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Background Levels (background + level)

Distribution by Scientific Domains

Life Sciences	35%
Earth and Environmental Science	22%
Medical Sciences	20%
Physics and Astronomy	10%
Engineering	5%
Chemistry	5%

Selected Abstracts

Dose-dependent effects of endotoxins on allergen sensitization and challenge in the mouse

CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 11 2004
C. Delayre-Orthez
Summary Background Levels of endotoxins greatly differ according to environmental settings. Objective To study the effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at increasing doses (0.1,1000 ng) on allergen sensitization and challenge in the mouse. Methods Mice were sensitized systemically and challenged locally with ovalbumin (OVA) in the presence or absence of LPS. Inflammation was assessed by determining total and differential cell counts and T-helper type 2 (Th)2 cytokine (IL-4 and IL-5) levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Total and OVA-specific IgE levels were quantified in serum. Airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR) was assessed by whole-body barometric plethysmography. Results Administered prior to sensitization, LPS at 100 or 1000 ng dose-dependently decreased allergen- induced total and OVA-specific IgE, airway eosinophilia and Th2 cytokines in BALF, without changing AHR. Administered during OVA challenge, LPS at 1 ng (an infra-clinical dose) or 100 ng (a dose triggering neutrophilia) enhanced airway eosinophilia, without affecting IgE levels or AHR. Conclusion Our data clearly demonstrate that exposure to LPS influences allergen-induced IgE production and airway eosinophilia in a time and dose-dependent manner, preventing IgE production and development of eosinophilia when administered during allergen sensitization at high doses, and inducing exacerbation of eosinophilia when administered upon allergen challenge at low doses, including infra-clinical doses. [source]

Three structurally homologous isothiocyanates exert "Janus" characteristics in human HepG2 cells

ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS, Issue 3 2009
Evelyn Lamy
Abstract In this study, we used the single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) assay and the micronucleus (MN) test to investigate the DNA damaging effects and the antigenotoxic potencies of three structurally related ITCs in human HepG2 cells. The results show that all three ITCs possess the characteristic of a "Janus" compound, i.e., they exert both significant genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity, depending on the concentrations used in the test systems applied. Regression line analysis of the results derived by SCGE analysis showed genotoxic potency of the ITCs in the following order: 3-methylthiopropyl ITC (MTPITC) > 4-methylthiobutyl ITC (MTBITC) > 5-methylthiopentyl ITC (MTPeITC); however, this order in genotoxic potency was not confirmed by MN analysis. Additionally, the MN test showed significant mutagenicity of the test substances at higher concentrations when compared with the SCGE assay. Twenty-four hour-treatment of the cells with the ITCs, followed by a 1-hr recovery period, showed significant DNA repair in the SCGE assay at a concentration ,10 ,M MTPITC, ,3 ,M MTBITC, and ,0.1 ,M MTPeITC, respectively. In antigenotoxicity studies, the most effective concentration of MTPITC and MTPeITC toward B(a)P-induced DNA damage was 0.1 ,M in both test systems. MTBITC suppressed MN formation in B(a)P-treated cells to the background level at a concentration of 1 ,M. The ambivalent character of the ITCs under studymust be further clarified, especially in the possiblecontext of high dose therapeutic applications. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Contribution to X-ray analysis of carbo-nitrided steel layers

JOURNAL OF APPLIED CRYSTALLOGRAPHY, Issue 5 2001
J. M. Sprauel
The non-destructive X-ray diffraction method is used to analyse carbo-nitrided steel layers after wear testing. These measurements are carried out on the two major phases of the material, i.e. the martensite and the retained austenite. Such measurements are particularly difficult for three reasons. First, strong gradients exist across the wear track. Second, the diffraction peaks obtained for the martensite are broadened, as a result of the overlap of different reflections of the tetragonal structure. Third, the studied material is multiphase. Its major phases are martensite and austenite, but it also contains carbide and nitride clusters, which lead to incoherent scattering of X-rays. A new quantitative phase analysis method is thus proposed to define the volume fractions of these different constituents of the material. This method accounts for the evolution of the background level during wear. A micro-mechanical model is then developed to process the diffraction peak positions obtained for the martensite and the retained austenite. This model defines the `true' stress and carbon content of both phases. It also allows separation of the reflections of the martensite. The true widths of the diffraction peaks, which characterize the plastic deformation, can thus be quantified. Results for wear-test specimens show a strong plastic deformation of the retained austenite during contact fatigue. This leads to a partial transformation of this phase into martensite. In the martensite, on the contrary, the plastic deformation remains low but the carbon content decreases. This is caused by a stress-induced precipitation of carbides. [source]

Osteoprotegerin induces osteopontin via syndecan-1 and phosphoinositol 3-kinase/Akt in human periodontal ligament cells

JOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH, Issue 6 2009
T. Yongchaitrakul
Background and Objective:, Our previous study found that thrombin induced osteoprotegerin synthesis in human periodontal ligament cells. As elevated levels of osteoprotegerin can exert biological effects on various cell types, in the present study we investigated the effect of osteoprotegerin on the expression of osteopontin in human periodontal ligament cells. Material and Methods:, Cultured human periodontal ligament cells were treated with recombinant human osteoprotegerin (0,100 ng/mL) for 24,48 h. The expression of osteopontin mRNA and protein was analyzed using reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses, respectively. Phosphoinositol 3-kinase inhibitor, Akt inhibitor, heparinase, neutralizing antibody against receptor activator of nuclear factor-,B ligand (RANKL) and syndecan-1, and small interfering RNA against syndecan-1, were used to determine the mechanism involved. Results:, Osteoprotegerin up-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of osteopontin in human periodontal ligament cells in a dose-dependent manner. Addition of neutralizing antibody against RANKL attenuated the inductive effect of osteoprotegerin on osteopontin expression. In addition, the inductive effect of osteoprotegerin was abolished by phosphoinositol 3-kinase and Akt inhibitors, as well as by syndecan-1 antibody or syndecan-1 small interfering RNA. None of the inhibitors had any effect on the background level of osteopontin expression. Conclusion:, An increased level of osteoprotegerin can generate signals via a RANKL/syndecan-1/phosphoinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway. The results also suggest that osteopontin is one of the downstream targets of the pathway mediated by osteoprotegerin in human periodontal ligament cells. Thus, in addition to counteracting RANKL in the RANKL,osteoprotegerin system, osteoprotegerin may play a role in periodontal tissue remodeling through modulation of the extracellular matrix. [source]

RESPONSE OF GLUTAMINE SYNTHETASE GENE TRANSCRIPTION AND ENZYME ACTIVITY TO EXTERNAL NITROGEN SOURCES IN THE DIATOM SKELETONEMA COSTATUM (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE),

JOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY, Issue 1 2005
Misaki Takabayashi
To understand the enhanced ability of marine diatoms to assimilate nitrogen (N), we measured changes in the transcript abundance and enzyme activity of glutamine synthetase (GS), one of the key enzymes that link carbon (C) and N metabolism, in the common diatom Skeletonema costatum (Greville) Cleve. Transcript abundance of glnII (the gene that encodes the GSII isoenzyme), measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR, and total GS activity increased 2 to 3.5 times above background in the cells taking up nitrate (NO3,) but not the cells taking up ammonium (NH4+). A background level of glnII mRNA was maintained at a steady level up to 15 days of N starvation before decreasing to below detection after 21 days. These results confirm that transcription of glnII is induced to assimilate NH4+ derived from reduction of NO3,. Because of this role of GSII in diatoms assimilating NH4+ derived from NO3, reduction rather than from the environmental NH4+, quantification of glnII mRNA promises to be a useful indication of new production by phytoplankton. [source]

Toward Improved Public Confidence in Farmed Fish Quality: A Canadian Perspective on the Consequences of Diet Selection

JOURNAL OF THE WORLD AQUACULTURE SOCIETY, Issue 2 2010
Anthony P. Farrell
Marine fish oils (MFO) are used in salmon diets to mimic the natural diet, to ensure that essential fatty acid requirements for good fish growth and health are met, and to provide salmon flesh with an omega-3 highly unsaturated fatty acid content that can benefit human health. However, an extensive use of MFO in formulated salmonid diets is perceived as an unsustainable use of wild marine fish stocks. In addition, MFOs have a background level of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) unrelated to aquaculture practices. This review considers recently completed studies using alternative lipid sources of terrestrial origin as replacements for MFO and shows that the composition of conventional finfish diets can be altered to reduce the reliance on MFO while concurrently maintaining fish health as well as reducing background levels of POPs. A challenge still ahead is the need for a concerted and sustained outreach to ensure that the public is aware of such improvements to seafood quality so that the preoccupation of the news media with presenting negative images of fish culture to the public is combated. [source]

Copper Concentrations in Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus Ponds Treated with Copper Sulfate

JOURNAL OF THE WORLD AQUACULTURE SOCIETY, Issue 1 2004
Aaron A. McNevin
Copper sulfate (CuSO45H2O) is used to reduce the abundance of blue-green algae and combat off-flavor in channel catfish culture. Copper sulfate usually is applied at a concentration of one-one hundredth of the total alkalinity. A study was performed at the Auburn University Fisheries Research Unit to determine the duration of elevated copper (Cu) concentration following copper sulfate applications. Two alkalinity treatments, 20-40 mg/L and 110-130 mg/L (as CaCO3), were examined. Copper sulfate was applied biweekly for 14 wk at 03 mg/L for the low alkalinity treatment and 1.2 mg/L for the high alkalinity treatment. Total copper concentrations in pond waters declined to the background level by 48-h post treatment. In addition, total copper concentrations were determined in waters of 38 catfish production ponds located in west central Alabama. The mean and standard deviation were 0.0092 ± 0.0087 mg Cu/L. Copper quickly precipitates from the water or is absorbed by sediments following copper sulfate treatment. Although concentrations of copper in pond waters increase immediately following copper sulfate treatment, they rapidly decrease and seldom exceed the United States Environmental Protection Agency's National Recommended Water Quality Criteria for Priority Toxic Pollutants of 0.013-mg Cu/L. Findings of this study suggest that copper sulfate treatment will not contaminate effluent from catfish ponds because of the short time that applied copper remains in the water column. Furthermore, the most frequent applications of copper sulfate occur in late summer months when rainfall is minimal and pond overflow is rare. [source]

Lead promotes abasic site accumulation and co-mutagenesis in mammalian cells by inhibiting the major abasic endonuclease Ape1,

MOLECULAR CARCINOGENESIS, Issue 2 2007
Daniel R. McNeill
Abstract Lead is a widespread environmental toxin, found in contaminated water sources, household paints, and certain occupational settings. Classified as a probable carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), lead promotes mutagenesis when combined with alkylating and oxidizing DNA-damaging agents. We previously reported that lead inhibits the in vitro repair activity of Ape1, the major endonuclease for repairing mutagenic and cytotoxic abasic sites in DNA. We investigated here whether lead targets Ape1 in cultured mammalian cells. We report a concentration-dependent inhibition of apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) site incision activity of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) AA8 whole cell extracts by lead. In addition, lead exposure results in a concentration-dependent accumulation of AP sites in the genomic DNA of AA8 cells. An increase in the oxidative base lesion 8-oxoguanine was observed only at high lead levels (500 µM), suggesting that non-specific oxidation plays little role in the production of lead-related AP lesions at physiological metal concentrations,a conclusion corroborated by "thiobarbituric acid reactive substances" assays. Notably, Ape1 overexpression in AA8 (hApe1-3 cell line) abrogated the lead-dependent increase in AP site steady-state levels. Moreover, lead functioned cooperatively to promote a further increase in abasic sites with agents known to generate AP sites in DNA (i.e., methyl methansulfonate (MMS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)), but not the DNA crosslinking agent mitomycin C. Hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (hprt) mutation analysis revealed that, whereas lead alone had no effect on mutation frequencies, mutagenesis increased in MMS treated, and to a greater extent lead/MMS treated, AA8 cells. With the hApe1-3 cell line, the number of mutant colonies in all treatment groups was found to be equal to that of the background level, indicating that Ape1 overexpression reverses MMS- and lead-associated hprt mutagenesis. Our studies in total indicate that Ape1 is a member of an emerging group of DNA surveillance proteins that are inhibited by environmental heavy metals, and suggest an underlying mechanism by which lead promotes co-carcinogenesis. Published 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc., [source]

Quiescent times in gamma-ray bursts , I. An observed correlation between the durations of subsequent emission episodes

MONTHLY NOTICES OF THE ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY, Issue 3 2001
Enrico Ramirez-Ruiz
Although more than 2000 astronomical gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) have been detected, the precise progenitor responsible for these events is unknown. The temporal phenomenology observed in GRBs can significantly constrain the different models. Here we analyse the time histories of a sample of bright, long GRBs, searching for the ones exhibiting relatively long (more than 5 per cent of the total burst duration) ,quiescent times', defined as the intervals between adjacent episodes of emission during which the gamma-ray count rate drops to the background level. We find a quantitative relation between the duration of an emission episode and the quiescent time elapsed since the previous episode. We suggest here that the mechanism responsible for the extraction and the dissipation of energy has to take place in a metastable configuration, such that the longer the accumulation period, the higher the stored energy available for the next emission episode. [source]

AlInN HEMT grown on SiC by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy for millimeter-wave applications

PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (A) APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS SCIENCE, Issue 6 2010
Shiping Guo
Abstract In this work we present the epitaxial and device results of AlInN/GaN HEMTs grown on SiC by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy. High quality AlInN/GaN HEMT structures with sub-10,nm AlInN barrier were grown with very low Ga background level (<1%). The low Rsh of 215,,/sq was obtained with an excellent standard deviation of 1.1% across 3, wafers. Lehighton RT contactless Hall tests show a high mobility of 1617,cm2/V,s and sheet charge density of 1.76,×,1013/cm2. DC characteristics of an AlInN/GaN HEMT with a gate length of 0.1,µm and 25,nm Al2O3 passivation show maximum drain current (IDS,max) of 2.36,A/mm at VGS,=,2,V. Gate recessed devices with 0.15,µm gate length and 25,nm Al2O3 passivation resulted in maximum transconductance (gm) of 675,mS/mm, the highest value ever reported in AlInN transistors. Excellent frequency response was obtained. The maximum fT is 86,GHz and fmax is 91.7,GHz. [source]

915 MHz microwaves and 50 Hz magnetic field affect chromatin conformation and 53BP1 foci in human lymphocytes from hypersensitive and healthy persons

BIOELECTROMAGNETICS, Issue 3 2005
Igor Y. Belyaev
Abstract We used exposure to microwaves from a global system for mobile communication (GSM) mobile phone (915 MHz, specific absorption rate (SAR) 37 mW/kg) and power frequency magnetic field (50 Hz, 15 ,T peak value) to investigate the response of lymphocytes from healthy subjects and from persons reporting hypersensitivity to electromagnetic field (EMF). The hypersensitive and healthy donors were matched by gender and age and the data were analyzed blind to treatment condition. The changes in chromatin conformation were measured with the method of anomalous viscosity time dependencies (AVTD). 53BP1 protein, which has been shown to colocalize in foci with DNA double strand breaks (DSBs), was analyzed by immunostaining in situ. Exposure at room temperature to either 915 MHz or 50 Hz resulted in significant condensation of chromatin, shown as AVTD changes, which was similar to the effect of heat shock at 41 °C. No significant differences in responses between normal and hypersensitive subjects were detected. Neither 915 MHz nor 50 Hz exposure induced 53BP1 foci. On the contrary, a distinct decrease in background level of 53BP1 signaling was observed upon these exposures as well as after heat shock treatments. This decrease correlated with the AVTD data and may indicate decrease in accessibility of 53BP1 to antibodies because of stress-induced chromatin condensation. Apoptosis was determined by morphological changes and by apoptotic fragmentation of DNA as analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). No apoptosis was induced by exposure to 50 Hz and 915 MHz microwaves. In conclusion, 50 Hz magnetic field and 915 MHz microwaves under specified conditions of exposure induced comparable responses in lymphocytes from healthy and hypersensitive donors that were similar but not identical to stress response induced by heat shock. Bioelectromagnetics 26:173,184, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

In vitro exposure apparatus for ELF magnetic fields

BIOELECTROMAGNETICS, Issue 8 2004
Jürgen Schuderer
Abstract For in vitro studies on the effect of extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic field exposures in different laboratories, a programmable, high precision exposure system enabling blinded exposures has been developed and fully characterized. It is based on two shielded 4 coil systems that fit inside a commercial incubator. The volume of uniform B field exposure with 1% field tolerance is 50% larger compared to a Merrit 4 coil system with the same coil volume. The uncertainties for the applied magnetic fields have been specified to be less than 4%. The computer controlled apparatus allows signal waveforms that are composed of several harmonics, blind protocols, monitoring of exposure and environmental conditions and the application of B fields up to 3.6 mT root-mean-square amplitude. Sources of artifacts have been characterized: sham isolation >43 dB, parasitic incident E fields <1 V/m, no recognizable temperature differences in the media for exposure or sham state, and vibrations of the mechanically decoupled dish holder <0.1 m/s2 (= 0.01 g), which is only twice the sham acceleration background level produced by the incubator and fan vibrations. Bioelectromagnetics 25:582,591, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Divergent roles of the DEAD-box protein BS-PL10, the urochordate homologue of human DDX3 and DDX3Y proteins, in colony astogeny and ontogeny

DEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, Issue 6 2006
Amalia Rosner
Abstract Proteins of the highly conserved PL-10 (Ded1P) subfamily of DEAD-box family, participate in a wide variety of biological functions. However, the entire spectrum of their functions in both vertebrates and invertebrates is still unknown. Here, we isolated the Botryllus schlosseri (Urochordata) homologue, BS-PL10, revealing its distributions and functions in ontogeny and colony astogeny. In botryllid ascidians, the colony grows by increasing the number of modular units (each called a zooid) through a whole colony synchronized and weekly cyclical astogenic budding process (blastogenesis). At the level of the colony, both BS-PL10 mRNA and its protein (78 kDa) fluctuate in a weekly pattern that corresponds with the animal's blastogenic cycle, increasing from blastogenic stage A to blastogenic stage D. At the organ/module level, a sharp decline is revealed. Primary and secondary developing buds express high levels of BS-PL10 mRNA and protein at all blastogeneic stages. These levels are reduced four to nine times in the new set of functional zooids. This portrait of colony astogeny differed from its ontogeny. Oocytes and sperm cells express high levels of BS-PL10 protein only at early stages of development. Young embryos reveal background levels with increased expressions in some organs at more developed stages. Results reveal that higher levels of BS-PL10 mRNA and protein are characteristic to multipotent soma and germ cells, but patterns deviate between two populations of differentiating stem cells, the stem cells involved in weekly blastogenesis and stem cells involved in embryogenesis. Two types of experimental manipulations, zooidectomy and siRNA assays, have confirmed the importance of BS-PL10 for cell differentiation and organogenesis. BS-PL10 (phylogenetically matching the animal's position in the evolutionary tree), is the only member of this subfamily in B. schlosseri, featuring a wide range of biological activities, some of which represent pivotal roles. The surprising weekly cyclical expression and the participation in cell differentiation posit this molecule as a model system for studying PL10 protein subfamily. Developmental Dynamics 235:1508,1521, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Hydrological connectivity of soil pipes determined by ground-penetrating radar tracer detection

EARTH SURFACE PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS, Issue 4 2004
Joseph Holden
Abstract Soil pipes are common and important features of many catchments, particularly in semi-arid and humid areas, and can contribute a large proportion of runoff to river systems. They may also signi,cantly in,uence catchment sediment and solute yield. However, there are often problems in ,nding and de,ning soil pipe networks which are located deep below the surface. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has been used for non-destructive identi,cation and mapping of soil pipes in blanket peat catchments. While GPR can identify subsurface cavities, it cannot alone determine hydrological connectivity between one cavity and another. This paper presents results from an experiment to test the ability of GPR to establish hydrological connectivity between pipes through use of a tracer solution. Sodium chloride was injected into pipe cavities previously detected by the radar. The GPR was placed downslope of the injection points and positioned on the ground directly above detected soil pipes. The resultant radargrams showed signi,cant changes in re,ectance from some cavities and no change from others. Pipe waters were sampled in order to check the radar results. Changes in electrical conductivity of the pipe water could be detected by the GPR, without data post-processing, when background levels were increased by more than approximately twofold. It was thus possible to rapidly determine hydrological connectivity of soil pipes within dense pipe networks across hillslopes without ground disturbance. It was also possible to remotely measure travel times through pipe systems; the passing of the salt wave below the GPR produced an easily detectable signal on the radargram which required no post-processing. The technique should allow remote sensing of water sources and sinks for soil pipes below the surface. The improved understanding of ,owpath connectivity will be important for understanding water delivery, solutional and particulate denudation, and hydrological and geomorphological model development. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

Transplacental mutagenicity of N -ethyl- N -nitrosourea at the hprt locus in T-lymphocytes of exposed B6C3F1 mice

ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS, Issue 1 2001
Hillary E. Sussman
Abstract Previous studies have compared age-related differences in total mutagenic burden in mice of differing age (preweanling, weanling, or young adult) after single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of ethylnitrosourea (ENU). The purpose of the present investigation was to determine the effects of time elapsed since treatment on the frequency of hprt mutant T-cells (Mf) from mice treated transplacentally with single acute vs. multiple split doses of ENU. To this end, pregnant C57BL/6 mice (n = 13,16/group), which had been bred to C3H males, were given i.p. injections of 40 mg ENU/kg bw in a single dose on day 18 of gestation, in a split dose of 6 mg ENU/kg bw on days 12 through 18 of gestation, or DMSO vehicle alone. Groups of pups were necropsied on days 10, 13, 15 (single dose only), 17, 20, 40, and 70 postpartum for T-cell isolations and hprt Mf measurements using the T-cell cloning assay. The time required to reach maximum Mfs in T-cells isolated from thymus of transplacentally treated animals was 2 weeks, the same time span as previously observed after ENU treatment of adult, weanling, and preweanling mice. Mfs in T-cells isolated from spleens of control animals averaged 2.1 ± 0.3 (SE) × 10,6. In spleens of mice treated transplacentally with ENU in a single dose, Mfs reached a maximum at 15 days postpartum [84.7 ± 15.8 (SE) × 10,6] and decreased to lower but still elevated levels at 40 days postpartum. In spleens of mice treated transplacentally with ENU in a split dose, Mfs reached a maximum at 13 days postpartum [74.0 ± 16.3 (SE) × 10,6] and decreased to background levels at 40 days postpartum. The areas under the curves describing the change in hprt Mfs over time for ENU-treated vs. control mice estimate the mutagenic potency for transplacental single- and split-dose exposures to be 1.9 and 0.8 × 103, respectively. Comparison of the mutagenic potency estimates for mice exposed to ENU in utero to 4-week-old mice given a similar dose of the same lot number of ENU indicates that the mouse is more susceptible to ENU-induced mutagenesis during fetal life. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 38:30,37, 2001 © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Arsenic, lead, and other trace elements in soils contaminated with pesticide residues at the Hanford site (USA)

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY, Issue 2 2003
Jerry Yokel
Abstract The primary purpose of this study was to characterize arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) concentrations in former orchard soils contaminated with lead arsenate pesticides at the Hanford site in Washington state (USA). Surface samples (n = 31) were collected from former orchard soils (in cultivation during the pre-Hanford period) at five locations at the 100 Areas and at one location at the Old Hanford Townsite (OHT). Another set of samples (n = 17) was collected over a soil depth interval of 10,50 cm at the four locations with the highest As and Pb surface concentrations. All samples were analyzed for 22 trace elements (including As and Pb) with inductively coupled plasma,atomic emission spectrometry (ICP,AES). The mean, standard deviation, and range for As in the surface soils were 30, 61, and 2.9,270 mg/kg dry wt, respectively. The corresponding statistics for Pb were 220, 460, and 6.5,1900 mg/kg dry wt, respectively. As and Pb concentrations in the surface soils were positively and significantly correlated (r = 0.91, Bonferroni p < 0.05). Descriptive statistics and bivariate correlations were also computed for other trace elements. As and Pb mean concentrations in the surface soils each differed significantly (p < 0.05) among Hanford locations, with the highest concentrations at the 100-H and 100-F Areas. Although both As and Pb mean concentrations decreased with soil depth, regression and correlation coefficients only, for Pb significantly differed from zero (b = ,0.0372, r = ,0.805, Bonferroni p < 0.05). Compared with data in the literature As and Pb concentrations found in this study exceeded background levels but were typical of orchard soils. Furthermore, mean As and Pb soil concentrations were in the range of various toxicological benchmarks derived for protection of human and ecological receptors. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 18: 104,114, 2003 [source]

Multi-generational effects of polybrominated diphenylethers exposure: Embryonic exposure of male American kestrels (Falco sparverius) to DE-71 alters reproductive success and behaviors

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 8 2010
Sarah C. Marteinson
Abstract Polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) are additive flame-retardants that are environmentally persistent and bioaccumulative compounds of particular concern to species at high trophic levels, including predatory birds. The developmental effects of in ovo exposure to male birds at environmentally relevant levels of the PBDE technical mixture, DE-71, on reproductive success and behaviors using captive American kestrels (Falco sparverius) were determined. Males were exposed in ovo by direct maternal transfer to DE-71 and unintentionally to low concentrations of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) at three mean,±,standard error DE-71 concentrations of 288.60,±,33.35,ng/g wet weight (low-exposure), 1130.59,±,95.34,ng/g wet weight (high-exposure), or background levels of 3.01,±,0.46,ng/g wet weight (control). One year following exposure, males were paired with unexposed females. Reproductive success was lower in the high exposure pairs: 43% failed to lay eggs while all other pairs laid complete clutches; they also laid smaller clutches and produced smaller eggs with reduced fertility, parameters that were negatively correlated with paternal in ovo concentrations of all PBDEs, as well as individual congeners and HBCD. Throughout courtship, there were fewer copulations by all in ovo exposed males, fewer mate-calls made by high-exposure males, and decreasing trends in pair-bonding and nest-box behaviors across treatments that continued during brood rearing. The reductions in clutch size and fertility were associated with the reduced frequencies of male courtship behaviors, and were associated with increasing concentrations of the PBDE congeners BDE-47, -99, -100, -53, -138, and HBCD. The results of the present study confirm effects noted in the F0 generation and demonstrate that exposure to DE-71 affects multiple generations of this predatory avian species at environmentally relevant levels of exposure. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2010; 29:1740,1747. © 2010 SETAC [source]

Sponges as biomonitors of heavy metals in spatial and temporal surveys in northwestern Mediterranean: Multispecies comparison,

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 11 2007
Emma Cebrian
Abstract Contamination by heavy metals has increased drastically in the coastal Mediterranean during the last 20 years. A comparative study on metal bioaccumulation by four widespread sponge species (Crambe crambe, Chondrosia reniformis, Phorbas tenacior, and Dysidea avara) has been performed to select the most suitable species for metal monitoring. Copper bioaccumulation fits an accumulation strategy while Pb concentration seems to be regulated in most sponges. Crambe crambe was the only studied species that bioaccumulated Pb and Cu as a function of the available metal, proving its suitability for monitoring purposes. Then, we examined its effectiveness as a bioindicator at large spatial and temporal scales, comparing metal accumulation in this species and in sediments. Crambe crambe provided accurate information on the background levels of metals in the area at both spatial and temporal scales, and furthermore it reflected seasonal fluctuations of the bioavailable metals, which would be impossible to assess by means of a sediment survey. [source]

Risk of weathered residual Exxon Valdez oil to pink salmon embryos in Prince William Sound

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2007
Ernest L. Brannon
Abstract It has been hypothesized that pink salmon eggs incubating in intertidal streams transecting Prince William Sound (PWS) beaches oiled by the Exxon Valdez oil spill were exposed to lethal doses of dissolved hydrocarbons. Since polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels in the incubation gravel were too low to cause mortality, the allegation is that dissolved high-molecular-weight hydrocarbons (HPAH) leaching from oil deposits on the beach adjacent to the streams were the source of toxicity. To evaluate this hypothesis, we placed pink salmon eggs in PWS beach sediments containing residual oil from the Exxon Valdez oil spill and in control areas without oil. We quantified the hydrocarbon concentrations in the eggs after three weeks of incubation. Tissue PAH concentrations of eggs in oiled sediments were generally <100 ppb and similar to background levels on nonoiled beaches. Even eggs in direct contact with oil in the sediment resulted in tissue PAH loads well below the lethal threshold concentrations established in laboratory bioassays, and very low concentrations of HPAH compounds were present. These results indicate that petroleum hydrocarbons dissolved from oil deposits on intertidal beaches are not at concentrations that pose toxic risk to incubating pink salmon eggs. The evidence does not support the hypothesis that interstitial pore water in previously oiled beaches is highly toxic. [source]

Hormetic effects of gamma radiation on the stress axis of natural populations of meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus)

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 2 2005
Rudy Boonstra
Abstract We tested the hypothesis that low doses of gamma radiation have beneficial, hormetic effects on the stress axis (the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis) of free-ranging meadow vole populations (Microtus pennsylvanicus). Voles were exposed to chronic gamma radiation from a 137Cs field irradiator. In isolated populations, voles received one of three treatments over a four-year period: Controls (0.19,0.42 ,Gy/h , levels that were 2,5X above background levels [0.1 ,Gy/h] and live-trapped in all years , 1982,1985), low doses (22.6 ,Gy/h , 50,200X background, live-trapped from November 1982,April 1985), or high doses (3,840 ,Gy/h , 40,000X background, live-trapped from November 1983,April 1985). Voles exposed to a low dose had levels of free and total corticosterone that were significantly higher than those in the control or high-dose groups. Differences in response to radiation between the sexes were apparent for maximum corticosterone-binding capacity, with females exposed to low doses having higher binding capacity than control or high-dose females, whereas males exposed to low doses had lower binding capacity than control or high-dose males. Low-dose voles had higher counts of neutrophils than either the controls or high-dose voles; hematocrit was greater in the controls than in irradiated voles. These results indicate that voles display a hormetic response to radiation, wherein low doses of an otherwise harmful agent produce a beneficial effect. The stimulation of the stress axis resulting in the increased secretion of glucocorticoids, which may protect against the excessive actions of the immune and inflammatory responses, may be a key mechanism producing this effect. [source]

Distribution of degradation products of alkylphenol ethoxylates near sewage treatment plants in the lower Great Lakes, North America

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2000
Erin R. Bennett
Abstract Degradation of alkylphenol ethoxylate (APEO) surfactants in the environment leads to the formation of relatively hydrophobic compounds such as nonylphenol (NP), octylphenol (OP), nonylphenol monoethoxylate (NP1EO), and nonylphenol diethoxylate (NP2EO) that have been shown to have estrogenic activity. Previous studies have shown that sewage treatment plants (STPs) are point sources for these compounds in the aquatic environment. We collected sediment samples at several sites in the vicinity of STPs in Hamilton Harbour and in the Detroit River to determine the spatial distribution of the degradation products of APEOs. In addition, we deployed semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs) and caged freshwater mussels (Elliptio complanata) at these locations to determine the distribution of these compounds in the dissolved phase and their potential to bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms. The NP, OP, NP1EO, and NP2EO were found at ,g/g (dry wt.) concentrations in sediments and accumulated to ng/g (wet wt.) concentrations in caged mussels near the STPs. However, in the Detroit River, the concentrations of these compounds declined to near background levels in the sediments, water column (i.e., SPMDs), and biota at stations about 1 km downstream from STPs. At stations in Hamilton Harbour, concentrations of APEO degradation products also declined markedly in sediments and SPMDs located a few hundred meters from the STP. These data indicate that degradation products of APEOs can be accumulated by biota near STPs. However, the environmental distribution of these compounds is localized to areas close to the point of discharge. [source]

Rapid assessment of in vivo cholinergic transmission by amperometric detection of changes in extracellular choline levels

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE, Issue 6 2004
Vinay Parikh
Abstract Conventional microdialysis methods for measuring acetylcholine (ACh) efflux do not provide sufficient temporal resolution to relate cholinergic transmission to individual stimuli or behavioral responses, or sufficient spatial resolution to investigate heterogeneities in such regulation within a brain region. In an effort to overcome these constraints, we investigated a ceramic-based microelectrode array designed to measure amperometrically rapid changes in extracellular choline as a marker for cholinergic transmission in the frontoparietal cortex of anesthetized rats. These microelectrodes exhibited detection limits of 300 nm for choline and selectivity (> 100 : 1) of choline over interferents such as ascorbic acid. Intracortical pressure ejections of choline (20 mm, 66,400 nL) and ACh (10 and 100 mm, 200 nL) dose-dependently increased choline-related signals that were cleared to background levels within 10 s. ACh, but not choline-induced signals, were significantly attenuated by co-ejection of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor neostigmine (Neo; 100 mm). Pressure ejections of drugs known to increase cortical ACh efflux, potassium (KCl; 70 mm, 66, 200 nL) and scopolamine (Scop; 10 mm, 200 nL), also markedly increased extracellular choline signals, which again were inhibited by Neo. Scop-induced choline signals were also found to be tetrodotoxin-sensitive. Collectively, these findings suggest that drug-induced increases in current measured with these microelectrode arrays reflect the oxidation of choline that is neuronally derived from the release and subsequent hydrolysis of ACh. Choline signals assessed using enzyme-selective microelectrode arrays may represent a rapid, sensitive and spatially discrete measure of cholinergic transmission. [source]

Measuring and partitioning the high-order linkage disequilibrium by multiple order Markov chains

GENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue 4 2008
Yunjung Kim
Abstract A map of the background levels of disequilibrium between nearby markers can be useful for association mapping studies. In order to assess the background levels of linkage disequilibrium (LD), multilocus LD measures are more advantageous than pairwise LD measures because the combined analysis of pairwise LD measures is not adequate to detect simultaneous allele associations among multiple markers. Various multilocus LD measures based on haplotypes have been proposed. However, most of these measures provide a single index of association among multiple markers and does not reveal the complex patterns and different levels of LD structure. In this paper, we employ non-homogeneous, multiple order Markov Chain models as a statistical framework to measure and partition the LD among multiple markers into components due to different orders of marker associations. Using a sliding window of multiple markers on phased haplotype data, we compute corresponding likelihoods for different Markov Chain (MC) orders in each window. The log-likelihood difference between the lowest MC order model (MC0) and the highest MC order model in each window is used as a measure of the total LD or the overall deviation from the gametic equilibrium for the window. Then, we partition the total LD into lower order disequilibria and estimate the effects from two-, three-, and higher order disequilibria. The relationship between different orders of LD and the log-likelihood difference involving two different orders of MC models are explored. By applying our method to the phased haplotype data in the ENCODE regions of the HapMap project, we are able to identify high/low multilocus LD regions. Our results reveal that the most LD in the HapMap data is attributed to the LD between adjacent pairs of markers across the whole region. LD between adjacent pairs of markers appears to be more significant in high multilocus LD regions than in low multilocus LD regions. We also find that as the multilocus total LD increases, the effects of high-order LD tends to get weaker due to the lack of observed multilocus haplotypes. The overall estimates of first, second, third, and fourth order LD across the ENCODE regions are 64, 23, 9, and 3%. Genet. Epidemiol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Synthesis of Polymerizable Superoxide Dismutase Mimetics to Reduce Reactive Oxygen Species Damage in Transplanted Biomedical Devices,

ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 20 2008
Charles Y. Cheung
Abstract A new polymerizable superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic metalloporphyrin macromer was synthesized to minimize inflammatory damage associated with tissue transplantation and biomaterial implantation, such as the use of encapsulated pancreatic islets for the treatment of type I diabetes mellitus (TIDM). This functional SOD mimetic, Mn(III) Tetrakis[1-(3-acryloxy-propyl)-4-pyridyl] porphyrin (MnTPPyP-Acryl), was copolymerized and crosslinked with poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) to form hydrogel networks that may actively reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage associated with biomaterial implantation. Solution phase activity assays with MnTPPyP-Acryl macromers showed comparable SOD activity to MnTMPyP, a non-polymerizable commercially available SOD mimetic. This work also describes the development of a new, simple, and inexpensive solid phase assay system that was developed to assess the activity of MnTPPyP-Acryl macromers polymerized within PEGDA hydrogels, which has the potential to fulfill an existing void with the biochemical tools available for testing other immobilized ROS antagonists. With this new assay system, hydrogels containing up to 0.25,mol% MnTPPyP-Acryl showed significantly higher levels of SOD activity, whereas control hydrogels polymerized with inactive TPPyP-Acryl macromers showed only background levels of activity. The potential for repeated use of such hydrogel devices to consistently reduce superoxide anion concentrations was demonstrated upon retention of ,100% SOD activity for at least 72,h post-polymerization. These results demonstrate the potential that polymerizable SOD mimetics may have for integration into medical devices for the minimization of inflammatory damage upon transplantation, such as during the delivery of encapsulated pancreatic islets. [source]

Fire effects on rangeland hydrology and erosion in a steep sagebrush-dominated landscape,

HYDROLOGICAL PROCESSES, Issue 16 2008
Frederick B. Pierson
Abstract Post-fire runoff and erosion from wildlands has been well researched, but few studies have researched the degree of control exerted by fire on rangeland hydrology and erosion processes. Furthermore, the spatial continuity and temporal persistence of wildfire impacts on rangeland hydrology and erosion are not well understood. Small-plot rainfall and concentrated flow simulations were applied to unburned and severely burned hillslopes to determine the spatial continuity and persistence of fire-induced impacts on runoff and erosion by interrill and rill processes on steep sagebrush-dominated sites. Runoff and erosion were measured immediately following and each of 3 years post-wildfire. Spatial and temporal variability in post-fire hydrologic and erosional responses were compared with runoff and erosion measured under unburned conditions. Results from interrill simulations indicate fire-induced impacts were predominantly on coppice microsites and that fire influenced interrill sediment yield more than runoff. Interrill runoff was nearly unchanged by burning, but 3-year cumulative interrill sediment yield on burned hillslopes (50 g m,2) was twice that of unburned hillslopes (25 g m,2). The greatest impact of fire was on the dynamics of runoff once overland flow began. Reduced ground cover on burned hillslopes allowed overland flow to concentrate into rills. The 3-year cumulative runoff from concentrated flow simulations on burned hillslopes (298 l) was nearly 20 times that measured on unburned hillslopes (16 l). The 3-year cumulative sediment yield from concentrated flow on burned and unburned hillslopes was 20 400 g m,2 and 6 g m,2 respectively. Fire effects on runoff generation and sediment were greatly reduced, but remained, 3 years post-fire. The results indicate that the impacts of fire on runoff and erosion from severely burned steep sagebrush landscapes vary significantly by microsite and process, exhibiting seasonal fluctuation in degree, and that fire-induced increases in runoff and erosion may require more than 3 years to return to background levels. Published in 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

Ammonia in estuaries and effects on fish

JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY, Issue 6 2005
F. B. Eddy
This review aims to explore the biological responses of fish in estuaries to increased levels of environmental ammonia. Results from laboratory and field studies on responses of fish to varying salinity and their responses increased ammonia will be evaluated, although studies which examine responses to ammonia, in relation to varying salinity, pH and temperature together are rare. In a survey of British estuaries the continuous measurement of total ammonia showed values that ranged from background levels increasing up to c. 10 mg N l,1 although higher values have been noted sporadically. In outer estuaries pH values tended to stabilize towards sea water values (e.g. c. pH 8). Upper reaches of estuaries are influenced by the quality of their fresh waters sources which can show a wide range of pH and water quality values depending on geological, climatic and pollution conditions. In general the ammonia toxicity (96 h LC50) to marine species (e.g. 0·09,3·35 mg l,1 NH3) appears to be roughly similar to freshwater species (e.g. 0·068,2·0 mg l,1 NH3). Ammonia toxicity is related to differences between species and pH rather than to the comparatively minor influences of salinity and temperature. In the marine environment the toxicity of ionized ammonia should be considered. The water quality standard for freshwater salmonids of 21 ,g l,1 NH3,N was considered to be protective for most marine fish and estuarine fish although the influence of cyclical changes in pH, salinity and temperature were not considered. During ammonia exposures, whether chronic or episodic, estuarine fish may be most at risk as larvae or juveniles, at elevated temperatures, if salinity is near the seawater value and if the pH value of the water is decreased. They are also likely to be at risk from ammonia intoxication in waters of low salinity, high pH and high ammonia levels. These conditions are likely to promote ammonia transfer from the environment into the fish, both as ionized and unionized ammonia, as well as promoting ammonia retention by the fish. Fish are more likely to be prone to ammonia toxicity if they are not feeding, are stressed and if they are active and swimming. Episodic or cycling exposures should also be considered in relation to the rate at which the animal is able to accumulate and excrete ammonia and the physiological processes involved in the transfer of ammonia. In the complex environment of an estuary, evaluation of ammonia as a pollutant will involve field and laboratory experiments to determine the responses of fish to ammonia as salinity and temperature vary over a period of time. It will also be necessary to evaluate the responses of a variety of species including estuarine residents and migrants. [source]

Coral-reef sounds enable nocturnal navigation by some reef-fish larvae in some places and at some times

JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY, Issue 3 2003
J. M. Leis
At Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, catches of fish larvae by light traps that broadcast nocturnal reef sounds (noisy traps) were compared with catches by quiet traps over two 2·5 week new-moon periods in November (XI) 2000 and January (I) 2001. Three areas were sampled: near-reef (NR, 500 m from the shore) in I, middle (M, 650 m) in I and XI and offshore (O, >1000 m) in XI. The most abundant taxa captured were Apogonidae, Blenniidae, Chaetodontidae, Lethrinidae, Mullidae and Pomacentridae. Significant differences in catch were found between areas, and a position effect was found at the O and M areas. At the NR and M areas, no taxa had significantly greater catches in quiet traps, but larvae of five taxa had significantly greater catches in noisy traps. These were (areas and times of greater catches): Apogonidae (NR; M XI), Mullidae (M I & XI), Pomacentridae (NR; M I & XI), Serranidae (M I) and Sphyraenidae (NR). At the offshore area, five taxa (Apogonidae, Blenniidae, Chaetodontidae, Mullidae and Pomacentridae) had significantly greater catches in quiet traps and only Lethrinidae had significantly greater catches in noisy traps. Thus some taxa (particularly apogonids and pomacentrids which had catches up to 155% greater in noisy traps, but also lethrinids and mullids, and perhaps others), were attracted to reef sounds at night, but this apparently varied with location and time. The sound-enhanced catches imply a radius of attraction of the sound 1·02,1·6 times that of the light. More than 65 m from the speaker,the broadcast sound levels at frequencies typical of fish hearing were equivalent to background levels, providing a maximum radius of sound attraction in this experiment. [source]

Measles virus protein-specific IgM, IgA, and IgG subclass responses during the acute and convalescent phase of infection

JOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY, Issue 2 2004
H.S. El Mubarak
Abstract The availability of new generation serological assays allowed re-evaluation of the antibody response to measles virus. IgM, IgA, total IgG, and IgG subclass responses were studied to the three major immunogenic measles virus proteins: the fusion protein (F), haemagglutinin (H), and nucleoprotein (N). Plasma samples were obtained from clinically diagnosed measles cases (n,=,146) in Khartoum (Sudan) within a week after onset of the rash. Convalescent phase samples were collected from 32 of 117 laboratory-confirmed measles cases at different time points after onset of rash. Glycoprotein-specific IgM, IgG, and IgA antibody levels correlated well to the N-specific response. For IgG and IgA, responses to F were higher than to H. IgA antibody levels were undetectable in about one third of the laboratory-confirmed cases during the acute phase, but positive in all patients tested 1,4 weeks after infection. IgM levels declined rapidly and were lost 3,6 months after infection. IgA levels declined slowly during the first year but did not return to background levels during the subsequent 2 years. IgG avidity maturation was detected during a 3,6 month period after infection. The predominant IgG subclasses during the acute phase were IgG1 and IgG3. The latter was lost in the convalescent phase, while the IgG4 isotype showed a slight rise afterwards. Interestingly, acute phase IgG3 and IgA responses were associated, and were only detected in samples with high IgG. This study provides a comprehensive perspective on the antibody response to wild-type measles virus infection. J. Med. Virol. 72:290,298, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

INPUTS OF COPPER-BASED CROP PROTECTANTS TO COASTAL CREEKS FROM PASTICULTURE RUNOFF,

JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN WATER RESOURCES ASSOCIATION, Issue 2 2001
Andrea M. Dietrich
ABSTRACT: Inputs of copper-based crop protectants from tomato fields grown under plastic mulch agriculture (plasticulture) to an estuarine creek were investigated. Copper was measured in runoff from diverse land-uses including conventional agriculture, plasticulture, residences, and natural areas. Water column and sediment copper concentrations were measured in plasticulture and control (nonagriculture) watersheds. Copper concentrations in plasticulture-impacted creeks exceeded background levels episodically. High concentrations occurred during or immediately after runoff-producing rains. Concentrations of 263 ,g/L total copper and 126 ,g/L dissolved copper were measured in a tidal creek affected by plasticulture; concentrations exceeded the shellfish LC50 values and the water quality criteria of 2.9 ,g/L dissolved copper. Control watersheds indicated background water column levels of , 4 ,g/L dissolved copper with similar copper levels during periods with and without rain. The copper concentrations in tomato plasticulture field runoff itself contained up to 238 ,g/L dissolved copper. Copper concentrations in runoff from other land-uses were less than 5 ,g/L dissolved copper. Creek sediment samples adjacent to a plasticulture field contained significantly higher copper concentrations than sediments taken from nonplasticulture watersheds. [source]