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Tayyab M, Kazmi SSUH, Pastorino P, Saqib HSA, Yaseen ZM, Hanif MS, Islam W. Microplastics in agroecosystems: Soil-plant dynamics and effective remediation approaches. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142641. [PMID: 38906184 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Increasing microplastic (MP) pollution, primarily from anthropogenic sources such as plastic film mulching, waste degradation, and agricultural practices, has emerged as a pressing global environmental concern. This review examines the direct and indirect effects of MPs on crops, both in isolation and in conjunction with other contaminants, to elucidate their combined toxicological impacts. Organic fertilizers predominantly contain 78.6% blue, 9.5% black, and 8.3% red MPs, while irrigation water in agroecosystems contains 66.2% white, 15.4% blue, and 8.1% black MPs, ranging from 0-1 mm to 4-5 mm in size. We elucidate five pivotal insights: Firstly, soil MPs exhibit affinity towards crop roots, seeds, and vascular systems, impeding water and nutrient uptake. Secondly, MPs induce oxidative stress in crops, disrupting vital metabolic processes. Thirdly, leachates from MPs elicit cytotoxic and genotoxic responses in crops. Fourthly, MPs disrupt soil biotic and abiotic dynamics, influencing water and nutrient availability for crops. Lastly, the cumulative effects of MPs and co-existing contaminants in agricultural soils detrimentally affect crop yield. Thus, we advocate agronomic interventions as practical remedies. These include biochar input, application of growth regulators, substitution of plastic mulch with crop residues, promotion of biological degradation, and encouragement of crop diversification. However, the efficacy of these measures varies based on MP type and dosage. As MP volumes increase, exploring alternative mitigation strategies such as bio-based plastics and environmentally friendly biotechnological solutions is imperative. Recognizing the persistence of plastics, policymakers should enact legislation favoring the mitigation and substitution of non-degradable materials with bio-derived or compostable alternatives. This review demonstrates the urgent need for collective efforts to alleviate MP pollution and emphasizes sustainable interventions for agricultural ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tayyab
- Institute of Marine Sciences and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
| | - Syed Shabi Ul Hassan Kazmi
- Institute of Marine Sciences and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Paolo Pastorino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
| | - Hafiz Sohaib Ahmed Saqib
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yunnan, 666303, China
| | - Zaher Mundher Yaseen
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia; Interdisciplinary Research Center for Membranes and Water Security, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Sajid Hanif
- Center for Agricultural Resources Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Waqar Islam
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Desert Plant Roots Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China
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Mudigonda S, Atturu P, Dahms HU, Hwang JS, Wang CK. Evaluation of antibiofilm activity of metal oxides nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes coated styrofoam on the bacterium Jeotgalicoccus huakuii. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 259:121810. [PMID: 38830316 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
The co-existence of metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs), carbon-based nanomaterials and microplastics (MPs) in the natural environment are expected to be of growing global concern due to their increasing abundance and persistence in the environment worldwide. Knowledge of the interaction of the above compounds particularly under light irradiation in water remains limited. In the present study, the possible individual and combined toxic effects of MONPs, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) through styrofoam (SF) on the environmental bacterium Jeotaglicoccus huakuii were systematically investigated. The fabricated MONPs and CNTs were characterized using the following techniques: FT-IR (functional groups), XRD (crystallinity), SEM, and EDX (topological morphology). The objective of this study was to investigate and identify naturally occurring bacteria capable of mitigating and detoxifying toxic pollutants under adverse conditions. Moreover, the assessment of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was made through an agar well plate method, resazurin (ELISA measurement), growth kinetics and bacterial viability were assessed employing live and dead assay and biofilm combating ability was analyzed using an antibiofilm assay. Further, the biotransformation of f-MWCNTs by J. huakuii was evaluated employing RT-PCR and SEM analysis. The results demonstrated that the toxicity of Pb3O4@f-MWCNTs was comparatively higher than the remaining Pb3O4 NPs and SF coated NPs.. Interestingly, J. huakuii showed resistance against f-MWCNTs at very high concentrations and able to utilize f-MWCNTs as a sole carbon source suggesting J. huakuii as a suitable aquatic bioremediation tool for both MONPs and CNTs transfer via MPs. The results also enhanced our understanding of the affinity of MPs towards MONPs and CNTs under extreme environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunaina Mudigonda
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City 807, Taiwan; Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan
| | - Pavanchandh Atturu
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City 807, Taiwan
| | - Hans-Uwe Dahms
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan; Research Centre for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung City 804, Taiwan.
| | - Jiang-Shiou Hwang
- Institute of Marine Biology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 20224, Taiwan; Centre of Excellence for the Oceans, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 20224, Taiwan.
| | - Chih Kuang Wang
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City 807, Taiwan
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Ding J, He D, Du P, Wu J, Hu Q, Chen Q, Jiao X. Design Photocatalysts to Boost Carrier Dynamics in Plastics Photoconversion into Fuels. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:35865-35873. [PMID: 38970473 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c07664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Solar-driven plastics conversion into valuable fuels has attracted broad attention in recent years, which has enormous potential for plastics recycling in the future. However, it usually encounters low conversion efficiency, where one of the reasons is attributed to the poor carrier dynamics in the photocatalytic process. In this Perspective, we critically review the developed strategies, involving defect engineering, doping engineering, heterojunction engineering, and composite construction, for boosted carrier separation efficiency. In addition, we provide an outlook for more potential strategies to engineer catalysts for promoted carrier dynamics. Finally, we also propose prospects for the future research direction of plastics photoconversion into fuels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Ding
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Dongpo He
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Peijin Du
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Jiacong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Qinyuan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Qingxia Chen
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xingchen Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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Sucharitakul P, Wu WM, Zhang Y, Peng BY, Gao J, Wang L, Hou D. Exposure Pathways and Toxicity of Microplastics in Terrestrial Insects. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:11887-11900. [PMID: 38885123 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c02842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The detrimental effects of plastics on aquatic organisms, including those of macroplastics, microplastics, and nanoplastics, have been well established. However, knowledge on the interaction between plastics and terrestrial insects is limited. To develop effective strategies for mitigating the impact of plastic pollution on terrestrial ecosystems, it is necessary to understand the toxicity effects and influencing factors of plastic ingestion by insects. An overview of current knowledge regarding plastic ingestion by terrestrial insects is provided in this Review, and the factors influencing this interaction are identified. The pathways through which insects interact with plastics, which can lead to plastic accumulation and microplastic transfer to higher trophic levels, are also discussed using an overview and a conceptual model. The diverse impacts of plastic exposure on insects are discussed, and the challenges in existing studies, such as a limited focus on certain plastic types, are identified. Further research on standardized methods for sampling and analysis is crucial for reliable research, and long-term monitoring is essential to assess plastic trends and ecological impacts in terrestrial ecosystems. The mechanisms underlying these effects need to be uncovered, and their potential long-term consequences for insect populations and ecosystems require evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-4020, United States
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jing Gao
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Zhuang L, Zhang Y, Xue Y, Ren Y, He J, Sun H. Influence of ongoing discharge from multiple wastewater treatment plants on microplastic patterns in small-scale receiving rivers. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 932:172880. [PMID: 38692310 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
As widely acknowledged, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) stand as significant contributors to the presence of microplastics in surface water. Nonetheless, there exists a notable research gap regarding the extent of potential pollution resulting from the concurrent and uninterrupted discharges originating from multiple WWTPs into small-scale receiving water bodies. This study endeavors to address this knowledge deficit by conducting a thorough investigation into the prevalence of microplastics in surface water. The research encompasses seven distinct locations within the Changzhou section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal and the effluent of three WWTPs situated along the tributary. The results indicate differences in the distribution of microplastics in surface waters of mainstream and tributaries. While the microplastic abundance and composition showed little variation along the main stream, the tributaries displayed an overall increasing trend in microplastic abundance from upstream to downstream. Notably, the major contributors to this increase were fragments, fiber particles, and microplastics with particle sizes ranging from 100 to 300 μm. Considering that the primary distinction between the tributaries and the mainstream is the presence of the three WWTPs along the tributaries, the study conducted a correlation analysis between river surface water and effluents from these plants. The results indicated a stronger correlation between the tributaries and the effluents, suggesting that WWTPs are one of the primary factors contributing to the elevated levels of microplastics in the tributaries. Finally, a comparative analysis of microplastic abundance in the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal's Changzhou section and other regions was conducted. The findings revealed that the microplastic pollution level in the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal's Changzhou section is higher than that in most other rivers. Therefore, the issue of microplastic pollution in the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal's Changzhou section warrants our attention, particularly with regard to the effectiveness of microplastic removal by the WWTPs along its course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhuang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Yunian Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Yingang Xue
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China.
| | - Yanfang Ren
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Junyu He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Haohao Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China.
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Xiong Z, Zhang Y, Chen X, Sha A, Xiao W, Luo Y, Han J, Li Q. Soil Microplastic Pollution and Microbial Breeding Techniques for Green Degradation: A Review. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1147. [PMID: 38930528 PMCID: PMC11205638 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), found in many places around the world, are thought to be more detrimental than other forms of plastics. At present, physical, chemical, and biological methods are being used to break down MPs. Compared with physical and chemical methods, biodegradation methods have been extensively studied by scholars because of their advantages of greenness and sustainability. There have been numerous reports in recent years summarizing the microorganisms capable of degrading MPs. However, there is a noticeable absence of a systematic summary on the technology for breeding strains that can degrade MPs. This paper summarizes the strain-breeding technology of MP-degrading strains for the first time in a systematic way, which provides a new idea for the breeding of efficient MP-degrading strains. Meanwhile, potential techniques for breeding bacteria that can degrade MPs are proposed, providing a new direction for selecting and breeding MP-degrading bacteria in the future. In addition, this paper reviews the sources and pollution status of soil MPs, discusses the current challenges related to the biodegradation of MPs, and emphasizes the safety of MP biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jialiang Han
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025, Chengluo Avenue, Longquanyi District, Chengdu 610106, China; (Z.X.); (Y.Z.); (X.C.); (A.S.); (W.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Qiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025, Chengluo Avenue, Longquanyi District, Chengdu 610106, China; (Z.X.); (Y.Z.); (X.C.); (A.S.); (W.X.); (Y.L.)
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7
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Wang Q, Chen H, Gu W, Wang S, Li Y. Biodegradation of aged polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) microplastics by yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 927:172243. [PMID: 38582118 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Globally, over 287 million tons of plastic are disposed in landfills, rivers, and oceans or are burned every year. The results are devastating to our ecosystems, wildlife and human health. One promising remedy is the yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larvae), which has proved capable of degrading microplastics (MPs). This paper presents a new investigation into the biodegradation of aged polyethylene (PE) film and polystyrene (PS) foam by the Tenebrio molitor larvae. After a 35 - day feeding period, both pristine and aged MPs can be consumed by larvae. Even with some inhibitions in larvae growth due to the limited nutrient supply of aged MPs, when compared with pristine MPs, the aged MPs were depolymerized more efficiently in gut microbiota based on gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. With the change in surface chemical properties, the metabolic intermediates of aged MPs contained more oxygen-containing functional groups and shortened long-chain alkane, which was confirmed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). High-throughput sequencing revealed that the richness and diversity of gut microbes were restricted in the MPs-fed group. Although MPs had a negative effect on the relative abundance of the two dominant bacteria Enterococcaceae and Lactobacillaceae, the aged MPs may promote the relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae and Streptococcaceae. Redundancy analysis (RDA) further verified that the aged MPs are effectively biodegraded by yellow mealworm. This work provides new insights into insect-mediated mechanisms of aged MP degradation and promising strategies for MP sustainable and efficient solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongjie Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China.
| | - Huijuan Chen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Wanqing Gu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Shurui Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Yinghua Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
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Chamanee G, Sewwandi M, Wijesekara H, Vithanage M. Occurrence and abundance of microplastics and plasticizers in landfill leachate from open dumpsites in Sri Lanka. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 350:123944. [PMID: 38608854 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
This is the first attempt that investigate the abundance of plasticizers in leachate sediment in the scientific literature, alongside the debut effort to explore the abundance of microplastics and plasticizers in landfill leachate and sediment in Sri Lanka. Microplastics in sizes ranging from ≥2.0-5.0, ≥1.0-2.0, and ≥ 0.5-1.0 mm were extracted from the leachate draining from ten municipal solid waste open dump sites and sediment samples covering seven districts. Microplastics were extracted by density separation (Saturated ZnCl2) followed by wet peroxide digestion and the chemical identification was conducted by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. Plasticizers were extracted to hexane and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The total mean microplastic abundance in leachate was 2.06 ± 0.62 mg/L whereas it was 363 ± 111 mg/kg for leachate sediments. The most frequently found polymer type was polyethylene (>50%), and white color was dominant. The average concentration of bisphenol A (BPA), benzophenone (BP) and diethyl-hydrogen phthalate (DHEP) in leachate was 158 ± 84.4, 0.75 ± 0.16 and 170 ± 85.8 μg/L respectively. Furthermore, BP and DHEP in leachate sediment was 100 ± 68.3 and 1034 ± 455 μg/kg respectively. As landfill leachate is directly discharged into nearby surface and groundwater bodies that serve as sources of drinking water, the study highlights the potential concerns of microplastic and plasticizer exposure to the surrounding Sri Lankan community through consumption of contaminated drinking water. Therefore, there is a timely need of develop the effective waste management and pollution control measures to minimize the possible threats to both the environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Chamanee
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Centre, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka; Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, 70140, Sri Lanka
| | - Madushika Sewwandi
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Centre, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Hasintha Wijesekara
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, 70140, Sri Lanka
| | - Meththika Vithanage
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Centre, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka; Institute of Agriculture, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA6009, Australia.
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Ariga K, Song J, Kawakami K. Molecular machines working at interfaces: physics, chemistry, evolution and nanoarchitectonics. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:13532-13560. [PMID: 38654597 DOI: 10.1039/d4cp00724g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
As a post-nanotechnology concept, nanoarchitectonics combines nanotechnology with advanced materials science. Molecular machines made by assembling molecular units and their organizational bodies are also products of nanoarchitectonics. They can be regarded as the smallest functional materials. Originally, studies on molecular machines analyzed the average properties of objects dispersed in solution by spectroscopic methods. Researchers' playgrounds partially shifted to solid interfaces, because high-resolution observation of molecular machines is usually done on solid interfaces under high vacuum and cryogenic conditions. Additionally, to ensure the practical applicability of molecular machines, operation under ambient conditions is necessary. The latter conditions are met in dynamic interfacial environments such as the surface of water at room temperature. According to these backgrounds, this review summarizes the trends of molecular machines that continue to evolve under the concept of nanoarchitectonics in interfacial environments. Some recent examples of molecular machines in solution are briefly introduced first, which is followed by an overview of studies of molecular machines and similar supramolecular structures in various interfacial environments. The interfacial environments are classified into (i) solid interfaces, (ii) liquid interfaces, and (iii) various material and biological interfaces. Molecular machines are expanding their activities from the static environment of a solid interface to the more dynamic environment of a liquid interface. Molecular machines change their field of activity while maintaining their basic functions and induce the accumulation of individual molecular machines into macroscopic physical properties molecular machines through macroscopic mechanical motions can be employed to control molecular machines. Moreover, research on molecular machines is not limited to solid and liquid interfaces; interfaces with living organisms are also crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuhiko Ariga
- Research Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba 305-0044, Japan.
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa 277-8561, Japan
| | - Jingwen Song
- Research Center for Functional Materials, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba 305-0044, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kohsaku Kawakami
- Research Center for Functional Materials, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba 305-0044, Ibaraki, Japan
- Graduate School of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba 305-8577, Ibaraki, Japan
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10
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Ahmad MF, Fauzi MA, Ahmad MH, Wider W, Lee CK. Are we eating plastic? Science mapping of microplastic pollution in the aquatic food chain. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2024. [PMID: 38593234 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
This study evaluates the knowledge structure of microplastic pollution and its effects on the aquatic food chain. The presence of microplastics has seriously harmed the ecosystem. Through bibliometric analysis, 216 journal publications were retrieved from the Web of Science (WoS) from 2008 to 2023 (April), with no restriction in the time frame. Applying bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis, the emerging, current, and future themes of microplastic pollution are presented. Three research streams are derived from bibliographic coupling, centralized on the source of microplastic pollution and its impact. At the same time, research streams from co-word analysis are associated with overcoming the issue of microplastics in the ecosystem. This study's implications suggest three main principles to mitigate microplastic issues: (1) educating the public on the impact of microplastic pollution, (2) implementing holistic regulations and policies, and (3) developing treatment strategies through conventional, innovative, and hybrid approaches. Microplastic pollution is a global concern, requiring a holistic and comprehensive approach to overcome it. This review is the first to present a scientific mapping of the microplastics literature, which is a fundamental basis for future research on microplastic pollution and its impact on the ecosystem. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;00:1-12. © 2024 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Faizal Ahmad
- Faculty of Industrial Management, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Kuantan, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Ashraf Fauzi
- Faculty of Industrial Management, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Kuantan, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hanafiah Ahmad
- Faculty of Industrial Management, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Kuantan, Malaysia
| | - Walton Wider
- Faculty of Business and Communications, INTI International University, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Chia Kuang Lee
- Faculty of Industrial Management, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Kuantan, Malaysia
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11
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Jin M, Sun M, Liu J, Dong C, Xue J. Influence of operating parameters on the yield of micro-plastics from plastics incineration. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169347. [PMID: 38104822 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Plastics account for a large proportion of domestic waste. However, micro-plastics will be produced after the plastic is incinerated. The purpose of this study is to find out the change rule of micro-plastics produced during incineration under different conditions. Combining micro-FTIR and PCA algorithm is a good tool to identify the micro-plastics. The PE, PP and PVC micro-plastics are distinguished using PCA-FTIR spectra. The results show different incineration conditions significantly affect the output of micro-plastics. The yield of micro-plastics increases with increasing temperature for both PP and PVC. And the yield of micro-plastics decreases with the increase in flow rate. The maximum amount of micro-plastics is produced by PE, which is 6.62 × 103 after 1 g PE incineration. The yield of micro-plastics in the co-incineration of PE and PP, as well as PE and PVC, significantly increased to 1.42 and 1.89 times of the calculated values, respectively. The nano-particles are also observed. The FTIR and EDS results show that the nano-particles are the products of incineration of plastics, including partly CH bond and unburned carbon, tar and ash.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingnuo Jin
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, No.2 Beinong Road, Beijing 102206, PR China
| | - Mufei Sun
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, No.2 Beinong Road, Beijing 102206, PR China
| | - Jingyi Liu
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, No.2 Beinong Road, Beijing 102206, PR China
| | - Changqing Dong
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, No.2 Beinong Road, Beijing 102206, PR China
| | - Junjie Xue
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, No.2 Beinong Road, Beijing 102206, PR China.
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Khatoon N, Mallah MA, Yu Z, Qu Z, Ali M, Liu N. Recognition and detection technology for microplastic, its source and health effects. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:11428-11452. [PMID: 38183545 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31655-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) is ubiquitous in the environment which appeared as an immense intimidation to human and animal health. The plastic fragments significantly polluted the ocean, fresh water, food chain, and other food items. Inadequate maintenance, less knowledge of adverse influence along with inappropriate usage in addition throwing away of plastics items revolves present planet in to plastics planet. The present study aims to focus on the recognition and advance detection technologies for MPs and the adverse effects of micro- and nanoplastics on human health. MPs have rigorous adverse effect on human health that leads to condensed growth rates, lessened reproductive capability, ulcer, scrape, and oxidative nervous anxiety, in addition, also disturb circulatory and respiratory mechanism. The detection of MP particles has also placed emphasis on identification technologies such as scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, optical detection, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermo-analytical techniques, flow cytometry, holography, and hyperspectral imaging. It suggests that further research should be explored to understand the source, distribution, and health impacts and evaluate numerous detection methodologies for the MPs along with purification techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nafeesa Khatoon
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China
| | - Manthar Ali Mallah
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zengli Yu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Qu
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risk Assessment, School of Nursing, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China
| | - Mukhtiar Ali
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Quaid-E-Awam University of Engineering, Science and Technology (QUEST), Nawabshah, 67480, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Nan Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risk Assessment, School of Nursing, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China
- Health Science Center, South China Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
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13
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Sadia MR, Hasan M, Islam ARMT, Jion MMMF, Masud MAA, Rahman MN, Peu SD, Das A, Bari ABMM, Islam MS, Pal SC, Rakib MRJ, Senapathi V, Idris AM, Malafaia G. A review of microplastic threat mitigation in Asian lentic environments. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 260:104284. [PMID: 38101231 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2023.104284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution has evolved into a significant worldwide environmental concern due to its widespread sources, enduring presence, and adverse effects on lentic ecosystems and human well-being. The growing awareness of the hidden threat posed by MPs in lentic ecosystems has emphasized the need for more in-depth research. Unlike marine environments, there remain unanswered questions about MP hotspots, ecotoxic effects, transport mechanisms, and fragmentation in lentic ecosystems. The introduction of MPs represents a novel threat to long-term environmental health, posing unresolved challenges for sustainable management. While MP pollution in lentic ecosystems has garnered global attention due to its ecotoxicity, our understanding of MP hotspots in lakes from an Asian perspective remains limited. Hence, the aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis of MP hotspots, morphological attributes, ecotoxic impacts, sustainable solutions, and future challenges across Asia. The review summarizes the methods employed in previous studies and the techniques for sampling and analyzing microplastics in lake water and sediment. Notably, most studies concerning lake microplastics tend to follow the order of China > India > Pakistan > Nepal > Turkey > Bangladesh. Additionally, this review critically addresses the analysis of microplastics in lake water and sediment, shedding light on the prevalent net-based sampling methods. Ultimately, this study emphasizes the existing research gaps and suggests new research directions, taking into account recent advancements in the study of microplastics in lentic environments. In conclusion, the review advocates for sustainable interventions to mitigate MP pollution in the future, highlighting the presence of MPs in Asian lakes, water, and sediment, and their potential ecotoxicological repercussions on both the environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moriom Rahman Sadia
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Mehedi Hasan
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Reza Md Towfiqul Islam
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh; Department of Development Studies, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh.
| | | | - Md Abdullah Al Masud
- School of Architecture, Civil, Environmental, and Energy Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea.
| | - Md Naimur Rahman
- Center for Archaeological Studies, University of Liberal Arts, Bangladesh
| | - Susmita Datta Peu
- Department of Agriculture, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur 5200, Bangladesh
| | - Arnob Das
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, 6 Rajshahi, 6204, Bangladesh
| | - A B M Mainul Bari
- Department of Industrial and Production Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Saiful Islam
- Department of Soil Science, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Dumki, Patuakhali 8602, Bangladesh
| | - Subodh Chandra Pal
- Department of Geography, The University of Burdwan, Bardhaman 713104, West Bengal, India
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | | | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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14
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Chandrakanthan K, Fraser MP, Herckes P. Microplastics are ubiquitous and increasing in soil of a sprawling urban area, Phoenix (Arizona). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167617. [PMID: 37804992 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are environmental contaminants that have been extensively studied in marine and aquatic environments; terrestrial ecosystems, where most microplastics originate and have the potential to accumulate, typically receive less attention. This study aims to investigate the spatial and temporal soil concentrations of microplastics in a large desert metropolitan area, the Central Arizona-Phoenix Long-Term Ecological Research (CAP-LTER) area. Soil samples from the Ecological Survey of Central Arizona (ESCA) surveys (2005 and 2015) were leveraged to study spatial distributions and the temporal change of microplastic abundances. The temporal soil microplastics data were supplemented by microplastics deposition fluxes in a central location within the area (Tempe, AZ) for a period of one year (Oct 5th, 2020 to Sept 22nd, 2021). Samples were processed and microplastics were counted under an optical microscope to obtain quantitative information of their distribution in soil. Results for the spatial variation of the microplastic abundances in soil samples in Phoenix and the surrounding areas of the Sonoran Desert from 2015 depict microplastics as ubiquitous and abundant in soils (122 to 1299 microplastics/kg) with no clear trends between different locations. Microplastics deposition fluxes show substantial deposition in the local area (71 to 389 microplastics/m2/day with an average deposition flux of 178 microplastics/m2/day) but the role of resuspension and redistribution by dust storms to deposition may contribute to the unclear spatial trends. Comparison between the 2005 and 2015 surveys show a systematic increase in the abundance of microplastics and a decrease in microplastics size. Micro-Raman spectroscopy identified a variety of plastics including PE, PS, PVC, PA, PES and PP. However, a majority of microplastics remained chemically unidentifiable. Polyethylene was present in 75 % of the sampling sites and was the most abundant polymer on average in all soil samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew P Fraser
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States
| | - Pierre Herckes
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States.
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Xu J, Zuo R, Shang J, Wu G, Dong Y, Zheng S, Xu Z, Liu J, Xu Y, Wu Z, Huang C. Nano- and micro-plastic transport in soil and groundwater environments: Sources, behaviors, theories, and models. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166641. [PMID: 37647954 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing use of plastics, nano- and micro-plastic (NMP) pollution has become a hot topic in the scientific community. Ubiquitous NMPs, as emerging contaminants, are becoming a global issue owing to their persistence and potential toxicity. Compared with studies of marine and freshwater environments, investigations into the sources, transport properties, and fate of NMPs in soil and groundwater environments remain at a primary stage. Hence, the promotion of such research is critically important. Here, we integrate existing information and recent advancements to compile a comprehensive evaluation of the sources and transport properties of NMPs in soil and groundwater environments. We first provide a systematic description of the various sources and transport behaviors of NMPs. We then discuss the theories (e.g., clean-bed filtration and Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek theories) and models (e.g., single-site and dual-site kinetic retention and transport models) of NMP transport through saturated porous media. Finally, we outline the potential limitations of current research and suggest directions for future research. Overall, this review intends to assimilate and outline current knowledge and provide a useful reference frame to determine the sources and transport properties of NMPs in soil and groundwater environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Rui Zuo
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Jinhua Shang
- Jinan Rail Transit Group Co., Ltd, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Guanlan Wu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Yanan Dong
- Jinan Rail Transit Group Co., Ltd, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Shida Zheng
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Zuorong Xu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Jingchao Liu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yunxiang Xu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Ziyi Wu
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Chenxi Huang
- College of Water Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Engineering Research Center of Groundwater Pollution Control and Remediation, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100875, China
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Athulya PA, Sunil Z, Manzo S, Chandrasekaran N. Prepared microplastics interaction with Artemia salina under low pH conditions representing ocean acidification; a simulated environmental exposure. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119367. [PMID: 37871546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Ocean acidification and microplastic pollution are two of the major ecological concerns. The distribution of large quantities of plastic debris and microplastics all across the oceans emphasises the need to determine the influence of microplastics in ocean acidification and to evaluate its concomitant toxicological effects on aquatic life forms. Studies on the combined impact of both the stressors are very limited, but much needed in the current scenario. Where most of the present-day research use purchased microplastics of defined size and morphology (microspheres, fibres, rods, etc.), the present study employs prepared "true to life microplastics" that resemble the environmental microplastic pollutants in morphology and size heterogeneity. The present study focusses on evaluating the fate and impact of oceanic microplastics on the physiology and development of Artemia salina (Brine shrimp), one among the most ecologically significant zooplankton species. Natural sea water was acidified by controlled perturbation of carbon dioxide using a valve system. The hatching rate of A. salina cysts receded significantly (p < 0.05) upon singular exposures to microplastics and low pH (7.80), whereas combined effect was insignificant. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) elevated as a result of individual exposures to microplastics and low pH. However, only in 0.5 mg mL-1 PE treatments at pH 7.80, an additive impact was reported for ROS activity (p < 0.05). The SOD activities increased significantly but it can be attributed as the individual responses towards exposure to both the stressors. A significant additive impact was not observed for SOD activity (p > 0.05). But during the development, significant morphological anomalies were observed. Changes in the appendages of nauplii and juveniles as a result of combined exposure to microplastics and low pH treatments are significant findings. Our observations suggest that coupled exposure to microplastics and low pH could induce significant oxidative stress in the marine zooplanktons and also adversely affect their normal development. Findings from the current study emphasise the need for further research to understand the coupled toxicological impacts of ocean acidification and predominant pollutants such as microplastics to other marine animals as well.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zachariah Sunil
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Sonia Manzo
- ENEA Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Centro Ricerche Portici, 800055, Portici, Italy
| | - Natarajan Chandrasekaran
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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Ahmed M, Phukan B, Talukdar A, Ahmed I, Sarma J, Ali A, Gogoi R, Borah K, Xavier M. Assessment of microplastic contamination in the gastrointestinal tracts of indigenous fishes from north eastern hill regions of Bhogdoi, a tributary of River Brahmaputra, India. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:121124-121137. [PMID: 37950117 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30821-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution in freshwater environments has drawn considerable attention over the decades due to the risk posed by MPs to the aquatic fauna and human health. In this study, the occurrence of MPs was assessed from the gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) of indigenous fishes from Bhogdoi River, a tributary of River Brahmaputra, northeast hill region, Assam, India. All the fish species (n = 180) analysed showed 100% occurrence of MPs sampled from three stations of River Bhogdoi. A total of 488 microplastic particles were recorded from GIT of fishes collected. The mean abundance of MPs was highest in Station-II (7.64 ± 2.77 numbers individual-1) with lowest in S-I (3.17 ± 0.99 numbers individual-1). The MP size of 100-500 μm, MP shape of fibre (43.33%) and fragments (35.33%), blue colour MPs (26-37%) and polymer type PA (23-30%) were most prevalent in fishes analysed from River Bhogdoi. The mean abundance of MPs was higher in herbivore fishes (8.52 ± 1.22 numbers individual-1) as compared to carnivorous and omnivorous fish species with highest abundance in Labeo rohita (12.11 ± 2.13 numbers individual-1). Fibre and fragments with size range of 100-500 μm were dominant among all the feeding habits. Blue and black colour MPs were abundant among herbivore and carnivore fishes. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results confirmed that polyamide and polypropylene were the most abundant MP polymer in the fishes analysed. The present study provides baseline information of MPs in River Bhogdoi, Assam, for its future monitoring and assessment of contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ahmed
- Department of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Assam, 782103, India
| | - Bipul Phukan
- Department of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Assam, 782103, India.
| | - Avinash Talukdar
- Department of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Assam, 782103, India
| | - Imtiaz Ahmed
- Department of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Assam, 782103, India
| | - Jiten Sarma
- Department of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Assam, 782103, India
| | - Ayub Ali
- Department of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Assam, 782103, India
| | - Rinku Gogoi
- Department of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Assam, 782103, India
| | - Kankana Borah
- Department of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Assam, 782103, India
| | - Martin Xavier
- Department of Quality Assurance and Management, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Coachin-682029, Kerala, India
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18
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Zuo L, Li Y, Hou W, Wang F, Feng Y, Zhang Z. Leaching of triphenyl phosphate and tri-n-butyl phosphate from polystyrene microplastics: influence of plastic properties and simulated digestive fluids. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:114659-114666. [PMID: 37821736 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30229-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have gained considerable attention as a growing environmental problem owing to their potential to serve as vectors for harmful chemicals. However, the leaching of these chemicals from microplastics is unclear. In this study, we investigated the leaching of two organophosphate flame retardants, triphenyl phosphate and tri-n-butyl phosphate, from polystyrene microplastics in simulated digestive fluids and water, and polypropylene microplastics were simultaneously used for comparison with polystyrene microplastics. The results indicated that the first-order kinetic model best explained the leaching process, suggesting that leaching was related to the release of organophosphate flame retardant molecules at the polymer surface. Additionally, the size and crystalline state of the microplastics had a significant effect on the leaching, whereas organophosphate flame retardant content had a minimal impact. Simulated digestive fluids facilitated the leaching to a different extent, and under these influencing conditions, leaching percentages from polystyrene microplastics did not exceed 0.51%. Therefore, leaching from PS microplastics may not be an important source of OPFRs in the environment. However, the release of organophosphate flame retardants can be considerably enhanced with the breakdown of polystyrene microplastics to polystyrene nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linzi Zuo
- Analysis and Test Center, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yulin Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Waner Hou
- Analysis and Test Center, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Analysis and Test Center, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yiping Feng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zongyao Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Water and Air Pollution Control, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
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19
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Kim JY, Youn DH. Nanomaterials for Advanced Photocatalytic Plastic Conversion. Molecules 2023; 28:6502. [PMID: 37764278 PMCID: PMC10536819 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28186502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As the disposal of waste plastic emerges as a societal problem, photocatalytic waste plastic conversion is attracting significant attention. Ultimately, for a sustainable future, the development of an eco-friendly plastic conversion technology is essential for breaking away from the current plastic use environment. Compared to conventional methods, photocatalysis can be a more environmentally friendly option for waste plastic reprocessing because it uses sunlight as an energy source under ambient temperature and pressure. In addition to this, waste plastics can be upcycled (i.e., converted into useful chemicals or fuels) to enhance their original value via photocatalytic methods. Among various strategies for improving the efficiency of the photocatalytic method, nanomaterials have played a pivotal role in suppressing charge recombination. Hence, in recent years, attempts have been made to introduce nanomaterials/nanostructures into photocatalytic plastic conversion on the basis of advances in material-based studies using simple photocatalysts. In line with this trend, the present review examines the nanomaterials/nanostructures that have been recently developed for photocatalytic plastic conversion and discusses the direction of future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Young Kim
- Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Duck Hyun Youn
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Department of Integrative Engineering for Hydrogen Safety, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
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20
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Jia L, Liu L, Zhang Y, Fu W, Liu X, Wang Q, Tanveer M, Huang L. Microplastic stress in plants: effects on plant growth and their remediations. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1226484. [PMID: 37636098 PMCID: PMC10452891 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1226484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is becoming a global problem due to the resilience, long-term persistence, and robustness of MPs in different ecosystems. In terrestrial ecosystems, plants are exposed to MP stress, thereby affecting overall plant growth and development. This review article has critically analyzed the effects of MP stress in plants. We found that MP stress-induced reduction in plant physical growth is accompanied by two complementary effects: (i) blockage of pores in seed coat or roots to alter water and nutrient uptake, and (ii) induction of drought due to increased soil cracking effects of MPs. Nonetheless, the reduction in physiological growth under MP stress is accompanied by four complementary effects: (i) excessive production of ROS, (ii) alteration in leaf and root ionome, (iii) impaired hormonal regulation, and (iv) decline in chlorophyll and photosynthesis. Considering that, we suggested that targeting the redox regulatory mechanisms could be beneficial in improving tolerance to MPs in plants; however, antioxidant activities are highly dependent on plant species, plant tissue, MP type, and MP dose. MP stress also indirectly reduces plant growth by altering soil productivity. However, MP-induced negative effects vary due to the presence of different surface functional groups and particle sizes. In the end, we suggested the utilization of agronomic approaches, including the application of growth regulators, biochar, and replacing plastic mulch with crop residues, crop diversification, and biological degradation, to ameliorate the effects of MP stress in plants. The efficiency of these methods is also MP-type-specific and dose-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Jia
- College of Food and Drug, Luoyang Normal University, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Lining Liu
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Wenxuan Fu
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Xing Liu
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Mohsin Tanveer
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Liping Huang
- International Research Center for Environmental Membrane Biology, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
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21
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Astner AF, Gillmore AB, Yu Y, Flury M, DeBruyn JM, Schaeffer SM, Hayes DG. Formation, behavior, properties and impact of micro- and nanoplastics on agricultural soil ecosystems (A Review). NANOIMPACT 2023; 31:100474. [PMID: 37419450 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2023.100474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Micro and nanoplastics (MPs and NPs, respectively) in agricultural soil ecosystems represent a pervasive global environmental concern, posing risks to soil biota, hence soil health and food security. This review provides a comprehensive and current summary of the literature on sources and properties of MNPs in agricultural ecosystems, methodology for the isolation and characterization of MNPs recovered from soil, MNP surrogate materials that mimic the size and properties of soil-borne MNPs, and transport of MNPs through the soil matrix. Furthermore, this review elucidates the impacts and risks of agricultural MNPs on crops and soil microorganisms and fauna. A significant source of MPs in soil is plasticulture, involving the use of mulch films and other plastic-based implements to provide several agronomic benefits for specialty crop production, while other sources of MPs include irrigation water and fertilizer. Long-term studies are needed to address current knowledge gaps of formation, soil surface and subsurface transport, and environmental impacts of MNPs, including for MNPs derived from biodegradable mulch films, which, although ultimately undergoing complete mineralization, will reside in soil for several months. Because of the complexity and variability of agricultural soil ecosystems and the difficulty in recovering MNPs from soil, a deeper understanding is needed for the fundamental relationships between MPs, NPs, soil biota and microbiota, including ecotoxicological effects of MNPs on earthworms, soil-dwelling invertebrates, and beneficial soil microorganisms, and soil geochemical attributes. In addition, the geometry, size distribution, fundamental and chemical properties, and concentration of MNPs contained in soils are required to develop surrogate MNP reference materials that can be used across laboratories for conducting fundamental laboratory studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton F Astner
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Alexis B Gillmore
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Yingxue Yu
- Department of Crops and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, and Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Markus Flury
- Department of Crops and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, and Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Sean M Schaeffer
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Douglas G Hayes
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America.
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22
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Wang X, Zhu Z, Jiang J, Li R, Xiong J. Preparation of heterojunction C 3N 4/WO 3 photocatalyst for degradation of microplastics in water. CHEMOSPHERE 2023:139206. [PMID: 37315863 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a WO3/g-C3N4 composite photocatalyst was synthesized via a hydrothermal method and characterized for its potential application in photocatalytic H2 generation from PET degradation. XRD analysis revealed that the hexagonal WO3 crystal structure was achieved after 10 h of hydrothermal time, with particles of suitable size for uniform loading on the g-C3N4 surface. SEM images showed the successful loading of WO3 nanorods onto the g-C3N4 surface, significantly increasing the specific surface area. FTIR and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy confirmed the formation of a Z-type heterojunction between WO3 and g-C3N4. Photoluminescence measurements indicated a reduced rate of electron-hole pair recombination in the composite. The 30% WO3/g-C3N4 composite demonstrated a high H2 evolution rate of 14.21 mM and excellent stability in PET solution under visible light irradiation. 1H NMR and EPR spectroscopy analyses revealed the degradation of PET into small molecular compounds and the generation of active radicals, including ·O2-, during the reaction. Overall, the WO3/g-C3N4 composite exhibited promising potential for photocatalytic H2 production and PET degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wang
- College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Wanzhou, 404100, Chongqing, China.
| | - Zhihao Zhu
- College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Wanzhou, 404100, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinwei Jiang
- College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Wanzhou, 404100, Chongqing, China
| | - Ruiling Li
- College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Wanzhou, 404100, Chongqing, China
| | - Junjie Xiong
- College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Wanzhou, 404100, Chongqing, China
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23
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Yang M, Tian X, Guo Z, Chang C, Li J, Guo Z, Li H, Liu R, Wang R, Li Q, Zou X. Wind erosion induced low-density microplastics migration at landscape scale in a semi-arid region of northern China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 871:162068. [PMID: 36754315 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been extensively investigated in terrestrial environments, while the occurrence and movement of MPs at the landscape scale in semi-arid regions with serious wind erosion are less well studied. Here, we sampled film mulching farmland and downwind nearby grassland surface soils in a semi-arid region of northern China to explore the distribution of MPs at different downwind distances and the potential environmental risk to the local landscapes. The results revealed that the MP abundances presented a decreasing trend with increasing downwind distance (Mann-Kendall test, P < 0.01). The MP size distributions at different distances showed similar sigmoid trends described by logistic models. MP fiber size (500-2000 μm) abundance in the farmland was higher than that of the grassland. By contrast, MP non-fiber size (<1000 μm) abundance of farmlands was less than that of the grassland. The abundances of fibers larger than 500 μm and non-fibers larger than 1000 μm in size decreased exponentially with increasing downwind distance. The size of transported MPs at the landscape scale was larger than that of long-distance dispersal. The migration of MPs from farmlands can pose a potential threat to the downwind landscape, leading the downwind grassland to be a potential MP emission source. This study presents the first insights into the MPs distribution among different downwind distances at the landscape scale. Future research is required to deploy aeolian sediment sampling devices and establish the connection between the field data and the MP emission models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiniu Yang
- School of Geographical Sciences/Hebei Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Ecological Construction/Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Remote Sensing Identification of Environmental Change, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Xia Tian
- School of Geographical Sciences/Hebei Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Ecological Construction/Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Remote Sensing Identification of Environmental Change, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Zhongling Guo
- School of Geographical Sciences/Hebei Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Ecological Construction/Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Remote Sensing Identification of Environmental Change, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China.
| | - Chunping Chang
- School of Geographical Sciences/Hebei Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Ecological Construction/Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Remote Sensing Identification of Environmental Change, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China.
| | - Jifeng Li
- School of Geographical Sciences/Hebei Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Ecological Construction/Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Remote Sensing Identification of Environmental Change, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Zixiao Guo
- School of Geographical Sciences/Hebei Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Ecological Construction/Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Remote Sensing Identification of Environmental Change, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Huiru Li
- School of Geographical Sciences/Hebei Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Ecological Construction/Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Remote Sensing Identification of Environmental Change, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Ruijuan Liu
- School of Geographical Sciences/Hebei Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Ecological Construction/Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Remote Sensing Identification of Environmental Change, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Rende Wang
- Institute of Geographical Sciences, Hebei Academy Sciences/Hebei Engineering Research Center for Geographic Information Application, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, China
| | - Qing Li
- Institute of Geographical Sciences, Hebei Academy Sciences/Hebei Engineering Research Center for Geographic Information Application, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, China
| | - Xueyong Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, MOE Engineering Center of Desertification and Blown-sand Control, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
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24
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He J, Chen S, Xu Y, Sun M, Yang T, Liang L, Xiong X. Reduced adsorption of norfloxacin on UV aging microplastics in anoxic environment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:67174-67186. [PMID: 37103693 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26771-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Over recent years, much attention has been paid to aging problem of microplastics and adsorption behavior of antibiotic on microplastics. In this study, four microplastics, including polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA) and polyethylene (PE), were photoaged by UV light in anoxic environment. The surface characteristics of microplastics and adsorption behavior of norfloxacin (NOR) on microplastics were investigated. Results indicated that the specific surface area and crystallinity increased, and hydrophobicity weakened of microplastics after UV aging. The content of C element decreased and the content of O barely changed in the aged microplastics. In addition, the adsorption of NOR on microplastics yielded a better fitness for the pseudo-second-order kinetics, Langmuir and Freundlich models. The adsorption capacities of NOR on PS, PA, PP, and PE at 288 K were 16.01, 15.12, 14.03, and 13.26 mg·g-1, respectively, while the adsorption capacities of NOR on aged microplastics were reduced to 14.20, 14.19, 11.50, and 10.36 mg·g-1, respectively, due to decrease of hydrophobicity and increase of crystallinity of microplastics after UV aging. The adsorption of NOR on microplastics decreased with the increase of temperature, implying the adsorption process was exothermic. Adsorption mechanism analysis showed that Van der Waals force was the main influential mechanism of the adsorption of NOR on PP and PE, and hydrogen bond was the main factor affecting the adsorption of NOR on PA, while the π-π interaction was the main mechanism impacting the adsorption of NOR on PS. Aging time and salinity significantly affect the adsorption of NOR on microplastics. With the increase of humic acid concentration and pH, the adsorption of NOR on microplastics first reduced and then rose. This study provides a basis for further clarifying the mechanism of UV aging microplastics and a reference for the study of combined pollution behavior of microplastics and antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing He
- School of Environment and Resource, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China.
- Tianfu Institute of Research and Innovation, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Chengdu, 610299, China.
| | - Sijia Chen
- School of Environment and Resource, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Yulin Xu
- School of Environment and Resource, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Mengxin Sun
- School of Environment and Resource, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Tingting Yang
- School of Environment and Resource, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Li Liang
- School of Environment and Resource, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Xinyu Xiong
- Mianyang Zhongke Miantou Environmental Service Co., Ltd., Mianyang, 621010, China
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25
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Astner AF, Hayes DG, O'Neill H, Evans BR, Pingali SV, Urban VS, Schaeffer SM, Young TM. Assessment of cryogenic pretreatment for simulating environmental weathering in the formation of surrogate micro- and nanoplastics from agricultural mulch film. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 870:161867. [PMID: 36716885 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) from mulch films and other plastic materials employed in vegetable and small fruit production pose a major threat to agricultural ecosystems. For conducting controlled studies on MPs' and NPs' (MNPs') ecotoxicity to soil organisms and plants and fate and transport in soil, surrogate MNPs are required that mimic MNPs that form in agricultural fields. We have developed a procedure to prepare MPs from plastic films or pellets using mechanical milling and sieving, and conversion of the resultant MPs into NPs through wet grinding, both steps of which mimic the degradation and fragmentation of plastics in nature. The major goal of this study was to determine if cryogenic exposure of two biodegradable mulch films effectively mimics the embrittlement caused by environmental weathering in terms of the dimensional, thermal, chemical, and biodegradability properties of the formed MNPs. We found differences in size, surface charge, thermal and chemical properties, and biodegradability in soil between MNPs prepared from cryogenically treated vs. environmentally weathered films, related to the photochemical reactions occurring in the environment that were not mimicked by cryogenic treatment, such as depolymerization and cross-link formation. We also investigated the size reduction process for NPs and found that the size distribution was bimodal, with populations centered at 50 nm and 150-300 nm, and as the size reduction process progressed, the former subpopulation's proportion increased. The biodegradability of MPs in soil was greater than for NPs, a counter-intuitive trend since greater surface area exposure for NPs would increase biodegradability. The result isassociated with differences in surface and chemical properties and to minor components that are readily leached out during the formation of NPs. In summary, the use of weathered plastics as feedstock would likely produce MNPs that are more realistic than cryogenically-treated unweathered films for use in experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F Astner
- The University of Tennessee, Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, 2506 E J. Chapman Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States of America
| | - D G Hayes
- The University of Tennessee, Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, 2506 E J. Chapman Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States of America.
| | - H O'Neill
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, United States of America
| | - B R Evans
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, United States of America
| | - S V Pingali
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, United States of America
| | - V S Urban
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, United States of America
| | - S M Schaeffer
- The University of Tennessee, Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, 2506 E J. Chapman Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States of America
| | - T M Young
- The University of Tennessee, School of Natural Resources, 2505 E.J. Chapman Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States of America
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26
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Li Y, Guo M, Niu S, Shang M, Chang X, Sun Z, Zhang R, Shen X, Xue Y. ROS and DRP1 interactions accelerate the mitochondrial injury induced by polystyrene nanoplastics in human liver HepG2 cells. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 379:110502. [PMID: 37084995 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have become a serious environmental pollutant and subsequently have harmful effects on human health. Thus, the impacts of microplastics on human cells need to be explored. In the present study, the cytotoxic effects at the subcellular-organelle levels to polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, diameter 21.5 ± 2.7 nm) were investigated in the human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell line. The cell viability exposed to PS-NPs at the concentrations of 6.25, 12.5, 25 and 50 μg/mL for 24 h diminished in a concentration-dependent manner. The PS-NPs treatment induced mitochondrial injuries, including morphological changes, decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potentials (MMP). The PS-NPs treatment could further spark cell apoptosis by upregulating caspase 3, caspase 9, cytochrome c, and Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax)/B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) in HepG2 cells, which is related to the mitochondrial dysfunction. PS-NPs exposure stimulated the excessive cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and also induced mitochondrial fission by upregulating dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) and P-DRP1, but downregulating optic atrophy protein 1 (OPA1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1alpha (PGC-1α) expression levels. The above effects on mitochondria damage induced by PS-NPs were reversed by the pretreatment of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), mitochondrial division inhibitor 1 (Mdivi-1) and DRP1 siRNA. The results suggested that the interaction between ROS and DRP1-dependent mitochondrial division could promote mitochondrial lesions and mitochondria-related apoptosis caused by PS-NPs. These findings on molecular mechanisms provide a theoretical basis for preventing the hazards caused by microplastics to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjing Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Menghao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Shuyan Niu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Mengting Shang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Xiaoru Chang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Zuoyi Sun
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Xin Shen
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Yuying Xue
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China.
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27
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Lu Q, Zhou Y, Sui Q, Zhou Y. Mechanism and characterization of microplastic aging process: A review. FRONTIERS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2023; 17:100. [PMID: 36935734 PMCID: PMC10010843 DOI: 10.1007/s11783-023-1700-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing production of petroleum-based plastics, the problem of environmental pollution caused by plastics has aroused widespread concern. Microplastics, which are formed by the fragmentation of macro plastics, are bio-accumulate easily due to their small size and slow degradation under natural conditions. The aging of plastics is an inevitable process for their degradation and enhancement of adsorption performance toward pollutants due to a series of changes in their physiochemical properties, which significantly increase the toxicity and harm of plastics. Therefore, studies should focus on the aging process of microplastics through reasonable characterization methods to promote the aging process and prevent white pollution. This review summarizes the latest progress in natural aging process and characterization methods to determine the natural aging mechanism of microplastics. In addition, recent advances in the artificial aging of microplastic pollutants are reviewed. The degradation status and by-products of biodegradable plastics in the natural environment and whether they can truly solve the plastic pollution problem have been discussed. Findings from the literature pointed out that the aging process of microplastics lacks professional and exclusive characterization methods, which include qualitative and quantitative analyses. To lessen the toxicity of microplastics in the environment, future research directions have been suggested based on existing problems in the current research. This review could provide a systematic reference for in-depth exploration of the aging mechanism and behavior of microplastics in natural and artificial systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinwei Lu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
| | - Yi Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
| | - Qian Sui
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
| | - Yanbo Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
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28
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Wang W, Guan J, Feng Y, Nie L, Xu Y, Xu H, Fu F. Polystyrene microplastics induced nephrotoxicity associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and endoplasmic reticulum stress in juvenile rats. Front Nutr 2023; 9:1059660. [PMID: 36687698 PMCID: PMC9853403 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1059660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Unintended intake of microplastic particles has been demonstrated to exert adverse health effects, however, studies on relevant nephrotoxicity in juvenile mammals are lacking. Methods Therefore, we investigated the potential nephrotoxicity of oral-exposed polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs) (1,000 nm, 2.0 mg/kg/d) for 28 days in juvenile rats. Levels of oxidative stress, inflammation, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in kidneys were analyzed. Results and discussion Results revealed that PSMPs noticeably decreased the growth rate of bodyweight, and organ index of the kidney, cardiac, and ovary. The intestinal injury caused by PSMPs exposure was also observed, which was distinctly alleviated with N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and Salubrinal (Sal) treatment compared with the single PSMPs group. PSMPs caused histological lesions of the kidney via disrupting the serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (CRE), and pro-inflammatory mediators IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Furthermore, PSMPs exposure induced ER stress and inflammation presumably potentially mediated by oxidative stress in kidneys of rats. Eventually, PSMPs also promoted renal cells apoptosis, manifested as an obvious increase in the number of positive cells for the dUTP nick end labeling of Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase, which also can be confirmed by the elevated expression of genes associated with apoptosis Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-12, Caspase-9, Caspase-3, and IHC score of Caspase-12 in the PSMPs group. Supplementation of NAC and Sal not only ameliorated the PSMPs-induced oxidative stress and ER stress but also the inflammation and apoptosis in the kidney. Collectively, this study suggested that PSMPs caused nephrotoxicity in juvenile rats potentially through oxidative damage and ER stress, which call for greater efforts to be taken on regulating the PSMPs ingestion in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanzhen Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China,State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jiafu Guan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yueying Feng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China,State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Liju Nie
- Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China,State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Hengyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China,*Correspondence: Hengyi Xu, ,
| | - Fen Fu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China,Fen Fu,
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