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1998 Fluoride Abstracts. Part 2.

Abstracts for the following years:
Part 1 - mainly biochemistry and physiology (brain, hormonal, G-proteins, etc.)
Part 2 ("b") - all other

2007

2007-b

2004

2004-b

2001

2001-b

1998

1998-b

1995

1995-b

1992

1992-b

1989

1989-b

1986

1986-b

1983

1982

1976 -
1977
1970 -
1971

2006

2006-b

2003

2003-b

2000

2000-b

1997

1997-b

1994

1994-b

1991

1991-b

1988

1988-b

1985

1985-b

1981

1980

1974 -
1975
1968 -
1969

2005

2005-b

2005-b continued

2002

2002-b

1999

1999-b

1996

1996-b

1993

1993-b

1990

1990 -b

1987

1987-b

1984

1984-b

1979

1978

1972 -
1973
Up to
1967

http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-229.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(4):228

Applying the National Association of Environmental Professionals Code of Ethics to the Environmental Protection Agency and the fluoride in drinking water standard

[Abstract of paper presented at the National Association of Environmental Professionals 23rd Annual Conference, San Diego, California, June 20-26, 1998]

RJ Carton and JW Hirzy

National Federation of Federal Employees, Local 2050, Washington DC, USA. [As of April 20, 1998, EPA professionals are represented by the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), Chapter 280.]

Reprints: Dr Robert J Carton, 2455 Ballenger Creek Pike, Adamstown, MD 21710, USA

As stated in the NAEP (National Association of Environmental Professionals) Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice for Environmental Professionals, the "keystone of professional conduct is integrity." This means, among other things, that professionals must be responsible for the validity of their work. This work must be conducted without "dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation or discrimination." They must not put professional judgment aside in order to twist facts and/or conclusions to give a client, or a superior, a desired outcome. Further, professional integrity does not stop when a report is signed. There is a continuing responsibility for seeing that a report is not misrepresented by others, or altered to change its data or conclusions.

The National Federation of Federal Employees, Local 2050, representing all 1200 non-management professionals at the headquarters of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has attempted to incorporate a modified version of the NAEP code of ethics into their collective bargaining agreement with EPA. This paper explains the content of this proposal and the event that galvanized this effort - the November, 14, 1985 Federal Register notice setting a health-based standard for fluoride in drinking water.

The NAEP code required some modification to better clarify the role of professionals who provide analyses of issues in a regulatory context, in an agency run by politicians. Regulations require specific scientific endpoints to be defined. Politicians often require analyses that support politically acceptable solutions. This presents a serious dilemma in that professional ethics often take a back seat to political expediency. An enforceable code of ethics is needed to permit honest analysis for decision-making to surface from the professional staff without fear of intimidation or reprisal.

The need for a code of ethics at the Agency has been emphasized time after time since its inception in 1970. This need became critical, in the opinion of the leadership of the professionalsŐ union, when EPA published the fluoride in drinking water standard in 1985. An investigation by the union revealed that scientific support documents for the health-based standard were invalid. Political decisions were found to have influenced and altered scientific conclusions.

 

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15093307

Environ Pollut. 1998;99(3):421-3. Related Articles, Links
 
Haematological characteristics and bone fluoride content in Bufo melanostictus from an aluminium industrial site.

Mishra PC, Mohapatra AK.

Department of Environmental Sciences, Sambalpur University, Jyoti-Vihar-769019, Orissa, India.

Fluoride concentration in bones and differential haemotological characteristics (RBC, haemoglobin, haematocrit, mean corpusclar haemoglobin and mean corpuscular volume) were measured in amphibians, Bufo melanostictus, collected from fluoride-contaminated and -uncontaminated areas. The average haemoglobin content, total RBC count and haematocrit (%) in blood samples were found to be significantly reduced, while mean corpuscular concentration and volume were significantly elevated in individuals from the contaminated area in comparison to those from the uncontaminated area. Fluoride concentration was approximately 11 times greater in the bones of toads from the contaminated area.

PMID: 15093307 [PubMed - in process]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15093323

Environ Pollut. 1998;99(2):285-9.
 
A study on removal of fluorides from drinking water by adsorption onto low-cost materials.

Srimurali M, Pragathi A, Karthikeyan J.

Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, 517 502, A.P., India.

Various low-cost materials like kaolinite, bentonite, charfines, lignite and nirmali seeds were investigated to assess their capacity for removal of fluorides from water by batch adsorption studies. Studies were also conducted to determine optimum operating-system parameters; such as contact time, pH, dose and size of the adsorbent. Present study has indicated that materials like nirmali seeds and lignite are not effective (removal 6 to 8%); whereas removal by kaolinite clay was slightly higher (18.2%). Charfines and bentonite exhibited highest removal capacity of 38 and 46%, respectively, at optimum system conditions. Chemical pre-treatment of charfines did not result in enhanced removal of fluoride from water.


PMID: 15093323 [PubMed - in process]


Abstract from: http://www.fluoride-journal.com/99-32-1/321-33.htm#INFLUENCEOFCHRONICFLUOROSIS

Australian Veterinary Journal 1998; 76(8):565-569

Chronic gypsum fertilizer ingestion as a significant contributor to a multifactorial cattle mortality

CA Bourke, SJ Ottaway

Reprints: CA Bourke, New S Wales Agr & Fisheries, Orange Agr Inst. Forest Rd Orange NSW 2800 Australia.

Objective. To assess the validity of claims that heavy metal contamination from an open-cut mine caused the death of 226 cattle on a nearby farm over a period of 18 months, and to investigate other possible contributing factors.
Procedure- A retrospective assessment of previous investigations combined with additional chemical analyses.
Results- Extensive chemical analyses produced no evidence of heavy metal contamination associated with the mine. Analysis of bones indicated exposure to fluoride in greater than normal amounts. The main source of fluoride seems to have been gypsum that was included in a feed supplement and also ingested from fertiliser dumps on paddocks. The gypsum itself may have contributed significantly to the ill health. Other factors probably affected some classes of animals, notably the young calves.
Conclusions. What originally seemed to be a disease problem of single aetiology probably was an expression of interacting multifactorial causes. This investigation has high lighted the potential toxicity of gypsum to livestock and the need for further studies to establish its basis.


Salud Publica de Mexico 1998; 40(5):438-441

Bottled drinks as additional source of fluoride exposition

[Spanish]

JP Loyolarodriguez, AJ Pozosguillen, JC Hernandezguerrero

Reprints: JP Loyolarodriguez, Univ Autonoma San Luis Potosi, Fac Estomatol, Ctr Invest Estomatol, San Luis Potosi, Mexico.

Objective. To evaluate and to report the concentration of fluoride in soft drinks and juices consumed in San Luis Potosi, S.L.P., Mexico, and its implications as a risk factor for developing dental fluorosis.
Material and methods. The contents of some products from 2 main national companies and 2 other local companies were studied. The samples were collected from 1O different batches in the case of the soft drinks, and from 5 batches in the case of the juices, with 3 samples per batch, during 3 months. The ion selective electrode method was used to determine the concentration of fluoride.
Results. Soft drinks from 2 main national companies showed high fluoride concentrations that were statistically significant between groups (p < 0.05). Fluoride levels of products from local and national companies also showed differences that were statistically significant between groups (p < 0.05). All natural juices tested showed high fluoride concentrations.
Conclusions. Most soft drinks and juices consumed in SLP had high fluoride levels above Mexican regulations (0.7 ppm) and could be a substantial risk factor for developing dental fluorosis.


Full report available at: http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-1/31133-42.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(1):33-42

Fluoride intake, distribution, and bone content in diabetic rats consuming fluoridated drinking water

I Boros, P Keszler, G Csik—s and H Kal‡sz*

Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, and *Institute of Pharmacology, Semmelweis University Medical School, Budapest, Hungary. Presented at the XXIst Conference of the International Society for Fluoride Research, Budapest, Hungary, August 25-28, 1996.

SUMMARY: The aim of this study was to determine how metabolic and functional changes in diabetes affect the fluoride intake, distribution, and concentration in bone tissue; and whether alterations in fluoride metabolism in diabetes may influence the severity of the disorder. Two groups of rats received 0 (C) or 10 ppm (F10) fluoride via drinking water for three weeks, ad libitum. Two other groups were treated with a single dose of streptozotocin to induce diabetes, and also received 0 (D) or 10 ppm fluoride (DF10). The quantity of fluoride consumed via water by the DF10 animals was calculated daily and an equal amount was added to the drinking water of another group of non-diabetic animals (FF). In the diabetic group (DF10) the intake of fluoride gradually increased, hyperglycemia was more severe, and renal hypertrophy was expressed less than in the diabetic group (D) which consumed deionized water. The femoral fluoride concentration increased in proportion to fluoride intake. The high fluoride intake of FF animals resulted, when compared to DF10 ones, in a further increase in the bone tissue and in relatively less elevation in plasma fluoride concentrations. It is concluded that
(i) fluoride supply via drinking water may enhance the severity of diabetes in rats, and
(ii) due to diabetic metabolic and functional imbalance, the fluoride metabolism may also change.


Full report available at: http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-2/31261-73.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(2):61-73

Fluoride-linked Down syndrome births and their estimated occurrence due to water fluoridation

Kosei Takahashi

Department of Internal Medicine and Biostatistics, Tokyo University Medical School, Tokyo, Japan (retired). Home address: Kosei Takahashi MD PhD, Kano 1788, Okegawa City, Saitama, 363-0001 Japan.

SUMMARY: Down syndrome (DS) birth rates (BR) as a function of maternal age exhibit a relatively flat linear regression line for younger mothers and a fairly steep one for older mothers with the second line intersecting the first line a little above maternal age 30. Consequently, overall DS-BR for all maternal ages are not a very reliable parameter for detecting environmental influences, since they may be strongly affected by the ratio of the number of younger to older mothers. For this reason, data for mothers under age 30 were selected to detect an association between water fluoridation and DS for which the lower maternal age regression would be a much smaller contributing factor. The early research of I Rapaport indicating a link between fluoride in drinking water and Down syndrome was followed by studies claiming there was no such association. Application of sound methodology to the data in those later investigations shows that none of the criticisms against Rapaport's work are valid. For example, in the data of J D Erickson on maternal age-specific DS births in Metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia, when the three youngest maternal age subgroups are reasonably combined into single groups for areas with and without water fluoridation, a highly significant association (P < 0.005) is revealed between fluoridated water and DS births. It also appears that the dose-response line (DRL} of DS-BR for daily fluoride intake may have no allowable level that does not induce fluoride-linked DS births. Therefore fluoride may be one of the major causes of DS other than aging of mothers. The number of excess DS births due to water fluoridation is estimated to be several thousand cases annually throughout the world.

Fluoride 1998; 31(3):129

Editorial

Authoritarianism versus scientific evidence

AW Burgstahler

Throughout history, officially-promoted viewpoints in science have often held sway for remarkably long periods of time. A familiar example is the Ptolemaic geocentric view of our solar system, which was shown to be incorrect but was nevertheless stoutly defended by ruling ecclesiastical authority.

Surprising as it may seem, a similar situation prevails in science policy even today. For over fifty years the United States Public Health Service [USPHS], with the endorsement of leading national and international dental and other professional organizations, has insisted that the levels of fluoride ingested from water fluoridation not only significantly reduce tooth decay but are also virtually without any toxic effects other than mild dental mottling. This view, however, like that of Ptolemy, contradicts available scientific evidence.

As can be seen in the two unanswered letters to the presidents of the US National Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Medicine published herein on pages 153-157, officials of these two prestigious scientific bodies have ignored unrefuted evidence contradicting their proposed dietary reference standards for human exposure to fluoride. To anyone even slightly acquainted with the relevant peer-reviewed literature cited in the two letters, the suggested "tolerable upper level" fluoride intake of 10 mg/day for individuals aged nine or older clearly falls in a well-verified toxic range, not only for teeth and bones but also for various soft-tissue organs. Moreover, under scientific scrutiny, the major dental benefits claimed for ingested fluoride are illusory and are no longer widely accepted, at least in most non-English speaking countries (cf. letter to the editor, pages 171-174).

Further serious ethical aspects of this issue are highlighted by the manner in which administrators of the US Environmental Protection Agency in 1985 set 4 mg/L as the Recommended Maximum Contaminant Level for fluoride in drinking water. A recent paper delivered at the 23rd Annual Conference of the National Association of Environmental Professionals held June 20-22, 1998, in San Diego, California, dealt specifically with flagrant violations of this organization's code of ethics by EPA management in setting the 4 mg/L RMCL for fluoride. In its report to the EPA, USPHS officials had altered the 2 mg/L RMCL of its scientific panel to 4 mg/L, and EPA management then ordered the support document prepared by EPA professionals to be altered in conflict with known facts.

Sadly, even today, authoritarianism can still overrule solid science.

 

Fluoride 1998; 31(2):74-80

Developments in the analysis of fluoride 1995-1997

Wen ML, Shi NH, Qin Y*, Wang CY

Department of Chemistry, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
* Department of Chemistry, Baoshan Normal College, Yunnan, China

This biennial review if a continuation of the previous survey [Fluoride 1996; 29(2):82-88] and covers the literature of the analysis of fluoride from July 1995 to June 1997.


Fluoride 1998; 31(2):81-88

Effect of fluoride on superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in germinating mung bean seedlings

LG Wilde * and M Yu **

* Bellingham, WA
** Center for Environmental Science, Western Washington University, Bellingham, Washington

Summary: The influence of sodium fluoride (NaF) on superoxide dismutase (SOD) in mitochondria from germinating mung bean seedlings was studied. Mitochondrial preparations were obtained from seedlings treated daily with 0 (control), 0.1, 0.2, 1, and 5 mM NaF for 72 hours. NaF at 0.1mM caused a small but significant increase in SOD activity, whereas 1 and 5 mM NaF decreased the enzyme activity by 10 and 40% respectively.


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9523250&dopt=Abstract

Int Arch Occup Environ Health 1998 Feb;71(1):53-9

Occurrence of occupational asthma in aluminum potroom workers in relation to preventive measures.

Sorgdrager B, de Looff AJ, de Monchy JG, Pal TM, Dubois AE, Rijcken B.

Department of Allergology University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands.

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether preventive measures such as reduction of exposure and the introduction of the histamine provocation test (HPT) as a selection instrument resulted in a lower incidence of potroom asthma (PA) and a longer time lag between the commencement of employment and the occurrence of PA. Between 1970 and 1990, 179 cases of PA were diagnosed. This period was divided into three periods. During period 1 (1970-1975), no exposure data were available. Period 2 (1976-1981) is characterized by known exposure data obtained by means of fluoride determinations in urine. At the beginning of period 3 (1982-1990) the HPT was incorporated into the preemployment medical examination. We computed the incidence density (ID) in the three periods and analyzed the timelag in relation to the year of employment and confounding factors such as age, atopic history, blood eosinophil counts, lung function, smoking habits at preemployment, and exposure level. After introduction of the preemployment HPT the ID decreased, but cases continued to occur (ID 11.6 in period 2 versus 2.5 in period 3). The time lag was did not differ when subjects with bronchial hyperresponsiveness were screened out. The exposure level and an atopic history were factors associated with the period of employment and, therefore, confounded the results. The results of this study support the role of an atopic history as a risk factor for development of PA at lower exposure levels and suggest that potroom exposure not only incites asthmatic symptoms but also acts as an inducer of respiratory disease.

PMID: 9523250 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


Fluoride 1998; 31(3):137-142

Phosphate fertilizer industry in Jordan: assessment of environmental exposure to phosphate dust and fluoride

BA AbuDhaise (a) and NI AbuOmar (b)

(a) Department of Community Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Jordan
(b) Jordan Phosphate Mines and Fertilizer Complex, Aqaba, Jordan

Summary: In order to assess enviromental exposure, phosphate dust and gaseous fluoride concentrations were measured at various sites of a phosphate fertilizer complex in Jordan throughout the year 1993. Sixty six phosphate dust samples were collected using a high volume air sampler (Staplex, TFIA-2, USA) fitted with glass fiber filter media. Short-term drager tubes (Drager-Rohrchen, Germany) were used to measure fluorine concentrations in 300 air samples. The concentration of airborne phosphate dust varied widely throughtout the year (0.3 - 379 mg/m3), and in one third of the samples it exceeded the ACGIH-TLV of 10 mg/m3 for total dust. The highest levels were encountered during truck unloading of the finished product. Gaseous fluoride emissions from various processes ranged from 0.1 to 30 ppm. In at least 20% of the samples the concentration exceeded the ACGIH-TLV of 1 ppm for fluorine gas. The highest geometric mean concentrations were found in the reactor unit at the phosphoric acid plant (4 +- 3.02 ppm) followed by the crystallizer and calciner units at the aluminum fluoride plant (3 +-2.4, 2.6 +- 3.4 ppm, respectively). It is concluded that phosphate fertilizer industry carries a hazard of exposure to gaseous and particulate fluoride, in addition to other phosphate dust components.


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9792123&dopt=Abstrac

Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 1998 Oct;26(5):316-23

Urinary fluoride levels and prevalence of dental fluorosis in three Brazilian cities with different fluoride concentrations in the drinking water.

Heintze SD, Bastos JR, Bastos R.

Bauru Dental School, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Urine samples from three daytime periods were collected from 545 5-50-year-old residents of three different Brazilian cities: Garca had fluoridated drinking water since 1973, Bauru since 1975 and Itapolis was not fluoridated. Dental fluorosis was examined in 985 5-24-year-olds using the Thylstrup-Fejerskov index (TF). The subjects were asked to estimate their daily intake of liquids and frequency of beverage consumption. The analysis of 94 water samples showed high variations in the fluoride content of the drinking water. The mean fluoride concentration of the water samples in Garca was 0.9 mg/L (range 0.75-1.2), in Bauru 0.64 mg/L (range 0.01-1.3), and in Itapolis 0.02 mg/L. Mean urinary fluoride concentration was 1.31 mg/L (s 0.61) in Garca, 0.88 mg/L (s 0.49) in Bauru, and 0.39 mg/L (s 0.21) in Itapolis. Self-reported daily liquid intake was not related to urinary fluoride concentration. The mean prevalence of fluorosis was 13.3% in Garca, 6.8% in Bauru, and 1.7% in Itapolis, with mainly categories TF 1 and TF 2 being recorded. Subjects with dental fluorosis tended to show a higher mean urinary fluoride concentration but the difference was not statistically significant. The study showed that fluoride exposure measured by urinary fluoride excretion was within the range expected for the level of fluoride concentration in the drinking water. However, enamel fluorosis tended to be markedly lower than expected. This study revealed that fluoride levels in the two cities with fluoridated drinking water were variable. To optimise anticaries benefits and minimise the risk of fluorosis greater control of the fluoride dosing of the drinking water is required.

PMID: 9792123 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


Full report available at: http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-3/313-131.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(3):131-136

Fluoride and calcium distribution in human placenta

Dariusz Chlubek (a), Ryszard Poreba (b) and Boguslaw Machalinski (a)

(a) Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical Academy, Al. Powstancow Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland.
(b) IVth Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Silesian Medical Academy, ul. Engelsa 102, 43-100 Tychy, Poland.
Presented at the XXIst World Conference of the International Society for Fluoride Research, Budapest, August 25-29, 1996.

SUMMARY: Fluoride and calcium concentrations in maternal plasma and in placental tissue were determined in 30 healthy women residing in an area with a relatively low water and air fluoride (fluorine) content. The mean fluoride concentrations in maternal plasma and in marginal and central parts of placenta were 4.27 µM/L, 42.1 µg/g of ash, and 33.7 µg/g of ash, respectively. The mean calcium concentrations in maternal plasma and in marginal and in central parts of placenta were 2.3 mM/L, 22.9 mg/g of ash, and 20.0 mg/g of ash, respectively. Fluoride contents of both parts of placental tissue differed significantly (p < 0.05). High positive correlations (p < 0.001) were found between maternal plasma fluoride concentration and the fluoride content of the marginal part of placenta as well as between maternal plasma calcium concentration and the calcium content of both parts of placental tissue. The same positive correlation was also found between fluoride and calcium contents of marginal part of placental tissue. Our data indicate that most placental fluoride is stored in the marginaI part of the organ presumably as a result of the higher concentration of calcium found in that area.


Full report available at: http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-177.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(4):177-182

Fluoride and alkaline phosphatase

Lennart Krook and Ronald R Minor

Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853-6401, USA.
Presented at the XXIInd Conference of the International Society for Fluoride Research, Bellingham, Washington, USA, August 24-27, 1998.

SUMMARY: Since serum alkaline phosphatase increases in fluoride therapy for osteoporosis, it is generally accepted that fluoride stimulates bone formation. However, histochemical studies have shown that alkaline phosphatase is also increased in resorbing osteocytes. Fluoride is toxic to metabolically active bone cells, alkaline phosphatase is released, and serum alkaline phosphatase increases. We propose that the increased serum alkaline phosphatase following fluoride therapy may reflect a toxicity of fluoride for both osteoblasts (bone forming cells) and resorbing osteocytes. When cells are injured their first response is to initiate repair processes and if this repair fails the cell dies. An increase of serum alkaline phosphatase and increased bone mass following fluoride therapy represent a failed repair response involving an initial increase in both bone formation and resorption. This repair response to cell injury results in pathological bone formation. Furthermore, as the repair process fails there is a toxic death of resorbing osteocytes and a decrease in bone resorption. Osteoclasia of fluorotic bone may result in secondary toxic effects of fluoride on osteoclasts, and contribute to decreased bone resorption. The increased amount of trabecular bone in fluoride therapy is claimed to be the morphologic expression for fluoride as a stimulus for bone formation. We propose that the increased amount of trabecular bone results from pathological bone formation by injured osteoblasts and decreased bone resorption by resorbing osteocytes and osteoclasts. Both resorptive processes are required for the remodeling of trabecular bone into compact bone. Fluoride has only negative effects on bone cell metabolism. Fluoride should be avoided, especially in osteoporosis.


Full report available at http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-183.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(4):183-187

Assessment of the exposure to fluoride from drinking water in Durango, Mexico, using a Geographic Information System

Ortiz D (a), Castro L (a), Turrubiartes F (b), Milan J (b), D’az-Barriga F (a)

(a) Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Aut—noma de San Luis Potos’, Avenida Venustiano Carranza 2405, 78210, San Luis Potos’, SLP, Mexico. Correspondence: Dr D’az-Barriga.
(b )Facultad de Ingenier’a, Universidad Aut—noma de San Luis Potos’

SUMMARY: A Geographic Information System (GIS) coupled with environmental data was used for the study of endemic fluorosis in the city of Durango, Mexico. The city was divided into four different risk areas. These areas were categorized according to fluoride levels in tap water. Mean fluoride levels ranged from 1.54 mg/L in area 1 to 4.70 mg/L in area 4. A level of 5.67 mg/L, the highest fluoride concentration in Durango, was found in area 4. Almost 95% of the 306,652 inhabitants living in this city were exposed to fluoride levels higher than 2.0 mg/L. Exposure doses to fluoride were calculated for all the areas. For example, the maximum estimated exposure doses were 1.86 mg/kg/day for infants, 0.28 mg/kg/day for children and 0.16 mg/kg/day for adults. Taking into account the minimal risk level of 0.05 mg/kg/day calculated by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, a health risk for the city of Durango became evident.


Full report available at: http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-188.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(4):188-192

Leaching characteristics of fluoride from coal fly ash

R Piekos and S Paslawska

Medical University of Gdansk, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al. Gen. Hallera 107, PL - 80-416 Gdansk, Poland.

SUMMARY: Leaching of fluoride from fly ash has been studied at different ash/water ratios and temperatures and also over a broad range of pH. The efficiency of leaching was only slightly dependent on the ash/water ratio, thus revealing a solubility-controlled mechanism of the process. The efficiency was also independent of the temperature over the range 20 - 90°C.


Full report available at: http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-217.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(4):217-218

Fluorine and bioelements in biology and medicine

Report of the 8th Polish Fluorine Symposium.
April 23-24, 1998, Szczecin, Poland

Z Machoy and T Ogonski

Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical Academy, Szczecin, Poland


http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-223a.htm

Environmental Geology 1998; 34(1): 21-30

  • As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1998; 31(4):223

Agronomic impact of tephra fallout from the 1995 and 1996 Ruapehu volcano eruptions, New Zealand

Cronin SJ, Hedley MJ, Neall VE, Smith RG

Reprints: S J Cronin, Massey University, Department of Soil Science, Palmerston North, New Zealand.

Eruptions from Ruapehu Volcano on 11 and 14 October 1995 and 17 June 1996 distributed at least 36 x 106 m3 of sulphur(S)-rich tephra over the central and eastern North Island of New Zealand. The tephras added between 30-1500 kg ha-1 S to at least 25,000 km2 of land in primary production. Smaller but beneficial amounts of selenium (Se) and in some areas potassium and magnesium were also supplied. Addition of S to the soils in the form of sulphate and elemental S resulted in a drop in soil pH and an increase in pasture S contents within seven weeks of the eruptions. The soils affected by the tephra are naturally low in S and Se, but following the eruptions S was not required in fertilizer applications in many areas. The strongest and longest lasting effects of S and Se deposition were in high anion-retention soils particularly Hapludands (moist, moderately weathered soils, derived from volcanic ash). Soluble fluorine concentrations within the tephras were low compared to historic Icelandic and Chilean examples. However, pastoral livestock deaths were apparently caused by fluorosis in addition to starvation when tephra covered feed. The Ruapehu tephra contained very low concentrations of other soluble toxic elements.


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11813711&dopt=Abstract

J Indian Soc Pedod Prev Dent 1998 Mar;16(1):1-6

Bioavailability of fluoride in humans from commonly consumed diets in India.

Goyal A, Gauba K, Tewari A.

Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Oral Health Sciences Center, Chandigarh.

There is a paucity of data on the amount of fluoride absorbed in humans from whole cooked food; especially a combination of different foods taken at regular meal times. The present study was thus aimed at estimating the amount of fluoride present and absorbed in humans from four regional representative meals viz. North Indian Vegetarian, North Indian Non-vegetarian, South Indian and East Indian. Twenty five healthy human volunteers aged 22-35 years participated in the study and each diet was tested on five volunteers. Each test diet was weighed into six equal parts, one part was kept for estimation of fluoride content and remaining five were given one each to the five test subjects in each of the four test diet groups. Eight hour plasma fluoride profiles were then studied after ingestion of weighed quantity of test diets and means calculated. The bioavailability of fluoride from these diets was evaluated in relation to that of sodium fluoride in solution form. The amount of fluoride estimated in different test diets varied between 1.53 - 10.0 mg. The bioavailability was found to be 1.6 per cent for north Indian vegetarian diet, 7.5 per cent for east Indian diet, 14.4 per cent for north Indian nonvegetarian diet and 31.7 per cent for south Indian diet, however, the amount of F(mg) absorbed in plasma from these diets was found to be low i.e. 0.06 mg, 0.75 mg, 0.72 mg and 0.48 mg respectively.

PMID: 11813711 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9456082&dopt=Abstract

Arch Toxicol 1998;72(2):104-9

Urinary biomarkers monitoring for experimental fluoride nephrotoxicity.

Usuda K, Kono K, Dote T, Nishiura K, Miyata K, Nishiura H, Shimahara M, Sugimoto K.

Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki City, Japan.

An excess of sodium fluoride (135 mg F/kg body weight) was given in a single oral dose to male Wistar rats. Effects were investigated of fluoride-induced acute kidney intoxication on the time-dependent variations of urine volume. Also, of urinary fluoride ion (F-), alpha-glutathione-S-transferase (alpha-GST), N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), and creatinine (CR) concentrations. Fluoride administration strongly affects these urinary biochemical indices. Of the several biomarkers studied, alpha-GST is particularly useful as marker of S3 proximal tubule damage. We found that alpha-GST shows the strongest and more durable changes as a result of the large dose of F- given to the experimental animals. Our results suggest that the toxic effect of F- on the kidney may be more pronounced in the proximal tubule than the glomeruli region, and that the disorder of the proximal tubule is more serious in the S3 segment than S1 or S2 segment. Alpha-GST proved to be a useful marker for the early detection and long-term observation of proximal renal tubular injury resulting from F- intoxication. The animal model should help to establish guidelines for the treatment of industrial workers suffering from acute renal failure resulting from accidental exposure to fluoride.

PMID: 9456082 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=10022030&dopt=Abstract

Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol 1998 Nov;20(9):761-9

Effects of inorganic fluoride on renal excretion of fluid and sodium in diabetic rats.

Warren BK, Mozaffari MS, Patel C.

Department of Oral Biology/Pharmacology, Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry, Augusta, USA.

The hypothesis that the diabetic rat is more susceptible to the adverse renal effects (i.e., urine concentrating defect) of inorganic fluoride was tested by comparing fluid and sodium excretion rates in nondiabetic and diabetic rats before and after fluoride administration. Male Fischer 344 rats were injected with either vehicle (0.1 M citrate buffer, i.v.) or streptozotocin (55 mg/kg body weight). Renal excretions of fluid and sodium were determined in conscious animals following administration (i.v.) of a saline volume load containing or lacking inorganic fluoride (0.2 mg/ml). To examine the effect of fluoride without the contribution of a saline load, renal excretions of fluid and sodium were determined following a gradual, graded elevation in plasma fluoride concentration. The natriuretic and diuretic responses to an isotonic saline load were similar between the groups prior to and after fluoride administration. Graded elevations in the fluoride concentration of plasma mediated a slight increase in fluid and sodium excretion in the control rat while the treatment protocol led to a reduction in fluid excretion and an increase in the sodium excretion in the diabetic rat. As a result, the ratio of sodium/fluid excretion following fluoride administration was significantly higher in the diabetic compared to the control rat. These results suggest a differential effect of inorganic fluoride on the renal excretion of sodium and fluid between the nondiabetic and diabetic rat.

PMID: 10022030 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9827892&dopt=Abstract

Int Arch Occup Environ Health 1998 Sep;71 Suppl:S97-100

Assessment of the working-environment harmful factors and health risk of workers in a nitrogen fertilizer plant.

Zlatev Z, Todorova K, Anastasova N, Chuturkova R, Yaneva A, Sabeva Y.

Varna Branch of National Center of Hygiene Medical Ecology and Nutrition, HEI Varna, Bulgaria.

The authors examined the influence of harmful factors of the working environment such as: microclimate, dust, noise, vibrations, and chemical noxes such as: ammonia, nitric oxides, hydrogen fluoride and gaseous fluorides, on the health status of workers involved in the production of fertilizers and ammonia in a nitrogen fertilizer plant. Various biochemical examinations of 158 workers were carried out. The morbidity rate for 1993-1995 was also studied. The biochemical monitoring indicated a statistically significant dependence of the abnormalities of the biochemical parameters on the professional exposure. The metabolic disturbances were proved by serum creatinine and urea elevations and rising urinary ammonia concentrations, by disturbances of the liver function consisting in an enhanced transaminase activity, and by disorders of the mineral metabolism presented with an increased urinary phosphorus excretion at a low serum phosphorus level as well as with increased serum and urinary fluorine concentrations. The temporarily registered morbidity rate showed a tendency towards an increase in diseases of the respiratory, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular system.

PMID: 9827892 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9595190&dopt=Abstract

Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 1998 May;60(5):745-9

No Abstract Available

Uptake and persistence of sodium monofluoroacetate (1080) in plants.

Ogilvie SC, Booth LH, Eason CT.

Manaaki Whenua, Lincoln, New Zealand.

PMID: 9595190 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=10530119&dopt=Abstract

J Ir Dent Assoc 1998;44(4):100-5

Fluoride in tea--its dental significance: a review.

Kavanagh D, Renehan J.

School of Dental Science, Trinity College, USA.

It has long been accepted that fluoride accumulates in the leaves of the tea plant. Camellia sinensis. In addition it is known that some of this fluoride is released into the infusion which is drunk as tea. The exact concentration of fluoride in a cup of tea and the effects of this fluoride have been the subject of many international studies. This review summarizes the main points of such studies which have been carried out in an attempt to establish the dental significance of fluoride in tea. The most popular teas in Ireland are not readily available in any other country and therefore, Irish data may not be assumed to be similar to those in the studies reviewed here. By identifying potential sources of high fluoride ingestion, recommendations can be made to reduce consumption from these sources in patients who may be at risk of dental fluorosis. In conclusion, it is recommended that a research project be carried out to analyse the fluoride levels released and the rates of the releases from teas available on the Irish market. Ireland has the highest per capita consumption of tea in the world.

Publication Types:

  • Review
  • Review, Tutorial

PMID: 10530119 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=10366998&dopt=Abstract

Food Addit Contam 1998 Nov-Dec;15(8):893-7

Concentrations of fluoride in wines from the Canary Islands.

Martinez OB, Diaz C, Borges TM, Diaz E, Perez JP.

Department of Analytical Chemistry, Nutrition & Food Science, University of La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Potentiometry using an ion-selective electrode has widely been used for determining fluoride because of its simplicity and rapidity. The concentration of fluoride was determined (Gran's method) in 70 wines from the main wine-producing regions of the Canary Islands. The mean concentration of fluoride in wines from a region with a high concentration of fluoride in drinking waters was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those mean concentrations obtained in the remaining wines. Non-important differences were found among the types of wine analysed. However, the fluoride concentrations of all the Canarian wines analysed here did not present a risk for the public health.

PMID: 10366998 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9930027&dopt=Abstract

Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig 1998;49(3):341-6

[Fluorine in vegetables and potatoes from the market in Warsaw]

[Article in Polish]

Sawilska-Rautenstrauch D, Jedra M, Fonberg-Broczek M, Badowski P, Urbanek-Karlowska B.

Zaklad Badania Zywnosci i Przedmiotow Uzytku, Panstwowy Zaklad Higieny, Warszawa.

In 65 samples of vegetables: cabbages, carrots, beetroots, onions and potatoes, of whose consumption is the highest in Poland, fluorine content was determined. The samples were prepared according to AOAC method, and fluorine concentration was determined in the filtrate by the potentiometric method using a Fluoride--selective electrode--model 920A of Orion Research Inc. The recovery rate of fluorine was 95 +/- 5%. The average level of soluble fluorine ranged from 3.36 mg/kg of dry weight of cabbage to 5.37 mg/kg of dry weight of onion and from 0.38 mg/kg of fresh weight of cabbage to 1.02 mg/kg of fresh weight of potatoes. In over 50% of the investigated samples fluorine content exceeded 0.56 mg/kg of fresh weight, which is the upper limit value of fluorine content found in the vegetables from the areas ecologically clean.

PMID: 9930027 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


Community Dentistry & Oral Epidemiology 1998; 26 (4) 241-248
 
  • As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1999; 32(1):35

Fluorosis risk from early exposure to fluoride toothpaste

Mascarenhas AK, Burt BA

Swallowed fluoride toothpaste in the early years of life has been postulated to be a risk factor for fluorosis, but the epidemiological evidence is weakened by the fact that most of the relevant studies were done in developed countries where an individual is exposed to multiple sources of fluoride.

Objectives: To quantify the risk of fluorosis from fluoride toothpaste in a population whose only potential source of fluoride was fluoride toothpaste.
Methods: Case-control analyses were conducted to test the hypothesis that fluoride toothpaste use before the age of 6 years increased an individualŐs risk of fluorosis. Data came from a cross-sectional clinical dental examination of schoolchildren and a self-administered questionnaire to their parents. The study was conducted in Goa, India. The study group consisted of 1189 seventh grade children with a mean age of 12.2 years.
Results: The prevalence of fluorosis was 12.9% using the TF index. Results of the crude, stratified, and logistic regression analyses showed that use of fluoride toothpaste before the age of 6 years was a risk indicator for fluorosis (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.05-3.15). Among children with fluorosis, beginning brushing before the age of 2 years increased the severity of fluorosis significantly (P<0.001). Other factors associated with the use of fluoride toothpaste, such as eating or swallowing fluoride toothpaste and higher frequency of use, did not show a statistically significant increased risk for prevalence or severity of fluorosis.
Conclusions: Fluoride toothpaste use before the age of 6 years is a risk indicator for fluorosis in this study population.


Semaine des Hopitaux 1998; 74(23-26):986-989

• As cited and abstracted in Fluroide 1999; 32(1):36
 
Skeletal fluorosis due to excessive consumption of fluoride-rich bottled water in a patient with moderately severe renal failure

[Article in French]

Avimadje AM, Jeannou J, Mammou S, Goupille P, Valat JP (Tours, France)

A 71-year-old man with moderately severe renal failure who had been drinking two liters per day of a fluoride-rich bottled water (Vichy Saint-Yorre) for the last seven years developed arthralgia with radiological evidence of hyperostosis. Fluoride levels were elevated in the-serum and urine. These criteria establish the diagnosis in 97% of cases of skeletal fluorosis, although the definitive test is determination of the level of fluoride in bone. The causes of fluoride intoxication are reviewed, and their clinical, laboratory test, and radiological features are discussed.


Taskforce Conclusions available at http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-232.htm

Fluoride 1998; 31(4):232-234

The Lord Mayor's Taskforce on Fluoridation, Brisbane City, Australia. Final Report.

Taskforce Conclusions.

Background note: The Taskforce was established in January 1997 in response to debate in the media and the political arena about whether BrisbaneŐs water supply should be fluoridated. Brisbane is the only State capital in Australia to remain unfluoridated. In his Foreword to the Final Report, the Lord Mayor stated: "The Taskforce was structured to provide a forum to hear both sides of the argument. The 17 members included experts from professional organisations which support fluoridation, such as the Australian Dental Association and the Australian Medical Association, and also representatives from other professional bodies with opposing views. I considered that it was particularly important that the Taskforce include representatives of the public and also those other local governments which share BrisbaneŐs water supply. Both of these groups came to the Taskforce without predetermined or fixed views and, as such, were able to consider the issue from a more neutral perspective. .... Throughout this six month process, the representatives of the community listened to the experts argue the case. These community representatives came down clearly against the fluoridation of BrisbaneŐs water at this time."


http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-226b.htm

Aquatic Toxicology 1998; 42(1):67-84

  • As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1998; 31(4):226


pH-Altered interaction of aluminium and fluoride on nutrient uptake, photosynthesis and other variables of Chlorella vulgaris

Rai LC, Husaini Y, Varanasi NM

Reprints: L C Rai, Banaras Hindu University Department of Botany, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India.

This study presents information on the pH-induced toxicity of AlCl3, AlF3, NaF and AlCl3 + NaF on growth, nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, photosynthetic electron transport, enzymes of nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism and ATPase activity of Chlorella vulgaris. The interaction of AlCl3 and NaF produced additive effect at pH 6.8, and synergistic at pH 6.0 and 4.5. It is suggested that phosphate restricts the entry of Al into the cell, while fluoride promotes it. AlF toxicity could be due to its interference with phosphate binding site of ATPase thereby arresting the release of energy.


http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-225b.htm

Annals of Occupational Hygiene 1998; 42(3):173-189

  • As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1998; 31(4):225-226


Exposures in the alumina and primary aluminum industry. An historical review.

Benke G, Abramson M, Sim M

Reprints: G Benke, Alfred Hospital, Monash Medical School, Department of Epidemiological and Preventive Medicine, Prahran, VIC 3181, Australia.

We reviewed specific chemical exposures and exposure assessment methods relating to published and unpublished epidemiological studies in the alumina and primary aluminium industry. Our focus was to review limitations in the current literature and make recommendations for future research. Although some of the exposures in the smelting of aluminium have been well characterised, particularly in potrooms, little has been published regarding the exposures in bauxite mining and alumina refining. Past epidemiological studies in the industry have concentrated on the smelting of aluminium, with many limitations in the methodology used in their exposure assessment. We found that in aluminium smelting, exposures to fluorides, coal tar pitch volatiles (CTPV) and sulfur dioxide (SO2 ) have tended to decrease in recent years, but insufficient information exists for the other known exposures. Although excess cancers have been found among workers in the smelting of aluminium, the exposure assessment methods in future studies need to be improved to better characterise possible causative agents. The small number of cohort studies has been a factor in the failure to identify clear exposure-response relationships for respiratory diseases. A dose-response relationship has been recently described for fluoride exposure and bronchial hyper-responsiveness, but whether fluorides are the causative agent, co-agent or simply markers for the causative agent(s) for potroom asthma, remains to be determined. Published epidemiological studies and quantitative exposure data for bauxite mining and alumina refining are virtually non-existent. Determination of possible exposure-response relationships for this part of the industry through improved exposure assessment methods should be the focus of future studies.


http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-225a.htm

Indian Journal of Animal Sciences 1998; 68(7):605-608

  • As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1998; 31(4):225


Fluoride intoxication in bovines due to industrial pollution

Swarup D, Dwivedi SK, Dey S, Ray SK

Reprints: D Swarup, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar 243122, Uttar Pradesh, India.

A clinical survey conducted in the vicinity of an aluminium smelter revealed occurrence of fluoride intoxication in cattle population. Affected animals exhibited lameness, reluctance to move, thickening of metatarsal, metacarpal rib and mandibular bones with the presence of palpable bony exostoses. Moderate to severe dental lesions were also observed in the majority of animals. Overall incidence of disease was 42.31%. The highest incidence (58.27%) was within 3 km distance which declined exponentially with the distance from the smelter. Biochemical examination of serum revealed significantly higher levels of alkaline phosphatase (22.08 ± 2.12 KA unit/dl), inorganic phosphorus (5.15 ± 0.24 mg/dl) and creatinine (1.88 ± 0.26 mg/dl) and decreased level of triiodothyronine (0.59 ± 0.14 ng/ml) in the affected animals than normal animals. Fluoride level in urine of affected cattle averaged 26.45 ± 3.28 ppm in the close vicinity of the smelter. Contamination of pasture from smelter smoke was considered to be the potential source of the fluoride intoxication.


http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-224.htm

Environmental Pollution 1998; 99(3):421-423

  • As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1998; 31(4):224


Haemotological characteristics and bone fluoride content in Bufo melanostictus from an aluminum industrial site

P C Mishra and A K Mohapatra

Reprints: P C Mishra. Sambalpur University, Department of Environmental Science, Jyoti Vihar 769019, Orissa, India.

Fluoride concentration in bones and differential haemotological characteristics (RBC, haemoglobin, haematocrit, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular volume) were measured in amphibians, Bufo melanostictus, collected from fluoride-contaminated and uncontaminated areas. The average haemoglobin content, total RBC count and haematocrit (%) in blood samples were found to be significantly reduced, while mean corpuscular concentration and volume were significantly elevated in individuals from the contaminated area in comparison to those from the uncontaminated area. Fluoride concentration was approximately 11 times greater in the bones of toads from the contaminated area.


http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-221b.htm

Epidemiology 1998; 9(4):412-416

  • As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1998; 31(4):221


Use of toenail fluoride level as an indicator for the risk of hip and forearm fractures in women

Feskanich D, Owusu W, Hunter DJ, Willett W, Ascherio A, Siegelman D, Morris S, Spate VL, Colditz G

Reprints: D Feskanich, Channing Laboratories, 181 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.

The relation between fluoride intake and risk of osteoporotic fractures remains unclear. The lack of individual measures of long-term fluoride intake has limited epidemiologic studies. We used toenail fluoride in this study as a measure of long-term intake to evaluate the relation between fluoride intake and subsequent risk of hip and distal forearm fractures. Between 1982 and 1984, we collected toenail clippings from 62,641 women in the NursesŐ Health Study who were free from cancer, heart disease, stroke, and previous hip or forearm fracture. We identified fracture cases (53 proximal femur and 188 distal forearm) through subsequent biennial mailed questionnaires and matched controls to cases on year of birth. The odds ratio of hip fracture among women in the highest quartile of toenail fluoride (>5.50 parts per million), compared with those in the lowest quartile (<2.00 ppm) was 0.8 (95% confidence interval = 0.2-4.0), with adjustment for menopausal status, postmenopausal hormone use, caffeine intake, and alcohol consumption. The corresponding adjusted odds ratio for forearm fracture was 1.6 (95% confidence interval = 0.8-3.1). Further adjustment for body mass index, smoking status, and calcium and vitamin D intake did not alter these results.


http://www.fluoride-journal.com/98-31-4/314-227a.htm

Current Science 1998; 74(9):773-777

  • As cited and abstracted in Fluoride 1998; 31(4):227


Anomalous fluoride in groundwater from western part of Sirohi District, Rajasthan and its crippling effects on human health

Maithani PB, Gurjar R, Banerjee R, Balaji BK, Ramachandran S, Singh R

Reprints: P B Maithani, AMD Complex, Department of Atomic Energy, Hyderabad 500016, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Anomalously high concentration of fluoride (up to 16 ppm) has been observed in dug/tube well water, which is being used for drinking and irrigation purposes, around Palri, Andor and Wan villages, in western part of Sirohi district, Rajasthan. Fluoride concentration in groundwater is much higher than the permissible limit of 0.6-1.5 ppm of fluoride recommended for potable purposes. Water samples with more than 5 ppm fluoride are confined to Andor and Wan villages. Mottling is commonly observed in people of this area with a few cases of crippling fluorosis. Areas with such a high fluoride content require serious attention and remedial measures like setting up of large-scale defluoridation plant, use of simple domestic defluoridation methods and public awareness for preventing harmful diseases like fluorosis.


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9829868&dopt=Abstract

Am J Epidemiol 1998 Nov 15;148(10):967-74

Risk factors for enamel fluorosis in optimally fluoridated children born after the US manufacturers' decision to reduce the fluoride concentration of infant formula.

Pendrys DG, Katz RV.

Department of Behavioral Sciences and Community Health, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington 06030, USA.

This case-control study investigated risk factors for enamel fluorosis in optimally fluoridated children, born after the US infant formula industry voluntarily reduced the fluoride content of their products. Analysis was performed on 233 children, aged 10-14 years. Case-control status was determined using the Fluorosis Risk Index (FRI). Risk factor exposure was ascertained via a mailed questionnaire. Logistic regression analyses revealed a strong association between mild-to-moderate enamel fluorosis on early forming (FRI classification I) enamel surfaces and both fluoride supplement use (odds ratio (OR)=5.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06-33.53), and early fluoride toothpaste use (OR=6.35, 95% CI 1.21-33.40). The authors found a suggestive, but nonsignificant, association between fluorosis on these enamel surfaces and infant formula in the form of powdered concentrate (OR=4.33, 95% CI 0.73-25.66). There was a strong association between mild-to-moderate fluorosis on later forming (FRI classification II) enamel surfaces and infant formula use in the form of powdered concentrate (OR=10.77, 95% CI 1.89-61.25), fluoride supplement use (OR=10.83, 95% CI 1.90-61.55), and early fluoride toothpaste use (OR=8.37, 95% CI 1.68-41.72). No association was observed between the use of ready to feed infant formula and enamel fluorosis.

PMID: 9829868 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9817966&dopt=Abstract

Respiration 1998;65(6):486-8

Acute lung injury after inhalation of water-proofing spray while smoking a cigarette.

Jinn Y, Akizuki N, Ohkouchi M, Inase N, Ichioka M, Marumo F.

Second Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan.

A 34-year-old Japanese woman developed acute lung injury soon after inhaling a water-proofing spray which she applied onto her ski suit while smoking a cigarette at the same time. She initially demonstrated arterial hypoxemia (PaO2 = 59 mm Hg) and ground-glass opacities in both lung fields on the CT scan, which both returned to normal without any medication. Several water-proofing sprays, which are easily obtainable in Japan, contain 1,1,1-trichloroethane, liquefied petroleum gas and fluoride resin. Although these components have not been reported to be toxic to the lung yet, high concentrations of these components and/or the pyrolytic products of fluoride resin may have caused acute lung injury in this case.

PMID: 9817966 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9788510&dopt=Abstract

J Biomed Mater Res 1998 Dec 5;42(3):458-64

Fluoride uptake by hydroxyapatite formed by the hydrolysis of alpha-tricalcium phosphate.

Leamy P, Brown PW, TenHuisen K, Randall C.

Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Penn State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA.

Although there is interest in forming synthetic analogs of hard tissues at physiologic temperature, significant gaps in knowledge exist with respect to the mechanisms by which precursor solids convert to apatites and also with respect to the apatite compositions that may be formed. In this study calcium-deficient HAp [Ca9(HPO4)(PO4)5OH] was prepared by hydrolysis of tricalcium phosphate (TCP), alpha-Ca3(PO4)2. The kinetics of HAp formation were studied as a function of temperature by isothermal calorimetry. TCP hydrolyzed completely within about 12 h, and the hydrolysis reaction evolved 133 kJ/mol of HAp formed. Although the kinetics of hydrolysis exhibited a strong temperature dependence, the mechanistic path taken appeared independent of temperature. The fluoridation of hydroxyapatite compositions having Ca/P ratios higher than 1.59 previously has been investigated. However, little work has been done on the fluoridation of more calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite. Ca9(HPO4)(PO4)5OH was formed at temperatures between 37.4 degrees and 55 degrees C to vary its morphology. These preparations then were reacted in NaF solution and the kinetics of fluoride incorporation studied. Solution chemical analyses were used to determine the amounts of fluoride incorporated. The extent of hydroxyl replacement by fluoride ranged from 17 to 72% and correlated with the surface area of the parent HAp.

PMID: 9788510 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9546026&dopt=Abstract
 
Ann Emerg Med 1998 Apr;31(4):525

Ammonium bifluoride causes another pediatric death.

Klasner AE, Scalzo AJ, Blume C, Johnson P.

Publication Types: Comment Letter

PMID: 9546026 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9546025&dopt=Abstract

Ann Emerg Med 1998 Apr;31(4):524-5

Pediatric death and fluoride-containing wheel cleaner.

Mullins ME, Warden CR, Barnum DW.

Publication Types: Comment Letter

PMID: 9546025 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


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