• ISES-ISEE 2010: 2010 Joint Conference of International Society of Exposure Science & International Society for Environmental Epidemiology (Seoul, South Korea, 28 August - 1 September, 2010)

• Colleen Makey, doctoral student

• Alicia Fraser, former doctoral student
• Jessica Nelson, former doctoral student

• 13 August 2010: Alicia Fraser defends her dissertation "Assessing Exposure to Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers and Polyfluroinated Compounds from Diet and the Indoor Environment"

Abstracts:

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. PBDEs in dust: between- and within-home variation linked to XRF characterization of consumer products. Organohalogen Compounds 2007; 69:1002-1004.

• ISES-ISEE 2010: 2010 Joint Conference of International Society of Exposure Science & International Society for Environmental Epidemiology (Seoul, South Korea, 28 August - 1 September, 2010)
• Webster T. You are what you eat and touch: Exposure to PBDEs and other flame retardants. 4th Annual Conference of the Network on Persistent Organic Pollutants. University of Birmingham, U.K. 20-21 April 2010. Sadly, I will not be able to attend due to the interruption of air travel by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

• Dioxin 2010: 30th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants (San Antonio, Texas 12-17 September 2010)
• ISES-ISEE 2010: 2010 Joint Conference of International Society of Exposure Science & International Society for Environmental Epidemiology (Seoul, South Korea, 28 August - 1 September, 2010)* Webster T. You are what you eat and touch: Exposure to PBDEs and other flame retardants. 4th Annual Conference of the Network on Persistent Organic Pollutants. University of Birmingham, U.K. 20-21 April 2010. Sadly, I will not be able to attend due to the interruption of air travel by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

• Webster, TF. Indoor Exposure to PBDEs and PFCs. 1st International Workshop on SVOCs in the Indoor Environment (Beijing, 31 May -2 June 2010).

• Harrad S, Abdallah M, de Wit C, Östman C, Bergh C, Covaci A, Darnerud PO, de Boer J, Leonards P, Diamond M, Huber S, Mandalakis M, Haug L, Thomsen C, Webster T. Indoor contamination with hexachlorocyclododecanes, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and perfluoroalkyl compounds: An important exposure pathway? Environ Sci Technol 2010; 4:3221–3231 [Accepted 31 March 2010]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): DOI: 10.1021/es903476t.

• Harrad S, Abdallah M, de Wit C, Östman C, Bergh C, Covaci A, Darnerud PO, de Boer J, Leonards P, Diamond M, Huber S, Mandalakis M, Haug L, Thomsen C, Webster T. Indoor contamination with hexachlorocyclododecanes, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and perfluoroalkyl compounds: An important exposure pathway? Environ Sci Technol 4:3221–3231 [Accepted 31 March 2010]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): DOI: 10.1021/es903476t.

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abdallah M, Covaci A. Identifying transfer mechanisms and sources of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 209) in indoor environments using environmental forensic microscopy. Environ Sci Technol 2009; 43(9): 3067–3072. [Online 18 March]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es803139w. The text is freely available as via NIH at NIHMS103471.

• Dioxin 2010: 30th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants (San Antonio, Texas 12-17 September 2010)

• Dioxin 2009: 29th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Beijing, China, 23-28 August 2009)

• Webster T. You are what you eat and touch: Exposure to PBDEs and other flame retardants. 4th Annual Conference of the Network on Persistent Organic Pollutants. University of Birmingham, U.K. 20-21 April 2010. Sadly, I will not be able to attend due to the interruption of air travel by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

• Webster T. You are what you eat and touch: Exposure to PBDEs and other flame retardants. 4th Annual Conference of the Network on Persistent Organic Pollutants. University of Birmingham, U.K. 20-21 April 2010. Sadly, I will not be able to attend due to the interruption of air travel by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

• Webster T. You are what you eat and touch: Exposure to PBDEs and other flame retardants. 4th Annual Conference of the Network on Persistent Organic Pollutants. University of Birmingham, U.K. 20-21 April 2010. Sadly, I will not be able to attend due to the interruption of air trvael by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

• Watkins DJ, Fraser AJ, Stapleton HM, Sjodin A, Webster TF, McClean MD. Exposure to PBDEs in Offices: Connecting Dust, Handwipes and Serum. BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010).
• Webster TF, Watkins DJ, Walker C, Fraser AJ, Heiger-Bernays W, Stapleton HM, McClean MD. PentaBDE Alternatives in Homes, Offices and Cars. BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010).
• Stapleton HM, Cooper E, Dishaw L, Seidler F, Slotkin T, Webster TF. Tris (1,3-dichloro-isopropyl) phosphate, a PentaBDE Replacement: Detection in Consumer Products, Human Metabolism, and Neurodevelopmental Effect. BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010).
• Weber R, Watson A, Webster T. New POPs - The unique challenge of controlling PBDEs under the Stockholm Convention. BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010).

• Watkins DJ, Fraser AJ, Stapleton HM, Sjodin A, Webster TF, McClean MD. Exposure to PBDEs in Offices: Connecting Dust, Handwipes and Serum. BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010)
• Webster TF, Watkins DJ, Walker C, Fraser AJ, Heiger-Bernays W, Stapleton HM, McClean MD. PentaBDE Alternatives in Homes, Offices and Cars. BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010)
• Stapleton HM, Cooper E, Dishaw L, Seidler F, Slotkin T, Webster TF. Tris (1,3-dichloro-isopropyl) phosphate, a PentaBDE Replacement: Detection in Consumer Products, Human Metabolism, and Neurodevelopmental Effect. BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010)
• Weber R, Watson A, Webster T. New POPs - The unique challenge of controlling PBDEs under the Stockholm Convention. BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010)

• Harrad S, Abdallah M, de Wit C, Östman C, Bergh C, Covaci A, Darnerud PO, de Boer J, Leonards P, Diamond M, Huber S, Mandalakis M, Haug L, Thomsen C, Webster T. Indoor contamination with hexachlorocyclododecanes, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and perfluoroalkyl compounds: An important exposure pathway? Environ Sci Technol [Accepted 31 March 2010].

• Webster T. PBDE Exposure from Product to Person. Society of Toxicology. Salt Lake City, 7-11 March 2010.

• BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010)

• Webster, T. Exposure to Flame Retardants From Product to Person. 'The Fire Retardant Dilemma.' Green Science Policy Institute. Beijing, China. 22 August, 2009.
• Webster, T. Epidemiology of Flame Retardants. 'The Fire Retardant Dilemma.' Green Science Policy Institute. Beijing, China. 22 August, 2009.
• Webster, T. Exposure to Flame Retardants From Product to Person. 'The Fire Retardant Dilemma.' Green Science Policy Institute. Beijing, China. 22 August, 2009.

• Webster T. More Exposure Surprises. International Society of Exposure Science. Minneapolis, 1-5 November 2009. link

• BFR 2010: The Fifth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Kyoto, 7-9 April 2010)

Our principal focus is the investigation of human exposure to PBDEs in the indoor environment. We have broadened this work to include other semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs), including new and alternative flame retardants and perfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFCs).

Our principal focus is the investigation of human exposure to PBDEs in the indoor environment. We are also investigating new and alternative flame retardants and perfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFCs).

Our principal focus is the investigation of human exposure to PBDEs in the indoor environment. We are also investigating new and alternative flame retardants and perfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFCs).

• Nelson JW, Hatch EE, Webster TF. Exposure to Polyfluoroalkyl Chemicals and Cholesterol, Body Weight, and Insulin Resistance in the General U.S. Population. Environ Health Perspect. In press. [Online 2 November 2009]. The full text is freely available doi:10.1289/ehp.0901165.

• Mike McClean, Sc.D., head of the BUSPH Exposure Biology Lab

• Colleen Makey, Research Assistant

• Mike McClean, Sc.D., head of the BUSOH Exposure Biology Lab

PBDE/SVOC Research Group at Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health

• Joe Allen, D.Sc. (former doctoral student), currently at Environmental Health & Engineering, Inc, Newton, MA
• Wendy Heiger-Bernays, Ph.D.
• Veronica Vieira, D.Sc.
• Mike McClean, Sc.D.

Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another new flame retardant we found in house dust, in collaboration with Heather Stapleton. This and other work was recently profiled in ES&T by Kellyn Betts.

The PBDE/SVOC Research Group at Boston University School of Public Health, Dept. Environmental Health\\

PBDEs are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. As shown by their generic chemical structure below, PBDEs are structurally related to their better known cousins: PCBs, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polychorinated dioxins/dibenzofurans. These compounds are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs). Human body burdens and environmental concentrations of PBDEs have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure.

Our principal focus is the investigation of human exposure to PBDEs in the indoor environment. We are also investigating new and alternative flame retardants.

Our principal focus is the investigation of human exposure to PBDEs in the indoor environment. We are also investigating PBDE replacements.

• Fraser AJ, Webster TF, McClean MD. Diet contributes significantly to the body burden of PBDEs in the general U.S. population. Environ Health Perspect 2009; 117:1520-1525. [Online 18 June 2009]. The full text is freely available doi:10.1289/ehp.0900817.

• Stapleton HM, Klosterhaus S, Eagle S, Fuh J, Meeker JD, Blum A, Webster TF. Detection of Organophosphate Flame Retardants in Furniture Foam and U.S. House Dust. Environ Sci Technol 2009; 43:7490–7495. [Online 13 August 2009]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): DOI: 10.1021/es901401.

• October 2009. News article by Naomi Lubick in Environmental Health Perspectives ''PBDEs in Diet: Meat Fat a Leading Source" on our recent PBDE and diet paper, Fraser et al 2009.

• International Society of Exposure Science. Minneapolis, 1-5 November 2009. link

• Colleen Makey, Research Assistant

• Webster, T. Human Exposure to PBDEs From Product to Person. American Chemical Society, Northeastern Regional Meeting (NERM). Hartford, CT, 7 October 2009.

• Webster, T. The Fate of PBDEs in the Indoor Environment. Fire Retardants and their Potential Impact on Fire Fighter Health. National Institute of Standards and Technology, 30 September 2009.

Wonder what is being used in polyurethane foam as a flame retardant now that production of the Penta form of PBDE has been banned? Firemaster 550 is one alternative (above). Another is TDCPP, also known as chlorinated tris. This compound, along with its more famous cousin (brominated tris), were used for a while in kids' pajamas before being removed about 30 years ago. See our new paper.

• 18 August 2009: News article by Kellyn Betts, Discontinued pajama flame retardant detected in baby products and house dust, discusses our new paper on TDCPP (chlorinated tris).

• Stapleton HM, Klosterhaus S, Eagle S, Fuh J, Meeker JD, Blum A, Webster TF. Detection of Organophosphate Flame Retardants in Furniture Foam and U.S. House Dust. Environ Sci Technol 2009. [Accepted][Online 13 August 2009]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): DOI: 10.1021/es901401.

• Stapleton HM, Klosterhaus S, Eagle S, Fuh J, Meeker JD, Blum A, Webster TF. Detection of Organophosphate Flame Retardants in Furniture Foam and U.S. House Dust. 'Environ Sci Technol 2009. [Accepted][Online 13 August 2009]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T'' subscribers): DOI: 10.1021/es901401.

Wonder what is being used in polyurethane foam as a flame retardant now that production of the Penta form of PBDE has been banned? Firemaster 550 is one alternative (above). Another is TDCPP, also known as chlorinated tris. This compound, along with its more famous cousin (brominated tris), were used for a while in kids' pajamas before being removed about 30 years ago.

Wonder what is being used in polyurethane foam as a flame retardant now that production of the Penta form of PBDE has been banned? Firemaster 550 is one alternative (above). Another is TDCPP, also known as chlorinated tris. This compound, along with its more famous cousin (bromianted tris), were used for a while in kids' pajamas before being removed about 30 years ago.

TDCPP (chlorinated tris): A replacement for pentaBDE

[<<]]

• 17 July 2009: News article in Wired about our new paper on diet as a source of exposure to PBDEs.

• Fraser A, McClean M, Webster TF. Diet contributes significantly to the body burden of PBDEs in the general U.S. population. Presented at ISEE 2009. Dublin, Ireland, 26-29 August 2009.
• Watkins D, Stapleton HM, Chan S, McClean MD, Webster TF. PBDE Exposure: Which Is More Important, Homes or Offices? Presented at the 29th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Dioxin 2009) (Beijing, China, 23-28 August 2009)
• Stapleton HM, Klosterhaus S, Eagle S, Fuh J, Meeker JD, Blum A, Watkins D, McClean MD, Webster TF. Identification of Tris(1,3-Dichloro-2-Propyl) Phosphate and Other Organophosphate Flame Retardants in U.S. Indoor Environments. Presented at the 29th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Dioxin 2009) (Beijing, China, 23-28 August 2009).

• Fraser AJ, Webster TF, McClean MD. Diet contributes significantly to the body burden of PBDEs in the general U.S. population. Environ Health Perspect. [Accepted][Online 18 June 2009]. The full text is freely available doi:10.1289/ehp.0900817.

Recent conference and seminar presentations:

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abou-Elwafa AM, Covaci A. How does BDE209 get from products into dust? Insights from environmental forensic microscopy. Presented at 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)
• Stapleton HM, Klosterhaus S, Fuh J, Eagle S, Meeker J, Blum A, Webster T. Detection of Chlorinated Phosphate Flame Retardants in Furniture Foam and Ambient Measurements of Phosphate Flame Retardants in US House Dust. Presented at 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abou-Elwafa AM, Covaci A. How does BDE209 get from products into dust? Insights from environmental forensic microscopy. To be presented at 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)
• Stapleton HM, Klosterhaus S, Fuh J, Eagle S, Meeker J, Blum A, Webster T. Detection of Chlorinated Phosphate Flame Retardants in Furniture Foam and Ambient Measurements of Phosphate Flame Retardants in US House Dust. To be presented at 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)

• DIOXIN 20XX: INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON HALOGENATED PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS--Past Conferences Website

• * DIOXIN 20XX: INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON HALOGENATED PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS--Past Conferences Website

• Webster TF. Exposure to PBDEs: From Product to Person. Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway. 28 May 2009.

• Stapleton HM, Klosterhaus S, Fuh J, Eagle S, Meeker J, Blum A, Webster T. Detection of Chlorinated Phosphate Flame Retardants in Furniture Foam and Ambient Measurements of Phosphate Flame Retardants in US House Dust. To be presented at 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abou-Elwafa AM, Covaci A. How does BDE209 get from products into dust? Insights from environmental forensic microscopy. To be presented at 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abdallah M, Covaci A. Identifying transfer mechanisms and sources of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 209) in indoor environments using environmental forensic microscopy. Environ Sci Technol 2009; 43(9): 3067–3072. [Online 18 March]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es803139w.

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abou-Elwafa AM, Covaci A. How does BDE209 get from products into dust? Insights environmental forensic microscopy. To be presented at 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)

• Webster T. Frontiers in Environmental Health: Toxics in your Sofa? Boston University School of Public Health 2009 Alumni Symposium. 4 April 2009.
• Webster T. Residential Exposure to PBDEs: From product to person. ESF Exploratory Workshop on INDOOR CONTAMINATION WITH PERSISTENT ORGANIC COMPOUNDS: AN IMPORTANT EXPOSURE PATHWAY FOR PEOPLE? Stockholm (Sweden), 23-25 March 2009.
• Webster T. Identifiying sources of DecaBDE in indoor environments using forensic microscopy. ESF Exploratory Workshop on INDOOR CONTAMINATION WITH PERSISTENT ORGANIC COMPOUNDS: AN IMPORTANT EXPOSURE PATHWAY FOR PEOPLE? Stockholm (Sweden), 23-25 March 2009.

People are exposed to PBDEs via dust and diet. See: Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282]. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

• Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

• Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

• 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)

How do PBDEs get from products into dust? Do they off-gas or is the plastic breaking down into little bits? To find out, read our new paper and the accompanying news story "CSI-style tools offer clues about flame retardants in dust."

How do PBDEs get from products into dust? Do they off-gas or is the plastic breaking down into little bits? To find out, read our new paper and the accompanying news story CSI-style tools offer clues about flame retardants in dust.''

How do PBDEs get from products into dust? Do they off-gas or is the plastic breaking down into little bits? To find out read our new paper and the accompanying news story CSI-style tools offer clues about flame retardants in dust.''

How do PBDEs get from products into dust? Do they off-gas or is the plastic breaking down into little bits? To find out read our new paper and the accompanying news story CSI-style tools offer clues about flame retardants in dust.''

How do PBDEs get from products into dust? Do they off-gas or is the plastic breaking down into little bits? To find out read our new paper and the accompanying news story CSI-style tools offer clues about flame retardants in dust.''

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abdallah M, Covaci A. Identifying transfer mechanisms and sources of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 209) in indoor environments using environmental forensic microscopy. Environ Sci Technol 2009. [Online 18 March]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es803139w.

• 18 March 2009: News article by Kellyn Betts, CSI-style tools offer clues about flame retardants in dust, in ES&T discusses our new paper on the use of scanning electron microscopes and other "CSI" tools to investigate PBDEs in dust.

• 18 March 2009: News article by Kellyn Betts CSI-style tools offer clues about flame retardants in dust in ES&T discusses our new paper on the use of scanning electron microscopes and other "CSI" tools to investigate PBDEs in dust.

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abdallah M, Covaci A. Identifying transfer mechanisms and sources of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 209) in indoor environments using environmental forensic microscopy. Environ Sci Technol 2009. [Online 18 March].

• 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)

• International Society of Exposure Science (Minneapolis, 1-5 November 2009)

• [[http://www.ises09.org/|International Society of Exposure Science (Minneapolis, 1-5 November 2009)

Recent conference and seminar presentations:

• Wu N, McClean MD, Brown P, Aschengrau A, Webster TF. Participant Experiences in a Breastmilk Biomonitoring Study: A qualitative assessment. Environmental Health; 2009, 8:4. [Online 18 February 2009]. The full text is freely available doi:10.1186/1476-069X-8-4.

• Wu N, McClean MD, Brown P, Aschengrau A, Webster TF. Participant Experiences in a Breastmilk Biomonitoring Study: A qualitative assessment. Environmental Health; 2009, 8:4. [Online 18 February 2009] The full text is freely available doi:10.1186/1476-069X-8-4.

• Wu N, McClean MD, Brown P, Aschengrau A, Webster TF. Participant Experiences in a Breastmilk Biomonitoring Study: A qualitative assessment. Environmental Health; 2009, 8:4. The full text is freely available doi:10.1186/1476-069X-8-4.

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abdallah M, Covaci A. Identifying transfer mechanisms and sources of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 209) in indoor environments using environmental forensic microscopy. Environ Sci Technol 2009. Accepted.

• Webster, T. Exposure to PBDEs: From Product to Person. 'The Fire Retardant Dilemma.' Green Science Policy Institute. University of California Berkeley. 30 January, 2009.

• Webster, T. Exposure to PBDEs: From Product to Person. 'The Fire Retardant Dilemma.' Green Science Policy Institut. U.C. Berkeley. 30 January, 2009.

• ISEE 2009 (Dublin, Ireland, 25-29 August 2009)

• 11th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Ottawa, Canada, 19-20 May 2009)

• Dioxin 2009: 29th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Beijing, China, 23-28 August 2008)

• Webster T. Exposure to PBDEs: Characterizing Sources. National Institute of Standards. Gaithersburg, MD. 6 January 2009.

• Stapleton HM, Kelly SM, Allen JG, Watkins DJ, Heiger-Bernays WJ, Mcclean MD, Webster TF,Konstantinov A, Klosterhaus S. Response to Comment on "Alternate and New Brominated Flame Retardants in US House Dust." Environ Sci Technol 2008; 42: 9455-6. [Online 14 November 2008]. Full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es802619.

Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another new flame retardant we found in house dust, in collaboration with Heather Stapleton. This and other work was recently profiled in ES&T by Kellyn Betts.

Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/esthag/asap/abs/es801070p.htmlnew flame retardant we found in house dust, in collaboration with Heather Stapleton. This and other work was recently profiled in ES&T by Kellyn Betts.

• July 2008: Our PBDE work was featured in the Summer 2008 edition of Bostonia magazine, Art Jahnke's article "Trouble at Home."

• Webster T. PBDE Exposure: From Product to Person. Environmental Health Colloquium. Harvard School of Public Health. 11 December 2008.

• 3 December 2008: News article by Kellyn Betts in ES&T discusses decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), another new flame retardant we found in house dust.

• 3 December 2008: News article by Kellyn Betts in ES&T discusses decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another new flame retardant we found in house dust.

• 4 December 2008: News article by Kellyn Betts in ES&T discusses decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another new flame retardant we found in house dust.

• 4 December 2008: News article by Kellyn Betts in ''ES&T" discusses decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another new flame retardant we found in house dust.

• 4 December 2008: News article by [[http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/es8032154|Kellyn Betts] in ''ES&T" discusses decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another new flame retardant we found in house dust.

<<<<<<< Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another new flame retardant we found in house dust, in collaboration with Heather Stapleton. This and other work was recently profiled in ES&T by Kellyn Betts. =======

>>>>>>>

Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is another new flame retardant we found in house dust, in collaboration with Heather Stapleton Stapleton et al. This and other work was recently profiled in ES&T by Kellyn Betts.

DBDPE: Another alternative BFR in house dust\\

• Stapleton HM, Kelly SM, Allen JG, Watkins DJ, Heiger-Bernays WJ, Mcclean MD, Webster TF,Konstantinov A, Klosterhaus S. Response to Comment on "Alternate and New Brominated Flame Retardants in US House Dust." Environ Sci Technol 2008; in press. [Online 14 November 2008]. Full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es802619.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Sources of DecaBDE in House Dust. Presented at ISEE-ISEA 2008 (Pasadena, CA, 12-16 October 2008)
• Webster T. From Product to Person: Exposure to PBDEs (and Beyond). Environmental Health Research Seminar, Boston University School of Public Health, 1 October 2008.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Sources of DecaBDE in House Dust. Presented at ISEE-ISEA 2008 (Pasadena, CA, 12-16 October 2008)* Webster T. From Product to Person: Exposure to PBDEs (and Beyond). Environmental Health Research Seminar, Boston University School of Public Health, 1 October 2008.

• Joe Allen, D.Sc. (former doctoral student), currently at Environmental Health & Engineering, Inc, Newton, MA

• Webster T. From Product to Person: Exposure to PBDEs (and Beyond). Environmental Health Research Seminar, Boston University School of Public Health, 1 October 2008.

• ISEE-ISEA 2008 (Pasadena, CA, 12-16 October 2008)

If you'd like to know more about these issues, read our recent paper: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Critical Factors in Assessing Exposure to PBDEs via House Dust. Environ Intern 2008; 34: 1085-1091. [Online 5 May 2008]. Abstract and full text (for EI subscribers): doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2008.03.006.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Critical Factors in Assessing Exposure to PBDEs via House Dust. Environ Intern 2008; 34: 1085-1091. [Online 5 May 2008]. Abstract and full text (for EI subscribers): doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2008.03.006.

• How much do PBDE dust concentrations change over time in homes? Is a single snap-shot good enough?

• Do the PBDE concentrations in dust correlate with those in indoor air?

• Is it better to examine the concentration of PBDEs in dust or the amount of PBDEs per area of floor?
• How much do dust concentrations of PBDEs change over time in homes? Is a single snap-shot good enough?
• Do PBDE concentrations in dust vary between rooms within the same home?
• It's easy to collect vacuum cleaner bags from homes. How well does this match dust collected by more standardized methods?
• Do the PBDE concentrations in dust correlated with those in indoor air?

Dust sampling: What is to be done?
Dust appears to be an important source of exposure for PBDEs. But there are several important questions about sampling dust:

Dust collection: What is to be done?

Dust appears to be an important source of exposure for PBDEs. But there are several important questions about dust colleciton:

• Is it better to examine the concentration of PBDEs in dust or the amount of PBDEs per area of floor?
• How much do dust concentrations of PBDEs change over time in homes? Is a single snap-shot good enough?
• Do PBDE concentrations in dust vary between rooms within the same home?
• It's easy to collect vacuum cleaner bags from homes. How well does this match dust collected by more standardized methods?
• Do the PBDE concentrations in dust correlated with those in indoor air?

If you'd like to know more about these issues, read our recent paper: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Critical Factors in Assessing Exposure to PBDEs via House Dust. Environ Intern 2008. In press. [Online 5 May 2008]. Abstract and full text (for EI subscribers): doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2008.03.006.

PBDEs in indoor air and dust are thought to originate with consumer products such as foam-containing furniture and electronics. However, most earlier research including our own (Wu et al 2007, Allen et al 2007) finds no association between indoor PBDE concentrations and counts of foam-containing furniture and electronics. This could be caused by non-differential exposure misclassification (e.g. large differences in PBDE content between otherwise similar objects), producing a bias toward the null. To deal with this problem, we have used X-ray fluorescence (XRF), providing an easy and quick surrogate measure of the bromine content of household products. This work was published in Environmental Science and Technology in 2008.

• Stapleton HM, Allen JG, Kelly S, Konstantinov A, Klosterhaus S, Watkins D, Mcclean MD, Webster TF. Alternate and New Brominated Flame Retardants Detected in US House Dust. Environ Sci Technol 2008; 42 (18), 6910–6916. [Online 23 July 2008]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es702964a.

• Stephanie Chan, Research Assistant

• Courtney Walker, doctoral student

Penta and octa have been banned in the US but is the problem solved? There is still enormous amounts of this stuff in people's homes as well as being thrown out. In addition, we've been finding new and alternative brominated flame retardents in dust. Pictured at left is a recently identified component of Firemaster 550, a brominated form of the phthalate DEHP. For more information on FM550, look here.

• 23 July 2008: See our paper on alternative brominated flame retardants in dust, including components of Firemaster 550, the replacement for penta in Environmental Science and Technology. See also the accompanying story by Kellyn Betts. For more information on FM550, look here.

Penta and octa have been banned in the US but is the problem solved? There is still enormous amounts of this stuff in people's homes as well as being thrown out. In addition, we've been finding new and alternative brominated flame retardents in dust. Pictured at left is a recently identified component of Firemaster 550, a brominated form of the phthalate DEHP. For more information on FF550, look here.

• 23 July 2008: See our paper on alternative brominated flame retardants in dust, including components of Firemaster 550, the replacement for penta in Environmental Science and Technology. See also the accompanying story by Kellyn Betts. For more information on FF550, look here.

Penta and octa have been banned in the US but is the problem solved? There is still enormous amounts of this stuff in people's homes as well as being thrown out. In addition, we've been finding new and alternative brominated flame retardents in dust. Pictured at left is a recently identified component of Firemaster 550, a brominated form of the phthalate DEHP. For more information on FF550, look here?.

• 23 July 2008: See our paper on alternative brominated flame retardants in dust, including components of Firemaster 550, the replacement for penta in Environmental Science and Technology. See also the accompanying story by Kellyn Betts. For more information on FF550, look here?.

Upcoming conference and seminar presentations:

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Sources of DecaBDE in House Dust

• Look for us at ISEE-ISEA 2008 (Pasadena, CA, 12-16 October 2008)

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abou-Elwafa AM, Covaci A. Identifying sources of decaBDE in indoor environments using forensic microscopy. Presented at Dioxin 2008: 28th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Birmingham UK, 17-22 August 2008).
• Webster TF, McClean MD, Allen JG, Stapleton HM. Residential exposure to PBDEs: From product to person. Presented at Dioxin 2008: 28th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Birmingham UK, 17-22 August 2008).

• Vieira V, Webster T, Bartell S, Steenland K, Savitz D, Fletcher T. PFOA community health studies: Exposure via drinking water contaminated by a teflon manufacturing facility. '"Organohalogen Compounds'' 2008; 70:730-732.

• Webster TF, Harrad S, Millette JR, Holbrook RD, Davis JM, Stapleton HM, Allen JG, McClean, MichaeI MD, Ibarra C, Abou-Elwafa AM, Covaci A. Identifying sources of decaBDE in indoor environments using forensic microscopy. Organohalogen Compounds 2008; 70:867-870.
• Webster TF, McClean MD, Allen JG, Stapleton HM. Residential exposure to PBDEs: From product to person. Organohalogen Compounds 2008; 70:697-700.

• 23 July 2008: See our paper on alternative brominated flame retardants in dust, including components of Firemaster 550, the replacement for penta in Environmental Science and Technology. See also the accompanying story by Kellyn Betts.

New and alternative BFRs: Deja vu all over again?\\

Penta and octa have been banned in the US but is the problem solved? There is still enormous amounts of this stuff in people's homes as well as being thrown out. In addition, we've been finding new and alternative brominated flame retardents in dust. Pictured at left is a recently identified component of Firemaster 550, a brominated form of the phthalate DEHP.

• 23 July 2008: See our paper on alternative brominated flame retardants in dust, including components of Firemaster 550, the replacement for penta in Environmental Science and Technology

• Stapleton HM, Allen JG, Kelly S, Konstantinov A, Klosterhaus S, Watkins D, Mcclean MD, Webster TF. Alternate and New Brominated Flame Retardants Detected in US House Dust. Environ Sci Technol 2008. In press. [Online 23 July 2008]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es702964a.

• July 2008: Our PBDE work was featured in the Summer 2008 edition of Bostonia magazine, Art Jahnke's article "Trouble at Home."

• July 2008: Our PBDE work was featured in the Summer 2008 edition of Bostonia magazine, Art Jahnke's "Trouble at Home."

• Stapleton HM, Allen JG, Kelly S, Konstantinov A, Klosterhaus S, Watkins D, Mcclean MD, Webster TF. Alternate and New Brominated Flame Retardants Detected in US House Dust. Environ Sci Technol 2008 (Accepted).

• Stapleton HM, Allen JG, Kelly S, Konstantinov A, Klosterhaus S, Watkins D, Mcclean MD; Webster TF. Alternate and New Brominated Flame Retardants Detected in US House Dust. Environ Sci Technol 2008 (Accepted).

• Stapleton HM, Kelly SM, Allen JG, McClean MD, Webster TF. Measurement of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers on Hand Wipes: Estimating Exposure from Hand to Mouth Contact. Environ Sci Technol 42(9): 3329-34. [Web release date: 19 March 2008]. DOI: 10.1021/es7029625. See also the accompanying ES&T news story by Kellyn Betts.

• Webster, T. Exposure to Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether flame retardants (PBDEs): From Product to Person. 2 June 2008. University of British Columbia.

• Stapleton HM, Allen JG, Kelly SM, McClean MD, Klosterhaus S, Konstantinov A, Watkins D, Webster TF. Alternative and new brominated flame retardants detected in house dust. Presented at BFR 2008: 10th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Victoria BC, 3-4 June 2008).
• Fraser AJ, McClean MD, Webster TF. Diet predicts serum PBDE concentrations in the United States population. Presented at BFR 2008: 10th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Victoria BC, 3-4 June 2008).
• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Televisions as sources of decaBDE: XRF-measured bromine in televisions is associated with decaBDE dust concentrations. Presented at BFR 2008: 10th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Victoria BC, 3-4 June 2008).
• Webster, T. Exposure to Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether flame retardants (PBDEs): From Product to Person. 2 June 2008. University of British Columbia.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Linking PBDEs in House Dust to Consumer Products using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). Environ Sci Technol 2008; 42 (11): 4222–4228. [Online April 30, 2008]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es702964a.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Critical Factors in Assessing Exposure to PBDEs via House Dust. Environ Intern 2008. In press. [Online 5 May 2008]. Abstract and full text (for EI subscribers): doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2008.03.006.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Critical Factors in Assessing Exposure to PBDEs via House Dust. Environ Intern 2008. In press. [Online 5 May 2008]. Abstract and full text (for EI subscribers): link.

• 1 May 2008: Work by our PBDE group heavily featured in a news story in today's Environmental Health Perspectives.

• 1 May 2008: Work by our PBDE group heavily featured in a news story in today's Environmental Health Perspectives.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Linking PBDEs in House Dust to Consumer Products using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). Environ Sci Technol 2008. In press. [Online April 30, 2008]. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi: 10.1021/es702964a.

• 6 March 2008: Paper on PBDEs by doctoral student Nerissa Wu one of the most cited papers published in ES&T in 2007.

• Wendy Heiger-Bernays, Ph.D.

• 27 March 2008: Three new papers on exposure to PBDEs are in press: on PBDEs in handwipes, measuring PBDEs in dust, linking PBDEs in dust to household products via XRF. See publications below.

• 19 March 2008: News story about our work with Heather Stapleton on measuring PBDEs on handwipes.

• 19 March 2008: News story about our work with Heather Stapleton on measuring PBDES on handwipes.

• Kellyn Betts.

• Stapleton HM, Kelly SM, Allen JG, McClean MD, Webster TF. Measurement of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers on Hand Wipes: Estimating Exposure from Hand to Mouth Contact. Environ Sci Technol. Accepted. DOI: 10.1021/es7029625. See also the accompanying ES&T news story by Kellyn Betts.

• 13 June 2007: News story "Finding PBDEs in couches and TVs" in ES&T

• 17 January 2007: News story by Kellyn Betts, "The risk of PBDEs in dust" in ES&T

Read the news story in Environmental Science &Technology about our work with XRF, as presented at BFR07.

Read the news story in Environmental Science &Technology about our work with XRF, as presented at BFR07.

Read the news story in Environmental Science &Technology about our work with XRF, as presented at BFR07; read more here

Read the news story in Environmental Science &Technology about our work with XRF, as presented at BFR07; http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/june/science/kb_pbde.htmlread more here

Read the news story in Environmental Science &Technology about our work with XRF, as presented at BFR07; http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/june/science/kb_pbde.htmlread more here

• 6 March 2008: Paper on PBDEs by doctoral student Nerissa Wu one of the most cited papers published in ES&T in 2007. learn more

• 18 April 2008: Our PBDE work featured on Nature Network Boston.

• 18 April 2008: Our PBDE work featured on Nature Network Boston.'''

• 18 April 2008: Our PBDE work featured on Nature Network Boston.

• Look for us at Dioxin 2008: 28th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Birmingham UK, 17-22 August 2008)

People are exposed to PBDEs via dust and diet. See: Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

People are exposed to PBDEs via dust and diet. Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

People are exposed to PBDEs. Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

'People are exposed to PBDEs. Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

We all have our little dust clouds. Read about it in our article: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(13): 4574-4579. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

Dust is likely a major source of exposure to PBDEs. Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen? Read about it in our article: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(13): 4574-4579. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170. To learn more about our work on PBDEs, see (PBDEs).

Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

The correlation between concentrations of PBDEs in people and in dust cannot, by itself, distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are correlated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, most such calculations rely on indoor air measurements made in rooms using passive air monitors, a method that should underestimate personal exposure. We therefore carried out a second study comparing personal air measurements with room air measurements, using active air pumps (Allen et al., 2007). We found higher concentrations of PBDEs in 'personal air' (sampled near the breathing zone) than in rooms, particularly for decaBDE which is bound to particulate. This is indicative of a personal dust cloud, also known as the Pigpen effect.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is very likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007); see the figure below. The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. It supports the hypothesis that exposure to PBDEs in dust is an important route of exposure.

24 May 2007: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen? Read about it in our recent article: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(13): 4574-4579. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170. To learn more about our work on PBDEs, see (PBDEs).

Charles Schulz

This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are correlated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, most such calculations rely on indoor air measurements made in rooms using passive air monitors, a method that should underestimate personal exposure. We therefore carried out a second study comparing personal air measurements with room air measurements, using active air pumps (Allen et al., 2007).

• 27 March 2008: Three new papers on exposure to PBDEs are in press: on PBDEs in handwipes, measuring PBDEs in dust, linking PBDEs in dust to household products via XRF. See publications below.

• Look for us at BFR 2008: 10th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Victoria BC, 3-4 June 2008)

• Look for us at * BFR 2008: 10th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Victoria BC, 3-4 June 2008)

• Look for us at BFR08!

Recent conference and seminar presentations:

PBDEs in indoor air and dust are thought to originate with consumer products such as foam-containing furniture and electronics. However, most earlier research including our own (Wu et al 2007, Allen et al 2007) finds no association between indoor PBDE concentrations and counts of foam-containing furniture and electronics. This could be caused by non-differential exposure misclassification (e.g. large differences in PBDE content between otherwise similar objects), producing a bias toward the null. To deal with this problem, we have used X-ray fluorescence (XRF), providing an easy and quick surrogate measure of the bromine content of household products. We presented some new results on this topic at BFR 2007 and have a paper in press at Environmental Science and Technology.

Read the news story in Environmental Science &Technology about our work with XRF, as presented at BFR07, at http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/june/science/kb_pbde.html

• Joe Allen (former doctoral student), currently at Environmental Health & Engineering, Inc, Newton, MA

• 6 March 2008: Paper on PBDEs by doctoral student Nerissa Wu one of the most cited papers published in ES&T in 2007.

• Stapleton HM, Kelly SM, Allen JG, McClean MD, Webster TF. Measurement of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers on Hand Wipes: Estimating Exposure from Hand to Mouth Contact. Environ Sci Technol. Accepted. DOI: 10.1021/es7029625.See also the accompanying ES&T news story by Kellyn Betts.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Linking PBDEs in House Dust to Consumer Products using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). Environ Sci Technol (accepted).

• 10 December 2007: Doctoral student Joe Allen defended his dissertation!

• Webster, T. Human Exposure to DecaBDE. 47th Annual Meeting of the Society of Toxicology. 16-20 March 2008. Seattle, WA.

Recent conference and seminar presentations:

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF.Critical Factors in Assessing Exposure to PBDEs via House Dust. Environ Intern (accepted).

• Stapleton HM, Kelly SM, Allen JG, McClean MD, Webster TF. Measurement of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers on Hand Wipes: Estimating Exposure from Hand to Mouth Contact. Environ Sci Technol. Accepted.

• BFR 2008: 10th Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (Victoria BC, 3-4 June 2008)

• 10 December 2007: Doctoral student Joe Allen will defend his dissertation

• Tom Webster, D.Sc. (my unofficial site at CIREEH) or my official site at BUSPH

The PBDE Research Group at Boston University School of Public Health, Dept. Environmental Health
Our principal focus is the investigation of human exposure to PBDEs in the indoor environment.

Exposure to PBDEs\\

PBDE Research Group at Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health

Exposure to PBDEs: Research at Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health\\

Recent conference and seminar presentations:

• Stapleton HM, Allen JG, Kelly SM, McClean MM, Webster TF. Exposure and Fate of a New Class of POPs, PBDEs: A Case-Study for Indoor Exposure to POPs. SETAC North America 28th Annual Meeting. Milwaukee, 11-15 November.

• SETAC North America 28th Annual Meeting (Milwaukee, 11-15 November 2007)

Upcoming conference and seminar presentations:

• Stapleton HM, Allen JG, Kelly SM, McClean MM, Webster TF. Exposure and Fate of a New Class of POPs, PBDEs: A Case-Study for Indoor Exposure to POPs. SETAC North America 28th Annual Meeting. Milwaukee, 11-15 November.
• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Fraser AJ, Cichanowski B, Palmisano J, Webster TF. Linking PBDEs in house dust to consumer products using X-ray fluorescence. American Public Health Association 135th Annual Meeting & Exposition, Washington, DC, 3-7 November.
• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JM, Fraser AJ, Sanchez G, Webster TF. PBDEs in household air and dust: Characterization of microenvironments. American Public Health Association 135th Annual Meeting & Exposition, Washington, DC, 3-7 November.

• Allen JG, MD McClean Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Human Exposure to PBDEs: From Product to Person. 17th Annual Conference of the International Society of Exposure Analysis, Durham, NC, 14-18 October

Recent conference and seminar presentations:

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. PBDEs in dust: between- and within-home variation linked to XRF characterization of consumer products. Organohalogen Compounds 2007; 69:1002-1004.

• Nerissa Wu, doctoral student

• Veronica Vieira, D.Sc.

• Nerissa Wu, doctoral student

• Deborah Watkins, doctoral student

• Dioxin 2008: 28th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Birmingham UK, 17-22 August 2008)

• Stapleton HM, Kelly S, Allen JG, Webster TF. Characterizing Exposure to Brominated Flame Retardants Based on Hand Wipe Measurements. 17th Annual Conference of the International Society of Exposure Analysis, Durham, NC, 14-18 October.
• Allen JG, MD McClean Stapleton HM, Webster TF. Human Exposure to PBDEs: From Product to Person. 17th Annual Conference of the International Society of Exposure Analysis, Durham, NC, 14-18 October.

• Stapleton HM, Kelly S, Allen JG, Webster TF. Characterizing Exposure to Brominated Flame Retardants Based on Hand Wipe Measurements. International Society for Exposure Analysis

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. PBDEs in dust: between- and within-home variation linked to XRF characterization of consumer products. 27th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants (Dioxin 2007), Tokyo, 2-7 September.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JM, Fraser AJ, Sanchez G, Webster TF. Characterization of PBDEs in Household Dust: Comparison of Collection Methods and Relationship to Indoor Air. Fourth International Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (BFR 2007), Amsterdam, 24-27 April 2007.

• Tom Webster, D.Sc. or here at BUSPH

• Tom Webster, D.Sc. or here at BUSPH

• Alicia Fraser, doctoral student

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Webster TF. PBDEs in dust: between- and within-home variation linked to XRF characterization of consumer products. To be presented at the 27th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants (Dioxin 2007), Tokyo, 2-7 September.

PBDEs are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. As shown by their generic chemical structure below, PBDEs are structurally related to their better known cousins: PCBs, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polychorinated dioxins/dibenzofurans. Human body burdens and environmental concentrations of PBDEs have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure.

• ISEA 2007: International Society for Exposure Analysis (Durham, NC, 14-18 October 2007)
• Dioxin 2007: 27th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Tokyo, 2-7 Sept 2007)
• BFR 2007: The Fourth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Amsterdam, 24-27 April 2007)
• Dioxin 2006: 26th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Oslo, 21-25 August 2006)

PBDEs are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. As shown by their generic chemical structure above, PBDEs are structurally related to their better known cousins: PCBs, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polychorinated dioxins/dibenzofurans. Human body burdens and environmental concentrations of PBDEs have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure.

• ISEA 2007: International Society for Exposure Analysis (Durham, NC, 14-18 October)

• International Society for Exposure Analysis (Durham, NC, 14-18 October)

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Sanchez G, Fraser AJ, Webster TF. PBDE levels in indoor air and dust collected in US urban residences. Presented at ISEE/ISEA, 2-6 September 2006, Paris, France. Epidemiology 2006; 17(6) Suppl:S375

News & Awards (For details, look here)

News & Awards% (For details, look here) '''

News & Awards (For detials, look here) '''

• 13 June 2007: News story "Finding PBDEs in couches and TVs" in ES&T
• 24 May 2007: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen?
• 27 April 2007: Doctoral student Joseph Allen wins award at BFR 2007
• 17 January 2007: News story "The risk of PBDEs in dust" in ES&T

For more on News & Awards, look here

News & Awards

PBDEs in indoor air and dust are thought to originate with consumer products such as foam-containing furniture and electronics. However, most earlier research including our own (Wu et al 2007, Allen et al 2007) finds no association between indoor PBDE concentrations and counts of foam-containing furniture and electronics. This could be caused by non-differential exposure misclassification (e.g. large differences in PBDE content between otherwise similar objects), producing a bias toward the null. We presented some new results on this topic at BFR 2007.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007); see the figure below. The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are correlated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, most such calculations rely on indoor air measurements made in rooms using passive air monitors, a method that should underestimate personal exposure. We therefore carried out a second study comparing personal air measurements with room air measurements, using active air pumps (Allen et al., 2007).

Exposure to PBDEs: Research at Boston University School of Public Health
PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007); see the figure above. The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are correlated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, most such calculations rely on indoor air measurements made in rooms using passive air monitors, a method that should underestimate personal exposure. We therefore carried out a second study comparing personal air measurements with room air measurements, using active air pumps (Allen et al., 2007).

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(13): 4574-4579. Web release date: 24 May 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007); see the figure above. The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are correlated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, most such calculations rely on indoor air measurements made in rooms using passive air monitors, a method that should underestimate personal exposure. We therefore carried out a second study comparing personal air measurements with room air measurements, using active air pumps (Allen et al., 2007).

Read the news story in Environmental Science &Technology about our work with XRF at http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/june/science/kb_pbde.html

"This handheld X-ray fluorescence analyzer allows Joseph Allen of Boston University to detect in seconds the presence of bromine in household products such as televisions."

"This handheld X-ray fluorescence analyzer allows Joseph Allen of Boston University to detect in seconds the presence of bromine in household products such as televisions." Read the news story in Environmental Science &Technology about our work with XRF at http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/june/science/kb_pbde.html

"This handheld X-ray fluorescence analyzer allows Joseph Allen of Boston University to detect in seconds the presence of bromine in household products such as televisions." Read the news story in 'Environmental Science &Technology' about our work with XRF at http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/june/science/kb_pbde.html

PBDEs in indoor air and dust are thought to originate with consumer products such as foam-containing furniture and electronics. However, most earlier research including our own (Wu et al 2007, Allen et al in press) finds no association between indoor PBDE concentrations and counts of foam-containing furniture and electronics. This could be caused by non-differential exposure misclassification (e.g. large differences in PBDE content between otherwise similar objects), producing a bias toward the null. We presented some new results on this topic at BFR 2007.

"This handheld X-ray fluorescence analyzer allows Joseph Allen of Boston University to detect in seconds the presence of bromine in household products such as televisions." Read the news story in ES&T about our work with XRF at http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/june/science/kb_pbde.html

News:

News:M. Kenda. "This handheld X-ray fluorescence analyzer allows Joseph Allen of Boston University to detect in seconds the presence of bromine in household products such as televisions." Read teh news story in ES&T about our work with XRF at http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/june/science/kb_pbde.html

photo by M. Kenda

News: Doctoral student Joseph Allen won a Jansson and Bergman Student Award for Outstanding Student Presentation at BFR 2007: The Fourth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Amsterdam, 24-27 April)

News: Doctoral student Joseph Allen won a Jansson and Bergman Student Award for Outstanding Student Presentation at BFR 2007: The Fourth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Amsterdam, 24-27 April)

What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen? Read about it in our latest article: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007. Web release date: 24 May 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

News Doctoral student Joseph Allen wins Jansson and Bergman Student Award for Outstanding Student Presentation for his paper at BFR 2007: The Fourth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Amsterdam, 24-27 April)

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)\\

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)

  What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen?  Read about it in our latest article: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air.  Environ Sci Technol 2007.  Web release date: 24 May 2007.  Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007); see the figure above. The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are corrleated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, most such calculations rely on indoor air measurements made in rooms using passive air monitors, a method that should underestimate personal exposure. We therefore carried out a second study comparing personal air measurements with room air measurements, using active air pumps (Allen et al., 2007).

News Doctoral student Joseph Allen wins Jansson and Bergman Student Award for Outstanding Student Presentation for his paper at BFR 2007: The Fourth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Amsterdam, 24-27 April)

News Doctoral student Joseph Allen wins Jansson and Bergman Student Award for Outstanding Student Presentation for his paper at * BFR 2007: The Fourth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Amsterdam, 24-27 April)

NEW! What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen? Read about it in our latest article: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007. Web release date: 24 May 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

News Doctoral student Joseph Allen wins Jansson and Bergman Student Award for Outstanding Student Presentation for his paper at BFR 2007

News Doctoral student Joseph Allen wins 'Jansson and Bergman Student Award for Outstanding Student Presentation' for his papers at BFR 2007

NEW! What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen? Read about it in our latest article: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007. Web release date: 24 May 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

NEW! What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen?' Read about it in our latest article: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007. Web release date: 24 May 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T'' subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

NEW: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen? Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007. Web release date: 24 May 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Environ Sci Technol 2007. Web release date: 24 May 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0703170.

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon character Pigpen? Read our newest publication when it appears on the web: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Sanchez G, Fraser AJ, Webster TF. PBDE levels in indoor air and dust collected in US urban residences. Presented at ISEE/ISEA, 2-6 September 2006, Paris, France.

Recent conference and seminar presentations:

• Webster, T. Fireproof women & other tales of human exposure to PBDEs. University of New Hampshire. 4 May 2007.
• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JM, Fraser AJ, Sanchez G, Webster TF. Characterization of PBDEs in Household Dust: Comparison of Collection Methods and Relationship to Indoor Air. Presented at the Fourth International Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (BFR 2007), Amsterdam, 24-27 April 2007.
• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Fraser AJ, Cichanowski B, Palmisano J, Webster TF. Linking PBDEs in House Dust to Consumer Products using X-ray Fluorescence. Presented at the Fourth International Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (BFR 2007), Amsterdam, 24-27 April 2007.
• Stapleton HM, Kelly S, Allen JG, Webster TF. Exposure to PBDEs from Hand to Mouth Contact: Measurements of PBDEs on Hand Wipes from Individuals in the United States. Presented at the Fourth International Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants (BFR 2007), Amsterdam, 24-27 April 2007.
• Allen J, McClean M, Stapleton H, Webster T. Exposure to PBDEs and BTBPE in the Indoor Environment. Society of Toxicology Annual Meeting. 25-29 March 2007, Charlotte, NC.
• Webster TF. The Epidemiology of Human Exposure to POPs. NERC Persistent Organic Pollutants Network. 10 January 2007. University of Birmingham, UK. program
• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Sanchez G, Fraser AJ, Webster TF. PBDE levels in indoor air and dust collected US urban residences. Presented at ISEE/ISEA, 2-6 September 2006, Paris, France.

\\\\\\\\\\\

Charles Schulz

\\

by Charles Schulz

Charles M. Schulz

//////Charles M. Schulz

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Read our newest publication when it appears on the web: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

Charles M. Schulz

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007); see the figure above. The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are corrleated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, most such calculations rely on indoor air measurements made in rooms using passive air monitors, a method that should underestimate personal exposure. We therefore carried out a second study comparing personal air measurements with room air measurements, using active air pumps (Allen et al., in press).

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are corrleated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, most such calculations rely on indoor air measurements made in rooms using passive air monitors, a method that should underestimate personal exposure. We therefore carried out a second study comparing personal air measurements with room air measurements, using active air pumps (Allen et al., in press).

Sources of PBDEs in the Indoor Environment
PBDEs in indoor air and dust are thought to originate with consumer products such as foam-containing furniture and electronics. However, most earlier research including our own (Wu et al 2007, Allen et al in press) finds no association between indoor PBDE concentrations and counts of foam-containing furniture and electronics. This could be caused by non-differential exposure misclassification (e.g. large differences in PBDE content between otherwise similar objects), producing a bias toward the null. We will present some new results on this topic at BFR 2007.

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Read our newest publication when it appears on the web: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Read our newest publication when it appears on the web: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

Article of ours in the March 1, 2007 issue of ES&T: Wu et al. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589.

Publications

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Read our newest publication when it appears on the web: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

Publications

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)\\

Exposure to PBDEs: Research at Boston University School of Public Health\\

Publications

Recent & Forthcoming conferences

PBDE Research Group at Boston University School of Public Health

Links (Collaborators, etc.)

For more information: \\

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Read our newest publication when it appears on the web: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

Article of ours in the March 1, 2007 issue of ES&T: Wu et al. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589.

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Read our newest publication when it appears on the web: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Read our newest publication when it appears on the web: Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Webster TF. Personal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in residential indoor air. Accepted for publication in Environ Sci Technol 2007.

Forthcoming: What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Stay tuned!

Forthcoming What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Stay tuned!

Attach:pigpen.bmp What do PBDEs have to do with the the cartoon charater Pigpen? Stay tuned!

Forthcoming

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are corrleated. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are corrleated. However, exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Sanchez G, Fraser AJ, Webster TF. Personal and indoor air exposure to PBDEs in US urban residences. Organohalogen Compounds 2006; 68:2198-2201.

• Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007; 41(5): 1584-1589. Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

• John Minnery, doctoral student

Links (Collaborators, etc.)

• Dioxin 2006: 26th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds

• BFR 2007: The Fourth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants (Amsterdam, 24-27 April)

• Dioxin 2007: 27th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Tokyo, 2-7 Sept)

• Dioxin 2007: 27th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds (Tokyo, 2-7 Sept)

• Dioxin 2007: 27th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are corrleated. However, exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. This result cannot distinguish between direct exposure to dust (via incidental ingestion or dermal exposure) and inhalation, if the concentrations in air and dust are corrleated. However, exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion/dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of the very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding--in first time mothers from the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of hte very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding--in first time mothers form the Greater Boston area--is particularly important because of hte very large uncertainty in adult exposure to dust. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We found associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). The latter finding is particularly important. Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We previously showed associations between PBDE concentrations in people and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

• Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007 (in press). Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news report by Kellyn Betts.

• Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007 (in press). Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news story by Kellyn Betts.

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657.

• Nerissa Wu, doctoral student

• Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol 2007 (in press). Web release date: 17 Jan 2007. Abstract and full text (for ES&T subscribers): doi=10.1021/es0620282. See also the accompanying ES&T news story by Kellyn Betts.

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Sanchez G, Fraser AJ, Webster TF. Personal and indoor air exposure to PBDEs in US urban residences. Organohalogen Compounds 2006; 68:2198-2201. The full text is freely available here.
• Webster TF. Pharmacokinetics of POPs: Simple models with different implications for halflives and steady state levels. Organohalogen Compounds 2006; 68:344-347. The full text is freely available here.

Exposure to PBDEs: Research at Boston University School of Public Health\\

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)\\

Research at Boston University School of Public Health

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)\\

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) \\

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)\\

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) PBDEs are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. As shown by their generic chemical structure above, PBDEs are structurally related to their better known cousins: PCBs, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polychorinated dioxins/dibenzofurans. Human body burdens and environmental concentrations of PBDEs have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure.

PBDE Research Group at Boston University School of Public Health\\

PBDE Research Group at Boston University School of Public Health

(:title Exposure to PBDEs--Research at Boston University School of Public Health:)

(:title Exposure to PBDEs\\Research at Boston University School of Public Health:)

(:title Exposure to PBDEs--Research at Boston University School of Public Health:)

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We previously showed associations between PBDE concentrations in breast milk and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005, 2007). Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

• Joe Allen, doctoral student

return to Tom Webster

Links

• Mike McClean, Sc.D.
• Veronica Vieira, D.Sc.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We previously showed associations between PBDE concentrations in breast milk and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005). Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. CIREEH supported a study of personal air conducted in the Boston area.

Recent & Forthcoming conferences

• BFR 2007: The Fourth International Conference on Brominated Flame Retardants

• Wu N, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, McClean MD, Webster TF. Human exposure to PBDEs: Associations of PBDE body burdens with food consumption and house dust concentrations. Environ Sci Technol (in press).

• Allen JG, McClean MD, Stapleton HM, Nelson JW, Sanchez G, Fraser AJ, Webster TF. Personal and indoor air exposure to PBDEs in US urban residences. Organohalogen Compounds 2006; 68. The full text is freely available here.
• Webster TF. Pharmacokinetics of POPs: Simple models with different implications for halflives and steady state levels. Organohalogen Compounds 2006; 68. The full text is freely available here.

Recent conferences

PBDE Research Group at Boston University School of Public Health

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657. The full text is freely available here.
• Webster T, Vieira V, Schecter A. Estimating Exposure to PBDE-47 via Air, Food and Dust Using Monte Carlo Methods. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 505-8. The full text is freely available here,

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657. The full text is freely available newwin here.

• Webster T, Vieira V, Schecter A. Estimating Exposure to PBDE-47 via Air, Food and Dust Using Monte Carlo Methods. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 505-8. Webster-Dioxin05.pdf

• Tom Webster, D.Sc.

email: Dr. Tom Webster

(:title Exposure to PBDEs:)

• Tom Webster, D.Sc.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. As shown by their generic chemical structure above, PBDEs are structurally related to their better known cousins: PCBs, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polychorinated dioxins/dibenzofurans. Human body burdens and environmental concentrations of PBDEs have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. As shown by the generic chemical structure above, PBDEs are structurally related to their better known cousins: PCBs, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polychorinated dioxins/dibenzofurans. Human body burdens and environmental concentrations of PBDEs have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure.

• Mike McClean, Sc.D.

• Dioxin 2006: 26th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds

PBDE Research Group at Boston Universtiy School of Public Health

• Joe Allen, doctoral student
• Al Ozonoff, Ph.D.
• Veronica Vieira, D.Sc.
• Tom Webster, D.Sc.

For more information:
email: Dr. Tom Webster

• BFR 2006: The Eighth Annual Workshop on Brominated Flame Retardants in the Environment
• Dioxin 2006: 26th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Compounds

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. As shown by the generic structure above, PBDEs are structurally related to their better known cousins: PCBs, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polychorinated dioxins/dibenzofurans. Human body burdens and environmental concentrations of PBDEs have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure.

• Webster T, Vieira V, Schecter A. Estimating Exposure to PBDE-47 via Air, Food and Dust Using Monte Carlo Methods. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 505-8.

Upcoming conferences

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. As shown by the generic structure above, PBDEs are structurally realted to thier better known cousins: PCBs, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polychorinated dioxins/dibenzofurans. Human body burdens and environmental concentrations have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure.

PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting exposure via diet, particularly animal products. Given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure. We previously showed associations between PBDE concentrations in breast milk and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005). Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) and others suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for dust exposure and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA. A current CIREEH pilot project is sampling personal air in the Boston area.

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657. Wu05-Dioxin05.pdf

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657. "Attach:Wu05-Dioxin05.pdf"

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657. Attach: Wu05-Dioxin05.pdf

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657. "Attach: Wu05-Dioxin05.pdf"

• Webster T, Vieira V, Schecter A. Estimating Exposure to PBDE-47 via Air, Food and Dust Using Monte Carlo Methods. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 505-8.

Publications

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657.
• Webster T, Vieira V, Schecter A. Estimating Exposure to PBDE-47 via Air, Food and Dust Using Monte Carlo Methods.

• Wu N, Webster T, Herrmann T, Paepke O, Tickner J, Hale R, Harvey E, La Guardia M, Jacobs E. Associations of PBDE Levels in Breast Milk with Diet and Indoor Dust Concentrations. Organohalogen Compounds 2005; 67: 654-657.

We previously showed associations between PBDE concentrations in breast milk and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes (Wu et al 2005). Exposure estimates by ourselves (Webster et al 2005) suggest that ingestion or dermal exposure to dust is more important than inhalation of indoor air. However, these estimates rely on very uncertain factors for exposure to dust and may underestimate personal exposure to indoor air in the USA because they use stationary, passive air monitors in Ottawa. A current CIREEH pilot project is sampling personal air in the Boston area.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of compounds commonly used as fire retardants in furniture containing polyurethane foam (PUF) and consumer products such as televisions. Human body burdens and environmental concentrations have increased for several decades and vary geographically, with the highest values reported in the USA. Major questions include impacts on human health and the environment and major routes of human exposure. PBDEs are persistent and bioaccumulative, suggesting that diet (particularly animal products) will lead to exposure. However, given their use in consumer products, it is likely that the indoor environment also causes exposure.

We previously showed associations between PBDE concentrations in breast milk and i) consumption of dairy products and meat, ii) house dust sampled from participant’s homes

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Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of compounds used as fire retardants in consumer products including televesions and furniture containing polyurethane foam.

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