Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) in three fish species from an estuary in the southeastern coast of Brazil

Concentrations and legislative aspects of PBDEs in plastic of waste electrical and electronic equipment in Brazil

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) have been widely used as additives in polymeric products such as electronic and electrical equipment (EEE) to help meet fire safety regulations. However, some BFRs like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), are now listed under the Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and banned in many countries, due to their adverse health impacts, environmental persistence, and capacity for bioaccumulation and long-range atmospheric transport. Despite this, in Brazil, only a few studies exist of the presence of these contaminants in the environment, and even fewer in waste EEE (WEEE). Against this backdrop, this study measured the presence of PBDEs in samples (n = 159) of WEEE in the metropolitan region of Sorocaba, Sao Paulo, Brazil. PBDEs were detected in 149 samples, with concentrations in 18 samples exceeding the European Union's Low POP Content Limit (LPCL) of 1000 mg/kg. Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) was the congener present at the highest concentration in most samples, with those of other PBDEs such as BDE-47 much lower. In general, samples containing >1000 mg/kg are those categorised as display items and miscellaneous EEE (n = 15.27 %), comprising: parts from cathode ray tube TVs (n = 11), audio systems (n = 2), and LCD TVs (n = 2). In addition, in 5 % (n = 3) of IT and telecommunications equipment samples (computer parts) PBDE concentrations exceeded 1000 mg/kg. Our results show the need for greater control and monitoring of the presence of these pollutants in WEEE before recycling and final disposal, to prevent PBDEs entering the recycling stream.

How natural and anthropogenic factors should drive microplastic behavior and fate: The scenario of Brazilian urban freshwater

Brazil maintains its position at the top of the global ranking of plastic producers, yet recycling efforts have been incipient. Recent data reveals an annual production of approximately 14 million tons of plastic waste, not accounting for the surge in the usage of plastic masks and related materials due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, what remains largely unreported is that over half of post-consumer plastic packaging in Brazil is managed without any monitoring, and it remains unclear how this will contribute to the occurrence of plastic waste and microplastics in Brazilian freshwaters. This scenario requires the consideration of several other crucial factors. Studies have been carried out mainly in marine and estuarine waters, while data on freshwaters are lacking. Brazil has continental dimensions and the highest water availability on the planet, yet the demand for water is greatest in regions with medium to low supply. Many densely populated Brazilian urban areas face chronic flood problems, possess inadequate levels of wastewater treatment, and display inadequate solid waste management practices. Consequently, urban freshwater with tropical characteristics in Brazil presents an intriguing scenario and is complementary to the most commonly studied marine environments. In this study, we explore the nuances of pollution in Brazilian urban freshwater and discuss how various parameters, such as organic matter, suspended solids, temperature, and pH, among others, influence the behavior of microplastics and their interactions with organic and inorganic contaminants. Furthermore, we address how microplastic conditions, such as biofouling, the type of plastic, or degradation level, may impact their behavior. By analyzing how these conditions change, we propose priority themes for investigating the occurrence of microplastics in Brazilian urban freshwater systems under different degrees of human impact. Ultimately, this study aims to establish a network dedicated to standardized monitoring of microplastic pollution in Brazilian urban freshwaters.

Development of a field-deployable analytical workflow for determining current status and indicative human health risks at a historic dl-POPs hotspot

This paper introduces an integrated workflow that effectively evaluates environmental and health risks of dioxin-like Persistent Organic Pollutants (dl-POPs) at industrial hotspot regions. The developments of validated, cost effective and user-friendly analytical strategies which can be field deployable are quintessential for routine monitoring of dl-POPs, particularly in developing countries. This study addresses the lacunae by enabling an exclusive gas chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometer based analytical workflow substituting conventional magnetic sector high resolution mass spectrometer technique and validated the methodology as per the European Union regulation 644/2017. The viable monitoring utility of the methodology for predicting enviro-food-health nexus was field-tested by analyzing fish and sediment samples from the Eloor-Edayar industrial belt, a solitary POPs hotspot in India. The profiles of congeners indicate that dl-POPs were formed through precursor pathways, suggesting the potential release of chlorinated precursor species from surrounding industrial area as the root cause. Fish samples from hotspots were observed to have 8 times higher levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin/furans (PCDD/Fs) and 30 times higher levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) than the control sites. A strong statistically significant (p < 0.05) positive correlation was observed between dl-POPs levels in fish and sediment samples at the study site and the Biota sediment accumulation factors for PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs ranged from 0.019 to 0.092 and 0.004 to 0.671 respectively. The estimated weekly intake from fish consumption in the study region was observed to be 3 to 24 times higher than the maximum levels set by the European food safety authority (2 pgTEQ kg-1bwweek-1). Hence, the periodic surveillance of dl-POPs employing user friendly/validated confirmatory tools stands highly imperative to safeguard human health and environment. Keywords: Dioxin and PCBs, GC-MS/MS, POPs Hotspot, Biota-sediment accumulation factor, Correlation analysis, Health risk assessment.

Contaminant containment for sustainable remediation of persistent contaminants in soil and groundwater

Contaminant containment measures are often necessary to prevent or minimize offsite movement of contaminated materials for disposal or other purposes when they can be buried or left in place due to extensive subsurface contamination. These measures can include physical, chemical, and biological technologies such as impermeable and permeable barriers, stabilization and solidification, and phytostabilization. Contaminant containment is advantageous because it can stop contaminant plumes from migrating further and allow for pollutant reduction at sites where the source is inaccessible or cannot be removed. Moreover, unlike other options, contaminant containment measures do not require the excavation of contaminated substrates. However, contaminant containment measures require regular inspections to monitor for contaminant mobilization and migration. This review critically evaluates the sources of persistent contaminants, the different approaches to contaminant remediation, and the various physical-chemical-biological processes of contaminant containment. Additionally, the review provides case studies of contaminant containment operations under real or simulated field conditions. In summary, contaminant containment measures are essential for preventing further contamination and reducing risks to public health and the environment. While periodic monitoring is necessary, the benefits of contaminant containment make it a valuable remediation option when other methods are not feasible.

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in Sardine (Sardinella brasiliensis): Biomonitoring and Potential Human Health Effects

Organochloride (OC) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations were determined in the muscle tissue of fifty sardine samples (Sardinella brasiliensis) sampled off the south-east Brazilian shelf. The aim herein was to investigate OCs and PCBs composition profile, bioaccumulation potential and human risks. The concentrations of 18 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were below the method limit of quantification in most samples (ca. 94%), with few detected, namely δ-HCH, γ-HCH, Endosulfan I and II, Endosulfan Sulphate, DDE, Dieldrin, Endrin, Endrin Aldeide, Endrin Cetone and Metoxyclor. The median concentration for the Σ41 PCBs was 2.32 ng g^-1, ranging from values below the limit of quantification (<LOQ) to 37.2 ng g^-1. Based on the analyzed samples, the concentrations reported herein do not represent a risk for human consumption according to both national and international guidelines, nor do OC and PCB bioaccumulation in sardines appear to be a concern at the moment. These findings, although preliminary, represent a baseline for future comparisons of the quality of an important source of protein available to the poorest Brazilian population strata.

Tissue distribution, dietary intake and human health risk assessment of organophosphate pesticides in common fish species from South African estuaries

This study assessed the tissue distribution, dietary intake, and potential health risks of eight OPPs in Pomadasys commersonnii (Spotted grunter) and Mugil cephalus (Flathead mullet) from the Sundays and Swartkops estuaries in South Africa. The highest concentration in fish tissues was found in muscles of M. cephalus (178 ± 80.4 ng/g ww) and P. commersonnii (591 ± 280 ng/g ww) from Sundays Estuary. The ∑₆OPPs concentration in muscles from both fish species was higher in muscles than in the gills with fenitrothion dominating the distribution profile. Results from the path analysis indicate that lipid, weights, and length of the fish species do not influence the concentration of OPPs in the studied fish species. The calculated hazard ratios, which represent the non-carcinogenic risks, were less than one for all OPPs, indicating that the concentration of OPPs detected in fish muscles had negligible consequences on human health.

Halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs) in marine fish from the Beibu Gulf, South China Sea: Levels, distribution, and health risk assessment

Six marine fish species, collected from the Beibu Gulf were statistically analyzed for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs). The concentrations of ∑₁₄PBDEs, ∑₂₆PCBs, and ∑₆DDTs ranged from 11.8-1431, 8.74-495, and 9.47-1263 ng g^-1 lipid weight (lw), respectively. In general, PBDEs were the predominant halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs) in the Beibu Gulf. The homologues profiles of Mugil cephalus and Trichiurus nanhaiensis differed from other four species. For example, the contributions of deca-BDEs in M. cephalus (14 %) and T. nanhaiensis (1 %) were lower than other four species (56 %). The ratio of (DDE + DDD)/ΣDDTs in all samples was >0.5, indicating that DDTs were mainly derived from historical residues. Intakes of HOPs through the consumption of the marine fish from the study areas might not subject residents of the coastal areas in the Beibu Gulf to health risks.

Legacy and emerging pollutants in Latin America: A critical review of occurrence and levels in environmental and food samples

The increase and indiscriminate use of personal care products, food products, fertilizers, pesticides, and health products, among others, have resulted/are resulting in extensive environmental contamination. Most of these products contain traces of widespread chemicals, usually known as emerging pollutants (EPs) or pollutants of emerging concern (PEC). The Latin American (LA) region comprises 20 countries with different social and cultural aspects, with 81 % of the population living in urban areas. The LA region has some countries on the top list of users/consumers of EPs, from pesticides and fertilizers to personal care products. However, there is a gap in information related to the distribution of EPs in the environment of this region, with very few existing review texts exploring this issue. Therefore, this present paper advances this approach. An exhaustive literature review, with the selection of 176 documents, provided unique up-to-date information on the presence/distribution of 17 classes of legacy or emerging pollutants in different food and environmental matrices (soil, sediment, water, and air). The study shows that the wide distribution and recorded levels of these pollutants in the continental environment are potential risks to human health, mainly through food and drinking water ingestion. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are pollutants of deep public concern since they show carcinogenic properties. Several classes of pollutants, like endocrine disruptors, have caused harmful effects on humans and the environment. Besides that, pharmaceutical products and pesticides are compounds of high consumption worldwide, being environmental contamination a real and ongoing possibility. Finally, gaps and future research needs are deeply pointed out.

Mechanisms of Male Reproductive Toxicity of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) are a group of flame retardants used in a variety of artificial materials. Despite being phased out in most industrial countries, they remain in the environment and human tissues due to their persistence, lipophilicity, and bioaccumulation. Populational and experimental studies demonstrate the male reproductive toxicity of PBDEs including increased incidence of genital malformations (hypospadias and cryptorchidism), altered weight of testes and other reproductive tissues, altered testes histology and transcriptome, decreased sperm production and sperm quality, altered epigenetic regulation of developmental genes in spermatozoa, and altered secretion of reproductive hormones. A broad range of mechanistic hypotheses of PBDE reproductive toxicity has been suggested. Among these hypotheses, oxidative stress, the disruption of estrogenic signaling, and mitochondria disruption are affected by PBDE concentrations much higher than concentrations found in human tissues, making them unlikely links between exposures and adverse reproductive outcomes in the general population. Robust evidence suggests that at environmentally relevant doses, PBDEs and their metabolites may affect male reproductive health via mechanisms including AR antagonism and the disruption of a complex network of metabolic signaling.

Development of a New Type of Flame Retarded Biocomposite Reinforced with a Biocarbon/Basalt Fiber System: A Comparative Study between Poly(lactic Acid) and Polypropylene

A new type of partially biobased reinforcing filler system was developed in order to be used as a flame retardant for polylactic acid (PLA) and polypropylene (PP)-based composites. The prepared materials intended for injection technique processing were melt blended using the novel system containing ammonium polyphosphate (EX), biocarbon (BC), and basalt fibers (BF). All of the prepared samples were subjected to a detailed analysis. The main criterion was the flammability of composites. For PLA-based composites, the flammability was significantly reduced, up to V-0 class. The properties of PLA/EX/BC and PLA/EX/(BC-BF) composites were characterized by their improved mechanical properties. The conducted analysis indicates that the key factor supporting the effectiveness of EX flame retardants is the addition of BC, while the use of BF alone increases the flammability of the samples to the reference level. The results indicate that the developed materials can be easily applied in industrial practice as effective and sustainable flame retardants.

The concentration and biomagnification of PCBs and PBDEs across four trophic levels in a marine food web

Contracting Parties to the OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Maine Environment of the North-East Atlantic are required to undertake monitoring and assessment of both inorganic and organic contaminants. There is a requirement to assess contaminants across different trophic levels on an ecosystem-specific basis. However, this is currently constrained by the availability of relevant samples to cover the full range of trophic levels. This study investigates the variability (inter- and intra-species variation) of the concentrations and distributions of thirty-two polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners and nine polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners in twenty-six species covering four trophic levels from different geographic locations around Scotland. Trophic magnification factors (TMFs) were calculated using a traditional method and a balanced method for both the ICES-7 PCBs and BDE47, to refine and improve the application of TMFs to assess and predict biomagnification risk to biota in the marine environment. There were clear differences in congener percentage distribution between sample categories and species, with differences influenced by physiological processes and eco-biological parameters. Trophic magnification was found to occur for the ICES-7 PCBs and BDE47 using the traditional method, with the highest degree of trophic magnification reported for CB52. An unbalanced dataset was found to influence the calculated TMF and in some cases, the overall conclusion of the trophic transfer of PCB and PBDE congeners. The balanced method is highly recommended for calculating TMFs to ensure that the TMF is a true indication of the biomagnification potential, particularly when conducting regional comparisons for which sampling requirements are difficult to achieve.

Long-Term Consequences of High Polychlorinated Biphenyl Exposure: Projected Decline of Delphinid Populations in a Hotspot for Chemical Pollution

Rough-toothed dolphins, Steno bredanensis, are closely associated with coastal waters in the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean, increasing the exposure to multiple stressors, such as chemical pollution. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are known to affect the health of cetacean species. To comprehend the potential impacts of POPs on populations' viability, it is necessary to distinguish populations and predict their risk of long-term exposure. Blubbers of rough-toothed dolphins (n = 28) collected along the southeastern (SE) and southern (S) Brazilian coast were screened for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticides in a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer. Based on the contamination profile, a discriminant function analysis separated the rough-toothed dolphins into three ecological populations: two coastal and one offshore. POP concentrations were the highest reported for the species worldwide and highest among the delphinids in Brazilian waters, reaching 647.9 μg g^-1 lw for PCBs. The SE population presented 212.9 ± 163.0, S population presented 101.0 ± 96.7, and OCS/S population presented 183.3 ± 85.3 μg g^-1 lw (mean ± SD) of PCBs. The potential risk of effects triggered by elevated PCB concentrations was assessed in an individual-based model. A risk of severe decline in population size is projected for the three populations in the next 100 years, especially in SE Brazil, varying between 67 and 99%.

The state of persistent organic pollutants in South African estuaries: A review of environmental exposure and sources

The long-term health of many South African estuaries is impacted by pollutants entering these systems through industrial and agricultural runoff, sewage outfalls, contaminated storm water drainage, flows from informal settlements, and plastic materials in marine debris. Uncontrolled inputs combined with poor environmental management often result in elevated levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in affected estuaries. Data on POPs research from 1960 to 2020 were analysed in terms of their sources, environmental investigations, and health implications. The outcome showed polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl sulphonates (PFASs) to exceed the US EPA health advisory levels for drinking water. Concentration of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in water were below the WHO limits, while those in fish tissues from most estuaries were found to be below the US FDA limits. Although environmental compartments in some estuaries (e.g. Rooiels and uMngeni estuaries) seem to be less contaminated relative to other marine systems around the world, many others were polluted and critically modified (e.g. Durban Bay, Swartkops, Sundays, and Buffalo systems). Due to inconsistent monitoring methods coupled with limited data availability, temporal trends were unclear. Of the 290 estuaries in South Africa, 65 were prioritised and recommended for POPs evaluation based on their pollution sources, and a monitoring strategy was defined in terms of sampling. Government policies to curb marine pollution need to be enforced to prevent chronic contamination that leads to water quality deterioration and loss of ecosystem services.

Biotreatment potential of co-contaminants hexavalent chromium and polychlorinated biphenyls in industrial wastewater: Individual and simultaneous prospects

Co-existence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in the environment due to effluent from industries has aggravated the pollution problem. Both contaminants can alter chemical interactions, processes and impair enzymatic activities in the ecosystem that results in negative impacts on aquatic and terrestrial life. Previously, research has been performed for the fate and transfer of these contaminants individually, but simultaneous removal approaches have not received much attention. Cr(VI) exists in a highly toxic form in the environment once released, whereas location of chlorine atoms in the ring determines PCBs toxicity. Lower chlorinated compounds are easily degradable whereas as high chlorinated compounds require sequential strategy for transformation. Microorganisms can develop different mechanism to detoxify both pollutants. However, occurrence of multiple contaminants in single system can alter the bioremediation efficiency of bacteria. Use of metal resistance bacterial for the degradation of organic compounds has been widely used bioaugmentation strategy. Along with that use of sorbents/bio sorbents, biosurfactants and phytoremediation approaches have already been well reported. Bioremediation strategy with dual potential to detoxify the Cr(VI) and PCBs would be a probable option for simultaneous biotreatment. Application of bioreactors and biofilms covered organic particles can be utilized as efficient bioaugmentation approach. In this review, biotreatment systems and bacterial oxidative and reductive enzymes/processes are explained and possible biotransformation pathway has been purposed for bioremediation of co-contaminated waters.

Dynamic passive sampling of hydrophobic organic compounds in surface seawater along the South Atlantic Ocean east-to-west transect and across the Black Sea

Mapping of hydrophobic organic compounds (HOCs) in surface seawater on an east-to-west transect of the South Atlantic Ocean (SAO) and across the Black Sea (BS) in 2016 was performed by a dynamic passive sampling device containing silicone-based passive samplers. In SAO as well as in BS the measurements confirmed freely dissolved concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls, DDT and its metabolites, chlorobenzenes, cyclodiene pesticides, and brominated flame retardants in the range of units to low hundreds of pg per litre. The findings indicate that the spatial distribution of HOCs and emerging pollutants in the SAO and the BS is influenced by riverine inputs, ocean currents and atmospheric deposition from continental plumes. Observed concentration gradients indicate that eastern SAO receives DDT from sources in South Africa, whereas the emissions of endosulfan originate in South America. Elevated HOC concentrations in the northwestern BS are related to their discharge by rivers from the European continent.

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in fish species from different lakes of the lesser Himalayan region (LHR), Pakistan: The influence of proximal sources in distribution of POPs

Fish dwelling in remote mountain water systems are sensitive to long term exposure of POPs and can be used as an important bioindicator of POPs pollution in fragile mountain ecosystems. Current study aimed to investigate the concentrations and patterns of organic pollutants in fish tissues from different lakes of the Lesser Himalayan Region (LHR). OCPs, PCBs, PBDEs were analyzed in four common edible fish species of the LHR: Oncorhynchus mykiss, Labeo rohita, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Orechromis aureus. The fish were collected from lakes with different types of catchment areas (glacial, non-glacial mountain region and urban region) and extent of anthropogenic influence. The levels OCPs, PCBs and PBDEs analyzed in the selected fish species were in range of 0.21-587, 6.4-138 and 1.2-14 ng g^-1 lw, respectively. The ∑DDTs, higher chlorinated PCBs, tetra- and penta-BDEs were more prevalent in urban and remote lakes whereas pp'-DDE, lower chlorinated PCBs and BDE-47 and -99 were predominant in fish species from glacial lakes. ∑DDTs, ∑PCBs and ∑PBDEs showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) among species, trophic guilds (carnivore, herbivore and omnivore) and feeding regimes (surface, bottom and column feeder) and ∑HCH showed a significant difference only among trophic guilds. The stable isotope values of δ ¹⁵N and δ¹³C differed significantly among species for ∑HCH, ∑PCBs, ∑PBDEs (p < 0.05) and ∑DDT (p < 0.01). The range of δ¹³C values (-34 to -19‰) indicated the importance of littoral and pelagic sources of dietary carbon. Trophic position and dietary proxies were identified as important variables for explaining the variability of the studied compounds. Kohonen self-organizing maps (SOM) showed that in addition to trophic position and other physiological characteristics of fish, that the type of lakes and proximal sources of POPs were the most important predictors for distribution of organic contaminants in fish samples from LHR.

Levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in Brazilian food of animal origin and estimation of human dietary exposure

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are persistent organic pollutants, commonly used as flame retardants in a wide variety of products. In the last years, the concentration of PBDEs is increasing in the environment, turning human exposure more common. Since the diet is the primary source of human exposure, several surveys evaluate the levels of PBDEs in foods to estimate the dietary intake and the hazard index (HI). However, this data is limited in Brazil. Thus, this study aims to determine the level of seven PBDE congeners (BDE-28, 47, 99, 100, 153, 154, 183) in Brazilian food of animal origin. The total concentration of PBDE (∑PBDE) determined in the food samples were 2.29 (0.92-4.85) ng/g wet weight (ww), 1.98 (1.23-3.12) ng/g ww, 1.91 (1.23-3.12) ng/g ww, and 4.42 (1.26-8.42) ng/g ww in eggs, fish, seafood, and milk, respectively. BDE-47 was the most abundant compound. Based on consumer habits and the found levels of PBDEs in Brazilian food, we estimated the daily intake of ∑PBDEs as 3.25 (0.02-2.19) ng/kg bw per day. Surprisingly, the PBDE levels in milk samples were higher than those found in reported studies in other countries, and the consumption of milk products give a higher relative contribution to PBDEs exposure. The HI was <1. A complete risk assessment of the human exposure to PBDEs most likely could be evaluated considering all commercial PBDEs congeners and other exposure sources of these contaminants.

Nephrotoxicity and possible mechanisms of decabrominated diphenyl ethers (BDE-209) exposure to kidney in broilers

The flame retardant decabrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-209) is a widely used chemical in a variety of products and exists extensively in the environment. BDE-209 has been reported to induce kidney injury and dysfunction. However, the causes and mechanisms of its nephrotoxicity are still under investigation. In this study, 150 male broilers were exposed to BDE-209 concentrations of 0, 0.004, 0.04, 0.4, 4.0 g/kg for 42 days. The relative kidney weight, histopathology, markers of renal injury, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and the expression of MAPK signaling pathways-related proteins were assessed. The results showed that the concentrations of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (CRE) and the neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), significantly increased after exposure to BDE-209 with the doses more than 0.04 g/kg. Similarly, severe damage of renal morphology was observed, including atrophy and necrosis of glomeruli, and swelling and granular degeneration of the renal tubular epithelium. In the renal homogenates, the oxidative stress was evidenced by the elevated concentrations of MDA and NO, and decreased levels of GSH-Px, GSH and SOD. Due to the inflammatory response, the level of NF-κB and the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18 were remarkably upregulated, while the content of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 decreased. Additionally, the apoptotic analysis showed notable upregulations of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, the relative expression of p-ERK1/2 and p-JNK1/2, and the expression of Bax, cytochrome c and caspase 3. The present study indicates that BDE-209 exposure can cause nephrotoxicity in broilers through oxidative stress and inflammation, which activate the phosphorylation of key proteins of the MAPK signaling pathways, and subsequently induce mitochondria-mediated kidney apoptosis.

Fish consumption is an indicator of exposure to non-dioxin like polychlorinated biphenyls in cumulative risk assessments based on a probabilistic and sensitive approach

The health effects of non-dioxin like polychlorinated biphenyls (NDL-PCBs) include liver, immune, neurodevelopmental, and neurobehavioral effects in addition to hormone alteration. Among 209 PCB congeners, six indicator PCBs (ICES-6) account for about half of NDL-PCBs present in feed and food. The objectives of the current study were first to examine the levels of total PCBs, NDL-PCBs, and ICES-6 PCBs in 200 foods commonly consumed in Taiwan and, second, to estimate the cumulative health risks of NDL-PCB consumption. We suggest a risk management strategy that identifies foodstuffs with particularly high NDL-PCB content. In 200 food samples, which were grouped into 12 categories and 64 food types, 51 PCB congeners were detected. The concentrations of ICES-6 PCBs in all samples were lower than the maximum levels for NDL-PCBs in foodstuffs set by the European Union. PCB-153, PCB-138, and PCB-180 were the major congeners in all food, indicating that the food was contaminated in the past. ICES-6 PCBs contributed 42.2%-52.9% of total NDL-PCBs in all tested foodstuffs. The average estimated daily intake (EDI) of PCBs ranged from 1.22 ng/kg bw/day to 2.89 ng/kg bw/day in different age groups (95th quantile [P95]: 4.12-10.28 ng/kg bw/day). The P95 EDI in 3-6-year-olds was higher than 10 ng/kg/day. A qualitative sensitivity analysis in ICES-6 PCBs exposure showed that for the 3- to 6-year-old group, the highest sensitivity was how much fish they ate (37.6%) and its concentration (32.5%). The consumption of pork, eggs, fish, and other seafood accounts for over 90% of ICES-6 PCBs intake, and these foods should be highlighted in guidelines regarding NDL-PCB intake.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in wild and farmed whitemouth croaker and meagre from different Atlantic Ocean fishing areas: Concentrations and human health risk assessment

This work assessed the concentrations of 18 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in edible tissues of whitemouth croaker (Micropogonias furnieri) and meagre (Argyrosomus regius) captured in different Atlantic Ocean fishing areas and available to Brazilian and Portuguese consumers. Total PAH (∑PAHs) levels ranged from 1.32 to 5.41 μg/kg ww in wild-caught croaker and 2.66 (wild)-18.0 (farmed) μg/kg ww in meagre. Compounds with 2- and 3-rings represented 54-86% of ∑PAHs in the muscle tissues of wild-caught species (croaker and meagre) being naphthalene, fluorene, and phenanthrene the predominant compounds. ∑PAHs in farmed meagre were 4-7 times higher than in wild-caught meagre, with 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-ring compounds representing 15, 18, 44, 22, and 1% of ∑PAHs, respectively. Benzo(a)pyrene levels in farmed meagre varied between 0.06 and 0.34 μg/kg ww. Crude oil refining and combustion sources were identified as the major sources of PAHs in FAO 27, 34 and 41 Atlantic Ocean fishing areas. The biometric characteristics (length, weight, moisture, and fat content) and ∑PAHs allowed to discriminate between wild-caught and farmed meagre samples and between meagre and croaker. Assessment of carcinogenic risks suggested that a diet exclusive on farmed meagre may pose additional risks for the health of European top consumers fish.

PCBs occurrence in marine bivalves and fish from Todos os Santos Bay, Bahia, Brazil

In order to evaluate contamination by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in a tropical bay exposed to different anthropogenic pressures, samples of bivalves: mangrove oyster (Crassotrea rhizophorae), mangrove mussel (Mytella guyanensis)and clams (Anomalocardia brasiliana), were collected in different parts of Todos os Santos Bay, Bahia, Brazil. In addition, samples of bivalves and fish, purchased from a seafood market in the city of Salvador were analyzed to evaluate human exposure to PCBs through ingestion. Identification and quantification of PCBs were done by GC/MS after microwave extraction and purification with sulfuric acid. In bivalves, concentrations ranged from <0.08 to 50.1 ng g ^-1 (dry weight), with the highest values being detected in mangrove oyster, followed by clams and mangrove mussel of the Subaé estuary and Madre de Deus/Mataripe; regions known to be impacted by anthropic activities. From the total of the 12 fish species analyzed, only 5 presented levels of PCBs above the detection limit, ranging from 0.23 to 4.55 ng g ^-1 and 0.51 to 26.05 ng g ^-1 by dry weight and lipid weight, respectively. In general, concentrations of PCBs on the bay are lower than in most regions around the world, especially those located in the Northern Hemisphere. Indexes indicated that local biota and seafood from the fish market are not adversely impacted by PCBs and do not represent a risk to human health.

Persistent Organic Pollutants in Food: Contamination Sources, Health Effects and Detection Methods

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) present in foods have been a major concern for food safety due to their persistence and toxic effects. To ensure food safety and protect human health from POPs, it is critical to achieve a better understanding of POP pathways into food and develop strategies to reduce human exposure. POPs could present in food in the raw stages, transferred from the environment or artificially introduced during food preparation steps. Exposure to these pollutants may cause various health problems such as endocrine disruption, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, birth defects, and dysfunctional immune and reproductive systems. This review describes potential sources of POP food contamination, analytical approaches to measure POP levels in food and efforts to control food contamination with POPs.

First polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) monitoring in seawater, surface sediments and marine fish communities of the Persian Gulf: Distribution, levels, congener profile and health risk assessment

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants that, due to their high toxicity, lipophilic property and widespread dispersal in the global environment, present a danger for human health and ecological systems. Although the inventory and use of PCBs are extensively reported worldwide, the status of PCBs in Iran is still unknown. In this study, the concentrations of PCBs were determined in the environmental matrices and in five commercially important fish species from Larak coral Island, Persian Gulf, Iran, in winter and summer 2015. A positive correlation was found among PCBs levels and congeners profiles in seawater (0.97-3.10 ng L^-1), surface sediments (2.95-7.95 ng g^-1dw) and fish samples (7.20-90.19 ng g^-1dw), indicating fish as suitable bioindicator of environmental PCBs contamination. In all matrices, a high contribution of light and medium chlorinated congeners was detected in both seasons. In fish, the higher PCBs levels were found for both sexes in both seasons in liver and kidney than other tissues (skin, gonad, muscle) due to their high lipid content and PCBs lipophilicity. More importantly, the risks for human health associated with fish consumption were also evaluated, and it was found that all the toxicity indices measured for PCBs were within the World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limit of food consumption. However, it is highly recommended to inform the local population about potential risks attributable to dietary incorporation of locally caught fish, and establish a surveillance monitoring programme on PCBs in this region.

Occurrence of legacy and emerging organic pollutants in whitemouth croakers from Southeastern Brazil

The whitemouth croaker (Micropogonias furnieri) is one of the most commercially important species along the Atlantic coast of South America. Moreover, some of its biological traits (long life span, inshore feeding, high trophic position) make this species a suitable sentinel of coastal pollution. Here, we investigated contamination by multiple legacy and emerging organic pollutants, such as brominated and chlorinated flame retardants, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), in whitemouth croakers from two estuaries (Guanabara and Sepetiba Bays) located in industrialized and urbanized areas in Rio de Janeiro State, Southeastern Brazil. Furthermore, we assessed how biological and ecological features could explain the observed contamination patterns. Regarding brominated flame retardants, concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) varied from 7.6 to 879.7 pg g^-1 wet weight (w.w.), with high contribution of tetra-, penta-, hexa- and deca-BDEs. The sum of chlorinated flame retardants (dechlorane-related compounds, ΣDRC) ranged from <LOD to 41.1 pg g^-1 w.w., mostly represented by Dechlorane 603 and Dechlorane Plus (DP). Concentrations of PCDDs and PCDFs varied from <LOD to 1.7 pg g^-1 w.w., while the Toxic Equivalent (TEQ-PCDD/Fs) levels ranged from 0.1 to 0.2 pg g^-1 w.w. Positive correlations between δ¹⁵N and concentrations of tri-, tetra- and penta-BDEs, as well as ΣDRC, DP and anti-DP isomers suggested that ecological factors (namely biomagnification along the food web) influence contamination of whitemouth croakers in the estuaries studied. Moreover, the sum of PBDEs (ΣPBDE), tri- and tetra-BDEs concentrations were negatively correlated with fish size, suggesting that depuration by fishes and/or habitat shift throughout the whitemouth croaker's life cycle might also influence concentrations. Overall, our study emphasized the need for further investigations to help understand the complex patterns of bioaccumulation and biomagnification that seem to exist in Southeastern Brazil.

Assessing Surface Sediment Contamination by PBDE in a Recharge Point of Guarani Aquifer in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants in several products, although they can act as neurotoxic, hepatotoxic and endocrine disruptors in organisms. In Brazil, their levels in aquatic sediments are poorly known; thus, concerns about the degree of exposure of the Brazilian population to PBDEs have grown. This study aimed to quantify the presence of PBDEs in sediment samples from an important groundwater water supply in Ribeirao Preto, Brazil, and to contribute to studies related to the presence of PBDEs in Brazilian environments. Gas chromatography coupled with Electron Capture Detection (GC-ECD) was used for quantification after submitting the samples to ultrasound-assisted extraction and clean-up steps. Results showed the presence of six PBDE, BDE-47 being the most prevalent in the samples, indicating a major contamination of the penta-PBDE commercial mixture. The concentration of ΣPBDEs (including BDE-28, -47, -66, -85, -99, -100, -138, -153, -154 and -209) varied between nd (not detected) to 5.4 ± 0.2 ng g−1. Although preliminary, our data show the anthropic contamination of a direct recharge area of the Aquifer Guarani by persistent and banned substances.

Biodegradation of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) using a novel microbial consortium GY1: Cells viability, pathway, toxicity assessment, and microbial function prediction

GY1, a novel microbial consortium with efficient ability to degrade decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) has been isolated and the sequencing analysis has been conducted. The results revealed that Hyphomicrobium, Pseudomonas, Aminobacter, Sphingopyxis, Chryseobacterium, Bacillus, Pseudaminobacter, Stenotrophomonas, Sphingobacterium and Microbacterium were the dominant genera, and the function genes involved in BDE-209 conversion were predicted by PICRUSt. When BDE-209 concentration increased from 0.5 to 10mg/L, its degradation efficiency declined from 57.2% to 22.3%. Various kinds of debrominated metabolites were detected during the biodegradation process, including BDE-208, BDE-207, BDE-206, BDE-205, BDE-190, BDE-181, BDE-155, BDE-154, BDE-99, BDE-47, BDE-17 and BDE-7. Also, the proportion of necrotic cells was observed during GY1 mediated degradation of BDE-209 to reveal the changes of cells viability under BDE-209 stress. Subsequent analysis showed that the reaction of BDE-209 with GY1 was a detoxification process and bioaugmentation with GY1 effectively enhanced BDE-209 degradation in actual water and water-sediment system.

PCB and PBDE contamination in Tursiops truncatus and Stenella frontalis, two data-deficient threatened dolphin species from the Brazilian coast

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) levels were assessed in the liver and muscle of two data-deficient threatened dolphin species, the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus, n = 4) and the Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis, n = 6), sampled off the Southeastern Brazilian coast. PCB concentrations were greater in liver compared to muscle, with males presenting higher concentrations than females. The three main detected PCB congeners were PCBs 138, 153 and 180. A predominance of hexachlorinated congeners was observed, followed by hepta- and penta-PCBs. For both species, Cl 3 and Cl 4 levels were higher in muscle compared to liver, while Cl 5 to Cl 8 and ∑PCBs were higher in liver. PBDE concentrations were significantly higher in Atlantic spotted dolphin muscle and liver compared to bottlenose dolphins. Similarly to PCBs, the highest PBDE concentrations were observed in males. The presence of PBDE congeners BDE-47, -100 and -99 in the muscle and liver of both species suggests the existence of a pollution source in Brazil by a penta-BDE mixture, as PBDEs have never been produced in Brazil. Interspecific PCB and PBDE profiles were very similar, which may be related to the similar characteristics of the analyzed species, mainly geographic distribution and life and feeding habits. This study furthers knowledge on environmental PCB and PBDE contamination, assisting in the establishment of dolphin population conservation strategies. In addition, this study calls into question the current threshold values established for PCBs and PBDEs, and demonstrates the lack of information and knowledge in this regard for cetaceans.

Persistent organic pollutants in sediments, intertidal crabs, and the threatened Olrog's gull in a northern Patagonia salt marsh, Argentina

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are of great concern for the environment. In this study we (a) determine levels and distribution of OCPs, PCBs, and PBDEs in sediments and two crab species (Neohelice granulata and Cyrtograpsus altimanus), (b) assess bioaccumulation in crabs, and (c) explore the occurrence of POPs in the Near Threatened Olrog's gull (Larus atlanticus) chicks and eggs in one of the most important salt marsh environments in the South West Atlantic. Sediments, crabs, and gull chicks and eggs showed POPs presence at low levels; being α-endosulfan, PCB-153, and BDE-47 the most represented compounds. In sediments, pollutant concentrations were lower than those reported in Canadian guidelines for the protection of the aquatic life. POP bioaccumulation was recorded in crabs, suggesting a risk to upper trophic level predators. Further studies are needed to understand the trophic effects of POPs in San Blas bay, particularly on the threatened Olrog's gull.

The occurrence and distribution of hexabromocyclododecanes in freshwater systems, focusing on tissue-specific bioaccumulation in crucian carp

The occurrence and distribution of hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) were investigated in freshwater, sediment, and selected crucian carp (Carassius carassius) tissues (muscle, liver, egg, and blood) to evaluate the potential for HBCDs bioaccumulation. The HBCDs concentration ranged from not detected to 0.35ng/L in freshwater, and from 0.037 to 35.4ng/g-dw in sediment. The highest HBCDs concentration was detected in crucian carp liver (5.14±8.15ng/g-ww), followed by egg (3.88±10.1ng/g-ww), blood (0.61±0.63ng/mL), and muscle (0.38±0.70ng/g-ww). In all crucian carp tissues, α-HBCD was the predominant stereoisomer, and the fraction of α-HBCD as a proportion of the total HBCDs in liver tissue (96%) was higher than that in egg tissue (79%). There was a positive correlation between the HBCDs concentration in crucian carp muscle and body size (p<0.01, Spearman). The biota-sediment accumulation factor (BSAF) (0.14) and bioconcentration factor (BCF) (137,000L/kg) values were estimated in crucian carp muscle using field-based data.

Review of emerging contaminants in aquatic biota from Latin America: 2002-2016

Although it is known that emerging contaminants are widespread all over the globe, there is a gap of information about their distribution in some geographical areas, such as Latin America. The present bibliographic work reviews the available literature about the presence of organic emerging contaminants in Latin American freshwater and marine biota between 2002 and 2016 and includes 23 works from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Nicaragua. In particular, the present review provides an overview of the occurrence of continuously present contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and pyrethroid insecticides, as well as the new groups of persistent organic pollutants, the halogenated flame retardants and the perfluoroalkyl substances. A wide overview is provided, considering not only occurrence data but also effects and potential transfer through the food chain. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1716-1727. © 2016 SETAC.

Halogenated organic pollutants in marine biota from the Xuande Atoll, South China Sea: Levels, biomagnification and dietary exposure

Six marine biota species were collected from the Xuande Atoll, South China Sea to investigate the bioaccumulation of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) and dechlorane plus (DP). Pike conger (Muraenesox talabonoides) had the highest concentrations of halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs) among the six marine biota species. DDTs were the predominant HOPs, followed by PCBs and PBDEs, with minor contributions of DBDPE and DP. Twenty-one percent of samples had ratios of (DDE+DDD)/ΣDDTs lower than 0.5, implying the presence of fresh DDT inputs in the environment of the Xuande Atoll. The biomagnification factor values for DDTs, PCBs, PBDEs and DP were higher than 1, suggesting biomagnification of these contaminants in the marine food chains. Consumption of seafood from the Xuande Atoll might not subject local residents in the coastal areas of South China to health risks as far as HOPs are concerned.

Indicator polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in seafood from Xiamen (China): levels, distributions, and risk assessment

Indicator polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were determined in 289 seafood samples including fishes, crustaceans, and shellfish collected from six administrative regions in Xiamen of China. The residual levels of PCBs, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and its metabolites (DDTs), and hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) ranged <LOD-64 (median 1.8) ng g^-1 wet weight (ww), 0.03-88 (median 1.4) ng g^-1 ww, and <LOD-5.5 (median <LOD) ng g^-1 ww, respectively. The most abundant compounds were PCB101, p,p'-DDT, and β-HCH. Significant differences in the amounts of PCBs and DDTs were recorded among the species, whereas no significant differences were observed among the species with regard to HCH concentrations. Within the regions investigated, the concentrations of PCBs were much lower in Haicang than in other regions and HCHs were detected with highest concentration in Siming, while no significant differences were observed in DDT concentrations. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that PCB and OCP pollutions came from similar sources in Xiamen. But the pollution sources of Xiangan were diverse. The predominance of PCBs might be attributed to the past usage of domestically produced commercial PCB mixtures, and the profiles of OCPs might indicate their current use in agriculture. Results of carcinogenic risk assessment based on the 50th or 95th percentile exposure levels exceeded the threshold, suggesting that the PCBs should be of concern. On the other hand, the hazard quotients (HQs) of noncancer risks were all far below than 1.

Polychlorinated biphenyls and chlorinated pesticides in king mackerel caught off the coast of Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil: Occurrence, contaminant profile, biological parameters and human intake

Persistent organic pollutants such as PCBs and DDTs are ubiquitous worldwide. Their lipophilic nature facilitates accumulation in fish tissues. This study investigated 182 PCB congeners and 14 organochlorine pesticides (DDTs, HCHs, chlordanes, heptachlor and mirex) in muscle and liver of king mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla) caught off the northeastern coast of Brazil. Concentration of PCBs, DDTs and chlordanes in muscle averaged 31.5, 4.70 and 0.15ngg(-1) dry weight (dw), respectively. Mean levels of the same contaminants in liver were 145, 18.7 and 1.11ngg(-1) dw, respectively. HCHs, heptachlor and mirex were not detected in the samples. The metabolite p,p'-DDE dominated the composition of DDTs in both muscle and liver. However, a clear shift was observed in the proportions of p,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDD when comparing both tissues, suggesting metabolism in the liver. The PCBs profile revealed a depletion in mono- through tetra-CBs and an enrichment in penta- through deca-CBs. Biological parameters such as sex, maturity stage, age, body weight and total length did not influence contaminant levels in tissues. Dietary risk assessment indicated that S. cavalla from the northeastern coast of Brazil does not pose a health risk for humans.

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans and dioxin-like PCBs in commercialized food products from Colombia

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) are commonly known as dioxins and are the most toxic members of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) because present a variety of health effects especially as promoting agent of growing and transformation of cancer cells. They are bio-accumulate in humans primarily via the diet, specifically by ingestion of foods that have high lipid content which are generally associated with foods of animal origin such as oils and fats and with fishery and dairy products. In Colombia the Ministry of Health and Social Protection which is the entity responsible for surveillance food conditions, has established maximum levels for dioxins and dl-PCBs in oils from animal and vegetable origins. Oils of vegetable and animal origin represent an appreciable intake in the country thus the presence of dioxins and dl-PCBs in these materials is a matter of concern because they can bioaccumulate in fat. In this contribution the levels of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs in olive, soybean, fish oil, butter and shrimp consumed in Colombia were determined using HRGC-HRMS and were compared with the maximum levels permitted in oil samples according to both the Colombian and European regulations. WHO-TEQ concentrations for PCDD/Fs and dioxin like PCBs ranged from 0.24 to 1.710pgWHO-TEQ PCDD/Fg(-1) of fat and from 0.050 to 3.000pgWHO-TEQ PCBg(-1) of fat, respectively. As expected, fish oils and shrimp present the highest WHO-TEQ PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs values followed by butter and soybean oil sample, while the olive oil shows the lowest levels. In general, the vegetable oils show levels below the limits established by both the Colombian and European regulations. The levels from soybean oil found in this study were slightly higher than the threshold established both by the Commission Regulation European Union (EU) and the Colombian legislation, while fish oils showed concentrations above the European regulations. Furthermore, shrimp exhibited values below the maximum concentration levels established by the EU and Colombian regulation.

PCBs in fish and their cestode parasites in Lake Victoria

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are classified as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) regulated by the Stockholm Convention (2001). Although their production and use was stopped almost three decades ago, PCBs are environmental persistent, toxic, and bioaccumulate in biota. We assessed the levels of 7 PCB congeners (IUPAC nos. 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, and 180) in sediment and fish (Oreochromis niloticus, Lates niloticus, and Rastrineobola argentea) and evaluated the potential of cestode fish endoparasite (Monobothrioides sp., Proteocephalaus sp., and Ligula intestinalis) as biomonitors of PCBs in Lake Victoria, Kenya. The median concentration of Σ7PCBs in sediments and fish were 2.2-96.3 μg/kg dw and 300-3,000 μg/kg lw, respectively. At all the sampling sites, CB138, CB153, and CB180 were the dominant PCB congeners in sediment and fish samples. Compared to the muscle of the piscine host, Proteocephalaus sp. (infecting L. niloticus) biomagnified PCBs ×6-14 while Monobothrioides sp. (infecting O. niloticus) biomagnified PCBs ×4-8. Meanwhile, L. intestinalis (infecting R. argentea) biomagnified PCBs ×8-16 compared to the muscle of unparasitized fish. We demonstrate the occurrence of moderate to high levels of PCB in sediments and fish in Lake Victoria. We also provide evidence that fish parasites bioaccumulate higher levels of PCBs than their piscine hosts and therefore provide a promising biomonitor of PCBs. We urge further a long-term study to validate the use of the above cestode fish parasites as biomonitoring tools for PCBs.

Organochlorines and polychlorinated biphenyl environmental pollution in south coast of Rio De Janeiro state

The objective of this study was to evaluate the burden of environmental pollution by Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Organochlorine Pesticides (OCs) in two localities of Rio de Janeiro coast, through the determination of these levels in specimens of mullets and croakers collected from May to August 2008, at Guanabara Bay (GB) and from Araújo Island (AI), at Paraty Bay. Twenty three organochlorine pollutants were detected in croakers at GB and twenty in mullets and all PCBs congeners investigated in the study were present in the two species. Ratio ∑DDT/∑PCB of 1.4 shows an important contribution of agricultural residues in GB and p,p'-DDE/∑DDT of 0.1 demonstrates a reintroduction of DDT. Consumption of mullet may represent a risk to the health of fishermen families from GB, with average and maximum estimated daily intake of ∑DDT of 9.012μg/kg p.c. and 26,174μg/kg p.c., representing 45% and 131% of ADI established by WHO.

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in fish with different feeding habits inhabiting a shallow lake ecosystem

The occurrence of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the environment can affect organisms inhabiting aquatic systems, in particular shallow lakes that are vulnerable to environmental stressors. This study aimed to assess POPs accumulation and changes at histological and physiological levels in tissues of three fish species with different trophic habits. Gills, brain, muscle, liver and gonads of Odontesthes bonariensis, Oligosarcus jenynsii and Cyphocharax voga were collected from the shallow lake La Peregrina, located in an agricultural area from Argentina. In addition, contaminant levels in surface water (SW), suspended particulate matter (SPM) and bottom sediments (BS) were assessed. Histological lesions were evaluated in fish tissues and levels of vitellogenin (VTG) were assessed in plasma of male fish in order to correlate these alterations with the presence of POPs in the environment. Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were determined by GC-ECD. Biotic and abiotic samples showed the same POPs distribution pattern: OCPs>PCBs>PBDEs. Although tissue distribution of OCPs was species-specific, muscle showed the lowest levels in all species. The most abundant contaminants were endosulfans, suggesting their widespread use in the area. O. bonariensis showed the highest endosulfans levels in liver (184.2-219ngg(-1)wet w), which was associated with the high SPM levels considering this species is a filter feeder. The occurrence of PCBs and PBDEs shows the ubiquity of these pollutants in the area. Histological lesions in gills and liver of O. bonariensis and O. jenynsii, might be related with the high levels of endosulfans in these organs. The detection of VTG in males warns about a possible exposure to estrogenic compounds in the environment. In conclusion, the simultaneous exposure of fish to multiple environmental pollutants leads to different alterations, so measures should be taken in order to prevent their occurrence and toxic effects.

PCB and PBDE levels in a highly threatened dolphin species from the Southeastern Brazilian coast

In the Northern coast of Rio de Janeiro State is located the major urban centers of the oil and gas industry of Brazil. The intense urbanization in recent decades caused an increase in human use of the coastal areas, which is constantly impacted by agricultural, industrial and wastewater discharges. Franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei) is a small cetacean that inhabits coastal regions down to a 30 m depth. This species is considered the most threatened cetacean in the Western South Atlantic Ocean. This study investigated the levels of 52 PCB congeners and 9 PBDE congeners in liver of nine individuals found stranded or accidentally caught between 2011 and 2012 in the Northern coast of Rio de Janeiro. PCB mean levels ranged from 208 to 5543 ng g(-1) lw and PBDEs mean concentrations varied between 13.84 and 36.94 ng g(-1) lw. Contamination patterns suggest the previous use of Aroclor 1254, 1260 and penta-BDE mixtures in Brazil. While still few studies have assessed the organic contamination in cetaceans from the Southern Hemisphere, including Brazil, the levels found in this study could represent a health risk to these endangered species.

An assessment of PCB and PBDE contamination in two tropical dolphin species from the Southeastern Brazilian coast

PCBs and PBDEs were determined in two dolphin species, Sotalia guianensis and Steno bredanensis, from an upwelling system off the Central-northern coast of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. PCB levels varied from 0.040 to 0.75 μg g(-1) lw in muscles and from 0.022 to 1.32 μg g(-1)lw in liver samples from S. guianensis. In S. bredanensis, values varied from 0.085 to 11.3 μg g(-1) lw in muscles and from 0.024 to 18.6 μg g(-1) lw in livers. PCB-138, -153 and -180 were the major PCB congeners detected in both species, while BDE-47 was the predominant PBDE congener found in both species. Higher concentrations in S. bredanensis were possibly related to the different feeding habits for both delphinid species. These results contribute to extend the database on organic contamination in cetaceans from the southern hemisphere, understanding their distribution and environmental fate in Southeastern Brazil.

Butyltins, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, organochlorine pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls in sediments and bivalve mollusks in a mid-latitude environment from the Patagonian coastal zone

Butyltins (BTs), polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were assessed in a mid-latitude environment of the Patagonian coast, distant from significant pollutant sources. Bioaccumulation processes through bottom sediment resuspension were suggested by BTs level (expressed as ng of tin [Sn] g(-1) dry wt) found in surface sediment (<limit of detection [LOD]-166.5 ng [Sn] g(-1) dry wt) and bivalve mollusks (29.4-206.0 ng [Sn] g(-1) dry wt); whereas imposex incidence was only 15% in the gastropod Pareuthria plumbea collected near a harbor. Low hydrocarbon pollution was found in sediments and bivalves with ∑PAHs(16) ranging from <LOD to 94.9 ng g(-1) dry weight and from <LOD to 54.9 ng g(-1) dry weight, respectively. Values were typical of locations distant from pollutant sources and showed different compositional patterns for both substrates. However, concentrations for some individual PAHs in sediments were found over the threshold effect level. On average, ΣPCB did not exceed the sediment quality guidelines being 0.57 ± 0.88 ng g(-1) dry weight in sediments and 0.41 ± 0.26 ng g(-1) dry weight in bivalves. Average ΣOCPs in sediments were 0.53 ± 0.34 ng g(-1) dry weight and ranged from <LOD to 0.22 ng g(-1) dry weight in bivalves, showing a different pattern and suggesting a different accumulation pathway as was found for PAHs. Although both discrete and atmospheric sources can be considered for PAHs, organochlorines pollution was clearly related to atmospheric global transport, indicating that in the studied area, OCPs and PCBs experience permanent or temporal deposition during their migration to southern zones.

Geographical distribution and risk assessment of persistent organic pollutants in golden threads (Nemipterus virgatus) from the northern South China Sea

Fish are often used as good bioindicators to monitor the occurrence of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) on different scales in recent years. Forty-five golden threads (Nemipterus virgatus) were collected from six sampling sites in the northern South China Sea (SCS) to investigate the geographical distribution of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and its metabolites (DDTs). Concentrations of PBDEs, PCBs, and DDTs ranged from 1.3-36.0, 2.3-76.5, 8.3-228 ng/g lipid weight, respectively. The highest PBDEs and DDTs concentrations were found in golden threads from Shantou, owing to the intensive electronic waste recycling activities and rapid development of agriculture. Samples from Haikou had the highest levels of PCBs, probably due to the existence of many shipbuilding yards in the past years. The concentrations of PBDEs and PCBs were found in a decreasing trend from east to west and from north to south, while DDTs concentrations had no obvious trend in the distribution. PCBs were the most prevalent contaminants in Xiamen and Yangjiang, while DDTs were the dominant compounds at the other four sampling sites. Different profiles of POPs at each sampling site may attribute to different pollution sources in the northern SCS. Ratios of (DDD + DDE)/DDTs in golden threads suggested the probability of fresh input of DDT in the northern SCS. The estimated daily intakes of PBDEs, PCBs and DDTs were 0.030-0.069, 0.167-0.258 and 0.105-1.88 ng/kg/day, respectively, which were significantly lower than the acceptable daily intake, suggesting that consumption of golden threads from the northern SCS would not subject the residents in the coastal areas of SCS to significant health risk.

Effect of Pb2+, Cd2+, Cu2+ and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) on the distribution and partition of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) in a water–sediment system

The combined pollution of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and heavy metals in electronic waste dismantling areas has received increasing concern in recent years.

Polychlorinated biphenyls in sediments and fish species from the Murchison Bay of Lake Victoria, Uganda

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in sediments and two fish species collected from the Murchison Bay in Lake Victoria, using high resolution gas chromatography coupled to a high resolution mass spectrometer. Total PCB concentrations (Σ18PCBs) varied widely with mean values ranging from 777 to 4325pg g(-1) dry weight (dw) for sediments and 80 to 779pg g(-1) wet weight (ww) for fish. The PCB levels in the sediments were significantly higher at the station closest to Nakivubo channel, presumably due to effluents discharged by the channel, which may contain domestically produced commercial PCB mixtures. For fish, the concentrations in Nile perch (Lates niloticus) were significantly greater than those in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) at all study stations, possibly due to dietary differences among species. World Health Organization-toxic equivalents (WHO2005-TEQs) for the dioxin-like PCBs were 0.04-0.64pg g(-1) dw and 0.01-0.39pg g(-1) ww for sediments and fish, respectively. The non-ortho PCBs exhibited the highest contribution to the Σ12TEQs (>75%) compared to the mono-ortho PCBs in both fish species. The TEQs in the present study were lower than many reported worldwide in literature for fish and were within the permissible level recommended by the European Commission, implying that the fish did not pose health hazards related to PCBs to the consumers.

Persistent organic pollutants in marine fish from Yongxing Island, South China Sea: levels, composition profiles and human dietary exposure assessment

Little data is available on the bioaccumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in marine organisms from South China Sea (SCS). Five marine fish species were collected from Yongxing Island, SCS to investigate the presence of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and its metabolites (DDTs). PBDEs, PCBs, and DDTs concentrations ranged from 2.0-117, 6.3-199, and 9.7-5831 ng g(-1) lw, respectively. In general, contaminants measured in this study were at the lower end of the global range. Concentrations of PBDEs and PCBs were significantly correlated in fish samples, implying that PBDEs are as prevalent as PCBs in Yongxing Island. Among the five fish species studied, yellow striped goatfish had the highest concentrations of PBDEs, PCBs, and DDTs, probably attributed to its different living and feeding habits. The contaminant distribution pattern indicated that agrochemical source is more important than industrial source in Yongxing Island, SCS. The average estimated daily intakes of PBDEs, PCBs, and DDTs via fish consumption by local residents in the coastal areas of South China ranged from 1.42-5.91, 3.20-13.3, and 8.08-33.6 ng d(-1), which were lower than those in previous studies, suggesting that consumption of marine fish in Yongxing Island, SCS, might not subject local residents to significant health risk as far as POPs are concerned. This is the first study to report the occurrence of POPs in marine biota from SCS.

Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) as marine ecosystem sentinels: ecotoxicology and emerging diseases

Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) are small cetaceans that inhabit coastal regions down to a 50 m depth. As a coastally distributed species, they are exposed to a variety of human-induced risks that include passive fishing nets, persistent environmental pollution, and emerging diseases. As a top predatorS. guianensis occupies an important ecological niche in marine ecosystems. However, this niche also exposes this dolphin to extensive biomagnification of marine contaminants that may accumulate and be stored throughout their life of about 30 years.In this paper, we have compiled available data on the Guiana dolphin as regards its exposure to chemical pollutants, pathogenic microbes, infectious diseases, and injuries caused by interactions with passive fishing gears. Our analysis of the data shows that Guiana dolphins are particularly sensitive to environmental changes.Although the major mortal threat to dolphins results from contact with fishing other human-related activities in coastal zones also pose risks and need more attention.Such human-related risks include the presence of persistent toxicants in the marine environment, such as PCBs and PBDEs. Residues of these chemicals have been detected in Guiana dolphin's tissues at similar or higher levels that exist in cetaceans from other known polluted areas. Another risk encountered by this species is the non lethal injuries caused by fishing gear. Several incidents of this sort have occurred along the Brazilian coast with this species. When injuries are produced by interaction with fishing gear, the dorsal fin is the part of the dolphin anatomy that is more affected, commonly causing severe laceration or even total loss.The Guiana dolphins also face risks from infectious diseases. The major ones thus far identified include giardiasis, lobomycosis, toxoplasmosis, skin and skeletal lesions. Many bacterial pathogens from the family Aeromonadaceae and Vibrionaceae have been isolated from Guiana dolphins. Several helminth species have also been observed to affectS. guianensis. These results suggest a vulnerability of this species to environmental disturbances. Moreover, there is some evidence that the effects of some infectious diseases may be enhanced from stress caused by habitat impairment. For example, certain diseases and pathogenic organisms in S.guianensis may be associated with the high levels of endocrine-disruptor contaminants(e.g., PCBs; DDTs; PBDEs) that have been detected in marine waters.Although the data available on S. guianensis is growing, most of the work has been focused on a small portion of the species total area of distribution. Most studies,to date, have been carried out in the Southern region of the distribution, and in north eastern Brazil. Few studies have been conducted in the northern region of the South America or in Central America. Therefore, future studies should be conducted that address the heterogeneity of this species total distribution.The biology and ecology of the Guiana dolphin renders this species potentially useful as a sentinel species for detecting environmental changes, such as chemical and biological pollution. Research about this dolphin is encouraged as a way to assess what coastal environmental changes have occurred and to continue evaluating the health status of this vulnerable species in a changing environment.

Effect of cadmium ion on biodegradation of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) by Pseudomonas aeruginosa

The influence of Cd(II) ions on the degradation of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) by an aerobic degrading strain, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was investigated. The results demonstrated that the strain P. aeruginosa exhibited a high level of resistance against cadmium toxicity, and Cd(II) ions of different concentrations possessed mixed reactions on BDE-209 bioremoval. The degradation efficiency was stimulated at low concentrations of Cd(II) ions (≤ 1 mg L(-1)) but inhibited at higher levels (≥ 5 mg L(-1)). Subsequent analyses revealed that the increase of cell hydrophobicity and membrane permeability were two main factors for Cd(II) ions of low concentrations to accelerate BDE-209 degradation. However, inhibition effect by high concentrations of Cd(II) ions was mainly attributed to the negative impact of metals on growth and metabolism of the strain. It was also showed through cellular distribution of BDE-209 that different concentration of Cd(II) ions affected the amount of BDE-209 inside or outside the cell at different incubation time.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDES) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBS) in mussels and two fish species from the estuary of the Guanabara Bay, Southeastern Brazil

The present investigation aimed to analyze PBDE and PCB contamination in mussels (Perna perna) and two commercially important fish species, croaker (Micropogonias furnieri) and mullet (Mugil liza), in the Guanabara Bay, the most important Brazilian estuary, by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, in order to further knowledge regarding these compounds in the southern hemisphere. This is also the first report of PBDE in this mussel species in the Guanabara Bay. Fish were captured in September (dry season, winter) and March (wet season, summer) 2007 and September 2008. Mussels were collected in August (dry season, winter) 2006, in February (wet season, summer) 2007, and in August 2007 (winter). The results show that all samples showed higher PCB contamination when compared to other ecosystems around the world. On the other hand, PBDEs presented lower concentrations in 41 % of the samples. Croakers presented the highest PCB and PBDE levels, with mullet showing intermediary values and mussels, the lowest.