ATSDR Home PageScience Corner
Atlanta Marriott Marquis Hotel
Atlanta, Georgia
June 5-8, 1995
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001 Mohamed S. Abdel-Rahman, PhD, FCP Increased Arsenic Dermal Bioavailability by Chemical Mixtures in Pig Poster 253 Dana Abouelnasr, PhD The Relationship Between Site Characteristics and Reported Health Conditions Poster 007 W. Kent Anger, PhD ATSDR's Adult Environmental Neurobehavorial Test Battery (AENTB): Tests, Protocols, and Training Poster 012 Brian Toal, MSPH Use of Tumor Registsry Data and Geographic Information Systems in a Cancer Cluster Investigation Near a Superfund Site Poster 014 Jean-Louis H. Belard, MD, DES Hazardous Waste Abatement Simulation: Assessment of Heat Stress Poster 022 JeAnne R. Burg, PhD The National Exposure Registry: TCE Subregistry Followup 1 Analyses Poster 025 Elena Mitran, MD, PhD Electroneurodiagnosis Findings in Patients Exposed to Toxic Waste Poster 034 Morris F. Cranmer, PhD Total Toxicity Equivalence as a Indicator of Exposure at a 2,4- D/2,4,5-T Production Facility: The Vertac/Hercules Superfund Site, Jacksonville, Arkansas Poster 037 Morris F. Cranmer, PhD Evaluation of Potential Adverse Health Outcomes to Nearby Residents from the Operation of a Hazardous Waste Incinerator at the Vertac/Hercules Superfund Site Poster 040 Fernando Diaz-Barriga, PhD Food Cooked in Lead-Glazed Ceramics is a Minor Pathway of Exposure to Lead for Children Living in a Community Surrounding a Smelter Complex in Mexico Poster 045 Dr. Helen Dolk A European Study of Risk of Congenital Malformation and Residence Near Hazardous Waste Landfill Sites Poster 047 Dr. Charles Edoigiawerie The Review of Environmental Impact Assessment Policies and their Implementation within the Petroleum Industry in both Advanced (Western Australia) and Developing (Nigeria) Countries in the Context of Major Oil Spills Poster 052 Kathryn A. Evans, MPH Applying the Public Health Assessment Process to Evaluate the Health Effects of Hazardous Waste and Address community Health Concerns on "Refinery Row" in South Texas Poster 053 Nancy Fiedler, PhD Odor Perception and Chemical Sensitivity Poster 054 Lora E. Fleming, MD, MPH A Literature Review of Human Health Effects Associated with Hazardous Waste Incinerators, Related Facilities and Exposures Poster 056 Ivan A. Grzetic, PhD The Fate of Uranium from the Bor Copper Ores (Serbia) Poster 060 G. Brent Hamar, DDS, MPH Symptom and Illness Prevalence with Biomarkers Health Study for Calvert City and southern Livingston County, Kentucky Poster 068 Alan R. Hirsch, MD Denham Springs, Louisiana: Neurotoxicity as a Result of Ambient Chemicals Poster 069 Carlton A. Hornung, PhD, MPH Respiratory Symptoms Among the Elderly in a Community Exposed to Hazardous Waste Incineration and in a Comparison Community Poster 071 Virginia S. Houk, MSPH Changes in the Mutagenicity of Petroleum Products Undergoing Bioremediation Poster 075 Jefferson J. Katims, MD Director of Medical Research Toxic Encephalopathy: Evaluation by Neuroselective Cephalic Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and Comparison with other Tests Poster 077 Jennifer C. Kertanis, MPH Geographic Information Systems: Applications for ATSDR Public Health Assessments Poster 078 Abu T. Khan, PhD Metals in Livers and Kidneys of Rabbits Poster 079 Abu T. Khan, PhD Mercury Levels in Target Organs of Male Rats Following Multiple Doses of Mercuric Chloride Poster 082 Heidi M. Klein, MS Local Health Department Strategies for Addressing community Health Concerns at Hazardous Waste Sites Poster 083 Maurice E. Knuckles, PhD Acute Oral Toxicity of Benzo(a)pyrene and Fluoranthene Poster 085 Harold L. Komiskey, PhD Neurobehavorial Screening Battery after Subchronic Zinc Oxide Poster 088 Terrence Lee, MPH Blood Lead Levels of Peace Corps Volunteers Serving in the Former Soviet Union and China Poster 090 Yimin Li, PhD Determining Contaminant Bioavailability in Soils via Geochemical Modeling Poster 249 Kevin S. Liske, PhD Electronic Data Sources: What and Where Poster 103 Howard W. Mielke, PhD Risk Communication to Reduce Exposure in Lead Dust Contaminated Communities Poster 105 Andjelka N. Mihajlov, PhD Strategy Matrix - Case Study: Waste Management Option Poster 109 Lillian H. Mood, RN, MPH Using Registered Nurse Student Interviewers for Community Health Surveys Poster 119 Rosalia M. Oliveira, MSc Environmental contamination by HCH in the "Cidades Dos Meninos", State of Rio De Janeiro Poster 124 Nenad Peris, BSc Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Waters and Soils in Central Dalmatia, Croatia Poster 125 Lynelle Phillips, RN, MPH Challenges in Lead Poisoning Prevention on the Mexico Border Poster 127 Hana R. Pohl, MD, PhD Halogenated Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Toxicity Equivalency Factors (TEFs) from the Public Health Risk Assessment Perspective Poster 128 Predrag S. Polic, PhD Correlations Between Fluvial Chemical Parameters and Discharge: Indicators of Pollutions Mechanisms Poster 129 Olga V. Ponomareva, MD The Public Environmental Health in Russia (on material "AGIS- zdorovja" program) Poster 137 Dale Ritzel, PhD Residents' Safety Concerns and Behaviors Regarding Hazardous Chemical Products Used in the Home Poster 144 Dr. Iwona Rummel-Bulska The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (1989) Poster 152 Katherine M. Shea, MD Protection of Public Health Would be Enhanced Through the Use of a Combined Ecological-Human Health Risk Assessment Approach to Regulation of Environmental Hazard Poster 174 Aleksej N. Vasiliev, PhD Purification of Oil Products from Carcinogenic Compounds Poster 176 John F. Villanacci, PhD A Biokinetic Model to Assess the Public Health Impact of Cadmium in Soil Poster 181 Capt. Wade H. Weisman Technical Application of a Risk-Based Corrective Action (RBCA) Framework for the Assessment of Petroleum Hydrocarbon Impacted Sites Poster 197 Dr. Nayeemunnisa Effects of Pyrethroid Insecticide Cypermethrin Induced Toxicity on the Functioning of Brain and Heart in a Developing Mammal Poster 198 Aurobindo Roy, DSc Resiliency to the Toxic Effects of Carbon Tetrachloride is due to Non-Induction to Tumor Necrosis Factor in Preexposed Rats Poster 200 Gangadhar Choudhary, PhD Environmental Exposure to Benzidine: A Human Health Perspective Poster 203 Ralph O'Connor, PhD Looking Beyond the Lamppost: Other Toxics at Waste Sites Poster 206 C-H Selene J. Chou, PhD ATSDR Minimal Risk Levels for Hazardous Substances Poster 213 Mr. William D. Henriques, MSPH Spatial Analysis of Animal Location Data with other Data Sources: Investigating the Link Between Exposure and Effect Using a Geographic Information System Poster 214 Michael Hodgson, MD Community Exposure to Friction Products (Asbestos, Polychlorinated Biphenyls, and Lead) Poster 233 James T. Walker, DVM, MPH The Utility of Evaluating Health Outcome Data in ATSDR Public Health Asssessments Poster 236 Gilbert Rodrigo, MA Secretary/Director Community Involvement in Arresting Let-out of Hazardous Waste into the Basin of River Palar in Tamil Nadu, India Poster 243 Stephen B. Wall Use of Koi Carp (Cyprinus Carpio) to Assess Contaminant Availability of Polluted Sediments Poster 247 Christine L. Rosheim, DDS, MPH Long Term Evaluation of NACCHO Risk Communication Short Courses Poster 250 Mike Allred, PhD Designing Sampling Plans To Evaluate the Threat to Human Health From Ingesting Venison That Is Potentially Contaminated with Hazardous Substances Poster 252 Danica Holm, PhD Using GIS to Estimate Sensitive Sub-Populations Poster 255 Mr. Jonathan M. Akins Porphyrin Profiles in the Differential Diagnosis of Organochlorine and Metal Exposure Poster 259 Nicholas W. Gard, MS Biomarker Approaches for Assessment of Impact to Small Rodents Inhabiting Hazardous Waste Sites Poster 270 Novica B. Bascarevic Invalidity and Changed Work Ability in Trepca Lead Plant - Zvecan Poster 273 Cheryl McClure Determination of p-Nitrophenol in Urine Using Liquid Chromatography Combined with Atmospheric Pressure Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry Poster 280 Sarath R. Sirimanne, PhD Use of Cloud Point Extraction of Dioxins and PAHS from Human Serum for Assessing Human Exposure to Environmental Toxicants Poster 281 Bill Quan, MS, PE Safer Alternatives, an Elusive Concept Poster 282 Steve Renninger Decontamination of Methyl Parathion Inside Homes Poster 283 Nancy J. Balter, PhD Casual Inference in Alleged Personal Environmental Injury: A Case Report Illustrating Methods and Pitfalls Poster 285 Mr. Mahmoud Al-Madani Chief Biomedical Engineer Hospital Wastes Management in the Kingdom of Saudi Poster 287 William H. Taylor, PhD Looking for Uranium in Milk and Finding Potassium Poster 288 Indra Svensson, MSc Towards a High Resilience Society in Sweden. Geographical, Economical and Technical Vulnerability in Waste Handling Poster 289 John W. Ho Effects of Pesticides on Photoinduced Proton Transport Through Chloroplast Membranes Poster 293 K. C. Donnelly, PhD Genotoxicity of Wood Preserving Waste Contaminated Soils Undergoing In-Situ Bioremediation Poster 294 Surendra N. Kumar, PhD Risk Assessment Approach for Management of Soils Containing PNAs and Inorganic Lead POSTER
Use of Tumor Registry Data and Geographic Information Systems in a Cancer Cluster Investigation Near a Superfund Site
Diane D. Aye, M.P.H., Gary V. Archambault, Connecticut Department of Health, Deborah M. Dumin, Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, Hartford, Connecticut, Morris L. Maslia, P.E., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
Connecticut Tumor Registry data, census data, sampling data, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are being used to examine cancer incidence within a Connecticut town from 1968 to 1991. This study was conducted in response to citizen concerns that exposure to environmental contaminants from a local Superfund site was the cause of suspected elevated cancer occurrence. Age-specific rates of cancer incidence and standard incidence ratios are being calculated in relation to estimates of exposure to contaminants released into the public drinking water system and into the air.
GIS was used to calculate population estimates, locate the addresses of persons with cancer, and derive the spatial distribution of concentrations of water-system contaminants. These concentrations were obtained from a water quality computation program. Maps have been produced of the estimated distribution of trichloroethylene in the public water system and the air.
The population-based Connecticut Tumor Registry provides complete data on cases, however, methodologic difficulties exist in determining reliable population estimates and estimates of environmental contaminant exposure. Use of GIS is anticipated to allow more precise analysis of the relationship between exposure to contaminants and development of disease.
Hazardous Waste Abatement Simulation: Assessment of Heat Stress
Jean-Louis H. B‚lard, M.D., David C. Beeckman, M.S., Mathew G. Hause, James T. Wassell., Ph.D., Ronald L. Stanevich, M.S., National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia
Waste abatement workers are at risk of heat stress because they perform physical work in hot environments while wearing chemical protective clothing, which greatly impairs the body's thermoregulation process. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health proposed a study to evaluate waste abatement workers for the time it takes 1) to raise their core temperature by 1øC, 2) their heart rates to reach 90% of maximum, 3) them to stop because of fatigue, and 4) their core temperature to return to normal.
Seven subjects performed two different levels of work on a treadmill while in Level-A protection. The tests took place in controlled environments of 90øF, 80øF, and 70øF, with no solar load. The subjects' heart rates and core and skin temperatures were monitored during both the exercise and resting phases of the experiment. When using the treadmill at 75 watts in a 90øF environment, 6 of 7 subjects reached 1øC above at-rest core temperature in about 45 minutes. An average of 1 hour was required for them to return to normal temperature. Under the same exercise conditions, 5 subjects stopped because of fatigue in 51 minutes at 80øF, and all subjects stopped because of fatigue in 57 minutes at 70øF. These data will be used to help develop work and rest tables for waste abatement work.
The National Exposure Registry: TCE Subregistry Followup-1 Analyses
JeAnne R. Burg, Ph.D., L. Laszlo Pallos, Ph.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
The purpose of the National Exposure Registry (NER) is to assess the impact of low-level, long-term environmental chemical exposure on the health of exposed persons. Because the health outcomes and, consequently the latency periods, are not known, this is a longitudinal effort.
For the Trichloroethylene (TCE) Subregistry--a component of the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Group--baseline demographic, health, environmental, and occupational information was collected on 4,843 persons who had documented exposures to TCE and were living near 13 waste sites in 3 states. One year later the same information was solicited from the registrants (Followup 1). TCE Followup-1 reporting rates for health outcomes were compared with national norms generated by the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and with TCE Baseline rates.
TCE Followup-1 data, which includes information on 4,096 persons, have been analyzed. Logistic regression methods (controlling for age and sex) were used to compare NER reporting rates with NHIS rates. NER rates showed significant increases for the following health conditions: liver problems, anemia, urinary- tract disorders, diabetes, skin rashes, and respiratory allergies for varying age and sex groups. The consistency of these results compared with the baseline results is discussed.
Electroneurodiagnostic Findings in Patients Exposed to Toxic Waste
Thomas J. Callender, M.D., Elena Mitran, M.D., Ph.D., Daniel W. Duhon, M.S., Med-Health Clinic, Ltd., Lafayette, Louisiana
An electroneurodiagnostic test battery has been used to assess central and peripheral nervous impairment in 9 subjects exposed professionally to mixtures of neurotoxic wastes that included solvents, heavy metals, ketones, hydrogen sulfide, glycols, halogenated and aliphatic hydrocarbons, carbon disulfide, phenols, and cyanide compounds.
The test battery included evoked potentials (brainstem auditory, middle latency auditory, event-related cognitive [P300], pattern reversal visual [full field and hemifield], somatosensory and dermatome) and peripheral nerve conduction velocity (motor and sensory).
Patients mean age at the time of evaluation was 37.4 years and their length of exposure ranged from 1 month to 5 years. Using the International 10/20 System of electrode placement over the scalp, brain mapping of evoked electrical activity over the cortex was performed.
Intertest comparisons were performed (somatosensory evoked potentials versus peripheral nerve conduction, and P300 versus visual evoked potentials) as were comparisons between the battery test results and length of exposure, body temperature, symptoms and signs in corresponding limbs, and brain blood flow.
Results indicated that the auditory-evoked potentials were not sensitive enough to demonstrate the nervous disturbances in our subjects despite prominent vertigo syndromes. Visual, cognitive, somatosensory, and dermatome-evoked potentials, and sensory peripheral nerve conduction velocity did prove useful in correlating nervous system complaints with objective measurements.
We appreciate the electroneurodiagnostic test battery as a valuable, noninvasive, and objective biomarker of central and peripheral nervous impairment. This battery could be employed in patients exposed to toxic waste neurotoxicants to detect milder, subclinical dysfunction.
Total Toxicity Equivalence as an Indicator of Exposure at a 2,4-D/2,4,5-T Production Facility: The Vertac/Hercules Superfund Site, Jacksonville, Arkansas.
Morris F. Cranmer, Ph.D., Cranmer and Associates, John Senner, Ph.D., Arkansas Department of Health, Little Rock, Arkansas, Robert W. Amler, M.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
Of the 75 possible chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and 135 possible chlorinated dibenzo-p-furans, those substituted at the 2,3,7,8 positions often have 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD)-like biologic activity. The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed that values for individual 2,3,7,8-substituted chlorinated dioxins and furans be reported individually and as total 2,3,7,8-TCDD equivalents (TEQs).
An exposure study was conducted examining 41 environmental pollutants in the blood and urine of 108 persons living within one half mile of the Vertac/Hercules Superfund site in Jacksonville, Arkansas and 72 controls living in Mabelvale, Arkansas. Eighteen (18) 2,3,7,8-substituted dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzo-p-furans were measured in the Jacksonville/Mabelvale cohort.
TEQs were determined for the Jacksonville/Mabelvale cohort. TEQs reveal patterns similar to 2,3,7,8-TCDD. TEQ values rise with age but did not show significant differences for race or gender. Mean TEQ and 2,3,7,8-TCDD values for long-term residents of Jacksonville living within one half mile of the Vertac/Hercules Superfund site were significantly higher than those for the control community, Mabelvale, Arkansas. 2,3,7,8-TCDD did not represent more than 20% of the TEQ. 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin contributed the largest fraction of the TEQ.
The relative contribution of individual 2,3,7,8-substituted chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzo-p-furans to TEQs for the Jacksonville/Mabelvale groups will be reported and discussed. The contribution of coplanar PCBs will also be reported and discussed.
Evaluation of Potential Adverse Health Outcomes to Nearby Residents from Operation of a Hazardous Waste Incinerator at the Vertac/Hercules Superfund Site.
Morris F. Cranmer, Ph.D., Shirley C. Louie, M.S., Cranmer and Associates, Little Rock, Arkansas, Robert W. Amler, M.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia, John Senner, Ph.D., Patricia Burge, M.S., Arkansas Department of Health, Little Rock
The Vertac/Hercules Superfund site is located in Jacksonville, Arkansas. The Environmental Protection Agency chose incineration as the method of destruction for 28,500 barrels of 2,4-D and 2.4.5-T waste. Residents living near the incinerator were concerned that toxic gases might be released during the incineration program and that exposure to those gases might cause adverse health effects. Using the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry's standardized survey questionnaire, a cross-sectional study of self-reported diseases and symptoms was conducted in the summer of 1993, after 2 years' operation of the hazardous waste incinerator. The target population sample included 200 persons living in Jacksonville within one half mile of the hazardous waste incinerator, 200 persons taken from Jacksonville at-large, and 200 persons living in a control community, Mabelvale, Arkansas. No statistically significant differences in self-reported diseases and symptoms were found when the groups from Jacksonville and Mabelvale were compared.
Of these participants, 128 had participated in an earlier exposure study in which levels of 41 different pollutants were determined in blood and urine. Logistic regression models were used to determine whether individual chemicals predicted various reported diseases. Two chemicals were predictive of diabetes: 3,3,4,4,5-PCB (p<0.01) and 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (p> 0.05). The linear combination of these two chemicals was the most predictive of diabetes.
Logistic regression models used to determine compound-specific diabetes predictability, the sensitivity of the study, and general results obtained will be discussed.
Food Cooked in Lead-Glazed Ceramics Is a Minor Pathway of Exposure to Lead for Children Living in a Community Surrounding a Smelter Complex in Mexico
Lilia Batres, Q.F.B., Jaqueline Calder¢n, M.S., Leticia Carrizales, Q.F.B., Leticia Y ¤ez, M.S., and Fernando D¡az-Barriga, Ph.D., Fac. Medicina-UASLP, San Luis Potos¡, S.L.P., Mexico
We analyzed the contribution of lead-glazed ceramics to total lead exposure for children living in a Mexican smelting community heavily contaminated by environmental lead.
Daily uptake of dietary lead, estimated for children exposed to food cooked in lead-glazed ceramics, was extremely high (136 g of lead/day). In addition, these children had higher levels of lead in blood (16.5 microg/dL) when compared with a control group of non- exposed children (14.9 microg/dl; t-test, p<0.05).
We employed the Environmental Protection Agency's Lead 5 Biokinetic Model, with environmental lead levels determined in the smelter area, to find that dietary lead intake accounts for 12% of total daily lead uptake for children exposed to lead-glazed ceramics.
Our results show that the profile for pathways contributing to lead exposure in Mexico is different for a smelting community, where the major exposure pathway is soil and dust, than for large cities, such as Mexico City, where lead exposure is due mainly to use of lead-glazed ceramics and inhalation of gasoline emissions (Romieu et al., 1994).
A European Study of Risk of Congenital Malformation and Residence Near Hazardous Waste Landfill Sites.
Dr Helen Dolk, Department of Public Health and Policy, EUROHAZCON Working Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
A multicenter case-control study is being undertaken in 11 centers in 6 European countries to assess whether an increased risk of congenital malformation is associated with residence near hazardous waste landfill sites. The study is funded for two years by the European Union BIOMED programme. Participants are regional, population-based congenital malformation registries.
Cases will include all malformed livebirths, stillbirths, and induced abortions (following prenatal diagnosis) to residents within a defined geographical zone, registered on population-based registers. Two controls per case will be selected from non- malformed births to residents in the same region. All cases and controls within 10 km of a site will be retained for study, and, within this subset, the tendency for persons with cases to live nearer to sites will be assessed using statistical methodology developed for geographic studies of point-source exposures. Special attention will be paid to the potential problem of socio- economic confounding.
Environmental Impact Assessment Policies and Their Implementation within the Petroleum Industry in Both Advanced (Western Australia) and Developing (Nigeria) Countries in the Context of Major Oil Spills
Charles Edoigiawerie, Como, Western Australia
Nigeria, a West African country, is particularly prone to the effects of oil pollution because it produces large quantities of crude oil (1.9 million barrels\day) for export. Results compiled by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation over a period of 15 years--between 1976 and 1991--showed a total of 2,976 spills, resulting in the release of 2 million barrels of crude oil into the Nigerian environment. This resulted in damaging health and ecological effects, particularly on the southern coastal communities of the country. The environmental and health impact of these oil spills is made worse by inappropriate and inadequate environment and health impact assessment processes and policies in Nigeria. In Western Australia, however, proper environmental and health impact assessment of petroleum drilling and transport projects is a major factor in helping predict and reduce the health and environmental impacts of petroleum on the local environment. A comparison of crude oil spills and their associated environmental and health effects in Western Australia and Nigeria revealed that the rather devastating impact of oil pollution in Nigeria is due, in part, to poor environmental and health impact assessment policies and control procedures employed in Nigeria, particularly regarding public participation and government control of petroleum projects.
Odor Perception and Chemical Sensitivity
Nancy L. Fiedler, Ph.D., Howard M. Kipen, M.D., M.P.H., Kathie A. Kelly-McNeil, UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey
Individuals who report unusual sensitivity to low-level chemical exposures (multiple chemical sensitivity subjects [MCS]) often report heightened sensitivity to odors. Perception of odors may also contribute to symptomatic reports among community members living near hazardous waste sites. The purpose of the present study was to assess odor-detection thresholds for phenyl ethyl alcohol (PEA) and pyridine (PYR), ratings of trigeminal symptoms and aesthetic qualities to 4 suprathreshold levels of these odorants, and olfactory discrimination on the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT).
Twenty-three female MCS and 21 normal controls of similar age and education were compared. No significant differences were observed between the groups in odor-detection thresholds for PEA or PYR or for the number of correct choices on the UPSIT. Individual univariate analyses of variance contrasting MCS and normal controls on each of the rating scales revealed that MCS reported significantly higher ratings of burning and stinging than did normal controls at 0.01%, 1%, and 100% PEA. MCS subjects rated significantly more stinging and numbness at 0% PEA. For aesthetic properties of pleasantness and safety relative to normal controls, MCS rated PEA as significantly more unpleasant and unsafe at 1% and 100% concentrations. For PYR, no significant differences were noted between MCS and normal controls on ratings of trigeminal symptoms or of aesthetic properties. In summary, MCS subjects were not more sensitive to odors as defined by odor- detection threshold. However, they exhibited more symptoms in response to odors regarded as pleasant.
A Literature Review of Human Health Effects Associated with Hazardous Waste Incinerators, Related Facilities, and Exposures.
Lora E. Fleming, M.D. M.P.H., and Judy A. Bean, Ph.D., Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
The impact of hazardous waste incineration (HWI), a relatively recent technology, on human health is of major concern. The scientific literature was reviewed for health studies of workers and communities associated with HWI, waste incineration, and hazardous waste. Other areas of possible relevance were examined, including air pollution and the three major emission groups from HWI--heavy metals, dioxins, and volatile organic compounds.
The major finding is the inadequacy of the existing database. Only few investigations have been conducted and these have involved small numbers of individuals over short time periods. Studies to evaluate possible chronic health effects have not been done because the latency period has been insufficient. In addition, recall bias and chronic low-level multiple exposures in human communities have not been adequately addressed.
The air-pollution literature establishes that inhalation exposure of certain air pollutants can cause acute and chronic human health effects. If certain potential HWI emissions (especially heavy metals) enter the food chain, they are very difficult to eliminate and may bioaccumulate. These substances can cause human health effects that are irreversible, especially in fetuses and growing children.
Persons who live in communities surrounding incineration and hazardous waste sites also suffer substantial anxiety about possible health risks and economic concerns. This anxiety may be alleviated if the local community is educated about and actively involved in overseeing the waste site from the beginning.
Symptom and Illness Prevalence Health Study with Biomarkers for Calvert City and Southern Livingston County, Kentucky
B. Brent Hamar, D.D.S., M.P.H., Michael A. McGeehin, Ph.D., M.S.P.H., Betty L. Phifer, J.S., R.N., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry conducted a health study of the area surrounding the Calvert City Industrial Complex (CCIC), an industrial site located in Calvert City, Kentucky. The objective of the study was to assess the current health status of residents living near CCIC compared with residents of a similar, "nonexposed" comparison community. Calvert City is a community of approximately 2,500 persons in Marshall County in the western part of Kentucky. CCIC is located on the northern side of Calvert City and the southern bank of the Tennessee River. The Complex is presently occupied by 17 separate companies, many involved in manufacturing and handling chemical compounds. Some residents of the area were concerned that chemical releases from CCIC were causing adverse health effects in the community.
A total of 720 randomly selected participants from the Calvert City area and from a similar comparison area were administered a standardized symptom-and-illness-prevalence questionnaire. They also received pulmonary function tests and provided blood and urine specimens for chemical exposure tests and biomedical tests of subclinical organ dysfunction. In general, target-area study participants reported illnesses slightly more often, but symptoms less often, than did comparison-area study participants. No clear pattern of symptoms or illness was discerned. No statistically significant differences were found in reproductive histories. Biologic test results of the hepatobiliary, renal, immune, and hematopoietic systems revealed no clear differences between target and comparison study groups or in comparison to reference levels. No statistically significant differences were seen between target and comparison groups in pulmonary function tests. Of the 31 chemicals analyzed in the blood exposure testing of volatile organic chemicals, only acetone was statistically significantly higher in target-area participants than in comparison-area participants.
Denham Springs, Louisiana: Neurotoxicity as a Result of Ambient Chemicals
Alan R. Hirsch, M.D., Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
In Denham Springs, Louisiana, an industrial plant released a variety of toxins into the water supply, including carbon tetrachloride, benzene, ethane, styrene, hexane, and trichloroethylene. Thirty residents in close proximity to the site underwent evaluation, including neurologic, psychiatric, and chemosensory histories and examinations and olfactory threshold tests of Amoore to pyridine, isobutyl isobutyrate, phenylethyl methylethyl carbinol, isovaleric acid, 1,8 cineole, pentadecalactone, l-carvone, beta phenylethyl alcohol, and tetrahydrothiophane. When indicated, additional olfactory, neurophysiologic, and psychiatric tests were also performed.
Of the 30 residents, 87% (26) met criteria for a neurotoxin- induced neurologic disease, with an average of 3.7 clinical diagnoses for each person. Neurotoxin-induced diseases were cephalgia 67% (20), encephalopathy 56% (17), polyneuropathy 50% (15), limbic encephalopathy 40% (12), cranial nerve VIII neuropathy 20% (6), chemosensory dysfunction 17% (5), optic neuropathy 10% (3), and autonomic neuropathy 6% (2).
This suggests that long-term exposure to a variety of neurotoxins can induce chronic multisystem neurologic disease.
Changes in the Mutagenicity of Petroleum Products Undergoing Bioremediation
Virginia S. Houk, M.S.P.H., Larry D. Claxton, Ph.D., Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
As the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), industry, and others promote the use of bioremediation as a treatment alternative for environmental contamination, the health risks of such clean-up efforts must be assessed. Conversions of toxic constituents to metabolic intermediates and byproducts can result in fluctuations in toxicity over time. We have examined this process by studying the microbial degradation of petroleum products in the field and in the laboratory.
For the field study, we evaluated two accidental releases--a coastal oil spill and a refinery leak--in which biodegradation was achieved by accelerating the proliferation of indigenous soil microbes using nutrient fertilizers. Soil samples were collected before, during, and after in-situ treatment, and organic compounds were extracted from the soils by sonication with dichloromethane (DCM). The extracts were tested for mutagenicity using the spiral Salmonella assay. Results indicated that the mutagenicity of the oily beaches depended on soil composition, the fertilizer used, and natural removal processes such as wave action. The mutagenicity of soil impacted by the refinery leak depended on depth of collection, water table location, and levels of fuel contamination.
For the laboratory study, we evaluated the biodegradation of three crude oils by two species of fungi combined in flasks of mineral salts. Flasks were incubated at 30øC for up to 1 month, and contents were extracted with DCM at 2-day intervals and tested for mutagenic activity. An oil that was highly mutagenic became nonmutagenic in as few as 5-6 days of treatment, and a nonmutagenic oil became mutagenic over time. (This is an abstract of a proposed presentation and does not necessarily reflect EPA policy.)
Environmental Exposure to Benzidine: A Human Health Perspective
Gangadhar Choudhary, Ph.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
Benzidine, an odorless, crystalline, reddish-gray to grayish- yellow organic compound, is an environmental contaminant that has been identified at about 30 National Priorities List (NPL) hazardous waste sites in the United States. In the environment, it is usually found attached to suspended particles either in its "free" state or as chloride or sulfate salts. In the past, U.S. industries used large quantities of benzidine to produce dyes for paper, clothes, and leather. Since the ban on its production and use in the United States in the 1970s, this compound is imported for various specialty uses. Persons living near hazardous waste sites might be exposed to benzidine by drinking contaminated water, by inhaling contaminated air, or by swallowing or touching contaminated dust. People can also be exposed by using benzine dyes on paper, clothes, and other materials.
Human occupational data and studies of laboratory animals suggest that persons exposed to benzidine may develop adverse systemic health effects or cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Health and Human Services, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the World Health Organization have classified benzidine as a carcinogen.
Urinary bladder cancer is the most common form of cancer caused by exposure to benzidine. Stomach, kidneys, brain, mouth, esophagus, liver, and gallbladder may also be targets.
This presentation will provide up-to-date information on the potential adverse health effects of exposure to benzidine, its chemical toxicokinetics, and benzidine releases to the environment.
ATSDR's Minimal Risk Levels for Hazardous Substances
C-H Selene J. Chou, Ph.D., Mike Fay, Ph.D., Jim Holler, Ph.D., and Christopher T DeRosa, Ph.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
The mission of Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) is to prevent exposure and adverse human health effects and diminished quality of life associated with exposure to hazardous substances from waste sites, unplanned releases, and other sources of pollution present in the environment. To support this mission, ATSDR prepares toxicological profiles for the hazardous substances on its priority list. These profiles contain information and interpretations of substance-specific health effects.
When sufficient information is available, minimal risk levels (MRLs) are derived. An MRL is an estimate of the daily human exposure that is likely to be without appreciable risk of adverse noncancer effects over a specified duration of exposure. These estimates serve as guidelines that ATSDR health assessors use to determine contaminants of concern at hazardous waste sites. MRLs are derived for acute, intermediate, and chronic durations via oral and inhalation routes of exposure. MRLs are derived using the No- Observed-Adverse-Effect-Level/Uncertainty Factor (NOAEL/UF) approach. UFs are applied that account for extrapolation from high to low doses and from animals to humans, and for intrahuman variation. The default value for each UF is 10; however, a UF of 3 or 1 may be used when the database supports it. A modifying factor (MF) may also be used to reflect additional scientific judgment on the database. To date, 206 MRLs have been derived for 106 profiled substances. Representative MRLs will be discussed to explain the current approach ATSDR is taking in defining these guidance values.
Spatial Analysis of Animal Location Data With Other Data Sources: Investigating the Link Between Exposure and Effect Using a Geographic Information System
William D. Henriques, M.S.P.H., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia, The Institute of Wildlife and Environmental Toxicology (IWET), Clemson University, Pendleton, South Carolina, Dale J. Hoff, MS, Kenneth R. Dixon, Ph.D., and Michael J. Hooper, Ph.D., IWET
In determining the probable cause of health effects from exposure to environmental contaminants, many factors strengthen the link between exposure and effect. One of the most useful new methods for assessing exposure and potential effects is the use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) and data-layering techniques based on a geographic coordinate system. Spatial data from different sources must each be analyzed for quality, accuracy of locations through ground-truthing techniques, completeness of coverage for the area of interest, and assessment of other environmental factors that may play integral roles in exposure or effects. Predator-prey relationships and the relation of the sentinel species to its habitat are also important considerations that require unique analysis techniques, such as home range analysis. Use of tissue concentrations of potentially adverse toxicants adds additional strength to an investigation, and biomarkers of exposure and effect in the sentinel species have a predictive ability to show subtle effects in a population before histologic effects can be observed.
Examples of data-overlay techniques and methods of analysis used at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge will be presented and discussed. Methods will be presented to determine statistical significance of multivariate data. Supported by NIEHS ES04696.
Designing Sampling Plans to Evaluate the Threat to Human Health From Ingesting Venison Potentially Contaminated With Hazardous Substances
Phillip M. Allred, Ph.D., Gary H. Campbell, Ph.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia, and Janet E. Whaley, D.V.M., U.S. Army Environmental Hygiene Agency, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, USA.
Federal agencies are responsible for evaluating health threats posed by waste-handling practices at federal facilities, many of which encompass thousands of acres of undeveloped land. The U.S. Army has the added responsibility of managing wildlife resources at Army facilities and, in some cases, uses public hunting to manage deer populations. To determine the potential threat to public health from ingesting foodchain components, such as venison, that may be contaminated with hazardous substances, health scientists evaluate exposure pathways.
To determine whether foodchain components taken from such large facilities could serve as a contaminated environmental medium in an exposure pathway, health scientists collect appropriate samples and use appropriate analytic techniques to identify and quantify any contaminants that may be present. When evaluating an environmental medium, investigators consider several factors. Contaminants of concern must be identified, and appropriate health comparison values must exist so that health scientists can determine whether exposures threaten human health. Analytic techniques must possess sufficient accuracy and precision to ensure that the contaminants of concern can be identified and quantified and proper statistical analyses can be conducted.
Using examples from studies conducted by the U.S. Army at some of its installations, we will elaborate on these and other factors important in the design of sampling plans that enable health scientists to determine whether ingestion of a potentially contaminated foodchain component poses a threat to public health.
Porphyrin Profiles in the Differential Diagnosis of Organochlorine and Metal Exposure
John M. Akins, Michael J. Hooper, The Institute of Wildlife and Environmental Toxicology, Clemson University, Pendleton, South Carolina, and J.S. Woods, Ph.D., Department of Environmental Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
Porphyrin profiles (PP) can be qualitative or quantitative biomarkers of environmental toxicants such as organochlorines and heavy metals. Hepatic and renal PP biomarkers of field toxicant exposure were evaluated in nestling European starlings from reference and hazardous waste sites. Positive control nestlings were treated with vehicle, Aroclor 1254 (PCB), hexachlorobenzene, dieldrin, mercuric chloride, lead acetate, and sodium arsenate. Treated starling nestlings were obtained from nest boxes on reference fields, weighed, and dosed by oral gavage on post-hatch days 5, 8, 11, and 14 with the above compounds. Livers and kidneys were analyzed on post-hatch day 15 for changes in PP (total and individual porphyrins). Nestlings from the hazardous waste sites had elevated hepatic 4-carboxylporphyrins. Nestlings treated with a total of 42 and 130 mg/kg Aroclor 1254 exhibited increases of 4-carboxylporphyrin and 7- and 4-carboxylporphyrins, respectively, in a dose-related manner. Mercuric chloride caused an increase in only 2-carboxylporphyrin at 8 mg/kg. Lead acetate (40, 200, and 400 mg/kg) and sodium arsenate (12 mg/kg) caused an increase of 4-carboxylporphyrin. Hexachlorobenzene (800 mg/kg) and dieldrin (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg) did not alter porphyrin levels. Renal porphyrins are currently being analyzed. These findings extend the view that PPs in nestling starlings may serve as a diagnostic tool for monitoring toxicant bioavailability to wildlife. Supported by NIEHS ES04696.
Biomarker Approaches for Assessing Impact to Small Rodents Inhabiting Hazardous Waste Sites
Nicholas W. Gard, M.S., Richard L. Dickerson, Ph.D., and Michael J. Hooper, Ph.D., The Institute of Wildlife and Environmental Toxicology, Clemson University, Pendleton, South Carolina
Currently, most ecological risk assessments are based on chemical residue analysis and wildlife species demographics that can neglect contaminant bioavailability and bioaccumulation. This limitation can be overcome by incorporating mechanistically relevant biomarkers that exhibit greater sensitivity to contaminants of concern. Development of biomarker-driven ecological risk assessments requires choosing appropriate measurement endpoints in selected sentinel species. We are currently assessing the suitability of hepatic cytochrome P450 induction and immunotoxicity as biomarkers in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) following exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (HAHs).
Positive control studies were performed by dosing laboratory-raised deer mice with PAHs or HAHs. Immune suppression occurred at contaminant concentrations 1-2 orders of magnitude below those required for P450 induction, suggesting that immunotoxicity is a sensitive biomarker of exposure. We are currently assessing host resistance capabilities of deer mice following contaminant exposure to relate immune suppression to relevant organismal or ecological level effects.
We have demonstrated the feasibility of using immunotoxicity and P450 induction as biomarkers in wildlife risk assessments at hazardous waste sites by temporarily housing laboratory-reared deer mice in enclosures on PAH- or HAH-contaminated sites to model the response of endemic wild mice.
Results indicate that effective ecological risk assessments should incorporate residue analyses with measurement of mechanistically relevant biomarkers. Supported by NIEHS ES04696.
Causal Inference in Alleged Personal Environmental Injury: An Example Illustrating Methods and Pitfalls
Nancy J. Balter, Ph.D, Philip Witorsch, M.D., and Sorell L. Schwartz, Ph.D., Department of Pharmacology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
Residents in the area of Superfund sites often enter litigation claiming that adverse health effects were caused by site-related exposures. We report on one such situation, currently the subject of litigation, in which we were retained by the defendants to perform a medical evaluation and causal analysis. We concluded that no cause-effect relationship existed between the plaintiffs' health complaints and site-related exposures. Our counterparts, retained by the plaintiffs, presented this same case at the International Congress on the Health Effects of Hazardous Waste (May 1993). Comparison of the ways in which data were collected and considered and of the method for performing causal inference illustrates several pitfalls that can be encountered when evaluating causation, especially in the context of a lawsuit.
The facts of this case illustrate the importance of considering not just the potential for exposure but whether exposure is (or was) at levels that could plausibly be associated with adverse health effects. Whether environmental or biomarker levels are merely above expected or recommended levels is insufficient support for a causal inference. Similarly, a causality conclusion based on non-specific clinical findings being "consistent with" a specific exposure misses the point. Causality assessment must go beyond that to weigh the probability of claimed cause(s) with those of other possible causes. Furthermore, communication of a speculative toxicologic injury to a plaintiff should be considered in the same light as communicating a speculative diagnosis of disease to any patient--that is, primum non nocere.
Hospital Waste Management in the Kingdom of Saudi
Mahmoud Al-Madani, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Health care services were initiated in Saudi Arabia in the 1950s with establishment of the Ministry of Health. The real thrust, however, came in the 1970s when health care became one of the services the Saudi government singled out for special attention. Two main sectors provide all available health care services in the country: public (86%) and private (14%). A variety of governmental agencies and ministries, including the Royal Cabinet, the Ministry of Health, National Guards, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Higher Education, universities, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Electricity and Industries, provide medical care services in cities and rural areas. Industries, like Saudi Aramco, Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, and hundreds of private clinics and hospitals also contribute to the arena of health providers. This abundance of different providers causes a diversity of hospital standards in terms of planning, implementation, location, and available resources.
As health care facilities provide medical services and treatments in their daily activities, they also contribute as ecosystems and affect the environment. Their output of exhaust air, wastewater, various types of toxic and non-toxic solid waste, and hazardous waste have an impact on human and ecological health.
The results of a survey instrument showing the current practices of hazardous waste management practiced in the kingdom will be outlined. This presentation will also focus on the technology used, the health risks associated with it, and the statutes of the kingdom for implementing the blueprint for environmental regulations and international standards.
Using GIS to Estimate Potentially Exposed Populations
Danika Holm, Orkand Corporation, John Mann, P.G., John Crellin, Ph.D., Don Gibeaut, P.E., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
This poster will illustrate how a geographic information system (GIS) was used to estimate the number of children (72 months of age and younger) living within 100, 300, and 500 meters of lead-contaminated stream deposits at a Superfund site in Utah. The advantages and limitations of GIS methods are also illustrated.
Toxic Encephalopathy: Evaluation by Neuroselective Cephalic Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and Comparison With Other Tests
Jefferson J. Katims, M.D., Dora H. Schively, M.D., Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, Thomas J. Callender, M.D., Med Health Clinic, Ltd. Lafayette, Louisiana, Lorenz K.Y. Ng, M.D., National Rehabilitation Hospital, Bethesda, Maryland
Occupational and environmental medicine needs a rapid screening procedure to assess the functional integrity of the sensory central nervous system (CNS). The neuro-selective Cephalic Evoked Non-Cutaneous Sensations (CENS) evaluation has been demonstrated to detect sensory CNS functional deficits in neurologically asymptomatic HIV and uremic patients.
The painless CENS evaluation requires less than 5 minutes to conduct and may be administered by a technician using a portable, battery-operated NEUROMETER~ CENS device (Neurotron, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21209).
A double-blind, controlled study of CENS profiles was conducted on a population of 25 workers with toxic encephalopathy (TE) (ages 30-63, median = 44) and 14 control subjects (ages 20-70, median = 35). The diagnosis of toxic encephalography was based on clinical and psychometric, SPECT or PET brain scans, and Brain Stem Auditory Evoked-Potential Response (BAER) studies.
CENS profiles of control subjects did not differ significantly (p<0.001) from previously established normative values (n=102). Abnormality detection sensitivities were CENS, 84%; brain scans, 88%; psychometric, 71%; BAER, 55%. CENS abnormalities consistent with sensory impersistence were detected in 48% of the workers and none of the controls. CENS abnormalities correlated significantly with BAER (r=0.53,p<0.01) and brain scan (r=0.41, p<0.03) studies and poorly with psychometrics (r=0.20, p<.35).
The CENS evaluation demonstrated a sensitive and practical quantitative measure of sensory CNS functional integrity that correlates well with other quantitative measures of toxic encephalopathy. Further studies with the CENS evaluation in populations at risk for neurotoxic exposure can further confirm its diagnostic utility.
Geographic Information Systems: Applications for ATSDR Public Health Assessments
Jennifer C. Kertanis, M.P.H., Diane D. Aye, M.P.H., Connecticut Department of Health, Hartford, Connecticut, Greg Ulirsch, M.S., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia, Marsha D. Henley, and Mark A. Tuttle, M.S., Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
Applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have helped in the integration, analysis, and visualization of three primary sources of data used in ATSDR public health assessments of hazardous waste sites: environmental data, community health concerns, and health outcome data. As part of a demonstration project, GIS applications have been used in the public health assessment process in Stratford, Connecticut.
Waste material including lead, asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls, and dioxin were used as fill material throughout the town of Stratford. Surface soil contamination has been identified at more than 15 commercial and public sites and at many residential properties.
A public health assessment is defined as the evaluation of data and information on the release of hazardous substances into the environment to assess any current or future impact on public health and identify actions needed to evaluate and mitigate or prevent human health effects. A relational evaluation of the data is made easier through the application of GIS and provides for a more comprehensive database from which conclusions and recommendations can be made.
Maps have been produced using GIS that
1. Incorporate environmental sampling data to depict the location
of waste in the community,
2 Use 1990 census data to display demographic data in relation
to the waste,
3. Help evaluate the effectiveness of a voluntary lead screening
program in the community.
Metals in Livers and Kidneys of Rabbits
A. T. Khan, D. M. Forester, Physiology, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama, H. W. Mielke, Xavier Institute of Bioenvironmental Toxicology, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana
Liver and kidney samples were collected from 10 rabbits killed by hunters from Macon county, Alabama, and were analyzed for Pb, Cd, Cu, Cr, Co, Ni, and Zn by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy to provide baseline information of these metals. Mean concentrations in ppm in livers were Pb (2.85), Cd (2.18), Cu (2.75), Cr (2.03), Co (2.19), Ni (2.40), and Zn (26.40) and in kidneys were Pb (2.68), Cd (2.81), Cu (2.71), Cr (2.04), Co (2.16), Ni (2.41), and Zn (24.04). No significant differences in metal concentrations were found between livers and kidneys. However, in both livers and kidneys, concentrations of Zn were significantly higher than those of other metals. Also, no significant differences were found between male and female rabbits in metal concentrations in livers and kidneys.
Mercury Levels in Target Organs of Male Rats Following Multiple Doses of Mercuric Chloride
A.T. Khan, T.C. Graham, J.E. Webster, D.M. Forester, and J.A. Ferguson, School of Veterinary Medicine, Tuskegee University Tuskegee, Alabama
This investigation was designed to evaluate the effects of multiple doses of mercuric chloride on male Sprague Dawley rats. After acclimation, male rats were given 0, 0.125, 0.25, 0.50, 1.0 or 2.0 mg/kg mercuric chloride (oral gavage) daily for 14 days. At the end of the experiment, rats that survived were euthanized and tissue samples were collected from brains, gonads, hearts, kidneys, livers, lungs, and spleens and analyzed for mercury content. Mercury levels were undetectable in the brains, hearts, lungs, spleens and gonads at all doses except the 2.0 mg/kg. At 2.0 mg/kg, mercury levels in the lungs were 0.13 microg/g and in spleens were 0.14 microg/g. At all doses, mercury levels were higher in kidneys than in livers.
Local Health Department Strategies for Addressing Community Health Concerns at Hazardous Waste Sites
Heidi M. Klein, M.S., National Association of County and City Health Officials, Washington, D.C.
Although local health officials have no statutory authority for hazardous waste sites, they are a governmental presence at the local level with responsibility for protecting the health of the community and addressing community health concerns. This responsibility extends to concerns related to hazardous substances. Local health officials bring a critical local perspective and response mechanism to a process that is largely governed by state and federal agencies. Local health officials have local knowledge, contacts, and resources. They serve the entire community and can address Superfund issues in a broad context. In addition, local health officials serve as a conduit for communication, thereby ensuring that efforts of federal, state, and local agencies are coordinated and that concerned citizens receive the information they desire.
In 1993, the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) conducted a series of focus-group interviews with local public health and environmental health officials who have National Priority List sites in their communities to identify their perceived roles at these sites and the strategies they use to fill these roles. This presentation will use excerpts from the focus-group transcripts and a handbook subsequently developed to highlight various roles that local health officials can assume and strategies they can employ at hazardous waste sites to ensure that community health concerns are addressed.
Acute Oral Toxicity of Benzo(a)pyrene and Fluoranthene
Maurice E. Knuckles, Ph.D., Willie D.McCadden, M.S., Frank Inyang, Aramandla Ramesh, Ph.D., and Darryl Hood, Ph.D., Department of Family & Preventive Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee
We have studied the acute oral toxicity of two representative polyaromatic hydrocarbons, benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) and fluoranthene (FLA). Single doses of B(a)P (0, 100, 300, 600, and 1000 mg/kg) and of FLA (0, 500, 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg/kg) were dissolved in peanut oil and administered by gavage to male and female F-344 rats. After 24 hours, the animals were killed, trunk blood was collected, and various organs were removed for histopathology. Blood parameters assessed included RBC, WBC, and hematocrit; blood enzymes measured included ALT, AST, and BUN. Organs removed for histopathologic examination included liver, kidney, stomach, testes, prostate, and ovaries.
Animals treated with B(a)P showed no significant adverse effects on blood or blood enzymes at any dose level and the histopathologic examination of selected tissues showed no significant abnormalities. For FLA-treated animals, BUN was the only blood parameter significantly altered at the two highest dose levels, possibly indicating kidney damage. These findings were confirmed by significant abnormal kidney tissues found upon histopathologic examination. Thus, acute oral toxicities of benzo(a)pyrene and fluoranthene are relatively low for the parameters studied.
Risk Assessment Approach for Management of Soils Containing PNAs and Inorganic Lead
Surendra N. Kumar, Ph.D., and Krishna V. Mayenkar, P.E., D.E.E., Harza Consulting Engineers and Scientists, Chicago, Illinois
This presentation covers a risk-based approach used at a railcar-maintenance facility to manage soils containing polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNAs) and inorganic lead in a cost-effective and environmentally acceptable manner. As part of a facility renovation program, the owner plans to demolish old structures and install new structures and railway tracks. Construction is expected to generate several thousand cubic yards of soil containing minor- to-trace levels of PNAs.
The owner performed risk assessment and developed risk-based cleanup levels. Exposure pathways and potentially exposed populations were identified, including workers, adult residents, and children.
Estimates of incremental cancer risk were generated for each exposure pathway and added cumulatively for multiple exposure pathways. Combined carcinogenic risk was also determined for simultaneous exposure to multiple carcinogens. Combined risk across pathways was considered because simultaneous accidental ingestion, dermal contact, and inhalation of contaminated particulate media cannot be ruled out. Estimated cancer risks were compared with the Environmental Protection Agency's target risk ranges of 1x10-06 and 1x10-04.
As a result of chemical and soil characteristics and risk- based soil cleanup levels, excavated soil was recommended for use as fill material for industrial and commercial developments, highway embankments, and other non-residential development projects rather than for disposal in the landfill. Such a management approach will save soil disposal costs by efficient and environmentally safe soil use, freeing landfill space for other waste materials.
Blood Lead Levels of Peace Corps Volunteers Serving in the Former Soviet Union and China
Terrence Lee, M.P.H., Office of Medical Services, U.S. Peace Corps, Washington, D.C., Thomas R. Eng, D.V.M., M.P.H., International Health Program Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
Lead is a common environmental contaminant in many parts of the former Soviet Union (FSU) and China. Its effects on short- term expatriates are unknown. The purpose of this study is to determine the degree of exposure to lead for adult expatriates living in these countries.
Serial blood lead level (BLL) determinations were made for each consenting Peace Corps Volunteer (PCV) over the approximate 27-month period of service in one of the countries of the FSU or China. BLLs were measured at the beginning of service (BS), at midservice (MS), and at end of service (ES). For persons with BLL over 12.0 ug/dL, exposure histories were elicited and clinical followup was conducted.
In the period 1992-1994, 601 PCVs participated in the study. The geometric mean value for BS was 2.1 ug/dL (range <0.6-9.7); for MS was 4.0 ug/dL (range 1.2-20.2); and for ES was 3.6 ug/dL (range 1.6-11.4). No clinical signs or symptoms of lead toxicity were reported. For the 281 PCVs who had both BS and MS samples, BLL increased significantly when comparing BS to MS samples (paired t test, p~0.001). The mean increase in BLL was 2.0 ug/dL. In 6 (Estonia, Latvia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan) of 11 countries, increases in BLL were significant from BS to MS (paired t test, p< 0.001). For four countries, a significant increase (paired t test, p<0.001) in BLL occurred from the BS to the ES sample. However, no significant increases occurred within countries (paired t test, p<0.001).
PCVs serving in the countries investigated had slight overall increases in BLL during service. Elevations were not associated with any adverse clinical outcomes. Therefore, routine BLL monitoring for expatriates in these countries is probably not warranted.
Determining Contaminant Bioavailability in Soils via Geochemical Modeling
Yimin Li, Ph.D., and Linda, Hanna, Ph.D., Sciences International, Inc., Alexandria, Virginia
Determination of contaminant bioavailability in contaminated soils is an important component for both human health and ecological risk assessments. The objectives of this study were to determine the bioavailability of As, Cd, F, and Zn to plants by calculating free and pore water concentrations in contaminated soil and solubility-controlling minerals via geochemical modeling. The modeling approach has the advantage of providing mechanistic interpretations on bioavailability. Soil samples were analyzed for total concentrations using XRF and for mineral assemblage that contain these trace elements using Electron Microprobe Analysis. Soil pH, redox potential, DOC, and soluble cations were also analyzed.
The most recent versions of three geochemical models, MINTEQA2, SOILCHEM, and MINEQL, were used to calculate the free species, inorganic and organic complexes for each of these trace elements, and the solubilities of the mineral phases associated with each metal. We evaluated the role of humic and fulvic acids in complexation and compared the three models with respect to their predictability of speciation and solubility of these trace elements.
Determination of p-Nitrophenol in Urine Using Liquid Chromatography Combined With Atmospheric Pressure Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Cheryl McClure, William Driskell, Ph.D., Sandy L. Bailey, Susan L. Head, Wayman E. Turner, Ph.D, John Barr, Ph.D., Donald G. Patterson, Ph.D., Robert H. Hill, Ph.D., and Larry L. Needham, Ph.D., Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
The Environmental Protection Agency is involved in the cleanup of a Superfund site in Lorain County, Ohio, where private homes were sprayed with methyl parathion. A method was needed to gauge exposure of the residents and clean-up workers to the pesticide. We used liquid chromatography (LC) combined with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) to monitor for a marker of exposure, urinary para-nitrophenol, which is a metabolite of methyl parathion.
Sample cleanup began with enzyme hydrolysis of the urine. The specimen pH was adjusted to acidic and then extracted with ethyl ether and concentrated to dryness. The extract was dissolved in acetonitrile and submitted for analysis.
Our mass spectrometer was a Finnigan TSQ7000. We used APCI in the negative ionization mode with argon as our collision gas. We monitored the 108 and 92 amu daughters of 138 (M-H)- native parent ion and 95 and 111 amu daughters of the 141 labelled internal standard parent. The detection limit was 25 ppb.
Looking Beyond the Lamppost: Other Toxic Substances at Waste Sites
Ralph O'Connor, Ph.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
Soil and water at hazardous waste sites are routinely analyzed for approximately 150 toxic organic and inorganic substances. Because of the nature of the analytic methods used, these substances represent only a few classes of compounds. Inorganic analytes consist of unspeciated metals and total cyanide. Other inorganic substances such as nitrate, asbestos, and radionuclides, require separate analyses. Organic analytes have been selected from those volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds with molecular weights greater than 70. Some classes of organic compounds not detectable by these routine analyses include those that are ionized (e.g., paraquat), unstable at high temperatures (dyes), low-molecular-weight compounds (methanol and formaldehyde), or organophosphate, carbamate or triazine pesticides (diazinon, aldicarb, atrazine).
Using data in ATSDR's HazDat database, compiled primarily from these routine screenings of environmental media at more than 1200 waste sites on the Environmental Protection Agency's National Priority List, this presentation will compare them with toxic substances that other data sources indicate might be found at waste sites.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Waters and Soils of Central Dalmatia, Croatia
Nenad Peris, B.Sc., Mladen Smoljanovic, M.D., Institute of Public Health Split, Split, Croatia, Zelimira Vasilic, Ph.D., Vlasta Drevenkar, Ph.D., Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are very toxic and persistent chemicals with diverse industrial applications. Although their use in Croatia is restricted, substitutions for them have been only partial, and they are still contained in many electricity facilities. Trace levels of the compounds have been identified in several surface, ground, and drinking waters, and in river sediments and soils, mainly as a consequence of uncontrolled discharge of transformer oils. The control and evaluation of the level, origin, and distribution of PCBs in environmental water and soil become important especially in view of recent destructions due to war in Croatia.
Recently, monitoring for PCBs has been initiated in river waters, sediments, and soils in the karst region of Central Dalmatia. The aim is to provide insight into background levels of PCBs in this area and to evaluate possible adverse effects on water and soil purity imposed by destruction in 1991 and 1992 of electric power facilities (a transformer station and a hydro-electric power plant) in the hinterland of the city of Split. The quality of local Cetina and Jadro river waters is of special concern because they are used as drinking water sources in this highly populated area. Because of negligible elimination of pollutants by natural filtration, the purity of karst waters has deteriorated due to migration of micropollutants through a network of karst surface and groundwater streams, not only from adjacent but also from distant points of emission. In most of the analyzed water, soil, and sediment samples from Central Dalmatia, total PCB concentrations were at ng/kg and æg/kg levels and were characteristic of the global pollution of the environment. The most outlying PCB concentrations, exceeding 1 mg/kg, were measured in soil samples collected in the area of the local airport.
Halogenated Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Toxicity Equivalency Factors from the Public Health Risk Assessment Perspective
Hana Pohl, M.D., Ph.D., James Holler, Ph.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
Validity of the Toxicity Equivalency Factors (TEFs) approach was investigated from the perspective of the public health risk assessment of different groups of halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. First, minimal risk levels (MRLs) were derived using databases available for chlorinated dibenzodioxins (CDDs), chlorinated dibenzofurans (CDFs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The MRL values were then converted to toxicity equivalents (TEQs) for 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and compared with each other.
A good correlation was seen between intermediate duration oral MRLs, expressed in TEQs, for TCDD (7 pg/kg/day) and 2,3,4,7,8-pentaCDF (15 pg/kg/day). Although the studies to derive these MRLs used different test species, the toxicity endpoints in both databases were comparable. Hepatic effects in principal studies were measured by the same techniques (blood chemistry and histopathology), thus enabling a meaningful comparison of results. In contrast, a 25-fold discrepancy was found between acute oral MRLs for TCDD (20 pg/kg/day) and those for 2,3,4,7,8- pentaCDF (500 pg/kg/day), expressed in TEQs. However, the studies to derive these MRLs not only used different species but also measured different immunotoxicity endpoints (serum complement activity versus histopathology), thus making a comparison of results difficult. Similar calculations showed that the TEF approach may be feasible for individual coplanar congeners of PCBs but not for a mixture of Aroclors.
These findings support the concept that TEFs are valid for comparing chemical toxicity only if specific criteria for their derivation are met (e.g., a broad database of information, consistency across endpoints, a common mechanism of action).
Correlations Between Fluvial Chemical Parameters and Discharge: Indicators of Pollution Mechanisms
Predrag S. Polic, Ph.D., Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade (UofB), and IChTM, Chemistry Center, Ivan A. Grzetic, Ph.D., Faculty of Mining and Geology, (UofB), Belgrade, Yugoslavia.
The highly polluted River Borska Reka, a tributary of River Timok (Serbia/Bulgaria), drains a major copper mining area, with flotation, smelting, and refining facilities, tailing ponds, and dumps. During 4 years of monthly sampling, fluvial chemical parameters were recorded at ecologically relevant points of the Timok River system: at Borska Reka, upstream from its confluence (relatively unpolluted area), and downstream, at sections representing various stages of the self-purification process of River Timok.
A correlation study was performed, including factor and cluster analyses, to reveal the dependence of ecochemical parameters on discharge (Q). River Borska Reka shows specific correlation patterns, indicative for various mechanisms of pollutant emission: for example, significant negative correlations of Q with pollutants (dissolved As, Ni, NO3-, SO4-2) indicate relatively continuous emission (from industrial facilities), which becomes diluted at high discharge. On the other hand, discharge-independent, constant concentrations of pollutants (Pb, suspended load) are probably caused by flushing of pollutant sources (dumps), proportionally to flow. After the confluence, simultaneously with the self-purification process of River Timok, the observed correlation patterns change gradually, and typically geochemical correlation patterns become dominant, for example, positive correlations between Q and CO2 (mixing with rainwater), between Q and suspended load (erosion), similar to patterns observed upstream from the Borska Reka confluence, in the unpolluted area.
Correlations between ecochemical parameters and discharge contribute significantly to the identification of pollution sources and mechanisms, and of self-purification processes, and to the distinction between anthropogenic and geochemical influences on the investigated river system.
Residents' Safety Concerns and Behaviors About Hazardous Chemical Products Used in the Home
Dale O. Ritzel, Ph.D., Health Education and Center for Injury Control and Worksite Health Promotion, Kirk Dawdy, M.S., Industrial Safety and Health, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois
This study was designed to examine safety concerns and behaviors about the use of hazardous household chemical products- -such as automotive, cleaning, paint, and pesticide products-- among residents of a medium-sized, central Illinois town. Safety- concern and safety-behavior scores for 350 subjects were based on their responses to questionnaire items relating these products. Residents were only slightly concerned about using hazardous products in the home and do not exhibit safe behaviors with regard to using these products. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in safety concerns or behaviors between residents who have children and those who do not. Analysis also revealed no significant differences in safety concerns between male and female residents. Although younger residents (ages 18- 29) were more concerned about the safety of using hazardous products, age had no bearing on behaviors.
The dangers of using household hazardous products may not be a major issue in the public health and environmental health arena, but it does deserve recognition. Risks of injury, illness, or even death can be caused by improper use, storage, or disposal of hazardous products in the home. To protect not only themselves from harm, but also others and the environment, consumers must take time to learn about the products they use and about how to use them safely.
Resilience to Toxic Effects of Carbon Tetrachloride Is Due to Non Induction of Tumor Necrosis Factor in Preexposed Rats.
Aurobindo Roy, D.Sc., R. M. Kolhapure, M.Sc., National Institute of Virology, V.M. Bapat, M.D., and P.S.Patki, M.D., B.J. Medical College, Pune India.
Chronic or repeated exposures to toxic materials bring about multivarious pathologic effects, including carcinogenesis to the host. Contrary to these phenomenona, low-level exposures to certain hepatotoxicants have been shown to make experimental animals immune or refractory to lethal challenge by the same toxic material. Earlier we showed that certain hepatotoxicants induce tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in experimental animals.
Here, we report that repeated challenges with sublethal doses of carbon tetrachloride did not induce TNF in serum. Very few changes in the levels of markers of liver damage and no visible necrosis of the liver were evident. When these preexposed animals were again given LD50 dose, they showed neither any induction of TNF nor elevation of SGPT, ALT, or bilirubin levels in serum. No gross pathologic changes in the livers of these animals were evident. Animals that were not preexposed to carbon tetrachloride, when given the same LD50 dose of carbon tetrachloride, showed induction of TNF in their serum and showed gross pathologic alterations in the liver. They also showed elevated levels of markers of liver damage in serum.
Dermal Bioavailability of Arsenic Increased by Chemical Mixtures in Pig
Gloria A. Skowronski, Ph.D., Abdelrazak M. Kadry, D.V.M., Ph.D., D.A.B.T., Rita M. Turkall, Ph.D., and Mohamed S. Abdel-Rahman, Ph.D., F.C.P., University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
To assess the potential health risk from dermal exposure to chemical mixtures, bioavailability data are needed. This study was designed to determine the effect of a chemical mixture of chloroform, toluene, and phenanthrene on the dermal bioavailability of arsenic. The chemicals selected for this study are among those most frequently found at hazardous waste disposal sites. An in-vitro approach consisting of Teflon flow-through, diffusion-cell methodology was used to simultaneously measure radiolabeled chemical that penetrated through skin into receptor fluid, the amount of chemical that remained bound to skin, decontamination of skin by soap and water wash, and volatilization from the skin surface. Studies were performed on freshly excised and dermatomed male pig skin treated either with 73- arsenic alone or in a mixture.
A 10-fold increase in the amount that penetrated into receptor fluid was observed when skin was treated with the mixture versus arsenic alone. The quantity of radioactivity bound to skin was also significantly increased by the mixture. The radioactivity that remained loosely adsorbed to skin was significantly reduced when arsenic was applied in combination relative to when it was applied alone. Thus, the bioavailability of arsenic is significantly higher when administered to skin in this chemical mixture than when administered alone. (Supported wholly through funding from the Hazardous Substance Management Research Center and the New Jersey Commission on Science and Technology).
Toward a High Resilience Society in Sweden: Geographic, Economic, and Technical Vulnerability in Waste Handling.
Indra Svensson, M.Sc., Mats K”nberg, National Defense Research Establishment, Olof Stjernstr”m, M.Soc.Sc., G”sta Weissglass, Ph.D., Department of Geography, UmeU University, UmeU, Sweden
To reach a high resilience society, authorities tend to build more and more complicated systems for recycling and waste handling. Not unexpectedly, unwanted synergy effects occasionally result accidentally when systems and subsystems interfere. In this project, we plan to identify critical points and incidents when different systems, optimized per se, cross each other. One question we will focus on is hazardous waste.
To identify and analyze transport and flow of waste material and hazardous situations where they are stored and processed, the project will engage scientists from the natural and social sciences. FOA risk is a part of the National Defense Research Establishment and deals with contract work for the industry, the Swedish Rescue Services Board, and communities.
The Department of Geography at UmeU University has, in addition to education activities, different commissions for planning authorities. The cooperation of these two activities provides an opportunity for nontraditional methods of working and more overall solution ideas. This interdisciplinary project is financed by The Swedish Rescue Services Board, The National Board of Civil Defense, and The Swedish Association of Local Authorities.
Long Term Evaluation of NACCHO Risk Communication Short Course
Christine L. Rosheim, D.D.S., M.P.H., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia, and Heidi M. Klein, M.S., National Association of County and City Health Officials, Washington, D.C.
In 1991 and 1992, under a cooperative agreement with the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) offered local health officials a risk communication course titled "Managing and Preventing Environmental Controversy: A Communication Approach to Local Public Health." The course was designed to increase understanding of the processes and skills necessary to effectively communicate environmental health risks and to work in collaboration with concerned communities.
NACCHO recently conducted a follow-up, long-term evaluation of the impact of the short course on the knowledge, skills, and behaviors of participating local health officials. A four-page survey was sent to approximately 300 participants; the response rate was 33%. The evaluation sought information on
sharing material and information from the course,
applying knowledge from the course,
changing individual behavior or agency response because
of attending the course,
implementing effective risk communication procedures, and
seeking additional training.
This poster will show data and key findings from the evaluation.
Challenges in Lead Poisoning Prevention on the Mexico Border
Maria A. Mendez, Lynelle Phillips, R.N., M.P.H, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
Children in Douglas, Arizona, and Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico, were found to be at risk for lead poisoning following exposure to lead-contaminated soils. Because English was not the first language for many of the children and their parents, conducting a successful lead poisoning prevention program was a challenge.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) provided community health education through one-on-one counseling during a "Care Fair" in Douglas. Written information included fact sheets and posters for children to color. Written materials and counseling were available in both English and Spanish. Bilingual staff provided education for health care providers from Agua Prieta and Douglas through the Binational Health Coalition meeting in Agua Prieta, and one-on-one meetings with physicians and nurses in Douglas. ATSDR's health education program emphasized lead exposure prevention in children, the signs and symptoms of lead toxicity, and methods to reduce lead exposure from soil ingestion. The community was encouraged to avoid the use of leaded gasoline and folk remedies containing lead. Information about the dangers of leaded paints was included, and community members were encouraged to eat foods enriched with iron and calcium. The need to screen young children for blood lead was also emphasized.
Local and state agencies that collaborated with ATSDR continue to raise awareness about preventing lead poisoning. The Arizona Department of Health Services is developing a blood lead screening program. ATSDR will continue working with area health officials to ensure that children are protected from lead poisoning.
The Utility of Evaluating Health Outcome Data in ATSDR Public Health Assessments
James T. Walker., D.V.M., M.P.H., Lee M. Sanderson, Ph.D., Robert L. Kay, Jr., M.P.H., John E. Abraham, Ph.D., M.P.H., Frank J. Bove, Sc.D., John R. Crellin, Ph.D., Ahmed Gomaa, M.D., Sc.D., Maureen Kolasa, M.P.H., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia, Kim B. Mortensen, Ph.D., Texas Department of Health, Austin, Texas, and John F. Villanacci, Ph.D., Ohio Department of Health, Columbus, Ohio
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) evaluates three primary types of information when preparing its public health assessments (PHAs): environmental data, community health concerns, and health outcome data (HOD). The collection, evaluation, and use of various types of HOD have been a source of misunderstanding, primarily because of different interpretations of HOD guidance and different HOD expectations among health assessors and the public.
To assess the benefits and limitations of including HOD in health assessments, we will examine a representative sample of federal, state, petitioned, and nonfederal PHAs prepared by ATSDR. Evaluating the use of HOD will be based on criteria from the ATSDR Public Health Assessment Guidance Manual and on recommendations from an Expert Panel White Paper entitled "The Evaluation of Health Outcome Data in ATSDR Public Health Assessments." Current guidance for evaluating HOD suggests a stepwise approach related to plausible carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic end points, and identifying and characterizing databases that include the exposed population. HOD are also evaluated to help health assessors address community concerns that may or may not be plausible or related to the exposures associated with a site.
We will summarize how HOD evaluation has contributed to the usefulness of public health assessments. Recommendations to improve the effectiveness of HOD evaluation and alternatives for using HOD will also be discussed.
Use of Koi Carp (Cyprinus carpio) to Assess Contaminant Availability of Polluted Sediments
Stephen Wall and Thomas La Point, The Institute of Wildlife and Environmental Toxicology, Clemson University, Pendleton, South Carolina
Benthic fish bioturbation of contaminated sediments potentially influences bioaccumulation into planktonic and, ultimately, into nektonic organisms. Exposures were conducted with cadmium-spiked sediment, 1.1 mg/kg actual concentration, and koi carp--Cyprinus carpio. Daphnia magna were placed in aquaria with and without fish for 6 days and bioaccumulation was measured every 48 hr. Carp bioturbation increased total suspended solids (19.2 mg/L [without fish] to 762.4 mg/L [with fish]), Cd water concentrations, (1.6 mg/L to 13.2 mg/L), and binding capacity concentrations, (28.9 mg/L to 169.8 mg/L). However, D. magna body burdens did not increase. Mean Cd residues of daphnids exposed without fish (8.0 mg/g) were not statistically different from those exposed with fish (9.2 mg/g). Binding capacity concentrations were positively correlated with total suspended solids. Increased binding capacity in the treatment with fish indicated a reduction in available Cd++. Therefore, free Cd++ in the exposure with fish either decreased, or remained similar to that in the treatment without fish, resulting in equivalent daphnid residues.
Technical Application of a Risk-Based, Corrective-Action Framework for Assessing Petroleum Hydrocarbon-Impacted Sites
Wade H. Weisman, M.S.P.H., Occupational and Environmental Health Directorate, Brooks AFB, Texas
Evaluation and remediation of petroleum hydrocarbon-impacted sites is difficult because of the complexity of scientific, regulatory, and resource issues surrounding this problem. Specifically, the chemical composition of petroleum products is complex and varied and changes over time when they are released to the soil. The complicated nature of petroleum in the environment makes it difficult to identify target compounds and select appropriate levels. Many states use levels of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) to initiate remedial actions and set cleanup levels. However, these levels are not based on human health risk.
The Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon Criteria Working Group was formed to determine health risk-based alternatives for evaluating petroleum hydrocarbon-impacted sites. This ad hoc group is technically diverse and represents the interests of a broad range of participating organizations, including state regulatory agencies, academia, the Department of Defense, petroleum and power industries, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, consulting firms, and professional and trade organizations.
The group is investigating current data on fuel constituency, information on the fate of these compounds in the soil, and the known toxicity of constituents to determine the most appropriate fraction-specific surrogate compounds for evaluating human health risks posed by petroleum hydrocarbons at a site. This presentation will display the current risk-based approach the group is using and will list resource documents on chemical constituency and analytic methods.
ATSDR's Adult Environmental Neurobehavioral Test Battery: Tests, Protocols, and Training
W.Kent Anger, Ph.D., and 0. J. Sizemore, Ph.D., Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR USA
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) promulgated the Adult Environmental Neurobehavioral Test Battery (AENTB) in 1992, following suggestions from an expert panel convened the previous year. AENTB is the biomarker battery of neurobehavioral tests ATSDR developed to detect sub-clinical Neurotoxic Disorders (adverse effects on the nervous system). Neurotoxic Disorders is one of ATSDR's seven priority health conditions that need evaluation in community populations living near hazardous chemical sites.
AENTB comprises 12 behavioral tests that assess functions including mood, vision, vibrotactile sensation, strength, coordination, motor speed, vocabulary, concept formation, sustained attention, coding, learning, and memory. Administration of AENTB tests requires approximately 60 minutes (mean time), although individual variability can be great in community residents. ATSDR has used AENTB at three sites (in North Carolina, Iowa, and California).
Information will be provided for persons interested in learning about AENTB and to help them employ the battery in field assessments. AENTB tests will be depicted, test protocols will be summarized, and training materials ATSDR used in their previous field studies will be available for inspection.
Impairment and Changed Work Ability in the Trepca Lead Plant-- Zvecan, Yugoslavia
Novica B. Bascaravic, Trepca Lead Plant, Dragisa S. Sujic , Milan J. Barac , Trepca, Yugoslavia
The protection of workers' health in the Trepca Lead Plant in Yugoslavia is a high priority because occupational morbidity is currently resulting from work in an area contaminated with lead and other pollutants. The actions of lead to produce illness and birth defects in humans has been detected but has not yet been completaly elucidated. Thus, an investigation for the best sanitary and technical methods for lead production is ongoing because complete prevention of lead poisoning is not possible.
Detection of human impairment in the period 1981-1987 was the main thrust of this investigation. This period was characterized by a high degree of lead intoxication before, and a reduced degree after, the lead-production process was modernized (specifically the lead smelter and filter units). The modernization process began in 1977, and the first stage was completed in 1984.
This 1981-1987 period was investigated by studying the degree of lead intoxication, occupational trauma, and impairment before and after modernization of the lead-production process. Statistical data were taken from reports of occupational disease verified in the Trepca dispensary and treated by health care professionals.
Applying the Public Health Assessment Process To Evaluate the Health Effects of Hazardous Waste and Address Community Health Concerns on "Refinery Row" in South Texas
Kathryn A. Evans, M.P.H., Betty G. Brown, M.P.H., Texas Department of Health, Austin, Texas
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry developed the public health assessment process to evaluate sites where hazardous substances have been released. Although this process is generally used when populations live near hazardous waste sites, the Texas Department of Health (TDH) is using the process to evaluate public health concerns associated with a community's proximity to active industry.
Residents living adjacent to a heavily industrialized area of a south Texas city requested that TDH evaluate the potential public health impact of nearby active and inactive industrial facilities, including several refineries, petroleum storage facilities, and other industries.
Without the legally mandated framework often provided for investigating hazardous waste sites, evaluating the impact of an active industrial area is challenging because the "site" is not explicitly defined, extensive sampling has not been conducted, and remedial investigations have not been implemented. Despite these difficulties, we have identified several strengths of the public health assessment process in this setting: it furnishes a framework for evaluating the cumulative impact of multiple, legally operating facilities; it provides a comprehensive method for assessing the public health implications of exposure; and it presents a direct response to members of the community.
In conjunction with the public health assessment, TDH has initiated a community-based health survey, an exposure investigation, and a comprehensive review of environmental sampling data. We will present available results of the public health assessment and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of this process for evaluating the public health impact of active industry.
Effects of Pesticides on Photoinduced Proton Transport Through Chloroplast Membranes
John W. Ho, Department of Biochemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Platini P.F. Kwok, and Wan K. Yam, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic, Hong Kong
During the process of photosynthesis, electrons are transferred from water to NADP via an electron carrier system. Energy released by electron transport is converted into the form of a proton gradient and coupled to ADP phosphorylation. The present study reports a method to demonstrate and measure formation of the proton gradient across chloroplast membranes. Measuring the pH change across this membrane with a micro glass electrode could provide information on proton transfer activity in chloroplasts. The pH of the assay was measured and recorded upon illumination of chloroplasts in a buffered solution. Results showed that pH increased upon illumination to reach a plateau and decreased exponentially when illumination was turned off. Proton movement was affected by the presence of some commonly used pesticides in agricultural products. The kinetics measurement allows evaluation of the inhibitory effects of different pesticides.
Community Exposure to Friction Products: Asbestos, Polychlorinated Biphenyls, and Lead
Michael Hodgson, M.D., M.P.H., E. Storey, M. Grey, E. O'Keefe, B. Toal, J. Kertanis, University of Connecticut Health Center, Stratford Health Department, Division of Environmental Epidemiology of Occupational Health, Connecticut Department of Public Health and Addiction Services, Farmington, Connecticut
The University of Connecticut received funding from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) to evaluate biomarkers of exposure in individuals with varying degrees of exposure to lead, asbestos, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). A facility that manufactured friction-based parts, including brake linings and clutch parts, operated in Stratford, Connecticut, from 1919 until 1989. A system of on-site lagoons was used in an attempt to capture waste lead and asbestos. As the lagoons filled, they were dredged, and the material was used as fill throughout the town. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency investigated 211 residential properties to determine whether contamination was present in the soil.
At each of the residential properties, the level and extent of contamination in surface soil was classified into one of four groups by ATSDR and the Connecticut Department of Public Health and Addiction Services. The classifications were imminent health threat, health threat, potential health threat, and no health threat. Researchers were blinded to these classifications during evaluations of individual residents.
Eighty-nine participants representing 32 of the 211 households participated in an evaluation that included blood lead, PCBs, liver injury tests, complete blood count, blood lipids, and a chest x-ray (for individuals over age 18 years). A detailed questionnaire was administered to ascertain occupational exposures to the agents of concern, personal habits that might affect exposure, and demographic characteristics. In addition, a targeted physical examination characterized physiologic and anatomic abnormalities and markers of exposure. These findings are being examined in relationship to corresponding environmental classification data for the homes in an effort to evaluate biologic indicators, health effects, and their interrelationships.
Participation in the study was solicited through letters and follow-up telephone calls. Participation rates were below 20% after at least two letters and numerous telephone calls. Reasons for the low response rate will also be explored.
Respiratory Symptoms Among the Elderly in a Community Exposed to Hazardous Waste Incineration and in a Comparison Community
Carlton A. Hornung, Ph.D., M.P.H., Charles E. Feigley, Ph.D., Caroline A. Macera, Ph.D., G. Paul Eleazer, M.D., Gerald N. Olsen, M.D., and Robert W. Oldendick, Ph.D., School of Medicine, School of Public Health, and Survey Research Laboratory, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
Two semi-rural communities, one surrounding a hazardous waste incinerator and the other outside the plume of the incinerator, were surveyed to assess the prevalence of acute and chronic respiratory symptoms. Dwelling units were identified from property roles, tax records, and visual inspection of the areas. The American Thoracic Society Questionnaire on respiratory symptoms and diagnoses formed the core of the telephone survey. Data were collected on 258 residents over the age of 60 in the exposed community and on 213 elderly residents in the comparison community. Response rates exceeded 75% in both communities.
Among respondents over the age of 60, the age structure of the two communities was the same (Mean = 69 years; 48% >age 70). The exposed and comparison communities were also similar in the percentages of current (17.1% vs 13.7%, respectively) and heavy smokers (>1 pack/day; 5% vs 4.7%, respectively), in the amount of fuel used for cooking and heating, and in the presence of pets in the house (23.3% vs 24.9%, respectively). Prevalence rates for 16 of 20 acute or chronic respiratory symptoms were significantly higher (p <0.05) in the exposed community. Controlling by multiple logistic regression for potential confounders including age, gender, race, smoking status, exposure to passive smoking, pets in the home, and exposure to chemicals in hobbies or work, showed the odds for 10 of the 20 symptom rates to be higher in the incinerator community. This suggests that, pending confirmation by physical examination and measurement of exposure by air-quality studies, hazardous waste incineration may be an important environmental source of respiratory symptoms in the elderly.
Neurobehavioral Screening Battery After Subchronic Administation of Zinc Oxide
Harold L. Komiskey, Ph.D., Jean P. Onomo, James Harper, Daniel F. Sarpong, Ph.D., and Deidre D. Johnson, College of Pharmacy, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana
A functional observational battery was used in an initial screen for the neurotoxicity of zinc oxide. This battery consists of a series of behavioral and neurologic functions assessed in the home-cage and the open-field. Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were given zinc oxide at levels of 20, 120, 400, 1200, 4000, and 8000 ppm in their diet for 90 days.
A rat's reactivity to removal from the cage was ranked (scores ranged from 1 = very easy, to 6 = very difficult); and a rat's reactivity to being handled was ranked (scores ranged from 1 = low, to 4 = high). Female rats consuming a diet with the highest concentration of zinc oxide were significantly more reactive, both when removed from the cage and when handled, than were rats consuming the lowest concentration. None of the above levels of zinc oxide elicited any clonic or tonic movements, nor did they alter vocalization, righting reflex, body temperature, open-field arousal, approach, or touch responses of the rats. However, male rats consuming the diet with the highest concentration of zinc oxide displayed decreased rearing when left undisturbed in the open-field. These findings indicate that subchronic administration of zinc oxide may alter the neurobehavior of rats. (Partial support by ATSDR grant R51/ATU398004-03).
Risk Communication To Reduce Exposure in Lead-Dust-Contaminated Communities
Howard W. Mielke, Ph.D., Xavier Institute of Bioenvironmental Toxicology, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana, IoAnn Valenti, Ph.D., Department of Communications, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
Is it possible that lead (Pb) dust from traffic played a major role in the geochemical distribution patterns of Pb within U.S. cities? From 1950 to 1986 about 75,000 metric tons of Pb were used as a gasoline additive in Louisiana. Empirical data on the pattern of Pb in soils in six Louisiana cities shows that soil Pb is a function of city size and that the inner city of New Orleans has the highest Pb accumulation. By comparison (p values as low as l0-80 ) small old cities of Louisiana contain only a fraction of lead. Hand-wipe samples of children before and after outdoor play supports the hypothesis that soils are a massive reservoir for lead. Finally, blood lead results from the NHANES-III survey support the hypothesis that automotive sources contributed significantly to lead exposure and that lead exposure is primarily a function of city size and location in the United States. Pb-based paint appears to exacerbate the problem because of faulty maintenance and unsafe renovation practices. The authors propose a community-based program to inform and assist concerned citizens with practical actions that will reduce exposure to lead dust. The recommended public information approach attempts to implement a newly developed protocol for ethical communication of environmental and health risk. (Partially supported by ATSDR grant R51/ATU398004- 03).
Strategy Matrix--Case Study: Waste Management Option
Andjelka N. Mihajlov, Ph.D., Federal Ministry for Development, Mirjana Grbavcic, Milan Babic, ITNMS Institute, and Mileta Perisic, Ph.D., Geoinstitute, Belgrade, Yugoslavia
As a case study, a waste management option is briefly described as a subsystem incorporated into a global environmental protection system. In approaching the problems of chemical use, the release and disposal of substances harmful to human and ecological health pose some of the greatest challenges.
This presentation gives some results of ongoing research dealing with a wider understanding of key issues about waste management, with special emphasis on hazardous waste. The science of thermodynamics seeks to interpret the properties of systems, particularly systems in equilibrium. Chemical equilibrium is governed by the tendency of entropy to reach a maximum. The second law of thermodynamics gives information about changes in these quantities influenced by relevant factors. Conflict between the environment (in this case waste management) and social or economic agreements should be identified and resolved in ways, similar to the second thermodynamic law, that observe the delicate balance between the need for development and the need for environmental protection. A strategy matrix for waste management that deals with the advantages of this concept is developed to promote a connection between entropy and the pattern of pollution.
Using Student Registered Nurses as Interviewers for Community Health Surveys
Lillian H. Mood, R.N., M.P.H., South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Columbia, South Carolina
In response to one community's concerns about living near a contaminated site, the state health and environmental agency offered to survey residents near the site to identify possible health problems.
The survey required sensitivity to local needs, knowledge of health care topics, skill in taking medical history, and the ability to make on-the-spot judgments in unpredictable situations. Interviewers had to properly complete a sufficient number of interviews without antagonizing community members. Although budget limitations precluded hiring a professional survey staff, survey results had to be reliable across interviewers.
Registered nurses pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in nursing or public health provided the necessary mix of maturity, experience, and health knowledge in exchange for academic field experience. Interviewers used a thorough, validated instrument from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. In all, 71 individuals were interviewed.
This presentation will explain the community assessment and preparation needed to assure access to respondent families, procedures used to maximize the number of respondents, methods and results of data analysis, and implications for the future role of nurse graduate students in similar community health surveys.
Effect of Pyrethroid Insecticide, Cypermethrin-Induced, Toxicity on the Functioning of Brain and Heart in a Developing Mammal
Nayeemunnisa, Ph.D., Naiyara Yasmeen, Ph.D., Department of Zoology, Bangalore University, Bangalore, India.
The third world population has been affected by hazards because of the indiscriminate use of pesticides to boost the green revolution. A recent field study by the World Health Organization reveals that, on the average, one person is poisoned every minute by pesticides in developing countries. Handigodu syndrome, a crippling disease affecting the lower limbs was reported near Bangalore City in India, following consumption of crabs from fields sprayed by the insecticides, endrin and parathion. Statistical surveys of pesticide-exposure mortality and morbidity showed neonates to be the victims of a high percentage of pesticide poisoning. The neonatal mortality rate is regarded as one of the most important indices of development of a society. For this reason, the present study was undertaken using the developing albino rat as a model. The impact of cypermethrin was studied on selected biochemical parameters in the heart and brain.
Administration of a sublethal dose of the synthetic pyrethroid, cypermethrin, was followed by measurement of total proteins, calcium binding of the regulatory protein calmodulin (CaM), and the activity levels of CA2+-adenosine-triphosphatase enzyme in discrete regions of the brain and heart of developing (21-day-old) albino rat pups. Total proteins exhibited an increase in the cerebellum, auricles, and ventricles of heart. By contrast, cortex and brain stem showed a decline in total proteins under the effect of cypermethrin. The calmodulin level showed a significant decline in the cortex, cerebellum, and myocardium of the ventricle. Paralleling this, the activity of calcium-ATPase also exhibited a remarkable decline in these regions on intraperitonial injection of cypermethrin. It is suggested that the decrease in the calcium- calmodulin (Ca2+/CaM) complex is responsible for bringing about functional inefficiency in the brain and heart of a developing mammal during cypermethrin-induced toxicosis.
Environmental Contamination by HCH in the "Cidades dos Meninos" State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rosalia M. Oliveira, M.Sc., and Ogenis M. Brilhante, Ph.D., National School of Public Health, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
After the denunciation in 1989 of illegal trading of the organochlorinated pesticide, hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), at a free green market in the County of Duque de Caxias, State of Rio de Janeiro, it was learned that the pesticide had been brought from the "Cidade dos Meninos" area of that same city. That area had housed a factory that manufactured technical grade HCH and belonged to the former Institute of Malaria Studies. It operated from 1950 through 1955 when it was closed. Following the closing, part of its production and waste was left in natura on the soil. This material spread into the environment over time and was next used as an insecticide by the local population and land invaders. Also, part of the road that crosses "Cidade dos Meninos" had its pavement filled with the product that was left. According to an estimate by the Rio de Janeiro State environmental agency, about 300 tons of HCH are still spread over the area today.
The local population of approximately 1,000 persons includes 400 children and adolescents who live in the LBA (Brazilian Assistance Corps)-owned orphanage, "Cristo Redentor Asylum." Concentrations of thousands of ppb of HCH isomers have been found in soil samples collected less than 100 m from the former factory and in samples of the grass on which local cattle feed.
Public Environmental Health in Russia: The "AGIS-Zdorovje" Program
Olga V. Ponomareva, M.D., and Gradislava I. Necrasova, Ph.D., Russian Republic Information Analytic Center, Moscow, Russia
Since 1982, the Automatized Governmental Informational System on Environmental Health, "AGIS-Zdorovje," has functioned in Russia. Currently, this system covers 80 large industrial cities of Russia. Information on public health and environmental data are delivered monthly to the Russian Republic Information Analytic Center.
This system defines universal approaches of registration and development of data on public health in these cities among 13 age and sex groups and 12 classes of ecological diseases, and also produces data on atmospheric air pollution, drinking water quality, and noise. To create such an informational system, which differs from an official statistical system, special departments have established staff who are specifically trained.
From the information produced, it might be concluded that the number of cities identified is unsatisfactory in terms of both disease rate and environmental pollution. For the past several years, some of the cities--Dalnegorsk, Berezniki, Solikamsh, Nevinnominsk--were marked as the most unsuitable because of higher rates for nearly all diseases in comparison with other cities. High concentrations of pollutants where observed in the atmosphere, including NO2, SO2, H2S, and NH3. These data indicated the need for a special epidemiologic study to be conducted to define the quantitative dependance of public health on environmental factors.
Information collected within the framework of "AGIS-Zdorovje" program reveals public health tendencies as they change separately in each city and in Russia as a whole. For example, for the period 1988-1993, childhood disease showed a tendency to increase regarding the alimentary canal, the urine excretory system, and especially dermatologic disease, which increased in incidence from 19.6 to 28.2 per 1000 population. Variables among adults are more or less stable.
Currently, the effect of certain social factors on public health information must be taken into account. By decree of the Russian Government, the State Committee for Sanitary Epidemiologic Surveillance will be responsible for establishing a system of social-hygienic monitoring in Russia that will make possible consideration of the influence of social factors.
Safer Alternatives, an Elusive Concept
Bill Quan, M.S., P.E., Hazardous Waste Management Program, San Francisco, California
Regarding hazardous waste minimization, general agreement seems to be that the best approach is to use safer, or even better, completely safe alternatives. This would minimize, if not eliminate, the generation of wastes that put public health and the environment at risk. Although this is certainly desirable, what is meant by "safer" alternatives? No consensus on what this means is evident at this time. Nor is there any apparent use of quantitative approaches to identify safer alternatives. Yet publications have been disseminated by a variety of organizations and individuals in the past few years listing safer or safe products. This has begun to cause confusion and consternation in some quarters. In California, a bill is currently proposed that would require any disseminated information on safer products to be based on scientific data.
This presentation will look at issues raised by trying to identify safer alternatives. Part of this will be the results from a survey of several well-known Technical Assistance Programs in the United States, showing how they provide guidance to manufacturers and the public on what is a safer product. Also, included will be some possible models that will result in development of quantitative approaches that would foster source reduction. Finally, a discussion will be offered on the likelihood of consensus on one approach.
Decontamination of Methyl Parathion Inside Homes
Steve Renninger, Ralph Dollhopf, Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5, Chicago, Illinois
In January 1995, the Environmental Protection Agency began the interior decontamination of residential properties in Lorain County, Ohio, that had been illegally sprayed with methyl parathion. More than 100, and possibly up to 500, properties are believed to have been affected. This is the largest known residential contamination by methyl parathion. Contamination was sufficient that adverse health effects were likely.
Several decontamination processes were tested. The most effective method involved the use of a commercial deactivating solution having a pH of 9.5. Deactivation of methyl parathion led to the creation of p-nitrophenol, which was also removed during cleaning.
Following decontamination to acceptable risk levels, the properties were restored. To ensure maximum risk reduction, sealing agents with vapor barriers were used on all exposed surfaces. This presentation will provide additional details on the decontamination process and the successes achieved.
Efforts to Save the River Palar in India From Pollution
Gilbert Rodrigo, M.A., Center for Environment Concern/Guide, Walajasad, India
The northern most parts of Tamil Nadu, India, feature a long industrial belt, stretching from Vaniyampadi on the very west and approximately 2OO kms to Kalpakkam on the eastern coast. The area hosts a large variety of industries including tanneries, dyeing factories, chemical industries, distillers, drug manufacturers, and, on the eastern end, an atomic power plant.
This belt is on the northern bed of the River Palar. Though a seasonal river, flowing for only about 3 weeks a year, the Palar has excellent groundwater potential that the industries tap for their needs. Most of the industries return untreated affluent, which is toxic and chemically intensive, to the same bed. In some places, like Ambur and Vaniyampadi, the polluted groundwater has exceeded treatable levels of chromium. Both the industries and farmers have steadily lost their supply of non-toxic water. As a result, skin-related diseases have spread widely.
We have been analyzing water samples to prepare a pollution map. Unfortunately, because only certain non-contiguous areas are affected, this is viewed as a scattered, local problem. The creation of local pressure groups has been unsuccessful because the local polluting industries are quite powerful. Also the government has been down-playing the pollution crimes of these industries because they bring in foreign exchange. In addition, most of the tanneries are run by Muslims, and any action against them by local people would be viewed as a sensitive issue of violating minority rights.
The Center for Environment Concern/Guide has turned this into an issue to save the river. This is because more than 2 million persons depend on river water for consumption, and they could be united against polluters to save their drinking water source. The Center is currently creating a students' movement in schools of the area, which would constantly monitor pollution levels. All possible advocacy strategies are being tried. Law suits have been filed in the highest courts. Attempts are being made to convene tripatriate meetings to work out amicable ways of disposing of the hazardous wastes.
The Basel Convention in Action
I. Rummel-Bulska, Secretariat of the Basel Convention, Geneva, Switzerland
The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, signed in 1989, became active in 1992. As of today, 73 states and the European Community are Parties to the Convention. The Convention comprises realistic measures to reduce and strictly control the movement of hazardous wastes, reduce their generation, ensure that such wastes are disposed of in an environmentally sound manner, and protect the global environment from possible harmful effects of movement and disposal of hazardous wastes.
The generation and movement of hazardous wastes originate with activities in individual countries. These hazardous wastes have been estimated to exceed 400 million tons annually. National capabilities for reducing the quantity and for managing the hazardous wastes in an environmentally sound manner should be developed as a priority. Developing national technical and legal infrastructure, including legislation and regulation, should also be undertaken. Training, education, and public awareness are important elements in developing these countries' capabilities. Where resources and expertise are lacking, technical assistance should be provided through bilateral and multilateral funding.
The arena of international environmental law is dynamic, and the Basel Convention is designed to keep pace with change and to allow for future amendments and strengthening of its provisions. The Basel Convention is still evolving. Elements of a Protocol on Liability and Compensation for damages caused by transboundary movement of hazardous wastes and their disposal have been developed by a legal working group and should be completed by 1995. Technical guidelines for environmentally sound management of hazardous wastes have been developed and adopted by the Conference of the Parties. Model national legislation on hazardous waste management has been developed and adopted. The Secretariat of the Basel Convention, located in Geneva, provides countries with technical assistance on request and organizes training seminars and workshops in this field.
Protection of Public Health Would Be Enhanced Through Use of a Combined Ecological-Human Health Risk Assessment Approach to Regulation of Environmental Hazards
Katherine M. Shea, M.D., GCRC UNC-NIEHS Program, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Standard human health risk assessment renders insufficient information to regulators for making good public health decisions. Use of an individual as a unit of analysis, single human disease states as endpoints of the analysis, and standard single lifetime exposure scenarios does not produce useful risk characterizations for evaluating environmental effects on population health. Specific population-level considerations, which are absent from these analyses, are non-fatal endpoints affecting fertility rates, intrauterine and postnatal growth and development, and the level of function during the childbearing years of life. Examples from the literature of environmental stressors known to interfere with these human capacities include xenobiotic endocrine distruptors, outdoor air pollution, and heavy metals. Also absent from standard risk assessments is a consideration of indirect adverse health effects from degradation of air, water, soil, food supply, habitat loss, and climate change.
A remedy for this is to incorporate human health risk assessment into an ecological scheme like the Environmental Protection Agency's Framework for Ecological Risk Assessment (EPA/630/R-92/001 February 1992). Humans should be described as integral members of ecosystems who are dependent on environmental integrity, community interactions, and energy flow dynamics, with emphasis placed on both short-term individual health and transgenerational population health. Ways in which the application of ecological concepts to risk assessment defines a more effective public health orientation to environmental hazards will be discussed. Barriers to a combined approach will be identified. A proposal for interdisciplinary work toward a combined ecological- human health risk assessment framework will be offered.
Use of Cloud-Point Extraction of Dioxins and PHAs From Human Serum for Assessing Human Exposure to Environmental Toxins
Sarath A. Sirimanne, Ph.D., National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Li Ma, Department of Chemistry, Emory University, John Barr, Ph.D., and Donald G. Patterson, Jr., Ph.D., NCEH, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated dibenzodioxins are environmental pollutants known to have mutagenic and carcinogenic properties. Conventional analytic methods are often laborious, generate considerable organic solvent waste, and also give poor recoveries. Disposal of toxic waste solvents not only creates secondary environmental pollutants during incineration but is also costly.
In our efforts to replace conventional analytic methods with environmentally friendly methods, we investigated the analytic potential for use of combined cloud-point extraction and high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV or fluorescence detection of these toxicants in human serum. PAHs and dioxins were extracted from human serum using Triton X-100 at 60øC under salting-out conditions. Measurement of these toxicants using HPLC with UV/fluorescence detection indicated that the recoveries are nearly quantitative. Cloud-point extraction was found to be one of the best alternatives to conventional sample preparation methods because of a) ability to concentrate a variety of analytes with high concentration factors, b) safety and cost benefits, c) easy disposal of non-ionic surfactants used. (It is reported to be easily incinerated in the presence of waste acetone or ethanol), d) compatibility of the surfactant-rich phase with micellar liquid chromatographic techniques, e) preclusion of analyte losses during the evaporation of solvents used in traditional liquid-liquid extraction techniques, and f) inhibition of adsorption of nonpolar analytes to glass surfaces by the surfactants used.
Thus, we have demonstrated for the first time that cloud-point extraction can be successfully applied to extract 16 priority PAHs and some dioxins from human serum. Advantages of cloud-point extraction and the potential of this technique for measuring PAHs and dioxins in human serum using HPLC will be discussed.
Looking for Uranium in Milk and Finding Potassium
W.H. Taylor, Ph.D., L. French Bell, P.E., Carol Connell, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia, J. Scott Telofski, J. Michael Smith, P.E., Ted W. Fowler, C.H.P., Environmental Protection Agency, National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, Montgomery, Alabama
Citizens living near the Department of Energy's former uranium-processing plant, Fernald, in southwest Ohio, asked the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry to investigate whether milk produced by dairy cattle in the plant's vicinity was safe to drink. We enlisted the help of the Environmental Protection Agency's National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory to sample and analyze milk from two dairies, one in which cows were grazing on the Fernald property. Pertinent information includes the concentration of uranium in soil, which decreases with distance from the plant.
In 1994, milk samples were collected and analyzed for uranium and gamma-emitting radionuclides. Uranium-234, -235, and -238 and potassium-40 were detected in milk samples from both farms. Radioactive uranium levels in milk were the same in samples from the dairy farm on the Fernald property and the dairy farm 6 miles away. Greater than 99% of the radiation dose from radionuclides in milk is from naturally occurring potassium-40.
Reasons the uranium levels in milk are not different will be discussed, as will the public health significance of radioactive potassium.
Purification of Oil Products from Carcinogenic Compounds
Aleksej N. Vasiliev, Ph. D., Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry, Kiev, Ukraine
Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g., benzo[a]pyrene, anthracene) are the most hazardous pollutants of many petrochemicals, such as solid paraffins. Their use affects the risk of oncologic diseases among consumers of these materials. Nowadays the most well-known method of paraffin purification is treatment with sulfuric acid. But the process is not sufficiently satisfactory because of the large volume of toxic acidic waste water. A more acceptable way was found through the application of adsorbents.
This work deals with solving the important ecological problem of wasteless oil-product purification from carcinogenic compounds. For this purpose, we developed an effective adsorbent on the zeolite base. High efficiency of the adsorption process was demonstrated experimentally. The purification process takes 2-3 hours and results in a decrease in benzo(a)pyrene content to 10-7 g/L. When the adsorption is finished, zeolite is removed by filter and can be easily regenerated by calcination in an air stream. No toxic wastes are formed at the process. The economic advantages of the method are also very promising.
Both the adsorbent preparation and the chemical mechanism of adsorption will be described, as will the technologic scheme of the process.
A Biokinetic Model To Assess the Public Health Impact of Cadmium in Soil
John F. Villanacci, Ph.D., and Richard A. Beauchamp, M.D., Texas Department of Health, Austin, Texas
Development of a health-based soil standard for cadmium presents a unique challenge. Cadmium is a cumulative toxicant with multiple-source exposure. The critical effect, kidney toxicity, occurs only after cadmium above a critical level has accumulated in the renal cortex. Assessing the public health impact of cadmium in soil must take into account other sources of cadmium as well as the cumulative nature of this toxicant. As an alternative to a standard, risk-based methodology, we developed a biokinetic model to estimate total cadmium uptake ( g Cd/day) in humans from all sources including diet, drinking water, smoking, inhalation and ingestion of soil, and absorption of cadmium through the skin from soil contact. The model employs known information about cadmium intake, absorption, distribution, and excretion to predict the net concentration of cadmium in kidney cortex as a function of age.
To calibrate the model, we set an age-dependent baseline dietary intake of cadmium (U.S. population dependent on total caloric intake) and assumed that 25.5% of the population smokes. Model parameters were then adjusted to give a peak level of cadmium in kidney cortex equivalent to those reported for U.S. males at 45- 50 years of age. Except at high soil concentrations relative to other sources, soil cadmium has a minor impact on cadmium concentration in kidney cortex. However, when consideration is given to ingestion of vegetables grown in cadmium-contaminated soil, the overall impact of soil cadmium on kidney cadmium levels is high.
The Fate of Uranium From the Bor Copper Ores, Serbia
Ivan A. Grzetic , Ph.D., Faculty of Mining and Geology, Predrag S. Poli , Ph.D., Faculty of Chemistry, and ICTM, Chemistry Center, Rade J. Jelenkovi , Ph.D., Faculty of Mining and Geology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Yugoslavia
The Bor mining and smelting basin has two major ore fields: the Majdan-Pek and the Bor ore field, with hydrothermal deposits bound to intermediate vulcanogenic intrusive magmatic complexes. Besides Cu, Fe, and S, the two major types of ore--porphyric and massive copper--contain trace elements such as As, Se, Sb, Te, Pb, Ga, Ge, W, Ag, Pd, Au, and Pt, some of which are toxic and harmful to the environment. The annual production of ore concentrate is 600,000 t, and the annual production of waste material exceeds 24,000,000 t. The average grain size of the flotation waste is 74 m, which favors the extraction of toxic metals by surface waters.
The average concentration of uranium in Bor is 4-10 ppm, sometimes up to 50 ppm. Hence, during ore dressing, about 100 t of uranium (10,500,000 t [10 g/t]) from powdered flotation waste, originating from andesite rock, is released annually. Uranium from andesite becomes oxidized and dissolved as a carbonate complex, formed during continuous aeration of the flotation pulp under alkaline conditions. The flotation waste is drained to the tailings pond, and then to River Borska Reka, a tributary of the Timok (River Timok is a tributary of the Danube, at the Serbian/Bulgarian border).
River Borska Reka frequently shows increased radioactivity values, reaching up to 20 Bq/L, and similar observations were also made downstream in River Timok. Because the Bor mines have been worked intensively since 1910, about 8,000 t of uranium have been released to the environment during the past 80 years. Sorption of uranium is expected to occur on fluvial sediments downstream in River Borska Reka, the Timok, and the Danube.
In past decades, ore concentrates have been imported to improve the Cu content. Although radioactivity was not monitored, it has certainly contributed to the contamination of waters, as registered in River Borska Reka.
Electronic Data Sources: What and Where
Kevin S. Liske, M.A., Orkand Corp, Mark Evans, Ph.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
Various data sources are available electronically in several forms for the public health researcher. Most accessible are the published CDs (compact disks) of public government census and TIGER/line files. Other sources include privately sold, enhanced data sets.
A wide selection of research data sets from federal government and private agencies is available through the internet. Chief among these agencies are the Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corp of Engineers. But this should not discount work produced by state- and county-level agencies that are striving to convert current and prior maps and studies to digital form. These data sets can be moved by File Transfer Protocol or the World Wide Web for computer-to-computer transfer and are rapidly becoming the preferred means of moving large amounts of data.
The benefits of having access to a variety of electronic data sources is considerable for a public health researcher. Savings in research time alone can more than make up for incidental costs. Electronic data sets allow for quick and easy statistical manipulation to produce different scenarios. These data sets can also be represented in map form for visual interpretation and analysis.
The Relationship Between Site Characteristics and Reported Health Concerns
Dana Abouelnasr, Ph.D., Moses Kapu, Ph.D., Stephen Richardson, Deborah Boling, Sven Rodenbeck, P.E., Tina Forrester, Ph.D., and Adrienne Hollis, Ph.D., Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia
Community members living near hazardous waste sites often express concern about possible health effects. These concerns may be about a variety of non-cancer effects and about different types of cancer. The purpose of this investigation is to determine whether an association exists between characteristics of hazardous waste sites and the number and types of health concerns reported by the community. As part of its public health assessment process, ATSDR collects community health concerns from public meetings, state and local health departments, and other federal agencies. Information from public health assessments dated 1992 to the present was obtained from the ATSDR HazDat database. Site characteristics studied were site ownership, activities, operational status, ATSDR's public health conclusion category, and whether ATSDR activities were initiated by petition. Results indicate that more concerns were reported at sites that had been petitioned and at federally owned sites; fewer concerns were reported at sites owned by local governments. Trends were observed between conclusion category and the number of reported concerns. Sites categorized as "urgent public health hazards" had more reported non-cancer concerns and fewer cancer concerns. Sites deemed "indeterminate" or with "no apparent health hazard" had fewer reported concerns than did sites categorized as "public health hazards". Patterns were apparent between site activities and the type of concerns reported; no such patterns were observed for operational status.
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