Daddy, There's A Monster in My Room

Daddy,
Theres A Monster
In My Room
A Free Jeff Prager Publication
Persistent Organic Pollutants POPs
THE PEER REVIEW

PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS: IN OUR BEDS, OUR CLOTHES, OUR
HOMES, OUR SCHOOLS, OUR FOOD, OUR WATER, OUR AIR AND OUR SOIL
The Health Damage Associated With The Body Burden Of POPs And PBDEs In
Pregnant Women, Newborns And Adults In 200 Peer Reviewed Reports & Studies
Daddy, Theres A Monster In My Room

Persistent Organic Pollutants POPs
Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff Dont Eat The Food, Dont Drink The Water, Dont Buy Their Stuff
PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS: IN OUR BEDS, OUR CLOTHES, OUR HOMES, OUR SCHOOLS, OUR FOOD, OUR WATER, OUR AIR AND OUR SOIL
And The Health Damage Associated With The Body Burden Of POPs And PBDEs In Pregnant Women, Newborns And Adults In 200 Peer Reviewed Reports And Studies
A Free Jeff Prager No-Copyright Publication for Camy, Syrena, Illiana and Kyle
From Anarchy Books & Runaway Slaves Publishing Co.
POPs ARE almost ALWAYS FOUND LURKING UNDER THE BED
Fonts Used With Gratitude And Thanks To:
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Eliminate Plastic Products From Your Life
And Eat Organic!
POPs & PBDEs

It wouldnt be fair to create an eBook about genotoxic,
obesogenic, neurotoxic, fetotoxic, developmentally
toxic poisons without addressing methods for avoiding these contaminates as much as might be possible.
And we can proactively avoid them with a little effort.
And we should. Not that we can avoid all of them all
of the time but we can profoundly mitigate our own
exposures and more importantly, we can significantly
impact the vulnerability of our children.
First, a little about Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs). PBDEs
are primarily flame retardants added to plastic and
foam products to make them difficult to burn, which is
controversial itself since these chemicals give off toxins under fire conditions. The family of PBDEs consists
of 209 possible substances all of which are referred to
as congeners. As an example, the number of isomers
for mono-, di-, tri-, tetra-, penta-, hexa-, hepta-, octa-,
nona-, and decabrom diphenyl ethers are 3, 12, 24,
42, 46, 42, 24, 12, 3 and 1, respectively.
Were surrounded by chemicals all day, all the time,

and our bodies are literally attacked all day, every
daynot just by all sorts of bacteria but by the invisible environmental chemicals we all come into contact with. From automotive exhaust, perfumes, colognes and soaps, the unseen industrial pollution in
the air we breathe, the indoor dust were constantly
surrounded by, the bacteria we cant see thats on everything we touch, and even the food we eatthese
are all contaminated with various neurotoxins, obesogenics, mutagens, genotoxins, endocrine disruptors
and carcinogens from flame retardants, Bispehnol
analogues (A,B,S,F,AF), Pharmaceutical And Personal
Care breakdown products and transformation products, and 100s of other massively produced chemicals
that are now environmentally ubiquitous.
The peer review is clear, even the food is contaminated
with industrial chemicals like Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers and other Persistent Organic Pollutants. Yet
we all have, we hope, an active and robust immune
system, an effective internal supply of antioxidants
and other functional systems within our bodies that
fight these attacks effectively every moment of every

day. If we didnt wed be sick all the time, or worse.
That doesnt mean these various 100s of chemicals
wont eventually make us sick, and some of us are
more susceptible than others based on genetics,
transgenerational genetics and polymorphisms, so
we should all be aware of them and work proactively
to avoid contact and mitigate our exposures and the
subjection and vulnerability of our children.
In April 2007, the legislature of the state of Washington passed a bill banning the use of PBDEs. The State
of Maine Department of Environmental Protection
found that all PBDEs should be banned. In August,
2003, the State of California outlawed the sale of penta- and octa- PBDE and products containing them, effective January 1, 2008. In May 2007, the legislature of
the state of Maine passed a bill phasing out the use of
DecaBDE.
As of June 1, 2006 the State of California began prohibiting the manufacture, distribution, and processing
of flame-retardant products containing pentabrominated diphenyl ether (pentaBDE) and octabrominated diphenyl (octaBDE). PBDEs are so pervasive in the
environment that according to the EPA, exposure may
pose health risks. According to U.S. EPAs Integrated
Risk Information System, evidence indicates that PBDEs may possess liver toxicity, thyroid toxicity, and
neurodevelopmental toxicity.In June 2008, the U.S.
EPA set a safe daily exposure maximum of 7ug per kg
body weight per day for 4 most common 209 PBDEs.
The European Union decided to ban the use of two

classes of flame retardants, in particular, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polybrominated
biphenyls (PBBs) in electric and electronic devices.
This ban was formalized in the RoHS Directive, and an
upper limit of 1 g/kg for the sum of PBBs and PBDEs
was set. In February 2009, the Institute for Reference
Materials and Measurements (IRMM) released two
certified reference materials (CRMs) to help analytical
laboratories better detect these two classes of flame
retardants. The reference materials were custommade to contain all relevant PBDEs and PBBs at levels
close to the legal limit.
At an international level, in May 2009 the Parties of
the Stockholm Convention for Persistent Organic
Pollutants (POPs) took the decision to list commercial penta-BDE and commercial octa-BDE as POP
substances. This listing is due to the properties of
hexa-BDE (hexabromodiphenyl ether) and heptaBDE (heptabromodiphenyl ether) which are the
main components of commercial octa-BDE, and
due to the properties of tetra-BDE (tetrabromodiphenyl ether) and penta-BDE (pentabromodiphenyl ether) which are the main components of
commercial penta-BDE.
In the United States, PBDEs are marketed with trade

names: DE-60F, DE-61, DE-62, and DE-71 applied to
pentaBDE mixtures; DE-79 applied to octaBDE mixtures; DE 83R and Saytex 102E applied to decaBDE
mixtures. The available commercial PBDE products
are not single compounds or even single congeners
but rather a mixture of congeners each denoted by
its corresponding number. PBDE-209 is one of the
most egregious human poisons.
Because theyre mixed into plastics and foams and
dont actually bind to them, PBDEs can leave the
product that contains them and enter the environmentyour home, the classroom, the day care
center and anywhere else. They also enter the environment and are significant pollutants of our soil,
rivers, streams and oceans.
Polybrominated-Biphenyl-Ethers or PBDEs are
known for being hormone disruptors which can
accumulate in the placenta and even contaminate a mothers breast milk. Another danger connected to these compounds is the fact that they
arent biodegradable. They can accumulate in
the air, contributing to constant dust pollution
in homes, offices and commercial buildings.
With 209 different congeners and extraordinary

bio-persistance and environmental persistance,
Persistant Organic Pollutants, POPs, like Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers, PBDEs, arent going
away any time soon and the human body burden
for those that dont become actively involved in
simple mitigation procedures will likely increase
in most areas via food and dust alone.
POPs can even sneak into your closet when you arent paying attention
If youre raising children then you probably know

that your children are exposed to a wide variety
of chemicals also, even more so because theyre
closer to the ground, and from an unimaginable
number of sources every day primarily because small

children put things in their mouths. The peer review
helps us understand the dangers of chemical exposure in the day care environment. For this reason alone
its imperative that you shield your children from obvious, easily avoidable and very dangerous chemicals
without affecting their ability to enjoy their playtime,
friends and youth.
tives in March of 2010 titled, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) and Hexabromocyclodecane
(HBCD) in Composite U.S. Food Samples by Schecter,
et al., stated:
Total PBDE concentrations in food varied by food
type, ranging from 12 pg/g wet weight (ww) in whole
milk to 1,545 pg/g ww in canned sardines and 6,211
pg/g ww in butter. Total HBCD concentrations also
varied substantially within and among food groups,
ranging from 23 pg/g in canned beef chili to 593 pg/
g in canned sardines. HBCD was not detected in any
dairy samples. Dietary intake of all PBDE congeners
measured was estimated to be 50 ng/day, mostly
from dairy consumption but also from meat and fish.
HBCD intake was estimated at 16 ng/day, primarily
from meat consumption. PBDEs and HBCDs currently contaminate some food purchased in the United
States, although PBDE intake estimated in this study
is lower than reported in our previous market basket
surveys. HBCD is in food at higher levels than expected based on previously reported levels in milk and
blood compared with PBDE levels and is comparable
to European levels.
Get rid of any pillows and mattresses that are at least

2 years old. Replace any hypoallergenic pillow stuffed
with synthetic fiber and get untreated pillows that are
made out of feathers or wool. If allergies are a concern, you can opt for a pillow made out of latex foam.
There are many available on the internet. Consider organic mattresses that are either made up of naturally
fire retardant wool, organic cotton and coils that are
completely untreated. Avoid mattresses containing
PBDE. These can now be easily found in many online
stores. Also, check your local retailer. One brand is the
bioposture but this is not an endorsement, Ive never
used it, and there are many other quality products
available.
Choose sheets made out of organic and unbleached
hemp, cotton or linen. These will cost more but rest
assured theyre safer and will last longer too, especially compared to chlorine treated pillowcase and
bed sheets, which is what a majority of people have.
Your duvets should also be made of natural materials. Opt for those with silk, hemp, feathers or down.
Change out plastic shower curtains for washable
cloth curtains. The initial expense may be greater but
you wont have to continually replace plastic shower
curtains. Have you smelled the odor from new plastic
shower curtains?
For a budget friendly options IKEA may be able to
help. The company has been known to sell PBDE
free mattresses, pillows and bedroom furniture since
2002. Make it a habit to clean and vacuum your bedroom regularly. Change your bed linens every week.
Another way to detox your bedroom is to simply air
your mattress. The simple act of opening your windows as wide as possible to allow fresh air inside can
do wonders for your health. Every once in a while, especially when the weather is warm and sunny, take
your mattress outside and leave it sitting in the sun
for a couple of hours. This will ventilate the mattress
and allow for evaporation of some Persistent Organic
Pollutants and result in a cleaner mattress. In view of

its widespread use, toxicity and volatility, exposure to
formaldehyde is also a significant consideration for
health. Formaldehyde is known to cause tiredness,
insomnia, headaches, coughing and skin irritation. In
June 10, 2011, the US National Toxicology Program
described formaldehyde as known to be a human
carcinogen.
Formaldehyde-based resins are used as adhesives
and resins in the manufacture of particle-board,
plywood, furniture, kitchen cabinets and other
wood and simulated wood products. Its also used
for the production of material like appliances,
electric controls, telephones, wiring services and
its used in the textile, leather, rubber and cement
industries. Other uses are as binders for foundry
sand, stonewool and glasswool mats in insulating
materials, abrasive paper and brake linings.
Dust furnishings regularly with a damp cloth and launder the cloth afterwards. Vacuum regularly and clean
filters and discard bags before theyre over-filled. Vacuums with a hepa filter are most helpful. You might
consider shampooing the carpet once a year. Wear
only 100% cotton or wool clothing and always wash
new clothing alone in the washer once with normal
detergent and once again with water alone to fully
rinse them. Avoid dry cleaning your clothing. Dont
wear your shoes in the home. Wearing shoes in the
house brings not just a host of microscopic chemicals
inside but radiation as well. Best to leave all shoes in
the foyer . Place them on a mat outside the front door
before entering your home and dont allow others to
wear shoes in your home either. Open windows year
around, even if just briefly and keep your home aired
out sufficiently.
A study published in Environmental Health Perspec-
Not all flame retardants present concerns, but the following types often do:

Halogenated flame retardants (also known as organohalogen flame retardants) containing chlorine
or bromine bonded to carbon.
Organophosphorous flame retardants containing
phosphorous bonded to carbon.
For these types of flame retardants some are associated with health and environmental concerns, many
are inadequately tested for safety and they provide
questionable fire safety benefits as used in some
products
The major uses of flame retardant chemicals by volume in the U.S. are: Electronics, Building insulation,
Polyurethane foam and wire and cable manufacturing. These chemicals are persistent, they dont easily
break down into safer chemicals in the environment
and often remain stable and dangerous or create
dangerous breakdown or transformation products.
Theyre capable of long-range transport they travel far from the source of release and are distributed
around the world. Theyre bio-accumulative so they build up in people and other animals, becoming most
concentrated at the top of the food chain, you and I. Most important, theyre toxic. Theyre harmful to life.
Flame retardants often have long-term (chronic) rather than immediate harmful effects. The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty between over 150 countries which aims to eliminate or reduce the release of POPs.
The Convention has listed 23 chemicals to be banned globally, all of which are organohalogens, and several
of which are organohalogen flame retardants or their by-products. PBDEs, a class of chemicals used primarily
as flame retardants in furniture and plastics, are structurally similar to the known human toxicants PBBs, PCBs,
dioxins, and furans, all of which have been banned under the Stockholm Convention.
The San Antonio Statement

The San Antonio Statement on Brominated and Chlorinated Flame Retardants was first presented at the 30th
International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants (Dioxin 2010), September 2010 in
San Antonio, Texas, USA. This consensus statement has over 200 signatories from 30 countries, representing
expertise on health, environment and fire safety. The statement was published in the journal Environmental
Health Perspectives, December 2010. The statement is a joint project of the International Panel on Chemical
Pollution (IPCP), International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN), and Green Science Policy Institute.
The San Antonio Statement

on Brominated and Chlorinated Flame Retardants
was authored by
Joseph DiGangi1, Arlene Blum2,3, ke Bergman4, Cynthia A. de Wit5,

Donald Lucas6, David Mortimer7, Arnold Schecter8, Martin Scheringer9,
Susan D. Shaw10 and Thomas F. Webster11 from:

1.International POPs Elimination Network, Berkeley, California, USA

2.Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
3.Green Science Policy Institute, Berkeley, California, USA
4.Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, and
5.Department of Applied Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Sweden
6.Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
7.Food Standards Agency, London, United Kingdom
8.University of Texas School of Public Health, Dallas, Texas, USA
9.Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, ETH Zrich, Zrich, Switzerland
10.Marine Environmental Research Institute, Center for Marine Studies, USA
11.Dept. of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, USA
The authors declare they have no actual or
potential competing financial interests.
We, scientists from a variety of disciplines, declare the following:
1. Parties to the Stockholm Convention have taken action on three brominated flame retardants that have
been listed in the treaty for global elimination. These substances include components of commercial pentabromodiphenyl ether and commercial octa-bromodiphenyl ether, along with hexabromobiphenyl. Another
brominated flame retardant, hexabromocyclododecane, is under evaluation.
2. Many commonly used brominated and chlorinated flame retardants can undergo long-range environmental transport.
3. Many brominated and chlorinated flame retardants

appear to be persistent and bioaccumulative, resulting in food chain contamination, including human
milk.
4. Many brominated and chlorinated flame retardants
lack adequate toxicity information, but the available
data raises concerns.
5. Many different types of brominated and chlorinated flame retardants have been incorporated into
products even though comprehensive toxicological
information is lacking.
11. Therefore, these data support the following:

12. Brominated and chlorinated flame retardants as
classes of substances are a concern for persistence,
bioaccumulation, long-range transport, and toxicity.
13. There is a need to improve the availability of and access to information on brominated and chlorinated flame
retardants and other chemicals in products in the supply
chain and throughout each products life cycle.
14. Consumers can play a role in the adoption of alter-
natives to harmful flame retardants if they are made

aware of the presence of the substances, for example,
through product labeling.
15. The process of identifying alternatives to flame
retardants should include not only alternative chemicals but also innovative changes in the design of products, industrial processes, and other practices that do
not require the use of any flame retardant.
16. Efforts should be made to ensure that current and
alternative chemical flame retardants do not have
6. Brominated and chlorinated flame

retardants present in a variety of products are released to the indoor and outdoor environments.
17. When seeking exemptions for certain applications

of flame retardants, the party requesting the exemption should supply some information indicating why
the exemption is technically or scientifically necessary and why potential alternatives are not technically or scientifically viable; a description of potential
alternative processes, products, materials, or systems
that eliminate the need for the chemical;
and a list of sources researched.
18. Wastes containing flame retardants
with persistent organic pollutant (POP)
characteristics, including products and
articles, should be disposed of in such a
way that the POP content is destroyed or
irreversibly transformed so that they do
not exhibit the characteristics of POPs.
7. Near-end-of-life and end-of-life electrical and electronic products are a

growing concern as a result of dumping
in developing countries, which results
in the illegal transboundary movement
of their hazardous constituents. These
include brominated and chlorinated
flame retardants.
19. Flame retardants with POP characteristics should not be permitted to be subjected to disposal operations that may
lead to recovery, recycling, reclamation,
direct reuse, or alternative uses of the
substances.
8. There is a lack of capacity to handle

electronic waste in an environmentally
sound manner in almost all developing
countries and countries with economies
in transition, leading to the release of
hazardous substances that cause harm
to human health and the environment.
These substances include brominated
and chlorinated flame retardants.
20. Wastes containing flame retardants

with POP properties should not be transported across international boundaries
unless it is for disposal in such a way that
the POP content is destroyed or irreversibly transformed.
21. It is important to consider product
stewardship and extended producer responsibility aspects in the life-cycle management of products containing flame
retardants with POP properties, including electronic and electrical products.
9. Brominated and chlorinated flame

retardants can increase fire toxicity, but
their overall benefit in improving fire
safety has not been proven.
10. When brominated and chlorinated
flame retardants burn, highly toxic dioxins and furans are formed.
hazardous properties, such as mutagenicity and carcinogenicity, or adverse effects on the reproductive,
developmental, endocrine, immune, or nervous systems.
POPS skulking AROUND THE HOUSE

Original Text:
http://greensciencepolicy.org/san-antonio-statement/

200 Peer Reviewed Reports And Studies Describing The Numerous Health Dangers Associated With The Human Body Burden Of Persistent Organic Pollutants
The Monsters In The Food, Air And Water
Journal Of Occupational And Environmental Hygiene September 2016
Flame-retardant contamination of firefighter personal protective clothing - A potential health risk for firefighters
Alexander BM1, Baxter CS1.
1a. Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27171467
There is a high incidence of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers in firefighters that may be related to their
occupational exposure to hazardous substances. Exposure may result from contaminated personal protective
gear, as well as from direct exposure at fire scenes. This study characterized flame-retardant contamination on
firefighter personal protective clothing to assess exposure of firefighters to these chemicals. These findings, along
with previous research, suggest that firefighters are exposed to PBDE flame retardants at levels much higher than
the general public. PBDEs are found widely dispersed in the environment and still persist in existing domestic materials such as clothing and furnishings. Firefighter exposure to flame retardants therefore merits further study.
Science And The Total Environment September 2016
Blue sharks (Prionace glauca) as bioindicators of pollution and health in the Atlantic Ocean:
Contamination levels and biochemical stress responses
Alves LM1, Nunes M2, Marchand P3, Le Bizec B3, Mendes S1, Correia JP4, Lemos MF1, Novais SC5.
1. MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ESTM, Instituto Politcnico de Leiria, 2520-641 Peniche, Portugal
LUNAM Universit, Oniris, USC 1329, Laboratoire dtude des Rsidus et Contaminants dans les Aliments (LABERCA), Nantes, France
3. LUNAM Universit, Oniris, USC 1329, Laboratoire dtude des Rsidus et Contaminants dans les Aliments (LABERCA), Nantes, France
4. MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ESTM, Instituto Politcnico de Leiria, 2520-641 Peniche, Portugal; Flying Sharks, 9900-361 Horta, Portugal
Electronic address: sara.novais@ipleiria.pt
Marine ecosystems are constantly being threatened by contaminants produced by human activities. The main objective of this study was to find
suitable biomarkers for future marine pollution biomonitoring studies by correlating biochemical responses with tissue contaminant body burden in blue sharks (Prionace glauca), a species heavily caught and consumed by humans, while also addressing their general health. The chemical contaminants analysed comprised different persistent organic pollutants (POPs) families from polychlorinated compounds to brominated
flame retardants (BFRs) and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) and different trace and heavy metals. Concentrations of some contaminants in
sharks tissues were found to be above the legally allowed limits for human consumption.
DNA damage and lipid peroxidation levels, as well as the inhibition of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase, were the main effects
and consequences of contamination. The impact of contamination on these vital macromolecules underlines the suboptimal conditions of the
sampled P. glauca, which can ultimately lead to the degradation of core ecological aspects, such as swimming, feeding, and reproduction. It can
be concluded that P. glauca demonstrates great potential to be used as environmental sentinel and suitable biomarker candidates were identified in this work.
Moreover, this study also highlights the risks that the consumption of blue shark derived products can pose to human health, which is of utmost
interest as the sampled organisms were still juveniles and already presented values above regulatory limits.
Reviews In Environmental Contamination Toxicology September 2016
Persistent Organic Pollutants and Concern Over the Link with Insulin Resistance Related Metabolic Diseases
By S. Mostafalou
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, 5618953141, Ardabil, Iran
s.mostafalou@arums.ac.ir
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are mostly halogenated compounds tending to persist in the environment, enter into the food chain,
and accumulate in fat mass of mammals due to their high lipophilicity. They include some organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, brominated flame retardants and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Some of these chemicals were widely used in the past so that their residues can be detected in the human body, though their usage has been
banned for years. POPs have been shown to perturb the health of biological systems in different ways evidenced by carcinogenicity and disrupting effects on endocrine, immune, and reproductive systems.
There are many epidemiologic and experimental studies on the association of exposure to POPs with insulin resistance and related metabolic
disorders like obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Inflammation as a known mechanism accompanying insulin resistance has also
been shown to arise in insulin target tissues exposed to POPs.
This review addresses the breast milk concentration of POPs in different regions of the world, synthesizes the current information on the association of POPs with insulin resistance related metabolic disorders, and discusses the inflammation as an involved mechanism.
Considering high prevalence of insulin resistance related metabolic diseases and their relation with POPs, much need is felt regarding international and regional programs to not only limit their production and usage but eliminate these persistent pollutants from the environment.
CNS Neurolological Disorders Drug Targets August 2016
Autism, Mitochondria and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Exposure

Wong S, Giulivi C1.
University of California, Department of Molecular Biosciences
1089 Veterinary Medicine Dr., 3009 VetMed3B, Davis, CA 95616, USA
cgiulivi@ucdavis.edu
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a growing concern with more than 1 in every 68
children affected in the United States by age 8. Limited scientific advances have been
made regarding the etiology of autism, with general agreement that both genetic and
environmental factors contribute to this disorder. In this review, we propose that PBDE,
and possibly other environmental exposures, during child development can induce or
compound mitochondrial dysfunction, which in conjunction with a dysregulated antioxidant response, increase a childs susceptibility of autism.
Environmental Research August 2016
Occurrence and sources of brominated and organophosphorus flame retardants in dust

from different indoor environments in Barcelona, Spain
Cristale J1, Hurtado A1, Gmez-Canela C1, Lacorte S1.
1. Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
In this study, the simultaneous presence of eight polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), nine new brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) and ten organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) was investigated
in dust samples collected from different indoor environments (homes, schools, theatres, a university and a
Research Institute) in Barcelona, Spain.
OPFRs were detected at the highest concentrations followed by PBDEs. tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate
(TCIPP) was the most abundant compound. BDE-209 was the main PBDE congener detected while other PBDEs ranged from 2.6 to 118ngg(-1). Among the studied NBFRs, decabromodiphenyl ethane followed by bis(2ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate were detected at the highest concentration, whereas a lower detection frequency was observed for 2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate, 1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)ethane,
pentabromotoluene and hexabromobenzene. The levels and profile of flame retardants (FRs) were characteristic of each environment, where theatres followed by homes presented the highest concentrations and
schools had the lowest levels. Principal Component Analysis permitted to identify the main sources and
distribution of all FRs, according to specific uses in each environment. The simultaneous presence of all FR
families in indoor dust points to the need to monitor these compounds to minimize human exposure.
Environment International August 2016
Trends in the levels of halogenated flame retardants in the Great Lakes atmosphere over the period 2005-2013
Liu LY1, Salamova A1, Venier M1, Hites RA2.
1,2. School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
Electronic address: hitesr@indiana.edu
Air (vapor and particle phase) samples were collected every 12 days at five sites near the North American Great Lakes from 1 January
2005 to 31 December 2013 as a part of the Integrated Atmospheric Deposition Network (IADN). The concentrations of 35 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and eight other halogenated flame retardants were measured in each of the ~1,300 samples. The levels of almost all of these flame retardants, except for pentabromoethylbenzene (PBEB), hexabromobenzene (HBB), and Dechlorane
Plus (DP), were significantly higher in Chicago, Cleveland, and Sturgeon Point. The concentrations of PBEB and HBB were relatively
high at Eagle Harbor and Sturgeon Point, respectively, and the concentrations of DP were relatively high at Cleveland and Sturgeon
Point, the two sites closest to this compounds production site. The concentrations of PBDEs were decreasing at the urban sites, Chicago and Cleveland, but were generally unchanging at the remote sites, Sleeping Bear Dunes and Eagle Harbor. The concentrations
of PBEB were decreasing at almost all sites except for Eagle Harbor, where the highest PBEB levels were observed. HBB concentrations
were decreasing at all sites except for Sturgeon Point, where HBB levels were the highest. DP concentrations were increasing with
doubling times of 3-9 years at all sites except those closest to its source (Cleveland and Sturgeon Point). The levels of 1,2-bis(2,4,6tribromophenoxy)ethane (TBE) were unchanging at the urban sites, Chicago and Cleveland, but decreasing at the suburban and
remote sites, Sturgeon Point and Eagle Harbor. The atmospheric concentrations of 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EHTBB)
and bis(2-ethylhexyl)-tetrabromophthalate (BEHTBP) were increasing at almost every site with doubling times of 3-6years.
Environmental Researcgh August 2016
Serum polybrominated diphenyl ether concentrations

and thyroid function in young children
Jacobson MH1, Barr DB2, Marcus M3, Muir AB4, Lyles RH5, Howards PP6, Pardo L7, Darrow LA8.
1. Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
2. Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
4. Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
5. Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
7. National Center for Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC 20004, USA
Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
Thyroid hormones are essential for proper neurodevelopment in early life. There is evidence that exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) affects thyroid function,
but previous studies have been inconsistent, and no studies among children have been
conducted in the United States where PBDE levels are particularly high. Serum levels of
seven PBDE congeners and thyroid hormones and other thyroid parameters were measured in 80 children aged 1-5 years from the southeastern United States between 2011
and 2012. Results suggest that exposure to PBDEs during childhood subclinically disrupts
thyroid hormone function, with impacts in the direction of hypothyroidism.
Reproductive Toxicology July 2016
Polybrominated diphenyl ether exposure and reproductive hormones in North American men
Makey CM1, McClean MD2, Braverman LE3, Pearce EN3, Sjdin A4, Weinberg J5, Webster TF2.
1. Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
2. Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
3. Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Nutrition, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
4. Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
5. Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, 1010 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02118, USA
Electronic address: cmakey@bu.edu
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardant chemicals that are persistent
organic pollutants. Animal experiments and some human studies indicate that PBDEs may
adversely affect male reproductive function.
These findings suggest PBDE exposure may affect RHs in older men. We did not measure
other parameters of male reproductive function and therefore these results are preliminary.
JAMA Neurology July 2016
Association of Environmental Toxins With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Su FC1, Goutman SA2, Chernyak S1, Mukherjee B3, Callaghan BC2, Batterman S1, Feldman EL4.
1. Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
2. Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
3. Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
4. Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Persistent environmental pollutants may represent a modifiable risk factor involved in

the gene-time-environment hypothesis in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In this
study, persistent environmental pollutants measured in blood were significantly associated with ALS and may represent modifiable ALS disease risk factors.
Current Problems In Pediatric And Adolescent Health Care July 2016
Developmental Exposure to Environmental Chemicals and Metabolic Changes in Children

Russ K1, Howard S2.
1. University of Maryland, School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD
2. National Coordinator, Diabetes and Obesity Initiative, Collaborative on Health and the Environment, Bolinas, CA
Electronic address: kruss003@son.umaryland.edu.
The incidence of childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other forms of metabolic disease
have been rising over the past several decades. Although diet and physical activity play important roles in these trends, other environmental factors also may contribute to this significant public health issue. Prenatal exposure to EDCs, particularly the persistent organic
pollutant DDT and its metabolite DDE, may influence growth patterns during infancy and
childhood. The altered growth patterns associated with EDCs vary according to exposure
level, sex, exposure timing, pubertal status, and age at which growth is measured. Early
exposure to air pollutants also is linked to impaired metabolism in infants and children. As
a result of these and other studies, professional health provider societies have called for a
reduction in environmental chemical exposures. We summarize the resources available to
health care providers to counsel patients on how to reduce chemical exposures.
Current Obesity Reports July 2016
Infectious and Environmental Influences on the Obesity Epidemic

Huo L1, Lyons J2,3, Magliano DJ4,5.
1. Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China
2. School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
3. Department of Clinical Diabetes and Epidemiology, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Level 4, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
4. Department of Clinical Diabetes and Epidemiology, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Level 4, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
5. Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004, Victoria, Australia
Dianna.magliano@bakeridi.edu.au
Over the last two decades, the prevalence of obesity has increased rapidly. While it is intuitively appealing to believe that the
causes of obesity are manifestly related to excess dietary intake, combined with a reduced expenditure of energy via a decrease in
physical activity, it is also been noted that the evidence for these as the sole causes of the obesity epidemic is incomplete.
This review will explore two putative causes of obesity: infections and environmental pollutants. It will focus on the key human
infection associated with obesity-human adenovirus 36 (Ad36) and will discuss several environmental pollutants which have been
postulated to be involved in the development of obesity: bisphenol A, phthalates and persistent organic pollutants. For each of
these, the epidemiology and biological mechanisms underpinning the association of these agents with obesity will be reviewed.
Environmental Toxicology July 2016
Metabolite profiling study on the toxicological effects of polybrominated diphenyl ether in a rat model
Jung YS1, Lee J1,2, Seo J3, Hwang GS1,4.
1. Integrated Metabolomics Research Group, Western Seoul Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Seoul, 120-140, Republic of Korea
2. Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, 440-746, Republic of Korea
3. Mass Spectrometry & Advanced Instrumentation Group, Ochang Headquters, Korea Basic Science Institute, Cheongju, 363-886, Republic of Korea
4. Department of Chemistry & Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are commonly used to retard the combustion of materials such as
foam padding, textiles, or plastics, and numerous studies have confirmed the accumulation thereof in the
environment and in fish, mammals, and humans.
In this study, we used metabolomics to conduct an environmental risk assessment of the PBDE-209 despite the weak PBDE-209 effects, we observed that choline, acetylcholine, 3-indoxylsulfate, creatinine, urea,
and dimethyl sulfone levels were decreased, whereas that of pyruvate was significantly increased. Furthermore, we suggest that the increased pyruvate level and decreased levels of choline, acetylcholine, and uremic toxins were suggestive of endocrine disruption and neurodevelopmental toxicity caused by PBDEs.
Journal Of Chromatography A July 2016
Simultaneous determination of 16 brominated flame retardants in food and feed of animal origin
by fast gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry using atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation
Bichon E1, Guiffard I2, Vnisseau A2, Lesquin E2, Vaccher V2, Brosseaud A2, Marchand P2, Le Bizec B2.
1,2. LABoratoire dtude des Rsidus et Contaminants dans les Aliments (LABERCA), USC INRA 1329, Oniris, LUNAM Universit, BP 50707, 44307 Nantes Cedex 3, France
Electronic address: emmanuelle.bichon@oniris-nantes.fr
A gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method using atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation was developed for the monitoring of 16 brominated flame
retardants (7 usually monitored polybromodiphenylethers (PBDEs) and BDE #209 and
8 additional emerging and novel BFRs) in food and feed of animal origin.
Environmental Pollution July 2016
Statewide surveillance of halogenated flame retardants in fish in Illinois, USA

Widelka M1, Lydy MJ2, Wu Y1, Chen D3.
1. Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory and Department of Zoology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
2. Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences and Department of Zoology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
3. Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory and Department of Zoology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
Electronic address: dachen@siu.edu
The data revealed that polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) generally dominated the flame retardant residues in Illinois fish. Concentrations of PBDEs (including all detectable PBDE congeners) ranged
from 24.7 to 8270ng/g lipid weight (median: 135ng/g lw) in common carp and 15-3870ng/g lw (median: 360ng/g lw) in largemouth bass. In addition to PBDEs, Dechlorane analogues (i.e. Dec-603, Dec-604,
and Chlordane Plus) were also frequently detected. Median concentrations of Dechloranes (including
all detected Dechlorane analogues) were 34.4 and 23.3ng/g lw in common carp and largemouth bass,
respectively. Other emerging flame retardants, including tetrabromo-o-chlorotoluene (TBCT), hexabromobenzene (HBBZ), 2-ethylhexyltetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB), and bis(2-ethylhexyl)-3,4,5,6-tetrabromo-phthalate (BEH-TEBP), were also detected in 40-78% of the fish at the monitored stations. Spatial
analysis revealed significantly greater PBDE concentrations in fish living in impaired urban streams and
lakes compared to those from the impaired agricultural and unimpaired agricultural/urban waters,
demonstrating a significant urban influence on PBDE contamination. Future studies and environmental
monitoring are recommended to focus on temporal trends of PBDEs and alternative flame retardants, as
well as human exposure risks via edible fishes, in the identified Areas of Concern within Illinois.
Life Science July 2016
Pollutants make rheumatic diseases worse: Facts on polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) exposure and rheumatic diseases
Abella V1, Prez T2, Scotece M2, Conde J2, Pirozzi C2, Pino J2, Lago F3, Gonzlez-Gay M4, Mera A4, Gmez R2, Gualillo O5.
1. SERGAS, Research Laboratory 9, NEIRID Lab (Neuroendocrine Interactions in Rheumatology and Inflammatory Diseases), Institute of Medical Research (IDIS), Santiago University Clinical Hospital, Spain
Departamento de Bioloxa Celular e Molecular, Facultade de Ciencias, Universidade da Corua (UDC), Campus de A Corua, 15071 A Corua, Spain
3. SERGAS, Research Laboratory 7, Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, Institute of Medical Research (IDIS), Santiago University Clinical Hospital, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
4. SERGAS, Division of Rheumatology, Santiago University Clinical Hospital, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Electronic address: oreste.gualillo@sergas.es.
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants that bioaccumulate in adipose tissue, disturbing its
metabolism and the balance of adipokines, related to obesity. The altering secretion pattern of adipokines from the
adipose tissue and the increasing mechanical load in weight-bearing joints presented in obesity condition, are risk factors for osteoarthritis development.
Analysis of two cohorts exposed to PCBs food contamination showed high incidence of arthritis. In addition, PCBs in
serum correlated positively with the prevalence of self-reported arthritis. Few studies support the hypothesis that osteoarthritis development could be related to PCBs induction of chondrocytes apoptosis.
Evidences have emerged for a relationship between PCBs and development of several types of arthritis. Further research
is encouraged to determine the correlation between PCBs exposure and the development of rheumatic diseases.
International Journal Of Hygiene And Environmental Health July 2016
Occurrence of chlorinated and brominated dioxins/furans, PCBs, and brominated flame retardants in blood of German adults
Fromme H1, Hilger B2, Albrecht M3, Gries W4, Leng G4, Vlkel W2.
1. Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Department of Chemical Safety and Toxicology, Pfarrstrasse 3, D-80538 Munich, Germany
Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Ziemssenstrasse 1, D-80336 Munich, Germany
Electronic address: hermann.fromme@lgl.bayern.de
2. Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Department of Chemical Safety and Toxicology, Pfarrstrasse 3, D-80538 Munich, Germany
3. Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Department of Pesticides, Contaminants, Nitrosamines, Radioactivity, Dioxins, Irradiation
Veterinaerstrasse 2, D-85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
4. Currenta, CUR-SI-GS-Biomonitoring; D-51368 Leverkusen, Germany
Persistent organic pollutants are widespread in the environment, and are associated with a particular health and ecological concern. The human body burden of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDDs/Fs), polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans
(PBDDs/Fs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenylether (PBDEs), and hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) was determined.
Blood samples were collected in Germany, originating from 42 randomly selected subjects between 20 and 68 years old.
The median (95th percentile) concentrations, expressed as WHO2005-TEQ for PCDD/PCDFs and dioxin-like PCBs, were 6.2 (19.1) pg/g l.w. and
4.1 (8.8) pg/g l.w., respectively. PBDDs/Fs were found with a median of 2.8 pgTEQ/g l.w. and a 95th percentile of 8.7 pgTEQ/g l.w. (using similar
interim TEF values as for PCDDs/Fs) On a median basis, the contribution of PCDD/Fs, dioxin-like PCBs, and PBDDs/Fs to total TEQ were 47%, 31%,
and 21%, respectively. The sum of the 6 non-dioxin-like PCBs exhibited a median of 267ng/g l.w. and a 95th percentile of 834ng/g l.w. The median
value for the sum of six tetra- to hepta-PBDE congeners was 1.7ng/g l.w. (95th percentile: 4.9ng/g l.w.).
BDE 209 was the most abundant congener with a median of 1.8ng/g l.w. HBCDs were only found in some samples, and concentrations ranged
between the limit of detection (5ng/g l.w.) and the limit of quantification (16ng/g l.w.). Results for PBDEs and HBCDs are comparable to other
European studies. Our study demonstrated that the body burden of PCDD/Fs and PCBs declined continuously since the last three decades, but
exposure may exceed precautionary guideline levels.
Environmental Research July 2016
Relationships between concentrations of selected organohalogen contaminants and thyroid hormones

and vitamins A, E and D in Faroese pilot whales
Hoydal KS1, Ciesielski TM2, Borrell A3, Wasik A4, Letcher RJ5, Dam M6, Jenssen BM2.
1. Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Environment Agency, Traagta 38, FO-165 Argir, Faroe Islands
2. Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
3. Department of Animal Biology and Biodiversity Research Institute (IRBio), University of Barcelona, Spain
4. Gdask University of Technology, Chemical Faculty, Department of Analytical Chemistry, G. Narutowicza 11/12 St., 80-233 Gdask, Poland
5. Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr. (Raven Road), Ottawa K1A 0H3, Canada
6. Environment Agency, Traagta 38, FO-165 Argir, Faroe Islands
Electronic address: katrinh@us.fo
Pilot whales (Globicephala melas) from the Faroe Islands, North-East Atlantic, have high body concentrations of organohalogenated compounds
(OHCs), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorinated pesticides (OCPs) and brominated flame retardants (BFRs).
The aim of the present study was to examine if and to what extent blood plasma and liver concentrations of several groups of these OHCs are related to concentrations of relevant nutritional and hormonal biomarkers in pilot whales. Thyroid hormones (THs: total and free thyroxine and total
and free triiodothyronine) and vitamin A (retinol), D (25-hydroxyvitamin D3) and E (-tocopherol) were analysed in plasma (n=27) and vitamin A
(total vitamin A, retinol and retinyl palmitate) and E (- and -tocopherol) were analysed in liver (n=37) of Faroe Island pilot whales. Correlative relationships between the biomarkers and OHC concentrations previously analysed in the same tissues in these individuals were studied. The TH concentrations in plasma were significantly higher in juveniles than in adults. Vitamin D concentrations in plasma and - and -tocopherol in liver were
higher in adults than in juveniles. Multivariate statistical modelling showed that the age and sex influenced the relationship between biomarkers and OHCs. Some significant positive relationships were found between OHCs and thyroid hormone concentrations in the youngest juveniles
(p<0.05). In plasma of juvenile whales -tocopherol was also positively correlated with all the OHCs (p<0.05). Only few significant correlations were
found between single OHCs and retinol and vitamin D in plasma within the age groups. There were significant negative relationships between
hepatic PBDE concentrations and retinol (BDE-47) and -tocopherol (BDE-49, -47, -100, -99, -153) in liver. The relationships between organohalogenated compounds and THs or vitamins suggest that in pilot whales OHCs seem to have minor effects on TH and vitamin concentrations.
Environmental Health Perspectives July 2016
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in Human Milk and Serum from the US EPA MAMA Study:
Modeled Predictions of Infant Exposure and Considerations for Risk Assessment
Marchitti SA1, Fenton SE2, Mendola P3, Kenneke JF4, Hines EP5.
Full text with references
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/wp-content/uploads/advpub/2016/7/EHP332.acco.pdf
Serum concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in U.S. women are believed to be among the worlds highest, however, little information exists on the partitioning of PBDEs between serum and breast milk and how this may impact infant exposure.
Environment International July 2016
Trends in the levels of halogenated flame retardants in the Great Lakes atmosphere over the period 2005-2013
Liu LY1, Salamova A1, Venier M1, Hites RA2.
1,2. School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
Electronic address: hitesr@indiana.edu
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=27160856
DP concentrations were increasing with doubling times of 3-9 years at all sites except those closest to its source
(Cleveland and Sturgeon Point). The levels of 1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)ethane (TBE) were unchanging at
the urban sites, Chicago and Cleveland, but decreasing at the suburban and remote sites, Sturgeon Point and Eagle Harbor. The atmospheric concentrations of 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EHTBB) and bis(2-ethylhexyl)-tetrabromophthalate (BEHTBP) were increasing at almost every site with doubling times of 3-6 years.
Environmental Health Perspectives June 2016
Prenatal Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Exposure and Body Mass Index in Children Up To 8 Years of Age
Vuong AM1, Braun JM2, Sjdin A3, Webster GM4, Yolton K5, Lanphear BP4, Chen A1.
1. Division of Epidemiology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
2. Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
3. Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
4. Child and Family Research Institute, BC Childrens and Womens Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
5. Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
Prenatal exposure to endocrine disruptors has been associated with increased risk of
childhood obesity. We investigated whether maternal concentrations of BDE-28, -47,
-99, -100, -153, and PBDEs during pregnancy were associated with anthropometric
measures in children aged 1-8 years. Reverse causality may have resulted in prenatal
PBDEs, particularly BDE-153, and decreased BMI, waist circumference, and body fat.
Environmental Toxicology And Chemistry June 2016
Exposure to a PBDE/OH-BDE mixture alters juvenile zebrafish (Danio rerio) development

Macaulay LJ1, Chernick M1, Chen A1, Hinton DE1, Bailey JM2, Kullman SW3, Levin ED1,2, Stapleton HM1.
1. Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
2. Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
3. Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and their metabolites (e.g. hydroxylated BDEs
(OH-BDEs)) are contaminants detected together frequently in human tissues, and are
structurally similar to thyroid hormones (TH). THs partially mediate metamorphic transitions between life stages in zebrafish, making this a critical developmental window
which may be vulnerable to chemicals disrupting thyroid signaling.
Exposure to the high mixture resulted in>85% mortality within one week of exposure,
despite being below reported acute toxicity thresholds for individual congeners. The
low mixture and 6-OH-BDE-47 groups exhibited reductions in body length and delayed
maturation, specifically relating to swim bladder, fin, and pigmentation development.
Reduced skeletal ossification was also observed in 6-OH-BDE-47 treated fish. Assessment
of thyroid and osteochondral gene regulatory networks demonstrated significantly increased expression of genes that regulate skeletal development and THs.
Overall, these results indicate that exposures to PBDEs/OH-BDEs mixtures adversely impact zebrafish maturation during metamorphosis.
Environmental Science And Pollution Research International June 2016
Modeling the dynamics of DDT in a remote tropical floodplain: indications of post-ban use?
Mendez A1, Ng CA2, Torres JP3, Bastos W4, Bogdal C1,5, Dos Reis GA3, Hungerbuehler K1.
1. Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, ETH Zurich, CH-8093, Zrich, Switzerland
2. Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, ETH Zurich, CH-8093, Zrich, Switzerland
3. Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
4. Department of Biology, Federal University of Rondnia, Porto Velho, Brazil
5. Agroscope, Institute for Sustainability Sciences ISS, CH-8046, Zrich, Switzerland
carla.ng@chem.ethz.ch.
Significant knowledge gaps exist regarding the fate and transport of persistent organic
pollutants like dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) in tropical environments. In Brazil, indoor residual spraying with DDT to combat malaria and leishmaniasis began in the
1950s and was banned in 1998. Nonetheless, high concentrations of DDT and its metabolites were recently detected in human breast milk in the community of Lake Puruzinho
in the Brazilian Amazon.
These observations strongly suggest recent use. Therefore, both soil and sediment comparisons suggest re-emissions indeed occurred between 2005 and 2014, but additional
measurements would be needed to better understand the actual re-emission patterns.
Birth Defects Research Part B Developmental And Reproductive Toxicology June 2016
Gestational and Early Postnatal Exposure to an Environmentally Relevant Mixture of

Brominated Flame Retardants: General Toxicity and Skeletal Variations
Tung EW1, Yan H2, Lefvre PL2, Berger RG2, Rawn DF3, Gaertner DW3, Kawata A1, Rigden M1, Robaire B2,4, Hales BF2, Wade MG1.
1. Environmental Health Science & Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
2. Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montral, Quebec, Canada
3. Food Research Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
4. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montral, Quebec, Canada
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are stable environmental contaminants known to

exert endocrine-disrupting effects. Developmental exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) is correlated with impaired thyroid hormone signaling, as well
as estrogenic and anti-androgenic effects. As previous studies have focused on a single congener or technical mixture, the purpose of the current study was to examine
the effects of gestational and early postnatal exposure to an environmentally relevant
mixture of BFRs designed to reflect house dust levels of PBDEs and hexabromocyclododecane on postnatal developmental outcomes.
Therefore, BFR exposure during gestation through to weaning alters developmental
programming in the offspring. The persistence of BFRs in the environment remains a
cause for concern with regards to developmental toxicity.
Diabetes And Metabolism June 2016
Adverse effects of weight loss: Are persistent organic pollutants a potential culprit?
Cheikh Rouhou M1, Karelis AD2, St-Pierre DH3, Lamontagne L1.
1. Department of Biological Sciences, Universit du Qubec Montral, H3C 3P8 Montral, Canada
2,3. Department of Exercise Science, Universit du Qubec Montral, C.P. 8888, Succursale centre-ville, H3C 3P8 Montral, Canada
Electronic address: karelis.antony@uqam.ca.
Health professionals commonly recommend weight loss to individuals with obesity. However, unexpected adverse health effects after a weight-loss program have been reported in several studies. The
factors that could explain this phenomenon are currently poorly understood. However, one potential
factor that has emerged is persistent organic pollutants (POPs).
Due to their lipophilic nature, POPs are known to accumulate in the adipose tissue and their concentrations are found to be higher in obese individuals than lean subjects. There is evidence to suggest that
weight loss induces a significant increase in POPs levels in the bloodstream. Furthermore, the increases
in plasma POPs levels after weight loss are even greater with an intensive weight loss.
Thus, a critical question that remains unresolved is whether POPs released from the adipose tissue to
the bloodstream during intensive weight loss could increase the risk of cardiometabolic disturbances.
In turn, the accumulation of POPs released in response to an intensive weight loss may impair energy
metabolism and stimulate a subsequent weight regain. Thus, the purpose of this review is to provide insights about the role of POPs on cardiometabolic risk factors during weight loss and weight regain that
could potentially explain, at least in part, the adverse effects observed in certain weight-loss studies.
Andrology June 2016
Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals and neurodevelopmental alterations

Pinson A1, Bourguignon JP1, Parent AS1.
1. Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liege, Lige, Belgium
The developing brain is remarkably malleable as neural circuits are formed and these
circuits are strongly dependent on hormones for their development. For those reasons,
the brain is very vulnerable to the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical periods of development. This review focuses on three ubiquitous endocrine
disruptors that are known to disrupt the thyroid function and are associated with neurobehavioral deficits: polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and
bisphenol A. The human and rodent data suggesting effects of those EDCs on memory,
cognition, and social behavior are discussed. Their mechanisms of action go beyond relative hypothyroidism with effects on neurotransmitter release and calcium signaling.
Environment International June 2016
Propelling plastics into the circular economy - weeding out the toxics first
Leslie HA1, Leonards PE2, Brandsma SH2, de Boer J2, Jonkers N3.
1. Institute for Environmental Studies (IVM), VU University Amsterdam, de Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Electronic address: heather.leslie@vu.nl
2. Institute for Environmental Studies (IVM), VU University Amsterdam, de Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
3. IVAM, University of Amsterdam, Plantage Muidergracht 24, 1018 TV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
The Stockholm Convention bans toxic chemicals on its persistent organic pollutants (POPs) list in order to promote cleaner production and prevent POPs accumulation in the global environment. The original dirty dozen set of POPs has been expanded to
include some of the brominated diphenyl ether flame retardants (POP-BDEs).
Our study revealed that banned BDEs and other toxic flame retardants are found at high concentrations in certain plastic materials destined for recycling markets. They were also found in a variety of new consumer products, including childrens toys. A mass
flow analysis showed that 22% of all the POP-BDE in waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is expected to end up in
recycled plastics because these toxic, bioaccumulative and persistent substances are currently not effectively separated out of
plastic waste streams.
In the automotive sector, this is 14%, while an additional 19% is expected to end up in second-hand parts (reuse). These results
raise the issue of delicate trade-offs between consumer safety/cleaner production and resource efficiency.
As petroleum intensive materials, plastic products ought to be repaired, reused, remanufactured and recycled, making good use
of the inner circles of the circular economy. Keeping hazardous substances - whether they are well known POPs or emerging contaminants - out of products and plastic waste streams could make these cycles work better for businesses, people and nature.
Zhonghua Yu Fang Yi Xue Za Zhi June 2016
Research progress of health effect of polybrominated diphenyl ethers

Zhai JX1, Tong SL.
1. Department of Occupational and Environmental, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) was one of the most common brominated flame
retardants, it has been widely used in products such as furnitures, polymer and plastical material, textiles, electronic products and building materials. PBDEs have potential effect such
as neurodevelopmental toxicity, reproductive toxicity, thyroid toxicity, immunological toxicity, embryo toxicity, liver toxicity, teratogenicity and potential carcinogenicity. This paper was
aimed to review the environmental exposure way, current level, neurotoxicity, neurodevelopmental toxicity and reproductive toxicity of PBDEs. In recent years, PBDEs has been detected
in environment, wildlife animal and human body around the world, there were the significant
differences of exposure levels of PBDEs. The most abundant congener were tetra-BDE or BDE47, hexa-BDE or BDE-153, and deca-BDE or BDE-209. Prenatal exposure to PBDEs has great
impact on the infants neurodevelopmental function, induces changes in neuropsychological developmental behavior, decreases of congnition, motivation and attention. High levels
of PBDEs have positive relationship with Luteinizing hormone levels, testis disfunction and
childrens cryptorchidism, and have negative relationship with sperm number and testis size.
Journal Of Environmental Science And Health Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances And Environmental Engineering June 2016
The cytotoxicity of organophosphate flame retardants on HepG2, A549 and Caco-2 cells
An J1, Hu J1, Shang Y1, Zhong Y1, Zhang X1, Yu Z2.
1a. Institute of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
2b. State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
In order to elucidate the cytotoxicity of organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs), three

human in vitro models, namely the HepG2 hepatoma cells, the A549 lung cancer cells and
the Caco-2 colon cancer cells, were chosen to investigate the toxicity of triphenyl phosphate
(TPP), tributylphosphate (TBP), tris(2-butoxyexthyl) phosphate (TBEP) and tris (2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate (TCPP).
The results showed that all these four OPFRs could inhibit cell viability, overproduce ROS level, induce DNA lesions and increase the LDH leakage. In addition, the toxic effects of OPFRs
in Caco-2 cells were relatively severer than those in HepG2 and A549 cells, which might result
from some possible mechanisms apart from oxidative stress pathway. In conclusion, TBP, TPP,
TBEP and TCPP could induce cell toxicity in various cell lines at relatively high concentrations
as evidenced by suppression of cell viability, overproduction of ROS, induction of DNA lesions
and increase of LDH leakage. Different cell types seemed to have different sensitivities and
responses to OPFRs exposure, as well as the underlying potential molecular mechanisms.
Science Reports June 2016
Environmental exposure to BDE47 is associated with increased diabetes prevalence:

Evidence from community-based case-control studies and an animal experiment
Zhang Z1,2, Li S1,2, Liu L1,2, Wang L1, Xiao X1,2, Sun Z1,2, Wang X1,2, Wang C1,2, Wang M1, Li L1, Xu Q3, Gao W4, Wang SL1,2.
Full text with 33 references
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4904204/
Brominated flame retardants exposure has been associated with increasing trends of diabetes and metabolic disease.
Thus, the purpose of this study was to provide evidence of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) exposure in relation to diabetes prevalence and to reveal the potential underlying mechanism in epidemiological and animal studies. The results indicated that environmental exposure to BDE47 was associated with increased diabetes prevalence.
However, further prospective and mechanistic studies are needed to the causation of diabetes in relation to BDE47.
Neurotoxicology May 2016
Childhood exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers and neurodevelopment at six years of age
Chevrier C1, Warembourg C2, Le Maner-Idrissi G3, Lacroix A3, Dardier V3, Le Sourn-Bissaoui S3, Rouget F4,
Monfort C2, Gaudreau E5, Mercier F6, Bonvallot N6, Glorennec P6, Muckle G7, Le Bot B6, Cordier S2.
1. U1085 Irset Research Institute of Health Environment and Work, Inserm, Rennes, France; University of Rennes 1, Rennes, France
2. U1085 Irset Research Institute of Health Environment and Work, Inserm, Rennes, France; University of Rennes 1, Rennes, France
3. Research Centre for Psychology, Cognition and Communication, University of Rennes 2, Rennes, France
4. U1085 Irset Research Institute of Health Environment and Work, Inserm, Rennes, France; Rseau Bien Natre en Ille et Vilaine , Rennes, France
5. Laboratoire du Centre de Toxicologie (CTQ), Institut national de sant publique du Qubec (INSPQ), Qubec, Canada
6. U1085 Irset Research Institute of Health Environment and Work, Inserm, Rennes, France; EHESP School of Public Health, Sorbonne, Paris Cit, Rennes, France
7. cole de psychologie, Universit Laval, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Qubec, Qubec, Canada
Mixtures of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are present in indoor environments. Studies of the developmental
effects of exposure to these chemicals in large prospective mother-child cohorts are required, with data on prenatal
exposure and long-term follow-up of the children. We aimed to investigate the relationship between prenatal and childhood exposure to PBDEs and neurodevelopment at the age of six years. We determined the levels of PBDEs and other
neurotoxicants in cord blood and dust collected from the homes of children for 246 families included in the PELAGIE
mother-child cohort in France. Our findings are in agreement with those of four previous studies suggesting adverse cognitive outcomes among children associated with early-life exposure to penta-BDE mixtures, and provide new evidence
for the potential neurotoxicity of BDE209. Several countries are in the process of banning the use of PBDE mixtures as
flame-retardants. However, these compounds are likely to remain present in the environment for a long time to come.
Nutrition, Metabolism And Cardiovascular Disease May 2016
The effect of a vegetarian versus conventional hypocaloric diet on serum concentrations

of persistent organic pollutants in patients with type 2 diabetes
Kahleova H1, Tonstad S2, Rosmus J3, Fisar P3, Mari A4, Hill M5, Pelikanova T6.
1. Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Videnska 1958/9, 140 21 Prague, Czech Republic
2. Department of Endocrinology, Morbid Obesity and Preventive Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
3. State Veterinary Institute Prague, Sidlistni 24, 165 03 Prague, Czech Republic
4. C.N.R. (National Research Council) Institute of Systems Science and Biomedical Engineering, Padua, Italy
5. Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 11394 Prague, Czech Republic
6. Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Videnska 1958/9, 140 21 Prague, Czech Republic
Electronic address: hana.kahleova@gmail.com
The aim of this study was to explore the effect of a vegetarian versus conventional diet on the serum levels of
persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in patients with T2D after 12 weeks of dietary intervention and to assess their
relationships with metabolic parameters.
Short-term hypocaloric vegetarian and conventional diets did not reduce the POP levels, possibly due to mobilization of fat stores. Our findings support the relationship between POPs and diabetes, especially -cell function.
Environmental Health Perspectives May 2016
Occupational Exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Birth Weight and Length of Gestation: A European Meta-Analysis
Birks L1,2,3, Casas M1,2,3, Garcia AM2,4,5, Alexander J6, Barros H7, Bergstrm A8, Bonde JP9, Burdorf A10, Costet N11, Danileviciute A12, Eggesb M6, Fernndez MF2,13, Gonzlez-Galarzo MC4,
Grauleviien R12, Hanke W14, Jaddoe V15, Kogevinas M1,2,16,17, Kull I18,19, Lertxundi A20,21, Melaki V22, Andersen AN23, Olea N2,13, Polanska K14, Rusconi F24,
Santa-Marina L2,23,25, Santos AC8, Vrijkotte T26, Zugna D27, Nieuwenhuijsen M1,2,3, Cordier S11, Vrijheid M1,2,3.
Full text, PDF, with 57 references
Women of reproductive age can be exposed to endocrine-disrupting chemicals at work and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in pregnancy may affect fetal growth. Results from our large population-based birth
cohort design indicate that employment during pregnancy in occupations classified as possibly or probably
exposed to endocrine-disrupting chemicals was associated with an increased risk of term low birth weight.
Neurotoxicology And Teratology May 2016
Developmental exposure of zebrafish larvae to organophosphate flame retardants causes neurotoxicity

Sun L1, Xu W2, Peng T3, Chen H4, Ren L2, Tan H3, Xiao D2, Qian H5, Fu Z6.
1. College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, PR China
Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, PR China
2. Department of Food Science and Technology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, PR China
3. College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, PR China
4. South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Science, No. 231 Xingangxi Road, Guangzhou 510300, PR China
5. College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, PR China.
6. College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, PR China
Electronic address: azwfu@zjut.du.cn
With the gradual ban on brominated flame retardants (FRs), the application of organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs)
has increased remarkably. Considering the structural similarity between OPFRs and organophosphate pesticides, hypotheses that OPFRs may interfere with neurodevelopment as organophosphate pesticides are reasonable.
In this study, the neurotoxicity of three OPFRs, including tri-n-butyl phosphate (TNBP), tris (2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP)
and tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), was evaluated in zebrafish larvae and then compared with the neurotoxicity of
organophosphate pesticide chlorpyrifos (CPF).
The results showed that similar to CPF, exposure to OPFRs for 5 days resulted in significant changes in locomotor behavior,
either in free swimming or in photomotor response.
In summary, the results confirm the potential neurodevelopmental toxicity of OPFRs and underscore the importance of
identifying the mechanistic targets of the OPFRs with specific moieties. Furthermore, as the neurobehavioral responses are
well conserved among vertebrates and the exposure of children to OPFRs is significant, a thorough assessment of the risk of
OPFRs exposure during early development should be highly emphasized in future studies.
Environmental Research May 2016
Presence of endocrine disruptors in freshwater in the northern Antarctic Peninsula region

Esteban S1, Moreno-Merino L2, Matellanes R3, Catal M4, Gorga M5, Petrovic M6, Lpez de Alda M5, Barcel D7, Silva A8, Durn JJ2, Lpez-Martnez J9, Valcrcel Y10.
1. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Health Research Group (Toxamb), Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. Atenas s/n, E-28922 Alcorcn, (Madrid), Spain
Electronic address: segn82@gmail.com
2. Instituto Geolgico y Minero de Espaa (IGME), C/ Ros Rosas 23, 28003 Madrid, Spain
Biology and Geology Department, ESCET, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda Tulipn s/n, Mostoles, (Madrid), Spain
5. Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
6. Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), Parc Cientfic i Tecnolgic de la Universitat de Girona, Edifici H2O, Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain
Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Passeig Llus Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
7. Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), C/Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), Parc Cientfic i Tecnolgic de la Universitat de Girona, Edifici H2O, Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain
8. National Institute of Water, Empalme J. Newbery km 1,620, Ezeiza, Buenos Aires, Argentina
9. Department of Geology and Geochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Autonomous University of Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
Department of Preventive Medicine, Public Health, Inmunology and Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciencies, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. Atenas s/n, E-28922 Alcorcn, (Madrid), Spain
Electronic address: yolanda.valcarcel@urjc.es
The increasing human presence in Antarctica and the waste it generates is causing an impact on the environment at local and border
scale. The main sources of anthropic pollution have a mainly local effect, and include the burning of fossil fuels, waste incineration, accidental spillage and wastewater effluents, even when treated. The aim of this work is to determine the presence and origin of 30 substances of anthropogenic origin considered to be, or suspected of being, endocrine disruptors in the continental waters of the Antarctic
Peninsula region. We also studied a group of toxic metals, metalloids and other elements with possible endocrine activity. Ten water samples were analyzed from a wide range of sources, including streams, ponds, glacier drain, and an urban wastewater discharge into the
sea. Surprisingly, the concentrations detected are generally similar to those found in other studies on continental waters in other parts of
the world. The highest concentrations of micropollutants found correspond to the group of organophosphate flame retardants (19.609209ngL(-1)) and alkylphenols (1.14-7225ngL(-1)); and among toxic elements the presence of aluminum (a possible hormonal modifier)
(1.7-127gL(-1)) is significant. The concentrations detected are very low and insufficient to cause acute or subacute toxicity in aquatic
organisms. However, little is known as yet of the potential sublethal and chronic effects of this type of pollutants and their capacity for
bioaccumulation. These results point to the need for an ongoing system of environmental monitoring of these substances in Antarctic
continental waters, and the advisability of regulating at least the most environmentally hazardous of these in the Antarctic legislation.
Science Of The Total Environment May 2016
Associations of persistent organic pollutants in serum and adipose tissue with breast cancer prognostic markers
Arrebola JP1, Fernndez-Rodrguez M2, Artacho-Cordn F2, Garde C3, Perez-Carrascosa F4, Linares I4, Tovar I4, Gonzlez-Alzaga B5, Expsito J4, Torne P3, Fernndez MF6, Olea N6.
1. Instituto de Investigacin Biosanitaria (ibs. GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain
Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Radiation Oncology Department, Oncology Unit, Granada, Spain
CIBER en Epidemiologa y Salud Pblica (CIBERESP), Spain
University of Granada, Radiology and Physical Medicine Department, Spain
Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Radiation Oncology Department, Oncology Unit, Granada, Spain
Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pblica, Granada, Spain
CIBER en Epidemiologa y Salud Pblica (CIBERESP), Spain
University of Granada, Radiology and Physical Medicine Department, Spain
Electronic address: jparrebola@ugr.es.
This study aimed to evaluate associations between exposure to a group of persistent organic pollutants, measured in both adipose tissue and serum samples from breast cancer patients, and a set of tumor prognostic markers. The study population comprised 103 breast
cancer patients recruited in Granada, Southern Spain.
These findings indicate that human exposure to certain persistent organic pollutants might be related to breast cancer aggressiveness.
Chemosphere May 2016
Inhalation a significant exposure route for chlorinated organophosphate flame retardants

Schreder ED1, Uding N2, La Guardia MJ3.
1,2. Washington Toxics Coalition, 4649 Sunnyside Avenue N Suite 540, Seattle, WA 98103, USA
3. Department of Aquatic Health Sciences, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA
Electronic address: eschreder@watoxics.org
Chlorinated organophosphate flame retardants (ClOPFRs) are widely used as additive flame retardants
in consumer products including furniture, childrens products, building materials, and textiles. Tests of
indoor media in homes, offices, and other environments have shown these compounds are released
from products and have become ubiquitous indoor pollutants. In house dust samples from Washington
State, U.S.A., ClOPFRs were the flame retardants detected in the highest concentrations. Two ClOPFRs,
tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCPP or TDCIPP) and tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate (TCEP), have
been designated as carcinogens, and there is growing concern about the toxicity of the homologue
tris(1-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TCPP or TCIPP).
In response to concerns about exposure to these compounds, the European Union and a number of
U.S. states have taken regulatory action to restrict their use in certain product categories. To better characterize exposure to ClOPFRs, inhalation exposure was assessed using active personal air samplers in
Washington State with both respirable and inhalable particulate fractions collected to assess the likelihood particles penetrate deep into the lungs.
Concentrations of ClOPFRs (respirable and inhalable) ranged from 97.1 to 1190ngm(-3) (mean
426ngm(-3)), with TCPP detected at the highest concentrations. In general, higher levels were detected in the inhalable particulate fraction. Total intake of ClOPFRs via the inhalation exposure route was
estimated to exceed intake via dust ingestion, indicating that inhalation is an important route that
should be taken into consideration in assessments of these compounds.
Environment International May 2016
Brominated flame retardants in the indoor environment - Comparative study of indoor contamination from three countries
Venier M1, Audy O2, Vojta 2, Beanov J2, Romanak K1, Melymuk L2, Krtk M2, Kukuka P2, Okeme J3, Saini A3, Diamond ML4, Klnov J2.
1. RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, pavilion A29, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
2. School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, 702 Walnut Grove Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
3. Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON, Canada
4. Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Russell Street, Toronto, Canada M5S 3B1
Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON, Canada
Concentrations of more than 20 brominated flame retardants (FRs), including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and emerging
FRs, were measured in air, dust and window wipes from 63 homes in Canada, the Czech Republic and the United States in the spring
and summer of 2013. Among the PBDEs, the highest concentrations were generally BDE-209 in all three matrices, followed by PentaBDEs. Among alternative FRs, EHTBB and BEHTBP were detected at the highest concentrations. DBDPE was also a major alternative
FR detected in dust and air. Bromobenzenes were detected at lower levels than PBDEs and other alternative FRs; among the bromobenzenes, HBB and PBEB were the most abundant compounds. In general, FR levels were highest in the US and lowest in the Czech
Republic - a geographic trend that reflects the flame retardants market. No statistically significant differences were detected between
bedroom and living room FR concentrations in the same house (n=10), suggesting that sources of FRs are widespread indoors and
mixing between rooms. The concentrations of FRs in air, dust, and window film were significantly correlated, especially for PBDEs.
Pharmacology May 2016
Effects of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers on Rat and Human 11-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 1 and 2 Activities
Chen X1, Dong Y, Cao S, Li X, Wang Z, Chen R, Ge RS.
1. Center of Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, PR China
In conclusion, some PBDEs are selective inhibitors of HSD11B2, possibly causing excessive glucocorticoid action in local tissues.
Environmental Health May 2016
PBDE flame retardants, thyroid disease, and menopausal status in U.S. women
Allen JG1, Gale S2, Zoeller RT3, Spengler JD2, Birnbaum L4, McNeely E2.
1,2. Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
3. University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
4. National Cancer Institute/NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
jgallen@hsph.harvard.edu
Women have elevated rates of thyroid disease compared to men. Environmental toxicants have
been implicated as contributors to this dimorphism, including polybrominated diphenyl ethers
(PBDEs), flame retardant chemicals that disrupt thyroid hormone action. PBDEs have also been
implicated in the disruption of estrogenic activity, and estrogen levels regulate thyroid hormones. Post-menopausal women may therefore be particularly vulnerable to PBDE induced
thyroid effects, given low estrogen reserves. The objective of this study was to test for an association between serum PBDE concentrations and thyroid disease in women from the United
States (U.S.), stratified by menopause status.
Women in the highest quartile of serum concentrations for BDEs 47, 99, and 100 had increased
odds of currently having thyroid disease compared to the reference group (1st and 2nd quartiles combined); stronger associations were observed when the analysis was restricted to postmenopausal women.
Exposure to BDEs 47, 99, and 100 is associated with thyroid disease in a national sample of U.S.
women, with greater effects observed post-menopause, suggesting that the disruption of thyroid signaling by PBDEs may be enhanced by the altered estrogen levels during menopause.
Environmental Science And Technology May 2016
Styrofoam Debris as a Source of Hazardous Additives for Marine Organisms

Jang M1,2, Shim WJ1,2, Han GM1, Rani M1, Song YK1,2, Hong SH1,2.
1. Oil and POPs Research Laboratory, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology , Jangmok-myon 391, Geoje 656-834, Republic of Korea
2. Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 305-320, South Korea
There is growing concern over plastic debris and their fragments as a carrier for hazardous substances in marine ecosystem. The present study was conducted to provide field evidence for the transfer
of plastic-associated chemicals to marine organisms. Hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs), brominated flame retardants, were recently detected in expanded polystyrene (styrofoam) marine debris.
We hypothesized that if styrofoam debris acts as a source of the additives in the marine environment,
organisms inhabiting such debris might be directly influenced by them. The high HBCD levels up to
5160 ng/g lipid weight and the -HBCD dominated isomeric profiles in mussels inhabiting styrofoam
strongly supports the transfer of HBCDs from styrofoam substrate to mussels. Furthermore, microsized styrofoam particles were identified inside mussels, probably originating from their substrates.
Science Of The Total Environment May 2016
Persistent organic pollutants and pregnancy complications

Smarr MM1, Grantz KL2, Zhang C3, Sundaram R4, Maisog JM5, Barr DB6, Louis GM7.
1. Office of the Director, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
National Institutes of Health, 6100 Executive Blvd., Rockville, MD 20852, USA
2,3. Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
4. Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
Electronic address: sundaramr2@mail.nih.gov
5. Glotech, Inc., Rockville, MD 20852, USA
Electronic address: bravas02@gmail.com
6. Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
Electronic address: dbbarr@emory.edu
7. Office of the Director, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
Electronic address: louisg@mail.nih.gov
We sought to investigate the relationship between maternal preconception exposures to

persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and pregnancy complications, gestational diabetes
(GDM) and gestational hypertension. Data from 258 (51%) women with human chorionic
gonadotropin (hCG) confirmed pregnancies reaching 24weeks gestation, from a prospective cohort of 501 couples who discontinued contraception to attempt pregnancy, were
analyzed. Preconception concentrations of 9 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and 10
polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were quantified in serum. Our findings suggest
that at environmentally relevant concentrations, maternal exposure to POPs prior to conception may contribute to increased chance of developing gestational diabetes (GDM).
Environmental Research May 2016
Prenatal polybrominated diphenyl ether and perfluoroalkyl substance exposures and executive function in school-age children
Vuong AM1, Yolton K2, Webster GM3, Sjdin A4, Calafat AM4, Braun JM5, Dietrich KN1, Lanphear BP3, Chen A6.
1. Division of Epidemiology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
2. Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
3. Child and Family Research Institute, BC Childrens and Womens Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
4.Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
5. Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
6. Division of Epidemiology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
Electronic address: aimin.chen@uc.edu
Executive function is a critical behavioral trait rarely studied in relation to potential neurotoxicants. Prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) has been associated with
adverse neurodevelopment, but there is limited research on executive function. Data from 256 mother-child pairs
in the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment Study, a prospective birth cohort (2003-2006, Cincinnati, OH), was used to examine maternal serum PBDEs and PFASs and executive function in children ages 5 and 8
years. Maternal serum PBDEs and PFASs were measured at 163 weeks gestation. A 10-fold increase in BDE-153
was associated with poorer behavior regulation. Higher odds of having a score 60 in behavior regulation or global executive functioning was observed with increased BDE-153. Each ln-unit increase in perfluorooctane sulfonate
(PFOS) was associated with poorer behavior regulation, metacognition, and global executive functioning. Prenatal exposures to BDE-153 and PFOS may be associated with executive function deficits in school-age children.
Environmental Research April 2016
Determinants of plasma PCB, brominated flame retardants, and organochlorine pesticides

in pregnant women and 3 year old children in The Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study
Caspersen IH1, Kvalem HE2, Haugen M3, Brantster AL3, Meltzer HM3, Alexander J3, Thomsen C3, Frshaug M3, Bremnes NM3, Broadwell SL3, Granum B3, Kogevinas M4, Knutsen HK3.
1. Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, NO-0403 Oslo, Norway
Bjrknes College, Lovisenberggata 13, NO-0456 Oslo, Norway
2,3. Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, NO-0403 Oslo, Norway
4. Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Doctor Aiguader 88, Barcelona, Spain
IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pblica (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
Electronic address: ida.henriette.caspersen@fhi.no
Exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) during prenatal and postnatal life has been extensively studied in relation to adverse health
effects in children.
The aim was to identify determinants of the concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), brominated flame retardants (polybrominated
diphenyl ethers, PBDEs; polybrominated biphenyl, PBB), and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in blood samples from pregnant women and
children in The Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). Blood samples were collected from two independent subsamples within
MoBa; a group of women (n=96) enrolled in mid-pregnancy during the years 2002-2008 and a group of 3 year old children (n=99) participating during 2010-2011. PCB congeners (74, 99, 138, 153, 180, 170, 194, 209, 105, 114, 118, 156, 157, 167, and 189), brominated flame retardants
(PBDE-28, 47, 99, 100, 153, 154, and PBB-153), as well as the OCPs hexachlorobenzene (HCB), oxychlordane, 4,4dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), and 4,4dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) were measured in both pregnant women and children. Age, low parity, and low
pre-pregnant BMI were the most important determinants of increased plasma concentrations of POPs in pregnant women. In 3 year old children, prolonged breastfeeding duration was a major determinant of increased POP concentrations. Estimated dietary exposure to PCBs during
pregnancy was positively associated with plasma concentrations in 3 year old children, but not in pregnant women. Plasma concentrations
were approximately 40% higher in children compared to pregnant women.
Several factors associated with exposure and toxicokinetics, i.e. accumulation, excretion and transfer via breastmilk of POPs were the main predictors of POP levels in pregnant women and children. Diet, which is the main exposure source for these compounds in the general population,
was found to predict PCB levels only among children. For the PBDEs, for which non-dietary sources are more important, toxicokinetic factors
appeared to have less predictive impact.
Prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants and organophosphate pesticides, and markers of glucose metabolism at birth
Debost-Legrand A1, Warembourg C2, Massart C3, Chevrier C2, Bonvallot N4, Monfort C2, Rouget F5, Bonnet F6, Cordier S7.
1. National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm), U1085, Institut de Recherche en Sant, Environnement et Travail (Irset), F-35043 Rennes, France
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Service de Sant Publique, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, EA 4681, PEPRADE, Universit dAuvergne, F- 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
Universit de Rennes I, F-35043 Rennes, France
3. Laboratory of Hormonology, CIC-P INSERM 1414, CHU Rennes, F-35000 Rennes, France
Ecole des Hautes tudes en Sant Publique (EHESP), F-35043 Rennes, France
Universit de Rennes I, F-35043 Rennes, France; Dpartement de Pdiatrie, CHU Rennes, F-35000 Rennes, France
6. Universit de Rennes I, F-35043 Rennes, France; Service Endocrinologie, CHU de Rennes, F-35000 Rennes, France
Inserm U1018, Centre de Recherche en Epidmiologie et Sant des Populations, F-94807 Villejuif, France
Universit de Rennes I, F-35043 Rennes, France
Electronic address: sylvaine.cordier@inserm.fr
Experimental evidence suggests that developmental exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POP) and to some non persistent pesticides may
disrupt metabolic regulation of glucose metabolism and insulin secretion,
and thereby contribute to the current epidemic of obesity and metabolic
disorders.
Our observations bring support for a potential role of organophosphate pesticides and POP in alterations to glucose metabolism observable at birth.
Basic Clinical Pharmacology And Toxicology April 2016
Evaluation of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Toxicity on HepG2 Cells Hexa-brominated Congener (BDE-154) is Less Toxic than Tetra-Brominated Congener (BDE-47)
Souza AO1, Tasso MJ1, Oliveira AM1, Pereira LC1, Duarte FV2,3, Oliveira DP4, Palmeira CM2,3, Dorta DJ1.
1. Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Languages of Ribeiro Preto, Department of Chemistry, University of So Paulo
Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP:14040901, Bairro Monte Alegre, Ribeiro Preto, So Paulo, Brazil
2. CNC -Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra,Faculty of Medicine, Plo I, 1stfloor, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
3. Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra,Calada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
4. Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeiro Preto, Departament of Clinical Analysis, Toxicological and Bromatological
University of So Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP:14040901, Bairro Monte Alegre, Ribeiro Preto, So Paulo, Brazil
Apoptotic cell death is one of the main consequences of exposure to brominated flame retardants, including PBDEs. However, few of these compounds have had their potential toxicity investigated. BDE-154 is one of the most poorly studied PBDE
congeners, but its level in the environment and in biological fluids is rising. In addition, its chemical structure differs from
the other congeners with well-documented toxicity, so BDE-154 may display a distinct toxicity pattern.
Unlike other extensively reported congeners, BDE-154 was only toxic at the higher tested concentrations, whereas BDE-47
cytotoxicity was evident even at lower concentrations. Hence, like the toxicity pattern of other classes of substances such as
polychlorinated biphenyls, the toxicity pattern of BDEs also depends on their chemical structure and aromatic substituent.
Environmental Health April 2016
Maternal body burdens of PCDD/Fs and PBDEs are associated with maternal serum levels
of thyroid hormones in early pregnancy: a cross-sectional study
Lignell S1, Aune M2, Darnerud PO3, Stridsberg M4, Hanberg A5, Larsson SC5, Glynn A3.
1. Risk Benefit Assessment Department, National Food Agency, Box 622, SE-751 26, Uppsala, Sweden
2. Chemistry Department, National Food Agency, Box 622, SE-751 26, Uppsala, Sweden
3. Risk Benefit Assessment Department, National Food Agency, Box 622, SE-751 26, Uppsala, Sweden
4. Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
5. Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
sanna.lignell@slv.se
Thyroid hormones (THs) regulate many biological functions in the human body and are essential for
normal brain development. Epidemiological studies have observed diverging associations between halogenated persistent organic pollutant (POP) exposure and concentrations of THs in pregnant women
and their infants. We investigated whether background exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers
(PBDEs) is related to TH status in a Swedish population of pregnant women and their infants. Furthermore, we examined associations between polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans (PCDD/
Fs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and TH status in early pregnancy as an extension of an earlier
study focusing on late pregnancy TH status.
Our results suggest that maternal PCDD/F and BDE-153 body burdens influence maternal TH status in
early pregnancy, which is a critical period when maternal TH status influences fetal development.
Internal exposure levels of typical POPs and their associations with childhood asthma in Shanghai, China
Meng G1, Feng Y1, Nie Z2, Wu X1, Wei H1, Wu S3, Yin Y4, Wang Y5.
1. School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200025, PR China
2. School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China
3. Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing 100191, China
Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
4. Shanghai Childrens Medical Center, Shanghai 200127, PR China
5. School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200025, PR China; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine
Shanghai Tongren Hospital / Faculty of Basic Medicine (or Faculty of Public Health), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
MOE and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Childrens Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
Electronic address: wangyanshjy@163.com
Electronic address: yinyong9999@163.com
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides
(OCPs) are common persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that may be associated with childhood asthma. The
concentrations of PBDEs, PCBs and OCPs were analyzed in pooled serum samples from both asthmatic and
non-asthmatic children. The differences in the internal exposure levels between the case and control groups
were tested. The associations between the internal exposure concentrations of the POPs and childhood asthma were estimated based on the odds ratios (ORs) calculated using logistic regression models. There were
significant differences in three PBDEs, 26 PCBs and seven OCPs between the two groups, with significantly
higher levels in the cases. The multiple logistic regression models demonstrated that the internal exposure
concentrations of a number of the POPs (23 PCBs, p,p-DDE and -HCH) were positively associated with childhood asthma. Some synergistic effects were observed when the children were co-exposed to the chemicals.
BDE-209 was positively associated with asthma aggravation. This study indicates the potential relationships
between the internal exposure concentrations of particular POPs and the development of childhood asthma.
Environmental Health Perspectives April 2016
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Exposure and Thyroid Function Tests in North American Adults
Makey CM1, McClean MD, Braverman LE, Pearce EN, He XM, Sjdin A, Weinberg JM, Webster TF.
1. Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame-retardant chemicals that are added
to many consumer products. Multiple animal studies have shown PBDEs to be thyroid
hormone (TH) disruptors. Epidemiologic evidence of PBDE exposure associated with TH
disruption has been inconclusive. We used repeated measures to estimate associations
between serum PBDE concentrations and THs in a North American adult cohort.
These results are consistent with those from animal studies showing that exposure to PBDEs is associated with a decrease in serum T4. Because the other TH concentrations did
not appear to be associated with BDE exposures, our findings do not indicate effects on
the pituitary-thyroid axis. Taken together, our findings suggest that PBDE exposure might
decrease the binding of T4 to serum T4 binding proteins.
PLoS One April 2016
Effects of the Commercial Flame Retardant Mixture DE-71

on Cytokine Production by Human Immune Cells
Thit Mynster Kronborg,1 Juliana Frohnert Hansen,1 Claus Henrik Nielsen,2 Louise Ramhj,3
Marie Frederiksen,4 Katrin Vorkamp,5 and Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen1,
* Mal G. Tansey, Editor
1. Department of Medical Endocrinology, PE 2132, Rigshospitalet
University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
2. Institute for Inflammation Research, section 7521, Rigshospitalet
University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
3. National Food Institute, Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology
Technical University of Denmark, Soeborg, Denmark
4. Department of Energy, Environment and Indoor Climate, Danish Building Research Institute
Aalborg University, A.C. Meyers Vnge 15, 2450 Kbenhavn SV, Denmark
5. Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University
Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
Emory University, USA
Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist
Conceived and designed the experiments: TMK JFH CHN LR MF KV UFR.
Performed the experiments: TMK JFH LR MF KV.
Analyzed the data: TMK JFH CHN MF KV UFR.
Contributed reagents/materials/analysis tools: LR CHN MF KV UFR.
Wrote the paper: TMK.
Although production of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) is

now banned, release from existing products will continue for many
years. The PBDEs are assumed to be neurotoxic and toxic to endocrine organs at low concentrations. Their effect on the immune system has not been investigated thoroughly. We aimed to investigate
the influence of DE-71 on cytokine production by peripheral blood
mononuclear cells (PBMCs) stimulated with Escherichia Coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or phytohaemagglutinin-L (PHA-L).
We demonstrate an enhancing effect of DE-71 on cytokine production by normal human PBMCs stimulated with LPS or PHA-L ex vivo.
Environmental Epigenetics March 2016
In utero exposures to environmental organic pollutants disrupt epigenetic marks linked to fetoplacental development
Kappil MA1, Li Q1, Li A2, Dassanayake PS2, Xia Y2, Nanes JA2, Landrigan PJ1, Stodgell CJ3, Aagaard KM4, Schadt EE5, Dole N6, Varner M7, Moye J8, Kasten C9, Miller RK3, Ma Y1, Chen J1, Lambertini L1.
1. Departments of Preventive Medicine, Pediatrics, Oncological Sciences, Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
2. School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
3. Departments of Obs/Gyn, and Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
4. Department of Obs/Gyn, Baylor School of Medicine, Houston, TX
5. Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY
6. Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
7. Department of Pediatrics and Obs/Gyn, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
8. Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
9. Division of Pediatric and Maternal Health, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
While the developing fetus is largely shielded from the external environment through the protective barrier provided by the placenta,
it is increasingly appreciated that environmental agents are able to cross and even accumulate in this vital organ for fetal development. To examine the potential influence of environmental pollutants on the placenta, we assessed the relationship between polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl) ethylene (DDE) and several
epigenetic marks linked to fetoplacental development. These findings suggest that differences in specific epigenetic marks linked to
fetoplacental development occur in association with some, but not all, measured environmental exposures.
Environmental Science And Technology March 2016
Hair and Nails as Noninvasive Biomarkers of Human Exposure to Brominated and Organophosphate Flame Retardants
Liu LY1, He K1, Hites RA1, Salamova A1.
1. School of Public and Environmental Affairs and School of Public Health, Indiana University Bloomington , Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
After the phase-out of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), the use of alternative flame retardants (AFRs), such as FireMaster 550, and
of organophosphate esters (OPEs) has increased. However, little is known about human exposure to these chemicals.
This lack of biomonitoring studies is partially due to the absence of reliable noninvasive biomarkers of exposure. Human hair and nails can
provide integrated exposure measurements, and as such, these matrices can potentially be used as noninvasive biomarkers of exposure to
these flame retardants. Paired human hair, fingernail, toenail, and serum samples obtained from 50 adult participants recruited at Indiana
University Bloomington campus were analyzed by gas chromatographic mass spectrometry for 36 PBDEs, 9 AFRs, and 12 OPEs.
BDE-47, BDE-99, 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (TBB), di(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate (TBPH), tris(1,3-dichloro-2propyl)phosphate (TDCIPP), and triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) were the most abundant compounds detected in almost all hair, fingernail,
and toenail samples.
The concentrations followed the order OPEs > TBB+TBPH > penta-BDE. PBDE levels in the hair and nail samples were significantly correlated
with their levels in serum (P < 0.05), suggesting that human hair and nails can be used as biomarkers to assess human exposure to PBDEs.
Journal Of Exposure Science And Environmental Epidemiology March 2016
Toddlers behavior and its impacts on exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers

Hoffman K1, Webster TF2, Sjdin A3, Stapleton HM1.
1. Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
2. Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Environmental Health, Division for Laboratory Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Children have higher polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) body burdens than adults, which may be
related to hand-to-mouth behavior. We investigate associations between childrens behavior, including
hand-to-mouth contacts, and markers of PBDE exposure. In addition, we investigate associations between characteristics of the home environment and exposure. Eighty-three children aged 12-36 months
were recruited from North Carolina (2009-2010). More active children had higher levels of PBDEs on their
hands and in their bodies. For example, children who spent more time sleeping had lower exposures to
PBDEs; each additional hour of sleep resulted in a 30% decrease in handwipe BDE-99 levels (P<0.001)
and a 15% decrease in serum (P=0.03). Playing with plastic toys was associated with higher handwipe
levels of PBDEs, while frequent vacuuming decreased handwipe PBDE levels. Our results suggest that
certain aspects of childrens behavior and their environment impact exposure to PBDEs.
Environment International March 2016
Concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and 2,4,6-tribromophenol in human placental tissues
Leonetti C1, Butt CM1, Hoffman K1, Miranda ML2, Stapleton HM1.
1. Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
2. Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA Department of Statistics, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
Legacy environmental contaminants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely detected in human tissues.
However, few studies have measured PBDEs in placental tissues, and there are no reported measurements of 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP) in placental tissues. Measurements of these contaminants are important for understanding potential
fetal exposures, as these compounds have been shown to alter thyroid hormone regulation in vitro and in vivo. In this study,
we measured a suite of PBDEs and 2,4,6-TBP in 102 human placental tissues collected between 2010 and 2011 in Durham
County, North Carolina, USA.
The most abundant PBDE congener detected was BDE-47, with a mean concentration of 5.09ng/g lipid (range: 0.12-141ng/
g lipid; detection frequency 91%).
2,4,6-TBP was ubiquitously detected and present at higher concentrations with a mean concentration of 15.4ng/g lipid
(range:1.31-316ng/g lipid; detection frequency 100%)
BDE-209 was also detected in more than 50% of the samples, and was significantly associated with 2,4,6-TBP in placental
tissues, suggesting they may have a similar source, or that 2,4,6-TBP may be a degradation product of BDE-209.
Interestingly, BDE-209 and 2,4,6-TBP were negatively associated with age (rs=-0.16; p=0.10 and rs=-0.17; p=0.08, respectively).
The results of this work indicate that PBDEs and 2,4,6-TBP bioaccumulate in human placenta tissue and likely contribute to
prenatal exposures to these environmental contaminants. Future studies are needed to determine if these joint exposures
are associated with any adverse health measures in infants and children.
Chemosphere February 2016
Associations of serum organohalogen levels and prostate cancer risk: Results from a case-control study in Singapore
Pi N1, Chia SE2, Ong CN3, Kelly BC4.
1. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
2,3. Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI), National University of Singapore, Singapore
4. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
Electronic address: bckelly@nus.edu.sg
There is increasing evidence that elevated exposure to organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs) may lead to an increased risk of prostate cancer.
The results suggest that exposure to DDTs and PCBs may be associated with prostate cancer risk in Singaporean
males. No such association was observed for the organohalogen flame retardants studied, including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The study provides novel information regarding the occurrence, levels and potential associations with prostate cancer risk for several organohalogen contaminants in the Singapore population.
Indoor Air February 2016
Semi-volatile organic compounds in the air and dust of 30 French schools: a pilot study
Raffy G1,2,3, Mercier F1,2,3, Blanchard O1,2, Derbez M4, Dassonville C4, Bonvallot N1,2, Glorennec P1,2, Le Bot B1,2,3.
1. EHESP - School of public health Sorbonne Paris Cit, Rennes, France
2. Irset-Inserm UMR 1085- Research institute for environmental and occupational health, Rennes, France
3. LERES - Environment and health research laboratory, Rennes, France
4. Universit Paris Est, CSTB - Scientific and technical centre for building, OQAI - French indoor air quality observatory, Marne-la-Valle, France
The contamination of indoor environments with chemical compounds released by materials and furniture, such as semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) is less documented in schools than in dwellings - yet children spend 16% of their time in schools, where
they can also be exposed. This study is one of the first to describe the contamination of
the air and dust of 90 classrooms from 30 nursery and primary schools by 55SVOCs, including pesticides, phosphoric esters, musks, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs),
polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs), phthalates and polybromodiphenylethers (PBDEs). Air
samples were collected using an active sampling method, and dust samples were collected via two sampling methods (wiping and vacuum cleaning). In air, the highest concentrations (median> 100ng/m3 ) were measured for diisobutyl-phthalate (DiBP), dibutyl-phthalate (DBP), diethyl-phthalate (DEP), bis(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate (DEHP) and
galaxolide. In dust, the highest concentrations (median > 30g/g) were found for DEHP,
diisononyl-phthalate (DiNP), DiBP and DBP. An attempt to compare two floor dust sampling methods using a single unit (ng/m) was carried out. SVOC concentrations were
higher in wiped dust, but frequencies of quantification were greater in vacuumed dust.
Environment International February 2016
Childrens exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) through mouthing toys

Ionas AC1, Ulevicus J2, Gmez AB3, Brandsma SH3, Leonards PE3, van de Bor M2, Covaci A4.
1. Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University, de Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
2. Health and Life Sciences Department, VU University, de Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
3. Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University, de Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
4. Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
Electronic address: adrian.covaci@uantwerpen.be
Electronic address: alin.ionas@gmail.com
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have previously been detected in children toys, yet the risk of child exposure
to these chemicals through the mouthing of toys or other items is still unknown. We aimed to expand on the current
knowledge by investigating the impact of infants mouthing activities on exposure to PBDEs present in toys. This was
established by a leaching model for determining the amount PBDEs that can leach from toys into saliva in simulated
conditions.
The leaching process was congener-dependent, since the percentage of lower brominated PBDE congeners that leached
out was up to 4.5 times higher than for the heavier PBDEs. To study the scenario in which a child would mouth on a toy
flame retarded with BDE 209 alone, a plastic item containing 7% BDE 209 was also tested. The BDE 209 amounts leached
out in only 15 min were higher than the amounts leached from the CRM after the 16 h incubation. For the Belgian population, the exposure scenario from mouthing on toys containing PBDEs in amounts similar to the REACH threshold was
found to be lower than the exposure from mothers milk, but higher than the exposure through diet or even dust.
Environmental Science And Pollution Research International February 2016
Trends in the enantiomeric composition of polychlorinated biphenyl atropisomers in human breast milk

Konishi Y1, Kakimoto K2, Nagayoshi H2, Nakano T3.

1,2. Osaka Prefectural Institute of Public Health, 1-3-69, Nakamichi, Higashinari-ku, 537-0025, Osaka, Japan
3. Research Center for Environmental Preservation, Osaka University, 2-4, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
For the precise estimation of the risk to human health caused by persistent organic pollutants (POPs), it is important to discuss enantiomer fraction value (EF value) because it is reported that behaviors such as stability and toxicity of enantiomers
are quite different in human body. Among POPs, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) is known as one of the most persistent
compounds in human breast milk samples. The main exposure source of PCB for human body is mostly from food especially in seafood. The contamination of fish and shellfish has been a serious problem for the Japanese, who consume a large
amount of fish in their diet. PCBs have 19 congeners which are chlorine-substituted in 3- or 4- ortho positions are known to
have enantiomers. In this study, we analyzed PCB 183 (2,2,3,4,4,5,6-hepta CB) in human breast milk and fish samples enantioselectively and revealed the time trends of the EF value. Though EF value of PCB 183 in fish samples sustained close to racemate (EF = 0.5) from 1982 to 2012, that in breast milk increased over time. This fact indicates that (+)-PCB-183 has greater
bioaccumulation potential than (-)-PCB-183 in human body; therefore, the toxicity of (+)-PCB-183 should be emphasized.
Journal Of Clinical Endocrinology And Metabolism February 2016
Exposure to Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) and Hypothyroidism in Canadian Women

Oulhote Y1, Chevrier J1, Bouchard MF1.
1. Department of Environmental and Occupational Health (Y.O., M.F.B.), Universit de Montral,
and Centre Hospitalier de lUniversit Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Research Center (Y.O., M.F.B.), Montral, Canada H3T 1A8
and Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (J.C.), McGill University, Montral, Canada H3A 1A2
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants in a wide range of products, resulting in widespread human exposure. Epidemiological studies in some populations reported exposure to
PBDEs and thyroid hormone levels but little epidemiological data are available among women from the
general population. The objective of the study was to examine the association of PBDEs with hypothyroidism. A total of 745 women representative of Canadian women aged 30-79 years participated in the
study.
Main Outcome and Methods: We estimated the prevalence ratios (PRs) for hypothyroidism in relation to
plasma concentrations of BDE-47, -99, -100, and -153 and their sum (PBDEs). Women were identified as
cases if they reported a doctor-diagnosed thyroid condition and underwent thyroid hormone replacement therapy (n = 90).
Higher plasma levels of brominated diphenyl ether (BDE)-47 and -100 and PBDEs were associated with
an increased prevalence of hypothyroidism. Associations were consistently higher among women aged
30-50 years than among those 51-79 years for PBDEs and the other PBDE congeners, although the interaction was significant only for BDE-100. Plasma PBDE levels were associated with an increased prevalence
of hypothyroidism in Canadian women aged 30-50 years ... these findings have important implications,
given the key role of thyroid hormones in several biological mechanisms during reproductive age.
Environmental Research February 2016
Carcinogenicity of consumption of red and processed meat: What about environmental contaminants?
Domingo JL1, Nadal M2.
1,2. Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Lloren 21, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain
Electronic address: joseluis.domingo@urv.cat
In October 26, 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) issued a press release informing of the recent evaluation
of the carcinogenicity of red and processed meat consumption. The consumption of red meat and processed meat was classified as
probably carcinogenic to humans, and as carcinogenic to humans, respectively.
The substances responsible of this potential carcinogenicity would be generated during meat processing, such as curing and smoking, or when meat is heated at high temperatures (N-nitroso-compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic aromatic
amines).
However, in its assessments, the IARC did not make any reference to the role that may pose some carcinogenic environmental pollutants, which are already present in raw or unprocessed meat. The potential role of a number of environmental chemical contaminants
(toxic trace elements, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans, polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, polychlorinated diphenyl ethers, polychlorinated naphthalenes and perfluoroalkyl substances)
on the carcinogenicity of consumption of meat and meat products is discussed in this paper.
It is concluded that although certain cooking processes could modify the levels of chemical contaminants in food, the influence of
cooking on the pollutant concentrations depends not only on the particular cooking process, but even more on their original contents
in each specific food item. As most of these environmental pollutants are organic, cooking procedures that release or remove fat from
the meat should tend to reduce the total concentrations of these contaminants in the cooked meat.
International Journal Of Hygiene And Environmental Health January 2016
Brominated flame retardants - Exposure and risk assessment for the general population
Fromme H1, Becher G2, Hilger B3, Vlkel W3.
1. Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Department of Chemical Safety and Toxicology, D-80538 Munich, Germany
Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Ziemssenstrasse 1, D-80336 Munich, Germany
2. Division of Environmental Medicine, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1033 Blindern, 0315 Oslo, Norway
3. Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Department of Chemical Safety and Toxicology, D-80538 Munich, Germany
Electronic address: hermann.fromme@lgl.bayern.de
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are a large group of different substances used in numerous products to prevent fire hazards. Some of them are persistent in the environment, accumulate in the food chain and are of toxicological concern, while for
others current data are limited. Meanwhile, BFRs have been found in many environmental media, foods, and biota including
humans. This review presents recent findings obtained from monitoring data in environmental media relevant for human exposure, as well as dietary exposure. In this context, concentrations in indoor and ambient air and in house dust are outlined.
Furthermore, we summarize human biomonitoring data on BFR levels in blood and breast milk. Current estimates of the overall exposure of the general population using different relevant subsets are also addressed. All of these data are discussed in
relation to currently available toxicological reference values used for risk assessment purposes. Obviously, the exposure of the
general population varies considerably in different parts of the world and even within countries.
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) show the highest intake during infancy. While
the highest intake for BDE 47 for all groups was observed in the US, the total BDE 209 and HBCD intake was highest in the UK.
For HBCD and all PBDEs except BDE 209, diet accounts for a large proportion of the total intake during infancy in all countries.
With regard to toddlers and adults, the contribution of diet to total intake is high in Germany and the UK, while in the US, the
high concentrations of PBDE in dust resulted in a notably smaller proportion of the intake being attributed to diet.
PLoS One January 2016
Abdominal Obesity and Insulin Resistance in People Exposed to Moderate-to-High Levels of Dioxin
Chang JW1, Chen HL2, Su HJ1,3, Lee CC1,3.
1. Research Center for Environmental Trace Toxic Substances, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
2. Department of Industrial Safety and Health, Hung Kuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
3. Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
Obesity, a risk factor for developing metabolic complications, is a major public health problem. Abdominal obesity is strongly accompanied by a cluster of
metabolic abnormalities characterized by insulin resistance. The link between persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and insulin resistance has been investigated in animal and epidemiological studies. We aimed to examine whether insulin resistance is greater in people with abdominal obesity (AO) and concomitant exposure to serum dioxins (PCDD/Fs). We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study of 2876 participants living near a PCDD/Fs contaminated
area. Seventeen 2,3,7,8-substituted PCDD/Fs congeners were measured, and then the associations between the main predictor variable, serum TEQDF1998, abdominal obesity (AO), dependent variables, and insulin resistance were examined. Twelve of the 17 congeners, widely distributed among PCDDs,
and PCDFs, had trends for associations with abdominal adiposity.

In men, the highest quintiles of:
1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF
1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD
2,3,7,8-TCDD
2,3,7,8-TCDF and
2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF had the top five adjusted odds ratios respectively.
In women, the highest quintiles of:
1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF
1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF and
1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF had the top three adjusted odds ratios respectively.
After confounding factors had been adjusted for, men, but not women, with higher serum TEQDF-1998 levels or abdominal obesity had a significantly
greater risk for abnormal insulin resistance. The groups with the highest joint serum TEQDF-1998 and abdominal obesity levels were associated with elevated insulin resistance at 5.0 times the odds of the groups with the lowest joint levels.
We hypothesize that serum TEQDF-1998 and abdominal obesity affect the association with insulin resistance in general populations.
Environmental Toxicology And Pharmacology January 2016
Postnatal exposure to PFOS, but not PBDE 99, disturb dopaminergic gene transcription in the mouse CNS
Hallgren S1, Viberg H2.
1,2. Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvgen 18A, S-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
Electronic address: stefan.hallgren@ebc.uu.se
The CNS of breast feeding infants and toddlers may be exposed to persistent organic pollutants via lactational transfer. Here, 10
days old mice were exposed to single oral doses of either PFOS, PBDE99 or vehicle control and were examined for changes in dopaminergic gene transcription in CNS tissue collected at 24 hour or 2 months post exposure.
This indicates that PFOS, but not PBDE99, affects the developing cerebral dopaminergic system at gene transcriptional level in cortex and hippocampus, which may account for some of the mechanistic effects behind the aetiology of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Journal Of Nutritional Biochemistry January 2016
Macronutrient composition determines accumulation of persistent organic

pollutants from dietary exposure in adipose tissue of mice
Myrmel LS1, Fjre E1, Midtb LK1, Bernhard A1, Petersen RK2, Sonne SB2, Mortensen A3, Hao Q2, Brattelid T4, Liaset B4, Kristiansen K5, Madsen L6.
1. Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research, 5817 Bergen, Norway
3. Division of Risk Assessment and Nutrition, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Copenhagen, Denmark
4. National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research, 5817 Bergen, Norway
National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research, 5817 Bergen, Norway
Electronic address: lise.madsen@nifes.no
Electronic address: kk@bio.ku.dk
Accumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) has been linked to adipose tissue expansion. As different nutrients modulate adipose tissue development, we investigated the influence of dietary composition on POP accumulation, obesity development and related disorders.
In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the dietary composition of macronutrients profoundly modulates POP
accumulation in adipose tissues adding an additional parameter to be included in future studies. Our results indicate
that alterations in macronutrient composition might be an additional route for reducing total body burden of POPs.
Current Environmental Health Reports December 2015
Maternal Exposure to Synthetic Chemicals and Obesity in the Offspring: Recent Findings
Liu Y1, Peterson KE2,3,4.
1. Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, 1-1867, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA - yunliu@umich.edu.
2. Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, 1-1867, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA - karenep@umich.edu.
3. Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
4. Departments of Nutrition and of Health and Social Behavior, Harvard W.T. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
Experimental studies suggest perinatal exposures to synthetic chemicals may be associated with early onset obesity,
although this hypothesis has not been extensively examined in humans.
This article summarizes the evidence relating maternal perinatal exposure to common persistent organic compounds
(polychlorinated biphenyl, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, hexachlorobenzene,
hexachlorocyclohexane), perfluoroalkyls, perfluorooctane sulfonate, polybrominated diphenyl ethers and tributyltin,
and nonpersistent compounds (phthalates, bisphenol A) on child obesity during sensitive developmental periods.
Twenty-two epidemiologic studies published from 2011 to 2015 offer inconsistent support for the obesogenic effects of
most substances and are limited by relatively small sample sizes and indirect measures of adiposity. The clearest findings
suggest an influence of maternal dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene exposure on offspring overweight and obesity.
Endocrine Reviews December 2015
Executive Summary to EDC-2: The Endocrine Societys Second Scientific Statement on Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals
Gore AC1, Chappell VA1, Fenton SE1, Flaws JA1, Nadal A1, Prins GS1, Toppari J1, Zoeller RT1.
Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of
Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology
and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, 60612; Departments of Physiology and
Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
This Executive Summary to the Endocrine Societys second Scientific Statement on environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) provides a synthesis of the key points of the complete statement. The full Scientific Statement represents a comprehensive review of the literature
on seven topics for which there is strong mechanistic, experimental, animal, and epidemiological evidence for endocrine disruption, namely:
obesity and diabetes, female reproduction, male reproduction, hormone-sensitive cancers in females, prostate cancer, thyroid, and neurodevelopment and neuroendocrine systems. EDCs such as bisphenol A, phthalates, pesticides, persistent organic pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diethyl ethers, and dioxins were emphasized because these chemicals had the greatest depth and breadth of available
information. The Statement also included thorough coverage of studies of developmental exposures to EDCs, especially in the fetus and infant,
because these are critical life stages during which perturbations of hormones can increase the probability of a disease or dysfunction later in life.
A conclusion of the Statement is that publications over the past 5 years have led to a much fuller understanding of the endocrine principles by
which EDCs act, including nonmonotonic dose-responses, low-dose effects, and developmental vulnerability. These findings will prove useful to
researchers, physicians, and other healthcare providers in translating the science of endocrine disruption to improved public health.
Environment International December 2015
Associations of birth outcomes with maternal polybrominated diphenyl ethers and thyroid hormones during pregnancy
Miranda ML1, Anthopolos R2, Wolkin A3, Stapleton HM4.
1. School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
2. School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
3. National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
4. Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
Electronic address: mlmirand@umich.edu
Previous research has linked polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) exposure to poor birth
outcomes and altered thyroid hormone levels. We examined whether maternal PBDE serum
levels were associated with infant birth weight (g), head circumference (cm), birth length
(cm), and birth weight percentile for gestational age. We explored the potential for a mediating role of thyroid hormone levels.
Our data suggest a potential deleterious association between maternal PBDE levels and infant head circumference; however, confirmatory studies are needed in larger sample sizes.
Toxicology In Vitro December 2015
Elucidating toxicological mechanisms of current flame retardants using a bacterial gene profiling assay
Krivoshiev BV1, Dardenne F2, Blust R2, Covaci A3, Husson SJ2.
1,2. Department of Biology, Systemic Physiological & Ecotoxicological Research, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
3. Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
Flame retardants are ubiquitously used chemicals that have been shown to contaminate environments.
Toxicological data is largely limited, with little insight into their molecular modes of action that may give
rise to their toxic phenotypes. Such insight would aid more effective risk assessments concerning these
compounds, while also improving molecular design. We therefore used a bacterial stress-gene profiling
assay to screen twelve currently-used flame retardants to obtain mechanistic insights of toxicity. Both
brominated and organophosphate flame retardants were tested. All compounds showed statistically significant inductions of several stress genes when compared to control treatments. Triphenyl phosphate,
tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate, tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate, tris(butyl)phosphate, and tetrabromobisphenol A elicited (at least) two-fold inductions for any of the stress genes.
When looking at absolute induction levels, the promoters induced are indicative of protein perturbation,
DNA integrity and membrane integrity. However, normalising for the different induction potentials of the
different stress genes and clustering using hierarchical and k-means algorithms indicated that in addition
to protein and DNA damage, some compounds also resulted in growth arrest and oxidative damage.
This research shows that this assay allows for the determination of toxicological modes-of-action while
clustering and accounting for induction potentials of the different genes aids better risk assessment.
Journal Of Clinical Endocrinology Metabolism December 2015
Pivotal Role for the Visceral Fat Compartment in the Release of Persistent Organic Pollutants During Weight Loss
Dirinck E1, Dirtu AC1, Jorens PG1, Malarvannan G1, Covaci A1, Van Gaal LF1.
Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism (E.D., L.F.V.G.), Toxicology Centre (A.C.D., G.M., A.C.),
and Department of Intensive Care Medicine/Clinical Pharmacology (P.G.J.), Antwerp University Hospital, University of Antwerp, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01778868.
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are implicated as potential endocrine disruptors and obesogens. These lipophilic
substances are preferentially stored in the fat compartment and released into the circulation during weight loss.
Our study suggests that the contribution of PCBs released from the visceral fat compartment might be more pronounced
compared with the subcutaneous fat compartment during weight loss. These findings are present in the entire study
group whereas subanalysis of the diet vs surgery groups suggested the same effect in the diet group but failed to reach
statistical significance in the surgery group. This suggests a possible weight-loss method-specific effect.
Neurotoxicology And Teratology November 2015
Prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers and child attention problems at 3-7 years
Cowell WJ1, Lederman SA2, Sjdin A3, Jones R3, Wang S1, Perera FP1, Wang R3, Rauh VA1, Herbstman JB4.
1. Columbia Center for Childrens Environmental Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
2. Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
3. Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
4. Columbia Center for Childrens Environmental Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
Electronic address: jh2678@cumc.columbia.edu
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) comprise a class of halogenated compounds used extensively as flame retardant chemicals in consumer products resulting in nearly ubiquitous human exposure. Mounting evidence suggests that PBDEs are developmental neurotoxicants; however, associations between early life exposure and child behavior have been largely limited to a
single developmental time point.
The study population consists primarily of white, black and Chinese women who were pregnant on 11 September 2001 and
delivered at 1 of 3 downtown New York City hospitals. Maternal-child pairs were followed through age 7 years. Cord blood was
collected at delivery and PBDE plasma levels for 210 samples were analyzed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Child Behavior Checklist, a validated maternal-report instrument used for assessing child behavior, was administered
annually between the ages of 3 and 7 years.
We detected 4 PBDE congeners in more than 50% of samples, with concentrations highest for BDE-47. In adjusted analyses, we
detected associations between BDE-47, and BDE-153 in cord plasma and increased attention problems among children at age 4
(n=109) but not 6 (n=107) years.
Our findings demonstrate a positive trend between prenatal PBDE exposure and early childhood attention problems, and are
consistent with previous research reporting associations between prenatal PBDE exposure and disrupted child behaviors.
Neurotoxicology And Teratology November 2015
Prenatal and childhood polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) exposure and attention and executive function at 9-12 years of age
Sagiv SK1, Kogut K2, Gaspar FW2, Gunier RB2, Harley KG2, Parra K3, Villaseor D3, Bradman A2, Holland N2, Eskenazi B2.
1,2,3. Center for Environmental Research and Childrens Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
3. Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (CSVS), Salinas, CA, United States
California childrens exposures to polybrominated diphenyl ether flame retardants (PBDEs) are among the
highest measured worldwide. We previously reported associations for prenatal and childhood PBDE exposures with decrements in attention, processing speed, fine motor coordination, and cognition in children
at ages 5 and 7 years. Here, we investigate associations of PBDEs with attention and executive function at
ages 9 to 12 years in the expanded CHAMACOS cohort.
We found consistent associations of prenatal exposure to PBDEs with poorer attention and executive function, measured with parent report and direct neuropsychological testing of the child. For example, using
GEE models of repeated outcome measures at ages 9 and 12, a 10-fold increase in prenatal PBDE was
associated with poorer response consistency on the Conners Continuous Performance Test II and poorer
working memory on the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function. Child age 9 PBDE levels were
associated with poorer parent-reported attention and executive function for girls but not boys.
Our results suggest that the prefrontal cortex may be a potential target for PBDE exposure and add to a
growing literature showing that these ubiquitous toxicants may adversely affect neurodevelopment.
Environment International November 2015
Endocrine activity of persistent organic pollutants accumulated in human silicone implants

Dosing in vitro assays by partitioning from silicone
Gilbert D1, Mayer P2, Pedersen M3, Vinggaard AM4.
1. Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Mrkhj Bygade 19, DK-2860 Sborg, Denmark
Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
2. Department of Environmental Engineering, DTU Environment, Technical University of Denmark, Miljvej 113, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
3. Division of Food Chemistry, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Mrkhj Bygade 19, DK-2860 Sborg, Denmark
4. Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Mrkhj Bygade 19, DK-2860 Sborg, Denmark
Electronic address: annv@food.dtu.dk.
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) accumulated in human tissues may pose a risk for human health
by interfering with the endocrine system. This study establishes a new link between actual human internal POP levels and the endocrine active dose in vitro, applying partitioning-controlled dosing from
silicone to the H295R steroidogenesis assay. The main finding was that POPs at the levels at which they
are found in humans can interfere with steroidogenesis in a human adrenocortical cell line.
Environmental Research October 2015
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in dust from primary schools in South East Queensland, Australia
Toms LM1, Mazaheri M2, Brommer S3, Clifford S4, Drage D3, Mueller JF5, Thai P5, Harrad S3, Morawska L2, Harden FA6.
1. School of Public Health and Social Work and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
2. International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
3. School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
4. International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
Centre for Air Quality and Health Research and Evaluation, 431 Glebe Point Road, Glebe, Australia
5. The University of Queensland, National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology, Brisbane, Australia
6. School of Clinical Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
Electronic address: leisamaree.toms@qut.edu.au.
PBDE concentrations are higher in children compared to adults with exposure suggested to include dust ingestion.
Besides the home environment, children spend a great deal of time in school classrooms which may be a source
of exposure. As part of the Ultrafine Particles from Traffic Emissions and Childrens Health (UPTECH) project, dust
samples (n=28) were obtained in 2011/12 from 10 Brisbane, Australia metropolitan schools and analysed using GC
and LC-MS for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) -17, -28, -47, -49, -66, -85, -99, -100, -154, -183, and -209.
11PBDEs ranged from 11-2163 ng/g dust; with a mean and median of 600 and 469 ng/g dust, respectively. BDE-209
(range n.d. -2034 ng/g dust; mean (median) 402 (217)ng/g dust) was the dominant congener in most classrooms.
Frequencies of detection were 96%, 96%, 39% and 93% for BDE-47, -99, -100 and -209, respectively. PBDE intake for
8-11 year olds can be estimated at 0.094 ng/day BDE-47; 0.187 ng/day BDE-99 and 0.522ng/day BDE-209 as a result
of ingestion of classroom dust, based on mean PBDE concentrations. The 97.5% percentile intake is estimated to
be 0.62, 1.03 and 2.14 ng/day for BDEs-47, -99 and -209, respectively. These PBDE concentrations in dust from classrooms, which are higher than in Australian homes, may explain some of the higher body burden of PBDEs in children
compared to adults when taking into consideration age-dependant behaviours which increase dust ingestion.
Association between prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers and young childrens neurodevelopment in China
Ding G1, Yu J2, Cui C3, Chen L4, Gao Y4, Wang C4, Zhou Y4, Tian Y5.
1. MOE and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Childrens Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
Department of Pediatrics, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
2. Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth Peoples Hospital, Shanghai, China
3. Research Base of Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Early-warning on Infectious Disease in China CDC, Shanghai Pudong New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
4. Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
5. MOE and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Childrens Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
Electronic address: tianmiejp@sjtu.edu.cn
The use of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) has been dramatically increasing over
the last two decades in China. Animal studies suggest that prenatal exposure to PBDEs
may result in neurodevelopmental deficits. Two hundred thirty-two participating mothers
were recruited from a prospective birth cohort in rural northern China between September
2010 and February 2012. We analyzed 232 cord blood specimens for selected PBDE congeners and examined their association with childrens developmental quotients (DQs) at
12 (n=192) and 24 (n=149) months of age based on the Gesell Developmental Schedules
(motor, adaptive, language, and social domains) ... at 24 months of age, a 10-fold increase in
BDE-99 levels was associated with a 2.16-point decrease in language domain DQs and a 10fold increase in BDE-47 levels was associated with a 1.89-point decrease in social domain
DQs. Prenatal exposure to PBDEs was associated with lower DQs in young children. The
results contribute to the growing evidence that PBDEs could act as developmental neurotoxicants, and the findings have implications for childrens environmental health in China.
Science Of The Total Environment October 2015
Food intake and serum persistent organic pollutants in the Greenlandic pregnant women: The ACCEPT sub-study
Long M1, Knudsen AK2, Pedersen HS3, Bonefeld-Jrgensen EC4.
1. Centre for Arctic Health & Unit of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
Electronic address: ml@ph.au.dk
Electronic address: aksk@ph.au.dk
3. Primary Health Care Center, Nuuk, Greenland
Electronic address: HSP@peqqik.gl
Electronic address: ebj@ph.au.dk
The Greenlandic Inuit have high blood concentrations of environmental persistent organic pollutants (POPs). High POP concentrations have been associated with age, smoking and consumption of
marine mammals. Studies have indicated that exposure to POPs during pregnancy may adversely
affect fetal and child development. To assess geographical differences in diet, lifestyle and environmental contaminant exposure among pregnant women in Greenland, blood samples and questionnaire data were collected from 207 pregnant women in five Greenlandic regions (North, Disco
Bay, West, South and East). Blood samples were analyzed for 11 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs),
14 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 5 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), 15 perfluoroalkylated substances (PFASs) and 63 metals. A trend of higher intake of marine mammals in the East and
North regions was reflected by a higher n-3/n-6 fatty acid ratio. Participants in the East region tended also to have higher intake of terrestrial species. A significant higher seabird intake was seen for
pregnant women in the West region. Significant regional differences were found for blood concentrations of PCBs, OCPs, PFASs and mercury, with higher levels in the North and East regions. PFASs
were significantly associated with PCBs and OCPs in most of the regions. In the North region, PFASs
were associated with both selenium and mercury. The detection of POPs and heavy metals in maternal blood indicates fetal exposure to these compounds possibly influencing fetal development.
Environmental Health Perspectives October 2015
Brominated Flame Retardants and Other Persistent Organohalogenated Compounds

in Relation to Timing of Puberty in a Longitudinal Study of Girls
Windham GC1, Pinney SM, Voss RW, Sjdin A, Biro FM, Greenspan LC, Stewart S, Hiatt RA, Kushi LH.
1. California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA.
Exposure to hormonally active chemicals could plausibly affect pubertal timing, so we are
investigating this in the Breast Cancer and the Environment Research Program. Our goal
was to examine persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in relation to pubertal onset.
Ethnically diverse cohorts of 6- to 8-year-old girls (n = 645) provided serum for measure of
polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and lipids. Tanner stages [breast (B) and pubic hair (PH)], and body
mass index (BMI) were measured at up to seven annual clinic visits.
This first longitudinal study of puberty in girls with serum POPs measurements (to our
knowledge) reveals a delay in onset with higher concentrations.
Environmental Health Perspectives October 2015
Insights into PBDE Uptake, Body Burden, and Elimination Gained from Australian Age-Concentration Trends
Observed Shortly after Peak Exposure
Gyalpo T1, Toms LM, Mueller JF, Harden FA, Scheringer M, Hungerbhler K.
1. Safety and Environmental Technology Group, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich), Zurich, Switzerland
full text with references
Population pharmacokinetic models combined with multiple sets of age-concentration biomonitoring data facilitate back-calculation of chemical uptake rates from biomonitoring data.
We back-calculated uptake rates of PBDEs for the Australian population from multiple biomonitoring surveys (top-down) and compared them with uptake rates calculated from dietary
intake estimates of PBDEs and PBDE concentrations in dust (bottom-up). In the bottom-up
approach, PBDE uptake is underestimated; currently known pathways are not sufficient to explain measured PBDE concentrations, especially in young children. Although PBDE exposure
of toddlers has declined in the past years, pre- and postnatal exposure to PBDEs has remained
almost constant because the mothers PBDE body burden has not yet decreased substantially.
PLoS One September 2015
Aberrant 5-CpG Methylation of Cord Blood TNF Associated with Maternal Exposure to Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers
Dao T1, Hong X2, Wang X2, Tang WY1.
1. Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
2. Department of Human Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
Growing evidence suggests that maternal exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals during pregnancy may lead to poor
pregnancy outcomes and increased fetal susceptibility to adult diseases. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), which are
ubiquitously used flame-retardants, could leach into the environment; and become persistent organic pollutants via bioaccumulation. In the United States, blood PBDE levels in adults range from 30-100 ng/g- lipid but the alarming health concern revolves around children who have reported blood PBDE levels 3 to 9-fold higher than adults. PBDEs disrupt endocrine, immune,
reproductive and nervous systems. However, the mechanism underlying its adverse health effect is not fully understood. Epigenetics is a possible biological mechanism underlying maternal exposure-child health outcomes by regulating gene expression without changes in the DNA sequence. In conclusion, our finding provided evidence that in utero exposure to PBDEs may
epigenetically reprogram the offsprings immunological response through promoter methylation of a proinflammatory gene.
Environmental Health September 2015
Association between levels of persistent organic pollutants in adipose tissue

and cryptorchidism in early childhood: a case-control study
Koskenniemi JJ1,2, Virtanen HE3, Kiviranta H4, Damgaard IN5, Matomki J6, Thorup JM7,8, Hurme T9, Skakkebaek, Toppari J14.
1. Departments of Physiology and Paediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FI-20520, Turku, Finland
jaakko.koskenniemi@utu.fi
2. Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
jaakko.koskenniemi@utu.fi
helena.virtanen@utu.fi
4. National Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Health Protection, P.O. Box 95, FI-70701, Kuopio, Finland
hannu.kiviranta@thl.fi
ida@dadlnet.dk
6. Clinical Research Center, Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8 PL 52, FI-20521, Turku, Finland
jaakko.matomaki@utu.fi
7. The Department of Paediatric Surgery, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
joergen.mogens.thorup@regionh.dk
8. Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
joergen.mogens.thorup@regionh.dk
9. Department of Paediatric Surgery, Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8 PL 52, FI-20521, Turku, Finland
timhur@tyks.fi
Niels.Erik.Skakkebaek@regionh.dk
Niels.Erik.Skakkebaek@regionh.dk
Katharina.Main@regionh.dk
Katharina.Main@regionh.dk
jorma.toppari@utu.fi
Congenital cryptorchidism, i.e. failure of the testicular descent to the bottom of the scrotum, is a
common birth defect. The evidence from epidemiological, wildlife, and animal studies suggests
that exposure to mixtures of endocrine disrupting chemicals during fetal development may play
a role in its pathogenesis. We aimed to assess the
association between cryptorchidism and prenatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans
(PCDD/Fs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers
(PBDEs).
We conducted a case-control study consisting of
44 cryptorchid cases, and 38 controls operated
for inguinal hernia, umbilical hernia, or hydrocele
at the Turku University Hospital or Rigshospitalet,
Copenhagen in 2002-2006. During the operation
a subcutaneous adipose tissue biopsy was taken.
Samples were analysed for 37 PCBs, 17 PCDD/Fs
and 14 PBDEs by gas chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry.
Prenatal exposure to PCDD/Fs and PCDD/F-like
PCBs may be associated with increased risk for
cryptorchidism. Our finding does not exclude the
possibility of an association between the exposure to PBDEs and cryptorchidism.
Journal Of Communication Disorders September 2015
Prenatal chemical exposures and child language development

Dzwilewski KL1, Schantz SL2.
1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Neuroscience Program, 405 North Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
Electronic address: dzwilew2@illinois.edu
2. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Comparative Biosciences, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
Electronic address: schantz@illinois.edu
The goal of this review is to summarize the evidence that prenatal and/or early postnatal exposure to certain chemicals, both manmade (insulating materials, flame retardants, pesticides) and naturally occurring (e.g., lead, mercury), may be associated with delays or impairments in language development. We focus primarily on a subset of more extensively studied chemicals-polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), lead, and methyl
mercury-for which a reasonable body of literature on neurodevelopmental outcomes is available. We also briefly summarize the smaller body
of evidence for other chemicals including polybrominated diphenyl ether flame retardants (PBDEs) and organophosphate pesticides. Very few
studies have used specific assessments of language development and function. Therefore, we included discussion of aspects of cognitive development such as overall intellectual functioning and verbal abilities that rely on language, as well as aspects of cognition such as verbal and
auditory working memory that are critical underpinnings of language development. A high percentage of prospective birth cohort studies of
PCBs, lead, and mercury have reported exposure-related reductions in overall IQ and/or verbal IQ that persist into middle or late childhood.
Given these findings, it is important that clinicians and researchers in communication sciences and disorders are aware of the potential for environmental chemicals to impact language development.
The goal of this review is to summarize the evidence that prenatal and/or early postnatal exposure to certain chemicals may be associated with
delays or impairments in language development.
Readers will gain an understanding of the literature suggesting that early exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), lead, and mercury may
be associated with decrements in cognitive domains that depend on language or are critical for language development.
We also briefly summarize the smaller body of evidence regarding polybrominated diphenyl ether flame retardants (PBDEs) and organophosphate pesticides. Very few studies of exposure to these chemicals have used specific assessments of language development; thus, further investigation is needed before changes in clinical practice can be suggested.
Chemosphere September 2015
Persistent organic pollutants and semen quality: The LIFE Study

Mumford SL1, Kim S2, Chen Z3, Gore-Langton RE4, Boyd Barr D5, Buck Louis GM6.
1. Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6100 Executive Blvd, 7B03, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
Electronic address: mumfords@mail.nih.gov
Electronic address: kims2@mail.nih.gov
Electronic address: chenzhe@mail.nih.gov
4. The EMMES Corporation, Rockville, MD, USA
Electronic address: rlangton@emmes.com
5. Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
Electronic address: dbbarr@emory.edu
Electronic address: louisg@mail.nih.gov
Growing evidence suggests that persistent environmental chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls may adversely affect human fecundity. The
purpose of this study was to evaluate associations between persistent environmental chemicals and semen quality among 501 male partners of
couples discontinuing contraception for purposes of becoming pregnant. Men provided a blood specimen and two fresh semen samples collected
approximately a month apart that underwent next day analysis for 35 semen quality endpoints. Serum samples were analyzed for 36 polychlorinated
biphenyls (congeners #18, 28, 44, 49, 52, 66, 74, 87, 99, 101, 114, 118, 128, 138, 146, 149, 151, 153, 156, 157, 167, 170, 172, 177, 178, 180, 183, 187, 189,
194, 195, 196, 201, 206, 209); 1 polybrominated biphenyl (#153); 9 organochlorine pesticides; and 10 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (congeners #17,
28, 47, 66, 85, 99, 100, 153, 154183) using high resolution mass spectrometry.
To estimate the effect of chemicals on semen quality, we regressed each semen marker on each chemical while adjusting for research site, age, body
mass index, serum lipids, and cotinine levels. Males with chemical concentrations in the fourth quartile, as compared to the first quartile, showed
significant associations for several individual chemicals in each chemical class and type of semen quality parameter indicating negative and positive
associations with semen quality.
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in particular were associated with several measures of increased abnormal morphology. These exploratory results
highlight the role of environmental influences on male fecundity, and are of particular interest given the ubiquitous exposures to these compounds.
Obesity September 2015
Circulating persistent organic pollutants and body fat distribution: Evidence from NHANES 1999-2004
Zong G1, Grandjean P2,3, Wu H4, Sun Q1,5.
1. Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
2. Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
3. Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
4. Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Institute for Translational Epidemiology, New York, New York, USA
5. Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Womens Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
To evaluate and compare the correlations of various circulating persistent organic pollutants (POPs) with fat mass percentages (FM%) of trunk, leg, and whole body measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.
Twelve POPs showed significantly different correlations with fat depots in trunk and leg regions. -hexachlorocyclohexane, heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-126 showed stronger positive correlations with trunk FM% than with leg FM%, whereas PCBs with 6 chlorines were more inversely correlated with trunk FM% than leg FM%. Age-stratified analysis showed stronger inverse correlations between POPs and
trunk FM% mainly in participants <40 years, whereas stronger positive correlations between POPs and trunk FM% were
observed in older participants.
Stronger associations between POPs and trunk fat as compared to leg fat possibly indicated a more important role of
trunk fat in the pharmacokinetics of POPs, or a stronger effect of POPs, as endocrine disruptors, on trunk fat metabolism.
Environmental Health September 2015
Persistent organic pollutants and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in morbidly obese patients: a cohort study
Rantakokko P1, Mnnist V2, Airaksinen R3, Koponen J4, Viluksela M5,6, Kiviranta H7, Pihlajamki J8,9.
1,3,4,5,7. National Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Health Protection, Chemicals and Health Unit, Kuopio, Finland
2. Department of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
6. Department of Environmental Science, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
8. Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
9. Clinical Nutrition and Obesity Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
In animal experiments persistent organic pollutants (POPs) cause hepatosteatosis. In epidemiological studies POPs have positive associations with serum markers of nonalcoholic fatty liver
disease (NAFLD) and together with obesity synergistic association with insulin resistance.
We found a negative association between serum concentrations of PCB-118, -HCH and several
PFAAs with lobular inflammation at baseline. Positive POPs-ATL associations at 12 months among
women suggest that increased POP concentrations may decrease the degree of liver recovery.
Journal Of Chromatography Part A August 2015
Analysis of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and emerging halogenated

and organophosphate flame retardants in human hair and nails
Liu LY1, Salamova A1, He K2, Hites RA3.
1,3. School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
2. School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
Electronic address: HitesR@Indiana.edu
A method for the digestion, extraction, fractionation, and analysis of three classes of flame retardants, including 36 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), 9 halogenated alternative flame retardants (AFRs), and
12 organophosphate esters (OPEs) in human hair and nail samples was developed.
This method was applied to analyze 5 human hair and 5 fingernail samples from the general student population at Indiana University Bloomington campus.
BDE-47 and BDE-99 were the predominant PBDEs detected in both hair and nail samples, with a concentration range of 11-620 and 4.6-780ng/g (dry weight) in hair and 7.3-43 and 2.1-11ng/g in nails, respectively.
Di-(2-ethylhexyl)-tetrabromophthalate (TBPH) and 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (TBB) were detected in all the samples, with concentrations of 20-240 and 11-350ng/g in hair and <17-80 and <9.2-71ng/
g in nails, respectively. Among the 12 OPEs analyzed, tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate (TCEP), tris(1-chloro-2propyl)phosphate (TCIPP), tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP), and triphenyl phosphate (TPHP)
were most often detected. The concentrations of these OPEs (summed together) were 1100-3900 and 38018,000ng/g in hair and nails, respectively. These levels exceed those of both the PBDEs and the AFRs.
Environmental Science And Technology August 2015
Concentrations of Persistent Organic Pollutants in California Childrens Whole Blood and Residential Dust
Whitehead TP1, Crispo Smith S2,3, Park JS2, Petreas MX2, Rappaport SM1, Metayer C1.
1. School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
2. Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, California Department of Toxic Substances Control, Berkeley, California 94710-2721, USA
3. Sequoia Foundation, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
We evaluated relationships between persistent organic pollutant (POP) levels in the blood of children
with leukemia and POP levels in dust from their household vacuum cleaners. Blood and dust were
collected from participants of the California Childhood Leukemia Study at various intervals from
1999 to 2007 and analyzed for two polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), two polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs), and two organochlorine pesticides using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Our findings suggest that dust ingestion is a source of childrens exposure to certain POPs.
Science Of The Total Environment July 2015
Risk of female breast cancer and serum concentrations of organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls:
a case-control study in Tunisia
Arrebola JP1, Belhassen H2, Artacho-Cordn F3, Ghali R2, Ghorbel H2, Boussen H4, Perez-Carrascosa FM5, Expsito J5, Hedhili A2, Olea N3.
1. Radiation Oncology Department, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada, Spain
San Cecilio University Hospital, Instituto de Investigacin Biosanitaria ibs. Granada, University of Granada, CIBERESP, Spain
2. Center of Urgent Medical Assistance of Tunis, Laboratory of Toxicology and Environment (LR12SP07), Montfleury, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
3. San Cecilio University Hospital, Instituto de Investigacin Biosanitaria ibs. Granada, University of Granada, CIBERESP, Spain
4. Cancer Center of Ariana, Tunisia
5. Radiation Oncology Department, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada, Spain
Electronic address: jparrebola@ugr.es
The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum concentrations of a group of organochlorine pesticides/
polychlorinated biphenyls with xenoestrogenic potential and the risk of breast cancer in a female population from Tunisia.
In the unadjusted models, -hexachlorocyclohexane (-HCH), hexachlorobenzene, heptachlor, polychlorinated biphenyl congeners 138, 153, and 180, and p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p-DDE) were positively associated with breast cancer risk.
Our findings suggest a potential association between exposure to at least one organochlorine pesticide and breast cancer risk.
Chemical Research In Toxicology June 2015
Disruption of type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase activity in cultured human glial cells by polybrominated diphenyl ethers
Roberts SC1, Bianco AC2, Stapleton HM1.
Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants are endocrine disruptors and
suspected neurodevelopmental toxicants. While the direct mechanisms of neurodevelopmental toxicity have not been fully elucidated, it is conceivable that alterations in
thyroid hormone levels in the developing brain may contribute to these effects. Cells
within the brain locally convert thyroxine (T4) to the biologically active triiodothyronine (T3) through the action of the selenodeiodinase type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase
(DIO2).
Previous studies have demonstrated that PBDEs can alter hepatic deiodinase activity
both in vitro and in vivo; however, the effects of PBDEs on the deiodinase isoforms expressed in the brain are not well understood.
Here, we studied the effects of several individual PBDEs and hydroxylated metabolites
(OH-BDEs) on DIO2 activity in astrocytes, a specialized glial cell responsible for production of more than 50% of the T3 required by the brain.
We conclude that decreases in DIO2 activity caused by exposure to PBDEs may play a
role in the neurodevelopmental deficits caused by these toxicants.
Environmental Health Perspectives June 2015
In utero and childhood polybrominated diphenyl ether exposures and body mass at age 7 years: the CHAMACOS study
Erkin-Cakmak A1, Harley KG, Chevrier J, Bradman A, Kogut K, Huen K, Eskenazi B.
1. Center for Environmental Research and Childrens Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are lipophilic flame retardants that bioaccumulate in humans.
Child serum PBDE concentrations in California are among the highest worldwide. PBDEs may be associated with obesity by disrupting endocrine systems. In this study, we examined whether pre- and
postnatal exposure to the components of pentaBDE mixture was associated with childhood obesity in
a population of Latino children participating in a longitudinal birth cohort study in the Salinas Valley,
California.
We estimated sex-specific associations with maternal PBDE levels during pregnancy and BMI at 7 years
of age, finding positive associations in boys and negative associations in girls. Childrens serum BDE-153
concentrations were inversely associated with BMI at 7 years with no difference by sex. Future studies
should examine the longitudinal trends in obesity with PBDE exposure and changes in hormonal environment as children transition through puberty, as well as evaluate the potential for reverse causality.
Archives In Toxicology May 2015
Developmental neurotoxicity of persistent organic pollutants: an update on childhood outcome

Berghuis SA1, Bos AF, Sauer PJ, Roze E.
1. Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Beatrix Childrens Hospital, University of Groningen
University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, PO Box 30.001, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
s.a.berghuis@umcg.nl
Organohalogens are persistent organic pollutants that have a wide range of chemical application. There is growing
evidence that several of these chemical compounds interfere with human development in various ways. The aim of
this review is to provide an update on the relationship between various persistent organic pollutants and childhood
neurodevelopmental outcome from studies from the past 10 years. This review focuses on exposure to polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs), hydroxylated PCBs (OH-PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and in addition on exposure to phthalates, bisphenol A, and perfluorinated compounds and their associations with neurodevelopmental outcome in childhood, up to 18 years of age. This review shows that exposure to
environmental chemicals affects neurodevelopmental outcome in children. Regarding exposure to PCBs and OH-PCBs,
most studies report no or inverse associations with neurodevelopmental outcomes. Regarding exposure to PBDEs, lower mental development, psychomotor development and IQ were found at preschool age, and poorer attention at school
age. Regarding exposure to DDE, most studies reported inverse associations with outcome, while others found no associations. Significant relations were particularly found at early infancy on psychomotor development, on attention and
ADHD, whereas at school age, no adverse relationships were described. Additionally, several studies report gender-related vulnerability. Future research should focus on the long-term effects of prenatal and childhood exposure to these
environmental chemicals, on sex-specific and combined exposure effects of environmental chemicals, and on possible
mechanisms by which these chemicals have their effects on neurodevelopmental and behavioral outcomes.
PLoS One May 2015
Association between Several Persistent Organic Pollutants and Thyroid Hormone Levels
in Cord Blood Serum and Bloodspot of the Newborn Infants of Korea
Kim S1, Park J2, Kim HJ3, Lee JJ4, Choi G4, Choi S5, Kim S6, Kim SY7, Moon HB8, Kim S1, Choi K1.
1. School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
2. College of Natural Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungcheong, Republic of Korea
3. College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
4. College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
5. College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
6. College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
7. College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
8. College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi, Republic of Korea
Current knowledge on adverse endocrine disruption effects of persistent organic pollutants (POPs)
among newborn infants is limited and often controversial. To investigate the associations between
prenatal exposure to major POPs and thyroid hormone levels among newborn infants, both cord serum or maternal serum concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were compared with five thyroid hormones
in cord serum of newborn infants as well as TSH in bloodspot collected at 2 day after birth (n=104).
Although the sample size is small and the thyroid hormone levels of the subjects were within the
reference range, our observation supports thyroid disrupting potential of several POPs among newborn infants, at the levels occurring in the general population. Considering the importance of thyroid
hormones during gestation and early life stages, health implication of thyroid hormone effects by
low level POPs exposure deserves further follow up investigations.
Neurotoxicology May 2015
The brominated flame retardant BDE-47 causes oxidative stress and apoptotic cell death in vitro and in vivo in mice
Costa LG1, Pellacani C2, Dao K3, Kavanagh TJ3, Roque PJ3.
1. Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
Department Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
2. Department Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
Electronic address: lgcosta@u.washington.edu
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), used for decades as flame retardants, have become widespread
environmental contaminants. Exposure is believed to occur primarily through diet and dust, and infants and
toddlers have the highest body burden, raising concern for potential developmental neurotoxicity. The exact mechanisms of PBDE neurotoxicity have not been elucidated, but two relevant modes of action relate to
impairment of thyroid hormone homeostasis and to direct effects on brain cells causing alterations in signal
transduction, oxidative stress and apoptotic cell death. The present study shows that BDE-47 (2,2,4,4-tetrabromodiphenyl ether) induces oxidative stress and ensuing apoptotic cell death in mouse cerebellar granule
neurons in vitro. Similarly, in vivo administration of BDE-47, according to an exposure protocol shown to induce behavioral and biochemical alterations (10mg/kg, per os on post-natal day 10), induces oxidative stress
and apoptosis, without altering serum levels of thyroid hormones.
These findings indicate that effects observed with BDE-47 in vitro are also present after in vivo administration, suggesting that in addition to potential endocrine effects, which were not seen here, direct interactions
with brain cells should be considered as a potential mechanism of BDE-47 neurotoxicity.
Endocrine Related Cancer April 2015
Persistent organic pollutants and obesity: are they potential mechanisms for breast cancer promotion?
Reaves DK1, Ginsburg E1, Bang JJ1, Fleming JM2.
1,2. Department of BiologyNorth Carolina Central University, MTSC Room 2247, 1801 Fayetteville Street, Durham, North Carolina 27707, USA
National Cancer InstituteNational Institutes of Health, Center for Cancer Training, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
Department of BiologyNorth Carolina Central University, Durham, North Carolina 27707, USA
Jodie.fleming@nccu.edu
Dietary ingestion of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is correlated with the development of obesity. Obesity alters metabolism, induces an inflammatory tissue microenvironment, and is also linked to diabetes and breast cancer
risk/promotion of the disease.
This review highlights the critical need for advanced in vitro and in vivo model systems to elucidate the complex relationship among obesity, POPs, and breast cancer, and, more importantly, to delineate their multifaceted molecular,
cellular, and biochemical mechanisms. Comprehensive in vitro and in vivo studies directly testing the observed correlations as well as detailing their molecular mechanisms are vital to cancer research and, ultimately, public health.
Archives In Toxicology March 2015
Human exposure to PBDE and critical evaluation of health hazards

Linares V1, Bells M, Domingo JL.
1. Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Reus, Spain
mvictoria.linares@urv.cat
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used in large quantities as flame-retardant additives in a number of commercial products. Biomonitoring data show that, in recent years,
PBDE concentrations have increased rapidly in the bodies of wildlife and humans.
Usually, PBDE levels in North America have been reported to be higher than those in Europe and Asia. Moreover, body burden of PBDEs is three- to ninefold higher in infants and
toddlers than in adults, showing these last two age groups the highest levels of these compounds, due to exposure via maternal milk and through dust.
Tetra-, Penta-, and Hexa-BDEs are the isomers most commonly found in humans. Based on
studies on experimental animals, the toxicological endpoints of exposure to PBDEs are likely
to be thyroid homeostasis disruption, neurodevelopmental deficits, reproductive changes,
and even cancer.
Experimental studies in animals and epidemiological observations in humans suggest that
PBDEs may be developmental neurotoxicants. Pre- and/or postnatal exposure to PBDEs may
cause long-lasting behavioral abnormalities, particularly on motor activity and cognition.
This paper is focused on reviewing the current status of PBDEs in the environment, as well as
the critical adverse health effects based on the recent studies on the toxic effects of PBDEs.
Environmental Health March 2015
Polybrominated diphenyl ether serum concentrations

in a Californian population of children, their parents,
and older adults: an exposure assessment study
Wu XM1, Bennett DH2, Moran RE3, Sjdin A4, Jones RS5, Tancredi DJ6, Tulve NS7,
Clifton MS8, Coln M9, Weathers W10, Hertz-Picciotto I11.
1,2,3,11. Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California
One Shields Avenue, MS1C, 95616, Davis, CA, USA
maywu@ucdavis.edu
dhbennett@ucdavis.edu
rmoran@ucdavis.edu
ihp@ucdavis.edu
4,5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Center for Environment Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
asjodin@cdc.gov
rlj9@cdc.gov
6. Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
djtancredi@ucdavis.edu
7,8,9,10. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development
National Exposure Research Laboratory, Human Exposure and Atmospheric Sciences Division
Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
Tulve.Nicolle@epa.gov
clifton.matthew@epa.gov
colon.maribel@epa.gov
weathers.Walter@epa.gov
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants in many

household items. Given concerns over their potential adverse health effects, we
identified predictors and evaluated temporal changes of PBDE serum concentrations.
PBDE serum concentrations were measured in young children (2-8 years old; N =
67), parents of young children (<55 years old; N = 90), and older adults (55 years
old; N = 59) in California, with concurrent floor wipe samples collected in participants homes in 2008-2009. We also measured serum concentrations one year later
in a subset of children (N = 19) and parents (N = 42).
PBDE serum concentrations in children were significantly higher than in adults.
Floor wipe concentration is a significant predictor of serum BDE-47, 99, 100 and
154. Positive associations were observed between the intake frequency of canned
meat and serum concentrations of BDE-47, 99 and 154, between canned meat
entrees and BDE-154 and 209, as well as between tuna and white fish and BDE153. The model with the floor wipe concentration and food intake frequencies explained up to 40% of the mean square prediction error of some congeners. Lower
home values and renting (vs. owning) a home were associated with higher serum
concentrations of BDE-47, 99 and 100. Serum concentrations measured one year
apart were strongly correlated as expected (r = 0.70-0.97) with a slight decreasing
trend.
Floor wipe concentration, food intake frequency, and housing characteristics can
explain 12-40% of the prediction error of PBDE serum concentrations. Decreasing
temporal trends should be considered when characterizing long-term exposure.
Environmental Health Perspectives March 2015
Hand-Me-Down Hazard: Flame Retardants in Discarded Foam Products

By Kellyn S. Betts
Kellyn S. Betts writes about environmental contaminants, hazards, and technology for
solving environmental problems for publications including EHP and Environmental Science & Technology
On 1 January 2015 California implemented the first U.S. rule mandating that certain products containing polyurethane foam be labeled to identify whether
they contain chemical flame retardants.1 Furniture industry experts predict flame-retardant-free couches, chairs, and other padded furnishings and products will be popular with consumers and large purchasers,2 and the new labeling law, known as SB 1019,1 is expected to have influence beyond the states
borders, just as Californias flammability standard once drove the use of flame retardants in the rest of the country, and even other parts of the world.3 Crate
and Barrel, IKEA, and La-Z-Boy are among the manufacturers that reportedly offer or will offer furniture with no added flame retardants.
Environmental chemists, scientists, and public health specialists interviewed for this article agree that the new labeling rule represents a great leap forward
for consumers. The consumer should always have the right to know whats in their products, whether theyre commercial products, food, or anything else,
says Linda Birnbaum, director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
Essentially, Californias new labeling rule, and the updated flammability standard that supports it, known as TB117-2013, create one market-based solution
to the U.S. problem of widespread exposure to flame retardants while maintaining fire safety. With these new rules, consumers who wish to avoid flame
retardants have an option for doing so. Over time, the rules are expected to slowly reduce the health risk posed by human exposure to flame retardants
used in polyurethane foam.5
However, the benefits may not apply equally to all populations; the ways that discarded furniture and other foam products are handled may disproportionately influence the flame retardant exposures and health of people in disadvantaged communities. Furthermore, how these items are handled can affect
the amounts of flame retardants that escape into the environment.
As of now, there are no rules or requirements that address these issues federally or in California, according to officials from Californias State Water Resources
Control Board, Department of Toxic Substances Control, and CalRecycle, the states recycling agency. Monitoring or control of flame retardants in the outdoor environment is not on the radar of many people outside the research community, says Mark La Guardia, a senior environmental scientist at the Virginia
Institute of Marine Science. But he and others interviewed for this article argue that it should be.
Environmental Research February 2015
Significant accumulation of persistent organic pollutants and dysregulation

in multiple DNA damage repair pathways in the electronic-waste-exposed populations
He X1, Jing Y1, Wang J1, Li K1, Yang Q2, Zhao Y1, Li R3, Ge J4, Qiu X5, Li G6.
1. Basic Medical College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China.
2. Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China.
3. State Key Joint Laboratory for Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering and Center for Environment and Health, Peking University, Beijing 100871, PR China.
4. Department of Breast Surgery, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, PR China
Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment of the Ministry of Education, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, PR China
5. State Key Joint Laboratory for Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering and Center for Environment and Health, Peking University, Beijing 100871, PR China
6. Basic Medical College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China.
Electronic address: lig@tijmu.edu.cn.
Electronic waste (e-waste) has created a worldwide environmental and health problem, by generating a diverse group of hazardous compounds such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Our previous studies demonstrated that populations from
e-waste exposed region have a significantly higher level of chromosomal aberrancy and incidence of DNA damage. In this
study, we further demonstrated that various POPs persisted at a significantly higher concentration in the exposed group than
those in the unexposed group. The level of reactive oxygen species and micronucleus rate were also significantly elevated in
the exposed group. RNA sequencing analysis revealed 31 genes in DNA damage responses and repair pathways that were
differentially expressed between the two groups (Log2 ratio >1 or <-1). Our data demonstrated that both females and males
of the exposed group have activated a series of DNA damage response genes; however many important DNA repair pathways
have been dysregulated.
In conclusion, our studies have demonstrated significant correlations between e-waste disposing and POPs accumulation,
DNA lesions and dysregulation of multiple DNA damage repair mechanisms in the residents of the e-waste exposed region.
Environmental Toxicology February 2015
Effects of environmental organochlorine pesticides on human breast cancer:

putative involvement on invasive cell ability
Pestana D1, Teixeira D, Faria A, Domingues V, Monteiro R, Calhau C.
Department of Biochemistry (U38-FCT), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Centro de Investigao Mdica, Rua Dr. Plcido da Costa, Porto, Portugal
Human exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is a certainty, even to long banned pesticides like
o,p-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (o,p-DDT), and its metabolites p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene
(p,p-DDE), and p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (p,p-DDD). POPs are known to be particularly toxic and
have been associated with endocrine-disrupting effects in several mammals, including humans even at very
low doses.
As environmental estrogens, they could play a critical role in carcinogenesis, such as in breast cancer.
Altogether, the results showed that these compounds were able to modulate several cancer-related processes, namely in breast cancer cell lines, and underline the relevance of POP exposure to the risk of cancer development and progression, unraveling distinct pathways of action of these compounds on tumor cell biology.
Environmental International January 2015
Human health risk associated with brominated flame-retardants (BFRs)

Lyche JL1, Rosseland C2, Berge G2, Polder A3.
1,3. Norwegian School of Veterinary Science, Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, P.O. Box 8146 Dep., N-0033 Oslo, Norway
2. Pronova BioPharma AS, P.O. Box 420, NO-1327 Lysaker, Norway
Electronic address: jan.l.lyche@nmbu.no
The purposes of this review are to assess the human exposure and human and experimental
evidence for adverse effects of brominated flame-retardants (BFRs) with specific focus on intake
from seafood. The leakage of BFRs from consumer products leads to exposure of humans from
fetal life to adulthood. Fish and fish products contain the highest levels of BFRs and dominate
the dietary intake of frequent fish eaters in Europe, while meat, followed by seafood and dairy
products accounted for the highest US dietary intake. House dust is also reported as an important source of exposure for children as well as adults. The levels of BFRs in the general North
American populations are higher than those in Europe and Japan and the highest levels are
detected in infants and toddlers. The daily intake via breast milk exceeds the RfD in 10% of US
infants. BFRs including PBDEs, HBCDs and TBBP-A have induced endocrine-, reproductive- and
behavior effects in laboratory animals. Furthermore, recent human epidemiological data demonstrated association between exposure to BFRs and similar adverse effects as observed in animal studies. Fish including farmed fish and crude fish oil for human consumption may contain
substantial levels of BFRs and infants and toddlers consuming these products on a daily basis
may exceed the tolerable daily intake suggesting that fish and fish oil alone represent a risk to
human health. This intake comes in addition to exposure from other sources (breast milk, other
food, house dust). Because potential harmful concentrations of BFRs and other toxicants occur
in fish and fish products, research on a wider range of products is warranted, to assess health
hazard related to the contamination of fish and fish products for human consumption.
Environment International January 2015
Comparing human exposure to emerging and legacy flame retardants

from the indoor environment and diet with concentrations measured in serum
Cequier E1, Marc RM2, Becher G3, Thomsen C4.
1. Department of Exposure and Risk Assessment, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Department of Analytical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
2. Department of Analytical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
3. Department of Exposure and Risk Assessment, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, Norway
4. Department of Exposure and Risk Assessment, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
Electronic address: enrique.cequier@fhi.no
This study investigates associations between serum concentrations of emerging and legacy halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) in 46 Norwegian women and measured indoor air and dust concentrations of the HFRs as well as detailed
information on diet and household factors. Hexabromobenzene (median 0.03ng/g lipid) and Dechlorane 602 (median 0.18ng/g lipid) were detected in about 50% of the samples and Dechlorane Plus syn (median 0.45ng/g lipid) and
anti (median 0.85ng/g lipid) in more than 78%. The most abundant polybrominated diphenyl ethers were 2,2,4,4,5,5hexabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-153; median 0.82ng/g lipid) and 2,2,4,4-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47; median
0.49ng/g lipid) detected in more than 70% of the samples. In the bivariate analysis, no consistent associations were observed between the biomonitoring data and measured concentrations in indoor air and dust. On the other hand, consumption of specific food items (mainly lamb/mutton and margarine) correlated significantly with more than two HFR
serum concentrations, while this was not the case for household factors (electronic appliances). Only the significant bivariate associations with diet were confirmed by multivariate linear regression analyses, which might indicate a higher
contribution from food compared to the indoor environment to the variation of the body burden of these HFRs.
Environmental Health Perspectives January 2015
Preconception maternal and paternal exposure to persistent organic pollutants and birth size: the LIFE study
Robledo CA1, Yeung E, Mendola P, Sundaram R, Maisog J, Sweeney AM, Barr DB, Louis GM.
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are developmental toxicants, but the impact of
both maternal and paternal exposures on offspring birth size is largely unexplored.
We examined associations between maternal and paternal serum concentrations
of 63 POPs, comprising five major classes of pollutants, with birth size measures.
Parental serum concentrations of 9 organochlorine pesticides, 1 polybrominated
biphenyl (PBB), 7 perfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFCs), 10 polybrominated diphenyl
ethers (PBDEs), and 36 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were measured before
conception for 234 couples. Differences in birth weight, length, head circumference, and ponderal index were estimated using multiple linear regression per 1-SD
increase in natural log-transformed (ln-transformed) chemicals. Models were estimated separately for each parent and adjusted for maternal age, maternal prepregnancy body mass index (kilograms per meter squared) and other confounders, and
all models included an interaction term between infant sex and each chemical.
Preconceptional maternal and paternal concentrations of several POPs were associated with statistically significant differences in birth size among offspring.
Developmental Neurobiology January 2015
Decabrominated diphenyl ether and methylmercury impair fetal nervous system development
in mice at documented human exposure levels
Mariani A1, Fanelli R, Re Depaolini A, De Paola M.
1. Department of Environmental Health Sciences - IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri - Via La Masa, 19, 20156 Milano, Italy
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/dneu.22208/epdf
The central nervous system (CNS) is extremely vulnerable to the toxic effects of environmental pollutants
during development. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are persistent contaminants, increasingly
present in the environment and in human tissues. Recent investigations identified a correlation between
maternal exposure to PBDEs and impairment in fetal neurobehavioral development, suggesting that these
contaminants pose a potential risk for children. We investigated on the potential effects of environmental
decabrominated diphenyl ether (decaBDE, the fully brominated congener) on key neurodevelopmental
molecules (e.g., synaptic proteins and immature neuron markers) in fetal mouse neurons. Methylmercury
was used as reference neurotoxic contaminant and to evaluate its possible synergism with decaBDE. The
neurotoxic effects of decaBDE and methylmercury were determined in developing cultured neurons from
mouse fetal hippocampus and cerebellum.
In conclusion, prenatal exposure to realistic (relevant for human exposure) concentrations of decaBDE induces impairment of fetal CNS development in mice, suggesting a potential risk of fetotoxicity in humans.
Springerplus January 2015
Pollutants in pet dogs: a model for environmental links to breast cancer

Svre S1, Marchand P1, Guiffard I1, Morio F2, Venisseau A1, Veyrand B1, Le Bizec B1, Antignac JP1, Abadie J2.
1. LUNAM University, Nantes-Atlantic College of Veterinary Medicine and Food Sciences (Oniris)
USC 1329 INRA Laboratoire dEtude des rsidus et Contaminants dans les Aliments (LABERCA), Site de la Chantrerie - CS50707, 44307 Nantes cedex 3, France
2. LUNAM University, Nantes-Atlantic College of Veterinary Medicine and Food Sciences (Oniris)
Animaux Modles pour la Recherche en Oncologie Compare (AMaROC), Site de la Chantrerie - CS50707, 44307 Nantes cedex 3, France
Invasive breast carcinoma is the most common cancer in women as in non-ovariectomised pet dogs, which are already
identified as a valuable spontaneous preclinical model for that disease.
Geographical and time trends suggest that environmental factors may play an important role in the etiology and
pathogenesis of breast cancer. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) fit perfectly with these trends and are known to
interact with hormonal receptors implicated in breast cancer subtyping.
All targeted chemical families were able to be detected in canine samples. We identified pollutants associated with
mammary cancer belonging to the dioxin like-PCB family (notably PCB-118, -156, -105, -114) that were already pointed
out in human epidemiological studies on breast cancer, and that fit with the fundamental role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon
Receptor in the promotion of breast cancer.
Similarities observed in the spontaneous dog model are very helpful to progress in interpretation of human breast
cancer-environment relationships. This study provides a new insight focusing on this discrete but recurrent signature.
Environmental Toxicology And Pharmacology January 2015
6-OH-BDE-47 promotes human lung cancer cells epithelial mesenchymal transition via the AKT/Snail signal pathway
Qu BL1, Yu W2, Huang YR2, Cai BN2, Du LH2, Liu F2.
1,2. Department of Radiation Oncology, PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
Electronic address: qubaolinbeijing@163.com
Hydroxylated polybrominated diphenyl ethers (OH-PBDEs) have been detected in the various human tissues. The OH-PBDEs are
suggested to be stronger endocrine-disrupting compounds than PBDEs, therefore the toxicological effects of OH-PBDEs had received lots of attention. However, there is no study about the carcinogenic effect of OH-PBDEs and their estrogen potencies on the
tumorigenesis and development of cancer. In the present study, we found that 6-hydroxy-2,2,4,4-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (6-OHBDE-47), the most abundant OH-PBDE congeners in human serum, promoted the in vitro migration of lung cancer A549 and H358
cells by induction of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT).
Generally, our results revealed for the first time that 6-OH-BDE-47 promoted the EMT of lung cancer cells via AKT/Snail signals. This
suggested that more attention should be paid to the effects of OH-PBDEs on tumorigenesis and development of lung cancer.
Chemosphere December 2014
Flame retardant exposures in California early childhood education environments

Bradman A1, Castorina R2, Gaspar F2, Nishioka M3, Coln M4, Weathers W4, Egeghy PP4, Maddalena R5, Williams J6, Jenkins PL6, McKone TE7.
1. Center for Environmental Research and Childrens Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
Electronic address: abradman@berkeley.edu
3. Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
4. United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
5. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA, USA
6. California Air Resources Board, Sacramento, CA, USA
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA, USA
Infants and young children spend as much as 50h per week in child care and preschool. Although approximately 13 million children, or 65% of all U.S. children, spend some time each day in early childhood education (ECE) facilities, little information is available about environmental exposures in these
environments.
We measured flame retardants in air and dust collected from 40 California ECE facilities between May
2010 and May 2011. Low levels of six polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners and four nonPBDE flame retardants were present in air, including two constituents of Firemaster 550 and two tris
phosphate compounds [tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) and tris (1,3-dichloroisopropyl) phosphate (TDCIPP)]. Tris phosphate, Firemaster 550 and PBDE compounds were detected in 100% of the
dust samples. BDE47, BDE99, and BDE209 comprised the majority of the PBDE mass measured in dust.
The median concentrations of TCEP and TDCIPP were similar to or higher than any PBDE congener.
Levels of TCEP and TDCIPP in dust were significantly higher in facilities with napping equipment made
out of foam. Child BDE99 dose estimates exceeded the RfD in one facility for children <3 years old. In
51% of facilities, TDCIPP dose estimates for children <6 years old exceeded age-specific No Significant
Risk Levels (NSRLs) based on California Proposition 65 guidelines for carcinogens. Given the overriding interest in providing safe and healthy environments for young children, additional research is
needed to identify strategies to reduce indoor sources of flame retardant chemicals.
Chemosphere December 2014
Flame retardant associations between childrens handwipes and house dust

Stapleton HM1, Misenheimer J2, Hoffman K2, Webster TF3.
1,2. Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
3. Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
Electronic address: heather.stapleton@duke.edu
Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE), flame retardants (FRs) have been ubiquitously detected at high concentrations in indoor environments; however, with their recent phase-out, more attention is being focused on measurements of exposure to alternative FRs such as organophosphate FRs (OPFRs). In our previous research, we found that
PBDE residues measured on childrens handwipes were a strong predictor of serum PBDE levels. Here we build upon
this research to examine longitudinal changes in PBDEs in indoor dust and childrens handwipes, and explore the associations between handwipes and dust for alternative FRs. Children from our previous study were re-contacted after
approximately two years and new samples of indoor dust and handwipes were collected. PBDE dust-levels were significantly correlated between two different sampling rounds separated by two years; however, PBDE levels in handwipes
were not correlated, perhaps suggesting that the sources of PBDEs remained relatively constant in the home, but that
behavioral differences in children are changing with age and influencing handwipe levels.
Overall these data suggest that exposure to these alternative FRs will be similar to PBDE exposure, and the influence of
hand-to-mouth behavior in childrens exposure needs to be further examined to better estimate exposure potential.
Environmental Science And Technology December 2014
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, polychlorinated biphenyls, and persistent pesticides

in serum from the national health and nutrition examination survey: 2003-2008
Sjdin A1, Jones RS, Caudill SP, Wong LY, Turner WE, Calafat AM.
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Environmental Health, Division of Laboratory Sciences, 4770 Buford Highway, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, USA
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls

(PCBs), and persistent pesticides have been measured in pooled samples
representative of the general noninstitutionalized population of the United States. The pools were made from individual sera from the National
Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) during 2005/06 and
2007/08. The pooled concentrations have been contrasted to NHANES
2003/04 individual measurements to evaluate changes in concentration
over time and within survey period differences among age groups, race/
ethnicity groups (Mexican American, non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic
White), and sex.
These findings suggest that a reduction in PBDE serum concentrations cannot yet be detected following the discontinuation of pentaBDE in 2004.
PLoS One November 2014
Elevated serum polybrominated diphenyl ethers and alteration of thyroid hormones in children from Guiyu, China
Xu X1, Liu J2, Zeng X3, Lu F2, Chen A4, Huo X2.
1. Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China;
Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
2. Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
3. Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China;
Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
4. Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, USA
Informal electronic waste (e-waste) recycling results in serious environmental pollution of polybrominated diphenyl
ethers (PBDEs) and heavy metals. This study explored whether there is an association between PBDEs, heavy metal
and key growth- and development-related hormones in children from Guiyu, an e-waste area in southern China. We
quantified eight PBDE congeners using gas chromatographic mass spectrometry, lead and cadmium utilizing graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, three thyroids with radioimmunoassay and two types of growth hormones by an enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA) in 162 children, 4 to 6 years old, from Guiyu.
These results suggest that elevated PBDEs and heavy metals related to e-waste in Guiyu may be important risk factors
for hormone alterations in children.
BMC Endocrine Disorders October 2014
Exploring the potential association between brominated diphenyl ethers,

polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, perfluorinated compounds, phthalates,
and bisphenol A in polycystic ovary syndrome: a case-control study
Vagi SJ, Azziz-Baumgartner E, Sjdin A, Calafat AM, Dumesic D, Gonzalez L, Kato K, Silva MJ, Ye X, Azziz R1.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine-metabolic disorder that affects approximately 610% of women of child-bearing age. Although preliminary studies suggest that certain pollutants may
act as endocrine disruptors in animals, little is known about their potential association with PCOS. The
objective of this case-control pilot study is to determine whether women with PCOS have higher concentrations of specific environmental contaminants compared to women who have not developed
PCOS.
Fifty-two PCOS case-patients (diagnosed using the National Institutes of Health 1990 definition) and
50 controls were recruited in 2007-2008, from an urban academic medical center in Los Angeles, CA.
Brominated diphenyl ethers, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides, and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) were measured in serum, and phthalates metabolites and bisphenol A
(BPA) in urine.
Our data suggest that PCOS case-patients may differ from controls in their environmental contaminant
profile. PCOS subjects had higher serum concentrations of two PFCs, PFOA and PFOS, and lower urine
concentrations of mBP and mBzP. Future studies are needed to confirm these preliminary findings
and determine if these chemicals or their precursors may have a role in the pathogenesis of PCOS.
Environment International October 2014
Extent and mechanisms of brominated flame retardant emissions from waste soft furnishings and fabrics: A critical review
Stubbings WA1, Harrad S2.
1,2. School of Geography, Earth & Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
Electronic address: wxs985@bham.ac.uk
Electronic address: s.j.harrad@bham.ac.uk
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25042535
Use of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) in soft furnishings has occurred for over thirty years with the phase out of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) only relatively recently begun. As products treated with
BFRs reach the end of their lifecycle they enter the waste stream, thereby constituting an important and increasing reservoir
of these chemicals. This review highlights the dearth of data on the extent and potential mechanisms of BFR emissions from
waste soft furnishings. However, insights into what may occur are provided by scrutiny of the larger (though still incomplete)
database related to BFR emissions from electronic waste (e-waste). In many countries, municipal landfills have historically
been the primary disposal method of waste consumer products and therefore represent a substantial reservoir of BFRs. Published data for BFR emissions to both air and water from landfill and other waste disposal routes are collated, presented and
reviewed. Reported concentrations of PBDEs in landfill leachate range considerably from <1ngL(-1) to 133,000ngPBDEL(-1).
In addition to direct migration of BFRs from waste materials; there is evidence that some higher brominated flame retardants
are able to undergo degradation and debromination during waste treatment, that in some instances may lead to the formation of more toxic and bioavailable compounds. We propose that waste soft furnishings be treated with the same concern as
e-waste, given its potential as a reservoir and source of environmental contamination with BFRs.
Association between hospital discharge rate for female breast cancer and residence in a zip code containing hazardous waste sites
Lu X1, Lessner L2, Carpenter DO3.
1. Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, 5 University Place, A217, Rensselaer, New York 12144, USA
2,3. Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, 5 University Place, A217, Rensselaer, New York 12144, USA
Electronic address: dcarpenter@albany.edu
Exposure to chemicals plays a role in risk of breast cancer.

Residence within a geographic area (defined by zip codes) that includes a hazardous waste site with VOCs is significantly
associated with an increased rate of hospitalization for breast cancer, and the association is stronger for African American than Caucasian women and stronger in more urbanized than in rural areas after adjustment for the confounders.
Toxicology Letters October 2014
A mechanistic view of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) developmental neurotoxicity

Costa LG1, de Laat R2, Tagliaferri S3, Pellacani C3.
Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
3. Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
Electronic address: lgcosta@u.washington.edu
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), extensively used in the past few decades as flame retardants
in a variety of consumer products, have become world-wide persistent environmental pollutants. Levels in North America are usually higher than those in Europe and Asia, and body burden is 3-to-9-fold
higher in infants and toddlers than in adults.
The latter has raised concern for potential developmental toxicity and neurotoxicity of PBDEs. Experimental studies in animals and epidemiological observations in humans suggest that PBDEs may be
developmental neurotoxicants. Pre- and/or post-natal exposure to PBDEs may cause long-lasting behavioral abnormalities, particularly in the domains of motor activity and cognition. The mechanisms
underlying the developmental neurotoxic effects of PBDEs are not known, though several hypotheses
have been put forward.
One general mode of action relates to the ability of PBDEs to impair thyroid hormone homeostasis, thus
indirectly affecting the developing brain. An alternative or additional mode of action involves a direct effect of PBDEs on nervous system cells; PBDEs can cause oxidative stress-related damage (DNA damage,
mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis), and interfere with signal transduction (particularly calcium signaling), and with neurotransmitter systems. Important issues such as bioavailability and metabolism of
PBDEs, extrapolation of results to low level of exposures, and the potential effects of interactions among
PBDE congeners and between PBDEs and other contaminants also need to be taken into account.
Environmental Science And Technology September 2014
Metabolites of organophosphate flame retardants and 2-ethylhexyl tetrabromobenzoate

in urine from paired mothers and toddlers
Butt CM1, Congleton J, Hoffman K, Fang M, Stapleton HM.
1. Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University , Box 90328, Levine Science Research Center, Room A220, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA
As a result of the polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) ban in the mid-2000s, the chemical flame retardant market has moved toward alterative
compounds including chlorinated alkyl and nonchlorinated aryl organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) as well as aromatic brominated compounds such as Firemaster 550 (FM550). Recent studies have shown that the OPFRs and Firemaster 550 components are frequently detected in
polyurethane foams and in indoor dust. Some OPFRs are considered carcinogenic and/or neurodevelopmental toxicants, and childrens exposure
to these compounds is a concern.
OPFRs are readily metabolized and excreted in the urine as their dialkyl and diaryl compounds which function as biomarkers for OPFR exposure.
Limited research has shown that adults are broadly exposed to OPFRs, but nothing is known about childrens exposure.
Similarly, 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB), a FM550 component, is metabolized to tetrabromobenzoic acid (TBBA). The current
study measured levels of bis(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BDCIPP), bis(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BCIPP), diphenyl phosphate (DPHP),
2 alkylated DPHPs, and TBBA in urine collected in 2013 from 21 US mother-toddler pairs.
BDCIPP, DPHP, and ip-DPHP were detected in 100%, 98%, and 96% of all individuals, whereas BCIPP and tert-butyl-DPHP (tb-DPHP) were only
detected in 8% and 13%. Further, TBBA was detected in 27% of adults but 70% of children.
Overall, children had higher urinary levels of BDCIPP, DPHP, ip-DPHP, and TBBA as compared to their mothers, suggesting higher exposure. For
example, on average, BDCIPP levels in children were 4.9 times those of mothers. BDCIPP and DPHP levels in mothers urine were also significantly
correlated with levels in childrens urine, suggesting similar exposure routes, likely in the home environment.
In children some predictors of hand-mouth exposure were associated with elevated BDCIPP and DPHP levels (e.g., less frequent hand washing
for BDCIPP). Overall, these trends are consistent with higher flame retardant levels in children as a result of increased hand-mouth behavior and
elevated dust exposure.
Environmental Health Perspectives August 2014
More Evidence for PBDEs as Neurotoxicants: Cohort Study Corroborates Earlier Findings
By Kellyn S. Betts
Kellyn S. Betts writes about environmental contaminants, hazards, and technology for solving
environmental problems for publications including EHP and Environmental Science & Technology.
Children from the Midwest involved in a prospective study are the third U.S. birth cohort to show strikingly consistent associations between prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants and impaired performance on neurodevelopment tests later in childhood.1 As in the earlier studies involving birth cohorts from New York City2 and California,3 the childrens mothers had PBDE levels consistent with
average U.S. adult exposure. The concordance of the three studies strongly supports the likelihood that PBDEs are developmental neurotoxicants,
according to the authors of the new work. PBDEs were widely used between the 1970s and 2004 in U.S. consumer goods including furniture, carpet padding, and electronic devices. The main PBDEs found in humans are from the now-banned penta and octa mixtures used in polyurethane
foam padding and electronics enclosures, respectively.4 People can accumulate PBDEs in their bodies through food and inadvertent ingestion,
inhalation, and dermal absorption of house dust.
The prospective cohort design with repeated follow-up visits is a major strength of the new study. Its weaknesses include the lack of PBDE measurements in the childrens serum, which other research shows can be higher than maternal levels.3,8 Julie Herbstman of Columbia Universitys
Mailman School of Public Health, lead author of the earlier New York City study,2 also points out that the half-life of BDE-47 in humans is thought
to be on the order of years, so its hard to isolate the timing of exposure. There is some evidence that PBDE levels are declining in the U.S. population.9 Even so, pretty much everyone still has penta- and octa-containing products in their home, says Herbstman. Typically, the types of products that contained these compoundssuch as couchesare not replaced frequently.
Because PBDEs persistence allows them to remain in indoor environments for a long time, Chen recommends that prospective mothers and other
concerned individuals wash their hands frequently, vacuum with HEPA filters, and use wet cloths to dust furniture. The nonprofit Environmental
Working Group also recommends replacing any foam-containing item with a ripped cover or cushioning that is misshapen or breaking down.
Prenatal polybrominated diphenyl ether exposures and neurodevelopment in U.S. children through 5 years of age: the HOME study
Chen A1, Yolton K, Rauch SA, Webster GM, Hornung R, Sjdin A, Dietrich KN, Lanphear BP.
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are persistent chemicals that have been widely used as flame
retardants in furniture, carpet padding, car seats, and other consumer products during the past three
decades. We examined whether in utero exposure to PBDEs is associated with child cognitive function
and behavior in a U.S. study sample.
In a prospective birth cohort, we measured maternal serum concentrations of BDE-47 and other PBDE
congeners in 309 women at 16 weeks of gestation during 2003-2006 and followed their children in
Cincinnati, Ohio.
Prenatal exposure to PBDEs was associated with lower IQ and higher hyperactivity scores in children.
Environmental Research August 2014
Persistent organic pollutant levels in human visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue in obese individuals
depot differences and dysmetabolism implications
Pestana D1, Faria G2, S C3, Fernandes VC4, Teixeira D3, Norberto S3, Faria A5, Meireles M3, Marques C3, Correia-S L6,
Cunha A3, Guimares JT7, Taveira-Gomes A2, Santos AC8, Domingues VF9, Delerue-Matos C9, Monteiro R3, Calhau C10.
Department of Biochemistry (U38-FCT), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Centro de Investigao Mdica, P-4200-450 Porto, Portugal
CINTESIS-Center for Research in Health Technologies and Information Systems, P-4200-450 Porto, Portugal
Electronic address: diogopestana@gmail.com
The role of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) with endocrine disrupting activity in the aetiology of obesity and other metabolic dysfunctions has been recently highlighted. Adipose tissue (AT) is a common site of POPs accumulation where they can induce adverse
effects on human health.
Our data confirm that POPs are pervasive in this obese population (96.3% of detection on both tissues), their abundance increasing
with age and duration of obesity. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between POP levels and the presence of metabolic syndrome components, namely dysglycaemia and hypertension, and more importantly with cardiovascular risk. Finally, we observed an
interesting relation of higher POP levels with lower weight loss in older patients.
Our sample of obese subjects allowed us to highlight the importance of POPs stored in AT on the development of metabolic dysfunction
in a context of obesity, shifting the focus to their metabolic effects and not only for their recognition as environmental obesogens.
American Journal Of Public Health July 2014
Persistent organic pollutants in dust from older homes: learning from lead
Whitehead TP1, Metayer C, Ward MH, Colt JS, Gunier RB, Deziel NC, Rappaport SM, Buffler PA.
Todd P. Whitehead, Catherine Metayer, Robert B. Gunier, Stephen M. Rappaport, and Patricia A. Buffler
are with the School of Public Health, University of California, BerkeleyMary H. Ward, Joanne S. Colt, and Nicole C. Deziel are with the
Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
We aimed to (1) evaluate the relation between home age and concentrations of multiple chemical contaminants in settled dust and (2) discuss the
feasibility of using lead hazard controls to reduce childrens exposure to
persistent organic pollutants.
As part of the California Childhood Leukemia Study, from 2001 to 2007, we
used a high-volume small surface sampler and household vacuum cleaners
to collect dust samples from 583 homes and analyzed the samples for 94
chemicals with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and inductively
coupled plasma mass spectrometry.
Dust concentrations of lead, polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine
insecticides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were correlated with
home age, whereas concentrations of pyrethroid insecticides and polybrominated diphenyl ethers were not.
Dust in older homes contains higher levels of multiple, persistent chemicals
than does dust in newer homes. Further development of strategies to reduce chemical exposures for children living in older homes is warranted.
Diabetes Care July 2014
Exposure to persistent organic pollutants: relationship with abnormal glucose metabolism and visceral adiposity
Dirinck EL1, Dirtu AC2, Govindan M2, Covaci A2, Van Gaal LF3, Jorens PG4.
1. Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
2. Toxicology Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
3. Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
4. Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
luc.van.gaal@uza.be
The contribution of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) to the pandemic of type 2 diabetes mellitus and
obesity has been assumed but remains speculative. Our findings further sustain the theory that exposure to environmentally relevant levels of POPs may exert both a diabetogenic and obesogenic effect.
Environmental Science Technology July 2014
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, 2,2,4,4,5,5-hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB-153),

and p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p-DDE) concentrations in sera collected in 2009 from Texas children
Sjdin A1, Schecter A, Jones R, Wong LY, Colacino JA, Malik-Bass N, Zhang Y, Anderson S, McClure C, Turner W, Calafat AM.
1. National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , 4770 Buford Highway, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, USA
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p-DDE) have been measured in surplus serum collected in 2009 from a convenience sample of 300 Texas
children (boys and girls) in the birth to 13 years of age range. Serum concentrations of traditional persistent organic
pollutants such as 2,2,4,4,5,5-hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB-153) and p,p-DDE did not change consistently with age. By
contrast, serum concentrations of tetra-, penta-, and hexa-BDEs were lowest in the youngest children (birth to two
year old) and increased 3.0 to 7.9 times, depending on the analyte, for children in the >4 to 6 years of age group.
From the apex concentration to the 10 to 13 years of age group, concentrations decreased significantly except for
2,2,4,4,5,5-hexabromodiphenyl ether (PBDE-153), which also had a longer apex concentration of >4 to 8 years of age.
This concentration trend for PBDE-153 is most likely due to a longer half-life of PBDE-153 than of other PBDE congeners. The observed PBDEs concentration patterns by age may be related, at least in part, to ingestion of residential
dust containing PBDEs through hand-to-mouth behavior among toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners.
Environmental Science And Technology July 2014
Measurements of selected brominated flame retardants in nursing women: implications for human exposure
Zhou SN1, Buchar A, Siddique S, Takser L, Abdelouahab N, Zhu J.
1. Exposure and Biomonitoring Division, Health Canada , Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9, Canada
We have examined several emerging brominated flame retardants (BFRs) including 2-ethyl-1hexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (TBB), bis(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate (TBPH), 1,2bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy) ethane (BTBPE), 4,5,6,7-tetrabromo-1,1,3-trimethyl-3-(2,3,4,5-tetrabromophenyl)-indane (OBIND), and decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) in paired human
maternal serum (n = 102) and breast milk (n = 105) collected in 2008-2009 in the Sherbrooke
region in Canada.
Three legacy BFRs were also included in the study for comparison: decabromobiphenyl (BB-209),
2,2,4,4,5,5-hexabromobiphenyl (BB-153), and 2,2,4,4,5,5-hexabromodiphenyl ethers (BDE-153).
TBB, BB-153, and BDE-153 had detection frequencies greater than 55% in both serum and milk
samples.
Overall, these data confirm the presence of non-PBDE BFRs in humans, and the need to better
understand their sources, routes of exposure, and potential human health effects.
Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) exposure in children:

possible associations with cardiovascular and psychological functions
Gump BB1, Yun S2, Kannan K3.
1. Department of Public Health, Food Studies, and Nutrition, Syracuse University, Syracuse NY 13244, USA
2. Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health and Department of Environmental Health Sciences
School of Public Health, State University of New York, Albany, N Y 12201-0509, USA
3. Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health and Department of Environmental Health Sciences
School of Public Health, State University of New York, Albany, N Y 12201-0509, USA
Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
Electronic address: bbgump@syr.edu
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) have been used widely in consumer products and are currently found at detectable levels in the blood of humans and animals across the globe. In stark contrast to
this widespread exposure to PBDEs, there is relatively little research on potential adverse health effects
of exposure of children to these chemicals. We performed this cross-sectional study to determine if
blood PBDE levels (for 4 congeners) are associated with cardiovascular stress responses and psychological states in children.
Higher levels of blood PBDEs were associated with significantly greater sympathetic activation during
acute psychological stress and greater anger, as evidenced by significant associations with 3 different
measures of this psychological variable.
This study suggests an association between PBDE exposure and childrens cardiovascular responses to
stress as well as parental and self-reported anger in the child. These variables are particularly important
as they may be of potential relevance to the future development of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Chemosphere July 2014
Selected persistent organic pollutants in human placental tissue from the United States
Nanes JA1, Xia Y1, Dassanayake RM1, Jones RM1, Li A2, Stodgell CJ3, Walker CK4, Szabo S5, Leuthner S5, Durkin MS6, Moye J7, Miller RK3; National Childrens Study Placenta Consortium.
1,2. School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
3. Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
4. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of California at Davis, CA, USA
5. Departments of Pathology and Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
6. Departments of Population Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
7. National Childrens Study, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
Electronic address: anli@uic.edu
Emerging and legacy environmental pollutants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticide metabolite DDE are found in human placenta, indicating prenatal exposure, but data from the United States are sparse. We sought to determine concentrations of these compounds in human placentae as part of a formative research project
conducted by the National Childrens Study Placenta Consortium. A total of 169 tissue specimens were
collected at different time points post delivery from 43 human placentae at three U.S. locations, and
analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry following extraction using matrix
solid phase dispersion. PBDEs, PCBs, and DDE were detected in all specimens. Significant geographic
differences in PBDEs were observed, with higher concentrations in placentae collected in Davis, CA
than in those from Rochester, NY or Milwaukee, WI. We combined these with other published data and
noted first-order declining trends for placental PCB and DDE concentrations over the past decades,
with half-lives of about 5 and 8 years, respectively. The effect of time to tissue collection from refrigerated placentae on measured concentrations of these three classes of persistent organic pollutants was
additionally examined, with no significant effect observed up to 120h. The results of this work indicate
that widespread prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants in the United States continues.
Food Additive Contamination Part A Chemistry. Analysis, Control, Exposure And Risk Assessment May 2014
Exposure to polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs),

dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
through the consumption of prepared meals in Italy
De Filippis SP1, Brambilla G, Dellatte E, Corrado F, Esposito M.
1a. Toxicological Chemistry Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanit, Rome, Italy
Diet is a relevant source of exposure to environmental pollutants. Dietary intake of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins
(PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) and polybrominated
diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) by the Italian population was assessed through a duplicate diet study on prepared meals. Baby
food composite representative of the diet of toddlers aged 9-12 months and school canteen servings from four towns
in Italy representing the diet of children aged 4-9 years were collected on a 5-day basis. Similarly, 5-day lunches from an
office canteen, 7-day lunches from a hotel-school, three fast food meals, and eight duplicate 1-day meals of individuals (one vegetarian) were selected to represent the diet of adults aged above 18 years. Servings from each diet were
then pooled to form a composite and analysed. Dietary intake was estimated from the resulting contaminant levels in
composites combined with age-related food consumption data from national survey. The margin of exposure (MOE =
3) of toddlers to BDE-99 clearly indicates this age group as target for a risk-oriented approach. This study is proposed as
a first cost-effective screening in PCDD, PCDF, DL-PCB and PBDE intake assessment, with a focus also on time trends.
Gestational exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals

and reciprocal social, repetitive, and stereotypic behaviors in 4- and 5-year-old children: the HOME study
Braun JM1, Kalkbrenner AE, Just AC, Yolton K, Calafat AM, Sjdin A, Hauser R, Webster GM, Chen A, Lanphear BP.
1. Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may be involved in the etiology of autism spectrum disorders, but identifying relevant chemicals within mixtures of EDCs is difficult. Our goal was to identify gestational EDC exposures associated with autistic behaviors.
We measured the concentrations of 8 phthalate metabolites, bisphenol A, 25 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 6 organochlorine pesticides, 8 brominated flame retardants, and 4 perfluoroalkyl substances in blood or urine samples
from 175 pregnant women in the HOME (Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment) Study (Cincinnati,
OH). When children were 4 and 5 years old, mothers completed the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), a measure
of autistic behaviors.
Some EDCs were associated with autistic behaviors in this cohort, but our modest sample size precludes us from dismissing chemicals with null associations. PFOA, -hexachlorocyclohexane, PCB-178, PBDE-28, PBDE-85, and transnonachlor deserve additional scrutiny as factors that may be associated with childhood autistic behaviors.
Environment International April 2014
Downsides of the recycling process: harmful organic chemicals in childrens toys

Ionas AC1, Dirtu AC1, Anthonissen T1, Neels H1, Covaci A2.
1,2. Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
Electronic address: adrian.covaci@ua.ac.be
Most of the materials used in consumer goods contain a number of additives which are
meant to improve key properties like plasticity or flame resistance. At the end-of-life of
the product, many polymeric materials are recycled and the additives they contain, such
as flame retardants (FRs) and plasticizers, are transferred to the newly manufactured
goods. We have investigated the occurrence and profiles of FRs, such as polybrominated
diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and phosphate FR (PFRs) and of plasticisers, such as phthalate
esters, in 106 toys samples. Low levels and detection frequencies of components of the
technical Penta-BDE and Deca-BDE mixtures were found, with BDE 209 being the dominant PBDE in all samples. The levels of PFRs and phthalates were up to 10,000 times
higher than those of the PBDEs, with triphenyl phosphate and diethylhexyl phthalate
being the major representatives of these classes. Maximum values were 1.3 and 6.9%,
respectively. The detection frequencies were up to 50% for PFRs and 98% for phthalates.
All but one of the toys produced after the REACH regulation went into force complied
with its provisions. The samples were grouped according to relevant selection criteria
to assess the risk for children of different age groups. Using models in the literature, exposure to these chemicals was tentatively assessed. It is clear that at the levels found in
the investigated toys, these additives do not contribute to the intended characteristics
of the materials, but in some cases may pose a health hazard to the children. Most likely,
recycled materials are an important source of these additives in toys and therefore, their
(re)use in products for children should be subject to stricter restrictions.
Environmentsl Toxicology April 2014
Synergistic interactions between PBDEs and PCBs in human neuroblastoma cells

Pellacani C1, Tagliaferri S, Caglieri A, Goldoni M, Giordano G, Mutti A, Costa LG.
Department of Human Anatomy, Pharmacology, and Forensic Sciences, University of Parma Medical School, Via Volturno 39, 43100 Parma, Italy
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants. Exposure to these chemicals has been associated with developmental neurotoxicity, endocrine dysfunction, and reproductive disorders.
Humans and wildlife are generally exposed to a mixture of these environmental pollutants, highlighting the need
to evaluate the potential effects of combined exposures.
In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic effects of the combined exposure to two PBDEs and two PCBs in a human neuronal cell line. 2,2,4,4-Tetrabromodiphenyl ether, 2,2,4,4,5-pentabromodiphenyl ether, PCB-126 (3,3,4,4,5pentachlorobiphenyl; a dioxin-like PCB), and PCB-153 (2,2,4,4,5,5-hexachlorobiphenyl; a non-dioxin-like PCB) were
chosen, because their concentrations are among the highest in human tissues and the environment.
The results suggest that the nature of interactions is related to the PCB structure. Mixtures of PCB-153 and both PBDEs had a prevalently synergistic effect. In contrast, mixtures of each PBDE congener with PCB-126 showed additive effects at threshold concentrations, and synergistic effects at higher concentrations. These results emphasize
the concept that the toxicity of xenobiotics may be affected by possible interactions, which may be of significance
given the common coexposures to multiple contaminants.
Environmental And Molecular Mutagenesis April 2014
Effects of age, sex, and persistent organic pollutants on DNA methylation in children
Huen K1, Yousefi P, Bradman A, Yan L, Harley KG, Kogut K, Eskenazi B, Holland N.
1. Center for Childrens Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California
Epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation may be a molecular mechanism through which
environmental exposures affect health. Methylation of Alu and long interspersed nucleotide elements (LINE-1) is a well-established measure of DNA methylation often used in epidemiologic
studies. Yet, few studies have examined the effects of host factors on LINE-1 and Alu methylation
in children. We characterized the relationship of age, sex, and prenatal exposure to persistent
organic pollutants (POPs), dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane (DDT), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), with DNA methylation in a birth
cohort of Mexican-American children participating in the CHAMACOS study. We measured Alu
and LINE-1 methylation by pyrosequencing bisulfite-treated DNA isolated from whole blood
samples collected from newborns and nine-year old children (n=358).
Our data suggest that repeat element methylation can be an informative marker of epigenetic
differences by age and sex and that prenatal exposure to POPs may be linked to hypomethylation in fetal blood. Accounting for co-exposure to different types of chemicals and adjusting for
blood cell types may increase sensitivity of epigenetic analyses for epidemiological studies.
Environment International February 2014
Brominated flame retardant concentrations in sera from the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) from 2007 to 2009
Rawn DF1, Ryan JJ2, Sadler AR2, Sun WF2, Weber D2, Laffey P3, Haines D4, Macey K4, Van Oostdam J4.
1,2. Food Research Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Sir Frederick Banting Research Centre
251 Sir Frederick Banting Driveway, Address Locator: 2203C, Tunneys Pasture, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
3. Biostatistics and Modelling Division, Bureau of Food Surveillance and Science Integration, Health Products and Foods Branch, Health Canada, Sir Frederick Banting Research Centre
251 Sir Frederick Banting Driveway, Address Locator: 2204D, Tunneys Pasture, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
4. Chemicals Surveillance Bureau, Environmental and Radiation Health Sciences Directorate, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada
269 Laurier Avenue West, Address Locator: 4908D, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
Electronic address: thea.rawn@hc-sc.gc.ca
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412013002274
Pooling of surplus serum from individual samples, collected between 2007 and 2009 during Cycle 1 of the Canadian Health Measures Survey
(CHMS), was performed to develop a national baseline estimate of brominated flame retardants in Canadians. Serum samples were categorized by
sex and distributed by five age groups ranging from 6 to 79years. Nearly 5000 (4583) serum samples were used to form 59 composite pools. Serum
pools were created to ensure a high detection frequency of these analytes in serum because low volume samples had previously resulted in nondetectable concentrations. The analytes of interest in these serum pools included 23 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and three hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) isomers (-, - and -HBCD). PBDEs were observed in all samples tested and total PBDE concentrations ranged from
27ngg(-1) lipid to 130ngg(-1) lipid (geometric mean [GM] 46ngg(-1) lipid). PBDE concentrations were significantly elevated in samples representing the 6-11year old age group (GM 65ngg(-1) lipid) relative to ages above 40years, although no difference in concentration was observed between
the sexes. PBDE concentrations in Canadian sera from the general population were higher than reported in Europe and Asia, but a little lower than
observed in the US. PBDE 47 was the greatest contributor to PBDE concentrations and the GM concentration for this congener was 22ngg(-1) lipid.
The other dominant contributors to PBDE concentrations were in descending order: 153 [GM 9.4ngg(-1) lipid]>99 [GM 4.6ngg(-1) lipid]100 [GM
4.1ngg(-1) lipid]>209 [GM 1.1ngg(-1) lipid] and 183 [GM 0.42ngg(-1) lipid]. HBCD was detected in all samples analysed, although most samples
were observed at concentrations <1ngg(-1) lipid, similar to global concentrations. -HBCD was the dominant contributor to HBCD concentrations
in Canadians although - and -HBCD were detected in 23% and 35% of the samples, respectively. No differences in HBCD concentration were
associated with age or sex. This dataset represents the first national data describing HBCD isomers and some PBDEs (e.g., 183, 209) in Canadians.
Obesity February 2014
Prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants and rapid weight gain and overweight in infancy
Valvi D1, Mendez MA, Garcia-Esteban R, Ballester F, Ibarluzea J, Goi F, Grimalt JO, Llop S, Marina LS, Vizcaino E, Sunyer J, Vrijheid M.
Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
Hospital de Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pblica (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/oby.20603/full
To examine the effects of prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) on

rapid growth in the first 6 months of life and overweight at 14 months of age.
The analysis population included 24% rapid growers and 30% overweight infants. DDE
and HCB were positively associated with rapid growth and with overweight. There was
some indication that infant sex and exclusive breastfeeding duration may modify the
effects of DDE, and that maternal prepregnancy BMI status may influence the effects of
HCB. PCBs were not related to postnatal growth.
Prenatal exposure to DDE and HCB may be associated with early postnatal growth. Further research is needed to evaluate the persistence of these associations at older ages.
Paediatric Perinatal Epidemiology January 2014
Brominated flame retardants in breast milk and behavioural and cognitive development at 36 months
Adgent MA1, Hoffman K, Goldman BD, Sjdin A, Daniels JL.
1. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are persistent flame retardants found in the environment, in household dust,
and in humans. Breast feeding is a prominent route of exposure in infancy. PBDEs adversely affect neurodevelopment in
animals. Here, we estimate associations between PBDEs in breast milk and behaviour and cognitive skills in children at 36
months of age.
We prospectively studied 304 mothers and their children. We measured PBDEs in breast milk collected at 3 months postpartum. At 36 months, we measured child behaviour with the parent-rated Behavioral Assessment System for Children 2
(n=192), and cognitive skills with the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (n=184). We analysed data with robust regression.
We detected BDE-28, -47, -99, -100, and -153 in >70% of milk samples. For each congener, the highest quartile of breast milk
PBDE concentration, vs. the lowest, was associated with more anxious behaviour, after confounder adjustment.
Select congeners were associated with increased withdrawal (BDE-28) and improved activity of daily living skills (BDE-153).
Cognitive skills tended to be positively associated with PBDEs, especially language and fine motor skills. However, most
estimates were imprecise.
Here, lactational PBDE exposure was modestly and imprecisely associated with anxiety and withdrawal, but was also associated with improved adaptive and cognitive skills. Positive factors associated with breast feeding may have mitigated some
of the hypothesised adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes associated with PBDEs. Further research is needed to inform
our understanding of PBDE neurotoxicity and how sources of exposure might confound neurodevelopmental studies.
Analytical And Bioanalytical Chemistry November 2013
Multi-residue method for the determination of 57 persistent organic pollutants

in human milk and colostrum using a QuEChERS-based extraction procedure
Luzardo OP1, Ruiz-Surez N, Almeida-Gonzlez M, Henrquez-Hernndez LA, Zumbado M, Boada LD.
Toxicology Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Plaza Dr. Pasteur s/n, 35016, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
operez@dcc.ulpgc.es
Human breast milk represents the best choice for the nutrition of infants. However, in addition to containing beneficial nutrients and antibodies, it can also be considered the best indicator of infant exposure to contaminants.
All the samples tested were positive for at least nine different residues, with some samples containing up to 24
contaminants. Remarkably, the contaminants hexachlorobenzene, p,p-DDE, PCB 138, PCB 180, phenanthrene,
fluoranthene, and pyrene were present in 100 % of the colostrum and mature milk samples analyzed.
Environment International September 2013
Concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in matched samples of indoor dust and breast milk in New Zealand
Coakley JD1, Harrad SJ, Goosey E, Ali N, Dirtu AC, Van den Eede N, Covaci A, Douwes J, Mannetje A.
1. Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
j.d.coakley@massey.ac.nz
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are present in many consumer goods. There is evidence that PBDEs are
toxic to humans, particular young children. The purpose of this study was to assess indoor dust as an exposure
source for PBDEs. Concentrations of 16 PBDEs were determined in dust samples from 33 households in New
Zealand, and in breast milk samples from 33 mothers living in these households. Associations between dust and
breast milk PBDE concentrations were assessed, and childrens PBDE intake from breast milk and dust estimated.
Influences of household and demographic factors on PBDE concentrations in dust were investigated. Indoor dust
concentrations ranged from 0.1ng/g for BDE17 to 2500ng/g for BDE209. Breast milk concentrations were positively correlated (p<0.05) with mattress dust concentrations for BDE47, BDE153, BDE154, and BDE209 and with
floor dust for BDE47, BDE183, BDE206, and BDE209. The correlation for BDE209 between dust and breast milk is
a novel finding. PBDE concentrations in floor dust were lower from households with new carpets. The estimated
childrens daily intake of PBDEs from dust and breast milk was below U.S. EPA Reference Dose values. The study
shows that dust is an important human exposure source for common PBDE formulations in New Zealand.
Accumulation of perfluoroalkyl substances in human tissues

Prez F1, Nadal M, Navarro-Ortega A, Fbrega F, Domingo JL, Barcel D, Farr M.
Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Dept. of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are environmental pollutants with an important bioaccumulation potential. However, their metabolism and distribution in humans are not well studied.
In this study, the concentrations of 21 PFASs were analyzed in 99 samples of autopsy tissues (brain, liver, lung, bone, and kidney) from
subjects who had been living in Tarragona (Catalonia, Spain).
The occurrence of PFASs was confirmed in all human tissues. Although PFASs accumulation followed particular trends depending on
the specific tissue, some similarities were found. In kidney and lung, perfluorobutanoic acid was the most frequent compound, and at
highest concentrations in kidney and lung, respectively. In liver and brain, perfluorohexanoic acid showed the maximum levels, while
perfluorooctanoic acid was the most contributively in bone. Lung tissues accumulated the highest concentration of PFASs. However,
perfluorooctane sulfonic acid and perfluorooctanoic acid were more prevalent in liver and bone, respectively.
To the best of our knowledge, the accumulation of different PFASs in samples of various human tissues from the same subjects is here
reported for the very first time. The current results may be of high importance for the validation of physiologically based pharmacokinetic models, which are being developed for humans. However, further studies on the distribution of the same compounds in the
human body are still required.
Food Additive Contamination Part A Chemistry, Analysis, Control Exposure And Risk Assessment August 2013
Brominated and fluorinated organic pollutants in the breast milk of first-time Irish mothers:
is there a relationship to levels in food?
Pratt I1, Anderson W, Crowley D, Daly S, Evans R, Fernandes A, Fitzgerald M, Geary M, Keane D, Morrison JJ, Reilly A, Tlustos C.
Food Science and Standards Division, Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Dublin 1, Ireland
Brominated flame retardants - polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and others - have been measured in 11 pooled breast milk samples from 109 first-time mothers in Ireland. Additionally,
the study has measured levels of polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PBDD/Fs), mixed halogenated dioxins (PXCC/Fs)
and biphenyls (PXBs), polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) and perfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) in these samples.
The mean sum of 19 PBDEs including BDE-209 was 4.85 ng g(-1) fat, which is comparable with that found in other European countries. BDE-47, BDE-153, BDE-209, BDE-99 and BDE-100 were found at the highest concentrations. The only PBBs detected consistently were BB-77, BB-126 and BB-153, with highest concentrations being found for BB-153 (mean = 0.13 ng g(-1) fat). The mean sum of
HBCD enantiomers was 3.52 ng g(-1) fat, with -HBCD representing over 70% of the total.
The occurrence of the mixed chlorinated/brominated dibenzodioxins, dibenzofurans and biphenyls, 2-B-3,7,8-CDD, 2,3-B-7,8-CDF,
4-B-2,3,7,8-CDF, PXB 105, PXB 118, PXB 126 and PCB 156 in breast milk in the current study may indicate that levels of these contaminants are increasing in the environment.
Polychlorinated naphthalenes were detected in all samples, but not perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and other PFAS. The pattern of
occurrence of these brominated and fluorinated persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in Irish breast milk shows a general relationship
to their occurrence in food, as reported in a number of surveillance studies carried out by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland.
Toxicology In Vitro March 2013
BDE-99 congener induces cell death by apoptosis of human hepatoblastoma cell line - HepG2
Souza AO1, Pereira LC, Oliveira DP, Dorta DJ.
1. Faculdade de Filosofia, Cincias e Letras de Ribeiro Preto, Departamento de Qumica, Universidade de So Paulo
Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP:14040-901, Bairro Monte Alegre, Ribeiro Preto, So Paulo, Brazil
lekasouza@gmail.com
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) are an important class of flame retardants with a wide range of toxic effects
on biotic and abiotic systems. The toxic mechanisms of PBDEs are still not completely understood because there are
several different congeners with different chemical and biological characteristics. BDE-99 is one of these, widely found
in the environment and biological samples, showing evidence of neurotoxic and endocrine disruption activities, but
with little information about its action mechanism described in the current literature. Our results showed that BDE-99
could cause cell death in the higher concentrations, its activity being related to a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential and an accumulation of ROS. It was also shown that BDE-99 induced the exposure of phosphatidylserine, caspases 3 and 9 activation and DNA fragmentation in HepG2 cells, without causing the release of LDH. Thus
it was shown that BDE-99 could cause HepG2 cell death by apoptosis, suggesting its toxicity to the human liver.
Environmental Science Process Impacts February 2013
Determinants of polychlorinated biphenyls in dust from homes in California, USA

Whitehead TP1, Ward MH, Colt JS, Nishioka MG, Buffler PA, Rappaport SM, Metayer C.
School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
toddpwhitehead@berkeley.edu
Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) production ceased in the U.S. over 30 years ago, but these persistent chemicals
remain ubiquitous contaminants.
Here, we evaluate potential determinants of PCB levels in dust from California homes including characteristics of
the residence as well as the residents habits and occupations. Dust was collected from 415 households as part of a
large case-control study (the Northern California Childhood Leukaemia Study), using a high-volume small surface
sampler.
Dust concentrations of 6 PCBs (PCB-105, PCB-118, PCB-138, PCB-153, PCB-170, and PCB-180) were measured using
gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Individual PCB detection rates ranged from 9% to 54% with PCB concentrations ranging from below detection (1
or 2 ng g (-1)) to 270 ng g(-1) and PCB loadings ranging from below detection to 960 ng m (-2).
We observed that residences built prior to 1980 had higher odds of PCB detection and higher PCB loadings than
more recently constructed homes. Households where residents typically did not remove their shoes had higher
PCB dust loadings than households where residents did.
PCBs were less likely to be detected in carpet dust from households that had frequently vacuumed or replaced carpets compared to other households. Since we used a cross-sectional dust sampling protocol and report significant,
but modest, effects of these determinants on levels of PCBs in residential dust, our results should be interpreted
with caution. Longitudinal studies to determine optimal strategies for reducing PCBs in homes are warranted.
Fish intake and breastfeeding time are associated with serum concentrations of organochlorines in a Swedish population
Bjermo H1, Darnerud PO, Lignell S, Pearson M, Rantakokko P, Nlsn C, Enghardt Barbieri H, Kiviranta H, Lindroos AK, Glynn A.
National Food Agency, P.O. Box 622, SE-751 26 Uppsala, Sweden
helena.bjermo@slv.se
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) exert harmful effects on cognitive, endocrine and immune functions and bioaccumulate in
the environment and human tissues. To conclude, the population-distributed approach of surveying dietary habits, lifestyle factors
and POP body burdens, made it possible to identify personal characteristics associated with the POP body burdens in Sweden.
Environmental Health Perspectives December 2012
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in breast milk and neuropsychological development in infants
Gascon M1, Fort M, Martnez D, Carsin AE, Forns J, Grimalt JO, Santa Marina L, Lertxundi N, Sunyer J, Vrijheid M.
Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
mgascon@creal.cat
There is increasing interest in the potential effects of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) on childrens
neuropsychological development, but only a few small studies have evaluated such effects.
Our findings suggest an association between increasing PBDE concentrations in colostrum and a worse infant
mental development, particularly for BDE-209, but require confirmation in larger studies. The association, if
causal, may be due to unmeasured BDE-209 metabolites, including OH-PBDEs (hydroxylated PBDEs), which
are more toxic, more stable, and more likely to cross the placenta and to easily reach the brain than BDE-209.
Environmental Molecular Mutagenesis October 2012
Levels of select PCB and PBDE congeners in human postmortem brain

reveal possible environmental involvement in 15q11-q13 duplication autism spectrum disorder
Mitchell MM1, Woods R, Chi LH, Schmidt RJ, Pessah IN, Kostyniak PJ, LaSalle JM.
1. Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) that bioaccumulate in lipid-rich tissues are of concern as developmental
neurotoxicants. Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation act at the interface of genetic
and environmental factors implicated in autism-spectrum disorders. The relationship between POP
levels and DNA methylation patterns in individuals with and without neurodevelopmental disorders has not been previously investigated. In this study, a total of 107 human frozen postmortem
brain samples were analyzed for eight PCBs and seven PBDEs by GC-micro electron capture detector and GC/MS using negative chemical ionization.
These results demonstrate a novel paradigm by which specific POPs may predispose to genetic
copy number variation of 15q11-q13.
International Journal Of Circumpolar Health August 2012
Breast cancer in the Arcticchanges over the past decades

Fredslund SO1, Bonefeld-Jrgensen EC.
Department of Public Health, Centre of Arctic Health & Unit of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark
The purpose of this study is to review the current literatures on breast cancer (BC) in the Arctic, especially
the trends in incidence during the last decades and the possible explanations.
Studies suggest that environmental contaminants such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) including
perfluorinated compounds increase the risk of BC possibly in conjunction with certain genetic polymorphisms involved in carcinogen activation. The lipophilic POPs such as polychlorinated biphenyls and
organochlorine pesticides are found at very high levels in the Arctic population. Several factors can explain the increasing incidence of BC in the Arctic. The transition in lifestyle and health conditions unfortunately increases the known risk factors of BC. Moreover, the population of the Arctic might show up to
be especially vulnerable because of the contemporary high burden of POPs and genetic susceptibility.
International Journal Of Toxicology July 2012
Evaluation of DNA damage induced by 2 polybrominated diphenyl ether flame retardants (BDE-47 and BDE-209) in SK-N-MC cells
Pellacani C1, Buschini A, Galati S, Mussi F, Franzoni S, Costa LG.
Department of Human Anatomy, Pharmacology, and Forensic Sciences, University of Parma Medical School, Parma, Italy
claudia.pellacani@unipr.it
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of flame retardants whose levels have increased in the environment
and in human tissues in the past decades. Exposure to PBDEs has been associated with developmental neurotoxicity, endocrine dysfunction, and reproductive disorders. In spite of their widespread distribution and potential adverse health
effects, only few studies have addressed the potential neurotoxicity of PBDEs.
In the present study, we evaluated the cyto- and genotoxicity of 2,2,4,4-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) and decabrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-209) in human neuroblastoma cells (SK-N-MC).
In all cases, BDE-47 was more potent than BDE-209. The results indicate that 2 environmentally relevant PBDEs cause DNA
damage which is primarily mediated by the induction of oxidative stress and may contribute to adverse health effects.
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), an emerging drinking water contaminant: a critical review of recent literature
Post GB1, Cohn PD, Cooper KR.
Office of Science, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Trenton, NJ 08625, USA
gloria.post@dep.state.nj.us
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is an anthropogenic contaminant that differs in several ways from most other well-studied organic chemicals found in drinking
water. PFOA is extremely resistant to environmental degradation processes and thus persists indefinitely. Unlike most other persistent and bioaccumulative
organic pollutants, PFOA is water-soluble, does not bind well to soil or sediments, and bioaccumulates in serum rather than in fat. It has been detected in
finished drinking water and drinking water sources impacted by releases from industrial facilities and waste water treatment plants, as well as in waters with
no known point sources. However, the overall occurrence and population exposure from drinking water is not known.
PFOA persists in humans with a half-life of several years and is found in the serum of almost all U.S. residents and in populations worldwide. Exposure sources
include food, food packaging, consumer products, house dust, and drinking water. Continued exposure to even relatively low concentrations in drinking
water can substantially increase total human exposure, with a serum:drinking water ratio of about 100:1. For example, ongoing exposures to drinking water
concentrations of 10 ng/L, 40 ng/L, 100 ng/L, or 400 ng/L are expected to increase mean serum levels by about 25%, 100%, 250%, and 1000%, respectively,
from the general population background serum level of about 4 ng/mL.
Infants are potentially a sensitive subpopulation for PFOAs developmental effects, and their exposure through breast milk from mothers who use contaminated drinking water and/or from formula prepared with contaminated drinking water is higher than in adults exposed to the same drinking water concentration. Numerous health endpoints are associated with human PFOA exposure in the general population, communities with contaminated drinking water,
and workers. Unlike most other well-studied drinking water contaminants, the human dose-response curve for several effects appears to be steepest at the
lower exposure levels, including the general population range, with no apparent threshold for some endpoints. There is concordance in animals and humans
for some effects, while humans and animals appear to react differently for other effects such as lipid metabolism. PFOA was classified as likely to be carcinogenic in humans by the USEPA Science Advisory Board. In animal studies, developmental effects have been identified as more sensitive endpoints for toxicity
than carcinogenicity or the long-established hepatic effects. Notably, exposure to an environmentally relevant drinking water concentration caused adverse
effects on mammary gland development in mice.
This information suggests that continued human exposure to even relatively low concentrations of PFOA in drinking water
results in elevated body burdens that may increase the risk of health effects.
Roczniki Panstwowego Zakladu Higieny July 2012
Indoor dust as a pathway of human exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)

Gralczyk K1, Struciski P, Hernik A, Czaja K, Korcz W, Minorczyk M, Ludwicki JK.
Zakad Toksykologii Srodowiskowej Narodowy Instytut Zdrowia Publicznego--Pastwowy Zakad Higieny, Warszawa
kgoralczyk@pzh.gov.pl
Full text, click Full Text link at top, right of page
The brominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) belong to a class of synthetic, additive brominated flame retardants (BFRs). PBDEs are used to reduce
the flammability of commercial and household products such as textiles, various plastic polymers, furnishing foam, and electronic equipment.
People spend a large percentage of their life-time indoors at home, in offices and cars, etc, providing many opportunities for lengthy exposure to
PBDEs from residential settings and commercial products in an indoor environment. In recent time, the foodstuffs, mainly food of animal origin,
have been indicated as the main pathway of human exposure to PBDEs. However, many studies have shown that the indoor environment, mainly
indoor dust, can be also a significant source of exposure to PBDEs, especially for younger children (toddlers) because of their behavioral patterns,
eg. putting fingers, toys, and other items in their mouth. Numerous studies show that the median intakes of PBDEs via dust for adult range from
1.41 to 277 ng x day(-1) is lower than that via food which range from 135 to 333 ng x day-, while the median intake of these compounds via indoor dust for children range from 101 to 404 ng x day(-1) is much higher than via food: 77-190 ng x day(-1).
The congener pattern observed in the indoor dust is different to that found in food. The indoor dust is dominated by the congener BDE-209 vs.
food where the most dominated congeners are BDE-47 and BDE-99. Human exposure to PBDEs and other brominated flame retardants (BFRs) is
widely widespread throughout the world and it depends on a country range of usage, production and legislation concerning these chemicals as
well as a citizens behavior.
Generally, human exposure has been found higher in North America than in Europe and Asia. Within European countries the significant highest
concentrations in dust have been found in the United Kingdom. It should be noted that many uncertainty factors such as personal habits, dietary
preferences, and time spent in various rooms, cars and outdoors could affect the exposure assessment. In some cases the occupational exposure
is the most important source of PBDEs for adults, for example air crews, car sale employees and disposal/recycling of electronic waste workers.
Human Molecular Genetics June 2012
Long-lived epigenetic interactions between perinatal PBDE exposure and Mecp2308 mutation
Woods R1, Vallero RO, Golub MS, Suarez JK, Ta TA, Yasui DH, Chi LH, Kostyniak PJ, Pessah IN, Berman RF, LaSalle JM.
1. Medical Microbiology and Immunology and Rowe Program in Human Genetics, UC Davis School of Medicine, One Shields Avenue,Davis, CA 95616, USA
The widespread use of persistent organic polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) as commercial flame retardants has
raised concern about potential long-lived effects on human health. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation,
are responsive to environmental influences and have long-lasting consequences. Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs)
have complex neurodevelopmental origins whereby both genetic and environmental factors are implicated. Rett syndrome is an X-linked ASD caused by mutations in the epigenetic factor methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2).
Perinatal BDE-47 exposure negatively impacted fertility of Mecp2(308/+) dams and preweaning weights of females.
Global hypomethylation of adult brain DNA was observed specifically in female offspring perinatally exposed to BDE-47
and it coincided with reduced sociability in a genotype-independent manner. A reversing interaction of Mecp2 genotype on BDE-47 exposure was observed in a short-term memory test of social novelty that corresponded to increased
Dnmt3a levels specifically in BDE-47-exposed Mecp2(308/+) offspring. In contrast, learning and long-term memory in
the Morris water maze was impaired by BDE-47 exposure in female Mecp2(308/+) offspring.
These results demonstrate that a genetic and environmental interaction relevant to social and cognitive behaviors shows
sexual dimorphism, epigenetic dysregulation, compensatory molecular mechanisms and specific behavioral deficits.
Toxicology December 2011
Dose-dependent behavioral disturbances after a single neonatal Bisphenol A dose

Viberg H1, Fredriksson A, Buratovic S, Eriksson P.
Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvgen 18A, SE-75236 Uppsala, Sweden
Henrik.Viberg@ebc.uu.se
Bisphenol A is widely used in polymer products for food and beverage packaging, baby bottles, dental sealants, and fillings, adhesives, protective coatings, flame retardants, water supply pipes, and compact discs, and is
found in the environment and in placental tissue, fetuses and breast milk.
We have recently reported that neonatal exposure to other environmental pollutants can induce persistent aberrations in spontaneous behavior and also affect learning and memory functions in the adult animal. Furthermore, recent reports indicate that pre- and perinatal exposure to Bisphenol A can induce neurotoxic effects.
The present study indicates that a single exposure to Bisphenol A on postnatal day 10 can alter adult spontaneous behavior and cognitive function in mice, effects that are both dose-response related and long-lasting/irreversible.
The present findings show similarities with effects earlier reported after pre- and perinatal exposure to Bisphenol
A, and also with effects seen after a single postnatal exposure to other POPs, such as PBDEs, PCBs and PFCs.
Integrative Environmental Assessment And Managment October 2011
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the environment: terminology, classification, and origins
Buck RC1, Franklin J, Berger U, Conder JM, Cousins IT, de Voogt P, Jensen AA, Kannan K, Mabury SA, van Leeuwen SP.
E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co., Inc., DuPont Chemicals and Fluoroproducts, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
The primary aim of this article is to provide an overview of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) detected in the environment, wildlife, and humans, and recommend clear, specific, and descriptive terminology, names,
and acronyms for PFASs.
We pay particular attention to those PFASs that have the potential to be converted, by abiotic or biotic environmental
processes or by human metabolism, into long-chain perfluoroalkyl carboxylic or sulfonic acids, which are currently the
focus of regulatory action.
The Supplemental Data lists 42 families and subfamilies of PFASs and 268 selected individual compounds, providing
recommended names and acronyms, and structural formulas, as well as Chemical Abstracts Service registry numbers.
Science And The Total Environment June 2011
Disruptive effects of persistent organohalogen contaminants on thyroid function

in white whales (Delphinapterus leucas) from Svalbard
Villanger GD1, Lydersen C, Kovacs KM, Lie E, Skaare JU, Jenssen BM.
1. Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), N-7491 Trondheim, Norway
groand@gmail.com
We analysed levels of 56 organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) including brominated flame retardants, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine pesticides in the blubber of white (beluga) whales (Delphinapterus leucas)
from Svalbard, Norway (N=12; 6 adults [5 males and 1 female] and 6 subadults [4 males and 2 females]) collected in
1996-2001. Although the sample sizes were low and statistical models cannot depict the biological cause-effect relationships, this study suggests negative influences of specific organohalogen contaminants, particularly PBDEs, on thyroid hormone levels in white whales. The impact this might have on individual and population health is unknown.
Environment International May 2011
Characterisation of human exposure pathways to perfluorinated compounds-

comparing exposure estimates with biomarkers of exposure
Haug LS1, Huber S, Becher G, Thomsen C.
Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, NO-0403 Oslo, Norway
line.smastuen.haug@fhi.no
Commercially used per- and polyfluorinated compounds (PFCs) have been widely detected in humans, but the sources of human exposure are not fully characterized.
Individual PFC intakes from multiple exposure sources for a study group of 41 Norwegian women were estimated using measured
PFC concentrations in indoor air and house dust as well as information from food frequency questionnaires and PFC concentrations in
Norwegian food. Food was generally the major exposure source, representing 67-84% of the median total intake for PFOA and 88-99%
for PFOS using different dust ingestion rates and biotransformation factors of precursor compounds.
However, on an individual basis, the indoor environment accounted for up to around 50% of the total intake for several women.
Significant positive associations between concentrations of PFCs in house dust and the corresponding serum concentrations underline the importance of indoor environment as an exposure pathway for PFCs.
For breast-fed infants, breast milk was calculated to be the single most important source to PFCs by far. The estimated intakes were
confirmed by comparing serum concentrations of PFOA and PFOS calculated using PK models, with the corresponding concentrations
measured in serum. Even though food in general is the major source of exposure for PFCs, the indoor environment may be an important contributor to human exposure. This study provides valuable knowledge for risk assessment of PFCs and control strategies.
Levels of persistent organic pollutant and their predictors among young adults
Gallo MV1, Schell LM, DeCaprio AP, Jacobs A.
University at Albany, Center for the Elimination of Minority Health Disparities, A&S 237, Albany, NY, United States
mvgallo@albany.edu
Exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (p,p-DDE), and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) continues to be of concern due to their ubiquitous distribution and high persistence. Current toxicant body burden is still a
primary concern within the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation since other studies conducted within the community have shown relationships between
these POPs and endocrine disruption.
In this article we describe the levels of these toxicants in young adults of the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation between the ages of 17 and 21 years of
age (mean age 18.1 years), and investigate potential influences of their current body burden. Seventeen congeners in fourteen chromatographic
peaks were detected in 50% or more of the individuals sampled (geometric mean [GM] of the sum of these congeners=0.43 ppb).
Congeners 118, 138[+163+164] and 153 had the highest rate of detection (98%) within the Akwesasne young adults.
Of the other organochlorines, HCB (GM=0.04 ppb) and p,p-DDE (GM=0.38 ppb) were found in 100% and 99% of the sample respectively.
Significantly higher levels of PCBs were found among individuals who were breastfed as infants, were first born, or had consumed local fish within
the past year. When compared to levels of p,p-DDE, HCB, and 13 specific congeners reported by the CDC for youth between the ages of 12 and 19
years, the geometric means of several congeners (CBs 99, 105, 110, and 118) among the Akwesasne were higher than the reported CDC 90th percentile. In contrast, levels of CB 28 in Akwesasne young adults were ~50% or less than those of the CDC cohort. p,p-DDE and HCB levels were generally higher in the CDC cohort (GM of 0.516 and 0.065 ppb, respectively for Mohawks vs. 2.51 and 0.123, respectively, for CDC). Concentrations of
non-persistent PCBs among this sample of Akwesasne young adults were higher than those reported by the CDC suggesting continued exposure,
but lower than those associated with severe contamination.
Environment International April 2011
Effects of pre and postnatal exposure to low levels of polybromodiphenyl ethers

on neurodevelopment and thyroid hormone levels at 4 years of age
Gascon M1, Vrijheid M, Martnez D, Forns J, Grimalt JO, Torrent M, Sunyer J.
Center for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
mgascon@creal.cat
There are at present very few studies of the effects of polybromodiphenyl ethers (PBDEs), used as flame
retardants in consumer products, on neurodevelopment or thyroid hormone levels in humans. The
present study aims to examine the association between pre and postnatal PBDE concentrations and
neurodevelopment and thyroid hormone levels in children at age 4-years and isolate the effects of PBDEs from those of PCBs, DDT, DDE and HCB.
Among all congeners analyzed only PBDE 47 was quantified in a reasonable number of samples. Scores
for cognitive and motor functions were always lower in children pre and postnatally exposed to PBDE47
than in referents, but none of these associations was statistically significant ( coefficient (95%CI) of the
total cognition score: -2.7 (-7.0, 1.6) for postnatal exposure, and -1.4 (-9.2, 6.5) for prenatal exposure).
Postnatal exposure to PBDE 47 was statistically significantly related to an increased risk of symptoms
on the attention deficit subscale of ADHD symptoms (RR (95%CI)=1.8 (1.0, 3.2)) but not to hyperactivity
symptoms.
A statistically significant higher risk of poor social competence symptoms was observed as a consequence of postnatal PBDE 47 exposure (RR (95%CI)=2.6 (1.2, 5.9)).
This study highlights the importance of assessing the effects of PBDE exposure not just prenatally but
also during the early years of life. In the light of current evidence a precautionary approach towards
PBDE exposure of both mothers and children seems warranted.
Journal Of Exposure Science And Environmental Epidemiology March 2011
Determinants of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon levels in house dust

Whitehead T1, Metayer C, Gunier RB, Ward MH, Nishioka MG, Buffler P, Rappaport SM.
School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
toddpwhitehead@berkeley.edu
Estimation of human exposures to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is often desired for the epidemiological
studies of cancer. One way to obtain information about indoor levels of PAHs is to measure these chemicals in house
dust.
In this study, we evaluated the predictive value of self-reported and geographic data for estimating measured levels
of nine PAHs in house dust from 583 households in the Northern California Childhood Leukemia Study (NCCLS).
House dust was collected from 2001 to 2007, using both high-volume surface samplers and household vacuum
cleaners, and was analyzed for nine PAHs using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
All nine PAHs were detected in more than 93% of dust samples, with median concentrations ranging from 14 to
94ng/g dust.
Statistically significant effects on PAH concentrations in house dust were found for gas heating, outdoor PAH concentrations, and residence age. Yet, the optimal regression model only explained 15% of the variation in PAH levels in
house dust. As self-reported data and outdoor PAH sources were only marginally predictive of observed PAH levels,
we recommend that PAH concentrations be measured directly in dust samples for use in epidemiological studies.
Chemosphere February 2011
Associations of fat mass and lean mass with bone mineral density differ by levels of persistent organic pollutants:
National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2004
Cho MR1, Shin JY, Hwang JH, Jacobs DR Jr, Kim SY, Lee DH.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), xenobiotics that accumulate in fat tissue, may impair bone metabolism.
We studied (1) the association of bone mineral density (BMD) with POPs and (2) whether associations of fat mass (FM) or lean mass (LM),
two components of body composition, with BMD differed depending on levels of POPs. Participants aged 20 in the National Health
and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2004 were included (n=2769). Eight POPs with detection rate 80% and three skeletal subregions (left arm, pelvis, and right leg) were selected. All analyses were stratified by gender and age (cutpoint 50 years or more). POPs at
background concentrations were mostly unassociated with BMD. However, the associations of FM and LM with BMD depended on POPs
concentrations, in particular with BMD of the left arm (usually not weight-bearing) in postmenopausal women.
When Persistent organic pollutant concentrations were low, fat mass showed inverse associations with bone mineral density while lean
mass showed positive associations. However, when Persistent organic pollutant levels were high, fat mass showed positive associations
with bone mineral density while the positive associations between lean mass and bone mineral density weakened. Persistent organic pollutants may biologically modify the associations of fat mass and lean mass with bone mineral density, especially among postmenopausal
women, possibly explaining inconsistent associations between fat mass and bone mineral density in previous epidemiological studies.
High concentrations of polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) in breast adipose tissue of California women
Petreas M1, Nelson D, Brown FR, Goldberg D, Hurley S, Reynolds P.
Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, California Department of Toxic Substances Control, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA
mpetreas@dtsc.ca.gov
We measured major PBDEs and PCBs in breast adipose tissues of California women participating in a breast cancer
study in the late 1990s. Samples were analyzed using gas chromatography with electron impact ionization and tandem mass spectrometry detection. The congener profile observed was:
BDE47>BDE99>BDE153>BDE100>BDE154 and PCB153>PCB180>PCB138>PCB118.
Whereas high correlations were observed within each chemical class, very weak correlations appeared between
classes, pointing to different exposure pathways. Weak negative associations were observed for PBDE congeners
and age.
Our PBDE data are among the highest reported, exceeding data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination
Survey and consistent with the high use of PBDEs in California. These data may be helpful in establishing a baseline
for PBDE body burdens to gauge changes over time as a result of restrictions in the use of PBDE formulations.
Environmental Health January 2011
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in relation to autism and developmental delay: a case-control study
Hertz-Picciotto I1, Bergman A, Fngstrm B, Rose M, Krakowiak P, Pessah I, Hansen R, Bennett DH.
1. Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, MS1C, One Shields Ave., Davis, California, USA
ihp@ucdavis.edu
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardants used widely and in increasing amounts in the U.S.
over the last few decades. PBDEs and their metabolites cross the placenta and studies in rodents demonstrate
neurodevelopmental toxicity from prenatal exposures. PBDE exposures occur both via breastfeeding and hand-tomouth activities in small children.
Participants were 100 children from the CHARGE (CHildhood Autism Risk from Genetics and the Environment) Study,
a case-control epidemiologic investigation of children with autism/autism spectrum disorder, with developmental
delay and from the general population. Diagnoses of autism were confirmed by the Autism Diagnostic Observation
Schedule and Autism Diagnostic Inventory-Revised, and of developmental delay using the Mullens Scales of Early
Learning and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales.
Plasma samples collected post-diagnosis in this study may not represent early life exposures due to changes in diet
and introduction of new household products containing PBDEs. Studies with direct measurements of prenatal or
infant exposures are needed to assess the possible causal role for these compounds in autism spectrum disorders.
Environmental Toxicology And Chemistry October 2010
Dietary intake of persistent organic pollutants and potential health risks via consumption of global aquatic products
Yu HY1, Guo Y, Zeng EY.
State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
The concentration levels of typical persistent organic pollutants such as polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans
(PCDD/Fs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) including dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs) and non-dioxin-like PCBs, organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in global aquatic products from major producing countries were summarized.
Daily intakes of these compounds via consumption of various aquatic products for global consumers were also estimated based on
available literature data.
[D]ioxin intake via marine fish may cause hazards to human health, especially for Europeans. Regarding PCBs, there is cancer risk
for global consumers via consumption of aquatic products, especially marine fish, based on cancer and noncancer hazard ratio assessment.
Generally, European consumers have higher exposure levels of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs, while Americans and Asians have relatively
higher exposure levels of OCPs and PCBs. In contrast, all global populations are found to have lower exposure levels of PBDEs, which
may be attributed to its relatively shorter history of use compared with PCBs and OCPs. Finally, the estimated total amounts of PCBs,
OCPs, and PBDEs stored in global aquatic products constitute only a small portion of the total amount that has been used, and the
majority obviously occurs in other environmental media [food animals] or even remains in commercial products [processed food].
Maturitas July 2010
Exposure to environmental endocrine disrupting compounds and mens health

By J.D. Meeker
Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
meekerj@umich.edu
Human exposure to environmental endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) have received increased attention in recent
years due to the documentation of widespread exposure to a number of EDCs among the general population, experimental data demonstrating endocrine-related effects on reproduction, development, metabolism, and cancer, and observations for increasing trends (as well as geographic trends) in endocrine-related disorders among populations.
However, human studies of exposure to most environmental EDCs in relation to adverse health outcomes remain limited.
This review focuses on the human data generated to date on the relationship between exposures to environmental EDCs
and mens health. The agents discussed here, which include polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides, phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), were chosen based on their exposure prevalence and the
presence of existing human data in studies of male reproductive health, altered reproductive and thyroid hormone levels,
diabetes and/or metabolic syndrome, and endocrine-related cancers.
Taken together, the epidemiologic data on the environmental EDCs suggest that there may be associations between exposure and adverse health outcomes in men.
However, the limited human data, and in many instances inconsistent data across studies, highlight the need for further research on these chemicals. Future longitudinal molecular epidemiology studies with appropriately designed exposure assessments are needed to determine potential causal relationships, to identify the most important time windows/life stages
of exposure, and to define individual susceptibility factors for adverse effects on mens health in response to exposure.
Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig July 2010
Organohalogen compounds--new and old hazards for people

Gralczyk K1, Hernik A, Czaja K, Struciski P, Korcz W, Snopczyski T, Ludwicki JK.
Zakad Toksykologii Srodowiskowej, Narodowy Instytut Zdrowia Publicznego-Pastwowy Zakad Higieny, Warszawa
kgoralczyk@pzh.gov.pl
Full text link, top, right corner
The organohalogen compounds (OCs, PCBs, PBDEs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that have a
widespread distribution in the environment. Their chemico-physical stability and lipophylic properties
are responsible for their accumulation in the human body. The general human population is exposed to
PCBs and OCs through foodstuffs, mainly food of animal origin. However the main source of the human
exposure to PBDEs are also food and inhalation of dust or respirable phase of the indoor air The POPs
from this group are present on different levels in human tissues (fat tissue, liver; placenta), and even in
human blood and breast milk. The organohalogen compounds may cause endocrine disrupting (ED)
effects as they have been shown to interact as antagonists or agonists with androgen, progesterone,
and estrogen receptors. Most of them shows antiandrogenic, estrogenic and antiestrogenic activity.
Physiology And Behavior June 2010
Mini-review: polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants as potential autism risk factors
By A. Messer
Wadsworth Center, NY State Department of Health, 120 New Scotland Ave., Albany, NY 12208, United States
messer@wadsworth.org
Brominated flame retardants, including Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been used at increasing levels in home furnishings and electronics over the past 25 years. They have also become widespread
environmental pollutants. High PBDE levels have been detected in food, household dust, and indoor air, with
subsequent appearance in animal and human tissues. This minireview summarizes studies on the extent to
which these compounds can act as potent thyroid hormone mimetics, and emerging studies on long-term
neurological effects of acute administration of PBDEs during development.
When these data are considered in combination with the extensive literature on stage-dependent effects of
thyroid hormone on aspects of brain development that are also implicated in autistic brains, a hypothesis
that PBDEs might also serve as autism risk factors emerges.
Studies designed to explicitly test this hypothesis will require chronic exposure paradigms, and specific
body burden and behavioral monitoring in animal models. Such testing may help to prioritize extensive human epidemiological studies, as well as offer protocols for evaluation of future compounds.
Przeglad Lekarski June 2010
Neurodevelopmental disorders in response to hormonally active environmental pollutants

Kajta M1, Wjtowicz A.
1. Zakad Neuroendokrynologii Dowiadczalnej, Instytut Farmakologii Polskiej Akademii Nauk w Krakowie
kajta@if-pan.krakow.pl
In recent years, the major concern has been focused on persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which are present in ecosphere in increasing concentrations, especially since 1950s. Among of these pollutants are dioxins and
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) released during vast burning and plastics
processing, as well as pesticides which were industrial chemicals intensively
produced for many years.
In last decade, dioxins together with PCBs and pesticides have been classified
as endocrine disrupting chemicals, because they are able to alter hormonedependent processes and disrupt functioning of endocrine glands, e.g. thyroid and gonads. Furthermore, these pollutants have been included in neural
disrupting chemicals due to their ability of altering neural transmission and
formation of neural networks. Since POPs may persist in the environment for
dozens of years, an exposure to these organic pollutants creates a serious issue for environmental toxicologists. POP intoxication creates severe clinical
problems, which became evident in dramatic circumstances, e.g. Yusho incident in Japan, Yu-Cheng incident in Tajwan, Michigan Lake poisoning. Clinical problems have been recognized as disruption of thyroid and gonadal
functions, immunodeficiency as well as psychomotor deficits and increased
occurrence of hormone-dependent cancers. Thus, knowledge on POP effects
on human nervous system has been related mainly to toxic effects of these
organic pollutants. Little is known, however, about the action of very low, so
called background, doses of POPs and their effects on hormonal homeostasis in developing brain. It is of particular importance, because doses which
are low for adults might become toxic for fetuses, infants or children.
Recently, the public concern has been focused on POP effects on brain
function, concomitantly with the increase in neuropsychiatric disorders,
including autism, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as
well as learning disabilities. Although some of epidemiological data are
controversial, most of them point to adverse effects of prenatal exposure
to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) on cognitive function and, in general, mental development
of infants and children. Studies on prenatal exposure to pesticides demonstrated increased incidence of autism and ADHD as well as deficits
in psychomotor and visio-spatial skills, which were observed in infants
and 8 years old children, respectively. Psychomotor deficits were also
indicated in 6 months old infants exposed prenatally to polychlorinated
dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDD) and in 1-6 year old children affected prenatally
by polybrominated difenyl ethers (PBDE). Recent data also demonstrate
the strong correlation between exposure to bisphenol A at early pregnancy and increased locomotor activity and aggressiveness of children.
Our knowledge on POP effects on human nervous system seems rather extensive, but is related mainly to toxic effects of these organic pollutants. Little is known, however, about the action of very low doses of
POPs and their effects on hormonal homeostasis in developing brain.
Therefore, the role of scientists and clinicians is to recognize the mechanisms of POP action, especially in respect to prenatal and early postnatal
period when the nervous system develops and is particularly sensitive to
hormonally active chemicals present in the environment.
Prenatal exposure to PBDEs and neurodevelopment

Herbstman JB1, Sjdin A, Kurzon M, Lederman SA, Jones RS, Rauh V, Needham LL, Tang D, Niedzwiecki M, Wang RY, Perera F.
1. Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, Columbia Center for Childrens Environmental Health, New York, New York 10032, USA
jh2678@columbia.edu
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely used flame retardant compounds that are persistent
and bioaccumulative and therefore have become ubiquitous environment contaminants. Animal studies
suggest that prenatal PBDE exposure may result in adverse neurodevelopmental effects. This epidemiologic study demonstrates neurodevelopmental effects in relation to cord blood PBDE concentrations.
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) and Hexabromocyclodecane (HBCD) in Composite U.S. Food Samples
Arnold Schecter,1 Darrah Haffner,2 Justin Colacino,3 Keyur Patel,1 Olaf Ppke,4 Matthias Opel,4 and Linda Birnbaum5
1. University of Texas School of Public Health, Dallas, Texas, USA
2. University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, Texas, USA
3. University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
4. Eurofins, Hamburg, Germany
5. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
ude.nretsewhtuostu@retcehcs.dlonra
O.P. and M.O. are both employed by Eurofins, Hamburg, Germany, an analytical laboratory that analyzes PBDEs, HBCD, and other chemicals.
This study was designed to update previous U.S. market basket surveys of levels and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) dietary intake calculations. This study also quantifies hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) levels in U.S.-purchased foods for the first time and estimates U.S. dietary
intake of HBCD. This is part of a larger market basket study reported in two companion articles, of current levels of certain persistent organic
pollutants (POPs) PBDEs, HBCD, perfluorinated compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls, and pesticides in composite food samples collected in
20082009.
Total PBDE concentrations in food varied by food type, ranging from 12 pg/g wet weight (ww) in whole milk to 1,545 pg/g ww in canned sardines
and 6,211 pg/g ww in butter.
Total HBCD concentrations also varied substantially within and among food groups, ranging from 23 pg/g in canned beef chili to 593 pg/g in
canned sardines. HBCD was not detected in any dairy samples.
Dietary intake of all PBDE congeners measured was estimated to be 50 ng/day, mostly from dairy consumption but also from meat and fish.
HBCD intake was estimated at 16 ng/day, primarily from meat consumption.
PBDEs and HBCDs currently contaminate some food purchased in the United States, although PBDE intake estimated in this study is lower than
reported in our previous market basket surveys. HBCD is in food at higher levels than expected based on previously reported levels in milk and
blood compared with PBDE levels and is comparable to European levels.
Zhonghua Yu Fang Yi Xue Za Zhi March 2010
The levels of dioxin in 60 human breast milk samples and the exposure risk factor analysis in Shenzhen
Deng B1, Zhang JQ, Zhang LS, Jiang YS, Zhou J.
POPs Lab, Shenzhen Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Shenzhen 518020, China
To investigate the levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-furans (PCDD-Fs) in human
breast milk of the mothers who lived in non-directly persistent organic pollutants (POPs) polluted area in Shenzhen, and the
correlation of exposure risk factor was analyzed.
The levels of dioxin chemicals in the breast milk samples in non-directly POPs polluted areas of Shenzhen are high. Significant
positive correlations were found among age, inhabitation period, the consumption of fish and the concentration of PCDD-Fs.
Journal Of Proteome Research January 2010
In Vitro Neurotoxicity of PBDE-99: Immediate and Concentration-Dependent Effects on Protein Expression in Cerebral Cortex Cells
Henrik Alm, Birger Scholz, Kim Kultima, Anna Nilsson, Per E. Andrn, Mikhail M. Savitski, ke Bergman, Michael Stigson, sa Fex-Svenningsen and Lennart Dencker
Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Toxicology, Uppsala University, Sweden
Laboratory for Biological and Medical Mass Spectrometry, Uppsala University, Sweden
Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Sweden Department of Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Sweden
Institute of Medical Biology, Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/pr900723c
Pre- and postnatal exposure to congeners of Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) disrupts normal
brain development in rodents. Here, 2D-DIGE is used to look for changes in protein abundance in cultured
cerebral cortex cells after exposure to various PBDE-99 concentrations. Low-dose PBDE-99 exposure induced marked effects on cytoskeletal proteins, which was not correlated to cytotoxicity or major morphological effects, suggesting that other more regulatory aspects of cytoskeletal functions may be affected.
Reviews In Environmental Contamination And Toxicology January 2010
Chemicals of emerging concern in the Great Lakes Basin: an analysis of environmental exposures
Klecka G1, Persoon C, Currie R.
The Dow Chemical Company, Midland, MI, USA
gmklecka@dow.com
This review and statistical analysis was conducted to better understand the nature and significance of environmental exposures in the Great Lakes Basin and watershed to a
variety of environmental contaminants. These contaminants of interest included current-use pesticides, pharmaceuticals, organic wastewater contaminants, alkylphenol ethoxylates, perfluorinated surfactants, flame retardants, and chlorinated paraffins. The available literature was critically reviewed and used to develop a database containing 19,611
residue values for 326 substances.
Based on the findings and conclusions of the expert consultation, it is apparent that a wide variety of chemicals of emerging concern have been detected in environmental
media (air, water, sediment, biota) from the Great Lakes Basin, although many are present at only trace levels. Although the presence of these contaminants raises concerns in
the public and among the scientific community, the findings must be placed in context. Significant scientific interpretation is required to understand the extent to which these
chemicals may pose a threat to the ecosystem and to human health.
The concentrations found in surface waters for many of the pesticides are below current regulatory criteria. However, the concentrations of certain pesticides exceeded current
criteria in 6-32% of the samples analyzed. Detectable concentrations of pharmaceutical compounds were present in 34% of the surface water samples. Various prescription
and non-prescription drugs were detected, most frequently at locations that were proximate to the point of discharge from wastewater treatment plants or agricultural operations. At present, there are no standards, guidelines, or criteria with which to compare these contaminant concentrations. Concentrations of alkylphenol ethoxylates and their
metabolites have been well studied.
Current evidence suggests that the concentrations of some brominated flame retardants are trending downward, while the concentrations of others appear to be increasing.
Regulatory criteria are not available for many of the chemicals of emerging concern that were detected in the Great Lakes Basin. When criteria do exist, it is important to recognize that they were developed based on the best available science at the time. As the science evolves, regulatory criteria must be reassessed in light of new findings (e.g.,
consideration of new endpoints and mechanisms of action).
Further, there are significant scientific gaps in our ability to interpret environmental monitoring data, including the need for: (a) improving the understanding of the effects of
mixtures, (b) information on use of, and the commercial life cycle of chemicals and products that contain them, (c) information on source contributions and exposure pathways,
and (d) the need for thoughtful additional regulatory,environmental, and health criteria.
Discharges from wastewater treatment plants were identified as an important source of contaminants to surface waters in the Great Lakes Basin. Combined sewer overflows
and agricultural operations were also found to be important contributors to concentrations in surface waters. Concentrations of many of the chemicals were generally the highest in the vicinity of these sources, decline with increasing distance from sources, and were generally low or non-detectable in the open waters of the Great Lakes.
Prenatal exposure to organohalogens, including brominated flame retardants,

influences motor, cognitive, and behavioral performance at school age
Roze E1, Meijer L, Bakker A, Van Braeckel KN, Sauer PJ, Bos AF.
Division of Neonatology, Beatrix Childrens Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands
e.roze@bkk.umcg.nl
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2799472
Organohalogen compounds (OHCs) are known to have neurotoxic effects on the developing brain. We investigated the influence of prenatal exposure to OHCs, including brominated flame retardants, on motor, cognitive, and behavioral outcome
in healthy children of school age.
Brominated flame retardants correlated with worse fine manipulative abilities, worse attention, better coordination, better
visual perception, and better behavior. Chlorinated OHCs correlated with less choreiform dyskinesia. Hydroxylated polychlorinated biphenyls correlated with worse fine manipulative abilities, better attention, and better visual perception. The
wood protective agent (PCP) correlated with worse coordination, less sensory integrity, worse attention, and worse visuomotor integration.
Our results demonstrate for the first time that transplacental transfer of polybrominated flame retardants is associated with
the development of children at school age. Because of the widespread use of these compounds, especially in the United
States, where concentrations in the environment are four times higher than in Europe, these results cause serious concern.
Reviews In Environmental Contamination Toxicology August 2009
Monitoring and reducing exposure of infants to pollutants in house dust

Roberts JW1, Wallace LA, Camann DE, Dickey P, Gilbert SG, Lewis RG, Takaro TK.
US Environmental Protection Agency, Reston, VA 22091, USA
The health risks to babies from pollutants in house dust may be 100 times
greater than for adults.
The young ingest more dust and are
up to ten times more vulnerable to
such exposures.
House dust is the main exposure
source for infants to allergens, lead,
and PBDEs, as well as a major source
of exposure to pesticides, PAHs, Gramnegative bacteria, arsenic, cadmium,
chromium, phthalates, phenols, and
other EDCs, mutagens, and carcinogens.
Median or upper percentile concentrations in house dust of lead and
several pesticides and PAHs may exceed health-based standards in North
America.
Early contact with pollutants among

the very young is associated with
higher rates of chronic illness such as
asthma, loss of intelligence, ADHD,
and cancer in children and adults. The
potential of infants, who live in areas
with soil contaminated by automotive and industrial emissions, can be
given more protection by improved
home cleaning and hand washing.
Babies who live in houses built before 1978 have a prospective need for
protection against lead exposures;
homes built before 1940 have even
higher lead exposure risks.
The concentration of pollutants in
house dust may be 2-32 times higher than that found in the soil near a
house. Reducing infant exposures, at
this critical time in their development,
may reduce lifetime health costs, improve early learning, and increase
adult productivity.
Some interventions show a very rapid

payback. Two large studies provide
evidence that home visits to reduce
the exposure of children with poorly
controlled asthma triggers may return more than 100% on investment
in 1-year in reduced health costs.
The tools provided to families during
home visits, designed to reduce dust
exposures, included vacuum cleaners with dirt finders and HEPA filtration, allergy control bedding covers,
high-quality door mats, and HEPA air
filters.
Infants receive their highest exposure
to pollutants in dust at home, where
they spend the most time, and where
the family has the most mitigation
control.
Normal vacuum cleaning allows deep
dust to build up in carpets where it
can be brought to the surface and be-
come airborne as a result of activity on

the carpet. Vacuums with dirt finders
allow families to use the three-spot
test to monitor deep dust, which can
reinforce good cleaning habits.
Motivated families that receive home
visits from trained outreach workers can monitor and reduce dust exposures by 90% or more in 1 wk. The
cost of such visits is low considering
the reduction of risks achieved. Improved home cleaning is one of the
first results observed among families
who receive home visits from MHEs
and CHWs. We believe that proven intervention methods can reduce the
exposure of infants to pollutants in
house dust, while recognizing that
much remains to be learned about
improving the effectiveness of such
methods.
International Journal Of Developments In Neuroscience August 2009
Neonatal ontogeny and neurotoxic effect of decabrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE 209) on levels of synaptophysin and tau
By H. Viberg
Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvgen 18A, S-75236 Uppsala, Sweden
Mice and rats have a period of rapid growth and development that occurs postnatally, while in humans the corresponding period is
perinatal. This gives us the opportunity to study direct effects of chemicals during developmental processes of the central nervous
system (CNS) in murine animals.
A recent study shows that neonatal PBDE 209-exposure can affect levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), and GAP-43
(growth associated protein 43), which are proteins that are important for normal brain development.
The present study shows that PBDE 209 affects the level of synaptophysin in the developing brain, which further supports the recent
findings that PBDE 209 can disturb components of normal brain maturation and act as a developmental neurotoxicological agent.
Environmental Health Perspectives April 2009
Persistent Organic Pollutant Residues in Human Fetal Liver and Placenta from Greater Montreal, Quebec:
A Longitudinal Study from 1998 through 2006
Jose Doucet,1 Brett Tague,1 Douglas L. Arnold,1 Gerard M. Cooke,1 Stephen Hayward,1 and Cynthia G. Goodyer2
1. Health Canada, Health Products and Food Branch, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada;
2. McGill University Health CentreMontreal Childrens Hospital Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
E-mail: ac.lligcm.chum@reydoog.ydnic
There is general concern that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) found in the environment, wildlife, food, water, house
dust, human tissues, and fluids may alter normal human physiologic activities (e.g., fetal development, immune and endocrine systems). Although the levels of some POPs [polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides
(OCs)] in these matrices have decreased after their ban, others [polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)] have increased
in recent years.
Although commercial production of penta- and octa-brominated diphenyl ethers in North America was halted in 2004,
their concentrations in fetal liver and placenta are now greater than the tissue burdens for the analyzed OCs and PCBs. Our
findings also demonstrate that PBDEs accumulate within the fetal compartment at a very early stage in gestation.
International Journal Of Hygiene And Environmental Health March 2009
Human internal and external exposure to PBDEsa review of levels and sources
Frederiksen M1, Vorkamp K, Thomsen M, Knudsen LE.
1. Institute of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, ster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
mafr@dmu.dk
This paper reviews the existing literature on human exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), with particular focus on external exposure routes (e.g. dust, diet, and air) and the resulting internal exposure to PBDEs (e.g. breast milk and blood). Being lipophilic and
persistent organic compounds, PBDEs accumulate in lipid-rich tissues. Consequently, food items like fish from high trophic levels or lipidrich oils have been found to contain relatively high concentrations of PBDEs, thus presenting an important exposure pathway to humans.
The presence of PBDEs in various products of everyday use may lead to some additional exposure in the home environment. Dust seem
to be an aggregate of the indoor source, and the ingestion of dust conveys the highest intake of BDE-209 of all sources, possibly also of
other PBDE congeners. The PBDE exposure through dust is significant for toddlers who ingest more dust than adults. Infants are also exposed to PBDEs via breast milk. Internal human exposure has generally been found to be one order of magnitude larger in North America
than in Europe and Asia. These differences cannot solely be explained by the dietary intake as meat products are the only food group
where some differences has been observed. However, indoor air and dust concentrations have been found to be approximately one order of magnitude higher in North America than in Europe, possibly a result of different fire safety standards. Within Europe, higher PBDE
concentrations in dust were found in the UK than in continental Europe. Recent studies have shown that BDE-209 also accumulates in
humans. A shift in congener composition from maternal to umbilical cord blood has been observed in several cases. A shift has also been
observed for BDE-209, which is present in larger ratios in umbilical cord blood and in particular in placenta than in maternal blood.
Flame retardants in the atmosphere near the Great Lakes

Venier M1, Hites RA.
1. School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
As part of the Integrated Atmospheric Deposition Network (IADN), air samples were collected
at five sites around the Great Lakes (two urban, two rural, and one remote) every 12 days
during 2005-2006, and the concentrations of polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs), 1,2bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)-ethane (TBE), Dechlorane Plus (DP), and decabromodiphenyl
ethane (DBD PE) were measured. TBE, DBDPE and DP were detected at all sites, but with the
exception of Chicago, there were insufficient data to determine temporal trends for these
compounds. The influence of human population density and synoptic atmospheric transport
patterns was explored to explain the relatively high concentrations of BDE-209 in Cleveland.
Environmental Science And Pollution Research International July 2008
Dioxin- and POP-contaminated sitescontemporary and future relevance and challenges:

overview on background, aims and scope of the series
Weber R1, Gaus C, Tysklind M, Johnston P, Forter M, Hollert H, Heinisch E, Holoubek I, Lloyd-Smith M, Masunaga S, Moccarelli P, Santillo D, Seike N,
Symons R, Torres JP, Verta M, Varbelow G, Vijgen J, Watson A, Costner P, Woelz J, Wycisk P, Zennegg M.
1. POPs Environmental Consulting, Ulmenstrasse 3, 73035 Gppingen, Germany
roland.weber10@web.de
Once they have been generated, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and other persistent organic pollutants (POPs)
can persist in soils and sediments and in waste repositories for periods extending from decades to centuries.
In 1994, the US EPA concluded that contaminated sites and other reservoirs are likely to become the major source of contemporary pollution problems
with these substances.
This article provides a systematic categorisation of types of PCDD/F and POP-contaminated sites. In particular, the production of chlorinated pesticides,
PCBs and the related contaminated waste streams are identified being responsible for historical releases of toxic equivalents (TEQs) at a scale of many
tonnes. Along with such releases, major PCDD/F contaminated sites have been created through the application or improper disposal of contaminated
pesticides, PCBs and other organochlorine chemicals, as well through the recycling of wastes and their attempted destruction. In some extreme examples,
PCDD/F contaminated sites have also resulted from thermal processes such as waste incinerators, secondary metal industries or from the recycling or deposition of specific waste (e.g. electronic waste or car shredder wastes), which often contain chlorinated or brominated organic chemicals. The examples
of PCDD/F and dioxin-like PCB contamination of fish in European rivers or the impact of contaminated sites upon fishing grounds and upon other food
resources demonstrate the relevance of these historical problems to current and future human generations. Many of the recent food contamination problems that have emerged in Europe and elsewhere demonstrate how PCDD/F and dioxin like PCBs from historical sources can directly contaminate human
and animal feedstuffs and indeed highlight their considerable contemporary relevance in this respect.
At an increasing number of contaminated sites, securing measures are failing after relatively short time spans compared to the time horizon, which applies
to persistent organic pollutant contamination. Due to the immense costs and challenges associated with remediation of contaminated sites monitored
natural attenuation is increasingly gaining purchase as a conceptual remediation approach. However, these concepts may well prove limited in their practical application to contaminated sites containing persistent organic pollutants and other key pollutants like heavy metals.
New Thinking on Flame Retardants

By Kellyn S. Betts
Kellyn S. Betts writes about environmental contaminants, hazards, and technology
for solving environmental problems for publications including EHP and Environmental Science & Technology
No one wants their bed, couch, chair, computer, or TV
to catch on fire. If an ordinary upholstered chair in
your home gets ignited, it can essentially take your
whole house down, says Richard Gann, a senior research scientist at the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technologys (NIST) Building and Fire Research Laboratory. The most flammable part of a
mattress or couch is its plastic polyurethane foam
cushioning, he explains. Once a fire gets through a
chair or mattresss fabric covering and into this cushioning, it can start a catastrophic reaction that quickly
leads to flashover, in which nearly everything combustible inside a room ignites simultaneously.
Until very recently, brominated flame retardants, especially polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs),
were one of the main materials used to reduce the
speed with which the plastic components of consumer goods including beds, couches, chairs, and electronics could be consumed by fire. However, growing
evidence shows that PBDE compounds are escaping
from the products they protect and making their way
into the products users. Moreover, the chemicals may
disrupt human thyroid hormone functioning and
cause other health effects, prompting many nations
to ban or suspend their use in new consumer goods.
[For more information on the health effects of PBDEs,
see Unwelcome Guest: PBDEs in Indoor Dust, p. A202
this issue.]
Although bromine- and chlorine-containing flame

retardants are still used in some products, the need
for new alternatives is being driven by a confluence of
policy, standards, and pressure from environmental
groups. Europe banned the use of two formulations,
PBDE pentaBDE and octaBDE, in 2004, the same year
they were withdrawn from the North American market. A third compound, decaBDE, was banned 1 April
2008 by the European Court of Justice. Stateside,
Maine has banned the use of decaBDE, the only PBDE
still on the market in North America, in mattresses
and residential upholstered furniture produced and
sold in that state, and will extend the ban to electronics in 2010. Washington prohibits the use of decaBDE
in mattresses and sets a process for a future ban in
furniture and electronics if the state can identify a
safer and feasible alternative that meets fire safety
standards. Asian countries and other U.S. states have
similar legislation in the works.
Instead of adding new fire retardant chemicals that

ultimately may be shown to cause health problems,
we should be asking whether we need to use these
chemicals or if there are other ways to achieve equivalent fire safety, contends Arlene Blum, a biophysical
chemist and visiting scholar at the University of California, Berkeley. So many of the chemicals we have
banned in the past were flame retardantsthink
about asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated biphenyls, tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate, PBDEs[and] they all ended up in the environment and in people, she points out. We need to
think carefully about adding these sorts of chemicals
to consumer products before there is adequate health
information.
Journal Of Occupational And Environmental Hygiene February 2008
Cleaning efficacy of high-efficiency particulate air-filtered vacuuming and dry steam cleaning on carpet
Yiin LM1, Yu CH, Ashley P, Rhoads G.
Tzu Chi University, Taiwan, Republic of China
lmyiin@mail.tcu.edu.tw
Previous studies for lead exposure reduction have indicated the difficulty in reducing surface contamination
of carpets with the use of regular vacuum cleaners.
To find a solution, a household vacuum cleaner equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
and a dust finder indicator, and a dry steam cleaner previously reported effective in reducing dust mite allergens in carpets and mattresses were tested for effectiveness in reducing lead dust in carpets.
Fifty homes of lead-exposed children were tested in New Jersey. A selected carpet in the living area of each
home was tested with two interventions: half was cleaned by HEPA vacuuming twice (VAC-VAC) and the other
half by dry steaming between the two HEPA vacuumings (VAC-DSC-VAC).
Wipe and vacuum samples, representing surface dust and total dust collections, respectively, were taken before and after cleaning. The wipe and vacuum sample data indicated that both cleaning methods substantially
reduced dust lead levels. The mean percent reductions in lead loading were approximately 29% and 40% for
the VAC-VAC and VAC-DSC-VAC interventions, respectively.
The difference between the two postcleaning levels was statistically significant by wipe sampling but was marginally insignificant by vacuum sampling. A subset of sample data collected before repeat vacuuming (VACDSC) suggested that repeat vacuuming after dry steam cleaning is unnecessary. In summary, slow and steady
HEPA vacuuming with the help of a dust finder indicator reduces surface and overall lead dust in carpets, and
dry steam cleaning further reduces surface lead contamination as compared with HEPA vacuuming alone.
Bioscience Hypotheses January 2008
Do polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) increase the risk of thyroid cancer?

Yawei Zhanga, , , Grace L. Guob, Xuesong Hana, Cairong Zhua, c, Briseis A. Kilfoya, Yong Zhua, Peter Boyled, Tongzhang ZhengaVALIDHTML
a. School of Public Health, Yale University, 60 College Street LEPH 440, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
b. Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
c. West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
d. International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon Cedex, France
An increased incidence of thyroid cancer has been reported in many parts of the world including the United States during the past several decades. Recently emerging evidence has demonstrated that polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (PHAH), particularly polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), alter thyroid hormone homeostasis and cause thyroid
dysfunction. However, few studies have been conducted to test whether exposure to PBDE and other PHAH increases
the risk of thyroid cancer. Here, we hypothesize that elevated exposure to PHAH, particularly PBDE, increases the risk of
thyroid cancer and may explain part of the increase in incidence of thyroid cancer during the past several decades. In
addition, genetic and epigenetic variations in metabolic pathway genes may alter the expression and function of metabolic enzymes which are involved in the metabolism of endogenous thyroid hormones and the detoxification of PBDE
and other PHAH. Such variation may result in different individual susceptibilities to PBDE and other PHAH and the subsequent development of thyroid cancer. The investigation of this hypothesis will lead to an improved understanding of the
role of PBDE and other PHAH in thyroid tumorigenesis and may provide a real means to prevent this deadly disease.
Neurotoxicology January 2008
Neonatal exposure to decabrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE 209) results in changes in BDNF, CaMKII and GAP-43,
biochemical substrates of neuronal survival, growth, and synaptogenesis
Viberg H1, Mundy W, Eriksson P.
Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvgen 18A, S-75236 Uppsala, Sweden
Mammals have a marked period of rapid brain growth and development (BGS), which is postnatal in
mice and rats, spanning the first 3-4 weeks of life and reaching its peak around postnatal day 10.
One class of flame retardants, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), are present and increasing in
the environment and in human milk, which is also true for the only congener still in use, decabrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE 209).
This shows that PBDE 209 affects important proteins involved in normal maturation of the brain and
further strengthen our findings concerning PBDE 209 as a developmental neurotoxicological agent.
NeuroToxicology November 2007
Developmental neurotoxicity of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants

Lucio G. Costaa, b, , , Gennaro Giordanoa

a. Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
b. Department of Human Anatomy, Pharmacology and Forensic Science, University of Parma Medical School, Italy
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161813X07001738
In the past 25 years, PBDEs have become ubiquitous environmental contaminants. They have been detected in soil, air,
sediments, birds, marine species, fish, house dust, and human tissues, blood and breast milk. Diet and house dust appear to be the major sources of PBDE exposure in the general population, though occupational exposure can also occur.
Levels of PBDEs in human tissues are particularly high in North America, compared to Asian and European countries, and
have been increasing in the past 30 years. Concentrations of PBDEs are particularly high in breast milk, resulting in high
exposure of infants. In addition, for toddlers, dust has been estimated to account for a large percentage of exposure. PBDEs can also cross the placenta, as they have been detected in fetal blood and liver. Tetra-, penta- and hexaBDEs are most
commonly present in human tissues. The current greatest concern for potential adverse effects of PBDEs relates to their
developmental neurotoxicity. Pre- or postnatal exposure of mice or rats to various PBDEs has been shown to cause longlasting changes in spontaneous motor activity, mostly characterized as hyperactivity or decreased habituation, and to disrupt performance in learning and memory tests. While a reduction in circulating thyroid hormone (T4) may contribute to
the developmental neurotoxicity of PBDEs, direct effects on the developing brain have also been reported. Among these,
PBDEs have been shown to affect signal transduction pathways and to cause oxidative stress. Levels of PBDEs causing developmental neurotoxicity in animals are not much dissimilar from levels found in highly exposed infants and toddlers.
Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air

Allen JG1, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF.
1. Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, USA
We used personal air samplers to measure indoor air exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) for 20 residents of the Greater Boston Area (Massachusetts). Area air
measures were simultaneously collected from two rooms in each participants home. Inhalation may account for up to 22% of the total BDE 209 exposure in U.S. adults.
Toxicology Science December 2006
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, a group of brominated flame retardants,

can interact with polychlorinated biphenyls in enhancing developmental neurobehavioral defects
Eriksson P1, Fischer C, Fredriksson A.
Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvgen 18A, S-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
per.eriksson@ebc.uu.se
http://toxsci.oxfordjournals.org/content/94/2/302.long
The present study shows that polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
can interact and enhance developmental neurobehavioral defects when the exposure occurs during a critical
stage of neonatal brain development.
PBDEs are used in large quantities as flame-retardant additives in polymers, especially in the manufacture of a
great variety of electrical appliances, and textiles. In contrast to the well-known persistent compounds PCBs and
DDT, the PBDEs have been found to increase in the environment and in human mothers milk.
We have previously shown that low-dose exposure to environmental toxic agents such as PCB can cause developmental neurotoxic effects when present during a critical stage of neonatal brain development. Epidemiological studies indicate the adverse neurobehavioral impact of PCBs. Recently, we reported that neonatal exposure
to PBDEs causes developmental neurotoxic effects.
Animals exposed to the combined dose of PCB 52 and PBDE 99 and the high dose of PCB 52 or PBDE 99 showed
significantly impaired spontaneous motor behavior and habituation capability at the age of 4 and 6 months. The
neurobehavioral defects were also seen to worsen with age in mice neonatally exposed to PCB 52 + PBDE 99.
Environmental Science And Technology June 2006
Hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) in the environment and humans: a review

Covaci A1, Gerecke AC, Law RJ, Voorspoels S, Kohler M, Heeb NV, Leslie H, Allchin CR, De Boer J.
1. Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
adrian.covaci@ua.ac.be
Hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) are brominated aliphatic cyclic hydrocarbons used as

flame retardants in thermal insulation building materials, upholstery textiles, and electronics. As a result of their widespread use and their physical and chemical properties, HBCDs are
now ubiquitous contaminants in the environment and humans.
High concentrations were measured in top predators, such as marine mammals and birds of
prey (up to 9600 and 19 200 ng/g lipid weight, respectively), suggesting a biomagnification
potential for HBCDs. Relatively low HBCD concentrations were reported in the few human
studies conducted to date (median values varied between 0.35 and 1.1 ng/g lipid weight).
Environmental Science And Technology October 2005
Brominated flame retardants in the atmosphere of the East-Central United States

Hoh E1, Hites RA.
School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
Air samples were collected at five sites (urban, semiurban, agricultural, and remote) from
Lake Michigan through the U. S. Midwest to the Gulf of Mexico every 12 days during 20022003 using high-volume samplers so that we could study the spatial trends of brominated
flame retardants (polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hexabromocyclododecanes
(HBCDs), and 1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)-ethane (TBE)).
Penta-BDEs were the most concentrated at the Chicago site and the least concentrated at
the Louisiana site; octa-BDE concentrations were low at all of the sites; deca-BDEs were the
most concentrated at the Chicago site and notably high at the Arkansas site. High concentrations of deca-BDEs, HBCDs, and TBE at the Arkansas site suggest that manufacturing areas in southern Arkansas could be the source regions. Backward trajectories for air masses
with high concentrations of deca-BDEs coming to the Arkansas site suggestthat deca-BDEs
bound to particles can move long distances from source regions to nonsource regions.
Environmental Science And Technology April 2005
Polychlorinated dioxins and furans from the World Trade Center attacks
in exterior window films from lower Manhattan in New York City
Rayne S1, Ikonomou MG, Butt CM, Diamond ML, Truong J.
Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
Samples of ambient organic films deposited on exterior window surfaces from lower Manhattan and Brooklyn in New York City were
collected six weeks after the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center (WTC) on September 11, 2001 and analyzed for polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs). Total tetra- through octa-CDD/F concentrations in window films within 1 km
of the WTC site in lower Manhattan ranged up to 630,000 pg/m2 (estimated as a mass concentration of ca. 1,300,000 pg/ g) and a
maximum toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentration of 4700 TEQ/m2 (ca. 10 000 pg TEQ/g).
Measurements at a background site 3.5 km away in Brooklyn showed lower concentrations at 130 pg TEQ/m2 (260 pg TEQ/g). Ambient gas-phase PCDD/F concentrations estimated for each site using an equilibrium partitioning model suggested concentrations
ranging from ca. 2700 fg-TEQ/m3 near the WTC site to the more typical urban concentration of 20 fg-TEQ/m3 atthe Brooklyn site. Multivariate analyses of 2,3,7,8-substitued congeners and homologue group profiles suggested unique patterns in films near the WTC
site compared to that observed at background sites in the study area and in other literature-derived combustion source profiles. Homologue profiles near the WTC site were dominated by tetra-, penta-, and Hexa-CDD/Fs, and 2,3,7,8-substituted profiles contained
mostly octa- and hexachlorinated congeners. In comparison, profiles in Brooklyn and near mid-Manhattan exhibited congener and
homologue patterns comprised mainly of hepta- and octa-CDDs, similar to that commonly reported in background air and soil.
Journal Of Perinatology April 2005
Human breast milk and xenoestrogen exposure: a possible impact on human health
Massart F1, Harrell JC, Federico G, Saggese G.
Department of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Italy
Human milk is the best natural and optimal food for neonates with several immunologic, developmental and practical advantages throughout childhood. Although the World Health Organization
strongly supports breastfeeding, it recognizes the potential health risks posed by the presence of
environmental toxicants in breast milk. Contamination of human milk is widespread and due to decades of inadequately controlled pollution by toxicants, persistent pesticides or chemical solvents.
These chemicals tend to degrade slowly in the environment, to bioaccumulate in the food chain
and to have long half-lives in humans. Many of these environmental pollutants have estrogen-like
activities and, thus they are called environmental estrogen disruptors or xenoestrogens. Certain adverse health and reproductive outcomes are attributed to these chemicals in laboratory animals and
in wildlife as well as in humans. Here, we review available data from breast milk monitoring studies
suggesting the environmental chemicals that may affect child health through breastfeeding.
Market basket study on dietary intake of PCDD/Fs, PCBs, and PBDEs in Finland
Kiviranta H1, Ovaskainen ML, Vartiainen T.
Department of Environmental Health, National Public Health Institute, PO Box 95, Kuopio 70701, Finland
hannu.kiviranta@ktl.fi
We have measured the concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD/F), polychlorinated biphenyls

(PCBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) in 10 market baskets consisting of almost 4000 individual food
samples representing 228 different food items, and also in the total diet basket.
Lower bound concentrations of PCDD/Fs ranged between 0.0057 and 5.6 pg/g fresh weight in the market baskets
and the corresponding values for PCBs from 39 to 25,000 pg/g.
The fish basket contributed most to the concentrations of dioxins and PCBs, and also to concentrations of PBDEs in
which the lower bound range was from 0.82 to 850 pg/g.
We also assessed the average daily intakes of these substances by the Finnish adult population. The average daily
intake of sum of PCDD/Fs and PCBs as WHO toxic equivalents was assessed to be 115 pg, which was 1.5 pg WHOTEq/kg body weight using an average mean weight of 76 kg for the general population in Finland. The contribution
of fish to the intake of PCDD/Fs was between 94% and 72%, depending on whether lower or upper bound concentrations were used. With respect to PCBs, the contribution of fish was 80%. The calculated intake of PBDEs of 44
ng/day was comparable to intake assessments from other countries. Fish also contributed most to the PBDE intake,
but there was some other source of PBDEs that distinguishes the exposure to PBDEs from exposure to PCDD/Fs and
PCBs. This additional source seemed to be found in the market basket that included beverages, spices, and sweets.
Semivolatile organic compounds in window films from lower Manhattan after the September 11th World Trade Center attacks
Butt CM1, Diamond ML, Truong J, Ikonomou MG, Helm PA, Stern GA.
Department of Geography, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
The September 11th World Trade Center (WTC) terrorist attacks resulted in the large-scale release of contaminants that were deposited on the environment of New York City (NYC). Six
weeks after the attacks, samples of an organic film on window surfaces were collected and
analyzed for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCN), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), and organochlorine
pesticides (OCPs).
Concentrations dropped by an order of magnitude within 1 km of the WTC and reached background concentrations by 3.5 km.
Concentrations within 1 km of the WTC averaged 3280 ng/m2 for sigmaPBDE, 900 ng/m2 for
sigmaPCB, 33 ng/m2 for sigmaPCN, and 77100 ng/m2 for sigmaPAH. Congener profiles of the
sites nearest the WTC suggested a combination of combustion and evaporative sources of
all compounds, whereas the background sites exhibited profiles consistent with evaporative
sources. PBDE profiles showed enrichment in lower molecular weight congeners near the WTC,
suggesting that these congeners were formed as a result of the combustion conditions.
Environmental Health Perspectives January 2004
Brominated flame retardants: cause for concern?

Linda S Birnbaum and Daniele F Staskal
Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory,
Experimental Toxicology Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) have routinely been added to consumer products for several decades in a successful effort to reduce fire-related injury and property damage. Recently, concern for this emerging class of chemicals has risen because of the occurrence of several classes of BFRs in the environment and in human biota. The
widespread production and use of BFRs; strong evidence of increasing contamination of the environment, wildlife,
and people; and limited knowledge of potential effects heighten the importance of identifying emerging issues
associated with the use of BFRs. In this article, we briefly review scientific issues associated with the use of tetrabromobisphenol A, hexabromocyclododecane, and three commercial mixtures of polybrominated diphenyl ethers
and discuss data gaps. Overall, the toxicology database is very limited; the current literature is incomplete and often
conflicting. Available data, however, raise concern over the use of certain classes of brominated flame retardants.
Environmental Health Perspectives July 2003
Human prenatal and postnatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers,

polychlorinated biphenyls, polychlorobiphenylols, and pentachlorophenol
Guvenius DM1, Aronsson A, Ekman-Ordeberg G, Bergman A, Norn K.
Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
Daiva.M-Guvenius@mk.su.se
The aim of this study was to determine human prenatal and postnatal exposures to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), hydroxylated metabolites of PCBs (polychlorobiphenylols; OH-PCBs), and pentachlorophenol (PCP).
The ratios of PCB to OH-PCB were 13, 3, and 1,400 in maternal, cord plasma, and breast
milk, respectively. It is evident that prenatal exposures occur for all the analytes. Moreover, the exposure continues after birth via breast milk. However, levels of OH-PCBs and
PCP in breast milk are low compared with levels in blood plasma. Exposures to both PCBs
and PBDEs, and in particular to the endocrine-active halogenated phenolic compounds,
are of concern and implicate a potential risk for developmental disturbances.
NeuroToxicology June 2003
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers:

Neurobehavioral Effects Following Developmental Exposure

Igor Branchi1, Francesca Capone1, 2, Enrico Alleva1, Lucio G. Costa3,

1. Section of Behavioural Pathophysiology, Laboratorio di Fisiopatologia, Istituto Superiore di Sanit, Rome, Italy
2. Department of Pharmacology of Natural Substances and General Physiology, University of Roma La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
3. Department of Environmental Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
4. Department of Pharmacology and Human Physiology, Medical School, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161813X03000202
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a class of widely used flame retardants, are becoming widespread environmental pollutants, as indicated by studies on sentinel animal species, as well as humans. Of particular concern are the reported increasingly high levels of PBDEs in
human milk, as should be given that almost no information is available on their potential effects on developing organisms.
Characteristic endpoints of PBDE neurotoxicity are, among others, endocrine disruption (e.g. decreased thyroid hormone levels), alteration
in cholinergic system activity (behavioral hyporesponsivity to nicotine challenge), as well as alterations of several behavioral parameters. In
particular, the main hallmark of PBDE neurotoxicity is a marked hyperactivity at adulthood. Furthermore, a deficit in learning and memory
processes has been found at adulthood in neonatally exposed animals. Some of neurotoxic effects of PBDEs are comparable to those of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), though the latter class of compounds seems to exert a stronger toxic effect. Available information on PBDE neurotoxicity obtained from animal studies and the possibility of neonatal exposure to PBDEs via the mothers milk suggest that these compounds
may represent a potential risk for neurobehavioral development in humans.
Neurotoxicology September 2002
Effects of perinatal exposure to a polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE 99) on mouse neurobehavioural development
Branchi I1, Alleva E, Costa LG.
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a class of widely used flame retardants, are extensively diffused in the
environment as shown by several studies on sentinel animal species, as well as humans. Of particular concern are
the reported high levels of PBDEs in human milk, as almost no information is available on their potential effects
on developing organisms.
On postnatal day 60, treated mice showed also an altered thigmotaxis, spending more time in the centre of the
arena than controls. At adulthood, A1254 treated mice were still hyperactive, whereas the Polybrominated diphenyl ethers 99 groups tended to be hypoactive. These findings showed that perinatal exposure to PBDE 99 produces several behavioural alterations and that its effects are not always similar to those of A1254. The possibility
of exposure of neonates to PBDEs warrants further studies to characterize their developmental neurotoxicity.
Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology August 2002
Two distinct forms of minor neurological dysfunction: perspectives emerging from a review of data of the Groningen Perinatal Project
By Mijna Hadders-Algra MD PhD
Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
Full text PDF
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1469-8749.2002.tb00330.x/epdf
In the past 40 years, children with minor developmental motor disorders have been studied by professionals from various fields: paediatricians, neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and physical and occupational therapists. The differences in background of these professionals led to a plethora of terms used to refer to these conditions: e.g. minimal cerebral palsy, minimal cerebral dysfunction, developmental
apraxia or dyspraxia, minimal brain dysfunction, sensory integrative dysfunction, and developmental coordination disorder.1,2 It was generally acknowledged that such a multitude of names was confusing and so, in 1994, an international consensus meeting of professionals from
various fields agreed to use the term developmental coordination disorder (DCD).3,4 DCD in general refers to children with normal intelligence who have poor motor coordination without clear evidence of a neurological pathology, such as cerebral palsy (CP) or muscular dystrophy. In other words, DCD is a final common output term, without aetiological or pathophysiological foundation. The advantage of such an
umbrella term is that it includes all children with motor problems that interfere with their daily life, i.e. children who deserve clinical attention.
However, the disadvantage of the term DCD is its aspecificity. Indeed, it is becoming increasingly clear that children with DCD constitute a
heterogeneous population withvarious types of motor dysfunction.5,6 Neurological examination is an excellent tool for assessing types of
motor dysfunction in children with DCD. With the help of a standardized and age-adequate neurological examination technique 7,8 various
forms of minor neurological dysfunction (MND), such as mild dysfunctions in muscle tone regulation, choreiform dyskinesia, or fine manipulative disability, can be diagnosed accurately and reliably. 8,9 At times, MND or soft neurological signs meet with a sceptical response.10 This
is usually due to lack of neurological expertize which should include a thorough knowledge of the childs age-dependent neurological repertoire. The term MND is preferable to the expression soft neurological signs as the word soft has the connotation of malleability and is an
imprecise definition.11,12 Children with DCD are at a higher risk for learning and behavioural disorders, such as attention problems, than children without DCD. 1,13 Children presenting with both DCD and attention problems are also known as children with deficits in attention, motor control, and perception (DAMP).13 Little is known about the perinatal aetiology of the relatively new entities DCD and DAMP. More data
are available on the role of perinatal adversities in the broader category of minor developmental disorders and the more specific category
of MND. The present paper starts with a discussion of the literature on this subject. This is followed by an overview of the results of the Groningen Perinatal Project, which focuses on the contribution of perinatal risk factors to the development of different forms of MND. The paper
concludes with the description of two aetiologically and clinically different forms of MND.
Journal Of Developmental Behavior In Pediatrics February 2002
In harms way: toxic threats to child development

Stein J1, Schettler T, Wallinga D, Valenti M.
1. Greater Boston Physicians for Social Responsibility, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
jstein@massmed.org
Developmental disabilities result from complex interactions of genetic,

toxicologic (chemical), and social factors. Among these various causes,
toxicologic exposures deserve special scrutiny because they are readily
preventable.
This article provides an introduction to some of the literature addressing the effects of these toxicologic exposures on the developing brain.
This body of research demonstrates cause for serious concern that
commonly encountered household and environmental chemicals contribute to developmental disabilities.
The developing brain is uniquely susceptible to permanent impairment
by exposure to environmental substances during time windows of vulnerability. Lead, mercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have
been extensively studied and found to impair development at levels of
exposure currently experienced by significant portions of the general
population.
High-dose exposures to each of these chemicals cause catastrophic developmental effects. More recent research has revealed toxicity at pro-
gressively lower exposures, illustrating a declining threshold of harm

commonly observed with improved understanding of developmental
toxicants. For lead, mercury, and PCBs, recent studies reveal that background-population exposures contribute to a wide variety of problems,
including impairments in attention, memory, learning, social behavior,
and IQ.
Unfortunately, for most chemicals there is little data with which to evaluate potential risks to neurodevelopment. Among the 3000 chemicals
produced in highest volume (over 1 million lbs/yr), only 12 have been
adequately tested for their effects on the developing brain.
This is a matter of concern because the fetus and child are exposed to
untold numbers, quantities, and combinations of substances whose
safety has not been established. Child development can be better
protected by more precautionary regulation of household and environmental chemicals. Meanwhile, health care providers and parents
can play an important role in reducing exposures to a wide variety of
known and suspected neurodevelopmental toxicants that are widely
present in consumer products, food, the home, and wider community.
Toxic threats to neurologic development of children

By T. Schettler
Science and Environmental Health Network, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
tschettler@igc.org
Learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, developmental delays, and emotional and behavioral
problems are among childhood disabilities of increasing concern extensive laboratory and clinical studies of several neurodevelopmental toxicants, including lead, mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls, alcohol, and nicotine, demonstrate the unique vulnerability of the developing brain to environmental agents at exposure levels that have no
lasting effect in adults. Historically, understanding the effects of these toxicants on the developing brain has emerged
slowly while generations of children are exposed to unsafe levels. Unfortunately, with few exceptions, neurodevelopmental toxicity data are missing for most industrial chemicals in widespread use, even when populationwide exposures are documented. The personal, family, and communitywide costs of developmental disabilities are profound.
Journal Of Exposure Analysis And Environmental Epidemiology May 2000
PCB exposure in utero and via breast milk. A review

DeKoning EP1, Karmaus W.
Department of Epidemiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48823, USA
dekonin1@pilot.msu.edu
On a lipid basis, the highest concentration of PCB in placenta (5027 ng/g fat) was 2.8 times
higher than the highest concentration of PCB in breast milk ( 1770 ng/g fat). While there
are limitations with regard to quantitation methods and statistical methods utilized by the
reviewed studies, our results suggest that PCBs may be capable of crossing the placenta to
a greater extent than previously believed. Future studies of PCB body burden in the perinatal period should include placenta, breast milk, maternal and cord blood specimens.
The PBDEs: an emerging environmental challenge and another reason for breast-milk monitoring programs
K Hooper and T A McDonald
Hazardous Materials Laboratory, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California 94707, USA
kim_hooper@hotmail.com
Levels of the polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a class of widely used flame retardants, appear to be
rising rapidly in human tissues, as evidenced by studies of human breast milk. The case of the PBDEs illustrates
the value of breast-milk monitoring programs in identifying important emerging pollutants, and highlights
why such monitoring programs are needed in the United States. A review of the use, occurrence, and toxicity
of PBDEs indicates many parallels between some PBDEs, PCBs, and other polyhalogenated persistent organic
pollutants, and suggests that the PBDEs may be a significant environmental challenge in the future.
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers: occurrence, dietary exposure, and toxicology

P O Darnerud, G S Eriksen, T Jhannesson, P B Larsen, and M Viluksela
National Food Administration, Toxicology Division, Uppsala, Sweden
per.ola.darnerud@slv.se
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants in plastics (concentration, 5--30%) and in textile coatings. Commercial
products consist predominantly of penta-, octa-, and decabromodiphenyl ether mixtures, and global PBDE production is about 40,000 tons
per year.
PBDEs are bioaccumulated and biomagnified in the environment, and comparatively high levels are often found in aquatic biotopes from
different parts of the world. During the mid-1970--1980s there was a substantial increase in the PBDE levels with time in both sediments and
aquatic biota, whereas the latest Swedish data (pike and guillemot egg) may indicate that levels are at steady state or are decreasing.
However, exponentially increasing PBDE levels have been observed in mothers milk during 19721997. Based on levels in food from 1999,
the dietary intake of PBDE in Sweden has been estimated to be 0.05 microg per day. Characteristic end points of animal toxicity are hepatotoxicity, embryotoxicity, and thyroid effects as well as maternal toxicity during gestation. Recently, behavioral effects have been observed in
mice on administration of PBDEs during a critical period after birth. Based on the critical effects reported in available studies, we consider the
lowest-observed-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) value of the PBDE group to be 1 mg/kg/day (primarily based on effects of pentaBDEs).
In conclusion, with the scientific knowledge of today and based on Nordic intake data, the possible consumer health risk from PBDEs appears
limited, as a factor of over 10(6) separates the estimated present mean dietary intake from the suggested LOAEL value. However, the presence
of many and important data gaps, including those in carcinogenicity, reproduction, and developmental toxicity, as well as additional routes
of exposure, make this conclusion only preliminary. Moreover, the time trend of PBDEs in human breast milk is alarming for the future.
Neurotoxicology Research January 2001
The developing cholinergic system as target for environmental toxicants, nicotine and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs):
implications for neurotoxicological processes in mice
Eriksson P1, Ankarberg E, Viberg H, Fredriksson A.
Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvgen 18 A, S-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
per.eriksson@ebc.uu.se
During neonatal life, offspring can be affected by toxic agents either by transfer via mothers milk or by direct exposure. We have observed that low-dose exposure to environmental toxicants such as nicotine, polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDE, flame retardants) during the BGS can lead to irreversible changes in adult brain function in the mouse.
The induction of persistent effects on behaviour and cholinergic nicotinic receptors in the adult animal appears to
be limited to a short period during neonatal development.
Furthermore, the neurotoxic effects were shown to develop over time, indicating a time-response/time-dependent
effect. This indicates that environmental toxicants, such as nicotine, PCBs and probably PBDEs, might be involved
in the slow, implacable induction of neurodegenerative disorders and/or interfere with normal aging processes.
Certain organochlorine and organobromine contaminants in Swedish human milk in perspective of past 20-30 years
Norn K1, Meironyt D.
Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
The investigations of organochlorine compounds in breast milk from women living in the Stockholm region started in 1967.
The present study summarises the investigations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), naphthalenes (PCNs), dibenzo-p-dioxins
(PCDDs), dibenzofurans (PCDFs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and pesticides (DDT, DDE, hexachlorobenzene, dieldrin)
as well as methylsulfonyl metabolites of PCBs and DDE in human milk sampled during different periods up to 1997.
During the course of 20-30 yr the levels of organochlorine compounds in human milk have decreased to various extent. A decrease
to the half of the original concentration was attained in the range of 4-17 year periods. On the contrary to the organochlorine compounds, the concentrations of PBDEs have increased during the period 1972-1997, indicating a doubling of the levels by 5 years.
The levels reflect the environmental contamination and background levels in the population. The accumulation and ongoing increase in the levels of PBDEs calls for immediate measures to stop the environmental pollution and human exposure to PBDEs.
Neurotoxicology February 2000
Neonatal exposure to neurotoxic pesticides increases adult susceptibility: a review of current findings
Eriksson P1, Talts U.
Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Sweden
Per.Eriksson@Etox.uu.se
An environmental mischance commonly occurring in nature is the combination of neonatal exposure

and later adult exposure to various toxic substances.
During neonatal life, offspring can be affected by toxic agents either by transfer via mothers milk or by
direct exposure. In many mammalian species the perinatal period is characterized by a rapid development of the brainthe brain growth spurt (BGS).
We have observed that exposure to pesticides, such as DDT and bioallethrin, during the BGS in mice
can potentiate susceptibility to bioallethrin or paraoxon in adult life. This combined neonatal and adult
exposure caused spontaneous behavioral aberrations and changes in muscarinic cholinergic receptors
and led to impairment of the faculties of learning and memory.
Our studies indicate that neonatal exposure to pesticideseven in low dosescan potentiate and/or
modify the reaction to adult exposure to xenobiotics, and thereby accelerate dysfunctional processes.
Flame retardant exposure: polybrominated diphenyl ethers in blood from Swedish workers
A Sjdin, L Hagmar, E Klasson-Wehler, K Kronholm-Diab, E Jakobsson, and A Bergman
Department of Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
andreas.sjodin@mk.su.se
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as additives in

polymers and textiles to prohibit the development of fires. Because of the production and use of PBDEs, their lipophilic characteristics, and persistence, these compounds have become ubiquitous environmental contaminants. The aim of the present study
was to determine potential exposures of PBDEs to clerks working
full-time at computer screens and personnel at an electronics-dismantling plant, with hospital cleaners as a control group.
ly higher levels of all PBDE congeners in their serum as compared

to the control group.
Five PBDE congeners:
The major compound in personnel at the dismantling plant was

2,2,3,4,4,5,6-heptaBDE. Concentrations of this PBDE congener are
almost twice as high as for 2,2,4, 4-tetraBDE in these workers and
seventy times the level of this heptaBDE in cleaners.
2,2,4,4-tetraBDE
2,2,4,4,5,5-hexaBDE
2,2,4,4,5, 6-hexaBDE
2,2,3,4,4,5,6-heptaBDE
and decaBDE
were quantified in blood serum from all three categories of workers. Subjects working at the dismantling plant showed significant-
Decabromodiphenyl ether is present in concentrations of 5 pmol/

g lipid weight (lw) in the personnel dismantling electronics; these
concentrations are comparable to the concentrations of 2,2,4, 4tetraBDE. The latter compound was the dominating PBDE congener in the clerks and cleaners.
The total median PBDE concentrations in the serum from workers

at the electronics-dismantling plant, clerks, and cleaners were 37,
7.3, and 5.4 pmol/g lw, respectively. The results show that decabromodiphenyl ether is bioavailable and that occupational exposure to PBDEs occurs at the electronics-dismantling plant.
New England Journal Of Medicine August 1999
Maternal thyroid deficiency during pregnancy and subsequent neuropsychological development of the child
Haddow JE1, Palomaki GE, Allan WC, Williams JR, Knight GJ, Gagnon J, OHeir CE, Mitchell ML, Hermos RJ, Waisbren SE, Faix JD, Klein RZ.
Foundation for Blood Research, Scarborough, ME 04074, USA
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199908193410801
When thyroid deficiency occurs simultaneously in a pregnant

woman and her fetus, the childs neuropsychological development is adversely affected. Whether developmental problems occur when only the mother has hypothyroidism during
pregnancy is not known.
In 1996 and 1997, we measured thyrotropin in stored serum
samples collected from 25,216 pregnant women between
January 1987 and March 1990. We then located 47 women with serum thyrotropin concentrations at or above the
99.7th percentile of the values for all the pregnant women,
15 women with values between the 98th and 99.6th percentiles, inclusive, in combination with low thyroxine levels, and
124 matched women with normal values. Their seven-tonine-year-old children, none of whom had hypothyroidism
as newborns, underwent 15 tests relating to intelligence, attention, language, reading ability, school performance, and
visual-motor performance.
The children of the 62 women with high serum thyrotropin

concentrations performed slightly less well on all 15 tests.
Their full-scale IQ scores on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for
Children, third edition, averaged 4 points lower than those of
the children of the 124 matched control women (P= 0.06); 15
percent had scores of 85 or less, as compared with 5 percent of
the matched control children. Of the 62 women with thyroid
deficiency, 48 were not treated for the condition during the
pregnancy under study. The full-scale IQ scores of their children averaged 7 points lower than those of the 124 matched
control children (P=0.005); 19 percent had scores of 85 or less.
Eleven years after the pregnancy under study, 64 percent of
the untreated women and 4 percent of the matched control
women had confirmed hypothyroidism.
Undiagnosed hypothyroidism in pregnant women may adversely affect their fetuses; therefore, screening for thyroid
deficiency during pregnancy may be warranted.
Evaluating the effects of endocrine disruptors on endocrine function during development

Bigsby R1, Chapin RE, Daston GP, Davis BJ, Gorski J, Gray LE, Howdeshell KL, Zoeller RT, vom Saal FS.
Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
The major concerns with endocrine disruptors in the environment are based mostly on effects that have
been observed on the developing embryo and fetus. The focus of the present manuscript is on disruption
of three hormonal systems: estrogens, androgens, and thyroid hormones. These three hormonal systems
have been well characterized with regard to their roles in normal development, and their actions during
development are known to be perturbed by endocrine-disrupting chemicals. During development, organs
are especially sensitive to low concentrations of the sex steroids and thyroid hormones. Changes induced
by exposure to these hormones during development are often irreversible, in contrast with the reversible
changes induced by transient hormone exposure in the adult. Issues discussed here include the hypothesis of greater sensitivity of embryos/fetuses to endocrine disruptors, irreversible consequences of exposure before maturation of homeostatic systems and during periods of genetic imprinting, and quantitative
information related to the shape of the dose-response curve for specific developmental phenomena.
Archives In Environmental Contamination Toxicology April 1999
Identification of 19 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in long-finned pilot whale (Globicephala melas) from the Atlantic
Lindstrm G1, Wingfors H, Dam M, van Bavel B.
1. Institute of Environmental Chemistry, Ume University, SE-901 87 Ume, Sweden
Nineteen tetra- to hexabrominated diphenyl ethers were identified at parts per billion concentration in the blubber
of pilot whale caught off the coast of the Faroe Islands in 1994 and 1996. Higher total concentrations were found
in the pooled samples of young males (3,160 ng/g lipid) and females (3,038 ng/g lipid) compared to adult females
(843 ng/g and 1,048 ng/g lipid) and males (1,610 ng/g lipids). The predominant isomers in all samples were 2,2,4,4TeBDE (PBDE #47) and 2,2,4,4, 5-PeBDE (PBDE #99) accounting for some 70% of the sum of the 19 isomers.
Toxicology And Industrial Health January 1998
Interactions of persistent environmental organohalogens with the thyroid hormone system:

mechanisms and possible consequences for animal and human health
Brouwer A1, Morse DC, Lans MC, Schuur AG, Murk AJ, Klasson-Wehler E, Bergman A, Visser TJ.
1. Department of Toxicology, Wageningen Agricultural University, The Netherlands
Bram.Brouwer@algemeen.Tox.WAU.nl
Several classes of environmental contaminants have been claimed or suggested to possess endocrinedisrupting potency, which may result in reproductive problems and developmental disorders. Alterations
in structural and functional neurochemical parameters, such as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), synaptophysin, calcineurin, and serotonergic neurotransmitters, were observed in the same offspring up to
postnatal day 90. In addition, some changes in locomotor and cognitive indices of behavior were observed
in rat offspring, following in utero and lactational exposure to PHAHs. Alterations in thyroid hormone levels and subtle changes in neurobehavioral performance were also observed in human infants exposed in
utero and through lactation to relatively high levels of PHAHs. Overall these studies indicate that persistent
PHAHs can disrupt the thyroid hormone system at a multitude of interaction sites, which may have a profound impact on normal brain development in experimental animals, wildlife species, and human infants.
Neurotoxicology July 1997
Developmental neurotoxicity of environmental agents in the neonate

By P. Eriksson
The development of an organism includes periods that can be critical for its normal maturation. One such
appears to occur during perinatal development of the brain, the so-called brain growth spurt. This period in
the development of the mammalian brain is associated with numerous biochemical changes that transform
the feto-neonatal brain into that of the mature adult.
We have observed that low-dose exposure to environmental agents such as DDT, pyrethroids, organophosphates, nicotine, paraquat and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) during the brain growth spurt can lead to
irreversible changes in adult brain function in the mouse.
The induction of behavioral and cholinergic disturbances in the adult animal appears to be limited to a short
period during neonatal development, around postnatal day 10, and following doses that apparently have no
permanent effects when administered to the adult animal. Furthermore, neonatal exposure to a low dose of
a neurotoxic agent can lead to an increased susceptibility in adults to an agent having a similar neurotoxic
action, resulting in additional [transgenerational] behavioral disturbances and learning disabilities.
Brain Research April 1995
Exposure to an organophosphate (DFP) during a defined period in neonatal life

induces permanent changes in brain muscarinic receptors and behaviour in adult mice
Ahlbom J1, Fredriksson A, Eriksson P.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7606457?dopt=Abstract
The organophosphate Diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) is a well-known inhibitor of cholinesterases. We have recently observed that neonatal exposure to a single subsymptomal
dose of DFP induces permanent alterations in muscarinic cholinergic receptors (MAChRs)
and in spontaneous behaviour, in the mice as adults.
At adult age, mice exposed to DFP on postnatal day 3 or 10 showed significant alterations
in spontaneous motor behavior and a significant decrease in muscarinic receptor density.
Archives In Environmental Health November 1994
Polychlorinated biphenyls, 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane (p,p-DDT) and

1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-ethylene (p,p-DDE) in human plasma related to fish consumption
Asplund L1, Svensson BG, Nilsson A, Eriksson U, Jansson B, Jensen S, Wideqvist U, Skerfving S.
Institute of Applied Environmental Research, Stockholm University, Solna, Sweden
Fatty fish species, e.g., salmon and herring, in the Baltic Sea have high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane (p,p-DDT), and its main metabolite: 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-ethylene (p,p-DDE).
We determined levels of 10 different PCB congeners, including non- and mono-ortho-PCBs, as well as DDT and DDE, in human
blood plasma from 37 subjects with varying intake of fish (0-1,750 g/wk) from the Baltic Sea. With respect to all of the PCB congeners we investigated, as well as for DDT and DDE, there were statistically significant associations with fish intake. Thus, fish
from the Baltic Sea is a major source of exposure to these compounds in Swedes. Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD) and
dibenzofurans (PCDF) had been determined earlier in 29 of the subjects. The PCB contribution to dioxin-like effects among high
consumers of fish (calculated as Nordic TCDD equivalents) was almost 80%, whereas that from PCDD and PCDF was only 20%.
Environmentsl Health Perspectives May 1994
Selective retention of hydroxylated PCB metabolites in blood

Bergman A1, Klasson-Wehler E, Kuroki H.
Wallenberg Laboratory, Stockholm University, Sweden
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are important environmental contaminants, and their toxicity to wildlife and humans are of major concern. PCBs form persistent and abundant metabolites, PCB methyl
sulfones, that accumulate in biota. We now report that certain hydroxylated PCB metabolites show a
strong and selective accumulation in mammalian blood.
Among all possible hydroxylated metabolites of PCB that may be formed, only a few, dominated by
4-OH-2,3,5,3,4-pentachlorobiphenyl and 4-OH-2,3,5,6,2,4,5-heptachlorobiphenyl, were found in the
blood samples. All identified compounds have a structure with the hydroxy group in a para or meta position, with chlorine atoms on vicinal carbon atoms. The concentrations of hydroxylated PCB in the blood
were almost in the same range as the most persistent PCB congeners both for seals and humans.
Brain Research June 1992
Exposure to DDT during a defined period in neonatal life induces permanent changes
in brain muscarinic receptors and behaviour in adult mice
Eriksson P1, Ahlbom J, Fredriksson A.
Department of Zoophysiology, Uppsala University, Sweden
DDT [1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane] is a potent neurotoxicant in both vertebrate and invertebrate

species. We have previously reported that neonatal exposure to DDT affects the muscarinic cholinergic receptors
(MAChR) in the cerebral cortex in the neonatal mouse, leading to permanent disturbances in the cholinergic system and behaviour of the animals as adults.
In order to determine if there is a critical period for these effects, mice at the ages of 3-days, 10-days and 19-days
were given a single low oral dose of DDT (0.5 mg/kg b.wt.).
A significant increase in spontaneous motor behaviour and a significant decrease in MAChR density in the cerebral
cortex was only observed in adult mice receiving DDT at the age of 10 days. The induction of these disturbances is
limited to peaks in the development of spontaneous behavioural activity and MAChR in the neonatal rodent.
Why do toxic flame retardants remain all around us?
How Big Tobacco is directly linked to Persistent Organic Pollutants and PBDEs
Molly Rauch unzipped one of her couch cushions,
picked up a pair of scissors and cut out a lipstick-size
tube of foam.
waging a war against the foam used in upholstered

furniture, claiming its flammability was the real culprit.
It pained her to cut into her new comfy-yet-stylish

couch, but she had just learned about a new research
effort. It invited people to send in samples of their furniture to test for unlabeled hazardous chemicals.
Once some chemical companies realized the profit

possibilities in flame retardant chemicals, business
boomed as expected.
For decades, the nations main chemical safety law,

the 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), was
weak and broken. It allowed known hazards, like
these toxic flame retardants, to go unregulated.
She wrapped the foam sample in foil and mailed it

to Duke University scientists.
In June 2016, President Obama signed the Lautenberg Act, finally reforming the 40-year-old law. After years of work, we now have a strong foundation
to build upon and expand efforts for generations to
come. And were at the beginning of a new phase of
work. Of course, now the real work beginsimplementing the new law.
The verdict? Her couch was laced with chlorinated

tris, a toxic flame retardant considered a probable
carcinogen.
Also known as TDCPP, it was the subject of controversy in the 1970s when it was used in childrens pajamas. A similar chemical was linked to cancer, so it
was banned in clothing. But now it has resurfaced
as a flame retardant in furniture foam.
Why do we use flame retardants?

Reports question whether toxic flame retardants are
even effective at their intended purpose of preventing fires. So why are they still used? The story starts
decades ago, with Big Tobacco.
In the 1970s, cigarettes were a common cause of
house fires, and California policymakers requested
fire-safe cigarettes to lower the horrible injuries and
deaths they caused. But tobacco industry groups successfully deflected requests for fire-safe cigarettes by
And some companies are taking matters into their

own hands by adopting policies that bar chemical
flame retardants in furniture.
Dont chemicals have to be safe?
I work in public health, and Im a mom, said Rauch,

who works for the EDF partner organization Moms
Clean Air Force. I had to know.
It really upset me to learn my kids were sitting on this

couch, full of a suspected carcinogen, Rauch said.
to phase the chemicals out. About 15 other states are

also taking actions against flame retardants or other
known hazardous chemicals, according to the Safer
States coalition.
Thanks largely to an effective industry lobbying effort in

California, toxic flame retardant chemicals were and
still are poured into furniture foam throughout the
country, saysSarah Vogel, Health Program Director.
Can we avoid flame retardants?
Alternatives to flame-retardant-laden couches are
slowly becoming available. In January 2014, California
changed its flammability standard. The new requirement doesnt ban fire retardant chemicals, but it does
allow manufacturers to fire-proof in other ways. They
can now use natural fire-resistant liners like wool.
Because of the influence of California laws on the rest
of the nation, manufacturers everywhere may begin
Getting hazardous chemicals out of stores and our

homes will be a big task. It wont happen overnight
and we cant expect the government alone to solve
it. Consumers, advocates, companies and retailers
all have a significant role to play by demanding safer
products and striving to go beyond simple compliance with the law.
In the meantime, parents like Molly Rauch will continue to grapple with the knowledge that toxic or untested chemicals are everywhere, and must sort through
worrisome advice like wash hands frequently.
Every time someone tells me that I am personally responsible for cleaning up a lucrative industrys mess that
has gotten into my home and threatens my children, it
sounds like nails on a chalkboard, she says.
BLAME BIG TOBACCO FOR PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS (POPs) PERVASIVE IN THE ENVIRONMENT
Persistant Organic Pollutants POPs
THE PEER REVIEW

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The
End

Daddy, There's A Monster in My Room

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Daddy,

Persistent Organic Pollutants POPs

THE PEER REVIEW

Daddy, Theres A Monster In My Room

POPs ARE almost ALWAYS FOUND LURKING UNDER THE BED

Fonts Used With Gratitude And Thanks To:

Marker Felt Regular

MYRIAD PRO Regular, Bold and Black

comic book commando regular

POPs & PBDEs

Were surrounded by chemicals all day, all the time,

fight these attacks effectively every moment of every

The European Union decided to ban the use of two

In the United States, PBDEs are marketed with trade

With 209 different congeners and extraordinary

If youre raising children then you probably know

number of sources every day primarily because small

Get rid of any pillows and mattresses that are at least

Pollutants and result in a cleaner mattress. In view of

The San Antonio Statement

The San Antonio Statement

Joseph DiGangi1, Arlene Blum2,3, ke Bergman4, Cynthia A. de Wit5,

1.International POPs Elimination Network, Berkeley, California, USA

3. Many brominated and chlorinated flame retardants

11. Therefore, these data support the following:

natives to harmful flame retardants if they are made

6. Brominated and chlorinated flame

17. When seeking exemptions for certain applications

7. Near-end-of-life and end-of-life electrical and electronic products are a

8. There is a lack of capacity to handle

20. Wastes containing flame retardants

9. Brominated and chlorinated flame

POPS skulking AROUND THE HOUSE

Daddy, Theres A Monster In My Room

The Monsters In The Food, Air And Water

Journal Of Occupational And Environmental Hygiene September 2016

Science And The Total Environment September 2016

Reviews In Environmental Contamination Toxicology September 2016

CNS Neurolological Disorders Drug Targets August 2016

Autism, Mitochondria and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Exposure

Environmental Research August 2016

Occurrence and sources of brominated and organophosphorus flame retardants in dust

Environment International August 2016

Environmental Researcgh August 2016

Serum polybrominated diphenyl ether concentrations

Reproductive Toxicology July 2016

JAMA Neurology July 2016

Association of Environmental Toxins With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Persistent environmental pollutants may represent a modifiable risk factor involved in

Current Problems In Pediatric And Adolescent Health Care July 2016

Developmental Exposure to Environmental Chemicals and Metabolic Changes in Children

Current Obesity Reports July 2016

Infectious and Environmental Influences on the Obesity Epidemic

Environmental Toxicology July 2016

Journal Of Chromatography A July 2016

Environmental Pollution July 2016

Statewide surveillance of halogenated flame retardants in fish in Illinois, USA

Life Science July 2016

International Journal Of Hygiene And Environmental Health July 2016

Environmental Research July 2016

Relationships between concentrations of selected organohalogen contaminants and thyroid hormones

Environmental Health Perspectives July 2016

Environment International July 2016