Leisa-Maree Toms

Elevated levels of PFOS and PFHxS in firefighters exposed to aqueous film forming foam (AFFF)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2015.05.005

Abstract: Exposure to aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) was evaluated in 149 firefighters working at AFFF training facilities in Australia by analysis of PFOS and related compounds in serum. A questionnaire was designed to capture information about basic demographic factors, lifestyle factors and potential occupational exposure (such as work history and self-reported skin contact with foam). The results showed that a number of factors were associated with PFAA serum concentrations. Blood donation was found to be linked to low PFAA levels, and the concentrations of PFOS and PFHxS were found to be positively associated with years of jobs with AFFF contact. The highest levels of PFOS and PFHxS were one order of magnitude higher compared to the general population in Australia and Canada. Study participants who had worked ten years or less had levels of PFOS that were similar to or only slightly above those of the general population. This coincides with the phase out of 3M AFFF from all training facilities in 2003, and suggests that the exposures to PFOS and PFHxS in AFFF have declined in recent years. Self-reporting of skin contact and frequency of contact were used as an index of exposure. Using this index, there was no relationship between PFOS levels and skin exposure. This index of exposure is limited as it relies on self-report and it only considers skin exposure to AFFF, and does not capture other routes of potential exposure. Possible associations between serum PFAA concentrations and five biochemical outcomes were assessed. The outcomes were serum cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoproteins, low density lipoproteins, and uric acid. No statistical associations between any of these endpoints and serum PFAA concentrations were observed.

Application of ensemble methods to analyse the decline of organochlorine pesticides in relation to the interactions between age, gender and time

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 13-11-2019

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0223956

Corrigendum to “Environmental health risk assessment of dioxin in foods at the two most severe dioxin hot spots in Vietnam” [Int. J. Hyg. Environ. Health 218 (2015) 471–478]

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHEH.2017.12.006

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Australia: Current levels and estimated population reference values for selected compounds

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHEH.2019.03.004

Abstract: Increased public awareness of PFAS contamination in Australia has resulted in serum biomonitoring efforts in in iduals in potentially affected communities. However, population-based reference values for assessing whether in idual results exceed the typical range in the Australian general population are not currently available. Estimate population upper bound reference values based on updated serum PFAS concentrations in pooled s les from southeast Queensland, Australia and population variation observed in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) datasets. We calculated ratios of 95th percentile to arithmetic mean (P95:AM ratios) using data from the NHANES 2013-14 and 2015-16 cycle s les for frequently detected PFASs: PFOA, linear and branched PFOS, perfluorononanoate (PFNA), perfluorodecanoate (PFDA), and perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHxS). We estimated Australian age-specific means for PFAS using pooled serum s les collected in 2014-15 and 2016-17. We used the P95:AM ratios to estimate 95th percentile concentrations in the Australian population based on the results of the 2016-17 pooled s les. P95:AM ratios for each PFAS were similar across NHANES cycle and age group, so overall compound-specific ratios were estimated for PFOA (2.1), PFNA (2.4), PFDA (2.7), PFHxS (2.7), and linear (2.4) and summed PFOS (2.3). Australian mean PFAS concentrations continued previously reported declining trends. The estimated P95 values can be used as preliminary substitutes for more rigorous population reference values to identify s les with clearly elevated serum PFAS concentrations in Australian biomonitoring efforts. Given uncertainties and variability inherent in this evaluation, the estimated P95 values should be interpreted with caution. Mean and estimated P95 serum PFAS concentrations in Australia should continue to be monitored to document declining trends in population serum concentrations.

Serum concentration trends and apparent half-lives of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Australian firefighters

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHEH.2022.114040

Abstract: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are persistent manmade compounds used in aqueous film forming foam (AFFF). The extensive use of AFFF has led to widespread environmental PFAS contamination and exposures of firefighters. To determine PFAS blood serum concentration trends and apparent serum half-lives in firefighters after the replacement of AFFF. Current and former employees of an Australian corporation providing firefighting services, where AFFF formulations had been used since the 1980s up until 2010, were recruited in 2018-2019 to participate in this study. Special focus was put on re-recruiting participants who had provided blood s les five years prior (2013-2014). Participants were asked to provide a blood s le and fill in a questionnaire. Serum s les were analysed for 40 different PFASs using HP LC-MS/MS. A total of 799 participants provided blood s les in 2018-2019. Of these, 130 previously provided blood serum in 2013-2014. In 2018-2019, mean (arithmetic) serum concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS, 27 ng/mL), perfluoroheptane sulfonate (PFHpS, 1.7 ng/mL) and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS, 14 ng/mL) were higher than the levels in the general Australian population. Serum concentrations were associated with the use of PFOS/PFHxS based AFFF. Participants who commenced service after the replacement of this foam had serum concentrations similar to those in the general population. Mean (arithmetic) in idual apparent half-lives were estimated to be 5.0 years (perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)), 7.8 years (PFHxS), 7.4 years (PFHpS) and 6.5 years (PFOS). This study shows how workplace interventions such as replacement of AFFF can benefit employees at risk of occupational exposure.

Persistent organic pollutants in matched breast milk and infant faeces samples

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2014.09.076

Abstract: Assessing blood concentration of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in infants is difficult due to the ethical and practical difficulties in obtaining sufficient quantities of blood. To determine whether measuring POPs in faeces might reflect blood concentration during infancy, we measured the concentrations of a range of POPs (i.e. polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs)) in a pilot study using matched breast milk and infant faecal s les obtained from ten mother–child pairs. All infants were breast fed, with 8 of them also receiving solid food at the time of faecal s ling. In this small dataset faecal concentrations (range 0.01–41 ng g(−1) lipid) are strongly associated with milk concentrations (range 0.02–230 ng g(−1) lipid). Associations with other factors generally could not be detected in this dataset, with the exception of a small effect of age or growth. Different sources (external or internal) of exposure appeared to directly influence faecal concentrations of different chemicals based on different inter-in idual variability in the faeces-to-milk concentration ratio Rfm. Overall, the matrix of faeces as an external measure of internal exposure in infants looks promising for some chemicals and is worth assessing further in larger datasets.

Response to “An assessment of the human health risks from exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in house dust” by Marek Banasik et al.

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2009.08.019

Insights into PBDE uptake, body burden, and elimination gained from Australian age–Concentration trends observed shortly after peak exposure

Publisher: Environmental Health Perspectives

Date: 10-2015

DOI: 10.1289/EHP.1408960

Serum elimination half-lives adjusted for ongoing exposure of tri-to hexabrominated diphenyl ethers: Determined in persons moving from North America to Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2020.125905

Dioxin risk reduction programme at the most severe dioxin hot spot in Vietnam: Residual knowledge, attitude and practices five years post intervention

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 03-08-2016

DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2015.1062904

Abstract: Bien Hoa Airbase was one of the bulk storage and supply facilities for defoliants during the Vietnam War. Environmental and biological s les taken around the airbase have elevated levels of dioxin. In 2007, a pre-intervention knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) survey of local residents living in Trung Dung and Tan Phong wards was undertaken regarding appropriate strategies to reduce dioxin exposure. A risk reduction programme was implemented in 2008 and post-intervention KAP surveys were undertaken in 2009 and 2013 to evaluate the longer term impacts. Quantitative assessment was undertaken via a KAP survey in 2013 among 600 local residents randomly selected from the two intervention wards and one control ward (Buu Long). Eight in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions were also undertaken for qualitative assessment. Most programme activities had ceased and dioxin risk communication activities had not been integrated into local routine health education programmes however, main results generally remained and were better than that in Buu Long. In total, 48.2% of households undertook measures to prevent exposure, higher than those in pre- and post-intervention surveys (25.8% and 39.7%) and the control ward (7.7%). Migration and the sensitive nature of dioxin issues were the main challenges for the programme's sustainability.

Analysis of urinary metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and cotinine in pooled urine samples to determine the exposure to PAHs in an Australian population.

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2019.109048

Abstract: Our previous biomonitoring study of hydroxylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OH-PAHs) in a population in Australia found high levels of 1-naphthol, a metabolite of both naphthalene and carbaryl, in some adult s les. Here, we conducted a follow-up study to collect and analyse pooled urine s les, stratified by age and sex, from 2014 to 2017 using a GC-MS method. Geometric mean concentrations of 1-hydroxypyrene, the most common biomarker of PAH exposure, were 100 and 120 ng/L urine in 2014-2015 and 2016-2017, respectively. The concentrations of most OH-PAHs in this study except 1-naphthol are in line with those reported by biomonitoring programs in the US and Canada. In general, concentrations of OH-PAHs are lower in s les from small children (0-4 years) and school-aged children (5-14 years) compared with s les from the older age groups, except for some cases in the recent monitoring period. The concentrations of 1-naphthol in some adult s les of both sexes are very high, which is consistent with our previous findings. Such high concentrations of 1-naphthol together with the high 1-naphthol/2-naphthol ratio suggest potential exposure to the insecticide carbaryl in this population but other exposure sources and different rates of naphthalene metabolism should also be investigated.

The influence of age and gender on triclosan concentrations in Australian human blood serum

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2007.12.006

Abstract: The bactericide triclosan has found wide-spread use in e.g. soaps, deodorants and toothpastes. Recent in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that triclosan might exert adverse effects in humans. Triclosan has previously been shown to be present in human plasma and milk at concentrations that are well correlated to the use of personal care products containing triclosan. In this study we investigated the influence of age, gender, and the region of residence on triclosan concentrations in pooled s les of Australian human blood serum. The results showed no influence of region of residence on the concentrations of triclosan. There was a small but significant influence of age and gender on the serum triclosan concentrations, which were higher in males than in females, and highest in the group of 31-45 year old males and females. However, overall there was a lack of pronounced differences in the triclosan concentrations within the dataset, which suggests that the exposure to triclosan among different groups of the Australian population is relatively homogenous. A selection of the dataset was compared with previous measurements of triclosan concentrations in human plasma from Sweden, where the use of triclosan is expected to be low due to consumer advisories. The triclosan concentrations were a factor of 2 higher in Australian serum than in Swedish plasma.

Monitoring the levels of brominated and organophosphate flame retardants in passenger cars: Utilisation of car air filters as active samplers

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.JES.2020.01.014

Monthly variation in faeces:blood concentration ratio of persistent organic pollutants over the first year of life: a case study of one infant

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2016.02.017

Abstract: Previous studies have found that the concentrations of a range of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in faeces is linearly proportional to the POP concentrations in blood of human adults irrespective of age and gender. In order to investigate the correlation between POP concentrations in faeces and blood in infants, the monthly variation of POP concentrations in faeces over the first year of life of one infant was investigated in this study and compared to modelled blood concentrations. Faecal s les were collected from one male infant daily. The s les were pooled by month and analysed for three selected POPs (2,2('),4,4('),5,5(')-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB153), p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) and 2,2('),4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE47)). The POP concentrations in faecal s les increased for the first four months by a factor of 2.9, 4.9 and 1.4 for PCB153, BDE47, and p,p'-DDE, respectively. The faecal concentrations of all POPs decreased rapidly following the introduction of formula and solid food to the diet and subsequent weaning of the infant. Further, a one-compartment model was developed to estimate the daily POP concentrations in the blood of the infant. The POP concentrations in blood were predicted to vary much less over the first year than those observed in faeces. The faeces:blood concentration ratio of selected POPs (Kfb) differed significantly (P<0.0001) between the period before and after weaning, and observed changes in Kfb are far greater than the uncertainty in the estimated Kfb. A more stable Kfb after weaning indicates the possibility of applying the stable Kfb values for non-invasive assessment of internal exposure in infants after weaning. The intra-in idual variation in Kfb in infants is worthy of further investigation.

A systematic review: Impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals exposure on fecundity as measured by time to pregnancy

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2018.12.065

Abstract: Emerging scientific evidence suggests that exposure to environmental pollutants is associated with negative effects on fecundity as measured by time to pregnancy (TTP). To conduct a systematic review of the literature on the association between selected endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and fecundity as measured by TTP in humans. Compounds included in this review are: brominated flame retardants (BFRs) such as hexabromocyclododecane, tetrabromobiphenol A and polybrominated diphenyl ethers organophosphates flame retardants (OPFRs) and phthalates. Scopus, MEDLINE via Ebscohost and EMBASE databases were searched for articles exploring the relationships between selected EDCs and fecundity as measured by time to pregnancy. We assessed the quality of included studies and evidence for causality was graded using the criteria developed by the World Cancer Research Fund. 14 studies of 191 full-text articles assessed for eligibility were included for qualitative synthesis. Five studies examined BFRs and 10 studies examined phthalates. Among the fourteen, one study assessed both BFRs and phthalates. There were no studies which investigated fecundity as measured by TTP on HBCD, TBBPA, or OPFRs. We recorded plausible fecundity outcomes as measured by TTP related to some of these EDCs. BFRs or phthalates increased TTP. However, results were inconsistent. We recorded mostly weak associations between exposure to selected EDCs and fecundity. However, evidence was considered limited to conclude a causal relationship due to inconsistency of results. The health risks posed by these chemicals in exposed populations are only beginning to be recognized and prospective measurement of the environmental effects of the chemicals in large cohort studies are urgently needed to confirm these relationships and inform policies aimed at exposure prevention.

Evaluation of dioxin-like chemicals in pooled human milk samples collected in Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2006.05.126

Abstract: Human milk s les were collected and analysed for the levels of polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and selected dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). In total, 157 in idual s les collected during 2002 and 2003 as well as 24 s les collected in 1993 were analysed as 20 pools. PCDDs, PCDFs and dioxin-like PCBs were detected in all pooled s les. For s les collected during 2002/2003, the TEQ(DFP) ranged from 6.0 to 15.2 pg TEQ g(-1) lipid with an average of 9.0 pg TEQ g(-1) lipid. The average lipid content was 3.7+/-0.5%. No systematic differences were observed in the levels of PCDDs, PCDFs and PCBs in human milk s les collected from different regions of Australia during 2002/2003. For s les collected in 1993 and analysed as pools, the mean level, expressed as TEQ(DFP) was 16+/-1.4 pg TEQ g(-1) lipid. The average lipid content was 3.9+/-0.7%. The levels of PCDDs, PCDFs and dioxin-like PCBs in the human milk of Australian women are both low compared to international levels and similar across all regions of Australia. Consistent with world-wide trends, the levels of PCDDs, PCDFs and dioxin-like PCBs have decreased over a 10 year period from 1993 to 2003 by approximately 40%.

Erratum to Use of simple pharmacokinetic modeling to characterize exposure of Australians to perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid [Environment International (2010), 36, 390-397]

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2010.05.008

Human biomonitoring in Australian children: Brominated flame retardants decrease from 2006 to 2015

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2018.11.044

Abstract: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) were used intensively as flame retardants, worldwide. They have been detected in human serum s les and PBDEs have been found to be elevated in young children. Commercial Penta- and Octa-PBDE mixtures were banned in Australia in 2005, while HBCDD was banned worldwide in 2013. We investigated PBDE and HBCDD concentrations in serum collected from young children. We also investigated temporal trends in PBDE concentration 10 years after their Australian ban. Surplus human blood serum s les were collected through a pathology clinic (n = 800), in 2014/15, stratified by age (0-6, 6-12, 12-18, 18-24, 24-30, 30-36, 36-42, 42-48, 48-54 and 54-60 months) and sex and pooled for analysis of PBDEs (BDEs -28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154, -183) and HBCDD. In 2014/15, the geometric mean concentration of the sum of all PBDEs measured (ΣPBDEs) was 4.5 ng/g lipid (median: 4.6 ng/g lipid, range: 0.88-26 ng/g lipid). A positive association between BDE-47 concentration and age was observed (R = 0.41, p = 0.008), however there were no trends between other PBDE congeners or HBCDD and age. There were no significant differences between genders for PBDEs (t-test, p = 0.802) or HBCDD (t-test, p = 0.740).The highest concentrations observed were in pools from the females 30-36 month (26 ng/g lipid) and Males 6-12 month (21 ng/g lipid) categories. BDEs -47 and -99 were the predominant congeners with a combined average contribution of 75% of ΣPBDEs. PBDEs showed a significant reduction in children aged 0-4 years over an eight year period. In 2014/15, the mean (range) concentration of BDE-47 is 2.8 (0.23 to 11) ng/g lipid compared to pools in 2006/07 at 19 (3-55) ng/g lipid (p < 0.0001) and for BDE-153 is 0.73 (<0.1 = -2.9) ng/g lipid compared to pools in 2006/07 at 4.7 (2-10) ng/g lipid (p < 0.0001). HBCDD concentrations were lower than PBDEs with a mean concentration of 0.45 ng/g lipid. There were no temporal trends observed for HBCDD when compared to s les collected in 2012. The dominant stereoisomer was α-HBCDD (mean = 0.38 ng/g lipid) with an average contribution of 65% towards ΣHBCDD. Levels of PBDEs in young Australian children have significantly decreased since the bans of commercial Penta- and Octa-BDE in 2005. There has been no observed decrease in HBCDD levels in Australian children since its ban in 2012.

Demographic and temporal trends of hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDD) in an Australian population

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2016.10.015

Abstract: Hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDD) were measured in 67 pooled serum s les collected between 2002 and 2015 in South East Queensland, Australia. These data are the first report of HBCDD in Australian human serum. Temporal and demographic (age and gender) trends were investigated. HBCDD were detected in measurable concentrations in 69% of s les. The average ∑HBCDD concentration was 3.1ng/g lipid, whilst the range was <0.5 to 36ng/g lipid. α-HBCDD was the dominant stereoisomer making up an average of 60% of ∑HBCDD. The remainder was made up by γ-HBCDD. In contrast to another group of brominated flame retardants (BFRs, (polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)), HBCDD were found in the lowest concentrations in pools from children aged 0-4 years. This could be attributed to differences in exposure, usage, and/ or the much lower half-life of HBCDD in the human body compared to PBDEs. HBCDD concentrations appear to be significantly higher in females than in males, however the reasons for this are unclear.

Associations between serum perfluoroalkyl acid (PFAA) concentrations and health related biomarkers in firefighters

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2022.114370

Abstract: Firefighters who used aqueous film forming foam in the past have experienced elevated exposures to perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs). The objective of this study was to examine the associations between clinical chemistry endpoints and serum concentrations of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), perfluoroheptane sulfonate (PFHpS) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in firefighters. Multiple linear regression was used to assess relationships between PFAA serum concentrations and biochemical markers for cardiovascular disease, kidney-, liver- and thyroid function, in a cross-sectional survey of 783 firefighters with elevated levels of PFHxS, PFHpS and PFOS in relation to the most recently reported levels in the general Australian population. Linear logistic regression was used to assess the odds ratios for selected self-reported health outcomes. Repeated measures linear mixed models were further used to assess relationships between PFAAs and biomarkers for cardiovascular disease and kidney function longitudinally in a subset of the firefighters (n = 130) where serum measurements were available from two timepoints, five years apart. In the cross-sectional analysis, higher levels of all PFAAs were significantly associated with higher levels of biomarkers for cardiovascular disease (total-cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol). For ex le, doubling in PFOS serum concentration were associated with increases in total cholesterol (β:0.111, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.026, 0.195 mmol/L) and LDL-cholesterol (β: 0.104, 95%CI:0.03, 0.178 mmol/L). Doubling in PFOA concentration, despite not being elevated in the study population, were additionally positively associated with kidney function marker urate (e.g., β: 0.010, 95%CI 0.004, 0.016 mmol/L) and thyroid function marker TSH (e.g., β: 0.087, 95%CI: 0.014, 0.161 mIU/L). PFAAs were not associated with any assessed self-reported health conditions. No significant relationships were observed in the longitudinal analysis. Findings support previous studies, particularly on the association between PFAAs and serum lipids.

Use of a simple pharmacokinetic model to study the impact of breast-feeding on infant and toddler body burdens of PCB 153, BDE 47, and DDE

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2017.07.118

Abstract: Several studies have examined the role of breast milk consumption in the buildup of environmental chemicals in infants, and have concluded that this pathway elevates infant body burdens above what would occur in a formula-only diet. Unique data from Australia provide an opportunity to study this finding using simple pharmacokinetic (PK) models. Pooled serum s les from infants in the general population provided data on PCB 153, BDE 47, and DDE at 6-month increments from birth until 4 years of age. General population breast-feeding scenarios for Australian conditions were crafted and input into a simple PK model which predicted infant serum concentrations over time. Comparison scenarios of background exposures to characterize formula-feeding were also crafted. It was found that the models were able to replicate the rise in measured infant body burdens for PCB 153 and DDE in the breast-feeding scenarios, while the background scenarios resulted in infant body burdens substantially below the measurements. The same was not true for BDE 47, however. Both the breast-feeding and background scenarios substantially underpredicted body burden measurements. Two possible explanations were offered: that exposure to higher BDE congeners would debrominate and form BDE 47 in the body, and/or, a second overlooked exposure pathway for PBDEs might be the cause of high infant and toddler body burdens. This pathway was inhalation due to the use of PBDEs as flame retardants in bedding materials. More research to better understand and quantify this pathway, or other unknown pathways, to describe infant and toddler exposures to PBDEs is needed.

Health consequences of exposure to brominated flame retardants: A systematic review

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2013.12.064

Abstract: Brominated flame retardants (BFRs), are chemicals widely used in consumer products including electronics, vehicles, plastics and textiles to reduce flammability. Experimental animal studies have confirmed that these compounds may interfere with thyroid hormone homeostasis and neurodevelopment but to date health effects in humans have not been systematically examined. To conduct a systematic review of studies on the health impacts of exposure to BFRs in humans, with a particular focus on children. A systematic review was conducted using the MEDLINE and EMBASE electronic databases up to 1 February 2012. Published cohort, cross-sectional, and case-control studies exploring the relationship between BFR exposure and various health outcomes were included. In total, 36 epidemiological studies meeting the pre-determined inclusion criteria were included. Plausible outcomes associated with BFR exposure include diabetes, neurobehavioral and developmental disorders, cancer, reproductive health effects and alteration in thyroid function. Evidence for a causal relationship between exposure to BFRs and health outcomes was evaluated within the Bradford Hill framework. Although there is suggestive evidence that exposure to BFRs is harmful to health, further epidemiological investigations particularly among children, and long-term monitoring and surveillance of chemical impacts on humans are required to confirm these relationships.

Firefighter undergarments: Assessing contamination and laundering efficacy

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2023

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2022.114344

Temporal trends in serum polybrominated diphenyl ether concentrations in the Australian population, 2002–2013

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2018.09.014

Exposure to metals and semivolatile organic compounds in Australian fire stations

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2019.108745

Abstract: Firefighting is an occupation with exposure to a wide range of chemicals by means of inhalation, ingestion or dermal contact. Although advancements in personal protective clothing and equipment have reduced the risks for acute exposure during fire suppression operations, chronic exposure may still be present at elevated levels in fire stations. The aim of this study was to assess chemicals in air and on surfaces in fire stations, compare this with other indoor environments, and use this data to estimate firefighter exposure within the fire station. Fifteen Australian fire stations were selected for chemical exposure assessment by means of 135 active air monitors, 60 passive air monitors, and 918 wipe s les. These s les were collected from the interior and exterior of fire stations, from personal protective clothing and equipment, and from within the cabins of vehicles. Chemicals analysed included polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, metals, and diesel particulate matter. Specific chemicals were detected from within each class of chemicals, with metals being most frequently detected. Statistical analysis by means of Pearson's Correlations and threshold tests were used to consider the source of exposure, and a collective addition risk quotient calculation was used to determine firefighter exposure. The presence of metals in fire stations was compared with findings from global indoor dust measurements. Concentrations across firefighter ensemble, inside vehicle cabins, and within fire stations for chromium (39.5-493 μg/m

Assessing exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) for workers in the vicinity of a large recycling facility

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOENV.2013.02.013

Abstract: Increased levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) can occur particularly in dust and soil surrounding facilities that recycle products containing PBDEs. This may be the source of increased exposure for nearby workers and residents. To investigate, we measured PBDE levels in soil, office dust and blood of workers at the closest workplace (i.e. within 100m) to a large automotive shredding and metal recycling facility in Brisbane, Australia. The workplace investigated in this study was independent of the automotive shredding facility and was one of approximately 50 businesses of varying types within a relatively large commercial/industrial area surrounding the recycling facility. Concentrations of PBDEs in soils were at least an order of magnitude greater than background levels in the area. Congener profiles were dominated by larger molecular weight congeners in particular BDE-209. This reflected the profile in outdoor air s les previously collected at this site. Biomonitoring data from blood serum indicated no differential exposure for workers near the recycling facility compared to a reference group of office workers, also in Brisbane. Unlike air, indoor dust and soil s le profiles, serum s les from both worker groups were dominated by congeners BDE-47, BDE-153, BDE-99, BDE-100 and BDE-183 and was similar to the profile previously reported in the general Australian population. Estimated exposures for workers near the industrial point source suggested indoor workers had significantly higher exposure than outdoor workers due to their exposure to indoor dust rather than soil. However, no relationship was observed between blood PBDE levels and different roles and activity patterns of workers on-site. These comparisons of PBDE levels in serum provide additional insight into the inter-in idual variability within Australia. Results also indicate congener patterns in the workplace environment did not match blood profiles of workers. This was attributed to the relatively high background exposures for the general Australian population via dietary intake and the home environment.

Historical intake and elimination of polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides by the Australian population reconstructed from biomonitoring data

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2014.09.014

Abstract: Quantifying the competing rates of intake and elimination of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the human body is necessary to understand the levels and trends of POPs at a population level. In this paper we reconstruct the historical intake and elimination of ten polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and five organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) from Australian biomonitoring data by fitting a population-level pharmacokinetic (PK) model. Our analysis exploits two sets of cross-sectional biomonitoring data for PCBs and OCPs in pooled blood serum s les from the Australian population that were collected in 2003 and 2009. The modeled adult reference intakes in 1975 for PCB congeners ranged from 0.89 to 24.5ng/kgbw/day, lower than the daily intakes of OCPs ranging from 73 to 970ng/kgbw/day. Modeled intake rates are declining with half-times from 1.1 to 1.3years for PCB congeners and 0.83 to 0.97years for OCPs. The shortest modeled intrinsic human elimination half-life among the compounds studied here is 6.4years for hexachlorobenzene, and the longest is 30years for PCB-74. Our results indicate that it is feasible to reconstruct intakes and to estimate intrinsic human elimination half-lives using the population-level PK model and biomonitoring data only. Our modeled intrinsic human elimination half-lives are in good agreement with values from a similar study carried out for the population of the United Kingdom, and are generally longer than reported values from other industrialized countries in the Northern Hemisphere.

Brominated flame retardants in the Australian population: 1993-2009

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2012.05.053

Abstract: Brominated flame retardants, including hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used to reduce the flammability of a multitude of electrical and electronic products, textiles and foams. The use of selected PBDEs has ceased, however, use of decaBDE and HBCD continues. While elevated concentrations of PBDEs in humans have been observed in Australia, no data is available on other BFRs such as HBCD. This study aimed to provide background HBCD concentrations from a representative s le of the Australian population and to assess temporal trends of HBCD and compare with PBDE concentrations over a 16 year period. S les of human milk collected in Australia from 1993 to 2009, primarily from primiparae mothers were combined into 12 pools from 1993 (2 pools) 2001 2002/2003 (4 pools) 2003/2004 2006 2007/2008 (2 pools) and 2009. Concentrations of ∑HBCD ranged from not quantified (nq) to 19 ng g(-1)lipid while α-HBCD and γ-HBCD ranged from nq to 10 ng g(-1)lipid and nq to 9.2 ng g(-1)lipid. β-HBCD was detected in only one s le at 3.6 ng g(-1)lipid while ∑(4)PBDE ranged from 2.5 to 15.8 ng g(-1)lipid. No temporal trend was apparent in HBCD concentrations in human milk collected in Australia from 1993 to 2009. In comparison, PBDE concentrations in human milk show a peak around 2002/03 (mean ∑(4)PBDEs=9.6 ng g(-1)lipid) and 2003/04 (12.4 ng g(-1)lipid) followed by a decrease in 2007/08 (2.7 ng g(-1)lipid) and 2009 (2.6 ng g(-1)lipid). In human blood serum s les collected from the Australian population, PBDE concentrations did not vary greatly (p=0.441) from 2002/03 to 2008/09. Continued monitoring including both human milk and serum for HBCD and PBDEs is required to observe trends in human body burden of HBCD and PBDEs body burden following changes to usage.

Concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in matched samples of human milk, dust and indoor air

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2009.03.001

Abstract: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are lipophilic, persistent pollutants found worldwide in environmental and human s les. Exposure pathways for PBDEs remain unclear but may include food, air and dust. The aim of this study was to conduct an integrated assessment of PBDE exposure and human body burden using 10 matched s les of human milk, indoor air and dust collected in 2007-2008 in Brisbane, Australia. In addition, temporal analysis was investigated comparing the results of the current study with PBDE concentrations in human milk collected in 2002-2003 from the same region. PBDEs were detected in all matrices and the median concentrations of BDEs -47 and -209 in human milk, air and dust were: 4.2 and 0.3 ng/g lipid 25 and 7.8 pg/m(3) and 56 and 291 ng/g dust, respectively. Significant correlations were observed between the concentrations of BDE-99 in air and human milk (r=0.661, p=0.038) and BDE-153 in dust and BDE-183 in human milk (r=0.697, p=0.025). These correlations do not suggest causal relationships - there is no hypothesis that can be offered to explain why BDE-153 in dust and BDE-183 in milk are correlated. The fact that so few correlations were found in the data could be a function of the small s le size, or because additional factors, such as sources of exposure not considered or measured in the study, might be important in explaining exposure to PBDEs. There was a slight decrease in PBDE concentrations from 2002-2003 to 2007-2008 but this may be due to s ling and analytical differences. Overall, average PBDE concentrations from these in idual s les were similar to results from pooled human milk collected in Brisbane in 2002-2003 indicating that pooling may be an efficient, cost-effective strategy of assessing PBDE concentrations on a population basis. The results of this study were used to estimate an infant's daily PBDE intake via inhalation, dust ingestion and human milk consumption. Differences in PBDE intake of in idual congeners from the different matrices were observed. Specifically, as the level of bromination increased, the contribution of PBDE intake decreased via human milk and increased via dust. As the impacts of the ban of the lower brominated (penta- and octa-BDE) products become evident, an increased use of the higher brominated deca-BDE product may result in dust making a greater contribution to infant exposure than it does currently. To better understand human body burden, further research is required into the sources and exposure pathways of PBDEs and metabolic differences influencing an in idual's response to exposure. In addition, temporal trend analysis is necessary with continued monitoring of PBDEs in the human population as well as in the suggested exposure matrices of food, dust and air.

Biomonitoring of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure in firefighters: Study design and lessons learned from stakeholder and participant engagement

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHEH.2022.113966

Abstract: Firefighters may be occupationally exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) through Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), smoke, dust and turnout gear, in addition to other background exposure sources. Epidemiological assessment of PFAS exposure in an occupational cohort of firefighting staff commenced in 2013-2014, following cessation of PFAS-based AFFF in Australian aviation. Here we present the study design and methodology of a follow-up study conducted in 2018-2019. We focus on our experiences engaging with stakeholders and participants with the establishment of an inclusive study group and highlight the key lessons learned from implementing a co-design process in the study. The study included a cross-sectional assessment of blood serum concentrations of 40 PFASs, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), and 14 health-related biomarkers in 799 current and former Aviation Rescue Firefighting Services employees. A large proportion (87%) of the participants from the preliminary exposure study in 2013-2014 were re-recruited in the follow-up study. This enabled further longitudinal analyses in this subset of 130 participants. Participants included employees from different work roles and timeframes, reflecting the periods when three different firefighting foams were utilised in Australia. Establishment of a collaborative and inclusive study group (including stakeholders and participants) contributed to several components of the study design, including the expansion of robust analytical quality assurance and control measurements, and tailoring of communication and dissemination strategies. These outcomes were key factors that improved transparency of the research design, methods and results. Additionally, implementing elements of co-design helped build trust between researchers and participants, which is an important consideration for studies funded by stakeholders related to the exposure source.

Persistent organic pollutants in infants and toddlers: Relationship between concentrations in matched plasma and faecal samples

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2017.06.019

Novel fluorinated surfactants tentatively identified in firefighters using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry and a case-control approach

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 06-02-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ES503653N

Abstract: Fluorinated surfactant-based aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) are made up of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) and are used to extinguish fires involving highly flammable liquids. The use of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and other perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in some AFFF formulations has been linked to substantial environmental contamination. Recent studies have identified a large number of novel and infrequently reported fluorinated surfactants in different AFFF formulations. In this study, a strategy based on a case-control approach using quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS/MS) and advanced statistical methods has been used to extract and identify known and unknown PFAS in human serum associated with AFFF-exposed firefighters. Two target sulfonic acids [PFOS and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS)], three non-target acids [perfluoropentanesulfonic acid (PFPeS), perfluoroheptanesulfonic acid (PFHpS), and perfluorononanesulfonic acid (PFNS)], and four unknown sulfonic acids (Cl-PFOS, ketone-PFOS, ether-PFHxS, and Cl-PFHxS) were exclusively or significantly more frequently detected at higher levels in firefighters compared to controls. The application of this strategy has allowed for identification of previously unreported fluorinated chemicals in a timely and cost-efficient way.

Environmental health risk assessment of dioxin in foods at the two most severe dioxin hot spots in Vietnam

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHEH.2015.03.014

Abstract: Bien Hoa and Da Nang airbases were bulk storages for Agent Orange during the Vietnam War and currently are the two most severe dioxin hot spots. This study assesses the health risk of exposure to dioxin through foods for local residents living in seven wards surrounding these airbases. This study follows the Australian Environmental Health Risk Assessment Framework to assess the health risk of exposure to dioxin in foods. Forty-six pooled s les of commonly consumed local foods were collected and analyzed for dioxin/furans. A food frequency and Knowledge-Attitude-Practice survey was also undertaken at 1000 local households, various stakeholders were involved and related publications were reviewed. Total dioxin/furan concentrations in s les of local "high-risk" foods (e.g. free range chicken meat and eggs, ducks, freshwater fish, snail and beef) ranged from 3.8 pg TEQ/g to 95 pg TEQ/g, while in "low-risk" foods (e.g. caged chicken meat and eggs, seafoods, pork, leafy vegetables, fruits, and rice) concentrations ranged from 0.03 pg TEQ/g to 6.1 pg TEQ/g. Estimated daily intake of dioxin if people who did not consume local high risk foods ranged from 3.2 pg TEQ/kg bw/day to 6.2 pg TEQ/kg bw/day (Bien Hoa) and from 1.2 pg TEQ/kg bw/day to 4.3 pg TEQ/kg bw/day (Da Nang). Consumption of local high risk foods resulted in extremely high dioxin daily intakes (60.4-102.8 pg TEQ/kg bw/day in Bien Hoa 27.0-148.0 pg TEQ/kg bw/day in Da Nang). Consumption of local "high-risk" foods increases dioxin daily intakes far above the WHO recommended TDI (1-4 pg TEQ/kg bw/day). Practicing appropriate preventive measures is necessary to significantly reduce exposure and health risk.

Assessing infant exposure to persistent organic pollutants via dietary intake in Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.FCT.2015.12.018

Abstract: Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) persist in the environment, bioaccumulate, and pose a risk of causing adverse human health effects. Typically, exposure assessments undertaken by modeling existing intake data underestimate the concentrations of these chemicals in infants. This study aimed to determine concentrations of POPs in infant foods, assess exposure via dietary intake and compare this to historical exposure. Fruit purees, meat and vegetables, dairy desserts, cereals and jelly foods (n = 33) purchased in 2013 in Brisbane, Australia were analyzed. For OCPs and PCBs, concentrations ranged up to 95 pg/g fw and for PBDEs up to 32 pg/g fw with most analytes below the limit of detection. Daily intake is dependent on type and quantity of foods consumed. Consumption of a 140 g meal would result in intake ranging from 0 to 4.2 ng/day, 4.4 ng/day and 13.3 ng/day, for OCPs, PBDEs and PCBs, respectively. PBDEs were detected in 3/33 s les, OCPs in 9/33 s les and PCBs in 13/33 s les. Results from this study indicate exposure for infants via dietary (in contrast to dust and breast milk) intake in Australia contribute only a minor component to total exposure.

Spatial mapping of city-wide PBDE levels using an exponential decay model

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1039/C2EM10656F

Abstract: Passive air s lers (PAS) consisting of polyurethane foam (PUF) disks were deployed at 6 outdoor air monitoring stations in different land use categories (commercial, industrial, residential and semi-rural) to assess the spatial distribution of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in the Brisbane airshed. Air monitoring sites covered an area of ~1143 km(2) and PAS were allowed to accumulate PBDEs in the city's airshed over three consecutive seasons commencing in the winter of 2008. The average sum of five (∑(5)) PBDEs (BDEs 28, 47, 99, 100 and 209) levels were highest at the commercial and industrial sites (12.7 ± 5.2 ng PUF(-1)), which were relatively close to the city center and were a factor of 8 times higher than residential and semi-rural sites located in outer Brisbane. To estimate the magnitude of the urban 'plume' an empirical exponential decay model was used to fit PAS data vs. distance from the CBD, with the best correlation observed when the particulate bound BDE-209 was not included (∑(5)-209) (r(2) = 0.99), rather than ∑(5) (r(2) = 0.84). At 95% confidence intervals the model predicts that regardless of site characterization, ∑(5)-209 concentrations in a PAS s le taken between 4-10 km from the city centre would be half that from a s le taken from the city centre and reach a baseline or plateau (0.6 to 1.3 ng PUF(-1)), approximately 30 km from the CBD. The observed exponential decay in ∑(5)-209 levels over distance corresponded with Brisbane's decreasing population density (persons/km(2)) from the city center. The residual error associated with the model increased significantly when including BDE-209 levels, primarily due to the highest level (11.4 ± 1.8 ng PUF(-1)) being consistently detected at the industrial site, indicating a potential primary source at this site. Active air s les collected alongside the PAS at the industrial air monitoring site (B) indicated BDE-209 dominated congener composition and was entirely associated with the particulate phase. This study demonstrates that PAS are effective tools for monitoring citywide regional differences however, interpretation of spatial trends for POPs which are predominantly associated with the particulate phase such as BDE-209, may be restricted to identifying 'hotspots' rather than broad spatial trends.

Human Exposure to Brominated Flame Retardants

Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1007/698_2010_90

Evaluating age and temporal trends of chlorinated paraffins in pooled serum collected from males in Australia between 2004 and 2015

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2019.125574

Temporal trends of PFSAs, PFCAs and selected precursors in Australian serum from 2002 to 2013

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-0001

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2016.09.036

Abstract: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a family of compounds that includes numerous compound classes. To date, only a subset of these PFASs have been studied thoroughly in the general population. In this study, pooled serum s les from Australia collected in 2002-2013 were analyzed for PFASs according to gender and age (age categories of 0-4 years, 5-15 years, 16-30 years, 31-45 years, 46-60 years, and >60 years), in total 54 pooled s les and 4920 in iduals. Compound classes included were perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs), perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs), and two groups of PFCA precursor compounds polyfluoroalkyl phosphate diesters (diPAPs), and fluorotelomer sulfonic acids (FTSAs). Several PFASs that were not reported in previous studies of Australian serum s les were found in this s le set including diPAPs, FTSAs, perfluoropentane sulfonic acid (PFPeS), perfluoroheptane sulfonic acid (PFHpS), perfluoroheptane carboxylic acid (PFHpA), perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnDA), perfluorododecanoic acid (PFDoDA), and perfluorotridecanoic acid (PFTrDA). Various temporal trends were observed with a significant reduction (p 15 years) were found for 8:2 FTSA and PFHpA, while levels of PFHpS, PFOS, PFUnDA, PFDoDA and PFTrDA were higher in adult age groups compared to younger age groups. Gender-specific patterns were seen for PFOA, PFHxS, PFHpS and PFOS, where levels were lower in women. Changes in manufacturing processes were reflected in the temporal time trends, and differences in bioaccumulation potential between homologues could be associated with age trends. Our results emphasize the importance of including emerging classes of PFASs in biomonitoring studies.

An Ensemble Approach to Modelling the Combined Effect of Risk Factors on Age at Parkinson’s Disease Onset

Publisher: Springer International Publishing

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-42553-1_11

Concentration of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in household dust from various countries

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2007.08.075

Abstract: Seven polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners were measured in the particulate fraction (<2mm) of household dust s les (n=40), collected in four different countries (Australia, Germany, Great Britain, and United States). Dust s les from Germany contained the lowest concentrations of total PBDEs (median: 74 ng/g, range: 17-550 ng/g dust). Australian dust contained the second lowest concentration (median: 1200 ng/g, range: 500-13,000 ng/g dust). The dust from the United States and Great Britain contained the highest measured amounts of total PBDEs (US median: 4200 ng/g dust, range: 520-29,000 ng/g Great Britain median: 10,000 ng/g, range: 950-54,000 ng/g). Daily intake of PBDEs has been estimated from published reference values on daily dust intake rates. The highest daily intake of 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) found was in the United States (<1-330 ng/day) and the lowest was in Germany (<1-2 ng/day). The PBDE congeners present in commercially available pentabromodiphenyl ether were the highest in concentration in the United States, and the congener distribution was similar to that of the technical preparation (i.e., 2,2',4,4',5-pentabromodiphenyl ether [BDE-99] was similar in concentration to that of BDE-47). We conclude that further studies are required to investigate human indoor exposure to PBDEs across countries and to determine the risk factors related to indoor design factors.

Monitoring exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in an Australian population using pooled urine samples

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2015.11.019

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in dust from primary schools in South East Queensland, Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2015.06.007

Abstract: PBDE concentrations are higher in children compared to adults with exposure suggested to include dust ingestion. Besides the home environment, children spend a great deal of time in school classrooms which may be a source of exposure. As part of the "Ultrafine Particles from Traffic Emissions and Children's Health (UPTECH)" project, dust s les (n=28) were obtained in 2011/12 from 10 Brisbane, Australia metropolitan schools and analysed using GC and LC-MS for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) -17, -28, -47, -49, -66, -85, -99, -100, -154, -183, and -209. Σ11PBDEs ranged from 11-2163 ng/g dust with a mean and median of 600 and 469 ng/g dust, respectively. BDE-209 (range n.d. -2034 ng/g dust mean (median) 402 (217)ng/g dust) was the dominant congener in most classrooms. Frequencies of detection were 96%, 96%, 39% and 93% for BDE-47, -99, -100 and -209, respectively. No seasonal variations were apparent and from each of the two schools where XRF measurements were carried out, only two classroom items had detectable bromine. PBDE intake for 8-11 year olds can be estimated at 0.094 ng/day BDE-47 0.187 ng/day BDE-99 and 0.522ng/day BDE-209 as a result of ingestion of classroom dust, based on mean PBDE concentrations. The 97.5% percentile intake is estimated to be 0.62, 1.03 and 2.14 ng/day for BDEs-47, -99 and -209, respectively. These PBDE concentrations in dust from classrooms, which are higher than in Australian homes, may explain some of the higher body burden of PBDEs in children compared to adults when taking into consideration age-dependant behaviours which increase dust ingestion.

Pesticide metabolite concentrations in Queensland pre-schoolers – Exposure trends related to age and sex using urinary biomarkers

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2019.108532

Abstract: This study aimed to assess pesticide concentration and composition trends associated with age and sex in Australian infants and toddlers. In idual urine s les (n = 400) were collected in 2014/5 from Queensland infants and toddlers aged 0-5 y and composited into 20 pools of 20 in idual s les by age (of 5 strata) and sex. Nineteen biomarkers including organophosphate and pyrethroid pesticide metabolites, herbicides and metabolites, and an insect repellent, DEET, were measured. In total, seven organophosphate pesticide metabolites, three pyrethroid metabolites and one herbicide metabolite were detectable in >50% of the s le pools. A significant increase of concentrations of dimethyl phosphate, dimethyl dithiophosphate, diethyl thiophosphate (DETP), 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPY), 4-nitrophenol and 3-phenoxybenzoic acid with age was observed (with the p value of <0.0001 to 0.034). This suggested that exposure increases following weaning or as a result of increased dietary intake and mobility/activity. Significant age trends remained after adjustment for body weight and urine flow for DETP and TCPY (p = 0.029 and 0.016 respectively). The level of estimated "worst-case scenario" daily intake of chlorpyrifos from these pooled s les ranged from 0.40 to 1.8 μg/kg-day, which was below the Australian Acceptable Daily Intake guideline (3 μg/kg-day). This study presents the first dataset of age trends in concentrations of these pesticides for infants and toddlers and contributed to new understanding of exposure pathways and potential risks.

Urinary metabolites of organophosphate esters: Concentrations and age trends in Australian children

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2017.11.019

Abstract: There is growing concern around the use of organophosphate esters (OPEs) due to their suspected reproductive toxicity, carcinogenicity, and neurotoxicity. OPEs are used as flame retardants and plasticizers, and due to their extensive application in consumer products, are found globally in the indoor environment. Early life exposure to OPEs is an important risk factor for children's health, but poorly understood. To study age and sex trends of OPE exposures in infants and young children, we collected, pooled, and analysed urine s les from children aged 0-5years from Queensland, Australia for 9 parent OPEs and 11 metabolites. In idual urine s les (n=400) were stratified by age and sex, and combined into 20 pools. Three in idual breast milk s les were also analysed to provide a preliminary estimate on the contribution of breast milk to the intake of OPEs. Bis(1-chloroisopropyl) phosphate (BCIPP), 1-hydroxy-2-propyl bis(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BCIPHIPP), bis(1,3-dichloroisopropyl) phosphate (BDCIPP), dibutyl phosphate (DBP), diphenyl phosphate (DPHP), bis(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (BBOEP), bis(2-butoxyethyl) 3-hydroxyl-2-butoxyethyl phosphate (3OH-TBOEP), and bis(2-butoxyethyl) hydroxyethyl phosphate (BBOEHEP) were detected in all urine s les, followed by bis(methylphenyl) phosphate (80%), and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (BEHP, 20%), and bis(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (BCEP, 15%). Concentrations of tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), BCEP, tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (TEHP), and DBP decreased with age, while bis(methylphenyl) phosphate (BMPP) increased with age. Significantly higher concentrations of DPHP (p=0.039), and significantly lower concentrations of TEHP (p=0.006) were found in female s les compared to males. The estimated daily intakes (EDIs) via breastfeeding, were 4.6, 26 and 76ng/kg/day for TCEP, TBP and TEHP, respectively, and were higher than that via air and dust, suggesting higher exposure through consumption of breast milk.

Assessment of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in samples collected from indoor environments in South East Queensland, Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2009.03.057

Abstract: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are compounds that are used as flame retardants. Human exposure is suggested to be via food, dust and air. An assessment of PBDE exposure via indoor environments using s les of air, dust and surface wipes from eight sites in South East Queensland, Australia was conducted. For indoor air, SigmaPBDEs ranged from 0.5-179 pg/m(3) for homes and 15-487 pg/m(3) for offices. In dust, SigmaPBDEs ranged from 87-733 ng/g dust and 583-3070 ng/g dust in homes and offices, respectively. PBDEs were detected on 9 out of 10 surfaces s led and ranged from non-detectable to 5985 pg/cm(2). Overall, the congener profiles for air and dust were dominated by BDE-209. This study demonstrated that PBDEs are ubiquitous in the indoor environments of selected buildings in South East Queensland and suggest the need for detailed assessment of PBDE concentrations using more sites to further investigate the factors influencing PBDE exposure in Australia.

Biomonitoring in firefighters for volatile organic compounds, semivolatile organic compounds, persistent organic pollutants, and metals: A systematic review

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2020.109562

Breast cancer and persistent organic pollutants (excluding DDT): a systematic literature review

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 15-09-2016

DOI: 10.1007/S11356-016-7577-1

Abstract: Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are a group of heterogeneous compounds of both natural and anthropogenic origin with highly persistent and bioaccumulative properties. They cause a range of adverse effects to human health and the environment around the world. There is growing concern that POPs may increase breast cancer risk due to their xenoestrogenic properties. The aim of this systematic literature review is to summarize and integrate the risks of breast cancer following environmental exposure to POPs (other than DDT) from primary epidemiological studies published between 2006 and 2015. After searching various databases, 14 case-control studies and one cohort study were included. Evidence of an association between increased breast cancer risk and environmental exposure to these chemicals is inconsistent and inadequate to conclude with certainty. However, most of the studies have examined exposure to the pollutants after diagnosis of breast cancer, overlooking exposure during critical windows of vulnerability. They have also largely focused on in idual chemicals but ignored the combined effects of different chemicals. Therefore, major data gaps remain in examining exposure during critical windows of vulnerability and assessing combined effects of multiple chemicals. Development of better exposure assessment methods addressing these gaps is required for future research.

Cross-sectional biomonitoring study of pesticide exposures in Queensland, Australia, using pooled urine samples

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 10-09-2016

DOI: 10.1007/S11356-016-7571-7

Abstract: A range of pesticides are available in Australia for use in agricultural and domestic settings to control pests, including organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticides, herbicides, and insect repellents, such as N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET). The aim of this study was to provide a cost-effective preliminary assessment of background exposure to a range of pesticides among a convenience s le of Australian residents. De-identified urine specimens stratified by age and sex were obtained from a community-based pathology laboratory and pooled (n = 24 pools of 100 specimens). Concentrations of urinary pesticide biomarkers were quantified using solid-phase extraction coupled with isotope dilution high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Geometric mean biomarker concentrations ranged from <0.1 to 36.8 ng/mL for organophosphate insecticides, <0.1 to 5.5 ng/mL for pyrethroid insecticides, and <0.1 to 8.51 ng/mL for all other biomarkers with the exception of the DEET metabolite 3-diethylcarbamoyl benzoic acid (4.23 to 850 ng/mL). We observed no association between age and concentration for most biomarkers measured but noted a "U-shaped" trend for five organophosphate metabolites, with the highest concentrations observed in the youngest and oldest age strata, perhaps related to age-specific differences in behavior or physiology. The fact that concentrations of specific and non-specific metabolites of the organophosphate insecticide chlorpyrifos were higher than reported in USA and Canada may relate to differences in registered applications among countries. Additional biomonitoring programs of the general population and focusing on vulnerable populations would improve the exposure assessment and the monitoring of temporal exposure trends as usage patterns of pesticide products in Australia change over time.

Use of pooled samples to assess human exposure to parabens, benzophenone-3 and triclosan in Queensland, Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2015.09.001

Triclosan in individual human milk samples from Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2011.08.009

Abstract: Triclosan is a chlorinated phenol ether that has been in widespread use as a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent for four decades. When compared to the limited international data available on human body burden of triclosan, results from a pooled blood study suggested that triclosan concentrations in Australia were a factor two higher than observed in Sweden. This study determined triclosan levels in in idual human milk s les (n=151) collected between 2002 and 2005 from primiparous Australian mothers. It provided the first report of population triclosan levels and in idual variation in Australia and gave a measure of infant exposure via breast feeding. The distribution of triclosan concentration was positively skewed, with 7.2% of the s les below the LOQ, 66% with a concentration of less than or equal to 1.0 ng g(-1)fresh weight and the remaining s les above 1 ng g(-1) reaching a maximum concentration of 19 ng g(-1)fresh weight. The mean and median triclosan concentrations were 1.3±2.7 ng g(-1)f.w. and 0.26 ng g(-1)f.w., respectively. The results of this study showed high variability in triclosan concentrations between in iduals and no correlations with maternal age (p=0.094), maternal weight (p=0.971) or infant age at the time of s le collection (p=0.621). A large number of s les contained low or non-quantifiable concentrations of triclosan and so, in Australia, ubiquitous background exposure due to environmental sources is low. This means that body burden can be influenced by an in idual's use of triclosan containing product. Given that triclosan containing product use is continuing, it is important that monitoring in both humans and the environment is continued and that triclosan containing products are adequately labeled so that an in idual can choose to avoid exposure.

Use of simple pharmacokinetic modeling to characterize exposure of Australians to perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2010.02.008

Abstract: Perflurooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) have been used for a variety of applications including fluoropolymer processing, fire-fighting foams and surface treatments since the 1950s. Both PFOS and PFOA are polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFCs), man-made compounds that are persistent in the environment and humans some PFCs have shown adverse effects in laboratory animals. Here we describe the application of a simple one compartment pharmacokinetic model to estimate total intakes of PFOA and PFOS for the general population of urban areas on the east coast of Australia. Key parameters for this model include the elimination rate constants and the volume of distribution within the body. A volume of distribution was calibrated for PFOA to a value of 170ml/kgbw using data from two communities in the United States where the residents' serum concentrations could be assumed to result primarily from a known and characterized source, drinking water contaminated with PFOA by a single fluoropolymer manufacturing facility. For PFOS, a value of 230ml/kgbw was used, based on adjustment of the PFOA value. Applying measured Australian serum data to the model gave mean+/-standard deviation intake estimates of PFOA of 1.6+/-0.3ng/kgbw/day for males and females >12years of age combined based on s les collected in 2002-2003 and 1.3+/-0.2ng/kg bw/day based on s les collected in 2006-2007. Mean intakes of PFOS were 2.7+/-0.5ng/kgbw/day for males and females >12years of age combined based on s les collected in 2002-2003, and 2.4+/-0.5ng/kgbw/day for the 2006-2007 s les. ANOVA analysis was run for PFOA intake and demonstrated significant differences by age group (p=0.03), sex (p=0.001) and date of collection (p 60years, higher in males compared to females, and higher in 2002-2003 compared to 2006-2007. The same results were seen for PFOS intake with significant differences by age group (p<0.001), sex (p=0.001) and date of collection (p=0.016).

Partitioning of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) between human serum and breast milk: A literature review

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2012.06.049

Abstract: The literature was reviewed to assess the relationship between the lipid adjusted concentration in human serum and breast milk (expressed as the serum/milk ratio) of a broad range of POPs in paired s les. Thirteen studies were identified, including seven studies that reported serum/milk ratios for polychlorinated dibenzo-dioxins and -furans (PCDD/Fs), ten for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), five for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and five for organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). Mean serum/milk ratios ranged between 0.7 and 25 depending on the compound and congener. For PCDD/Fs, PCBs and PBDEs, a clear trend of increasing mean serum/milk ratio by increasing molar volume, hydrophobicity and number of halogen substitutes was observed. The mean serum/milk ratios reported by the 13 studies summarized here will aid comparison between human POPs exposure studies using either serum or milk s les. More studies are needed to allow a valid comparison between data obtained from analysis of breast milk and serum s les for a broader range of POPs. Furthermore such studies may shed light on compound specific factors as well as other determinants that may affect the partitioning and partition kinetics of POPs between serum and breast milk.

Evaluation of age, gender and regional concentration differences for dioxin-like chemicals in the Australian population

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2006.05.146

Abstract: The results of this study provide a measure of the levels of dioxin-like compounds (polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans and polychlorinated biphenyls) in pooled blood serum collected throughout Australia in 2003. De-identified s les selected from surplus pathology s les were stratified on the basis of gender, region and age. In total 9090 s les were collected and analysed as 96 pools. Dioxin-like chemicals were detected in all strata. The mean and median levels expressed as TEQ values for all pooled s les were 10.9+/-1.0 pg TEQ g(-1) lipid and 8.3 pg TEQ g(-1) lipid. For males and females the mean levels were 10.4+/-0.6 pg TEQ g(-1) lipid and 11.5+/-1.5 pg TEQ g(-1) lipid, respectively. A direct relationship of increasing dioxin-like chemical levels with increasing age was observed and could be described by the following equation: Levels in blood expressed as pg TEQ g(-1) lipid = 3.3 exp(0.0251 age) (r2 = 0.87). No significant differences were observed in the levels of dioxin-like chemicals in s les collected from males and females. In addition, the levels of dioxin-like chemicals across the five regions were similar within each age range. In summary, the levels of dioxin-like chemicals in the Australian population are low compared to international levels and are similar across all regions of Australia within each designated age range. The levels of these chemicals increase with age and can be estimated if the age of an in idual is known.

The effect of ongoing blood loss on human serum concentrations of perfluorinated acids

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2014.07.093

Abstract: Perfluorinated alkyl acids (PFAAs) have been detected in serum at low concentrations in background populations. Higher concentrations haven been observed in adult males compared to females, with a possible explanation that menstruation offers females an additional elimination route. In this study, we examined the significance of blood loss as an elimination route of PFAAs. Pooled serum s les were collected from in iduals undergoing a medical procedure involving ongoing blood withdrawal called venesection. Concentrations from male venesection patients were approximately 40% lower than males in the general population for perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). A simple pharmacokinetic model was used to test the hypothesis that blood loss could explain why adult males have higher concentrations of PFAAs than females, and why males undergoing venesections had lower concentrations compared to males in the general population. The model application generally supported these hypotheses showing that venesection might reduce blood serum concentrations by 37% (PFOA) and 53% (PFOS) compared to the observed difference of 44% and 37%. Menstruation was modeled to show a 22% reduction in PFOA serum concentrations compared to a 24% difference in concentrations between males and females in the background population. Uncertainties in the modeling and the data are identified and discussed.

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in follicular fluid from women experiencing infertility in Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2020.109963

Levels and trends of PBDEs and HBCDs in the global environment: Status at the end of 2012

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2014.01.006

Abstract: In this paper, we have compiled and reviewed the most recent literature, published in print or online from January 2010 to December 2012, relating to the human exposure, environmental distribution, behaviour, fate and concentration time trends of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) flame retardants, in order to establish their current trends and priorities for future study. More data are now becoming available for remote areas not previously studied, Indian Ocean islands, for ex le. Decreasing time trends for penta-mix PBDE congeners were seen for soils in northern Europe, sewage sludge in Sweden and the USA, carp from a US river, trout from three of the Great Lakes and in Arctic and UK marine mammals and many birds, but increasing time trends continue in polar bears and some birds at high trophic levels in northern Europe. This may be partially a result of the time delay inherent in long-range atmospheric transport processes. In general, concentrations of BDE209 (the major component of the deca-mix PBDE product) are continuing to increase. Of major concern is the possible/likely debromination of the large reservoir of BDE209 in soils and sediments worldwide, to yield lower brominated congeners which are both more mobile and more toxic, and we have compiled the most recent evidence for the occurrence of this degradation process. Numerous studies reported here reinforce the importance of this future concern. Time trends for HBCDs are mixed, with both increases and decreases evident in different matrices and locations and, notably, with increasing occurrence in birds of prey. Temporal trends for both PBDEs and HBCD in Asia are unclear currently. A knowledge gap has been noted in relation to metabolism and/or debromination of BDE209 and HBCD in birds. Further monitoring of human exposure and environmental contamination in areas of e-waste recycling, particularly in Asia and Africa, is warranted. More data on temporal trends of BDE and HBCD concentrations in a variety of matrices and locations are needed before the current status of these compounds can be fully assessed, and the impact of regulation and changing usage patterns among different flame retardants determined.

Concentrations of phthalate metabolites in Australian urine samples and their contribution to the per capita loads in wastewater

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2020.105534

Bisphenol A exposure is not associated with area-level socioeconomic index in Australian children using pooled urine samples

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 16-04-2014

DOI: 10.1007/S11356-014-2882-Z

Abstract: Bisphenol A (BPA) is used extensively in food-contact materials and has been detected routinely in populations worldwide this exposure has been linked to a range of negative health outcomes in humans. There is some evidence of an association between BPA and different socioeconomic variables which may be the result of different dietary patterns. The aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary investigation of the association between BPA and socioeconomic status in Australian children using pooled urine specimens and an area-level socioeconomic index. Surplus pathology urine specimens collected from children aged 0-15 years in Queensland, Australia, as s les of convenience (n=469), were pooled by age, sex and area-level socioeconomic index (n=67 pools) and analysed for total BPA using online solid-phase extraction LC-MS/MS. Concentration ranged from 1.08 to 27.4 ng/ml with geometric mean 2.57 ng/ml, and geometric mean exposure was estimated as 70.3 ng/kg d(-1). Neither BPA concentration nor excretion was associated with age or sex, and the authors found no evidence of an association with socioeconomic status. These results suggest that BPA exposure is not associated with socioeconomic status in the Australian population due to relatively homogenous exposures in Australia, or that the socioeconomic gradient is relatively slight in Australia compared with other OECD countries.

Effects of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers on Hormonal and Reproductive Health in E-Waste-Exposed Population: A Systematic Review

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 25-06-2022

DOI: 10.3390/IJERPH19137820

Abstract: Electronic waste management is a global rising concern that is primarily being handled by informal recycling practices. These release a mix of potentially hazardous chemicals, which is an important public health concern. These chemicals include polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), used as flame retardants in electronic parts, which are persistent in nature and show bioaccumulative characteristics. Although PBDEs are suspected endocrine disruptors, particularly targeting thyroid and reproductive hormone functions, the relationship of PBDEs with these health effects are not well established. We used the Navigation Guide methodology to conduct a systematic review of studies in populations exposed to e-waste to better understand the relationships of these persistent flame retardants with hormonal and reproductive health. We assessed nineteen studies that fit our pre-determined inclusion criteria for risk of bias, indirectness, inconsistency, imprecision, and other criteria that helped rate the overall evidence for its quality and strength of evidence. The studies suggest PBDEs may have an adverse effect on thyroid hormones, reproductive hormones, semen quality, and neonatal health. However, more research is required to establish a relationship of these effects in the e-waste-exposed population. We identified the limitations of the data available and made recommendations for future scientific work.

Concentrations of phthalates and DINCH metabolites in pooled urine from Queensland, Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2015.12.016

Characterization of glyphosate and AMPA concentrations in the urine of Australian and New Zealand populations

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.157585

Abstract: Glyphosate is the most used herbicide globally, but our understanding of human exposure and how different uses affect exposure is not well understood. The aim of this study was to obtain the first data on glyphosate and its primary degradation product aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) concentrations in pooled and in idual urine from the Australia and New Zealand region using a sensitive direct injection method and compare results with studies from elsewhere. Pooled urine s les from the Australian general population (n = 125 pools representing >1875 in iduals) and in idual urine s les (n = 27) from occupationally exposed New Zealand farmers were analysed by LC-MS/MS. Glyphosate was detected above the LOD (0.20-1.25 μg/L) in 8 % of the Australian population pooled urine s les with most detections in the 45-60 years age group. Furthermore, glyphosate (0.85 to 153 μg/L) and AMPA (0.50 to 3.35 μg/L) were detected in 96 % and 33 % of farmers, respectively. The maximum glyphosate urine concentration was 1.7 times above the recommended acceptable daily intake (ADI), when assuming a urinary excretion rate of 1 %. The pooled s ling and analysis approach proved effective for rapid large-scale screening of populations and could be used to determine where targeted and more specific in idual s ling may be required.

Sustainability of public health interventions to reduce the risk of dioxin exposure at severe dioxin hot spots in vietnam

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 19-12-2015

DOI: 10.1007/S10900-014-9980-1

Abstract: Severe dioxin contamination at Bien Hoa and Da Nang airbases, Vietnam is of international concern. Public Health risk reduction programs were implemented in Bien Hoa in 2007-2009 and in Da Nang in 2009-2011. In 2009 and 2011 we reported the encouraging results of these interventions in improving the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of local residents in reducing the dioxin exposure risk through foods. In 2013 we revisited these dioxin hot spots, aimed to evaluate whether the results of the intervention were maintained and to identify factors affecting the sustainability of the programs. To assess this, 16 in-depth interviews, six focus group discussions, and pre and post intervention KAP surveys were undertaken. 800 respondents from six intervention wards and 200 respondents from Buu Long Ward (the control site) were randomly selected to participate in the surveys. The results showed that as of 2013, the programs were rated as "moderately sustained" with a score of 3.3 out of 5.0 (cut off points 2.5 to <3.5) for Bien Hoa, and "well sustained" with a score of 3.8 out of 5.0 (cut off points 3.5 to <4.5) for Da Nang. Most formal intervention program activities had ceased and dioxin risk communication activities were no longer integrated into local routine health education programs. However, the main outcomes were maintained and were better than that in the control ward. Migration, lack of official guidance from City People's Committees and local authorities as well as the politically sensitive nature of dioxin issues were the main challenges for the sustainability of the programs.

Pooled biological specimens for human biomonitoring of environmental chemicals: Opportunities and limitations

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 06-11-2014

DOI: 10.1038/JES.2013.76

Abstract: Biomonitoring has become the "gold standard" in assessing chemical exposures, and has an important role in risk assessment. The pooling of biological specimens-combining multiple in idual specimens into a single s le-can be used in biomonitoring studies to monitor levels of exposure and identify exposure trends or to identify susceptible populations in a cost-effective manner. Pooled s les provide an estimate of central tendency and may also reveal information about variation within the population. The development of a pooling strategy requires careful consideration of the type and number of s les collected, the number of pools required and the number of specimens to combine per pool in order to maximise the type and robustness of the data. Creative pooling strategies can be used to explore exposure-outcome associations, and extrapolation from other larger studies can be useful in identifying elevated exposures in specific in iduals. The use of pooled specimens is advantageous as it saves significantly on analytical costs, may reduce the time and resources required for recruitment and, in certain circumstances, allows quantification of s les approaching the limit of detection. In addition, the use of pooled s les can provide population estimates while avoiding ethical difficulties that may be associated with reporting in idual results.

Persistent organochlorine pesticides in human milk samples from Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2007.06.037

Abstract: Human milk has been used as a surrogate for the assessment of body burden and exposure to persistent lipophilic organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). With the exception of restricted use of mirex, the use of persistent, lipophilic OCPs has been banned in Australia since the 1980s. The decline of human body burden of OCPs following their ban in many industrialised countries is well recorded worldwide from the 1970s until the 1990s though little is known on whether these trends are continuing. In this study, 157 human milk s les collected during 2002 and 2003 as well as 24 s les collected in 1993 were analysed as 20 regional pools for 17 OCPs. OCPs were detected in all pooled human milk s les from 2002/03 typically with highest concentrations of p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) (mean+/-standard deviation median concentration 311+/-174 279 ng g(-1) lipid) followed by beta-hexachlorocyclohexane (beta-HCH) (80+/-173 21 ng g(-1) lipid). Other OCPs consistently detected included dieldrin (16+/-6 17 ng g(-1) lipid), hexachlorobenzene (HCB) (18+/-16 14 ng g(-1) lipid), transnonachlor (11+/-5 9 ng g(-1) lipid) and p,p'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (p,p'-DDT) (9+/-6 7 ng g(-1) lipid). The results from this study indicated that following a substantial decline of OCP concentrations from the early 1980s to the 1990s, little decline could be observed since then. Furthermore the use of multivariate statistics indicated some regional trends with slightly higher levels of the broadly used insecticides DDT and HCH in both historic and recent s les from Melbourne, whereas, s le pools collected from mothers that lived in rural Queensland and New South Wales as well as Adelaide and Sydney showed comparatively higher levels of heptachlor and dieldrin - both of which have been used for termite treatment. These results indicate that even 20 years after the discontinuation of usage, historical use of OCPs rather than exposure via global transport of OCPs is responsible for continuous low exposure in Australia.

Concentrations of organochlorine pesticides in pooled human serum by age and gender

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2016.12.009

Abstract: Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) have been used for many decades in Australia with cessation of selected persistent and bioaccumulative OCPs ranging from the 1970s to as recently as 2007. The specific aims of this study were to use s les representative of an Australian population to assess age and gender differences in the concentration of OCPs in human blood sera and to investigate temporal trends in these chemicals. Serum was collected from de-identified, surplus pathology s les over five time periods (2002/03, 2006/07, 2008/09, 2010/11 and 2012/13), with 183 serum pools made from 12,175 in idual s les 26 pools in 2002/03, 85 pools in 2006/07 and 24 pools each in 2008/09, 2010/11 and 2012/13. S les were analyzed for hexachlorobenzene (HCB), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), γ -hexachlorocyclohexane (lindane) (γ-HCH), oxy-chlordane, trans-nonachlor, p,p'-DDE, o,p'-DDT, p,p'-DDT and Mirex. Stratification criteria included gender and age (0-4 5-15 16-30 31-45 46-60 and >60 years) with age additionally stratified by adults >16 years and children 0-4 and 5-15 years. All pools from all collection periods had detectable concentrations of OCPs with a detection frequency of >60% for HCB, β-HCH, trans-nonachlor, p,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDE. The overall OCP concentrations increased with age with the highest concentrations in the >60 years groups. Females did not have higher mean OCP concentrations than males except for HCB concentrations (p=0.0006). Temporal trends showed overall decreasing serum concentrations by collection period with the exception of an increase in OCP concentrations between 2006/07 and 2008/09. Excluding this data point, HCB decreased from year to year by 7-76% β-HCH concentrations decreased by 14 - 38% trans-nonachlor concentrations decreased by 10 - 65% p,p'-DDE concentrations decreased by 6 - 52% and p,p'-DDT concentrations decreased by 7 - 30%. The results indicate that OCP concentrations have decreased over time as is to be expected following the phase out of these chemicals in Australia.

Short term variability in urinary bisphenol A in Australian children

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2014.03.027

Abstract: Used frequently in food contact materials, bisphenol A (BPA) has been studied extensively in recent years, and ubiquitous exposure in the general population has been demonstrated worldwide. Characterizing within- and between-in idual variability of BPA concentrations is important for characterizing exposure in biomonitoring studies, and this has been investigated previously in adults, but not in children. The aim of this study was to characterize the short-term variability of BPA in spot urine s les in young children. Children aged ≥2-<4 years (n=25) were recruited from an existing cohort in Queensland, Australia, and donated four spot urine s les each over a two day period. S les were analysed for total BPA using isotope dilution online solid phase extraction-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and concentrations ranged from 0.53 to 74.5 ng/ml, with geometric mean and standard deviation of 2.70 ng/ml and 2.94 ng/ml, respectively. Sex and time of s le collection were not significant predictors of BPA concentration. The between-in idual variability was approximately equal to the within-in idual variability (ICC=0.51), and this ICC is somewhat higher than previously reported literature values. This may be the result of physiological or behavioural differences between children and adults or of the relatively short exposure window assessed. Using a bootstrapping methodology, a single s le resulted in correct tertile classification approximately 70% of the time. This study suggests that single spot s les obtained from young children provide a reliable characterization of absolute and relative exposure over the short time window studied, but this may not hold true over longer timeframes.

Higher accumulation of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in infants than in adults

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 23-08-2008

DOI: 10.1021/ES800719V

Abstract: Pooled serum s les collected from 8132 residents in 2002/ 03 and 2004/05 were analyzed to assess human polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) concentrations from specified strata of the Australian population. The strata were defined by age (0-4 years, 5-15 years, 60 years) region and gender. For both time periods, infants and older children had substantially higher PBDE concentrations than adults. For s les collected in 2004/ 05, the mean +/- standard deviation sigmaPBDE (sum of the homologue groups for the mono-, di-, tri-, tetra-, penta-, hexa-, hepta-, octa-, nona-, and deca-BDEs) concentrations for 0-4 and 5-15 years were 73 +/- 7 and 29 +/- 7 ng g(-1) lipid, respectively, while for all adults > 16 years, the mean concentration was lower at 18 +/- 5 ng g(-1) lipid. A similar trend was observed for the s les collected in 2002/03, with the mean sigmaPBDE concentration for children 16 years, 15 +/- 5 ng g(-1) lipid. No regional or gender specific differences were observed. Measured data were compared with a model that we developed to incorporate the primary known exposure pathways (food, air, dust, breast milk) and clearance (half-life) data. The model was used to predict PBDE concentration trends and indicated that the elevated concentrations in infants were primarily due to maternal transfer and breast milk consumption with inhalation and ingestion of dust making a comparatively lower contribution.

Population variation in biomonitoring data for persistent organic pollutants (POPs): An examination of multiple population-based datasets for application to Australian pooled biomonitoring data

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2014.03.026

Abstract: Australian national biomonitoring for persistent organic pollutants (POPs) relies upon age-specific pooled serum s les to characterize central tendencies of concentrations but does not provide estimates of upper bound concentrations. This analysis compares population variation from biomonitoring datasets from the US, Canada, Germany, Spain, and Belgium to identify and test patterns potentially useful for estimating population upper bound reference values for the Australian population. Arithmetic means and the ratio of the 95th percentile to the arithmetic mean (P95:mean) were assessed by survey for defined age subgroups for three polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs 138, 153, and 180), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), 2,2',4,4' tetrabrominated diphenylether (PBDE 47), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). Arithmetic mean concentrations of each analyte varied widely across surveys and age groups. However, P95:mean ratios differed to a limited extent, with no systematic variation across ages. The average P95:mean ratios were 2.2 for the three PCBs and HCB 3.0 for DDE 2.0 and 2.3 for PFOA and PFOS, respectively. The P95:mean ratio for PBDE 47 was more variable among age groups, ranging from 2.7 to 4.8. The average P95:mean ratios accurately estimated age group-specific P95s in the Flemish Environmental Health Survey II and were used to estimate the P95s for the Australian population by age group from the pooled biomonitoring data. Similar population variation patterns for POPs were observed across multiple surveys, even when absolute concentrations differed widely. These patterns can be used to estimate population upper bounds when only pooled s ling data are available.

Serum polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) levels are higher in children (2-5 years of age) than in infants and adults

Publisher: Environmental Health Perspectives

Date: 09-2009

DOI: 10.1289/EHP.0900596

Polybrominated diphenyl ether flame retardant concentrations in faeces from young children in Queensland, Australia and associations with environmental and behavioural factors

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2017.07.022

Abstract: The aim of our study was to investigate children's exposure to the flame retardants polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) by analysing faecal content, a non-invasive matrix, as well as responses to an exposure-assessment questionnaire. A convenience s le of 61 parents with children (aged >3 months to 80% s les above the limit of detection (LOD). BDE-47 (0.23ng/g dw) and BDE-153 (0.03ng/g dw) were each detected above the LOD in approximately 60% of s les. Age was associated with BDE-47 (-7%/month) and BDE-153 (-12%/month) concentrations in faeces, but not BDE-209. Other variables associated with PBDE concentrations included features of the home (carpet, pets) and behaviour (hand-to-mouth, removing shoes, using a car sunshade, frequency of walks outdoors). However, given the small s le size of this study additional research is required to confirm these findings. In this study we demonstrated that faeces may be a viable alternative to monitor human exposure to PBDEs, but further validation studies are required.

Age-Related trends in urinary excretion of bisphenol a in australian children and adults: Evidence from a pooled sample study using samples of convenience

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 17-09-2013

DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2013.834856

Abstract: Bisphenol A (BPA or 4,4'-(propane-2,2-diyl)diphenol) is a chemical intermediate in the production of polycarbonate and epoxy resins, and is used in a wide range of applications. BPA has attracted significant attention in the past decade due to its frequency of detection in human populations worldwide, and has demonstrated animal toxicity and potential impact on human health, particularly during critical periods of development. The aim of this study was to perform a preliminary assessment of age-related trends in urinary concentration and to estimate daily excretion of BPA in Australian children (aged >0 to <5 yr) and adults (≥15 to <75 yr). This was achieved using 79 s les pooled by age and gender, created from 868 in idual s les of convenience collected as part of routine, community-based pathology testing. Total BPA was analyzed using online solid phase extraction (SPE)-liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and detected in all s les with a range of 0.65-265 ng/ml. No significant differences were observed between males and females. A urine flow model was constructed from published values and was used to provide an estimate of daily excretion per unit body weight for each pooled s le. The daily excretion estimates ranged from 26.2 to 18,200 ng/kg-d for children, and from 20.1 to 165 ng/kg-d for adults. Urinary concentrations and estimated excretion rates were inversely associated with age, and estimated daily excretion in infants and young children was significantly higher than in adults (geometric mean: 107 and 47.0 ng/kg-d, respectively). Higher excretion of BPA in children may be explained by their higher food consumption relative to body weight compared to adults and adolescents, and may also reflect alternative exposure pathways and sources.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in human milk from Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2007.02.059

Abstract: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardants added to a multitude of products to reduce flammability. PBDEs have been widely detected and quantified in biota and humans in many industrialised countries from the Northern Hemisphere. However data concerning the levels of these compounds in the Australian population and environment remain limited. The objectives of this study were to determine PBDE concentrations and congener profiles in Australian human milk and compare this to concentrations found in other countries. Pooled human milk s les obtained from mothers residing in 12 regions of Australia were analysed by HRGC/HRMS for 18 PBDE congeners. In total, 157 human milk s les collected in 2002 and 2003 were ided into 17 regional pools. PBDEs were detected in all pools of human milk from Australia. The mean+/-standard deviation and median summation operatorPBDE concentrations were 11.1+/-3.2 and 11.0 ng g(-1) lipid, respectively with a range of 6.1-18.7 ng g(-1) lipid. The congener profile was dominated by BDE-47 followed by BDE-99, -100, -153, -154 and -183. Regional differences were evaluated, but no trends were observed. The data suggest regional differences are likely to be small if they exist at all. The concentrations of PBDEs found in Australian human milk were lower than those reported from North America but higher than those reported from Europe and Asia. Our results suggest that the exposure pathways which contribute to the PBDE body burden in the Australian population require a better understanding in order to determine future policy regarding their use and disposal.

Polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in pooled blood serum from infants, children, and adults in Australia

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 27-04-2009

DOI: 10.1021/ES900272U

Abstract: Polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFCs) have been used worldwide for more than 50 years in a wide variety of industrial and consumer products. Limited data exist on human exposure to PFCs in the Southern Hemisphere. Human blood serum collected in southeast Queensland, Australia, in 2006-2007 from 2420 donors was pooled according to age (cord blood, 0-0.5, 0.6-1, 1.1-1.5, 1.6-2, 2.1-2.5, 2.6-3, 3.1-3.5, 3.6-4, 4.1-6, 6.1-9, 9.1-12, 12.1-15, 16-30, 31-45, 46-60, and > 60 years) and gender and was analyzed for eight PFCs. Across all pools, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was detected at the highest mean concentration (15.2 ng/mL) followed by perfluorooctanoate (PFOA, 6.4 ng/mL), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS, 3.1 ng/mL), perfluorononanoate (PFNA, 0.8 ng/mL), 2-(N-methylperfluorooctance sulfonamide) acetate (Me-PFOSA-AcOH, 0.66 ng/mL), and perfluorodecanoate (PFDeA, 0.29 ng/mL). Perfluorooctane sulfonamide was detected in only 24% of the pools, and 2-(N-ethylperfluorooctane sulfonamide) acetate was detected in only one. PFOS concentrations were significantly higher in pools from adult males than from adult females (p = 0.002) no gender differences were apparent in the pools from children (< 12 years old). The highest mean concentrations of PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA, PFDeA, and Me-PFOSA-AcOH were found in children 60 years. Investigation into the sources and exposure pathways in Australia, in particular for children, is necessary as well as continued biomonitoring to determine the potential effects on human concentrations as a result of changes in the PFC manufacturing practices, including the cessation of production of several PFCs.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in sediment by salinity and land-use type from Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2007.07.003

Abstract: Brominated flame retardants, including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been incorporated in numerous products to reduce flammability. Depending on their bromination, PBDEs are relatively persistent in the environment and have the potential to bioaccumulate through the food web. The present study was initiated to provide a better understanding on the levels and possible origin of PBDEs in the aquatic environment of Australia. PBDEs were detected at 35 out of 46 sites and concentrations were relatively low in the majority of s les analysed. Mean+/-standard deviation and median SigmaPBDE concentrations across all sites were 4707+/-12,580 and 305 pg g(-1) dw, respectively, excluding the limit of detection. At 83% of sites, concentrations were below 1000 pg g(-1) dw, whereas elevated levels were found at sites downstream of STP outfalls and in areas dominated by industrial and urban land-use types. Concentrations of PBDEs differed significantly (p=0.007) among sites according to predominant type of land-use. Significantly (p=0.02) higher SigmaPBDE concentrations were also present in estuarine compared to freshwater environments, while PBDEs were below the limit of detection at the marine site. At most sites, BDE-209 contributed the highest proportion to the SigmaPBDE concentrations. The exception was one site with an elevated concentration of BDE-183. S ling and analytical variability were investigated as part of this study. Results showed generally satisfactory results for repeat analysis at a different laboratory and low variability among s les collected within 1000 m at low contaminated sites. However, at sites with elevated PBDE levels, s ling variability was high, with several fold to magnitudes of higher concentrations present among replicate sites. Corresponding to findings from elsewhere, these results demonstrate that urban and industrial activities provide the key input sources of PBDEs to the aquatic environment and provide a baseline for further investigation into the specific origin of contamination, as well as information on the background status of aquatic sediment contamination with PBDEs.

Longitudinal measurements of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in archived human serum samples between 1975 and 1995 in Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2023

DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2022.130307

Abstract: Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of manmade compounds produced since the 1950 s and used in a range of industrial processes and consumer products. In Australia, PFAS serum concentrations have been measured in the general population since 2002. However, few studies have retrospectively measured PFAS concentrations in serum s les representative of a general population prior to 2000, none of which have been conducted in Australia. To understand the general population's exposure to PFAS prior to 2002, longitudinal PFAS serum concentration measurements are required. In the current study, we accessed 'The Busselton Health Study Data Bank' to analyse archived serum s les for PFAS. Repeat serum s les collected in 1975, 1981 and 1995 were obtained from 17 participants. Of the 35 PFAS analysed, 13 PFAS were detected in the serum s les collected in 1975. Both the detection frequency and ∑PFAS serum concentrations increased between 1975 and 1995. Median ∑PFAS serum concentration increased over 7-fold from 3.3 ng/mL in 1975-26 ng/mL in 1995. The increase in serum concentrations reflects the global production history of these PFAS during this period in time.

Urinary concentrations of bisphenols in the australian population and their association with the per capita mass loads in wastewater

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 29-07-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.EST.0C00921

BDE-209 in the Australian Environment: Desktop review

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2016.08.032

Abstract: The commercial polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardant mixture c-decaBDE is now being considered for listing on the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. The aim of our study was to review the literature regarding the use and detection of BDE-209, a major component of c-decaBDE, in consumer products and provide a best estimate of goods that are likely to contain BDE-209 in Australia. This review is part of a larger study, which will include quantitative testing of items to assess for BDE-209. The findings of this desktop review will be used to determine which items should be prioritized for quantitative testing. We identified that electronics, particularly televisions, computers, small household appliances and power boards, were the items that were most likely to contain BDE-209 in Australia. Further testing of these items should include items of various ages. Several other items were identified as high priority for future testing, including transport vehicles, building materials and textiles in non-domestic settings. The findings from this study will aid in the development of appropriate policies, should listing of c-decaBDE on the Stockholm Convention and Australia's ratification of that listing proceed.

Decline in perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoate serum concentrations in an Australian population from 2002 to 2011

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2014.05.019

University Of Queensland

Location: Australia

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Queensland University Of Technology

Location: Australia

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Discovery Early Career Researcher Award - Grant ID: DE120100161

Start Date: 01-2012

End Date: 12-2017

Amount: $375,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE190100106

Start Date: 03-2019

End Date: 12-2019

Amount: $334,425.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE140100129

Start Date: 2014

End Date: 05-2015

Amount: $249,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP180101475

Start Date: 01-2018

End Date: 01-2022

Amount: $505,804.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE210100137

Start Date: 12-2021

End Date: 03-2023

Amount: $881,758.00

Funder: Australian Research Council