Reports published in the second quarter of 1994

Report number: 388710015

Characterization of immunoaffinity chromatography materials for the determination of beta-agonists in biological samples.

[Karakterisering van immunoaffiniteits chromatografie materialen voor de bepaling van beta-agonisten in biologische materialen.]

Abstract

Chromatographic immunoaffinity materials against beta-agonists were prepared and validated. Specific immunochemical activity was determined for clenbuterol and was 61 +- 6 ng/mg gel. After one year of storage at 4 degrees C there was no significant reduction of the capacity. Under conditions of maximum binding the recovery for clenbuterol, salbutamol, terbutaline, cimaterol and mabuterol at a level of 200 ng, ranges from 83 to 96% with no significant changes after one year of storage.

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Keywords (author): Agonist; reference material

Report number: 738902026

Informative document bulky domestic waste.

[Informatiedocument grof huisafval.]

Abstract

This "Informative document bulky domestic waste" forms part of a series of "Informative documents waste materials". These documents are conducted by RIVM on the instructions of the Directorate General for the Environment, Directorate Waste Materials, in behalf of the program of action on "prevention and recycling of waste materials". In the documents a survey is given of the main facts and figures on specific waste materials, for example data on sources, amount(s), composition and properties, way of treatment, etc. Besides prognoses of the amount(s) in the year 2000 are made and finally the main options for prevention, recycling and treatment are summarized.

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Keywords (author): Afvalstoffen; Grof Huisafval; preventie; hergebruik; Waste materials; Bulky domestic waste; Prevention; Reuse

Report number: 343605002

Monomer mapping: A PC-based software tool facilitating the determination of monomer compositions from mass spectrometric molecular weight data.

[Monomer mapping: Een PC-programma voor de bepaling van monomeersamenstellingen op grond van massaspectrometrisch verkregen molecuulgewichten.]

Abstract

A method to establish the monomer composition of (bio) macromolecules has been developed. The method, to be called monomer mapping, involves the mass spectrometric determination of the molecular weight and a computer program. The program generates monomer compositions corresponding to the measured molecular weight. If more than one monomer composition for the polymer is generated by monomer mapping, a further limitation can be obtained from the determination of the number of exchangeable hydrogens. Monomer mapping can be used to determine the monomer compositions of individual components in mixtures without applying (chromatographic) separation techniques. This is a clear advantage over methods involving monomerization and consecutive determination of the relative amount of monomers. As a limitation, monomer mapping requires the elemental compositions of all monomer types possibly present in the polymer. The largest molecular weight resulting into one monomer composition depends on the number of monomer types considered. The method can be used as a supplement to amino acid analysis, generally resulting into the actual amina acid composition of peptides consisting of up to 25 amino acids. Monomer mapping was successfully applied to determine glycosyl compositions of fifty saponins.

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Report number: 722101007

Air pollution due to fireworks at the turn of the year 1993.

[ Luchtverontreiniging door vuurwerk tijdens de jaarwisseling van 1993-1994.]

Abstract

Various meteorological conditions, especially the presence of a very low and strong temperature inversion and the absence of wind, caused a sharp increase of atmospheric pollutants during the festivities at the turn of the year 1992. Especially the concentrations of fine particles were extremely high. The monitoring network for fine particles was implemented during the years 1992 and 1993, therefore no reliable estimate was available of concentrations at the turn of other years under normal meteorological conditions. The meteorological conditions at the turn of the year 1993 were normal. Concentrations of fine particles (PM10) over the first hour of the new year were, averaged over urban monitoring sites, about 500 mug/m3. The concentrations of SO2, CO and NO were higher than expected. Measurements were available on the change of the concentrations within the first hour of 1994, concentrations were highest during the first half hour. The composition of the fine particles was in agreement with measurements of the previous year.

Keywords (english): netherlands ; air ; pollution ; measurements ; heavy metals ; dust

Keywords (dutch): nederland ; lucht ; verontreiniging ; meetgegevens ; zware metalen ; stof

Keywords (author): fireworks; visibility; fine particles; SULPHUR diOXIDE ; vuurwerk; fijn stof; zwaveldioxide; vuurwerk

Report number: 253631001

Invasive infections with beta-haemolytic Group A streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes, GAS) in the Netherlands, 1992-1993.

[Invasieve infecties door beta-haemolytische Streptokokken Lancefield Groep A (Streptococcus pyogenes, GAS) in Nederland, 1992-1993.]

Abstract

In recent years an increase of severe invasive infections and toxic shock syndrome (TSS) with beta-haemolytic Group A streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes, GAS) has been reported from North-America and North-Western Europe. In the spring of 1992 several reports of cases suggested that this epidemic wave might have reached the Netherlands. Subsequently a national surveillance was initiated. Between 1-7-1992 and 31-12-1993 GAS-isolates from 440 patients were sent to the public health laboratory for typing; from 220 of those 440 patients (50%) demographic and clinical data were obtained. In 132 of those 220 patients invasive infection with GAS was clinically and bacteriologically documented. Forty-one of those 132 patients (31%) suffered from TSS. Cases were not associated with a particular geographical region. The incidence of TSS was highest in the age groups of 30 to 50 years and in individuals older than 60 years. Mortality associated with TSS was 51%. In the majority of cases (61%) no underlying diseases were reported. In 20 of the 41 TSS-cases no obvious portal of entry for infection was detected. In the remaining cases diverse primary local infections were observed. In 30% of cases fascitis necroticans and/or myositis was present. In 11% of cases TSS was acquired in the hospital. Type T1/M1 was the etiological agent in 31% of all (440) patients; none of the other 19 different T/M- types found contributed more than 10%. T1/M1 was strongly associated with TSS (22 of 41 cases, 54%). Ninety-two percent of the T1/M1 strains contained the bacteriophagelocated gene for exotoxine A. RFLP analysis of the M1 gene of T1/M1 strains revealed one single pattern.

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Keywords (author): GAS-infectie; toxic shock syndrome

Report number: 118114002

Antigenic and molecular surveillance of influenza virus strains in the period 1992-1993.

[Antigene en moleculaire influenza virus surveillance 1992-1993.]

Abstract

In the framework of the influenza virus surveillance of RIVM we have examined 195 influenza virus strains isolated in various European countries and Japan during the season 1992/93. Haemagglutination inhibition (HI) assasys showed the H3N2-virus strains to come into two groups of roughly equal sizes. One group was similar to the strains circulating in 1991/92, including the vaccine strain of the season 1992/93, whereas the other group belonged to a new variant, typified by strain A/Beijing/32/92. The antigenic difference between the two groups was unusually large for two contemporary variants of H3N2-virus. This implicates that people, even when infected with influenza virus A (H3N2) in 1991/92 or vaccinated in November 1993, were poorly protected against the new virus variant. Probably this explains the high number of excess deaths (1800) that was observed in the Netherlands early in 1993. Interestingly, antigenic as well as molecular analysis demonstrated a relationship between the new virus variant and sporadically circulating deviant H3N2-viruses from Chine, Singapore, and France isolated in 1990 and early 1991. During the epidemic, in the Netherlands two other H3N2-virus strains were isolated which apparently originated from pigs. The numerous influenza B virus strains and the few Influenza A (H1N1) virus strains isolated in 1992/93 well matched the respective vaccine strains used in this season.

Keywords (english): orthomyxoviridae ; surveillance ; antigens

Keywords (dutch): influenza virussen ; surveillance ; antigenen

Keywords (author): antigenic changes ; nucleotide sequence analysis; influenza

Report number: 776203002

National Researchprogramme Reuse of Waste, Annual Report 1993, Programma 1994.

[Nationaal Onderzoekgrogramma Hergebruik van Afvalstoffen (NOH) Jaarverslag 1993, Programma 1994.]

Abstract

The objective of the National Research Programme Reuse of Waste is exploration and expansion of the possibilities to benefit the environment and to conserve energy and raw materials through waste recycling. This report gives a survey of the activities that have been carried out in 1993 and the workplan for 1994. The workplan is a further elaboration of the Outline Programme 1994-1998 in the form of actual project.

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Keywords (author): onderzoekprogramma; afval; preventie; hergebruik; verwerken; technologie; research and development program; waste; prevention; reuse; treatment; handling; technology.

Report number: 733005001

Fish as biomarkers in immunotoxicology.

[Vissen als biomarkers voor immunotoxicologie.]

Abstract

This report presents a brief survey on the state of the art in the development and application of biomarkers for immunotoxicology in fish. There are several reasons for developing this field: many fish diseases are related to environmental quality, various environmental pollutants have immunotoxic potential and many fish diseases have an immunological component. As in immunotoxicology in general, in fish this aspect has received ample attention in the recent past. Much benefit has been obtained from progress in related fields of science, such as fish immunology and rodent immunotoxicology. To date there is a broad spectrum of potential biomarkers for immunotoxicology in fish, from which macrophage parameters seem to be most widely used. The application of others and more predictive for specific immunity, such as lymphoid cell parameters is still limited, probably due to practical problems such as lack of experience with conduct, validation and interpretation. Specific problems include the paucity of background data in the case of epidemiological field studies and the important role of other (non-chemical) stress factors in the immune response, and hence the lack of specificity of potential biomarkers. It is concluded that a promising arsenal of biomarkers does exist, but further development and validation are still needed.

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Keywords (author): biomarkers; fishdiseases; immunotoxicology.

Report number: 719101015

The use of quantum chemically derived descriptors for QSAR modelling of reductive dehalogenation of aromatic compounds.

[Het gebruik van quantum-chemische descriptoren voor het modelleren van de anaerobe dehalogenering van aromatische verbindingen.]

Abstract

In this study, quantum-chemically derived parameters are developed for a limited number of halogenated aromatic compounds to model the anaerobic reductive dehalogenation reaction rate constants of these compounds. It is shown that due to the heterogeneity of the set of compounds used, no single descriptor or combination of descriptors was able to adequately model the reaction under investigation. Thus subsets had to be created out of the group of compounds. For these subsets it is shown that the assumed reaction mechanism was correct as indicated by the relatively good correlations established between the reaction rate constants and descriptors that can be explained in terms of the reaction mechanism. The database of reaction rate constants for halogenated heterocyclic aromatic compounds was too small to enable the creation of subsets. Therefore no satisfying relationships could yet be obtained; it may be anticipated that upon additional data becoming available, similar results will be obtained for these compounds as well.

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Keywords (author): Reductieve dehalogenering; Gehalogeneerde aromatische koolwaterstoffen;QSAR; Chloorbenzenen; Transformatie; Reductive dehalogenation; Halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons; QSAR; Chlorobenzenes; Transformation

Report number: 712910001

Evaluation of the soil ecological research on free-living nematodes at the RIVM. Part 1: Historical outline, research results and prespectives for the future.

[Evaluatie van het bodemecologisch onderzoek aan vrijlevende nematoden op het RIVM. Deel 1: Historisch overzicht, behaalde resultaten en perspectieven voor de toekomst.]

Abstract

Part one of the evaluation report gives a complete outline of the soil ecological research that was carried out between 1984 and 1993, by the section Terrestrial Ecology (LBG/RIVM). Practical research in the laboratory and field has been done, as a basis for general advisory tasks to support of the process of legislation for soil protection. For reasons of feasibility, the research was emphasized on the ecology and ecotoxicology of the free-living soil nematodes. Eighteen projects were carried out between 1984 and 1993. They can be grouped in 4 themes: 1) Ecological soil typology. 2). Effects of disturbance and pollution. 3) Ecological recovery. 4) biomonitoring. It was estimated that in total 46 'man-year' were invested in the nematode research program. Theme 2 was the main area of research (27 man-year). Further project management aspects are given in paragraph 3.6. The research resulted in 17 publications, 10 RIVM-reports and 22 student- reports. The development of the research was discussed with policymakers from the Soil Department. Comparison was made with former and recent need for knowledge of soil ecological processes. The nematode research itself was examined for its scientific value and innovation, collaboration network and future possibilities in new (and applied) soil biological studies.

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Keywords (author): Bodemecologie; nematodenonderzoek; evaluatie

Report number: 482516004

Environmental Balance and Environmental Outlook: Design of the Information Infrastructure.

[Milieubalans en Milieuverkenning: Ontwerp van de Informatie- Infrastructuur.]

Abstract

The minister of Housing, Physical Planning and Environment has requested the RIVM to publish an annual Environmental Balance and an Environmental Outlook to appear every four years. To guarantee the quality of these publications, a professional quality controlled information infrastructure is developed at RIVM, which integrates monitoring networks, databases, models and administrative procedures in the environmental laboratoria of the institute. This report presents the results of the analysis and design phases of the infrastructure development project. The design is summarized in 29 units, covering data management, modelling, hard- and software, quality management and organisation. The design phase was officially concluded at the end of 1993. At that point in time, the process of design and construction had been initiated throughout the institute. A number of follow up projects have been started in January 1994.

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Keywords (author): milieubalans; milieuverkenning; infrastructuur; informatie

Report number: 482515801

Environmental effects of the 1995-1998 election programme of RPF.

[Milieugevolgen van het verkiezingsprogramma 1995-1998 van de RPF.]

Abstract

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Keywords (author): Verkiezingen; verkiezingsprogramma; milieugevolgen; politieke partijen; RPF

Report number: 482515002

Environmental effects of the 1995-1998 election programmes of CDA, PvdA, VVD, D66 and GroenLinks.

[Milieugevolgen van de verkiezingsprogramma's 1995-1998 van CDA, PvdA, VVD, D66 en GroenLinks.]

Abstract

In view of the parliamentary elections in May 1994, the National Institute of Public Health and Environmental Protection has evaluated the environmental effects of the election programmes of six political parties: CDA, PvdA, VVD, D66, GroenLinks and RPF. This report presents the findings of the evaluation of the programmes of the first five parties. The main conclusion of this electroral environmental outlook is that the proposed environmental policy proposals have more impact than those mentioned in NEPP-1 and NEPP-2. In the year 2000 most substantial results are seen for emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), the most important greenhouse gas. The environmental policy proposals of GroenLinks lead to a substantial CO2 emissions reduction of the emissions of CO2 to probably below the 2000 target level. The PvdA and D66 proposals also result in an additional reduction of the CO2-emissions, but not as large as that realised by GroenLinks. CDA and VVD proposals have the same impact as NEPP-2 measures. The proposed measures of PvdA and GroenLinks reduce emissions of acidifying substances (particularly) NOx and SO2) in comparison to both the NEPP-2 proposals and the environmental policy proposals of the other parties. However, because of the high emissions from foreign sources and the emissions of NOx in the Netherlands, none of the political parties will achieve the acidification (deposition) target. In the year 2010 environmental measures of all parties (except VVD) have more impact than NEPP-2. PvdA is the only political party able to achieve more environmental benefits for equal spending. The GroenLinks proposals result in the largest reduction of CO2-emissions. In comparison to the NEPP-2, full implementation and enforcement of the election programmes of the different parties will lead to an additional reducton of emissions of acidifyingemissions. GroenLinks is most successful in reducing the emissions of SO2, NOx en NH3. Compared to all other parties the election programma of GroenLinks lead to the highest additional increase in costs of environmental policy: 10 percent in aid of the NEPP-2. In addition, all parties propose more taxes for environmental harmful activities.

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Keywords (author): Verkiezingen; Verkiezingsprogramma's; milieugevolgen; politieke partijen

Report number: 313630001

Nasal lavage as a tool in assessing biomarkers for effects of photochemical air pollution in healthy, allergic or asthmatic persons. A literature study.

[Biomerkers in neuslavage voor effecten van luchtverontreiniging bij gezonde personen en patienten met allergische en astmatische aandoeningen. (Een literatuurstudie).]

Abstract

Several times per year the one-hour maximum ozone concentration of 240 mug/m3, which is the Dutch air quality guideline, is exceeded. Epidemiological studies show a relation between photochemical episodes, like ozone, and an increase in respiratory symptoms. It is important to show which effects ozone has on the respiratory tract and at which concentration these effects occur. In experimental studies in which humans are exposed to ozone, the lower airway is investigated by studying biopsies and bronchial lavage fluid (BAL). These techniques can not be applied in epidemiological studies with large healthy human populations, because the techniques are very time consuming and invasive. The nose is the prime port of entry for inspired air, and therefore, the first region of the respiratory tract that comes into contact with airborne pollutants. Nasal lavage (NAL) has helped to analyse the stage of infection, immune response or allergic reaction. A literature search was undertaken to investigate whether or not NAL is useful to determine effects of photochemical air pollution and biomarkers predicting the presence of effects of pollution in the lower respiratory tract. This literature search showed that in experimental studies to ozone and in epidemiological studies at increased concentrations of photochemical air pollution the number of polymorphonuclear cells (PMN's), like neutrophils, and to a lower extent eosinophils is increased in NAL. These were not only shown in NAL, but also in BAL.

Keywords (english): air pollution ; ozone ; effects ; asthma ; allergy ; biological markers

Keywords (dutch): lucht ; verontreiniging ; ozon ; effecten ; astma ; allergie ; biomerkers

Keywords (author): nasal lavage ; neuslavage ; immunologie

Report number: 259102007

Evaluation theme indicators.

[Evaluatie thema-indicatoren.]

Abstract

Since 1991 the Dutch government annually publishes environmental policy performance indicators for 6 of the 8 themes of the Dutch environmental policy, in the Environmental Program. As a follow up of the production of these theme-indicators in 1993, carried out by the Environmental Forecasting Bureau of the National Insitute of Public Health and Environemntal Protection (RIVM), the indicators were evaluated. Main issues were the methodology, the need for data for the indicators and the update process. This report describes the results of this evaluation. A distinction is made between recommendations which will be implemented before the production proces in 1994 and future options. The future options will be subject to examination in 1994, as part of the process to develop indicators for the Emvironmental Outlook and the annual environmental evaluation, that will be published by RIVM for the first time in 1995 to support the publication of the Environemntal program. The ultimate result must be a consensus between RIVM and the Directorate-General for Environmental Protection about the integration of the environmental policy performance indicators in the annual evaluation in 1995.

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Keywords (author): milieu-(thema)indicatoren; MB/MV; actualisatie 1993; thema indicatoren

Report number: 773006168

Alcoholplants and distilleries.

[Alcoholfabrieken en Distilleerderijen.]

Abstract

This document on alcohol plants and distilleries has been published within the SPIN-project. In this project information has been collected on industrial plants or industrial processes to afford support to governmental policy on emission reduction. This document contains information on the processes, emission sources, emissions to air and water, waste, emission factors, use of energy and energy factors, emission reduction, energy conservation, research on clean technology and standards and licences.

Keywords (english): production ; emission ; waste ; energy ; industry ; processes ; reduction ; sources ; environment ; technology ; distillation ; alcohols

Keywords (dutch): produktie ; emissie ; afval ; afname ; industrie ; processen ; bronnen ; milieu ; technologie ; distilleren ; alcoholen

Keywords (author): industrial processes ; industriele processen ; emissiereductie

Report number: 773006167

AKZO Arnhem and AKZO Ede.

[AKZO Arnhem en AKZO Ede.]

Abstract

This document on AKZO Arnhem and AKZO Ede has been published within the SPIN-project. In this project information has been collected on industrial plants or industrial processes to afford support to governmental policy on emission reduction. This document contains information on the processes, emission sources, emissions to air and water, waste, emission factors, use of energy and energy factors, emission reduction, energy conservation, research on clean technology and standards and licences.

Keywords (english): production ; emission ; waste ; energy ; industry ; processes ; reduction ; sources ; environment ; technology

Keywords (dutch): produktie ; emissie ; afval ; afname ; industrie ; processen ; bronnen ; milieu; technologie

Keywords (author): industriele processen ; emissiereductie ; industrial processes ; AKZO

Report number: 643810002

Toxicokinetics of Polychlorinated-Dibenzo-P-Dioxins and -Furans (PCDD/F's) in Sheep and Lambs.

[Toxicokinetiek van polychloor-dibenzo-p-dioxinen en -furanen (PCDD/F's) in schapen en lammeren.]

Abstract

In this report the results of a toxicokinetic study of dioxins and furans in sheep and the transfer of these compounds from ewes to their lambs are given. Pregnant sheep were fed concentrate spiked with a mixture of PCDD/Fs (130 ng I-TEQ/animal/day) for eight consecutive days. To one group of the sheep the bete-agonist Clenbuterol was administered for eight weeks after delivery to influence the fat metabolism. Dioxins and furans were measured in fat and milk samples of the ewes and in their lambs at several time points after delivery.

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Keywords (author): polychloordibenzodioxinen; PCDD; furanen; PCDF

Report number: 615034001

Evaluation of the specifications and the feasibility of a notification/medical information system for the "Inspectie voor de Gezondheidszorg".

[Onderzoek naar de specificaties en realiseerbaarheid van een notificatie/medical vigilance informatiesysteem voor de Inspectie voor de Gezondheidszorg.]

Abstract

Based on a request of the "Inspectie voor de Gezondheidszorg" LGM (laboratory for Medicines and Medical Devices of the RIVM) and TNO evaluated the requirements for and feasibility of a system for notification and medical vigilance. A prerequisit for this study was the optimum use of existing databases and experiences. The evaluation resulted in a concept based on the "multi layer networking" principle. The concept makes optimum use of the existing systems with minimum expenses. In the analyses the obvious necessity to be in line with European developments has been a major item. For this reason intensive participation in European developments through specific experts is considered essential.

Keywords (english): information systems ; health inspection ; health care

Keywords (dutch): gegevensbestand ; inspectie gezondheidszorg

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Report number: 773006166

AKZO Delfzijl.

[AKZO Delfzijl.]

Abstract

This document on AKZO Delfzijl has been published within the SPIN-project. In this project information has been collected on industrial plants or industrial processes to afford support to governmental policy on emission reduction. This document contains information on the processes, emission sources, emissions to air and water, waste, emission factors, use of energy and energy factors, emission reduction, energy conservation, research on clean technology and standards and licences.

Keywords (english): production ; emission ; waste ; energy ; industry ; processes ; reduction ; sources ; environment ; technology

Keywords (dutch): produktie ; emissie ; afval ; afname ; industrie ; processen ; bronnen ; milieu ; technologie

Keywords (author): industriele processen ; emissiereductie ; industrial processes ; AKZO

Report number: 188705001

Levels of facultative anaerobic bacteria and relative weights of thymus, spleen and caecum in SPF N:NIH mice and Riv-TOX rats.

[Kiemgetallen van facultatief anaerobe bacterien en relatieve gewichten van thymus, milt en coecum bij N:NIH muizen en Riv:TOX ratten, gehouden onder SPF condities.]

Abstract

This report describes variations in the levels of groups of facultatively anaerobic bacteria in the intestinal tract and the relative weights of caecum, thymus and spleen in N:NIH mice and Riv:TOX rats kept under SPF conditions. Considerable variation in the composition of the enteric bacterial flora of mice and rats was detected. The possible influence of a poor colonization resistant (strictly anaerobic) flora (mCRF) on levels of other enteric flora elements and on relative weights of lymphoid organs is discussed.

Keywords (english): germfree animals ; anaerobic bacteria ; enterobacteriaceae ; thymus ; spleen

Keywords (dutch): spf dieren ; anaerobe bacterien ; enterobacterien ; thymus ; milt ; gewicht

Keywords (author): caecum ; coecum ; weight ; kolonisatie resistentie

Report number: 773006165

Starch production.

[Produktie van zetmeel.]

Abstract

This document on Starch production has been published within the SPIN-project. In this project information has been collected on industrial plants or industrial processes to afford support to governmental policy on emission reduction. This document contains information on the processes, emission sources, emissions to air and water, waste, emission factors, use of energy and energy factors, emission reduction, energy conservation, research on clean technology and standards and licences.

Keywords (english): production ; emission ; waste ; energy ; industry ; processes ; reduction ; sources ; environment ; technology ; starch

Keywords (dutch): produktie ; emissie ; afval ; afname ; industrie ; processen ; bronnen ; milieu ; technologie ; zetmeel

Keywords (author): industriele processen ; emissiereductie ; industrial processes

Report number: 773004003

Method for calculation of ammonia emission in the Netherlands for the years 1990, 1991 and 1992.

[Berekeningsmethodiek ammoniakemissie in Nederland voor de jaren 1990, 1991 en 1992.]

Abstract

The report presents the RIVM methodology for calculating the emission of ammonia. Four ammonia sources, animal manure, application of fertilizer, industrial processes and households, are distinguished. The ammonia emissions in the Netherlands in the period 1990-1992 are respectively 215, 221 and 170 million kg. The 1992 emissions are presented on a 5 x 5 km grid in the report. The enforced legislation for low emission techniques both for grassland and arable land forms the main reason for the decrease of the 1992 ammonia emission by 50 million kg.

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Keywords (author): ammoniak; verzuring; landbouwhuisdieren; excretie; stikstof; dierlijke mest; kunstmest; huishoudens

Report number: 770501018

Emissions of Dioxins in the Netherlands.

[Emissies van Dioxinen in Nederland.]

Abstract

Based on the results of an inventory of possible dioxin sources other than municipal solid waste (MCW) incinerators, a number of sources not previously measured, are selected for additional measurements. The results of all measurements carried out in the Netherlands, partly supplemented with data from the literature were then elaborated into a total estimate of the dioxin emissions in the Netherlands. In total, the emission to air in 1991 was 484 g I-TEQ. Of that total, the MSW incinerators emit the largest quantity, i.e. 80% of the total. The remainder of the estimated yearly emission is destributed over 16 different process categories. As a result of emission regulating developments it is expected that the dioxin emission in the year 2000 will be descreased to 58 g I-TEQ.

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Keywords (author): Dioxinen; bronnen; emissies; processoorten

Report number: 723308001

Definition report indices for the atmosphere in environmental assessments.

[Definitierapport graadmeters atmosfeer in de Milieubelans/Milieuverkenning.]

Abstract

Environmental indices will be an important tool in future environmental assessments (milieubalansen en Milieuverkenningen). This report defines the indices for the atmosphere. It describes the state of definition at the start of the year 1994, and it is the result of the project group in the Laboratory of Air Research (LLO) of RIVM, with support of some experts within and outside of RIVM. This definition needs to be discussed by all the parties involved with environmental assessments, in order to improve the definition and to obtain consensus on it. This report serves as a basis for these discussions. The indices are clustered in human exposure, ecosystem exposure, depletion of stratospheric ozone, climatic change, decreasing self-cleaning capability of the atmosphere, and the damage to the cultural inheritance and the economy. The clusters on human and ecosystem exposure are subdivided into exposure to higher concentrations over a short time (smog), and exposure to concentrations averaged over a time-scale of seasons. Exposure of humans in the indoor environment is also treated separately. The indices are based on several tens of compounds. Concentrations are in general related to internationally accepted "no-effect levels" or "critical levels".

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Keywords (author): graadmeters; atmosfeer; milieuverkenning; milieubalans

Report number: 776202001

Prevention of industrial waste, an explorative study of the potential for quantitative prevention of industrial waste.

[Preventie van Industrieel Afval. Een verkenning van het potentieel aan kwantitatieve preventie van industrieel afval.]

Abstract

The industrial waste prevention potential is calculated by summation of the prevention potential for a large number of specific waste streams, which are defined at a 3-digit ISIC level (with emphasis on process-related wastes). Along with the prevention potential, the yearly amounts of wastes released are also determined (for the year 1990 or 1991). The only criterion used in the selection of prevention options was technical feasibility: economic feasibility was not an issue in the selection procedure. The prevention options are devided into three 'levels of certainty' (high, medium and low) to indicate which part of the prevention potential is based on technology already proven on an industrial scale, and which part is based on technology needing further research before implementation. A prevention potential of 11.8% is estimated for the total amount of industrial waste (21,000 kilotonnes yearly). With regard to process-related waste excluding the waste materials phosphogypsum and jarosite (17,900 kilotonnes yearly), 10.2% prevention seems technically feasible. Three branches of industry, i.e. food and beverages, chemicals and building materials are good for 80% of this prevention potential, and are therefore looked upon as the most promissing branches for the realisation of prevention goals.

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Keywords (author): afval; industrie; preventie; PRISMA

Report number: 722401003

The impact of atmospheric deposition of non-acidifying pollutants on the quality of european forest soils and the North Sea. Main report of the ESQUAD project.

[De impact van atmosferische depositie van niet verzurende stoffen op de kwaliteit van Europese bosbodems en de Noordzee. Hoofdrapport van het ESQUAD project.]

Abstract

ESQUAD, a joint project involving several research institutes in the Netherlands calculates the impact of atmospheric deposition of three heavy metals and two organic compounds on the quality of soil and seawater in Europe. The general approach is based on methods and concepts developed in acidification abatement policy, especially the critical load concept. Based on a detailed emission database for Europe, atmospheric transport and deposition calculations have been carried out using the RIVM EUTREND model. Using a detailed database of soil property parameters in Europe, the distribution of concentrations in soil and groundwater have been calculated for each grid cell. For soils the study focused on forests, where atmospheric deposition is the only source of pollution. For the North Sea a detailed model was used to map all contributions to the long-term concentrations in water and sediment. The calculated deposition and concentration distributions have been compared with environmental quality target values.

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Keywords (author): emissie; atmosferische depositie; critical load; zware metalen; organische stoffen; Europa; Noordzee; bosbodems; streefwaarden

Report number: 719102028

Ordering aquatic species by their sensitivity to chemical compounds: a principal component analysis of acute toxicity data.

[Ordening van aquatische organismen van hun gevoeligheid voor chemische stoffen: een principale componenten analyse van acute toxiciteitsdata.]

Abstract

A species-by-compound matrix of acute toxicity values was studied using principal component analysis. The data matrix contained literature data from 26 aquatic species and 21 chemical compounds. The purpose was to search patterns in the interspecific variation of toxicity. Compounds could be ordered according to their toxicity in an unambiguous way. The ordering explained about 80% of the among-compounds variation in toxicity. The compounds with the highest overall toxicity also had the largest variation in toxicity for different species. The toxicity of non-polar narcotics correlated well with the log Kow. More toxic than predicted by the log Kow were: allylamine, dieldrin, malathion, parathion and salicylaldehyde. The patterns in the sensitivity of the species were less unambiguous. A three components model of the species-by-compounds matrix explained about 56% of the among-species variation in sensitivity. Fishes and amphibians were more sensitive to dieldrin, lindane and pentachlorophenol than the invertebrates. The Phyllopoda (daphnids) were the most sensitive species to aniline, the heavy metals, malathion and parathion.

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Keywords (author): aquatic; species; sensitivity; pattern-recognition; acute toxicity

Report number: 502501016

Home-built electrospray ionisation source for a quadrupole mass-spectrometer.

[Bouw van een eigen ontwerp electrospray ionisatiebron voor een quadrupool massa-spectrometer en enkele toepassingen.]

Abstract

This report describes the manufacturing, the working and results of preliminary applications of a home-built electrospray ionisation source. The source was constructed for a quadrupole mass-spectrometer (MS) (Finnigan 4000). The elements of the source and interface are: a micro needle at high potential to the capillary, a capillary for transport of the ions and a sampling orifice (skimmer) to the mass analyser and detector. That interface enables the transport of ions from atmospheric pressure to the required high vacuum in the mass analyser as well as an appropriate focussing of ions corresponding. The design concerns the physical dimensions of the different parts and the electrical potentials. The results show that the electrospray process, the transport and the focussing operate satisfactorely. The highest sensitivity was measured for Gramicidin S (polypeptide, MW 1141 Dalton) of about 10 femtomol. For substances with a lower molecular weight the sensitivity was much lower and ranged from about 100 fmol for the polysaccharide streptomycin (MW 581 Da) to 50 pmol for polar low MW herbicides glyfosate and glufosinate. It seems useful to construct an extra focussing device between the skinner and the analyser to enhance the transmission efficiency for the low molecular weight species (<400 Da).

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Report number: 482516002

Definition report. Selection of substances for the theme Dissemination of Substances in the Environmental Balance/Environmental Outlook.

[DEFINITIERAPPORT. Stofkeuze voor het thema Verspreiding in de Milieubelans/Milieuverkenning.]

Abstract

This report presents a proposal on a selection of substances, to be considered in the Environmental Balance/Environmental Outlook in relation to the Dissemination theme. As a first step in the selection procedure it was decided to exclude [a] new substances, notified prior to their introduction on the market, [b] substances that also are considered within other policy themes, except for those compounds that exceed toxicological risk levels, [c] genetically modified organisms, [d] biological agents, and [e] cleaning up contaminated soils. As a second step a number of criteria (relevance, knowledge, controllability) was applied to policy based lists of substances. In total 29 attention substances were selected. As to agricultural pesticides it is proposed to estimate the use, emissions and environmental load by model calculations, validated by measurements. Most of the relevant non-agricultural pesticides are covered by the before mentioned groups (chlorine and organic tins excepted). Relevant radioactive substances are thorium, polonium and lead.

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Keywords (author): Milieu Balans; Milieu Verkenning; Verspreiding; prioritaire stoffen; bestrijdingsmiddelen; radio-actieve stoffen

Report number: 214670001

Infectious Diseases Surveillance Information System.

[Infectieziekten Surveillance Informatie Systeem.]

Abstract

In the Netherlands an electronic network has been proposed for structured data transfer and communication concerning the control of infectious diseases. This project has been baptized ISIS (Infectious diseases Surveillance Information System). It is an initiative of the Dutch Government. ISIS will be developed, implemented and exploited by the Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology (CIE) of the National Institute of Public Health and Environmental Protection (RIVM). Objectives for ISIS: 1) To provide the quantitative basis for making decisions about priorities in the control of infectious diseases, i.e. to allow the government to make rational choices about the necessity of developing and implementing control programs, epidemiologic surveys and diagnostic studies. 2). It should be fast and accurate to allow early warning for an outbreak and to facilitate the actual control of an epidemic in the sence that intervention can be focused on the right place and the right subgroup. 3). To facilitate the management of an outbreak in that it provides an efficient infrastructure for communication between participants. At the same time it should monitor the control activities allowing the evaluation of an intervention afterwards. ISIS will replace and extend the current system for the registration of notifiable diseases. The transfer of selected positive and negative findings from a laboratory information computer system will be completely automated. In the end ISIS will encompass all Municipal Health Services (GGD), most Medical Microbiological Laboratories, hospitals, food inspection departments and veterinary information systems. The use of current standards for data-communication allows nationwide and international collaboration and data-exchange.

Keywords (english): communicable diseases ; surveillance ; information systems ; epidemiology

Keywords (dutch): infectieziekten ; surveillance ; informatiesystemen ; epidemiologie

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Report number: 719102025

The use of the potworm species Enchytraeus albidus en E. crypticus (Oligochaeta, Annelida) in soil ecotoxicological research.

[Onderzoek naar de geschiktheid van de potwormsoorten Enchytraeus albidus en E. crypticus (Oligochaeta, Annelida) in bodemecotoxicologisch onderzoek. ]

Abstract

This report describes a research on the use of enchytraeids in soil ecotoxicology. Actually many soil ecotoxicological research is restricted to the earthworm Eisenia andrei/fetida limiting possibilities for generalisation and ecologically relevant test results. This study on enchytraeids consits of a literature survey and experimental work. The influence of soil moisture, pH, temperature on the reproduction of enchytraeids, and methods for breeding and isolating enchytraeids are studied. The experimental work focusses on two species, Enchytraeus albidus and E. crypticus, laboratory cultures of both species are obtained from other institutes. For both species reproduction tests could be performed in OECD-artificial soil. It is concluded that reproduction experiments with enchytraeids are applicable within the actual research program of the Department of Soil Ecotoxicology.

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Keywords (author): Enchytraeidae; Enchytraeus albidus; Enchytraeus crypticus; toxiciteitstoetsen; reproductie; zink; pH; organisch stofgehalte; temperatuur

Report number: 623830003

Human monitoring of exposure to organic solvents. I Benzene, phenol, toluene, cresols and xylenes.

[Humane monitoring van de blootstelling aan benzeenachtige stoffen. I. Benzeen, fenol, tolueen, cresol en xyleen.]

Abstract

In this report the conclusions of a literature study has been summarized concerning the monitoring of the general population to exposure to benzene-like solvents. Since the Dutch population is exposed to concentrations far below the ppm level, the conclusions on the suitability of biomarkers are based on the monitoring of organic solvents at low concentrations. The following compounds are considered in this study: benzene, phenol, xylenes, toluene and cresols. For exposure to benzene, the following biomarkers have been evaluated: benzene in blood, phenol, S-phenylmercapturic acid, trans,trans-muconic acid, 1,2,4-benzenetriol and catechol in urine. From these biomarkers only benzene in blood, S-phenylmercapturic acid and muconic acid are possibly interesting biomarkers of exposure. For monitoring of exposure to phenol, phenol sulphate and phenol glucuronide in urine have been evaluated as biomarkers but are not found to be suitable. For monitoring of exposure to toluene, toluene in blood, hippuric acid, para- and ortho-cresol, D-glucaric acid and retinol binding protein in urine have been evaluated. None of these parameters are found to be suitable as biomarker for toluene. For monitoring of exposure to cresols no suitable literature data have been found. For monitoring of exposure to xylenes, the biomarker methylhippuric acid in urine has been evaluated and found not to be suitable. The unsuitability of most of the biomarkers mentioned is caused by a combination of a too low sensitivity for variations in exposure in the actual concentration range, by individual variations (possibly polymorfisms) and by the disturbing influence of lifestyle and food components. Most of the mentioned biomarkers can be measured with routine like analytical methods. Therefore they can be of use in the assessment of exposures in the ppm concentration range. From the results of this literature study it is concluded that only for benzene suitable biomarkers have been found which meet the required criteria of specificity and selectivity.

Keywords (english): solvents ; organic compounds ; benzene ; phenols ; toluene ; cresols ; xylenes ; exposure ; monitoring

Keywords (dutch): oplosmiddel ; organische verbindingen ; benzeen ; tolueen ; xyleen ; fenolen ; cresolen ; blootstelling ; monitoring

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Report number: 723102004

Monitoring activities in 1994 in the framework of the Dutch National Air Quality Monitoring Network.

[Meetactiviteiten in 1994 in het kader van het Landelijk Meetnet Luchtkwaliteit.]

Abstract

This report presents an overview of monitoring activities in the framework of the Dutch National Air Quality Monitoring Network. The network is one of the responsibilities of the Laboratory for Air Research of the National Institute of Public Health and Environmental Protection. Surveys of the monitoring stations per component are provided, together with maps of their locations. Overviews are presented for: . gaseous components [CO, NOx, O3, SO2, NH3, Volatile Organic Components (VOC)]; . aerosols etc. [metals, acidifying components, particulate matter (PM10)]; . chemical composition of precipitation [a.o. acidifying components, metals]; . other monitoring activities [wind speed, wind direction, measurements for ECE/EMEP, fluoride accumulation]. An additional table records monitoring activities which do not yet have operational status.

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Keywords (author): Landelijk Meetnet Luchtkwaliteit; monitoring; metingen

Report number: 482533002

Environment Survey 1993. II. 'Ozone layer depletion and UV exposure.

[Milieurapportage 1993, II, Integratierapport, 'Aantasting ozonlaag en blootstelling UV'.]

Abstract

The report deals with compounds which are known or supposed to deplete the stratospheric ozone layer (such as CFC's). The entire chain is discussed, starting with production and emission of these compounds. Emissions are followed by dispersion in the atmosphere which results in depletion of the ozone layer. UV exposure at the earth surface increases, because of reduced absorption by ozone. The effects on aquatic ecosystems and public health are discussed, and an estimate is given of the additional risk for the population.

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Keywords (author): emissies, ozonlaag, effecten

Report number: 610055001

Definition report 'Radiation indicators in the environmental balance and environmental outlook reports.

[Definitierapport 'Graadmeters straling in Milieubalans/Milieuverkenning".]

Abstract

For use in future versions of the integrative reports called Milieubalans ('environmental balance') and Milieuverkenning ('environmental outlook') RIVM has chosen to present on overview of environmental issues, especially those related to actual and future environmental policies in the Netherlands, in terms of so called target and related steering variables. This definition report describes the elaboration of this approach when it is applied to the complete area of interest 'radiation'. Together with other definition reports it is supposed to be the justification of choices which are made in defining the sequence of subjects and the minimum set of variables in the future versions of the Milieubalans and the Milieuverkenning. The elaboration is guided by the policy document 'Radiation protection and risk management' (Omgaan met risico's van straling). The policy can be characterized as 'risk management by focusing directly on the sources of radiation'. In other words steering at the beginning and setting limits at the end of the source-risk-chain. Therefore, in this report it is concluded that the complete source-risk-chain has to be analyzed and modelled. The area of interest 'radiation' is divided into areas corresponding to the source categories which are used in the policy document. For each area possible target and steering variables, together with related target and reference values, are collected. Determination of the present (diagnosis) and future (prognosis) values of the target variables is also investigated. In conclusion an indication is given of the activities, which are advisable for the coming years in order to make the target variables operational. The next phases are roughly outlined.

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Keywords (author): milieubalans; milieuverkenning; MB/MV; graadmeters; straling; radioactieve stoffen; UV

Report number: 776201009

Research on the composition of residual domestic waste after separate collection in the Westfrisian area, 1993.

[Onderzoek naar de samenstelling van huishoudelijk restafval na gescheiden inzameling te West-Friesland, 1993.]

Abstract

This report presents the results of sorting analyses with residual household waste, collected in the municipalities of Hoorn, Westerkoggenland and Drechterland, which co-operate in the area of West-Frisian (samenwerkingsorgaan West-Friesland). Since september 1992 a bringsystem of plastic bottles has been introduced. At the same time collection of glass, separated on colour, has been started. The sorting analyses form part of a programme called 'waste separation of dry components (ADC-Afvalscheiding Droge Componenten)', initiated by the Ministry of VROM. In this programme several pilot projects will be evaluated in order to develop a uniform system of separate waste collection.

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Keywords (author): Sorteerproeven; huishoudelijk afval; gescheiden inzameling; hergebruik droge componenten; Sorting analyses; domestic waste; separate collection; recycling; dry components

Report number: 776201007

CO2 and waste policy. Monitoring results 1991/1992.

[CO2 en afvalbeleid. Resultaten monitoring 1991/1992 en knelpunten.]

Abstract

In the Dutch National Environmental Policy Plans specific targets have been formulated concerning the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. With respect to waste policy a contribution of 1,5 million tons CO2 reduction in 1995 and 3,5 million tons in 2000 has been formulated. In this report the situation of the following waste streams will be described for the years 1991 and 1992: - natural materials (organic fraction of household waste, wood and manure) - synthetic materials (plastics) - energy-intensive materials (aluminium). These waste streams can give a major contribution in reaching the targets for CO2 emissions. The monitoring results presented in this study will be used in further research, in which the actual effects of waste policy on reduction targets of CO2-emission will be calculated.

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Keywords (author): Monitoring; afvalstoffenbeleid; kunststoffen; hout; GFT-afval; aluminium; mest; CO2; waste policy; plastics; wood aluminium; manure; carbon dioxide

Report number: 723101001

Qualitycontrol measurements ozone in the Dutch National Air Quality Monitoring Network.

[Kwaliteitscontrolemetingen ozon in het Landelijk Meetnet Luchtkwaliteit.]

Abstract

From August 1992 until july 1993, ozone quality control measurements were carried out in the Dutch National Air Quality Monitoring Network (LML). Measurement results from 17 LML measurement locations were compared with those from a reference monitor. It can be concluded that on average ozone levels from the LML give an underestimation of 4,9%, which is independent of the absolute measured levels. In some cases, deviations up to 20% are found suggesting the need for further investigation.

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Keywords (author): Landelijk Meetnet Luchtkwaliteit; Ozon; Kwaliteitscontroleprogramma

Report number: 259102008

Regionalization in EXPECT.

[Regionalisatie in EXPECT.]

Abstract

A table has been constructed to make transformations between the following regionalizations: acidification regions, agricultural regions, EXPECT-ecodistricts, EXPECT soil type, EXPECT groundwater type and EXPECT landuse type. These regionalizations cover the main input and output regionalizations for the EXPECT models. The table has been constructed as an attribute table of a grid map with cell size of 500 x 500 meter, which covers the whole terrestrial part of the Netherlands. The total number of unique combinations is 4371. The transformations are performed in square surface units of 25 hectare.

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Report number: 715501004

Groundwater recharge and travel times in the sandy regions of the Netherlands.

[Reistijden en de aanvulling van het grondwater in het zandgebied van Nederland.]

Abstract

Groundwater recharge and travel times determine the fate of diffuse pollutants in the Netherlands soil. Based on dating with Groundwater tritium levels, the recharge of groundwater in the sandy regions has been investigated resulting in a spatial description (GIS maps) for the full sandy regions.

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Keywords (author): soil quality; hydrology; groundwater/dating; tritium