1991 Fluoride Abstracts. Part 2. Fluoride Action Network Pesticide Project.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=1677733

Lancet 1991 Aug 10;338(8763):390

Comment in: Lancet. 1991 Dec 21-28;338(8782-8783):1592-3.

Comment on: Lancet. 1989 Jan 14;1(8629):59-62.

Aluminium, Alzheimer's disease, and drinking water.

Neri LC, Hewitt D.

Publication Types:

Comment

Letter

PMID: 1677733 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Fluoride 1991; 24(3):90-94
Health survey of workers of an aluminum plant in China.
III. Respiratory symptoms and ventilatory functions.

Tatsumi M (1), Mu CJ (2), Liang F (3), Tsunoda H (1), Nakaya S (1), Sakurai S (1), Itai K (1), Yu MH (4), Chen FP (3), Ma HX (2), Li YM (2)

(1) Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
(2) Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tiajin, Japan
(3) Institute of Labor Protection, CNNC, Changsha, China
(4) Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA 98225. USA

Summary: The respiratory smptoms and ventilatory lung fuctions of the production-line workers (F-exposed) at an aluminum plant in China have been studied. The data were compared with those obtained from the office workers (controls). F-exposed groups had a higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms than controls and their complaints of phlegm were significantly increased in the older subjects. Whereas several cases of chronic bronchitis were observed in the F-exposed groups, none could be found in the controls. The expiratory flow rate at 25% of the vital capacity/height (V25/HT), which is sensitive in the detection of small airway obstruction, was decreased.

Fluoride 1991; 24(3):95-99
Health survey of workers of an aluminum plant in China.
IV. X-ray examinations of the skeletal system.

Li YM (1), Nakaya S (2), Kudo H (2), Tsunoda H (2), Tatsumi M (2), Sakurai S (2), Itai K (2), Ma HX (1), Mu CH (1), Xu JP (3), Liang F (3), Chen FP (3), Yu MH (4)

(1) Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tiajin, Japan
(2) Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
(3) Institute of Labor Protection, CNNC, Changsha, China
(4) Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA 98225. USA

Summary: X-ray examinations of 98 potroom workers at an aluminum refinery plant in China have been caried out to study skeletal disordes that might be related to F-exposure. The examinations included the pelvis, lumbar vertebrae, radius, ulna, tibia, and fibula. Changes in skeletal system, such as bone density and trabeculae structure, the appearance of osteophytes and exostosis, and the calcification of interosseous membranes and ligaments were assessed by two orthopedic surgeons with the double blind test. No cases of typical skeletal fluorosis were found among the study group, but the appearance of lumbar vertebral osteophyte in the 45-54 year group, exposed to fluoride for more than 20 years, was significantly more frequent than that in the respective control groups. No significant differences in other aspects of osteosclerosis between the F-exposed and the control groups were observed.

Fluoride 1991; 24(3):100-102
Are the fluroide content and the physical load of bones in man related?

Z Machoy

Pomeranian Medical Academy, Department of Biochemistry, Szczecin, Poland

Summary: From a study of the mineral composition, including fluroide content of various bones from eight human skeletons, it is conclded that fluroide levels are related to bone function.

Fluoride 1991; 24(3):103-108
Inhibition of spontaneous precipitation of calcium phosphate by monofluorophosphate

EIF Pearce

Dental Research Unit, HRC of NZ, Wellington, New Zealand

Fluoride 1991; 24(3):109-112
Fluoride uptake by duck-weed Spirodela polyrrhiza

PA Shirke and P Chandra *

* Aquatic Botany Laboratory, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, India

Summary: Fluoride uptake by duck-weed Spirodela polyrrhiza studied in field and under laboratory conditions showed substantial uptake by fronds from 5 ppm upwards under laboratory conditions. The low threshold value shown by S. polyrrhiza is significant in view of the fact that earlier reports had indicated a higher threshold for aquatic plants rendering them unsuitable in defluoridation of natural waters with a lower fluoride concentration. Consequently, the present study indicates the promising role of S. polyrrhiza in defluoridation even at lower concentration.

Fluoride 1991; 24(3):113-116
F- content of Indian toothpastes and selected food items

Gupta S *, Mehta U *, Singh A **

* Department of Foods and Nutrition, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana, India
** Department of Soil Science, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana, India

Summary: Fourteen brands of toothpastes, nine brands of tea leaves, five brands of table salt, and three types of green leafy vegetables were analyzed for F- content. The range of F- levels in all the items analyzed was wide. The amount of F- which may be ingested from a 2-g brushing of toothpaste and from consumption of 4 cups of tea has been calculated. The difference in the F- extracted from tea leaves boiled in distilled water and then in tap water was significant, and also varied from brand to brand. Of three green leafy vegetables, Chulai, an uncommon green leafty vegetable, had an exorbitantly higher F- than the two common green leafy vegetables, cabbage and spinach.

Fluoride 1991; 24(1):1-10
Editorial: Dietary fluoride intake in the USA revisited

RR Kintner

Chemistry Department, Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD, USA

In a previous Fluoride editorial the build-up of dietary fluoride (F-) in the decades 1950 and 1960 was addressed [Fluoride 1971; 4(1):43-46]. In the intervening years additional details of F- distribution into the environment have been revealed. Since water fluoridation is the major dietary contributor, it will be the major thrust of this editorial; fluoridated dental health care products will also be considered. This section of the editorial considers adult and young adult exposure; a later section treats infant and toddler exposure.

Fluoride 1991; 24(1):11-16
Fluoride and photosynthetic capacity of azalea (Rhododendron) cultivars

DJ Ballantyne

Department of Biology, University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Summary: The ability of fluoride to reduce photosynthetic capacity of lead discs of various azalea (Rhododendron) cultivars was investigated. Leaf discs were floated on buffered 10 mM KCl and 10 mM KF solutions. Fluoride was more effective in reducing photosynthetic capacity of the cultivar "Fashion", a slow photosynthesizer, than of "Hinocrimson", a faster photosynthesizer. Fluoride was more effective in reducing photosynthetic capacity than in reducing chlorophyll concentrations. Fluoride was highly effective in reducing the photosynthetic capacity of "Treasure", a fast growing cultivar with a very high rate of photosynthesis.

Fluoride 1991; 24(1):17-22
The inhibited enchondral ossification in experimental osteofluorosis in rats

M Bely

University National Institute of Reumatology, Budapest, Hungary

Summary: There is agreement in the literature, that in osteofluorosis the whole bone mass, the osteoid surface and the osteoid volume become enlarged, and the mineralization of osteoid is delayed and irregular. It is not proven whether the enlargement of the whole bone mass is due to increased bone formation and/or decreased bone resorption, increased activity, number, and life span of osteoclasts and/or decreased number, activity and life span of osteoclasts.

The enhanced enchondral ossification of rat femur and vertebrae caused by daily intraperitoneal administration of 0.5 mg and 5 mg sodium fluoride for 3 months was investigated. The enlargement of residual chondroid tissue is a part of complex distrubances of the fluorotic bone explained by the inhibition of bone resorption as a toxic effect of fluoride.

Fluoride 1991; 24(1):40-43
Fluoride level in cataract lenses in an urban area of India

N Shukla and GS Pandey *

* Department of Chemistry, Ravishankar University, Raipur, India

Summary: Fluoride levels have been determined in ten samples of lenses with cataracts obtained from patients aged 39-73 yrs. The highest fluroide level was found in the patient 73 yr old. Patients from 55-60 yrs showed the presence of more than 2% fluoride in cataracts. Fluoride was undetectable in apparently cataract-free lenses obtained from deceased persons. The level of fluoride in drinking water supplied through wells and river in the area of the study was 1.2-2.4 mg/L, or 2.8 mg/L, respectively.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1839624&dopt=Abstract
Gig Sanit 1991 Oct;(10):12-5

[Effects of discharges of the aluminium works on the elemental contents of human biosubstrates]

[Article in Russian]

Zhuk LI, Khadzhibaeva GS, Kist AA, Kovaleva VA, Mikhol'skaia IN, Danilova EA.

Data of the chemical elements content in blood, placenta, breast milk, hairs of Sariasy region in Surhandarya area inhabitants are given. This region is situated under aluminium work discharge. High content of fluorine and very low levels of selenium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, copper in hairs were noted.

PMID: 1839624 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1781928&dopt=Abstract
Biomed Environ Sci 1991 Dec;4(4):339-47

Quality problems in waters used for drinking purposes in Italy.

Funari E, Bastone A, Bottoni P, De Donno D, Donati L.

Laboratorio di Igiene Ambientale, Istituto Superiore di Sanita Viale Regina Elena, Roma, Italy.

With a grant from the Italian Ministry of the Environment, the National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanita) promoted and coordinated some activities aimed at determining the extent and the intensity of contamination of waters used for human consumption by some chemical agents, and describing causes and modalities of contamination and human health implications. The chemical agents examined were herbicides, nitrates, trihalomethanes, asbestos, manganese and fluoride. In this paper a first nationwide picture of these problems is reported.

PMID: 1781928 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1815742&dopt=Abstract
J Clin Pediatr Dent 1991 Fall;16(1):38-40

Fluoride levels and fluoride contamination of fruit juices.

Stannard JG, Shim YS, Kritsineli M, Labropoulou P, Tsamtsouris A.

Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston 02111.

Increasing consumption of beverages as a replacement for water have made fluoride content in beverages an important issue. In this study, forty-three ready-to-drink fruit juices were examined for fluoride ion concentration. It was found that 42% of the samples had more than 1 ppm of fluoride. It was also determined that "pure" fruit juices, often grape juices, contained high levels of fluoride. Juice made from grapes separated from the skin did not contain any fluoride. Since it is common practice to use fluoride-containing insecticide in growing grapes, it is believed that contamination of these juices is occurring. Washing of grape skins produced appreciable quantities of fluoride. Given that increasing numbers of people are consuming beverages instead of water, fluoride supplementation should not be based solely upon the concentration of the drinking water, but should also consider the amount of different beverages consumed and their fluoride content.

PMID: 1815742 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1815494&dopt=Abstract
Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 1991 Dec;42(4):391-6

[Drug poisoning in children in Vojvodina]

[Article in Serbo-Croatian (Roman)]

Konstantinidis G, Roncevic N, Konstantinidis N.

Institut za zdravstvenu zastitu majke i deteta, Novi Sad.

Epidemiological characteristics of acute drug poisoning in children were investigated over a period of two years (1988-1989). The total number of poisonings was 450. Among causes of poisoning psychopharmaca, especially benzodiazepine, came first (33.3%). They were followed by drugs affecting the nervous system (9.1%), usually by analgoantipyretics, and by drugs affecting the cardiovascular system (7.8%). In 10.6% of the cases poisoning was due to two or more drugs. In 12.3% of the poisonings drug was unknown. Sodium fluoride was the most frequent single cause of acute poisoning. The average age of the poisoned children was 5.1 years. Poisoning with drugs was more frequent among girls than among boys (55:45%). In more than half poisoning accidents there was no one present when poisoning occurred. A major number of poisonings were an attention-getting gesture or a suicidal attempt. There were 11 cases of repeated poisoning with the same drug.

PMID: 1815494 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1779481&dopt=Abstract
Nippon Eiseigaku Zasshi 1991 Dec;46(5):984-93

[Clinical and epidemiological study on osteofluorosis]

[Article in Japanese]

Kudo H.

Department of Hygiene and Public Health, School of Medicine, Iwate Medical University.

The clinical manifestations of osteofluorosis in subjects exposed to high levels of fluoride in air or drinking water for longer than 10 years were observed. In particular, the relationship among the findings observed in X-ray pictures of bone and the extent of fluoride exposure, and the concentrations of fluoride in serum, urine and the environment were studied. Interpretation of the film was carried out by orthopedic surgeons by means of blind tests. When sclerotic changes of bone at more than two locations were observed, the subject was diagnosed as having possible osteofluorosis. From these studies, the following conclusions were obtained.
1) Of the 63 subjects exposed to airborne fluoride (average concentration: 0.88 +/- 0.74mg/m3; max.: 2.9mg/m3) for longer than 10 years, four possible cases of osteofluorosis were found. However, there were no patients presenting typical osteofluorosis. The average fluoride concentrations in serum and urine of the exposed group were 0.055 +/- 0.045ppm and 2.99 +/- 2.20ppm, respectively. The values were almost twice as high as those found in the control group (47 subjects).
2) Of the 95 residents in areas where the concentration of fluoride in drinking water was high (area A: 1.0-3.2 ppm and area B: 2.0-13 ppm), 19 subjects were diagnosed as possible cases of osteofluorosis and one case of definite osteofluorosis (corresponding to the second phase of the Roholm's classification) was found. In the latter case, the subject had drunk highly contaminated (12ppm) water for 26 years; a high serum fluoride concentrations (0.427ppm) and high levels of ALP and osteocalcin were found. This is one of the rare cases of osteofluorosis in Japan; only a few cases have been reported in the past.
3) As primary signs of changes in bone due to osteofluorosis, as seen in X-ray pictures, osteophytes of the lumbar vertebrae, ossification of the pelvic obturator membrane and ligaments and ossification of the interosseous membranes of forearms and lower legs are emphasized.

PMID: 1779481 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Biochemistry International 1991; 23(4):639-48

As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1992; 25(3):195

Red cell membrane alterations in human chronic fluoride toxicity

DS Kumari and PR Rao

Reprints: Denis English PhD, Bone Marrow Transplatation Laborator, Methodist Hospital of Indiana, PO Box 1367, Indianapolis IN 46206, USA

Summary: Red cells from humans exposed chronically to toxic levels of fluoride through drinking water showed signifiant increase in lipid peroxidation and membranous cholesterol and phospholipids. Additionally, electrophoretic patterns of ghost membrane proteins revealed the presence of a new brand in the range of = 66 Kd and increase in the high molecular weight protein and predominance of bands with a molecular weight of = 93 Kd and = 20 Kd. The activities of total, Na+ -K+-, Mg2+- and Ca2+- ATPases were significantly decreased in the red cell ghosts of fluorotic patients.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1786454&dopt=Abstract
No Abstract available

Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 1991 Dec;47(6):834-9

Red blood cell glucose metabolism in human chronic fluoride toxicity.

Saralakumari D, Rao PR.

Department of Biochemistry, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, India.

PMID: 1786454 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1677568&dopt=Abstract
Biochem Int 1991 Jan;23(2):349-57

Erythrocyte glutathione metabolism in human chronic fluoride toxicity.

Saralakumari D, Rao PR.

Department of Biochemistry, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, India.

Chronic exposure of humans to toxic levels of fluoride in drinking water resulted in significant increase in blood GSH content with significant increase in the activities of erythrocyte glutathione metabolising enzymes viz., gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase (E.C. 6.3.2.2), gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (E.C. 2.3.2.2), GST (E.C. 2.5.1.18), GSH-Px (E.C. 1.11.1.9) and GR (E.C. 1.6.4.2). The data suggested a form of adaptation on the part of the erythrocytes to counteract the oxidative stress in red blood cells of fluorotic patients.

PMID: 1677568 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1914685&dopt=Abstract
Zhonghua Yu Fang Yi Xue Za Zhi 1991 May;25(3):171-3

[An investigation of endemic fluorine poisoning caused by food contaminated by smoke containing fluorine]

[Article in Chinese]

Chen MJ.

Kaixian County Hygienic and Antiepidemic Centre, Sichuan.

This paper reports an investigation of two endemic fluorine poisoning areas, where living conditions are special and life habits backward. It was found that fluorosis was also caused by burning coal in a primitive way, even though the average fluorine content of the burning was as low as 61.80 mg/kg.

PMID: 1914685 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1830947&dopt=Abstract
Offentl Gesundheitswes 1991 Apr;53(4):181-3

[Fluoride poisoning caused by rhubarb fruit juice--case report]

[Article in German]

Scholze B, Lischke J, Hubner D, Meyer RA, Schafer R.

Kreis-Hygieneinspektion Riesa.

In the course of industrial-scale manufacture of unfermented rhubarb fruit juice, the deacidifying agent CaCl2 was confused with the disinfectant NH4HF2. Hence, fluoride in a quantity of up to 0.6 g/l was present in the unfermented fruit juice. Signs of acute fluoride poisoning were therefore seen after ingestion of the rhubarb juice. The incident as well as the steps taken by the relevant control authorities are described in detail.

PMID: 1830947 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1914684&dopt=Abstract
Zhonghua Yu Fang Yi Xue Za Zhi 1991 May;25(3):167-70

[Study on environmental characteristics of coal smoke fluorosis areas]

[Article in Chinese]

Cao SR.

Institute of Environmental Health and Engineering CAPM, Beijing.

Typical samples of coal, the components and contents of coal smoke as well as the concentration of fluoride, SO2, IP, CO in indoor and outdoor air in fluorosis areas of the Three Gorges region were studied with the advanced methods of analysis in the past three years. Problems, such as the fluoride level of other polluted environmental samples, the distribution of different size particles in air, the total amount of inhabitants' fluoride intake and their intake pathways in the above mentioned areas were also studied in detail. A fundamental understanding of the environmental characteristics of these areas has thus been obtained.

PMID: 1914684 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=2065338&dopt=Abstract
Zhonghua Liu Xing Bing Xue Za Zhi 1991 Apr;12(2):102-5

[An investigation of fluoride pollution caused by burning coal containing fluoride in Xiushan and Baojing]

[Article in Chinese]

Yan L.

Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences.

This paper reports an investigation of contents of soluble fluoride in the environment and foods in Xiushan and Baojing. On the basis of measuring concentrations of soluble fluoride in drinking water, soil, coal, air, fly ash, maize, chilli, and other kinds of vegetables, it is first to expand the pathway of fluoride migrating from coal into human body is through pollution of air by fluoride contained in fly ash on burning of coal, and then via consumption of polluted maize by air. The significant correlation between both the concentrations of fluoride in maize and in fly ash is proved. It is suggested to select the concentration of fluoride in fly ash or in air as the quality index of indoor air and the control target to prevent fluorosis.

PMID: 2065338 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1843704&dopt=Abstract
Folia Med Cracov 1991;32(1-2):83-8

[Fluorides in urine of the population living in polluted environment]

[Article in Polish]

Ignacak J, Guminska M.

Zakladu Biochemii Ogolnej Instytutu Biochemii Lekarskiej, Akademii Medycznej im. M. Kopernika, Krakowie.

The increased excretion of fluorides in urine was shown by ion-selective method, in three different groups of workers, inhabitants of Chorzow--the most polluted town in the Upper Silesia. In nearly all workers (90%) of Nitrogen Chemical Plant and Slaughterhouse (groups A and M), the urine fluoride exceeded three to four times the upper limit of the normal range, while only two times in slightly less number of workers (77%) of the Steelworks (group S). The subjective complaints and bone pains were correlated with excessive urine fluoride concentrations in about 40% of workers studied in groups A and M, and in 18% of workers in group S. These results point to an excessive exposition of people to fluorides from the polluted environment, as well as to a high risk of fluorine retention in bones and osteofluorosis.

PMID: 1843704 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1768008&dopt=Abstract
Ann Occup Hyg 1991 Dec;35(6):581-602

Environmental study of firefighters.

Jankovic J, Jones W, Burkhart J, Noonan G.

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV 26505.

A study of firefighter exposures was undertaken at the request of the U.S. Fire Administration. This work was part of a larger study which included field evaluation of the performance of the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) worn by firefighters during structural firefighting. Measurements were made for a variety of contaminants including CO, CO2, benzene, HCN, HCl, H2SO4, HF, acrolein, CH4, formaldehyde and PNAs. Many of the analyses were performed by collection of bag samples followed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy using a field mobile spectrometer. Measurements were also made using solid sorbent tubes and direct-reading meters. Sampling was done both during the knockdown and during overhaul phases of structural firefighting. Also, in order to estimate exposures including those when the SCBAs were worn, measurements were made both inside and outside the SCBA facepiece. Carbon monoxide was the most common contaminant found during knockdown, and about 10% of the samples were greater than 1500 ppm. Formaldehyde, acrolein, hydrogen chloride, hydrogen cyanide, sulphuric acid and hydrogen fluoride all exceeded their respective short-term exposure limits (STEL) on some occasions. Approximately 50% of the knockdown samples for acrolein exceeded the STEL. During overhaul, when masks were usually not worn, many of the contaminants found during knockdown were detected, but typically at much lower concentrations. Inside-mask sampling data suggest that exposure to low concentrations of a variety of compounds is occurring but this is believed to be principally the result of early mask removal or of non-use during knockdown rather than of leakage. The three basic sampling approaches (bag sampling, sorbent tubes and direct-reading meters) proved in this study to be complementary and served to maximize our ability to detect and quantify a wide range of combustion products.

PMID: 1768008 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1798747&dopt=Abstract
Photochem Photobiol 1991 Nov;54(5):703-7

The effect of fluoride on binding and photodynamic action of phthalocyanines with proteins.

Ben-Hur E, Dubbelman TM, Van Steveninck J.

Sylvius Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Leiden, The Netherlands.

Fluoride inhibits chloroaluminum phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate (AlPcS)-induced photohemolysis when added to dye loaded cells prior to light exposure. The mechanism by which F- exerts this effect was studied by measuring the binding of phthalocyanine (Pc) to various proteins in the absence and presence of F-. Parallel measurements were made of the photodynamic action under these conditions. Fluoride reduced the binding to proteins of AlPcS and CoPcS. The binding of CuPcS, ZnPcS and H2PcS was not affected. When bound to bovine serum albumin and exposed to light, H2Pc, ZnPc and AlPcCl were bleached at a biphasic rate. Only the photobleaching of AlPcCl was affected by F-. The effect of F- was to inhibit the initial rapid phase without affecting the slower phase. In the presence of D2O only the second phase of photobleaching was enhanced, in the absence or presence of F-. No effect of F- was observed on tryptophan photooxidation or glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase photoinactivation by AlPcS. Crosslinking of spectrin monomers photosensitized by AlPcS was inhibited by F- in parallel with the reduced binding of dye to the protein. It is concluded that F- exerts its effect by complexing with metal ligands of Pc. As a result, the dye may be released from the protein or the binding mode may be changed in such a way that effective photochemistry is prevented. Primary photophysical processes of Pc most probably are not affected by F-.

PMID: 1798747 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1953634&dopt=Abstract
Biochem J 1991 Oct 15;279 ( Pt 2):361-5

Aluminofluorides and beryllofluorides as inhibitors of sulphatases. Analogues of hydrogen sulphate?

Roy AB.

Protein Chemistry Group, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra.

The inhibition of fluoride of sulphatase A from ox liver and of the sulphatases of Helix pomatia and Aspergillus oryzae is decreased by EDTA and increased by Al3+ or Be2+, implicating aluminofluorides and beryllofluorides in the reaction. The inhibition, which is reversible, takes several minutes to develop fully and, at least for the sulphatase of H. pomatia, is of a non-linear mixed competitive-non-competitive type. It is suggested that the aluminofluorides and beryllofluorides are acting as analogues of HSO4-. If so, then this behaviour must be considered, as well as their role as analogues of phosphate, in interpreting the effects of these compounds in intact cells.

PMID: 1953634 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1945630&dopt=Abstract
Pediatrics 1991 Nov;88(5):907-12

Fluoride ingestion in children: a review of 87 cases.

Augenstein WL, Spoerke DG, Kulig KW, Hall AH, Hall PK, Riggs BS, el Saadi M, Rumack BH.

Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver, Colorado.

All cases of fluoride ingestion in children younger than 12 years old reported to the Rocky Mountain Poison Center between January 1 and December 31, 1986, were retrospectively reviewed. Eighty-seven cases were identified. Eighty-four cases involved accidental ingestion of dental fluoride products in the home (tablets, drops, rinses) in children 8 months to 6 years old. Two older children (8 and 9 years old) became symptomatic after fluoride treatment by a dentist. A 13-month-old child died after ingesting an unknown amount of sodium fluoride insecticide, the only insecticide exposure in our series. Postmortem total serum calcium value was 4.8 mg/dL (normal 8.8 to 10.3). No other patients had serious symptoms or sequelae. Twenty-six (30%) of 87 became symptomatic, with gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain) in 25 patients and drowsiness in 1. Only 3 patients became symptomatic later than 1 hour after ingestion. Analysis of data from 70 cases with sufficient information revealed that as the amount of fluoride ingested increased, the percentage of patients with symptoms increased. Not including the fatal case, 6 patients had serum calcium levels measured, and all were normal. Children who ingested up to 8.4 mg/kg of elemental fluoride in dental products had mild and self-limited symptoms, mostly gastrointestinal.

PMID: 1945630 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=2057765&dopt=Abstract
Sci Total Environ 1991 Jan 1;101(1-2):153-8

The priority list of environmental chemical hazards in Poland.

Dutkiewicz T.

Institute of Environmental Protection, Katowice, Poland.

For each environmental poison the index of harmfulness was calculated on the basis of quantitative evaluation of the following properties: emission of the substance to the environment (Fi), toxicity (F2), the population exposed (F3), exposure (F4), persistence of the substance in the environment (F5), secondary substances and mixtures (F6), bioaccumulation and biomagnification (F7), and influence on the non-living components of the environment (F8). Increasing numerical values were applied for increasing range or activity of toxins. The numerical values were integrated according to the formula [formula: see text). It was decided that the first three factors possess prior significance for evaluation of harmful environmental effects, the remainder were considered as auxiliary. Substances having the highest indices of harmfulness were selected as priority environmental poisons: sulphur dioxide, dust, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, fluorine, lead, cadmium, nitrogenous fertilizers, pesticides, and carbon monoxide.

PMID: 2057765 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1788019&dopt=Abstract
Pediatriia 1991;(12):37-41

[Congenital developmental defects in children and environmental pollution]

[Article in Russian]

Reznik BIa, Minkov IP, Kriven'kaia MN, Prudkii VIa, Kil'dyshova AN, Minervina SS.

In one of the southern regions of the Ukraine, analysis was made over the recent three years of the genetic monitoring data on the incidence and structure of congenital developmental abnormalities in the newborn as related to the status of environmental pollution (the content of dust, carbon black, carbon and nitrogen oxides, nitrogen and sulfur dioxides, hydrogen sulfide, formaldehyde, phenol, fluorine compounds in the atmospheric air; the content of toxic chemicals and pesticides in foods, soil, water and feeds) as well as to the radiation situation. In the region under study, areas with varying degree of environmental pollution were distinguished. That was mainly done in terms of the characteristics of the atmospheric air and (to a less degree) varying annual dose of external radiation on conversion to one inhabitant. Analysis of the genetic monitoring has demonstrated the prevalence of congenital abnormalities, in the genesis of which the mutation component was of paramount importance, to be significantly higher in an ecologically unsafe area. The data obtained can be used in the regional programs aimed at the improvement of the environment, a reduction of the influence of exogenous risk factors implicated in the formation of congenital developmental abnormalities in children.

PMID: 1788019 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=2020831&dopt=Abstract
Scand J Clin Lab Invest 1991 Feb;51(1):59-66

Respiratory frequency and distribution of cardiac output in rats breathing gas with different densities.

Bergo GW, Tyssebotn I.

Department of Physiology, University of Bergen, Norway.

The effect of increased and reduced breathing-gas density on cardiac output (CO) and organ blood flow was studied with radiolabelled microspheres on pentobarbital anaesthetized rats using normoxic sulphurhexafluoride (SF6) and normoxic helium (He). The mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and CO remained unchanged during exposure to any gas composition. The respiratory frequency (RF) was reduced from 98 +/- 6 (mean +/- SE) to 85 +/- 3 min-1 (p less than 0.01) in the dense breathing-gas, while the RF increased from 96 +/- 6 to 108 +/- 4 (p less than 0.01) in the He-O2 atmosphere. The arterial acid-base chemistry was mainly unaltered in any situation, indicating almost unchanged alveolar ventilation. Since the cerebral blood flow increased (30%, p less than 0.01), we suggest that SF6 gas is not a truly inert gas; blood flow to the eyes was also increased (30%, p less than 0.01). Though the pumping action of the heart (MAP X HR) remained constant, the blood flow to the left ventricular myocardium was increased (28%, p less than 0.01) by the elevated gas density. Reduced breathing-gas density increased the myocardial blood flow in the right ventricle (20%, p less than 0.02) suggesting a constrictive effect of He on the pulmonary arteries. Except for reduced renal blood flow, no blood flow changes were observed in any organ in this situation.

PMID: 2020831 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1854264&dopt=Abstract
Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 1991 Mar;42(1):43-6

The effect of dose on maternal-foetal transfer of fluoride in rabbits.

Nedeljkovic M, Matovic V.

Department of Toxicological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Yugoslavia.

Placental transfer of fluoride was investigated by fluoride determination in the bones and teeth of newborn rabbits whose mothers had been treated with fluoride during pregnancy. The mothers were given doses of 0, 0.10, 0.52 and 1.05 mmol fluoride per kg body weight as sodium fluoride, from the 16th day after conception to the end of pregnancy. All the doses produced a significant increase of fluoride level in the bones and teeth of newborn rabbits, indicating that the placenta was no barrier for the passage of fluoride.

PMID: 1854264 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1647262&dopt=Abstract
Calcif Tissue Int 1991 May;48(5):326-34

Partial characterization of rat marrow stromal cells.

Simmons DJ, Seitz P, Kidder L, Klein GL, Waeltz M, Gundberg CM, Tabuchi C, Yang C, Zhang RW.

University of Texas Medical Branch, Department of Surgery, Galveston 77550.

Fibroblast-like rat marrow stromal cell (CFU-F) cultures have been characterized in terms of their responsiveness to calciotropic hormones, metal ions, the nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug, and by their putative paracrine role in the maintenance of active populations of osteoblasts at the marrow-bone interface. These studies indicate that CFU-Fs lack a complete osteoblast signature. Subconfluent CFU-Fs grown in the presence or absence of 10(-7) M dexamethasone lack receptors for PTH and calcitonin, and fail to show enhanced cAMP or cGMP responses to 10(-7) M 1-34 PTH (rat), or any evidence of osteocalcin production [+/- 10(-9) M 1,25-(OH)2D3]. Low concentrations of fluoride [10(-12) and 10(-9) M] stimulated CFU-F grown in vitro in serum-free media, though higher levels (10(-7) and 10(-6) M), inhibited growth in vivo and in vitro. Aluminum (10(-12)-10(-7) M) and ibuprofen (10(-7) M) did not alter normal growth patterns, indicating an action on bone cells more differentiated than CFU-Fs. Serum-free conditioned medium (CM) from control and ovariectomized (OVX)/OVX+ dihydrotachysterol-Rx rat CFU-F cultures was mitogenic for neonatal rat calvarial osteoblasts in vitro, but not for ROS 17/2.8 cells. The studies affirm the mesenchymal-like character of CFU-Fs and project their significant role in sustaining functional endosteal osteogenic cell populations.

PMID: 1647262 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1784332&dopt=Abstract
Neurochem Res 1991 Sep;16(9):1055-8

Fluoroacetate and fluorocitrate: mechanism of action.

Clarke DD.

Department of Chemistry, Fordham University, Bronx, NY 10458.

The concept of lethal synthesis as suggested by Peters is reviewed in the light of the more recent work in this area. It is suggested that fluorocitrate is a "suicide" substrate for aconitase rather than a competitive inhibitor as originally suggested. The use of these substances to study glial-neuronal relationships is considered.

Publication Types:

Review

Review, Tutorial

PMID: 1784332 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1919480&dopt=Abstract
J Forensic Sci 1991 Jul;36(4):1229-33

Incidental cardiac rhabdomyomas: a significant finding necessitating additional investigation at the time of autopsy.

Byard RW, Smith NM, Bourne AJ.

Department of Histopathology, Adelaide Children's Hospital, Australia.

Cardiac rhabdomyomas are rare lesions forming part of the tuberous sclerosis complex that may be responsible for sudden death. As well as remaining clinically occult for variable periods of time, they may, along with other manifestations of tuberous sclerosis, be quite difficult to detect clinically and pathologically. A patient is described in whom multiple cardiac rhabdomyomas were an incidental finding at autopsy following fatal potassium fluoride poisoning. Other gross pathological lesions typical of tuberous sclerosis were present but were quite subtle in appearance. Awareness of the association of cardiac rhabdomyomas with tuberous sclerosis is important so that full examination of organ systems for characteristic lesions can be undertaken during the autopsy, and so that fresh and frozen tissue can be obtained at the time of dissection for further investigation.

PMID: 1919480 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Med Hypotheses 1991 May;35(1):1-3

As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1992; 25(3):159-160

Is the ingestion of fluoride an immunosuppressive practice?

Sutton PR.

Excerpt: This paper records several observations which suggest that the habitual ingestion of small doses of fluoride, even as small as the 1 mg/L contained in fluoridated water, may decrease the function of the immune system.

In 1987, Sutton advanced the hypothesis that, as a result of the normal resorption of bone containing a high concentration of fluoride (which forms in those who habitually drink fluoridated water), the released fluoride could pass through the Haversian canals into the marrow and damage, even destroy, some of the developing cells of the immune system.

There is laboratory evidence that fluoride can affet the efficacy of the cells of the immune system in several ways: for instance, Gibson reported in 1981 that a 6th exposure of while cells to 0.1 fluoride reduced their unrestricted migration rate by 21% (and 0.5 ppm fluoride reduced it by 74%)... Allman et al found that if "fluoridated water (NaF at 1 ppm)" was fed to rats for 6 weeks, their 3', 5' cyclic AMP levels in the six tissues tested were increased significantly - in liver, tibia and heart by more than 100%. They stated: "It is clear that low levels of NaF are able to cause an elevation of tissue cAMP. Curnette et al found that "20 mM F- is a potent stimulus for O2 production by neutrophils" and that it "abolishes phagocytosis."...

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