National Human Adipose
     Tissue Survey
 OPERATIONS MANUAL
     NHATS
      Nitlonil Human Adipose Tissue Survey
    Exposure Evaluation Division
     Office of Toxic Substances
 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

-------
National Human Adipose Tissue Survey
                            Operations Manual
          For National Human Monitoring Program
                      Office of Toxic Substances
            U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
                       EPA Prime Contract No.68-02-4252
                             MRI Project No. 8863-20
                                        Revised
                                    June 29,1990

-------
                                   PREFACE
          This  is  a  revision of  the  National  Human  Adipose Tissue  Survey
(NHATS) Operations Manual and replaces all previous versions.  This operations
manual was  prepared  as a guide  for personnel  involved in the  conduct  of the
NHATS and to assist in maintaining consistency and thoroughness in the ongoing
activities.   The manual  describes  in  detail  the activities  involved  in the
recruitment of  cooperators,  maintenance of the cooperator network, processing
of specimens, and reporting.

          Examples of  forms, labels, correspondence, and other items used by
NHATS personnel  are  included in the appendices.   This  manual  was prepared by
Lori  Bailey  and  Kay Turman for  Work  Assignment  No.  20  of EPA  Contract
No. 68-02-4252.  The  NHATS  operates under the  direction of  Ms. Janet Remmers,
Work Assignment  Manager,  and Dr.  Joseph Breen, Project  Officer, Field Studies
Branch  (TS-798), U.S.  Environmental Protection  Agency, 401  M Street,  S.W.,
Washington, DC 20460.

                                               Sincerely,

                                               MIDWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
                                                    0
                                               Kay Turman
                                               Work Assignment Leader
Approved:
 Paul Constant
 Program Manager
                                       n

-------
                              TABLE OF  CONTENTS


                                                                           Page

I.         Introduct 1 on	        1

II.        Reference Information	        2

               A.   Glossary	        2
               B.   Files	        2
               C.   Status Boards	        4

III.      Recruitment of Cooperators	        5

               A.   Identification of Potential Cooperators	        5
                     1.  New MSA	        5
                     2.  Current or Previous MSA	        7
               B.   Recruitment	        8
                     1.  Recruitment Packet	        8
                     2.  Recruitment Documentation	        8
                     3.  Phone Calls	        8
               C.   Post-recruitment	        9
                     1.  Post-recruitment Letter and Supplies	       10
                     2.  File Setup	       10
                     3.  Paperwork	       11

IV.        Maintenance of Cooperator Network	       12

               A.   New Fiscal year Activities	       12
                     1.  Design Plan Review	       12
                     2.  Purchase of Supplies	       12
                     3.  Shipment of Supplies	       14
               B.   Ongoing Activities	       14
                     1.  Status Calls	       15
                     2.  Shipment Request	       15
                     3.  Cooperator Withdrawal	       15
                     4.  Travel	       15
                     5.  Additional Communication	       16

V.        Processing of Specimens	       17

               A.   Receipt of Specimens	       17
               B.   Check-in of Specimens	       19
               C.   Storage of Specimens	       21
               D.   Payment to Cooperator	       22
               E.   Transfer of Information	       22
               F.   Follow-up Activities	       25
               G.   Analysis of Specimens	       25
                                      iii

-------
                        TABLE OF CONTENTS  (continued)


                                                                          Page

VI.       Report i ng	      26

               A.   Monthly Progress Report	      26
               B.   Collection Quota Status Report	      26
               C.   Recruitment Reports	      26
               D.   Trip Reports	      26
               E.   Additional Reports	      26
               F.   Presentations	      27

Appendix A     Recruitment of Cooperators	     A-l
Appendix B     Maintenance of Cooperator Network	     B-l
Appendix C     Processing of Specimens	     C-l
Appendix D     Reporting	     0-1

-------
I.  INTRODUCTION

          The National Human Adipose Tissue  Survey  (NHATS)  is responsible for
the collection  of human  adipose  tissue based on demographic characteristics
(age,  sex,  and  race)  reflective  of the  population distribution  in specific
areas  of the United States.  Researchers use the adipose tissue to monitor the
prevalence of selected toxic substances and  to  estimate the level of exposure
experienced  by  the general  population.   The  results are  used  in evaluating
various factors and conditions pertaining to human  health and effective envi-
ronmental regulations.

          The EPA,  through  EPA  Contract  No. 68-02-4252, Work  Assignment 20,
directs  MRI to  operate  the collection  network in support  of  the  program
goals.   Operation of the  network  includes  recruitment  of  the  cooperators,
maintenance  of the cooperator network,  processing of specimens,  and reporting
to EPA.   These  activities are described in  detail  in  this  manual in order to
provide a guide for personnel involved in the operation of the NHATS.

          Information  needed  for  operation  of  the  NHATS is  contained  in the
following sections:

          II.   Reference Information
          III.  Recruitment of Cooperators
          IV.   Maintenance of Cooperator Network
          V.    Processing of Specimens
          VI.   Reporting

          Examples of letters, forms,  tables,  and other  items  used  in the
operation of the NHATS are included in the following appendices:

          Appendix A      Recruitment of Cooperators
          Appendix B      Maintenance of Cooperator Network
          Appendix C      Processing of Specimens
          Appendix D      Reporting

-------
II.  REFERENCE INFORMATION

          To  understand  the  sections  on  operation of  the NHATS,  reference
information  is  necessary.   This section  provides a  glossary  of terms  used
throughout the manual,  a list of  the  NHATS files,  and  a description  of  the
NHATS status boards.

     A.  Glossary

          Table 1 is  a  glossary  of terms  used throughout this manual  and in
the day-to-day operation of the NHATS.

     B.  Files

          Several files are maintained and used routinely  in the  operation of
the NHATS.
          1.   Cooperator  File--a separate  file  for each  cooperator  which
               contains records of all contacts with the  cooperator.

          2.   Quota Sheet File—an accordion file containing quota sheets for
               the  current  fiscal year,  alphabetically  filed by  cooperator
               name.

          3.   Cooperator List Files—files containing the following lists:

               a.   All Cooperator List—database  list of all  cooperators who
                    have ever participated in NHATS (p. A-2).*

               b.   Current Cooperator List—database list  of  all  cooperators
                    currently participating in NHATS (p.  A-16).

               c.   Cooperator   Recruitment   List—database   list   of   all
                    cooperators recruited for NHATS since 1983 (p.  A-3).

          4.   Recruitment Files

               a.   Current Recruitment  File—file containing information on
                    recruitment in progress.

               b.   "Finished" File—file containing information  on previously
                    completed recruitments.

               c.   Possible  Cooperator  File—file containing information on
                    facilities which  might  be  interested  in future participa-
                    tion in NHATS.

          5.   Shipping  File—an  accordion  file  containing documentation of
               shipments of supplies  to cooperators.
    Reference to page in an appendix.

-------
                         Table 1.  Glossary of Terms
    Term
               Definition
Cooperator

Cooperator Network

Contact Person

Specimen
Fiscal Year (FY)
Facility at which collection of specimens takes
place
The more than 90 cooperators currently collecting
specimens
Person (pathologist, pathology assistant, diener,
secretary, etc.) who is contacted by telephone to
obtain information on collection
Adipose tissue collected by the cooperator
Period of collection which runs from October 1
through September 30

-------
          6.    Patient Summary Report  (PSR)  Files

               a.    "To Be Checked  In"  File—file of PSRs which corresponded
                    to specimens  not yet checked in.

               b.    "Missing    Information"   File—file   of   incomplete   or
                    questionable  PSRs  which  correspond to  specimens which  have
                    been checked  in.

               c.    "To  Be  Batched"   File—file  of  completed  PSRs  which
                    correspond to specimens  which  have been checked in.

               d.    PSR  File—file  of   PSR copies  retained   at  MRI  after
                    originals are mailed.

     C.  Status Boards

          White, erasable  boards  (3  ft  by 4  ft)  are  maintained  with  the
current status of  collection  for  each  cooperator,  each region,  and nationwide.
Each of three  boards  contains the following information for a  portion of the
cooperator network:

          1.    Cooperator name
          2.    Geographic location
          3.    Cooperator quota
          4.    Number of design specimens  received at MRI
          5.    Number of specimens collected but not shipped
          6.    Date  of last contact  by NHATS staff
          7.    Response rate  for  the previous FY
          8.    Percentages of quota  achieved for each region
          9.    Comments on each cooperator

          The  boards  provide  an up-to-date summary of  the  status of  the
collection  in  an  easily readable,  graphic  manner.    A  diagram  of  the
information included on the status boards  is shown on p. A-17.

-------
III.  RECRUITMENT OF COOPERATORS

          Recruitment  activities  are summarized  in  Figure  1.    Described  in
this  section   are   identification  of  potential   cooperators,  recruitment
activities, and  post-recruitment activities.   Appendix A contains examples of
letters, forms, and other materials used in recruiting activities.

     A.   Identification of Prospective Cooperators

          Prospective  cooperators fall  into two  categories.   Steps are listed
describing  activities followed  to  recruit  each  of  the  two   categories  of
cooperators:   New MSA and Current  or  Previous MSA.   For  all  steps, documen-
tation of the activity and its outcome is essential for future reference.

          1.  New MSA

               a.   Consult  the MSA list  to  identify  cities   and  counties
                    included in the MSA.

               b.   Identify the city or county with the largest population.

               c.   Call directory assistance to get the phone number, if any,
                    for  the  county  coroner  or medical  examiner.   Get  the
                    numbers  for  all counties  included 1n the  MSA.    Try  the
                    largest city in the county or the county seat.

               d.   Call the medical examiner's or coroner's office to get the
                    name  of  the medical examiner  or coroner and the mailing
                    address.

               e.   If  there  is  only  one  medical  examiner's   or  coroner's
                    office to contact, continue with  step  g.   If there are at
                    least two medical examiner's or coroner's  offices to con-
                    tact,  do not  contact any hospitals  unless  the  medical
                    examiner's or coroner's offices decline to participate.

               f.   If there is no  listing for a medical  examiner or coroner,
                    call  the  county offices  or sheriff to  determine who per-
                    forms the county autopsies.  If autopsies are performed at
                    a  hospital, see step g.

               g.   Consult the American Hospital  Association  (AHA)  Guide for
                    cities/counties  included  in the MSA.   Within the county,
                    look  at  general  hospitals and  children's hospitals.   The
                    hospital should  have a histopathology laboratory,  and the
                    number of beds  is preferred  to be > 200.   (Generally,  the
                    larger the  number  of beds,  the better.)   If there  is no
                    children's hospital, the hospital should have a pediatrics
                    unit and a newborn nursery.  Select the three best choices
                    (if  possible).     If  a  hospital  performs   the  coroner's
                    autopsies, include it in the "three best" category.

-------
NO
Identify Prospective
Facilities



Check Previous
Recruitment and
Cooperator Information
  Figure 1.  Recruitment of Cooperators.

-------
               h.    Call  the  selected  hospitals  (the  phone number is  in the
                    AHA Guide).   Ask for anatomic pathology or the laboratory.
                    Introduce yourself  and  ask  for  the  name  of the  chief
                    pathologist  or the  lab director.   Ask for the direct phone
                    number and verify the  hospital  address.  Thank them.   If
                    necessary,  explain   that  you want  to  send  information
                    regarding a  research program to the pathologist.

          2.   Current or Previous MSA

               a.   Replicate or  Replacement Cooperators

               When it has been decided that  a  replicate cooperator is  needed
for a  MSA (the  current cooperator  is  performing  poorly or  is not able  to
collect certain age  groups, or the  current cooperator drops out  and must  be
replaced):

                    (1)  Consult  the  MSA  list  to identify  the counties  and
                         cities  included in the  MSA.

                    (2)  Consult  the   "All   Cooperators  List"  (p.  A-2)  to
                         determine previous Cooperators in the MSA.

                    (3)  Check  the  recruitment  list  data  bases  (p. A-3)  to
                         determine  if  any  other  recruitment activities  have
                         occurred in the MSA during the last 3 to 4 years.

                    (4)  If  there are  no  previous Cooperators  with  previous
                         recruitment activities, treat as a new MSA.

                    (5)  For previous Cooperators or Cooperators with  previous
                         recruitment activities, recontact if:

                              It  has   been   more than   3 years  since  they
                              participated.

                              It  has   been  more  than   2 years   since   any
                              recruitment activities  occurred.

                         Many times a cooperator  which previously  declined  to
                         participate, when recontacted,  may  have new  staff
                         willing  to  participate,  or  other changes  in  circum-
                         stance  which now allow  them to participate.

               b.  Reinstated MSA

               When  a MSA  which  previously  was  dropped  from  the design  is
reinstated, treat it  like replicate or replacement Cooperators,  but ignore the
criteria  in Step 5.   Previous performance  should  be  considered, especially  if
the former contact person is still working for a prospective cooperator.

-------
     B.  Recruitment

          Activities are described which occur subsequent to identification of
prospective cooperators.

          1.  Recruitment Packet

               a.   Add the  prospective cooperator's name  to  the recruitment
                    list (p. A-3) and request a recruitment letter (p. A-4).

               b.   Assemble remainder of packet:

                         Copy of quota sheet for that MSA (p. A-5)
                         NHATS info flyer (p. A-6)
                    •    Guidelines for collection (p. A-8)
                         Patient summary report (PSR) (p. A-12)
                         Reprint of journal article of analysis results

               c.   Proofread  the  letter  and  recruitment  list.    Refile the
                    list,  sign  and photocopy  the letter, add  to  the packet,
                    and ship.

               d.   Send   the   packet  Federal   Express  Standard  Overnight
                    (delivery by next business afternoon).

          2.  Recruitment Documentation

               a.   Make a call sheet (p. A-13) for each MSA and complete said
                    form.   Use  this  sheet to document  all  phone  calls to and
                    from  the  prospective  cooperator.    Document  with  date,
                    time, person contacted, and notes on conversation.

               b.   Put  photocopy  of  letter,  original   quota  sheet,  delivery
                    notice, and call sheet in current recruitment file.

          3.  Phone Calls

          After  the prospective cooperator  has  had  2  to 3 days  to  read the
contents of the recruitment packet:

               a.   Call the prospective cooperator.

               b.   If  he/she  is not available,  leave  a message  for  them to
                    return  the  call  collect.   Try to find  out when they will
                    be  available.

               c.   If  they are  available  and will  speak to  you,  introduce
                    yourself and explain that you are calling  in  reference to
                    the  information  that was  sent  about the  National  Human
                    Adioose Tissue Survey.

-------
              d.    Ask  if  they  received  the  information.

                    (1)   If they have not  received it, offer  to send them  a
                         duplicate  recruitment packet and explain the  program
                         briefly.

                    (2)   If they  have  received  it,   ask   if  they  have  any
                         questions.   If they  have  questions, answer  them—most
                         of the  time  they  missed  something  in the  guidelines
                         or they have concerns about confidentiality.

              e.    Obtain  participation.

                    (1)   If   the    prospective    cooperator   declines    to
                         participate, document the reason  for refusal and  go
                         to step g.

                    (2)   If the  prospective cooperator  agrees  to participate,
                         determine   the  contact   person   and  go  to   post-
                         recruitment activities (Section C).

                    (3)   If the  prospective  cooperator  has  to get  department
                         or hospital  approval, has to see   if anyone on  staff
                         is interested, needs more information, etc.,  find  out
                         how long it should take to obtain  a decision.   State
                         that  you will call  back  on  a  specified date.  They
                         may say they will call; then give  them  a "deadline."
                         If they don't call back by that date,  call  them.

              f.    Be persistent and make  follow-up calls.   Leave messages  if
                    necessary.   Continue  until you get a final  decision.

              g.    If  the  prospective  cooperator declines  to participate,
                    staple   all  recruitment  materials  (photocopy  of  letter,
                    call  sheet,   shipping  order,   quota   sheet,   and   any
                    correspondence)   together  and  put  in  the "finished" file
                    for current  fiscal year.   If  they might be  interested  in
                    the  future, put photocopy  of  call   sheet  in  Possible
                    Cooperator file.

              h.    If  all  prospective  cooperators   in   a  MSA   have  been
                    contacted  and  all declined to  participate,  document  the
                    reasons and  request  a replacement  MSA  from  the OTS Work
                    Assignment Manager.

     C.  Post-recruitment

          Activities  are described  which  occur  subsequent to  obtaining   an
agreement to participate by a  facility.

-------
1.   Post-recruitment Letter and Supplies

     a.   Pull the post-recruitment letter (p. A-15) and the Current
          Cooperators List  (p. A-16).   Request  a letter,  label, and
          envelope for each new cooperator.  The new cooperator will
          be added to the Current Cooperator List when the letter is
          printed.

     b.   Assemble supplies (Appendix B) for the new cooperator:

               Shipping   container,  (Styrofoam  in   aluminum   or
               Styrofoam in cardboard)
               Collection bottles (quota and 3 to 6 extra)
               Bottle labels (quota and 3 to 6 extra)
               Dry ice labels (2 large, 2 small)
               Return label
               Federal Express  airbill—put facility name  in  block
               with  MRI  charge  number, record  airbill  number  and
               retain for future reference
               Patient Summary Reports (PSRs)—make master by typing
               facility name, city,  and state  on PSR,  photocopy it
               (make extras), and file master with other PSR masters
               Instructions for completing PSR flyer
               Helpful hints flyer
               Guidelines for collection
               Copy of latest newsletter
               Quota sheet  copy  (fill  in  facility  name,  photocopy,
               send one copy in box, one with letter)

          Put  all  paperwork  in  a  zip-lock plastic  bag  and  place
          bottles and paperwork in the shipping box.

          Unless situation is urgent, send supplies  UPS.  If time is
          critical, send supplies Federal Express Economy  Service.

     c.   Proofread   the   post-recruitment   letter   and   Current
          Cooperator List  and  sign and photocopy the letter.   Send
          the letter and a copy of the quota sheet U.S.  Mail  (unless
          time is critical, then add to the supplies in  the  shipping
          box).   Retain  the copy of  the post-recruitment letter in
          the cooperator file.

2.   File Setup

     a.   Photocopy the call sheet  and staple a copy to  the  inside
          cover of the cooperator file.

     b.   Add recruitment correspondence to file.

     c.   Type up red file label  with facility name, city, and  state
          and label the file.
                            10

-------
     d.   All correspondence in file  should  be in sequential order,
          by date, with the most recent on top.
3.   Paperwork
     a.   Put original quota sheet in the quota sheet file.
     b.   When shipping papers are received,  put in shipping file.
     c.   Put original call sheet in "finished" recruitment file.
     d.   Add facility to NHATS status board  (p. A-17).
     e.   Complete  facility  add/change   form  (p.  A-14).     If  a
          previous  cooperator,   use  the   old   ID  number  and  mark
          "rejoin survey."  If a new cooperator, assign an ID number
          from  the  "All  Cooperator  List."    Mail  the  original
          to Battelle   Columbus   Laboratories   (the   statistical
          contractor) and a copy to OTS.
                            11

-------
IV.  MAINTENANCE OF COOPERATOR NETWORK

          Figure 2 summarizes activities  necessary  to maintain the cooperator
network.  Details are described in Sections IV.A and IV.B.  Examples of forms,
letters, and other materials used for  maintenance  of  the  cooperator network
are shown in Appendix B.

     A.  New Fiscal Year Activities

          Approximately one month prior to  the beginning  of a new fiscal year
(FY),  each  cooperator  is  asked  during  a  regular  contact whether  they will
continue to  participate during  the  new year.   If they  decline,  recruitment
activities are followed (Section III).  For all continuing cooperators and any
newly recruited cooperators, the following new FY activities take place:

          1.  Design Plan Review

          The design  plan  is  supplied  prior  to  the  beginning of  the fiscal
year.   The  plan  consists of  a  list  of the  metropolitan  statistical  areas
(MSAs) and their  collection  quotas by number,  age, sex,  and race categories.
The plan is compared to the previous design plan to determine differences.  If
any MSAs have been replaced, send the cooperators  in  the  dropped MSA a letter
informing them of that  fact  and  requesting  the return of  their supplies (pri-
marily the shipping box).  Begin recruitment in the replacement MSA.

          2.  Purchase of Supplies

               a.  Collection Bottles

               Bottles  should be  chemically clean,  1-oz glass containers with
Teflon-lined  metal  screw  caps.    Several  suppliers  such  as  I-Chem  and
Scientific Specialities offer this  type of  bottle,  cleaned  by a  specified
protocol (p. B-2).

               b.  Bar Code Labels

               Bar  code labels  (p.  B-3)  are  ordered  from  a  local  supplier
(Graphic  Technology,   Inc.)  and  include  the  bar  code  and  the  seven-digit
number.  Six replicates of each label are ordered (one for inventory notebook,
one for bottle label,  one  for  bottle cap,  one  for the Patient Summary Report,
two extras).

               The  labels  are cold-resistant,  durable,  self-adhesive,  white
laminated paper, applied at MRI as the specimens are processed.   The first two
digits of the number  are the FY,  the next three digits are sequential numbers
from  0001  to  1900,  and the seventh is  a check  digit.    The procedure  for
generating the check  digit is  included  in  Appendix B  (p. B-4).   The computer
program to generate  the sequential  numbers is  also included  (p.  B-5).   Prior
to final printing of the labels,  a proof copy is received  from the printer and
is verified  against  the computer-generated  numbers  printed at  MRI.   Approxi-
mately  10%  of the  numbers are verified  manually.   After  the proof  copy  of
numbers  is  verified as  being  correct,  enough  labels  for the  FY are ordered
(total quota plus 400 to 500 extra).

                                      12

-------
Call to
Verify Receipt
of Supplies
l

        YES


Call Monthly
to Obtain
Collection
Status

NO t NO 1
Figure 2.  Maintenance of cooperator network.
                      13

-------
               c.  Shipping Containers

               There  are  two  types  of  containers:    an  aluminum  shipping
container with a Styrofoam insert and a  "Freeze  Safe"  Styrofoam box contained
in an outer cardboard box.  Each of  these boxes is approximately 10 in x 10 in
x 10 in,  large enough to  hold  up  to 30 specimens  on  dry ice.   The aluminum
shipping  containers  can  be  manufactured  at  MRI,  and  the  "Freeze  Safe"
Styrofoam  shipping  containers are  available from  local scientific  supplies
(such as Baxter Scientific).

               d.  Bottle Labels

               Bottle labels  (p. B-6)  are prepared  and  ordered through MRI's
graphic arts department.   They  are  cold-resistant,  self-adhesive labels which
are  attached  to the  bottles at  the collection site  and   include  facility
information, patient ID number, and  date of collection.

               e.  Other Supplies

               Other  supplies  (dry  ice  labels,  baggies,   PSRs,  etc.)  are
ordered  on  an  as-needed basis  from  local  suppliers.   No  special  order
Instructions are necessary for these supplies.

          3.  Shipment of Supplies

          Collection  supplies are shipped  to  each cooperator  at the beginning
of  the  fiscal  year.  The  following  supplies  (p.  B-6 to  B-13) are included in
the shipping container:

               Collection bottles (quota and 3 to 6 extra)
               Bottle labels (quota and 3 to 6 extra)
               Dry  ice labels (2 large, 2 small)
               Return label
               Federal  Express  airbill—put facility  name  in  block  with MRI
               charge  number,  record  airbill  number, and  retain  for  future
               reference.
               Patient Summary Reports (PSRs)—personalized with facility name
               and  location
               Instructions for completing PSR flyer
               Helpful hints flyer
               Guidelines  (p. A-8)
           •    Quota  sheet copy

           On the outside of  the shipping container, apply a label which reads
 "Open  Immediately—Important  Instructions are  inside for the  National Human
Adipose Tissue Survey"  (p. B-14).

     B.   Ongoing Activities

           Many  activities occur regularly throughout the fiscal  year.   These
 enable  NHATS staff to maintain regular  contact  with the cooperators and stay
 informed  about collection  status.
                                       14

-------
          1.  Status Calls

          Calls to each  cooperator  are completed at  least  once a month.  The
calls are to  obtain  a status report on  collection,  answer questions, uncover
potential problems,  and  otherwise  maintain  a personal  relationship  with the
cooperator.   Documentation of all calls is recorded in the cooperator file.

          2.  Shipment Request

          If  during  status  calls,  a  cooperator  says  they  have  several
specimens collected,  shipment may  be  requested.   At that  time,  an  expected
shipment  date  is  recorded  on  the  status  board.    If  the  shipment  is not
received, a  follow-up phone call or  a "please ship"  written  reminder may be
used to encourage shipment.

          3.   Cooperator Withdrawal

          During status  calls,  the  contact person may inform  us that they no
longer wish to  participate  in the survey.   After documenting their reason for
withdrawal,  ask  them to  return  their  supplies,  especially  the shipping box.
Complete  a  facility  add/change  form  and  send  one copy to  Battelle  Columbus
Laboratories and one copy to OTS.

          If  there  are  other  cooperators  in  the  MSA who   are  performing
adequately,   it  may  not  be  necessary  to  begin  recruitment of  a replacement
cooperator.    If there are  no other  cooperators  in the MSA or the other(s) are
performing  poorly,  decisions  must  be  made  to  either  begin  recruitment  or
request  a replacement MSA,  if there are no  other possible  cooperators in the
MSA.

          4.   Travel

          Travel, meaning  a personal  visit  with  a cooperator,  may occur for
various reasons during the year.

               a.  New Cooperator

               A  cooperator may  be  visited shortly  after being  recruited,
especially  if  there  are  no other cooperators  in the  MSA or if the  other
cooperators  are not performing well.   The purpose of this visit is  to make
sure that the cooperator understands the requirements of  the program,  to train
the cooperator, and  to ensure that  the cooperator will collect specimens cor-
rectly.   Specific  questions and/or  problems that the  cooperator may  have can
be answered during the visit.

               b.  Problem Cooperator

               A  cooperator may be visited  if  he is not  collecting  and/or
shipping  specimens as  expected.  The  purpose of  the visit  is to determine the
problem  areas and to  help  remedy them.   Specimens and PSRs will be picked up,
and missing PSR information will be gathered during the visit.
                                      15

-------
               c.   Other

               Cooperators may be visited  in the course  of  a trip  to  see  other
cooperators.   These  "piggy back"  visits  are advantageous  both to  save  cost
dollars and to maintain personal  contact for the enhancement of the program.

               Cooperator  response  generally   increases   after   a   personal
visit.  Also,  the  visits usually give MRI  staff  insight into  how cooperators
perceive the  program and what  areas of  the  program need  to  be  stressed or
explained further.

          5.   Additional Communication

          In  addition   to status  calls  and  visits,  additional  contact is
planned to  encourage cooperation and teamwork  among  the  participants in  the
program.

               NHATS newsletter—once a year.

          •    Status reports—usually halfway through FY.

               "End of  year"  reminder—a letter  sent near the end  of  the  FY to
               encourage collection and shipment.

               Analysis  results—copies  are  sent  to  the  cooperators   when
               available, to  promote a sense of  purpose  to  the  collection.
                                      16

-------
V.  PROCESSING OF SPECIMENS

          The  steps  in  processing  specimens  are  described  in  the following
section.   Included are  receipt,  check-in, payment,  transfer of information,
follow-up  activities,  and analysis.   Appendix C contains  examples of forms,
letters, and other materials used to process the NHATS specimens.

     A.  Receipt of Specimens

          This  section  describes activities  associated  with the  receipt of
specimens.    Figure 3  summarizes  activities  which   occur  after samples  are
delivered to the laboratory by shipping personnel.

          1.   Pull forms—shipment log  (p.  C-2),  bag  insert  (p. C-3),  PSR
               cover sheet (p. C-4).

          2.   Determine originating facility of shipment.

          3.   Record the number of the airbill that was used.

          4.   Open box  and remove  PSRs  and  specimens.    Count  number;   they
               should match.

          5.   Determine fiscal year(s) of specimens; use appropriate shipment
               log(s).

          6.   Enter  appropriate information  into  shipment  log  and  assign
               shipment number.

          7.   Inspect specimens (wear gloves).

               a.   Complete bag insert.

               b.   Visually inspect specimens for quality and condition.

                    (1)  It should be > 1 g of good quality adipose tissue.

                    (2)  Lids should be tight.

                    (3)  Specimens  should  be  frozen or  at least  cool  (make
                         note in shipment  log  if  they are warm and  no dry ice
                         is visible in box).

                    (4)  If  any  bottles  are  cracked  or  broken,  transfer
                         specimen to a  new bottle  and  label  appropriately.
                         (If  specimens are  out  of   the  bottles,  reject  and
                         dispose.)

                    (5)  Dispose of  broken bottles by rinsing them  with a 1:1
                         solution  of  household  bleach  in  water  and  then
                         dispose.
                                      17

-------
     Receive
    Specimens
    Pull Forms
       I
    Open Box

     Remove
    Specimens
    and PSRs
  Enter Information
  into Shipment Log
    and Assign
  Shipment Number
PSRs
Complete Cover Sheet
     Specimens
        I
                Sort PSRs and Check
                 for Completeness
                      andFY
     Complete
     Bag Insert
        I
   Visually Inspect
   Specimens for
Quality and Condition
        I
                        I
                  Complete Quota
                Sheet and Photocopy
Place Specimens and
 Bag Insert into a Bag
 and Store in Freezer
     Check In
                                             Return Box
                                            with Updated
                                            Quota Sheet
                                             and Airbill
                                                File PSRs and
                                                Cover Sheet in
                                                To Be Checked
                                                    In' File
                   Figure 3.   Receipt of  specimens.
                                     18

-------
                   (6)  Place specimens and  bag  Insert In a bag and store  In
                        the freezer until check-in.

         8.   Inspect PSRs.

              a.   Complete cover sheet.

              b.   Sort PSRs into the categories on the quota  sheet.

              c.   Check for completeness and appropriateness  of information.
                   Use colored  clip to mark any PSRs  that are incomplete  or
                   have information that needs to be checked.

              d.   Clip any  PSR for which  there was an insufficient quantity
                   of specimen.

              e.   If  any age, sex,  or  race  is  missing,  make  a  note and
                   attach  it on the cover sheet.

              f.   If any  specimens have  infectious diseases  such as AIDS  or
                   hepatitis, reject  specimen,  mark PSR, and  put  specimen  in
                   labeled biohazard bag.   Place  bag in  freezer for  later
                   disposal.

              g.   Complete  quota sheet for  facility.

              h.   Attach  a note to  quota  sheet  with information regarding
                   missing age, sex, or race.

              i.   If the  cooperator's quota has not been filled, return the
                   shipping  box to the cooperator  with  a  copy of the  quota
                   sheet,  return airbill, dry ice labels, and  a return  label.

              j.   Place  PSRs  and  cover  sheet  (clipped  together) in "To  Be
                   Checked-in"  file.

          9.   Update status  boards.

     B.  Check-in  of  Specimens

          Step-by-step  instructions for  check-in of  specimens are  shown  in
Figure 4.  The steps  are described in this section.

          1.   Gather check-in supplies:  (a) FY  stamps  and ink pad; (b)  extra
              bottle labels  and PSRs;  (c) top loader balance;  (d)  FY specimen
               inventory notebook (p. C-5); and  (e)  bar  code  labels.

          2.   Remove PSRs  and Quota sheet from  "To  Be  Checked-in"  file,  stamp
              PSRs  with  date  received  and correct  FY,  and  write shipment
              number on each PSR.
                                      19

-------
Figure 4.  Check-in of specimens.
               20

-------
         3.   Remove specimens from freezer.

         4.   Match bottle  labels  to  PSRs  and place bottles in same order as
              PSRs.

         5.   Do all match?

              If  not,  identify  problem  and correct  it,  if possible,  by
              consulting  cooperator  and/or  work  assignment  leader.    If
              problem  is  not correctable, reject the  specimen and label PSR
              and specimen  bottle  appropriately.

         6.   Weigh vial on top-loading balance.

              Sufficient vial weight  (> 2 g over bottle weight)

              a.   No—visually  inspect, using standards in freezer.

                   If  < 1 g of  tissue,  reject specimen, label PSR and bottle
                   appropriately.

                   If  2  1  g of  tissue,  accept specimen,  write total  weight
                   (rounded  to  nearest gram)  on  PSR  and  estimated  tissue
                   weight with your initials  and date.

              b.   Yes—write weight  (rounded to nearest gram) on PSR.

         7.   Label  vial  (side  and  lid),  PSR,  and  inventory notebook page
              with EPA 10  number.  Continue  until  all  specimens  in shipment
              have been checked  in.

         8.   Store specimens in freezer at -4°C in numerical order by EPA ID
              number.

         9.   Verify  totals on  all documents (cover  sheet,  quota sheet, and
              inventory page) and  correct, if necessary.

         10.  Are the  PSRs  complete?

              a.   No—put  in "Missing  Information" file.

              b.   Yes-put in  "To Be Batched" file.

     C.   Storage of Specimens

         Specimens   are   stored   at  0°F   in  the   NHATS  storage  facility
(p. C-6).  The  facility consists of  11  manual defrost freezers equipped with
audible   and  visual  alarms  in  case of  freezer failure.   All  specimens are
stored  upright  in  racks   in numerical  order  by  EPA  ID  Number or  Sample
Number.   The temperature of  each freezer is manually checked once a week and
recorded on a temperature  log attached to the door of the  freeezer.  Freezers
are defrosted periodically as needed.


                                      21

-------
     D.  Payment to Cooperator
          The cooperators  are  remunerated at the  rate of $25  per acceptable
specimen for their  collection  services.   Payment activities  are described in
this section and shown in Figure 5.
          1.   Pull the quota sheet for the cooperator.
          2.   Complete two forms for payment.
               a.   Request for payment form (p. C-6)~includes payee, amount,
                    and hours (0.45 h/specimen).
               b.   Authorization for payment form  (p. C-7)«includes date of
                    shipment, detail on number  of design  and  surplus samples,
                    amounts, and reference  number from the current cooperator
                    list database.
          3.   Photocopy both completed forms.
          4.   Request check.
          5.   Request a payment letter (p. C-8).
          6.   When  the check  and  the   payment  letter  have been  received,
               photocopy both.
          7.   Assemble  the  check,  payment   letter,  and   a   copy  of  the
               cooperator's quota sheet for mailing.
          8.   Prior  to  mailing, check the  PSRs associated with  the payment
               for missing information.
               a.   If there is missing information, copy  the PSRs and send a
                    request  for the information  along  with the check  and
                    payment letter.  Be sure  to include a postage-paid return
                    envelope.
               b.   If the PSRs  are  complete, mail  the check,  payment letter,
                    and copy of the quota sheet.
          9.   Mark "pd" in the  shipment  log  next to  the  appropriate shipment
               information.
     E.  Transfer of  Information
          Information on specimens received  is  transferred to  the statistical
contractor and EPA  via  the  patient summary  reports.   Steps in the transfer of
this information are given in this section and shown in Figure 6.
          1.   PSRs are  removed  from the  "To be batched"  file and grouped in
               batches of 40 or less, by order of the  shipment number.  Do not
               divide a shipment into separate batches.
                                      22

-------
            Gather Payment Forms
           and Updated Quota Sheet
                  Do any of
                the Specimens
                   Fit the
                   Design
             Determine Amount of
          Payment Based on Number
            of Specimens Accepted
                     i.
       Complete Check Authorization and
        Check Request Forms, Photocopy,
           and Submit to Accounting
                   Request
                Payment Letter
              Receive Check and
                Payment Letter
                     I
               Photocopy Check
              and Payment Letter
                   tor File
                                         Mail Check and
                                         Payment Letter
                                         to Cooperator
             Photocopy PSRs with
              Missing Information
                     I
           Mail Check, Payment Letter
            and Request for Missing
            Information to Cooperator
Figure  5.   Payment to  cooperator.
                    23

-------
                 PSRs to Batch
                  Pull Forms (2)
                      1
                  Check Ust for
                  Next Available
                   Batch No.
               Complete Transmitted
                Forms (Maximum of
                40 PSRs per Batch)
                 Review All PSRs
                 for Completeness,
                    Accuracy
                    All PSRs
                  Reviewed by 2
                  Additional Staff
                    Members
                 Make 2 Copies of
                   Each Batch of
                      PSRs
                 Verify Number and
                 Clarity of Both Sets
                    of Copies
                Send Original PSRs
                 to BCL, One Copy
                     toOTS
                 Retain One Copy
                  of PSRs at MR)
Figure 6.    Transfer  of  information.
                      24

-------
          2.    The log sheet  of batch information transfer  form  (p.  C-9) and
               the PSR transmittal form (p.  C-10) are pulled from the file and
               completed.

          3.    Each batch of  PSRs is reviewed  by three separate  NHATS staff
               members for completeness and  appropriateness.

          4.    Two copies are made of each  transmittal  form and corresponding
               PSRs—all  copies are counted  and checked for readability.

          5.    The batches containing  the original  PSRs are  sent  to  Battelle
               Columbus Laboratories, one copy  is sent to the  OTS Design and
               Development Branch, and the other copy is retained at MRI.

     F.  Follow-up Activities

          Missing  information  or answers  to  questions  on  patient  summary
reports must be  obtained from  the  cooperator.   Original  requests (sent with
payments) may  not be  answered.   A follow-up  phone call  to  the cooperator
approximately 2 weeks following the original request  should  be  made.   Written
requests for the information  should continue approximately once a  month until
the information is received.   If the necessary information cannot be obtained,
the corresponding specimen is rejected.

     6.  Analysis of Specimens

          By request  from OTS,  specimens may need  to  be retrieved  from the
repository  for  chemical  analysis.    If such  a request is  received,  the
specimens will  be pulled  from the repository by EPA identification  numbers (or
sample  identification  number  if no EPA  ID  exists).  The  ID numbers  will  be
verified against the hardcopy inventory list.   The specimens will  be retrieved
from the freezer and shipped  on dry  ice  to  the analysis laboratory.  Documen-
tation for all  specimen ID numbers (such as  date removed, new location, etc.),
will be made on the  inventory list.   Following analysis, any remaining speci-
mens will be returned to the repository and documentation of  date returned,
location, etc., will  be  made on  the  inventory list.   Any depleted specimens
will be removed from the  inventory list.
                                      25

-------
VI.  REPORTING

          This  section  describes   reporting   activities  performed  by  NHATS
staff.  Requested required  reports  are submitted  to  OTS.   Additional  reports
or  information  about the program  are submitted  or presented to  current and
potential  cooperators.  Examples of these reports are in Appendix D.

     A.  Monthly Progress Report

          A report on the current NHATS  activities is included in the Monthly
Periodic  Progress  Report (p. D-2),  submitted  by  the  15th  of each month to
OTS.   The report contains  sections  describing progress, QA/QC  activity, and
problems which  occurred  during  the  reporting  period.  A copy of  the  current
Collection Quota Status  Report  is  included  in the monthly  report of  current
activity.   Plans for the coming  month are also given.

     B.  Collection Quota Status Report

          The current  fiscal  year collection  status  is reported  to OTS each
month.    Two  Collection  Quota  Status  Reports  (CQSRs)  are  prepared  and
submitted.  One includes collection status for each cooperator, each MSA, each
region, and  overall; the second  omits information regarding  each individual
cooperator's status.  The shorter version  (p.  D-3) is included in the Monthly
Periodic Progress Report.  The longer version is submitted directly to the OTS
Work Assignment Manager by the 5th of each month.

          Both  CQSRs  are  generated  on  a  PC using  Multiplan  spreadsheet
software.

     C.  Recruitment Reports

          Recruitment reports (p. D-7) are submitted  to OTS  twice  a month (by
the  5th  and  20th)   to   summarize   recruitment activity  for the  reporting
period.   Information  is included  on the MSA  and facility  being recruited,
current activity,  future  activity,  and  any  pertinent comments  on  specific
recruitments.

     0.  Trip Reports

          A  cooperator  visit  is summarized  in  a  trip  report  (p.  D-10).  The
report  includes who  was visited,  date of  visit, person  making  the  visit,
details of the  visit,  problem areas, conclusions,  and future action items.  A
copy  is sent to OTS, and the original is placed in the cooperator file.

      E.  Additional Reports

          Periodically,  additional   reports   are  prepared   to present  NHATS
information  to  the  current cooperators.   Examples  are the  NHATS newsletter
(p. D-ll)  and  status reports (p. D-12)  halfway through or at the end  of the
fiscal  year.   All  these reports are reviewed and  approved  by the OTS Work
Assignment Manager.
                                      26

-------
     F.  Presentations

          Two NHATS  exhibits are  available  for presentation  at professional
meetings for  the purpose  of promoting the  program to current  and potential
cooperators.
                                      27

-------
                        APPENDIX A


                RECRUITMENT OF COOPERATORS
 1.  "All Cooperators List" Database	    A-2
 2.  Cooperator Recruitment Database	    A-3
 3.  Recruitment Letter	    A-4
 4.  Collection Quota Sheet	    A-5
 5.  Information Flyer	    A-6
 6.  Brochure	    A-7
 7.  Guidelines for Collection	    A-8
 8.  Patient Summary Report	    A-12
 9.  Recruitment Call Sheet	    A-13
10.  Add/Change Form	    A-14
11.  Post-recruitment Letter	    A-15
12.  "Current Cooperator List" Database	    A-16
13.  Diagram of Status Board	    A-17
                           A-l

-------
                         ALL COOPERATORS  LIST  DATABASE
Cooperator Codes - Numerical Order
     Format

001 Facility E
002 Facility L
003 Facility P
004 Facility B
005 Facility I
006 Facility R
007 Facility Q
008 Facility D
009 Facility C
010 Facility K
Oil Facility M
012 Facility A
013 Facility G
014 Facility J
015 Facility H
016 Facility N
017 Facility F
018 Facility 0
nnn Facility _
Name, City, State
                    Cooperators - Alphabetical Order

                         Format
                    Facility A
                    Facility B
                    Facility C
                    Facility D
                    Facility
                    Facility
                    Facility G
                    Facility H
                    Facility
                    Facility
                    Facility
                    Facility
                    Facility
                    Facility
                    Facility
                    Facility
                    Facility Q
                    Facility R
                    Facility
Name, City, State
Code No.

  002
  004
  009
  008
  001
  017
  013
  015
  005
  014
  010
  002
  Oil
  016
  018
  003
  007
  006
  nnn
                                      A-2

-------
                    COOPERATOR RECRUITMENT DATABASE*
     Format

Pathologist Name
Title
Organizational Name
Street Address
City, State  Zip Code
Telephone Number
( 1)

Pathologist Name
Title
Organizational Name
Street Address
City, State  Zip Code
Telephone Number
( 2)

Pathologist Name
Title
Organizational Name
Street Address
City, State  Zip Code
Telephone Number
( n)
   This  list contains all contacts made since MRI assumed responsibility for
     NHATS  in 1983.  The list is chronological (as indicated by the number
     following each contact); however, it can be sorted by pathologist, or-
     ganization, etc.
                                      A-3

-------
                               RECRUITMENT LETTER


November 14, 1988



NO ITEM TO INSERT
Dear
NO ITEM TO INSERT
•
•

Midwest Research  Institute operates  the  National  Human Monitoring Program for
the Environmental  Protection  Agency.  Through this program  EPA is working to
determine incidences, levels, and trends of pesticide and other toxic residues
in the U.S. population.   The program,  which began  in 1967,  depends  on the
cooperation  and  commitment of pathologists,  medical  examiners,  and coroners
who agree to furnish the specimens for study.
NO ITEM TO INSERT
,  has  been selected  as  one  of 47  cities  representative  of   the  general
populace.    This   letter  is  our invitation  to  you   to  participate  in this
important program.

One activity conducted  by the National  Human Monitoring  Program  concerns the
analysis  of  human adipose tissue for  residues  of  selected  organic compounds
such  as  organochlorine   insecticides  and  polychlorinated  biphenyls  (PCBs).
These  samples  are secured  from  previously excised  surgical  specimens and/or
postmortem   examinations.    Since  the  study  is  conducted   in   accord  with
statistically based design, cooperators  are requested to submit only specimens
conforming  to  the assigned demographic  (age, sex,  and race) quota reflective
of the population  distribution in that area.

We  have  enclosed  some   background  material,  reprints,  and  guidelines  for
collecting  specimens.    Note  that the enclosed collection protocol discusses
some  of the legal issues of  tissue collections which  are of concern  to us
all.   We will furnish all supplies (shipping containers, forms, bottles, etc.)
and will  remunerate you  or your  designee at the rate of $25.00 per acceptable
specimen.

We  hope  that  you will  assist  our continuing  study by  providing selected
adipose  tissues  obtained during routine pathological  examination.    I will
telephone  you  in  a few  days to  answer any questions you  may   have  and to
further  discuss  the project.   If you prefer,  you  may contact us by calling
 (collect) 816/753-7600.

Sincerely yours,
 Kay Turman
 Midwest Research  Institute
 Program Coordinator
 National Human Adipose  Tissue Survey

 KT/lm

 Enclosures                           A-4

-------
                            COLLECTION QUOTA

                       National Human Adipose Tissue Survey
                         National Human Monitoring Program
                              Fiscal Year 1990 Survey
                           (Oct. 1,1989 to Sept. 30,1990)
Cooperator:
Location: _
                                  Total Quota:
ANNUAL
QUOTA





























	






AGE
0-14





0-14





15-44





15-44





45 +




45 +






SEX
Male





Female





Male





Female





Male




Female





Totals
DATE
RECEIVED





























	






NUMBER
ACCEPTED





























	






NUMBER
SURPLUS





























	






•NON-
CAUCASIAN





























	






BALANCE
REMAINING





























	






•NON-CAUCASIAN:.
. to be distributed among the Total Quota.
                                        A-5

-------
                      INFORMATION FLYER
National  Human  Adipose
Tissue  Survey
  The National Human Adipose Tissue Survey (NHATS), establish-
ed in 1967, has been operated by the U.S. Environmental Protec-
tion Agency (USEPA) on an annual basis since 1970. The purpose
of the NHATS, the main operative program  of the National Human
Monitoring Program (NHMP), is to monitor on a national scale the
prevalence of selected pesticides and toxic substances and the
level of exposure experienced  by the general U.S. population. The
data collected are used to identify trends in this exposure and to
assess the effects of regulatory actions.
  Pathologists and medical examiners throughout the conterminous
United States are cooperating in the collection of specimens for
NHATS. The nine geographic regions and 52 collection sites are
shown in Figure 1.
                          A-6

-------
                                    BROCHURE
        AN IMPORTANT STEP IN VALUABLE
                     HEALTH RESEARCH
WhatisNHATS?

The National Human Adipose Tissue
Survey (NHATS) is a statistically designed
national survey to collect human adipose
tissue for research purposes.
What is the purpose of NHATS?

  The purpose is to collect human adipose
tissue based on demographic characteristics
(age, sex, and race) reflective of the
population distribution in specific areas of
the U.S.  Researchers use the adipose tissue
to monitor the prevalence of selected toxic
substances and the level of exposure
experienced by the general U.S. population.
 What toxic substances have been
 investigated?

  Baseline levels for pesticides, polychlorin-
 ated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlonnated
 dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated
 dibenzofurans (PCDFs), volatile organic
 compounds, and trace metals have been
 determined for the U.S. population.
Who participates in NHATS?

 Three groups participate in NHATS:
a management team, a collection team, and
an analysis team.

  • The U.S. Environmental Protection
    Agency Office of Toxic Substances,
    Washington, D.C. manages NHATS.
    Midwest Research Institute, Kansas
    City, Mo., operates NHATS and main-
    tains the repository of adipose speci-
    mens.

  • Approximately 90 pathologists and
    medical examiners from 47 cities across
    the U.S. are currently collecting human
    adipose tissue from post-mortem ex-
    aminations and previously excised
    surgical specimens. Current and past par-
    ticipants have collected more than
    10,000 adipose specimens since NHATS
    was established in 1967.

  • Researchers composite, extract, and
    analyze the adipose tissue for specific
    toxic substances based on environ-
    mental concerns determined by the U.S.
    EPA. The data collected are statistically
    examined to identify trends in exposure
    to toxic substances and to assess the
    effects of regulatory actions.
                     How can I learn more about NHATS?

                      If you are interested in participation, or if
                     you desire copies of analysis results, please
                     contact one of the persons listed on the
                     attached card.
                                      A-7

-------
             UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

                            WASHINGTON, D.C. Z0460
                                                                     OFFICE OF
                                                            PESTICIDES AND TOXIC SUBSTANCES
                      Guidelines and General  Information
                  Regarding the Collection of Adipose Tissue
                 for the National Human Adipose Tissue Survey


     The National Human Adipose  Tissue  Survey  is  responsible for  determining,
on a national  basis,  the  prevalences,  levels, and other  evidence of  exposure
to pesticides in the general population of the United States.  At  present,  the
program collects adipose tissue and analyzes  for selected  pesticides and their
metabolites  and  other toxic  chemicals  stored in  the lipid portion  of  these
tissues.   The results are  used  in evaluating various  factors  and conditions
pertaining to human health and effective pesticide regulations.

     The adipose tissue for this program is secured through the cooperation of
participating pathologists  and medical  examiners  located  throughout  the con-
tinental United States.  The tissue is  obtained from surgical specimens previ-
ously  excised  for  therapeutic  or elective  purposes  and  from  postmortem
examinations.   The  specimens are  sent  to  our  laboratories  in  Kansas City,
Missouri for analysis.   We will send periodic reports  of  results to  partici-
pating  physicians.    Summaries  that compare  results  among  regions of  the
country will also be provided as they become  available.

     In order to develop  statistically  valid information  on a national basis,
collections  must be made according to a survey design that dictates the number
of specimens required.   The quotas of  specimens  reflect  the demographic dis-
tribution  of  the  population  in   the  appropriate  census  division.    As  a
participant, you should have  a copy of  the annual quota of specimens expected
to be  collected from your  location on  a fiscal  year basis.   All collections
should  be  made according  to this  aqe/sex/race distribution.   You should have
no difficulty collecting  the  number of specimens required  1n  each category.
Since  our  total sample  is relatively  small   and  the validity of  the results
depends  on  a  high  response rate,  your participation  is  particularly impor-
tant.   If  you feel  that you will be unable to collect the number of specimens
required,  please let us know.


Criteria for Selection of Patients to Be Sampled

     Since the program objective  is to  reflect  the prevalence  and  level  of
exposure  to  selected  pesticides  experienced  by  the  general  (person-on-the-
street) population, a few suggestions are listed here for your guidance:

           The  highest  priority  should   be  given  to satisfying the number  and
           demographic distribution of your annual quota.  This quota should be
           completed as soon after  the start of the fiscal  year as possible.
                                      A-8

-------
          Patients with known or  suspected  pesticide poisoning should not  be
          sampled,  but  if  you   are  involved  with a  potential  pesticide
          poisoning, we would  like  to  know about it.   To repeat, specimens
          should  not  be  taken from  such  individuals for  the National  Human
          Adipose Tissue  Survey.

          Patients who exhibit cachexia or who have been  institutionalized  for
          long periods should not  be  sampled.

          Patients with  AIDS,  hepatitis,  or other  infectious blood  diseases
          should not be sampled.


Legal Considerations

     The National Human Adipose Tissue Survey staff  is both  interested  in  and
concerned about the legal ramifications of  this  human research project.   Since
the program operates  in  about 40  states,  it 1s not  feasible  for us to  handle
the variety of  local  and state  legal  interpretations that may arise.   There-
fore, as a matter of EPA policy,  legal  requirements,  such as  informed  consent,
confidentiality,  etc., are matters for your consideration and  resolution.   We
will, however, assist you in any way possible.

     We  have  completed several  studies  on these matters  and do not  believe
that they  present major obstacles to  your  participation.    In most documents
authorizing postmortem examinations, there  is a clause granting  the examining
physician  permission  to remove tissues  for research purposes.   We  consider
this project  to  be  in that category.  In the  case of specimens recovered from
your surgical practice, the  use of  a small  amount of tissue  from a previously
excised  specimen  certainly does not place the patient at  risk in any way what-
soever.

     As  you will notice  in the discussion  that follows  regarding  data needed
for each patient  sampled, we do have mechanisms to assure confidentiality.   In
fact,  the  disclosure or  release of  certain  data  is  protected  by  several
Federal  statutes, including the  Privacy  Act and  the Freedom of  Information
Act.

     The fees paid  to  you by our program are intended solely  to remunerate you
or your  designee  for professional  services  rendered.


Collection of Adipose  Tissue

     At  least five  grams (approximately equal to a rounded  tablespoon) of good
quality,  high  lipid-containing adipose tissue,  such  as subcutaneous,  peri-
renal,  or mesenteric  adipose  tissue,  should be  collected  each time.   Avoid
fibrous  or connective tissue and  fascia (i.e.,  omentum).  Such specimens will
not yield  a satisfactory analysis.
                                      A-9

-------
     Adipose tissue should be taken dry  and  should  not  be rinsed before being
placed  into  the sample bottles.   Many water supplies  contain  materials that
would  interfere with  chemical  analysis.   Instruments  should  be  well-rinsed
with distilled  water and dried  before  the  adipose  specimen is taken.  Contact
with  other  chemicals, such  as  paraffin,  disinfectants,  preservatives,  or
plastics,  should  be avoided.    Take  special  care to keep  specimens  from dif-
ferent  patients separate.   Make certain that the  specimens  are correctly and
securely labeled.

     Specimens  of adipose tissue may be collected from unfixed surgical speci-
mens  that have been  excised  for therapeutic  or  elective  purposes.   Avoid
cutting the tissue on  paraffin.

     Specimens  of  adipose  tissue  may  also be  collected during  postmortem
examinations.   These  specimens  must  be  obtained  from  unembalmed  cadavers
only.   The interval between death  and the collection of  tissue  should be as
short as possible and  in any case must not exceed 24 hours, assuming refriger-
ation during that interval.

     The  specimen  of adipose  tissue taken should  be  placed  in the chemically
clean  container provided, without  any fixatives or preservatives.   Complete
the  self-adhesive  bottle  label  legibly  in ballpoint pen.   Securely affix the
bottle  label,  wrap each  bottle in  gauze to  prevent  breakage,  and freeze.
Specimens  should  be  stored  upright  in the  freezer  at  14°F  (-10°C)  until
shipment.


Completion of  the Patient Summary Report

     A  Patient Summary Report should be  completed for each patient from whom a
specimen  was  taken.  Special  attention should be given to the completeness of
the  data.  First and  last  initials,  in that order, should be used instead of
the  complete  name to ensure that confidentiality is maintained.

     Confirmed diagnoses  should be detailed  in the spaces provided.  Only the
major  ones should  be supplied.   Other  required  information should be  completed
as  accurately  as  possible.  The  completed  forms  should be held  and placed
under  the outer lid of the  insulated container  when specimens are shipped.


Packing and  Shipping
     Tighten all  lids on the specimen bottles  carefully.  This is  important,
since   we  are  required  to use special  aluminum  foil  cap   liners  that make
tightening somewhat difficult.   Be  certain  that  a completed bottle label is
firmly attached to  each  specimen  bottle.   Wrap each bottle in gauze or paper
to  prevent breakage during  shipment and to  keep  the  label  on the  container.
Place  the specimen bottles in a plastic bag  in the  insulated mailer.   Add -  5
pounds dry ice to keep specimens frozen in transit.
                                      A-10

-------
     New transport regulations require any materials shipped  in  dry  ice to be
specially  labeled.    Since  frozen medical  and/or  diagnostic  specimens  are
exempt from some of these requirements, be sure that the contents of  the ship-
ping containers are clearly indicated by ORM-A;  FROZEN MEDICAL  SPECIMENS.   We
have provided  a special  label for this purpose.  If,  for some  reason,  you do
not  have  these labels, please  attach  a card  or piece of wide  adhesive  tape
with ORM-A;  FROZEN MEDICAL SPECIMENS indicated in  indelible ink.

     A Federal  Express airbill and the  local  number  for pickup  is  provided.
There  is  no cost to  you  because  of the preaddressed  airbill.   All  insulated
mailers should  have  a PERISHABLE  - PACKED IN  DRY ICE  label,  visible from all
sides, on the outside.

     Specimens  should be  shipped on  Monday,   Tuesday,  or  Wednesday.    This
ensures that they will arrive on or before Friday.

     Patient Summary  Reports  should  be sent in the  carton  with the  specimens
whenever  possible.   They  can be folded and placed on  the top of the polyfoam
lid.

     Only specimens  which  meet our criteria and are handled  according  to the
guidelines can  be accepted.  No substitute vials will be accepted.


For  Further Information

     If you have questions, problems, or comments,  please contact either of us
by calling  (collect):
Kay Turman                              Janet C. Remmers
Midwest  Research  Institute              National Human Monitoring Program
425 Volker  Boulevard                    Exposure Evaluation Division (TS-798)
Kansas City, MO   64110                  U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(816) 753-7600                          Washington, DC  20460
                                        (202) 382-3583

October  1988
                                     A-ll

-------
 MEDICAL RECORD:  This form contains medical information the disclosure or release of which
 is restricted by U.S.C 552, (bX6); 45 CFR Pan 5.
                                                        OMBML SOOtHUU
        U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
             OFFICE OF TOXIC SUBSTANCES
         EXPOSURE  EVALUATION DIVISION (TS-798)
                FIELD STUDIES BRANCH
                WASHINGTON DC 20460
                                  NATIONAL HUMAN ADIPOSE TISSUE SURVEY
                                       PATIENT SUMMARY REPORT  (PSR)
                           INSTRUCTIONS
     1. All unshaded questions for which information if available should be answered.
     2. Date should be in the form of Month, Day and Year e.g., Nov. 19, 1988.
                                                            DO NOT WRITE W
                                                             SHADED AREA
  Public rejonmi bu«u foe ttii tolkction of lafraittcB to «itim«»rt • mntt I ban p»r mpon, inclodinj cim>
  for nmwini iBuncaou, MvcUif uiuaf fett imro», |iOnu( ia« nnnmni-g tin dua iMiid* IB* eoaplnat
  tad nvuvini ita colleoioi of iafonaao& Sod f
-------
                     RECRUITMENT CALL SHEET



                                    MSA:	
Facility:	-	-    First contact date:


                                     Date packet sent


Address:	-    Date received: —
          (department)
     (street or box *)
     (city, state, zip code)



Phone:  (   )
Other: I	I
Contact person:
Date called and result of call :
                                   A-13

-------
                   NATIONAL HUMAN AIPOSE TISSUE  SURVEY  (NHATS)
                             FACILITY ADD/CHANGE FORM
                             To be filled in by MRI
   Date completed
   By	
             Facility  ID
   Facility Name
   Street 	
   City	
   County
State
Zip
   1-   New Cooperator:  date joined survey
O2.   Change of address:
Q3.   Change in status:  date _
          	 leave survey
             rejoin survey
                          To be filled in by Battelle
   MSA
   State FTPS Abbreviation
         Date added/changed
         By	
                                                           June  1990
                                     A-14

-------
                             POST-RECRUITMENT  LETTER
INI
January 23, 1990
NO ITEM TO INSERT
Dear
NO ITEM TO INSERT
»
•

It was  a pleasure  talking with you  about  the National  Human Adipose Tissue
Survey.  I appreciate your willingness to cooperate in this survey.

Under separate cover I have sent you the following supplies:
                                                  »
     Guidelines for specimen collection (extra copy)
     Helpful Hints Flyer
     Patient summary reports
     "Instructions for Completing PSR" flyer
     Collection bottles
     Bottle labels
     "Dry Ice" labels
     Federal Express Airbill
     Shipping container

Enclosed with  this  letter is the Collection  Quota  form that gives the number
of  specimens  required for each  sex and age  group.   After collection, please
keep the  specimens  frozen until  there is a  sufficient  number (about 10) for
shipment.   Please  be  sure to  add  sufficient dry  ice to  keep the specimens
frozen  during  transit.   We will  return the  shipping  container to you as soon
as possible.

An updated Collection Quota form reflecting the number of acceptable specimens
received will be sent to you along with a check.

Thank you again  for your participation.   If you have any questions, please do
not hesitate to call me  (collect) at  (816) 753-7600, ext. 552.

Sincerely,
 Lori  Bailey
 Regional  Coordinator
 National  Human Adipose Tissue Survey

 LB:lm

 Enclosure
                                       A-15

-------
                 CURRENT COOPERATOR  LIST


     Format

(1)  Cooperator Name
     Organizational  Name
     Street Address
     City, State  Zip Code
     Payment Information
     Contact Person
     Payee
     Phone Number of Cooperator and/or Contact Person
     Organizational  Name
     City, State

(2)  Cooperator Name
     Organizational  Name
     Street Address
     City, State  Zip Code
     Payment Information
     Contact Person
     Payee
     Phone Number of Cooperator and/or Contact Person
     Organizational  Name
     City, State

(3)  Cooperator Name
     Organizational  Name
     Street Address
     City, State  Zip Code
     Payment Information
     Contact Person
     Payee
     Phone Number of Cooperator and/or Contact Person
     Organizational  Name
     City, State
                           A-16

-------


c
f— O
^? -S3*
•a "2
(TJ f±
UJ 
-------
                           APPENDIX B


               MAINTENANCE OF COOPERATOR NETWORK
 1.   Cleaning Protocol  for Bottles	    B-2
 2.   Bar Code Labels	    B-3
 3.   Procedure for Generation of Check Digit	    B-4
 4.   Computer Program for Generation of
     EPA ID Numbers	    B-5
 5.   Bottle Label	    B-6
 6.   Dry Ice Labels	    B-7
 7.   Return Label	    B-8
 8.   Federal Express Airbill	    B-9
 9.   Patient Summary Report	    B-10
10.   Instructions  for Completing PSR Flyer	    B-ll
11.   Helpful Hints Flyer	    B-12
12.   Quota Sheet Copy	    B-13
13.   Outer Label for Shipping Container	    B-14
                              B-l

-------
                               CLEANING PROTOCOL  FOR BOTTLES
                                      - Protocol A™-

               •  Amber Glass Bottles                  • Gear Glass Bottles
               •  Wide Mouth Amber Glass Jars        • Wide Mouth Gear Glass Jars*
                           * Also available cleaned according to Protocol fl™ - see below

Cleaning Protocol A™ specifications:
     1.  Laboratory Grade Detergent Wash and Rinse
     2.  Acid, Deionized Water, and Solvent Rinses
     3.  Oven Drying, Capping and Packing under quality controlled conditions

Sample Containers Prepared According to  Protocol A™ Are Recommended For Use
In The Analysis Of:
  Acidity/Alkalinity                            Hardness                  Settleable Residue/Suspended Solids
  BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand)                Mercury                   Silica
  Chloride                                   Metals                    Sulfate
  COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand)                 OH & Grease                Sulflde
  Color                                     pH                       Sulfite
  Conductivity                                Phenols                   TOC (Total Organic Carbon)
  Cyanide                                   Phosphate                  Turbidity
  Extractable Organics
                                                                      ™ Protocol is a trademark of I-Chem Research
                                                B-2

-------
                  10/12/80
GRAPHIC TECHNOLOGY
                                                                   MIDWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
                                                            900001-901800
                                                                                                                                 L01258PAGE0001
CD ,
 I
                                                                                                                                                                   DO
                                                                                                                                                                   5>
                                                                                                                                                                   70

                                                                                                                                                                   O
                                                                                                                                                                   CD
                                                                                                                                                                   O

-------
             PROCEDURE FOR GENERATION OF CHECK DIGIT
                        FOR EPA  ID NUMBER
1.   Multiply the EPA number by the special check number.

     a.   The EPA number is the six-digit number generated previously
         (860001 - 861500).

     b.   The special check number is also a six-digit number which
         is 121212.

     c.   The multiplication takes place along each digit.

     d.   Examples:
                 123

               860001    860750    861500
               121212    121212    121212
               830002    830550    831100

           Note:   if  the  number generated  from  the  multiplication
                  is  two  digits,  subtract  9  from the  two-digit
                  number  and write down  the  result.

           Example:   7  x  2  = 14,  14 -  9  =  5;  so a five would be
                     written down as  the result.

 2.   Add all  the  results  together to  obtain  the resultant.

      a.  Examples:   1.  830002 = 13
                     2.  830550 = 21
                     3.  831100 = 13


 3.  The last digit  of the resultant  is subtracted from  10  to  obtain
     the check digit.

      a.   Examples:  1.  10 - 3  = 7
                     2.  10 - 1  = 9
                     3.  10 - 3  = 7

 4.  The check digit is  then added to the EPA  number  to  create a
     seven-digit number  called the EPA  ID number.

      a.   Examples:  1.  8600017
                     2.  8607509
                     3.  8615007
                                B-4

-------
                  COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR GENERATION OF EPA ID NUMBERS
••» CLEPR, .2000: DIM R (6) :CLS: INPUT'Start ing label #":ST*:IF LEiM  <> £  T
•> L.OCATE 3, 1 s PRINT"                           ":i_OCflTE 3, 1: INPL)T"Er.air,g
                                                                                !<->
                                                                            iaaei
•EN*7lF i_EN(EN*)<>6 THEN 20
-r, ST=VAL :EN=VAL
 O FOR »-Bl  TO  S: R  :NEXT L
^O FOR L=l  TO  6:IF L=2 OR  L=4 OR L=6 THEN R(L)=R>iIF £=10 THEN E=0
 Oo"LPRINT  ST*,-CHR*(4a*E) ;SPCO) ;ST*;CHR*(4e-»-E> ;SPC(7) ;
 10 IF A/2=INT<0/2)  THEN LPRINT" " :LPRINT :i_PRINT
12O A=ft-*-l:NEXT K:END
                                      B-5

-------
                            BOTTLE  LABEL
        UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
              NATIONAL HUMAN MONITORING PROGRAM
NAME OF HOSPITAL
PATIENT'S INITIALS    PATIENT'S IOENT NO
                                             DATE COLLECTED
  ADIPOSE
               URINE
                         SERUM
                                   BLOOD
                                             OTHER ISoecily)
                                    B-6

-------
                   DRY ICE LABELS
                  PLEASE RUSH
KEEP AWAY FROM  HEAT
       FROZEN MEDICAL SPECIMENS
                  WARNING
          DO NOT store In closed containers or
         unventilated spaces. DO NOT expose to
          high temperatures. IF DELIVERY IS
           DELAYED, please keep at freezing
              temperatures, if possible.
o

o
x
         FROZEN MEDICAL SPECIMENS

               ORM-A DRY ICE

         Packaging Conforms with Standards
         in CFR 173.61S(e), 173. 387. 42 CFR
         72.25
-------
               RETURN LABEL
Ms. Kay Turnan
National Hunan Adipose Tissue Survey
Midwest Research Institute
425 Volker Boulevard
Kansas City, MO 64110
                    B-8

-------
00

VO
          u   u
LU
-J
Ul
-d
j;
IT
Ln
-O
0"
                UJ
                -0
                LU
                -J
                j:
                or
                Ln
                -J
                CT
                                                    ^u
                                                    «if n»«nMur»Mi MR mani KM SMMHR ronanouco
                                                                                         tusiAuaiumii
                                                                                                  AIRBILL
                                                                                                    PACKAGE
                                                                                                 TRACKING NUUBfR
                                                                                                   M3737Mb57b
                         9355M     .J   H3737Mb57i
                          Sendat i Fedatal Eipress Account Numbai

                            0640-0123-0
                          Fcom (Your Name) Please Prati
                          Company
                            MIDWEST  RESEARCH
                          Street Address
                            425  VOLKER  BLVD
                          Guy
                            KANSAS CITY
                                                           ' Ytow Phono N<»i*«( (Very important)
                                                                              Oepaiunenl/FlooiNo
                                                     Suite
                                                MO
                                                                   (ReopwrtsName) Please Pert

                                                                    KAY  TURMAN                    |(     )
                                                                 Company
                                                                    MIDWEST RESEARCH  INSTITUTE
                                                                 Enact Street Address fHkCamiMOTliFO teaorfO •ACofeJ

                                                                    425  VOLKER  BLVD.            	
                                                                 C«y                              State
                                             64110
                                                                                                                                            Oepartment/Ftooi No
                                        KANSAS  CITY
                                                                                               MO
rOUK BILLING KFfRBKf INFORMATION (fiat U
     8863-20-04
MfaflpaaraiiraaJ
           Facility Name
                                                                                          F
                                                                                                                         h  4  1  1   0
                                                                             /f NOtO fVfl «C*f-UP. Art FBXXUtoa Hm
                                                                              Seta
                                                                                                        Cay
                                                                               EnnMifMe
                                     SERVICES
                                  (Cladtonlyonttxn)
                            Priori* OwUgM   SovxtonJOwnUBW
                               Seo*»          '  '
                           "DJSg&att   5'
13   «w aour
             S2
             54
 Economy Sorvica
                    rlMtol

             70 rn HUWWBIXT-
                "Hfgsgr
                                             DEUVfRY AND SPECIAL HANDLING
3 OH/voiwn«a»)'it-.~s.i
. f— I BUGBWUSflOOOS
4 LJ If^KMM
. I— I CM«nirrSMV8IIMCfSIC
' LJ ««io~g«iinii layj^immoai
e Q «w« ------- "•
7 Q 0110 J«M1 SBrMBF ----

•a
                                                                       I -L-
                                                       „ r-i MUMro
                                                       '* LJ II« MliDi* won nauM SM Wd K
                                                                                              •nd>r • copy of ta MM M «onra»i
                                                                                                  ml H raipoMia to any don in notu rt 1100 per
                                                                                                     Mi M in** 01 »a OKT»0« aMy non-OMMV
                                                                                                    r nuntonvMn inMyoudgcureahgnefviu pay
                                                                                                    cnvge m docuraM « to a My
                                                                                              dim Uamiun amort unuuni tanl In Via owan Fadam
                                                                                              Eiaiau Samoa Guoe an* You now 10 laoonai Horn FadtraJ
                                                                                                        ncutng rtirac nkia ol ma package iipuol
                                                                                                        i poll  mnmenlaa» cam ardoma tana rt
                                                                             0»mai|»irmnBid«ecmoilenlal coraaouanM orspeoalol
                                                                             ID iTvaaur a HOD 01 xa dodared Mba ipaOMd u M M
                                                                              InmaavanoluaiieVdaaMry F«*»alE.|«n««alyo1»ioque«
                                                                              iModniamaknlatana nAnlalnrapMatonchiraaipall Sag
                                                                              Samoa Cuda to Wnai rtomiann
                                                  Sanoaf lunonnn Fadnai Evan u drfiw la o*mn ««o<
                                                  ooumg a daHaiy agnaua and «hn ndarnnly and hold nannan
                                                  Fxtoru Upraia Horn any olum muuig (laraliam

                                                  Release
                                                  Sajnalure   		_^	-  -
                                                                      FedBT-
                                                                      EmpNo
                                                                                                       Oaie/Tma
                                                                                                                               i
                                                                                                             m
                                                                                                             to
                                                                                                             co
                                                                                                                                                                    XI
                                                                                                                                                                    DO
                                                                                                                                           Federal Express Use
                                                                              Total Charges

                                                                              Revisimio*fEi/a9
                                                                              *RTfll9SOin(EM ;i69
                                                                              FORMAT WI4

-------
MEDICAL RECORD:  This form contains medical information (he disclosure or release of which
a restricted by U.S.C 552, (bX6): 45 CFR Part 5.
                                            OMBM9L 29004319
       U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
            OFFICE OF TOXIC SUBSTANCES
        EXPOSURE EVALUATION  DIVISION (TS-798)
               FIELD STUDIES  BRANCH
               WASHINGTON DC  20460
                     NATIONAL HUMAN ADIPOSE TISSUE  SURVEY
                          PATIENT  SUMMARY  REPORT  (PSR)
                          INSTRUCTIONS
    1. All unshaded question! for which information is available should be  answered.
    2. Date should be in the form of Month, Day and Year e.g., Nov. 19. 1988.
                                                 DONOTWRfTEIN
                                                  SHADED AREA
 Public reponwi Imrtia fot iti*. coBmaa of -m/aimuaa i» ———' a mnii I tear pit nipou*. mcladiii dm*
 for revwwiat laimcaou. Mint»| «nuut to* inraM, |iitemt ad —~——»t ±m tta. uiM. io4 complnut
 ind. nmewac thv coltuam of uframuKm. So4 -«-•••*-'» ngttrfuc to tanln uuamw at nj otter uput o( dB»
      of lafenuBn. metadnn nueani» fot ndunt *» banton, a Otef. InfoBBUOB Policj Bnack. PM-I2J.
   EnvmmmenaJ rtoacnon. Asncft «t M St. iW . WutanjtDB. DC 20*60: nd » a»vOffli» of lafannMoa ud
         a. Offi» of Mui|am a< Bodpt, WubOfwa. DC 10J03.
                                        8 9 1011    t213t4.ti    1817181980
HOSPITAL fWarn.. City and Statt)
                                                                      21ZZ23
PATIENTS \B.NO.(HojpiUl. Acctutom. or
    PATENTS INITIALS f/lr«
                                       24 25 28 27 28 29 3tt 31 32 33 34 35 16 37 38
DATE COLLECTED (if on*. Day and fror)
                                   BHTHDATEORAGE
                                                                      W40
                                                                                 41 tt
                                                                      emu-CD
PATHOLOGIST
                                   sex
                                       D
           MALE
n
                        FEMALE
4HS   49 SO  »t 52  53 5* 55 58      57
HHD-Liicm]     n
HBGHTfCampl
-------
    INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING PATIENT SUMMARY REPORT

   Complete every box that is not shaded.
   Please use black ink.
   Please PRINT.
   CLW-1
or sureties!
    O
        \s
!>
-------
   NATIONAL HUMAN ADIPOSE TISSUE SURVEY
         GUIDELINES AND HELPFUL HINTS
                FOR COOPERATORS
COLLECTION AND STORAGE OF SPECIMENS
  • Post quota sheet on wall in collection area.
  • Mark off quota by age, sex and race as collected to
    ensure complete collection of the specimens.
  • Use only vials and labels that are provided.
  • Complete label and affix securely to vial.
  • Collect at least 5 g of high lipid-containing adipose tissue.
  • Store specimens at 14°F (-10°C) or below until ready
    to ship.
  • Fill out patient summary reports (PSRs) as soon as
    possible. One or two a week is easier than 20 or more
    all at once.

  SHIPMENT OF SPECIMENS
  • Ship when 6-8 specimens have been collected.
  • Check PSRs and vials for complete information.
    Place PSRs under lid of shipping box.
  • Tighten lids on vials and wrap vials with gauze
    to prevent breakage. Place vials in plastic bag
    for shipping.
  • Include -5 Ib of dry ice  to keep specimens frozen in transit.
  • Ship on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday.
  • Use Federal Express airbill provided for shipping.

IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM OR QUESTION
  • Call Kay Turman (x185) or Lori Bailey (x552) collect
    at (816) 753-7600, from  8 am to 5 pm (CST).
                                                      6/90
                            B-12

-------
                           COLLECTION QUOTA

                      National Human Adipose Tissue Survey
                        National Human Monitoring Program
                             Fiscal Year 1990 Survey
                          (Oct. 1,1989 to Sept. 30,1990)
Cooperator:
Location: _
ST.
                                                           Total Quota:
ANNUAL
QUOTA


3





3





^





L





V


	

5




AGE
0-14





0-14





15-44





15-44





45-1-




4?+






SEX
Male





Female





Male





Female





Male




Female





Totals
DATE
RECEIVED





























	






NUMBER
ACCEPTED





























	






NUMBER
SURPLUS





























	






•NON-
CAUCASIAN





























	






BALANCE
REMAINING





























	






•NON-CAUCASIAN
                           . to be distributed among the Total Quota.
                                          B-13

-------
   OUTER LABEL FOR SHIPPING CONTAINER
    Important instructions
      are inside for the
NATIONAL HUMAN ADIPOSE
     TISSUE SURVEY
         (NHATS)
             B-14

-------
                           APPENDIX C


                    PROCESSING OF SPECIMENS
 1.   Shipment Log	     C-2
 2.   Bag Insert	     C-3
 3.   PSR Cover Sheet	     C-4
 4.   Specimen Inventory Page	     C-5
 5.   NHATS Storage Facility Diagram	     C-6
 6.   Request for Payment Form	     C-7
 7.   Authorization for Payment Form	     C-8
 8.   Payment Letter	     C-9
 9.   Log Sheet of Batch Information	     C-10
10.   PSR Transmittal Form	     C-ll
                              C-l

-------
                                                                                        WATS SfWU RECEIPT AND PROCESSING - FY90
                        DA1E REC D
                                                   COOPERATQR
                                                                                             LOCATION
                                                                                                                     SHIPHEKT M3.   NO.  REC D/FV
                                                                                                                                                              COMCNTS
                                                                                                                                                                                      SUPPLIES    CHECfED
                                                                                                                                                                                      REPLACED        IN
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        "O
 I
l\3

-------
                                BAG INSERT
                    National  Human Adipose Tissue Survey
DATE SPECIMENS RECEIVED





COOPERATOR 	





LOCATION 	
NUMBER OF SPECIMENS





SHIPMENT NUMBER
                                       C-3

-------
                                                                    MIDWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
                                                                                 425 Volker Boulevard
                                                                            Kansas City Missouri 64110
                                                                              Telephone (816) 753-7600
                          COVER  SHEET TO ACCOMPANY PSRS

                      National Human Adipose Tissue Survey
DATE SPECIMENS RECEIVED


COOPERATOR 	


LOCATION
NUMBER OF SPECIMENS


SHIPMENT  NUMBER
Revised  10/89
                                          C-4

-------
FY 90 INVENTORY
SHIPMENT * / BOX «

PATIENT ID *
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
CHECKED IN
BY:
DATE:
COOPERATOR

EPA ID *














VERIFIED
BY:
DATE:
CITY, STATE

PATIENT ID *
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
TOTAL « OF SPECIMENS

D S
DATE RECEIVED

EPA ID *














COMMENTS

•REJECTED
       C-5

-------
                           NHATS STORAGE FACILITY

                                    North
West
         Freezer
            1
Freezer
   2
Freezer
   3
Freezer
   4
Freezer
   5
Freezer
   6
                                                                  Alarm
          Status
          Board

Freezer
11
Desk
Freezer
10
Freezer
9
Processing
Area
Freezer
8
Freezer
7
Hood
                                                 East
                 Storage      Files
       \
          Status
          Board
^^^


Receipt
Area
Sink

                                    South
                                C-6

-------
                        INTEROFFICE COMMUNICATION
                 MIDWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
To:           Michael Limbocker

From:          Kay Turman
Subject:
             Check Request for Collection Services on Project
             No. 8863-20-01
    The following accounts payable are approved for payment.  Please
    notify me when the checks are ready.   I will pick them up.

    Payable To     Payment Due    Person  Hours       Charge	
                                              8863-20-01-6030
                                    C-7

MRI2

-------
                                                          MIDWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
                                                                      425 Volker Boulevard
                                                                  Kansas City. Missouri 64110
                                                                   Telephone (816) 753-7600
                   AUTHORIZATION FOR PAYMENT
             NATIONAL HUMAN ADIPOSE TISSUE SURVEY
Payment is authorized  in  the amount of $	for ser-

vices provided in the  collection of human adipose tissue for

diagnostic purposes to:
                             National Human Monitoring Program

Number of samples  accepted	x Rate	=  $	

Word Processing:

        Address  #
  Date        Number       Number      Number
Received     Received     Accepted     Surplus     Payment    Balance
                                  C-8

-------
                                PAYMENT LETTER
//S//
April 25, 1990
NO ITEM TO INSERT
Dear
NO ITEM TO INSERT
Thank you  for  your recent shipment of  tissue specimens to the National Human
Adipose  Tissue Survey.    Enclosed  is  payment for  services provided  in the
collection and shipment of human adipose tissue.

So that  you  are aware of  the  status  of your  collections,  we have provided a
report on the specimens you sent and the current monetary balance remaining  in
your account.  You will also find enclosed a copy of your quota sheet indicat-
ing the number of specimens needed in each category for FY90.
Date
Shipment
Received
Total
Number
Received

Number
Accepted

Number
Surplus
Amount
of
Payment
Balance
in
Account
NO  ITEM TO INSERT
Should  you  have any  questions  or comments, please  feel  free to telephone me
(collect) at  (816) 753-7600.

Sincerely,
Kay Turman
Program Coordinator
National Human Adipose Tissue Survey

KTrlm

Enclosures
                                        C-9

-------
                       L05 SHEET OF BATCH  IIW--QRMATIGN TRANSFER  TO  BnTTFiL-LE
Batch   Date Sent                 Patient  Summary Report         Analysis Report
 No.     To Battelle    Initials   Form No.    tf o-f FSRs    Form  tt   # ot ARs   tt o-f  QC
                                           C-10

-------
                    NATIONAL HUMAN ADIPOSE TISSUE SURVEY
                              PSR TRANSMITTAL
Batch Number   	                             Form PSR
Shipped by MRI:                                Received at Battelle:

Date                   	               Date	
Sent By	___^_               Reed By_
                                                            To Be Completed
	To  Be Completed By MRI	          By BMI
Package        Beginning          Ending        Number       Number      Hosp
 Number         EPA ID           EPA ID        Shipped     Received     Code
                                  Total
                            Incomplete PSR Forms
                                     C-ll

-------
                           APPENDIX D


                           REPORTING
1.   Monthly Progress Report	    D-2
2.   Collection Quota Status Reports	    0-3
3.   Recruitment Report	    0-7
4.   Trip Report	    0-10
5.   Additional Reports	    0-11
                              D-l

-------
                                EXAMPLE OF
                           MONTHLY  PROGRESS REPORT
     Work Assignment 20  (25%  Complete);   National Human Adipose Tissue  Survey
(NHATSl

          EPA Work Assignment Manager:  Janet Returners
          MRI Work Assignment Leader:  Kay Turman

          Progress:  Two FY89 design specimens  and  14 surplus specimens were
received* bringing  the totals to  date  to 1111  design specimens received  and
483 surplus received,  as  shown  In  Table  2.   Two hundred twenty-two  (222) FY90
design specimens and 12 surplus specimens have been received to date,  as shown
1n Table 3.

          All cooperators were  contacted by phone for status  reports on col-
lection efforts and to remind them to ship specimens.

          Recruitment  reports were submitted  on  December 19 and at the end of
the month.

          Work continued  on the NHATS newsletter, which will include the final
FY89 collection status.

          Travel   was   completed  to   Salt  Lake   City,   Utah,  Sacramento,
California, and Paterson,  New Jersey, to visit five cooperators.

          QA/QC Activity;  None.

          Problems;  None.

          Plans  for  the  Coming  Month;    Specimens  will  be  processed  as
received.  PSRs will be  batched and sent to BCL.

          Calls  to cooperators to  request shipment and  encourage collection
will continue.

          Work will continue on the reorganization of  the sample repository.

          The  newsletter will be  submitted  to the EPA WAN for final  review,
and upon approval, will  be distributed to all cooperators.

          A brochure of  the  NHATS  exhibit will be drafted and sent to the EPA
WAM for review.  Work  will begin on revisions to the NHATS operation manual.
                                       D-2

-------
Table 2.  Adipose Tissue Collection
   Quota  Status Report:  fV1990
          April 30.  1990
MSA and Census
Division
NEU ENGLAND
Springfield. NA

Ml DOLE ATLANTIC

AluAnjf ~5cncncctoQy % NY
Blngtetn-Elilra. NY
Mew York. NY

Paterson. HJ
frle. FA

Philadelphia. M
Pittsburgh. PA

EAST NORTH CENTRAL
Chicago. IL
Mollne. IL
Detroit. HI
Akron. OH
Cleveland. OH
Total Quota Samples accepted Surplus received
MSA 0-14 15-44 45* 0-14 15-44 45* 0-14 15-44 45*
quota HFHFNFNC MFNFNFNC NFHFNFNC

27 3366452 0000450 0000100

54 201388 -22 000010-1



27 3366455 1156454 0000470
54 6 6 12 12 8 10 10 2 3 3 12 8 10 7 0001000

27 3366455 1110011 0000000
27 3366453

27 3366453
27 3366453 0002440 0000000
216 4 5 9 20 16 20 • 74 0 0 0 1 4 7 • 12

54 6 6 12 12 8 10 8
27 3366454 1016452 0002220
54 66 12 12 8 10 8 2011 8 10 8 0000457
27 3366454 0004132 0000000
27 3366454 2020313 0000000
Sanples regaining
0-14 15-44 45*
H F H F H

3

4


3
2
4

2
3

3
3
20

6
2
4

1

3

6


3
2
3

2
3

3
3
19

6
3
6

3

6

11


6
1
9

5
6

6
6
39

12
5
11

4

6

9


6
0
0

6
6

6
4
28

12
0
11

6

0

0


4
0
0

4
4

4
0
16

8
0
0

1
F

0

2


5
0
0

4
5

5
1
20

10
0
0

4
NC

2

• 32


5
1
3

4
3

3
3
• 142

8
2
0

2
\



m
•3.
-o
m
o
CO T|
§0
co F
m
XJ 0
m__ i
~H
"^ i— i
00
TO Z

O








-------
Table 2 (continued)
NSA and Census
Division
Coliubus. OH
Dayton. OH
Madison. UI
WE SI NORTH CENTRAL
St. Louis. HO
Rochester. HN
Oaaha. NE
O
i Grand Forks. HO
•^
Wichita. KS
SOUTH ATLANTIC
Washington. OC
West Pain Beach. FL
MlMl. fl
Charlotte-Gastonia. KC
Taipa. FL
Atlanta. GA
Greenville. SC
Norfolk. VA
Total Quota
MSA 0-14 15-44 45*
quota H F M F N F NC
27 33664 54
27 3366454

270
27 3-366452
27 3366451
27 3366452
27 3366452

135

27 3366456
27 3366456
27 3366456

27 3367446
216
Sables accepted Surplus received
0-14 15-44 45* 0-14 15-44 45*
MFNFNFNC HFHFHFNC
3316153 0
1102400 0

12 7 10 24 24 28 • 105 0
0010100 0
3065451 0
0011000 0
0013440 0

6 3 IS 15 13 14 * 66 0


0000010 0


3263426 1
14 12 21 23 19 15 • 104 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
7
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
1
2
0
5
0 0
0 0
2 0
9 • 20
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 • 0
0 0
1 3
0 0
1 4
2 4
0 1
4 - 12
Saaples retaining
0-14 15-44 45*
N F H F N
0
2
0
18

0
3
3
0
9
0
3
0
3
3
1
0
0
10
0
2
0
23

3
3
3
0
12
0
3
0
3
3
1
1
1
12
5
6
1
SO

0
5
5
0
IS
2
6
1
6
6
2
4
0
27
0
4
36

1
5
3
0
IS
1
6
0
6
6
2
2
4
27
3
0
1
16

0
4
0
0
7
0
4
1
4
4
0
0
0
13
F
0
5
1
22

0
5
1
0
11
0
5
2
4
5
3
2
2
23
NC
1
4
4
• 165
2
0
2
2
0
• 69
0
6
0
6
6
0
0
0
• 112

-------
Table 2 (continued)
NSA and Census
Division
EAST SOUTH CENTRAL
Nashville. TN
Leilngton. KV
Neaphls. TH
WEST SOUTH CENTRAL
Dallas. TX
New Orleans. LA
Houston. TX
Browisville-Hrlngn. TX
San Antonio. TX
MOUNTAIN
Denver, CO
Salt Lake City. UT
PACIFIC
Sacraaento. CA
San Francisco. CA
Los Angeles. CA
Portland. OR
Total Quota Staples accepted
MSA 0-14 15-44 45* 0-14 15-44 45*
quota NFMFHFNC MFMFHFNC




81 6 6 16 13 12 13 • 66
27 4366446 2266446
27 4366446 4311436
27 4366446 0165241

135 14 12 25 24 18 19 • 112
27 3377342 2131212

54 5 4 10 8 5 S • 37

27 3367447 2337445
27 3367447 0000410
54 66 12 14 8 8 14 6600104
27 337734? 0120122
Surplus received
0-14 15-44 45»
N F H F N F HC
0
0
0
0
0
0
6
0
0
6
0
3
3

0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0

0
0
0
0
3
0
0
3
0
0
0
3
0
3
2
9
11

0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
6
6

6
0
0
0
1
0
4
5
0
0
5
0
0
5
2
3
S

S
0
0
0
1 1
0 0
4 4
S • 14
0 0
0 0
2 10
0 0
0 0
2 • 17
0 4
4 0
4 • 29

6 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
Staples remaining
0-14 15-44 45*
N F M F N
0 0
2 2
1 1
0 0
2 1
0 0
4 2
0 0

1 2
0 0
1 2

1 0
3 3
0 0
3 2
0
1
1
0
0
S
0
0

4
0
4

3
6
12
5
0
4
1
0
0
5
1
0

6
0
6

0
7
14
7
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0

1
0
1

0
0
7
2
f HC
0 0
2 4
0 0
0 0
0 0
1 0
0 5
0 2
1 • 23
3 0
0 1
3 • 17

0 2
3 7
8 10
2 0

-------
                                                                                           Table 2 (concluded)
Total Quota Samlet accepted
NSA and Cenius MSA 0-14 15-44 45* 0-14 15-44 45*
Division quota NFHFHfNC NFMFNFNC
Seattle. UA 27 3 3 7 7 3 4 2
Spokane. UA 27 33773420022220

216 8 10 7 9 12 9 55
DCSIGN GWND TOTAL • 1.377 DESIGN COLLECTED • 641
Surplus received Saaples renaming
0-14 15-44 45t 0-14 15-44 45t
NFHFHFNC HFHFMFNC
3377342
0000000 3355122

000656 -17 16 14 45 47 16 23 • 161
SURPLUS • 122 TO BE COLLECTED • 736
        Mote:  NC • Non-caucasIan.  Not  Included in regional or grand totals.
O
en

-------
                                                                 MIDWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
                                                                            425 Volker Boulevard
                                                                         Kansas City. Missouri 64110
                                                                          Telephone (816) 753-7600
                                                                            Telefax (816) 753-8420
                           EXAMPLE  OF RECRUITMENT REPORT
February 5,  1990


Ms. Janet Remmers
Field Studies  Branch, TS-798
Office of Toxic Substances
U.S. Environmental  Protection Agency
401 M Street,  SW
Washington,  DC 20460

Subject:  NHATS Recruitment Report No.  78,  Work Assignment No.  20,
          EPA  Contract No. 68-02-4252.

Dear Janet:

Attached is  the recruitment report for  January 16 through January 31,  1990.
If you  have  any questions or comments,  please call me.

Sincerely,

AL
 Kay Turman
 Work Assignment Leader

 KT/lro

 cc:  Lori Bailey
      Carol ee King
      8863-20 File  (2  copies)
                                        D-7

-------
                                                 RECRUITMENT ACTIVITIES
                                                   NHATS (8863-20-01)

                                                  January 16-31, 1990
oo
     MSA/Target cooperator
     Denver, CO
     St. Joseph Hospital
Denver, CO
St. Anthony Hospital
Central
      Denver, CO
      AMI-Presbyter1an-
      St.  Luke's Medical
      Center
       Activities
                                                                    Future activities
                                                               Remarks/comments
Identified prospective coopera-
tor (Dr. T1m Morgan)  and
sent recruitment packet on
January 17.  When contacted
January 23, Dr. Morgan declined
to participate, due to low
staffing.

Identified prospective coopera-
tor (Dr. Elwln Smith) and
sent recruitment packet on
January 17.  When contacted
January 23, Dr. Smith said they
were still understaffed.  He
passed the packet to Dr. Derek
Knopka, who was out of town
that day.  When contacted
January 26, Dr. Knopka said
"no" to participation.

Identified prospective coopera-
tor (Dr. Kenneth Holloman) and
sent recruitment packet on
January 17.  When contacted on
January 23, Dr. Holloman said .
"yes" to participation, after,
his questions on confidentiality
were answered.  Post-recruitment
letter and supplies sent
January 24.
                                                                  None.
                            Problems have arisen
                            with one of the
                            current cooperators.
                                                                  None.
                            Previous "no" due to
                            low staffing (5/87).
                            they said to recon-
                            tact them 1n the
                            future.
New cooperator.
                                                                                         Previous cooperator.
                                                                                         dropped out when the
                                                                                         contact person (a
                                                                                         resident) left and
                                                                                         was not replaced
                                                                                         (6/88).
                                                       (continued)

-------
                                      RECRUITMENT ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED)
                                              NHATS (8863-20-01)

                                             January 16-31. 1990
MSA/Target cooperator
R1chland-Kennew1ck-
Pasco, WA
Franklin County
Coroner's Office
R1chland-Kennew1ck-
Pasco, WA
Benton County Coroner
 R1chland-Kennew1ck-
 Pasco.  WA
 Kadlec  Medical  Center
Activities
                                                                Future activities
Identified prospective coopera-
tor (Ms. Mavis Williams) and
sent recruitment packet on
January 23.  Left message
January 26.  When contacted
January 29. Ms. Williams said
that they did very few actual
autopsies (only IB 1n 1989),
and would not be able to
participate.  She said that
Benton County has a much
greater case load.

Identified prospective coopera-
tor (Mr. Floyd Johnson) and sent
recruitment packet on January 23.
Left message January 29 and
Mr. Johnson called back the same
day.  He said that they hire a
different pathologist to do each
autopsy.  If the case 1s In
Richland. 1t 1s performed at
the hospital and 1f the case 1s
1n Kennewlck, the autopsy 1s
performed at a mortuary.  It
would be too hard to coordinate
collection, so he said "no" to
participation.

Identified prospective coopera-
tor (Dr. Thomas Mahony) and
sent recruitment packet on
January 31.
                                                             None.
                                                        Remarks/comments
                                                        Replacement MSA for
                                                        Medford, OR.
                            None.
Replacement MSA for
Nedford, OR.
                            Contact Dr. Mahony the
                            week of February 5 to
                            answer questions and
                            request participation.
No other possibili-
ties 1n this MSA.

-------
                        NHATS TRIP REPORT
                                   Date of Visit  03-16-90	
                                   Cooperator Ohio State University
                                              Hospital (Columbus)
                                   NHATS Staff Kay Turman	
SUMMARY OF VISIT

I met with Scott Jewell, the replacement for Karen Donovan,in their
new  enlarged  facilities.   He  had familiarized  himself  with the
program, and we briefly discussed the purpose and operation of the
program.  He assured me that the people doing the collection will
continue.   Also,  he is enlisting the help  of  autopsy service to
collect more cases.  We went over the missing information, and he
requested  I  send  the PSRs  by  mail  and he  will  obtain  the
information and mail it to me.   Scott introduced  me to Teresa, one
of  the  contact people I  have  spoken  with on  the  phone.   Status
calls can be directed  to  Teresa or Scott.  They would like copies
of  results as they become available.
CONCLUSIONS

Collection is going well at this facility.   Involvement of autopsy
service'should permit them  to  fill the guota.  New contact person
appears very cooperative and willing to improve the collection at
his  facility.
 ACTION ITEMS
 Continue regular contact.  Send request for missing information on
 previously received PSRs to  Scott.
                                 D-10

-------
                                              &EPA
                     NEWSLETTER COVER
             NHATS
                National Human Adipose Tissue Survey
                 Newsletter
                    January 1990
Midwest Research Institute
425 Volker Boulevard
Kansas City, MO 64110
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
National Human Monitoring Program
Exposure Evaluation Division (TS-798)
Field Studies Branch
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20460
                            D-ll

-------
      EXAMPLE OF STATUS REPORT
National
Tiss
ue
  urvey
       FY88 Summary
       FY89 Outlook
                      S-EPA
             D-12

-------
O
I
                    Last Year

                  Fiscal Year 1988
     (October 1,1987 - September 30,1988)

      With 95% of shipments received ...
      approximately 70% of the FY88 goal has been
      achieved:
    60%
        83%
             73%
                  81%
                       68%
                            62%
                                 64%

                                      67%
                                           69%
                                                70%
Pacific Mountain  West
          North
West
South
East
North
                             East
                            South
South
Atlantic
Middle
Atlantic
 New
England
                                               Overall
             Central  Central  Central  Central
      With all 47 cities in the survey contributing...
      936 adipose tissue specimens have been
      received for research purposes.

      THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTION!
              This Year

             Fiscal Year 1989
(October 1,1988 - September 30,1989)


• With your help, the FY89 goal of 1377
  adipose tissue specimens can be achieved!

  Collection and shipment early in the fiscal
  year helps us to process the specimens more
  effectively and to identify and solve
  problem areas quickly.

    - Collect and ship at least 1/2 of your
     quota by March 31.

    - Use the Federal Express airbill supplied for
     shipping your adipose tissue specimens to
     Midwest Research Institute.

• Research Results Upcoming!
    Final analysis reports are  expected:

    - Comparing Vietnam veterans' adipose tissue levels
     of dioxins and furans with those of the U.S.
     population.

    - Summarizing baseline levels of pesticides, PCBs
     and other semi-volatile compounds in the FY 86
     specimens.

    ~ Summarizing baseline levels of dioxins and furans
     in the FY 87 specimens.

-------