A method that may distinguish between input of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) from petroleum and combustion sources is demonstrated on sediment samples.Selected series of aromatics (unsubstituted compounds and their C^-Cs alkyl homologues) are quantified by computerized GC/MS. The alkyl homologue distribution (AHD) within each series and the sum of components in each series relative to the sum of all components measured (relative amount of each aromatic series (RAA)) are graphically visualized. In combination these parameters give a first-order indication of the PAH source. Pyrene/fluoranthene AHD series appear to be especially sensitive as an indicator for detecting PAH from combustion sources. Interestingly the dibenzothiophene AHD series does not discriminate between crude oil and soot samples. The method is demonstrated on sediments from the North Sea and from Norwegian and Swedish fjords.

1. The metabolism of 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)butan-2-one(raspberry ketone) was studied in rats, guinea-pigs and rabbits. 2. Following intragastric dosage (1 mmol/kg) urinary metabolite excretion was nearly complete within 24 h, amounting to roughly 90% of the dose in all species. 3. The most prominent urinary metabolites were raspberry ketone and its corresponding carbinol, both largely conjugated with glucuronic acid and/or sulphate. The extent of ketone reduction was greatest in rabbits. 4. Oxidative metabolism included ring hydroxylation and side-chain oxidation. The latter pathway led to 1,2- and 2,3-diol derivatives. It is proposed that the latter undergo cleavage to furnish the C6-C3 and C6-C2 derivatives detected.

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