Showing papers in "Toxicology and Industrial Health in 2009"
TL;DR: Experimental evidence that environmental pollutants are photosensitizers that generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to UVA radiation causes oxidative and genetic damage, leading to unattractive photodamage and carcinogenesis is reviewed.
Abstract: Not only is skin cancer by far the most common human cancer but also the incidence of skin cancer has been increasing at an alarming rate in recent decades. Fortunately, most people now realize that sun exposure causes unattractive photoaging and skin cancer, so they do apply sunscreens conscientiously. However, until recently, most sunscreens did not adequately protect against ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation. Although UVA is indeed less erythrogenic and less carcinogenic than UVB, UVA directly causes photoaging and enhances UVB-induced skin cancer. Furthermore, recent research demonstrates that UVA combined with environmental pollutants (including cigarette smoke) significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Similarly, previous research demonstrated another synergy between environmental pollutants and UV: When ozone exposure precedes UV exposure, there is enhancement of UV-induced depletion of protective vitamin E from the skin's stratum corneum. This article reviews experimental evidence that environmental pollutants (such as benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a commonly used index of environmental pollution) are photosensitizers that generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to UVA radiation. This in turn causes oxidative and genetic damage, leading to unattractive photodamage and carcinogenesis.
129 citations
TL;DR: A brief overview of the metabolism, biological activities, and anticancer properties of olive oil phenolics in the GI tract is presented.
Abstract: Olive oil, a typical ingredient of the Mediterranean diet, possesses many beneficial health effects. The biological activities ascribed to olive oil consumption are associated in part to its phenolics constituents, and mainly linked to the direct or indirect antioxidant activity of olive oil phenolics and their metabolites, which are exerted more efficiently in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, where dietary phenolics are more concentrated when compared to other organs. In this regard, we present a brief overview of the metabolism, biological activities, and anticancer properties of olive oil phenolics in the GI tract.
117 citations
TL;DR: In conclusion, vitamin A, C, and E exhibited protective effects in human lymphocytes by inhibiting AFB1-induced ROS generation by inhibition of GSH and the activities of superoxide dismutase and GPx and increased level of malondialdehyde.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the possible protective role of vitamin A, C, and E on aflatoxin B(1)-induced in human lymphocytes using biochemical approaches. The control group received dimethyl sulfoxide, the second group of cultures were administered aflatoxin B(1) (AFB(1)) at a dose of 5 muM. The other group of cultures were treated with AFB(1)+vitamin A (0.5 and 1.0 and 1.5 microM) and AFB(1)+vitamin C (25, 50, and 100 microM) and AFB(1)+vitamin E (40, 100, and 200 microM). The results of this experiment show that AFB(1) significantly decreased the level of GSH and the activities of superoxide dismutase and GPx and increased level of malondialdehyde. Simultaneous supplementation with vitamin A, C, and E restored these parameters to that of normal range. In conclusion, vitamin A, C, and E exhibited protective effects in human lymphocytes by inhibiting AFB(1)-induced ROS generation.
107 citations
TL;DR: The following is a review of some of the work done since 2004 regarding the importance of molds and their mycotoxins in the phenomenon of sick building syndrome (SBS).
Abstract: The following is a review of some of the work we have done since 2004 regarding the importance of molds and their mycotoxins in the phenomenon of sick building syndrome (SBS). In these studies we showed that the macrocyclic trichothecene mycotoxins (MTM) of Stachybotrys chartarum (SC) are easily dissociated from the surface of the organism as it grows and could therefore be consequently spread in buildings as the fungus experiences additional water events. We then showed that SC and Penicillium chrysogenum (PC) colonies remain viable long after a water source has been removed, and the MTM produced by SC remain toxic over extended periods of time. We next showed that PC when inhaled, can release in vivo, a protease allergen that can cause a significant allergic inflammatory reaction in the lungs of mice. We then showed, in a laboratory study, that the MTM of SC can become airborne attached to spores or SC particulates smaller than spores. Following that study, we next showed that the same phenomenon actually occurred in SC infested buildings where people were complaining of health problems potentially associated with SBS. Finally, we were able to demonstrate the presence of MTM in the sera of individuals who had been exposed to SC in indoor environments. This last study was done with enough mold exposed individuals to allow for the statistical significance of SC exposure to be evaluated.
89 citations
TL;DR: It is suggested that pyramidal cell loss in the cornu ammonis could be due to the 900 megahertz electromagnetic field exposure in the prenatal period, although its exact mechanism is not clear.
Abstract: Widespread use of mobile phones which are a major source of electromagnetic fields might affect living organisms. However, there has been no investigation concerning prenatal exposure to electromagnetic fields or their roles in the development of the pyramidal cells of the cornu ammonis in postnatal life. Two groups of pregnant rats, a control group and an experimental group, that were exposed to an electromagnetic field were used. For obtaining electromagnetic field offspring, the pregnant rats were exposed to 900 megahertz electromagnetic fields during the 1–19th gestation days. There were no actions performed on the control group during the same period. The offspring rats were spontaneously delivered—control group (n = 6) and electromagnetic field group (n = 6). Offspring were sacrificed for stereological analyses at the end of the 4th week. Pyramidal cell number in rat cornu ammonis was estimated using the optical fractionator technique. It was found that 900 megahertz of electromagnetic field signifi...
89 citations
TL;DR: This review summarizes the health aspects of the medically important fungal genus Aspergillus, including major mycotoxins, the aspergilli that produce them, affected crops, and symptoms of the toxicoses.
Abstract: This review summarizes the health aspects of the medically important fungal genus Aspergillus. The morphology and systematics of the genus are explained as well as its biogeography. Major mycotoxins, the aspergilli that produce them, affected crops, and symptoms of the toxicoses are summarized, as are the major mycoses caused by aspergilli. The current status of the relationship between Aspergillus in the indoor environment and health issues are discussed.
72 citations
TL;DR: Nine types of biocontaminants in damp indoor environments from microbial growth are discussed and LPS enhance the toxicity of roridin A, satratoxins G and aflatoxin B1 to damage the olfactory epithelium, tract and bulbs.
Abstract: Nine types of biocontaminants in damp indoor environments from microbial growth are discussed: (1) indicator molds; (2) Gram negative and positive bacteria; (3) microbial particulates; (4) mycotoxins; (5) volatile organic compounds, both microbial (MVOCs) and non-microbial (VOCs); (6) proteins; (7) galactomannans; (8) 1-3-beta-D-glucans (glucans) and (9) lipopolysaccharides (LPS--endotoxins). When mold species exceed those outdoors contamination is deduced. Gram negative bacterial endotoxins, LPS in indoor environments, synergize with mycotoxins. The gram positive Bacillus species, Actinomycetes (Streptomyces, Nocardia and Mycobacterium), produce exotoxins. The Actinomycetes are associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, lung and invasive infections. Mycobacterial mycobacterium infections not from M. tuberculosis are increasing in immunocompetent individuals. In animal models, LPS enhance the toxicity of roridin A, satratoxins G and aflatoxin B1 to damage the olfactory epithelium, tract and bulbs (roridin A, satratoxin G) and liver (aflatoxin B1). Aflatoxin B1 and probably trichothecenes are transported along the olfactory tract to the temporal lobe. Co-cultured Streptomyces californicus and Stachybotrys chartarum produce a cytotoxin similar to doxorubicin and actinomycin D (chemotherapeutic agents). Trichothecenes, aflatoxins, gliotoxin and other mycotoxins are found in dust, bulk samples, air and ventilation systems of infested buildings. Macrocyclic trichothecenes are present in airborne particles <2 microm. Trichothecenes and stachylysin are present in the sera of individuals exposed to S. chartarum in contaminated indoor environments. Haemolysins are produced by S. chartarum, Memnoniella echinata and several species of Aspergillus and Penicillium. Galactomannans, glucans and LPS are upper and lower respiratory tract irritants. Gliotoxin, an immunosuppressive mycotoxin, was identified in the lung secretions and sera of cancer patients with aspergillosis produced by A. fumigatus, A. terreus, A. niger and A. flavus.
70 citations
TL;DR: The results indicate that concentrations of As, Cu, Co and Mn in all three biological samples of the exposed workers (QW and PW) were significantly higher than those of the controls.
Abstract: The determination of trace and toxic elements in biological samples (blood, urine and scalp hair samples) of human beings is an important clinical test. The aim of our present study was to determin...
62 citations
TL;DR: The histopathological study revealed obviously flatted follicular epithelia cells and hyperplastic nodules, consisting of thyroid parafollicular cells that appeared by excessive F ingestion, on the 120th day of excessive F administration induces thyroid dysfunction in rats.
Abstract: To assess the roles of dietary protein (Pr) and calcium (Ca) level associated with excessive fluoride (F) intake and the impact of dietary Pr, Ca, and F on thyroid function, 144 30-day-old Wistar albino rats were randomly allotted to six groups of 24 (female:male = 1:1). The six groups were fed (1) a normal control (NC) diet (17.92% Pr, 0.85% Ca = NC group); (2) the NC diet and high F (338 mg NaF [=150 mg F ion]/L in their drinking water = NC+F group); (3) low Pr and low Ca diet (10.01% Pr, 0.24% Ca = LPrLCa group); (4) low Pr and low Ca diet plus high F = LPrLCa+F group; (5) high Pr and low Ca diet plus high F (25.52% Pr, 0.25% Ca = HPrLCa+F group); and (6) low Pr and high Ca diet plus high F (10.60% Pr, 1.93% Ca = LPrHCa+F group). The areas of thyroid follicles were determined by Image-Proplus 5.1, and triiodothyronine (T3), free T3 (FT3), thyroxine (T4), and free T4 (FT4) levels in serum were measured by radioimmunoassay. The histopathological study revealed obviously flatted follicular epithelia cells and hyperplastic nodules, consisting of thyroid parafollicular cells that appeared by excessive F ingestion, on the 120th day. Pr or Ca supplementation reverses the F-induced damage in malnutrition. The serum T3, FT3, T4, and FT4 levels in the NC+F group were significantly decreased and significantly increased in the LPrLCa+F group. Thus, excessive F administration induces thyroid dysfunction in rats; dietary Pr and Ca level play key roles in F-induced thyroid dysfunction.
62 citations
TL;DR: The study suggested that methomyl has the capability to induce oxidative damage as evidenced by increasing LPO and perturbations in various antioxidant enzymes.
Abstract: Erythrocytes are a convenient model to understand the membrane oxidative damage induced by various xenobiotic pro-oxidants. This study was designed to investigate the possibility of methomyl (Lannate® 90% SP), S-methyl N-(methylcarbamoyloxy) thioacetimidate, to induce oxidative stress response in rat erythrocytes in vitro. Erythrocytes were incubated for 4 hours at 37°C with different concentrations (0.0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mM) of methomyl. The results showed that methomyl decreased acetylcholinesterase (AChE), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities and increased level of lipid peroxidation (LPO) as well as the percentage of haemolysis. The response occurred in a concentration-dependent manner. The study suggested that methomyl has the capability to induce oxidative damage as evidenced by increasing LPO and perturbations in various antioxidant enzymes.
58 citations
TL;DR: Although phase II genes are coordinately induced through Nrf2-EpRE signaling by electrophiles, the upstream signaling pathways involved are gene- and inducer- specific, and it is suggested that commercial kinase inhibitors may produce non-specific effects on phase II gene expression via mechanisms unrelated to their purported specificity.
Abstract: Phase II enzymes are induced primarily through the common electrophile response element (EpRE) signaling. Studies performed in different cell types and with different inducer appear to indicate var...
TL;DR: Hersperidin has proven protective effects in BaP-induced testicular toxicity paradigm, and this protection resides, at least in part, on its antioxidant properties.
Abstract: Benzo[alpha]pyrene (BaP) is one of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which has shown carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic potentials. The reproductive toxicity of BaP in male was not well investigated. Thereby, we have addressed in the current study the testicular toxicity of BaP and the postulate whether or not the citrus flavonoid, hesperidin (HDN), could ameliorate such toxicity in male Swiss albino rats. In this sense, animals were challenged with BaP (50 mg/kg/day, orally) for 10 consecutive days. HDN (200 mg/kg/day, orally) was administered ahead of BaP challenge for 10 consecutive days. BaP induced testicular toxicity that was well characterized histologically and biochemically. It decreased the relative testis weight and induced pyknosis and necrobiotic changes as well as chromatolysis in the nuclei of the spermatocytes in the seminiferous tubules. It also markedly deteriorated epididymal function as shown by decreased sperm count, motility, and daily sperm production. The polyaromatic hydrocarbon also reduced the testicular activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH-X), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST). Besides, it decreased the testicular reduced glutathione (GSH) but increased malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. Prior administration of HDN ahead of BaP challenge ameliorated all the histological and biochemical alterations induced by BaP. It improved the epididymal function and mitigated the injurious effects of BaP on the seminiferous tubules. In conclusion, HDN has proven protective effects in BaP-induced testicular toxicity paradigm, and this protection resides, at least in part, on its antioxidant properties.
TL;DR: It can be concluded that CAPE may prevent the 900 MHz EMF-induced oxidative changes in liver by strengthening the antioxidant defense system by reducing reactive oxygen species and increasing antioxidant enzyme activities.
Abstract: In this study, we aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on lipid peroxidation (LPO) and the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the liver of rats exposed to the 900 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF). EMF of cellular phones may affect biological systems by increasing free radical, which appear mainly to enhance LPO, and by changing the antioxidative activities of liver, thus leading to oxidative damage. CAPE, an active component of propolis extract, exhibits antioxidant properties and several studies suggest that supplementation with antioxidant can influence EMF exposure induced hepatotoxicity. Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: control (n = 10), 900 MHz EMF (n = 10) and 900 MHz EMF + CAPE (n = 10). CAPE was injected intraperitoneally for 30 days before exposure to EMF. Liver tissue was removed to study the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), xanthine oxidase (XO) and the levels of LPO. The activities of XO, CAT and level of LPO increased in the 900 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) group compared with the control group, although XO, CAT activities and LPO levels were decreased by 900 MHz EMF + CAPE administration. The activities of SOD and GSH-Px decreased in the 900 MHz EMF group compared with the control group, although their levels were increased by EMF + CAPE administration. It can be concluded that CAPE may prevent the 900 MHz EMF-induced oxidative changes in liver by strengthening the antioxidant defense system by reducing reactive oxygen species and increasing antioxidant enzyme activities.
TL;DR: It is concluded that dietary consumption of glabridin protects low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation from oxidation.
Abstract: This study was conducted to determine the effect of a natural polyphenolic isoflavone antioxidant (Glabridin) on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation. Determination of the extent of LDL oxidation was done by measuring the formation of Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). After oral administration of licorice-root ethanol extract to healthy subjects for 6 months, the subjects' oxidative stress level as well as plasma LDL oxidation reduced by 20%. We concluded that dietary consumption of glabridin protects LDL from oxidation.
TL;DR: In this article, the ability of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol to protect renal cells from H2O2-induced damage was evaluated by monitoring the changes of the membrane lipid fraction.
Abstract: Bioavailability studies in animals and humans fed with extravirgin olive oil demonstrated that hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol, the major simple phenolic compounds in extravirgin olive oil, are dose-dependently absorbed and excreted. Once absorbed, they undergo extensive metabolism; hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol concentrate mainly in the kidney, where they may exert an important role in the prevention of oxidative stress induced renal dysfunction. In this study we monitored the ability of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol to protect renal cells (LLC-PK1) following oxidative damage induced by H2O2. Oxidative stress was evaluated by monitoring the changes of the membrane lipid fraction. Hydroxytyrosol exerted a significant antioxidant action, inhibiting the production of MDA, fatty acids hydroperoxides and 7-ketocholesterol, major oxidation products of unsaturated fatty acids and cholesterol, and thus protecting the cells from H2O2-induced damage. Tyrosol, instead, in this experimental model, did not exert any protective effect.
TL;DR: Flow cytometric analysis of the testicular tissue revealed that carbendazim inhibited meiotic transformation and interfered with the spermatogenic process, resulting in reduced fertility in male rats.
Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of subchronic exposure to carbendazim on spermatogenesis and fertility in male rats. Ninety-eight healthy male rats were divided into four groups: three exposure groups and a control group. Carbendazim was administered orally to male rats at 0, 20, 100 and 200 mg/kg for 80 days prior to mating. Each male was cohabited with an unexposed female for a maximum of 5 days. In 100 and 200 mg/kg groups, the mating index was relatively increased, the fertility index was decreased, and the testis weight, the sperm counts and motility were also decreased. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) showed a decreasing tendency and there was a statistical difference between the 200 mg/kg group and the control group. There were no obvious effects on the levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone (T). Histopathological evaluation showed atrophic seminiferous tubules, decreased germ cells, and increased sloughing of germ cells. Flow cytometric analysis of the testicular tissue revealed that carbendazim inhibited meiotic transformation and interfered with the spermatogenic process. These results suggest that carbendazim has adverse effects on spermatogenesis, resulting in reduced fertility in male rats.
TL;DR: IMG may be considered as a candidate for combinatorial therapy of rheumatoid arthritis because of its positive immunomodulating effect on all cytokine plasma levels measured, changed markedly due to arthritis progression.
Abstract: We studied the anti-arthritic activity of glucomannan (GM) isolated from Candida utilis and of Imunoglukan, a beta-(1,3/1,6)-D-glucan (IMG) isolated from Pleurotus ostreatus. Adjuvant arthritis (AA) was induced intradermally by the injection of Mycobacterium butyricum in incomplete Freund's adjuvant to Lewis rats. Blood for biochemical and immunological analysis was collected on experimental days 1, 14, 21, and 28. A clinical parameter--hind paw volume (HPV)--was also measured. The detection of IL-1 alpha, IL-4, TNF alpha, and MCP-1 was done by immunoflowcytometry. On day 28--the end of the experiment--we determined spectrophotometrically: the total anti-oxidant status (TAS) of plasma samples along with thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances (TBARS) levels in plasma and we assessed the activity of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in hind paw joint homogenate. The experiments included healthy animals, arthritic animals without treatment, and arthritic animals with administration of glucomannan (GM-AA) in the oral daily dose of 15 mg/kg b.w. and of IMG (IMG-AA) in the oral daily dose of 2 mg/kg b.w. The progress of AA was manifested by all parameters monitored. Both substances had beneficial effects on HPV, TBARS levels, GGT activity, and TAS levels. For cytokine assessment, only IMG-AA samples were selected, considering the significant HPV improvement accompanied with the observed anti-oxidant action. IMG administration had a positive immunomodulating effect on all cytokine plasma levels measured, changed markedly due to arthritis progression. Thus, IMG may be considered as a candidate for combinatorial therapy of rheumatoid arthritis.
TL;DR: The author delineates the signs and symptoms of a syndrome precipitated by mold and mycotoxin exposure and contrasts and separates these findings neurodiagnostically from known neurologic diseases to further the scientific exploration of the underlying neuropathophysiologic processes.
Abstract: Human exposure to molds, mycotoxins, and water-damaged buildings can cause neurologic and neuropsychiatric signs and symptoms. Many of these clinical features can partly mimic or be similar to classic neurologic disorders including pain syndromes, movement disorders, delirium, dementia, and disorders of balance and coordination. In this article, the author delineates the signs and symptoms of a syndrome precipitated by mold and mycotoxin exposure and contrasts and separates these findings neurodiagnostically from known neurologic diseases. This clinical process is designed to further the scientific exploration of the underlying neuropathophysiologic processes and to promote better understanding of effects of mold/mycotoxin/water-damaged buildings on the human nervous system and diseases of the nervous system. It is clear that mycotoxins can affect sensitive individuals, and possibly accelerate underlying neurologic/pathologic processes, but it is crucial to separate known neurologic and neuropsychiatric disorders from mycotoxin effects in order to study it properly.
TL;DR: Neurobehavioral and pulmonary impairments associated with exposures to indoor molds and mycotoxins were not different from those with various chemical exposures.
Abstract: Patients exposed at home to molds and mycotoxins and those exposed to chemicals (CE) have many similar symptoms of eye, nose, and throat irritation and poor memory, concentration, and other neurobehavioral dysfunctions. To compare the neurobehavioral and pulmonary impairments associated with indoor exposures to mold and to chemicals. 105 consecutive adults exposed to molds (ME) indoors at home and 100 patients exposed to other chemicals were compared to 202 community referents without mold or chemical exposure. To assess brain functions, we measured 26 neurobehavioral functions. Medical and exposure histories, mood states score, and symptoms frequencies were obtained. Vital capacity and flows were measured by spirometry. Groups were compared by analysis of variance (ANOVA) after adjusting for age, educational attainment, and sex, by calculating predicted values (observed/predicted x 100 = % predicted). And p < .05 indicated statistical significance for total abnormalities, and test scores that were outside the confidence limits of the mean of the percentage predicted. People exposed to mold had a total of 6.1 abnormalities and those exposed to chemicals had 7.1 compared to 1.2 abnormalities in referents. Compared to referents, the exposed groups had balance decreased, longer reaction times, and blink reflex latentcies lengthened. Also, color discrimination errors were increased and visual field performances and grip strengths were reduced. The cognitive and memory performance measures were abnormal in both exposed groups. Culture Fair scores, digit symbol substitution, immediate and delayed verbal recall, picture completion, and information were reduced. Times for peg-placement and trail making A and B were increased. One difference was that chemically exposed patients had excess fingertip number writing errors, but the mold-exposed did not. Mood State scores and symptom frequencies were greater in both exposed groups than in referents. Vital capacities were reduced in both groups. Neurobehavioral and pulmonary impairments associated with exposures to indoor molds and mycotoxins were not different from those with various chemical exposures.
TL;DR: Cd exposure resulted in disturbances of Zn in blood and urine and Mg in blood but had no effect on Cu and Fe content in biological fluids.
Abstract: Although cadmium (Cd) is extensively used for nickel-cadmium battery production, few recent reports are available on the effect of this toxic metal on the imbalance of biometals in occupational exposure. The current study was carried out to determine the Cd level and its effect on the content of bioelements: zinc, cooper, magnesium, and iron in blood and urine of workers exposed to Cd during nickel-cadmium battery production. β2-microglobulins (β2-MG), as indicators of kidney damage, were determined in urine.The study group comprised 32 male nickel-cadmium battery workers, and the control group had 15 male construction workers with no history of Cd exposure. Levels of Cd and bioelements were determined in blood and urine by atomic absorption spectrophotometry.Cd concentration in blood of exposed workers was around 10 μg/L and in urine ranged from 1.93 to 8.76 μg/g creatinine (cr). Urine Cd concentration was significantly higher in exposed workers than in the controls, although no statistical difference in...
TL;DR: The risk factors for mycotoxin production are weather conditions during crop growth and when the crop is mature, damage to seeds before, during, and after harvest, how commodities are physically handled, the presence of weed seeds and other foreign material in grain, and how commodity moisture and temperature are managed during storage and transportation.
Abstract: The majority of human food and animal feed production occurs in a highly managed agroecosystem. Management decisions include variety grown, tillage and irrigation methods and practices, fertilization, pest and disease control, harvesting methods, and storage and transportation practices. This system is generally managed for optimum returns to labor and capital investments. The spores of toxigenic fungi have ubiquitous distribution and toxigenic fungi exploit food sources when conditions of moisture and temperature are above minimums for growth. The safety margins in the agroecosystem are close and are influenced by extrinsic factors such as climatic events. Control of fungal growth is important in management of raw feedstuffs, foodstuffs, condiments-spices, botanicals, and other consumable substances as they are grown, harvested, stored, and transported. The risk factors for mycotoxin production are weather conditions during crop growth and when the crop is mature, damage to seeds before, during, and after harvest, how commodities are physically handled, the presence of weed seeds and other foreign material in grain, and how commodity moisture and temperature are managed during storage and transportation. Diversion of commodities and by-products from human consumption to animal feedstuffs can increase the risk of mycotoxicoses in animals. The toxicology of selected toxigenic fungi and the mycotoxins they produce are reviewed.
TL;DR: Data obtained from this study show that patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes with complications have higher lipoperoxidation than patients with complication-free diabetes, although a residual compensatory response to hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress occurs.
Abstract: Type 2 diabetes is a heterogeneous disease resulting from insulin resistance and/or from a beta-cell secretory defect. Hyperglycemia, which occurs during type 2 diabetes, causes disorders of oxidative-antioxidative balance in the cells, leading to increased free-radical formation. Reduced antioxidant capacity is supposed to be one of the causes of the occurrence of complications in type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to evaluate lipoperoxidation and plasma antioxidant status in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes with or without complications. In this study, 15 patients with type 2 diabetes without complications and 11 patients with type 2 diabetes with complications were enrolled. The 'ferric-reducing ability of plasma' showed no differences between the two experimental groups. A small, nonsignificant, Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity reduction was observed in patients with diabetes with complications when compared to those patients with diabetes without complications; on the contrary, we found increased lipoperoxidation in patients with diabetes with complications compared with those patients with diabetes without complications. We also observed a positive correlation between malondialdehyde levels and high density lipoprotein or vitamin E in all analyzed patients with type 2 diabetes. Data obtained from our study show that patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes with complications have higher lipoperoxidation than patients with complication-free diabetes, although a residual compensatory response to hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress occurs.
TL;DR: Two diseases that were leading causes of childhood mortality in England in the 1970s and vanished with changing dietary habits, putrid malignant fever, and slow nervous fever were most likely toxic mold epidemics.
Abstract: Molds are ubiquitous throughout the biosphere of planet earth and cause infectious, allergic, and toxic diseases. Toxic diseases arise from exposure to mycotoxins produced by molds. Throughout history, there have been a number of toxic epidemics associated with exposure to mycotoxins. Acute epidemics of ergotism are caused by consumption of grain infested by fungi of the genus Claviceps, which produce the bioactive amine ergotamine that mimics the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. Acute aflatoxin outbreaks have occurred from ingestion of corn stored in damp conditions that potentiate growth of the molds of the species Aspergillus. Contemporary construction methods that use cellulose substrates such as fiber board and indoor moisture have caused an outbreak of contaminated buildings with Stachybotrys chartarum, with the extent of health effects still a subject of debate and ongoing research. This article reviews several of the more prominent epidemics and discusses the nature of the toxins. Two diseases that were leading causes of childhood mortality in England in the 1970s and vanished with changing dietary habits, putrid malignant fever, and slow nervous fever were most likely toxic mold epidemics.
TL;DR: Its membrane-stabilizing effect overcame the oxidative properties leading to decreased osmotic fragility or preventing its deterioration in vitro and in vivo toluene exposures, respectively, in the present study.
Abstract: Toluene, an organic solvent used widely in the industry, is highly lipophilic and accumulates in the cell membrane impeding transport through it. Its metabolites cause oxygen radical formation that...
TL;DR: Whey proteins are known to contain more cysteine than casein, so it is suggested that they should ameliorate the oxidative equilibrium in the organisms to provide rats with better ability to increase their GSH synthesis in case of need.
Abstract: Whey proteins (WP) are known to contain more cysteine than casein (CAS), so it is suggested that they should ameliorate the oxidative equilibrium in the organisms. To evaluate the influence of a WP-based diet on liver glutathione (GSH) content, male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed for 3 weeks a balanced liquid diet containing either WP or CAS as main source of protein. Liver GSH content was evaluated at the end of the treatment by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), both in basal conditions and after oxidative stress induced by CCl4 acute intoxication. In basal conditions, WP diet significantly increased hepatic GSH in comparison to CAS diet. After CCl4 intoxication, hepatic GSH was negligibly increased in CAS group, while its increase was much more marked in WP group, so that the difference between the two diets was significant; this suggests that WP provided rats with better ability to increase their GSH synthesis in case of need.
TL;DR: Findings indicated that As2O3 significantly inhibited the proliferation of lung cancer cells via G2/M cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis at both normoxia and hypoxia, and the inductionof apoptosis was associated with down regulation of survivin.
Abstract: Arsenic trioxide (As(2)O(3)) has been established to be an effective agent for treating acute promyleocytic leukemia. Laboratory data suggest that As(2)O(3) induces apoptosis of several solid tumor cells including lung cancer cells. Regions of tissue hypoxia often arise in aggressive solid tumors, and hypoxic tumors exhibit augmented invasiveness and metastatic ability in several malignancies. Furthermore, hypoxia may impair the treatment efficiency; therefore, we studied the cytotoxic effect of As(2)O(3) on human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines A549 and A549/R (resistant to vincristine, adriamycin and mitomycin etc.) grown under normoxic and hypoxic (1% oxygen) conditions. At both normoxia and hypoxia, 5, 10 and 15 microM As(2)O(3) induced evident growth inhibition and apoptosis in A549 cells as well as A549/R cells after 48 hours of exposure. In contrast, the conventional chemotherapeutic drug vincristine showed lowered efficiency in hypoxic A549 cells. As(2)O(3) induced G(2)/M cell cycle arrest in both normoxic and hypoxic A549 cells. As(2)O(3) significantly decreased the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of Cyclin B(1) and survivin and the protein levels of Cyclin B(1), phospho-CDC(2) (Thr 161) and survivin in both normoxic and hypoxic A549 cells. Together, our findings indicated that As(2)O(3) significantly inhibited the proliferation of lung cancer cells via G(2)/M cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis at both normoxia and hypoxia, and the induction of apoptosis was associated with down regulation of survivin.
TL;DR: It is concluded that exposure to the ELF-EMFs for different time periods produced significant decreases in plasma catalase activities in the 3-month exposure groups but no effects on progesterone level, on 17-β estradiol level, or on the morphology and weight of uterus and ovaries.
Abstract: This study investigates the effects of the electromagnetic field (EMF) resulting from the 170 kV high-voltage power lines on hormonal status, on progesterone and 17-beta estradiol levels, and on morphology of the uterus and ovaries associated with biochemical parameters of adult Wistar female rats. The rats were assigned to experimental (21) and control groups (7). The rats in the experimental group were housed in a wooden barn with 7.5 m vertical distance to the power line. Groups 1, 2, and 3 were exposed continuously (24 h) to electric-electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) (48.21 +/- 1.58 mG) for 1, 2, and 3 months, respectively. The rats of group 4 served as the control and were placed in laboratory conditions (The average value of the ELF was 0.75 +/- 0.05 V/m. The value of the EMF was calculated to be 0.48 +/- 0.05 mG.). Significant (P < 0.05) decreases were determined among the groups in terms of reproductive organ weights (uterus and ovaries) and progesterone and estrogen levels in relation to the varying periods of the estrous cycle. Although marked reductions (P < 0.05) were observed among the groups in relation to plasma catalase activity, depending on exposure time, no significant differences were found in terms of glutathione and malondialdehyde levels. It is concluded that exposure to the ELF-EMFs for different time periods produced significant decreases in plasma catalase activities in the 3-month exposure groups but no effects on progesterone level, on 17-beta estradiol level, or on the morphology and weight of uterus and ovaries.
TL;DR: Results obtained on selected professionals operating under wearing conditions offer a solid molecular basis for advising the regular monitoring of clinical biochemistry laboratory markers of AO/FR status, to tailor individually specific AO supplementation and diet regimen, and monitor treatment outcomes.
Abstract: Degenerative diseases, immune impairment, and premature ageing commonly affect professional categories exposed to severe environmental and psychological stress. Among these, cosmonauts routinely experience extreme conditions due to microgravity, space radiation, altered oxygen supply, physical and mental fatigue during training, spaceflight, and post-flight. Long route aviation pilots display elevated oncogenic risk, connected with cosmic radiation overexposure, and high mortality rates for cardiovascular causes. Engine drivers, like pilots, are affected by health consequences of psycho-emotional stress, and burnout syndrome. The free radical (FR)/antioxidant (AO) imbalance is a common feature in all these pathological conditions. To assess the effective relevance of oxidative stress, we analyzed blood and urine reliable markers of FR production and AO defenses in 12 Russian cosmonauts, 55 airline pilots, 63 train engine drivers, and 50 age-matched controls by measuring the following: (a) lipophilic/hydrophilic low-molecular weight AO and AO enzyme activities, (b) nitric oxide, superoxide anion, hydroperoxide production, and (c) urinary catecholamine/serotonine metabolites and lipoperoxidation markers. Cosmonauts showed elevated granulocyte superoxide and nitric oxide production, increased erythrocyte superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione oxidation, and drastically decreased plasma/leucocyte lipophilic AO levels (P < 0.001-0.01). Aviation pilots, like train drivers, displayed a mild but constant oxidative stress, more pronounced in intercontinental routes pilots, and consistent with lymphocyte chromosomal alterations, DNA oxidation, and cardiovascular malfunction. Results obtained on these selected professionals operating under wearing conditions offer a solid molecular basis for advising the regular monitoring of clinical biochemistry laboratory markers of AO/FR status, to tailor individually specific AO supplementation and diet regimen, and monitor treatment outcomes.
TL;DR: Investigating asthma’s national prevalence and potential overlap with chemical hypersensitivity finds that among asthmatics, 38% report irritation from scented products, 37.2% report health problems from air fresheners, and 13.6% report their asthma was caused by toxic exposure.
Abstract: This study investigates asthma's national prevalence and potential overlap with chemical hypersensitivity It also examines asthma's etiology, age of onset, and demographic characteristics Data were collected from a geographically weighted random sample of the continental US (1058 cases), in four seasonal cohorts (2005-2006) The study found that 129% of the sample report asthma, 116% report chemical hypersensitivity, and 314% of those with asthma report chemical hypersensitivity Among asthmatics, 38% report irritation from scented products, 372% report health problems from air fresheners, and 136% report their asthma was caused by toxic exposure Asthma cases affected each racial/ethic group in roughly the same proportion, with nearly 50% classified as childhood onset
TL;DR: Results suggest that in the rat ovary, metabolism of ethanol to acetaldehyde may play a role in alcohol effects on female reproductive function.
Abstract: It is known that drinking alcohol can lead to reproductive problems in women. In this study, we analyzed the possibility that part of those effects were mediated through alterations of ovarian function related to ethanol oxidation to acetaldehyde occurring in situ. Biotransformation in the rat ovary cytosolic fraction was partially inhibited by allopurinol, suggesting the participation of xanthine oxidoreductase in the process. Microsomal pathway was of enzymatic nature, requiring nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase (NADPH), sensitive to oxygen and significantly inhibited by sodium diethyldithiocarbamate, 4-methylpyrazole and diphenyleneiodonium. Aldehyde dehydrogenase activity was detected by histochemistry in the ovarian tissue, in the strome surrounding the follicle while no alcohol dehydrogenase was detected. However, biochemical determination of alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase activities in rat ovarian tissue revealed the presence of some activity of both enzymes but ...