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Evaluation for safety of antioxidant chemopreventive agents.

Antioxid Redox Signal. 2005 Nov-Dec;7(11-12):1728-39

Authors: Kawanishi S, Oikawa S, Murata M

Antioxidants are considered as the most promising chemopreventive agents against various human cancers. However, some antioxidants play paradoxical roles, acting as "double-edged sword." A primary property of effective and acceptable chemopreventive agents should be freedom from toxic effects in healthy population. Miscarriage of the intervention by beta-carotene made us realize the necessity for evaluation of safety before recommending use of antioxidant supplements for chemoprevention. We have evaluated the safety of antioxidants on the basis of reactivity with DNA. Our results revealed that phytic acid, luteolin, and retinoic acid did not cause DNA damage under the experimental condition. Furthermore, phytic acid inhibited the formation of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine, an indicator of oxidative DNA damage, in cultured cells treated with a H(2)O(2)-generating system. Thus, it is expected that these chemopreventive agents can safely protect humans against cancer. On the other hand, some chemopreventive agents with prooxidant properties (alpha-tocopherol, quercetin, catechins, isothiocyanates, N-acetylcysteine) caused DNA damage via generation of reactive oxygen species in the presence of metal ions and endogenous reductants under some circumstances. Furthermore, other chemopreventive agents (beta-carotene, genistein, daidzein, propyl gallate, curcumin) exerted prooxidant properties after metabolic activation. Therefore, further studies on safety should be required when antioxidants are used for cancer prevention. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 7, 1728-1739.

PMID: 16356133 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 05:02 PM | Permalink

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[Ecological characteristics of phytoplankton in Suining tributary under bio-remediation]

Ying Yong Sheng Tai Xue Bao. 2005 Apr;16(4):703-7

Authors: Liu D, Zhao J, Zhang Y, Ma L

Based on the analyses of phytoplankton community in the treated and untreated reaches of Suining tributary of Suzhou River, this paper studied the effects of bio-remediation on phytoplankton. As the result of the remediation, the density and Chl-a content of phytoplankton in treated reach were greatly declined, while the species number and Shannon-Wiener diversity index ascended obviously. The percentage of Chlorophyta and Baeillariophyta ascended, and some species indicating medium-and oligo-pollution were found. All of these illustrated that bio-remediation engineering might significantly benefit to the improvement of phytoplankton community structure and water quality.

PMID: 16011171 [PubMed - in process]

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Evaluation for safety of antioxidant chemopreventive agents.

Antioxid Redox Signal. 2005 Nov-Dec;7(11-12):1728-39

Authors: Kawanishi S, Oikawa S, Murata M

Antioxidants are considered as the most promising chemopreventive agents against various human cancers. However, some antioxidants play paradoxical roles, acting as "double-edged sword." A primary property of effective and acceptable chemopreventive agents should be freedom from toxic effects in healthy population. Miscarriage of the intervention by beta-carotene made us realize the necessity for evaluation of safety before recommending use of antioxidant supplements for chemoprevention. We have evaluated the safety of antioxidants on the basis of reactivity with DNA. Our results revealed that phytic acid, luteolin, and retinoic acid did not cause DNA damage under the experimental condition. Furthermore, phytic acid inhibited the formation of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine, an indicator of oxidative DNA damage, in cultured cells treated with a H(2)O(2)-generating system. Thus, it is expected that these chemopreventive agents can safely protect humans against cancer. On the other hand, some chemopreventive agents with prooxidant properties (alpha-tocopherol, quercetin, catechins, isothiocyanates, N-acetylcysteine) caused DNA damage via generation of reactive oxygen species in the presence of metal ions and endogenous reductants under some circumstances. Furthermore, other chemopreventive agents (beta-carotene, genistein, daidzein, propyl gallate, curcumin) exerted prooxidant properties after metabolic activation. Therefore, further studies on safety should be required when antioxidants are used for cancer prevention. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 7, 1728-1739.

PMID: 16356133 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 06:36 PM | Permalink

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Applications of bacterial hydrogenases in waste decontamination, manufacture of novel bionanocatalysts and in sustainable energy.

Biochem Soc Trans. 2005 Feb;33(Pt 1):76-9

Authors: Macaskie LE, Baxter-Plant VS, Creamer NJ, Humphries AC, Mikheenko IP, Mikheenko PM, Penfold DW, Yong P

Bacterial hydrogenases have been harnessed to the removal of heavy metals from solution by reduction to less soluble metal species. For Pd(II), its bioreduction results in the deposition of cell-bound Pd(0)-nanoparticles that are ferromagnetic and have a high catalytic activity. Hydrogenases can also be used synthetically in the production of hydrogen from sugary wastes through breakdown of formate produced by fermentation. The Bio-H(2) produced can be used to power an electrical device using a fuel cell to provide clean electricity. Production of hydrogen from confectionery wastes by one organism (Escherichia coli) can be used as the electron donor for the production of Bio-Pd(0) from soluble Pd(II) by a second organism. The resulting Bio-Pd(0) can then be used as a bioinorganic catalyst in the remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated solutions or polychlorinated biphenyls at the expense of Bio-H(2), as a hydrogenation catalyst for industry or as a component of a fuel cell electrode.

PMID: 15667270 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 06:36 PM | Permalink

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The basics of an exposure control plan.

J Perianesth Nurs. 2003 Jun;18(3):186-95

Authors: Keith D

Prevention and control of employee injury and exposure begins with an organizational commitment to provide a safe work environment for the employees. An Exposure Control Plan (ECP) helps to ensure this safe environment, and is developed by an organization and administered to provide for the elimination and minimization of occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens, which is one of the greatest areas of risk for the health care provider. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard 29 CFR 1010.1030, "Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens," outlines the requirements necessary to meet compliance as an institution. However, occupational exposure requirements have changed over the last few years and now incorporate practice advances regarding safety devices (ie, needleless and protected) and their use and implementation. Directives addressing the management of the employee who has been exposed to blood-borne pathogens have also been added. This article focuses on important elements in developing an institutional exposure control plan.

PMID: 12808516 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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A proposed methodology for setting occupational exposure limits for hydrocarbon solvents.

J Occup Environ Hyg. 2005 Oct;2(10):524-42

Authors: McKee RH, Medeiros AM, Daughtrey WC

Occupational exposure limit (OEL) development for hydrocarbon solvents is complicated because most of these solvents have complex compositions and only a few representative constituents have been studied in detail. A proposed solution to this problem is to group constituents with similar physical, chemical, and toxicological properties and to assign "guidance values" to each group. A unique OEL can then be calculated for each solvent, using a reciprocal calculation procedure (RCP) based on the liquid composition. This procedure follows the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' (ACGIH) generic advice for complex mixtures and is recommended by the U.K. Health and Safety Executive for OEL calculations by hydrocarbon solvent manufacturers. The RCP is justified, as the toxicological properties of the constituents are additive and the differences between the vapor and liquid compositions do not substantially affect the calculated exposure limits. The guidance values are based principally on acute central nervous system depression and eye and respiratory tract irritation, effects that are the most sensitive indicators of hydrocarbon solvent exposure. One benefit of this procedure is that it is a relatively simple but practical procedure that requires limited compositional information. Further, it provides OEL recommendations that are consistent with occupational experience and current regulatory advice. Groupings and guidance values are proposed, and sample calculations are provided.

PMID: 16174635 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 01:00 PM | Permalink

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Bench-scale column experiments to study the containment of Cr(VI) in confined aquifers by bio-transformation.

J Hazard Mater. 2005 Oct 28;

Authors: Shashidhar T, Philip L, Murty Bhallamudi S

Bench-scale soil column experiments were conducted to study the effectiveness of Cr(VI) containment in confined aquifers using in situ bio-transformation. Batch adsorption studies were carried out to estimate the adsorption capacities of two different soils for Cr(VI) and Cr(III). Bio-kinetic parameters were evaluated for the enriched microbial system. The inhibition constant, evaluated using Monod's inhibition model, was found to be 11.46mg/L of Cr(VI). Transport studies indicated that it would not be possible to contain Cr(VI) by adsorption alone. Transport and bio-transformation studies indicated that the pore velocity and the initial bio-mass concentration significantly affect the containment process. In situ bio-remediation is effective in the case of silty aquifers. Cr(VI) concentration of 25mg/L was effectively contained within 60cm of a confined silty aquifer. Cr(VI) containment could be achieved in sandy aquifers when the pore velocity was very low and the initial augmented bio-mass was high. A bio-barrier of approximately one meter width would be able to contain Cr(VI) if the initial Cr(VI) concentration is as much as 25mg/L.

PMID: 16263213 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Posted by blogposter at 01:00 PM | Permalink

Comprehensive program for handling hazardous drugs.

Am J Hosp Pharm. 1993 Jun;50(6):1170-4

Authors: Arrington DM, McDiarmid MA

Development and implementation of a comprehensive program for safe handling of hazardous drugs is described. A comprehensive, multidisciplinary program for handling hazardous drugs was developed at a 1000-bed tertiary care, university teaching institution. Hazardous drugs were identified by a hazardous-drug working group consisting of occupational health professionals, pharmacists, and an industrial hygienist. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 1986 handling guidelines were used as a template, with input solicited from pharmacy staff and from other institutions. A new system for receiving, storing, and transporting hazardous drugs--which also included new labeling for such drugs--was implemented. The new guidelines were discussed with the staff, with emphasis placed on absolute compliance and incorporation of the guidelines into standard operating procedures and daily pharmacy practices. All pharmacy employees underwent retraining to ensure complete understanding. A voluntary medical surveillance program for pharmacy employees was developed concomitantly to monitor exposure to genotoxic hazardous drugs. Implementation of a comprehensive program for safe handling of hazardous drugs increased employee understanding of the need for such a program and improved the hospital's compliance with recent OSHA regulations.

PMID: 8517456 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Evaluation of lead hazard control treatments in four Massachusetts communities through analysis of blood-lead surveillance data.

Environ Res. 2005 Oct;99(2):214-23

Authors: Strauss W, Pivetz T, Ashley P, Menkedick J, Slone E, Cameron S

This study utilized existing blood-lead surveillance data and records of housing properties treated for lead hazard control (LHC) in order to investigate the effectiveness of LHC treatments performed in four Massachusetts communities (Boston, Cambridge, Malden, and Springfield). This research is part of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) overall program evaluation strategy for assessing the effectiveness of their LHC Grant Program. Childhood blood-lead levels (BLLs) in housing units that were treated through HUD's LHC Grant Program were compared to BLLs in untreated matched control housing units. Data from multiple sources-local housing departments, local tax assessor departments, and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health-were linked to identify similar sets of treated and untreated dwellings. Geometric mean BLLs from before and after treatment were compared for the two sets of housing. Ten years of blood-lead surveillance data for children living in the selected dwellings were analyzed using log-linear mixed models and logistic regression models. Results indicate a 50% decline in BLLs in treated homes, a significantly larger decline than in untreated homes after adjusting for the general downward trend in BLLs observed in the general population for the last several years. Data show that homes that received HUD LHC treatments had children with blood-lead levels that declined twice as fast as in similar untreated homes. These findings show that LHC efforts are successful in reducing children's blood-lead levels.

PMID: 16194671 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 06:13 PM | Permalink

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Impact of infrastructure characteristics on road crashes on two-lane highways.

Traffic Inj Prev. 2005 Sep;6(3):240-7

Authors: Polus A, Pollatschek MA, Farah H

OBJECTIVE: The main purpose of this study is to estimate and quantify the contribution of the infrastructure to highway crashes and to develop an infrastructure coefficient, that represents the overall characteristics of the highway and could be used as an independent variable in a crash-prediction model. METHODS: The infrastructure is defined in this study as the highway and its geometric features, including alignment, road-side elements, sight-distances, presence of guardrails, access-points, roadway consistency, and additional variables that measure the overall quality of the highway alignment and elements. The analysis and developments are conducted for two-lane rural highways. The approach taken is to identify the high crash-rate roads, those with crash rates above 0.25 crashes per million vehicle-km, by Smallest Space Analysis. This type of analysis allows the aggregation of higher crash-rate roads versus lower-crash-rate roads only by their infrastructure coefficients, without consideration of their crash records. RESULTS: Crash rates that are attached by Smallest Space Analysis to the group of roads that had less desirable infrastructure features show a high correlation between the same roads and high crash rates vs. identified better infrastructures and low crash rates. Further analysis shows that low crash-rate infrastructure, as defined in this study for two-lane rural highways, can reduce the crash rate by 44% versus high crash-rate infrastructure, at the 99% confidence level, which is almost a certainty. A model for the prediction of crash rates based on a proposed infrastructure coefficient is calibrated and presented. CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested that this model be used in evaluating alternatives for new highways or in improving the alignment and road features of existing highways.

PMID: 16087465 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 06:13 PM | Permalink

Limitation of point source pesticide pollution: results of bioremediation system.

Commun Agric Appl Biol Sci. 2004;69(4):719-32

Authors: Spanoghe P, Maes A, Steurbaut W

Groundwater and surface water is at risk of contamination from the use of some agricultural pesticides. In many circumstances pesticide contamination of water resources is more likely to result from point sources than from diffuse sources following approved application to crops in the field. Such point sources include areas on farms where pesticides are handled, filled into sprayers or where sprayers are washed down. To overcome this way of contamination different kind of bio-remediation systems are nowadays in development. In Flanders, Belgium two pilot plants of bioremediation systems for the in situ retention and/or degradation of pesticides were installed. Both systems were based on the Phytobac concept, a watertight excavation filled with straw, peat, compost and soil. The channel was made in the bottom from plastic foil. All kinds of spray rests were captured by the phytobacs. This study focuses on what level pesticides leach, bio-degrade or are retained by the filling of the phytobac. The soil-properties of the filling were investigated. Pesticide tracers were added for monitoring to both phytobacs. Soil and water samples were taken during one year. Pesticides are retained at least for one month by the filling of the phytobac. Almost no pesticide leached out. In winter hardly any pesticide degradation was observed in the filling of the phytobac. In summer no detectable pesticides were still left in the phytobacs.

PMID: 15756863 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 06:12 PM | Permalink

What is the cost of office compliance? An ADA survey on OSHA regulations, dentistry.

Dent Teamwork. 1994 Nov-Dec;7(6):26-9

Authors: Feldman M, Bramson J

PMID: 9485646 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) exposure of voluntary plasma and platelet donors.

Int J Hyg Environ Health. 2005 Nov 18;208(6):489-498

Authors: Koch HM, Angerer J, Drexler H, Eckstein R, Weisbach V

Each year thousands of healthy volunteers undergo apheresis procedures to donate blood components and safe lives. However, many disposables used in apheresis contain di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP). This way, donors are exposed to DEHP, which is a reproductive and developmental toxicant in animals and a suspected endocrine modulator in humans. We quantified the DEHP exposure of six plasma donors, six discontinuous-flow platelet donors and six continuous-flow platelet donors by determining three specific metabolites in urine (5OH-MEHP: mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl)phthalate; 5oxo-MEHP: mono(2-ethyl-5-oxo-hexyl)phthalate and MEHP: mono(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate). We found maximum concentrations in urine samples after the discontinuous-flow plateletpheresis procedure with 826mug/l for 5OH-MEHP, 774mug/l for 5oxo-MEHP and 266mug/l for MEHP (mean of the six volunteers). Metabolite excretions were found to be significantly (p<0.0001) higher for both plateletpheresis techniques compared to plasmapheresis and controls. Continuous-flow plateletpheresis led to significantly higher (p<0.0001) excretions than discontinuous-flow plateletpheresis. Mean absolute DEHP exposures were 1.2mg for discontinuous- and 2.1mg for continuous-flow plateletpheresis. Exposure for plasmapheresis (0.37mg) was in the range of the controls (0.41mg). Mean DEHP doses for both plateletpheresis techniques (18.1 and 32.3mug/kg/day) were close to or exceeded the reference dose (RfD) of the US EPA and tolerable daily intake (TDI) value of the EU on the day of the apheresis. Therefore, margins of safety might be insufficient to protect especially young men and women in their reproductive age from effects on reproductivity. At present, discontinuous-flow devices should be preferred to avert conceivable health risks from plateletpheresis donors. Strategies to avoid DEHP exposure of donors during apheresis need to be developed.

PMID: 16325559 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Enterococcal resistance - An overview.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2005 Oct-Dec;23(4):214-9

Authors: Marothi YA, Agnihotri H, Dubey D

Nosocomial acquisition of microorganisms resistant to multiple antibiotics represents a threat to patient safety. Here, we review the antimicrobial resistance in Enterococcus, which makes it important nosocomial pathogen. The emergence of enterococci with acquired resistance to vancomycin has been particularly problematic as it often occurs in enterococci that are also highly resistant to ampicillin and aminoglycoside thereby associated with devastating therapeutic consequences. Multiple factors contribute to colonization and infection with vancomycin resistant enterococci ultimately leading to environmental contamination and cross infection. Decreasing the prevalence of these resistant strains by multiple control efforts therefore, is of paramount importance.

PMID: 16327115 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 04:53 PM | Permalink

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Modeling and interpreting bioavailability of organic contaminant mixtures in subsurface environments.

J Contam Hydrol. 2005 Nov 23;

Authors: Haws NW, Ball WP, Bouwer EJ

Bioavailability often controls the fate of organic contaminants in surface and subsurface aquatic environments. Bioavailability can be limited by sorption, mass transfer, and intrinsic biodegradation potential and can be further altered by the presence of other compounds. This paper reviews current perspectives on the processes influencing subsurface contaminant bioavailability, how these processes are modeled, and how the relative role of the various processes can be assessed through bioavailability indices. Although these processes are increasingly well understood, the use of sophisticated models and indices often are precluded by an inability to estimate the many parameters that are associated with complex models. Nonetheless, the proper representation of sorption, mass transfer, biodegradation, and co-solute effects can be critical in predicting bio-attenuation. The influence of these processes on contaminant fate is illustrated with numerical simulations for the simultaneous degradation of toluene (growth substrate) and trichloroethylene (nongrowth cometabolite) in hypothetical, aerobic, solid-water systems. The results show how the relative impacts on contaminant fate of the model's various component processes depends upon system conditions, including co-solute concentrations. Slow biodegradation rates increase the inhibition effects of a cometabolite and suppress the rate enhancement effects of a growth substrate. Irrespective of co-solute effects, contaminant fate is less sensitive to biodegradation processes in systems with strong sorption and slow desorption rates. Bioavailability indices can be used to relate these findings and to help identify appropriate modeling simplifications. In general, however, there remains a need to redefine such indices in order that bioavailability concepts can be better incorporated into site characterization, remediation design, and regulatory oversight.

PMID: 16310889 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Posted by blogposter at 04:53 PM | Permalink

OSHA inspections. Workplace inspections.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 1995 Aug;16(8):478-82

Authors: Valenti AJ, Decker MD

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 requires that every worker be provided with a safe and healthful workplace and authorizes the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to conduct workplace inspections. OSHA conducts workplace inspections in hospitals and checks for compliance with the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, the Enforcement Policy and Procedures for Occupational Exposure to Tuberculosis, and the Hazardous Chemicals Standards, among others. The hospital epidemiologist bears considerable responsibility for developing and implementing plans to protect employees from occupational exposures to infectious hazards such as bloodborne pathogens and tuberculosis. To prepare for an inspection, the hospital epidemiologist must understand the basis on which OSHA operates and must proceed in a thoughtful, coordinated manner.

PMID: 7594393 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Understanding parental motivators and barriers to uptake of child poison safety strategies: a qualitative study.

Inj Prev. 2005 Dec;11(6):373-7

Authors: Gibbs L, Waters E, Sherrard J, Ozanne-Smith J, Robinson J, Young S, Hutchinson A

OBJECTIVES: To develop an understanding of factors acting as barriers and motivators to parental uptake of child poison safety strategies. DESIGN: A qualitative study involving semistructured interviews and focus groups. A grounded theory approach was used for the collection and analysis of data. PARTICIPANTS: Sixty five parents of children under 5 years of age, some of whom had experienced an unintentional child poisoning incident. RESULTS: A range of knowledge based, environmental, and behavioral barriers to comprehensive parental uptake of poison safety practices were identified. As a result there tended to be only partial implementation of safety initiatives in the home. Selection of safety practices was often guided by the interests and behaviors of the child. This made the child vulnerable to changes in the home environment, inadequate supervision, and/or shifts in their own behavior and developmental ability. Personal or vicarious exposure of a parent to a child poisoning incident was a significant motivator for parental review of safety practices. CONCLUSION: Environmental measures targeting child resistant containers, warning labels, and lockable poisons cupboards will support parents' efforts to maintain poison safety. Additional education campaigns using stories of actual poisoning incidents may help to increase awareness of risk and encourage increased uptake.

PMID: 16326774 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 11:56 AM | Permalink

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Effect of biosurfactants on crude oil desorption and mobilization in a soil system.

Environ Int. 2005 Feb;31(2):155-61

Authors: Kuyukina MS, Ivshina IB, Makarov SO, Litvinenko LV, Cunningham CJ, Philp JC

Microbially produced biosurfactants were studied to enhance crude oil desorption and mobilization in model soil column systems. The ability of biosurfactants from Rhodococcus ruber to remove the oil from the soil core was 1.4-2.3 times greater than that of a synthetic surfactant of suitable properties, Tween 60. Biosurfactant-enhanced oil mobilization was temperature-related, and it was slower at 15 degrees C than at 22-28 degrees C. Mathematical modelling using a one-dimensional filtration model was applied to simulate the process of oil penetration through a soil column in the presence of (bio)surfactants. A strong positive correlation (R(2)=0.99) was found between surfactant penetration through oil-contaminated soil and oil removal activity. Biosurfactant was less adsorbed to soil components than synthetic surfactant, thus rapidly penetrating through the soil column and effectively removing 65-82% of crude oil. Chemical analysis showed that crude oil removed by biosurfactant contained a lower proportion of high-molecular-weight paraffins and asphaltenes, the most nonbiodegradable compounds, compared to initial oil composition. This result suggests that oil mobilized by biosurfactants could be easily biodegraded by soil bacteria. Rhodococcus biosurfactants can be used for in situ remediation of oil-contaminated soils.

PMID: 15661276 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 11:55 AM | Permalink

OSHA inspections. Workplace inspections.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 1995 Aug;16(8):478-82

Authors: Valenti AJ, Decker MD

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 requires that every worker be provided with a safe and healthful workplace and authorizes the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to conduct workplace inspections. OSHA conducts workplace inspections in hospitals and checks for compliance with the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, the Enforcement Policy and Procedures for Occupational Exposure to Tuberculosis, and the Hazardous Chemicals Standards, among others. The hospital epidemiologist bears considerable responsibility for developing and implementing plans to protect employees from occupational exposures to infectious hazards such as bloodborne pathogens and tuberculosis. To prepare for an inspection, the hospital epidemiologist must understand the basis on which OSHA operates and must proceed in a thoughtful, coordinated manner.

PMID: 7594393 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 11:55 AM | Permalink

Posted by blogposter at 11:55 AM | Permalink

Posted by blogposter at 09:20 PM | Permalink

Related Articles

Enterococcal resistance - An overview.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2005 Oct-Dec;23(4):214-9

Authors: Marothi YA, Agnihotri H, Dubey D

Nosocomial acquisition of microorganisms resistant to multiple antibiotics represents a threat to patient safety. Here, we review the antimicrobial resistance in Enterococcus, which makes it important nosocomial pathogen. The emergence of enterococci with acquired resistance to vancomycin has been particularly problematic as it often occurs in enterococci that are also highly resistant to ampicillin and aminoglycoside thereby associated with devastating therapeutic consequences. Multiple factors contribute to colonization and infection with vancomycin resistant enterococci ultimately leading to environmental contamination and cross infection. Decreasing the prevalence of these resistant strains by multiple control efforts therefore, is of paramount importance.

PMID: 16327115 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 09:20 PM | Permalink

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Reduction of hazardous levels of the agricultural application of nitrogen and phosphorus relative to toxic ground water and toxic levels in the soil.

Med Hypotheses. 2000 Oct;55(4):294-9

Authors: Jackson WR

This paper proposes the hypothesis that microbial life chemically reduces levels of nitrogen (N(2)) and phosphorus (P) that are toxic and threaten human health and safety. Bio-remediation uses microorganisms to decontaminate a polluted system, in situ, requiring a minimal amount of space and equipment. Data strongly suggest that bio-stimulation can assist one microbe to multiply up to one billion microorganisms in 24 hours. Biochemical literature postulates that microbial life chemically biodegrades nitrates by one of two methods: (1) assimilative reduction; or (2) dissimilative reduction, also known as denitrification. Assimilative reduction results in construction of microbial cell walls, cell membranes and various forms of amino acids. It is proposed that denitrification includes the venting-off of the excess amounts of N(2)not required by the soil or needed for additional microbial development. Nitrate reduction by way of denitrification is a functional part of anaerobic respiration. Alternatively, the denitrification process supports oxidative phosphorylation, a mechanism similar to aerobic respiration. Thus, denitrification and phosphorylation may be considered as forms of respiration.

PMID: 11000054 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 09:20 PM | Permalink

OSHA standards for blood-borne pathogens--strategies to increase compliance among otolaryngologists.

Ear Nose Throat J. 1995 May;74(5):348-52

Authors: Wagner RL, Johnson JT

PMID: 7796742 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Standing still: why North American workers are not insisting on seats despite known health benefits.

Int J Health Serv. 2005;35(4):745-63

Authors: Messing K, Fortin S, Rail G, Randoin M

Prolonged standing is associated with health problems. Despite regulations providing for access to seats, most Qu bec (Canada) workers usually stand. Only one in six can sit at will. Standing service workers such as cashiers and sales personnel are often confined to a small area where sitting is theoretically feasible. In many other countries, such workers have access to seats. This study asks why North American workers do not press for seats. In a qualitative, exploratory approach, 30 young workers who usually work standing were interviewed about their perceptions and experiences of prolonged standing at work. All but one experienced discomfort associated with this posture, and two-thirds reported that they had changed their lifestyle in some way as a result of their symptoms. However, their accounts of relationships with employers, health care personnel, and the health and safety system suggest that many environmental factors as well as attitudes toward work, employers, health, and the body contribute to maintaining the status quo. Workers describe problems with the image of a seated worker and thought that asking for a seat would threaten their relationship with the employer. Personal comfort was considered an insufficient reason to challenge worksite design, attitudes, and organization.

PMID: 16320901 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 10:16 AM | Permalink

Standing still: why North American workers are not insisting on seats despite known health benefits.

Int J Health Serv. 2005;35(4):745-63

Authors: Messing K, Fortin S, Rail G, Randoin M

Prolonged standing is associated with health problems. Despite regulations providing for access to seats, most Qu bec (Canada) workers usually stand. Only one in six can sit at will. Standing service workers such as cashiers and sales personnel are often confined to a small area where sitting is theoretically feasible. In many other countries, such workers have access to seats. This study asks why North American workers do not press for seats. In a qualitative, exploratory approach, 30 young workers who usually work standing were interviewed about their perceptions and experiences of prolonged standing at work. All but one experienced discomfort associated with this posture, and two-thirds reported that they had changed their lifestyle in some way as a result of their symptoms. However, their accounts of relationships with employers, health care personnel, and the health and safety system suggest that many environmental factors as well as attitudes toward work, employers, health, and the body contribute to maintaining the status quo. Workers describe problems with the image of a seated worker and thought that asking for a seat would threaten their relationship with the employer. Personal comfort was considered an insufficient reason to challenge worksite design, attitudes, and organization.

PMID: 16320901 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 10:16 AM | Permalink

Related Articles

Applications of bacterial hydrogenases in waste decontamination, manufacture of novel bionanocatalysts and in sustainable energy.

Biochem Soc Trans. 2005 Feb;33(Pt 1):76-9

Authors: Macaskie LE, Baxter-Plant VS, Creamer NJ, Humphries AC, Mikheenko IP, Mikheenko PM, Penfold DW, Yong P

Bacterial hydrogenases have been harnessed to the removal of heavy metals from solution by reduction to less soluble metal species. For Pd(II), its bioreduction results in the deposition of cell-bound Pd(0)-nanoparticles that are ferromagnetic and have a high catalytic activity. Hydrogenases can also be used synthetically in the production of hydrogen from sugary wastes through breakdown of formate produced by fermentation. The Bio-H(2) produced can be used to power an electrical device using a fuel cell to provide clean electricity. Production of hydrogen from confectionery wastes by one organism (Escherichia coli) can be used as the electron donor for the production of Bio-Pd(0) from soluble Pd(II) by a second organism. The resulting Bio-Pd(0) can then be used as a bioinorganic catalyst in the remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated solutions or polychlorinated biphenyls at the expense of Bio-H(2), as a hydrogenation catalyst for industry or as a component of a fuel cell electrode.

PMID: 15667270 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Several-fold increase in risk of overanticoagulation by CYP2C9 mutations.

Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2005 Nov;78(5):540-50

Authors: Lindh JD, Lundgren S, Holm L, Alfredsson L, Rane A

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to prospectively study the impact of CYP2C9 polymorphism (*2 and *3) on the risk of overanticoagulation during the induction phase of warfarin therapy. METHODS: Blood samples for genotyping were collected from 219 patients requiring warfarin therapy, and clinical data were prospectively collected during the first 3 weeks of medication. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to CYP2C9 genotype, as follows: *1 (homozygous), *2 (*1/*2 and *2/*2), and *3 (any genotype containing the *3 allele). RESULTS: During the first week of treatment, the relative risk of achieving at least 1 international normalized ratio (INR) value above the therapeutic interval (2-3) was 2.8 (95% confidence interval, 1.2-6.7) and 6.1 (2.7-13.6) in the *2 and *3 groups, respectively (with *1 used as control). During the second week, the corresponding values were 2.1 (1.2-3.7) and 3.5 (2.1-5.8), respectively. By the third week, the genetic impact was no longer evident, presumably as a result of successful dose individualization. Increased INR levels (compared with the *1 group) were already demonstrated in the *2 group on the fourth treatment day. CONCLUSIONS: The CYP2C9*2 and *3 single-nucleotide polymorphisms significantly increase the risk of overanticoagulation during the first 2 weeks of warfarin treatment, with increased INR levels evident after only 4 days' treatment in *2 carriers. Our prospective data are consistent with results from previous retrospective studies and indicate that CYP2C9 genotyping may be a means of improving safety during warfarin induction.

PMID: 16321620 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 09:34 PM | Permalink

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Related Articles

Modeling and interpreting bioavailability of organic contaminant mixtures in subsurface environments.

J Contam Hydrol. 2005 Nov 23;

Authors: Haws NW, Ball WP, Bouwer EJ

Bioavailability often controls the fate of organic contaminants in surface and subsurface aquatic environments. Bioavailability can be limited by sorption, mass transfer, and intrinsic biodegradation potential and can be further altered by the presence of other compounds. This paper reviews current perspectives on the processes influencing subsurface contaminant bioavailability, how these processes are modeled, and how the relative role of the various processes can be assessed through bioavailability indices. Although these processes are increasingly well understood, the use of sophisticated models and indices often are precluded by an inability to estimate the many parameters that are associated with complex models. Nonetheless, the proper representation of sorption, mass transfer, biodegradation, and co-solute effects can be critical in predicting bio-attenuation. The influence of these processes on contaminant fate is illustrated with numerical simulations for the simultaneous degradation of toluene (growth substrate) and trichloroethylene (nongrowth cometabolite) in hypothetical, aerobic, solid-water systems. The results show how the relative impacts on contaminant fate of the model's various component processes depends upon system conditions, including co-solute concentrations. Slow biodegradation rates increase the inhibition effects of a cometabolite and suppress the rate enhancement effects of a growth substrate. Irrespective of co-solute effects, contaminant fate is less sensitive to biodegradation processes in systems with strong sorption and slow desorption rates. Bioavailability indices can be used to relate these findings and to help identify appropriate modeling simplifications. In general, however, there remains a need to redefine such indices in order that bioavailability concepts can be better incorporated into site characterization, remediation design, and regulatory oversight.

PMID: 16310889 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Posted by blogposter at 09:33 PM | Permalink

Related Articles

Nurses' compliance with universal precautions before and after implementation of OSHA regulations.

Clin Nurse Spec. 1996 Sep;10(5):234-9

Authors: Ramsey PW, McConnell P, Palmer BH, Glenn LL

The principal objective of this study was to investigate whether or not nurses' compliance with universal precautions procedures improved after the mandatory Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations were implemented in 1992. Two random samples of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses registered in Tennessee responded to survey questionnaires measuring universal precautions compliance and practice barriers to compliance in 1991 and 1993 (n = 306). The 1993 sample of nurses reported significantly greater compliance with universal precautions (p < 0.001) than the 1991 sample. The most noteworthy improvement between the 1991 and the 1993 groups was a significant increase in compliance for patients described as HIV/HBV-status unknown and HIV/HBV-negative (p < 0.001). Practice barriers hindering compliance with universal precautions decreased significantly (p < 0.001) in the 1991-1993 time frame. Problematic practice barriers identified in both groups were needle recapping, preference for isolation door signs, and concerns about offending patients and visitors.

PMID: 9069825 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Posted by blogposter at 09:33 PM | Permalink

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Posted by blogposter at 06:37 PM | Permalink

Several-fold increase in risk of overanticoagulation by CYP2C9 mutations.

Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2005 Nov;78(5):540-50

Authors: Lindh JD, Lundgren S, Holm L, Alfredsson L, Rane A

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to prospectively study the impact of CYP2C9 polymorphism (*2 and *3) on the risk of overanticoagulation during the induction phase of warfarin therapy. METHODS: Blood samples for genotyping were collected from 219 patients requiring warfarin therapy, and clinical data were prospectively collected during the first 3 weeks of medication. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to CYP2C9 genotype, as follows: *1 (homozygous), *2 (*1/*2 and *2/*2), and *3 (any genotype containing the *3 allele). RESULTS: During the first week of treatment, the relative risk of achieving at least 1 international normalized ratio (INR) value above the therapeutic interval (2-3) was 2.8 (95% confidence interval, 1.2-6.7) and 6.1 (2.7-13.6) in the *2 and *3 groups, respectively (with *1 used as control). During the second week, the corresponding values were 2.1 (1.2-3.7) and 3.5 (2.1-5.8), respectively. By the third week, the genetic impact was no longer evident, presumably as a result of successful dose individualization. Increased INR levels (compared with the *1 group) were already demonstrated in the *2 group on the fourth treatment day. CONCLUSIONS: The CYP2C9*2 and *3 single-nucleotide polymorphisms significantly increase the risk of overanticoagulation during the first 2 weeks of warfarin treatment, with increased INR levels evident after only 4 days' treatment in *2 carriers. Our prospective data are consistent with results from previous retrospective studies and indicate that CYP2C9 genotyping may be a means of improving safety during warfarin induction.

PMID: 16321620 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 06:37 PM | Permalink

Several-fold increase in risk of overanticoagulation by CYP2C9 mutations.

Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2005 Nov;78(5):540-50

Authors: Lindh JD, Lundgren S, Holm L, Alfredsson L, Rane A

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to prospectively study the impact of CYP2C9 polymorphism (*2 and *3) on the risk of overanticoagulation during the induction phase of warfarin therapy. METHODS: Blood samples for genotyping were collected from 219 patients requiring warfarin therapy, and clinical data were prospectively collected during the first 3 weeks of medication. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to CYP2C9 genotype, as follows: *1 (homozygous), *2 (*1/*2 and *2/*2), and *3 (any genotype containing the *3 allele). RESULTS: During the first week of treatment, the relative risk of achieving at least 1 international normalized ratio (INR) value above the therapeutic interval (2-3) was 2.8 (95% confidence interval, 1.2-6.7) and 6.1 (2.7-13.6) in the *2 and *3 groups, respectively (with *1 used as control). During the second week, the corresponding values were 2.1 (1.2-3.7) and 3.5 (2.1-5.8), respectively. By the third week, the genetic impact was no longer evident, presumably as a result of successful dose individualization. Increased INR levels (compared with the *1 group) were already demonstrated in the *2 group on the fourth treatment day. CONCLUSIONS: The CYP2C9*2 and *3 single-nucleotide polymorphisms significantly increase the risk of overanticoagulation during the first 2 weeks of warfarin treatment, with increased INR levels evident after only 4 days' treatment in *2 carriers. Our prospective data are consistent with results from previous retrospective studies and indicate that CYP2C9 genotyping may be a means of improving safety during warfarin induction.

PMID: 16321620 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 06:37 PM | Permalink

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Rapid loss of genetically based resistance to metals after the cleanup of a Superfund site.

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2003 Aug 19;100(17):9889-91

Authors: Levinton JS, Suatoni E, Wallace W, Junkins R, Kelaher B, Allen BJ

Over the period 1953-1979, a battery factory on the Hudson River in New York released approximately 53 tons of cadmium (Cd) and nickel hydride wastes into Foundry Cove. The most common aquatic benthic species, the oligochaete Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri, rapidly evolved resistance to Cd. The capacity for detoxification and internal storage of Cd resulted in a strong potential for trophic transfer of Cd through the aquatic food web. As a result of United States Superfund legislation, a major remediation effort in 1994-1995 removed the majority of the Cd, thereby removing the selective force for resistance. The cleanup of this cove resulted in the maintenance of resistant forms but then there ensued a rapid loss of resistance in approximately 9-18 generations, showing the potential for ecological restoration to rapidly reduce the potential for trophic transfer of Cd through the ecosystem. This study demonstrates a genetic approach to the study of ecological restoration and connects a genetic indicator of restoration to transfer of toxic metals through ecosystems.

PMID: 12904581 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Recommendations for TB respiratory protection.

J Healthc Mater Manage. 1993 Oct;11(9):28-32

Authors: Notarianni GL

After a long decline, tuberculosis is making a comeback. Because of this risk, several government agencies have developed in-depth recommendations designed to minimize the transmission of tuberculosis. 1990 CDC guidelines have formed the basis for most current recommendations, but those guidelines are undergoing revision. Great controversy surrounds the recommendations, particularly in the area of respiratory protection. According to NIOSH, the inability to adequately fit-test and fit-check disposable respirators is a major flaw that could compromise their ability to protect the wearer. OSHA has been enforcing guidelines for occupational exposure to TB under several existing standards, especially its respiratory protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134), and is currently enforcing the use of dust/mist/fume respirators. The agency can be expected to issue a National Compliance Directive upgrading required respiratory protection to HEPA filters. The author recommends implementing recommendations for appropriate administrative and engineering controls and using low-maintenance, reusable, half-face elastomeric respirators with disposable filter cartridges for employees in identified high-risk, exposure situations.

PMID: 10129223 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Standing still: why North American workers are not insisting on seats despite known health benefits.

Int J Health Serv. 2005;35(4):745-63

Authors: Messing K, Fortin S, Rail G, Randoin M

Prolonged standing is associated with health problems. Despite regulations providing for access to seats, most Qu bec (Canada) workers usually stand. Only one in six can sit at will. Standing service workers such as cashiers and sales personnel are often confined to a small area where sitting is theoretically feasible. In many other countries, such workers have access to seats. This study asks why North American workers do not press for seats. In a qualitative, exploratory approach, 30 young workers who usually work standing were interviewed about their perceptions and experiences of prolonged standing at work. All but one experienced discomfort associated with this posture, and two-thirds reported that they had changed their lifestyle in some way as a result of their symptoms. However, their accounts of relationships with employers, health care personnel, and the health and safety system suggest that many environmental factors as well as attitudes toward work, employers, health, and the body contribute to maintaining the status quo. Workers describe problems with the image of a seated worker and thought that asking for a seat would threaten their relationship with the employer. Personal comfort was considered an insufficient reason to challenge worksite design, attitudes, and organization.

PMID: 16320901 [PubMed - in process]

Posted by blogposter at 02:07 PM | Permalink

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Related Articles

Modelling biodegradation of hydrocarbons in aquifers: when is the use of the instantaneous reaction approximation justified?

J Contam Hydrol. 2003 Feb;60(3-4):287-305

Authors: Koussis AD, Pesmajoglou S, Syriopoulou D

In-situ bio-remediation is a viable cleanup alternative for aquifers contaminated by hydrocarbons such as BTEX. Transport models of varying complexity and capabilities are used to quantify their degradation. A model that has gained wide acceptance in applications is BIOPLUME II, which assumes that oxygen-limited biodegradation takes place as an instantaneous reaction. In this work we have employed theoretical analysis, using non-dimensional variables, and numerical modelling to establish a quantitative criterion demarcating the range of validity of the instantaneous reaction approximation against biodegradation kinetics. Oxygen was the limiting species and sorption was ignored. This criterion relates <Da>(o), the Dahmk hler number at oxygen depletion, to O(o)*, the ratio of initial to input oxygen concentration, <Da>(o) > or = 0.7(O(o)*)(2) + 0.1O(o)* + 1.8. The derived <Da>(o) reflects the intrinsic characteristics of the physical transport and of the biochemical reaction, including the effect of biomass density. Relative availability of oxygen and hydrocarbons exerts a small influence on results. Theory, verified and refined via numerical simulations, showed that significant deviations of instantaneous reactions from kinetics are to be expected in the space-time region s<L(d), t<T(d) ('near source' and 'initial period'). Under the assumptions considered, numerical simulations also verified the wide applicability of the computationally efficient, stoichiometry-based (algebraic) BIOPLUME concept. Kinetic modelling is required only in active (engineered) bio-remediation cases, with high velocities (e.g., near pumped wells), and for short distances from the source.

PMID: 12504363 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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OSHA compliance: issues ethylene oxide in a commercial sterilization operation.

J Occup Environ Hyg. 2004 Nov;1(11):D121-5

Authors: Daniel G, Hoffman W, McDonald B

PMID: 15673087 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Excess propagation and biological control of zooplanktonic Cyclops in drinking water sources.

Water Sci Technol. 2005;52(8):151-9

Authors: Cui FY, Lin T, Liu DM, Zhang LQ

Starting with the occurrence of Cyclops in drinking water sources and its danger to drinking water safety, we extensively investigated the nature of its excess propagation by analyzing the effect of living space and predator pressure in the food chain on its survival. Then we developed an ecological project using fish biomanipulation, different to the conventional fishery culture technique, to control excess propagation of Cyclops. The control effects on Cyclops of four species of fish were investigated experimentally at a stocking density of 30 g/m3 of water. Results showed that the food habit of the fish had a significant influence on the biological control of Cyclops. The propagation of Cyclops could be controlled effectively and also the water quality improved simultaneously by stocking filter-feeding fish, such as silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (Aristichthys nobilis). However, herbivorous Ctenopharyngodon idellus and omnivorous Cyprinus carpio had no obvious biological effects on controlling the growth of Cyclops and restoring water quality. The results further proved that under conditions of proper poly-culture densities of silver carp and bighead carp, the number of Cyclops might be controlled at very low levels and eutrophication might be abated by removing nutrients from the water body.

PMID: 16312962 [PubMed - in process]

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[Bio-environmental effects and index of remediation of multi-heavy metals polluted red soils]

Huan Jing Ke Xue. 2004 Mar;25(2):104-10

Authors: Sun B, Sun H, Zhang TL

A pot experiment was conducted to study the bio-environmental effects of lime and organic manure application on red soil and paddy soil derived from red sandstone and polluted by multi-heavy metals. The results indicated that liming decreased the content of soil bioavailable Cu and Pb extracted with 0.05 mol/L HCl, while applying hog manure increased that of Cd. Soil bioavailable heavy metals (HMs) showed an apparent relationship with soil dissolved carbon. Applying lime and organic manure has a positive physiological effect on soil microorganisms and sweet potato. Many indexes, i.e. the number of soil actinomycetes, the content of HMs in the root of sweet potato, showed the remarkable relationship with soil bioavailable Cu, Cd and Pb. However, some indexes of soil and plant only relative to one or two soil bioavailable HMs. For example, soil microbial biomass carbon correspondent with soil bioavailable Cd. Only the content of Cu in the stem and leaf showed a notable relationship with soil effective Cu. Soil effect Cu and Pb rather Cd showed remarkable relation with mean transpiration rate, total biomass and leaf area index of sweet potato. The daily mean value in the seedling stage showed a stronger relationship with soil bioavailable Cu and Pb. Therefore these two physiological indexes can reflect the change of soil metallic contamination.

PMID: 15202245 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Health care safety management: a regulatory update for 1997.

Healthc Facil Manag Ser. 1997 Mar;:1-27

Authors: Turk AR

If management fulfills its responsibilities by meeting both Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Environment Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, a safe and healthful operation then depends largely upon employees who are properly informed and aware of potential hazards as well as impending regulatory actions which will impact the health care industry. This document details OSHA compliance and regulatory review as well as EPA compliance and regulatory review.

PMID: 10166046 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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