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Foglia A, Pittura L, Vivani V, Sgroi M, De Simoni L, Eusebi AL, Gorbi S, Regoli F, Fatone F. Microplastics in urban water cycles: Looking for a more scientific approach for sampling and characterization in wastewater and drinking water treatment plants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 952:175919. [PMID: 39226968 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175919] [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: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Specific campaigns to detect microplastics (MPs) in the urban water cycle were carried out in three drinking water plants and two wastewater treatment plants. A self-designed sampler for MPs detection in water matrices was in this study preliminary validated and then tested in long term campaigns sampling up to 1000 L. Raw drinking water and wastewater show microplastics (MPs) concentrations of 2-11 and of 480-801 MPs/m3, respectively, and MPs removals of 47-78 % and of 84-98 %, correspondingly. Specific roles of chemical and physical conventional processes in microplastics removals were investigated. Solid-liquid separation, flotation and filtration are the main processes for achieving high microplastics removal. Regarding concentrated matrices, MPs concentrations in sludge samples varied in the range of 5000-500,000 MPs/m3. Finally, shapes, size classes and polymers' typologies were investigated in the extracted MPs. The detected sizes are mainly 0.5-0.1 mm in drinking waters while 5-1 mm in wastewaters. Wastewaters were predominated by synthetic fibers (polyester type), while drinking waters were mainly characterized by fragments and the fibers were mostly of natural origin. Finally, the results of this study supported best practices and guidelines for a representative assessment of MPs in water (sampling methods, extraction procedures, characterization and quantification).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Foglia
- Department of Science and Engineering of Materials, Environment and Urban Planning-SIMAU, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Lucia Pittura
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Veronica Vivani
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Sgroi
- Department of Science and Engineering of Materials, Environment and Urban Planning-SIMAU, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Lucia De Simoni
- Department of Science and Engineering of Materials, Environment and Urban Planning-SIMAU, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Eusebi
- Department of Science and Engineering of Materials, Environment and Urban Planning-SIMAU, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Stefania Gorbi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Francesco Regoli
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Fatone
- Department of Science and Engineering of Materials, Environment and Urban Planning-SIMAU, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
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2
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Schiano ME, D'Auria LJ, D'Auria R, Seccia S, Rofrano G, Signorelli D, Sansone D, Caprio E, Albrizio S, Cocca M. Microplastic contamination in the agri-food chain: The case of honeybees and beehive products. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174698. [PMID: 38997016 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174698] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, MPs, plastic fragments with a dimension lower than 5 mm, and microfibers, MFs, synthetic and natural/artificial fibrous fragments with a diameter lower than 50 μm, are ubiquitous pollutants identified in different environmental compartments. In this work the occurrence of MPs and MFs on honeybees, Apis mellifera, and beehive products was evaluated, using Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy, confirming that MPs and MFs are widely present as air contaminants in all the apiary's areas (high and low urbanized areas) in Southern Italy. Results indicated that independently from the site, both honeybees and honey samples, are contaminated by MFs with non-natural color. The majority of MFs were of natural origin followed by artificial MFs and synthetic MFs. Moreover, the chemical composition of MFs isolated from honeybees reflect that used in synthetic fabrics, leading to the hypothesis that they are released from textile to air where are captured by bees. Results highlight that MFs represent a class of ubiquitous airborne anthropogenic pollutants. The identification of polytetrafluoroethylene, PTFE, MPs in honeybees confirm the recent findings that PTFE MPs are diffuse soil and air contaminants while the identification of polyethylene, PE, based MPs in honey samples, from low density urban sites, could be correlated to the large use of PE in agriculture. In the honey samples, also polycaprolactone, PCL, MPs were identified, mainly in high density urban sites, confirming that biodegradable materials could be further pollutants in the environments. The results indicate that honeybees are contaminated by MPs and MFs during their flights or picking up from the hive components, flowers, from other nest mates, from the clothes of the beekeeper, among others and some of them could be transferred to honey samples that could be also affected by soil contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marica Erminia Schiano
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials National Research Council of Italy, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy; Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Jacopo D'Auria
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l'Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Roberta D'Auria
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials National Research Council of Italy, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Serenella Seccia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rofrano
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l'Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy.
| | - Daniel Signorelli
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l'Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Donato Sansone
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l'Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Emilio Caprio
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Università, 100 Portici, 80055 Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Albrizio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; Interuniversity Consortium INBB, Viale Medaglie d'Oro 305, 00136 Rome, Italy.
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials National Research Council of Italy, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
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3
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Fraissinet S, Arduini D, Martines A, De Benedetto GE, Malitesta C, Giangrande A, Rossi S. Seasonal occurrence and distribution of microplastics in four different benthic suspension feeders from an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) facility: A bioremediation perspective. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 207:116811. [PMID: 39121801 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116811] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are dangerous and ubiquitous in the environment. The urgency to contrast plastic pollution is prompting the scientific community to offer new proposals. Recently, bioremediation using filter feeders is gaining consent as a nature-based solution. Herein four filter feeders (Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck, 1819, Sabella spallanzanii Gmelin, 1791, Phallusia mammillata Cuvier, 1815, Paraleucilla magna Klautau, Monteiro & Borojevic, 2004), studied in a previous laboratory experiment as MPs bioremediators, are evaluated in field conditions within 1-year. These organisms are part of an established fouling community growing on eco-friendly ropes in an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) in the Mar Grande of Taranto. After digesting the animal tissue, the MPs content was quantified by optical microscopy and spectroscopically characterized in the four seasons: highest values were measured in Autumn and lowest in Spring. M. galloprovincialis and P. mammillata were the most contaminated, but S. spallanzanii removed more MPs, due to its high density on the ropes. The whole community removed 3.15 × 107 MPs/season, with the amount of microfibers corresponding to a bottle cap/season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Fraissinet
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technology, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy.
| | - Daniele Arduini
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technology, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Martines
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technology, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Egidio De Benedetto
- Laboratory of Analytic and Isotopic Mass Spectrometry, Department of Cultural Heritage, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Cosimino Malitesta
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technology, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Adriana Giangrande
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technology, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Rossi
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technology, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Rome, Italy; Institute of Marine Sciences (LABOMAR), Federal University of Ceará, Av. Abolicao 230, Fortaleza 60440-900, Brazil
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4
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Kteeba SM, Guo L. Photodegradation Processes and Weathering Products of Microfibers in Aquatic Environments. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:16535-16546. [PMID: 39215709 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c03667] [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: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, particularly microfibers (MFs), pose a significant threat to the environment. Despite their widespread presence, the photochemical reactivity, weathering products, and environmental fate of MFs remain poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, photodegradation experiments were conducted on three prevalent MFs: polyester (POL), nylon (NYL), and acrylic (ACR), to elucidate their degradation pathways, changes in surface morphology and polymer structure, and chemical and colloidal characterization of weathering products during photochemical degradation of MFs. The results showed that concentrations of dissolved organic carbon, chromophoric dissolved organic matter (DOM), and fluorescent components consistently increased during weathering, exhibiting a continuous release of DOM. Scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy revealed changes in the surface morphology and polymer spectra of the MFs. During the weathering experiments, DOM aromaticity (SUVA254) decreased, while spectral slope increased, indicating concurrent DOM release and degradation of aromatic components. The released DOM or nanoplastics were negatively charged with sizes between 128 and 374 nm. The production rate constants of DOM or the photochemical reactivity of MFs followed the order ACR > NYL ≥ POL, consistent with their differences in chemical structures. These findings provide an improved understanding of the photochemical reactivity, degradation pathways, weathering products, and environmental fate of microfibers in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimaa M Kteeba
- School of Freshwater Sciences, University of Wisconsin─Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53204, United States
- Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta, Damietta 34511, Egypt
| | - Laodong Guo
- School of Freshwater Sciences, University of Wisconsin─Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53204, United States
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5
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Lozano-Hernández EA, Ramírez-Álvarez N, Rios Mendoza LM, Macías-Zamora JV, Mejía-Trejo A, Beas-Luna R, Hernández-Guzmán FA. Kelp forest food webs as hot spots for the accumulation of microplastic and polybrominated diphenyl ether pollutants. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 257:119299. [PMID: 38824984 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119299] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Kelp forests (KFs) are one of the most significant marine ecosystems in the planet. They serve as a refuge for a wide variety of marine species of ecological and economic importance. Additionally, they aid with carbon sequestration, safeguard the coastline, and maintain water quality. Microplastic (MP) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) concentrations were analyzed across trophic levels in KFs around Todos Santos Bay. Spatial variation patterns were compared at three sites in 2021 and temporal change at Todos Santos Island (TSI) in 2021 and 2022. We analyzed these MPs and PBDEs in water, primary producers (Macrocystis pyrifera), grazers (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus), predators (Semicossyphus pulcher), and kelp detritus. MPs were identified in all samples (11 synthetic and 1 semisynthetic polymer) and confirmed using Fourier-transform infrared microspectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance (μ-FTIR-ATR). The most abundant type of MP is polyester fibers. Statistically significant variations in MP concentration were found only in kelps, with the greatest average concentrations in medium-depth kelps from TSI in 2022 (0.73 ± 0.58 MP g-1 ww) and in the kelp detritus from TSI in 2021 (0.96 ± 0.64 MP g-1 ww). Similarly, PBDEs were found in all samples, with the largest concentration found in sea urchins from Punta San Miguel (0.93 ± 0.24 ng g-1 ww). The similarity of the polymers can indicate a trophic transfer of MPs. This study shows the extensive presence of MP and PBDE subtropical trophic web of a KF, but correlating these compounds in environmental samples is highly complex, influenced by numerous factors that could affect their presence and behavior. However, this suggests that there is a potential risk to the systems and the services that KFs offer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Antonio Lozano-Hernández
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Facultad de Ciencias Marinas, Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada 3917, Colonia Playitas, Ensenada, B.C., Mexico. C.P. 22860.
| | - Nancy Ramírez-Álvarez
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Instituto de Investigaciones Oceanológicas, Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada 3917, Colonia Playitas, Ensenada, B.C., Mexico. C.P. 22860.
| | | | - José Vinicio Macías-Zamora
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Instituto de Investigaciones Oceanológicas, Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada 3917, Colonia Playitas, Ensenada, B.C., Mexico. C.P. 22860.
| | - Adán Mejía-Trejo
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Instituto de Investigaciones Oceanológicas, Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada 3917, Colonia Playitas, Ensenada, B.C., Mexico. C.P. 22860.
| | - Rodrigo Beas-Luna
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Facultad de Ciencias Marinas, Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada 3917, Colonia Playitas, Ensenada, B.C., Mexico. C.P. 22860.
| | - Félix Augusto Hernández-Guzmán
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Instituto de Investigaciones Oceanológicas, Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada 3917, Colonia Playitas, Ensenada, B.C., Mexico. C.P. 22860.
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6
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Santonicola S, Volgare M, Rossi F, Castaldo R, Cocca M, Colavita G. Detection of fibrous microplastics and natural microfibers in fish species (Engraulis encrasicolus, Mullus barbatus and Merluccius merluccius) for human consumption from the Tyrrhenian sea. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 363:142778. [PMID: 38971436 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142778] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
The occurrence of natural/artificial and synthetic microfibers was assessed in three commercial fish species (Engraulis encrasicolus, Mullus barbatus, Merluccius merluccius) from the Tyrrhenian Sea sold for human consumption. The gastrointestinal tracts of n. 150 samples were analyzed, the isolated microfibers were classified applying a morphological approach, based on the analysis of their morphological features, coupled with the identification of the chemical composition of a subsample of microfibers. All the species contained microfibers at levels ranging from 0 to 49 items/individual and the number of ingested microfibers significantly differed between pelagic and demersal fishes. The evaluation of fiber morphologies highlighted that natural/artificial microfibers were the most numerous among the isolated microfibers, while the dominant colors were blue, black, and clear in all the species. Chemical characterization confirmed the morphological identification and indicated cellulose and polyester as the most common polymer types. Considering the analytical issues that may affect the evaluation of microfiber pollution, the results pointed out the importance of an accurate morphological approach that allows the distinction between different fiber types, before the spectroscopic analyses. Moreover, the implementation of fast and accessible methods to identify microfibers in fish species intended for human consumption will be beneficial also to make an adequate risk assessment to consumer health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Santonicola
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "V. Tiberio", University of Molise, Via F. De Santis, 86100, Campobasso, Italy; Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Michela Volgare
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials, and Industrial Production, University of Naples Federico II, P. Tecchio 80, 80125, Naples, Italy
| | - Franca Rossi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e Molise (IZSAM), Teramo, Diagnostic Laboratory, 86100, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Rachele Castaldo
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy.
| | - Giampaolo Colavita
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "V. Tiberio", University of Molise, Via F. De Santis, 86100, Campobasso, Italy
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7
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Lee SH, Lin TA, Yan YH, Chien CC, Cheng TJ. Hepatic and metabolic outcomes induced by sub-chronic exposure to polystyrene microplastics in mice. Arch Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s00204-024-03847-7. [PMID: 39183192 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03847-7] [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: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have attracted significant attention due to their global distribution in living environments. Although some studies have reported MP-induced hepatotoxicity in mouse models, a systematic approach to MP-mediated liver toxicity was still lacking. Therefore, we used a mouse model to study the sub-chronic effects of MP exposure on the liver. Female C57BL/6 mice, aged 6 weeks, received an oral administration of 0.3 mg of Nile Red-labeled polystyrene (PS) microplastics, with particle sizes of 0.5 µm (submicron) and 5 µm (micron), via gavage, while control mice received vehicle only. Each mouse was exposed to MPs twice a week for 12 weeks. After sacrifice, the levels of MP accumulation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and pathological changes were measured in the mouse liver, and blood samples were collected for serum biochemistry analysis. Our results demonstrated that 0.5 µm PS-MPs were accumulated in mouse livers post-MP exposure, but not in the 5 µm MP exposure group. Simultaneously, increased levels of glucose, triglyceride, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), superoxide dismutase, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-mercapturic acid (HNE-MA), interleukin-6, and lipid droplets were found in the 0.5 µm MP exposure group, while the fewer responses, including elevated liver weight index, glucose, high-density lipoprotein, AST, and decreased HNE-MA were observed in 5 µm MP exposure group. These results indicate that sub-chronic exposure to submicron MPs causes MP deposition in mouse livers, which further induces oxidative stress, increases inflammatory cytokines and perturbs glucose and lipid homeostasis, which might trigger more severe metabolic dysfunction or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis-like hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Han Lee
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ting-An Lin
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, No. 17, Xuzhou Rd, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Horng Yan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kuang Tien General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Nutrition and Institute of Biomedical Nutrition, Hung Kuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chu-Chun Chien
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tsun-Jen Cheng
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, No. 17, Xuzhou Rd, Taipei, 100, Taiwan.
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8
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Milani G, Cortimiglia C, Belloso Daza MV, Greco E, Bassi D, Cocconcelli PS. Microplastic-Mediated Transfer of Tetracycline Resistance: Unveiling the Role of Mussels in Marine Ecosystems. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:727. [PMID: 39200027 PMCID: PMC11350897 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13080727] [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: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is exacerbated by the mobilization of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) occurring in different environmental niches, including seawater. Marine environments serve as reservoirs for resistant bacteria and ARGs, further complicated by the ubiquity of microplastics (MPs). MPs can adsorb pollutants and promote bacterial biofilm formation, creating conditions favorable to the dissemination of ARGs. This study explores the dynamics of ARG transfer in the marine bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis within a seawater model, focusing on the influence of polyethylene MPs on the mobilization of the Tn916-carrying tetM gene and plasmid-encoded ermB. Experiments revealed that biofilm formation on MPs by Enterococcus faecium and Listeria monocytogenes facilitated the transfer of the tetM resistance gene, but not the ermB gene. Furthermore, the presence of MPs significantly increased the conjugation frequency of tetM within mussels, indicating that MPs enhance the potential for ARG mobilization in marine environments. These findings highlight the role of MPs and marine organisms in ARG spread, underscoring the ecological and public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Pier Sandro Cocconcelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Alimentari per una Filiera Agro-Alimentare Sostenibile (DISTAS), Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy; (G.M.); (C.C.); (M.V.B.D.); (E.G.); (D.B.)
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9
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Devi SS, Saifudeen N, Kumar KS, Kumar AB. Does the microplastics ingestion patterns and polymer composition vary across the oceanic zones? A case study from the Indian coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 204:116532. [PMID: 38824708 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116532] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
This study explores microplastic (MP) presence in the gastrointestinal tracts of deep-sea fish from the Central Indian Ocean, off the Indian coast. Among the 27 species examined, 19 showed MP contamination, averaging 2.68 ± 0.30 (±SE) MPs per individual. Polymer analysis via FTIR and micro-Raman identified several types, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polypropelene (PP), polyvinyl acetate (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyaniline (PANI), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and polyethersulfone (PES), with PET being the most prevalent (33.33 %). MP ingestion was higher in benthopelagic fish and those at higher trophic levels, as indicated by comparisons across oceanic zones. Niche partitioning analysis suggests feeding behaviour as a primary influencer of MP ingestion in deep-sea fish rather than habitat or trophic level. The study proposes the potential use of deep-sea fish as indicators for assessing microplastic pollution across oceanic zones and deep-sea regions through bycatch monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvarna S Devi
- Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 69551, Kerala, India
| | - Nasila Saifudeen
- Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 69551, Kerala, India
| | | | - Appukuttannair Biju Kumar
- Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 69551, Kerala, India.
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10
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De Benedetto GE, Fraissinet S, Tardio N, Rossi S, Malitesta C. Microplastics determination and quantification in two benthic filter feeders Sabella spallanzanii, Polychaeta and Paraleucilla magna, Porifera. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31796. [PMID: 38845917 PMCID: PMC11153181 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a worldwide problem especially in the marine environment. Plastic items once fragmented into microplastics (MPs), can be captured by different marine species. Benthic filter feeders like sponges and polychaetas, due to their trophic strategy, are highly exposed to MPs pollution. Herein a simple but effective method to digest the fan worm Sabella spallanzanii and the calcareous sponge Paraleucilla magna is presented: a solution with KOH and H2O2 was able to remove quantitatively (more than 98 %) the organic matter in 3 h while an acid treatment dissolved most of spicules and chaetes in less than 30 min. MPs were easily identified both microscopically and spectroscopically on filters. Quantification in animals collected from the same environment showed that, on average, sponges accumulate fewer MPs than polychaetes (66 ± 31 and 117 ± 46 particles/g dry weight, respectively). The plastic recovery of the method was validated using three different approaches (spiking of standard PS microspheres, of common-use plastic objects, and of microplastics already weathered in marine environment). This procedure can make it easier and cost-effective to process biota in monitoring studies, providing information about bioindicator/bioremediation species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe E. De Benedetto
- Laboratorio di Spettrometria di Massa Analitica e Isotopica, Dipartimento di Beni Culturali, Universita' del Salento, Via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Silvia Fraissinet
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche e Ambientali (DISTEBA), Universita' del Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Tardio
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche e Ambientali (DISTEBA), Universita' del Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Sergio Rossi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche e Ambientali (DISTEBA), Universita' del Salento, Lecce, Italy
- CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Rome, Italy
- Institute of Marine Sciences (LABOMAR), Federal University of Ceará, Av, Abolicao 230, Fortaleza, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Cosimino Malitesta
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche e Ambientali (DISTEBA), Universita' del Salento, Lecce, Italy
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11
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Santini S, Exposito N, Sierra J, Cincinelli A, Rovira J. Set up and validation of a method to analyse microplastics in stool and small intestine samples. MethodsX 2024; 12:102777. [PMID: 38883588 PMCID: PMC11176779 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2024.102777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The contamination of microplastics in humans is of increasing concern. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop effective methods to determine the concentration and types of microplastics entering human digestive system. To study levels of MPs contamination in humans, an excellent indicator are stools. Indeed, stools, and thus the digestive system, can be an excellent indicator of the level of MPs contamination in humans. Hence, objective was to find effective methods to extract, quantify and characterize microplastics in stool and small intestine samples. The samples studied were human stools and pig jejunum (which has human-like characteristics). The methods were optimized by observing extraction efficiency, compatibility by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) characterization and non-deformation of the microplastics. The steps of the procedure were: • Sampling to avoid plastic contamination • Non-aggressive chemical and enzymatic digestion • Counting and characterization The methods were optimized and validated, observing recovery and repeatability. Therefore, two simple, effective methods with high analytical performance have been developed. The MPs present in the stool and intestine samples were counted by stereoscopic microscope and characterized by FTIR, finding several types of MPs such as synthetic cellulose, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene terephthalate, among others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul Santini
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3-13, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Nora Exposito
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Paisos Catalans Avenue 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Sierra
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Paisos Catalans Avenue 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Joan XXIII Avenue s/n, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Alessandra Cincinelli
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3-13, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Joaquim Rovira
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Paisos Catalans Avenue 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43204 Reus, Catalonia, Spain
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12
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Santonicola S, Volgare M, Schiano ME, Cocca M, Colavita G. A study on textile microfiber contamination in the gastrointestinal tracts of Merluccius merluccius samples from the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ital J Food Saf 2024; 13:12216. [PMID: 38807742 PMCID: PMC11128977 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2024.12216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The increased demand and consumption of synthetic textiles have contributed to microplastic pollution in the form of microfibers. These particles are widely spread in the aquatic environment, leading to the exposure of marine biota, including edible species. The current study aimed to assess the extent of microfiber contamination in a commercially relevant fish species, Merluccius merluccius, which is considered a small-scale bioindicator for the monitoring of plastic ingestion in the Mediterranean coastal environment. The frequency of ingestion, abundance, and composition of textile microfibers isolated from the fish gut were characterized. Results showed the occurrence of microfibers in 75% of the samples, with a mean number of 10.6 microfibers/individual, of which 70% were classified as natural microfibers. The spectroscopic analyses confirmed both the visual identification of microfibers and the prevalence of cellulosic fibers. The obtained findings provided evidence of both natural/artificial and synthetic microfiber exposure in an important commercial fish species that, considering the consumption of small individuals without being eviscerated, may be a potential route of microfiber exposure in humans. Monitoring programs for fishery products from markets are needed to assess contamination levels and human health risks. In addition, measures to control microfiber pollution need to occur at multiple levels, from textile industries to international governments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Santonicola
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso
- Institute of Polymer, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Pozzuoli
| | - Michela Volgare
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials, and Industrial Production, University of Naples Federico II
| | - Marica Erminia Schiano
- Institute of Polymer, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Pozzuoli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Italy
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute of Polymer, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Pozzuoli
| | - Giampaolo Colavita
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso
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13
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Higueruelo A, Constenla M, Padrós F, Sánchez-Marín P, Carrassón M, Soler-Membrives A, Dallarés S. Coping with current impacts: The case of Scyliorhinus canicula in the NW Mediterranean Sea and implications for human consumption. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116200. [PMID: 38430679 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116200] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) is a bottom-dwelling elasmobranch that represents the most discarded catch in terms of biomass in the Catalan coast (NW Mediterranean). Potential impacts affecting its population and food safety implications have been assessed in three localities along the Catalan coast. Distinct indicators were integrated, such as biological data, ingested anthropogenic items (plastic and cellulose-like items), parasitological indices, trace metal concentrations and histopathology using liver as target organ. Although high ingestion rates of fibres and levels of some heavy metals, they do not seem negatively affected by any major pathology nor by the current levels of pollutants. Small-scale differences among localities and depths were found and discussed. No zoonotic parasites were found. Encysted larvae of Grillotia adenoplusia and, above all, the levels of Hg found in the musculature, that are well over the European Commission limits, rise concerns regarding human consumption of S. canicula in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Higueruelo
- Departament de Biologia Animal, de Biologia Vegetal i d'Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Constenla
- Departament de Biologia Animal, de Biologia Vegetal i d'Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Padrós
- Departament de Biologia Animal, de Biologia Vegetal i d'Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paula Sánchez-Marín
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro, s/n, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - Maite Carrassón
- Departament de Biologia Animal, de Biologia Vegetal i d'Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Soler-Membrives
- Departament de Biologia Animal, de Biologia Vegetal i d'Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Sara Dallarés
- Departament de Biologia Animal, de Biologia Vegetal i d'Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
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14
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Ye R, Li Z, Xian H, Zhong Y, Liang B, Huang Y, Chen D, Dai M, Tang S, Guo J, Bai R, Feng Y, Chen Z, Yang X, Huang Z. Combined Effects of Polystyrene Nanosphere and Homosolate Exposures on Estrogenic End Points in MCF-7 Cells and Zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:27011. [PMID: 38381479 PMCID: PMC10880820 DOI: 10.1289/ehp13696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) and homosalate (HMS) are ubiquitous emerging environmental contaminants detected in human samples. Despite the well-established endocrine-disrupting effects (EDEs) of HMS, the interaction between MNPs and HMS and its impact on HMS-induced EDEs remain unclear. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the influence of MNPs on HMS-induced estrogenic effects and elucidate the underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. METHODS We assessed the impact of polystyrene nanospheres (PNSs; 50 nm , 1.0 mg / L ) on HMS-induced MCF-7 cell proliferation (HMS: 0.01 - 1 μ M , equivalent to 2.62 - 262 μ g / L ) using the E-SCREEN assay and explored potential mechanisms through transcriptomics. Adult zebrafish were exposed to HMS (0.0262 - 262 μ g / L ) with or without PNSs (50 nm , 1.0 mg / L ) for 21 d. EDEs were evaluated through gonadal histopathology, fertility tests, steroid hormone synthesis, and gene expression changes in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad-liver (HPGL) axis. RESULTS Coexposure of HMS and PNSs resulted in higher expression of estrogen receptor α (ESR1) and the mRNAs of target genes (pS2, AREG, and PGR), a greater estrogen-responsive element transactivation activity, and synergistic stimulation on MCF-7 cell proliferation. Knockdown of serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) rescued the MCF-7 cell proliferation induced by PNSs alone or in combination with HMS. In zebrafish, coexposure showed higher expression of SGK1 and promoted ovary development but inhibited spermatogenesis. In addition, coexposure led to lower egg hatchability, higher embryonic mortality, and greater larval malformation. Coexposure also modulated steroid hormone synthesis genes (cyp17a2, hsd17[Formula: see text]1, esr2b, vtg1, and vtg2), and resulted in higher 17 β -estradiol (E 2 ) release in females. Conversely, males showed lower testosterone, E 2 , and gene expressions of cyp11a1, cyp11a2, cyp17a1, cyp17a2, and hsd17[Formula: see text]1. DISCUSSION PNS exposure exacerbated HMS-induced estrogenic effects via SGK1 up-regulation in MCF-7 cells and disrupting the HPGL axis in zebrafish, with gender-specific patterns. This offers new mechanistic insights and health implications of MNP and contaminant coexposure. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13696.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongyi Ye
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiming Li
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongyi Xian
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yizhou Zhong
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Boxuan Liang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuji Huang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Da Chen
- College of Environment and Climate, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Shuqin Tang
- College of Environment and Climate, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Guo
- Hunter Biotechnology, Inc, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruobing Bai
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Feng
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenguo Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingfen Yang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Food Safety and Health Research Center, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenlie Huang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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15
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Xie S, Song K, Liu S, Li Y, Wang J, Huang W, Feng Z. Distribution and characteristics of microplastics in 16 benthic organisms in Haizhou Bay, China: Influence of habitat, feeding habits and trophic level. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 199:115962. [PMID: 38157831 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115962] [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: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely found in the ocean and cause a serious risk to marine organisms. However, fewer studies have been conducted on benthic organisms. This study conducted a case study on the pollution characteristics of MPs on 16 marine benthic organisms in Haizhou Bay, and analyzed the effects of habitat, trophic level, and feeding mode on the MPs pollution characters. The results showed that MPs were detected in all 16 organisms with an average abundance of 8.84 ± 9.14 items/individual, which is in the middle-high level in the international scale. Among the detected MPs, the main material was cellophane. This study showed that benthic organisms can be used as indicator organisms for MPs pollution. MPs in organisms can be affected by their habitat, trophic level, and feeding mode. Comprehensive analysis of MPs in benthic organisms will contribute to fully understand the characterization and source resolution of MPs pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Xie
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, PR China
| | - Kexin Song
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, PR China; Analytical Instrumentation Center, Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya 572000, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, PR China
| | - You Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, PR China
| | - Jiaxuan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, PR China
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem and Biogeochemistry, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, PR China
| | - Zhihua Feng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, PR China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, PR China; Key Laboratory of Coastal Salt Marsh Ecology and Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, PR China.
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16
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Abderrahmani K, Dahdouh M, Boudjema K, Guenachi B, Montevecchi G. Assessment of toxic trace elements (Cd, Pb, As, and Co) in small, medium, and large individuals of Mytilus galloprovincialis and Perna perna mussel species along the Algerian coast. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:123274-123285. [PMID: 37981609 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31029-y] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
This research paper focused on the monitoring of marine sites using mussels, which are highly valuable organisms in assessing environmental health. However, a significant challenge arises when determining the appropriate size of mussels for monitoring purposes. The objective of this study was to examine the levels of Cd, Pb, As, and Co in three different size classes of two mussel species, Mytilus galloprovincialis and Perna perna, collected from three sites along the Algerian coast, each exhibiting varying degrees of pollution.At each of the study sites, a total of thirty individuals from small, medium, and large size classes of mussels were collected during four different time periods. The mussels were then dissected, and the concentrations of Cd, Pb, As, and Co were measured in the entire flesh of the mussels using ICP-MS.Across the various study sites, the concentrations of cadmium, lead, arsenic, and cobalt ranged from 0.06 to 1.32 mg/kg, 0.09 to 12.56 mg/kg, 4.23 to 18.31 mg/kg, and 0.11 to 1.85 mg/kg, respectively. Interestingly, the distribution of these metals in the three different size classes of mussels followed a consistent pattern at all the study sites. Large mussels exhibited higher concentrations, while small and medium-sized mussels displayed lower levels. These findings highlight substantial spatial and temporal variations in metal concentrations within the studied sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Abderrahmani
- Centre National de Recherche et de Développement de La Pêche et d'Aquaculture (CNRDPA), 11, Bd Colonel Amirouche, PO Box 67, 42415, Bou-Ismaïl, Tipaza, Algeria.
| | - Mouloud Dahdouh
- Division Technologies et Développement of SONATRACH, Avenue 1er novembre 1954, Boumerdès 35000, Boumerdès, Algeria
| | - Kamel Boudjema
- Centre National de Recherche et de Développement de La Pêche et d'Aquaculture (CNRDPA), 11, Bd Colonel Amirouche, PO Box 67, 42415, Bou-Ismaïl, Tipaza, Algeria
| | - Belkacem Guenachi
- Centre National de Recherche et de Développement de La Pêche et d'Aquaculture (CNRDPA), 11, Bd Colonel Amirouche, PO Box 67, 42415, Bou-Ismaïl, Tipaza, Algeria
| | - Giuseppe Montevecchi
- Department of Life Sciences (Agri-Food Science Area), BIOGEST - SITEIA Interdepartmental Centre, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Piazzale Europa 1A, 42124, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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17
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Ferreira O, Barboza LGA, Rudnitskaya A, Moreirinha C, Vieira LR, Botelho MJ, Vale C, Fernandes JO, Cunha S, Guilhermino L. Microplastics in marine mussels, biological effects and human risk of intake: A case study in a multi-stressor environment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 197:115704. [PMID: 37944437 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115704] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
This study documented seasonal levels of microplastics (MPs) and biomarkers (condition index, neurotoxicity, energy, oxidative stress) in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis), and water physico-chemical parameters in the Douro estuary (NE Atlantic coast), and estimated the human risk of MP intake (HRI) through mussels. Mussel stress was determined through the Integrated Biomarker Response (IBR). HRI was estimated from mussel MP concentrations and consumer habits. MPs were mainly micro-fibres (72 %) with varied chemical composition. Seasonal MP means (±SEM) in mussels ranged from 0.111 ± 0.044 (spring) to 0.312 ± 0.092 MPs/g (summer). Seasonal variations of mussel stress (IBR: 1.4 spring to 9.7 summer) and MP concentrations were not related. MeO-BDEs, PBDEs, temperature, salinity and other factors likely contributed to mussel stress variation. HRI ranged from 2438 to 2650 MPs/year. Compared to the literature, MP contamination in mussels is low, as well as the human risk of MP intake through their consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orlanda Ferreira
- ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Department of Population Studies, Laboratory of Ecotoxicology and Ecology (ECOTOX), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; CIIMAR / CIMAR-LA - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Research Team of Ecotoxicology, Stress Ecology and Environmental Health and Research Team of Contaminant Pathways and Interactions with Marine Organisms, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - L Gabriel A Barboza
- ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Department of Population Studies, Laboratory of Ecotoxicology and Ecology (ECOTOX), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; CIIMAR / CIMAR-LA - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Research Team of Ecotoxicology, Stress Ecology and Environmental Health and Research Team of Contaminant Pathways and Interactions with Marine Organisms, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
| | - Alisa Rudnitskaya
- Chemistry Department and CESAM, Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Catarina Moreirinha
- Chemistry Department and CESAM, Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Luís R Vieira
- ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Department of Population Studies, Laboratory of Ecotoxicology and Ecology (ECOTOX), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; CIIMAR / CIMAR-LA - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Research Team of Ecotoxicology, Stress Ecology and Environmental Health and Research Team of Contaminant Pathways and Interactions with Marine Organisms, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
| | - M João Botelho
- CIIMAR / CIMAR-LA - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Research Team of Ecotoxicology, Stress Ecology and Environmental Health and Research Team of Contaminant Pathways and Interactions with Marine Organisms, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal; IPMA - IPMA, Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere, Av. Alfredo Magalhães Ramalho 6, 1495-165 Algés, Portugal.
| | - Carlos Vale
- CIIMAR / CIMAR-LA - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Research Team of Ecotoxicology, Stress Ecology and Environmental Health and Research Team of Contaminant Pathways and Interactions with Marine Organisms, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - José O Fernandes
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sara Cunha
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Lúcia Guilhermino
- ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Department of Population Studies, Laboratory of Ecotoxicology and Ecology (ECOTOX), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; CIIMAR / CIMAR-LA - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Research Team of Ecotoxicology, Stress Ecology and Environmental Health and Research Team of Contaminant Pathways and Interactions with Marine Organisms, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
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18
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Vlachogianni T, Scoullos M. Assessing marine macrolitter on the coastline of the Asterousia Biosphere Reserve: Insights from a community-based study. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 195:115474. [PMID: 37672921 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115474] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Even in pristine and remote environments of the Mediterranean, marine litter is building up threatening habitats and species and inhibiting sustainable development. The present study reports the findings of beach litter surveys carried out by 250 local community members in nine sites along the coastline of the Asterousia Biosphere Reserve, situated in the southernmost end of Europe. The average recorded litter density along these sites amounted to 125 items per 100 meters of coastline (range: 22-510) and to 0.05 items per square meter of beach (range: 0.01-0.13). Only two of the nine surveyed beaches were found to be in good environmental status, in compliance with the European threshold value for beach litter. The other seven studied beaches surpassed the European threshold value. The primary sources of the litter identified in the study can be attributed to unsustainable practices and inadequate waste management by individuals, communities and municipalities using the coastal and marine environment. Additionally, unsustainable waste management practices within the agricultural sector were also found to be a significant contributor to marine litter pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomais Vlachogianni
- Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development, Athens, Greece.
| | - Michael Scoullos
- Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development, Athens, Greece; Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Athens, Greece
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19
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Rahmawati, Krisanti M, Riani E, Cordova MR. Microplastic contamination in the digestive tract of sea urchins (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) in Kepulauan Seribu, Indonesia. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1103. [PMID: 37642784 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11655-2] [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: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of microplastics on sediment surfaces contributed to the digestive tract of sea urchins contamination during foraging. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential relationship between the accumulation of microplastics on sediment surfaces and the contamination of sea urchins' digestive tracts during their foraging activities. Sediment and sea urchins' samples were collected from Pari and Harapan Islands, in Kepulauan Seribu, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia. Microplastics were extracted and observed in sediment and the digestive tract of sea urchins' samples. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identified microplastic polymers. The average microplastic concentration on Pari Island was 160 ± 158.75 particles/kg dry weight sediment and 3.93 ± 2.25 particles/g dry weight in the digestive tract of sea urchins. Correspondingly, on Harapan Island, the values were 113 ± 41.63 particles/kg dry weight and 0.27 ± 0.28 particles/g dry weight. Fragment-type microplastics (75%) were predominantly detected in the digestive tract of sea urchins, while fiber-type microplastics (59%) were more common in sediments on Pari Island. Conversely, on Harapan Island fragment types were more prevalent (53%). Microplastics larger than 1000 µm were identified in both sediment and the digestive tract of sea urchins. The observed plastic polymers, such as polyethylene, polyester, and polypropylene were dominant at both study sites. This study postulated that microplastics in sediments may be ingested during sea urchins digestion, supported by a significant correlation of 0.016. Consequently, the presence of microplastics in sea urchins from Pari Island and Harapan Island in Kepulauan Seribu was confirmed. Future investigations should explore the toxic effects of absorbed microplastics on sea urchins' physiology, requiring further analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahmawati
- Aquatic Resources Management Study Program, Graduate School, IPB University, Bogor, 16680, Indonesia
| | - Majariana Krisanti
- Department of Aquatic Resources Management, Study Program of Aquatic Resources Management, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, 16680, Indonesia
| | - Etty Riani
- Department of Aquatic Resources Management, Study Program of Aquatic Resources Management, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, 16680, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Reza Cordova
- Research Center for Oceanography National Research and Innovation Agency, BRIN Jakarta Ancol Area Jl, Pasir Putih 1, Ancol, Jakarta, 14430, Indonesia.
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20
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Roila R, Piersanti A, Valiani A, Ranucci D, Tavoloni T, Stramenga A, Griffoni F, Pittura L, Gorbi S, Franceschini R, Agnetti F, Palma G, Branciari R. Carassius auratus as a bioindicator of the health status of Lake Trasimeno and risk assessment for consumers. Ital J Food Saf 2023; 12:11137. [PMID: 37680319 PMCID: PMC10480937 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2023.11137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Fish are good bio-indicators of the health status of the aquatic environment and can be used as biomarkers to assess the aquatic behavior of environmental pollutants, the exposure of aquatic organisms, and the health risk for consumers. Goldfish are a significant bioindicator in the Lake Trasimeno aquatic system (Umbria, Italy). This study aimed to characterize the health status and the chemical and biotic contamination of Lake Trasimeno to define its anthropogenic and natural pressures and the risk associated with consuming its fishery products. 114 determinations were performed on Carassius auratus samples from 2018 to 2020, and the occurrence of brominated flame retardants, non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls, heavy metals, and microplastics was analytically investigated. Dietary exposure assessment, risk characterization, and benefit-risk evaluation were performed for schoolchildren from 3 to 10 years old. Flame-retardants registered high levels of non-detects (99% for polybrominated diphenyl ether and 76% for hexabromocyclododecanes), while polychlorinated biphenyls were found in all samples with a maximum level of 56.3 ng/g. Traces of at least one heavy metal were found in all samples, though always below the regulatory limit. Microplastics were found with a 75% frequency of fish ingesting at least one particle. Dietary exposure and risk characterization reveal negligible contributions to the reference values of all contaminants, except for mercury, which reached up to 25% of admissible daily intake. The benefit- risk assessment highlighted that the benefits of freshwater fish intake outweigh the associated risks. The examination of goldfish as indicator fish reveals the quality of Lake Trasimeno's aquatic environment and the safety of its products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Roila
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia
| | - Arianna Piersanti
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Umbria and Marche Togo Rosati, Perugia
| | - Andrea Valiani
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Umbria and Marche Togo Rosati, Perugia
| | - David Ranucci
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia
| | - Tamara Tavoloni
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Umbria and Marche Togo Rosati, Perugia
| | - Arianna Stramenga
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Umbria and Marche Togo Rosati, Perugia
| | - Francesco Griffoni
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Umbria and Marche Togo Rosati, Perugia
| | - Lucia Pittura
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona
| | - Stefania Gorbi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona
| | | | - Francesco Agnetti
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Umbria and Marche Togo Rosati, Perugia
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Kadac-Czapska K, Trzebiatowska PJ, Knez E, Zaleska-Medynska A, Grembecka M. Microplastics in food - a critical approach to definition, sample preparation, and characterisation. Food Chem 2023; 418:135985. [PMID: 36989641 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.135985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquity of microplastics (MPs) is a more and more frequently brought up topic. The fact that such particles are present in food raises particular concern. Information regarding the described contamination is incoherent and difficult to interpret. Problems appear already at the level of the definition of MPs. This paper will discuss ways of explaining the concept of MPs and methods used for its analysis. Isolation of characterised particles is usually performed using filtration, etching and/or density separation. Spectroscopic techniques are commonly applied for analysis, whereas visual evaluation of the particles is possible thanks to microscopic analysis. Basic information about the sample can be obtained by the combination of Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy or Raman spectroscopy and microscopy or using the thermal method combined with spectroscopy or chromatography. The unification of the research methodology will allow a credible assessment of the influence of this pollution coming from food on health.
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Yadav S, Kataria N, Khyalia P, Rose PK, Mukherjee S, Sabherwal H, Chai WS, Rajendran S, Jiang JJ, Khoo KS. Recent analytical techniques, and potential eco-toxicological impacts of textile fibrous microplastics (FMPs) and associated contaminates: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 326:138495. [PMID: 36963588 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite of our growing understanding of microplastic's implications, research on the effects of fibrous microplastic (FMPs) on the environment is still in its infancy. Some scientists have hypothesized the possibility of natural textile fibres, which may act as one of the emerging environmental pollutants prevalent among microplastic pollutants in the environment. Therefore, this review aims to critically evaluate the toxic effects of emerging FMPs, the presence, and sources of FMPs in the environment, identification and analytical techniques, and the potential impact or toxicity of the FMPs on the environment and human health. About175 publications (2011-2023) based on FMPs were identified and critically reviewed for transportation, analysis and ecotoxicological behaviours of FMPs in the environment. Textile industries, wastewater treatment plants, and household washing of clothes are significant sources of FMPs. In addition, various characterization techniques (e.g., FTIR, SEM, RAMAN, TGA, microscope, and X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy) commonly used for the identification and analysis of FMPs are also discussed, which justifies the novelty aspects of this review. FMPs are pollutants of emerging concern due to their prevalence and persistence in the environment. FMPs are also found in the food chain, which is an alarming situation for living organisms, including effects on the nervous system, digestive system, circulatory system, and genetic alteration. This review will provide readers with a comparison of different analytical techniques, which will be helpful for researchers to select the appropriate analytical techniques for their study and enhance their knowledge about the harmful effects of FMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangita Yadav
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheswar University of Science &Technology, Hisar, 125001, Haryana, India
| | - Navish Kataria
- Department of Environmental Sciences, J. C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, 121006, Haryana, India.
| | - Pradeep Khyalia
- Department of Environmental Science, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, 124001, Haryana, India
| | - Pawan Kumar Rose
- Department of Energy and Environmental Sciences, Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, 125055, Haryana, India
| | - Santanu Mukherjee
- Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Sultanpur, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India
| | - Himani Sabherwal
- Department of Environmental Sciences, J. C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, 121006, Haryana, India
| | - Wai Siong Chai
- Department of Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan
| | - Saravanan Rajendran
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Tarapaca, Avda. General Velasquez, 1775, Arica, Chile
| | - Jheng-Jie Jiang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, 320314, Taiwan; Centre for Environment Risk Management (CERM), Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, 320314, Taiwan
| | - Kuan Shiong Khoo
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 602105, India; Centre for Research and Graduate Studies, University of Cyberjaya, Persiaran Bestari, 63000, Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Concato M, Panti C, Baini M, Galli M, Giani D, Fossi MC. Detection of anthropogenic fibres in marine organisms: Knowledge gaps and methodological issues. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 191:114949. [PMID: 37119585 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Most studies examining the occurrence of plastics and microplastics in marine organisms have identified anthropogenic fibres, of natural and synthetic origin, as the most commonly occurring category. Anthropogenic fibres may have been chemically treated with additives making them more persistent and a potential threat to marine organisms. However, fibres have often been excluded from analytical data for the difficulties related to the sampling and analytical procedures, including potential overestimation of the results due to airborne contamination. This review aimed to collect and analyse all studies focusing on the interaction between anthropogenic fibres and marine organisms worldwide, highlighting critical issues that need to be overcome for the analysis fibres on marine organisms. Furthermore, emphasis was placed on the species studied in the Mediterranean Sea, which is particularly affected by this type of pollution. Overall, this review shows that fibre pollution is an underestimated threat to marine organisms and that a specific, harmonised protocol for the analysis of different anthropogenic fibres needs to be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Concato
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Cristina Panti
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Matteo Baini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Matteo Galli
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Dario Giani
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Santonicola S, Volgare M, Cocca M, Dorigato G, Giaccone V, Colavita G. Impact of Fibrous Microplastic Pollution on Commercial Seafood and Consumer Health: A Review. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1736. [PMID: 37889673 PMCID: PMC10252135 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The omnipresence of microfibers in marine environments has raised concerns about their availability to aquatic biota, including commercial fish species. Due to their tiny size and wide distribution, microfibers may be ingested by wild-captured pelagic or benthic fish and farmed species. Humans are exposed via seafood consumption. Despite the fact that research on the impact of microfibers on marine biota is increasing, knowledge on their role in food security and safety is limited. The present review aims to examine the current knowledge about microfiber contamination in commercially relevant fish species, their impact on the marine food chain, and their probable threat to consumer health. The available information suggests that among the marine biota, edible species are also contaminated, but there is an urgent need to standardize data collection methods to assess the extent of microfiber occurrence in seafood. In this context, natural microfibers should also be investigated. A multidisciplinary approach to the microfiber issue that recognizes the interrelationship and connection of environmental health with that of animals and humans should be used, leading to the application of strategies to reduce microfiber pollution through the control of the sources and the development of remediation technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Santonicola
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy;
| | - Michela Volgare
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials, and Industrial Production, University of Naples Federico II, P. Tecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy;
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy;
| | | | - Valerio Giaccone
- Department of Animal Medicine, Productions and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy;
| | - Giampaolo Colavita
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
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25
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Impellitteri F, Multisanti CR, Rusanova P, Piccione G, Falco F, Faggio C. Exploring the Impact of Contaminants of Emerging Concern on Fish and Invertebrates Physiology in the Mediterranean Sea. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:767. [PMID: 37372052 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
In this historical context, the Mediterranean Sea faces an increasing threat from emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, heavy metals, pesticides and microplastics, which pose a serious risk to the environment and human health. In this regard, aquatic invertebrates and fish are particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of these pollutants, and several species have been identified as bio-indicators for their detection. Among these, bivalve molluscs and elasmobranchs are now widely used as bio-indicators to accurately assess the effects of contaminants. The study focuses on the catshark Scyliorhinus canicular and on the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. The first one is a useful indicator of localised contamination levels due to its exposure to pollutants that accumulate on the seabed. Moreover, it has a high trophic position and plays an important role in the Mediterranean Sea ecosystem. The bivalve mollusc Mytilus galloprovincialis, on the other hand, being a filter-feeding organism, can acquire and bioaccumulate foreign particles present in its environment. Additionally, because it is also a species of commercial interest, it has a direct impact on human health. In conclusion, the increasing presence of emerging pollutants in the Mediterranean Sea is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Bivalve molluscs and elasmobranchs are two examples of bio-indicators that must be used to precisely determine the effects of these pollutants on the marine ecosystem and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Impellitteri
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Cristiana Roberta Multisanti
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical, and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Polina Rusanova
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences (BiGeA)-Marine Biology and Fisheries Laboratory of Fano (PU), University of Bologna, 61032 Bologna, Italy
- Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology (IRBIM)-CNR, L. Vaccara, 91026 Mazara del Vallo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Falco
- Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology (IRBIM)-CNR, L. Vaccara, 91026 Mazara del Vallo, Italy
| | - Caterina Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical, and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
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26
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Aquino VN, Plaul FE, Sanchez AD, Villagra S, Cappelletti NE. Microplastics and hydrocarbons in soils: Quantification as an anthropic carbon source. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2023; 19:698-705. [PMID: 36189835 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4694] [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: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The literature on the presence of microplastics (MPs) and their potential impact on terrestrial ecosystems is still scarce. Interestingly, soil MPs are detected as organic carbon (SOC) using traditional quantification methods (e.g., loss on ignition [LOI]), although its dynamics in the environment will be different. The objective of this study was to quantify the carbon (C) contribution of MPs to the SOC in superficial soil samples from a coastal urban wetland (Avellaneda, Buenos Aires, Argentina) with the features of a humid subtropical forest and compare with hydrocarbon contribution. Soil samples were split for analysis of moisture content; texture (sieve and pipet method); organic matter as a LOI (8 h at 450 °C); total hydrocarbons (THCs; gravimetry of solvent extractable matter); n-alkanes (solvent extraction and gas chromatography-flame ionization detection analysis); and extraction of MPs (floatation in NaClaq , filtration, H2 O2 digestion, and visual sorting under a stereomicroscope). The superficial soil was a sandy clay loam with a large organic matter content (19%-30%). The THC averaged 2.5 ± 1.9 g kg and the marked predominance of odd-numbered carbon n-alkanes maximizing at C29 and C31 show the contribution of the terrestrial plant waxes. The average number of MPs was 587 ± 277 items kg of dry soil, predominantly fibers. Taking account of the C content, THCs and MPs add to the soil 1.23 ± 1.10 ton C ha and 0.10-0.97 ton C ha, respectively. Therefore, in this system with humid forest characteristics, the MPs represent between 0.12% and 1.25% of soil estimated carbon, in a magnitude similar to the C contribution of THCs (0.6%-4.2%). This preliminary study shows the relevance of discriminating MPs from other carbon sources and presents a description of their impact on soils to advance future research or tools for decision-makers. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:698-705. © 2022 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor N Aquino
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Ambiente y Turismo, Universidad Nacional de Avellaneda (UNDAV), Avellaneda, Argentina
| | - Florencia E Plaul
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Ambiente y Turismo, Universidad Nacional de Avellaneda (UNDAV), Avellaneda, Argentina
| | - Anabel D Sanchez
- Departamento de Ambiente y Turismo, Universidad Nacional de Avellaneda (UNDAV), Avellaneda, Argentina
| | - Sebastian Villagra
- Departamento de Ambiente y Turismo, Universidad Nacional de Avellaneda (UNDAV), Avellaneda, Argentina
| | - Natalia E Cappelletti
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Ambiente y Turismo, Universidad Nacional de Avellaneda (UNDAV), Avellaneda, Argentina
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Meng L, Tian H, Lv J, Wang Y, Jiang G. Influence of microplastics on the photodegradation of perfluorooctane sulfonamide (FOSA). J Environ Sci (China) 2023; 127:791-798. [PMID: 36522106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are omnipresent in the environment and their transportation and transformation have attracted increased attention. Microplastics are another potential risk substances that can serve as a carrier for ubiquitous pollutants, thus affecting the presence of PFAS in the environment. In this study, the adsorption of perfluorooctane sulfonamide (FOSA) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) on four microplastics (PE, PVC, PS, and PTFE) and their effect on the photodegradation of FOSA were studied. The adsorption capacity of FOSA by PS was the highest, in similar, PS displayed the highest adsorption capacity in the presence of PFOA. Different effects of pH and salinity on the adsorption of FOSA and PFOA were observed among different microplastics indicating inconsistent interaction mechanisms. Furthermore, FOSA could be photodegraded, with PFOA as the main product, while the presence of microplastics had a negligible effect on the degradation of this contaminant. The results indicated that microplastics could act as PFAS concentrators. Moreover, their photochemical inertias make the pollutants enriched on microplastics more resistant to degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyi Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Haoting Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Jitao Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China.
| | - Yawei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
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Cau A, Gorule PA, Bellodi A, Carreras-Colom E, Moccia D, Pittura L, Regoli F, Follesa MC. Comparative microplastic load in two decapod crustaceans Palinurus elephas (Fabricius, 1787) and Nephrops norvegicus (Linnaeus, 1758). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 191:114912. [PMID: 37080020 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The present work compares microplastics (MPs) contamination in two charismatic crustaceans: European spiny lobster Palinurus elephas and langoustine Nephrops norvegicus. Samples (P. elephas n = 14; N. norvegicus n = 15) were collected between 76 and 592 m depth, from four sites in west Sardinia, Italy. An extraction protocol was applied on stomachs and intestines, separately, and over 500 particles were further characterized through μFT-IR. We document 100 % occurrence in specimens from both species, with P. elephas being significantly more contaminated (9.1 ± 1.75 vs. 3.2 ± 0.45 MPs individual-1), ingesting larger MPs with different polymeric composition. The scavenging-based feeding strategy of both species could explain such exposure to MPs, mostly derived by single-use plastic. The overall results highlight that both species are clearly affected by plastic pollution, being valuable bioindicators and charismatic species that could thus represent excellent flagship species for raising awareness toward the global issue of plastic in the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Cau
- Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, CoNISMa, ULR Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Pankaj A Gorule
- Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Bellodi
- Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, CoNISMa, ULR Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ester Carreras-Colom
- Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Davide Moccia
- Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, CoNISMa, ULR Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Lucia Pittura
- Università Politecnica delle Marche, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Regoli
- Università Politecnica delle Marche, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy; National Future Biodiversity Center (NFBC), Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Follesa
- Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, CoNISMa, ULR Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Pham DT, Kim J, Lee SH, Kim J, Kim D, Hong S, Jung J, Kwon JH. Analysis of microplastics in various foods and assessment of aggregate human exposure via food consumption in korea. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 322:121153. [PMID: 36709032 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Evidence of microplastics in humans has recently been demonstrated. The primary route of human exposure to microplastics is consumption of contaminated food and water. However, quantitative estimations of exposure to microplastics are limited, which hinders human health risk assessments. In this study, abundances of microplastics were measured in eight food types, comprising 90 products of table salts, soy sauces, fish sauces, salted seafood, seaweed, honey, beer, and beverage. Aggregate human exposure to microplastics via food consumption was assessed based on the number and mass of microplastics, using deterministic calculations and Monte Carlo simulations. The determinations revealed that average adult Koreans likely ingest 1.4 × 10-4 and 3.1 × 10-4 g of microplastics per week, respectively. These results are orders of magnitude smaller than earlier estimates of 0.1-5 g of microplastics per week that likely chose experimental outliers. Therefore, careful selection of literature data and estimation methods is needed to provide more realistic exposure estimations from microplastic counts. This study extends our understanding of MP occurrence in food and provides a more thorough estimate of aggregate microplastic exposure via food consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dat Thanh Pham
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinwoo Kim
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hwa Lee
- FITI Testing & Research Institute, 21 Yangcheong 3-gil, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, 28115, Republic of Korea
| | - Juyang Kim
- Korea Institute of Analytical Science and Technology, 99 Seongsuil-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04790, Republic of Korea
| | - Dowoon Kim
- Korea Institute of Analytical Science and Technology, 99 Seongsuil-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04790, Republic of Korea
| | - Soonki Hong
- FITI Testing & Research Institute, 21 Yangcheong 3-gil, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, 28115, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehak Jung
- Korea Institute of Analytical Science and Technology, 99 Seongsuil-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04790, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Kwon
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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30
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Muns-Pujadas L, Dallarés S, Constenla M, Padrós F, Carreras-Colom E, Grelaud M, Carrassón M, Soler-Membrives A. Revealing the capability of the European hake to cope with micro-litter environmental exposure and its inferred potential health impact in the NW Mediterranean Sea. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 186:105921. [PMID: 36827887 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.105921] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Prevalence, abundance, concentration, size and composition of anthropogenic items (AIs) (synthetic and non-synthetic) ingested by Merluccius merluccius juvenile specimens and from near-bottom water samples from different localities off the Catalan coast (NW Mediterranean), were characterized. The potential effect of AIs on fish condition was assessed through different health indicators. Virtually all AIs found in fish and near-bottom water samples were fibres. A mean of 0.85 fibres/m3 from the surrounding water was observed. Fish ingested a mean of 1.39 (SD = 1.39) items/individual. Cellulosic fibres were predominant (77.8% of samples), except for Barcelona. No differences in ingested AIs abundance and composition off Barcelona between 2007 and 2019 were found. Small AIs from the environment matched ingested AIs composition. Hakes did not ingest large fibres despite being present in the environment, probably due to their feeding behaviour. No adverse health effects or parasites aggregations were detected to be potentially related to AIs ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Muns-Pujadas
- Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Dallarés
- Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Maria Constenla
- Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Padrós
- Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ester Carreras-Colom
- Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michaël Grelaud
- Institut de Ciència i Tecnologia Ambientals (ICTA-UAB), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maite Carrassón
- Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Soler-Membrives
- Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
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31
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Santonicola S, Volgare M, Di Pace E, Mercogliano R, Cocca M, Raimo G, Colavita G. Research and characterization of fibrous microplastics and natural microfibers in pelagic and benthic fish species of commercial interest. Ital J Food Saf 2023; 12:11032. [PMID: 37064521 PMCID: PMC10102967 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2023.11032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The ingestion of synthetic microfibers, the most prevalent type of microplastics in marine environments, and natural fibers was assessed in Engraulis engrasicolus and Mullus barbatus, two commercially important fish species in the Mediterranean Sea. Microfibers were isolated from the fish gastrointestinal tract using a 10% potassium hydroxide solution. For the microfiber characterization, the evaluation of specific morphological features using a light microscope, coupled with the Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis of a subsample of isolated particles, was applied. The preliminary results showed the occurrence of microfibers in 53 and 60% of European anchovy and Red mullet, respectively. A mean of 6.9 microfibers/individual was detected in anchovies, while on average Red mullet samples contained 9.2 microfibers/individual. The most common colors of fibers in both species were black, blue, and transparent. Visual characterization of fibers allowed the classification of 40% of the items as synthetic microfibers. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the visual classification by fiber morphology. Microfibers were made of different typologies of polymers, represented by cellulose, cotton, and polyester. These findings confirm as the wide distribution of fibrous microplastics, and natural microfibers may impact both pelagic and deep-sea trophic webs. Despite the presence of microfibers in fish species poses a potential risk to human health, the literature is scarce regarding studies on the uptake by commercial marine fish mostly due to methodological issues. The visual characterization, corroborated by spectroscopic techniques, may be useful to differentiate synthetic and natural fibers, representing a fast and easy method to assess fibrous microplastic pollution in commercially important fish species.
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32
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Zhang K, Zheng S, Liang J, Zhao Y, Li Q, Zhu M, Dai S, Sun X. Microplastic load of benthic fauna in Jiaozhou Bay, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 320:121073. [PMID: 36641062 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of microplastic pollution in the ocean has caused widespread concern. Many studies have focused on the occurrence of microplastics in the marine environment and organisms, but the fate of microplastics in the ocean is still unclear, and the factors affecting the distribution of microplastics have not yet been consistently concluded. The aims of this study were to estimate the load of microplastics in benthic organisms as a temporary storage and to analyze the factors affecting microplastic ingestion by benthic organisms. For the purpose of this study, the benthic organisms in Jiaozhou Bay, China, were collected quarterly and were divided into the following six groups: polychaetes, mollusks, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, and others. We concluded that the microplastic abundance in the benthos in Jiaozhou Bay was 1.00 ± 0.11 items/ind. (15.5 ± 3.5 items/g). The total load of microplastics in the benthic fauna in the bay with an area of 374 km2 was estimated to be 36.4 kg. On an individual basis, the fish contained significantly more microplastics than the other taxa. Furthermore, the characteristics of the microplastics in the benthic organisms were mainly fibrous, black, polyethylene, and <500 μm in size. In addition, the microplastic ingestion by benthic organisms was regulated by multiple factors, including biological characteristics and the environment. The masses of the organisms, the ambient seawater and sediment, and the spatial variations all influenced the microplastic ingestion by the organisms. The results of this study demonstrate that benthic organisms are an important storage for microplastics as they transferred through the ocean, and they provide an unbiased comparison of microplastic pollution among multiple organisms and the relevant pollution factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangning Zhang
- Jiaozhou Bay National Marine Ecosystem Research Station, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shan Zheng
- Jiaozhou Bay National Marine Ecosystem Research Station, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Junhua Liang
- Jiaozhou Bay National Marine Ecosystem Research Station, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Yongfang Zhao
- Jiaozhou Bay National Marine Ecosystem Research Station, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Qingjie Li
- Jiaozhou Bay National Marine Ecosystem Research Station, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Mingliang Zhu
- Jiaozhou Bay National Marine Ecosystem Research Station, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Sheng Dai
- Jiaozhou Bay National Marine Ecosystem Research Station, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiaoxia Sun
- Jiaozhou Bay National Marine Ecosystem Research Station, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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33
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Goldstein J, Javidpour J. Selective feeding protects moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita s.l.) from overloading with microplastics. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 188:114702. [PMID: 36791554 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Jellyfish blooms may be important bioindicators for marine ecosystem degradation, including the accumulation of microplastics in pelagic food webs. Here we show growth, respiration and filtration rates of the moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita s.l.) when fed high concentrations (350 L-1) of zooplankton prey (Artemia salina nauplii) and polystyrene (PS) or reference particles (charcoal; size range 50-500 μm). Our controlled feeding experiments reveal that inedible particles are ingested less efficiently compared to prey (retention efficiency ~60 % for PS) and actively removed from the gastrovascular system of ephyrae and medusae. Increased metabolic demands for excretion of inedible material (up to 76.7 ± 3.1 % of ingested prey biomass) suggest that overloading with microplastics can decelerate growth (observed maxima 26.1 % d-1 and 12.6 % d-1, respectively) and reproductive rates when food is limited. Possible consequences of this selective feeding strategy in response to proceeding microplastic pollution in the world's future oceans are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Goldstein
- Marine Biological Research Centre, Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Hindsholmvej 11, 5300 Kerteminde, Denmark.
| | - Jamileh Javidpour
- Marine Biological Research Centre, Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Hindsholmvej 11, 5300 Kerteminde, Denmark
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34
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Mohana AA, Islam MM, Rahman M, Pramanik SK, Haque N, Gao L, Pramanik BK. Generation and consequence of nano/microplastics from medical waste and household plastic during the COVID-19 pandemic. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:137014. [PMID: 36328315 PMCID: PMC9619086 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Since the end of 2019, the world has faced a major crisis because of the outbreak of COVID-19 disease which has created a severe threat to humanity. To control this pandemic, the World Health Organization gave some guidelines like wearing PPE (personal protective equipment) (e.g., face masks, overshoes, gloves), social distancing, hand hygiene and shutting down all modes of public transport services. During this pandemic, plastic products (e.g., household plastics, PPE and sanitizer bottles) have substantially prevented the spread of this virus. Since the outbreak, approximately 1.6 million tons of plastic waste have been generated daily. However, single-use PPE like face masks (N95), surgical masks and hand gloves contain many non-biodegradable plastics materials. These abandoned products have created a huge number of plastic debris which ended up as microplastics (MPs) followed by nanoplastics (NPs) in nature that are hazardous to the eco-system. These MPs and NPs also act as vectors for the various pathogenic contaminants. The goal of this review is to offer an extensive discussion on the formation of NPs and MPs from all of these abandoned plastics and their long-term impact on the environment as well as human health. This review paper also attempts to assess the present global scenario and the main challenge of waste management to reduce the potential NP/MPs pollution to improve the eco-systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Amir Mohana
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Md Monjurul Islam
- Department of Earth Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, South Korea
| | - Mahbubur Rahman
- Department of Civil Engineering, Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Sagor Kumar Pramanik
- Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nawshad Haque
- CSIRO Mineral Resources, Clayton South, Melbourne, VIC, 3169, Australia
| | - Li Gao
- South East Water, Frankston, Victoria, 3199, Australia
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35
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Valente T, Ventura D, Matiddi M, Sbrana A, Silvestri C, Piermarini R, Jacomini C, Costantini ML. Image processing tools in the study of environmental contamination by microplastics: reliability and perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:298-309. [PMID: 35902515 PMCID: PMC9813107 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22128-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is one of the greatest environmental concerns for contemporary times and the future. In the last years, the number of publications about microplastic contamination has increased rapidly and the list is daily updated. However, the lack of standard analytical approaches might generate data inconsistencies, reducing the comparability among different studies. The present study investigates the potential of two image processing tools (namely the shapeR package for R and ImageJ 1.52v) in providing an accurate characterization of the shape of microplastics using a restricted set of shape descriptors. To ascertain that the selected tools can measure small shape differences, we perform an experiment to verify the detection of pre-post variations in the shape of different microplastic types (i.e., nylon [NY], polyethylene [PE], polyethylene terephthalate [PET], polypropylene [PP], polystyrene [PS], and polyvinylchloride [PVC]) treated with mildly corrosive chemicals (i.e., 10% KOH at 60 °C, 30% H2O2 at 50 °C, and 15% H2O2 + 5% HNO3 at 40 °C; incubation time ≈ 12 h). Analysis of surface area variations returns results about the vulnerability of plastic polymers to digestive solutions that are aligned with most of the acquired knowledge. The largest decrease in surface area occurs for KOH-treated PET particles, while NY results in the most susceptible polymer to the 30% H2O2 treatment, followed by PVC and PS. PE and PP are the most resistant polymers to all the used treatments. The adopted methods to characterize microplastics seem reliable tools for detecting small differences in the shape and size of these particles. Then, the analytic perspectives that can be developed using such widely accessible and low-cost equipment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Valente
- Department of Environmental Biology, La Sapienza' University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, RM, Italy.
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128, Rome, RM, Italy.
| | - Daniele Ventura
- Department of Environmental Biology, La Sapienza' University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Marco Matiddi
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128, Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Alice Sbrana
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128, Rome, RM, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Via della Ricerca Scientifica snc, 00133, Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Cecilia Silvestri
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128, Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Raffaella Piermarini
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128, Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Carlo Jacomini
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128, Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Costantini
- Department of Environmental Biology, La Sapienza' University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, RM, Italy
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36
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Alberghini L, Truant A, Santonicola S, Colavita G, Giaccone V. Microplastics in Fish and Fishery Products and Risks for Human Health: A Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:789. [PMID: 36613111 PMCID: PMC9819327 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, plastic waste has become a universally significant environmental problem. Ingestion of food and water contaminated with microplastics is the main route of human exposure. Fishery products are an important source of microplastics in the human diet. Once ingested, microplastics reach the gastrointestinal tract and can be absorbed causing oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and translocation to other tissues. Furthermore, microplastics can release chemical substances (organic and inorganic) present in their matrix or previously absorbed from the environment and act as carriers of microorganisms. Additives present in microplastics such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), bisphenol A (BPA), nonylphenol (NP), octylphenol (OP), and potentially toxic elements can be harmful for humans. However, to date, the data we have are not sufficient to perform a reliable assessment of the risks to human health. Further studies on the toxicokinetics and toxicity of microplastics in humans are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Alberghini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Productions and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Alessandro Truant
- Department of Animal Medicine, Productions and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Serena Santonicola
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Colavita
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Valerio Giaccone
- Department of Animal Medicine, Productions and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
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A versatile approach to evaluate the occurrence of microfibers in mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21827. [PMID: 36528736 PMCID: PMC9759576 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25631-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastics of fibrous shape are esteemed to be the most abundant micro-debris form present in the environment. Despite the occurrence of microfibers in fish may pose a risk to human health, the literature is scarce regarding studies on the contamination in commercial marine fish mostly due to methodological issues. In this study, a versatile approach, able to discriminate among natural and synthetic microfibers according to the evaluation of specific morphological features, is proposed in farmed mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis). The approach was useful to determine that microfibers were present in 74% of mussel samples, with a mean number of 14.57 microfibers/individual, corresponding to 3.13 microfibers/g w.w. A negative correlation between the size of analysed mussels and the amount of microfibers/g w.w. was detected, showing that smaller specimens contained more microfibers than the larger ones. This work paves the way to further studies aimed to adequately assess the risk that microfibers may pose to marine biota, also considering the commercial value as seafood items of many species of the Mytilus genus and the potential implication for human exposure.
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38
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Saeed MS, Halim SZ, Fahd F, Khan F, Sadiq R, Chen B. An ecotoxicological risk model for the microplastics in arctic waters. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 315:120417. [PMID: 36243188 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120417] [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: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The risk posed to Arctic marine life by microplastics, a Contaminants of Emerging Arctic Concern (CEAC), is poorly known. The reason is the limited understanding of the dose-response relationship due to the region's peculiar environmental and geophysical properties and the unique physiological properties of the species living there. The properties of microplastics in the region and their distribution across the oceanic profile further complicate the problem. This paper addresses the knowledge gap by proposing a novel comprehensive ecotoxicity model. The model uses oxidative stress caused by the Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) to assess cell mortality. Cell mortality has been used as an indicator of ecological risk. The model is implemented in the Bayesian Network (BN) framework to evaluate the cytotoxicity, measured as the probability of causing mortality. The work enhances the understanding and assessment of the cytotoxicity of microplastics in polar cod and associated risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sadiq Saeed
- Centre for Risk, Integrity, and Safety Engineering (C-RISE), Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, Memorial University, St John's, NL, A1B 3X5, Canada; Mary Kay O'Connor Process Safety Center (MKOPSC), Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Syeda Zohra Halim
- Mary Kay O'Connor Process Safety Center (MKOPSC), Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Faisal Fahd
- Centre for Risk, Integrity, and Safety Engineering (C-RISE), Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, Memorial University, St John's, NL, A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Faisal Khan
- Mary Kay O'Connor Process Safety Center (MKOPSC), Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Rehan Sadiq
- School of Engineering, Okanagan Campus, Faculty of Applied Science, University of British Columbia, Okanagan, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Bing Chen
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control Laboratory (NRPOP Lab), Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, Memorial University, St John's, NL, A1B 3X5, Canada
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39
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Bošković N, Joksimović D, Bajt O. Microplastics in fish and sediments from the Montenegrin coast (Adriatic Sea): Similarities in accumulation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 850:158074. [PMID: 35981574 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the biotic and abiotic components of the marine environment poses a major threat to marine ecosystems worldwide. The objective of this study was to document, for the first time, differences in MP accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract of two commercially important fish species and to evaluate the possible correlation between MP accumulation in the biotic (fish) and abiotic (sediment) components of the marine environment of the Montenegrin coast (Adriatic Sea). Samples were collected from two areas of the Montenegrin coast, Boka Kotorska Bay and the coastal part of the open sea. The frequency of MP ingestion was 58.6 % for Mullus barbatus and 54 % for Merluccius merluccius, while the average number of ingested MPs was 2.9 ± 0.5 and 3.2 ± 1.0 items/individual, respectively. Average MP abundance in surface sediments from Boka Kotorska Bay and the coastal part of the open sea was 315 ± 45 and 435 ± 258 MPs/kg of dry sediment, respectively. Most MPs identified were filaments, followed by fragments and films, while the most abundant polymers found in fish and sediments samples were polypropylene and polyethylene. The present results indicate that MP pollution in the study area is reflected in the accumulation of MPs in the biotic (fish) and abiotic (sediment) components of the marine environment. Measures need to be taken to reduce the input of plastics/MPs into the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Bošković
- Institute of Marine Biology, University of Montenegro, 85330, Put I Bokeljske brigade 68, Kotor, Montenegro.
| | - Danijela Joksimović
- Institute of Marine Biology, University of Montenegro, 85330, Put I Bokeljske brigade 68, Kotor, Montenegro
| | - Oliver Bajt
- National Institute of Biology, Marine Biology Station, Fornače 41, 6330 Piran, Slovenia; Faculty of Maritime Studies and Transport, University of Ljubljana, Pot pomorscakov 4, 6320 Portoroz, Slovenia
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40
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Raguso C, Grech D, Becchi A, Ubaldi PG, Lasagni M, Guala I, Saliu F. Detection of microplastics and phthalic acid esters in sea urchins from Sardinia (Western Mediterranean Sea). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 185:114328. [PMID: 36368079 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) and phthalic acid esters (PAEs) in wild purple sea urchins (Paracentrotus lividus) of Sardinia (Italy, Western Mediterranean Sea) was surveyed. Specifically, MPs were analyzed in the digestive tract by μFTIR and PAEs in the gonads by SPME-LC-MS/MS. 9 out of 22 specimens resulted contaminated with MPs and 20 displayed levels of PAEs over the quantification limit. A total of 23 MPs were detected with a maximum concentration of 4 microplastics/individual in the commercially undersized specimens. PAEs displayed average concentration of 32 ng/g, σ = 5.3 with maximum value of 77 ng/g. The most abundant congeners were DEHP (17 ng/g, σ = 4.3) and DBP (10 ng/g, σ = 2.5). Statistical analysis showed correlation between DEHP and fiber concentrations and among the concentration of MEP, DEP, DBP and BBzP. Due to local use of sea urchin gonads as gourmet delicacy, the potential human exposition to MPs and PAEs by consumption is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Raguso
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Daniele Grech
- IMC - International Marine Centre, 09170 Loc.tà Sa Mardini, Torregrande, Oristano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Becchi
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Giuseppe Ubaldi
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Marina Lasagni
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Ivan Guala
- IMC - International Marine Centre, 09170 Loc.tà Sa Mardini, Torregrande, Oristano, Italy
| | - Francesco Saliu
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy.
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41
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Valente T, Pelamatti T, Avio CG, Camedda A, Costantini ML, de Lucia GA, Jacomini C, Piermarini R, Regoli F, Sbrana A, Ventura D, Silvestri C, Matiddi M. One is not enough: Monitoring microplastic ingestion by fish needs a multispecies approach. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 184:114133. [PMID: 36150223 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The development of monitoring programs based on bioindicators is crucial for assessing the impact of microplastic ingestion on marine organisms. This study presents results from an Italian pilot action aimed at investigating the suitability of a monitoring strategy based on a multispecies approach. The benthic-feeder Mullus barbatus, the demersal species Merluccius merluccius, and the pelagic-feeder species of the genus Scomber were used to assess the environmental contamination by microplastics in three different marine areas, namely Ancona (Adriatic Sea), Anzio (Tyrrhenian Sea), and Oristano (Western Sardinia). Microplastic ingestion frequencies were higher in samples from Anzio (26.7 %) and Ancona (25.0 %) than Oristano (14.4 %), suggesting a relationship between microplastic bioavailability and the proximity to urban settlements and river flows. Furthermore, microplastic ingestion was affected by the feeding habits of the examined species. The detected differences reinforce the hypothesis that a multispecies approach is needed to evaluate microplastic ingestion by marine animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Valente
- 'La Sapienza' University of Rome, Department of Environmental Biology, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, RM, Italy; ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy.
| | - Tania Pelamatti
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Carlo Giacomo Avio
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), Via Brecce Bianche snc, 60131 Ancona, AN, Italy
| | - Andrea Camedda
- IAS-CNR, Institute of Anthropic Impact and Sustainability in Marine Environment, National Research Council Oristano Section, Località Sa Mardini, 09170 Torregrande, OR, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Costantini
- 'La Sapienza' University of Rome, Department of Environmental Biology, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Andrea de Lucia
- IAS-CNR, Institute of Anthropic Impact and Sustainability in Marine Environment, National Research Council Oristano Section, Località Sa Mardini, 09170 Torregrande, OR, Italy
| | - Carlo Jacomini
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Raffaella Piermarini
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Francesco Regoli
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), Via Brecce Bianche snc, 60131 Ancona, AN, Italy
| | - Alice Sbrana
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy; PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Via della Ricerca Scientifica snc, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Daniele Ventura
- 'La Sapienza' University of Rome, Department of Environmental Biology, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Cecilia Silvestri
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Marco Matiddi
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, RM, Italy
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Cocci P, Gabrielli S, Pastore G, Minicucci M, Mosconi G, Palermo FA. Microplastics accumulation in gastrointestinal tracts of Mullus barbatus and Merluccius merluccius is associated with increased cytokine production and signaling. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 307:135813. [PMID: 35931257 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
There is clear evidence that different marine species can be impacted by microplastic (MP) ingestion accumulating such MPs mainly in the gastrointestinal tract. However, there is still limited knowledge on the consequences of MPs' accumulation in the gut. The present study aims to assess MPs and their potential immunotoxic effects in the digestive tract of two species showing different ecological traits: the red mullet (Mullus barbatus) and the European hake (Merluccius merluccius). Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), micro-Raman and electron scanning microscope (SEM) were used to accurately identify the main plastic polymers detected in gut contents. In addition, we investigated the association between MP uptake and intestinal inflammation by evaluating expression and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. MP abundance ranged from 1 to 20 items/individual in red mullet and from 2 to 15 items/individual in European hake. The majority of ingested MPs were fibers, while the dominant colors were black and blue in both species. Chemical characterization indicated polyethylene and polypropylene as the most common polymer types. Moreover, it was observed that MP abundance was highly positive correlated to cytokines (i.e. interleukin-1β, 10, and interferon) and antioxidant enzyme (i.e. catalase and superoxide dismutase) transcript levels suggesting ROS generation and an infiltration of immune cells in the gut. Our findings provide evidence that the induction of cytokine-dependent signaling pathways is one aspect of the complex mechanism by which MPs affect the gut system in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Cocci
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Via Gentile III da Varano, 62032, Camerino, MC, Italy.
| | - Serena Gabrielli
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP), School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri, 62032, Camerino, MC, Italy
| | - Genny Pastore
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP), School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri, 62032, Camerino, MC, Italy
| | - Marco Minicucci
- Physics Division, School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri, 62032, Camerino, MC, Italy
| | - Gilberto Mosconi
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Via Gentile III da Varano, 62032, Camerino, MC, Italy
| | - Francesco Alessandro Palermo
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Via Gentile III da Varano, 62032, Camerino, MC, Italy.
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43
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Microplastics and nanoplastics in food, water, and beverages, part II. Methods. Trends Analyt Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2022.116819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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44
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Compa M, Alomar C, López Cortès MF, Rios-Fuster B, Morató M, Capó X, Fagiano V, Deudero S. Multispecies Assessment of Anthropogenic Particle Ingestion in a Marine Protected Area. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:1375. [PMID: 36290281 PMCID: PMC9598462 DOI: 10.3390/biology11101375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We have applied a multispecies ecosystem approach to analyse the ingestion of anthropogenic particles (AP) in the gastrointestinal tract of 313 individuals (17 fish species and 8 invertebrate species) from pelagic, demersal and benthic habitats in a marine protected area off the Western Mediterranean (Cabrera National Park). We have quantified and characterized the ingestion at several taxonomic levels of fish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, bivalves, and jellyfish in relation to biotic/abiotic factors based on taxonomic groups, trophic guilds (functional groups) and habitats. AP ingestion occurrence ranged from 26 to 100% with no significant differences among taxonomic groups. The fish within the MPA showed an overall ingestion occurrence ranging from 0 to 100%, the echinoderms from 29 to 100%, the bivalves from 72 to 96% and the jellyfish 36% ingestion. The ecosystem approach applied to evaluate overall AP ingestion within the species reported that for trophic guilds, the omnivorous species ingested the highest amounts of anthropogenic items, while herbivores ingested significantly fewer items than all other trophic guilds. Moreover, no significant differences were found amongst habitats, indicating a homogeneous spatial distribution of APs at all studied habitats. The multispecies approach provided insight into the high APs exposure to species within Cabrera MPA, highlighting the potential harm linked with marine litter that threatens marine biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Montserrat Compa
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma, Spain
| | - Carme Alomar
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma, Spain
| | - María Francesca López Cortès
- Dirección General de Espacios Naturales y Biodiversidad, Parque Nacional Marítimo-Terrestre del Archipiélago de Cabrera, Gremi de Corredors 10, Polígon de Son Rossinyol, 07009 Palma, Spain
| | - Beatriz Rios-Fuster
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma, Spain
| | - Mercè Morató
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma, Spain
| | - Xavier Capó
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma, Spain
| | - Valentina Fagiano
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma, Spain
| | - Salud Deudero
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma, Spain
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45
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Soliño L, Vidal-Liñán L, Pérez P, García-Barcelona S, Baldó F, Gago J. Microplastic occurrence in deep-sea fish species Alepocephalus bairdii and Coryphaenoides rupestris from the Porcupine Bank (North Atlantic). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 834:155150. [PMID: 35417727 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic occurrence in marine biota has been reported in a wide range of animals, from marine mammals and seabirds to invertebrates. Commercial and shallow-water fish have been the subject of numerous works on microplastic ingestion, given their importance in human diet and accessibility. However, little is known about microlitter occurrence in fish species inhabiting the dark ocean, in the bathyal zone and there is a high degree of uncertainty about microplastic distribution in offshore areas and the deep sea. In this study, bathydemersal species Alepocephalus bairdii and Coryphaenoides rupestris from the Porcupine Bank caught between 985 and 1037 m depth were inspected for microdebris. The stomach contents were digested by the alkaline method plus ethanol addition to avoid clogging. A filament of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) was found in the stomach of a specimen of A. bairdii, representing 4% of the total sampled specimens of this species (i.e. prevalence in n = 25). However, when considering potential microplastics, the prevalence increased to 28% in both, A. bairdii and C. rupestris. This work provides the first baseline study of microplastic items in fish from such depths in the Atlantic and suggests these species might be used as biomonitors in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Soliño
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), 36390 Vigo, Spain.
| | | | - Patricia Pérez
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | | | - Francisco Baldó
- Centro Oceanográfico de Cádiz (IEO, CSIC), 11006 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Jesús Gago
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), 36390 Vigo, Spain.
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46
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Pittura L, Garaventa F, Costa E, Minetti R, Nardi A, Ventura L, Morgana S, Capello M, Ungherese G, Regoli F, Gorbi S. Microplastics in seawater and marine organisms: Site-specific variations over two-year study in Giglio Island (North Tyrrhenian Sea). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 181:113916. [PMID: 35810651 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113916] [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: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Geographical and temporal differences of microplastic occurrence were documented in water and fish collected in 2017 and 2019 from the Giglio Island (North Tyrrhenian Sea) close to the area where the Costa Concordia sank in January 2012. Results on water samples showed a site-dependent difference, suggesting the role of surface current dynamics in the microplastic local distribution, while tested Neuston nets (200 μm and 330 μm mesh size) did not influence microplastic retention efficiency. Fish exhibited in 2019 a higher frequency of specimens positive to microplastic ingestion with respect to 2017, with an occurrence higher than those typically observed in other Mediterranean areas. Both in water and fish, fragments were the dominating shape, polypropylene and polyethylene were the prevalent polymers, without particular difference between sites and years. This study highlights the importance of applying microplastic investigation in biotic and abiotic matrices for an effective monitoring of this pollution in the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Pittura
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesca Garaventa
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Costa
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Minetti
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Nardi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Lucia Ventura
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Silvia Morgana
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Capello
- Department for the Earth, Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Regoli
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorbi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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47
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Reineccius J, Waniek JJ. First long-term evidence of microplastic pollution in the deep subtropical Northeast Atlantic. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 305:119302. [PMID: 35443203 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119302] [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: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
No anthropogenic pollutant is more widespread in the aquatic and terrestrial environment than microplastic; however, there are large knowledge gaps regarding its origin, fate, or temporal variations in the oceans. In this study, we analyzed sediment trap material from the deep subtropical Northeast Atlantic (2000 m) in a long-term record (2003-2015) to assess the role of the deep ocean as a potential sink of microplastics. Microplastic particles were identified in all 110 analyzed samples with flux rates of 1.13-3146.81 items d-1 m-2. Calculated microplastic mass fluxes ranged between 0.10 and 1977.96 μg d-1 m-2, representing up to 8% of the particle flux. Between years, the composition of the different polymers changed significantly, dominated by polyethylene, whose amount was correlated with the lithogenic input. The correlation between polyethylene and the lithogenic fraction was attributed to an air transport pathway from northeast Africa and surrounding regions. The second most abundant polymer detected in our study was polyvinyl chloride, which is not correlated with lithogenic or biogenic particle flux fractions. Instead, we observed seasonality for polyvinyl chloride with recurring high fluxes in winter before the plankton bloom and significantly lower amounts in summer. Other polymers identified were polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and lower numbers of polystyrene and polymethyl methacrylate. The average microplastic particle size for all samples and polymers was 88.44 ± 113.46 μm, with polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride having the highest proportion of small particles (<100 μm). Our findings provide first insights into temporal variations of sinking microplastics, which are crucial for understanding the fate of plastic in the oceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janika Reineccius
- Leibniz Institute of Baltic Sea Research, Warnemünde, Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, Germany.
| | - Joanna J Waniek
- Leibniz Institute of Baltic Sea Research, Warnemünde, Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, Germany
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48
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Occurrence of Natural and Synthetic Micro-Fibers in the Mediterranean Sea: A Review. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10070391. [PMID: 35878296 PMCID: PMC9320265 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10070391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Among microplastics (MPs), fibers are one of the most abundant shapes encountered in the aquatic environment. Growing attention is being focused on this typology of particles since they are considered an important form of marine contamination. Information about microfibers distribution in the Mediterranean Sea is still limited and the increasing evidence of the high amount of fibers in the aquatic environment should lead to a different classification from MPs which, by definition, are composed only of synthetic materials and not natural. In the past, cellulosic fibers (natural and regenerated) have been likely included in the synthetic realm by hundreds of studies, inflating “micro-plastic” counts in both environmental matrices and organisms. Comparisons are often hampered because many of the available studies have explicitly excluded the micro-fibers (MFs) content due, for example, to methodological problems. Considering the abundance of micro-fibers in the environment, a chemical composition analysis is fundamental for toxicological assessments. Overall, the results of this review work provide the basis to monitor and mitigate the impacts of microfiber pollution on the sea ecosystems in the Mediterranean Sea, which can be used to investigate other basins of the world for future risk assessment.
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49
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Bour A, Leoni D, Sundh H, Carney Almroth B. Exposure to textile microfibers causes no effect on blood, behavior and tissue morphology in the three-spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 180:113755. [PMID: 35642800 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113755] [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: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
We assessed textile microfibers impacts on the three-spined stickleback, using synthetic and natural fibers originating from yarns or washer effluents. After water exposure at 200 fibers/L, we assessed fish survival, behavior, tissue morphology and hemoglobin concentration, and paid special attention to exposure characterization. We report quantitative fiber distribution in the exposure system, fiber size distribution, and contamination. We provide a fiber preparation procedure and exposure method intended to ensure accurate and stable concentrations over time. Following exposure, no effect was observed on the studied endpoints in any of the treatment conditions. We observed fast sinking of the fibers. Fish organs and feces contained 1.3% and 6.8% of recovered fibers, and 12.6% fibers were found adhered to the tank walls. We show that water renewals in semi-static exposures is a critical step for the maintenance of stable concentrations, and discuss the practical and/or methodological challenges associated to the study of microfibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Bour
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Denise Leoni
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Henrik Sundh
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bethanie Carney Almroth
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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50
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Bunge A, Lugert V, McClure M, Kammann U, Hanel R, Scharsack JP. Less impact than suspected: Dietary exposure of three-spined sticklebacks to microplastic fibers does not affect their body condition and immune parameters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 819:153077. [PMID: 35038536 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic fibers are frequent anthropogenic contaminants in most aquatic environments and have consequently been detected in the digestive tract of many fish species. Upon ingestion, microplastic fibers pose risks of interference with nutrient uptake, impaired intestinal health, and as a consequence may alter growth performance and fitness. In addition, foreign particles such as fibers might cause tissue irritations and stress, and thus interfere with immune parameters. In nature, fish regularly encounter microplastic fibers as well as fiber debris from natural sources and materials. Thus, we wanted to test the potential impact of microplastic fibers on growth, organosomatic indices, and immune parameters of subadult fish and compare these to possible effects caused by natural fibers. We administered sticklebacks diets, which were supplemented with either polyester or cotton fibers (each at concentrations of 0.2 mg/g and 2 mg/g feed) or a control diet without fiber supplementation for nine weeks. Mortalities did not occur and sticklebacks grew equally well across treatments. Neither organosomatic indices nor immune parameters revealed significant differences between treatments. While natural differences between males and females were observed for some parameters, no treatment-related gender-specific effects were detected. Our results suggest that the dietary uptake of polyester fibers does not affect growth, body condition, gonad development, and immunity of sticklebacks - even at fiber concentrations higher than what can be encountered in the wild. Furthermore, virgin microplastic fibers do not seem to affect fish differently than fibers from natural origin. The present study implies that at least some species are resilient towards pollution with (virgin) microplastic fibers even at high concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Bunge
- Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology, Herwigstr. 31, 27572 Bremerhaven, Germany.
| | - Vincent Lugert
- Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology, Herwigstr. 31, 27572 Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Melissa McClure
- Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology, Herwigstr. 31, 27572 Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Ulrike Kammann
- Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology, Herwigstr. 31, 27572 Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Reinhold Hanel
- Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology, Herwigstr. 31, 27572 Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Jörn P Scharsack
- Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology, Herwigstr. 31, 27572 Bremerhaven, Germany
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