24-h Concentrations Research Articles

DEET (N ,N -diethyl-m -toluamide) Toxicity to Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus , Sac Fry

The combination of open facilities, moisture, and warm weather during channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, spawning season causes mosquito-infestation problems. A common solution to mosquito problems in hatcheries is to use mosquito repellents applied to exposed skin and clothing. DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is the active ingredient in most personal insect repellents. We determined the 24-h acute toxicity of DEET to channel catfish fry. The toxicity test consisted of 10 sac fry in three replications of six concentrations (range: 157–478 μL/L) and a control. In addition to toxicity testing, a trial was conducted to determine the amount of active ingredient dispensed from two different applicators: a pump sprayer and an aerosol can. The 24-h lethal concentration (LC10) was 274 ppm, and the 24-h LC50 was 345 ppm. The concentration required to kill 50% of the organisms was above the 100 ppm threshold to be considered practically non-toxic. The pump sprayer (98.11% active ingredient) dispensed 113.3 ± 0.57 mg (mean ± SEM) active ingredient per pump. The aerosol can (30% active ingredient) dispensed 526.8 ± 6.71 mg (mean ± standard error mean [SEM]) active ingredient per second. In hatcheries where air movement by fans is not sufficient to control mosquitoes, using insect repellent products containing DEET should be safe.

5C.09

OBJECTIVE: Electrolytes handling by the kidney is essential for volume and blood pressure (BP) homeostasis but their distribution and heritability are not well described. We estimated the heritability of kidney function as well as of serum and urine concentrations, renal clearances and fractional excretions for sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, phosphate and magnesium in a Swiss population-based study. DESIGN AND METHOD: Nuclear families were randomly selected from the general population in Switzerland. We estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the CKD-EPI and MDRD equations. Urine was collected separately during day and night over 24-hour. We used the ASSOC program (S.A.G.E.) to estimate narrow sense heritability, including as covariates in the model: age, sex, body mass index and study center. RESULTS: The 1128 participants (537 men and 591 women from 273 families), had mean (sd) age of 47.4(17.5) years, body mass index of 25.0 (4.5) kg/m2 and CKD-EPI of 98.0(18.5) mL/min/1.73 m2. Heritability estimates (SE) were 46.0% (0.06), 48.0% (0.06) and 18.0% (0.06) for CKD-EPI, MDRD and 24-hour creatinine clearance (P < 0.05), respectively. Heritability [SE] of serum concentration was highest for calcium (37%[0.06]) and lowest for sodium (13%[0.05]). Heritabilities [SE] of 24-h urine concentrations and excretions, and of fractional excretions were highest for calcium (51%[0.06], 44%[0.06] and 51%[0.06], respectively) and lowest for potassium (11%[0.05], 10%[0.05] and 16%[0.06], respectively). All results were statistically different from zero.(Figure is included in full-text article.) CONCLUSIONS: : Serum and urine levels, urinary excretions and renal handling of electrolytes, particularly calcium, are heritable in the general adult population. Identifying genetic variants involved in electrolytes homeostasis may provide useful insight into the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in common chronic diseases such as kidney diseases, hypertension and diabetes.

The effects of a garlic oil chemical compound, propyl-propane thiosulfonate, on ruminal fermentation and fatty acid outflow in a dual-flow continuous culture system

The ban on the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal feeds in the European Union has stimulated research on potential alternatives. Recently, propyl-propane thiosulfonate (PTSO), a stable organosulfurate compound of garlic, was purified. The objectives of the current study were to investigate the potential effects of PTSO on rumen microbial fermentation and to define effective doses. Two experiments were conducted using dual-flow continuous culture fermenters in 2 replicated periods. Each experimental period consisted of 5 d for adaptation of the ruminal fluid and 3 d for sampling. Temperature (39°C), pH (6.4), and liquid (0.10 h−1) and solid (0.05 h−1) dilution rates were maintained constant. Samples were taken 2 h after feeding and from the 24-h effluent. Samples were analyzed for volatile fatty acids (VFA) and nitrogen fractions, and degradation of nutrients was calculated. In addition, 24-h effluents from experiment 2 were analyzed for their fatty acid (FA) profile. Treatments in experiment 1 included a negative control without additive, a positive control with monensin (12mg/L), and PTSO at 30 and 300mg/L. The addition of 30mg/L did not affect any of the measurements tested. The addition of 300mg/L reduced microbial fermentation, as suggested by the decreased total VFA concentration, true degradation of organic matter and acid detergent fiber, and a tendency to decrease neutral detergent fiber degradation. Experiment 2 was conducted to test increasing doses of PTSO (0, 50, 100, and 150mg/L) on rumen microbial fermentation. At 2 h postfeeding, total VFA and molar proportion of propionate responded quadratically, with higher values in the intermediate doses. Molar proportions of butyrate increased and branched-chain VFA decreased linearly as the dose of PTSO increased. In the 24-h effluents, total VFA, acetate, and branched-chain VFA concentrations decreased linearly and those of propionate responded cubically with the highest value at 100mg/L. Saturated FA decreased and unsaturated FA increased linearly with increasing dose of PTSO. The concentration of trans-10,cis-12 conjugated linoleic acid decreased by 78.5% with addition of PTSO at the highest dose (150mg/L). Results suggest the potential of PTSO to modify ruminal fermentation in a direction consistent with higher propionate molar proportion, higher outflow of unsaturated FA, and low trans-10,cis-12 conjugated linoleic acid in an effective dose between 50 and 100mg/L.

Exposure to select phthalates and phenols through use of personal care products among Californian adults and their children

IntroductionCertain phenols and phthalates are used in many consumer products including personal care products (PCPs). AimsWe aimed to study the associations between the use of PCPs and urinary concentrations of biomarkers of select phenols and phthalates among Californian adults and their children. As an additional aim we compared phenols and phthalate metabolites concentrations measured in adults and children urine samples collected the same day. MethodsOur study relied on a subsample of 90 adult–child pairs participating in the Study of Use of Products and Exposure Related Behavior (SUPERB). Each adult and child provided one to two urine samples in which we measured concentrations of selected phenols and phthalate metabolites. We computed Spearman correlation coefficients to compare concentrations measured in adults and children urine samples collected the same day. We used adjusted linear and Tobit regression models to study the associations between the use of PCPs in the past 24h and biomarker concentrations. ResultsBenzophenone-3 and parabens concentrations were higher in adults compared to their children. Conversely children had higher mono-n-butyl phthalate and mono-isobutyl phthalate concentrations. No significant difference was observed for the other compounds. The total number of different PCPs used was positively associated with urinary concentrations of methyl, propyl and butyl parabens and the main metabolite of diethyl phthalate in adults. Among children, the use of a few specific products including liquid soap, hair care products and sunscreen was positively associated with urinary concentrations of some phenols or phthalate metabolites. DiscussionThese results strengthen the body of evidence suggesting that use of PCPs is an important source of exposure to parabens and diethyl phthalate in adults and provide data on exposure to selected phenols and phthalates through use of PCPs in children.

ABCB1 polymorphisms correlate with susceptibility to adult acute leukemia and response to high-dose methotrexate.

The aim of this study is to investigate the association of ABCB1 polymorphisms with susceptibility to adult acute leukemia, and the influence of ABCB1 polymorphisms on the efficacy of high-dose methotrexate (HDMTX). ABCB1 polymorphisms in 178 acute leukemia patients (case group) and 150 healthy subjects (control group) were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. All patients received HDMTX therapy. Correlation analysis was performed to explore the associations of ABCB1 polymorphisms with MTX concentration and efficacy of MTX therapy. All statistical analyses were conducted with SPSS 19.0 software. The frequency of TT genotype and T allele on ABCB1 3435C > T in case group were significantly higher than the control group (P < 0.05), while no statistical difference between the two groups was observed in genotypic distribution and allele frequencies of ABCB1 2677G > T/A (P > 0.05). Furthermore, 24-h MTX concentration of patients carrying TT and TA genotypes on 2677G > T/A was higher than carriers with other genotypes (P < 0.05), and 24-h MTX concentration of patients with TT and CT genotypes on 3435C > T was also apparently higher than carriers with CC genotype (P < 0.05). In addition, ABCB1 polymorphisms were connected with increased risk of liver dysfunction and infection (P < 0.05). Complete remission (CR) rate in patients carrying GG on 2677G > T/A was markedly lower than carriers with non-GG genotype (P < 0.05). ABCB1 3435C > T polymorphisms may be associated with susceptibility to acute leukemia, and ABCB1 polymorphisms might be a sensitive indicator for predicting efficacy of MTX therapy in the treatment of acute leukemia.

Air quality in Singapore during the 2013 smoke-haze episode over the Strait of Malacca: Lessons learned

The widespread wildfires that raged across Indonesia's island of Sumatra in June 2013 triggered the worst air pollution episode ever recorded in Singapore. The highest 24-h moving average PM2.5 concentration reported by the authorities reached a whopping 310μgm−3 on June 20, 2013. However, a top 3-h moving average Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) of 401 (index ceiling is 500) based only in PM10 concentration data occurred the following day, and a maximum 24-h moving average PSI of 246 with an associated 24-h PM10 concentration of 382μgm−3 was reported on June 22, 2013. The decoupling between these air quality health advisories evidences the flaw in informing to the public on the hour when the air quality was at its worst. Up until now, despite the positive changes on the public dissemination of air quality information, the real hourly pollution levels experienced in Singapore during the 2013 smoke-haze episode are still unknown. To unveil the hourly PM2.5 concentrations this work applies a set of statistical models to the available air quality data during the episode and the lately 1-h PM2.5 concentration records published since April 2014 on a day-by-day bases. Results suggest maximum likelihood hourly PM2.5 concentrations over 600μgm−3, twice the maximum 24-h moving average reported by the authorities.

Household air pollution and personal exposure risk of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons among rural residents in Shanxi, China.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of pollutants of widespread concerns. Gaseous and size-segregated particulate-phase PAHs were collected in indoor and outdoor air in rural households. Personal exposure was measured and compared to the ingestion exposure. The average concentrations of 28 parent PAHs and benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) were 9000±8390 and 131±236ng/m(3) for kitchen, 2590±2270 and 43±95ng/m(3) for living room, and 2800±3890 and 1.6±0.7ng/m(3) for outdoor air, respectively. The mass percent of high molecular weight (HMW) compounds with 5-6 rings contributed 1.3% to total 28 parent PAHs. Relatively higher fractions of HMW PAHs were found in indoor air compared to outdoor air. Majorities of particle-bound PAHs were found in the finest PM0.25 , and the highest levels of fine PM0.25 -bound PAHs were in the kitchen using peat and wood as energy sources. The 24-h personal PAH exposure concentration was 2100±1300ng/m(3) . Considering energies, exposures to those using wood were the highest. The PAH inhalation exposure comprised up to about 30% in total PAH exposure through food ingestion and inhalation, and the population attributable fraction (PAF) for lung cancer in the region was 0.85%. The risks for inhaled and ingested intakes of PAHs were 1.0×10(-5) and 1.1×10(-5) , respectively.

Effects of Hydration and Calcium Supplementation on Urine Calcium Concentration in Healthy Postmenopausal Women

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether calcium supplementation, compared with placebo, increases urine calcium concentrations to levels indicative of increased renal stone risk, and the role that fluid intake, as indicated by urine volume, may play in mitigating this risk.Methods: This is a secondary analysis of data from a randomized placebo-controlled trial of 500 mg/d calcium supplementation to prevent bone loss. Subjects were 240 white postmenopausal women age 40 to 70 years in good general health. Effects of supplementation on 1-year changes in 24h urine calcium concentration and urine volume were examined.Results: Both treatment group and urine volume were strong independent predictors of urine calcium concentration (p < 0.001). Among subjects with urine volume under 2 L/24 h, more than half of placebo subjects were at lowest risk for renal stones compared with less than 35% of calcium-supplemented subjects. Among those with higher urine volumes, all placebo subjects and more than 80% of calcium supplemented subjects were at lowest risk.Conclusions: The increased risk of renal stones with calcium supplement use may be largely eliminated with adequate fluid intake, but older adults may not spontaneously consume adequate fluids to minimize this risk and should be counseled to do so.

Associations between size-fractionated particulate air pollution and blood pressure in a panel of type II diabetes mellitus patients

Little is known regarding how the size distribution of particulate matter (PM) air pollution influences its effect on blood pressure (BP), especially among patients with diabetes. The objective of this study was to explore the short-term associations between size-fractionated PM and BP among diabetes patients. We scheduled 6 repeated BP examinations every 2weeks from 13 April 2013 to 30 June 2013 in a panel of 35 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients recruited from an urban community in Shanghai, China. We measured real-time PM concentrations in the size range of 0.25 to 10μm. We used linear mixed-effect models to examine the short-term association of size-fractionated PM and BP after controlling for individual characteristics, mean temperature, relative humidity, day of the week, years with diabetes and use of antihypertensive medication. The association with systolic BP and pulse pressure strengthened with decreasing diameter. The size fractions with the strongest associations were 0.25 to 0.40μm for number concentrations and ≤2.5μm for mass concentrations. Furthermore, these effects occurred immediately even after 0–2h and lasted for up to 48h following exposure. An interquartile range increase in 24-h average number concentrations of PM0.25–0.40 was associated with increases of 3.61mmHg in systolic BP and 2.96mmHg in pulse pressure. Females, patients younger than 65years of age and patients without antihypertensive treatment were more susceptible to these effects. Our results revealed important size and temporal patterns of PM in elevating BP among diabetes patients in China.

Effects of biliopancreatic diversion on diurnal leptin, insulin and free fatty acid levels.

Free fatty acid (FFA) levels are raised in obesity as a consequence of increased production and reduced clearance. They may link obesity with insulin resistance. Bariatric surgery can result in considerable weight loss and reduced insulin resistance, but the mechanism of action is not well understood. Although drugs such as metformin that lower insulin resistance can contribute to weight loss, a better understanding of the links between obesity, weight loss and changes in insulin resistance might lead to new approaches to patient management. Variations in circulating levels of leptin, insulin and FFAs over 24 h were studied in severely obese (body mass index over 40 kg/m(2) ) women before and 6 months after biliopancreatic diversion (BPD). Body composition was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A euglycaemic-hyperinsulinaemic clamp was used to assess insulin sensitivity. Levels of insulin, leptin and FFAs were measured every 20 min for 24 h. Pulsatile hormone and FFA analyses were performed. Among eight patients studied, insulin sensitivity more than doubled after BPD, from mean(s.d.) 39·78(7·74) to 96·66(27·01) mmol per kg fat-free mass per min, under plasma insulin concentrations of 102·29(9·60) and 93·61(9·95) µunits/ml respectively. The secretory patterns of leptin were significantly different from random but not statistically different before and after BPD, with the exception of the pulse height which was reduced after surgery. Both plasma insulin and FFA levels were significantly higher throughout the study day before BPD. Based on Granger statistical modelling, lowering of daily FFA levels was linked to decreased circulating leptin concentrations, which in turn were related to the lowering of daily insulin excursions. Multiple regression analysis indicated that FFA level was the only predictor of leptin level. Lowering of circulating levels of FFAs after BPD may be responsible for the reduction in leptin secretion, which in turn can decrease circulating insulin levels. Surgical relevance Insulin resistance is a common feature of obesity and type II diabetes. These patients are also relatively insensitive to the biological effects of leptin, a satiety hormone produced mainly in subcutaneous fat. Biliopancreatic diversion, a malabsorptive bariatric operation that drastically reduces circulating lipid levels, improves insulin resistance independently of weight loss. The mechanism of action, however, has still to be elucidated. This study demonstrated that normalization of insulin sensitivity after bariatric surgery was associated with a reduction in 24-h free fatty acid concentrations and changes in the pattern of leptin peaks in plasma. Bariatric surgery improves the metabolic dysfunction of obesity, and this may be through a reduction in circulating free fatty acids and modification of leptin metabolism.

Evaluation of nanosilver-induced toxicity in aquatic environment using the Chinese rare minnow

Nanosilver, a popular disinfectant with excellent antibacterial activity, is used in a variety of fields, including the food industry, medical appliance maintenance, and water treatment. Given its widespread use, there is increasing concern regarding the biosafety of nanosilver. We evaluated the toxicity of a nanosilver-based disinfectant at the suggested effective doses for water treatment (1-20 mg/L) using the Chinese rare minnow ( Gobiocyprisrarus ). The silver nanoparticles were coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and dispersed in the water. TEM characterization revealed the particle size was within 10 nm. The hydrodynamic size was ~3.76 nm based on measurement of dynamic light scattering. The zeta potential was -5.5 mV and the UV absorbance was weak. High levels of both silver ion and nanosilver exposure were lethal to the fish. The 24-h half lethal concentrations (24 h LC 50 ) were 12.79 mg/L and 22 μg/L for nanosilver and silver ions, respectively, suggesting the toxicity of nanosilver was much lower than that of the silver ion. We conducted a total silver analysis using ICP-MS to evaluate the accumulation and depuration of silver in the exposed fish. Both nanosilver and silver ions were able to enter into fish tissues, the bioaccumulation was not high though. The liver, gill, and intestine contained relatively high levels of silver and the bioaccumulation was in a dose-dependent manner for nanosilver exposure. Silver levels increased slowly with exposure time and decreased rapidly during the depuration period. Silver ions were characterized by a higher bioavailability to the the Chinese rare minnow than nanosilver. The histological observations using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that both silver ions and nanosilver had obvious deleterious effects on the target tissues, including gill and liver. The ultrastructural alterations of the gill tissues included a fall-off of the flat epithelial cell, disappearance of the surface microridges, and distorted taste buds. Similarly, nanosilver and silver ion exposure resulted in obvious damages to the liver surface such as irregular hepatocyte shape. Silver ion exposure caused in much more severe effects on these target tissues than nanosilver, likely because silver ions were more readily taken up. Our results are consistent with observations in other fish species (e.g., rainbow trout and zebrafish), suggesting that the Chinese rare minnow is a good model for evaluating the aquatic toxicity of nanosilver. Ultrastructural observations using SEM also provided a sensitive approach for toxicological studies. Given that these subchronic deleterious effects were induced by nanosilver at the doses suggested for water disinfection, there is an urgent need for risk assessment on the potential aquatic toxicological effects of nanosilver.

대시호탕(大柴胡湯)이 3T3-L1 지방전구세포와 고지방식이 유도 비만쥐에 미치는 영향

Objectives This experimental study was designed to investigate the effects of Dai-saiko-to (DSH) on differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and body weight, serum lipid levels in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Materials and Methods Cells were incubated with DSH at an indicated concentration (0.01-1 mg/ml) for 24h, then the growth rate was assessed by MTS assay. 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were incubated in DMEM for 2 days with the indicated concentrations of DSH. On Day 6, the cells were fixed and the cellular lipid contents were assessed by Oil-Red-O staining. The expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor <TEX>${\gamma}$</TEX> (<TEX>$PPAR{\gamma}$</TEX>) and cytidine-cytidine-adenosine-adenosine-thymine (CCAAT)/enhancer-binding proteins <TEX>${\alpha}$</TEX> (<TEX>$C/EBP{\alpha}$</TEX>) as adipocyte-specific proteins were determined by real time RT-PCR and western blotting. Four-weeks old mice (wild-type C57BL/6) were used for all experiments. Body weight gain and serum lipid levels were measured in the obesity-induced mice. Results DSH did not show toxicity even at the concentration of 1 mg/ml and DSH significantly inhibited the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes in a dose-dependent manner. Also, DSH significantly reduced the expressions of <TEX>$PPAR{\gamma}$</TEX> and <TEX>$C/EBP{\alpha}$</TEX> in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, DSH significantly reduced body weight gain, serum glucose, total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol contents in obesity-induced mice. Conclusions These results demonstrated that DSH inhibited 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiations and high-fat diet-induced obesity in mice.

Characterization of summer PM2.5 aerosols from four forest areas in Sichuan, SW China

Aerosol samples were collected over 24 and 12h to represent day/night aerosol characteristics in forest areas at Ya’an Baima Spring Scenic Area (BM), Panzhihua Cycas National Nature Reserve (PZ), Gongga Mountain National Nature Reserve (GG), and Wolong National Nature Reserve (WL), during the summers of 2010–2012. Mass and chemical component concentrations, including organic carbon, elemental carbon, and inorganic ions (F−, Cl−, NO2−, NO3−, SO42−, C2O42−, PO43−, K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and NH4+), of PM2.5 aerosols were measured. The average PM2.5 concentrations for 24h were 72.42, 104.89, 20.55, and 29.19μg/m3 at BM, PZ, GG, and WL, respectively. Organic matter accounted for 38.0–49.3%, while elemental carbon accounted for 2.0–5.7% of PM2.5 mass. The sum concentrations of SO42−, NH4+, and NO3− accounted for 23.0%, 17.4%, 22.1%, and 30.5% of PM2.5 mass at BM, PZ, GG, and WL, respectively. Soil dust was also an important source of PM2.5, accounting for 6.3%, 17.0%, 10.4%, and 19.1% of PM2.5 mass at BM, PZ, GG, and WL, respectively. These reconstructed masses accounted for 75.9–102.0% of PM2.5 mass from the four forest areas of SW China.

Development of a land-use regression model for ultrafine particles in Toronto, Canada

This study applies land-use regression (LUR) to characterize the spatial distribution of ultrafine particles (UFP) in a large city. Particle number (PN) concentrations were measured in residential areas around Toronto, Canada, between June and August 2008. A combination of fixed and mobile monitoring was used to assess spatial gradients between and within communities. The fixed monitoring locations included a central site, two downtown sites, and four residential sites located 6–15 km from the downtown core. The mobile data included average PN concentrations collected on 112 road segments from 10 study routes that were repeated on three separate days. The mobile data was used to create the land-use regression model while the fixed sites were used for validation purposes. The predictor variables that best described the spatial variation of PN concentration (R2 = 0.72, validated R2 = 0.68) included population density within 300 m, total resource and industrial area within 1000 m, total residential area within 3000 m, and major roadway and highway length within 3000 m. The LUR model successfully predicted the afternoon peak PN concentration (slope = 0.96, R2 = 0.86) but over-predicted the 24-h average PN concentration (slope = 1.28, R2 = 0.72) measured at seven fixed monitoring sites.

Heat-treated (in single aliquot or batch) colostrum outperforms non-heat-treated colostrum in terms of quality and transfer of immunoglobulin G in neonatal Jersey calves

The objective of this randomized clinical trial was to describe the effect on colostrum characteristics and passive transfer of IgG in neonatal calves when using the Perfect Udder colostrum management system (single-aliquot treatment; Dairy Tech Inc., Greeley, CO) compared with a negative control (fresh refrigerated or fresh frozen colostrum) and a positive control (batch heat-treated colostrum). First-milking Jersey colostrum was pooled to achieve 31 unique batches with a minimum of 22.8L per batch. The batch was then divided into 4 with 3.8L allocated to each treatment group: (1) heat-treated in Perfect Udder bag at 60°C for 60min and then stored at −20°C (PU); (2) heat-treated in a batch pasteurizer (Dairy Tech Inc.) at 60°C for 60min and then stored at −20°C in Perfect Udder bag (DTB; positive control); (3) fresh frozen colostrum stored at −20°C in Perfect Udder bag (FF; negative control); and (4) fresh refrigerated colostrum stored at 4°C in Perfect Udder bag (FR; negative control). Colostrum from all treatments was sampled for analysis of IgG concentration and bacterial culture immediately after batch assembly, after processing, and before feeding. Newborn Jersey calves were randomly assigned to be fed 3.8L of colostrum from 1 of the 4 treatment groups. A prefeeding, 0-h blood sample was collected, calves were fed by esophageal tube within 2h of birth, and then a 24-h postfeeding blood sample was collected. Paired serum samples from 0- and 24-h blood samples were analyzed for IgG concentration (mg/mL) using radial immunodiffusion analysis. The overall mean IgG concentration in colostrum was 77.9g/L and was not affected by treatment. Prefeeding total plate counts (log10 cfu/mL) were significantly different for all 4 treatments and were lower for heat-treated colostrum (PU=4.23, DTB=3.63) compared with fresh colostrum (FF=5.68, FR=6.53). Total coliform counts (log10 cfu/mL) were also significantly different for all 4 treatments and were lower for heat-treated colostrum (PU=0.45, DTB=1.08) compared with fresh colostrum (FF=3.82, FR=4.80). Mean 24-h serum IgG concentrations were significantly higher for calves in the PU (41.0mg/mL) and DTB (40.6mg/mL) groups compared with FF (35.1mg/mL) and FR (35.5mg/mL) groups. Mean apparent efficiency of absorption of IgG was significantly higher for the PU (37%) and DTB (37%) groups compared with the FF (32%) and FR (32%) groups. Calves fed heat-treated colostrum (PU or DTB) experienced significantly improved AEA and serum IgG concentrations.

Measuring the concentration of suspended particles (PM10) in the indoor environment using the automatic monitors

The aim of this paper was to determine the applicability of the automatic monitors for measuring the indoor air pollution with suspended particles, PM10 fraction. The measurement results of the automatic monitor were compared with the results obtained by the reference gravimetric method. Comparative measurements over a period of 50 days were carried out during the winter of 2012 in the Laboratory of Applied Electronics in the Mining and Metallurgy Institute Bor. The analysis showed that there is a strong correlation (R2 = 0.61) between the mean hourly PM10 concentrations, measured by the automatic monitors. The OSIRIS monitor underestimates the 24-h mean PM10 concentrations (the average of 30%) compared to the reference gravimetric method. Contrary to that, the EPAM-5000 monitor overestimates the 24-h mean PM10 concentrations (the average of 40%) compared to the reference gravimetric method. Calibration of the automatic monitors was made on the basis of the results obtained by the gravimetric method. It was determined that both examined automatic monitors are applicable for indicative measurements of PM10 concentrations in the indoor environment. In order to use these automatic monitors in the air pollution health impact studies, it is necessary to calibrate them, on daily basis, with the reference gravimetric method.

Toll-like receptor 4 is involved in a protective effect of rhein on immunoglobulin A nephropathy.

Objectives:The objective was to investigate the protective effects of rhein on renal histology change and the effects of rhein on renal tissue toll-like receptor (TLR) 4, TLR9, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) expression in immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) rats.Materials and Methods:Bovine serum albumin-lipopolysaccharide-carbon tetrachloride 4 method was used to establish IgAN model. Thirty-two male sprague dawley rats were randomly divided into the control group, IgAN model group, rhein-prevented group, and rhein-treated group. 24-h urinary protein (UP), creatinine, urea, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total protein (TP) contents in the serum of rats were detected with automatic biochemical analyzer and renal pathological changes were observed by the hematoxylin and eosin and periodic acid-Schiff staining. The glomerular deposition of IgA was measured by immunofluorescence staining. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were used to detect renal tissue contents of TLR4, TLR9, TGF-β1 messenger ribonucleic acid and protein expression.Results:The biochemical parameters results of IgAN model rats showed that the 24-h UP excretion and ALT concentration were much higher, and TP concentration was much lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). Granule-like or mass-like IgA depositions in the mesangial area, glomerular hypercellularity, hyperplasia of mesangial matrix, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis were found in IgAN group. Rhein-prevented and rhein-treated both improved the biochemical parameters and relieved renal pathological injury. The expressions of renal tissue TLR4, TGF-β1, but not TLR9 were significantly elevated in IgAN model rats (P < 0.05). Rhein-prevented and rhein-treated both inhibited TLR4 and TGF-β1 expressions.Conclusion:Rhein significantly improved the serum and urine biochemical parameters, and attenuated the glomerular pathological changes and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in IgAN rats. The mechanism may involve inhibition of renal TLR4 and TGF-β1 secretion.

Rapid detection of TNT in aqueous media by selective label free surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy

We report rapid and ultra-sensitive detection system for 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) using unmodified gold nanoparticles and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). First, Meisenheimer complex has been formed in aqueous solution between TNT and cysteamine in less than 15min of mixing. The complex formation is confirmed by the development of a pink colour and a new UV–vis absorption band around 520nm. Second, the developed Meisenheimer complex is spontaneously self-assembled onto unmodified gold nanoparticles through a stable Au–S bond between the cysteamine moiety and the gold surface. The developed mono layer of cysteamine-TNT is then screened by SERS to detect and quantify TNT. Our experimental results demonstrate that the SERS-based assay provide an ultra-sensitive approach for the detection of TNT down to 22.7ng/L. The unambiguous fingerprint identification of TNT by SERS represents a key advantage for our proposed method. The new method provides high selectivity towards TNT over 2,4 DNT and picric acid. Therefore it satisfies the practical requirements for the rapid screening of TNT in real life samples where the interim 24-h average allowable concentration of TNT in waste water is 0.04mg/L.

Evaluation of the toxic effects of brominated compounds (BDE-47, 99, 209, TBBPA) and bisphenol A (BPA) using a zebrafish liver cell line, ZFL

The toxic effects of three polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners (BDE-47, -99, and -209), tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and bisphenol A (BPA), were evaluated by determining their 24h and 96h median lethal concentrations using a zebrafish liver cell line, ZFL. It was found that BDE-47, BDE-99 and TBBPA showed comparative cytotoxicity within the range of 1.2–4.2μM, and were more toxic than BPA (367.1μM at 24h and 357.6μM at 96h). However, BDE-209 induced only 15% lethality with exposures up to 25μM. The molecular stresses of BDE-47, -99, TBBPA and BPA involved in thyroid hormone (TH) homeostasis and hepatic metabolism were also investigated. Using a reporter gene system to detect zebrafish thyroid hormone receptor β (zfTRβ) transcriptional activity, the median effective concentration of triiodothyronine (T3) was determined to be 9.2×10−11M. BDE-47, BDE-99, TBBPA and BPA alone, however, did not exhibit zfTRβ agonistic activity. BPA displayed T3 (0.1nM) induced zfTRβ antagonistic activity with a median inhibitory concentration of 19.3μM. BDE-47, BDE-99 and TBBPA displayed no antagonistic effects of T3-induced zfTRβ activity. Target gene expressions were also examined under acute exposures. The significant inhibition of different types of deiodinases by all of the test chemicals indicated TH circulation disruption. All four chemicals, especially BPA, were able to affect transcripts of phase II hepatic metabolizing enzymes (UGT2A1, SULT1) in vitro. In conclusion, the zfTRβ reporter gene system developed here helps delineate an in vitro model to enable the analysis of the TH disruption effects of environmental pollutants in fish. BPA and the brominated compounds tested were able to disrupt the TH system at the gene expression level, probably through the deiodination pathways.

Antitumor Activity of a Novel Proteasome Inhibitor BSc2118 Against Multiple Myeloma

Background: Although the first generation of proteasome inhibitor bortezomib is very effective, the development of resistance limits it long-term utility. In this study, we explored the efficiency and molecular mechanisms of the novel, irreversible proteasome inhibitor BSc2118, particularly, the reversal of bortezomib resistance.Materials and Methods: Human MM cell lines (MM.1S, MM.1R, RPMI-8226, U266, NCI-H929) were treated with BSc2118 at various concentrations for 48h, and assessment for cell viability by CCK-8 assay. MM.1S and MM.1R cells were treated with BSc2118 for 24 hours, and cell cycle and apoptosis analysis were conducted by flow cytometry. Associated molecules were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. Chymotrypsin-like proteasome activity assay was performed by using the 20S proteasome assay kit. Ubiquitinated proteins were isolated and determined with ubiquitin enrichment kit.Results: Our results revealed that treatment of MM cell lines with BSc2118 inhibits the chymotrypsin-like proteasome activity and induces accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins. BSc2118 inhibits MM cell growth and induces MM apoptosis via induction of G2/M phase arrest, activation of cleaved caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9 and PARP, increasing p53, p21 and E2F1, and inhibition of autophagy in MM.1S, MM.1R and RPMI-8226 cell lines. In addition, BSc2118 dramatically inhibits cytokines mRNA, such as IL-6, VEGF and bFGF in both myeloma cells line and primary bone marrow stromal cells from myeloma patients. More importantly, BSc2118 could overcome bortezomib resistance in vitro by using primary CD138 positive plasma cells from bortezomib-resistant myeloma patients and bortezomib resistance cell line ANBL-6 (ANBL-6.BR), most likely as the consequence of inhibition of autophagy flux which is responsible for bortezomib resistance.Conclusion: Our study revealed BSc2118, a novel irreversible proteasome inhibitor, exerts anti-MM effect, mainly through activation of caspase pathway and inhibition of basal autophagy. It is of great importance that BSc2118 could overcome bortezomib resistance via inhibition of autophagy flux. A head to head of BSc2118 versus Bortezomib is performing in human plasmacytoma xenograft tumor model to evaluate drug safety, anti-tumor efficiency, in particular, reversal of bortezomib resistance. Our preclinical study supports clinical evaluation of BSc2118, particularly, overcomes bortezomib resistance, as a potential MM therapy. DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.