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Jang M, Lee M, Chung S, Park SA, Park H, Jeon H, Jegal J, Park SB, Oh DX, Shin G, Kim HJ. Ecotoxicity assessment of additives in commercial biodegradable plastic products: Implications for sustainability and environmental risk. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 931:172903. [PMID: 38697526 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172903] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics have gained popularity as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics, which face recycling and degradation challenges. Although the biodegradability of these plastics has been established, research on their ecotoxicity remains limited. Biodegradable plastics may still contain conventional additives, including toxic and non-degradable substances, to maintain their functionality during production and processing. Despite degrading the polymer matrix, these additives can persist in the environment and potentially harm ecosystems and humans. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the potential ecotoxicity of biodegradable plastics by analyzing the phthalate esters (PAEs) leaching out from biodegradable plastics through soil leachate. Sixteen commercial biodegradable plastic products were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to determine the types and amounts of PAE used in the products and evaluate their ecotoxicity. Among the various PAEs analyzed, non-regulated dioctyl isophthalate (DOIP) was the most frequently detected (ranging from 40 to 212 μg g-1). Although the DOIP is considered one of PAE alternatives, the detected amount of it revealed evident ecotoxicity, especially in the aquatic environment. Other additives, including antioxidants, lubricants, surfactants, slip agents, and adhesives, were also qualitatively detected in commercial products. This is the first study to quantify the amounts of PAEs leached from biodegradable plastics through water mimicking PAE leaching out from biodegradable plastics to soil leachate when landfilled and evaluate their potential ecotoxicity. Despite their potential toxicity, commercial biodegradable plastics are currently marketed and promoted as environmentally friendly materials, which could lead to indiscriminate public consumption. Therefore, in addition to improving biodegradable plastics, developing eco-friendly additives is significant. Future studies should investigate the leaching kinetics in soil leachate over time and toxicity of biodegradable plastics after landfill disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jang
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyung Lee
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Seonghyn Chung
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea; Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Seul-A Park
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Huijeong Park
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeonyeol Jeon
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea; Advanced Materials and Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonggeon Jegal
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Bae Park
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongyeop X Oh
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea; Department of Polymer Science and Engineering and Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Giyoung Shin
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jeong Kim
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea.
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Gerassimidou S, Geueke B, Groh KJ, Muncke J, Hahladakis JN, Martin OV, Iacovidou E. Unpacking the complexity of the polyethylene food contact articles value chain: A chemicals perspective. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 454:131422. [PMID: 37099905 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) is the most widely used type of plastic food packaging, in which chemicals can potentially migrate into packaged foods. The implications of using and recycling PE from a chemical perspective remain underexplored. This study is a systematic evidence map of 116 studies looking at the migration of food contact chemicals (FCCs) across the lifecycle of PE food packaging. It identified a total of 377 FCCs, of which 211 were detected to migrate from PE articles into food or food simulants at least once. These 211 FCCs were checked against the inventory FCCs databases and EU regulatory lists. Only 25% of the detected FCCs are authorized by EU regulation for the manufacture of food contact materials. Furthermore, a quarter of authorized FCCs exceeded the specific migration limit (SML) at least once, while one-third (53) of non-authorised FCCs exceeded the threshold value of 10 μg/kg. Overall, evidence on FCCs migration across the PE food packaging lifecycle is incomplete, especially at the reprocessing stage. Considering the EU's commitment to increase packaging recycling, a better understanding and monitoring of PE food packaging quality from a chemical perspective across the entire lifecycle will enable the transition towards a sustainable plastics value chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyridoula Gerassimidou
- Sustainable Plastics Research Group (SPlasH), Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
| | - Birgit Geueke
- Food Packaging Forum (FPF), 8045 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ksenia J Groh
- Eawag - Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Jane Muncke
- Food Packaging Forum (FPF), 8045 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - John N Hahladakis
- Food-Energy-Water-Waste Sustainability (FEWWS) Program, Center for Sustainable Development, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Olwenn V Martin
- Plastic Waste Innovation Hub, Department of Arts and Science, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom.
| | - Eleni Iacovidou
- Sustainable Plastics Research Group (SPlasH), Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, United Kingdom; Division of Environmental Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, United Kingdom.
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Luo H, Liu C, He D, Sun J, Li J, Pan X. Effects of aging on environmental behavior of plastic additives: Migration, leaching, and ecotoxicity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 849:157951. [PMID: 35961392 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), an emerging pollutant, are of global concern due to their wide distribution and large quantities. In addition to MPs themselves, various additives within MPs (such as plasticizers, flame retardants, antioxidants and heavy metals) may also have harmful effects on the environment. Most of these additives are physically bound to plastics and can therefore be leached from the plastic and released into the environment. Aging of MPs in the actual environment can affect the migration and release of additives, further increasing the ecotoxicological risk of additives to organisms. This work reviews the functions of several commonly used additives in MPs, and summarizes the representative characterization methods. Furthermore, the migration and leaching of additives in the human environment and marine environment are outlined. As aging promotes the internal chain breaking of MPs and the increase of specific surface area, it in turn stimulates the release of additives. The hazards of additive exposure have been elucidated, and various studies from the laboratory have shown that more toxic additives such as phthalates and brominated flame retardants can disrupt a variety of biological processes in organisms, including metabolism, skeletal development and so on. Increase of MPs ecological risk caused by the leaching of toxic additives is discussed, especially under the effect of aging. This study presents a systematic summary of various functional and environmental behaviors of additives in plastics, using weathering forces as the main factor, which helps to better assess the environmental impact and potential risks of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Luo
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
| | - Chenyang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Dongqin He
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Jianqiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Jun Li
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Xiangliang Pan
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
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Vilakati B, Venkataraman S, Nyoni H, Mamba BB, Omine K, Msagati TAM. Qualitative characterisation and identification of microplastics in a freshwater dam at Gauteng Province, South Africa, using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-time of flight-mass spectrometry (Py-GC-ToF-MS). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:83452-83468. [PMID: 35761140 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21510-5] [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: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Pyrolysis GC-ToF-MS-based analytical study was employed in the identification of microplastics (MPs) in the freshwater of a dam Rietvlei (RTV) located at Gauteng Province, South Africa. These MPs extracted in five locations of the dam were found to contain five different plastic polymeric constituents including PE, PS, PA, PVC and PET along with phthalate esters and fatty acid (amides and esters) derivatives as additives. Based on the fragmented pyrolyzate products, the contribution of plastic polymers and additives was 74% and 26% respectively. Among polymers, PA was dominant with 52% followed by PVC (16%) and others (13%) such as PE, PET and PS in MPs. Scanning electron micrographs of MPs in this aquatic body displayed the rough and fibrous typed patterns. The residual mass of 8-14% was left after the thermal degradation of MPs in RTV samples in the temperature range of 500-550 °C. The results of thermogravimetry (TGA) and energy-dispersive (EDS) analyses are mutually dependent and coherent to each other by way of demonstrating the presence of various inorganic compounds in the form of additives and/or sorbates. The lessened intensities of carbonyl stretching in PA (1625 cm-1) and PET (1725 cm-1) type of MPs attributed the occurrence of degradation and weathering in this aquatic system. The possible causes to the contamination of MPs in this freshwater are the located industries and poor waste management strategies being practised in this densely populated city. Based on the industry, waste management and population perspectives, the increased contamination of MPs is very likely in this freshwater which will drastically affect the ecosystem in the near future. Based on the characterisation results, the presence of various polymers, additives and the metals in MPs is envisaged to deteriorate the aquatic life along with successive risks for the people as a consequence of bio-magnification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bongekile Vilakati
- College of Science Engineering and Technology, Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability, University of South Africa, UNISA Science Campus, P.O. Box 392 UNISA 0003, Florida 1709, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sivasankar Venkataraman
- Post Graduate and Research Department of Chemistry, Pachaiyappa's College (Affiliated to University of Madras), Tamil Nadu, Chennai, 600 030, India
| | - Hlengilizwe Nyoni
- College of Science Engineering and Technology, Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability, University of South Africa, UNISA Science Campus, P.O. Box 392 UNISA 0003, Florida 1709, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bhekie B Mamba
- College of Science Engineering and Technology, Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability, University of South Africa, UNISA Science Campus, P.O. Box 392 UNISA 0003, Florida 1709, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kiyoshi Omine
- Geo-Environmental Laboratory, Department of Civil Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki-Daigaku, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki, 852 8521, Japan
| | - Titus A M Msagati
- College of Science Engineering and Technology, Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability, University of South Africa, UNISA Science Campus, P.O. Box 392 UNISA 0003, Florida 1709, Johannesburg, South Africa.
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Sarkar S, Gill SS, Das Gupta G, Kumar Verma S. Water toxicants: a comprehension on their health concerns, detection, and remediation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:53934-53953. [PMID: 35624361 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20384-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Water is an essential moiety for the human use since a long time. Availability of good-quality water is very essential, as it is used in almost all the industrial, agricultural, and household activities. However, several factors such as increased urbanization and industrialization, extensive use of chemicals, natural weathering of rocks, and human ignorance led to incorporation of enormous toxicants into the water. The water toxicants are broadly classified as inorganic, organic, and radiological toxicants. Inorganic toxicants include heavy metals (As, Cr, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb) and metalloids, ammonia, nitrate, and fluoride. Uranium is included in radiological toxicants which also causes chemical toxicity. Organic pollutants include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, phenolic compounds, phthalate esters, pesticides, pharmaceutical and personal care products, perchlorates, and flame retardants. These toxicants are harmful for the ecosystem as well as for the human beings causing different types of health complications like lung cancer, nasal cancer, gingivitis, severe vomiting and abdominal pain, hormonal imbalance, skeletal damage, neurotoxicity like Alzheimer and Parkinson disease, renal toxicity, nephrotoxicity, etc. The USEPA and WHO specified the permissible concentration of these pollutants in the drinking water. Determination techniques having high sensitivity, low cost, rapid onsite, and real-time detection of traces of water pollutants are discussed. This review also covers in depth about the remediation techniques, for the control of water toxicants, such as chelation of the heavy metals, intoxication of pollutants using various plants, adsorption of toxicants using different sorbent medias, and photocatalytic breakdown of persistent organic pollutants (POPs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Saptarshy Sarkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh Gill
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India
| | - Ghanshyam Das Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India
| | - Sant Kumar Verma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, 142 001, Punjab, India.
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EL-Desouky NA, Elyamany M, Hanon AF, Atef A, Issak M, Taha SHN, Hussein RF. Association of Phthalate Exposure with Endometriosis and Idiopathic Infertility in Egyptian Women. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.9722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Phthalates are compounds found in medical supplies, cellophane wraps, beverage containers, metal can linings, and other products. They have the potential to be significant endocrine disruptors. In experimental animals, thereby affecting their reproductive capacity. Endometriosis is a gynecological condition defined by ectopic endometrial glands and stromal development. Exposure to phthalates has been linked to the development of endometriosis in numerous studies. The dangers of phthalates to women’s reproductive health and fertility have been widely reported.
AIM: So far, the relationship between phthalates and infertility is not proven so we decided to see if there was a link between the urine phthalate metabolite levels and endometriosis or idiopathic infertility in Egyptian women.
METHODS: Our research was carried out at the infertility outpatient clinic of the Faculty of Medicine of Cairo University. It included 100 female subjects aged 18−40-years-old. Group A (idiopathic infertility; n = 40), Group B (endometriosis; n = 40), and Group C (control; n = 20) were the three age-matched groups that were studied. Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the urine levels of mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) were quantified.
RESULTS: The comparison between the study groups has revealed statistically significant differences regarding the urine MEHP levels between Groups A and B. An analysis of the urine MEHP levels in the study Groups A and B has also revealed that the significantly higher urinary MEHP levels are correlated with the use of dietary plastic containers, the use of cosmetics, and the patients’ estrogen levels. Moreover, the urinary MEHP levels of Group A were associated with a history of abortions.
CONCLUSIONS: Higher levels of urinary MEHP are positively associated with female reproductive disorders, specifically endometriosis, idiopathic infertility, and abortion.
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Li Y, Zheng N, Li Y, Li P, Sun S, Wang S, Song X. Exposure of childbearing-aged female to phthalates through the use of personal care products in China: An assessment of absorption via dermal and its risk characterization. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 807:150980. [PMID: 34662603 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates (PAEs) are widely used in personal care products (PCPs) and skin care packaging materials. Through national representative sampling, 328 childbearing-aged females in China were investigated by questionnaire, whose contact factors for 30 cosmetic products were collected. According to the daily exposure method and adverse cumulative effects of PAE exposure on female reproduction, we derived the ERα, ERβ binding, and AR anti-androgenic effects. The utilization rates of acne cleanser, acne cream, cleanser (non-acne), and cream (non-acne) in volunteers were 21.90%, 22.22%, 51.63%, and 51.96%, respectively. Examining the data for PAEs in PCPs, the content of DBP (dibutyl phthalate) in them was significantly higher for tubes (0.26 ± 0.05 μg/g) and other packaging (pump type and metal tube) (0.25 ± 0.03 μg/g) than bowl (0.17 ± 0.04 μg/g). The DBP content of acne cream (0.27 ± 0.03 μg/g) was significantly higher than that of non-acne cream (0.17 ± 0.03 μg/g); likewise, there was significantly more DEHP (di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) in acne cleanser (0.87 ± 0.15 μg/g) than non-acne cleanser (0.64 ± 0.36 μg/g). Students and office worker were the main consumers of PCPs; however, among all occupation groups, the daily exposure dose of PCPs for workers was highest (mean = 0.0004, 0.0002, 0.0009 μg/kg bw/day for DEP (diethyl phthalate), DBP, and DEHP, respectively). The cumulative indices of PAEs' exposure revealed that the level of ERα and ERβ binding and AR anti-androgenic effects in workers was respectively 0.4935, 0.0186, and 0.2411 μg/kg bw/day. The risk index (HITDI and HIRfDs) of DEP, DBP, and DEHP was lower than their corresponding reference value (hazard index <1), but using PCPs may cause potential health risks. Therefore, we should pay attention to the adverse effects of PAEs on female reproductive functioning, especially the cumulative exposure of females of childbearing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyang Li
- Northeast Institute of Geography and Agricultural Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China; Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Resources, Jilin University, China; Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Na Zheng
- Northeast Institute of Geography and Agricultural Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China; Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Resources, Jilin University, China.
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Resources, Jilin University, China
| | - Pengyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Resources, Jilin University, China
| | - Siyu Sun
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Resources, Jilin University, China
| | - Sujing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Resources, Jilin University, China
| | - Xue Song
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment of the Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Resources, Jilin University, China
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Zrimec J, Kokina M, Jonasson S, Zorrilla F, Zelezniak A. Plastic-Degrading Potential across the Global Microbiome Correlates with Recent Pollution Trends. mBio 2021; 12:e0215521. [PMID: 34700384 PMCID: PMC8546865 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02155-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Biodegradation is a plausible route toward sustainable management of the millions of tons of plastic waste that have accumulated in terrestrial and marine environments. However, the global diversity of plastic-degrading enzymes remains poorly understood. Taking advantage of global environmental DNA sampling projects, here we constructed hidden Markov models from experimentally verified enzymes and mined ocean and soil metagenomes to assess the global potential of microorganisms to degrade plastics. By controlling for false positives using gut microbiome data, we compiled a catalogue of over 30,000 nonredundant enzyme homologues with the potential to degrade 10 different plastic types. While differences between the ocean and soil microbiomes likely reflect the base compositions of these environments, we find that ocean enzyme abundance increases with depth as a response to plastic pollution and not merely taxonomic composition. By obtaining further pollution measurements, we observed that the abundance of the uncovered enzymes in both ocean and soil habitats significantly correlates with marine and country-specific plastic pollution trends. Our study thus uncovers the earth microbiome's potential to degrade plastics, providing evidence of a measurable effect of plastic pollution on the global microbial ecology as well as a useful resource for further applied research. IMPORTANCE Utilization of synthetic biology approaches to enhance current plastic degradation processes is of crucial importance, as natural plastic degradation processes are very slow. For instance, the predicted lifetime of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle under ambient conditions ranges from 16 to 48 years. Moreover, although there is still unexplored diversity in microbial communities, synergistic degradation of plastics by microorganisms holds great potential to revolutionize the management of global plastic waste. To this end, the methods and data on novel plastic-degrading enzymes presented here can help researchers by (i) providing further information about the taxonomic diversity of such enzymes as well as understanding of the mechanisms and steps involved in the biological breakdown of plastics, (ii) pointing toward the areas with increased availability of novel enzymes, and (iii) giving a basis for further application in industrial plastic waste biodegradation. Importantly, our findings provide evidence of a measurable effect of plastic pollution on the global microbial ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Zrimec
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mariia Kokina
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Sara Jonasson
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Francisco Zorrilla
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
- MRC Toxicology Unit, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Aleksej Zelezniak
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Expósito N, Rovira J, Sierra J, Folch J, Schuhmacher M. Microplastics levels, size, morphology and composition in marine water, sediments and sand beaches. Case study of Tarragona coast (western Mediterranean). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 786:147453. [PMID: 33964765 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mediterranean Sea has been proposed as the sixth greatest accumulation zone for marine litter and the most affected regarding to microplastics (MPs). Tarragona (Catalonia, NE Spain) coastal region suffers high pressure due to urbanization, tourism, industrial harbour and petrochemical/plastic industries. The present study aims to quantify and characterize in size, morphology and composition the MPs present in sandy beaches, marine sediments, and surface seawaters of Tarragona coastal region. MPs mean abundance were 1.30 items/m3 in surface seawaters, 32.4 items/kg in marine sediments, and 10.7 items/kg in sandy beaches. Polyester fibres were dominant MPs in bottom sediments and seawater meanwhile polyethylene and polypropylene fragments were the main MPs in beaches. The fibres balls associated with bottom sediments, organic matter and plankton were abundant, masking the real quantity of fibres in each reservoir. The abundance by volume of seawater MPs was higher to those found in oceanic areas and similar to other areas of Mediterranean Sea, corroborating that Western Mediterranean Sea as a region of MPs accumulation. MPs composition and abundance suggested the input of numerous land-base-sources, WWTP (wastewater treatment plants) effluents discharges, and emissaries as the most important. Marine MPs pollution were studied from an integrative point of view, that includes superficial sea water, sand from beaches and sediments. The dynamics of MPs in Tarragona coast were characterized by seawater as the media that receive and facilitate dispersion and fragmentation. The shoreline acts as an intermediate reservoir with constant weathering and active exchange with seawater surface and the sediments acts as a significant sink for medium MPs sizes. It is necessary to develop protocols and guidelines for MPs analysis to obtain harmonized and comparable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Expósito
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joaquim Rovira
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain; Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Jordi Sierra
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain; Laboratory of Soil Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII s/n, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jaume Folch
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Marta Schuhmacher
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
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Salhofer S, Jandric A, Soudachanh S, Le Xuan T, Tran TD. Plastic Recycling Practices in Vietnam and Related Hazards for Health and the Environment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4203. [PMID: 33921067 PMCID: PMC8071425 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Waste plastic today is a global threat. The rapid increase in global production and use has led to increasing quantities of plastics in industrial and municipal waste streams. While in industrialized countries plastic waste is taken up by a waste management system and at least partly recycled, in low-income countries adequate infrastructure to collect and treat waste adequately is often not in place. This paper analyzes how plastic waste is handled in Vietnam, a country with a fast-growing industry and growing consumption. The recycling of plastic waste typically takes place in an informal context. To demonstrate this in more detail, two rural settlements-so-called craft villages-are taken as case studies. Technologies and processes for plastic recycling are described and related risks for human health and the environment are shown, as well as the potential for the improvement of this situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Salhofer
- Institute of Waste Management, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1190 Vienna, Austria; (A.J.); (S.S.)
| | - Aleksander Jandric
- Institute of Waste Management, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1190 Vienna, Austria; (A.J.); (S.S.)
| | - Souphaphone Soudachanh
- Institute of Waste Management, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1190 Vienna, Austria; (A.J.); (S.S.)
| | - Thinh Le Xuan
- Vietnam Cleaner Production Centre Co. Ltd, Hanoi 11413, Vietnam;
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Hanoi 11615, Vietnam
| | - Trinh Dinh Tran
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Science, Vietnam National University, No. 19 Le Thanh Tong Street, Hanoi 11021, Vietnam;
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11
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Low-dose Bisphenol-A Promotes Epigenetic Changes at Pparγ Promoter in Adipose Precursor Cells. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12113498. [PMID: 33203037 PMCID: PMC7696502 DOI: 10.3390/nu12113498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as Bisphenol-A (BPA) is associated with an increase in obesity prevalence. Diet is the primary cause of human exposure to this contaminant. BPA promotes obesity by inducing adipocyte dysfunction and altering adipogenesis. Contradictory evidence and unanswered questions are reported in the literature concerning the BPA effects on adipogenesis. To clarify this issue, we tested the effects of prolonged low-dose BPA exposure on different phases of adipogenesis in committed 3T3L1 and uncommitted NIH3T3 preadipocytes. Our findings show that BPA effects on the adipogenesis are mediated by epigenetic mechanisms by reducing peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparγ) promoter methylation in preadipocytes. Nevertheless, in BPA-exposed 3T3L1, Pparγ expression only transiently increases as lipid accumulation at day 4 of differentiation, without altering the adipogenic potential of the precursor cells. In the absence of differentiation mix, BPA does not make the 3T3L1 an in vitro model of spontaneous adipogenesis and the effects on the Pparγ expression are still limited at day 4 of differentiation. Furthermore, BPA exposure does not commit the NIH3T3 to the adipocyte lineage, although Pparγ overexpression is more evident both in preadipocytes and during the adipocyte differentiation. Interestingly, termination of the BPA exposure restores the Pparγ promoter methylation and inflammatory profile of the 3T3L1 cells. This study shows that BPA induces epigenetic changes in a key adipogenic gene. These modifications are reversible and do not affect preadipocyte commitment and/or differentiation. We identify an alternative transcriptional mechanism by which BPA affects gene expression and demonstrate how the challenge of preventing exposure is fundamental for human health.
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Migration of dihydroxyalkylamines from polypropylene coffee capsules to Tenax® and coffee by salt-assisted liquid–liquid extraction and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Food Chem 2020; 321:126720. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.126720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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13
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Duan C, Fang Y, Sun J, Li Z, Wang Q, Bai J, Peng H, Liang J, Gao Z. Effects of fast food packaging plasticizers and their metabolites on steroid hormone synthesis in H295R cells. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 726:138500. [PMID: 32334352 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The health risks of exposure to plasticizers have received widespread attention, however, little is known about the effects of fast food packaging plasticizers on steroid hormone synthesis. In the present study, the types and migration of plasticizers in some commonly used fast-food packaging materials were detected by GC-MS, and the interference effects of these plasticizers and their metabolites on steroid hormone synthesis in the human body were evaluated by the H295R steroidogenesis assay. The GC-MS results showed that the main plasticizer compounds that migrated from fast food packaging into food were di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA). Exposure to these chemicals (100-1000 μM) can significantly reduce the viability of H295R cells in a dose-response manner, and these plasticizers and their metabolites that migrated into oily foods at high temperatures (0.25-25 μM) could significantly increase the E2 level and reduce the T level in H295R cells. According to the qRT-PCR data, 0.25 to 25 μM mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) significantly upregulated the expression levels of 17β-HSD1 and CYP19A1, and downregulated those of CYP17A1, CYP11A1 and StAR. The Western blot results were consistent with those of qRT-PCR. In summary, these results indicated that even exposure to low concentrations (≤1 mg/l or 2.5 μM) of these chemicals and their metabolites can cause significant endocrine-disrupting effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 30045, China; Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Yanjun Fang
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Jingran Sun
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Zhenxin Li
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Qiangqiang Wang
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Jialei Bai
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Hui Peng
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Jun Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 30045, China.
| | - Zhixian Gao
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China.
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Rolfo A, Nuzzo AM, De Amicis R, Moretti L, Bertoli S, Leone A. Fetal-Maternal Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors: Correlation with Diet Intake and Pregnancy Outcomes. Nutrients 2020; 12:E1744. [PMID: 32545151 PMCID: PMC7353272 DOI: 10.3390/nu12061744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances able to mimic or to interfere with the endocrine system, thus altering key biological processes such as organ development, reproduction, immunity, metabolism and behavior. High concentrations of EDCs are found in several everyday products including plastic bottles and food containers and they could be easily absorbed by dietary intake. In recent years, considerable interest has been raised regarding the biological effects of EDCs, particularly Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, on human pregnancy and fetal development. Several evidence obtained on in vitro and animal models as well as by epidemiologic and population studies strongly indicated that endocrine disruptors could negatively impact fetal and placental health by interfering with the embryonic developing epigenome, thus establishing disease paths into adulthood. Moreover, EDCs could cause and/or contribute to the onset of severe gestational conditions as Preeclampsia (PE), Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) and gestational diabetes in pregnancy, as well as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular complications in reproductive age. Therefore, despite contrasting data being present in the literature, endocrine disruptors must be considered as a therapeutic target. Future actions aimed at reducing or eliminating EDC exposure during the perinatal period are mandatory to guarantee pregnancy success and preserve fetal and adult health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rolfo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.M.N.); (L.M.)
| | - Anna Maria Nuzzo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.M.N.); (L.M.)
| | - Ramona De Amicis
- International Center for the Assessment of Nutritional Status (ICANS), Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Sandro Botticelli 21, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.D.A.); (S.B.); (A.L.)
| | - Laura Moretti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.M.N.); (L.M.)
| | - Simona Bertoli
- International Center for the Assessment of Nutritional Status (ICANS), Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Sandro Botticelli 21, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.D.A.); (S.B.); (A.L.)
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Lab of Nutrition and Obesity Research, 20145 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Leone
- International Center for the Assessment of Nutritional Status (ICANS), Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Sandro Botticelli 21, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.D.A.); (S.B.); (A.L.)
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15
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Filardi T, Panimolle F, Lenzi A, Morano S. Bisphenol A and Phthalates in Diet: An Emerging Link with Pregnancy Complications. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12020525. [PMID: 32092855 PMCID: PMC7071371 DOI: 10.3390/nu12020525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances that are able to interfere with hormone action, likely contributing to the development of several endocrine and metabolic diseases. Among them, Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates contaminate food and water and have been largely studied as obesogenic agents. They might contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in pregnancy, potentially playing a role in the development of pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and adverse outcomes. Pregnancy and childhood are sensitive windows of susceptibility, and, although with not univocal results, preclinical and clinical studies have suggested that exposure to BPA and phthalates at these stages of life might have an impact on the development of metabolic diseases even many years later. The molecular mechanisms underlying this association are largely unknown, but adipocyte and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction are suspected to be involved. Remarkably, transgenerational damage has been observed, which might be explained by epigenetic changes. Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps and to provide preventive measure to limit health risks connected with exposure to EDCs.
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16
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Pacyga DC, Sathyanarayana S, Strakovsky RS. Dietary Predictors of Phthalate and Bisphenol Exposures in Pregnant Women. Adv Nutr 2019; 10:803-815. [PMID: 31144713 PMCID: PMC6743849 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmz029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can disrupt fetal developmental processes during pregnancy, leading to long-term adverse outcomes in humans. A major source of exposure to EDCs, such as phthalates and bisphenols, is the food supply, primarily due to contamination from processing and packaging. Therefore, this review aimed to 1) review food-monitoring sources of phthalates and bisphenols, and 2) evaluate methodologies and provide future directions needed to establish EDC-limiting dietary recommendations in pregnancy. Using PubMed, 10 peer-reviewed studies were found on dietary predictors of EDC exposure in pregnancy, and all were selected for review. Use of plastic containers in pregnancy was associated with higher urinary phthalate metabolites, whereas canned food consumption was associated with higher urinary bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations. Foods and dietary patterns associated with healthier food choices (e.g., organic/grown/raised/caught foods, folic acid supplements, vegetarianism) were generally associated with lower urinary phthalate metabolite and BPA concentrations. Despite the many food-monitoring studies reporting high BPA and phthalate concentrations in various foods, the designs of most studies described here were not sufficiently robust to consistently detect associations of specific foods/food groups with phthalates and BPA. Given the limitations of currently available research, future studies should incorporate more valid questionnaires to accurately assess dietary EDC exposure, strive for concurrent diet and exposure assessment, and assess whether geographical and cultural differences modify associations of diet with gestational EDC exposures. Such progress will be critical for developing dietary recommendations that ensure the safety and health of pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C Pacyga
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
| | - Sheela Sathyanarayana
- Department of Pediatrics
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Rita S Strakovsky
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
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Razavi N, Es'haghi Z. Employ of magnetic polyaniline coated chitosan nanocomposite for extraction and determination of phthalate esters in diapers and wipes using gas chromatography. Microchem J 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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18
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Saini SS. Trace Analysis of di-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP) in Drinking Water Using MEPS and HPLC-UV. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/22297928.2018.1442247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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19
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Xu J, Li X, Li C, Chen J, Xiao Y. Hexafluoroisopropanol-induced salt-free catanionic surfactant coacervate extraction method for determination of fluoroquinolones in milk samples. Food Chem 2018; 242:122-130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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20
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Hahladakis JN, Velis CA, Weber R, Iacovidou E, Purnell P. An overview of chemical additives present in plastics: Migration, release, fate and environmental impact during their use, disposal and recycling. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2018; 344:179-199. [PMID: 29035713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2017.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1340] [Impact Index Per Article: 223.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2017] [Revised: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Over the last 60 years plastics production has increased manifold, owing to their inexpensive, multipurpose, durable and lightweight nature. These characteristics have raised the demand for plastic materials that will continue to grow over the coming years. However, with increased plastic materials production, comes increased plastic material wastage creating a number of challenges, as well as opportunities to the waste management industry. The present overview highlights the waste management and pollution challenges, emphasising on the various chemical substances (known as "additives") contained in all plastic products for enhancing polymer properties and prolonging their life. Despite how useful these additives are in the functionality of polymer products, their potential to contaminate soil, air, water and food is widely documented in literature and described herein. These additives can potentially migrate and undesirably lead to human exposure via e.g. food contact materials, such as packaging. They can, also, be released from plastics during the various recycling and recovery processes and from the products produced from recyclates. Thus, sound recycling has to be performed in such a way as to ensure that emission of substances of high concern and contamination of recycled products is avoided, ensuring environmental and human health protection, at all times.
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Affiliation(s)
- John N Hahladakis
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, LS2 9JT, Leeds, United Kingdom.
| | - Costas A Velis
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, LS2 9JT, Leeds, United Kingdom.
| | - Roland Weber
- POPs Environmental Consulting, Lindenfirststr. 23, D.73527, Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany
| | - Eleni Iacovidou
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, LS2 9JT, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Phil Purnell
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, LS2 9JT, Leeds, United Kingdom
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22
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Xu J, Niu M, Xiao Y. Hexafluoroisopropanol-induced catanionic-surfactants-based coacervate extraction for analysis of lysozyme. Anal Bioanal Chem 2016; 409:1281-1289. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-016-0054-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Revised: 10/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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