Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and development of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in workers / Hidrocarburos policíclicos aromáticos y desarrollo de enfermedades respiratorias y cardiovasculares en trabajadores / Hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos e desenvolvimento de doenças respiratórias e cardiovasculares em trabalhadores

ABSTRACT Objectives: to identify the scientific evidence on the development of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases due to workplace contamination by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Methods: integrative literature review. The search for primary articles was held in October 2017 in the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (through Pubmed), Web of Science and Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS). Results: the 16 studies analyzed showed that exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons was associated with cardiovascular diseases, such as increased blood pressure, heart rate variation, and ischemic heart disease; and respiratory disorders, such as decreased lung function, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, wheeze, coughing, pulmonary wheezing, chest tightness, effort dyspnea, and sore throat. Conclusions: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons cause deleterious effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems through mutations and cellular inflammation, being a risk to exposed individuals.

RESUMEN Objetivos: identificar las evidencias científicas sobre el desarrollo de enfermedades cardiovasculares y respiratorias debido a la contaminación en el ambiente de trabajo por hidrocarburos policíclicos aromáticos. Métodos: revisión integrativa de la literatura. La búsqueda de los artículos primarios se realizó en octubre de 2017 en: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (vía PubMed), Web of Science y Literatura Latinoamericana y del Caribe en Ciencias de la Salud. Resultados: los 16 estudios analizados mostraron que la exposición a los hidrocarburos policíclicos aromáticos estuvo asociada a las enfermedades cardiovasculares, como aumento de la presión arterial, variación de la frecuencia cardíaca y enfermedad cardiaca isquémica; y a la respiración, como disminución de la función pulmonar, enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, asma, silbido, tos, sibilancia pulmonar, opresión en el pecho, disnea al esfuerzo y dolor de garganta. Conclusiones: los hidrocarburos policíclicos aromáticos causan efecto deletéreo en el sistema cardiovascular y respiratorio por medio de mutaciones e inflamaciones celulares, siendo un riesgo al individuo expuesto.

RESUMO Objetivos: identificar as evidências científicas sobre o desenvolvimento de doenças cardiovasculares e respiratórias devido à contaminação no ambiente de trabalho por hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos. Métodos: revisão integrativa da literatura. A busca dos artigos primários foi realizada em outubro de 2017 na Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (via Pubmed), Web of Science e Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde. Resultados: os 16 estudos analisados mostraram que a exposição aos hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos esteve associada a doenças cardiovasculares como aumento da pressão arterial, variação da frequência cardíaca e doença cardíaca isquêmica; e respiratórias como diminuição da função pulmonar, doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica, asma, chiado, tosse, sibilância pulmonar, opressão no peito, dispneia ao esforço e dor de garganta. Conclusões: os hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos causam efeito deletério no sistema cardiovascular e respiratório por meio de mutações e de inflamações celulares, sendo um risco ao indivíduo exposto.

Effects of Comamonas testosteroni on PAHs degradation and bacterial community structure in Leymus chinensis rhizosphere soil / 生物工程学报

To investigate the degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and the changes of rhizosphere microorganisms in the rhizosphere soil of Leymus chinensis during the remediation of PAHs contaminated soil by Comamonas testosteroni (C.t)-assisted Leymus chinensis, we evaluated the removal of PAHs in the rhizosphere of Leymus chinensis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), analyzed the bacterial community and the diversity in Leymus chinensis rhizosphere soil by high-throughput sequencing technology, characterized the correlation among PAHs degradation and bacterial community components performing redundancy analysis (RDA) and network analysis, and predicted PAHs degradation potential via PICRUSt software in this paper. The degradation of PAHs in the rhizosphere of Leymus chinensis was promoted, the abundance and diversity of bacteria and the correlation among bacteria and PAHs were changed, and the degradation potential of PAHs in Leymus chinensis rhizosphere soil was enhanced in the later stage of phytoremediation (60-120 d) due to the incorporation of C.t. The accelerated degradation of three PAHs (Nap, Phe, BaP) was accompanied by the differ abundance and correlation of Proteobacteria (Sphingomonas, MND1, Nordella), Actinomycetes (Rubrobacter, Gaiella), Acidobacteria (RB41) and Bacteroides (Flavobacterium) affected by C.t. The results provide new insight into the microorganism choices for microbial assisted plant remediation of soil PAHs and the mechanisms of enhanced PAHs degradation via the combination of Comamonas testosteroni engineering bacteria and plants.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons produced by electrocautery smoke and the use of personal protective equipment 1 / Hidrocarburos policíclicos aromáticos producidos por el humo del electrocauterio y uso de equipamientos de protección individual / Hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos produzidos pela fumaça do eletrocautério e uso de equipamentos de proteção individual

ABSTRACT Objective: analyze the concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in electrocautery smoke in operating rooms and the use of personal protective equipment by the intraoperative team when exposed to hydrocarbons. Method: exploratory and cross-sectional field research conducted in a surgery center. Gases were collected by a vacuum suction pump from a sample of 50 abdominal surgeries in which an electrocautery was used. A form was applied to identify the use of personal protective equipment. Gases were analyzed using chromatography. Descriptive statistics and Spearman's test were used to treat data. Results: there were 17 (34%) cholecystectomies with an average duration of 136 minutes, while the average time of electrocautery usage was 3.6 minutes. Airborne hydrocarbons were detected in operating rooms in 100% of the surgeries. Naphthalene was detected in 48 (96.0%) surgeries and phenanthrene in 49 (98.0%). The average concentration of these compounds was 0.0061 mg/m3 and a strong correlation (0.761) was found between them. The intraoperative teams did not use respirator masks such as the N95. Conclusion: electrocautery smoke produces gases that are harmful to the health of the intraoperative team, which is a concern considering the low adherence to the use of personal protective equipment.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar las concentraciones de hidrocarburos policíclicos aromáticos provenientes del humo del electrocauterio en salas quirúrgicas y el uso de equipamientos de protección individual por parte del equipo intraoperatorio, cuando expuestos a los hidrocarburos. Método: investigación de campo, exploratoria y transversal realizada en un centro quirúrgico. En la muestra, compuesta por 50 cirugías abdominales con uso de electrocauterio, los gases fueron recolectados con una bomba de succión de vacío. Se aplicó un formulario para identificar el uso de los equipamientos de protección. Se realizó la lectura de los gases por medio de cromatografía. Los datos fueron analizados con la estadística descriptiva y el test de Spearman. Resultados: 17 (34%) fueron colecistectomías con tiempo medio quirúrgico de 136 minutos y tiempo medio de uso del electrocauterio de 3,6 minutos. Fueron detectados hidrocarburos en el aire de las salas de operación en 100% de las cirugías. Se detectó el naftaleno en 48 (96,0%) cirugías y el fenantreno en 49 (98,0%). Las concentraciones promedio de esos compuestos fueron de 0,0061 mg/m3. Hubo correlación (0,761) fuerte entre estos compuestos. El equipo intraoperatorio no utilizó máscaras respiratorias, como la N95. Conclusión: el humo del electrocauterio produce gases perjudiciales para la salud del equipo intraoperatorio que se encuentra expuesto debido a la baja adhesión al uso de equipamientos de protección individual, tornando preocupante esta exposición.

RESUMO Objetivos: analisar as concentrações de hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos provenientes da fumaça do eletrocautério em salas cirúrgicas e o uso de equipamentos de proteção individual pela equipe intraoperatória quando expostos aos hidrocarbonetos. Método: pesquisa de campo, exploratória e transversal realizada em um centro cirúrgico. Na amostra composta por 50 cirurgias abdominais com uso de eletrocautério, os gases foram coletados por bomba de sucção a vácuo. Um formulário foi aplicado para identificar o uso dos equipamentos de proteção. Realizou-se a leitura dos gases por cromatografia. Os dados foram analisados por estatística descritiva e teste de Spearman. Resultados: 17 (34%) foram as colecistectomias com tempo médio cirúrgico de 136 minutos e tempo médio de uso do eletrocautério de 3,6 minutos. Hidrocarbonetos foram detectados no ar das salas operatórias em 100% dos atos cirúrgicos. Detectou-se o naftaleno em 48 (96,0%) cirurgias e o fenantreno em 49 (98,0%). As concentrações médias desses compostos foram de 0,0061 mg/m3. Houve correlação (0,761) forte entre estes compostos. A equipe intraoperatória não utilizou máscaras respiratórias, como a N95. Conclusão: a fumaça do eletrocautério produz gases prejudiciais à saúde da equipe intraoperatória exposta e diante da baixa adesão ao uso de equipamentos de proteção individual, tornando-se preocupante esta exposição.

Equivalentes tóxicos de hidrocarburos aromáticos políciclicos en particulado atmosférico en Valencia, Venezuela / Toxic equivalency factors of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHS) in Valencia, Venezuela

El particulado atmosférico de las áreas urbanas contiene mezclas de compuestos contaminantes con diferentes grados de toxicidad como los Hidrocarburos Aromáticos Policíclicos (HAPs), provenientes de las emisiones de combustión incompleta de diversas fuentes no naturales. Los HAPs pueden provocar cáncer, malformaciones congénitas, trastornos del sistema nervioso, entre otros, al ser absorbidos, ya sea por inhalación o ingesta. El factor de equivalencia de toxicidad (FET), es un parámetro estimativo que relaciona la toxicidad de un compuesto con un componente de referencia, cuyo objetivo es evaluar la toxicidad y el riesgo de diversas sustancias y, en el caso de HAPs, el benzo(a)pireno (BaP) es el compuesto de referencia. El objetivo de este trabajo fue estimar el riesgo potencial de exposición a HAPs en habitantes de la zona de estudio a través de los FET. Catorce HAPs fueron extraídos del particulado atmosférico colectado en filtros y analizados por Cromatografía Líquida de Alta Eficiencia con detector de fluorescencia. Se determinó la concentración de los HAPs, se calculó la concentración tóxica equivalente para cada compuesto y de la mezcla total de acuerdo al método propuesto por la Agencia de Protección Ambiental (EPA) de Estados Unidos. La concentración promedio total de HAPs en el particulado fue de 1,97 ng/m³. La contribución del BaP fue del 2,54% en la mezcla total de HAPs. La concentración tóxica equivalente total fue de 0,08 ng/m³ de la mezcla de aire. Las concentraciones tóxicas equivalentes para cada HAP y para el total en el particulado atmosférico no exceden el valor de 1 ng/m³ en equivalentes de BaP, indicado en diversas regulaciones internacionales.

The atmospheric particulate from urban areas contains mixtures of contaminants with different degrees of toxicity such as Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) derived from emissions from incomplete combustion of various natural sources. PAHs can cause cancer, birth defects and nervous system disorders when they are absorbed either by inhalation or ingestion. The toxic equivalency factor (TEF) is a parameter that relates the toxicity of a compound with a reference component in order to evaluate the toxicity and risk of various substances. The benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) is the reference compound in the case of PAHs mixture. The aim of this study was to estimate the potential risk of exposure to PAHs in people of the study area through the TEF. Fourteen PAHs were extracted from particulate filters and analyzed by liquid chromatography- fluorescence detection. The concentration of PAHs was calculated. The total average concentration of PAHs in the particulate was 1.97 ng/m³. Then, the equivalent toxic concentration of each compound and the total mixture were calculated too according to the method proposed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The contribution of BaP was 2.54% in the total mixture of PAHs. The total equivalent toxic concentration was 0.08 ng/m³ in the air mixture. The toxic equivalent concentrations for each PAH and the total in the atmospheric particulate were not exceeding the value of 1 ng/m3 in BaP equivalent that is the level indicated in international regulations.

Properties of catechol 1, 2 dioxygenase in the cell free extract and immobilized extract of Mycobacterium fortuitum

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are carcinogenic compounds which contaminate water and soil, and the enzymes can be used for bioremediation of these environments. This study aimed to evaluate some environmental conditions that affect the production and activity of the catechol 1,2-dioxygenase (C12O) by Mycobacterium fortuitum in the cell free and immobilized extract in sodium alginate. The bacterium was grown in mineral medium and LB broth containing 250 mg L-1 of anthracene (PAH). The optimum conditions of pH (4.0-9.0), temperature (5-70 ºC), reaction time (10-90 min) and the effect of ions in the enzyme activity were determined. The Mycobacterium cultivated in LB shown higher growth and the C12O activity was two-fold higher to that in the mineral medium. To both extracts the highest enzyme activity was at pH 8.0, however, the immobilized extract promoted the increase in the C12O activity in a pH range between 4.0 and 8.5. The immobilized extract increased the enzymatic activity time and showed the highest C12O activity at 45 ºC, 20 ºC higher than the greatest temperature in the cell free extract. The enzyme activity in both extracts was stimulated by Fe3+, Hg2+ and Mn2+ and inhibited by NH4+ and Cu2+, but the immobilization protected the enzyme against the deleterious effects of K+ and Mg2+ in tested concentrations. The catechol 1,2-dioxygenase of Mycobacterium fortuitum in the immobilized extract has greater stability to the variations of pH, temperature and reaction time, and show higher activity in presence of ions, comparing to the cell free extract

Superficial distribution of aromatic compounds and geomicrobiology of sediments from Suruí Mangrove, Guanabara Bay, RJ, Brazil

The distribution of selected aromatic compounds and microbiology were assessed in superficial sediments from Suruí Mangrove, Guanabara Bay. Samples were collected at 23 stations, and particle size, organic matter, aromatic compounds, microbiology activity, biopolymers, and topography were determined. The concentration of aromatic compounds was distributed in patches over the entire mangrove, and their highest total concentration was determinated in the mangrove's central area. Particle size differed from most mangroves in that Suruí Mangrove has chernies on the edges and in front of the mangrove, and sand across the whole surface, which hampers the relationship between particle size and hydrocarbons. An average @ 10 percent p/p of organic matter was obtained, and biopolymers presented high concentrations, especially in the central and back areas of the mangrove. The biopolymers were distributed in high concentrations. The presence of fine sediments is an important factor in hydrocarbon accumulation. With high concentration of organic matter and biopolymers, and the topography with chernies and roots protecting the mangrove, calmer areas are created with the deposition of material transported by wave action. Compared to global distributions, concentrations of aromatic compounds in Suruí Mangrove may be classified from moderate to high, showing that the studied area is highly impacted.

A distribuição de compostos aromáticos selecionados e a microbiologia foram avaliados em sedimentos superficiais do Manguezal de Suruí, Baía de Guanabara. Amostras foram coletadas em 23 pontos e determinados a granulometria, matéria orgânica, compostos aromáticos, atividade microbiológica, biopolímeros e a topografia. A concentração dos compostos aromáticos foi distribuída em manchas por todo o manguezal e sua concentração total mais elevada foi encontrada na área central do manguezal. A granulometria diferiu da maioria dos manguezais, uma vez que no Manguezal de Suruí existem chernies nas bordas e na frente dos manguezais e areia através da superfície inteira, impedindo o relacionamento entre granulometria e os hidrocarbonetos. Uma média de 10 por cento p/p da matéria orgânica foi obtida e os biopolímeros apresentaram concentrações elevadas, especialmente na área central e fundo do Manguezal. Os biopolímeros se distribuíram em altas concentrações. A presença de finos sedimentos é fator importante na acumulação de hidrocarbonetos. Na concentração elevada de matéria orgânica e de biopolímeros, topografia com chernies e as raízes que protegem os manguezais, áreas mais calmas são criadas, com depósito do material transportado pela ação das ondas. Comparadas às distribuições globais, as concentrações das substâncias aromáticas neste manguezal podem ser classificadas de moderadas a elevadas, demonstrando que a área estudada está altamente impactada.

Copaiba oleoresin: evaluation of the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) / Oleorresina de copaíba: avaliação da presença de hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos (HPAs)

The copaiba oleoresin extracted by perforating the tree-trunk found in the Amazonian forest has been used by the native indigenous communities to treat several diseases and also as fuel for lighting and for the motorboats plying the region's rivers. Currently, the oleoresin is mostly employed as a traditional remedy, mainly for the treatment of tonsillitis and as an anti-inflammatory and healing agent in oil and capsule forms, and is also used in several industry sectors. Due to its use in oral form, especially as a traditional remedy, an analysis of the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as contaminants in the oleoresin was performed. PAHs are substances formed by two or more benzoic rings and found in the atmosphere as a residue from incomplete combustion of petroleum derivatives and industrial activities. These substances are found everywhere on land and water, and as a consequence can also be found in vegetables and foodstuffs in general. The use of products contaminated with these substances can compromise human and animal life. This study was performed on oleoresin from different areas or regions in the Amazon, using the HPLC methodology with fluorescence detection. The samples analyzed revealed different concentrations of these compounds.

O óleo-resina de copaíba que é extraído mediante a perfuração do tronco da árvore que se encontra em forma nativa na floresta amazônica já era empregado pelas comunidades indígenas para a cura de várias doenças e, também, como combustível em iluminação e para o funcionamento de motores de barcos que trafegavam pelos rios da região. Hoje, é largamente empregado na medicina popular, principalmente para o tratamento de amigdalite e como antiinflamatório e cicatrizante na forma de óleo e em cápsulas, sendo utilizado, também, em vários setores da indústria. Devido ao seu uso na forma oral, principalmente na medicina popular, realizou-se um trabalho para avaliar a presença de hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos (HPAs) no referido óleo-resina, como possíveis contaminantes. Os HPAs são compostos formados por dois ou mais aneis benzenicos e encontrados na atmosfera como resíduos provenientes das combustões incompletas dos derivados de petróleo e de atividades industriais. Esses compostos, preciptando-se da atmosfera, atingem terrenos, fontes de água e, consequentemente, os vegetais e gêneros alimentícios em geral. O uso de produtos contaminados com os sudetos compostos pode comprometer vidas humanas e animais. O estudo foi realizado com amostras do referido óleo-resina provenientes de diferentes áreas ou regiões da Amazônia, empregando-se a metodologia HPLC com detecção através de fluorescência.

Formação de toxinas durante o processamento de alimentos e as possíveis conseqüências para o organismo humano / Toxin formation during food processing and possible consequences to the human body

A produção de alimentos envolve inúmeras reações químicas, durante as quais podem ser geradas substâncias tóxicas ao organismo humano. A produção destas substâncias pode ocorrer de diferentes maneiras, variando em quantidade e em grau de toxicidade. Este trabalho objetivou estudar a produção de toxinas no processamento de alimentos, assim como as conseqüências da ingestão dessas substâncias para o ser humano. O estudo foi realizado a partir de extensa pesquisa bibliográfica. As principais reações na formação de compostos tóxicos apresentadas no decorrer do estudo são: degradação de lipídios, hidrogenação, pirólise e defumação. Entre as substâncias formadas, destacam-se: peróxidos, ácidos graxos trans, aminas heterocíclicas e hidrocarbonetos aromáticos policíclicos. O profissional nutricionista necessita conhecer como ocorre a formação de toxinas durante os variados processamentos que envolvem alimentos, assim como os riscos para a saúde de quem consome essas substâncias. Também é preciso propor técnicas de processamento adequadas, visando ao bem-estar do consumidor e à manutenção das propriedades nutricionais do alimento.

Food production involves innumerable chemical reactions that may generate substances that are toxic to the human body. These substances can be produced in different ways, in varying amounts and degree of toxicity. The objective of this study was to investigate the production of toxins during food processing, as well as theconsequences of their ingestion. This study was based on extensive literature research. The main reactions leading to toxic compounds are: lipid degradation, hydrogenation, pyrolysis and smoking. Some of the formed substances are: peroxides, trans fatty acids, heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Dietitians need to know how toxins form during the various foods processing methods, as well as their health risks for consumers. It is also necessary to propose processing techniques that ensure the consumer's wellbeing and retain the nutritional properties of the food.

Distribution and biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in contaminated sites of Hisar (India).

Fifty-two soil samples were collected from various location of the Hisar city. These samples were analysed for six polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (naphthalene, acenaphthene, phenanthrene, anthracene, fluoranthene, and pyrene). Total mean concentration of six PAHs varied from 51.79 to 148.82 mg kg(-1) dry weight of the soil, PAH concentration was higher in soil samples from local auto market while lower concentration was recorded in agricultural soil. Effect ofpH (5.0 to 9.0), temperature (20 degrees to 40 degrees C), and concentration of PAHs (5 to 20 mg kg(-1)) on biodegradation were optimized. Biodegradation of phenanthrene (3-ring) and pyrene (4-ring) was evaluated using two acclimatized microbial strains Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas paucimobilis. Biodegradation was maximum in sterilized artificial spiked soil with phenanthrene (5 mg kg(-1)) and pyrene (5 mg kg(-1)) at pH 7.0 and at 30 degrees C (optimized conditions) than the native unsterilized contaminated soil (without optimized conditions) in 42 days of incubation period with Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas paucimobilis. Phenanthrene was completely disappeared after 28 days with P. putida and after 35 days with P. paucimobilis. Whereas, pyrene was disappeared up to 97.40% with P. putida and 95.5% with P. paucimobilis after 42 days incubation period at optimum conditions. Under unoptimized conditions, disappearance of phenanthrene was 65.89% with P. putida and 57.81% with P. paucimobilis after 42 days, whereas the % disappearance of pyrene was 59.80% with P. putida and 52.07% with P. paucimobilis.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in ambient air at Agra: distribution and toxicity assessment.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of organic pollutants that are commonly found in the environment, largely due to combustion or processing of hydrocarbon fuels. PAHs are considered highly toxic for human beings and several of these compounds are carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic. Human exposure to PAHs occurs principally by direct inhalation, ingestion or dermal contact as a result of the widespread presence and persistence of PAHs in the urban environment. With increasing awareness that PAHs are known and suspected carcinogens, this study was undertaken to monitor PAH compounds in Total Suspended Particulate Matter (TSPM) at the industrial site--Nunhai, Agra. For this purpose, TSPM samples were collected on glass fibre filter papers (EPM 2000) using High Volume Sampler (HVS 430) at Nunhai, Agra. 16 EPA priority PAH compounds were analyzed by a Gas Chromatograph equipped with FID detector. PAHs having high molecular weight, i.e., BghiP, BbF, DbA, BaA, BaP and IP, were the most abundant with concentrations ranging between 0.026 to 0.56 ng m(-3). The calculated mean TPAH value was 0.32 ng m(-3). The probably carcinogenic and possibly carcinogenic PAH as classified by International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) accounted for 42% and 38% respectively of the total PAH. The health risk associated with inhalatory exposure to PAHs was assessed on the basis of Benzo(a)pyrene concentration in air and Toxic Equivalency Factor (TEF) for individual PAH. In the present study, BaP concentrations ranged from 0.005 to 0.23 ng m(-3) with a mean value of 0.04 ng m(-3). Carcinogenic potencies for DbA and BaP in PAH mixtures based on TEF concept were 45% and 39% respectively. This underlines the importance of DbA and BaPas a surrogate compound of a PAH mixture in our environment in assessing human health risk.

A técnica de Blue rayon in situ associada ao teste de Salmonella/microssoma como estratégia para o monitoramento de águas estuarinas quanto à presença de compostos policíclicos genotóxicos / Blue rayon anchored technique in situ associated with Salmonella/microsome assay as a strategy for estuary waters monitoring in relation to the presence of genotoxins polycyclics compounds

O estuário de Santos abriga o maior porto da América Latina e um dos maiores complexos industriais do Brasil. Na década de 1970 foi considerado um dos maiores exemplos de degradação ambiental em ambientes costeiros, e apesar da melhora na qualidade ambiental observada nos últimos anos algumas áreas deste estuário apresentam sedimentos ainda altamente contaminados com compostos tóxicos e genotóxicos, especialmente os Hidrocarbonetos Policíclicos Aromáticos (HPA). Operações de dragagem para manutenção das atividades portuárias são necessárias e consequentemente durante este processo pode ocorrer a ressuspensão de contaminantes presentes nesses sedimentos, tornando-os disponíveis novamente na coluna d'água. Desta forma é interessante ter uma estratégia eficiente e aplicável no monitoramento da qualidade dessas águas...

Santos estuary is the major Latin American harbor and one of the largest industrial complex of Brazil. In the 1970s, it was considered one of the major examples of coastal degradation. Due to enforcement actions the quality of the environment has improved in the last years in relation to the chemical parameters and toxicity but unfortunately the sediment is still contaminated with toxic and genotoxic compounds especially Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs). For the maintenance of the port activities sediment dredging is needed and during this process contaminants resuspension can occur, leading to the contamination of the water column. Therefore it is interesting to have an efficient strategy that can be used for the water quality monitoring of this area. The Blue rayon is a selective adsorbent to polycyclic compounds containing three or more fused rings and has been successfully used in the monitoring of PAHs and mutagenic activity in aquatic environments. The objective of this work was to evaluate a modified blue rayon hanging technique, denominated in this work "Blue rayon anchored technique", where the fibers are placed at a fixed distance from the sediment, associated with the Salmonella/microsome microsuspension assay in order to monitor the water quality of Santos estuary. Three sites with different sources and sediment contamination levels were selected in this study. Two initial samplings were performed in order to evaluate the efficiency of the BR modified technique and find the most sensitive strain of Salmonella typhimurium to the mutagens possibly present in the those waters as well as verify the presence of PAHs. Five subsequent samplings were performed to verify the performance and efficiency of the defined strategy in the estuary water quality monitoring using dose response experiments. In the two initial samplings, the water from the site containing the most contaminated sediment and under influence of COSIPA (site 1) presented higher mutagenic activity and higher levels of PAHs. It was also possible to verify the highest sensitivity of the YG1041 strain in the detection of the mutagenic activity in both sites analyzed. In the subsequent five samplings, higher mutagenic potencies were again observed for site 1, reaching 5,100 and 36,000 revertants per gram of BR for the YG1 041 strain in the absence and presence of S9 respectively. Sites 2 and: presented similar potencies, around 1000 revertants per gram of BR. Based on the obtained results we can conclude that the Blue rayon anchored technique associated with the Salmonella/microsome microsuspension assay with the YG1041 strain in the presence and absence of S9 is an suitable tool to monito Santos estuarine waters.

study on relationship between the atmospheric quantity of heavy metals and PAHs in the city of Isfahan

Heavy metals are toxic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are known as toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic compounds. To determine the concentration of PAHs and heavy metals in sample and the relationship between these two pollutants in the atmosphere of the city of Isfahan. In present study, air particulates were collected on glass fiber filters by using a high- volume air sampler. Flow rate and sampling period were 0.5m3/min and 12 hrs, respectively. Each filter was exactly cut into two equal pieces. One piece was digested with HNO3 and H2O2, and the second piece was extracted with DCM, using soxhlet method. The later was used for determination of PAHs. Determinations of heavy metals concentration were performed using a Perkin-Elmer atomic absorption spectrometer. The concentrations of PAHs were measured using a PU 4400 gas chromatograph equipped with a FID detector. The concentration of lead was higher than other metals [748.5 ng/m3] however; it was lower than the standard value [2000 ng/m3]. The extraction efficiency of PAHs with soxhlet method was 92-100 percent. The concentration of Benzo [ALPHA] pyrene, index of aromatic hydrocarbons, was 2.27 ng/m3. PAHs concentration in non-working days was lower than working days of a week. Correlation coefficient between PAHs and heavy metals was 0.9 [p<0.005]. The changing pattern of heavy metals and PAHs was closely similar. The concentrations of PAHs and heavy metals were determined in different samples. The relationship between the atmospheric concentrations of PAHs and heavy metals was investigated and an excellent agreement was found.

Investigation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soil at Agra, India--a case study.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are released into the environment from anthropogenic sources, such as combustion of fossil fuels, refused burning, industrial processes and motor vehicle exhausts. The concentration of PAHs in roadside soil was measured at St. John's crossing, which lies in the centre of Agra city and exposed to heavy traffic. The samples were extracted with hexane by ultrasonic agitation. The extracts were then fractioned on a silica-gel column and the aromatic fraction was subjected to HPLC for analysis of 16 priority PAH pollutants specified by environment protection agency (EPA). Total mean concentration of PAHs was found to be 15.29 microg g(-1) and it ranged from 6.72-25.91 microg g(-1). Fluoranthene, chrysene, benzo(b)fluoranthene and benzo(ghi)perylene were found to be the most abundant PAHs at this location.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the ambient air of Jeedimetla Industrial Development Area-Hyderabad.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have received increased attention in recent years in air pollution studies, as some of these compounds are highly carcinogenic or mutagenic. PAHs are mainly associated with respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) (diameter <10 m in size). Hence, it is important to determine the concentration of PAHs adsorbed on RSPM to know the extent of human exposure to these potentially carcinogenic substances. The study was carried out at 10 locations in and around the Jeedimetla industrial development area, Hyderabad during April 2000. Higher concentrations of B(a)A and B(b)F were observed at Nandanagar, Py and B(a)P at Kukatpally while, F1 concentrations at Allwyn Colony. These variations in the concentration can be attributed to their source and climatic conditions during sampling.

Evaluation of biological monitoring markers using genomic and proteomic analysis for automobile emission inspectors and waste incinerating workers exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or 2,3,7,8,-tetracholrodedibenzo-p-dioxins

In this study, we investigated the effects of PAHs and dioxin on mRNA and plasma protein expression using genomic and proteomic analysis for automobile emission inspectors and waste incineration workers. About 54 workers from automobile emission inspection offices, 31 workers from waste incinerating company and 84 unexposed healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Urine and air samples were collected and analyzed by HPLC and GC/MS. Comet assays were carried out to evaluate any DNA damage in mononuclear and polynuclear cells. A significant difference in Olive tail moments in mononuclear cells was observed between exposed and control subjects (P <0.0001). To examine the differences of the gene expression profile in automobile emission inspectors and waste incineration workers, radioactive complementary DNA microarrays were used to evaluate changes in the expression of 1,152 total genes. The gene expression profiles showed that 11 genes were up-regulated and 4 genes were down-regulated in waste incinerating workers as compared with controls. Plasma proteins were analyzed by 2-dimentional electrophoresis with pH 3-10 NL IPG Dry strip. The protein expression profiles showed that 8 proteins were up- regulated and 1 protein, haptoglobin, was down- regulated in automobile emission inspectors and waste incineration workers. Serum paraoxonase/ arylesterase was found only in the plasma of waste incineration workers. The expression of genes and proteins involved in oxidative stress were up-regulated in both automobile emission inspectors and waste incineration workers. Several proteins, such as transthyrethin, sarcolectin and haptoglobin, that were highly up- or down-regulated, could serve as biological monitoring markers for future study.

The use of tropical bromeliads (Tillandsia spp. ) for monitoring atmospheric pollution in the town of Florence, Italy

The results of an experiment with two species of epiphytic angiosperms (Tillandsia caput-medusae and T. bulbosa) for monitoring polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the air of Florence, Italy, are presented. PAHs are compounds known to be dangerous because of their carcinogenic potential, and among cormophytes, tillands (monocotyledons equipped with peculiar, specialised, epidermal trichomes) are considered promising for air pollution biomonitoring. PAHs data were obtained using GC/MS analysis of plant extracts. Analytical data indicated an increasing trend in time of PAHs bioaccumulation. This result was compared with instrumentally recorded parameters such as meteorological (rain) and environmental ones (PM10), indicating that trichome-operated physical capture of aerial particles was prominent in PAHs bioaccumulation on tillands. SEM (scanning electron microscope) observations confirmed the role of the trichomes. This work indicates that tillands are particularly useful, low-cost biomonitoring organisms inside their area of distribution (all Latin American countries and southern USA) where these plants are easily available, but also wherever the climate allows them to survive.