1
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Zhang X, Zhao B, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Li Y, Zhong J, Diao J, Ma F, Liu H, Duan K. Sources, interactions, influencing factors and ecological risks of microplastics and antibiotic resistance genes in soil: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:175226. [PMID: 39098429 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175226] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are gaining increasing attention as they pose a threat to the ecological environment and human health as emerging contaminants. MPs has been proved to be a hot spot in ARGs, and although it has been extensively studied in water environment, the results of bibliometrics statistical analysis in this paper showed that relevant studies in soil ecological environment are currently in the initial stage. In view of this, the paper provides a systematic review of the sources, interactions, influencing factors, and ecological risks associated with MPs and ARGs in soil environments. Additionally, the mechanism and influencing factors of plastisphere formation and resistance are elaborated in detail. The MPs properties, soil physicochemical properties, soil environmental factors and agricultural activities are the primarily factors affecting the interaction between MPs and ARGs in soil. Challenges and development directions of related research in the future are also prospected. It is hoped that the review could assist in a deeper comprehension and exploration of the interaction mechanism between MPs and ARGs in soil as well as the function of MPs in the transmission process of ARGs among diverse environmental media and organisms, and provide theory basis and reference for the MPs and ARGs pollution control and remediation in soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Baowei Zhao
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Yin Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yingquan Li
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jinkui Zhong
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jingru Diao
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Fengfeng Ma
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Hui Liu
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Kaixiang Duan
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Li H, Shen M, Wang Y, Liu B, Li M. Research advances of biodegradable microplastics in wastewater treatment plant: Current knowledge and future directions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175614. [PMID: 39163932 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Plastic and microplastic pollution in the environment has become a significant global concern. Biodegradable plastics (BPs), as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional plastics, have also emerged as a crucial topic of global discussion. The successful application of BPs appears to offer a solution to the potential ecological risks posed by conventional plastics. However, BPs have negative impacts on the ecological environment and human health. BPs can gradually degrade into biodegradable microplastics (BMPs) in the environment. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have become an undeniable source and sink of microplastics. With the production and application of BPs, BMPs will inevitably enter WWTPs. This paper reviews the pollution status, degradation behavior of BMPs, and their potential impact on wastewater treatment performance. The focus is on the environmental behavior of BMPs in wastewater treatment systems. The influences of BMPs on microbial communities, sludge treatment, and disposal are thoroughly discussed. The results indicate that BMPs are more easily decomposed into micro/nanoplastics and release additives compared to conventional microplastics. The effects of BMPs on microbial communities and wastewater treatment depend on their characteristics. The numerous oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface of BMPs enable them to serve a dual purpose as transport media and potential sources of environmental pollutants. Finally, in light of existing knowledge gaps, suggestions and prospects for future research on BMPs are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haokai Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Yulai Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Bohao Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Mingyu Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
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3
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Xu R, Cao JW, Geng Y, Xu TC, Guo MY. Polystyrene nano-plastics impede skeletal muscle development and induce lipid accumulation via the PPARγ/LXRβ pathway in vivo and in vitro in mice. Arch Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s00204-024-03831-1. [PMID: 39096369 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03831-1] [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: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Nano-plastics (NPs) have emerged as a significant environmental pollutant, widely existing in water environment, and pose a serious threat to health and safety with the intake of animals. Skeletal muscle, a vital organ for complex life activities and functional demands, has received limited attention regarding the effects of NPs. In this study, the effects of polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) on skeletal muscle development were studied by oral administration of different sizes (1 mg/kg) of PS-NPs in mice. The findings revealed that PS-NPs resulted in skeletal muscle damage and significantly hindered muscle differentiation, exhibiting an inverse correlation with PS-NPs particle size. Morphological analysis demonstrated PS-NPs caused partial disruption of muscle fibers, increased spacing between fibers, and lipid accumulation. RT-qPCR and western blots analyses indicated that PS-NPs exposure downregulated the expression of myogenic differentiation-related factors (Myod, Myog and Myh2), activated PPARγ/LXRβ pathway, and upregulated the expressions of lipid differentiation-related factors (SREBP1C, SCD-1, FAS, ACC1, CD36/FAT, ADIPOQ, C/EBPα and UCP-1). In vitro experiments, C2C12 cells were used to confirm cellular penetration of PS-NPs (0, 100, 200, 400 μg/mL) through cell membranes along with activation of PPARγ expression. Furthermore, to verify LXRβ as a key signaling molecule, silencing RNA transfection experiments were conducted, resulting in no increase in the expressions of PPARγ, LXRβ, SREBP1C, FAS, CD36/FAT, ADIPOQ, C/EBPα and UCP-1 even after exposure to PS-NPs. However, the expressions of SCD-1and ACC1 remained unaffected. The present study evidenced that exposure to PS-NPs induced lipid accumulation via the PPARγ/LXRβ pathway thereby influencing skeletal muscle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Wen Cao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Geng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian-Chao Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng-Yao Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China.
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Li Y, Hou F, Sun L, Lan J, Han Z, Li T, Wang Y, Zhao Z. Ecological effect of microplastics on soil microbe-driven carbon circulation and greenhouse gas emission: A review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 364:121429. [PMID: 38870791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121429] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Soil organic carbon (SOC) pool, the largest part of terrestrial ecosystem, controls global terrestrial carbon balance and consequently presented carbon cycle-climate feedback in climate projections. Microplastics, (MPs, <5 mm) as common pollutants in soil ecosystems, have an obvious impact on soil-borne carbon circulation by affecting soil microbial processes, which play a central role in regulating SOC conversion. In this review, we initially presented the sources, properties and ecological risks of MPs in soil ecosystem, and then the differentiated effects of MPs on the component of SOC, including dissolved organic carbon, soil microbial biomass carbon and easily oxidized organic carbon varying with the types and concentrations of MPs, the soil types, etc. As research turns into a broader perspective, greenhouse gas emissions dominated by the mineralization of SOC coming into view since it can be significantly affected by MPs and is closely associated with soil microbial respiration. The pathways of MPs impacting soil microbes-driven carbon conversion include changing microbial community structure and composition, the functional enzyme's activity and the abundance and expression of functional genes. However, numerous uncertainties still exist regarding the microbial mechanisms in the deeper biochemical process. More comprehensive studies are necessary to explore the affected footprint and provide guidance for finding the evaluation criterion of MPs affecting climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaru Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Fangwei Hou
- College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Lulu Sun
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Jing Lan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Zhanghua Han
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optics and Photonic Devices, Center of Light Manipulation and Applications, School of Physics and Electronics, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Yiming Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Zongshan Zhao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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Oliveira S, Krelling AP, Turra A. Contamination by microplastics in oysters shows a widespread but patchy occurrence in a subtropical estuarine system. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116380. [PMID: 38733889 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been widely documented in marine biota, with a notable presence in bivalve species. This study examines microplastic (MP) contamination in oysters across a subtropical estuarine system, revealing widespread and highly variable levels of contamination. Our results indicate a general trend of higher contamination in areas with greater anthropogenic impact, and unexpectedly high values in remote Marine Protected Areas, suggesting alternative sources of MPs. We observed a 94.31 % frequency of occurrence and an average contamination level of 8.16 ± 6.39 MP.ind-1, 1.06 ± 1.28 MP.g-1ww, and 7.54 ± 6.55 MP.g-1dw. Transparent fibers, predominantly composed of polyester and polyethylene from likely textile origins, were the most common. The findings underscore the significance of MP pollution in marine environments, even in protected zones. For enhanced spatial assessment and consistent data comparison, we recommend that future studies include MP quantities in terms of dry weight (MP.g-1dw) and biometric data such as size and weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzane Oliveira
- Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Center for Marine Studies (CEM), Coastal and Oceanic Systems Postgraduate Program (PGSISCO), Av. Beira-Mar, s/n, 83255-976 Pontal do Paraná, Paraná, Brazil; Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Scientific and didactic laboratories of Setor Litoral. R. Jaguariaíva, 512, 83260-000 Matinhos, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Allan Paul Krelling
- Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Center for Marine Studies (CEM), Coastal and Oceanic Systems Postgraduate Program (PGSISCO), Av. Beira-Mar, s/n, 83255-976 Pontal do Paraná, Paraná, Brazil; Federal Institute of Paraná (IFPR), Paranaguá Campus, Natural Resources Department, Antônio Carlos Rodrigues St. 453, 83215-750 Paranaguá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Alexander Turra
- Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Center for Marine Studies (CEM), Coastal and Oceanic Systems Postgraduate Program (PGSISCO), Av. Beira-Mar, s/n, 83255-976 Pontal do Paraná, Paraná, Brazil; University of São Paulo (USP), Department of Biological Oceanography, Oceanographic Institute (IOUSP), Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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6
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Vesamäki JS, Laine MB, Nissinen R, Taipale SJ. Plastic and terrestrial organic matter degradation by the humic lake microbiome continues throughout the seasons. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2024; 16:e13302. [PMID: 38852938 PMCID: PMC11162827 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.13302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Boreal freshwaters go through four seasons, however, studies about the decomposition of terrestrial and plastic compounds often focus only on summer. We compared microbial decomposition of 13C-polyethylene, 13C-polystyrene, and 13C-plant litter (Typha latifolia) by determining the biochemical fate of the substrate carbon and identified the microbial decomposer taxa in humic lake waters in four seasons. For the first time, the annual decomposition rate including separated seasonal variation was calculated for microplastics and plant litter in the freshwater system. Polyethylene decomposition was not detected, whereas polystyrene and plant litter were degraded in all seasons. In winter, decomposition rates of polystyrene and plant litter were fivefold and fourfold slower than in summer, respectively. Carbon from each substrate was mainly respired in all seasons. Plant litter was utilized efficiently by various microbial groups, whereas polystyrene decomposition was limited to Alpha- and Gammaproteobacteria. The decomposition was not restricted only to the growth season, highlighting that the decomposition of both labile organic matter and extremely recalcitrant microplastics continues throughout the seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jussi S. Vesamäki
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
| | - Miikka B. Laine
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
| | - Riitta Nissinen
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
- Department of BiologyUniversity of TurkuTurkuFinland
| | - Sami J. Taipale
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
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7
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Jaafarzadeh N, Talepour N. Microplastics as carriers of antibiotic resistance genes and pathogens in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill leachate and soil: a review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2024; 22:1-12. [PMID: 38887766 PMCID: PMC11180052 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-023-00879-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Landfill leachate contains antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and microplastics (MPs), making it an important reservoir. However, little research has been conducted on how ARGs are enriched on MPs and how the presence of MPs affects pathogens and ARGs in leachates and soil. MPs possess the capacity to establish unique bacterial populations and assimilate contaminants from their immediate surroundings, generating a potential environment conducive to the growth of disease-causing microorganisms and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), thereby exerting selection pressure. Through a comprehensive analysis of scientific literature, we have carried out a practical assessment of this topic. The gathering of pollutants and the formation of dense bacterial communities on microplastics create advantageous circumstances for an increased frequency of ARG transfer and evolution. Additional investigations are necessary to acquire a more profound comprehension of how pathogens and ARGs are enriched, transported, and transferred on microplastics. This research is essential for evaluating the health risks associated with human exposure to these pollutants. Graphical Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Neamatollah Jaafarzadeh
- Environmental Technologies Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Nastaran Talepour
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Yu Y, Liu J, Zhu J, Lei M, Huang C, Xu H, Liu Z, Wang P. The interfacial interaction between typical microplastics and Pb 2+ and their combined toxicity to Chlorella pyrenoidosa. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170591. [PMID: 38309345 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170591] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), a new type of pollutant, have attracted much attention worldwide. MPs are often complexed with other pollutants such as heavy metals, resulting in combined toxicity to organisms in the environment. Studies on the combined toxicity of MPs and heavy metals have usually focused on the marine, while on the freshwater are lacking. In order to understand the combined toxic effects of MPs and heavy metals in the freshwater, five typical MPs (PVC, PE, PP, PS, PET) were selected to investigate the adsorption characteristics of MPs to Pb2+ before and after the MPs aging by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation through static adsorption tests. The results showed that UV aging enhanced adsorption of Pb2+ by MPs. It is noteworthy that MPs-PET had the highest adsorption capacity for Pb2+, and the interaction between MPs-PET and Pb2+ was the strongest. We specifically selected MPs-PET to study its combined toxicity with Pb2+ to Chlorella pyrenoidosa. In the combined toxicity test, MPs-PET and Pb2+ had significant toxic effects on Chlorella pyrenoidosa in the individual exposure, and the toxicity of individual Pb2+ exposure was greater than that of individual MPs-PET exposure. In the combined exposure, when MPs-PET and Pb2+ without adsorption (MPs-PET/Pb2+), MPs-PET and Pb2+ had a synergistic effect, which would produce strong physical and chemical stress on Chlorella pyrenoidosa simultaneously, and the toxic effect was the most significant. After the adsorption of MPs-PET and Pb2+ (MPs-PET@Pb2+), the concentration and activity of Pb2+ decreased due to the adsorption and fixation of MPs-PET, and the chemical stress on Chlorella pyrenoidosa was reduced, but the physical stress of MPs-PET still existed and posed a serious threat to the survival of Chlorella pyrenoidosa. This study has provided a theoretical basis for further assessment of the potential environmental risks of MPs in combination with other pollutants such as heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Jiahao Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Jian Zhu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China.
| | - Mingjing Lei
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Chao Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Haiyin Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Zhiming Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; Department of Biology, Eastern New Mexico University, NM 88130, USA
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
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9
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Summers S, Bin-Hudari MS, Magill C, Henry T, Gutierrez T. Identification of the bacterial community that degrades phenanthrene sorbed to polystyrene nanoplastics using DNA-based stable isotope probing. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5229. [PMID: 38433255 PMCID: PMC10909871 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55825-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In the Anthropocene, plastic pollution has become a new environmental biotope, the so-called plastisphere. In the oceans, nano- and micro-sized plastics are omnipresent and found in huge quantities throughout the water column and sediment, and their large surface area-to-volume ratio offers an excellent surface to which hydrophobic chemical pollutants (e.g. petrochemicals and POPs) can readily sorb to. Our understanding of the microbial communities that breakdown plastic-sorbed chemical pollutants, however, remains poor. Here, we investigated the formation of 500 nm and 1000 nm polystyrene (PS) agglomerations in natural seawater from a coastal environment, and we applied DNA-based stable isotope probing (DNA-SIP) with the 500 nm PS sorbed with isotopically-labelled phenanthrene to identify the bacterial members in the seawater community capable of degrading the hydrocarbon. Whilst we observed no significant impact of nanoplastic size on the microbial communities associated with agglomerates that formed in these experiments, these communities were, however, significantly different to those in the surrounding seawater. By DNA-SIP, we identified Arcobacteraceae, Brevundimonas, Comamonas, uncultured Comamonadaceae, Delftia, Sphingomonas and Staphylococcus, as well as the first member of the genera Acidiphilum and Pelomonas to degrade phenanthrene, and of the genera Aquabacterium, Paracoccus and Polymorphobacter to degrade a hydrocarbon. This work provides new information that feeds into our growing understanding on the fate of co-pollutants associated with nano- and microplastics in the ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Summers
- Institute of Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering (IMPEE), School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
- St John's Island National Marine Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 098634, Singapore
| | - Mohammad Sufian Bin-Hudari
- Department of Isotope Biogeochemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Permoserstraße 15, 04318, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Clayton Magill
- Institute for GeoEnergy Engineering, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, The Lyell Centre, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK
| | - Theodore Henry
- School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society (EGIS), Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK
- Department of Forestry Wildlife and Fisheries, Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 36849, USA
| | - Tony Gutierrez
- Institute of Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering (IMPEE), School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK.
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10
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Sezer M, Isgoren M, Veli S, Topkaya E, Arslan A. Removal of microplastics in food packaging industry wastewaters with electrocoagulation process: Optimization by Box-Behnken design. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141314. [PMID: 38286307 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141314] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Currently, the vast majority of studies on microplastics (MPs) focus on determining the quantity and presence of these particles in various receiving environments and their treatment in domestic wastewater treatment plants. However, little research has been conducted on the treatment of microplastics in industrial effluent. Therefore, in this study, effluent samples from the cooling water tank of a local food packaging manufacturing company were analyzed to determine the presence and quantity of MPs for the first time. MPs removal from industrial wastewater using the electrocoagulation (EC) method was optimized using the Box Behnken Design (BBD). A second-order model was developed to estimate the microplastic removal efficiency, and the R2, adjusted R2, and predicted R2 of the model were 0.9994, 0.9985, and 0.9962, respectively. The optimal reaction parameters resulting in the maximum removal rate of microplastics (99 %) were determined to be pH 6.74, current density of 3.16 mA cm-2, and duration of 13.58 min. The cost of microplastic treatment per m3 of wastewater in the EC system, operated under optimal conditions, was calculated as 0.125 $. In this study, it was concluded that the EC process is a highly efficient technique for the removal of MPs from industrial wastewater at a low cost. Determining the most favorable conditions with BBD for the EC process at the feasibility stage of treatment plants will provide economic benefits and increase treatment efficiency during the installation of large-scale plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mesut Sezer
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kocaeli University, 41001, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Melike Isgoren
- Department of Environmental Protection, Kocaeli University, 41275, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Sevil Veli
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kocaeli University, 41001, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Eylem Topkaya
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kocaeli University, 41001, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Ayla Arslan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kocaeli University, 41001, Kocaeli, Turkey
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11
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Zhang J, Li T, Tao S, Shen M. Microplastic pollution interaction with disinfectant resistance genes: research progress, environmental impacts, and potential threats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:16241-16255. [PMID: 38340302 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32225-0] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The consumption of disposable plastic products and disinfectants has surged during the global COVID-19 pandemic, as they play a vital role in effectively preventing and controlling the spread of the virus. However, microplastic pollution and the excessive or improper use of disinfectants contribute to the increased environmental tolerance of microorganisms. Microplastics play a crucial role as vectors for microorganisms and plankton, facilitating energy transfer and horizontal gene exchange. The increase in the use of disinfectants has become a driving force for the growth of disinfectant resistant bacteria (DRB). A large number of microorganisms can have intense gene exchange, such as plasmid loss and capture, phage transduction, and cell fusion. The reproduction and diffusion rate of DRB in the environment is significantly higher than that of ordinary microorganisms, which will greatly increase the environmental tolerance of DRB. Unfortunately, there is still a huge knowledge gap in the interaction between microplastics and disinfectant resistance genes (DRGs). Accordingly, it is critical to comprehensively summarize the formation and transmission routes of DRGs on microplastics to address the problem. This paper systematically analyzed the process and mechanisms of DRGs formed by microbes. The interaction between microplastics and DRGs and the contribution of microplastic on the diffusion and spread of DRGs were expounded. The potential threats to the ecological environment and human health were also discussed. Additionally, some challenges and future priorities were also proposed with a view to providing useful basis for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianhao Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiyu Tao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Nik Mut NN, Na J, Jung J. A review on fate and ecotoxicity of biodegradable microplastics in aquatic system: Are biodegradable plastics truly safe for the environment? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123399. [PMID: 38242301 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123399] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Plastic products are extensively used worldwide, but inadequate management of plastic waste results in significant plastic pollution. Biodegradable plastic (BPs) offers an alternative to traditional plastics, however, not all BPs can fully degrade under natural conditions. Instead, they may deteriorate into biodegradable microplastic (BMPs) at a faster rate than conventional plastic, thereby posing an additional hazard to aquatic environments. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the fate of BPs in aquatic systems and their eco-toxicological effects on aquatic organisms such as algae, invertebrates, and fish. The findings highlight that BMPs have comparable or heightened effects compared to conventional microplastics (MPs) which physiochemical characteristic of the polymer itself or by the chemical leached from the polymeric matrix can affect aquatic organisms. While BPs is not a flawless solution to address plastic pollution, future research should prioritize investigating their production, environmental behavior, ecological impact, and whether BMPs inflict greater harm than conventional MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nik Nurhidayu Nik Mut
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Joorim Na
- OJEong Resilience Institute, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jinho Jung
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
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13
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Song H, Xiao S, Zhou X, Li Y, Tao M, Wu F, Xu X. Temporal dynamics of bacterial colonization on five types of microplastics in a freshwater lake. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169697. [PMID: 38163614 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169697] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), as a new substrate, provide a unique niche for microbial colonization in the freshwater ecosystems; however, the impacts of long-term MP exposure on colonized bacteria are still unclear. In this study, five MP types were exposed in a freshwater lake for approximately one year, and the MP particles, together with the surrounding water, were collected on days 60, 150, 250 and 330 during the in situ field experiment. Bacteria on the MP surface, as well as free-living bacteria in the surrounding water, were analyzed to evaluate the temporal dynamics of these bacterial communities. Results show that all five MP types exhibited signs of degradation during the exposure process. Additionally, the alpha diversity, community structure and composition of MP-attached bacteria significantly differed from that of the free-living bacteria in the surrounding water, indicating that the five MP types could provide a preferable niche for bacterial colonization in a freshwater environment. Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Verrucomicrobiota, Actinobacteriota and Firmicutes were the top five dominant phyla. Some plastic-degrading bacteria included in these phyla were detected, verifying that MP-attached biofilms had a certain degree of MP degradation potential. Some potentially pathogenic bacteria were also detected, suggesting an ecological threat for spreading disease in the aquatic ecosystem. Furthermore, the bacterial community and some metabolic pathways were significantly affected by the MP type (P < 0.01) and exposure time (P < 0.01), indicating that the presence of MPs not only alters the bacterial community structure and composition, but also influences their potential functional properties in freshwater ecosystems. Multiple factors, including the physicochemical properties related to MPs and the environmental parameters of the surrounding water, affect the community composition and the function of MP-attached bacteria to different degrees. Our findings indicate that the presence of MPs has a potential ecological impact on freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiya Song
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Sisi Xiao
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Xiaohong Zhou
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Yanan Li
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Miaomiao Tao
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Fan Wu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Xiaohong Xu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
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14
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Ding R, Chen Y, Shi X, Li Y, Yu Y, Sun Z, Duan J. Size-dependent toxicity of polystyrene microplastics on the gastrointestinal tract: Oxidative stress related-DNA damage and potential carcinogenicity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169514. [PMID: 38135073 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169514] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have been generally regarded as emerging pollutants and received worldwide attention in recent years. Water and food consumption are the primary pathways for human exposure to MPs/NPs, thus gastrointestinal tracts may be susceptible to their toxicity. Although the recent report has indicated the presence of MPs/NPs in multiple human organs, little is known about their gastric effects. Therefore, this study focused on the adverse effects of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on gastric epithelium in vivo and in vitro. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) revealed the distribution of PS-MPs was associated with their particle sizes, and predominantly concentrated in gastric tissues. Gastric barrier injury and mitochondrial damage were observed in rats after exposure to PS-MPs. Compared with the larger ones, polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) more significantly reduced the activity of antioxidant enzymes while enhancing the level of MDA, 8-OhdG and γ-H2AX. Meanwhile, PS-MPs caused upregulation of β-catenin/YAP through redox-dependent regulation of nucleoredoxin (NXN) and dishevelled (Dvl). These findings supported the size-dependent effects of PS-MPs on oxidative stress and DNA damage. Moreover, the redox-dependent activation of the β-catenin/YAP cascade suggested a novel toxic mechanism for PS-MPs and implied the potential carcinogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyang Ding
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Yueyue Chen
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Xuemin Shi
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Zhiwei Sun
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China.
| | - Junchao Duan
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China.
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15
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Giannandrea D, Parolini M, Citro V, De Felice B, Pezzotta A, Abazari N, Platonova N, Sugni M, Chiu M, Villa A, Lesma E, Chiaramonte R, Casati L. Nanoplastic impact on bone microenvironment: A snapshot from murine bone cells. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 462:132717. [PMID: 37820528 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132717] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Our world is made of plastic. Plastic waste deeply affects our health entering the food chain. The degradation and/or fragmentation of plastics due to weathering processes result in the generation of nanoplastics (NPs). Only a few studies tested NPs effects on human health. NPs toxic actions are, in part, mediated by oxidative stress (OS) that, among its effects, affects bone remodeling. This study aimed to assess if NPs influence skeleton remodeling through OS. Murine bone cell cultures (MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts, MLOY-4 osteocyte-like cells, and RAW264.7 pre-osteoclasts) were used to test the NPs detrimental effects on bone cells. NPs affect cell viability and induce ROS production and apoptosis (by caspase 3/7 activation) in pre-osteoblasts, osteocytes, and pre-osteoclasts. NPs impair the migration capability of pre-osteoblasts and potentiate the osteoclastogenesis of preosteoclasts. NPs affected the expression of genes related to inflammatory and osteoblastogenic pathways in pre-osteoblasts and osteocytes, related to the osteoclastogenic commitment of pre-osteoclasts. A better understanding of the impact of NPs on bone cell activities resulting in vivo in impaired bone turnover could give more information on the possible toxicity consequence of NPs on bone mass and the subsequent public health problems, such as bone disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Parolini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice De Felice
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Alex Pezzotta
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Michela Sugni
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Martina Chiu
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | | | - Elena Lesma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Italy
| | | | - Lavinia Casati
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Italy.
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16
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Shen M, Zhao Y, Liu S, Tao S, Li T, Long H. Can microplastics and disinfectant resistance genes pose conceivable threats to water disinfection process? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167192. [PMID: 37730038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167192] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in the environment has aroused widespread concerns, however, the potential environmental risks caused by excessive use of disinfectants are still unknown. Disinfectants with doses below the threshold can enhance the communication of resistance genes in pathogenic microorganisms, promoting the development and spread of antimicrobial activity. Problematically, the intensification of microplastic pollution and the increase of disinfectant consumption will become a key driving force for the growth of disinfectant resistance bacteria (DRB) and disinfectant resistance genes (DRGs) in the environment. Disinfection plays a crucial role in ensuring water safety, however, the presence of microplastics and DRGs seriously disturb the water disinfection process. Microplastics can reduce the concentration of disinfectant in the local environment around microorganisms and improve their tolerance. Microorganisms can improve their resistance to disinfectants or generate resistance genes via phenotypic adaptation, gene mutations, and horizontal gene transfer. However, very limited information is available on the impact of DRB and DRGs on disinfection process. In this paper, the contribution of microplastics to the migration and transmission of DRGs was analyzed. The challenges posed by the presence of microplastics and DRGs on conventional disinfection were thoroughly discussed. The knowledge gaps faced by relevant current research and further research priorities have been proposed in order to provide a scientific basis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiyu Tao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Tianhao Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Hongming Long
- School of Metallurgical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
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17
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Liu S, Jin R, Zhang J, Zhao Y, Shen M, Wang Y. Are algae a promising ecofriendly approach to micro/nanoplastic remediation? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166779. [PMID: 37660628 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
How to reduce microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystem has become the focus of the global attention. The re-removal of microplastics of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent is gradually being put on the agenda. Recently, algae have been used as an ecofriendly remediation strategy for microplastic removal. Microplastics in sewage can be removed by algae through interception, capture, and entanglement, and can also form heterogeneous aggregates with algae, thereby reducing their free suspensions. Algae can recover nitrogen and carbon from wastewater and can be made into biochar, biofertilizers, and biofuels. However, problematically, this technology has been in the laboratory research stage, and existing research results cannot provide effective basis for its application. Microplastic removal via algae is influenced by wastewater flow rate, microplastic types, and pollutants. Microplastics are only physically fixed by algae, and ensuring that microplastics do not re-enter the environment during resource and capacity recovery is also a key factor limiting the implementation of this technology. The topic of this paper is to discuss the performance of the current tertiary wastewater treatment process - algae process to remove microplastics. Algae can remove nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants in sewage and remove microplastics at the same time, which can realize energy recovery and reduce ecological risks of the effluent. Although algae combined tertiary sewage treatment is a green technology for microplastic removal, its application still needs to be explored. The key challenges that need to be addressed, from single laboratory conditions to complex conditions, from small-scale testing to large-scale simulations, lie ahead of the application of this friendly technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Ruixin Jin
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Yulai Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
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18
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Zhao Y, Jin R, Chen Y, Zhang J, Tao S, Liu S, Shen M. Constructed wetlands as neglected fixed source of microplastics and antibiotic resistance genes in natural water bodies? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166474. [PMID: 37625720 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166474] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The pollution status and the harm caused by microplastics and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in aquatic ecosystems have been a growing concern. The presence of microplastics could accelerate the transfer and spread of ARGs. Before sewage reaches natural water bodies, microplastics and ARGs need to be eliminated through specific processes. Constructed wetlands are currently an effective and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment process. Research has shown significant effectiveness in removing microplastics and ARGs. Microplastics and ARGs can be removed through processes such as adsorption, capture, adhesion, and biodegradation. However, long-term continuous operation could lead to constructed wetlands becoming significant reservoirs of microplastics and ARGs. Inflow loads and seasonal variations in constructed wetlands may result in the reintroduction of persistent microplastics and ARGs into the receiving water body, establishing the constructed wetland as a continuous source of these pollutants in the receiving water body. The key to the widespread application of constructed wetlands lies in solving this challenging problem. Therefore, although constructed wetlands serve as a green strategy for removing microplastics and ARGs, there are still many gaps in our knowledge. Based on the current accumulation of microplastics and ARGs in constructed wetlands, this paper summarizes the removal of microplastics and ARGs in existing constructed wetlands and explores the interaction between them. Additionally, it proposes suggestions for optimizing the process and improving the reliability of monitoring microplastics and ARGs in sewage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Ruixin Jin
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Yihua Chen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiyu Tao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
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19
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Jin R, Zhang J, Zhao Y, Liu S, Shen M. Are microplastics in aquaculture an undeniable driver in accelerating the spread of antibiotic resistance genes? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:114685-114689. [PMID: 37840081 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30412-z] [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: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Aquaculture products have been a key source of protein in the human food supply. Contamination by microplastics and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) directly affects food quality and safety. Plastic fishing gear and the long-term misuse of antibiotics result in the persistent residue, migration, and spread of microplastics and ARGs in the aquaculture environment, causing in ecological imbalance and endangering human security. Microplastics can act as "petri dishes" for the reproduction, communication, and spread of ARGs, which adds an additional layer of complexity to the global issues surrounding microplastics and ARGs. Aquaculture has become an important source of microplastics and ARGs in natural waters. Accordingly, this paper mainly discusses the contribution of aquaculture to the presence of microplastics and ARGs in aquatic ecosystems. Microplastics and ARGs can (1) affect the production and quality of aquatic products; (2) influence the development and reproduction of aquatic organisms; and (3) accelerate the spread of resistant bacteria. How to eliminate microplastics and ARGs and block their transmission has become a worldwide problem. Actually, further research is required to understand the scale and scope of these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixin Jin
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Zhao Y, Tao S, Liu S, Hu T, Zheng K, Shen M, Meng G. Research advances on impacts micro/nanoplastics and their carried pollutants on algae in aquatic ecosystems: A review. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 264:106725. [PMID: 37806023 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106725] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
The widespread presence of micro/nanoplastics in aquatic ecosystems has certainly affected ecosystem functions and food chains/webs. The impact is worsened by the accumulation of different pollutants and microorganisms on the surface of microplastics. At the tissue, cellular, and molecular levels, micro/nanoplastics and the contaminants they carry can cause damage to aquatic organisms. Problematically, the toxic mechanism of micro/nanoplastics and contaminants on aquatic organisms is still not fully understood. Algae are key organisms in the aquatic ecosystem, serving as primary producers. The investigation of the toxic effects and mechanisms of micro/nanoparticles and pollutants on algae can contribute to understanding the impact on the aquatic ecosystem. Micro/nanoplastics inhibit algal growth, reduce chlorophyll and photosynthesis, induce ultrastructural changes, and affect gene expression in algae. The effects of energy flow can alter the productivity of aquatic organisms. The type, particle size, and concentration of micro/nanoparticles can influence their toxic effects on algae. Although there has been some research on the toxic effects of algae, the limited information has led to a significant lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the interactions between micro/nanoplastics, pollutants, and algae. The effects of various factors on algal toxicity are also analyzed. In addition, this article discusses the combined effects of microplastics, global warming, and oil pollution on algae and aquatic ecosystems in the context of global change. This research is of great importance for predicting future environmental changes. This review offers a more comprehensive understanding of the interactions between microplastics/nanoplastics and algae, as well as their impact on the carbon cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiyu Tao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Tong Hu
- Department of Environment Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Kaixuan Zheng
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Guanhua Meng
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
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21
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Xu L, Li K, Zhang M, Guo J, Jia W, Bai X, Tian X, Huang Y. Plastic substrate and residual time of microplastics in the urban river shape the composition and structure of bacterial communities in plastisphere. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 345:118710. [PMID: 37536136 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118710] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
The widespread secondary microplastics (MPs) in urban freshwater, originating from plastic wastes, have created a new habitat called plastisphere for microorganisms. The factors influencing the structure and ecological risks of the microbial community within the plastisphere are not yet fully understood. We conducted an in-site incubation experiment in an urban river, using MPs from garbage bags (GB), shopping bags (SB), and plastic bottles (PB). Bacterial communities in water and plastisphere incubated for 2 and 4 weeks were analyzed by 16S high-throughput sequencing. The results showed the bacterial composition of the plastisphere, especially the PB, exhibited enrichment of plastic-degrading and photoautotrophic taxa. Diversity declined in GB and PB but increased in SB plastisphere. Abundance analysis revealed distinct bacterial species that were enriched or depleted in each type of plastisphere. As the succession progressed, the differences in community structure was more pronounced, and the decline in the complexity of bacterial community within each plastisphere suggested increasing specialization. All the plastisphere exhibited elevated pathogenicity at the second or forth week, compared to bacterial communities related to natural particles. These findings highlighted the continually evolving plastisphere in urban rivers was influenced by the plastic substrates, and attention should be paid to fragile plastic wastes due to the rapidly increasing pathogenicity of the bacterial community attached to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Xu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Kang Li
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Mengjun Zhang
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China; PKU-HKUST Shenzhen-Hongkong Institution, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China
| | - Jiabao Guo
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Weiqian Jia
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xinyi Bai
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xudong Tian
- Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control of Zhejiang, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
| | - Yi Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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22
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Yang H, Sun F, Liao H, Guo Y, Pan T, Wu F, Giesy JP. Distribution, abundance, and risks posed by microplastics in surface waters of the Yangtze River Basin, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122086. [PMID: 37355005 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122086] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution in the Yangtze River Basin, China, has become an environmental issue of great concern. However, most studies on MPs have focused on a part of the Yangtze River Basin, and still lack knowledge on the risk of MPs exposure in surface waters of the whole basin. This study overviews the differences in abundance and spatial distribution of MPs in surface waters basin-wide and comprehensively assesses the ecological risk of MPs exposure in surface waters of the Yangtze River Basin by considering the abundance and toxicity effects. The results showed that the MP abundance at the collected sampling sites ranged from 0 to 44,080 particles/m3, with a mean of 3441 particles/m3. MPs were unevenly distributed throughout the basin, with hotspots such as Three Gorges Reservoir, Yangtze River estuary, and some urban lakes showing relatively higher abundance than the surroundings. Based on the available toxicity data, chronic and acute predicted no-effect concentrations (PNECs) of 12.3 particles/L and 21 particles/L were derived for freshwater MPs exposure using constructed species sensitivity distributions (SSDs). The hazard quotient (HQ) method was used to compare the environmental exposure concentrations of MPs with PNECs, and the results showed that 71.8% of the sampling sites in the Yangtze River Basin had moderate chronic ecological risk, while 43% of the sampling sites had moderate acute ecological risk. Overall, the ecological risk of MPs in lake and reservoir water was higher than that in river water. Joint probability curves (JPCs) showed that the overall risk probability of MPs in the surface water of the Yangtze River Basin was lower than that of other basins in China and other countries. This research provides valuable information for the ecological risk assessment of MPs at the watershed scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai, 200092, PR China
| | - Fuhong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China.
| | - Haiqing Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China
| | - Yiding Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai, 200092, PR China
| | - Ting Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China
| | - Fengchang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China
| | - John P Giesy
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences and Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B3, Canada; Department of Integrative Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48895, USA; Department of Environmental Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, 76798-7266, USA
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23
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Jebashalomi V, Charles PE, Rajaram R, Sadayan P. A critical review on nanoplastics and its future perspectives in the marine environment. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1186. [PMID: 37695547 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11701-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (plastic particles smaller than 1 μm) are the least-known type of marine litter. Nanoplastics (NPs) have attracted much interest in recent years because of their prevalence in the environment and the potential harm they can cause to living organisms. This article focuses on understanding NPs and their fate in the marine environment. Sources of NPs have been identified, including accidental release from products or through nano-fragmentation of larger plastic debris. As NPs have a high surface area, they may retain harmful compounds. The presence of harmful additives in NPs poses unique practical challenges for studies on their toxicity. In this review, several methods specifically adapted for the physical and chemical characterization of NPs have been discussed. Furthermore, the review provides an overview of the translocation and absorption of NPs into organisms, along with an evaluation of the release of potential toxins from NPs. Further, we have provided an overview about the existing methods suggested for the possible degradation of these NPs. We conclude that the hazards of NPs are plausible but unknown, necessitating a thorough examination of NPs' sources, fate, and effects to better mitigate and spread awareness about this emerging contaminant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vethanayaham Jebashalomi
- Department of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620 024, India
| | | | - Rajendran Rajaram
- Department of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620 024, India.
| | - Paramasivam Sadayan
- Department of Oceanography and Coastal Area Studies, School of Marine Science, Science Campus, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, 630003, India
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24
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Han Q, Gao X, Wang S, Wei Z, Wang Y, Xu K, Chen M. Co-exposure to polystyrene microplastics and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate aggravates allergic asthma through the TRPA1-p38 MAPK pathway. Toxicol Lett 2023; 384:73-85. [PMID: 37500026 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Increasing attention has been paid to the potential impact of microplastics (MPs) pollution on human health. MPs and phthalates coexist in the environment, however, the effects of exposure to MPs alone or to a combination of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and MPs on allergic asthma are unclear. This study investigates the effects of exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) or co-exposure with DEHP, on allergic asthma, and the underlying molecular mechanisms. We established an allergic asthma model using ovalbumin, and mice were exposed to PS-MPs (5 mg/kg bw/day) alone, or combined with DEHP (0.5, 5 mg/kg bw/day), for 28 days. The results showed that in the presence of ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization, exposure to PS-MPs alone slightly affected airway inflammation, and airway hyperresponsiveness, while co-exposure to PS-MPs and DEHP caused more significant damage. Co-exposure also induced more oxidative stress and Th2 immune responses, and activation of the TRPA1 and p38 MAPK pathways. The aggravation of asthmatic symptoms induced by co-exposure to PS-MPs and DEHP were inhibited by blocking TRPA1 ion channel or p38 MAPK pathway. The results demonstrated that co-exposure to PS-MPs and DEHP exacerbates allergic asthma, by exacerbating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, and activating the TRPA1-p38 MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Han
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao Gao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Shuwei Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Zhaolan Wei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Yunyi Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Mingqing Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China.
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25
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Shen M, Zhao Y, Liu S, Hu T, Zheng K, Wang Y, Lian J, Meng G. Recent advances on micro/nanoplastic pollution and membrane fouling during water treatment: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 881:163467. [PMID: 37062323 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Effluent from sewage treatment plant, as an important source of microplastics (MPs) in receiving water, has attracted extensive attention. Membrane separation process shows good microplastic removal performance in the existing tertiary water treatment process. Problematically, membrane fouling and insufficient removal of small organic molecules are still the key obstacles to its further extensive application. Dissolved organics, extracellular polymers and suspended particles in the influent are deposited on the membrane surface and internal structure, reducing the number and pore diameter of effective membrane aperture, and increasing the resistance of membrane filtration. Exploring the mechanism and approach of membrane fouling caused by micro/nanoplastics is the key to alleviate fouling and allow membranes to operate longer. In this paper, removal performance of micro/nanoplastics by current membrane filtration and the contribution to membrane fouling during water treatment are thoroughly reviewed. The coupling mechanisms between micro/nanoplastics and other pollutants and mechanism of membrane fouling caused by composite micro/nanoplastics are discussed. Additionally, on this basis, the prospect of combined process for micro/nanoplastic removal and membrane fouling prevention is also proposed and discussed, which provides a valuable reference for the preferential removal of micro/nanoplastics and development of antifouling membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Tong Hu
- Department of Environment Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Kaixuan Zheng
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, PR China
| | - Yulai Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Jianjun Lian
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Guanhua Meng
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
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26
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Tumwesigye E, Felicitas Nnadozie C, C Akamagwuna F, Siwe Noundou X, William Nyakairu G, Odume ON. Microplastics as vectors of chemical contaminants and biological agents in freshwater ecosystems: Current knowledge status and future perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 330:121829. [PMID: 37196837 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are becoming ubiquitous, and their environmental fate is becoming an issue of concern. Our review aims to synthesize current knowledge status and provide future perspectives regarding the vector effect of MPs for chemical contaminants and biological agents. The evidence in the literature indicates that MPs are a vector for persistent organic pollutants (POPs), metals and pharmaceuticals. Concentrations of chemical contaminant in orders of six-fold higher on MPs surfaces than in the surrounding environmental waters have been reported. Chemical pollutants such as perfluoroalkyl substances (PAFSs), hexachlorocyclohexane (HCHs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), exhibiting polarities in the range of 3.3-9 are the commonest chemicals reported on MP surfaces. Regarding metals on MPs including chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), cobalt (Co), the presence of C-O and N-H in MPs promote a relatively high adsorption of these metals onto MP surfaces. Regarding pharmaceuticals, not much has been done, but a few studies indicate that commonly used drugs such as ibuprofen, ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen have been associated with MPs. There is sufficient evidence supporting the claim that MPs can act as vectors for viruses, bacterial and antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes, and MPs act to accelerate horizontal and vertical gene transfer. An area that deserves urgent attention is whether MPs can act as vectors for invertebrates and vertebrates, mainly non-native, invasive freshwater species. Despite the ecological significance of invasive biology, little research has been done in this regard. Overall, our review summarises the state of the current knowledge, identifies critical research gaps and provides perspectives for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Tumwesigye
- Centre for Environmental Water Quality, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - Chika Felicitas Nnadozie
- Centre for Environmental Water Quality, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - Frank C Akamagwuna
- Centre for Environmental Water Quality, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda, South Africa
| | | | | | - Oghenekaro Nelson Odume
- Centre for Environmental Water Quality, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda, South Africa.
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27
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Ochirbat E, Zbonikowski R, Sulicka A, Bończak B, Bonarowska M, Łoś M, Malinowska E, Hołyst R, Paczesny J. Heteroaggregation of virions and microplastics reduces the number of active bacteriophages in aqueous environments. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2023; 52:665-677. [PMID: 36785877 DOI: 10.1002/jeq2.20459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to explore the effects of microplastics on the viability of the bacteriophages in an aqueous environment. Bacteriophages (phages), that is, viruses of bacteria, are essential in homeostasis. It is estimated that phages cause up to 40% of the death of all bacteria daily. Any factor affecting phage activity is vital for the whole food chain and the ecology of numerous niches. We hypothesize that the number of active phages decreases due to the virions' adsorption on microplastic particles or by the released leachables from additives used in the production of plastic, for example, stabilizers, plasticizers, colorants, and reinforcements. We exposed three diverse phages, namely, T4 (tailed), MS2 (icosahedral), and M13 (filamentous), to 1 mg/mL suspension of 12 industrial-grade plastics [acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, high-impact polystyrene, poly-ε-caproamide, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, poly(methyl methacrylate), polypropylene, polystyrene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane, and polyvinyl chloride] shredded to obtain microparticles of radius ranging from 2 to 50 μm. The effect of leachables was measured upon exposure of phages not to particles themselves but to the buffer preincubated with microplastics. A double-overlay plaque counting method was used to assess phage titers. We employed a classical linear regression model to verify which physicochemical parameters (65 variables were tested) govern the decrease of phage titers. The key finding is that adsorption mechanisms result in up to complete scavenging of virions, whereas leachables deactivate up to 50% of phages. This study reveals microplastic pollution's plausible and unforeseen ecotoxicological effect causing phage deactivation. Moreover, phage transmission through adsorption can alter the balance of the food chain in the new environment. The effect depends mainly on the zeta potentials of the polymers and the phage type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enkhlin Ochirbat
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Zbonikowski
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Sulicka
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Chemistry, The Chair of Medical Biotechnology, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Bończak
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Marcin Łoś
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
- Phage Consultants, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Malinowska
- Faculty of Chemistry, The Chair of Medical Biotechnology, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
- CEZAMAT, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert Hołyst
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jan Paczesny
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
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28
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Shah G, Bhatt U, Soni V. Cigarette: an unsung anthropogenic evil in the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:59151-59162. [PMID: 37055684 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26867-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The world's population is growing steadily, and this trend is mirrored by a sharp rise in the number of people who smoke cigarettes. Instead of properly disposing of their cigarette waste, most people simply toss them aside, leading to serious environmental consequences. According to previous statistics, in 2012 alone, 6.25 trillion cigarettes were consumed by 967 million chain smokers. Past studies have shown that up to 30% of global litter is made up of cigarette waste. These discarded cigarette butts are non-biodegradable and contain over 7000 toxicants such as benzene, 1,3-butadiene, nitrosamine ketone, N-Nitrosonornicotine, nicotine, formaldehyde, acrolein, ammonia, aniline, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and various heavy metals. These toxicants have a negative impact on the habitats of wildlife and can cause serious health problems such as cancer, respiratory disorders, cardiac issues, and sexual dysfunction. Although it is still unclear how littered cigarettes affect plant growth, germination, and development, it is clear that they have the potential to harm plant health. Just like single-use plastic, trashed cigarette butts are a critical new rising form of pollution that requires scientific attention for effective recycling and disposal management. It is important to properly dispose of cigarette waste to protect the environment and wildlife, as well as to prevent harm to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garishma Shah
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Upma Bhatt
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Vineet Soni
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, 313001, Rajasthan, India.
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29
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Altunışık A. Microplastic pollution and human risk assessment in Turkish bottled natural and mineral waters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:39815-39825. [PMID: 36602737 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-25054-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), which arise from the deterioration of larger plastics that are frequently used in daily life and are smaller than 5 mm in size, are found in many environments and can pose a serious threat to human health. Humans ingest these microplastics unintendedly through drinking water. Although plastic pollution has been extensively investigated in a variety of water sources, research on MP contamination in bottled waters is scarce. Hence, in this study, the presence and distribution of MPs were investigated in 150 samples of bottled natural and mineral water brands in Türkiye. Using FTIR stereoscopy and stereomicroscope analysis, MPs were detected in 43 out of the 50 (86%) of these brands. Among the four types of polymers detected, the most abundant type was polyethylene (33%), polypropylene (31%), polyethylene terephthalate (25%), and polyamid (11%). In comparison to natural waters, mineral waters had larger average-sized particles (63.98 ± 4.06 vs. 104.83 ± 14.28 µm) and higher MP concentrations (4.6 ± 0.5 vs. 12.6 ± 1.6 particles/L). Although the most dominant shape was found as fiber in natural waters, fragments were more prevalent in mineral waters. The estimated daily intakes (EDI) for adults and children were expected to be 0.019 and 0.42 MP/kg/bw/day, respectively, in natural waters while EDI were 0.009 and 0.04 MP/kg/bw/day, respectively, in mineral waters. The results of the study suggest that the EDI and annual intake (EAI) are negligible when compared to other studies. The baseline data on MP contamination of bottled water provided in the present study may be significant and useful for researchers to have a better understanding of microplastic contamination exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Altunışık
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Biology Department, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, 53100, Rize, Türkiye.
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30
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Long NP, Kang JS, Kim HM. Caenorhabditis elegans: a model organism in the toxicity assessment of environmental pollutants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:39273-39287. [PMID: 36745349 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-25675-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The unfavorable effects of environmental pollutants are becoming increasingly evident. In recent years, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has been used as a powerful terrestrial model organism for environmental toxicity studies owing to its various advantages, including ease of culture, short lifespan, small size, transparent body, and well-characterized genome. In vivo bioassays and field studies can analyze and evaluate various toxic effects of the toxicants on the model organism, while emerging technologies allow profound insights into molecular disturbances underlying the observed phenotypes. In this review, we discuss the applications of C. elegans as a model organism in environmental toxicity studies and delineate apical assays such as lifespan, growth rate, reproduction, and locomotion, which are widely used in toxicity evaluation. In addition to phenotype assays, a comprehensive understanding of the toxic mode of action and mechanism can be achieved through a highly sensitive multi-omics approach, including the expression levels of genes and endogenous metabolites. Recent studies on environmental toxicity using these approaches have been summarized. This review highlights the practicality and advantages of C. elegans in evaluating the toxicity of environmental pollutants and presents the findings of recent toxicity studies performed using this model organism. Finally, we propose crucial technical considerations to escalate the appropriate use of C. elegans in examining the toxic effects of environmental pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Phuoc Long
- Department of Pharmacology and PharmacoGenomics Research Center, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, 614-735, Korea
| | - Jong Seong Kang
- College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Korea
| | - Hyung Min Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Korea.
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31
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Zha F, Dai J, Han Y, Liu P, Wang M, Liu H, Guo X. Release of millions of micro(nano)plastic fragments from photooxidation of disposable plastic boxes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:160044. [PMID: 36356781 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160044] [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: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The widespread use of disposable plastic boxes is exacerbating the dangers of microplastics (MPs); however, little is known about the fragmentation behavior of MPs during aging. In this study, the dynamic evolution on the release of micro(nano)plastics and photoaging properties of two disposable plastic boxes (polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS)) were investigated under light irradiation and mechanical abrasion. Results showed that the weight of PP and PS was decreased by 53 % and 100 %, respectively after 60 d of ultraviolet irradiation (UV60). Moreover, a large number of fragmented particles were produced from the combined light irradiation and abrasion, with 0.142 ± 0.006 and 0.141 ± 0.013 million micro(nano)plastics/mL particles from PP and PS boxes, respectively, and the nanometer range (<100 nm) accounted for 70.8 % and 46.8 %. The correlation model of the average size or alteration time versus carbonyl index (CI) was developed, which indicated that the fragmentation behavior was mainly related to the photooxidation, though mechanical abrasion also played a certain enhancing role. Additionally, PS was susceptible to the fragmentation and photooxidation compared to PP possibly since the phenyl ring of PS was more vulnerable to UV attack than the methyl of PP. The findings of this study clarify the dynamic fragmentation process of micro(nano)plastics of disposable plastic boxes and provide useful information to access environmental fate of MPs more holistically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fugeng Zha
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science & Technology, Huainan, Anhui Province 232001, China
| | - Jiamin Dai
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science & Technology, Huainan, Anhui Province 232001, China; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yinxuan Han
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Peng Liu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, China.
| | - Mingjun Wang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Haiyong Liu
- Shandong Qilu Water Group Co., Ltd., Jinan 250014, China
| | - Xuetao Guo
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, China.
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32
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Gong W, Li H, Wang J, Zhou J, Zhao H, Wang X, Qu H, Lu A. Global Research Activities on Micro(nano)plastic Toxicity to Earthworms. TOXICS 2023; 11:112. [PMID: 36850987 PMCID: PMC9966243 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11020112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Micro(nano)plastics are emerging contaminants that have been shown to cause various ecotoxicological effects on soil biota. Earthworms, as engineers of the ecosystem, play a fundamental role in soil ecosystem processes and have been used as model species in ecotoxicological studies. Research that evaluates micro(nano)plastic toxicity to earthworms has increased greatly over the last decade; however, only few studies have been conducted to highlight the current knowledge and evolving trends of this topic. This study aims to visualize the research status and knowledge structure of the relevant literature. Bibliometrics and visualization analyses were conducted using co-citations, cooperation networks and cluster analysis. The results showed that micro(nano)plastic toxicity to earthworms is an emerging and increasingly popular topic, with 78 articles published from 2013 to 2022, the majority of which were published in the last two years. The most prolific publications and journals involved in this topic were also identified. In addition, the diversity of cooperative relationships among different countries and institutions confirmed the evolution of this research field, in which China contributed substantially. The high-frequency keywords were then determined using co-occurrence analysis, and were identified as exposure, bioaccumulation, soil, pollution, toxicity, oxidative stress, heavy metal, microplastic, Eisenia foetida and community. Moreover, a total of eight clusters were obtained based on topic knowledge clustering, and these included the following themes: plastic pollution, ingestion, combined effects and the biological endpoints of earthworms and toxic mechanisms. This study provides an overview and knowledge structure of micro(nano)plastic toxicity to earthworms so that future researchers can identify their research topics and potential collaborators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Gong
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, BAAFS (Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences), Beijing 100097, China
| | - Haifeng Li
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, BAAFS (Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences), Beijing 100097, China
| | - Jiachen Wang
- Institute of Plan Nutrition, Resources and Environment, BAAFS (Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences), Beijing 100097, China
| | - Jihua Zhou
- Beijing Agricultural Technology Promotion Station, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Haikang Zhao
- Beijing Agricultural Technology Promotion Station, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xuexia Wang
- Institute of Plan Nutrition, Resources and Environment, BAAFS (Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences), Beijing 100097, China
| | - Han Qu
- Key Laboratory of Eco-Environment of Three Gorges Region of Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Anxiang Lu
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, BAAFS (Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences), Beijing 100097, China
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33
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Li H, Song F, Song X, Zhu K, Lin Q, Zhang J, Ning G. Single and composite damage mechanisms of soil polyethylene/polyvinyl chloride microplastics to the photosynthetic performance of soybean ( Glycine max [L.] merr.). FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 13:1100291. [PMID: 36743543 PMCID: PMC9889878 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1100291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adverse impacts of soil microplastics (MPs, diameter<5 mm) on vegetative growth and crop production have been widely reported, however, the single and composite damage mechanisms of polyethylene (PE) /polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastics (MPs) induced photosynthesis inhibition are still rarely known. METHODS In this study, two widely distributed MPs, PE and PVC, were added to soils at a dose of 7% (dry soil) to examine the single and composite effects of PE-MPs and PVC-MPs on the photosynthetic performance of soybean. RESULTS Results showed PE-MPs, PVC-MPs and the combination of these two contaminants increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content by 21.8-97.9%, while decreased net photosynthesis rate (Pn) by 11.5-22.4% compared to those in non-stressed plants, PVC MPs caused the most severe oxidative stress, while MPs stress resulted in Pn reduction caused by non-stomatal restriction. The reason for this is the single and composite MPs stress resulted in a 6% to 23% reduction in soybean PSII activity RCs reaction centers, along with negative effects on soybean PSII energy uptake, capture, transport, and dissipation. The presence of K-band and L-band also represents an imbalance in the number of electrons on the donor and acceptor side of PSII and a decrease in PSII energy transfer. Similarly, PVC single stress caused greater effects on soybean chloroplast PSII than PE single stress and combined stresses. DISCUSSION PE and PVC microplastic stress led to oxidative stress in soybean, which affected the structure and function of photosynthetic PSII in soybean, ultimately leading to a decrease in net photosynthetic rate in soybean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibin Li
- Department of Soil Science, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Fupeng Song
- Department of Soil Science, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Xiliang Song
- Department of Soil Science, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Kongming Zhu
- Department of Soil Science, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Qun Lin
- Department of Soil Science, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Jinliang Zhang
- Dongying District, Agricultural and Rural Bureau, Dongying, China
| | - Guoqiang Ning
- Dongying District, Agricultural and Rural Bureau, Dongying, China
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Guimarães ATB, Freitas ÍN, Mubarak NM, Rahman MM, Rodrigues FP, Rodrigues ASDL, Barceló D, Islam ARMT, Malafaia G. Exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics induces an anxiolytic-like effect, changes in antipredator defensive response, and DNA damage in Swiss mice. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 442:130004. [PMID: 36152541 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Although the in vivo toxicity of nanoplastics (NPs) has already been reported in different model systems, their effects on mammalian behavior are poorly understood. Thus, we aimed to evaluate whether exposure to polystyrene (PS) NPs (diameter: 23.03 ± 0.266 nm) alters the behavior (locomotor, anxiety-like and antipredator) of male Swiss mice, induces brain antioxidant activity, and erythrocyte DNA damage. For this, the animals were exposed to NPs for 20 days at different doses (6.5 ng/kg and 6500 ng/kg). Initially, we did not observe any effect of pollutants on the locomotor activity of the animals (inferred via open field test and Basso mouse scale for locomotion). However, we noticed an anxiolytic-like behavior (in the open field test) and alterations in the antipredatory defensive response of mice exposed to PS NPs, when confronted with their predator potential (snake, Pantherophis guttatus). Furthermore, such changes were associated with suppressing brain antioxidant activity, inferred by lower DPPH radical scavenging activity, reduced total glutathione content, as well as the translocation and accumulation of NPs in the brain of the animals. In addition, we noted that the treatments induced DNA damage, evaluated via a single-cell gel electrophoresis assay (comet assay) applied to circulating erythrocytes of the animals. However, we did not observe a dose-response effect for all biomarkers evaluated and the estimated accumulation of PS NPs in the brain. The values of the integrated biomarker response index and the results of the principal component analysis (PCA) and the hierarchical clustering analysis confirmed the similarity between the responses of animals exposed to different doses of PS NPs. Therefore, our study sheds light on how PS NPs can impact mammals and reinforce the ecotoxicological risk associated with the dispersion of these pollutants in natural environments and their uptake by mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ítalo Nascimento Freitas
- Laboratory of Toxicology Applied to the Environment, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Nabisab Mujawar Mubarak
- Petroleum and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Laboratory of Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Damià Barceló
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), H2O Building, Scientific and Technological Park of the University of Girona, Emili Grahit 101, 17003, Girona, Spain; Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), JordiGirona 1826, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Laboratory of Toxicology Applied to the Environment, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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Kozjek M, Vengust D, Radošević T, Žitko G, Koren S, Toplak N, Jerman I, Butala M, Podlogar M, Viršek MK. Dissecting giant hailstones: A glimpse into the troposphere with its diverse bacterial communities and fibrous microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 856:158786. [PMID: 36116646 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The formation of giant hailstones is a rare weather event that has devastating consequences in inhabited areas. This hazard has been occurring more frequently and with greater size of hailstones in recent years, and thus needs to be better understood. While the generally accepted mechanism is thought to be a process similar to the formation of smaller hailstones but with exceptional duration and stronger updrafts, recent evidence suggests that biotic and abiotic factors also influence the growth of these unusually large ice chunks. In this study, we improved these findings by determining the distribution of a wide variety of these factors throughout the hail volume and expanding the search to include new particles that are common in the environment and are of anthropogenic origin. We melted the concentric layers of several giant hailstones that fell to the ground over a small region in Slovenia in 2019. The samples, up to 13 cm in diameter, were analyzed for biotic and abiotic constituents that could have influenced their formation. Using 16S rRNA-based metagenomics approaches, we identified a highly diverse bacterial community, and by using scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, we found natural and synthetic fibers concentrated in the cores of the giant hailstones. For the first time, we were able to detect the existence of microplastic fibers in giant hailstones and determine the changes in the distribution of sand within the volume of the samples. Our results suggest that changes in the composition of hail layers and their great diversity are important factors that should be considered in research. It also appears that anthropogenic microfiber pollutants were a significant factor in the formation of the giant hailstones analyzed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Kozjek
- Institute for water of the Republic of Slovenia, Einspielerjeva 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Damjan Vengust
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tina Radošević
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Žitko
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Večna pot 113, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; National institute for chemistry, Hajdrihova ulica 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Simon Koren
- Omega d.o.o., Dolinškova ulica 8, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nataša Toplak
- Omega d.o.o., Dolinškova ulica 8, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ivan Jerman
- National institute for chemistry, Hajdrihova ulica 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matej Butala
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matejka Podlogar
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Večna pot 113, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Manca Kovač Viršek
- Institute for water of the Republic of Slovenia, Einspielerjeva 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Zhai X, Zhang XH, Yu M. Microbial colonization and degradation of marine microplastics in the plastisphere: A review. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1127308. [PMID: 36876073 PMCID: PMC9981674 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1127308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine microplastic pollution is a growing problem for ecotoxicology that needs to be resolved. In particular, microplastics may be carriers of "dangerous hitchhikers," pathogenic microorganisms, i.e., Vibrio. Microplastics are colonized by bacteria, fungi, viruses, archaea, algae and protozoans, resulting in the biofilm referred to as the "plastisphere." The microbial community composition of the plastisphere differs significantly from those of surrounding environments. Early dominant pioneer communities of the plastisphere belong to primary producers, including diatoms, cyanobacteria, green algae and bacterial members of the Gammaproteobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria. With time, the plastisphere mature, and the diversity of microbial communities increases quickly to include more abundant Bacteroidetes and Alphaproteobacteria than natural biofilms. Factors driving the plastisphere composition include environmental conditions and polymers, with the former having a much larger influence on the microbial community composition than polymers. Microorganisms of the plastisphere may play key roles in degradation of plastic in the oceans. Up to now, many bacterial species, especially Bacillus and Pseudomonas as well as some polyethylene degrading biocatalysts, have been shown to be capable of degrading microplastics. However, more relevant enzymes and metabolisms need to be identified. Here, we elucidate the potential roles of quorum sensing on the plastic research for the first time. Quorum sensing may well become a new research area to understand the plastisphere and promote microplastics degradation in the ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhai
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China.,Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Min Yu
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China.,Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
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Angnunavuri PN, Attiogbe F, Mensah B. Particulate plastics in drinking water and potential human health effects: Current knowledge for management of freshwater plastic materials in Africa. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 316:120714. [PMID: 36423889 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120714] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Plastic materials have contributed to the release of environmentally relevant particulate plastics which can be found almost everywhere and may be present in drinking water. Human exposure to these materials is diverse and our understanding of their internalization in the human body is incipient. This review discusses the state of knowledge of particulate plastics exposure in drinking water and the potential risks of adverse health in the human body. Particulate plastics have problematized water systems worldwide, and about 4,000,000 fine plastics may be ingested from drinking water annually by an individual. Testing methods for these materials in environmental media are presently inconsistent and standard protocols do not exist. Their potential ecotoxicological consequences are recognised to be linked to their physicochemical diversity, biological transpositions, and cytological tolerance in living organisms. It is observed that toxicological endpoints are varied and lack properly defined modes of action. In particular, fine particulate plastics have been observed to translocate into body tissues and cells where they are capable of provoking endocrine disruption, genetic mutations, and cancer responses. We propose a reclassification of particulate plastics to cater for their biological deposition and attributable risks of adverse health. Environmental management of particulate plastics in many developing countries is weak and their potential releases into drinking water have received limited research. Given that large populations are exposed to fresh surface water and plastic packaged drinking water worldwide, and that the risk assessment pathways are unvalidated at the moment, we argue for developing countries to increase their capacity for the environmental monitoring and circular management of plastic materials. Large-scale epidemiological cohort studies and surrogate assessment pathways are also recommended to provide a better understanding of the hazard characterization of particulate plastics exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper Naah Angnunavuri
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana.
| | - Francis Attiogbe
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Bismark Mensah
- School of Engineering, Department of Materials Engineering, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
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Gaur VK, Sirohi R, Bhat MI, Gautam K, Sharma P, Srivastava JK, Pandey A. A review on the effect of micro- and nano-plastics pollution on the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:136877. [PMID: 36257395 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136877] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The recent upsurge in the studies on micro/nano plastics and antimicrobial resistance genes has proven their deleterious effects on the environmental and human health. Till-date, there is a scarcity of studies on the interactions of these two factors and their combined influence. The interaction of microplastics has led to the formation of new plastics namely plastiglomerates, pyroplastics. and anthropoquinas. It has long been ignored that the occurrence of microplastics has become a breeding ground for the emergence of antimicrobial resistance genes. Evidently microplastics are also associated with the occurrence of other pollutants such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons and pesticides. The increased use of antibiotics (after Covid breakout) has further elevated the detrimental effects on human health. Therefore, this study highlights the relation of microplastics with antibiotic resistance generation. The factors such as uncontrolled use of antibiotics and negligent plastic consumption has been evaluated. Furthermore, the future research prospective was provided that can be helpful in correctly identifying the seriousness of the environmental occurrence of these pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Kumar Gaur
- Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226 029, India; Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, India; School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute for Science and Technology, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Ranjna Sirohi
- Department of Food Technology, School of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Mohd Ishfaq Bhat
- Department of Post-Harvest Process and Food Engineering, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, 263145, India
| | - Krishna Gautam
- Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226 029, India
| | - Poonam Sharma
- Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Ashok Pandey
- Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226 029, India; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, India; Centre for Innovation and Translational Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, 226 001, India.
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Zhang W, Yuan W, Chen L, Ye C, Jiang Y, Yang Y. Uniqueness and Dependence of Bacterial Communities on Microplastics: Comparison with Water, Sediment, and Soil. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2022; 84:985-995. [PMID: 34767048 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-021-01919-0] [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: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Revealing the dependence and uniqueness of microbial communities on microplastics could help us better understand the assembly of the microplastic microbial community in river ecosystems. In this study, we investigated the composition and ecological functions of the bacterial community on microplastics from the Three Gorges Reservoir area compared with those in water, sediment, and soil at species-level via full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results showed that the full-length 16S rRNA sequencing provided more detail and accurate taxa resolution of the bacterial community in microplastics (100%), water (99.90%), sediment (99.95%), and soil (100%). Betaproteobacteriales were the most abundant bacteria in microplastics (14.1%), water (32.3%), sediments (27.2%), and soil (21.0%). Unexpectedly, oligotrophic SAR11 clade was the third abundant bacteria (8.51%) and dominated the ecological functions of the bacterial community in water, but it was less observed on microplastics, with a relative abundance of 2.73×10-5. However, four opportunistic pathogens identified at the species level were selectively enriched on microplastics. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was the main opportunistic pathogen on microplastics (0.29%). Sediment rather than soil and water may be contributed mostly to pathogens on microplastics. Moreover, some bacteria species with the biodegradation function of microplastics were enriched on microplastics, such as bacteria Rhodobacter sp., and endemic bacteria Luteimonas sp. The distinct bacteria composition on microplastics enhanced several ecological functions, such as xenobiotics biodegradation, which allows screening the bacteria with the biodegradation function of microplastics through long-term exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lumo Road No.1, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Center of the Plant Ecology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wenke Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lumo Road No.1, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Center of the Plant Ecology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lumo Road No.1, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Center of the Plant Ecology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Chen Ye
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lumo Road No.1, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Center of the Plant Ecology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lumo Road No.1, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lumo Road No.1, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430074, China.
- Center of the Plant Ecology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China.
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Shen M, Song B, Zhou C, Hu T, Zeng G, Zhang Y. Advanced oxidation processes for the elimination of microplastics from aqueous systems: Assessment of efficiency, perspectives and limitations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 842:156723. [PMID: 35714750 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics act as a vector of heavy metals, organic pollutants, pathogens and resistance genes in the environment further aggravate the pollution of plastics. The conventional wastewater/water treatment processes can physically capture and remove most of microplastics, but the success rates varies. How to quickly remove a large amount of microplastics from aqueous system is a key research topic at present. Recently, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) as a green elimination strategy has attracted attention because of its effective elimination, strong destruction and safety. The molecular chain of microplastics can be gradually degraded into small molecular organics until H2O and CO2 by strong oxidizing free radical produced by AOPs. Unfortunately, problematically, the elimination of microplastics in aqueous system by AOPs is recently carried out on a laboratory scale. The application and implementation of this strategy are restricted by long reaction time, low liquid phase degradation efficiency and the formation of nanoplastics. Generally, the technology is still in its infancy, and most studies are carried out under laboratory conditions. The degradation of microplastics in aqueous system also needs appropriate conditions, but it is not always feasible under field conditions in AOPs. Although AOPs can be used as a green degradation technology to eliminate microplastics in aqueous systems in theory, it still needs to be furtherly explored in practical application. Consequently, before AOPs as a green elimination strategy is successfully applied to the effective remove microplastics, more in-depth research is still required, such as the setting from single condition to complex environment, the transfer from laboratory scale to field scale, and systematic toxicity evaluation of corresponding products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maocai Shen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Biao Song
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Chengyun Zhou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Tong Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Guangming Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| | - Yaxin Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
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Okeke ES, Ezeorba TPC, Chen Y, Mao G, Feng W, Wu X. Ecotoxicological and health implications of microplastic-associated biofilms: a recent review and prospect for turning the hazards into benefits. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:70611-70634. [PMID: 35994149 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22612-w] [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: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), over the years, have been regarded as a severe environmental nuisance with adverse effects on our ecosystem as well as human health globally. In recent times, microplastics have been reported to support biofouling by genetically diverse organisms resulting in the formation of biofilms. Biofilms, however, could result in changes in the physicochemical properties of microplastics, such as their buoyancy and roughness. Many scholars perceived the microplastic-biofilm association as having more severe consequences, providing evidence of its effects on the environment, aquatic life, and nutrient cycles. Furthermore, other researchers have shown that microplastic-associated biofilms have severe consequences on human health as they serve as vectors of heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and antibiotic resistance genes. Despite what is already known about their adverse effects, other interesting avenues are yet to be fully explored or developed to turn the perceived negative microplastic-biofilm association to our advantage. The major inclusion criteria for relevant literature were that it must focus on microplastic association biofilms, while we excluded papers solely on biofilms or microplastics. A total of 242 scientific records were obtained. More than 90% focused on explaining the environmental and health impacts of microplastic-biofilm association, whereas only very few studies have reported the possibilities and opportunities in turning the microplastic biofilms association into benefits. In summary, this paper concisely reviews the current knowledge of microplastic-associated biofilms and their adverse consequences and further proposes some approaches that can be developed to turn the negative association into positive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 41000, Nigeria
- Natural Science Unit, SGS, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 41000, Nigeria
| | | | - Yao Chen
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghua Mao
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiwei Feng
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiangyang Wu
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of the Environment and Safety, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd., 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
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Shen M, Xiong W, Song B, Zhou C, Almatrafi E, Zeng G, Zhang Y. Microplastics in landfill and leachate: Occurrence, environmental behavior and removal strategies. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 305:135325. [PMID: 35700811 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plastic wastes buried in landfill are gradually broken and decomposed into microplastics under physical, chemical and biological effects, bringing environmental risks to the exploitation of waste resources. Landfill leachate as a potential source of environmental microplastics has not good attention. Microplastics in leachate carry toxic and harmful pollutants and antibiotic resistance genes, and these vectors pose greater risks to human and environmental health without systematic treatment. Recently, the main technologies of landfill leachate treatment process include order batch activated sludge process, membrane biological reaction process, flocculation process, combined filtration process, and constructed wetland process. However, there is still little knowledge about microplastic removal of the existing leachate treatment facilities, and some technologies to alleviate the sources of such microplastics should be timely developed. This paper systematically summarizes the occurrence of plastics, microplastics and nanoplastics in leachate and their interactive pollution with other toxic pollutants. Meanwhile, the prospects of their environmental behaviors in landfill and leachate are put forward. The microplastic removal by existing leachate treatment equipment and the limitations and challenges to upgrading process of development and implementation are also discussed. The paper can provide a scientific basis for studying the fate of microplastics in landfill and leachate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maocai Shen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Weiping Xiong
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Biao Song
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Chengyun Zhou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eydhah Almatrafi
- Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Guangming Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yaxin Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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43
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Gopinath PM, Parvathi VD, Yoghalakshmi N, Kumar SM, Athulya PA, Mukherjee A, Chandrasekaran N. Plastic particles in medicine: A systematic review of exposure and effects to human health. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 303:135227. [PMID: 35671817 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Single-use plastics (SUPs) have become an essential constituent of our daily life. It is being exploited in numerous pharmaceutical and healthcare applications. Despite their advantages and widespread use in the pharma and medical sectors, the potential clinical problems of plastics, especially the release of micro-nanoplastics (MNPs) and additives from medical plastics (e.g. bags, containers, and administrative sets) and sorption of drugs remain understudied. Certainly, the MNPs are multifaceted stressors that cause detrimental effects to the ecosystem and human health. The origin and persistence of MNPs in pharmaceutical products, their administration to humans, endurance and possible health implication, translocation, and excretion have not been reviewed in detail. The prime focus of this article is to conduct a systematic review on the leaching of MNPs and additives from pharmaceutical containers/administrative sets and their interaction with the pharmaceutical constituents. This review also explores the primary and secondary routes of MNPs entry from healthcare plastic products and their potential health hazards to humans. Furthermore, the fate of plastic waste generated in hospitals, their disposal, and associated MNPs release to the environment, along with preventive, and alternative measures are discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Venkatachalam Deepa Parvathi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, SRIHER: Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai 600116, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nagarajan Yoghalakshmi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, SRIHER: Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai 600116, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Srinivasan Madhan Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, SRIHER: Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai 600116, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Amitava Mukherjee
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Tamil Nadu, Vellore, 632 014, India
| | - Natarajan Chandrasekaran
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Tamil Nadu, Vellore, 632 014, India.
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44
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Nadeem H, Athar M, Dehghani M, Garnier G, Batchelor W. Recent advancements, trends, fundamental challenges and opportunities in spray deposited cellulose nanofibril films for packaging applications. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 836:155654. [PMID: 35508247 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic packaging is causing a serious environmental concern owing to its difficulty in degrading and micro-particulates' emissions. Developing biodegradable films has gained research attention to overcome ecological and health issues associated with plastic based packaging. One alternative substitute for petroleum-based plastic is nanocellulose based films, having distinguishing characteristics such as biodegradability, renewability, and non-toxicity. Nanocellulose is classified into three major types, i.e., cellulose nanofibril, cellulose nanocrystals, and bacterial nanocellulose. However, the scope of this review is limited to cellulose nanofibril (CNF) because this is the only one of major types that could be turned into film at a competitive cost with petroleum derived polymers. This paper provides a concise insight on the current trends and production methods of CNF. Additionally, the methods for transforming CNF into films are also discussed in this review. However, the focus of this review is the CNF films produced via spray deposition, their properties and applications, and fundamental challenges associated with their commercialization. Spray deposition or spray coating is an ideal candidate as a large-scale production technique of CNF films due to its remarkable features such as rapidity, flexibility, and continuity. Spray deposited CNF films exhibit excellent mechanical properties and oxygen barrier performance, while, possessing limited moisture barrier performance. The possible pathways to improve the moisture barrier performance and optical properties of these films are also discussed in this review. The existing publications on spray deposited CNF films are also highlighted from the literature. Finally, the current status of industrial production of these films and opportunities for academics and industries are also presented, indicating that fibre production capacity needs to be enhanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humayun Nadeem
- Bioresource Processing Research Institute of Australia (BioPRIA), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Muhammad Athar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Engineering and Technology, BCG Chowk, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Mostafa Dehghani
- Bioresource Processing Research Institute of Australia (BioPRIA), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Gil Garnier
- Bioresource Processing Research Institute of Australia (BioPRIA), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Warren Batchelor
- Bioresource Processing Research Institute of Australia (BioPRIA), Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia.
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45
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Liu R, Tan Z, Wu X, Liu Y, Chen Y, Fu J, Ou H. Modifications of microplastics in urban environmental management systems: A review. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 222:118843. [PMID: 35870394 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a worldwide environmental pollution issue. Besides the natural environmental stresses, various treatments in urban environmental management systems induce modifications on MPs, further affecting their environmental behavior. Investigating these modifications and inherent mechanisms is crucial for assessing the environmental impact and risk of MPs. In this review, up-to-date knowledge regarding the modifications of MPs in urban environmental management systems was summarized. Variations of morphology, chemical composition, hydrophilicity and specific surface area of MPs were generalized. The aging and degradation of MPs during drinking water treatment, wastewater treatment, sewage sludge treatment and solid waste treatment were investigated. A high abundance of MPs occurred in sewage sludge and aging solid waste, while digestion and composting contributed to significant decomposition and reduction of MPs. These treatments have become converters for MPs before entering the environment. Several novel technologies for MPs removal were listed; However, no appropriate methods can be put into actual application by now, except the membrane separation. The corresponding effects of degradation on the behaviors of MPs, including adsorption, sinking and contaminant leakage, were discussed. Finally, three priorities for research were proposed. This critical review provides viewpoints and references for risk evaluation of MPs after treatments in urban environmental management systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijuan Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Zongyi Tan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Xinni Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Yuheng Chen
- Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Key Laboratory of Philosophy and Social Science in Guangdong Province of Community of Life for Man and Nature, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Jianwei Fu
- Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Key Laboratory of Philosophy and Social Science in Guangdong Province of Community of Life for Man and Nature, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Huase Ou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China; Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China.
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46
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Zheng B, Li B, Wan H, Lin X, Cai Y. Coral-inspired environmental durability aerogels for micron-size plastic particles removal in the aquatic environment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 431:128611. [PMID: 35278958 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Removing microplastics (MPs) from water has been a huge challenge due to their inherent features including small size and high stability. In this research, inspired by the active adsorption and passive adhesion mechanisms of corals to MPs, a new strategy to fabricate polydopamine enhanced magnetic chitosan (PDA-MCS) aerogels was developed with a target to match the surface properties of MPs, achieving high MPs removal efficiency. PDA-MCS aerogels were highly efficient in adsorbing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microplastics in water at pH values of 6-9, with a removal efficiency of up to 91.6%. Even after three recycles, PDA-MCS aerogels still displayed comparatively high removal efficiency (83.4%). Kinetic and isothermal experiments showed that the adsorption process was the result of electrostatic interactions and physical adhesion between aerogels and microplastics. Moreover, PDA-MCS aerogels maintained high removal efficiency under simulated environmental conditions, and the removal efficiency of PET, polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) microplastics in waters reached 97.3%, 94.6%, and 92.3%, respectively. Therefore, high-efficiency environmentally durable aerogels adsorbent materials have the potential for the removal of MPs from the aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buyun Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Quality Improvement and Ecological Restoration for Watersheds, Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Bo Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Quality Improvement and Ecological Restoration for Watersheds, Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Hang Wan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Quality Improvement and Ecological Restoration for Watersheds, Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Xiaofeng Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Quality Improvement and Ecological Restoration for Watersheds, Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Yanpeng Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Quality Improvement and Ecological Restoration for Watersheds, Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China.
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47
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Wu H, Guo J, Yao Y, Xu S. Polystyrene nanoplastics induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and myocardial inflammation in carp by promoting ROS production. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 125:1-8. [PMID: 35504440 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.04.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) existing in aquatic ecosystem is an emerging environmental pollutant, which has become a nagging serious environmental problem. Miniaturized plastic fragments with different diameters have different penetration capabilities to body tissues, and thus may have different toxicity to the target organs. However, the specific toxicological effects and mechanisms of NPs with different particle sizes on aquatic animal hearts are still unknown. To this end, carps were directly exposed to the aqueous environment of polystyrene NPs (1000 μg/L, PS-NPs) with three particle sizes (50 nm, 100 nm and 400 nm), respectively, for 28 days. H&E and TUNEL staining displayed that exposed to PS-NPs of three diameters all caused myocardial tissue inflammation and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in carps. Of note, at the same exposure concentration, the damage caused by PS-NPs with particle size of 50 nm was more serious than that of 100 nm and 400 nm. Further research found that, in carp hearts exposed to PS-NPs, the levels of carp innate immunity-related components TLR4 and NOX2 were significantly higher than those in controls and were negatively correlated with the exposed particle size. The content of ROS increased significantly, the activities of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD1 and Gpx1) decreased, and MDA accumulated. In addition, as the particle size of PS-NPs decreased, Th1 cells gradually replaced Th2 cells to dominate, the Th1/Th2 balance was dysregulated, and the expression of apoptosis-inducing pathway IGFBP3/p53/ACHE-related genes was increased, markedly. Overall, our study results demonstrated that PS-NPs exposure caused oxidative stress, resulting in inflammation and apoptosis in carp heart, and the degree of damage was negatively correlated with the particle size of PS-NPs. Our work enriched the theoretical basis for NPs toxicological research and shed new light on the risk of NPs exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Jinming Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Yujie Yao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Shiwen Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China.
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48
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Senathirajah K, Kemp A, Saaristo M, Ishizuka S, Palanisami T. Polymer prioritization framework: A novel multi-criteria framework for source mapping and characterizing the environmental risk of plastic polymers. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 429:128330. [PMID: 35121294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are an intrinsic part of modern life with many beneficial uses for society. Yet, there is increasing evidence that plastic and microplastic pollution poses a risk to the environment and human health. Microplastics are increasingly grouped as a complex mix of polymers with different physicochemical and toxicological properties. This study attempts to assess the hazardous properties of common polymer types through the development of an integrated multi-criteria framework. The framework establishes a systematic approach to identify plastic polymers of concern. A semi-quantitative method was devised using twenty-one criteria. We used a case study from Victoria, Australia, to evaluate the effectiveness of the framework to characterize the environmental risk of common polymer types. A wide range of data sources were interrogated to complete an in-depth analysis across the material life cycle. We found that three polymers had the highest risk of harm: polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, and polystyrene; with dominant sectors being: building and construction, packaging, consumer and household, and automotive sectors; and greatest leakage of plastics at the end-of-life stages. Our findings illustrate the complexity of microplastics as an emerging contaminant, and its scalability supports decision-makers globally to identify and prioritize management strategies to address the risks posed by plastics. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION: The hazardous nature of mismanaged plastics is an international concern. The negative impacts on the environment and human health are increasingly coming to light. Consequently, resource constraints limits the ability to address all problems. Our work adopts a holistic approach to evaluate the risk of harm from microplastics across the entire life cycle to allow for targeted management measures. The hazard assessment of common polymer types developed using a multi-criteria framework, presents a systematic approach to prioritize polymers at any scale. This allows for the development of optimal investments and interventions to ensure that high-risk environmental problems are addressed first.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kala Senathirajah
- Environmental and Plastic Innovation Cluster (EPIC), Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Environment Protection Authority Victoria, Science Division, Ernest Jones Drive, Macleod, Victoria 3085, Australia
| | - Alison Kemp
- Environment Protection Authority Victoria, Science Division, Ernest Jones Drive, Macleod, Victoria 3085, Australia
| | - Minna Saaristo
- Environment Protection Authority Victoria, Science Division, Ernest Jones Drive, Macleod, Victoria 3085, Australia
| | - Shige Ishizuka
- Environment Protection Authority Victoria, Science Division, Ernest Jones Drive, Macleod, Victoria 3085, Australia
| | - Thava Palanisami
- Environmental and Plastic Innovation Cluster (EPIC), Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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49
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Wei X, Luo J, Wang X, Zhou H, Pang Y. ScCO 2-assisted fabrication and compressive property of poly (lactic acid) foam reinforced by in-situ polytetrafluoroethylene fibrils. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:2050-2060. [PMID: 35490769 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
As an effective alternative for petrochemical-based polymers, bio-based poly (lactic acid) (PLA) foam has been anticipated to alleviate enormous environmental pollution caused by microplastics. However, some difficulties involved in PLA foaming process due to the inherently poor melt strength and crystallization properties. In this context, a small amount of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) was incorporated into PLA matrix to solve the aforementioned issues. Scanning electron microscopy measurement exhibited that PTFE fibrils and their physical networks were formed in molten PLA after blending. Due to these PTFE networks, approximately 2 orders of magnitudes increment in the storage modulus and more than 20% improvement in crystallinity of PLA were obtained. Diverse PLA samples were successfully foamed by a cost-effective, green and supercritical CO2-assisted foaming method. The PLA/PTFE foam with the PTFE content of 5 wt% (PLA/PTFE5) possessed the smallest pore size (9.51 μm) and the highest pore density (2.60 × 108 pores/cm3). In addition, the average specific compressive strength of PLA/PTFE5 foam was enhanced 30% in comparison with that of pure PLA foam. Overall, this study could provide a prospective strategy for developing bioderived and biodegradable polymer foams with controllable pore structures and high compression property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Wei
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Quality Evaluation Technology for Hygiene and Safety of Plastics, College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyun Luo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Quality Evaluation Technology for Hygiene and Safety of Plastics, College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangdong Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Quality Evaluation Technology for Hygiene and Safety of Plastics, College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongfu Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Quality Evaluation Technology for Hygiene and Safety of Plastics, College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yongyan Pang
- Laboratory of Polymers and Composites, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315201, People's Republic of China.
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50
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Shen M, Song B, Zhou C, Almatrafi E, Hu T, Zeng G, Zhang Y. Recent advances in impacts of microplastics on nitrogen cycling in the environment: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 815:152740. [PMID: 34974017 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nitrogen cycling plays a decisive role in biogeochemistry, and largely depends on microbial driven nitrogen transformation. The environmental problems caused by microplastics are becoming more serious, and the analysis and control of its pollution in the environment have become a research hotspot in the field. The nitrogen transformation and nitrogen cycling in the environment are mainly driven by microorganisms in the environment, and the existence of microplastics can affect the microbial population, abundance and type, thus affecting the transformation of nitrogen. The effect of microplastics on microorganisms involved in nitrogen transformation is briefly described. This paper mainly reviews the research progress on the impacts of microplastics on nitrogen transformation and nitrogen cycling in water, soil, sediment and sewage sludge. Microplastic type, size and concentration can cause obvious difference in the impacts of microplastics on nitrogen transformation. Then, response and mechanism of microplastics to microorganism mediated nitrogen transformation and nitrogen cycling are introduced. Processes of nitrogen transformation are affected by interfering with microorganism diversity and structure, enzyme activities and related coding genes and oxygen flux. Additionally, additives released from microplastics can also affect the microbial activity. However, mechanisms of microplastics on environmental nitrogen transformation and nitrogen cycling are not fully understood due to the lack of relevant research. There are effective strategies to evaluate complex environmental systems, prolong action time, strengthen multi factor and multi-level research, and assist molecular biology and stable isotope technology. This review article can provide valuable insights into the impact of microplastics on microorganisms mediated nitrogen transformation processes and evaluate the impact on ecological and environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maocai Shen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Biao Song
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Chengyun Zhou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Eydhah Almatrafi
- Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tong Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Guangming Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Center of Research Excellence in Renewable Energy and Power Systems, Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering-Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| | - Yaxin Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
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