Exposure to benzene and other hydrocarbons and risk of bladder cancer among male offshore petroleum workers

BACKGROUND

Occupational exposures constitute the second leading cause of urinary bladder cancer after tobacco smoking. Increased risks have been found in the petroleum industry, but high-quality exposure data are needed to explain these observations.

METHODS

Using a prospective case-cohort design, we analysed 189 bladder cancer cases (1999-2017) and 2065 randomly drawn non-cases from the Norwegian Offshore Petroleum Workers cohort. Cases were identified in the Cancer Registry of Norway, while work histories (1965-1998) and lifestyle factors were recorded by questionnaire at baseline (1998). Occupational petroleum-related hydrocarbon exposures were assessed by expert-developed job-exposure matrices. Hazard ratios were estimated by weighted Cox-regressions, adjusted for age, tobacco smoking, education, and year of first employment, and with lagged exposures.

RESULTS

Increased risks were found in benzene-exposed workers, either long-term exposure (≥18.8 years, HR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.14-3.13; p-trend = 0.044) or high-level cumulative benzene exposure (HR = 1.60, 95% CI: 0.97-2.63; p-trend = 0.065), compared with the unexposed. Associations persisted with 20-year exposure lag. No associations were found with skin or inhalation exposure to crude oil, mineral oil (lubrication, hydraulics, turbines, drilling), or diesel exhaust.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that exposures in the benzene fraction of the petroleum stream may be associated with increased bladder cancer risk.

Long-term ambient hydrocarbon exposure and incidence of urinary bladder cancer

Particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, including total hydrocarbons (THCs), are major ambient air pollutants. Primary nonmethane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) originate from vehicle emissions. The association between air pollution and urinary bladder cancer (UBC) is debatable. We investigated whether long-term exposure to ambient hydrocarbons increases UBC risk among people aged ≥ 20 years in Taiwan. Linkage dataset research with longitudinal design was conducted among 589,135 initially cancer-free individuals during 2000-2013; 12 airborne pollutants were identified. Several Cox models considering potential confounders were employed. The study outcomes were invasive or in situ UBC incidence over time. The targeted pollutant concentration was divided into three tertiles: T1/T2/T3. The mean age of individuals at risk was 42.5 (SD 15.7), and 50.5% of the individuals were men. The mean daily average over 10 years of airborne THC concentration was 2.25 ppm (SD 0.13), and NMHC was 0.29 ppm (SD 0.09). Both pollutants show long-term monotonic downward trend over time using the Mann-Kendall test. There was a dose-dependent increase in UBC at follow-up. UBC incidence per 100,000 enrollees according to T1/T2/T3 exposure to THC was 60.9, 221.2, and 651.8, respectively; it was 170.0/349.5/426.7 per 100,000 enrollees, corresponding to T1/T2/T3 exposure to NMHC, respectively. Without controlling for confounding air pollutants, the adjusted hazard ratio (adj.HR) was 1.83 (95% CI 1.75-1.91) per 0.13-ppm increase in THC; after controlling for PM_2.5, adj.HR was even higher at 2.09 (95% CI 1.99-2.19). The adj.HR was 1.37 (95% CI 1.32-1.43) per 0.09-ppm increase in ambient NMHC concentration. After controlling for SO₂ and CH₄, the adj.HR was 1.10 (95% CI 1.06-1.15). Sensitivity analyses showed that UBC development risk was not sex-specific or influenced by diabetes status. Long-term exposure to THC and NMHC may be a risk factor for UBC development. Acknowledging pollutant sources can inform risk management strategies.

Hydrocarbon pneumonitis with abscess formation following diesel siphoning

A man in his early 40s presented with a 1-month history of fever after accidental diesel aspiration. He had received treatment with intravenous antibiotics, steroids and supportive care. Contrast-enhanced CT of the thorax revealed a right middle lobe lung abscess and bronchoscopy revealed hyperaemia around the middle lobe bronchus. The abscess was initially managed by drainage using a pigtail catheter and intravenous antibiotics. However, only partial drainage of the abscess was achieved and fever persisted. The cardiothoracic surgery team performed drainage of lung abscess through a right posterolateral thoracotomy. Postprocedure, the patient's symptoms improved and the patient was discharged in good health. This case demonstrates a rare complication of hydrocarbon aspiration pneumonitis and lung abscess. Post acute management of diesel aspiration, patients should be advised to return for medical assessment immediately, should symptoms like persistent fever and chest pain recur or persist as these symptoms may herald the development of post-hydrocarbon-aspiration lung abscess.

Assessment of hepatic functions, hematopoietic cytokines and haematological parameters in people occupationally exposed to volatile petroleum hydrocarbons

Humans are occupationally exposed to volatile petroleum hydrocarbons through inhalation and ingestion. To access the effect of exposure to volatile hydrocarbons, hematopoietic cytokines, haematological parameters and hepatic functions were assayed for in 100 subjects. Male participants showed significant increase (p < 0.05) in erythropoietin, interleukin-3, alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean cell volume (MCV) and significant decrease (p < 0.05) in mean cell hemoglobin (MCH). Female participants showed significant increase (p < 0.05) in interleukin-3, ALT, AST, ALP, MCHC, MCV and significant decrease (p < 0.05) in MCH, platelets, hemoglobin and hematocrit compared to their controls. Exposure to volatile petroleum hydrocarbons raised the absolute red blood cell indices and liver enzymes and could stimulate combined increase in the release of erythropoietin and interleukin-3 leading to ineffective hematopoiesis.

Modulation of microbial growth and enzymatic activities in the marine environment due to exposure to organic contaminants of emerging concern and hydrocarbons

Organic pollutants are continuously being introduced in seawater with uncharacterized impacts on the engines of the marine biogeochemical cycles, the microorganisms. The effects on marine microbial communities were assessed for perfluoroalkyl substances, organophosphate esters flame retardants and plasticizers, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and n-alkanes. Dose-response experiments were performed at three stations and at three depths in the NW Mediterranean with contrasted nutrient and pollutant concentrations. In these experiments, the microbial growth rates, the abundances of the main bacterial groups, measured by Catalyzed Reporter Deposition Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (CARD-FISH), and extracellular enzymatic activities, were quantified. Increasing concentrations of organic pollutants (OPs) promoted different responses in the communities that were compound, organism and nutrient availability (trophic status). The largest differences between OP treatments and controls in the growth rates of both heterotrophic and phototrophic microbial groups were observed in seawater from the deep chlorophyll maxima. Furthermore, there was a compound specific stimulation of different extracellular enzymatic activities after the exposure to OPs. Our results revealed that marine microbial communities reacted not only to hydrocarbons, known to be used as a carbon source, but also to low concentrations of organic pollutants of emerging concern in a complex manner, reflecting the variability of various environmental variables. Multiple linear regressions suggested that organic pollutants modulated the bacterial growth and extracellular enzymatic activities, but this modulation was of lower magnitude than the observed pronounced response of the microbial community to nutrient availability.

Incidence of retinal vein occlusion with long-term exposure to ambient air pollution

This study aimed to investigate whether long-term exposure to airborne hydrocarbons, including volatile organic compounds, increases the risk of developing retinal vein occlusion (RVO) among the population of Taiwan. A retrospective cohort study involving 855,297 people was conducted. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis fitted the multiple pollutant models for two targeted pollutants, including total hydrocarbons (THC), nonmethane hydrocarbons (NMHC) were used, and the risk of RVO was estimated. The chi-squared test and one-way analysis of variance were used to test differences in demographics and comorbidity distribution among tertiles of the targeted pollutants. Before controlling for multiple pollutants, hazard ratios for the overall population were 19.88 (95% CI: 17.56-22.50) at 0.51-ppm increases in THC and 4.33 (95% CI: 3.97-4.73) at 0.27-ppm increases in NMHC. The highest adjusted hazard ratios for different multiple pollutant models of each targeted pollutant were statistically significant (all p values were ≤0.05) for all patients at 29.67 (95% CI: 25.57-34.42) for THC and 16.24 (95% CI: 14.14-18.65) for NMHC. Our findings suggest that long-term exposure to THC and NMHC contribute to RVO development.

Long-term ambient hydrocarbons exposure and incidence of ischemic stroke

Exposure to air pollutants is known to have adverse effects on human health; however, little is known about the association between hydrocarbons in air and an ischemic stroke (IS) event. We investigated whether long-term exposure to airborne hydrocarbons, including volatile organic compounds, increased IS risk. This retrospective cohort study included 283,666 people aged 40 years or older in Taiwan. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to fit single- and multiple-pollutant models for two targeted pollutants, total hydrocarbons (THC) and nonmethane hydrocarbons (NMHC), and estimated the risk of IS. Before controlling for multiple pollutants, hazard ratios (HRs) of IS with 95% confidence intervals for the overall population were 2.69 (2.64-2.74) at 0.16-ppm increase in THC and 1.62 (1.59-1.66) at 0.11-ppm increase in NMHC. For the multiple-pollutant models controlling for PM2.5, the adjusted HR was 3.64 (3.56-3.72) for THC and 2.21 (2.16-2.26) for NMHC. Our findings suggest that long-term exposure to THC and NMHC may be a risk factor for IS development.

Long-Term Exposure to Ambient Hydrocarbons Increases Dementia Risk in People Aged 50 Years and above in Taiwan

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia among the elderly, is a progressive and irreversible neurodegenerative disease. Exposure to air pollutants is known to have adverse effects on human health, however, little is known about hydrocarbons in the air that can trigger a dementia event.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate whether long-term exposure to airborne hydrocarbons increases the risk of developing dementia.

METHOD

The present cohort study included 178,085 people aged 50 years and older in Taiwan. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to fit the multiple pollutant models for two targeted pollutants, including total hydrocarbons and non-methane hydrocarbons, and estimated the risk of dementia.

RESULTS

Before controlling for multiple pollutants, hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals for the overall population were 7.63 (7.28-7.99, p <0.001) at a 0.51-ppm increases in total hydrocarbons, and 2.94 (2.82-3.05, p <0.001) at a 0.32-ppm increases in non-methane hydrocarbons. The highest adjusted hazard ratios for different multiple-pollutant models of each targeted pollutant were statistically significant (p <0.001) for all patients: 11.52 (10.86-12.24) for total hydrocarbons and 9.73 (9.18-10.32) for non-methane hydrocarbons.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that total hydrocarbons and non-methane hydrocarbons may be contributing to dementia development.

Aviation Fuel Exposure Resulting in Otitis Externa with Vertigo

BACKGROUND

Otitis externa secondary to irritant or chemical exposure is well documented; however, specifically secondary to jet fuel exposure and its associated toxicology is not. Over 2 million military and civilian personnel per year are occupationally exposed to aviation fuels.

CASE REPORT

An aircraft maintainer presented with noninfectious acute otitis externa secondary to external ear canal exposure to JP-5 jet fuel. Proper exposure guidelines were followed, but it was not realized that the external ear canal was involved. The first symptoms to emerge were vertigo, dizziness, and disequilibrium; however, on physical exam it appeared that there was no middle ear involvement.

DISCUSSION

Otitis externa normally does not present with vestibular symptoms as the pathology affects the external ear canal dermal tissue. Upon review of JP-5's toxicology profile, dermal absorption is a route of entry and can cause general neurological symptoms, including loss of coordination. This case highlights potential deficiencies in the standardized safety data sheets that are used after exposure. Without mention of possible auricular exposure one may focus on the logical protection of the eyes, mouth, and visible skin. This is concerning due to potential delayed exposure symptoms, dermal absorption, high level of dermal destruction, and the close proximity to the sensory system. The goal of this case report is to improve the knowledge of providers caring for personnel who may be exposed and to suggest possible revisions to the Safety Data Sheets for jet fuel.Long RJ, Charles RA. Aviation fuel exposure resulting in otitis externa with vertigo. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(7):661-663.

Aliphatic Hydrocarbon Enhances Phenanthrene Degradation by Autochthonous Prokaryotic Communities from a Pristine Seawater

The microbial diversity and functioning around oceanic islands is poorly described, despite its importance for ecosystem homeostasis. Here, we aimed to verify the occurrence of microbe-driven phenanthrene co-oxidation in the seawater surrounding the Trindade Island (Brazil). We also used Next-Generation Sequencing to evaluate the effects of aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on these microbial community assemblies. Microcosms containing seawater from the island enriched with either labelled (9-¹⁴C) or non-labelled phenanthrene together with hexadecane, weathered oil, fluoranthene or pyrene, and combinations of these compounds were incubated. Biodegradation of phenanthrene-9-¹⁴C was negatively affected in the presence of weathered oil and PAHs but increased in the presence of hexadecane. PAH contamination caused shifts in the seawater microbial community-from a highly diverse one dominated by Alphaproteobacteria to less diverse communities dominated by Gammaproteobacteria. Furthermore, the combination of PAHs exerted a compounded negative influence on the microbial community, reducing its diversity and thus functional capacity of the ecosystem. These results advance our understanding of bacterial community dynamics in response to contrasting qualities of hydrocarbon contamination. This understanding is fundamental in the application and monitoring of bioremediation strategies if accidents involving oil spillages occur near Trindade Island and similar ecosystems.

Response of marine bacteria to oil contamination and to high pressure and low temperature deep sea conditions

The effect of pressure and temperature on microbial communities of marine environments contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons is understudied. This study aims to reveal the responses of marine bacterial communities to low temperature, high pressure, and contamination with petroleum hydrocarbons using seawater samples collected near an offshore Brazilian platform. Microcosms containing only seawater and those containing seawater contaminated with 1% crude oil were subjected to three different treatments of temperature and pressure as follows: (1) 22°C/0.1 MPa; (2) 4°C/0.1 MPa; and (3) 4°C/22 MPa. The effect of depressurization followed by repressurization on bacterial communities was also evaluated (4°C/22 MPaD). The structure and composition of the bacterial communities in the different microcosms were analyzed by PCR-DGGE and DNA sequencing, respectively. Contamination with oil influenced the structure of the bacterial communities in microcosms incubated either at 4°C or 22°C and at low pressure. Incubation at low temperature and high pressure greatly influenced the structure of bacterial communities even in the absence of oil contamination. The 4°C/22 MPa and 4°C/22 MPaD treatments resulted in similar DGGE profiles. DNA sequencing (after 40 days of incubation) revealed that the diversity and relative abundance of bacterial genera were related to the presence or absence of oil contamination in the nonpressurized treatments. In contrast, the variation in the relative abundances of bacterial genera in the 4°C/22 MPa-microcosms either contaminated or not with crude oil was less evident. The highest relative abundance of the phylum Bacteroidetes was observed in the 4°C/22 MPa treatment.

Occupational exposure to asphalt mixture during road paving is related to increased mitochondria DNA copy number: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Asphalt workers are exposed to polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from hot mix asphalt via both inhalation and dermal absorption. The use of crumb rubber modified (CRM) asphalt may result in higher exposure to PAHs and more adverse effects. Our aim is to assess occupational exposure to PAHs from conventional and CRM asphalt paving by measuring PAH metabolites in urine, and to investigate the effects on mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and telomere length.

METHODS

We recruited 116 workers paving conventional asphalt, 51 workers paving CRM asphalt and 100 controls in Sweden, all males. A repeated-measures analysis included 31 workers paving both types of asphalt. Urine and blood samples were collected pre-working on Monday morning and post-working on Thursday afternoon after 4 days working. PAH metabolites: 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OH-PYR) and 2-hydroxyphenanthrene (2-OH-PH) were measured in urine by LC-MS/MS. Relative mtDNAcn and telomere length were measured by quantitative PCR.

RESULTS

Conventional and CRM asphalt workers showed higher 1-OH-PYR and 2-OH-PH than controls (p < 0.001 for all). Relative mtDNAcn were 0.21 units (p < 0.001) higher in conventional asphalt workers and 0.13 units (p = 0.010) higher in CRM asphalt workers compared to controls. Relative telomere length did not differ across occupational groups, but it was positively associated with increment of 2-OH-PH (β = 0.075, p = 0.037) in asphalt workers. The repeated-measures analysis showed no difference in either increment of 1-OH-PYP, or changes in effect biomarkers (mtDNAcn or telomere length) between paving with conventional and CRM asphalt. Increment of 2-OH-PH was smaller after paving with CRM asphalt.

CONCLUSIONS

Road asphalt paving in open areas resulted in PAHs exposure, as shown by elevation of PAH metabolites in urine. Asphalt workers may experience oxidative stress, evidenced by alternation in mtDNAcn; however the effects could not be fully explained by exposure to PAHs from the asphalt mixture.

Comparative electrophysiological evaluation of hippocampal function following repeated inhalation exposures to JP-8, Jet A, JP-5, and the synthetic Fischer Tropsch fuel

Exposure to fuels continues to be a concern in both military and general populations. The aim of this study was to examine effects of in vivo rat repeated exposures to different types of jet fuel utilizing microelectrode arrays for comparative electrophysiological (EP) measurements in hippocampal slices. Animals were exposed to increasing concentrations of four jet fuels, Jet Propellant (JP)-8, Jet A, JP-5, or synthetic Fischer Tropsch (FT) fuel via whole-body inhalation for 20 d (6 hr/d, 5 d/week for 28 d) and synaptic transmission as well as behavioral performance were assessed. Our behavioral studies indicated no significant changes in behavioral performance in animals exposed to JP-8, Jet A, or JP-5. A significant deviation in learning pattern during the Morris water maze task was observed in rats exposed to the highest concentration of FT (2000 mg/m³). There were also significant differences in the EP profile of hippocampal neurons from animals exposed to JP-8, Jet A, JP-5, or FT compared to control air. However, these differences were not consistent across fuels or dose dependent. As expected, patterns of EP alterations in brain slices from JP-8 and Jet A exposures were more similar compared to those from JP-5 and FT. Further longitudinal investigations are needed to determine if these EP effects are transient or persistent. Such studies may dictate if and how one may use EP measurements to indicate potential susceptibility to neurological impairments, particularly those that result from inhalation exposure to chemicals or mixtures.

A review of germination and early growth as a proxy for plant fitness under petrogenic contamination - knowledge gaps and recommendations

Germination-an important stage in the life cycle of plants-is susceptible to the presence of soil contaminants. Since the early 1990s, the use of germination tests to screen multiple plant species to select candidates for phytoremediation has received much attention. This is due to its inexpensive methodology and fast assessment relative to greenhouse or field growth studies. Surprisingly, no comprehensive synthesis is available of these studies in the scientific literature. As more plant species are added to phytoremediation databases, it is important to encapsulate the knowledge thus far and revise protocols. In this review, we have summarised previously-documented effects of petroleum hydrocarbons on germination and seedling growth. The methods and materials of previous studies are presented in tabulated form. Common practice includes the use of cellulose acetate filter paper, plastic Petri dishes, and low numbers of seeds and replicates. A general bias was observed for the screening of cultivated crops as opposed to native species, even though the latter may be better suited to site conditions. The relevance of germination studies as important ecotoxicological tools is highlighted with the proposed use of root imaging software. Screening of novel plant species, particularly natives, is recommended with selection focussed on (i) species phylogeny, (ii) plant morphological and functional traits, and (iii) tolerance towards harsh environmental stresses. Recommendations for standardised protocols for germination and early growth monitoring are made in order to improve the robustness of statistical modelling and species selection in future phytoremediation evaluations and field programs.

The reciprocal calculation procedure for setting occupational exposure limits for hydrocarbon solvents: An update

Hydrocarbon solvents are liquid hydrocarbon fractions, often with complex compositions. Due to the potential for human exposure, primarily to the more volatile solvents, substantial effort has been directed toward the development of occupational exposure recommendations. Because of the complex and variable nature of these substances, a proposed approach is to calculate occupational exposure levels (OELs) using an adaptation of the mixture formula developed by the ACGIH® in which "group guidance values" are assigned to similar constituents. This approach is supported by the results of toxicological studies of hydrocarbon solvents and their constituents which have shown that, with a few well-characterized exceptions, these substances have similar toxicological properties and produce additive effects. The objective of the present document is to summarize recommended revisions to the earlier proposals; these recommendations take into account recent toxicological information and changes in regulatory advice. Practical demonstrations on how to use these recommendations to develop occupational exposure advice in different situations (from simple complex solvents to blends of complex solvents) are also provided. Finally, a quantitative ideal gas method is proposed as a means of calculating occupational exposure limits for solvent blends in which, because the blended components have differing vapor pressures, there may be substantial differences between the liquid and vapor phase compositions.

Effects of oil spill related chemical pollution on helminth parasites in Mexican flounder Cyclopsetta chittendeni from the Campeche Sound, Gulf of Mexico

During an environmental impact study of an accidental oil spill in the Campeche Sound in October 2007, we examined the helminth parasites of the benthic flatfish Cyclopsetta chittendeni as well as the concentrations of hydrocarbons and heavy metals in the sediment. The aim of this study was to determine the potential effects of these contaminants on the helminth communities of the flatfish. A total of 427 hosts were examined, and 16,895 helminths, representing 17 species, were obtained from two surveys (March and July, 2008). Statistically significant negative associations were observed between the hydrocarbons and helminth parasite abundances using multivariate methods. The results suggest that in October 2007, the oil spill had a strong negative effect on these helminth communities. However, after five months, the impacted stations were re-populated by both the flatfish and helminths. The most likely explanation for this rapid recovery is the rescue effect from non-impacted habitats to impacted stations.

Are changes in the structure of nematode assemblages reliable indicators of moderate petroleum contamination?

This study assesses through a multiple before-after-control-impact (MBACI) design the effects of diesel oil on the structure of nematode assemblages in unvegetated tidal flats of a subtropical estuary. Oil-exposed treatments were contrasted with controls for a duration of four successive days before and after an experimental spill in three distinct areas of the Paranaguá Estuarine Complex (Southern Brazil). No significant differences were observed in nematode total density, number of taxa and the overall assemblage structure between the control and impact treatments from before to after the experimental spill. This reinforces the idea that, despite being good indicators of environmental stress, free-living marine nematodes are able to tolerate low concentrations of hydrocarbons and to survive in moderately contaminated areas. We also show that robust experimental designs are useful to avoid confounding expected natural variability with the effects of a mild impact.

Peering through the mist: systematic review of what the chemistry of contaminants in electronic cigarettes tells us about health risks

BACKGROUND

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are generally recognized as a safer alternative to combusted tobacco products, but there are conflicting claims about the degree to which these products warrant concern for the health of the vapers (e-cigarette users). This paper reviews available data on chemistry of aerosols and liquids of electronic cigarettes and compares modeled exposure of vapers with occupational safety standards.

METHODS

Both peer-reviewed and "grey" literature were accessed and more than 9,000 observations of highly variable quality were extracted. Comparisons to the most universally recognized workplace exposure standards, Threshold Limit Values (TLVs), were conducted under "worst case" assumptions about both chemical content of aerosol and liquids as well as behavior of vapers.

RESULTS

There was no evidence of potential for exposures of e-cigarette users to contaminants that are associated with risk to health at a level that would warrant attention if it were an involuntary workplace exposures. The vast majority of predicted exposures are < <1% of TLV. Predicted exposures to acrolein and formaldehyde are typically <5% TLV. Considering exposure to the aerosol as a mixture of contaminants did not indicate that exceeding half of TLV for mixtures was plausible. Only exposures to the declared major ingredients--propylene glycol and glycerin--warrant attention because of precautionary nature of TLVs for exposures to hydrocarbons with no established toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Current state of knowledge about chemistry of liquids and aerosols associated with electronic cigarettes indicates that there is no evidence that vaping produces inhalable exposures to contaminants of the aerosol that would warrant health concerns by the standards that are used to ensure safety of workplaces. However, the aerosol generated during vaping as a whole (contaminants plus declared ingredients) creates personal exposures that would justify surveillance of health among exposed persons in conjunction with investigation of means to keep any adverse health effects as low as reasonably achievable. Exposures of bystanders are likely to be orders of magnitude less, and thus pose no apparent concern.

Effect of crude oil petroleum hydrocarbons on protein expression of the prawn Macrobrachium borellii

Hydrocarbon pollution is a major environmental threat to ecosystems in marine and freshwater environments, but its toxicological effect on aquatic organisms remains little studied. A proteomic approach was used to analyze the effect of a freshwater oil spill on the prawn Macrobrachium borellii. To this aim, proteins were extracted from midgut gland (hepatopancreas) of male and female prawns exposed 7 days to a sublethal concentration (0.6 ppm) of water-soluble fraction of crude oil (WSF). Exposure to WSF induced responses at the protein expression level. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) revealed 10 protein spots that were differentially expressed by WSF exposure. Seven proteins were identified using MS/MS and de novo sequencing. Nm23 oncoprotein, arginine methyltransferase, fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase and glutathione S-transferase were down-regulated, whereas two glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase isoforms and a lipocalin-like crustacyanin (CTC) were up-regulated after WSF exposure. CTC mRNA levels were further analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR showing an increased expression after WSF exposure. The proteins identified are involved in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, detoxification, transport of hydrophobic molecules and cellular homeostasis among others. These results provide evidence for better understanding the toxic mechanisms of hydrocarbons. Moreover, some of these differentially expressed proteins would be employed as potential novel biomarkers.

Occupational skin cancer may be underreported

INTRODUCTION

Skin cancer may, in some cases, be caused by occupational exposures. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of and exposures leading to occupationally induced skin cancers in Denmark during a ten-year period.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study is a descriptive, register-based study comprising all patients with recognized occupational malignant and premalignant skin conditions in Denmark in the 01/01 2000-31/12 2009 period. Data were obtained from The National Board of Industrial Injuries and comprise information about diagnosis, occupational and domestic exposure, anatomic localization, occupation, degree of permanent disability, age and sex.

RESULTS

A total of 36 patients were recognized as occupational skin cancer cases. The mean age was 61 years (44-75 years), 31 men and five women. The most frequent diagnosis was basal cell carcinoma followed by squamous cell carcinoma. No cases of malignant melanoma were recognized. The primary risk factor for development of occupational skin cancer was ultraviolet (UV) exposure during outdoor working.

CONCLUSION

Data based on recognized cases of occupational skin cancer during a ten-year period in Denmark show that non-melanoma skin cancer was the most frequent diagnosis, while the primary risk factor was UV radiation in outdoor occupations. A total of 36 cases were reported over a period of ten years, and underreporting may be suspected. The purpose of the present study was to raise the awareness of occupational skin cancer, and on the basis of existing data to contribute to criteria for the diagnosis of occupational skin cancer.

FUNDING

not relevant.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

not relevant.

An evaluation of cases of pneumonia that occurred secondary to hydrocarbon exposure in children

OBJECTIVE

Hydrocarbon pneumonia is distinct among the types of childhood pneumonia in that it has a different pathogenesis and treatment and is preventable. In this study, the cases of 54 children with hydrocarbon pneumonia admitted to the Dicle University Medical Faculty Pediatric Chest Diseases Unit between the years 2006 and 2010 were analyzed retrospectively.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The medical records of 54 patients diagnosed with pneumonia after ingesting/inhaling hydrocarbons were analyzed retrospectively. Age, sex, presenting symptoms, clinical status, radiological and laboratory findings and response to treatment and prognosis were noted.

RESULTS

35 (64.8%) of the patients were male, 19 (35.2%) were female and the ages of the patients ranged from 1 to 5 with an average of 2.49 ± 0.80. The etiologies of the pneumonia were thinner (33%), naphta (3.7%) and kerosene. In 49 of the patients (90.7%), the symptoms started to occur the day the patient was exposed to hydrocarbons. The average length of hospital stay was 4.0 ± 2.3 days. Six patients were treated in the intensive care unit (ICU), and one patient with hydrocarbon pneumonia due to kerosene ingestion died. Inhaled corticosteroids were administered to 18 patients who were progressively deteriorating and inhaled salbutamol was given to 16 patients with bronchospasm. Patients with radiological findings on their chest X-rays and auscultatory findings were found to have longer hospital stays (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

To prevent chemical pneumonia, precautions must be taken to stop children under 5 years of age from using/abusing chemical substances. Although some cases of chemical pneumonia lead to death, with diligent care and treatment, the outcomes are promising. The patients in this study group responded well to treatment with inhaled corticosteroids and salbutamol.

Modulation of oxidative DNA damage by repair enzymes XRCC1 and hOGG1

The influence of DNA repair gene polymorphisms (XRCC1: Arg194Trp, Arg280His, Arg399Gln; APE1: Asp148Glu; hOGG1: Ser326Cys) on oxidative DNA damage is controversial and was investigated in 214 German workers with occupational exposure to vapors and aerosols of bitumen,compared to 87 German construction workers without exposure, who were part of the Human Bitumen Study. Genotypes were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and actual smoking habits by a questionnaire and cotinine analysis. Oxidative DNA damage in white blood cells (WBC) collected pre- and postshift was measured as 8-oxodGuo adducts/10(6) dGuo by a hjigh-performance liquid chromatography electron capture detection (HPLC-ECD) method, followed by calculation of the difference between post- and preshift values (Δ8-oxodGuo/10(6) dGuo). The 214 bitumen exposed workers showed higher median Δ8-oxodGuo values than the 87 references. In the whole study group (n=301) there was a trend for increasing adduct values for XRCC1 Arg(GG)399Gln(AA) during a shift, especially in nonsmokers (n=108. Referents (n=87) displayed a similar trend for hOGG1 Ser(CC)326Cys(GG). In contrast, XRCC1 Arg(GG)280His(AA) showed a decrease of median Δ8-oxodGuo/10(6) dGuo values in workers with exposure to vapors and aerosols of bitumen (n=214), especially in smokers (n=145). XRCC1 Arg194Trp and APE1 Asp148Glu displayed no marked association with Δ8-oxodGuo levels. Data indicate that the combination of different variants in DNA damage repair enzymes may modulate the production of 8-oxoguanine adducts in WBC produced by xenobiotics during a shift.

Acute respiratory distress associated with inhaled hydrocarbon

BACKGROUND

Pneumonitis is a well-known complication following aspiration of ingested liquid hydrocarbons. There are few data about acute pulmonary toxicity from unintentional hydrocarbon inhalation; most human cases involve products containing a fluoropolymer in combination with hydrocarbons.

METHODS

Case report of a 45-year-old male who presented with respiratory distress after a 15-min inhalational exposure to a canvas waterproofing spray containing liquefied petroleum gas, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, and isopropanol.

RESULTS

Patients had symptoms, exam findings, and chest X-ray that were consistent with an acute pneumonitis.

CONCLUSION

Acute pulmonary injury can occur after a short exposure to an inhaled hydrocarbon and associated symptoms appear to respond to supportive measures, including oxygen, corticosteroids, and bronchodilators.

Aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the Xihe River, an urban river in China's Shenyang City: distribution and risk assessment

The characteristics of petroleum hydrocarbons and the risks they pose to the ecosystem were studied in the Xihe River, which is an urban river located in Shenyang, China. High levels of aliphatic hydrocarbons (AHc) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were observed in the river due to the discharge of wastewater from industrial and municipal facilities for a long period of time. High-molecular-weight hydrocarbons, including unresolved complex mixtures (UCM) of n-alkanes between n-C16 and n-C32 and of PAHs with four to six rings, were the dominant hydrocarbons in the river, particularly in suspended particulate matter (SPM) and sediments. The AHc was mainly from petrogenic sources, whereas PAHs was from both pyrolytic and petrogenic source inputs. Our results suggest that there is a high risk of toxicity for the soils and groundwater of the study area. The overall toxicity in the sediments can be described using the toxic equivalent (TEQ) of dibenzo[a,h]anthracene (DBA) based on benzo(a)pyrene (TEQ(BaP)) and dioxins (TEQ(TCDD)) toxic equivalent concentrations. The TEQ values for benzo(a)pyrene (TEQ(BaP)) and dioxins (TEQ(TCDD)) presented a consistent assessment of sediment PAHs.

Development of the concept of spatial-temporal mask for testing effects of discharge from well-drilling activities on biological communities

This paper describes the use of Bayesian spatial models to develop the concept of a spatial-temporal mask for the purpose of identifying regions in which before and after drilling effects are most clearly defined and from which the consequences of exposure of macrofauna and meiofauna to the release of drilling discharges can be evaluated over time. To determine the effects of drilling fluids and drill-cuttings on the marine benthic community, it is essential to know not only where discharged materials ended up within the possible impact area, but also the chemical concentrations to which biota were exposed during and after drilling. Barium and light hydrocarbons were used as chemical tracers for water-based and non-aqueous-based fluids in a shallow water site in the Campos Basin, off the coast of Brazil. Since the site showed evidence of exposure to waste material from earlier drilling, the analysis needed to take into account the background concentrations of these compounds. Using the Bayesian models, concentrations at unsampled sites were predicted and regions altered and previously contaminated were identified.

A novel total petroleum hydrocarbon fractionation strategy for human health risk assessment for petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated site management

Human health risk assessments for petroleum, oil, and lubricant (POL)-contaminated sites are more complicated than for sites contaminated by single compounds due to the complex composition and various analytical methods associated with total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH). Although several TPH fractionation methods are commonly used, including that of the TPH Criteria Working Group (TPHCWG), an efficient and economical human health risk assessment method is not yet available. To address this concern, a new modified fractionation strategy is recommended in this study, which resolves the problems of the current TPH fractionation methods while retaining reliability in the results. For the purpose of this study, the distribution characteristics of the 13 TPHCWG fractions were examined, and human health risk assessments for the POL-contaminated sites were performed. The results show that aliphatic EC8-16 and aromatic EC10-21 among the 13 TPH fractions are major contributors to human health risks along all exposure routes, making up approximately 96% of the hazard index (HI) of the TPH fractions, on average. Therefore, it is reasonable to concentrate on aliphatic EC8-16 and aromatic EC10-21 fractions, rather than to study all of the TPH fractions, in evaluating human health risk for TPH-contaminated sites.

Causal relationship between exposure to chemicals and malignant melanoma? A review and study proposal

Malignant melanoma (MM) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The MM-related incidence and mortality have been increasing at an alarming rate over at least the past four decades. Malignant melanoma has been thought to be related mainly to exposure to the sun or UV radiation. A review of the scientific literature reveals many significant correlations between chemical exposure in the workplace and the occurrence of malignant melanoma, particularly in cutaneous areas that have never been exposed to sunlight. Discrepant findings are reported by independent studies concluding that MM is causally related to employment-related chemical exposures and to investigators with industry affiliations. More studies are needed to define a correlation of chemical exposure as a co-factor on the pathogenesis in some melanoma patients. We propose further investigation by dermatologists working in Melanoma Centers, using a simple questionnaire on chemical exposure among patients, that have previously been diagnosed and are followed up for melanoma comparing with appropriate matched controls. Collecting the data and results from the questionnaire will help us understand the initiation events in melanoma and prevention health issues.

Environmental liability and life-cycle management of used lubricating oils

Used oil handling, as a business, requires an extensive understanding by management that environmental liabilities exist through its supply chain. Findings from a review of the legal requirements of operating a used oil handling business were: understanding the transfer of ownership of used petroleum hydrocarbons is critical to any such business and how this is documented; used oil handlers are responsible for providing training to their staff, including site personnel and any third party waste contractors, and for communicating best practice procedures relating to the management of used petroleum hydrocarbons to all those individuals and organisations involved in business relationships that the used oil handling companies have; used oil handlers should audit the performance of any third party contractors that it engages to conduct work on behalf of its customers. Hypothetical situations of a company planning to enter the used oil handling market are described in relation to petroleum hydrocarbon wastes it handles to illustrate the range of potential liabilities. Companies proposing to establish a used oil handling business should ensure that they provide accurate advice to its employees, its customer's employees and to its third party contractors, all of which may be responsible for handling used petroleum hydrocarbons as part of the service it intends to provide, and that it has a well documented system addressing how environmental issues are managed.

Occupational exposure to solvents and gasoline and risk of cancers in the urinary tract among Finnish workers

BACKGROUND

Bladder cancer (BC) is generally considered as an occupational disease, and some chemical exposures may also be associated with renal cell cancer (RCC). The aim of this study was to estimate the risk of cancers of the urinary tract in relation to occupational exposure to solvents and gasoline.

METHODS

A cross-sectional cohort of all economically active Finns from the 1970 population census was followed up for BC (10,277 cases) and RCC (9,954 cases). Census occupations were assigned estimates of exposure to hydrocarbon (HC) solvents and gasoline with a job exposure matrix. Relative risk (RR) estimates were defined using Poisson regression models, adjusted for smoking and obesity.

RESULTS

Exposure to solvents was positively associated with the incidence of BC in women but not in men. The RR estimates were above 1.2 in nearly all exposure categories of all exposures studied but a statistically significant excess was only seen for middle levels of chlorinated HC solvents (1.7; 95% CI = 1.2-2.5) and a low level of aromatic HC solvents (1.6; 95% CI = 1.3-2.1). The RR estimates for RCC were close to unity in all categories of exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that occupational exposure to certain solvents may have an impact on BC risk. The risk of RCC does not appear to be altered by exposure to HC solvents or gasoline.

Cancer incidence and mortality in aircraft maintenance workers

BACKGROUND

A cancer incidence and mortality study was conducted in response to health concerns raised by workers from F-111 aircraft deseal/reseal fuel tank maintenance programs, to determine whether personnel exposed to deseal/reseal had an excess of cancers and mortality.

METHODS

Number of deaths and cancers for individuals involved in F-111 DSRS activities were matched against two Air Force comparison groups. Analyses were weighted to adjust for differences in age, exposure period and rank.

RESULTS

Eight hundred seventy-three exposed, 7,577 comparison group one, and 9,408 comparison group two individuals were matched against death and cancer data, with 431 cancers and 431 deaths. Cancer incidence was higher in the exposed group, with marginally significant increases of 40-50% (cancer incidence rate ratio range 1.45-1.62). Exposed group mortality was significantly lower than both comparison groups, likely due to survivor bias in the exposed group (mortality rate ratio range 0.33-0.44).

CONCLUSIONS

On the balance of probabilities, there is an increased risk of cancer associated with participation in F-111 deseal/reseal activities.

[Hygienic evaluation of the effects of petroleum hydrocarbons on crops]

Experience in standardizing the soil levels of chemicals suggests that the translocation hazard index is limiting for most standardized substances. The current unavailability of scientifically grounded maximum allowable concentration of soil petroleum generates a need for studies using this hazard index. The studies were made to examine different soil petroleum levels, by employing various test crops.

Bitumen products alter bax, bcl-2 and cytokeratin expression: an in vivo study of chronically exposed road pavers

BACKGROUND

The skin of road pavers is chronically exposed to bitumen fumes, a mixture of volatile compounds and particles, containing several carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Bitumen fumes can alter cutaneous barrier integrity in various ways and induce skin diseases. The present study was devised to investigate the expression of apoptosis proteins (bax and bcl-2) and the cytokeratin pattern in skin specimens from road paving workers exposed to bitumen fumes using immunohistochemical techniques.

METHODS

Skin forearm punch biopsies from 16 occupationally exposed workers and an unexposed control group were processed for immunohistochemistry using a broad-spectrum anti-cytokeratin antibody and monoclonal antibodies for bax and bcl-2 immunostaining. Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) was also determined.

RESULTS

Morphological specimen evaluation showed epidermal thinning of exposed skin and flattened dermal papillae. In sections from exposed subjects, grade 3 bax overexpression and cytokeratin immunoreaction was detected in all layers, while bcl-2 expression was downregulated (grade 1) and confined to the basal layer. There was a significant difference in 1-OHP values between road pavers and the control group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Overexpression of the cytokeratin pattern and bax and underexpression of bcl-2 in chronically bitumen-exposed skin suggest that bitumen fumes induce activation of apoptosis as a defense mechanism.

[Theory and practice of primary cancer prevention]

The primary aim of cancer prevention is to stop carcinogens from entering the body. Since the low doses involved in carcinogenesis do not cause true toxicological effects, usual toxicological analytic methods do not allow the detection of the early effects of carcinogens. Exposure to chemical carcinogens causes damage to nuclear chromatin, the most vulnerable part of the cell, by inducing DNA damage, chromosomal abnormalities and mutations, which foreshadow the danger of cancer development. In such cases intervention is possible in two ways. On the one hand, we attempt to remove the causative agent from the environment, while on the other we aid the elimination of somatic mutations. The latter is called active prevention; the introduction of substances into the body that can help the elimination of defective cells (apoptosis induction) or stop processes responsible for elongation errors (i.e. with antioxidants). Concerning our own studies, we present the results of 25 years of research on the genotoxicological characteristics of workers exposed to various chemicals, which show that active prevention can in fact be effective in conjunction with information on specific biomarkers. We present in detail the genotoxic changes found in hospital nurses who routinely administer intravenous cytostatic therapy, and the relationship of these changes to their immunotoxic and clinical laboratory parameters. Genotoxic substances decrease the oxidative burst and natural killer (NK) cell activity, which may explain the immunosuppressive effects of occupational exposures. We also present the detailed results of a follow-up study involving two groups of industrial workers. We monitored the status of workers involved in benzene production for 15 years and of asphalt industry workers for 8 years. In both studies we concluded that genotoxic effects can be decreased by ensuring appropriate working conditions, while a temporary lapse in these conditions or accidental changes lead to increases in genotoxic parameters. Since genotoxic effects develop over an extended period (4-5 months), they are independent of hygienic conditions at any single inspection and, thus, their detection also offers a way to ascertain true exposure levels. Our studies also show a connection between genotoxic effects and immune function, which is adversely affected not only by occupational exposures, but also by medications and smoking. From our results with workers in the oil and asphalt industries, we concluded that the levels of chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and sister chromatid exchange (SCE) increase in proportion to exposure levels and decrease with a certain delay following the attenuation of the exposure. We could not detect an increased frequency of any chronic disease in industrial workers. The increased numbers of iron deficiency anemia and thyroid disease in nurses providing cytostatic therapy was, however, related to their occupational exposure.

Paternal occupation and neural tube defects: a case-control study based on the Oxford Record Linkage Study register

Certain paternal occupations and related exposures have been suggested as possible risk factors for neural tube defects (NTD). We analysed data collected as part of a case-control study to investigate the relationship between paternal occupational exposures and NTD. Cases were 694 NTD-affected pregnancies diagnosed between 1970 and 1987 in Oxfordshire or West Berkshire, England. Controls were randomly selected from a computerised maternity database individually matched to cases on maternal year of birth and year of index pregnancy. Data on paternal occupation were abstracted from hospital antenatal records. Associations between paternal occupational exposures and NTD were assessed using odds ratios adjusted for maternal year of birth, year of index pregnancy, gender of baby, multiplicity of birth and number of previous obstetric events. Statistically significant positive associations were observed for paternal occupational exposure to agrochemicals and animals. Analysis by occupational title revealed that more case than control fathers were farmers, gardeners and butchers. Statistically significant negative associations were seen for paternal occupational exposure to inhaled hydrocarbons and metal-working oil mists. The findings from this population-based study for paternal agricultural and animal-related occupations overlap and have been previously observed. The apparent protective effects of fathers working with inhaled hydrocarbons and metal-working oil mists have not been previously described. No underlying biological mechanisms have been identified, therefore other explanations cannot be excluded.

Expression of JP-8–Induced Inflammatory Genes in AEII Cells Is Mediated by NF-κB and PARP-1

Lung epithelial cells are critical in the regulation of airway inflammation in response to environmental pollutants. Altered activation of NF-kappaB is associated with expression of several proinflammatory factors in respiratory epithelial cells in response to an insult. Here we show that a low threshold dose (8 microg/ml) of the jet fuel JP-8 induces in a rat alveolar epithelial cell line (RLE-6TN) a prolonged activation of NF-kappaB as well as the increased expression of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-alpha and IL-8, which are regulated by NF-kappaB. The up-regulation of IL-6 mRNA in cells exposed to JP-8 appears to be a reaction of RLE-6TN cells to reduce the enhancement of proinflammatory mediators in response to the fuel. Moreover, lung tissues from rats exposed to occupational levels of JP-8 by nasal aerosol also showed dysregulated expression of TNF-alpha, IL-8, and IL-6, confirming the in vitro data. The poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation of PARP-1, a coactivator of NF-kappaB, was coincident with the prolonged activation of NF-kappaB during JP-8 treatment. These results evidenced that a persistent exposure of the airway epithelium to aromatic hydrocarbons may have deleterious effects on pulmonary function.

A case of fire-eater's pneumonia in an active-duty soldier

Fire-eater's pneumonia is an acute, intense hydrocarbon pneumonitis resulting from aspiration of volatile hydrocarbons such as kerosene, gasoline, or turpentine. The vast majority of patients have resolution of their acute lung injury with supportive care only, avoiding the need for surgical lung reduction procedures. We describe a case of severe hydrocarbon pneumonitis secondary to aspiration of JP-8 jet fuel. The presentation, management, and prognosis of fire-eater's pneumonia are reviewed.

CYP1A induction and blue sac disease in early life stages of white suckers (Catostomus commersoni) exposed to oil sands

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the influence of natural oil sands on the early developmental stages of white sucker (Catostomus commersoni) and to determine whether biochemical responses in this species were similar to native fish caught in the Athabasca Oil Sands area. Early life stage (ELS) sediment toxicity tests were conducted using controls, reference sediments, natural oil sands, and industrially contaminated (wastewater pond) sediments collected from sites along the Athabasca River, Alberta (Canada). Eggs and larvae were observed for mortality, hatching, deformities, growth, and cytochrome P-4501A (CYP1A) activity using immunohistochemistry. E-Nat-, S-Nat-, and wastewater pond sediment-exposed groups showed significant premature hatching, reduced growth, and exposure-dependent increases in ELS mortality and larval malformations relative to controls. The most common larval deformities included edemas (pericardial, yolk sac, and subepidermal), hemorrhages, and spinal defects. Juveniles exposed to oil sands and wastewater pond sediments (96 h) demonstrated significantly increased 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity (30- to 50-fold) as compared to controls. Reference sediment-exposed groups and water controls demonstrated reliable embryo and larval survival, minimal malformations, and negligible CYP1A staining. These observed signs of blue sac disease (ELS mortality, malformations, growth reductions, CYP1A activity induction) may produce deleterious reproductive effects in natural fish populations exposed to oil sands mixtures.