1997 Research and Publications Report table of contents faculty of Engineering 4

Book chapter

Nicol S L, Harmening D M, & Green R E B, 1997, Clinical Hematology and Fundamentals of Hemostasis, Harmening D M (ed.), F. A. Davis, Philadelphia, USA, 3rd Edition edn, 23 p., pp. 221-243, ISBN: 0-8036-0135-2

Journal article in scholarly refereed journal

Barry M J, 1997, 'Effects of food limitation, notonectid predation, and temperature on the population dynamics of Daphnia carinata', Int. Revue ges. Hydrobiol, vol. 82, no.4, pp. 545-562

Bolton R M, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Mixed function oxidases in an Australian marsupial, the brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)', Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, vol. 33, no.1, pp. 83-89

Bolton R M, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Ontogenic expression of detoxication enzymes in an Australian marsupial, the brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)', Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology (Part B), vol. 118, no.1, pp. 239-247

Bolton R M, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Purification and characterisation of hepatic glutathione transferases from a herbivorous marsupial, the brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)', Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology (Part B), vol. 116, no.4, pp. 467-475

Bolton R M, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Purification and characterisation of hepatic glutathione transferases from an insectivorous marsupial, the brown antechinus (Antechinus stuartii).', Xenobiotica, vol. 27, no.6, Taylor and Francis Ltd, pp. 573-586

Bolton R M, Curstedt L, Cederlund E, Hjelmqvist L, Mannervik B, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Characterization of a marsupial glutathione transferase, a class Alpha enzyme from Brown Antechinus (Antechinus stuartii)', FEBS Letters, vol. 406, Federation of European Biochemical Societies, pp. 216-219

Butty J S, & Holdway D A, 1997, 'Assessment of the octopus, Octopus pallidus, as a potential bioindicator species of xenobiotic challenge: Baseline studies', Marine Pollution Bulletin, vol. 34, no.7, Phillips D J (ed.), pp. 564-570

Di Iulio J L, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Determination of nitric oxide synthase activity in rat, pig and rabbit prostate glands.', European Journal of Pharmacology, vol. 337, Elsevier, pp. 245-249

Falckh P H J, Balcombe W, Haritos V S, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Isolation and identification of a cytochrome P450 sequence in an Australian termite, Mastotermes darwiniensis', Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, vol. 241, no.2, Academic Press, pp. 579-583

Falckh P H J, Wu Q, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'CYP4T1 - A cytochrome P450 expressed in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) liver', Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, vol. 236, no.2, pp. 302-305

Grosman J, & Vardaxis N J, 1997, 'Aluminum Acid Alizarin Violet: a General Purpose Nuclear Fluorochrome', Biotechnic and Histochemistry, vol. 72, no.6, William and Wilkins, pp. 299-303

Haritos V S, Ching M S, Ghabrial H, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Measurement of dexfenfluramine metabolism in rat liver microsomes by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry', Journal of Chromatography B: Biomedical Sciences and Applications, vol. 693, Elsevier, pp. 327-336

Harney D W, & Macrides T A, 1997, 'A new chiral synthesis of bullfrog bile sterol 5beta-ranol', J. Chem. Soc., Perkin Transactions 1, vol. 1997, pp. 1353-1356

Ikeda H, Matsubara Y, Mikami H, Kure S, Owada M, Gough T, Smooker P M, Dobos M, Dahl H H M, Cotton R G H, & Narisawa K, 1997, 'Molecular analysis of dihydropteridine reductase deficiency: identification of two novel mutations in Japanese patients', Human Genetics, vol. 100, Springer-Verlag, pp. 637-642

Jiang F, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Effect of hydroxocobalamin on vasodilatations to nitrergic transmitter, nitric oxide and endothelium-derived relaxing factor in guinea-pig basilar artery.', European Journal of Pharmacology, vol. 340, Elsevier, pp. 181-186

Jiang F, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Mechanisms of electrical field stimulation-induced vasodilatation in the guinea-pig basilar artery: the role of endothelium.', Journal of Autonomic Pharmacology, vol. 17, Broadley K (ed.), Blackwell Science Ltd, London, pp. 71-76

Kelso J M, Bai C L, Ahokas J T, & Wright P F A, 1997, 'In vitro effects of MOCA and dapsone on rat hepatic and splenic immune cells', Immunopharmacology, vol. 35, Elsevier, pp. 183-193

La M, Paisley K, Martin W, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Effects of hydroxocobalamin on nitrergic transmission in rat anococcygeus and bovine retractor penis muscles: sensitivity to light.', European Journal of Pharmacology, vol. 321, no.3, March, Elsevier, pp. R5-R6

Macrides T A, Shihata A K, Kalafatis N, & Wright P F A, 1997, 'A comparison of the hydroxyl radical scavenging properties of the shark bile steroid 5beta-scymnol and plant pycnogenols', Biochemistry and Molecular Biology International, vol. 42, no.6, Academic Press Australia, pp. 1249-1260

Najbar-Kaszkiel A T, Di Iulio J L, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Characterisation of excitatory and inhibitory transmitter systems in prostate glands of rats, guinea pigs, rabbits and pigs.', European Journal of Pharmacology, vol. 337, Elsevier, pp. 251-258

Vardaxis N J, Hoogeveen M M, Boon M E, & Hair C G, 1997, 'Sporicidal activity of chemical and physical tissue fixation methods', Journal of Clinical Pathology, vol. 50, no.5, May, British Medical Journal Group, London, pp. 429-433

Vardaxis N J, Brans T A, Boon M E, Kreis R W, & Marres L M, 1997, 'Confocal laser scanning microscopy of porcine skin: implications for human wound healing studies', Journal of Anatomy, vol. 190, Great Britain, pp. 601-611

Voskoboinik I, Drew R, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Peroxisome proliferator nafenopin potentiated cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of cyclophosphamide in the liver and bone marrow cells', Chemico-Biological Interactions, vol. 105, Elsevier, pp. 81-97

Voskoboinik I, Ooi S, Drew R, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Peroxisome proliferators increase the formation of BPDE-DNA adducts in isolated rat hepatocytes', Toxicology, vol. 122, Elsevier, pp. 81-91

Whitehouse M W, Macrides T A, Kalafatis N, Betts W H, Haynes D R, & Broadbent J, 1997, 'Anti-inflammatory activity of a lipid fraction (Lyprinol) from the NZ green-lipped mussel', Inflammopharmacology, vol. 5, Kluwer Academic Publishers, pp. 237-246

Journal article, Other contribution to refereed journal

Rand M J, Li C G, La M, De Luca A, Najbar-Kaszkiel A, Jiang F, Di Iulio J, & Ellis A, 1997, 'Nitrergic transmission: discovery and continuing studies', Asia Pacific Journal of Pharmacology, ISSN 0217-9687, vol. 12, no.3 & 4, December, Sim M K (ed.), Singapore University Press, Singapore, pp. 137-148

Conference publication, Full written paper - refereed proceedings

O'Halloran K, Ahokas J T, & Wright P F A, 1997, 'Immunotoxicity of organotin to fish species - a comparative in vitro exposure study', Ecotoxicology: Responses, Biomarkers and Risk Assessment., Zelikoff J T, Lynch J M, & Shepers J (eds.), SOS Publications (for OECD), Fair Haven, NJ, USA, pp. 351-369

Conference publication, Extract of paper

Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Contaminants in food and natural remedies: their toxicity and detoxication', 5th International Symposium on Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ankara, Turkey

Barry M J, 1997, 'Effects of Endosulfan on Predator-Induced Defences of Daphnia', Ecotoxicology: Assessment of Environmental Harm, Griffith University, pp. 05.1-05.1

Di Iulio J L, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'NO synthase and L-arginine metablism in the rat, pig and rabbit prostate gland.', 5th International Meeting on the Biology of Nitric Oxide. Japanese Journal of Pharmacology., vol. 75, Suppl. I, Japanese Pharmacological Society, Kyoto, Japan

Di Iulio J L, Najbar-Kaszkiel A T, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Effect of 17betaoestradiol on nitric oxide synthase and arginase activity in the rat prostate gland.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Melbourne, pp. 97-97

Dobos M, & Grinpukel S, 1997, 'Peer group teaching - A new approach to the teaching of second year biochemistry at RMIT', Proceedings of the 41st Annual Conference of the Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the 37th Annual Conference of the Australian Society of Plant Physiologists., vol. 29, Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Inc. (ASBMB), Adelaide

El Nezami H S, Kankaapaa P, Salminen S, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Antiaflatoxigenic potential of dairy strains of lactic acid bacteria', Functional Foods: Designer Foods for the Future, Cork, Ireland

El-Osta Y, Dobos M, Hillier A J, & Davidson B E, 1997, 'Chromosome mapping in Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus gasseri', "The Genome Conference 1997" 19th Annual Conference on the Organisation and Expression of the Genome, Lorne, Victoria

Ellis A, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Modulation of endothelium-derived NO by superoxide generated by xanthine oxide.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

Fabiani M E, Dinh D T, & Story D F, 1997, 'Modulation of cholinergic transmission by bradykinin in the rat isolated trachea: role of the epithelium.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

Falckh P H J, & Herron K, 1997, 'Constitutive CYP1A is not expressed in the invertebrate Octopus pallidus', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney, pp. 25-25

Glowacki L L, Wright P F A, Wynne P M, Treschow A P, & Macrides T A, 1997, 'Investigation of potential bioactive compounds from the Australian plant Cassinia aculeata', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney, pp. 96-96

Haritos V S, Ching M S, Ghabrial H, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Role of CYP2D6 in dexfenfluramine N-dealkylation: studies using the recombinant enzyme and human liver microsomes', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney, pp. 32-32

Herron K D, & Falckh P H J, 1997, 'CYP1A-like sequences isolated from the invertebrate, Mytilus edulis', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney, pp. 24-24

Jiang F, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Nitrergic transmitter-induced vasodilatation in the guinea-pig basilar artery is partly mediated by calcium-activated K+ channels.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

Jiang F, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Role of K+ channels in the relaxant response to the nitrergic transmitter in isolated guinea-pig basilar arteries.', 5th International Meeting on the Biology of Nitric Oxide. Japanese Journal of Pharmacology., vol. 75, Suppl. I, Japanese Pharmacological Society, Kyoto, Japan

Kankaanpaa P, Salminen S, Ahokas J T, & El-Nezami H S, 1997, 'The potential of using lactic acid bacteria in prevention of aflatoxin contamination of foods and feeds', Novel Methods for Probiotic Research, Alander M, Kauppila T, & Mattila-Sandholm T (eds.), Technical Research Centre of Finland, Espoo, Finland

Kankaanpää P, El-Nezami H S, Salminen S J, & Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Stability of the complex formed between dairy strains of lactic acid bacteria and natural food carcinogen', Lactic '97, "Lactic Acid Bacteria - Which strains? For which products?", Caen University, Normandy, France, pp. 93-94

Kelly F, Mann N J, Turner A H, Abedin L, Wilson A K, & Sinclair A J, 1997, 'The Effect of Palmitic and Stearic Acid Rich Diets on Thrombotic Risk Factors in Healthy Males', Proceedings of the Nutrition Society of Australia, vol. 21, Nutrition Society of Australia, Sydney

Li C G, Shuttleworth C W R, & Sanders K M, 1997, 'Effects of low extracellular calcium and ODQ on inhibitory junctional potentials in murine and dog proximal colon.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

Li C G, Rand M J, Akaike T, Yoshida M, & Maeda H, 1997, 'Activation of nitrergic mechanism by black widow spider venom and alpha-latrotoxin.', 5th International Meeting on the Biology of Nitric Oxide. Japanese Journal of Pharmacology., vol. 75, Suppl. I, Japanese Pharmacological Society, Kyoto, Japan

Macrides T A, Treschow A P, Kalafatis N, & Wright P F A, 1997, 'The anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 tetraenoic fatty acids isolated from a lipid extract (Lyprinol) from the New Zealand green-lipped mussel', 88th American Oil Chemists Society (AOCS) Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA, USA

Macrides T A, Treschow A P, Kalafatis N, Wright P F A, & Wynne P M, 1997, 'The anti-inflammatory effects of omega3 tetraenoic fatty acids isolated from a lipid extract from the mussel, Perna canaliculus', 4th International Congress on Essential Fatty Acids and Eicosanoids. Prostaglandins, Leukotrenes and Essential Fatty Acids, vol. 57, Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh

Martin J M, Rolls G O, & Reid J J, 1997, 'Effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition on morphological and functional changes in the diabetic rat aorta.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

McPhee S J, Wright P F A, Wynne P M, Treschow A P, Kalafatis N, & Macrides T A, 1997, 'Anti-inflammatory activity of lipid extracts from the black mussel, Mytilus edulis', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney, pp. 95-95

Najbar-Kaszkiel A T, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Search for nitrergic mechanisms in isolated prostate glands of rat, guinea-pig, rabbit and pig.', 5th International Meeting on the Biology of Nitric Oxide. Japanese Journal of Pharmacology., vol. 75, Suppl. I, Japanese Pharmacological Society, Kyoto, Japan

Najbar-Kaszkiel A T, Di Iulio J L, Li C G, & Rand M J, 1997, 'Effect of 17beta-oestradiol (OES) on nitrergic and noradrenergic responses of isolated rat anococcygeus muscle.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Melbourne, pp. 97-97

Pettigrew N E, & Macrides T A, 1997, 'Characterisation of a liver sulphotransferase from the ray Trygonorrhina fasciata', 17th International Congress of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, FASEB Journal, vol. 11, San Francisco

Pettigrew N E, & Macrides T A, 1997, 'Investigation of a kidney 5beta-scymnol sulfotransferase from the shark Heterodontus portusjacksoni.', Proceedings of the 41st Annual Conference of the Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the 37th Annual Conference of the Australian Society of Plant Physiologists., vol. 29, Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Inc. (ASBMB), Adelaide

Rand M J, & Deluca A, 1997, 'Relaxation responses to nicotinic receptor activation in the rat isolated anal sphincter.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

Reid J J, & Jefferis A M, 1997, 'Differential effects of diabetes on nitric oxide (NO)-mediated neurotransmission in the rat.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

Reid J J, & Jefferis A M, 1997, 'Nitric oxide-mediated inhibitory neurotransmission in rat gastrointestinal sphincters: differential effects of diabetes', 5th International Meeting on the Biology of Nitric Oxide. Japanese Journal of Pharmacology., vol. 75, Suppl. I, Japanese Pharmacological Society, Kyoto, Japan

Tayama S, Akaike T, Tsunoda R, Li C G, Rand M J, Yoshida M, Yasue H, & Maeda H, 1997, 'Comparison of the effects of liposome PTIO on EDRF activity in vitro and in vivo: reactions with thiols.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

Tayama S, Akaike T, Tsunoda R, Li C G, Rand M J, Yoshida M, Yasue H, & Maeda H, 1997, 'Characterization of EDRF response by using liposome PTIO: implication of nitrosothiol formation in EDRF response.', 5th International Meeting on the Biology of Nitric Oxide. Japanese Journal of Pharmacology., vol. 75, Suppl. I, Japanese Pharmacological Society, Kyoto, Japan

Way K, & Reid J J, 1997, 'Effect of diabetes on the activity and localisation of nitric oxide synthase in the rat anococcygeus muscle.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney

Way K, & Reid J J, 1997, 'Effect of diabetes on the activity and localisation of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the rat anococcygeus muscle.', 5th International Meeting on the Biology of Nitric Oxide. Japanese Journal of Pharmacology., vol. 75, Suppl. I, Japanese Pharmacological Society, Kyoto, Japan

Wright P F A, Kirjavainen P V, Ahokas J T, & Salminen S J, 1997, 'The effect of orally administered viable probiotics on mouse lymphocyte proliferation.', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Melbourne, pp. 116-116

Wu Q K, Ahokas J T, & Falckh P H J, 1997, 'Diversity of Cytochrome P450 Family 4 in two Australian termites: Mastotermes darwiniensis and Coptotermes acinaciformis', Proceedings of ASCEPT, vol. 4, Loiacono R E, & Widdop R E (eds.), Australasian Society of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacologists & Toxicologists (ASCEPT), Sydney, pp. 25-25

Technical report

Wright P F A, 1997, Natural immunity in the human liver: its relationship to spontaneous and chemical-induced liver cancer, series: Worksafe Research Update, National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety, 97001, National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety, Sydney, National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety, 'Natural immunity in the human liver: its relationship to spontaneous and chemical-induced liver cancer'

Conference paper

Barry M J, & Meehan B, 1997, 'Toxicity of the rare earth element lanthanum to Daphnia', 'Ecotoxicology: Assessment of Environmental Harm', July, Griffith University

Barry M, 1997, 'Endosulfan-induced crest growth in Daphnia', '36th Congress of the Australian Society for Limnology', September, Albury/Wodonga

Brennan S, Ataria J A, Booth L H, & Eason C T, 1997, 'Cytochrome P450 as a biomarker in earthworms', 'Ecotoxicology: Assessment of the Environment', July, Griffith University

Davies W R, & Barry M J, 1997, 'The effects of endosulfan toxicity on temporary pond microcosms with and without notonectid predators', 'Ecotoxicology: Assessment of Environmental Harm.', July, Griffith University

Davies W, & Barry M, 1997, 'The effects of notonectid predators on the response of temporary pond microcosms to chemical stress.', '36th Congress of the Australian Society for Limnology', September, Albury/Wodonga

Green R E B, 1997, 'Professional Practice in the medical laboratory science course at RMIT', 'Congress of the Institute of Biomedical Science', September, Birmingham

Turner A H, Li D, Kelly F, Francis M, Wilson A K, & Sinclair A J, 1997, 'The Effect of Vegetarian and Omnivore Diets on Thrombotic Risk Factors in Blood', 'Haematology Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting', October, Auckland, New Zealand

Wright P F A, 1997, 'Comparative immunotoxicology: occupational and environmental perspectives', 'Annual Congress British Toxicology Society.', March, Warwick University, UK.

Invited lecture

Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Contaminants of diet and natural drugs: toxicity and detoxication (mycotoxins and pyrrolizidine alkaloids)', Oct, Dept Pharmacology and Toxicology, Oulu University, Finland

Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Lactic acid bacteria - Can they be used to detoxify aflatoxins?', June, Nestle Research Centre, Nestle, Lausanne, Switzerland

Ahokas J T, 1997, 'Use of biological indicators of urban and industrial pollution', October, Dept. of Biology and Chemistry, City University, Hong Kong

Bolton R, 1997, 'Detoxication enzymes in Australian marsupials', Oct, Dept Pharmacology and Toxicology, Oulu University, Finland

El-Nezami H, 1997, 'Aflatoxin the ultimate food carcinogen', June, Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Kuopio, Finland

Wright P F A, 1997, 'Immunotoxicity studies of workplace chemicals and environmental pollutants', April, Dept Immunotoxicology, BIBRA Toxicology International, Carshalton, Surrey, England, UK

Wright P F A, 1997, 'Investigation and development of natural products with anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity', April, Dept Clinical Pharmacology, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, London, England, UK

Wright P F A, 1997, 'Immunotoxicity of environmental pollutants', April, Torry Marine Laboratories, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF), Torry, Scotland, UK

Wright P F A, 1997, 'Investigation and development of natural products with immunopharmacological and/or hepatoprotective activity', April, Dept Medicine and Therapeutics, Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Aberdeen University, Scotland, UK

Wright P F A, 1997, 'Immunotoxicity studies of workplace chemicals', April, Zeneca Central Toxicology Laboratories, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, England, UK

Wright P F A, 1997, 'General aspects of immunotoxicology', April, Proctor and Gamble (Health and Beauty Care) Ltd, Lovett Rd, Staines, Middlesex, England, UK.

Wright P F A, 1997, 'Investigation and development of natural products', March, MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, England, UK.

Doctorate

Abs El-Osta Y, 1997, Mapping studies with the Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 and Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323., PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Boicos K M, 1997, Amplification of cardiovascular noradrenergic transmission by angiotensin II, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Duda S, 1997, The effects of environmental pollutants on immune function in fish, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

El Nezami H S, 1997, Effect of different lactobacillus strains on aspergillus growth and the production and degradation of aflatoxin: A new approach for the decontamination of aflatoxin in food, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Gorry P R, 1997, The role of the HIV-1 Nef protein in virus infection of astrocytes, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Grosman J, 1997, A morphometric study of cells in cytology preparations using the confocal scanning laser microscope and computerised image analysis techniques., PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Haritos V, 1997, Role of the polymorphically expressed enzyme CYP2D6 in drug metabolism, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Hodges L D, 1997, Anti-arthritic properties of lupeol triterpenes, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Jenkinson K J, 1997, Neurotransmission in the gastric fundus from normal and diabetic rats, PhD, (Passed), RMIT

Jiang F, 1997, Nitrergic mechanisms in cerebral arteries, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Lehmann F, 1997, Use of lactic acid bacteria to detoxify fungal toxins, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Mock M, 1997, Pharmaco/toxicokinetic investigation of 5beta-Scymnol and novel synthetic analogues, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

O'Halloran K, 1997, Immunotoxicological responses of fish to environmental pollutants, PhD, (Passed), RMIT

Pettigrew N E, 1997, The distribution, purification and characterisation of sterol sulfotransferases from four Australian elasmobranch species, PhD, (Submitted), RMIT

Treschow A P, 1997, Characterisation of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory compounds from Perna canaliculus, the green-lipped mussel of New Zealand, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Tu L, 1997, Characterisation of defluorinating enzymes, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Voskoboinik I, 1997, Peroxisome proliferators and glutathione S-transferase., PhD, (Passed), RMIT

Wu Q, 1997, Cytochrome P450 CYP6 isolation and verification in Australian termites, PhD, (InProgress), RMIT

Masters by Research Thesis

Alibabaie-Zaglegi F, 1997, Comparison of conventional and confocal scanning laser microscopy (CSLM) diagnosis of cytological smears., MAppSc, (InProgress), RMIT

Apostolou E, 1997, Evaluation of ochratoxin A in human biological fluids in Victoria, MAppSc, (InProgress), RMIT

Bhuta K C, 1997, The effects of age and injury on the vasculature of skeletal muscle., MAppSc, (InProgress), RMIT

Cheah D M Y, 1997, Characterisation and validation of in vitro biomarkers for detecting environmental pollutants, MAppSc, (Submitted), RMIT

Chrevatidis A, 1997, Levels of individual exposure to aflatoxin in Victoria, MAppSc, (InProgress), RMIT

Di Iulio J, 1997, Characterisation and regulation of human nitric oxide synthase, MAppSci, (InProgress), RMIT

Gleeson R M, 1997, Anti-RNA Polymerase III-A new Marker for Scleroderma?, MAppSci, (InProgress), RMIT

Gough T J, 1997, The cloning and characterisation of the dihydropteridine reductase gene., MAppSci, (InProgress), RMIT

Harney D, 1997, The synthetic preparation of fish and amphibian steroidal bile alcohols, MAppSc, (Passed), RMIT

Harris G M, 1997, Endothelial and platelet tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) and its contribution to the regulation of the extrinsic coagulation pathway in health and disease., MAppSci, (InProgress), RMIT

Jackson H M, 1997, The effect of transforming growth factor-beta as a modulator of bone marrow megakaryocytopoiesis., MAppSci, (Passed), RMIT

Masara D, 1997, Toxicity of aflatoxins on isolated hepatocytes, MAppSc, (InProgress), RMIT

Pike M J, 1997, Characterisation of peripheral blood stem cells in a mouse model., MAppSci, (InProgress), RMIT

Minor Thesis

Britt J, 1997, Genomic Investigation of the Lactobacilli L. acidophilus and L. gasseri, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Dingey S, 1997, Effects of Collection and Storage on Expression of Platelet Activation Markers, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Evans D, 1997, The effects of anti-inflammatory cytokines on the production of basic fibroblast growth factor, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Faulkner D M, 1997, The evaluation of the role of capillary isoelectric focussing in the diagnostic analysis of human serum proteins, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Greaves R, 1997, Ontogeny of growth hormone receptor expression in the rat fetus, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Kuszyk S, 1997, Biochemical characterisation of a recombinant H/K ATPase subunit, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

MacKenzie M J, 1997, Investigation of the Effects of Aspirin, Garlic and Fish Oil on Platelet Aggregation in Males using Optimised Whole Blood Technique, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Macleod A, 1997, Pesticide breakdown by termites, MAppSc in Toxicology, (Passed), RMIT

Magee W M, 1997, Use of a modified PCR technique to evaluate B-lymphocyte clonality across different types of archival specimens in patients with non-Hodgkins lymphoma, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Marulli S, 1997, Detection of Micrometastatic Breast Cancer Cells in Pheripheral Blood by Reverse-Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Meyepa L, 1997, Investigation of the Value of the Variant Globin Chains Program (Bio-Rad) in the Diagnosis of Haemoglobinopathies and Thalassaemias, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Nerouppos K, 1997, The role of thyrotropin receptor autoantibodies in the early diagnosis of thyroid autoimmune diseases, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Phokion G, 1997, The diabetes-induced impairment of relaxations to non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic nerve stimulation in the rat gastric fundus, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Ramadi L, 1997, Multilocus Polymerase Chain Reaction Amplification with the Aid of Nonsense Primers, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Styzinski J, 1997, The establishment and evaluation of an enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) for the diagnosis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Wahba A, 1997, The effects of chlorinated solvents on mouse immune cell populations, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Zenner A, 1997, Platelet preparation for Von Willebrand Factor analysis. An examination of current methodology and the application of a new technique, MAppSc in Medical Laboratory Science, (Passed), RMIT

Radio or television

El-Nezami H, Salminen S, & Kankaanpää P, 1997, Ten News, MTV3, Helsinki, Finland, 15/10/1997

Visiting Professor or Research Fellow

Ahokas J T, 1997, Salminen S J, Visting Professor, Associate Professor Food Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland, Nov and Dec

Research topics

Ahokas J T, El Nezami H S, & Salminen S, 1997, Effect of biological factors on aspergillus growth and the production and the degradation of aflatoxin: A new approach for the decontamination of aflatoxin in food., (Continuing), Removal of aflatoxin (AF) from contaminated foodstuffs has been a continuing challenge for the food industry. Prevention of Aspergillus infection of food is the most desirable method of reducing aflatoxins. AF contamination is often unavoidable even with the best agricultural practices, and decontamination methods that are currently available are limited in their effectiveness. This project is testing biological means of reducing both Aspergillus growth and AF levels.

Ahokas J T, Chrevatidis A, & Sinclair A, 1997, Levels of individual exposure to aflatoxin in Victoria., (Continuing), El Nezami et al. 1995 (Key Centre study) revealed aflatoxin levels in breast milk higher than the maximum level allowed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for infant foods. Consequently the exposure of the Australian population to aflatoxin may be underestimated. This project will investigate (Victorian) human exposure to the liver carcinogen aflatoxin B1 using biomarkers of exposure to this compound from blood and urine samples.

Ahokas J T, & Apostolou E, 1997, The detection of aflatoxin in Australian and imported foods., (Continuing), Aflatoxin (AF) is a human liver toxin and carcinogen produced by the common fungal moulds which have been shown to grow on nuts, corn, rice, beans and spices. The aim of this study is to investigate the possible sources of exposure to AF in food which may have led to the high levels detected in a previous breast milk study performed by the Key Centre. It will also show if there are significant levels of AF in Australian foods not previously tested.

Ahokas J T, Wright P F A, Madsen N M, & Cheah D M Y, 1997, Characterisation and validation of in vitro biomarkers for detecting environmental pollutants, (Continuing), Environmental pollution and disposal of waste materials are problems of increasing global concern. Many industries release large volumes of waste effluents into waterways and marine environments. The aim of this study is to develop sensitive, rapid and inexpensive in vitro methods to detect industrial effluents. This is being accomplished by exposing cultured fish liver cells and established cell lines to various pollutants and assessing the resultant cellular changes.

Ahokas J T, Voskoboinik I, & Drew R, 1997, Peroxisome proliferators and glutathione S-transferase, (Continuing), Peroxisome proliferators (PP) are a group of ubiquitous non-genotoxic hepatocarcinogens including compounds used as herbicides, plasticisers and hypolipidaemic drugs. PPs express pleiotropic effects on liver cells of rodents and some other species. Humans are considered to be insensitive to PPs. This study investigated the effect of PPs on the drug-detoxifying enzyme glutathione S-transferase in vitro and in vivo.

Ahokas J T, Ching M, & Haritos V S, 1997, Role of the polymorphically expressed enzyme CYP2D6 in drug metabolism, (Continuing), Haloperidol is a widely prescribed drug for schizophrenia which can cause severe neurological side effects. This project will use pure human metabolising enzymes and liver fractions to determine the major pathways and rates of haloperidol metabolism.

Ahokas J T, Falckh P H J, Haritos V S, & Wu Q, 1997, Isolation and characterisation of cytochrome P450 from two Australian termites: Mastotermes darwiniensis and Coptotermes acinaciformis., (Continuing), The cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP), specifically CYP6 in insects, are responsible for pesticide metabolism. At present, the P450s responsible for chlorpyrifos metabolism, as well as other pesticides, is unknown in , Mastotermes darwiniensis and Coptotermes acinaciformis, the more common termite found in southern Australia. The objectives of this project are to isolate and characterise the P450s responsible for pesticide metabolism, specifically CYP6 isoenzymes.

Ahokas J T, Wright P F A, Rix C, Bolton R, & Tu L, 1997, Characterisation of defluorinating enzymes, (Continuing), Fluororacetate (compound 1080) is a toxin occurring naturally in some plant genera and is also used widely as a pesticide. There are extreme species and strain related differences in the sensitivity to fluoroacetate of a number of marsupials and other species (birds, amphibians and reptiles) from South western Australia relative to other areas. This study will provide the scientific basis for understanding the process of developing tolerance to compound 1080.

Barry M, Meehan B, & Buckingham S, 1997, Measurement of lanthanum toxicity to aquatic organisms, (Continuing), Lanthanum (La) is a rare earth metal which can be extracted from mine tailings. Studies in China and Vietnam indicate than lanthanum may enhance the growth of some crops. Trials are underway in Australia to validate these findings. The aim of this study is to measure the impact of lanthanum on aquatic organisms which may be exposed to the metal if it is used as a fertiliser.

Barry M, Logan D, & Davies W, 1997, The use of temporary pond microcosms to evaluate the toxic effects of xenobiotics on aquatic ecosystems-a pilot study., (Continuing), The goal of this project is to develop bioassays to measure the impact of xenobiotics on lentic ecosystems.Stage 1 - Locate a natural temporary pond and collect source mud (substrate).Stage 2 - Determine the amount of substrate required per aquarium to ensure a consistent assemblage of flora and fauna and reproducible patterns of community development.Stage 3 - Test if the microcosms respond in a reproducible manner following introduction of a xenobiotic.

Barry M, & Logan D, 1997, Mechanisms of Toxicant Action on Aquatic Ecosystems, (Continuing), Single species toxicity tests form the backbone of environmental safety testing. Results are extrapolated from tests on one or more species to whole communities. Little is known of how responses of individual animals manifest at the population level and how these changes in turn affect ecosystem level responses. The aim of this study is to develop testable models linking life-history responses of single species to population level changes and ultimately to multi-species interactions.

Barry M, Ahokas J T, Holdway D A, & van Dam R, 1997, The effects of DTPA exposure on Australian freshwater organisms, (Continuing), Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) is a chelating agent used in the pulp and paper industry. It has the potential to interfere with essential metals and metallo-compounds present in aquatic organisms. This study is investigating the physiological and biochemical effects of DTPA exposure under environmentally representative conditions on the crimson-spotted rainbowfish, Melanotaenia fluviatilis; the cladoceran, Daphnia carinata; and two native algal species.

Bilszta J L C, Rumble B A, & Underwood J, 1997, Alzheimer's disease and diabetes mellitis, (New), Alzheimer's disease (AD) and diabetes mellitis are common in the elderly. There is some evidence thatthe risk of AD is higher in diabetics. This data comes from epidemiological studies. In this project we used an animal model of diabetes, the streptozotocin-treated rat, and studied the metabolism of a protein which is important in the pathogenesisof AD. We found that the concentration of this protein (amyloid protein precursor) is decreased in the brainsof diabetic rats.

Dobos M, Pasque T, & Cotton R, 1997, Diagnosis of dihydropteridine reductase deficiency using DNA probes, (Continuing), Dihydropteridine reductase deficiency (DHPR) is an inherited (autosomal recessive) disorder which causes severe neurological defects and premature death. This study was aimed to develop a rapid screening method for DHPR deficiency using recombinant DNA technology with oligonucleotide probes. Five intron/exon boundaries of the DHPR gene were identified and sequenced. Current studies are directed towards the cloning and sequencing of the DHPR promoter.

Dobos M, El-Osta Y, Davidson B E, & Hillier A, 1997, Construction of physical and genetic maps of the chromosomes of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus gasseri, (Continuing), Lactobacilli are an important group of organisms with numerous industrial and medical applications. The aim of this project is to construct physical and genetic maps of the chromosomes of two key lactobacillus strains, L. acidophilus and L. gasseri. This project will provide valuable basic information about the genomic organisation of these bacteria and will provide a basis for the development of modified lactobacillus species with improved properties for industrial and medical uses.

Falckh P H J, Ahokas J T, Wu Q K, & Herron K, 1997, Determination of cytochrome P450 sequences in Octopus pallidus - CYP1A and invertebrates, (New), Octopus pallidus, has been shown to have CYP1-like activity, as demonstrated by EROD evaluations, however, the level of this enzymic activity is relatively low and non-inducible. To date no CYP1-like sequence has been isolated from a marine invertebrate species. Our preliminary studies have demonstrated that a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) product is amplifiable from O. pallidus, that is consistent with a product amplifiable from either rat or trout liver.

Haritos V S, Falckh P H J, Ahokas J T, Wu Q, Butty J, & French J R J, 1997, Xenobiotic metabolising enzymes of termites, (Continuing), Termites are economically and ecologically important insects and their success is partly due to their ability to detoxify chemicals in their diet. We are investigating the detoxication ability (phase I mixed function oxidase and the phase II glutathione S-transferase enzymes) of termites.Preliminary studies have commenced to determine the mRNA sequences of the xenobiotic metabolising enzymes of termites in order to characterise and classify these proteins.

Holdway D A, Ahokas J T, Barry M, & Reid H P, 1997, The use of biomarkers to predict toxicity in a model native freshwater fish, (Continuing), The effects of pollutants on the aquatic environment have traditionally been monitored by observing detrimental changes at the population or community levels of organisation. This study examines the relationship between biochemical and physiological changes (biomarkers) and growth/reproduction in fish following a toxic exposure. This research aims to use selected biomarkers as early predictors of toxicant impact.

Kelly F, Mann N J, Turner A H, Sinclair A J, & Wilson A K, 1997, The Effect of Diets Rich in Stearic Acid or Palmitic Acid on Thrombotic Risk Factors in Healthy Males, (Continuing), The saturated fatty acids, myristic and palmitic acids increase blood cholesterol levels while the other main saturated fatty acid in diet, stearic acid, does not. There is evidence however that stearic acid promotes platelet aggregation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relative thrombosis potential of diets rich in palmitic and myristic acids with those rich in stearic acid in male subjects using haematological, biochemical, physiological and nutritional techniques.

Li D, Mann N, Sinclair A J, & Turner A H, 1997, The Influence of Meat Consumption on Platelets and Haemostatic Factors associated with Thrombotic Risk, (Continuing), In this project a wide range of blood and urine parameters associated with thrombotic risk will be measured in groups of subjects ranging from high meat eaters to vegetarians. The hypothesis to be tested is that meat consumption leads to raised tissue levels of arachidonic without increasing the level of blood or urinary indicators of increased thrombosis potential.

Li D, Turner A H, Mann N J, Sinclair A J, Wilson A K, & Francis M, 1997, The Influence of Diet on Atherosclerotic and Thrombotic Risk Factors in Healthy Men, (Continuing), In this project a wide range of blood and urine parameters associated with thrombosis risk are being measured in groups of subjects ranging from high meat eaters to vegetarians. The hypothesis to be tested is that meat consumption leads to raised tissue levels of arachidonic acid (AA) without increasing the level of blood or urinary indicators of increased thrombosis potential.

Macrides T A, Wright P F A, Kalafatis N, Treschow A, & McPhee S, 1997, Identification and evaluation of novel compounds from natural marine products with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities, (Continuing), A collaboration between the Natural Products Unit (Dept MLS, RMIT) and the Toxicology Key Centre is investigating the therapeutic and toxicological effects of three natural marine products: a) extracts of New Zealand green-lipped mussel exhibiting marked anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory activities; b) extracts of the black mussel Mytilus edulis; c) scymnol, a shark bile steroid which is a potent antioxidant and has broad hepatoprotective activities against liver toxins.

Macrides T A, & Pettigrew N E, 1997, Characterisation of the enzymes of bile acid conjugation in Australian elasmobranch fishes and rays., (Continuing), This study involves the identification and purification of bile acid sulfotransferase enzymes isolated from tissues and organs of native Australian sharks and rays. The enzymes are chromatographically purified and characterised by molecular weight and kinetic properties.

Macrides T A, & Harney D, 1997, The synthetic preparation of fish and amphibian steroidal bile alcohols., (Continuing), This project aims to establish reliable methods for the synthesis of some naturally occurring bile steroids from bony fish and amphibians. These compounds have potential use as hepatoprotective agents.

Macrides T A, Kalafatis N, & Wright P F A, 1997, Studies on the hepatoprotective nature of the shark bile steroid 5beta-scymnol and its naturally occurring sulfate esters., (Continuing), The 27-carbon steroid 5beta-scymnol derived from the gall bladders of some species of sharks and rays has been shown to protect the mammalian liver against the effects of paracetamol overdose, as well as the mushroom peptide toxin amanitin, and ethanol. The possible mechanism of the hepatoprotection is being studied.

Macrides T A, Hodges L D, Kalafatis N, & Kweifio-Okai G, 1997, Anti-arthritic effects of the triterpenes of the plant Alstonia boonei and their synthetic analogues., (Continuing), Animal model studies have shown that the triterpene molecules of the petroleum ether fraction of A. boonei are anti-arthritic. A series of long chain fatty acid ester derivatives of the triterpene lupeol have been synthesised and both in vivo and in vitro have demonstrated a significant role as mediators in inflammation.

Macrides T A, Kalafatis N, Treschow A P, & Wright P F A, 1997, Isolation, purification and identification of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components from the New Zealand green-lipped mussel, Perna canaliculus., (Continuing), Animal model studies of the semi-purified isolates from P. canaliculus have shown significant anti-inflammatory activity in comparison to known pharmaceutical's used in inflammation control. Studies of leukotriene production in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes confirm that these important mediators in the inflammation reaction are modulated in the presence of mussel isolates.

Rand M J, De Luca A, & Li C G, 1997, The role of nitrergic transmission in the nerve-mediated control of sphincters in the gastrointestinal tract., (Continuing), This work successfully advanced knowledge of this neurotransmitter system (nitrergic transmission) in sphincters of the gastrointestinal tract. The information gained will contribute to the development of drugs for treating various diseases of the gastrointestinal system.

Rand M J, Li C G, De Luca A, & La M, 1997, The nature of nitrergic transmission: drugs which prevent and control its release, (Continuing), There are many bodily functions that are strongly influenced by nervous control, including those related to the gastrointestinal, urinogenital, respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Nitrergic transmission has been proposed to account for such control. The development of therapeutically useful drugs can only arise when there is sufficient insight into nitrergic transmission.

Rand M J, Li C G, & Jiang F, 1997, Nitric oxide and control of cerebral blood vessels, (Continuing), Knowledge of substances released from nerves (neurotransmitters) has led to the development of drugs for the treatment of disorders (hypertension and psychiatric illness are two examples). Recently (1989) one previously unknown neurotransmitter was identified as Nitric Oxide (NO). This work will advance our knowledge of nitrergic (NO) transmission in the brain. The information gained may contribute to the development of drugs for treating migraine.

Rand M J, Li C G, Najbar A T, & Di Iulio J L, 1997, Nitric oxide and prostate function., (Continuing), This work will characterise and study the expression and regulation of human prostate nitric oxide synthase. About 25 % of men over the age of 60 will develop symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy which require treatment. The development of new treatments will be dependent upon the elucidation of mechanisms in the control of prostate function. This study will provide direct information on this aspect and establish a basis for clinical intervention for relevant prostate diseases.

Reid J J, & Jefferis A M, 1997, The influence of the hormone endothelin-3 on nerve transmission in the heart, (Continuing), The aim of this project is to increase our understanding of the physiological role of the hormone, endothelin-3, in the regulation of cardiac function. We had previously shown that another form of endothelin, endothelin-1, could markedly inhibit autonomic transmission in the heart. In this project, we have shown that endothelin-3, thought to be the neuronal form of endothelin, can similarly inhibit both sympathetic and cholinergic neurotransmission in the heart.

Reid J J, & Hammer L, 1997, Control of vascular function by substances released from vascular endothelial cells, (Continuing), The inner lining of blood vessels, the endothelium, can release a number of substances which alter vascular function, including endothelin-1, which causes vasoconstriction, and nitric oxide, which causes vasodilatation. This project is designed to increase our understanding of the importance of these two factors in the control of vascular tone and blood pressure, and their potential use in disorders of the cardiovascular system, such as hypertension.

Reid J J, Way K J, Jenkinson K M, Phokion G, & Jefferis A M, 1997, The effect of diabetes on nerve function, (Continuing), A very prevalent long-term problem of patients with diabetes mellitus is autonomic neuropathy, which is associated with many clinical problems, including diabetic diarrhoea, bladder dysfunction and impotence. This project aims to investigate changes in NO-mediated neurotransmission and the associated underlying mechanisms caused by diabetes mellitus, and will therefore contribute vital information to the understanding of diabetic autonomic neuropathy.

Rumble B A, & Gleeson R, 1997, Anti-RNA Polymerase III - a new marker for scleroderma?, (Continuing), Scleroderma is a progressive and often fatal autoimmune disease. Several autoantibodies are measured in serum to help diagnose the disease.The enzyme RNA polymerase III has been described as an antigen which causesan autoantibody response. In this project a diagnostic test for the diseasewill be developed by producing an antibody to the enzyme.

Rumble B A, & Gorry P R, 1997, The role of the HIV-1 Nef protein in virus infection of astrocytes, (Continuing), HIV-1 produces several regulatory/accessory proteins of which at least one, Nef, plays a role in regulating the viral infection process and life cycle. In vivo studies have revealed that the Nef protein is an essential virulence factor of HIV-1; however, in vitro studies have not fully defined the role of Nef in HIV-1 pathogenesis.This project aims to investigate the function of Nef in astrocytic cells and to define the role(s)of Nef in such an infection.

Story D F, De Luca A, Slaughter M, & Boicos K, 1997, Activation of local angiotensin II production in the cardiovascular system, (Continuing), The hormone angiotensin II is now known to be produced locally within many tissues. The heart and blood vessels have the synthetic pathway for angiotensin II. It is thought that in these tissues the locally-generated hormone may be implicated in cardiovascular disease states such as hypertension. The relevance of the local production of angiotensin II to the physiological control of cardiovascular function is being investigated.

Story D F, De Luca A, & Boicos K, 1997, The influence of the hormone angiotensin II in cardiovascular function., (Continuing), The objective of this large research program funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council is to characterise the molecular sites at which the hormone angiotensin II and the chemical messengers released from nerves (neurotransmitters) exert their actions to control the heart and blood vessels. The ultimate objective is to develop new drugs for the treatment of heart failure and high blood pressure.

Story D F, Fabiani M E, Dinh D T, & Boicos K, 1997, The actions of Angiotensin II on nerves the respiratory airways., (Continuing), This team is investigating the interaction of Ang II with autonomic nerves of the airways since there are clinical implications for hypertensive patients on angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors with a predisposition to asthma.

Turner A H, MacKenzie M, Sinclair A J, & Mann N, 1997, Investigation of the Effects of Aspirin, Garlic and Fish Oil on Platelet Aggregation using an Optimised Whole Blood Technique, (Continuing), In this project a whole blood platelet aggregation method which has been optimised for thrombotic screening is evaluated for sensitivity to 3 agents known or thought to interfere with platelet aggregation, namely aspirin, garlic and fish oil. It is anticipated that this project will result in the whole blood method becoming a valuable tool in thrombotic screening, since platelet aggregation is the initiating event in arterial thrombosis.

Vardaxis N J, & Bhuta K C, 1997, Changes in skeletal muscle function with age, assessed by laser microscopy, (Continuing), The laser microscope is being used in order to assess various aspects of skeletal muscle cell morphology and function in samples from individuals of various age groups and having different medical histories. By using this system for assessing muscle cell morphology it is possible to document changes as a function of age and examine how these changes may contribute to dysfunctional manifestations as seen in clinical practice.

Vardaxis N J, & van Baare J, 1997, Investigation of human cadaveric skin for use as a biological dressing or an allograft, (Continuing), The use of cadaveric human skin as a temporary biological dressing to allow the process of wound healing to occur with minimal complications, is a technique which is becoming increasingly used in the clinical situation. This project examines the use of glycerolised human skin in this context and investigates the possibilities offered by such preserved skin in the treatment of burn wounds, both as biological dressing and as a biological product.

Vardaxis N J, & Brans T A, 1997, Wound healing studies, (Continuing), A standardised pig model of scald injuries has been developed and is being used to assess the efficacy of various topical treatments on wound healing following scalds and burns. Clinical and histopathological evaluation of the treated scalds is being carried out and the effect of the treatments on wound healing is investigated.

Wright P F A, Bai C L, Ahokas J T, Wahba A, & Haynes D R, 1997, Natural immunity in human and rodent liver: its relationship to chemical-induced liver cancer, (Continuing), The tumour surveillance function of the immune system is the body¹s last line of defence against cancer. Inhibition of this immune function is a major non-genotoxic mechanism by which certain workplace compounds may cause cancer. This project aims to study the effects of in vitro exposures to such chemicals (chlorinated solvents and pesticides) on human and rodent liver immune cells.

Wright P F A, Ahokas J T, O'Halloran K, & Duda S, 1997, Immunotoxicological responses of Australian fish as biomarkers of environmental pollution, (Continuing), Many environmental pollutants are immunotoxic, however few studies have examined the immune responses of Australian fish species exposed to these contaminants. This project aims to investigate these responses and determine their usefulness as potential biomarkers of aquatic pollution. Effects of significant environmental pollutants will be examined, including: heavy metals; persistent pesticides and herbicides; pulp mill effluents; and endocrine disruptors.

Wright P F A, O'Halloran K, & Duda S, 1997, The effects of environmental pollutants on immune function in fish., (Continuing), The project will examine the immunotoxic effects of important environmental pollutants on species of freshwater fish including native Australian species. Several assays will be used to assess non-specific and specific immune functions. Current techniques and methodologies in fish immunology will be optimised for the Australian native species.