Organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in human adipose tissue from western Kyungnam, Korea

Organochlorine compounds in the adipose tissue of urban and rural women who gave birth by cesarean delivery in northern Turkey

In this study, the levels of a group of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the adipose tissue of women living in northern Turkey who gave birth by cesarean delivery were investigated. Sixty subcutaneous samples were collected in 2013 from women in urban (30) and rural (30) areas. The levels of nine OCPs, namely α-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), β-HCH (lindane), γ-HCH, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), aldrin, and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites, 2,4'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), 4,4'-DDE, 2,4'-DDT, 4,4'-DDT, and 16 PCBs, PCB-28, -52, -70, -74, -81, -99, -101, -118, -138, -153, -156, -170, -180, -183, -187 and -208, were investigated with a gas chromatograph equipped with an electron capture detector (GC-ECD). β-HCH was detected in nine samples (mean 23.70 ± 4.24 ng g-1 of fat) and γ-HCH was detected in six samples (mean 41.88 ± 12.41 ng g-1 of fat). HCB was detected in five samples (mean 30.97 ± 14.31 ng g-1 of fat), 2,4'-DDT in one sample (5 ng g-1 of fat), 4,4-DDT in two samples (mean 6.70 ± 0.42 ng g-1 of fat), 2,4'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene in three samples (mean 6.27 ± 0.42 ng g-1 of fat), PCB-28 in six samples (mean 10.03 ± 7.79 ng g-1 of fat), PCB-81 in one sample (7.60 ng g-1 of fat) and PCB-118 in one sample (10.20 ng g-1 of fat). In total, organochlorine compounds were detected in 12 (40%) of rural and 12 (40%) of urban women. These results are an indication of the level of organochlorine compounds in the environment where the subjects of the study lived.

Polychlorinated biphenyl levels in the blood of Japanese individuals ranging from infants to over 80 years of age

Individuals' exposure to various persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and its adverse health effects have been a cause of concern. We measured blood PCB concentrations from samples taken from 507 Japanese individuals ranging from infants to those over 80 years of age. The blood PCB levels increased with age for both male (Spearman's r = 0.69, p < 0.001) and female (Spearman's r = 0.70, p < 0.001) participants. Adult men and nulliparous women showed similar increases with age. However, the PCB levels of multiparous women were lower than those of nulliparous women in their thirties (p = 0.005), probably because the PCBs were transferred from the mothers to their children during pregnancy and lactation. Among infants (<2 years of age), some had as high levels of accumulated PCB levels as those in adults >30 years of age. In some cases, the PCB levels were over 0.8 ng/g wet weight, similar to levels observed in adults over 50 years of age. In the future, it will be necessary to do research on the health of the children who are exposed by high concentration level of POPs.

Serum concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the inhabitants of a Sicilian city

BACKGROUND

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides are common environmental contaminants that have been associated with human health problems.

OBJECTIVES

To assess serum concentrations of several organochlorine contaminants in general population living in a city with an ancient agricultural tradition and to identify possible exposure sources in Sicily.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 101 individuals. Each participant answered a face-to-face questionnaire submitted by well-trained personnel and provided a serum sample which was analyzed for the concentrations of PCBs, HCB, HCHs and DDTs by using gas-chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

HCB, p,p'-DDE, PCB 138, PCB 153 and PCB 180 were detected in more than 80% of the study participants. The ng g(-1) lipid median concentrations were: 18.6 for HCB; 175.1 for p,p'-DDE; 22. for PCB 138; 32.5 for PCB 153 and 23.0 for PCB 180. PCB 153 and PCB 138, PCB 138 and PCB 180, PCB 153 and PCB 180, and p,p'-DDE and HCB showed a high correlation each other (p<0.05). HCB and p,p'-DDE concentrations were significantly higher in subjects >49 years old (adj-p=0.03 in 50-69 years old and adj-p<0.001 in >69 years old, respectively) whereas PCB 138, PCB 153 and PCB 180 concentrations were higher in males (adj-p=0.03), in subjects >69 years old (adj-p=0.04) and in current smokers (adj-p=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study shows that serum concentrations of organochlorine compounds detected in subjects living in a small Sicilian city with ancient agricultural tradition are similar to those found in subjects living in urban areas of other countries. However, further investigations are needed to compare data from rural/urban areas in the same country, assessing correlations between serum concentrations of several chemical compounds and potential health effects in general population.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, polychlorinated biphenyls, and organochlorine pesticides in adipose tissues of Korean women

Studies on residue levels and accumulation profiles of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in human adipose tissues of Korean populations are scarce. In this study, concentrations and accumulation features of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were measured in adipose tissues of Korean women age 40-68 years. The highest concentrations were found for PCBs and DDTs, which were 1-2 orders of magnitude greater than the concentrations of hexachlorocyclohexanes, chlordanes, and PBDEs. The concentrations of PCBs and OCPs were lower than those reported for other countries. However, PBDE concentrations were greater than those reported for other countries, suggesting that ongoing exposure to PBDEs is a concern in Korea. The profiles of PBDEs were characterized by the predominance of BDE 209, followed by nona- and octa-BDEs, which are consistent with the consumption patterns of products containing PBDEs in Korea. The concentrations of PCBs and some OCPs were significantly correlated with each other, whereas PBDEs showed low or moderate correlations with other POPs, suggesting differences in exposure routes and biotransformation potentials of the compounds studied. The concentrations of organochlorines and PBDEs were not correlated with subjects' age and body mass index. The results of this study provide baseline information on POPs in adipose tissues of the general population in Korea.

Accumulation levels and characteristics of some pesticides in human adipose tissue samples from Southeast China

This paper presents a comprehensive study of pesticide levels and bio-accumulation characteristics in human adipose tissues among residents of Southeast China. A large number of adipose samples (n=633) were selected for 58 pesticides and were analyzed by high sensitive Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The results showed that POPs pesticides were frequently detected, including 2,4'-DDD, 2,4'-DDE, 2,4'-DDT, 4,4'-DDD, 4,4'-DDE, 4,4'-DDT, α-HCH, β-HCH, γ-HCH, δ-HCH, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), and mirex. Other detected pesticide species were dicofol, methamidophos and chlordimeform, which have rarely been reported. Comparing to different countries, the concentrations of total DDT and HCH in these three Chinese southeastern sites were in the middle range, whereas the HCB and mirex were in the lower end. A significant correlation was observed between region as well as age and POPs pesticide levels. Some pesticide residue levels were also found significantly correlated to occupation. However, there was no significant correlation between gender and pesticides. Meanwhile, it is interesting to find that mortality of malignant tumors tends to associate with the pesticides levels in human adipose tissue. More importantly, the measured data presented in this study provide realistic information which is useful for assessing human exposure to pesticides in the general population of Southeast China.

Mussel watch program for organic contaminants along the Korean coast, 2001-2007

The level and extent of organic contaminants along the Korean coast were estimated through the mussel watch program, established in 2001. Mussels and oysters were collected at 20 sites along the Korean coast in 2001 and at 25 sites from 2002 to 2007. The mussel tissues were analyzed for PCBs, organochlorine presticides, PAHs, BTs, and PCDD/Fs. PCBs, PAHs, BTs, and PCDD/Fs were ubiquitous contaminants along the Korean coast, showing mean detection frequencies of more than 95% over 7 years. The concentrations of organic contaminants in mussels along the Korean coast were relatively low or moderate compared with foreign studies. Concentrations of DDTs, PCBs, and PCDD/Fs were below the action or maximum levels for humans established by USFDA and EU. Elevated concentrations above the 85th percentile were found for PCBs, PAHs, BTs, and PCDD/Fs at sites near industrial complexes or big harbors, for HCHs at sites near non-industrial complexes, and for DDTs at sites near both non-industrial and industrial complexes. Using two nonparametric tests to assess temporal trends, the Spearman test revealed that BTs and PCDD/Fs had significant decreasing trends at four sites (Gwangyang Bay, Cheonsu Bay, Garorym Bay, and the Incheon coast) and at six sites (Hupo coast, Guryongpo coast, eastern part of Geojedo, Gunsan coast, Garorym Bay, and Asan Bay), respectively.

Hexachlorobenzene sources, levels and human exposure in the environment of China

This article summarizes the published scientific data on sources, levels and human exposure of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) in China. Potential sources of unintended HCB emission were assessed by production information, emission factors and environmental policies. HCB was observed in various environmental compartments in China. HCB levels increased from South China to North China in most of environmental compartments (air, soil and mussel). Some hotspots were identified near the factories producing and using HCB. In terms of spatial distribution, HCB concentrations in air and shellfish showed much variation, which indicated some primary emission sources in China. HCB levels in air and human milk in China were relatively higher than those in other countries, but HCB levels in other compartments were similar to those in Europe and other countries in Eastern Asia. In the limited studies on temporal trends of HCB levels in China, HCB concentrations in air, sediment, fish and human milk did not show a consistent downward trend. Although HCB levels in food and human milk does not pose a health risk in China at present, long-term exposure to HCB should not be overlooked.

Dioxin and dioxin-like PCB profiles in the serum of industrial and municipal waste incinerator workers in Korea

To assess occupational exposure, we determined the concentrations of PCDD/Fs and PCBs in human serum samples from 26 incinerator workers (10 industrial waste and 16 municipal solid waste incinerator workers), 38 residents near the facilities and 7 inhabitants (as control subjects) living over 10 km away from any incinerator facilities in Korea. The mean TEQ(WHO) levels of PCDD/Fs in the industrial and MSWI workers were 41.57 and 9.86 pg TEQ(WHO) g(-1) lipid, respectively. For the residents, the mean TEQ(WHO) was 13.47 pg TEQ(WHO) g(-1) lipid (residents near IWI, MSWI, and control subjects: 17.64, 13.31, and 6.91 pg TEQ(WHO) g(-1) lipid). Higher levels of certain PCDD/F congeners, mainly PCDFs, were detected in the serum of industrial incinerator workers in comparison to the levels measured in the residents. Significant differences were observed for PCDFs, the major compounds were OCDF, 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF, and the minor components 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF, 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF, and 2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF (p<0.01). The PCDD/F congener patterns and concentrations measured in the 71 serum samples examined suggest that the industrial incinerator workers were exposed to PCDD/Fs in the workplace, possibly through inhalation and/or skin contact. In contrast, the levels and congener patterns of PCBs measured were similar in all subjects, indicating that workers from the incinerator facilities examined were not subjected to additional exposure to these compounds.

Distribution of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in human serum from urban areas in Korea

Concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in serum samples from residents of a Korean urban area (Seoul). This study was performed on 40 Koreans in the general population, aged 27-58, who had resided in urban areas for more than 10 years without occupational exposure to organochlorine pollutants. To our knowledge, this study was the first report on serum concentrations of OCPs in Korean residents. p,p'-DDE, beta-HCH, p,p'-DDT, HCB, and trans-nonachlor were the dominant OCPs in most samples. In addition, concentrations of 22 OCPs were measured by the isotope dilution method with GC-HRMS, which gave accurate and precise data for investigations of trend and international comparisons. The dominant PCBs were PCB153, 138, 180, 187, and PCB118, which contributed 60% to total PCBs. The median concentrations of total OCPs and total PCBs were 315 ng g(-1) lipid and 104 ng g(-1) lipid, respectively. In females, the serum concentrations of all determined organochlorine compounds except beta-HCH were positively correlated with age, and higher concentrations of organochlorine pollutants were found in males than in females. Compared to our previous studies, PCB concentrations in serum from urban areas have substantially decreased during the last decade leading to the observation that the strict regulation of PCBs was helpful in controlling the concentration of PCBs in the environment. Extensive monitoring programs are required for evaluating the concentrations of OCPs and PCBs in serum samples of the general population as an indicator of possible adverse health effects.

TEQ(S) and body burden for PCDDs, PCDFs, and dioxin-like PCBs in human adipose tissue

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), mono-ortho and non-ortho polychlorinated biphenyls (dioxin-like PCBs) were determined in samples of human fat tissue from nine Italian obese patients. The toxicity equivalent (TEQ) values ranged from 9 to 25 pg TEQ g(-1) lipid (WHO-TEF values, 2005 [Van den Berg, M., Birnbaum, L.S., Denison, M., De Vito, M., Farland, W., Feeley, M., Fiedler, H., Hakansson, H., Hanberg, A., Haws, L., Rose, M., Safe, S., Schrenk, D., Tohyama, C., Tritscher, A., Tuomisto, J., Tysklind, M., Walker, N., Peterson, R.E., 2006. The 2005 World Health Organization reevaluation of human and mammalian Toxic Equivalency Factors for dioxins and dioxin-like compounds. Toxicol. Sci. 93, 223-241]), the contribution of dioxin-like PCBs was more than 30% of the total TEQ values. The obese body burdens varied from 6 to 11 ng TEQ kg(-1) body weight (BW), exceeding the estimated steady-state body burden 5 ng TEQ kg(-1) BW, based on lipid adjusted serum concentrations from several populations in the mid-1990s, calculated in the risk assessment US EPA document.

PCB pollution of early milk in the Province of Vojvodina

Seven EPA PCB congeners (28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, and 180) were determined in samples of early human milk collected from 18 mothers in Novi Sad, using GC-ECD (HP 5890) supplied with a Quadra fused silica column 5% Ph for PCBs. The sum of seven PCB congeners was 3.26±3.90 (X¯±S.D.), median 1.25, range 0.4-14.31 and the range of individual congeners was for: 28: 0.04-0.37; 52: 0.04-0.44, 101: 0.04-1.21; 118: 0.05-0.62; 138: 0.13-4.61; 153: 0.13-4.81; 180: 0.10-3.07, ng/g wet. No correlation was found between maternal age and seven PCB congeners. In two primiparous mothers below 30 years, the sum of seven PCB congeners was three to fourfold, and in one multiparous twofold higher than the average for the group. Unchanged level of assumed total PCBs in early human milk in 2003, compared with measured total PCBs in 1993, suggest the continuous inlet of these chemicals into the environment.

Concentration and distribution of dioxins and related compounds in human tissues

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin, polychlorinated dibenzofuran and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations in human blood, lung, liver, bile, pancreas, spleen, kidney and mesentery fat were determined to assess the concentrations and distribution of these chemicals in human tissues from 20 donors. The mean TEQ concentrations in blood, lung, liver, bile, spleen, pancreas, kidney and mesentery fat were 119, 178, 228, 50, 113, 163, 138 and 139 pg TEQ/g lipid, respectively. Parallel levels were seen in the blood, spleen, kidney and mesentery fat; in the lungs and pancreas, the levels were somewhat higher. Among the organ tissues samples, the highest concentration was observed in the liver and the lowest in the bile. Mean total-TEQ concentration of the liver was about 4.5 times higher than that of bile. Positive correlations were observed among the concentrations of dioxins in various tissues. However, the concentrations in bile were not correlated with any tissues. It is suggested that the distribution behavior of dioxin-like congeners in human tissues varies among tissues and the kinds of congeners ingested. To evaluate the relationship between the accumulation levels of dioxins and their pathophysiological significance or risk, data must be accumulated from a more extensive group of human samples.

Concentration of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans and dioxin-like PCBs in human adipose tissue from Turkish men

There is no previous report from Turkey on chemically determined polychlorinated dibenzo-para-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in human tissues expressed as World Health Organization (WHO) toxic equivalents (TEQs). The objective of this study was to determine the occurrence of PCDDs/Fs, and dioxin-like PCBs in the general adult Turkish population. For this reason we measured adipose tissue concentrations of PCDDs/Fs and dioxin-like PCBs in 23 Turkish men living in Ankara,Turkey in 2004. PCDD/F concentrations ranged between 3.2 and 19.7 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat (5.34 and 42.7 WHO-TEQ/g fat, respectively, including dioxin-like PCBs). The mean concentrations of WHO(PCDD/F)-TEQ and WHO(PCB)-TEQ were 9.2 and 6.67 pg/g on a lipid basis , respectively. Samples were analyzed for PCDD/F and twelve dioxin-like PCB congeners using high resolution gas chromatography/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS). This study is very important since it is the first report on PCDDs/Fs and dioxin-like PCB contamination in human adipose tissue from Turkey.

Levels of persistent organic pollutant residues in human adipose and muscle tissues in Singapore

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), due to their persistence and bioconcentration in lipid-rich tissue, bioaccumulate in food chains, resulting in elevated concentrations in humans. This study was performed to determine and compare levels of POPs in human adipose and muscle tissues in the female population of Singapore. In total, 36 human adipose tissues and 8 human muscle tissues were collected from volunteer expectant mothers admitted to the National University Hospital Singapore for cesarean section delivery between August 2003 and January 2005. Samples were analyzed using a validated and quality-assured gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) method in conjunction with microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). Analytes recoveries from certified reference materials, that is, IRMM-446 (polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs] in pork fat) and BCR-430 (organochlorine pesticides in pork fat), were between 70 and 130%, indicating reliable analytical precision for this methodology. MAE efficiency for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) was compared to Soxhlet extraction (SE) efficiency and yielded comparable results (variation < 13%). Analytical results indicate that p,p'-DDE of the dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) residues group is the predominant compound in adipose tissue, followed by beta-hexachlorocyclohexane (beta-HCH) among HCH isomers, then hexachlorobenzene (HCB) compound and specific PCB and PBDE congeners. Among the 36 adipose tissues, the lipid contents in adipose tissue were in the range of 60% to 95%, while in the 8 muscle tissues, lipids were undetectable. However, the profile of PCBs and pesticide residues present in muscle tissues were similar to those in adipose tissues.

Persistent organic pollutants and adverse health effects in humans

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are synthetic chemicals that have an intrinsic resistance to natural degradation processes, and are therefore environmentally persistent. The introduction of POPs into the environment from anthropogenic activities resulted in their widespread dispersal and accumulation in soils and water bodies, as well as in human and ecological food chains, where they are known to induce toxic effects. Due to their ubiquity in the environment and lipophilic properties, there is mounting concern over the potential risks of human exposure to POPs. This has led to the establishment of monitoring programs worldwide to determine prevailing levels of POPs in the population and to investigate the adverse health risks associated with background exposure. This article reviews the state of knowledge regarding residual levels of POPs in human adipose tissue worldwide, and highlights research data for POPs in the environment and human maternal adipose tissue in Singapore. Although concentrations are comparable to those observed elsewhere, longer term monitoring of a larger cross section of the population is warranted in order to establish temporal trends and potential risks to human health.

Human blood monitoring program in Japan: contamination and bioaccumulation of persistent organochlorines in Japanese residents

Concentrations of persistent organochlorines (OCs)-such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane (DDT) and its metabolites (DDTs), hexachlorocyclohexane isomers (HCHs), chlordane compounds (CHLs), hexachlorobenzene, and tris(4-chlorophenyl)methane [TCPMe]-were determined in plasma samples from residents of three sub-metropolitan locations in Japan (Miyako, Saku, and Tottori) for the purpose of studying the geographic variation and specific accumulation of OCs. Residue concentrations of PCBs and DDTs were the highest in samples collected in Saku (400 and 370 ng/g lipid wt, respectively) whereas samples from Miyako contained greater CHL residues (70 ng/g lipid wt) than those from the other two locations. This contamination pattern reflects the historic use of OCs in each area. For the first time, tris (4-chlorophenyl) methane (TCPMe) concentrations were detected in most of the plasma sample analyzed. Concentrations of TCPMe which ranged from <0.1 to 8.1 ng/g lipid wt eight, were lower than those previouly reported in other human tissue. Larger geographic differences in OC accumulation were observed for PCBs and CHLs, whereas DDTs and HCHs exhibited little variability. PCB concentrations in samples from Saku residents were higher than those from residents of countries in the circumpolar Arctic region but lower than those reported for some populations in the United States and Western European countries. Interestingly, CHL residue concentrations in human blood from Japan are among the highest values reported for the countries examined, suggesting continued increased exposure to CHLs of the Japanese population. Time-trend analysis of CHLs in human blood samples from Miyako (Okinawa prefecture) showed that CHL residues have decreased substantially during the last decade, indicating the effect of the official ban of CHLs in 1986 in Japan. Isomer-specific analysis of PCBs revealed lower proportions of higher chlorinated congeners such as hepta- and octachlorobiphenyls in women than in men, suggesting the possibility of preferential elimination of higher chlorinated biphenyls in women. The difference in sex-dependent accumulation of OC compounds in healthy and ill persons was suggested. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the specific accumulation of persistent QCs, including TCPMe, in human blood samples from Japan.

Polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides in human adipose tissue and breast milk collected in Hong Kong

Contamination from persistent organic pollutants is a pervasive global problem that urgently demands global concern and action. In the present study, concentrations of organochlorine (OC) pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in 37 samples of female adipose tissue collected in Hong Kong hospitals. Among the pollutants analyzed, DDTs (2.79 ng/g fat), HCHs (0.72 ng/g fat), and PCBs (0.19 ng/g fat) were prominent compounds in most of the adipose tissue. p,p'-DDE and hexachlorinated biphenyls were found in all samples, whereas heptachlor epoxide and dieldrin were found only in some samples. An estimation of toxic equivalency concentration (TEQ) due to dioxin-like coplanar PCBs was also performed. The estimated TEQ(PCBs) was 2.01 pg/g fat. This study also compared our previous results obtained from the milk samples of the same donors. Significant correlations are obtained for DDTs and HCHs between milk and adipose tissue. Detailed review of available information concerning OC pesticides and PCBs in different ecological compartments indicated that bioconcentration and biomagnification of these contaminants are common phenomena of the Pearl River Delta region, which has undergone rapid socioeconomic change in the past 20 years. It is suggested to establish a regional organization in order to coordinate the monitoring of persistent organic pollutants in the region.

Distribution of organochlorines and PCB congeners in Korean human tissues

In order to investigate the residual amounts of organochlorines and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in Korean human tissues (blood, adipose tissue, liver, kidney cortex, and lung), the samples were collected from the autopsied cadavers of 40 men and 40 women (from teens to seventies of age). Alpha-BHC, beta-BHC, gamma-BHC, delta-BHC, p,p'-DDT, p,p'-DDD, p,p'-DDE, endrin, dieldein, aldrin, and 7 marker PCBs (28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, and 180) were determined in human tissues. The levels of organochlorines and PCB congeners indicated that they have been widely distributed in Korean human body. Positive correlations in terms of age were observed for the following cases: p,p'-DDE, p,p'-DDT, Sigma-DDT, PCB 118, PCB 138, PCB 153, and Sigma-PCB in the adipose tissue, and p,p'-DDE in the lung. Concentration of these compounds showed a significant age-related increase. Accumulation of these compounds in aged people revealed that these compounds were more slowly eliminated in our environment and risk assessment was necessary for further proper action. Significant differences in the levels of PCBs between genders were found for PCB 118 in the adipose tissue and PCB 138 in the liver. Positive correlation coefficients between tissues were detected with p,p'-DDE and p-BHC.

PCDD/F and non-ortho PCB concentrations in adipose tissue of individuals living in the vicinity of a hazardous waste incinerator

To assess the influence of a new hazardous waste incinerator (HWI) on public health, a preoperational monitoring program was established during the period of construction. In this study, the levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD) and dibenzofurans (PCDF) accumulated in adipose tissue of 15 autopsied subjects living in the area under potential impact of the HWI were determined after approximately 3 years of regular operations in the facility. The non-ortho PCBs 77, 126 and 169 were also determined. PCDD/F concentrations ranged between 1.5 and 41 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat (2.4 and 72 WHO-TEQ/g fat, respectively, including PCBs), with a mean value of 11 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat and a median value of 7.4 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat (22 and 13 WHO-TEQ/g fat, respectively, including PCBs). In the baseline study, the mean level of PCDD/Fs was 36 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat (61 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat, including non-ortho PCBs 77, 126 and 169), which means a reduction of 70% (64% including PCBs). This notable reduction is in accordance with the important decrease observed in recent years in PCDD/F intake through the diet. The current concentrations of PCDD/Fs in human adipose tissue, as well as recent data on PCDD/F levels in plasma and breast milk of subjects living in the vicinity of the same HWI, indicate that there is not any additional significant exposure to PCDD/Fs for this population.

Levels and chiral signatures of persistent organochlorine pollutants in human tissues from Belgium

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were measured in human tissue samples including muscle, liver, brain, and kidney. The samples were obtained at autopsy in 2000-2001 from three women and eight men from Belgium, aged between 5 and 76 years. The measured PCBs included 23 ortho-substituted congeners and 3 non-ortho-substituted congeners (PCB 77, PCB 126, and PCB 169). The mean concentrations of SigmaPCBs were 29.4, 35.3, 10.6, and 11.8 ng/g wet wt in liver, muscle, kidney, and brain, respectively. HCB, gamma-HCH, beta-HCH, p,p'-DDE, and p,p'-DDD were found in all samples, while p,p'-DDT could only be found in one liver sample. The most abundant pesticide was p,p'-DDE. PCB 153 and PCB 180 were the main ortho-substituted congeners found in all the samples, while the concentration of the congeners with less than three chlorine atoms was below the limit of determination. In 10 of 18 tissues, the concentrations of PCB 169 were higher than the concentration of PCB 126. These results are consistent with the order of half-life of these congeners in humans and indicate that a steady state had been reached in these subjects. The enantiomeric compositions of alpha-HCH and chiral PCBs, including PCB 95, PCB 132, and PCB 149, were also measured. alpha-HCH was found to be racemic in three liver samples, while chiral PCB 95, PCB 149, and 132 showed racemic or nearly racemic compositions in muscle, kidney, and brain. Higher enatiomeric ratios (ERs) for the three chiral PCBs were found in liver samples. The mean (range) ERs in liver were 1.69 (1.04-2.97), 1.16 (0.99-1.41), and 0.74 (0.48-0.97) for PCB 95, PCB 149, and PCB 132, respectively.

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans and non-ortho, mono-ortho chlorine substituted biphenyls in Japanese human liver and adipose tissue

We measured PCDDs/DFs levels in Japanese human livers and adipose tissues in 1999, and TEQ were calculated with WHO TEF. The mean total levels of PCDDs/DFs in livers and adipose tissues were 57 pg TEQ/g on a lipid basis and 49 pg TEQ/g on a lipid basis, respectively. 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD, 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD, OCDD, 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF, 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF, 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF, 2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF, 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF and 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF concentrations in livers considerably differed from those in 1989 (p < 0.05). The mean non-ortho-chlorine substituted biphenyls levels showed 20 pg TEQ/g on a lipid basis and 17 pg TEQ/g on a lipid basis in livers and adipose tissues, respectively. In livers, the mean of 3,3',4,4'-TCB concentrations was 131 pg/g on a lipid basis, and 7.7-fold higher than that in 1989. The mean total mono-ortho-chlorine substituted biphenyls level was 13.0 pg TEQ/g on a lipid basis in livers and 21.6 pg TEQ/g on a lipid basis in adipose tissues. 3,3',4,4',5-PeCB and 3,3',4,4',5,5'-HxCB levels decreased in adipose tissues, and 3,3',4,4',5-PeCB level only decreased in livers. PCDDs, PCDFs, and mono- and non-ortho-chlorine substituted biphenyls levels may have decreased in livers and adipose tissues because of a governmental policy on dioxins discharge for the decade. Then, we estimated the correlations of PCDDs, PCDFs and the related compound levels between livers and adipose tissues. The correlative PCDDs congeners may have had a similar behavior to that between liver and adipose tissue. On the contrary, most PCDFs isomers may have different behavior between liver and adipose tissue, while 2',3,4,4',5-PeCB (IUPAC No. 123) may also have a different behavior between liver and adipose tissue.

Congener-distribution patterns and risk assessment of polychlorinated biphenyls, dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in Korean human milk

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and biphenyls (PCBs) were analyzed by high-resolution gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry in human milk samples from an urban and an industrial area in Korea. All PCB congeners were analyzed to characterize the congener distribution as well as to evaluate the toxic equivalent quotient (TEQ) values and the total concentration. In homologue distributions of PCBs, two distinct patterns were found. The mean concentrations of PCDD/Fs and PCBs were 15.13 and 5.64 TEQ pg/g fat (based on WHO TEF, 1997), respectively. The contamination in Korean human milk is comparable to that found in other countries. From these results a daily intake of 60 TEQ pg/kg/day for an infant was estimated. The assumptions were that the infant breast feeds for 1 year, has an average body weight of 10 kg during this period, and ingests 800 g/day of human milk containing a mean concentration of 20.84 TEQ (PCDD/Fs) pg/g fat (based on primipara mothers).

PCDDs, PCDFs, and PCBs concentrations in breast milk from two areas in Korea: body burden of mothers and implications for feeding infants

We determined breast milk concentration of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs)/polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in 24 mothers living in Korea, and assessed the maternal body burden based on PCDDs/PCDFs and PCBs concentrations in breast milk and an infant intake rate through breast-feeding based on their concentration in breast milk. PCDDs/PCDFs and PCBs levels in breast milk from primipara mothers were found to be higher than those from multipara mothers. For total PCDDs/PCDFs TEQ level, 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDD was the predominant congener, and the proportion of 2,3,7,8-TCDD was less than 3% of total PCDDs/PCDFs TEQ level. For PCBs TEQ level, PCB-126 was the predominant congener. Maternal body burden levels of PCDDs/PCDFs and PCBs based on their concentrations in breast milk were 268-622 TEQ ng. The daily dioxin intakes of mothers were predicted to be 0.78-2.18 TEQ pg/kg/day for PCDDs/PCDFs and 0.34-0.66 TEQ pg/kg/ day for PCBs. For the first year, the body burden of an infant was predicted to be 212 TEQ ng and the daily intake of an infant was predicted to be 85 TEQ pg/kg/day, assuming the mean dioxin-related compounds concentration (27.54 TEQ pg/g fat).

Identification and quantification of polychlorinated biphenyls and some endocrine disrupting pesticides in human adipose tissue from Finland

Organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were analysed in extracts of human adipose tissue. The samples consisted of abdominal, mammary, and perirenal fat tissue of 27 Finnish adult males and females. Lipids were separated from the low-molecular compounds by preparative gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and the extracts were further cleaned-up using Florisil chromatography. The compounds were analysed in the extracts by gas chromatography (GC) using electron capture detection and by GC-mass spectrometry in the selected ion monitoring mode. Of the 23 analysed pesticide residues only seven could be detected in the extracts. All the extracts contained the DDT metabolite 4,4'-DDE, hexachlorobenzene, and PCBs. Other compounds found in the extracts were 4,4'-DDT, 4,4'-DDD, pentachlorobenzene, and beta- and gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH). The antiandrogenic 4,4'-DDE was the most abundant pesticide with concentration levels ranging from 3.5 to 3229 ng/g lipids (ppb). The mean concentration of DDE was 567 ppb, of pesticides in all 1008 ppb and of PCBs 504 ppb. Several of the identified compounds have been shown to exhibit endocrine disrupting effects. Statistical analysis showed a positive age correlation of DDE in females and hexachlorobenzene in males. No statistically significant differences were found for concentrations of individual compounds between sexes.

Dioxins in adipose tissue of non-occupationally exposed persons in France: correlation with individual food exposure

We evaluated individual adipose tissue (subcutaneous lipomas) dioxin contamination in non-occupationally exposed persons living in France (adult patients undergoing a surgical ablation of benign lipomas), in relation to the corresponding individually evaluated mean daily dietary dioxin intake (DDDI). The diet survey (questionnaire) included information on consumption of meat, fish, milk and dairy products, from which the individual DDDI was calculated. Sixteen subjects participated in this study. DDDI ranged between 1.06 and 3.31 pg I-TEQ/kg body weight, bw (mean value: 2.05+/-0.72). Adipose tissue polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD)/polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF) levels ranged between 18.5 and 76.9 pg I-TEQ/g lipids (mean value: 35.6+/-14.8). No relation was found between the DDDI and adipose tissue PCDD/PCDF concentrations. The mean DDDI in France does not fundamentally differ from those found in other industrialised countries, is within the range of 1-4 pg I-TEQ/kg/day recently suggested by WHO-ECEH/ICPS for the tolerable daily intake of dioxins. Adipose tissue PCDD/PCDFs levels are similar to levels in other European countries and USA without relation to sex or age, and can be considered representative European background concentrations. Globalisation of alimentary production leads to a similar food exposure in Western European countries, in spite of dioxins accidental selective contaminations that are epiphenomenon and thus do not have any impact in human dioxin background levels.

Environmental contamination with polychlorinated biphenyls in the area of their former manufacture in Slovakia

Evidently increased environmental pollution as a consequence of the 25-year manufacture of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in eastern Slovakia was observed. PCB levels determined in ambient air, soil, surface water, bottom sediment, wildlife (fish and game) samples collected in a potentially contaminated area of about 250 km2 (a part of the Michalovce district) were compared with those determined in a control area (Stropkov district). Up to 1700 ng/m3 were found in ambient air in a village close to a manufacturer's dumping site and a highly contaminated manufacturer's effluent canal whereas PCB concentrations in ambient air samples taken in villages in the control area were about 80 ng/m3 only. While soil samples taken from the agricultural fields of the polluted area contained PCBs at levels comparable with soil samples from the control area (about 0.008 mg/kg) much higher values (from 0.4 to 53,000 mg/kg) were determined in soil taken in the vicinity of manufacturer's landfill and storage sites and especially plants preparing asphalted gravel using formerly PCBs in their heat-exchanging systems. The contamination of the Laborec river and large Zemplinska Sirava reservoir is caused by the manufacturer's effluent canal since PCB levels in the canal sediment are still to be found about 3000 mg/kg. While PCB levels in sediment samples from Michalovce watercourses ranged between 1.7 and 6 mg/kg, sediment samples from the control Stropkov district ranged between 0.007 and 0.052 mg/kg only. Fish living in contaminated Michalovce waters contained about hundred times higher PCB levels than those caught in Stropkov ones. Similarly, game animals shot in Michalovce forests contained several times higher levels than those shot in Stropkov ones.

Recent developments in the high-resolution gas chromatography of polychlorinated biphenyls

The capillary gas chromatography of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is reviewed. Focus is on the most recent developments in the separation and detection of PCBs rather than sample preparation methods. Included are a comprehensive look at stationary phases that have been used to separate PCBs and the relatively new work on chiral separations of PCBs. Mass spectrometry and atomic emission are presented as selective detection techniques. Suggestions for additional research are proposed where appropriate.

Dioxin and dibenzofuran concentrations in adipose tissue of a general population from Tarragona, Spain

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDD) and polychlorinated dibenzofuran (PCDF) levels were determined in adipose tissue of 15 autopsied subjects who at the time of death had lived in the city of Tarragona (Catalonia, Spain) and surroundings during at least the last 10 years. PCDD/F concentrations ranged between 13.37 and 69.37 ng I-TEQ/kg fat, with mean and median values of 30.98 and 26.30 ng I-TEQ/kg fat, respectively. PCDD/F concentrations were higher (p < 0.01) in women (mean value: 44.95 ng I-TEQ/kg fat) than in men (mean value: 24.00 ng I-TEQ/kg fat). Although individuals living in industrial areas showed higher PCDD/F levels than those living Tarragona downtown the difference was not statistically significant. When Principal Component Analysis was applied to the concentrations of PCDD/Fs found in the 15 adipose tissue samples together with those found in 20 blood samples collected in a previous study, a single two-dimensional model was obtained, which would explain 62.9% of the variance in the data. The PCDD/F concentrations in adipose tissue found in the current study are of the same order of magnitude than those reported for most industrialized countries.