Vitamin D alleviates cognitive dysfunction and brain damage induced by copper sulfate intake in experimental rats: focus on its combination with donepezil

This study aimed to demonstrate the potential benefits of donepezil (DPZ) and vitamin D (Vit D) in combination to counteract the neurodegenerative disorders induced by CuSO4 intake in experimental rats. Neurodegeneration (Alzheimer-like) was induced in twenty-four male Wistar albino rats by CuSO4 supplement to drinking water (10 mg/L) for 14 weeks. AD rats were divided into four groups: untreated AD group (Cu-AD) and three treated AD groups; orally treated for 4 weeks with either DPZ (10 mg/kg/day), Vit D (500 IU/kg/day), or DPZ + Vit D starting from the 10th week of CuSO4 intake. Another six rats were used as normal control (NC) group. The hippocampal tissue content of β-amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), phosphorylated Tau (p-tau), clusterin (CLU), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), caspase-9 (CAS-9), Bax, and Bcl-2 and the cortical content of acetylcholine (Ach), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured. Cognitive function tests (Y-maze) and histopathology studies (hematoxylin and eosin and Congo red stains) and immunohistochemistry for neurofilament. Vit D supplementation alleviated CuSO4-induced memory deficits including significant reduction hippocampal BACE1, p-tau, CLU, CAS-9, Bax, and TNF-α and cortical AChE and MDA. Vit D remarkably increased cortical Ach, TAC, and hippocampal Bcl-2. It also improved neurobehavioral and histological abnormalities. The effects attained by Vit D treatment were better than those attained by DPZ. Furthermore, Vit D boosted the therapeutic potential of DPZ in almost all AD associated behavioral and pathological changes. Vit D is suggested as a potential therapy to retard neurodegeneration.

Thyroid Stem Cells But Not Differentiated Thyrocytes Are Sensitive to Slightly Increased Concentrations of Heavy Metals

Thyroid cancer incidence is markedly increased in volcanic areas where residents are biocontaminated by chronic lifelong exposure to slightly increased metals in the environment. Metals can influence the biology of living cells by a variety of mechanisms, depending not only on the dose and length of exposure but also on the type and stage of differentiation of target cells. We explored the effect of five heavy metals (Cu, Hg, Pd, W and Zn) at nanomolar concentrations (the biocontamination level in residents of the volcanic area in Sicily where thyroid cancer is increased) on stimulating the proliferation of undifferentiated (thyrospheres) and differentiated human thyroid cells. Thyrosphere proliferation was significantly increased after exposure to each individual metal and a greater stimulating effect was observed when a mixture of the examined metals was used. No effect was seen in differentiated thyrocytes. For all metals, the dose-response curve followed a biphasic pattern that is typical of hormesis. Thyrosphere growth concerned the size rather than number, except with the metal mixture. An altered morphology was also observed in metal-treated thyrospheres. Metal-induced proliferation was due to activation of the ERK1/2 pathway, as confirmed by growth inhibition when ERK1/2 signaling was blocked. These studies show that stem/precursor thyroid cells are sensitive to small increases in environmental metal concentrations that are harmless for differentiated thyrocytes.

CG Demethylation Leads to Sequence Mutations in an Anther Culture of Barley Due to the Presence of Cu, Ag Ions in the Medium and Culture Time

During plant tissue cultures the changes affecting regenerants have a broad range of genetic and epigenetic implications. These changes can be seen at the DNA methylation and sequence variation levels. In light of the latest studies, DNA methylation change plays an essential role in determining doubled haploid (DH) regenerants. The present study focuses on exploring the relationship between DNA methylation in CG and CHG contexts, and sequence variation, mediated by microelements (CuSO4 and AgNO3) supplemented during barley anther incubation on induction medium. To estimate such a relationship, a mediation analysis was used based on the results previously obtained through metAFLP method. Here, an interaction was observed between DNA demethylation in the context of CG and the time of culture. It was also noted that the reduction in DNA methylation was associated with a total decrease in the amount of Cu and Ag ions in the induction medium. Moreover, the total increase in Cu and Ag ions increased sequence variation. The importance of the time of tissue culture in the light of the observed changes resulted from the grouping of regenerants obtained after incubation on the induction medium for 28 days. The present study demonstrated that under a relatively short time of tissue culture (28 days), the multiplication of the Cu2+ and Ag+ ion concentrations ('Cu*Ag') acts as a mediator of demethylation in CG context. Change (increase) in the demethylation in CG sequence results in the decrease of 'Cu*Ag', and that change induces sequence variation equal to the value of the indirect effect. Thus, Cu and Ag ions mediate sequence variation. It seems that the observed changes at the level of methylation and DNA sequence may accompany the transition from direct to indirect embryogenesis.

The Activation of Heat-Shock Protein After Copper(II) and/or Arsenic(III)-Induced Imbalance of Homeostasis, Inflammatory Response in Chicken Rectum

Arsenic and copper, two toxic pollutants, are powerful inducers of oxidative stress. Exposure to copper and arsenic can cause intestinal injury in cockerel. This study was carried out to investigate the effects of these two pollutants on the gastrointestinal tract of cockerels. Experimental results showed that the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase and glutathione peroxidase) was inhibited and the ionic balance was destroyed after exposure to copper sulfate (300 mg/kg) and/or arsenic trioxide (30 mg/kg). However, the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (nuclear factor kappa-B, cyclooxygenase-2, tumor necrosis factor-α, and prostaglandin E2 synthases) increased markedly. Damages to the biofilm structure and inflammatory cell infiltration were simultaneously observed during histological examination. Heat-shock proteins were also expressed in large quantities after exposure to the poisons. Collectively, exposure to arsenite and/or Cu²⁺ can cause rectal damage in cockerels, inducing inflammation and an imbalance in immune system responses. Sometimes, exposure to both pollutants can produce even more toxic effects. Heat-shock proteins can protect the tissue from the exotoxins but the specific mechanisms require exploration. After oral ingestion of toxins, the rectum can still be damaged, necessitating attention to the safety of poultry breeding, human food safety, and environmental protection.

Antibiotics and chemical disease-control agents reduce innate disease resistance in crayfish

The aquaculture industry has developed rapidly in recent years, and in China Crayfish Procambarus clarkii represent an important aquaculture fishery. However, bacterial and viral diseases are becoming an increasingly serious threat, causing considerable economic losses. Farmers use a large number of drugs and chemicals to destroy pathogenic microorganisms and to purify aquaculture water. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of such drugs on crayfish immune systems. Five of the most commonly used fishery drugs and water treatment chemicals were analyzed: norfloxacin, calcium hypochlorite, quick lime, povidone iodine and copper sulfate. Crayfish immune activity tests revealed that total hemocytes counts, as well as the activities of phenoloxidase and superoxide dismutase, decreased following exposure to all five treatments. These treatments, especially calcium hypochlorite and norfloxacin, significantly enhanced hemocyte apoptosis in crayfish, regardless of disease status. Calcium hypochlorite, in particular, led to a significant decrease in the survival rates of crayfish infected with white spot syndrome virus or Vibrio alginolyticus. Our results indicate that water treatment and disease control compounds commonly used in aquaculture can reduce the innate immunity and therefore disease resistance of crayfish.

Analysis of 28 trace elements in the blood and serum antioxidant status in chickens under arsenic and/or copper exposure

This study aimed to evaluate the 28 trace elements in the blood and serum antioxidant status in chickens under arsenic (As) and/or copper (Cu) exposure. A total of 200 1-day-old male Hy-Line chickens were fed either a commercial diet (C-group) or arsenic trioxide (30 mg/kg) and/or cupric sulfate (300 mg/kg) for 90 days. The 28 trace element levels in the blood were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The concentrations of As in the blood of chickens were elevated approximately 17.15-fold, 2.30-fold, and 13.37-fold in the As-group, Cu-group, and As + Cu-group, respectively, at 90 days. The concentrations of Cu did not change in the As-group and increased approximately 29.53 and 23.37% in the Cu-group and As + Cu-group, respectively, at 90 days. Moreover, As exposure caused ion profile disorders in the blood, including increased concentrations of Na, Mg, Si, K, Cr, Fe, and Se and reduced B, Ca, Ti, V, Mn, Co, Ni, Zn, Sr, and Mo. Cu exposure increased the contents of Mg, Si, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zn, and Se and decreased the content of B, Ca, Al, Ni, and Mo. As + Cu exposure increased the contents of Mg, Si, Cr, Fe, Zn, and Se and decreased the content of B, Ca, Ti, Co, Ni, Sr, and Mo. Moreover, As and/or Cu exposure induced oxidative stress in the blood of chickens. In conclusion, the results indicated that the mixture of As and Cu caused a synergistic effect via disturbing homeostasis of trace elements and oxidative stress in the blood of chickens.

[Allergies to dental materials and effectiveness of treatment in the north-eastern region of Hungary]

The recognition and treatment of allergy is a great challenge for all fields of medicine. The high prevalence of allergic reactions to dental materials and the related financial burden of their treatment make investigation of this disease very important. Our investigation was carried out on patients assigned to our outpatient department for dental allergy test between 1996 and 1998. We determined the distribution of gender and age among the allergic patients in the examined population. We also studied the prevalence of allergic reactions to different dental allergens and the distribution of dental allergens. In a follow-up study we determined the proportion of those patients, who were retreated in conformity with the results of epicutan tests and we followed up the positive effects of these treatments. We have found that dental allergy occurred five times more frequently in women (84%) than in men (16%) and the most affected age group was between 20 to 39 and 40-49 years (31%). Seventy-five percent of the patients suffered from a combination of metal and polymer allergy. The most frequent metal allergen was TEGDMA (triethylene glycol dimethacrylate) (49.7%). The suggested treatment plan was carried out in 63% of the allergic patients. The applied treatment was successful in 48% of these cases. We experienced that 48% of these patients got rid of their earlier signs and symptoms.

Interventions for treating phosphorus burns

BACKGROUND

Phosphorus burns are rarely encountered in usual clinical practice and occur mostly in military and industrial settings. However, these burns can be fatal, even with minimal burn area, and are often associated with prolonged hospitalisation.

OBJECTIVES

To summarise the evidence of effects (beneficial and harmful) of all interventions for treating people with phosphorus burns.

SEARCH METHODS

In October 2013 for this first update we searched the Cochrane Wounds Group Specialised Register; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library);Ovid OLDMEDLINE; Ovid MEDLINE; Ovid MEDLINE (In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations); Ovid EMBASE; EBSCO CINAHL and Conference Proceedings Citation Index - Science (CPCI-S). We did not apply any methodological filters or restrictions on the basis of study design, language, date of publication or publication status.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Any comparisons of different ways of managing phosphorus burns including, but not restricted, to randomised trials.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We found two non-randomised comparative studies, both comparing patients treated with and without copper sulphate.

MAIN RESULTS

These two comparative studies provide no evidence to support the use of copper sulphate in managing phosphorus burns. Indeed the small amount of available evidence suggests that it may be harmful.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

First aid for phosphorus burns involves the common sense measures of acting promptly to remove the patient's clothes, irrigating the wound(s) with water or saline continuously, and removing phosphorus particles. There is no evidence that using copper sulphate to assist visualisation of phosphorus particles for removal is associated with better outcome, and some evidence that systemic absorption of copper sulphate may be harmful. We have so far been unable to identify any other comparisons relevant to informing other aspects of the care of patients with phosphorus burns. Future versions of this review will take account of information in articles published in languages other than English, which may contain additional evidence based on treatment comparisons.

Toxicity of copper sulfate to Flavobacterium psychrophilum and Rainbow Trout eggs

Tests were conducted to determine the concentrations of copper sulfate needed to kill Flavobacterium psychrophilum, the cause of bacterial coldwater disease, either in vitro or on Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss eggs. For the in vitro test, a plastic strip dipped in a solution of F. psychrophilum was exposed for 15 min to copper sulfate solutions of 0, 1, 5, 10, 20, 35, 50, 75, or 100 mg/L. Bacteria were "too numerous to count" at concentrations ≤10 mg/L CuSO4; significant reductions in prevalence relative to untreated controls were noted for concentrations ≥35 mg/L. However, CFUs were still observed at 50 and 75 mg/L (20% of plates with tryptone yeast extract salts media). No yellow-pigmented CFUs typical of F. psychrophilum were observed at 100 mg/L CuSO4. For the in vivo test, eggs were exposed for 15 min to 100, 300, 500, and 700 mg/L CuSO4 or 100 mg/L iodine (control). Survival to hatch was significantly lower at 500 (44.3 ± 15.2%, mean ± SD) or 700 mg/L CuSO4 (1.7 ± 0.8%) than for controls treated with 100 mg/L iodine (93.6 ± 0.9%) or at copper sulfate concentrations ≤300 mg/L. The 15-min LD50 and LD10 for copper sulfate were 461 mg/L (95% confidence interval: 457-466 mg/L) and 259 mg/L (251-266 mg/L). The prevalence of yellow CFUs at 100 mg/L CuSO4 (40.0%) was significantly higher than in untreated controls. Significant reductions in yellow CFUs were achieved using 300, 500, or 700 mg/L CuSO4 (7.5, 2.5, or 0.0% of plates with CFUs, respectively) or 100 mg/L iodine (2.5%), relative to untreated control eggs. Overall, since the concentrations of copper sulfate required to eliminate F. psychrophilum were toxic to the eggs, copper sulfate is not recommended for coldwater disease control in Rainbow Trout eggs based on conditions and parameters in this study.

Efficacy and tolerability assessment of a topical formulation containing copper sulfate and hypericum perforatum on patients with herpes skin lesions: a comparative, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Topical Acyclovir has moderate efficacy on recurrent HSV symptoms, requiring repeat applications for several days. Topical Dynamiclear, which requires only a single dose application, may provide a more effective and convenient treatment option for symptomatic management of HSV.

OBJECTIVES

The study assessed the comparative efficacy and tolerability of a single use, topical formulation containing copper sulfate pentahydrate and Hypericum perforatum that is marketed as Dynamiclear™ to a topical 5% Acyclovir cream standard preparation and use.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized, multi-centered, comparative, open-label clinical study was conducted. A total of 149 participants between 18 and 55 years of age with active HSV-1 and HSV-2 lesions were recruited for the 14-day clinical trial. Participants were randomized into two groups: A (n=61), those receiving the Dynamiclear formulation, and B (n=59), those receiving 5% Acyclovir. Efficacy parameters were assessed via physical examination at baseline (day 1), day 2, 3, 8, and 14. Laboratory safety tests were conducted at baseline and on day 14.

RESULTS

Use of the Dynamiclear formulation was found to have no significant adverse effects and was well tolerated by participants. All hematological and biochemical markers were within normal range for the Dynamiclear group. Statistically, odds for being affected by burning and stinging sensation were 1.9 times greater in the Acyclovir group in comparison to the Dynamiclear group. Similarly, the odds of being affected by symptoms of acute pain, erythema and vesiculation were 1.8, 2.4, and 4.4 times higher in the Acyclovir group in comparison to the Dynamiclear group.

CONCLUSIONS

The Dynamiclear formulation was well tolerated, and efficacy was demonstrated in a number of measured parameters, which are helpful in the symptomatic management of HSV-1 and HSV-2 lesions in adult patients. Remarkably, the effects seen from this product came from a single application.

Impact of certain plants and synthetic molluscicides on some fresh water snails and fish

The LC50 (78, 85 ppm) and LC90 (88, 135 ppm) of Anagalis arvensis and Calendula micrantha respectively against Biomphalaria alexandrina were higher than those of the non-target snails, Physa acuta, Planorbis planorbis, Helisoma duryi and Melanoides tuberculata. In contrast, the LC50 of Niclosamide (0.11 ppm) and Copper sulphate (CuSO4) (0.42 ppm) against B. alexandrina were lower than those of the non-target snails. The mortalities percentage among non-target snails ranged between 0.0 & 20% when sublethal concentrations of CuSO4 against B. alexandrina mixed with those of C. micrantha and between 0.0 & 40% when mixed with A. arvensis. Mortalities ranged between 0.0 & 50% when Niclosamide was mixed with each of A. arvensis and C. micrantha. A. arvensis induced 100% mortality on Oreochromis niloticus after 48 hrs exposure and after 24 hrs for Gambusia affinis. C. micrantha was non-toxic to the fish. The survival rate of O. niloticus and G. affinis after 48 hrs exposure to 0.11 ppm of Niclosamide were 83.3% & 100% respectively. These rates were 91.7% & 93.3% respectively when each of the two fish species was exposed to 0.42 ppm of CuSO4. Mixture of sub-lethal concentrations of A. arvensis against B. alexandrina and those of Niclosamide or CuSO4 at ratios 10:40 & 25:25 induced 66.6% mortalities on O. niloticus and 83.3% at 40:10. These mixtures caused 100% mortalities on G. affinis at all ratios. A. arvensis CuSO4 mixtures at 10:40 induced 83.3% & 40% mortalities on O. niloticus and G. affinis respectively and 100% mortalities on both fish species at ratios 25:25 & 40:10. A mixture of sub-lethal concentrations of C. micrantha against B. alexandrina and of Niclosamide or CuSO4 caused mortalities of O. niloticus between 0.0 & 33.3% and between 5% & 35% of G. affinis. The residue of Cu in O. niloticus were 4.69, 19.06 & 25.37 mg/1kgm fish after 24, 48 & 72 hrs exposure to LC0 of CuSO4 against B. alexandrina respectively.

Metal-ion-mediated oxidative stress in the gill homogenate of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): antioxidant potential of manganese, selenium, and albumin

Human activities play a major role in toxic and carcinogenic metal pollution of the environment. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of copper and mercury at the 400- to 1000-microM concentration range on some biochemical markers of oxidative stress, such as lipid peroxidation (LPO), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity, and reduced glutathione (GSH) content in the rainbow trout gill homogenates with or without supplementation of manganese, selenium, and bovine serum albumin (BSA). The integrity of DNA was also measured to assess metal ion toxicity. The results showed that the LPO and specific activity of GST were elevated. This indicated that cell-protecting antioxidant mechanisms were overtaxed and could not prevent membrane peroxidation. Following the addition of metals, the GSH content was also significantly reduced in a concentration-dependent manner. Mercury was found to be more effective than copper. The application of antioxidants proved beneficial in inhibiting LPO, reducing GST activity, and elevating the GSH levels in the gill samples. Manganese was more effective than selenium and BSA. Surprisingly, when BSA (1.0%) was added to the gill homogenates treated with a 1000-microM concentration of metal ions, instead of alleviating malondialdehyde (MDA) generation, a drastic elevation in the MDA levels, alleviation in GST activity, and a further decrease in glutathione (GSH) levels were observed, which were most likely the result of pro-oxidant activity of BSA. The results also indicated that mercury and copper functioned as genotoxic pollutants, which altered the DNA integrity by inducing the single- and double-stranded DNA breaks in the gill cell nuclei. Collectively, toxicity of metal ions is related to the depletion of GSH content and inhibition of antioxidant enzyme GST, resulting in the propagation of LPO and DNA damage.

Action of prostanoids on the emetic reflex of Suncus murinus (the house musk shrew)

Several prostanoids were investigated for a potential to induce emesis in Suncus murinus. The TP receptor agonist 11alpha,9alpha-epoxymethano-15S-hydroxyprosta-5Z,13E-dienoic acid (U46619) induced emesis at doses as low as 3 microg/kg, i.p. but the DP receptor agonist 5-(6-Carboxyhexyl)-1-(3-cyclohexyl-3-hydroxypropyl) hydantoin (BW245C) was approximately 1000 times less potent. The emetic action of U46619 (300 microg/kg, i.p.) was antagonized significantly by the TP receptor antagonist, vapiprost (P<0.05). EP (prostaglandin E(2), 17-phenyl-omega-trinor prostaglandin E(2), misoprostol and sulprostone), FP (prostaglandin F(2alpha) and fluprostenol) and IP (iloprost and cicaprost) receptor agonists failed to induce consistent emesis at doses up to 300-1000 microg/kg, i.p. Fluprostenol reduced nicotine (5 mg/kg, s.c.)-but not copper sulphate (120 mg/kg, intragastric)-induced emesis; the other inconsistently emetic prostanoids were inactive to modify drug-induced emesis. The results indicate an involvement of TP and possibly DP and FP receptors in the emetic reflex of S. murinus.

[Environmental hygiene and comprehensive processing of copper sulphate ore]

The modern comprehensive processing of copper-sulphate ores is based on using the fire, chemical and combined fire-and-hydrometallurgy processes. The existing schemes of comprehensive ore processing do not provide for a total utilization of the metallurgical cycles wastes due to the inherent technological and design shortcomings; besides, they are a source of environmental pollution. Contamination of the atmospheric air with discharge elements has unfavorable effects on the health condition of population; it worsens the natural body resistance and contributes (through the induction of chromosome aberrations) to a higher general morbidity and mortality due to malignant neoplasms. Health-improve measures are supported by modern achievements in the sphere of copper-sulphate ore processing technologies--they ensure the hygienic and ecological rational management and usage at all stages of the processing of raw materials and secondary products. Institutions of the territorial medical-and-ecological monitoring are the corner stones for ecological safety of persons residing in areas of comprehensive copper-and-sulphate ore processing.

Confirmation of an acute no-observed-adverse-effect and low-observed-adverse-effect level for copper in bottled drinking water in a multi-site international study

In a double blind, 3x3 factorial (volumexdose) study, 70 adult females (18-60 years of age) at four different international sites (total pooled n=269) were given 100, 150, or 200ml of bottled drinking water with 0.4, 0.8, or 1.2mg of copper (Cu) as the sulfate salt once each week. Two additional doses (0 and 1.6mg Cu) were added at the 200ml volume to determine a dose-response relationship and corroborate previously reported results. All subjects completed a questionnaire at 0, 0.25, and 1h post-dosing that screened for positive gastrointestinal (GI) effects (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea). Nausea was the most prevalent symptom reported and was generally reported within the first 15min (water volume, p<0.032; copper dose, p<0.0001; and water volumexcopper interaction, p<0.97). As volume increased, the effect of Cu-induced nausea decreased; as Cu dose increased, the incidence of nausea increased. At 200ml, a significant increase in reported incidence of nausea at 0.25h occurred at 1.2 mg Cu (6mg Cu/L), indicating a NOAEL of 0.8mg Cu (4mg Cu/L) for adult females. These data confirm a previously determined human acute NOAEL for Cu added to distilled water, and provide additional, controlled human data for determining safe concentrations of Cu in drinking water.

Gastric response to acute copper exposure

Early effects of acute copper exposure consist mainly of nausea and altered gastric permeability. To assess copper effects on gastric response 30 apparently healthy volunteers underwent two controlled trials receiving a solution with (10 mg Cu/l) and without (<0.01 mg Cu/l) copper sulfate after overnight fasting, in random order. Ultrasonography was chosen to follow indirectly the gastric emptying pattern for 120 min. Measurements were expressed as z scores [z=(mean-Xi)/S.D.]. Results showed that nobody presented symptoms after drinking water without added copper while 9 subjects presented nausea after receiving the 10 mg Cu/l solution. The group receiving drinking water with 10 mg Cu/l presented greater antral areas during the first 60 min of observation. Individual and mean fitted curves for antral area, calculated and compared using the linear mixed-effects model fit by REML, showed a group effect of copper on antral area over time (L. Ratio=23.98, P<0.0001); the effect was due to delay in decreasing antral area in the copper treated group during the first hour after ingestion. No differences were found by gender or nausea. Results show a copper effect on gastric response suggesting that acute exposure to copper in water modify the first phase of gastric emptying.

Occupational risk factors for renal cell cancer. An Italian case-control study

AIM

To examine possible associations between occupational and environmental risk factors and renal cell cancer (RCC), a tumour with unclear aetiology and increasing incidence.

METHODS

A questionnaire-based case-control study of 100 histologically verified cases of RCC and 200 controls was conducted at Parma University Hospital. The control group was enrolled from patients attending different outpatient departments and represented the same residential area as the cases. For all exposure variables under study, two levels of duration were defined: "short" and "prolonged" for less than 10 years or more, respectively.

RESULTS

The highest risk estimates for RCC were found for "prolonged" exposure to organic solvents with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.2 (95% confidence interval, CI: 1.0-4.8). "Prolonged" exposures to pesticides and copper sulphate were also associated with increased risk, OR 2.0 (95% CI: 0.8-4.7) and OR 2.7 (95% CI: 1.3-5.5), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggests an association between RCC and exposure to organic solvents, pesticides and copper sulphate. A risk gradient as a function of exposure duration was found for organic solvents (p = 0.044) and copper sulphate (p = 0.036), but not for pesticides.

[On carcinogenic effects of sulfate copper and nickel ore]

Underground mines are places for extraction of three types of copper and nickel sulfide ores: rich, copper and incorporated--those three ones differ in mimeralogic and chemical contents. Experimental evaluation of carcinogenic effects obtained during intratracheal administration of copper and incorporated ores indicates the certain carcinogenic activity of the dust with 0.49-1.14% nickel and 1.9-5.8% copper content--therefore a unified MAC for all the stated dust types could be suggested.

[Bernardino Ramazzini. Ante litteram epidemiologist]

Bernardino Ramazzini, born in Carpi in 1633 and deceased in Padua in 1714, is universally renowned father and founder of occupational health. This paper will present Bernardino Ramazzini under a different perspective, and will show that during his scientific career he continuously maintained the attitude of a modern epidemiologist. Reviewing all his scientific papers, and many papers commenting his activity, we present four major areas in which Ramazzini expressed in a direct and convincing way his epidemiologic culture: the epidemiologic constitutions and the work done mainly on physical subjects while he was in Modena; the general architecture of his most important book (De Morbis Artificum Diatriba); the first full description of an episode of environmental pollution which occurred in Finale Emilia in 1689 (in his book this episode is reported in the chapter describing the diseases of chemicals); the opening lectures of some academic years he gave while he was teaching, mainly, in Padua. To our knowledge the epidemiological attitude of Bernardino Ramazzini is not recognized yet in epidemiology textbooks.

The emetic and anti-emetic effects of the capsaicin analogue resiniferatoxin in Suncus murinus, the house musk shrew

1. In SUNCUS: murinus the ultrapotent capsaicin analogue resiniferatoxin (RTX) induced an emetic response in the dose range 1 - 1000 microg kg(-1), s.c. The latency was inversely related to dose and ranged from 41.2+/-4.4 min. (1 microg kg(-1), s.c.) to 2.7+/-0.6 min. (1000 microg kg(-1), s.c.). 2. The emetic response to RTX (10 or 100 microg kg(-1), s.c.) was blocked or markedly reduced by pre-treatment with RTX (100 microg kg(-1), s.c.), 8-OH-DPAT (100 microg kg(-1), s.c.), morphine (2 mg kg(-1), s.c.), neonatal capsaicin (100 mg kg(-1), s.c.) and the NK(1) receptor antagonist CP-99,994 (10 - 20 mg kg(-1), s.c.) but not by the 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist tropisetron (200 microg kg(-1), s.c.). 3. RTX (100 microg kg(-1), s.c.) induced c-fos-like immunoreactivity in the area postrema and parts of the nucleus tractus solitarius. This pattern is consistent with the proposal that the emetic effect is mediated via one or both of these structures and an involvement of substance P is discussed. 4. RTX (10 and 100 microg kg(-1), s.c.) had broad-spectrum antiemetic effects in Suncus as indicated by its ability to block or markedly reduce the emetic response to motion (1 Hz, 4 cm lateral, 10 min.), cisplatin (20 mg kg(-1), i.p.), intragastric copper sulphate (40 mg kg(-1), p.o.), nicotine (10 mg kg(-1), s.c.) and RTX (100 microg kg(-1), s.c.) itself. 5. It is proposed that the site of the anti-emetic effect is in the nucleus tractus solitarius and mechanisms involving the modulation of substance P release are discussed. 6. The general utility of SUNCUS: for investigations of vanilloid receptors is reviewed in the light of the exquisite sensitivity of the emetic reflex in this species to resiniferatoxin.

Effects of Cu2+ on root growth, cell division, and nucleolus of Helianthus annuus L

The effects of different concentrations (10-5 - 10-2 M) of copper sulfate on root growth, cell division and nucleoli in root-tip cells of Helianthus annuus L. were investigated. Cu had an inhibitory effect on the root growth at 10-4 - 10-2 M during the entire treatment. Cu has toxic effects on chromosomal morphology including anaphase bridges and chromosome stickiness and on nucleoli, causing some similar silver-stained particulate material scattered in the nuclei. Once the nucleolus is poisoned, showing some silver-stained particles scattered in the nucleus, the root growth of H. annuus is obviously inhibited. And once more silver-stained particles appear in the nucleus, the root growth is almost or completely stopped. The possible mechanism of the Cu poisoning of root-tip cells of H. annuus is also briefly discussed.

Cladosporiosis in a tomato clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus)

Infection with Cladosporium sp., a deuteromycete, caused a deep dermal ulcer that extended to bone in a cultured tomato clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus). The infection may have been secondary to immunosuppression resulting from transport or confinement-induced stress or may have resulted from chronic exposure to copper. Reports of fungal infections in tropical marine fish are rare.

[The use of copper sulfate in the treatment of esophageal cancer]

The authors have developed and approbated a methodology involving the use of copper sulphate as a radio sensitizer. The methods permit the enhancement of the immediate efficiency of treatment up to the level comparative with the best results of radiosensibilization at the expense of cytostatic agents. The incidence of complete regression of the tumor came up to 43.3%, partial one to 53.3%, stabilization to 3.3%. The advantages of the use of copper sulphate include low toxicity, practical availability, and exceptional cheapness, which facts suggest superiority of the proposed methods to other methodologies.

Inhibition of emesis by tachykinin NK1 receptor antagonists in Suncus murinus (house musk shrew)

The anti-emetic potential of CP-122,721 ((+)-2S,3S)-3-(2-methoxy-5-trifluoromethoxybenzyl)amino-2-phenylpi peridine), CP-99,994 ((+)-(2S,3S)-3-(2-methoxybenzylamino)-2-phenylpiperidine), CP-100,263 ((-)-(2R,3R)-3-(2-methoxybenzylamino)-2-phenylpiperidine), RP 67580 ((3R, 7aR)-7,7-diphenyl-2-[1-imino-2-(2-methoxyphenyl)ethyl] po-hydroisoindol-4-one), FK 888 (N2-[(4R)-4-hydroxy-1-(1-methyl-1H-in-dole-3-yl)carbonyl-L-propyl] -N-methyl-N-phenylmethyl-1-3-(2-naphthyl)-alaninamide) and GR 82334 ([D-Pro9[spiro-g-lactam]Leu10]-physalaemin-(1-11)) was investigated to inhibit nicotine (5 mg/kg, s.c.)-, copper sulphate pentahydrate (120 mg/kg, intragastric)- and motion (4 cm horizontal displacement at 1 Hz for 5 min)-induced emesis in Suncus murinus. A 30 min intraperitoneal pre-treatment with CP-122,721, CP-99,994, RP 67580 and FK 888 significantly (P < 0.05) antagonized nicotine-induced emesis with ID50 values of 2.1, 2.3, 13.5 and 19.2 mg/kg, respectively CP-100,263, the less active enantiomer of CP-99,994, was inactive at doses up to 10 mg/kg. Infusion of GR 82334, CP-122,721, CP-99,994 and FK 888 into the dorsal vagal complex of the hindbrain also antagonized nicotine-induced emesis yielding ID50 values of 1.1, 3.0, 3.3 and 58.0 microg/dorsal vagal complex, respectively RP 67580 and CP-100,263 were inactive. RP 67580 and FK 888 failed to antagonize copper sulphate-induced emesis but CP-122,721 and CP-99,994 were active yielding ID50 values of 2.2 and 3.0 mg/kg, i.p., respectively. CP-99,994 also completely prevented motion-induced emesis at 10 mg/kg, i.p. (P < 0.05) and RP 67580 produced a significant reduction of motion-induced emesis at 10 mg/kg, i.p. (P < 0.05). These studies provide evidence of a central site of action of tachykinin NK1 receptor antagonists to inhibit nicotine-induced emesis in S. murinus and confirm the broad profile of inhibitory action. The rank order of potency of the antagonists following the intra-dorsal vagal complex administration suggests that the S. murinus tachykinin NK1 receptor has a unique pharmacological profile.

Occupational contact dermatitis among New Zealand farmers

Forty-six farmers were patch tested to determine whether their dermatitis was secondary to an occupational allergen. Twenty-eight had a positive patch test of which 23 were thought relevant (definite or probable). In 20 of these cases, the allergen(s) was considered to be work related (define or probable). The common allergens were pesticides (N-(1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethylthio) -4-cyclohexene-1,2-dicarboximide (captafol), ethylenebis (dithiocarbamato) manganese (maneb) and copper sulfate), rubber compounds (N-isopropyl-N-phenyl-4-phenylenediamine (IPPD) and 4-phenylene diamine base) and sunscreen chemicals.

The effects of hange-shashin-to on gastric function in comparison with sho-saiko-to

The effects of "Hange-shashin-to (TJ-14)" on gastric function were examined in comparison with "Sho-saiko-to (TJ-9)". Oral treatment with TJ-14 (125-500 mg/kg) caused dose-dependent suppression of ethanol-induced gastric injury, while it did not suppress gastric lesions induced by water-immersion stress. TJ-9 (125-500 mg/kg, p.o.) suppressed both water-immersion stress-induced gastric lesions and ethanol-induced gastric injury in a dose-dependent manner. Intraduodenal administration of TJ-14 even at 500 mg/kg did not affect gastric juice secretion, while TJ-9 at 125 to 500 mg/kg dose-dependently suppressed gastric juice secretion. TJ-14 (125-500 mg/kg, p.o.) accelerated gastric emptying in normal rats and improved the delayed gastric emptying induced by BaCl2 in a dose-dependent manner, whereas such effect was not noted with TJ-9. Oral treatment with TJ-14 at 500 mg/kg significantly suppressed apomorphine-induced vomiting, but it did not affect copper sulfate-induced vomiting. These results suggest that TJ-14 exhibits an anti-ulcer action (probably based on its ability to protect the gastric mucosa), improvement of gastric emptying and an anti-emetic action. TJ-9 also showed anti-ulcer effects, probably based on its ability to suppress gastric secretion and to protect the gastric mucosa. Thus, the present study demonstrated the effectiveness of TJ-14 and TJ-9 against gastric disease, and provided basic data which explain the differences in clinical application between these two kampo medicines.

Antiemetic effects of morphine on motion- and drug-induced emesis in Suncus murinus

Emetic and antiemetic effects of morphine were investigated in Suncus murinus. Subcutaneous (up to 30 mg/kg) or intracerebroventricular administration (50 micrograms) of morphine failed to cause emesis. However, pretreatment with morphine (s.c.) prevented the emesis induced by nicotine (10 mg/kg, i.p.), copper sulfate (40 mg/kg, p.o.), cisplatin (20 mg/kg, i.p.) and motion stimulus. These results suggest that morphine has only antiemetic potency and may block a common mechanism for the emetic reflex of suncus, because the antiemetic effects of the drug were exerted irrespective of the stimulus.

Modification of human LDL by in vitro incubation with cigarette smoke or copper ions: implications for allergies, asthma and atherosclerosis

Cigarette smoking has been linked to a higher risk of not only atherosclerosis and related diseases, but asthma and allergies as well. The mechanisms linking smoking to these diseases may be due in part to increased low density lipoprotein (LDL) modification. In the current study, we compared the modification in vitro of LDL isolated from healthy volunteers that had been exposed to either the gas phase of cigarette smoke or copper ion mediated oxidation. The study used as measures of modification/damage the levels of protein carbonyl groups, changes in electrophoretic mobility on agarose gel electrophoresis and levels of thiobarbituric-reacting substances. Other measures used to assess other aspects of LDL modification included SDS PAGE and immunoblotting. Both copper ion or exposure to the gas phase of cigarette smoke increased electrophoretic mobility of LDL but the increase was greater in the gas phase smoke group. In contrast, thiobarbituric reacting substance levels were increased primarily in copper oxidized LDL. Protein carbonyl levels were increased to a similar extent in both copper ion and smoke exposed samples. Addition of EDTA prevented the modifications found upon copper mediated oxidation of LDL, but EDTA did not prevent the modification of the gas phase cigarette smoke exposed LDL. In summary, the results indicate that protein carbonyl formation can be used as a measure of the modification of LDL particles and, using several different assessment techniques, there are distinct differences in the modified LDL produced by in vitro incubation with gas phase cigarette smoke relative to that found upon incubation of LDL with copper ion. The in vitro smoking-produced LDL modifications may potentially be relevant to the process of lipoprotein modification in vivo and to the subsequent biological effects of these modified lipoproteins on processes affected by the immune system involvement, such as atherosclerosis and allergy/asthma.

Broad spectrum antiemetic effects of CP-122,721, a tachykinin NK1 receptor antagonist, in ferrets

The potent, selective, tachykinin NK1 receptor antagonist, CP-122,721 ([(+)-(2S,3S)-3-(2-methoxy-5-trifluoromethoxybenzyl)amino-2- phenylpiperidine]), at 0.01-1 mg/kg, s.c. reduced retching and vomiting elicited by loperamide, copper sulfate, ipecac syrup and cisplatin in a dose-dependent manner. ID50 values after subcutaneous administration ranged from 0.02 mg/kg (loperamide) to 0.08 mg/kg (ipecac). Oral CP-122,721 reduced cisplatin-induced emesis with an ID50 of approximately 0.08 mg/kg. The less active (2R, 3R)-enantiomer, CP-132.687, did not significantly suppress retching or vomiting induced by any of the emetogens. These data support the hypothesis that CP-122,721 blocks emesis by a specific action at tachykinin NK1 receptors. Its broad spectrum of antiemetic activity suggests a central site of action.