E-waste dismantling as a source of personal exposure and environmental release of fine and ultrafine particles

Electronic waste (WEEE; from TV screens to electric toothbrushes) is one of the fastest growing waste streams in the world. Prior to recycling, e-waste components (metals, wood, glass, etc.) are processed by shredding, grinding and chainsaw cutting. These activities generate fine and ultrafine particle emissions, containing metals as well as organics (e.g., flame retardants), which have high potential for human health impacts as well as for environmental release. In this work, release of fine and ultrafine particles, and their exposure impacts, was assessed in an e-waste recycling facility under real-world operating conditions. Parameters monitored were black carbon, particle mass concentrations, ultrafine particles, and aerosol morphology and chemical composition. Potential health impacts were assessed in terms of cytotoxicity (cell viability) and oxidative stress (ROS) on <2 μm particles collected in liquid suspension. Environmental release of WEEE aerosols was evidenced by the higher particle concentrations monitored outside the facility when compared to the urban background (43 vs.11 μgPM2.5/m³, respectively, or 2.4 vs. 0.2 μgCa/m³). Inside the facility, concentrations were higher in the top than on the ground floor (PM2.5 = 147 vs. 78 μg/m³, N = 15.4 ∗ 104 vs. 8.7 ∗ 104/cm³, BC = 12.4 vs. 7.2 μg/m³). Ventilation was a key driver of human exposure, in combination with particle emissions. Key chemical tracers were Ca (from plastic fillers) and Fe (from wiring and other metal components). Y, Zr, Cd, Pb, P and Bi were markers of cathode TV recycling, and Li and Cr of grinding activities. While aerosols did not evidence cytotoxic effects, ROS generation was detected in 4 out of the 12 samples collected, associated to the ultrafine fraction. We conclude on the need for studies on aerosol emissions from WEEE facilities, especially in Europe, due to their demonstrable environmental and human health impacts and the rapidly growing generation of this type of waste.

Effects of an environmentally relevant concentration of diuron on oyster genitors during gametogenesis: responses of early molecular and cellular markers and physiological impacts

Genitors of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas were submitted during gametogenesis to a short pulse exposure to the herbicide diuron at a realistic environmental concentration. Histological analysis showed no effect of diuron on gametogenesis course, sex ratio and reproductive effort. A non-significant increase in testosterone and progesterone levels was observed in genitors exposed to the herbicide. At cell level, diuron exposure was shown to modulate the phagocytic activity of circulating hemocytes. The results of a transcriptional analysis showed that diuron affected the expression of genes belonging to functions known to play a major role during oyster gametogenesis such as gene transcription regulation, DNA replication and repair, DNA methylation and cytokinesis. Taking into account the results we previously obtained on the same genitors, this study showed a negative effect of diuron on oyster reproduction by inducing both structural and functional modifications of the DNA.

Evidence of altered fertility in female roach (Rutilus rutilus) from the River Seine (France)

A large variety of anthropogenic chemicals present in the aquatic environment have been shown to be able to alter the endocrine system of exposed organisms, potentially impacting their reproductive function. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of environmental pollution on the reproductive system of wild female roach (Rutilus rutilus) from the Seine River (Normandy, France). A suite of biomarkers of endocrine disruption including gonado-somatic index, plasmatic vitellogenin, gonadal aromatase activity and histological parameters (oocyte diameter and gonad maturation) were studied. Female fish from the polluted sites showed a number of reproductive alterations, including inhibited gonad maturation, reduced oocyte growth, reduced levels of plasmatic vitellogenin and 3-fold lower gonadal aromatase activity than females collected in the reference site. Overall, these results highlight the presence of endocrine disruption in female roach from the Seine River.

Short-term exposure to the organotin compound triphenyltin modulates esterified steroid levels in females of Marisa cornuarietis

Long-term exposures to organotin compounds have shown alterations on endogenous steroid levels in gastropods together with the development of imposex. However, information regarding short-term effects of these compounds on the endocrine system of gastropods is lacking. This work aimed at investigating those responses in the ramshorn snail Marisa cornuarietis by looking at both endogenous levels of free and esterified steroids and the metabolism of the androgen precursor androstenedione by digestive gland/gonad microsomal fractions. One-week exposure to the organotin compound triphenyltin (TPT) led to a significant increase in esterified testosterone (60-85%) and a decrease in esterified estradiol (50-84%) in females, but had no effect on males. The observed alterations in esterified steroids were not directly related to changes in P450 aromatase activity that remained unchanged in exposed females. The enzymes involved in the metabolism of the androgen precursor androstenedione, namely 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases and 5alpha-reductases, were not significantly altered by TPT exposure, suggesting that such enzymes are not primary targets of TPT in M. cornuarietis. Additional studies are needed to fully understand the significance of the observed alterations in females and their potential relationship with the development of imposex.

Endocrine disruptors in marine organisms: approaches and perspectives

Organic pollutants exhibiting endocrine disrupting activity (Endocrine Disruptors--EDs) are prevalent over a wide range in the aquatic ecosystems; most EDs are resistant to environmental degradation and are considered ubiquitous contaminants. The actual potency of EDs is low compared to that of natural hormones, but environmental concentrations may still be sufficiently high to produce detrimental biological effects. Most information on the biological effects and mechanisms of action of EDs has been focused on vertebrates. Here we summarize recent progress in studies on selected aspects of endocrine disruption in marine organisms that are still poorly understood and that certainly deserve further research in the near future. This review, divided in four sections, focuses mainly on invertebrates (effects of EDs and mechanisms of action) and presents data on top predators (large pelagic fish and cetaceans), a group of vertebrates that are particularly at risk due to their position in the food chain. The first section deals with basic pathways of steroid biosynthesis and metabolism as a target for endocrine disruption in invertebrates. In the second section, data on the effects and alternative mechanisms of action of estrogenic compounds in mussel immunocytes are presented, addressing to the importance of investigating full range responses to estrogenic chemicals in ecologically relevant invertebrate species. In the third section we review the potential use of vitellogenin (Vtg)-like proteins as a biomarker of endocrine disruption in marine bivalve molluscs, used worldwide as sentinels in marine biomonitoring programmes. Finally, we summarize the results of a recent survey on ED accumulation and effects on marine fish and mammals, utilizing both classical biomarkers of endocrine disruption in vertebrates and non-lethal techniques, such as non-destructive biomarkers, indicating the toxicological risk for top predator species in the Mediterranean. Overall, the reviewed data underline the potential to identify specific types of responses to specific groups of chemicals such as EDs in order to develop suitable biomarkers that could be useful as diagnostic tools for endocrine disruption in marine invertebrates and vertebrates.

The effect of organotin compounds on gender specific androstenedione metabolism in the freshwater ramshorn snail Marisa cornuarietis

In a recent study, we demonstrated that androstenedione was mainly converted to testosterone (T) and 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by digestive gland/gonad complex microsomal fractions isolated from male Marisa cornuarietis, whereas it was primarily metabolized to 5alpha-dihydroandrostenedione (DHA) by females. In the present work, the sexual dimorphic metabolism of androstenedione was further investigated, and attributed to a higher 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in males than in females. Thereafter, the hypothesis was tested that the metabolism of androstenedione might be affected by exposure to tributyltin (TBT) and triphenyltin (TPT), which are known to induce the development of imposex in several gastropod species. The in vitro metabolism of androstenedione, particularly the formation of DHA and DHT, was inhibited by both compounds. However, in vivo experiments showed no significant alteration in the metabolism of androstenedione in males, but a marginal (TBT) and a significant (TPT) inhibition of the formation of DHA in females exposed for 150 days to concentrations that had significantly induced the development of imposex. The ratio DHT+T/DHA, a possible indicator of metabolic androgenization, tended to increase (0.43 versus 0.35, p=0.06) in TPT exposed females. However, this ratio never reached values comparable to those found in males (11+/-1).

Androgen Metabolism in Invertebrates and Its Modulation by Xenoandrogens: A Comparative Study

Marisa cornuarietis (Mollusc), Hyalella azteca (Crustacean), and Paracentrotus lividus (Echinoderm) demonstrated the ability to metabolize androgens through different pathways catalyzed by 5alpha-reductases (5alpha-R), hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (HSD), hydroxylases, sulfotransferases (SULT), and fatty-acid acyl-CoA acyltransferases (ATAT). Interspecies differences and tissue-specific distribution of those enzymatic activities were observed. Xenobiotics, such as triphenyltin, tributyltin, and fenarimol, interfered with some of the pathways studied, namely, testosterone sulfation, testosterone esterification, and 5alpha-R activity. The work evidenced different sensitivity of those pathways to androgenic compounds, together with interphyla differences in androgen metabolism.

A comparative study on androgen metabolism in three invertebrate species

A comparative approach was taken in this study to evaluate androgen (androstenedione and testosterone) metabolism in three invertebrate species: the gastropod Marisa cornuarietis, the amphipod Hyalella azteca, and the echinoderm Paracentrotus lividus. The existence of 17beta/3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD) and 5alpha-reductase catalyzed reactions was demonstrated in all three species. Androstenedione was primarily converted to 5alpha-androstanedione in M. cornuarietis, while it was primarily metabolized to testosterone in P. lividus and H. azteca. In addition, and consistent with vertebrate findings, tissue specific pathways and sexual dimorphism in androgen metabolism were observed. Namely, testosterone was metabolized to dihydrotestosterone in P. lividus gonads (via 5alpha-reductase), and metabolized to 4-androstene-3beta,17beta-diol in the digestive tube (via 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase). Furthermore, the synthesis of 17beta-reduced metabolites of androstenedione (testosterone and dihydrotestosterone) was 3- to 4-fold higher in males of M. cornuarietis than in females. Organotin compounds, which have been shown to interfere with some aspects of androgen metabolism, had no major effect on testosterone metabolism in any of the three species. Fenarimol enhanced 5alpha-reductase-mediated catalysis in gonads of P. lividus. Overall, results demonstrate the ubiquity of some androgen biotransformation processes in invertebrates and reveals interphyla differences in androgen metabolic pathways, and different sensitivity of these pathways to some xenobiotics.

Sulfatase activity in the oyster Crassostrea virginica: its potential interference with sulfotransferase determination

Two sulfatase isoforms, a soluble one with an optimum pH of 5.0, and a microsomal one with an optimum pH of 7.6, were observed in digestive gland, gonads, mantle and gills of the oyster C. virginica. The highest sulfatase activity was recorded in the digestive gland cytosol and is likely to interfere with the in vitro determination of sulfotransferase activity. Indeed, the sulfatase inhibitor Na(2)SO(3) led to an increase of measured sulfotransferase activity (31+/-9%), suggesting that those sulfatases might be partially responsible for the low sulfotransferase activities found in C. virginica.

Trace metal concentration, antioxidant enzyme activities and susceptibility to oxidative stress in the tricoptera larvae Hydropsyche exocellata from the Llobregat river basin (NE Spain)

Caddisfly larvae of Hydropsyche exocellata were sampled from seven locations receiving increasing levels of urban and industrial waste water discharges along the Llobregat river system (NE Spain) during spring and summer 2003. Locations were selected to include aquatic communities in poor and good ecological state according to measured physicochemical water parameters and the analysis of benthic macroinvertebtrate communities. Whole body residues of selected metals (Fe, Al, Zn, Cu, Co, Ni, Pb, Cd) were determined in conjunction with antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, CAT; glutathione peroxidase activity of GST, GSTPX), a phase II enzyme (glutathione-S-transferase, GST) and lipid peroxide levels measured as thiobarbituric reactive species (TBARs) with the aim of investigating whether resident macroinvertebrate benthic species were responsive to changes in water quality. Caddisfly larvae inhabiting those rivers were exposed to increasing levels of metal pollution. Enhanced activities of two (CAT and GST) out of the four tested enzymes, coupled with increased levels of TBARs, indicated increasing levels of stress in the studied species towards downstream reaches or locations near industrial and urban areas. These results indicate that combination of chemical and biochemical responses can be used to assess and diagnose pollution in high stressed river ecosystems.

Testosterone conjugating activities in invertebrates: are they targets for endocrine disruptors?

Testosterone conjugation activities, microsomal acyltransferases and cytosolic sulfotransferases, were investigated in three invertebrate species, the gastropod Marisa cornuarietis, the amphipod Hyalella azteca, and the echinoderm Paracentrotus lividus. The goals of the study were to characterize steroid conjugation pathways in different invertebrate phyla and to assess the susceptibility of those processes to disruption by environmental chemicals. All three species exhibited palmitoyl-CoA: testosterone acyltransferase activity (ATAT) in the range of 100-510 pmol/min/mg protein. Despite similarities in specific activities, kinetic studies indicated that ATAT had a higher affinity for testosterone but a lower V(max) in M. cornuarietis than in P. lividus, and intermediate values were found for H. azteca. In contrast, the activity of testosterone sulfotransferase (SULT) was rather low (0.05-0.18 pmol/min/mg protein) in M. cornuarietis and H. azteca. The low activity precluded kinetic analyses and inhibition studies with these species. P. lividus digestive tube displayed high SULT activity (50-170 pmol/min/mg protein) at moderate testosterone concentrations, but was inhibited at high testosterone concentrations. The interference of model pollutants (triphenyltin (TPT), tributyltin (TBT), and fenarimol) with these conjugation pathways was investigated in vitro. Both TPT and TBT (100 microM) inhibited ATAT in P. lividus (68 and 42% inhibition, respectively), and appeared to act as non-competitive inhibitors. ATAT activity in M. cornuarietis was less affected by organotins, and a significant inhibition (20% inhibition) was detected only with TBT. Fenarimol (100 microM) did not affect ATAT in any of the species tested. Sulfation of testosterone was suppressed by the organotins as well as fenarimol when using cytosolic preparations from P. lividus. These results demonstrated the existence of interphyla differences in testosterone conjugation, and revealed that these processes can serve as targets for endocrine disrupting chemicals.

Population genetic structure of the sugar beet cyst nematode Heterodera schachtii: a gonochoristic and amphimictic species with highly inbred but weakly differentiated populations

The sugar beet cyst nematode Heterodera schachtii is a soil-dwelling phytoparasitic nematode that feeds on beet roots. It is an important pest in most sugar beet growing areas, and better knowledge of its genetic variability is an important step to preserve the durability of resistant sugar beet varieties. The population genetic structure of this species in northern France was studied using five microsatellite markers. A hierarchical sampling design was used to investigate spatial structuring at the scale of the region, the field and the plant. Multilocus genotypes were obtained for single individual second-stage larvae, using only one individual per cyst in order to avoid the analysis of closely allied individuals (larvae from the same cyst share at least the same mother). A consistent trend of heterozygote deficit at all loci was observed at all spatial scales. Heterozygote deficit at the level of individual plants argues against its generation through a Wahlund effect. Inbreeding could be due to very limited active dispersal of larvae in the soil, favouring mating between siblings, such as larvae emerging from the same cyst. Such behaviour could have important consequences for the evolution of virulence in increasing the production of homozygous virulent individuals. Moreover, an analysis of molecular variance (amova) reveals that only 1.6% of the genetic variability is observed among regions, 3.7% among fields of the same region and 94.6% within fields. The very low level of genetic differentiation among fields is also indicated by low values of FST (</= 0.105) even for fields 150 km apart. We suggest that long-distance gene flows occur due to passive transport of cysts by human activities, water or wind. As such mechanisms of gene flow would involve cysts and not larvae, the strong signals of inbreeding observed at the local scale should not be disrupted. To our knowledge, this study constitutes the first investigation of the genetic structure of a phytoparasitic nematode based on neutral codominant genetic markers scored in single individuals.

Feminization of wild carp, Cyprinus carpio, in a polluted environment: plasma steroid hormones, gonadal morphology and xenobiotic metabolizing system

Wild carp, Cyprinus carpio, were sampled in January and March 2000 in a section of the Anoia River (NE Spain) known to be polluted by estrogenic compounds. At each sampling time, three groups were distinguished: (1) apparently normal males; (2) apparently normal females; and (3) affected fish. The latter were characterized by the simultaneous development of male and female tissue in their gonads at a macroscopical level (six out of 31 fish sampled at this particular point), or testicular atrophy (three out of 31). Plasmatic and hepatic vitellogenin (VTG) levels and plasma testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2) were measured to observe the particular estrogenic response of the affected fish. Moreover, the response in the xenobiotic metabolizing capacity in liver was tested. This involved the analysis of mixed function oxygenase (MFO) system such as: total cytochrome P450 content, NAD(P)H cytochrome c reductases and the associated CYP1A1, EROD activity. Also, glutathione S-transferase (GST) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UDPGT) as detoxifying enzymes were measured. Our results showed: (1) a highly variable VTG content in all fish groups; (2) an increase in sex hormones content in March for the female group; and (3) an enhanced xenobiotics metabolism in the affected fish group, measured as total cytochrome P450, EROD activity in the January survey and cytosolic GST in March. The observed increase in VTG, sex hormones and in most of the enzymatic activities from January to March that could also be attributed to higher water temperature.

Cytochrome P450 differences in normal and imposex-affected female whelk Buccinum undatum from the open North Sea

Normal and imposex-affected female Buccinum undatum were sampled from the open North Sea at three locations, one with low, and two with high shipping densities. Cytochrome P450 components and P450 aromatase activity were determined in the microsomal fractions isolated from pooled digestive gland/gonads. Cytochrome P450 aromatase activity was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in normal females collected in the low shipping density area (1,325 +/- 295 fmol/h/mg protein) than levels from imposex animals from a high shipping density area (620 +/- 287 fmol/h/mg protein). A negative correlation was found between aromatase activity and organotin body burden (r = -0.99). Levels of CYP450, cytochrome b5 and NADPH cytochrome c reductase activity did not show differences among groups. This is the first field evidence of depressed aromatase activity in imposex affected females, although additional research under laboratory controlled conditions is required to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the development of imposex in this species.

To robotize chemistry laboratories. An example of organic synthesis: 2-Boc-amino-N-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propionamide

The paper describes the development of periodic modules used for the peptide synthesis of hydroxamic acid. A powder conveyor using the principle of positive weighing distribution is described. Purification is provided using automatic filtration and a liquid- liquid extraction module separation device. Device quality is improved using failure mode and effects analysis.

Variation of antioxidant enzyme activities of sprat (Sprattus sprattus) larvae and organic contaminant levels in mixed zooplankton from the southern North Sea

Sprat (Sprattus sprattus) larvae and mixed zooplankton were collected from sites in the southern North Sea across three transects running north, north-west and west from the Elbe and Weser estuaries (Germany). Sprat larval sub-cellular fractions (13,500 g supernatants) were assayed for the antixoxidant enzymes catalase (EC 1.11.1.6) and superoxide dismutase (SOD; EC 1.15.1.1), and levels of polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs), p,p'-DDE and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in the mixed zooplankton (fish larval diet). Higher levels (p < 0.05) of SOD and catalase activities were observed at sites closest to estuaries corresponding to sites with the highest levels (p < 0.05) of total PCBs and p,p'-DDE. Antioxidant enzymes activities decreased in samples collected from sites further from the estuaries across a northern and north-western transect; however this was not observed across a western transect. Larval antioxidant enzyme activities are discussed in relation to potential processes affecting them including plankton contaminant level distributions.

The aegean sea oil spill in the Galicia Coast (NW Spain). I. Distribution and fate of the crude oil and combustion products in subtidal sediments

The spatial distribution and fate of petrogenic and pyrogenic hydrocarbons in coastal sediments following the Aegean Sea oil spill (Galicia, NW Spain) was investigated through a detailed study of chemical markers. Alkanes and acyclic isoprenoid hydrocarbons were degraded within six months of the accident, but triterpane and sterane distributions were still detectable and were useful in monitoring, respectively, the oil source and weathering. Aromatic steranes were also useful source indicators, and oil degradation was clear from the decrease of certain alkyl dibenzothiophene and phenanthrene isomers. The pyrogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons produced in the tanker wreck were found more persistent than the petrogenic ones. However, the presence of the oil in the sediments was recognized even one year after the accident and was found particularly preserved in the subsurface layers.

The integrated use of chemical analysis, cytochrome P450 and stress proteins in mussels to assess pollution along the Galician coast (NW Spain)

Aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as well as biochemical markers, such as cytochrome P450, benzo(a)pyrene hydroxylase (BPH) and stress-70 proteins, were determined in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) collected in October 1995 from several locations along the Galician coast (NW Spain). The survey proved the existence of a pollution gradient among sampling sites and a chronic exposure to petrogenic and pyrolitic hydrocarbons. This was reflected in mussel tissue levels of PAHs which ranged from 22 to 562 ng/g wet weight. High levels of total cytochrome P450 were detected in mussels from the most polluted sites, but differences were not statistically significant. BPH activity did not show either differences among sampling sites. Conversely, stress-70 proteins were significantly induced in the most polluted locations, and levels of the 72-kDa band correlated well (r2 = 0.854) with the sum of the PAHs from four to six rings accumulated by mussels.

Seasonal variation of MXR and stress proteins in the common mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis

The accumulation of heat-shock HSP70 and MXR proteins in the digestive gland and gills respectively of the mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) has been examined in individuals collected monthly during 1 year from the mariculture areas located in the Ebro Delta (NW Spain). Both proteins were visualised and semi-quantified by western blot using commercially available monoclonal antibodies and subsequent image analysis. Two HSP-related bands of Mr 72 and 78 kDa and two MXR proteins of Mr 230 and 130 kDa were detected and their seasonal variations in expression levels recorded. A significant correlation between HSP70 and MXR expression was obtained, the maximum protein accumulation being detected during the summer period. These two parameters were also significantly correlated to water temperature at sample sites. These results suggest either a direct role of temperature in protein expression or an indirect role driven by food availability and growth.

Vitellogenin induction and other biochemical responses in carp, Cyprinus carpio, after experimental injection with 17 alpha-ethynylestradiol

Prespawning, adult male and female carp, Cyprinus carpio, were intraperitoneally injected with a single dose of 500 microg/kg of 17alpha-ethynylestradiol (EE2). Blood samples were taken and vitellogenin levels were recorded previous to the injection and 8 days afterward. Western blot analysis of plasma VTG showed a marked response in both males (90-fold) and females (67-fold) after EE2 injection. Also, a significant inhibition of the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase system, namely, 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) activity, as well as immunodetected CYP1A protein was observed in the EE2-injected fish. Other cytochrome P450 isozymes, such as CYP3A or NADH cyt (b5) reductase, did not indicate any particular trend; whereas NADPH cyt (P450) reductase was significantly induced in EE2-injected animals. Total cytochrome P450, glutathion S-transferase (GST), and total glutathion peroxidase (GPX) fluctuated in a similar manner, but differences among treated and nontreated animals were not statistically significant. UDP glucuronyl transferase (UDPGT), similar to the antioxidant enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Se-GPX, progressively decreased in carrier and injected animals in comparison to the controls, although this trend did not reach statistical significance either.

The use of biomarkers to assess the impact of pollution in coastal environments of the Iberian Peninsula: a practical approach

Within the frame of the 2nd Iberian Congress of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology (University of the Basque Country, Leioa, June 1998) a workshop was held about the use of biomarkers in marine pollution monitoring. Among others, the following biomarkers received special attention: metallothionein induction, acetylcholinesterase inhibition, cytochrome P450 system induction, imposex, lysosomal enlargement and lysosomal membrane destabilisation, and peroxisome proliferation. These biomarkers can be used to evaluate exposure to and effect of different contaminants (metals, organic xenobiotics and organometallic compounds) and they can be measured using different methodological approaches (biochemistry, cytochemistry, immunochemical methods based on the use of biotechnology). Before the application of a set of biomarkers in pollution monitoring programmes, well-defined protocols of Quality Assurance have to be established to allow adequate comparison of results. It is also necessary to include analysis of standard reference materials and to obtain detailed knowledge of basal values and seasonal variations of the biomarkers in various species, as well as to integrate the information obtained with the different biomarkers. Marine bivalve molluscs such as mussels are appropriate sentinel species for most of the biomarkers proposed except for the induction of the cytochrome P450 system, which should be measured in fish, and the degree of imposex, which is a biomarker of exposure to TBT specifically measured in certain gastropod molluscs. As a result of the workshop, a battery of biomarkers of contaminant exposure and effects are proposed that could be incorporated into programmes monitoring the quality of the coastal environment in the Iberian Peninsula. These measures would be undertaken in conjunction with chemical measures of contaminant burdens in selected sentinel species.

Evidence of endocrine disruption in clams--Ruditapes decussata--transplanted to a tributyltin-polluted environment

Clams--Ruditapes decussata--were transplanted to an organotin-polluted marina for a period up to 5 weeks. Tributyltin (TBT) was the major organotin compound detected in clams; TBT accumulation was extremely rapid, it reached a maximum tissue concentration of 290 ng/g wet weight 3 weeks after transplant, which represents a bioaccumulation factor of 12,000. Dibutyltin, monobutyltin and triphenyltin were also detected, although at a lesser extent (4-22 ng/g wet wt). Investigations on endogenous steroid content by radioimmunoassay revealed important changes in TBT-exposed clams. A 33% increase in testosterone titres was observed 5 weeks after transplant. Likewise, a time-dependent decrease in oestradiol levels was evidenced, viz. oestradiol titres decreased 2, 3.5 and 5-fold in clams sampled 1, 3 and 5 weeks after transplant, respectively. These observations together with previous data on TBT-exposure experiments suggest a potential masculinization of clam physiology as a consequence of TBT exposure.

Evidence of endocrine disruption in the imposex-affected gastropod Bolinus brandaris

Testosterone/estradiol tissue levels and cytochrome P450-dependent aromatase activity have been evaluated in the gastropod Bolinus brandaris. Samples were collected from two locations on the Mediterranean coast (St. Carles and Barcelona) according to their different degrees of imposex development and organotin residues. St. Carles was chosen as a relatively clean site, as only 37% of the females were imposex affected compared to 100% of the females from Barcelona. A strong reduction of estradiol levels was seen in both males and females from the organotin-polluted site in comparison to those of the reference site, whereas weaker differences between the sites in testosterone levels were revealed. Despite the observed alterations in sex hormone levels, no changes in aromatase activity were recorded. These results suggest that mechanisms other than inhibition of aromatase activity might be involved in the development of imposex in B. brandaris.

Cytochrome P450 system in the hepatopancreas of the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii: a field study

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase system and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were studied in the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii sampled from the Ebro Delta before and after spraying of the area with fenitrothion. Analysis of hepatopancreas microsomes revealed an increase of 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) activity in organisms sampled after spraying. AChE activity was significantly inhibited in the same specimens, corroborating that these organisms were exposed to fenitrothion, and the usefulness of AChE as a marker of pesticide poisoning in P. clarkii. Crayfish from a reference site were analyzed and the results compared with those obtained in organisms from the Ebro Delta. The ability of P. clarkii to metabolize the organophosphorus pesticide fenitrothion was determined in vitro by using microsomal fractions isolated from hepatopancreas. The results pointed out the existence of an oxidative metabolism, which was inhibited by different P450 inhibitors (clotrimazole, alpha-naphthoflavone and N-benzylimidazole) and not affected by methimazole.

Imposex in the commercial snail Bolinus brandaris in the northwestern Mediterranean

A survey of the degree of imposex in populations of the commercial muricid Bolinus brandaris (L.) was carried out at six locations along the Catalan Coast (NW Mediterranean). Imposex was found to be a widespread phenomenon; the occurrence of a penis was observed in all females studied with the exception of those from St. Carles (South of Catalunya) where only 37% were affected. Other indices such as Relative Penis Length (RPL) and Vas Deferens Sequence (VDS) were applied; RPL varied from 4.5% in St. Carles--the least affected area--to 29.8% in the vicinity of Barcelona; similar results were obtained for VDS. Tissue organotin residues ranged from 6 to 140 ng g(-1) w.w. as Sn. Despite legislation restricting the use of tributyltin (TBT) in antifouling paints, this paper evidences the occurrence of organotin pollution far from the source, with levels of both TBT and triphenyltin (TPhT) high enough to cause environmental concern.

Survey of organotin compounds in the western mediterranean UsingMolluscs and fish as sentinel organisms

Tributyltin (TBT) and its degradation products, mono-(MBT) and dibutyltin (DBT) as well as triphenyltin (TPT) were determined inmolluscs and fish collected along the Catalan coast (Western Mediterranean). Marine molluscs (mussels, clams and snails) were sampled from three harborswith different characteristics (small vs. large boats). Two fishspecies were studied (a) the grey mullet Liza aurata sampled inBarcelona harbor and (b) the red mullet Mullus barbatus sampled alongthe coast; different tissues (muscle, liver, gills and digestive tube) wereanalysed separately. The composition of butyltin compounds was differentaccording to the organism and sampling point, but in general elevatedconcentrations of TBT were noticed in molluscs. The highest organotin residuelevels (5.4 microg/g d.w. as Sn) were detected in mussels from Masnou, arecreational marina, followed by those collected in Barcelona harbor (1.2microg/g d.w. as Sn). In contrast, no organotin compounds were detected in fishmuscle and very low levels in the other organs, being TPT the major organotinin red mullet liver.

Acetylcholinesterase inhibition in the crayfish Procambarus clarkii exposed to fenitrothion

Laboratory and field studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of fenitrothion (O,O-dimethyl O-4-nitro-m-tolyl phosphorothioate) on the crayfish Procambarus clarkii. Acetyl- and butyryl-cholinesterase activities were measured in the muscle of P. clarkii exposed to different doses of fenitrothion (4, 20, and 100 microg/liter) for different times (up to 48 hr). A positive correlation was found between both cholinesterases, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was selected as a biomarker of exposure to this compound. Significant AChE depression (20%) was detected 2 hr after exposure to 20 microg/liter of fenitrothion, reaching a maximum at 48 hr (47%), followed by a slow recovery. Reactivation techniques using the nucleophilic reagent pyridine 2-aldoxime methiodide were assayed in fenitrothion-poisoned specimens, and the results suggested the utility of this method to diagnose exposure, particularly when control animals are not available. Finally, AChE inhibition was used to test a field population of P. clarkii potentially exposed to high concentrations of the organophosphorus pesticide fenitrothion, and a 55% inhibition was detected.

The use of biomarkers for assessing the effects of organic pollution in mussels

Wild mussels were collected from two stations with different pollution loads. Soft tissues were analyzed for their aromatic hydrocarbon and polychlorinated biphenyl content. Mixed function oxidase (MFO) system components and antioxidant defenses (catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) were determined in digestive gland microsomal and cytosolic fractions, respectively, and the magnitude of biochemical responses related with pollutant tissue levels. Results showed that significant differences existed in hydrocarbon content between mussels from the two stations, while a smaller difference in the biological response was detected.

Bioaccumulation patterns of hydrocarbons and polychlorinated biphenyls in bivalves, crustaceans, and fishes

Hydrocarbons and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in tissues of marine organisms (mussels, crabs, benthic, and pelagic fishes) from six sites along the Catalan Coast (Western Mediterranean). Both aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons as well as seven PCB congeners (PCB-28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180) were quantified and differences in concentrations interpreted in terms of geographical distribution, trophic level, and biological cycle of the organisms. The bioaccumulation patterns of the different chemicals varied substantially. Hydrocarbons were metabolized along the food web, contrarily to PCBs, which exhibited a higher bioaccumulation in fishes. Considering 36 peaks of the GC-ECD profiles, encompassing 40 PCB congeners, from tri- to octa-chlorinated isomers, a relative enrichment was observed in the higher chlorinated ones from: mussels < mullets < tuna < crabs. The slopes of the correlation plots between the bioconcentration factor (log BCF) and the octanol-water partition coefficient (log K(ow)) for the different PCB congeners reflected the feeding behavior of the organisms, mussels exhibiting a preferential uptake by direct partitioning from water, and mullets and crabs with a certain uptake from sediments. Increasing metabolic degradation following a similar trend among species was also observed for aromatic hydrocarbons and PCB congeners containing meta and para vicinal H-atoms. Accordingly, mussels and benthic fishes were the best indicators of coastal pollution in the water column and sediments, respectively, although the above features should not be overlooked in the interpretation of biomonitoring data.

[Fluorescence of shade guides]

The experimental protocol developed in the previous article (4) has been modified to permit the investigation of the fluorescence of shade guides. The following will be traced out on each graphic display: a reference spectrum using full lines; a sample spectrum using dotted lines; the chromaticity triangle of the X Y Z CIE 1931 system; the chromaticity of the sample to be tested, represented by the sign +; the chromaticity of the reference, represented by the sign -. The shade guides without any rare earth have spectra in the form of wide bands; their intensity decreases when the degree of colour purity in white light of the buttons increases. The shade guides containing rare earth have spectra with both a wide band and thin lines. It has been shown that: the same shade guide can contain different fluorescence components; two shade guides from the same source can have very different fluorescences for buttons of the same reference; two shade guides from different sources can have identical fluorescent components. This study reveals: that unadapted fluorescences of shade guide may be the cause of an error in the choice of the colour of a ceramic restoration; that the comparison of spectra appears to prove that shade guides are not manufactured by the ceramic manufacturers which recommend them and are, in fact, of the same origin.

Responses of mixed-function oxygenase and antioxidase enzyme system of Mytilus sp. to organic pollution

1. Mixed-function oxidase (MFO) system components (cytochrome P-450, "418-peak", cytochrome b5 and NADPH-cytochrome c(P-450) reductase) and inducible antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and DT-diaphorase) has been determined in digestive glands of mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) collected from three Mediterranean coastal locations, exhibiting an organic pollution gradient. 2. Cytochrome P-450, the "418-peak", catalase and SOD showed a good correlation with whole body tissue PAHs and, to a lower extent, with PCBs. 3. Microsomal NADPH-dependent DT-diaphorase, but not the NADH-dependent microsomal enzyme or the cytosolic DT-diaphorases, was indicated to increase with pollution exposure. 4. The application of such measurements to environmental monitoring is discussed. Given the magnitude of differences observed, and the state of knowledge on enzyme function and mechanisms of toxicity, a multiparameter approach is considered to offer current and future potential for detecting the impact of organic pollution on bivalve molluscs.

[Fluorescence of dental porcelain: material and methods]

Dental porcelain emits some fluorescence under the action of ultra-violet rays. This emission may be at the origin of errors in the choice of the colour of a crown. In order to study this fluorescence phenomenon, the following experimental protocol has been developed: 363.8 nm exciting radiation isolated from the emission by an Argon laser; Fluorescence emitted by the sample and dispersed via a spectrometer, protected by a stop-U.V. filter; Influx collected by a photomultiplier, then directed, after passage in a picoamperemeter, toward a mini-computer programmed to print the spectra; Correction of the spectra by a tungsten lamp used at the 2,600 K colour temperature; Use of reference spectra. On the same graph, the sample spectra are represented in solid lines, while the spectrum of the enamel used as a reference is shown as a dotted line. The results show that: Enamel has a fluorescence spectrum which has the shape of a wide band, with a maximum of 450 nm (characteristic of a blue-green shade) and a slow decrease up to 680 nm. The enamel fluorescence does not depend on the colour of the tooth; Dentine has a distribution spectrum which is similar to that of enamel but is three times fuller; The spectra of the ceramic samples reveal: a wide band due to transition metals, fine lines due to rare earth (terbium and europium). When the saturation degree of the ceramic increases, its fluorescence colour varies due to the relative increase in the amplitude of the lines in relation to the bands. Thus, when the sample colour progresses from B1 to B4, its fluorescence colour becomes greener.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Selective enrichment procedures for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyls and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in environmental samples by gel permeation chromatography

An improved two-step clean up procedure involving alumina-silica column chromatography and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) of air particulate matter (NBS SRM 1648) and river sediment extracts and a GPC clean up procedure for marine biota samples are described for the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with two to five rings and selected polychlorinated biphenyl congeners, respectively. Bio-Beads SX-12 and SX-3 were used as packing materials. The recoveries obtained varied from 52 to 78% depending on the compound. Quantitative data for NBS SRM 1648 were comparable with those described previously for this sample.