antibodies prior to inoculation were protected against BVDV infection in utero.
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of intra-articular injection of triamcinolone acetonide, mepivacaine hydrochloride, or both on lipopolysaccharide-induced lameness in horses
Authors: Kay Alastair T. , Bolt David M. , Ishihara Akikazu , Rajala-Schultz Paivi J. , Bertone Alicia L.
Published: December 2008

Objective—To assess analgesia, inflammation, potency, and duration of action associated with intra-articular injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA), mepivacaine hydrochloride, or both in metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints of horses with experimentally induced acute synovitis.

Animals—18 horses.

Procedures—Both forelimbs of each horse were injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 3 times. After the first LPS injection, 1 forelimb of each horse was treated with intra-articular injection of mepivacaine (80 mg; n = 6), TA (9 mg; 6), or mepivacaine with TA (same doses of each; 6) 12 hours after the initial LPS injection. Contralateral limbs served as control limbs. Joint pain was assessed via lameness score and measurements of vertical force peak and pain-free range of motion of the MCP joint. Periarticular edema was evaluated. Degree of synovial inflammation was determined via synovial fluid analysis for WBC count and total protein concentration. Samples of plasma and synovial fluid were analyzed for TA and mepivacaine concentrations.

Results—Each injection of LPS induced lameness and joint inflammation. Mepivacaine effectively eliminated lameness within 45 minutes after injection, regardless of whether TA was also administered, whereas TA reduced lameness, edema, and concentration of synovial fluid protein after the second LPS injection, regardless of whether mepivacaine was also injected. Treatment with TA also induced higher WBC counts and mepivacaine concentrations in synovial fluid, compared with results for mepivacaine alone.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested TA is a potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication for acute synovitis in horses and that simultaneous administration of mepivacaine does not alter the potency or duration of action of TA.
In vitro sensitivity of commercial scanners to microchips of various frequencies
Authors: Lord Linda K. , Pennell Michael L. , Ingwersen Walter , Fisher Robert A. , Workman Jeffrey D.
Published: December 2008

Objective—To evaluate sensitivity of 4 commercially available microchip scanners used to detect or read encrypted and unencrypted 125-, 128-, and 134.2-kHz microchips under controlled conditions.

Design—Evaluation study.

Sample Population—Microchip scanners from 4 manufacturers and 6 brands of microchips (10 microchips/brand).

Procedures—Each microchip was scanned 72 times with each scanner passed parallel to the long axis of the microchip and 72 times with each scanner passed perpendicular to the long axis of the microchip. For each scan, up to 3 passes were allowed for the scanner to read or detect the microchip. Microchip and scanner order were randomized. Sensitivity was calculated as the mean percentage of the 72 scans for each microchip that were successful (ie, the microchip was detected or read).

Results—None of the scanners had 100% sensitivity for all microchips and both scanning orientations, and there were clear differences between scanners on the basis of operating frequency of the microchip, orientation of the microchip, and number of passes used to detect or read the microchip. For the 3 scanners designed to detect or read microchips of all 3 frequencies currently used in the United States, sensitivity was highest for 134.2-kHz microchips and lower for 125- and 128-kHz microchips. None of the scanners performed as well when only a single pass of the scanner was used to detect or read the microchips.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that use of multiple passes in different directions was important for maximizing sensitivity of microchip scanners.
Sensitivity of commercial scanners to microchips of various frequencies implanted in dogs and cats
Authors: Lord Linda K. , Pennell Michael L. , Ingwersen Walter , Fisher Robert A.
Published: December 2008

Objective—To evaluate the sensitivity of 4 commercially available microchip scanners used to detect or read encrypted and unencrypted 125-, 128-, and 134.2-kHz microchips under field conditions following implantation in dogs and cats at 6 animal shelters.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—3,949 dogs and cats at 6 animal shelters.

Procedures—Each shelter was asked to enroll 657 to 660 animals and to implant microchips in 438 to 440 animals (each shelter used a different microchip brand). Animals were then scanned with 3 or 4 commercial scanners to determine whether microchips could be detected. Scanner sensitivity was calculated as the percentage of animals with a microchip in which the microchip was detected.

Results—None of the scanners examined had 100% sensitivity for any of the microchip brands. In addition, there were clear differences among scanners in regard to sensitivity. The 3 universal scanners capable of reading or detecting 128- and 134.2-kHz microchips all had sensitivities ≥ 94.8% for microchips of these frequencies. Three of the 4 scanners had sensitivities ≥ 88.2% for 125-kHz microchips, but sensitivity of one of the universal scanners for microchips of this frequency was lower (66.4% to 75.0%).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that some currently available universal scanners have high sensitivity to microchips of the frequencies commonly used in the United States, although none of the scanners had 100% sensitivity. To maximize microchip detection, proper scanning technique should be used and animals should be scanned more than once. Microchipping should remain a component of a more comprehensive pet identification program.
Etiology and clinical outcome in dogs with aspiration pneumonia: 88 cases (2004–2006)
Authors: Kogan David A. , Johnson Lynelle R. , Sturges Beverly K. , Jandrey Karl E. , Pollard Rachel E.
Published: December 2008

Objective—To evaluate the number and types of underlying disorders detected in dogs with aspiration pneumonia and determine the survival rate among affected dogs.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—88 dogs with aspiration pneumonia.

Procedures—Medical records were reviewed to identify disease processes that could result in aspiration pneumonia. To assess outcome (ie, survival to discharge from the hospital or nonsurvival), dogs were grouped by the type and number of underlying disease processes. Duration of hospitalization and radiographic severity of disease were evaluated with regard to case outcome.

Results—As the cause of aspiration pneumonia, a single underlying disorder was identified in 60 of the 88 dogs; 2 or more diseases were identified in the remaining dogs. Esophageal disease (n = 35), vomiting (34), neurologic disorders (24), laryngeal disease (16), and postanesthetic aspiration (12) were identified most commonly. Overall, 68 dogs survived to discharge from the hospital (survival rate, 77%). Survival rates were comparable among dogs regardless of the underlying cause of aspiration pneumonia. Radiographic severity of disease and duration of hospitalization did not influence survival.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Among these study dogs, aspiration pneumonia was associated with a high survival rate. The presence of more than 1 underlying disease associated with aspiration pneumonia did not adversely impact survival rate. Interestingly, radiographic severity of disease and duration of hospitalization were not associated with overall survival rate.
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca attributable to parasympathetic facial nerve dysfunction associated with hypothyroidism in a horse
Authors: Schwarz Bianca C. , Sallmutter Tamara , Nell Barbara
Published: December 2008

Case Description—A 6-year-old 680-kg (1,496-lb) German Warmblood gelding was evaluated because of bilateral blepharospasm and head shaking.

Clinical Findings—Moderate blepharospasm was evident bilaterally, and both eyes had hyperemic and edematous conjunctivas and lusterless corneas. For each eye, the Schirmer tear test value was only 7 mm/min. The horse's nasal mucosa was dry. Abnormal behaviors included mild repetitive vertical movement of the head, snorting, and flehmen response (classic signs of head shaking). Touching the horse's nostrils and face revealed paresthesia and dysesthesia with slight nasolabial muscle hypertrophy bilaterally. Cranial nerve examination revealed no other abnormalities. Serum thyroxine concentration was low, and results of thyrotropin-releasing hormone and thyroid-stimulating hormone stimulation tests were negative, indicating that the horse had hypothyroidism. The diagnoses included keratoconjunctivitis sicca and dry nares attributable to parasympathetic facial nerve dysfunction, head-shaking syndrome with paresthesia and dysesthesia of the face attributable to sensory trigeminal nerve disorder, and hypothyroidism. The 2 nerve dysfunctions were considered peripheral neuropathies that were most likely caused by hypothyroidism.

Treatment and Outcome—Treatment of both eyes was initiated with topical applications of cyclosporine, 0.5% sodium hyaluronate, and vitamin A ointment. Levothyroxine (20 Pg/kg [9.1 Pg/lb], PO, q 24 h) was administered. Within 3 weeks to 4 months, serum thyroxine concentration was within reference range, and clinical signs and Schirmer tear test values improved.

Clinical Relevance—Hypothyroidism should be considered as a differential diagnosis in horses with peripheral neuropathy or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. In affected horses, administration of levothyroxine may lead to resolution of neurologic signs.
Gliadel (BCNU) wafer plus concomitant temozolomide therapy after primary resection of glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: McGirt Matthew J. , Than Khoi D. , Weingart Jon D. , Chaichana Kaisorn L. , Attenello Frank J. , Olivi Alessandro , Laterra John , Kleinberg Lawrence R. , Grossman Stuart A. , Brem Henry , Quiñones-Hinojosa Alfredo
Published: December 2008

Object

Gliadel (BCNU) wafer and concomitant temozolomide (TMZ) therapy, when used individually as adjuvant therapies, extend survival from that achieved by resection and radiation therapy (XRT) for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). It remains unstudied whether combining Gliadel and TMZ therapy is safe or further improves survival in patients with newly diagnosed GBM. The authors reviewed their initial experience utilizing combined Gliadel, TMZ, and radiation therapy for the treatment of GBM.

Methods

All cases involving patients undergoing primary resection of GBM with or without Gliadel wafer (3.85% BCNU) implantation and adjuvant XRT over a 10-year period (1997–2006) were retrospectively reviewed. Beginning in 2004, concomitant TMZ became the standard of care at the authors' institution and all patients with Gliadel implantation also received concomitant TMZ (Stupp protocol). Overall survival and treatment-related morbidity were assessed for all patients treated with Gliadel plus concomitant TMZ (XRT + Gliadel + TMZ). Age-matched (≤ 70 years) comparison of survival and morbidity was performed between the XRT + Gliadel + TMZ (post-2003) and XRT + Gliadel (pre-2004) cohorts.

Results

Thirty-three patients were treated with XRT + Gliadel + TMZ. The median survival in this group was 20.7 months, with a 2-year survival rate of 36%. Six-month morbidity included surgical site infection in 1 case (3%), perioperative seizures in 2 cases (6%), deep-vein thrombus in 1 (3%), pulmonary embolism in 3 (9%), and cerebral edema requiring admission for intravenous dexamethasone in 1 case (3%). Myelosuppression required premature termination of TMZ in 7 patients (21%) (thrombocytopenia in 5, neutropenia in 2 cases). In patients ≤ 70 years of age, XRT + Gliadel + TMZ (30 patients, post-2003) was independently associated with improved median survival (21.3 vs 12.4 months, p = 0.005) versus XRT + Gliadel (78 patients, pre-2004), with 2-year survival of 39 versus 18%, respectively. In these patients, XRT + Gliadel + TMZ was not associated with an increase in perioperative morbidity in comparison with XRT + Gliadel.

Conclusions

In this experience, concomitant TMZ therapy in addition to Gliadel wafer implantation was associated with a median survival of nearly 21 months without increased perioperative morbidity. Temozolomide can be safely administered to patients receiving Gliadel wafers after resection of GBM.
Dural arteriovenous fistulas masquerading as dural sinus thrombosis
Authors: Simon Scott , Yao Tom , Ulm Arthur J. , Rosenbaum Benjamin P. , Mericle Robert A.
Published: December 2008

The authors report dural sinus thrombosis diagnosed in 2 patients based on noninvasive imaging results, which were revealed to be dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) diagnosed using digital subtraction (DS) angiography. The first patient was a 63-year-old man who presented with headaches. Magnetic resonance venography was performed and suggested dural sinus thrombosis of the left transverse sinus and jugular vein. He was administered warfarin anticoagulation therapy but then suffered multiple intracranial hemorrhages. A DS angiogram was requested for a possible dural sinus thrombectomy, but the DS angiogram revealed a DAVF. The patient underwent serial liquid embolization with complete obliteration of the DAVF. The second patient, an 11-year-old boy, also presented with headaches and was diagnosed with dural sinus thrombosis on MR imaging. A DS angiogram was also requested for a possible thrombectomy and revealed a DAVF. This patient underwent serial liquid embolization and eventual operative resection. These reports emphasize that different venous flow abnormalities can appear similar on noninvasive imaging and that proper diagnosis is critical to avoid contraindicated therapies.
Hypertension and diabetes as predictors of early death after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Tetri Sami , Juvela Seppo , Saloheimo Pertti , Pyhtinen Juhani , Hillbom Matti
Published: December 2008

Object

Previous investigators have suggested that a high mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and an elevated plasma glucose level at admission are associated with a poor outcome after hemorrhagic stroke. It remains unclear, however, whether hypertension and diabetes are responsible for this effect. High admission MABP and plasma glucose levels may also be markers of other factors such as stroke severity.

Methods

The authors retrospectively investigated the role of a high admission MABP and plasma glucose level together with other predictors of early death among 379 nonsurgical patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhages (ICHs) who were admitted to the stroke unit of Oulu University Hospital.

Results

The 3-month mortality rate was 28%. The patients who died within 3 months of ICH had significantly higher plasma glucose levels and MABPs at admission (p < 0.001). After adjustments for patient sex, age, size and location of hematoma, Glasgow Coma Scale score at admission, presence of intraventricular hemorrhage, history of cardiac disease, and previous use of warfarin, history of diabetes (relative risk 1.61, 95% CI 1.03–2.53, p < 0.05) and high MABP at admission (relative risk 1.01 per mm Hg, 95% CI 1.00–1.02, p < 0.05) remained independent predictors of death 3 months after ICH. A high admission plasma glucose level and history of hypertension were not independent predictors of death.

Conclusions

A high MABP at admission was found to be an independent predictor of early death in patients with ICH. History of hypertension was not responsible for the effect. Admission hyperglycemia appeared to be a stress response to the severity of the bleeding, whereas diabetes predicted early death.
Induction of autophagic cell death and radiosensitization by the pharmacological inhibition of nuclear factor–kappa B activation in human glioma cell lines
Authors: Tsuboi Yoshifumi , Kurimoto Masanori , Nagai Shoichi , Hayakawa Yumiko , Kamiyama Hironaga , Hayashi Nakamasa , Kitajima Isao , Endo Shunro
Published: December 2008

Object

The intrinsic radioresistance of certain cancer cells may be closely associated with the constitutive activation of nuclear factor–kappa B (NF-κB) activity, which may lead to protection from apoptosis. Recently, nonapoptotic cell death, or autophagy, has been revealed as a novel response of cancer cells to ionizing radiation. In the present study, the authors analyzed the effect of pitavastatin as a potential inhibitor of NF-κB activation on the radiosensitivity of A172, U87, and U251 human glioma cell lines.

Methods

The pharmacological inhibition of NF-κB activation was achieved using pitavastatin, an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase. Growth and radiosensitivity assays were performed using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Hoechst 33258 staining, supravital acridine orange staining, and electron microscopy were performed utilizing 3 glioma cell lines with or without pitavastatin pretreatment to identify apoptosis or autophagy after irradiation.

Results

The growth of these 3 glioma cell lines was not significantly inhibited by pitavastatin at a concentration of up to 1 μM. Treatment with 0.1 μM of pitavastatin enhanced radiation-induced cell death in all glioma cell lines, with different sensitivity. Apoptosis did not occur in any pretreated or untreated (no pitavastatin) cell line following irradiation. Instead, autophagic cell changes were observed regardless of the radiosensitivity of the cell line. An inhibitor of autophagy, 3-methyladenine suppressed the cytotoxic effect of irradiation with pitavastatin, indicating that autophagy is a result of an antitumor mechanism. Using the most radiosensitive A172 cell line, the intracellular localization of p50, a representative subunit of NF-κB, was evaluated through immunoblotting and immunofluorescence studies. The NF-κB of A172 cells was immediately activated and translocated from the cytosol to the nucleus in response to irradiation. Pitavastatin inhibited this activation and translocation of NF-κB.

Conclusions

Autophagic cell death rather than apoptosis is a possible mechanism of radiation-induced and pitavastatin-enhanced cell damage, and radiosensitization by the pharmacological inhibition of NF-κB activation may be a novel therapeutic strategy for malignant gliomas.
Fourth International Symposium on Recent Advances in Environmental Health Research
Authors: Mohamed Abdul K. , Hardy Mark G. , Tchounwou Paul B.
Published: December 2008

n/a
Cytotoxic Responses and Potential Respiratory Health Effects of Carbon and Carbonaceous Nanoparticulates in the Paso del Norte Airshed Environment
Authors: Soto K. F. , Murr L. E. , Garza K. M.
Published: December 2008

We have utilized a range of manufactured or commercial nanoparticulate materials, including surrogate carbon nano-PM along with combustion-generated carbonaceous (soot) nano-PM characteristic of environmental nano-PM (both indoor and outdoor) to investigate and compare their cytotoxic response in vitro with an immortalized human epithelial (lung model) cell line (A549). These have included nano-Ag, Al2O3, TiO2, Fe2O3, ZrO2, Si3N4, chrysotile asbestos, BC, 2 types of MWCNT-aggregate PM (MWCNT-R and MWCNT-N), and high-volume glass fiber collected soots: candle, wood, diesel (truck), tire, and 3-types of natural gas kitchen burner-generated soots: yellow (fuel-rich) flame, low-flow blue flame, and normal flow blue flame soot PM. These carbonaceous nano-PM species can be found in either the indoor and outdoor environments or microenvironments. Two-day and two-week in-vitro cultures of A549 showed cell death (or decreased cell viability) for all nanoparticulate materials, but especially significant for all but the TiO2 and candle, wood, and diesel PM. The natural gas kitchen burner combustion PM cell death response was characteristic of BC and MWCNT PM. There was no correlation with total PAH content of the soot PM. Cytokine release (IL-6, IL-8) was detected for the Ag, Fe2 O3, asbestos, BC and the MWCNT PM. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was also detected for Ag, Fe2 O3, ZrO2, asbestos, BC, and the MWCNT aggregate PM, as well as the natural gas kitchen burner combustion PM. TEM, FESEM, and optical microscopy examination of these nanomaterials illustrate the wide range in PM morphologies and crystallinities as well as cell morphologies. Taken together, these results illustrate proinflammatory and related respiratory health issues in relation to environmental nanoparticulates.
UVA Photoirradiation of Oxygenated Benz[a]anthracene and 3-Methylcholanthene - Generation of Singlet Oxygen and Induction of Lipid Peroxidation
Authors: Yin Jun-Jie , Xia Qingsu , Cherng Shu-Hui , Tang I-Wah , Fu Peter P. , Lin Ge , Yu Hongtao , Sáenz Diógenes Herreño
Published: December 2008

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widespread genotoxic environmental pollutants and potentially pose a health risk to humans. Although the biological and toxicological activities, including metabolism, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity, of PAHs have been thoroughly studied, their phototoxicity and photo-induced biological activity have not been well examined. We have long been interested in phototoxicity of PAHs and their derivatives induced by irradiation with UV light. In this paper we report the photoirradiation of a series of oxygenated benz[a]anthracene (BA) and 3-methylcholanthene (3-MC) by UVA light in the presence of a lipid, methyl linoleate. The studied PAHs include 2-hydroxy-BA (2-OH-BA), 3-hydroxy-BA (3-OH-BA), 5-hydroxymethyl-BA (5-CH2OH-BA), 7-hydroxymethyl-BA (7-CH2OH-BA), 12-hydroxymethyl-BA (12-CH2OH-BA), 7-hydroxymethyl-12-methyl-BA (7-CH2OH-12-MBA), 5-formyl-BA (5-CHO-BA), BA 5,6-cis-dihydrodiol (BA 5,6-cis-diol), 1-hydroxy-3- methylcholanthene (1-OH-3-MC), 1-keto-3-methylcholanthene (1-keto-3-MC), and 3-MC 1,2-diol. The results indicate that upon photoirradiation by UVA at 7 and 21 J/cm2, respectively all these compounds induced lipid peroxidation and exhibited a relationship between the dose of the light and the level of lipid peroxidation induced. To determine whether or not photoirradiation of these compounds by UVA light produces ROS, an ESR spin-trap technique was employed to provide direct evidence. Photoirradiation of 3-keto-3-MC by UVA (at 389 nm) in the presence of 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine (TEMP), a specific probe for singlet oxygen, resulted in the formation of TEMPO, indicating that singlet oxygen was generated. These overall results suggest that UVA photoirradiation of oxygenated BA and 3-methylcholanthrene generates singlet oxygen, one of the reactive oxygen species (ROS), which induce lipid peroxidation.
Effects of Benzo(a)pyrene on Intra-testicular Function in F-344 Rats
Authors: Archibong Anthony E. , Ramesh Aramandla , Niaz Mohammad S. , Brooks Cynthia M. , Roberson Shannon I. , Lunstra Donald D.
Published: December 2008

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproductive risk associated with exposure of adult male Fisher-344 (F-344) rats to inhaled benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), a ubiquitous environmental toxicant present in cigarette smoke, automobile exhaust fumes and industrial emissions. Rats were assigned randomly to a treatment or control group. Treatment consisted of exposure of rats via nose-only inhalation to 75μg BaP/m3, 4 hours daily for 60 days, while control animals were unexposed (UNC). Blood samples were collected immediately on day 60 of exposures (time 0) and subsequently at 24, 48, and 72 hours, to assess the effect of exposures to BaP on plasma testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations. Mean testis weight, total weight of tubules and total tubular length per paired testes were reduced 33% (P< 0.025), 27% (P < 0.01) and 39%, respectively in exposed rats (P < 0.01) compared with UNC rats. The number of homogenization -resistant spermatids was significantly reduced in BaP-exposed versus UNC rats. Plasma testosterone and intra-testicular testosterone (ITT) concentrations were significantly decreased by BaP compared with those of UNC rats. The decreases in circulating plasma testosterone were accompanied by concomitant increases in plasma LH concentrations in BaP-exposed versus control rats (P < 0.05). These data suggest that 60 days exposure to inhaled BaP contribute to reduced testicular endocrine and spermatogenic functions in exposed rats.
A Method to Model Season of Birth as a Surrogate Environmental Risk Factor for Disease
Authors: Efird Jimmy Thomas , Nielsen Susan Searles
Published: December 2008

Environmental exposures, including some that vary seasonally, may play a role in the development of many types of childhood diseases such as cancer. Those observed in children are unique in that the relevant period of exposure is inherently limited or perhaps even specific to a very short window during prenatal development or early infancy. As such, researchers have investigated whether specific childhood cancers are associated with season of birth. Typically a basic method for analysis has been used, for example categorization of births into one of four seasons, followed by simple comparisons between categories such as via logistic regression, to obtain odds ratios (ORs), confidence intervals (CIs) and p-values. In this paper we present an alternative method, based upon an iterative trigonometric logistic regression model used to analyze the cyclic nature of birth dates related to disease occurrence. Disease birth-date results are presented using a sinusoidal graph with a peak date of relative risk and a single p-value that tests whether an overall seasonal association is present. An OR and CI comparing children born in the 3-month period around the peak to the symmetrically opposite 3-month period also can be obtained. Advantages of this derivative-free method include ease of use, increased statistical power to detect associations, and the ability to avoid potentially arbitrary, subjective demarcation of seasons.
Cross-Sectional Silica Exposure Measurements at Two Zambian Copper Mines of Nkana and Mufulira
Authors: Hayumbu Patrick , Robins Thomas G. , Key-Schwartz Rosa
Published: December 2008

We measured the quartz content of 20 bulk settled dust and 200 respirable dust samples in a cross-sectional dust exposure assessment that is part of an epidemiological study to ascertain the risk of nonmalignant respiratory diseases among Zambian copper miners. Dust samples were collected from the copper mines of Mopani Copper Mine plc (Mufulira and Nkana Mines). Analytical measurements employed NIOSH Method 0600 for gravimetric analysis of respirable dust and NIOSH Method 7500 for quartz analysis in bulk and respirable dust samples. The measured quartz content of respirable dust showed that 59% and 26% of Mufulira and Nkana Mine samples, respectively, were above the calculated U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration permissible exposure limit. The mean intensities of respirable dust exposure at Mufulira and Nkana were 0.992 mg/m3 (range 0-7.674) and 0.868 mg/m3 (range 0-6.944), respectively while the mean intensities of respirable quartz at Mufulira and Nkana were 0.143 mg/m3 (range 0-1.302) and 0.060 mg/m3 (range 0-0.317), respectively. These results indicate weak dust monitoring at these mines which may increase the risk of nonmalignant disease in many miners. Since Zambian mining regulations do not have crystalline silica exposure limits, these results accord with the recommendation that Zambian mining houses and the government establish crystalline silica analysis laboratory capacity and adopt dust mass concentration occupational exposure limits for more protective dust monitoring of workers.
Heavy metals in water of the San Pedro River in Chihuahua, Mexico and its potential health risk
Authors: Gutiérrez Roberto L. , Rubio-Arias Hector , Quintana Ray , Ortega Juan Angel , Gutierrez Melida
Published: December 2008

The objective of this study was to determine the seasonal and downstream water quality variations of the San Pedro River in Chihuahua, Mexico. Water samples were collected monthly from October 2005 to August 2006 in triplicate, totaling 165 water samples. The five sampling locations were: below the Francisco I. Madero dam (LP); between Rosales and Delicias (RD); Meoqui (M); El Torreon (ET), and Julimes (LJ). The levels of As, Be, Ca, Cd, Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sr, Ti, Ta, V and Zn were measured using an Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) Perkin Elmer 2100. In addition, temperature, pH, electrical conductivity and total and fecal coliformes were determined. The statistical analysis considered a factorial treatment design; where factor A was the location point and factor B was sampling date. In addition, a multivariate technique looking for principal components was performed. The results indicated that some samples exceeded Mexican standards for As, Be, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sr and Zn. The As level must be considered for a red flag to the communities along the Rio San Pedro because both the monthly average level (0.10 mg L-1) and location (0.10 mg L-1) exceeded the Mexican and International norms. The multivariate analysis showed a predominant aggregation at the LP location, meaning that there was a predominance of As, Sr, Fe and Li. At the rest of the locations the elements did not present a tendency for aggregation. Statistics applied to sampling month showed that December, January, March and April were aggregated in a negative quadrant of component 1 indicating a predominance of V, Ni, Be, Fe and As. Overall, the results confirmed that this stretch of the San Pedro River is contaminated with heavy metals and other contaminants that might affect human health as well as the health of the ecosystem.
Evaluation of the Effect of Ecologic on Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, and Tomato Plant, Lycopersicon esculenum
Authors: Ladner Debora C. , Tchounwou Paul B. , Lawrence Gary W.
Published: December 2008

Nonchemical methods and strategies for nematode management including cultural methods and engineered measures have been recommended as an alternative to methyl bromide (a major soil fumigant), due to its role in the depletion of the ozone layer. Hence, an international agreement has recently been reached calling for its reduced consumption and complete phasing out. This present research evaluates the potential of Ecologic, a biological, marine shell meal chitin material, as a soil amendment management agent for root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, control, and its effect on the growth of Floradel tomato plant, Lycopersicon esculentum. To accomplish this goal, studies were conducted during which, experimental pots were set up in greenhouse environments using sterilized soil inoculated with 5,000 root-knot eggs per 1500 g soil. There were 4 treatments and 5 replications. Treatments were: No chitin; 50 g chitin; 100 g chitin; and 200 g chitin. A two-week wait period following Ecologic amendment preceded Floradel tomato planting to allow breakdown of the chitin material into the soil. Fresh and dry weights of shoot and root materials were taken as growth end-points. A statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) was obtained with regard to the growth rate of L. esculentum at 100 g chitin treatment compared to the control with no chitin. Mean fresh weights of Floradel tomato were 78.0 ± 22.3g, 81.0 ± 20.3g, 109.0 ± 25.4g and 102.0 ± 33.3g at 0, 50, 100 and 200g chitin, respectively. The analysis of root knot nematode concentrations indicated a substantial effect on reproduction rate associated with chitin amendment. Study results showed a significant decrease in both root knot nematode eggs and juveniles (J2) at 100g and 200g Ecologic chitin levels, however, an increase in nematode concentrations was recorded at the 50g Ecologic chitin level (p ≤ 0.05). The mean amounts of J2 population, as expressed per 1500cm3 soil, were 49,933 ± 38,819, 86,050 ± 25248, 103 ± 133 and 103 ± 133 for 0, 50, 100 and 200g chitin, respectively. Similarly, the mean numbers of root knot nematode eggs (per 1500cm3 of soil) were 40,759 ± 36,712, 66,048 ± 39,730, 9,904 ± 16,591 and 9,257 ± 17,204. Root gall rating was also significantly lower (p ≤ 0.05) at the 100g and 200g chitin levels compared to the control. Percent gall ratings were 3.3 ± 1.0%, 3.2 ± 1.0%, 1.0 ± 0.5%, and 1.0% ± 0.6% for amendment levels of 0, 50, 100, and 200g chitin, respectively.
Preliminary Molecular Dynamic Simulations of the Estrogen Receptor Alpha Ligand Binding Domain from Antagonist to Apo
Authors: McGee T. Dwight , Edwards Jesse , Roitberg Adrian E.
Published: December 2008

Estrogen receptors (ER) are known as nuclear receptors. They exist in the cytoplasm of human cells and serves as a DNA binding transcription factor that regulates gene expression. However the estrogen receptor also has additional functions independent of DNA binding. The human estrogen receptor comes in two forms, alpha and beta. This work focuses on the alpha form of the estrogen receptor. The ERα is found in breast cancer cells, ovarian stroma cells, endometrium, and the hypothalamus. It has been suggested that exposure to DDE, a metabolite of DDT, and other pesticides causes conformational changes in the estrogen receptor. Before examining these factors, this work examines the protein unfolding from the antagonist form found in the 3ERT PDB crystal structure. The 3ERT PDB crystal structure has the estrogen receptor bound to the cancer drug 4-hydroxytamoxifen. The 4-hydroxytamoxifen ligand was extracted before the simulation, resulting in new conformational freedom due to absence of van der Waals contacts between the ligand and the receptor. The conformational changes that result expose the binding clef of the co peptide beside Helix 12 of the receptor forming an apo conformation. Two key conformations in the loops at either end of the H12 are produced resulting in the antagonist to apo conformation transformation. The results were produced over a 42ns Molecular Dynamics simulation using the AMBER FF99SB force field.
Impact of Organic Solvents and Environmental Pollutants on the Physiological Function in Petrol Filling Workers
Authors: Uzma Nazia , Khaja Mohinuddin Salar B. M. , Kumar B. Santhosh , Aziz Nusrat , David M. Anthony , Reddy V. Devender
Published: December 2008

Long term exposure to solvents and air pollutants can lead to deleterious effects on respiratory, haematological and thyroid functioning. The aim of this study was to investigate whether chronic exposure to solvents like benzene and pollutants like carbon monoxide in petrol filling workers had adverse effect on blood parameters, thyroid and respiratory functions. The study group consisted of 42 healthy, non-smoker petrol filling workers, aged 20-50 years with work (exposure) duration from 2-15 years while 36 healthy subjects of the same age group served as controls. Physical examination and measurement of pulmonary functions by portable electronic spirometer were performed. Complete blood pictures (CBP) were determined by normal haematology lab procedure and hormones by Chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) light absorption techniques. There was a significant decrease in the lung volumes and capacities; the restrictive pattern was more prevalent in the workers when compared with the control groups. But in the workers exposed for long period (more than 10 years) the restrictive pattern was changed to mixed pattern. A significant increase in haemoglobin (Hb) (>16 mg %) and red blood cells (RBC) (5.4 million cells/mm3) were observed in workers with longer period of exposure when compared with the control subjects (14.483 mg% and 4.83 million cells/mm3 for Hb and RBC respectively). White blood cell count except eosinophils and platelets were significantly lower in workers compared to controls. Marked increase in the tetra iodothyroinine (T4), free thyroxine (T4F) level and significant decrease in thyroid stimulating hormones (TSH), and tri-iodothyronine (T3) were observed between long term exposed and non – exposed groups. Till now researchers focused only on the effect of solvents in workers professionally exposed to solvents without considering the effect of concomittant air pollution. The result obtained from present study indicates that there is a significant toxic effect of solvents and air pollutants on workers exposed for longer duration. Improved detection and prevention technologies are needed to answer environmentally related health questions for petrol filling workers.
Sanitary Conditions of Public Swimming Pools in Amman, Jordan
Authors: Rabi Atallah , Khader Yousef , Alkafajei Ahmed , Aqoulah Ashraf Abu
Published: December 2008

This study was carried out in the summer of 2005 and investigated all of active public swimming pools (85 out of 93) in Amman, the capital of Jordan. The aim of this study was to find out if these swimming pools are in compliance with Jordanian Standards for Swimming Pools Water (JS 1562/2004). The pools were surveyed against the water microbial quality and other physicochemical parameters indicated in the standards. Two samples from each pool were collected for microbial analysis and pools monitoring were carried out during the afternoon of the weekends when the pools are most heavily used. The results indicated overall poor compliance with the standards. Compliance of the pools water to the microbial parameters was 56.5%, for residual chlorine 49.4%, for pH 87.7%, water temperature 48.8%, and bathing load 70.6%. The results also indicated that water microbial quality deteriorated with time. Multivariate analysis showed significant association of water contamination with time of sample collection, residual chlorine, water temperature and load of swimmers. The poor compliance was attributed to lack of proper disinfection, staff training, proper maintenance, and timely inspection.
Hydrochemical Analysis and Evaluation of Groundwater Quality in Tumkur Taluk, Karnataka State, India
Authors: Sadashivaiah C. , Ramakrishnaiah C. R. , Ranganna G.
Published: December 2008

Tumkur Taluk is located in the southeastern corner of Karnataka state between 13º 06'30" to 13º 31' 00" North latitude and 76º 59' 00" to 77º 19' 00" East Longitude. The Taluk spreads over an area of 1043 sq.km falling within the semiarid region and frequently facing water scarcity as well as quality problems. The major sources of employment are agriculture, horticulture and animal husbandry, engaging almost 80% of the workforce. Water samples are collected from 269 stations during pre-monsoon and 279 locations during post-monsoon of the year 2006, and were subjected to analysis for chemical characteristics. The type of water that predominates in the study area is Ca-Mg-HCO3 type during both preand post-monsoon seasons of the year 2006, based on hydro-chemical facies. Besides, suitability of water for irrigation is evaluated based on sodium adsorption ratio, residual sodium carbonate, sodium percent, salinity hazard and USSL diagram.
Exposure of Laboratory Mice to Domestic Cooking Gas: - Implications for Toxicity
Authors: Odunola Oyeronke A. , Uka Emmanuel , Akinwumi Kazeem A. , Gbadegesin Michael A. , Osifeso Olabode O. , Ibegbu Madu D.
Published: December 2008

The ability of domestic cooking gas to induce hepatotoxicity and clastogenicity in mice was studied. The mice were exposed to domestic gas for twenty-one days at doses of 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg respectively. The positive control group of mice were given sodium arsenite intraperitoneously at a dose of 2.5mg/kg body weight. While the negative control group had only distilled water, sodium arsenite significantly (p < 0.05) induced the formation of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (mPCEs), serum and liver gamma glutamyl transferase (γGT) and alkaline phosphatase (AP) activities respectively as compared with the observations made in the negative control group. Similarly, the domestic gas significantly (p
Substituting Nε-thioacetyl-lysine for Nε-acetyl-lysine in Peptide Substrates as a General Approach to Inhibiting Human NAD+-dependent Protein Deacetylases
Authors: Fatkins David G. , Zheng Weiping
Published: December 2008

Inhibitors of human NAD+-dependent protein deacetylases possess great value for deciphering the biology of these enzymes and as potential therapeutics for metabolic and agerelated diseases and cancer. In the current study, we have experimentally demonstrated that, the potent inhibition we obtained previously for one of these enzymes (i.e. sirtuin type 1 (SIRT1)) by simply replacing Nε-thioacetyl-lysine for Nε-acetyl-lysine in its peptide substrate, represented a general and efficient strategy to develop potent and selective inhibitors of human NAD+-dependent protein deacetylase enzymes. Indeed, by using this simple inhibition strategy, potent (low-micromolar) and selective (≤40-fold) SIRT2 and SIRT3 inhibitors, which were either comparable or superior to currently existing inhibitors, have also been quickly identified in the current study. These inhibitors could be used as chemical biological tools or as lead compounds for further focused structure-activity optimization.
Microwave-Assisted Esterification of N-Acetyl-L-Phenylalanine Using Modified Mukaiyama’s Reagents: A New Approach Involving Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zhao Hua , Song Zhiyan , Cowins Janet V. , Olubajo Olarongbe
Published: December 2008

Inspired by the concept of ionic liquids (ILs), this study modified the original Mukaiyama’s reagent, 2-chloro-1-methylpyridinium iodide (m.p. 200-dec), from ionic solid into liquids by changing its anion. The esterification of N-acetyl-L-phenylalanine was investigated as a model reaction. The microwave irradiation was more effective in esterifying N-acetyl-L-phenylalanine than the conventional reflux method. The original Mukaiyama’s reagent was modified into ILs through manipulating its anion. However, only non-nucleophilic anions (such as EtSO4- and Tf2N-) were favorable since nucleophilic ones (such as CF3COO- and CH3COO-) could exchange with chlorine resulting in non-reactive coupling reagents. Two modified Mukaiyama’s compounds (i.e. hydrophilic [2- ClMePy][EtSO4] and hydrophobic [2-ClMePy][Tf2N]) have been identified as the best ILtype coupling reagents. The esterification reaction was greatly enhanced by using 1- methylimidazole as the base instead of conventional toxic tertiary amines, and by using excess amount of alcohols as solvents instead of dichloromethane. Overall, the method reported is effective and ‘greener’.
Germacrene D Cyclization: An Ab Initio Investigation
Authors: Setzer William N.
Published: December 2008

Essential oils that contain large concentrations of germacrene D are typically accompanied by cadinane sesquiterpenoids. The acid-catalyzed cyclization of germacrene D to give cadinane and selinane sesquiterpenes has been computationally investigated using both density functional (B3LYP/6-31G*) and post Hartree-Fock (MP2/6-31G**) ab initio methods. The calculated energies are in general agreement with experimentally observed product distributions, both from acid-catalyzed cyclizations as well as distribution of the compounds in essential oils.
Determination of Thermal Properties and Morphology of Eucalyptus Wood Residue Filled High Density Polyethylene Composites
Authors: Mengeloglu Fatih , Kabakci Ayse
Published: December 2008

Thermal behaviors of eucalyptus wood residue (EWR) filled recycled high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites have been measured applying the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Morphology of the materials was also studied using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Addition of the EWR into the recycled HDPE matrix reduced the starting of degradation temperature. EWR filled recycled HDPE had two main decomposition peaks, one for EWR around 350 °C and one for recycled HDPE around 460 °C. Addition of EWR did not affect the melting temperature of the recycled HDPE. Morphological study showed that addition of coupling agent improved the compatibility between wood residue and recycled HDPE.
Computing the Szeged and PI Indices of VC5C7[p,q] and HC5C7[p,q] Nanotubes
Authors: Iranmanesh Ali , Alizadeh Yaser , Taherkhani Bahman
Published: December 2008

In this paper we give a GAP program for computing the Szeged and the PI indices of any graph. Also we compute the Szeged and PI indices of VC5C7[p,q] and HC5C7[p,q] nanotubes by this program.