JOURNAL OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 11-12 2003
T. Anesiadis
Abstract The protective, curative and eradicant activity of the strobilurin fungicide azoxystrobin against Cercospora beticola and Erysiphe betae on sugar beet was determined under growth chamber conditions. Difenoconazole and chlorothalonil were used as standard fungicides against C. beticola, while chlorothalonil was replaced by sulphur against E. betae. Fungicides were applied before (protective treatments) and after (curative treatments) inoculation at 24, 48 and 96 h intervals, respectively. An additional spray treatment was applied after the appearance of the symptoms to evaluate the eradicant activity of the fungicides tested. Applications of azoxystrobin at 16 ,/ml provided 89,94% and 95,97% disease control against C. beticola and E. betae, respectively. Curative treatments of azoxystrobin either at 8 or 16 ,g/ml provided control of Cercospora leaf-spot higher than 90% only when it was applied 24 h after inoculation of the plants. Comparatively, chlorothalonil (100 ,g/ml) provided satisfactory control of C. beticola when applied in protective treatments (83,87% disease control) but showed little activity when applied after the inoculation of the seedlings (45,76% disease control). High control efficacy against E. betae was also obtained by protective applications of sulphur (600 ,g/ml) but the fungicide failed to provide satisfactory disease control, particularly when applied for 48 or 96 h after inoculation of seedlings. Difenoconazole (8 ,g/ml) gave excellent protective and curative activity against both pathogens. Eradicative treatments with azoxystrobin provided high antisporulant activity of 94,96% and 85,93% against C. beticola and E. betae, respectively. Similarly, high antisporulant activity was also provided by difenoconazole, while postsymptom applications of chlorothalonil and sulphur provided significantly lower antisporulant activity against C. beticola and E. betae, respectively. Such results encourage the evaluation of azoxystrobin under field conditions to determine optimal treatment schedules and to select possibly partner fungicides for use in mixtures. [source]

Effect of carbide volume fraction on the oxidation of austenitic Fe-Cr-C alloys

MATERIALS AND CORROSION/WERKSTOFFE UND KORROSION, Issue 6 2006
L. B. Susanto
Abstract A series of Fe-15Cr-(2-3)Mo alloys (compositions in weight percent) was produced with different carbon concentrations, to control the distribution of chromium between matrix metal and M23C6 precipitates. The alloys were oxidized in the austenitic state at 850°C in pure oxygen, with and without a pre-oxidation treatment at low oxygen potential, where no iron oxide could form. Protective, chromia-rich scaling took place if the chromium concentration at the metal-scale interface was high enough. This concentration was controlled by the original alloy matrix chromium concentration, and whether or not a high diffusivity ferrite zone developed at the surface by decarburization. Ferrite zone formation was assisted by pre-oxidation at low oxygen potentials. The value of the carbides as suppliers of additional chromium was demonstrated by comparison with the oxidation performance of carbide-free alloys of corresponding matrix chromium levels. However, because dissolution of the coarse carbides could be slow, alloys with high volume fractions of large carbides were unsuccessful. [source]

Children's Experience of Loss by Parental Migration in Inner-City Jamaica

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ORTHOPSYCHIATRY, Issue 4 2005
Audrey M. Pottinger PhD
Migratory separation, when parents migrate and leave their children behind, was investigated in a case-control sample of 9- to 10-year-olds living in inner-city communities in Kingston and St Andrew, Jamaica (N = 54). Data analyses using descriptive statistics and bivariate correlations showed that children's reactions to their parents' migration were directly related to poor school performance and psychological difficulties. Additionally, being currently exposed to violence in the home and/or community was significantly associated with high scores on a measure of grief intensity. "Protective" factors included having someone to talk to about the migration and living in a supportive family. Migratory separation needs detailed investigation like that devoted to other childhood family disruptions, such as parental divorce or death. [source]

Protective and detrimental immunity: lessons from stiff person syndrome and multiple sclerosis

ACTA NEUROLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2009
T. Holmøy
Background,, The immune system may attack the brain and cause inflammatory disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS). On the other hand, the immune system may protect and support neurons. Methods, There are two obstacles to study this paradox in humans. First, the target antigens in many human central nervous system (CNS) disorders are unknown. Second, it is often difficult to separate pathogenic from protective events, as well as primary from secondary phenomena. Idiopathic stiff person syndrome (SPS) circumvents the first obstacle, because most patients secrete antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) 65. The immune response against glatiramer acetate (GA) may circumvent the second obstacle. Migration of activated T helper cells to the intrathecal compartment could be a common denominator in GA treatment and SPS. Results, We here discuss recent results on T cells in MS and SPS, showing that GAD65-specific and GA-reactive lymphocytes in the cerebrospinal fluid are not a simple reflection of those in blood. Conclusion, The rules and mechanisms governing T cell selection and maintenance in the CNS may provide a key to the understanding of protective and detrimental aspects of CNS immunity. [source]

Role of topical and nutritional supplement to modify the oxidative stress,

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 6 2002
P. Morganti
Synopsis Background: Evidence suggests that signs of skin ageing such as wrinkling, ragging and actinic lentigines, may be connected to cumulative oxidative damage incurred throughout our lifetimes. To counteract this oxidative injury, skin is equipped with a network on enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems, such as tocopherols, ascorbate polyphenols. All these compounds administered topically by cosmetics or by oral route by diet supplements, have been shown to exert an antioxidant/protective effect in skin or skin cells. Objective: The object of this study was to evaluate both in vitro and in vivo the activity performed by different topical antioxidants and nutritional supplements. Methods: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study was carried out for 8 weeks on 30 dry-skinned elderly volunteers, women aged between 48 and 59 years, with moderate xerosis and photoageing. Surface skin lipids, skin hydration and MDA determination were topically detected by 3C System. ROS was evaluated on the blood serum and on IL-3 stimulated human leukocytes by ROS Meter System at 505 nm. All the subjects applied twice a day for 2 months a nanocolloidal gel and/or take a diet supplement by oral route at the quantity of two capsules per day. All the formulations used were antioxidant-enriched (ascorbic acid, tocopherol, alpha-lipoic acid, melatonin, emblica). Results: Oxidative stress and consequently lipids peroxidation decreased from 30 to 40% (P < 0.005) in blood serum of all the subjects treated with antioxidant compounds topically and by oral route. Both free radicals recovered in blood serum and on skin (in vivo) and ROS induced by irradiation of leucocytes with UVB light (in vitro), appear sensibly lower in subjects antioxidant-treated. Conclusions: From the obtained data, it seems possible to conclude that all the compounds used play interesting role as topical and systemic photoprotectants, thanks to their interesting antioxidant property. Moreover, the antioxidant treatment seems to be a promising therapeutic approach also in reducing the oxidative stress of people affected by photoaging. Résumé Les faits semblent montrer que les signes du vieillissement cutané tels que les rides, la perte d'élasticité ou les taches de vieillesse, peuvent être liés aux effets oxydants cumulés subis tout au long de la vie. Pour contrer ces effets oxydants, la peau est équipée d'un réseau de systèmes antioxydants enzymatiques et non enzymatiques tels que les tocophérols, l'ascorbate et les polyphénols. Tous ces composés, administrés par voie topique par des cosmétiques ou par voie orale avec des suppléments alimentaires, se sont révélés exercer un effet antioxydant/protecteur sur la peau ou les cellules de la peau. L'objet de cette étude était d'évaluer aussi bien in-vitro qu'in-vivo l'activité de différents antioxydants topiques et suppléments alimentaires. Une étude randomisée contre placebo en double aveugle a été conduite sur 8 semaines avec 30 volontaires,gés à peau sèche, des femmes de 48 à 59 ans, présentant une xérose et un viellissement modéré. Les lipides à la surface de la peau, l'hydratation de la peau et la MDA ont été suivis de façon topique par le SYSTEM 3 C. Les ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) ont été déterminés dans le sérum sanguin et sur les leucocytes humains 12-3 stimulés par un SYSTEM ROS-METER à 505 nm. Tous les sujets ont appliqué deux fois par jour pendant deux mois un gel nanocolloïdal et/ou pris des suppléments alimentaires par voie orale à raison de deux gélules par jour. Toutes les formulations utilisées étaient enrichies en antioxydant (acide ascorbique, tocophérol, acide alpha-lipoïque, mélatonine, emblica). Le stress oxydant et par conséquent la péroxydation des lipides diminue de 30 à 40% (p < 0.005) dans le sérum sanguin de tous les sujets traités avec des composés antioxydants par voie topique ou orale. Les radicaux libres retrouvés aussi bien dans le sérum sanguin que dans la peau (in-vivo) et la ROS induite par l'irradiation des leucocytes avec la lumière ultraviolette (in-vitro) apparaissent significativement moins élevés chez les sujets traités aux antioxydants par voie topique ou orale. D'après les données obtenues il semble possible de conclure que tous les composés utilisés jouent un rôle intéressant comme photoprotecteurs topiques et systémiques grâce à leurs intéressantes propriétés antioxydantes. De plus, le traitement antioxydant semble être une approche thérapeutique prometteuse en ce qu'elle réduit aussi le stress oxydant des personnes touchées par le vieillissement. [source]

Limiting light-induced lipid peroxidation and vitamin loss in infant parenteral nutrition by adding multivitamin preparations to Intralipid

ACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 3 2001
KM Silvers
Parenteral lipids are susceptible to light-induced peroxidation, particularly under phototherapy. Ascorbic acid is protective. The aim of this study was to investigate whether dark delivery tubing and/or coadministration of multivitamin preparations could prevent peroxidation of Intralipid without undue vitamin loss. In experiments carried out on the benchtop, lipid peroxidation occurred in ambient light and was more extensive under phototherapy. Dark tubing decreased peroxide formation, but only by about 65%. In simulated clinical conditions in which solutions were pumped through standard clear or dark minibore plastic tubing, Intralipid accumulated lipid peroxides as measured by the FOX assay (280 ,M) or as triglyceride hydroperoxides (52 ,M). Multivitamin preparations (MVIP or Soluvit/Vitlipid) inhibited peroxide formation almost completely, and were fully protective when used with dark tubing. There was loss of riboflavin (65% from Soluvit and 35% from MVIP) in clear tubing but this was decreased to 18% and 11%, respectively, in dark tubing. Ascorbate loss was 20% (MVIP) and 50% (Soluvit) and only slightly less in dark tubing. Ascorbate loss was also seen in the absence of Intralipid and is due to riboflavin-induced photo-oxidation. Conclusion: Multivitamin preparations protect Intralipid against light-induced formation of lipid hydroperoxides, and administering multivitamins with Intralipid via dark delivery tubing provides a practical way of preventing peroxidation of the lipid while limiting vitamin loss. This procedure should be considered for routine use as well as with phototherapy. [source]

Cardioprotection of bradykinin at reperfusion involves transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor via matrix metalloproteinase-8

ACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 4 2009
C. Methner
Abstract Aim:, The endogenous autacoid bradykinin (BK) reportedly reduces myocardial infarct size when given exogenously at reperfusion. Muscarinic and opioid G-protein-coupled receptors are equally protective and have been shown to couple through a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-dependent transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Here we test whether BK protects the rat heart through the EGFR by an MMP-dependent pathway. Methods:, Infarct size was measured in isolated perfused rat hearts undergoing 30 min regional ischaemia followed by 120 min reperfusion. In additional studies HL-1 cardiomyocytes were loaded with tetramethylrhodamine ethyl to measure their mitochondrial membrane potential (,m). Adding the calcium ionophore calcimycin, causes ,m-collapse presumably due to calcium-induced mitochondrial permeability transition. Results:, As expected, BK (100 nmol L,1) started 5 min prior to reperfusion reduced infarct size from 38.9 ± 2.0% of the ischaemic zone in control hearts to 22.2 ± 3.3% (P < 0.001). Co-infusing the EGFR inhibitor AG1478, the broad-spectrum MMP-inhibitor GM6001, or a highly selective MMP-8 inhibitor abolished BK's protection, thus suggesting an MMP-8-dependent EGFR transactivation in the signalling. Eighty minutes of exposure to calcimycin reduced the mean cell fluorescence to 37.4 ± 1.8% of untreated cells while BK could partly preserve the fluorescence and, hence, protect the cells (50.5 ± 2.3%, P < 0.001). The BK-induced mitochondrial protection could again be blocked by AG1478, GM6001 and MMP-8 inhibitor. Finally, Western blotting revealed that BK's protection was correlated with increased phosphorylation of EGFR and its downstream target Akt. Conclusion:, These results indicate that BK at reperfusion triggers its protective signalling pathway through MMP-8-dependent transactivation of the EGFR. [source]

The efficacy of a protective cream in a real-world apprentice hairdresser environment

CONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 3 2001
D. Perrenoud
The object of this study was to compare the protective action of a new barrier cream (Excipial Protect®, Spirig Pharma AG, Egerkingen, Switzerland) to its vehicle in the context of hand irritation of apprentice hairdressers caused by repeated shampooing and exposure to hair-care products. This was a double-blind cross-over comparing Excipial Protect® (containing aluminium chlorohydrate 5% as active ingredient) against its vehicle alone. The efficacy of the creams was evaluated taking into account: (1) clinical scores by researchers, (2) biometric measurements, (3) subjective opinions of the subjects. An analysis of variance was performed considering order of application, degree of atopy, and reported number of shampoos. We observed very little difference in efficacy between the protective cream and its vehicle. The presence, however, of aluminium chlorhydrate in the protective cream was shown to have a positive effect against work-related irritation. The cosmetic qualities of the creams seemed, to the participants, to be as important as their real protective and hydrating properties, an important factor in compliance issues. [source]

Low internalised restraint predicts criminal recidivism in young female prisoners

CRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR AND MENTAL HEALTH, Issue 5 2009
Ellen Kjelsberg
Background,The Weinberger Adjustment Inventory (WAI) measures social-emotional adjustment along two dimensions: distress and restraint. Four types of adjustment according to this measure have been shown to correlate with criminal recidivism among young male prisoners: reactive (high distress, low restraint), suppressor (high distress, high restraint), non-reactive (low distress, low restraint) and repressor (low distress, high restraint). Aim,To evaluate the predictive potential of the WAI among young female prisoners. Methods,Women under 30 years old, consecutively admitted to one of three Norwegian prisons, were asked to complete the WAI. Most of those eligible (102, 94%) did so. Re-conviction data were collected from the National Crime Register 38 months (SD = 9.0) after release. Results,The overall re-conviction rate was 38%. Rates differed according to the four WAI types: 53% in the non-reactive, 50% in the reactive, 22% in the suppressor and 11% in the repressor group (p = 0.006). Kaplan,Meier analyses showed that group differences were explained by the WAI restraint dimension (p = 0.008). Differences on the distress dimension did not influence re-conviction. Cox regression analysis (adjusting for age at first court conviction and prior offences) found that women with low restraint scores were almost three times as likely to re-offend as women with high restraint scores. Conclusion,The WAI appears to be an effective tool for identifying women who are particularly vulnerable to re-offending. Evidence of high capacity for restraint is protective, regardless of distress levels and even after adjusting for the effect of other criminologically important factors. The findings are suggestive that there may be value in individualising ,treatment' or rehabilitation programmes for prisoners. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

ROMANTIC PARTNERS' INFLUENCE ON MEN'S LIKELIHOOD OF ARREST IN EARLY ADULTHOOD,

CRIMINOLOGY, Issue 2 2008
DEBORAH M. CAPALDI
Female romantic partners' influence on official crime occurrence for men across a 12-year period in early adulthood was examined within a comprehensive dynamic prediction model, including both social learning and social control predictors. We hypothesized that relationship stability, rather than attachment to partner, would be associated with reduced likelihood of crime, whereas women's antisocial behavior would be a risk factor, along with deviant peer association. Models were tested on a sample of at-risk men [the Oregon Youth Study (OYS)] using zero-inflated Poisson (ZIP) modeling predicting 1) arrest persistence (class and count) and 2) arrest onset class. The findings indicated that women's antisocial behavior was predictive of both onset and persistence of arrests for men and that deviant peer association was predictive of persistence. Relationship stability was protective against persistence. [source]

MODELING MEDIATION IN THE ETIOLOGY OF VIOLENT BEHAVIOR IN ADOLESCENCE: A TEST OF THE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT MODEL,

CRIMINOLOGY, Issue 1 2001
BU HUANG
The social development model seeks to explain human behavior through specification of predictive and mediating developmental relationships. It incorporates the effects of empirical predictors ("risk factors" and "protective factors") for antisocial behavior and seeks to synthesize the most strongly supported propositions of control theory, social learning theory, and differential association theory. This article examines the fit of the social development model using constructs measured at ages 10, 13, 14, and 16 to predict violent behavior at age 18. The sample of 808 is from the longitudinal panel of the Seattle Social Development Project, which in 1985 surveyed fifth-grade students from schools serving high crime neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington. Structural equation modeling techniques were used to examine the fit of the model to the data. The model fit the data (CFI ,.90, RMSEA ,.05). We conclude that the social development model adequately predicts violence at age 18 and mediates much of the effect of prior violence. Implications for theory and for prevention are discussed. [source]

Neurophysiological and genetic distinctions between pure and comorbid anxiety disorders,

DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY, Issue 5 2008
Mary-Anne Enoch M.D.
Abstract Anxiety disorders are often comorbid with major depression (MD) and alcohol use disorders (AUD). Two common functional polymorphisms in catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT Val158Met) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF Val66Met) genes have been implicated in the neurobiology of anxiety and depression. We hypothesized that attentional response and working memory (auditory P300 event-related potential and Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale, Revised digit symbol scores) as well as genetic vulnerability would differ between pure anxiety disorders and comorbid anxiety. Our study sample comprised 249 community-ascertained men and women with lifetime DSM-III-R diagnoses. We analyzed groups of participants with pure anxiety disorders, pure MD, pure AUD, comorbid anxiety, and no psychiatric disorder. Participants were well at the time of testing; state anxiety and depressed mood measures were at most only mildly elevated. Individuals with pure anxiety disorders had elevated P300 amplitudes (P=0.0004) and higher digit symbol scores (P<0.0001) compared with all the other groups. Individuals with comorbid anxiety had the greatest proportion of COMT Met158 and BDNF Met66 alleles (P=0.009) as well as higher harm avoidance-neuroticism (P<0.0005) than all other groups. Our results suggest that there may be two vulnerability factors for anxiety disorders with differing genetic susceptibility: (a) heightened attention and better working memory with mildly elevated anxiety-neuroticism, a constellation that may be protective against other psychopathology; and (b) poorer attention and working memory with greater anxiety-neuroticism, a constellation that may also increase vulnerability to AUD and MD. This refinement of the anxiety phenotype may have implications for therapeutic interventions. Depression and Anxiety 0:1,10, 2007. Published 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

The neurobiological profile of girls with ADHD

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES RESEARCH REVIEW, Issue 4 2008
E. Mark Mahone
Abstract Since boys are more commonly diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) than girls, the majority of theories and published research studies of ADHD have been based on samples comprised primarily (or exclusively) of boys. While psychosocial impairment in girls with ADHD is well established, the neuropsychological and neurobiological basis of these deficits is less consistently observed. There is growing evidence that boys' and girls' brains develop and mature at different rates, suggesting that the trajectory of early anomalous brain development in ADHD may also be sex-specific. It remains unclear, however, whether earlier brain maturation observed in girls with ADHD is protective. In this review, we outline the current theory and research findings that seek to establish a unique neurobiological profile of girls with ADHD, highlighting sex differences in typical brain development and among children with ADHD. The review highlights findings from neurological, neurocognitive, and behavioral studies. Future research directions are suggested, including the need for longitudinal neuroimaging and neurobehavioral investigation beginning as early as the preschool years, and continuing through adolescence and adulthood, with consideration of identified sex differences in the development of ADHD. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2008;14:276,284. [source]

Human breast areolae as scent organs: Morphological data and possible involvement in maternal-neonatal coadaptation

DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOBIOLOGY, Issue 2 2006
Benoist Schaal
Abstract In humans, areolar skin glands (AG) enlarge during pregnancy and lactation. Their role in mother-infant interactions may pertain to protective, mechanical, and communicative functions. It was questioned here whether more profuse AG could be related to more optimal adaptation to breastfeeding. A morphological study of the areolae was undertaken between birth and day 3 to assess the number, secretory status, and spatial distribution of AG. These data were related to infants' weight variation, mothers' perception of their infant's behavior at breast, and time between delivery and onset of lactation. AG were seen in virtually all women but with great interindividual variations; their areolar distribution was nonrandom, and about 1/5 of the women had AG giving off a secretion. The AG number was positively related with neonatal weight gain between birth and day 3, and with the mother's perception of infant's latching speed and sucking activity. AG numbers were also positively related with the onset of lactation in first-time mothers. In conclusion, the maternal endowment in AG may contribute to the infants' breastfeeding performance, early growth, and the mother's lactation onset. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psyshobiol 48: 100,110, 2006. [source]

Recollections of parent,child relationships in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder with agoraphobia

ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2002
L. Turgeon
Objective:,In previous studies, patients with different psychiatric conditions, as compared with matched controls, have reported that their parents were more protective and less caring towards them when they were children. However, studies investigating associations between parental behaviours and anxiety disorders have yielded inconsistent results. The aim of this study was to compare recalled parental behaviours in out-patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), in out-patients with panic disorder with agoraphobia (PDA), and in non-anxious controls. Method:,The sample included 43 out-patients with OCD, 38 with PDA, and 120 controls. Participants completed the Parental Bonding Instrument and the Egna Minnen Beträffande Uppfostran or Own Memories of Parental Rearing Experiences in Childhood. Results:,No differences were found between the two anxious groups. However, compared with the control group, anxious patients recalled their parents as more protective. Conclusion:,Our findings suggest that child rearing practices such as overprotection may be a risk factor in the development of anxiety disorders. [source]

Reflux injury of esophageal mucosa: experimental studies in animal models of esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma

DISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 5 2007
Yan Li
SUMMARY., Barrett's esophagus (BE), a gastroesophageal reflux associated complication, is defined as the replacement of normal esophageal squamous mucosa by specialized intestinal columnar mucosa with the appearance of goblet cells. The presence of BE is associated with an increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Although the exposure of gastroduodenal contents to the esophageal mucosa is considered to be an important risk factor for the development of esophagitis, BE and EAC, the mechanisms of reflux esophageal injury are not fully understood. Animal models are now being used extensively to identify the mechanisms of damage and to devise protective and mitigating strategies. Experimental studies on animal models by mimicking the processing of gastroesophageal reflux injury have bloomed during the past decades, however, there is controversy regarding which experimental model for reflux esophagitis, experimental BE and experimental EAC is best. In this review article we aim to clarify the basic understanding of gastroesophageal reflux injury and its complications of BE and EAC, as well as to present current understanding of the reflux experimental models. The animal models of experimental esophageal injury are summarized with focus on the surgical procedures to guide the investigator in choosing or developing a correct animal model in future studies. In addition, our own experimental studies of the animal models are also briefly discussed. [source]

ADH1B*2 allele is protective against alcoholism but not chronic liver disease in the Hungarian population

ADDICTION, Issue 5 2010
Reka Toth
ABSTRACT Background Standardized death rates from chronic liver diseases (CLDs) in Hungary are much higher than the European Union average. Carrying the alcohol dehydrogenase 1B 48His allele (rs1229984 or ADH1B*2) could decrease the risk of alcoholism, but with persistent drinking may confer a greater risk of CLDs. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of this polymorphism in the Hungarian population and its association with alcohol consumption and with CLDs. Methods and results A total of 278 cases with diagnosed CLDs and 752 controls without any alterations in liver function, all males aged 45,64, were screened for ADH1B Arg48His polymorphism. ADH1B*2 allele frequencies in controls and cases were 8.31% and 4.50%, respectively (,2 = 9.2; P = 0.01). Carrying the ADH1B*2 allele was associated with significantly lower odds ratio (OR) for drinking frequency (OR = 0.63; P = 0.003), the number of positive answers on CAGE (Cut-down, Annoyed, Guilt, Eye-opener) assessment (OR = 0.58; P = 0.005) and a positive CAGE status (OR = 0.55; P = 0.007). There was a significant association between ADH1B*2 and CLDs (OR = 0.50; P = 0.003), but it disappeared after adjusting for CAGE status and scores (OR = 0.67 P = 0.134; OR = 0.67 P = 0.148, respectively) and weakened after adjusting for drinking frequency (OR = 0.61; P = 0.045). Among heavy drinkers the presence of ADH1B*2 did not increase the risk of cirrhosis but there was a significant interaction between genotype and CAGE status (P = 0.003, P = 0.042), with ADH1B*2 conferring reduced risk of CLDs in CAGE negatives. Conclusion In Hungarians, the ADH1B 48His allele reduces the risk of alcoholism, but not the risk of chronic liver disease among heavy drinkers. [source]

Sweet preferences and analgesia during childhood: effects of family history of alcoholism and depression

ADDICTION, Issue 4 2010
Julie A. Mennella
ABSTRACT Aim To determine whether depression and family history of alcoholism are associated with heightened sweet preferences in children, before they have experienced alcohol or tobacco and at a time during the life-span when sweets are particularly salient. Design Between- and within-subject experimental study. Participants Children, 5,12 years old (n = 300), formed four groups based on family history of alcohol dependence up to second-degree relatives [positive (FHP) versus negative (FHN)] and depressive symptoms as determined by the Pictorial Depression Scale [depressed (PDEP) versus non-depressed (NDEP)]. Measurements Children were tested individually to measure sucrose preferences, sweet food liking and, for a subset of the children, the analgesic properties of sucrose versus water during the cold pressor test. Findings The co-occurrence of having a family history of alcoholism and self-reports of depressive symptomatology was associated significantly with a preference for a more concentrated sucrose solution, while depressive symptomatology alone was associated with greater liking for sweet-tasting foods and candies and increased pain sensitivity. Depression antagonized the analgesic properties of sucrose. Conclusions While children as a group innately like sweets and feel better after eating them, the present study reveals significant contributions of family history of alcoholism and depression to this effect. Whether the heightened sweet preference and the use of sweets to alleviate depression are markers for developing alcohol-related problems or responses that are protective are important areas for future research. [source]

Factors associated with incarceration and incident human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among injection drug users participating in an HIV vaccine trial in Bangkok, Thailand, 1999,2003

ADDICTION, Issue 2 2009
Pravan Suntharasamai
ABSTRACT Aims To determine if incarceration was associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and identify risk factors for incarceration among injection drug users (IDUs) participating in an HIV vaccine trial in Bangkok. Design The AIDSVAX B/E HIV vaccine trial was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. A proportional hazards model was used to evaluate demographic characteristics, risk behavior and incarceration as predictors of HIV infection and generalized estimation equation logistic regression analysis to investigate demographic characteristics and risk behaviors for predictors of incarceration. Setting The trial was conducted in Bangkok Metropolitan Administration drug-treatment clinics, 1999,2003. Participants A total of 2546 HIV-uninfected IDUs enrolled in the trial. Measurements HIV testing was performed and an interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to assess risk behavior and incarceration at baseline and every 6 months for a total of 36 months. Findings HIV incidence was 3.4 per 100 person-years [95% confidence interval (CI), 3.0,3.9] and did not differ among vaccine and placebo recipients. In multivariable analysis, being in jail (P < 0.04), injecting (P < 0.0001), injecting daily (P < 0.0001) and sharing needles (P = 0.02) were associated with HIV infection and methadone maintenance was protective (P = 0.0006). Predictors of incarceration in multivariable analysis included: male sex (P = 0.04), younger age (P < 0.0001), less education (P = 0.001) and being in jail (P < 0.0001) or prison (P < 0.0001) before enrollment. Conclusions Among IDUs in the AIDSVAX B/E trial, incarceration in jail was associated with incident HIV infection. IDUs in Thailand remain at high risk of HIV infection and additional prevention tools are needed urgently. HIV prevention services, including methadone, should be made available to IDUs. [source]

Modifying effect of propolis on dimethylhydrazine-induced DNA damage but not colonic aberrant crypt foci in rats

ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS, Issue 1 2005
Rodrigo O. Alves de Lima
Abstract Propolis is a honeybee product with several biological and therapeutic properties, including antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic activities. The effects of an aqueous extract of propolis (AEP) were evaluated on the formation of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and DNA damage in the colon of male Wistar rats by the ACF and Comet assays, respectively. AEP was administered orally at 0.01%, 0.03%, 0.1%, and 0.3% in the drinking water, which resulted in doses of approximately 12, 34, 108, and 336 mg/kg body weight/day. Animals were also given a single subcutaneous injection of 40 mg/kg DMH and sacrificed 4 hr later for evaluating DNA damage, or 4 doses of 40 mg/kg DMH, administered 2 doses/week for 2 weeks, and sacrificed 12 weeks after the last injection for evaluating ACF development in the distal colon. Administration of AEP either simultaneously with or after the DMH treatment resulted in no statistically significant reduction of ACF. In contrast, 0.01%, 0.03%, and 0.3% AEP, given simultaneously with DMH, reduced DNA damage induction in the mid and distal colon. However, 0.3% AEP alone increased DNA damage in the colon. In conclusion, AEP had no effect on the formation of DMH-induced ACF in rat colon, but it modulated DMH-induced DNA damage in colon cells. Further investigations are recommended in order to establish the conditions under which propolis produces either protective or deleterious effects. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2005. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Alcohol consumption patterns and risk factors among childhood cancer survivors compared to siblings and general population peers

ADDICTION, Issue 7 2008
E. Anne Lown
ABSTRACT Aims This study describes alcohol consumption among adult survivors of pediatric cancer compared to sibling controls and a national sample of healthy peers. Risk factors for heavy drinking among survivors are described. Design, setting and participants Cross-sectional data were utilized from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study including adult survivors of pediatric cancer (n = 10 398) and a sibling cohort (n = 3034). Comparison data were drawn from the National Alcohol Survey (n = 4774). Measurement Alcohol consumption, demographic, cancer diagnosis, treatment and psychosocial factors were measured. Findings Compared to peers, survivors were slightly less likely to be risky [adjusted odds ratio (ORadj) = 0.9; confidence interval (CI) 0.8,1.0] and heavy drinkers (ORadj = 0.8; CI 0.7,0.9) and more likely to be current drinkers. Compared to siblings, survivors were less likely to be current, risky and heavy drinkers. Risk factors for survivors' heavy drinking included being age 18,21 years (ORadj = 2.0; 95% CI 1.5,2.6), male (ORadj = 2.1; 95% CI 1.8,2.6), having high school education or less (ORadj = 3.4; 95% CI 2.7,4.4) and drinking initiation before age 14 (ORadj = 6.9; 95% CI 4.4,10.8). Among survivors, symptoms of depression, anxiety or somatization, fair or poor self-assessed health, activity limitations and anxiety about cancer were associated with heavy drinking. Cognitively compromising treatment, brain tumors and older age at diagnosis were protective. Conclusions Adult survivors of childhood cancer show only a modest reduction in alcohol consumption compared to peers despite their more vulnerable health status. Distress and poorer health are associated with survivor heavy drinking. Screening for alcohol consumption should be instituted in long-term follow-up care and interventions among survivors and siblings should be established to reduce risk for early drinking. [source]

Comparative mechanisms of zearalenone and ochratoxin A toxicities on cultured HepG2 cells: Is oxidative stress a common process?

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY, Issue 6 2009
Emna El Golli Bennour
Abstract Zearalenone (ZEN) and Ochratoxin A (OTA) are structurally diverse fungal metabolites that can contaminate feed and foodstuff and can cause serious health problems for animals as well as for humans. In this study, we get further insight of the molecular aspects of ZEN and OTA toxicities in cultured human HepG2 hepatocytes. In this context, we have monitored the effects of ZEN and OTA on (i) cell viability, (ii) heat shock protein (Hsp) 70 and Hsp 27 gene expressions as a parameter of protective and adaptive response, (iii) oxidative damage, and (iv) cell death pathways. Our results clearly showed that both ZEN and OTA inhibit cell proliferation. For ZEN, a significant induction of Hsp 70 and Hsp 27 was observed. In the same conditions, ZEN generated an important amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Antioxidant supplements restored the major part of cell mortality induced by ZEN. However, OTA treatment downregulated Hsp 70 and Hsp 27 protein and mRNA levels and did not induce ROS generation. Antioxidant supplements did not have a significant effect on OTA-induced cell mortality. Using another cell system (Vero monkey kidney cells), we demonstrated that OTA downregulates three members of HSP 70 family: Hsp 70, Hsp 75, and Hsp 78. Our findings showed that oxidative damage seemed to be the predominant toxic effect for ZEN, while OTA toxicity seemed to be rather because of the absence of Hsps protective response. Furthermore, the two mycotoxins induced an apoptotic cell death. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2009. [source]

Relationship between biotic ligand model-based water quality criteria and avoidance and olfactory responses to copper by fish

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 9 2010
Joseph S. Meyer
Abstract The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (U.S. EPA) water quality criteria for Cu were tested to determine whether they protect fish against neurophysiological impairment. From published studies with rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch), and fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), 20% inhibition concentrations (IC20s) were calculated for avoidance of Cu-containing water and for impairment of electroencephalogram (EEG) and electro-olfactogram (EOG) responses to natural odorants in Cu-containing water. Additionally, a Cu-olfactory biotic ligand model (BLM) that fits the coho salmon EOG data was parameterized by changing the sensitivity parameter in the ionoregulatory-based BLM. The IC20s calculated from reported Cu avoidance, EEG, and EOG data and IC20s predicted by the olfactory BLM were compared with acute and chronic Cu criteria calculated using U.S. EPA's BLM 2007 or hardness-adjustment equations. The BLM-based chronic criteria were protective in all 16 exposure water,species combinations used in avoidance and olfaction experiments. Additionally, the BLM-based acute criteria were protective in all 11 exposure water,species combinations in which comparisons could be made with olfactory BLM-predicted IC20s but not in two of the 16 exposure water,species combinations in which comparisons could be made with the reported IC20s (which were ,8% lower than but did not differ significantly from the BLM-based acute criteria; p,>,0.05). In effect, the olfactory BLM factored out the relatively high variability in the reported IC20s. It is concluded that the U.S. EPA's BLM-based water quality criteria for Cu protect against these types of neurophysiological impairment in the six species,endpoint combinations analyzed in this paper. However, the U.S. EPA's hardness-based criteria for Cu sometimes were considerably underprotective and sometimes were much less protective than the BLM-based criteria. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2010;29:2096,2103. © 2010 SETAC [source]

Critical period of sensitivity for effects of cadmium on frog growth and development,

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2009
Jackson A. Gross
Abstract Cadmium is a ubiquitous pollutant in aquatic environments that can alter organismal physiology and ecology. Previous experiments found that ecological Cd exposures increased the growth and development of two North American anurans. However, the generality of these effects among species, the time period over which they occur, and the mechanisms responsible remain conjectural. The goal of the present study was to determine the critical period of sensitivity of Rana pipiens exposed to ecologically relevant levels of Cd. We exposed tadpoles to Cd (0 [control], 1.0, and 10.0 ,g/L) from Gosner stage (GS) 25 to metamorphic climax. We assessed effects of Cd on amphibian length, survival, and development during premetamorphosis (GS 25,30) and prometamorphosis (GS 31,42). After 14 d of exposure, we staged tadpoles and recorded snout-vent length. Tadpoles were then pooled according to treatment and stage (GS , 29 or GS , 30) and allowed to undergo metamorphic development. Tadpoles exposed to 10 ,g/L were significantly larger and more advanced in development by 14 d. Survival to forelimb emergence exceeded 90% in all treatments, and time to metamorphic climax was not different from that in controls. Body burdens of Cd were positively correlated with increasing treatment. Early amphibian development (premetamorphosis) was shown to be the critical period of sensitivity for growth and development. Whereas the freshwater criterion for Cd appears to be protective for survival, a lack of knowledge remains about the sublethal effects of chronic exposures of metal pollutants, especially as they relate to tissue concentrations at various stages of amphibian life history. [source]

Influence of in-stream diel concentration cycles of dissolved trace metals on acute toxicity to one-year-old cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki lewisi)

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 12 2007
David A. Nimick
Abstract Extrapolating results of laboratory bioassays to streams is difficult, because conditions such as temperature and dissolved metal concentrations can change substantially on diel time scales. Field bioassays conducted for 96 h in two mining-affected streams compared the survival of hatchery-raised, metal-näive westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki lewisi) exposed to dissolved (0.1-,m filtration) metal concentrations that either exhibited the diel variation observed in streams or were controlled at a constant value. Cadmium and Zn concentrations in these streams increased each night by as much as 61 and 125%, respectively, and decreased a corresponding amount the next day, whereas Cu did not display a diel concentration cycle. In High Ore Creek (40 km south of Helena, MT, USA), survival (33%) after exposure to natural diel-fluctuating Zn concentrations (range, 214,634 ,g/L; mean, 428 ,g/L) was significantly (p = 0.008) higher than survival (14%) after exposure to a controlled, constant Zn concentration (422 ,g/L). Similarly, in Dry Fork Belt Creek (70 km southeast of Great Falls, MT, USA), survival (75%) after exposure to diel-fluctuating Zn concentrations (range, 266,522 ,g/L; mean, 399 ,g/L) was significantly (p = 0.022) higher than survival (50%) in the constant-concentration treatment (392 ,g/L). Survival likely was greater in these diel treatments, both because the periods of lower metal concentrations provided some relief for the fish and because toxicity during periods of higher metal concentrations was lessened by the simultaneous occurrence each night of lower water temperatures, which reduce the rate of metal uptake. Based on the present study, current water-quality criteria appear to be protective for streams with diel concentration cycles of Zn (and, perhaps, Cd) for the hydrologic conditions tested. [source]

Approaches for linking whole-body fish tissue residues of mercury or DDT to biological effects thresholds

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 8 2005
Nancy Beckvar
Abstract A variety of methods have been used by numerous investigators attempting to link tissue concentrations with observed adverse biological effects. This paper is the first to evaluate in a systematic way different approaches for deriving protective (i.e., unlikely to have adverse effects) tissue residue-effect concentrations in fish using the same datasets. Guidelines for screening papers and a set of decision rules were formulated to provide guidance on selecting studies and obtaining data in a consistent manner. Paired no-effect (NER) and low-effect (LER) whole-body residue concentrations in fish were identified for mercury and DDT from the published literature. Four analytical approaches of increasing complexity were evaluated for deriving protective tissue residues. The four methods were: Simple ranking, empirical percentile, tissue threshold-effect level (t-TEL), and cumulative distribution function (CDF). The CDF approach did not yield reasonable tissue residue thresholds based on comparisons to synoptic control concentrations. Of the four methods evaluated, the t-TEL approach best represented the underlying data. A whole-body mercury t-TEL of 0.2 mg/kg wet weight, based largely on sublethal endpoints (growth, reproduction, development, behavior), was calculated to be protective of juvenile and adult fish. For DDT, protective whole-body concentrations of 0.6 mg/kg wet weight in juvenile and adult fish, and 0.7 mg/kg wet weight for early life-stage fish were calculated. However, these DDT concentrations are considered provisional for reasons discussed in this paper (e.g., paucity of sublethal studies). [source]

Effects of metal and organophosphate mixtures on Ceriodaphnia dubia survival and reproduction

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 7 2005
Amy M. Mahar
Abstract The toxicity of mixtures of copper, zinc, and diazinon were determined for Ceriodaphnia dubia using 7-d survival and reproduction tests. Fifteen treatments, including combinations of the chemicals at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of their individual median lethal concentrations, adding up to one toxic unit (TU) were tested. The TU was then used to classify each mixture response as additive, greater than additive, or less than additive. For survival, additive responses occurred in the 75% zinc plus 25% diazinon and the 50% copper plus 25% zinc plus 25% diazinon treatments. For reproduction, additive responses occurred in the 75% copper plus 25% zinc, 75% copper plus 25% diazinon, and 75% zinc plus 25% diazinon treatments. Copper and zinc played a greater role in toxicity than diazinon did. Less-than-additive interactions were found in all remaining mixtures, perhaps because of differences in mode of action between diazinon and metals. Consideration of dose-response curves can help to explain inconsistencies regarding toxic response in treatments with different ratios of the same chemicals. As TU percentages changed, mixture components were taken from different locations on differently shaped dose-response curves. Because most responses were less than additive, however, water-quality criteria based on individual concentrations probably are protective for most metal-organophosphate mixtures. [source]

Evaluation of acute copper toxicity to larval fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) in soft surface waters

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 2 2005
Eric J. Van Genderen
Abstract The hardness-based regulatory approach for Cu prescribes an extrapolation of the toxicity-versus-hardness relationship to low hardness (,50 mg/L as CaCO3). Hence, the objective of the present research was to evaluate the influences of water quality on acute Cu toxicity to larval fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) in low-hardness surface waters. Seasonal water sampling was conducted at 24 sites throughout South Carolina, USA, to determine the site-specific influences of soft surface-water conditions on acute Cu toxicity. Concurrent toxicity tests in laboratory water, matched for hardness and alkalinity (modified method), also were conducted to allow calculation of water-effect ratios (WERs). In addition, tests were conducted at recommended hardness levels (recommended method) for comparison of WER methodology in soft water. Surface-water conditions (average ± standard deviation, n = 53) were hardness of 16 ± 8 mg/L as CaCO3, alkalinity of 18 ± 11 mg/L as CaCO3, and dissolved organic carbon of 6 ± 4 mg/L. Dissolved Cu 48-h median lethal concentration (LC50) values varied nearly 45-fold across the dataset and greater than four-fold at individual sites. Spatial (p < 0.0001) and seasonal (p = 0.026) differences among LC50 values were determined for eight sites that had multiple toxicity results for one year. All modified WERs were greater than 1.0, suggesting that the site waters were more protective of Cu toxicity than the matched laboratory water. Some WERs generated using recommended methods were less than 1.0, suggesting limited site-specific protection. Based on these observations, extrapolation of the hardness-based equation for Cu at 50 mg/L or less as CaCO3 would adequately protect fathead minnow populations in soft surface waters. The WER results presented here demonstrate the inconsistency between hardness-based criteria and the methodology for deriving site-specific water-quality criteria in low-hardness waters. [source]

Response of macroinvertebrates to copper and zinc in a stream mesocosm

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 9 2002
Christopher W Hickey
Abstract Metal pollution of streams and rivers is recognized as one of the major concerns for management of freshwaters. Macroinvertebrate communities were established within 12 artificial streams and exposed to three replicated concentrations of a metals mixture (copper and zinc) for 34 d. The cumulative criterion units (CCU = ,[metals]/hardness-adjusted U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [U.S. EPA] 1996 chronic criterion value) of total metals in the low, medium, and high treatments were 2.4, 5.9, and 18 CCUs. Zinc comprised approximately 75% of the CCUs in each of the treatments. Effects on taxa richness and the number of taxa in the orders Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT) were moderate at the high exposure concentration (,23% and ,26% respectively, p < 0.05). All of the five major mayfly species showed near extinction, whereas four of the seven caddisflies showed stimulation (up to +121%) and three were reduced (up to ,76%). Redundancy analysis for this metal gradient indicated that 94% of the variance in community structure was explained by three quantitative variables: total mayfly abundance, a mollusk (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) abundance, and the number of EPT individuals, indicating that multiple indices do provide improved predictors of metal stress. Most species showed a threshold response relationship, whereas some community indicators showed apparent hormetic responses (e.g., number of mayfly taxa, total taxa, and number of EPT taxa). Model concentration-response relationships with generalized linear models were used to provide threshold of 20% effective concentration values for species and community metrics. Threshold effect values ranged upwards of 1.4 CCUs, indicating that U.S.EPA chronic criteria would be protective of species and community responses. [source]

Relative sensitivity of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) to acute copper toxicity

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 3 2002
James A. Hansen
Abstract Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) were recently listed as threatened in the United States under the federal Endangered Species Act. Past and present habitat for this species includes waterways contaminated with heavy metals released from mining activities. Because the sensitivity of this species to copper was previously unknown, we conducted acute copper toxicity tests with bull and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in side-by-side comparison tests. Bioassays were conducted using water at two temperatures (8°C and 16°C) and two hardness levels (100 and 220 mg/L as CaCO3). At a water hardness of 100 mg/L, both species were less sensitive to copper when tested at 16°C compared to 8°C. The two species had similar sensitivity to copper in 100-mg/L hardness water, but bull trout were 2.5 to 4 times less sensitive than rainbow trout in 220-mg/L hardness water. However, when our results were viewed in the context of the broader literature on rainbow trout sensitivity to copper, the sensitivities of the two species appeared similar. This suggests that adoption of toxicity thresholds that are protective of rainbow trout would be protective of bull trout; however, an additional safety factor may be warranted because of the additional level of protection necessary for this federally threatened species. [source]