1
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Savva K, Llorca M, Borrell X, Bertran-Solà O, Farré M, Moreno T. Granulated rubber in playgrounds and sports fields: A potential source of atmospheric plastic-related contaminants and plastic additives after runoff events. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 479:135697. [PMID: 39216238 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 08/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The use of "crumb rubber" coming from recycling materials in outdoor floors like playgrounds has been a frequent practice during the last years. However, these surfaces are object of abrasion and weathering being a potential source of micro and nanoplastics (MNPLs) to the atmosphere and a potential source of human exposure to them. Our main goal has been to expose different crumb rubber materials to summer weathering effects. The released inhalable fractions were sampled for two months with passive samplers and the composition of MNPLs and plastic additives (organic and inorganic) were evaluated. The ecotoxicological effects of leached materials emulating runoff events was evaluated in freshwater micro crustacean Daphnia magna and the green algae Chlorella vulgaris. The analysis of MNPLs showed the presence of polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutadiene, polysiloxanes and polybutylene at concentrations up to 30,426 ng/m3. In the same fraction, we also identified up to 56 plastic additives, including antioxidants, pigments, copolymers, flame retardants, fungicides, lubricants, plasticizers, UV filters and metal ions. Finally, runoff ecotoxicological effects on D. magna and C. vulgaris showed that leached compounds, either from virgin or aged material, would be toxicants for exposed organisms although at concentrations much higher than those expected to be released to the media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Savva
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Spain
| | - Marta Llorca
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Spain.
| | - Xavier Borrell
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Spain
| | - Ona Bertran-Solà
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Spain
| | - Marinella Farré
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Spain
| | - Teresa Moreno
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Spain.
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2
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Mutmainna I, Gareso PL, Suryani S, Tahir D. Microplastics from petroleum-based plastics and their effects: A systematic literature review and science mapping of global bioplastics production. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2024; 20:1892-1911. [PMID: 38980276 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The use of bioplastics is a new strategy for reducing microplastic (MP) waste caused by petroleum-based plastics. This problem has received increased attention worldwide, leading to the development of large-scale bioplastic plants. The large amount of MPs in aquatic and terrestrial environments and the atmosphere has raised global concern. This article delves into the profound environmental impact of the increasing use of petroleum-based plastics, which contribute significantly to plastic waste and, as a consequence, to the increase in MPs. We conducted a comprehensive analysis to identify countries that are at the forefront of efforts to produce bioplastics to reduce MP pollution. In this article, we explain the development, degradation processes, and research trends of bioplastics derived from biological materials such as starch, chitin, chitosan, and polylactic acid (PLA). The findings pinpoint the top 10 countries demonstrating a strong commitment to reducing MP pollution through bioplastics. These nations included the United States, China, Spain, Canada, Italy, India, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Belgium, and the Netherlands. This study underscores the technical and economic obstacles to large-scale bioplastic production. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1892-1911. © 2024 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sri Suryani
- Department of Physics, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Dahlang Tahir
- Department of Physics, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
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3
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Garai S, Bhattacharjee C, Sarkar S, Moulick D, Dey S, Jana S, Dhar A, Roy A, Mondal K, Mondal M, Mukherjee S, Ghosh S, Singh P, Ramteke P, Manna D, Hazra S, Malakar P, Banerjee H, Brahmachari K, Hossain A. Microplastics in the soil-water-food nexus: Inclusive insight into global research findings. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:173891. [PMID: 38885699 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Nuisance imposed by biotic and abiotic stressors on diverse agroecosystems remains an area of focus for the scientific fraternity. However, emerging contaminants such as microplastics (MP) have imposed additional dimension (alone or in combinations with other stressors) in agroecosystems and keep escalating the challenges to achieve sustainability. MP are recognized as persistent anthropogenic contaminants, fetch global attention due to their unique chemical features that keeps themselves unresponsive to the decaying process. This review has been theorized to assess the current research trends (along with possible gap areas), widespread use of MP, enhancement of the harshness of heavy metals (HMs), complex interactions with physico-chemical constituents of arable soil, accumulation in the edible parts of field crops, dairy products, and other sources to penetrate the food web. So far, the available review articles are oriented to a certain aspect of MP and lack a totality when considered from in soil-water-food perspective. In short, a comprehensive perspective of the adverse effects of MP on human health has been assessed. Moreover, an agro-techno-socio-health prospective-oriented critical assessment of policies and remedial measures linked with MP has provided an extra edge over other similar articles in influential future courses of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Garai
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Chandrima Bhattacharjee
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sukamal Sarkar
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
| | - Debojyoti Moulick
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal -741235, India
| | - Saikat Dey
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Soujanya Jana
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Anannya Dhar
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Anirban Roy
- Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Krishnendu Mondal
- Dhaanyaganga Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Sargachhi, West Bengal, India
| | - Mousumi Mondal
- School of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, India
| | - Siddhartha Mukherjee
- Division of Agriculture, Faculty Centre for Agriculture, Rural and Tribal Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Morabadi, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Samrat Ghosh
- Emergent Ventures India, Gurugram, Haryana, India
| | - Puja Singh
- Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College, Birsa Agricultural University, Khuntpani, Chaibasa, Jharkhand, India
| | - Pratik Ramteke
- Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, MS 444104, India
| | - Dipak Manna
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Shreyasee Hazra
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Pushkar Malakar
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Hirak Banerjee
- Regional Research Station (CSZ), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kakdwip, West Bengal, India
| | - Koushik Brahmachari
- Department of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Akbar Hossain
- Division of Soil Science, Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute, Dinajpur 5200, Bangladesh
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4
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Ghosh A, Gorain B. Mechanistic insight of neurodegeneration due to micro/nano-plastic-induced gut dysbiosis. Arch Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s00204-024-03875-3. [PMID: 39370473 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03875-3] [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: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024]
Abstract
Despite offering significant conveniences, plastic materials contribute substantially in developing environmental hazards and pollutants. Plastic trash that has not been adequately managed may eventually break down into fragments caused by human or ecological factors. Arguably, the crucial element for determining the biological toxicities of plastics are micro/nano-forms of plastics (MPs/NPs), which infiltrate the mammalian tissue through different media and routes. Infiltration of MPs/NPs across the intestinal barrier leads to microbial architectural dysfunction, which further modulates the population of gastrointestinal microbes. Thereby, it triggers inflammatory mediators (e.g., IL-1α/β, TNF-α, and IFN-γ) by activating specific receptors located in the gut barrier. Mounting evidence indicates that MPs/NPs disrupt host pathophysiological function through modification of junctional proteins and effector cells. Moreover, the alteration of microbial diversity by MPs/NPs causes the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier and translocation of metabolites (e.g., SCFAs, LPS) through the vagus nerve. Potent penetration affects the neuronal networks, neuronal protein accumulation, acceleration of oxidative stress, and alteration of neurofibrillary tangles, and hinders distinctive communicating pathways. Conclusively, alterations of these neurotoxic factors are possibly responsible for the associated neurodegenerative disorders due to the exposure of MPs/NPs. In this review, the hypothesis on MPs/NPs associated with gut microbial dysbiosis has been interlinked to the distinct neurological impairment through the gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arya Ghosh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand, 835215, India
| | - Bapi Gorain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand, 835215, India.
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5
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Saha G, Chandrasekaran N. A comprehensive review on the adverse effect of microplastics in the gastrointestinal system of Artemia sp. Heliyon 2024; 10:e37720. [PMID: 39309788 PMCID: PMC11416537 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e37720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastic waste in aquatic environments can lead to the mortality of large marine creatures, as it increases the risk of entanglement, strangulation, and starvation. Even though micro- and nano-plastics pose a hidden threat, researchers still know little about them. The food source is an essential factor in gut microbial diversity. A well-balanced intestinal microbiome impacts animal development and health. According to research, microplastics (MPs) like polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) affected the gut microbiota of Artemia sp., increasing their genetic diversity. Therefore, the present study examined the negative impacts of MPs within the gastrointestinal tract of Artemia sp., the primary protein source of fish. A comprehensive literature review showed that microplastic contamination and its additives impair environmental and aquatic health. The findings of this research show that MPs alter the gut microbiota of Artemia, which in turn affects fish and, ultimately, human health via a cascade of impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guria Saha
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
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6
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Guraka A, Souch G, Duff R, Brown D, Moritz W, Kermanizadeh A. Microplastic-induced hepatic adverse effects evaluated in advanced quadruple cell human primary models following three weeks of repeated exposure. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143032. [PMID: 39111678 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143032] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Nano and microplastics are defined as particles smaller than 100 nm and 5 mm respectively. The widespread production and use of plastics in everyday life has resulted in significant accumulation of plastic debris in the environment. Over the last two decades there are increased concerns regarding the potential entry and accumulation of plastics in the human body with ingestion being one of the most important routes of exposure. However, the magnitude and nature of potential toxic effects of plastic exposure to human health is not yet fully understood. The liver is the body's principal detoxification organ and critically to this study recognized as the main accumulation site for particulates. In this study as the first of its kind the health impacts of long term low repeated polystyrene microplastics (1 and 5 μm) exposure was investigated in a functionally active 3D liver microtissue model, composed of primary human hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatic stellate cells. The highlight from the data includes microplastic-induced dose (3.125-25 μg/ml) and time dependent (up to 504 h) increase in cell death and inflammation manifested by enhanced release of IL6, IL8 and TNF-α. The exposure to repeated dosing of the plastics also resulted in notable pathology manifested as aberrant tissue architecture, such as dilated bile canaliculi and large lipid droplets inside the hepatic cells. This toxicity matched extremely well to the accumulation of the materials with the cells of microtissue predominately in the organ macrophages. This study highlights the real issue and danger of microplastic exposure with potential for long-term accumulation and adverse effects of non-biodegradable plastics within the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asha Guraka
- University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK
| | - Graham Souch
- University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK
| | - Richard Duff
- University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK
| | - David Brown
- Heriot Watt University, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Ali Kermanizadeh
- University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK.
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7
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Djekoun M, Gaaied S, Romdhani I, Mohamed Rida A, Missaoui Y, Boubekeur MS, Trea F, Lakbar C, Ouali K, Banni M. Abundance and distribution of environmental microplastic in edible fish and mussels from the south Mediterranean coasts. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116705. [PMID: 39047604 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116705] [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: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The present study aims to address a gap of knowledge by evaluating the in-situ ability of edible wild fish (Liza aurata, Sparus aurata and Sarpa salpa) and mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis to serve as environmental vectors of MPs along the eastern Algerian coastline (namely; Sidi Salem, Ain Achir and Saint Cloud). Our data showed the widespread accumulation of MPs in highly consumed fish species and mussels in Annaba coastal area. MPs were found in all investigated organisms from the three studied areas. The most common size range of MPs was between 0,45 μm and 1,22 μm. Six polymers of MPs were identified from the sampling areas; polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene-vinyl acetate (PEVA), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The data provided by this study can serve as a support for assessing the status of MPs pollution in the Algerian coast areas and the associated human health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manel Djekoun
- Laboratory of Agrobiodiversity and Ecotoxicology, Sousse University, Sousse, Tunisia; Laboratory of Environmental Biomonitoring, BAdji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria
| | - Sonia Gaaied
- Laboratory of Agrobiodiversity and Ecotoxicology, Sousse University, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Ilef Romdhani
- Laboratory of Agrobiodiversity and Ecotoxicology, Sousse University, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Abelouah Mohamed Rida
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems: Marine and Continental Environments, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Yossra Missaoui
- Laboratory of Agrobiodiversity and Ecotoxicology, Sousse University, Sousse, Tunisia
| | | | - Fouzia Trea
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomonitoring, BAdji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria
| | - Chanez Lakbar
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomonitoring, BAdji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria
| | - Khaireddine Ouali
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomonitoring, BAdji Mokhtar University, Annaba 23000, Algeria
| | - Mohamed Banni
- Laboratory of Agrobiodiversity and Ecotoxicology, Sousse University, Sousse, Tunisia; Higher Institute of Biotechnology, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia.
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8
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Jeyasanta I, Sathish MN, Patterson J, Esmeralda VG, R L L. Microplastics contamination in commercial fish meal and feed: a major concern in the cultured organisms. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 363:142832. [PMID: 39002652 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
The growing scale of plastic pollution causes a devastating impact on the aquatic ecosystem. The people largely depend on animal-based food for their protein requirements. In this study, we analysed 10 different fish meal samples and 20 feed samples used in farming to understand the level of microplastic (MPs) contamination and estimate the amount of MPs ingested by farmed fish, shrimp, and chicken through feed. The abundance of MPs in fish meal samples ranges from 210 ± 98.21 to 1154 ± 235.55 items/kg. The fish meal produced from dried fish is more prone to MPs contamination than that produced from fresh fish. In the case of fish feed, MP abundances range from 50 ± 22.36 to 160 ± 36.57 items/kg in shrimp feeds, 60 ± 26.74 to 230 ± 52.32 items/kg in fish feeds and 90 ± 25.11 to 330 ± 36.12 items/kg in chicken feeds. The exposure rate of MPs is higher in the grower- and finisher-stage feeds than in the starter feed. Fiber-shaped MPs of size 100-500 μm with PE and PP polymers were predominantly found in fish meal and feed samples. EDAX analysis showed the presence of Cr, Cd, Ti, Ni, Cu, As, Al, Pb, Hg, Cd, Ti, Fe, Ca, K, and Si in fish meal samples and Ca, Na, Zn, Cu, Ni, Cl, Al, Si, S, Pb, Cd, Ti, Cr, Mg and Fe in feed samples. The possible level of exposure of microplastic particles was calculated based on MP contamination in feed, feed consumption rate, and body weight. We estimated an MP exposure level of 531-1434 items/kg feed for farmed shrimp, 234-4480 items/kg feed for fishes, and 3519-434,280 items/kg feed for chicken. This study concludes that fish meal and feed are one of the important exposure routes of MPs to the farmed animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Narmatha Sathish
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jamila Patterson
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - V Glen Esmeralda
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Laju R L
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
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9
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Ali A, Qamer S, Shahid M, Tomkova B, Khan MZ, Militky J, Wiener J, Venkataraman M. Micro- and Nanoplastics Produced from Textile Finishes: A Review. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40. [PMID: 39151927 PMCID: PMC11363132 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c00552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
The problem of increasing plastic pollution has emerged as a significant societal issue. Plastics can originate from various sources, and there is growing concern among researchers to study and investigate this new category of pollution. The plastic waste is found at the macro, micro, and nanoscale, and its study has had great significance according to the perspective of posing hazardous impacts on living organisms. Given the high demand for functional textiles, the textile industries are supporting the coating of different polymeric based finishes on the surface of textile products. The plastic debris emitted from these coated finishes are in the ranges of nanometric scale, so-called polymeric nanoplastics (PNPs). With the new terminology, polymeric nanoplastics (PNPs) released from textile finishes or coatings are being increasingly mentioned, and the term fibrous microplastics (FMPs) can be seen as outdated. This study is based on an intensive review of a very novel category of debris plastics (PNPs) mostly produced from textile finishes or coatings. In fact, FMPs and PNPs released from synthetic textiles and textiles coated with plastic-based finishes during washing activities are considered to be a major cause that contributes to the current overall load of microplastics (MPs) in the environment. A link between the concentration of NPs from textile fibers and NPs from textile polymeric-based coatings in freshwater and sediments within a particular local setting and the extent of activities of the textile industry has been demonstrated. Invested efforts have been paid to consider and concentrate on plastic pollution (nanoplastics from textile polymeric coatings). We also summarize existing methodologies to elucidate the identification and proactive quantification of nanoplastics shed from the textile polymeric coatings. To this end, more than 40 studies have been done to identify the physical, chemical, and mechanical parameters and to characterize nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azam Ali
- Department
of Material Sciences, Technical University
of Liberec, Liberec, 460 15, Czech
Republic
| | - Shafqat Qamer
- Department
of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Shahid
- Department
of Material Sciences, Technical University
of Liberec, Liberec, 460 15, Czech
Republic
| | - Blanka Tomkova
- Department
of Material Sciences, Technical University
of Liberec, Liberec, 460 15, Czech
Republic
| | - Muhammad Zaman Khan
- Department
of Material Sciences, Technical University
of Liberec, Liberec, 460 15, Czech
Republic
| | - Jiri Militky
- Department
of Material Sciences, Technical University
of Liberec, Liberec, 460 15, Czech
Republic
| | - Jakub Wiener
- Department
of Material Sciences, Technical University
of Liberec, Liberec, 460 15, Czech
Republic
| | - Mohanapriya Venkataraman
- Department
of Material Sciences, Technical University
of Liberec, Liberec, 460 15, Czech
Republic
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10
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Hu Y, Jiang S, Zhang Q, Zhou W, Liang J, Xu Y, Su W. Protective effect of Cordycepin on blood-testis barrier against pre-puberty polystyrene nanoplastics exposure in male rats. Part Fibre Toxicol 2024; 21:30. [PMID: 39118174 PMCID: PMC11312894 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-024-00590-w] [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: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is an emerging environmental issue, with microplastics and nanoplastics raising health concerns due to bioaccumulation. This work explored the impact of polystyrene nanoparticle (PS-NPs) exposure during prepuberty on male reproductive function post maturation in rats. Rats were gavaged with PS-NPs (80 nm) at 0, 3, 6, 12 mg/kg/day from postnatal day 21 to 95. PS-NPs accumulated in the testes and reduced sperm quality, serum reproductive hormones, and testicular coefficients. HE staining showed impaired spermatogenesis. PS-NPs disrupted the blood-testis barrier (BTB) by decreasing junction proteins, inducing inflammation and apoptosis. Transcriptomics identified differentially expressed genes related to metabolism, lysosome, apoptosis, and TLR4 signaling. Molecular docking revealed Cordycepin could compete with polystyrene for binding to TLR4. Cordycepin alleviated oxidative stress and improved barrier function in PS-NPs treated Sertoli cells. In conclusion, prepubertal PS-NPs exposure induces long-term reproductive toxicity in male rats, likely by disrupting spermatogenesis through oxidative stress and BTB damage. Cordycepin could potentially antagonize this effect by targeting TLR4 and warrants further study as a protective agent. This study elucidates the mechanisms underlying reproductive toxicity of PS-NPs and explores therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Units of Medical Laboratory, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Shuyi Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
| | - Wenjie Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
| | - Jinhong Liang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China.
| | - Wenhui Su
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China.
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11
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Anh Nguyen TK, Trần-Phú T, Daiyan R, Minh Chau Ta X, Amal R, Tricoli A. From Plastic Waste to Green Hydrogen and Valuable Chemicals Using Sunlight and Water. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202401746. [PMID: 38757221 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202401746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Over 79 % of 6.3 billion tonnes of plastics produced from 1950 to 2015 have been disposed in landfills or found their way to the oceans, where they will reside for up to hundreds of years before being decomposed bringing upon significant dangers to our health and ecosystems. Plastic photoreforming offers an appealing alternative by using solar energy and water to transform plastic waste into value-added chemical commodities, while simultaneously producing green hydrogen via the hydrogen evolution reaction. This review aims to provide an overview of the underlying principles of emerging plastic photoreforming technologies, highlight the challenges associated with experimental protocols and performance assessments, discuss recent global breakthroughs on the photoreforming of plastics, and propose perspectives for future research. A critical assessment of current plastic photoreforming studies shows a lack of standardised conditions, hindering comparison amongst photocatalyst performance. Guidelines to establish a more accurate evaluation of materials and systems are proposed, with the aim to facilitate the translation of promising fundamental discovery in photocatalysts design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Kim Anh Nguyen
- Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Thành Trần-Phú
- Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Present address: Chemistry and Nanoscience Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO, 80401, USA
| | - Rahman Daiyan
- Particles and Catalysis Research Laboratory, School of Chemical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Xuan Minh Chau Ta
- Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Rose Amal
- Particles and Catalysis Research Laboratory, School of Chemical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Antonio Tricoli
- Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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12
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Tan Y, Ji L, Mo Y, Huang H, Lei X. Bibliometrics analysis of hotspots research on infertility syndromes and polystyrene. Toxicol Ind Health 2024; 40:465-478. [PMID: 38805015 DOI: 10.1177/07482337241257274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene plastic pollution poses a pressing environmental concern and represents a significant risk factor for infertility. Despite this, a comprehensive overview of the field remains scarce, with future trends largely unknown. Bibliometrics, an applied mathematical and statistical method, offers a means to analyze textual information across various levels, facilitating quantitative assessments of all knowledge carriers and unveiling the nature and developmental trajectories of a discipline. This study aimed to employ bibliometric methods to scrutinize the current status and research hotspots within the realm of polystyrene and infertility. Literature spanning from 1980 to 2023 pertaining to polystyrene and infertility was retrieved from the core database of Web of Science. Quantitative analyses were conducted utilizing CiteSpace (version 5.7.R7), VOSviewer (version 1.6.18.0), and an online literature analysis website (https://bibliometric.com/). The analysis visually represented countries, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords within the field. This study delved into the development history, knowledge structure, research hotspots, and potential trends in the field, furnishing a macro perspective for researchers. The investigation encompassed 267 articles published across 120 journals by 1,352 authors affiliated with 417 institutions in 51 countries, with these articles garnering 10,310 citations across 2,811 journals. The top three countries contributing the most articles were China, the United States, and Germany. In essence, the research hotspots primarily revolved around metabolism, endocrinology, and immunity. Despite China's relatively recent entry into this field, its rapid development is evident. However, the low citation frequency suggests a need for improved article quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongpeng Tan
- Clinical Anatomy and Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Lin Ji
- Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Yi Mo
- Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Hua Huang
- Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaocan Lei
- Clinical Anatomy and Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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13
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Saha U, Kumari P, Ghosh A, Sinha A, Jena S, Kirti A, Gupta A, Choudhury A, Simnani FZ, Nandi A, Sahoo RN, Singh S, Mishra R, Kaushik NK, Singh D, Suar M, Verma SK. Detrimental consequences of micropolymers associated plasticizers on endocrinal disruption. Mater Today Bio 2024; 27:101139. [PMID: 39027679 PMCID: PMC11255117 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of polymer usage in everyday activities has emerged as a detriment to both human life and the environment. A large number of studies describe severe impacts of micropolymers (MP) and nanopolymers (NP) on various organ systems, including the endocrine system. Additionally, plasticizers utilized as additives have been identified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). MP/NP, along with associated plasticizers, affect principal signalling pathways of endocrine glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and gonads, thereby disrupting hormone function and metabolic processes crucial for maintaining homeostasis, fertility, neural development, and fetal growth. This review delves into the sources, distribution, and effects of micropolymers, nanopolymers, and associated plasticizers acting as EDCs. Furthermore, it provides a detailed review of the mechanisms underlying endocrine disruption in relation to different types of MP/NP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Utsa Saha
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Puja Kumari
- Department of Biotechnology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, 825001, India
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, 61137, Czech Republic
| | - Aishee Ghosh
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Adrija Sinha
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Snehashmita Jena
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Apoorv Kirti
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Abha Gupta
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Anmol Choudhury
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | | | - Aditya Nandi
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Rudra Narayan Sahoo
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Shalini Singh
- Markham College of Commerce, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, 825001, India
| | - Richa Mishra
- Department of Computer Engineering, Parul University, Ta. Waghodia, Vadodara, Gujarat, 391760, India
| | - Nagendra Kumar Kaushik
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, 01897, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Deobrat Singh
- Condensed Matter Theory Group, Materials Theory Division, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Uppsala University, Box 516, SE-751 20, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mrutyunjay Suar
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Suresh K. Verma
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
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14
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Ershova A, Vorotnichenko E, Gordeeva S, Ruzhnikova N, Trofimova A. Beach litter composition, distribution patterns and annual budgets on Novaya Zemlya archipelago, Russian Arctic. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 204:116517. [PMID: 38850754 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116517] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Beached macrolitter (>2,5 cm) abundance and composition in the Russian (Eastern) part of the Barents Sea and the adjacent part of the Kara Sea was assessed for 2021-2023. Average densities of beach litter on the coasts are 675 items/100 m and 37 kg/100 m (0.27 items/m2 and 0.015 kg/m2). Annual litter budgets for Cape Zhelaniya beaches are 0.49 items/m2 per year and 0.023 kg/m2 per year. The northernmost tip of Novaya Zemlya is shown to be a beach litter accumulation hot-spot on Novaya Zemlya archipelago, where litter is brought by surface currents and trapped by sea ice margins. Up to 80 % of beached marine macrolitter is made of plastics, originating from vessels. A certain accumulation strip of a beach was identified (14 m - 27.5 m distance from the waterline), and significance of the beach backshore was shown in litter accumulation. Beach litter accounting methodologies on the Arctic beaches are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Ershova
- PlasticLab, Russian State Hydrometeorological University, St. Petersburg, Russia.
| | | | - Svetlana Gordeeva
- PlasticLab, Russian State Hydrometeorological University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Nina Ruzhnikova
- Northern Administration for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring (SevUGMS), Arkhangelsk, Russia
| | - Anna Trofimova
- Northern (Arctic) Federal University named after M.V. Lomonosov, Arkhangelsk, Russia
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15
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La Maestra S, Benvenuti M, Alberti S, Ferrea L, D'Agostini F. UVB-Aged Microplastics and Cellular Damage: An in Vitro Study. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2024; 87:48-57. [PMID: 38896243 PMCID: PMC11283437 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-024-01073-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are synthetic organic compounds whose widespread use generates enormous waste. Different processes, such as mechanical abrasion, microbiological activity, and UVB irradiation, can fragment the plastic material and generate microplastics (MPs). MPs are ubiquitous, and various organisms, including humans, can ingest or inhale them, with potential adverse health effects. The differences between UV-aged and virgin particles were studied to evaluate the genotoxic damage and oxidative stress induced by polystyrene MPs with 1 and 5 µm sizes on the monocyte-like cell line (THP-1). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Ζ-potential measurements were used to characterise MP particles after UVB exposure. Cells exposed to MPs show a widespread change in the cellular environment with the generation of reactive oxidative species (ROS), as indicated by the increased malondialdehyde level. The occurrence of genotoxic damage is correlated to the smaller size and ageing state of the MPs. The biochemical and genomic alterations observed in this in vitro study suggest that MPs, ubiquitous pollutants, following natural degradation and oxidation processes can cause various adverse effects on the health of the exposed population, making it necessary to carry out further studies to better define the real risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiano La Maestra
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via A. Pastore, 1, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Mirko Benvenuti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via A. Pastore, 1, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Alberti
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Genoa, Via Dodecaneso 31, 16146, Genoa, Italy
| | - Linda Ferrea
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via A. Pastore, 1, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Agostini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via A. Pastore, 1, 16132, Genoa, Italy
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16
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Pan I, Umapathy S. Probiotics an emerging therapeutic approach towards gut-brain-axis oriented chronic health issues induced by microplastics: A comprehensive review. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32004. [PMID: 38882279 PMCID: PMC11176854 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Applications for plastic polymers can be found all around the world, often discarded without any prior care, exacerbating the environmental issue. When large waste materials are released into the environment, they undergo physical, biological, and photo-degradation processes that break them down into smaller polymer fragments known as microplastics (MPs). The time it takes for residual plastic to degrade depends on the type of polymer and environmental factors, with some taking as long as 600 years or more. Due to their small size, microplastics can contaminate food and enter the human body through food chains and webs, causing gastrointestinal (GI) tract pain that can range from local to systemic. Microplastics can also acquire hydrophobic organic pollutants and heavy metals on their surface, due to their large surface area and surface hydrophobicity. The levels of contamination on the microplastic surface are significantly higher than in the natural environment. The gut-brain axis (GB axis), through which organisms interact with their environment, regulate nutritional digestion and absorption, intestinal motility and secretion, complex polysaccharide breakdown, and maintain intestinal integrity, can be altered by microplastics acting alone or in combination with pollutants. Probiotics have shown significant therapeutic potential in managing various illnesses mediated by the gut-brain axis. They connect hormonal and biochemical pathways to promote gut and brain health, making them a promising therapy option for a variety of GB axis-mediated illnesses. Additionally, taking probiotics with or without food can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS), neuro-inflammation, neurodegeneration, protein folding, and both motor and non-motor symptoms in individuals with Parkinson's disease. This study provides new insight into microplastic-induced gut dysbiosis, its associated health risks, and the benefits of using both traditional and next-generation probiotics to maintain gut homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ieshita Pan
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai, 602105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Suganiya Umapathy
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai, 602105, Tamil Nadu, India
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17
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Alijagic A, Suljević D, Fočak M, Sulejmanović J, Šehović E, Särndahl E, Engwall M. The triple exposure nexus of microplastic particles, plastic-associated chemicals, and environmental pollutants from a human health perspective. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 188:108736. [PMID: 38759545 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) is increasing at a dramatic rate globally, posing risks for exposure and subsequent potential adverse effects on human health. Apart from being physical objects, MP particles contain thousands of plastic-associated chemicals (i.e., monomers, chemical additives, and non-intentionally added substances) captured within the polymer matrix. These chemicals are often migrating from MPs and can be found in various environmental matrices and human food chains; increasing the risks for exposure and health effects. In addition to the physical and chemical attributes of MPs, plastic surfaces effectively bind exogenous chemicals, including environmental pollutants (e.g., heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants). Therefore, MPs can act as vectors of environmental pollution across air, drinking water, and food, further amplifying health risks posed by MP exposure. Critically, fragmentation of plastics in the environment increases the risk for interactions with cells, increases the presence of available surfaces to leach plastic-associated chemicals, and adsorb and transfer environmental pollutants. Hence, this review proposes the so-called triple exposure nexus approach to comprehensively map existing knowledge on interconnected health effects of MP particles, plastic-associated chemicals, and environmental pollutants. Based on the available data, there is a large knowledge gap in regard to the interactions and cumulative health effects of the triple exposure nexus. Each component of the triple nexus is known to induce genotoxicity, inflammation, and endocrine disruption, but knowledge about long-term and inter-individual health effects is lacking. Furthermore, MPs are not readily excreted from organisms after ingestion and they have been found accumulated in human blood, cardiac tissue, placenta, etc. Even though the number of studies on MPs-associated health impacts is increasing rapidly, this review underscores that there is a pressing necessity to achieve an integrated assessment of MPs' effects on human health in order to address existing and future knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andi Alijagic
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Center (MTM), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Damir Suljević
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Muhamed Fočak
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Jasmina Sulejmanović
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Elma Šehović
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Eva Särndahl
- Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Magnus Engwall
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Center (MTM), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
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18
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Domenech J, Villacorta A, Ferrer JF, Llorens-Chiralt R, Marcos R, Hernández A, Catalán J. In vitro cell-transforming potential of secondary polyethylene terephthalate and polylactic acid nanoplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 469:134030. [PMID: 38493621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134030] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Continuous exposure to plastic pollutants may have serious consequences on human health. However, most toxicity assessments focus on non-environmentally relevant particles and rarely investigate long-term effects such as cancer induction. The present study assessed the carcinogenic potential of two secondary nanoplastics: polyethylene terephthalate (PET) particles generated from plastic bottles, and a biodegradable polylactic acid material, as respective examples of environmentally existing particles and new bioplastics. Pristine polystyrene nanoplastics were also included for comparison. A broad concentration range (6.25-200 μg/mL) of each nanoplastic was tested in both the initiation and promotion conditions of the regulatory assessment-accepted in vitro Bhas 42 cell transformation assay. Parallel cultures allowed confirmation of the efficient cellular internalisation of the three nanoplastics. Cell growth was enhanced by polystyrene in the initiation assay, and by PET in both conditions. Moreover, the number of transformed foci was significantly increased only by the highest PET concentration in the promotion assay, which also showed dose-dependency, indicating that nano PET can act as a non-genotoxic tumour promotor. Together, these findings support the carcinogenic risk assessment of nanoplastics and raise concerns regarding whether real-life co-exposure of PET nanoplastics and other environmental pollutants may result in synergistic transformation capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefa Domenech
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Box 40, Työterveyslaitos, 00032 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aliro Villacorta
- Grup de Mutagènesi, Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain; Facultad de Recursos Naturales Renovables, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | | | | | - Ricard Marcos
- Grup de Mutagènesi, Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Alba Hernández
- Grup de Mutagènesi, Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Julia Catalán
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Box 40, Työterveyslaitos, 00032 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Genetics, University of Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
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19
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Yang S, Zhang T, Ge Y, Yin L, Pu Y, Liang G. Inhalation exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics induces chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-like lung injury in mice through multi-dimensional assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 347:123633. [PMID: 38423272 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics are widely distributed in indoor and outdoor air and can be easily inhaled into human lungs. However, limited studies have investigated the impact of nanoplastics on inhalation toxicities, especially on the initiation and progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To fill the gap, the present study used oronasal aspiration to develop mice models. Mice were exposed to polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) at three concentrations, as well as the corresponding controls, for acute, subacute, and subchronic exposure. As a result, PS-NPs could accumulate in exposed mice lungs and influence lung organ coefficient. Besides, PS-NPs induced local and systemic oxidative stress, inflammation, and protease-antiprotease imbalance, resulting in decreased respiratory function and COPD-like lesions. Meanwhile, PS-NPs could trigger the subcellular mechanism to promote COPD development by causing mitochondrial dysfunctions and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Mechanistically, ferroptosis played an important role in the COPD-like lung injury induced by PS-NPs. In summary, the present study comprehensively and systematically indicates that PS-NPs can damage human respiratory health and increase the risk for COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Biomedical Devices (Suzhou), Southeast University, Suzhou, 215163, China.
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Biomedical Devices (Suzhou), Southeast University, Suzhou, 215163, China.
| | - Yiling Ge
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Biomedical Devices (Suzhou), Southeast University, Suzhou, 215163, China.
| | - Lihong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yuepu Pu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Geyu Liang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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20
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Xiao N, Wang Y, Guo Z, Shao T, Dong Z, Xing B. Tire plastic and road-wear particles on Yujing Expressway in the restoration area of Mu Us Sandy Land: Occurrence characteristics and ecological risk screening. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 468:133860. [PMID: 38402682 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Tire plastic and road-wear particles (TPR-WP) are a current research priority as one of the main environmental sources of microplastics. We selected a unique land use type - desert restoration area, collected soil and dust samples from the Yujing Expressway and its service areas, and analyzed TPR-WP abundance, type, size and morphology by laser direct infrared (LDIR). The abundance of TPR-WP in expressway dust (14,446.87 ± 10,234.24 n/kg) was higher than that in soil (7500 ± 3253.64 n/kg). Random forest model showed that the source of TPR-WP was highly correlated with economic factors and natural climate. Overall, the proportion of small and medium-sized TPR-WP in dust was higher than soil, more than half of the TPR-WP in dust were in 20 - 50 µm range. The proportion of small particle size TPR-WP increased with the rise of elevation. The pollution load index suggested that the survey region was generally at level I risk zone, while the ecological risk index indicated that the pollution level of expressway was III and IV, and the service area was IV. In general, the study was of great significance for clarifying the distribution and risk of TPR-WP in soil and dust of expressways and service areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Xiao
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Yanhua Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
| | - Ziyi Guo
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Tianjie Shao
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Zhibao Dong
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
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21
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Dailianis S, Rouni M, Ainali NM, Vlastos D, Kyzas GZ, Lambropoulou DA, Bikiaris DN. New insights into the size-independent bioactive potential of pristine and UV-B aged polyethylene microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170616. [PMID: 38311086 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170616] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The present study investigates the morphological, physicochemical, and structural changes occurred by the UV-B aging process of low-density polyethylene microplastics (LDPE MPs), as well as the bioactive potential of both pristine and UVaged MPs towards healthy peripheral blood lymphocytes. Specifically, LDPE MPs (100-180 μm) prepared by mechanical milling of LDPE pellets, were UV-B irradiated for 120 days (wavelength 280 nm; temperature 25 °C; relative humidity 50 %) and further examined for alterations in their particle size and surface, their functional groups, thermal stability, and crystallinity (by means of SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD patterns, and TGA measurements, respectively). In parallel, isolated human peripheral blood lymphocytes were treated with different concentrations (25-500 μg mL-1) of either pristine or aged MPs (UVfree and UV120d LDPE MPs) for assessing the cytogenotoxic (by means of trypan blue exclusion test and the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay using cytochalasin-B) and oxidative effects (using the DCFH-DA staining) in both cases. According to the results, UVfree and UV120d-LDPE MPs, with a size ranging from 100 to 180 μm, can differentially promote cytogenotoxic and oxidative alterations in human lymphocytes. In fact, UVfree LDPE MPs not being able to be internalized by cells due to their size, could indirectly promote the onset of mild oxidative and cytogenotoxic damage in human peripheral lymphocytes, via a dose-dependent but size-independent manner. The latter is more profound in case of the irregular-shaped UV120d-LDPE MPs, bearing improved dispersibility and sharp edges (by means of cracks and holes), as well as oxygen-containing and carbonyl groups. To our knowledge, the present findings provide new data regarding the bioactive behavior of pristine and UV-B aged LDPE MPs, at least in the in vitro biological model tested, thus giving new evidence for their size-independent and/or indirect mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanos Dailianis
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece.
| | - Maria Rouni
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Nina Maria Ainali
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitris Vlastos
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, GR-65404 Kavala, Greece
| | - Dimitra A Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios N Bikiaris
- Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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22
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Álvarez-Fernández C, Matikainen E, McGuigan KG, Andrade JM, Marugán J. Evaluation of microplastics release from solar water disinfection poly(ethylene terephthalate) and polypropylene containers. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133179. [PMID: 38101015 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Public health concern associated with the ingestion of microplastics (MPs) released from water packaging materials is increasing. The use of plastic materials for solar disinfection (SODIS) containers has also raised concerns in the SODIS community due to the lack of studies evaluating the presence of MPs in the treated water. In this work, the migration of MPs from poly(ethylene terephthalate, PET) bottles and polypropylene (PP) translucent and transparent jerrycan containers (TJC) into water under natural weathering was investigated using micro-reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (µ-FTIR). Containers exposed to sunlight for three months became photodegraded, releasing micro-sized fragments identified as PET, PP and high-density polyethylene (HDPE, from the screw-caps), although with varying degrees of weathering. It is noteworthy that the presence of a clarifying additive in PP formulation did not seem to impact the release of MPs from the containers. The study showed that PP TJC containers released more MPs than PET bottles. Finally, the size of MPs was measured to determine their fate upon ingestion and highlights the need for further studies to understand the safety of these plastic containers for SODIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Álvarez-Fernández
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering Group. Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/ Tulipán s/n, 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elina Matikainen
- Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kevin G McGuigan
- Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jose M Andrade
- Group of Applied Analytical Chemistry. University of A Coruña, Campus da Zapateira s/n, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Javier Marugán
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering Group. Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/ Tulipán s/n, 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Tecnologías para la Sostenibilidad, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/ Tulipán s/n, 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain.
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23
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Magalhães EA, de Jesus HE, Pereira PHF, Gomes AS, Santos HFD. Beach sand plastispheres are hotspots for antibiotic resistance genes and potentially pathogenic bacteria even in beaches with good water quality. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123237. [PMID: 38159625 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Massive amounts of microplastics are transported daily from the oceans and rivers onto beaches. The ocean plastisphere is a hotspot and a vector for antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and potentially pathogenic bacteria. However, very little is known about the plastisphere in beach sand. Thus, to describe whether the microplastics from beach sand represent a risk to human health, we evaluated the bacteriome and abundance of ARGs on microplastic and sand sampled at the drift line and supralittoral zones of four beaches of poor and good water quality. The bacteriome was evaluated by sequencing of 16S rRNA gene, and the ARGs and bacterial abundances were evaluated by high-throughput real-time PCR. The results revealed that the microplastic harbored a bacterial community that is more abundant and distinct from that of beach sand, as well as a greater abundance of potential human and marine pathogens, especially the microplastics deposited closer to seawater. Microplastics also harbored a greater number and abundance of ARGs. All antibiotic classes evaluated were found in the microplastic samples, but not in the beach sand ones. Additionally, 16 ARGs were found on the microplastic alone, including genes related to multidrug resistance (blaKPC, blaCTX-M, tetM, mdtE and acrB_1), genes that have the potential to rapidly and horizontally spread (blaKPC, blaCTX-M, and tetM), and the gene that confers resistance to antibiotics that are typically regarded as the ultimate line of defense against severe multi-resistant bacterial infections (blaKPC). Lastly, microplastic harbored a similar bacterial community and ARGs regardless of beach water quality. Our findings suggest that the accumulation of microplastics in beach sand worldwide may constitute a potential threat to human health, even in beaches where the water quality is deemed satisfactory. This phenomenon may facilitate the emergence and dissemination of bacteria that are resistant to multiple drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Amorim Magalhães
- Department of Marine Biology, Fluminense Federal University - UFF. St. Professor Marcos Waldemar de Freitas Reis, Niterói, RJ, 24210-201, Brazil
| | - Hugo Emiliano de Jesus
- Department of Marine Biology, Fluminense Federal University - UFF. St. Professor Marcos Waldemar de Freitas Reis, Niterói, RJ, 24210-201, Brazil
| | - Pedro Henrique Freitas Pereira
- Department of Marine Biology, Fluminense Federal University - UFF. St. Professor Marcos Waldemar de Freitas Reis, Niterói, RJ, 24210-201, Brazil
| | - Abílio Soares Gomes
- Department of Marine Biology, Fluminense Federal University - UFF. St. Professor Marcos Waldemar de Freitas Reis, Niterói, RJ, 24210-201, Brazil
| | - Henrique Fragoso Dos Santos
- Department of Marine Biology, Fluminense Federal University - UFF. St. Professor Marcos Waldemar de Freitas Reis, Niterói, RJ, 24210-201, Brazil.
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24
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Bahrani F, Mohammadi A, Dobaradaran S, De-la-Torre GE, Arfaeinia H, Ramavandi B, Saeedi R, Tekle-Röttering A. Occurrence of microplastics in edible tissues of livestock (cow and sheep). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:22145-22157. [PMID: 38403824 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32424-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Plastic contamination is widely recognized as a major environmental concern due to the entry of small plastic particles into the food chain, thereby posing potential hazards to human health. However, the current understanding of microplastic (MP; < 5 mm) particles in livestock, which serve as an important food source, is limited. This study aims to investigate the concentration and characteristics of MPs in edible tissues of cow and sheep, namely liver, meat, and tripe, obtained from butcher shops in five areas of Bushehr port, Iran. The mean concentration of MPs in different tissues of cow and sheep were 0.14 and 0.13 items/g, respectively. Among the examined tissues, cow meat exhibited the highest concentration of MPs, with a concentration of 0.19 items/g. Nylon and fiber were identified as the predominant polymer types and shapes of MPs found in cow and sheep tissues, respectively. Furthermore, no statistically significant difference was observed in MP concentration across different tissues of cow and sheep. Significantly, this study highlights the elevated hazards associated with exposure to MPs through the consumption of edible cow and sheep tissues, particularly for children who consume meat. The results underscore the potential transfer of MPs from the environment to livestock bodies through their food, contamination during meat processing, and subsequent health hazards for consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farkhondeh Bahrani
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Azam Mohammadi
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.
- Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
- Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, 45141, Essen, Germany.
| | - Gabriel E De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru
| | - Hossein Arfaeinia
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Bahman Ramavandi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Reza Saeedi
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Health and Safety, and Environment (HSE), School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Agnes Tekle-Röttering
- Westfälische Hochschule Gelsenkirchen, Neidenburger Strasse 43, 45877, Gelsenkirchen, Germany
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25
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Wu D, Lu X, Dong LX, Tian J, Deng J, Wei L, Wen H, Zhong S, Jiang M. Nano polystyrene microplastics could accumulate in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): Negatively impacts on the intestinal and liver health through water exposure. J Environ Sci (China) 2024; 137:604-614. [PMID: 37980043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2023.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have become a significant concern for their potential toxicity. However, the correlation between the size of plastic particles and their toxicity remains inconclusive. Here, we investigate the toxic effects of different sizes (80 nm, 800 nm, 8 µm and 80 µm) polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) on the model organism Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The results of bioluminescent imaging indicate that the 80 nm PS-MPs are more likely to invade the body. H&E staining shows severe damage on the intestinal villi and distinct hepatic steatosis in the 80 nm group. EdU labeling shows that the proliferation activity of intestinal and liver cells reduces significantly in the 80 nm group. The gut microbiome analysis shows a severe imbalance of gut microbiota homeostasis in the 80 nm group. The analysis of liver transcriptomics and metabolomics shows that the liver lipid metabolism is disordered in the 80 nm group. In conclusion, this study confirms that the 80 nm PS-MPs are more likely to induce intestinal and liver toxicity. All the above lay the foundation for further study on the pathological damage of MPs to other organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Key Laboratory of Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Xing Lu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Li-Xue Dong
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Juan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Jin Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lei Wei
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hua Wen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Shan Zhong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan 430071, China.
| | - Ming Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China.
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26
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Bhatia SK, Kumar G, Yang YH. Understanding microplastic pollution: Tracing the footprints and eco-friendly solutions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169926. [PMID: 38199349 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution has emerged as a critical environmental issue with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human health. These are plastic particles measuring <5 mm and are categorized as primary and secondary based on their origin. Primary MPs are used in various products like cosmetics, scrubs, body wash, and toothpaste, while secondary MPs are generated through the degradation of plastic products. These have been detected in seas, rivers, snow, indoor air, and seafood, posing potential risks to human health through the food chain. Detecting and quantifying MPs are essential to understand their distribution and abundance in the environment. Various microscopic (fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy) and spectroscopy techniques (FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) have been reported to analyse MPs. Despite the challenges in scalable removal methods, biological systems have emerged as promising options for eco-friendly MPs remediation. Algae, bacteria, and fungi have shown the potential to adsorb and degrade MPs in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) offering hope for mitigating this global crisis. This review examines the sources, impacts, detection, and biological removal of MPs, highlighting future directions in this crucial field of environmental conservation. By fostering global collaboration and innovative research a path towards a cleaner and healthier planet for future generations can be promised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashi Kant Bhatia
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Applications, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Institute of Chemistry, Bioscience and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Stavanger, Box 8600 Forus, 4036 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Yung-Hun Yang
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Applications, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
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27
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Tariq M, Iqbal B, Khan I, Khan AR, Jho EH, Salam A, Zhou H, Zhao X, Li G, Du D. Microplastic contamination in the agricultural soil-mitigation strategies, heavy metals contamination, and impact on human health: a review. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2024; 43:65. [PMID: 38341396 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-024-03162-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has emerged as a critical global environmental issue due to its widespread distribution, persistence, and potential adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. Although research on microplastic pollution in aquatic environments has gained significant attention. However, a limited literature has summarized the impacts of microplastic pollution the agricultural land and human health. Therefore, In the current review, we have discussed how microplastic(s) affect the microorganisms by ingesting the microplastic present in the soil, alternatively affecting the belowground biotic and abiotic components, which further elucidates the negative effects on the above-ground properties of the crops. In addition, the consumption of these crops in the food chain revealed a potential risk to human health throughout the food chain. Moreover, microplastic pollution has the potential to induce a negative impact on agricultural production and food security by altering the physiochemical properties of the soil, microbial population, nutrient cycling, and plant growth and development. Therefore, we discussed in detail the potential hazards caused by microplastic contamination in the soil and through the consumption of food and water by humans in daily intake. Furthermore, further study is urgently required to comprehend how microplastic pollution negatively affects terrestrial ecosystems, particularly agroecosystems which drastically reduces the productivity of the crops. Our review highlights the urgent need for greater awareness, policy interventions, and technological solutions to address the emerging threat of microplastic pollution in soil and plant systems and mitigation strategies to overcome its potential impacts on human health. Based on existing studies, we have pointed out the research gaps and proposed different directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tariq
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Babar Iqbal
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Centre of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ismail Khan
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Ali Raza Khan
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Eun Hea Jho
- Department of Agricultural and Biological Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Abdul Salam
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology of the Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Zhou
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
- Zhenjiang New District Environmental Monitoring Station Co. Ltd, Zhenjiang, 212132, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Guanlin Li
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Centre of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Daolin Du
- Jingjiang College, Institute of Environment and Ecology, School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Agricultural Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
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28
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Sim W, Song SW, Park S, Jang JI, Kim JH, Cho YM, Kim HM. Unveiling microplastics with hyperspectral Raman imaging: From macroscale observations to real-world applications. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 463:132861. [PMID: 37939557 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
The widespread use of plastic materials, owing to their several advantageous properties, has resulted in a considerable increase in plastic consumption. Consequently, the production of primary and secondary microplastics has also increased. To identify, categorize, and quantify microplastics, several analytical methods, such as thermal analysis and spectroscopic methods, have been developed. They generally offer little insight into the size and shape of microplastics, require time-consuming sample preparation and classification, and are susceptible to background interference. Herein, we created a macroscale hyperspectral Raman method to quickly quantify and characterize large volumes of plastics. Using this approach, we successfully obtained Raman spectra of five different types of microplastics scattered over an area of 12.4 mm × 12.4 mm within just 550 s and perfectly classified these microplastics using a machine learning method. Additionally, we demonstrated that our system is effective for obtaining Raman spectra, even when the microplastics are suspended in aquatic environments or bound to metal-mesh nets. These results highlight the considerable potential of our proposed method for real-world applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooseok Sim
- Department of Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Si Won Song
- Department of Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Subeen Park
- Department of Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea; Sensor System Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Il Jang
- Department of Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hun Kim
- Sensor System Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeo-Myoung Cho
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, CA 94305, United States
| | - Hyung Min Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea.
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29
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Li Y, Deng Y, Hu C, Li D, Zhang J, Zhou N. Microplastic pollution in urban rivers within China's Danxia landforms: Spatial distribution characteristics, migration, and risk assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 910:168610. [PMID: 37984653 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The potential deleterious effects of microplastics on environmental integrity and human health have elicited global attention. Particularly vulnerable to microplastics are Danxia landforms, characterized by their unique topographical features and ecologically fragile milieu. Notwithstanding, empirical studies assessing the prevalence of microplastics in these unique landforms remain strikingly limited. The present investigation comprehensively examined the abundance of microplastics in surface water, sediment, and groundwater across six cities and six counties within the Danxia landforms. Comparative analysis revealed a moderate level of microplastic contamination in the urban rivers of the Danxia region relative to other freshwater rivers. Anthropogenic activities, notably urban wastewater treatment and tourism, emerged as principal contributors to microplastic pollution. Sedimentary microplastics exhibited an accumulative trend from upstream to downstream locations. The risk assessment revealed a high potential ecological risk in counties and a moderate risk in cities. Cluster analysis suggested that groundwater microplastics were a confluence of hydraulic interactions between surface and subsurface waters within the Danxia region. This investigation elucidates the microplastic contamination profile, origins, migratory patterns, and associated risks in Danxia's urban rivers, thereby furnishing scientific underpinning for health and ecological preservation strategies within urbanized Danxia landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Yinjun Deng
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Chengrong Hu
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Dan Li
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Jiale Zhang
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Nonglin Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China.
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30
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Janani R, Bhuvana S, Geethalakshmi V, Jeyachitra R, Sathishkumar K, Balu R, Ayyamperumal R. Micro and nano plastics in food: A review on the strategies for identification, isolation, and mitigation through photocatalysis, and health risk assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 241:117666. [PMID: 37984787 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117666] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few years, it has become increasingly evident that microplastic pollutant heavily contaminates water sources, posing a potential threat to both human and wildlife. These plastic pollutants do not get degraded efficiently by natural processes and the existing traditional treatment methods are incapable of fully eradicating them. In this regard, degradation of microplastic contaminants through photocatalytic methods has emerged as a powerful technique. Unfortunately, only a limited number of investigations have been reported in the field of photocatalytic degradation of microplastics. This comprehensive assessment focuses on the detailed analysis of the latest cutting edge engineered technologies aimed at efficiently separating, identifying microplastic contaminants present in food samples and degrading them through photocatalysis. Moreover, detailed information on various instrumental techniques that can be adopted to analyze the isolated micro sized plastic particles has been discussed. The assessment and degradation of these micro contaminants through photocatalytic methods is still in juvenile stage and there are lot of rooms to be explored. The need for profound contemplation on methods to degrade them through photocatalytic approaches as well as their possible health risks to humans motivated us to bring out this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Janani
- Department of Physics, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, 641402, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - S Bhuvana
- Department of Physics, Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, 641048, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - V Geethalakshmi
- Department of Chemistry, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, 641402, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Jeyachitra
- Department of Physics, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, 641402, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kuppusamy Sathishkumar
- Rhizosphere Biology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620 024, India
| | - Ranjith Balu
- Department of Materials Physics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 602105, India
| | - Ramamoorthy Ayyamperumal
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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Withana PA, Li J, Senadheera SS, Fan C, Wang Y, Ok YS. Machine learning prediction and interpretation of the impact of microplastics on soil properties. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122833. [PMID: 37931672 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122833] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
The annual microplastic (MP) release into soils is 4-23 times higher than that into oceans, significantly impacting soil quality. However, the mechanisms underlying how MPs impact soil properties remain largely unknown. Soil-MP interactions are complex because of soil heterogeneity and varying MP properties. This lack of understanding was exacerbated by the diverse experimental conditions and soil types used in this study. Predicting changes in soil properties in the presence of MPs is challenging, laborious, and time-consuming. To address these issues, machine learning was applied to fit datasets from peer-reviewed publications to predict and interpret how MPs influence soil properties, including pH, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), total P, NO3--N, NH4+-N, and acid phosphatase enzyme activity (acid P). Among the developed models, the gradient boost regression (GBR) model showed the highest R2 (0.86-0.99) compared to the decision tree and random forest models. The GBR model interpretation showed that MP properties contributed more than 50% to altering the acid P and NO3--N concentrations in soils, whereas they had a negligible impact on total P and 10-20% impact on soil pH, DOC, and NH4+-N. Specifically, the size of MPs was the dominant factor influencing acid P (89.3%), pH (71.6%), and DOC (44.5%) in soils. NO3--N was mainly affected by the MP type (52.0%). The NH4+-N was mainly affected by the MP dose (46.8%). The quantitative insights into the impact of MPs on soil properties of this study could aid in understanding the roles of MPs in soil systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piumi Amasha Withana
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea
| | - Jie Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Sachini Supunsala Senadheera
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea
| | - Chuanfang Fan
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China
| | - Yin Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea; Institute of Green Manufacturing Technology, College of Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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Sun J, Xiong Y, Jia H, Han L, Yin K. Superb microplastics separation performance of graphene oxide tuned by laser bombardment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132599. [PMID: 37757553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been identified as a significant environmental threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Consequently, there is an urgent need for efficient separation methods for small-sized MPs. In this study, a super-hydrophilic graphene oxide (GO) membrane is successfully prepared by facilely depositing GO on a microfiltration substrate, without introducing any surface modification materials, especially nanoparticles, which may cause secondary pollution. Laser bombardment reduces GO lamellar size (23.6% of its original size) and creates an abundance of defects and undulating wrinkles, enabling the deposited GO membrane to have more and shorter pathways for water. As a result, the filtration permeance for 10 μm polyvinyl chloride reaches up to 3396 L m-2 h-1 bar-1, a 1-2-order-of-magnitude enhancement compared to the unirradiated GO membrane, and is also superior to most nanoparticle-modified GO membranes. Simultaneously, the labyrinth structure endows the membrane with a high filtration efficiency of approximately 99% for the majority of MPs. This excellent performance remains virtually unchanged after repeated use. The integration of outstanding separation effects and health safety presents opportunities for practical applications in long-term MP-in-water separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Sun
- College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China; SEU-FEI Nano-Pico Center, Key Laboratory of MEMS of Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China; Jiangsu Industrial Intelligent and Low-carbon Technology Engineering Center, Suzhou 215000, China; Suzhou Key Laboratory of Intelligent Low-carbon Technology Application, Suzhou 215000, China.
| | - Yuwei Xiong
- SEU-FEI Nano-Pico Center, Key Laboratory of MEMS of Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Haiyang Jia
- School of Physics and New Energy, Xuzhou University of Technology, Xuzhou 221018, China
| | - Longxiang Han
- SEU-FEI Nano-Pico Center, Key Laboratory of MEMS of Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Kuibo Yin
- SEU-FEI Nano-Pico Center, Key Laboratory of MEMS of Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China.
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Ali N, Liu W, Zeb A, Shi R, Lian Y, Wang Q, Wang J, Li J, Zheng Z, Liu J, Yu M, Liu J. Environmental fate, aging, toxicity and potential remediation strategies of microplastics in soil environment: Current progress and future perspectives. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167785. [PMID: 37852500 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are small plastic debris (<5 mm) that result from the fragmentation of plastic due to physical and physiochemical processes. MPs are emerging pollutants that pose a significant threat to the environment and human health, primarily due to their pervasive presence and potential bioaccumulation within the food web. Despite their importance, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on the fate, toxicity, and aging behavior of MPs. Therefore, this review aims to address this gap by providing a cohesive understanding of several key aspects. Firstly, it summarizes the sources and fate of MPs, highlighting their ubiquitous presence and the potential pathways through which they enter ecosystems. Secondly, it evaluates the aging process of MPs and the factors influencing it, including the morphological and physiological changes observed in crops and the release of pollutants from aged MPs, which can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health. Furthermore, the impacts of aging MPs on various processes are discussed, such as the mobilization of other pollutants in the environment. The influence of aged MPs on the soil environment, particularly their effect on heavy metal adsorption, is examined. Finally, the review explores strategies for the prevention technologies and remediation of MPs, highlighting the importance of developing effective approaches to tackle this issue. Overall, this review aims to contribute to our understanding of MPs, their aging process, and their impacts on the environment and human health. It underscores the urgency of addressing the issue of MPs and promoting research and remediation efforts to mitigate their adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nouman Ali
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Weitao Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Aurang Zeb
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Ruiying Shi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yuhang Lian
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jianling Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jiantao Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Zeqi Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jinzheng Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Miao Yu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jianv Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China.
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Tan H, Mong GR, Wong SL, Wong KY, Sheng DDCV, Nyakuma BB, Othman MHD, Kek HY, Razis AFA, Wahab NHA, Wahab RA, Lee KQ, Chiong MC, Lee CH. Airborne microplastic/nanoplastic research: a comprehensive Web of Science (WoS) data-driven bibliometric analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:109-126. [PMID: 38040882 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31228-7] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents the landscape of research on airborne microplastics and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) according to the bibliometric analysis of 147 documents issued between 2015 and 2021, extracted from the Web of Science database. The publications on airborne MPs/NPs have increased rapidly from 2015 onwards, which is largely due to the existence of funding support. Science of the Total Environment is one of the prominent journals in publishing related papers. China, England, the USA, and European Countries have produced a significant output of airborne MP/NP research works, which is associated with the availability of funding agencies regionally or nationally. The research hotspot on the topic ranges from the transport of airborne MPs/NPs to their deposition in the terrestrial or aquatic environments, along with the contamination of samples by indoor MPs/NPs. Most of the publications are either research or review papers related to MPs/NPs. It is crucial to share the understanding of global plastic pollution and its unfavorable effects on humankind by promoting awareness of the existence and impact of MPs/NPs. Funding agencies are vital in boosting the research development of airborne MPs/NPs. Some countries that are lacking funding support were able to publish research findings related to the field of interest, however, with lesser research output. Without sufficient fundings, some impactful publications may not be able to carry a substantial impact in sharing the findings and discoveries with the mass public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyi Tan
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Guo Ren Mong
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Xiamen University Malaysia, Sepang, Xiamen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Syie Luing Wong
- Dpto. Matemática Aplicada, Ciencia e Ingeniería de Materiales y Tecnología Electrónica, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Keng Yinn Wong
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia.
| | | | - Bemgba Bevan Nyakuma
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Computing, Pen Resource University, P. M. B. 086, Gombe, Gombe State, Nigeria
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Hong Yee Kek
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Faizal Abdull Razis
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Roswanira Abdul Wahab
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Kee Quen Lee
- Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Meng Choung Chiong
- Faculty of Engineering, Technology & Built Environment, UCSI University, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chia Hau Lee
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
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Siddique MAM, Uddin A, Hossain MS, Rahman SMA, Rahman MS, Kibria G, Malafaia G. "Microplastic seasoning": A study on microplastic contamination of sea salts in Bangladesh. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 198:115863. [PMID: 38039574 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115863] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated microplastics (MPs) in commercial sea salts from Bangladesh. The presence of MPs in the 18 sea salt bands was 100 %, where the mean MPs abundance was 471.67 MPs/kg, ranging between 300 and 670 MPs/kg. The maximum number of MPs in the 300-1500 μm size class was significantly higher than the 1500-3000 μm and 3000-5000 μm size class. The most dominant color was black. Fibers and foams were the dominant shapes. The highest number of MPs was 41 %, obtained from coarse salt grains. Four types of polymers were mainly identified from the analyzed samples: PP, PE, PET, and PA. The mean polymer risk index value among these sea salts was 539 to 1257. The findings of this study can be helpful for consumers, salt industries, and policymakers to be aware of or reduce MP contamination levels in sea salts during production and consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Abdul Momin Siddique
- University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrogenases, Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, Zatisi 728/II, 389 25 Vodnany, Czech Republic; Department of Oceanography, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh.
| | - Azad Uddin
- Department of Oceanography, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh
| | - Md Soliman Hossain
- Department of Oceanography, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh
| | - Shahriar Md Arifur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Science and Disaster Management, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh; Department of Natural Resource and Society, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA
| | - M Safiur Rahman
- Water Quality Research Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Center, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, 4-Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Shahbag, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | | | - 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, G.O., Brazil.
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Zhao X, Qiang M, Yuan Y, Zhang M, Wu W, Zhang J, Gao Z, Gu X, Ma S, Liu Z, Cai L, Han J. Distribution of microplastic contamination in the major tributaries of the Yellow River on the Loess Plateau. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167431. [PMID: 37774863 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in rivers had gained increased attention worldwide. However, the differences in microplastic characteristics among major tributaries of large rivers and the environmental factors influencing these characteristics remain uncertain. Through field investigation and indoor experiments, the distribution of microplastics and their driving factors were investigated at 96 sampling sites along the three main tributaries (Huangfuchuan, Wuding and Yan River) of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau. The results revealed that the average microplastic abundance followed this order: Yan River (430.30 items kg-1) > Wuding River (145.09 items kg-1) > Huangfuchuan River (253.33 items kg-1). The abundance was lower than that in most parts of the world. There was a generally increasing trend in average microplastic abundance from upstream to downstream in the three rivers. The most frequently observed microplastic colors observed were black and white, and the most common polymer type were PE and PS in all three rivers. The dominant shape and size in the three rivers were fiber and particles measuring 0.5-5.0 mm, all accounting for more than half of the total microplastic content. The microplastic abundance, shape, and size were primarily influenced by mean annual precipitation and population density. This relationship can be attributed to the fact that increased population density driven by higher demand and consumption of plastic products, while augmented rainfall aggravated the occurrence of floods and provided conditions for plastic degradation and accumulation. This study will provide fundamental data for pollution assessing and ecological protection of the Yellow River, and provide a certain reference for future management and protection on the Loess Plateau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Zhao
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Science and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Minmin Qiang
- Power China Northwest Survey Design and Research Institute Co. Ltd., Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Science and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenjing Wu
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiaocheng Zhang
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zesen Gao
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinmei Gu
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sitian Ma
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zihan Liu
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lu Cai
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jianqiao Han
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Science and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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Scaria SS, Balasubramanian B, Dandin VS, Meyyazhagan A, Pappuswamy M, Sattanathan G, Liu WC, Kadanthottu Sebastian J, Park S. Review on impacts of micro- and nano-plastic on aquatic ecosystems and mitigation strategies. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 265:106759. [PMID: 37977011 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106759] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The rapid proliferation of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in our environment presents a formidable hazard to both biotic and abiotic components. These pollutants originate from various sources, including commercial production and the breakdown of larger plastic particles. Widespread contamination of the human body, agroecosystems, and animals occurs through ingestion, entry into the food chain, and inhalation. Consequently, the imperative to devise innovative methods for MPs and NPs remediation has become increasingly apparent. This review explores the current landscape of strategies proposed to mitigate the escalating threats associated with plastic waste. Among the array of methods in use, microbial remediation emerges as a promising avenue for the decomposition and reclamation of MPs and NPs. In response to the growing concern, numerous nations have already implemented or are in the process of adopting regulations to curtail MPs and NPs in aquatic habitats. This paper aims to address this gap by delving into the environmental fate, behaviour, transport, ecotoxicity, and management of MPs and NPs particles within the context of nanoscience, microbial ecology, and remediation technologies. Key findings of this review encompass the intricate interdependencies between MPs and NPs and their ecosystems. The ecological impact, from fate to ecotoxicity, is scrutinized in light of the burgeoning environmental imperative. As a result, this review not only provides an encompassing understanding of the ecological ramifications of MPs and NPs but also highlights the pressing need for further research, innovation, and informed interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Susan Scaria
- Department of Life Sciences, Christ University, Bangalore, Karnataka 560029, India
| | | | | | - Arun Meyyazhagan
- Department of Life Sciences, Christ University, Bangalore, Karnataka 560029, India
| | | | | | - Wen-Chao Liu
- Department of Animal Science, College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, PR China
| | | | - Sungkwon Park
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, South Korea.
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Shu R, Hu W, Gao S, Zhang S, Li Z, Liang B, Yu W. Transfer pattern of microplastics at an individual level: A case study of two typical Sciaenidae fish in coastal waters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 901:165570. [PMID: 37482348 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are recognized as global pollutants. The occurrence and distribution of MP transfer at the species level have been reported, but few studies have focused on the individual level. In this study, two typical migratory demersal species (Collichthys lucidus and Larimichthys polyactis, family Sciaenidae) from the coastal waters of the Lvsi fishing ground were selected to analyze the distribution characteristics of MPs in their gastrointestinal tracts and to explore the potential biomagnification of MPs in different body lengths. The results showed that the main MP color found in both species was blue (>80 %), while the main MP shape was fiber (>90 %), and the main MP polymer type was polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (>70 %). Overall, the abundance of MPs in C. lucidus (3.24 ± 1.57 pieces/fish) was higher than that in L. polyactis (2.24 ± 0.56 pieces/fish). The abundance of MPs in C. lucidus with a body length >90 mm was significantly higher than that with a body length <90 mm, and no significant difference was found in L. polyactis. We believe that the shift in feeding habits during the life history of the two species is an important factor that affects the variation in MPs between body lengths. Additionally, there was a significant positive correlation between MPs and the length (weight) of C. lucidus but no correlation in L. polyactis. There was no significant correlation between trophic level and MPs in either species. This indicated that MP bioaccumulation only occurred in C. lucidus, and MP biomagnification did not occur in either species. We suggest that further research be conducted on MPs ingested by more species at an individual level regarding the biomagnification/bioaccumulation phenomenon. This will help further elucidate the characteristics of MP transfer in the food webs of ecosystems and provide theoretical support for understanding MP pollution in coastal waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruilin Shu
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Wenbo Hu
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Shike Gao
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Joint Laboratory for Monitoring and Conservation of Aquatic Living Resources in the Yangtze Estuary, Shanghai 200000, China.
| | - Zheng Li
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Baogui Liang
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Wenwen Yu
- Jiangsu Research Institute of Marine Fisheries, Nantong 226007, China.
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Zheng Y, Addotey TNA, Chen J, Xu G. Effect of Polystyrene Microplastics on the Antioxidant System and Immune Response in GIFT ( Oreochromis niloticus). BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1430. [PMID: 37998029 PMCID: PMC10669825 DOI: 10.3390/biology12111430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed a significant presence of microplastics (MPs) in freshwater ecosystems, raising concerns about their potential negative impacts on the growth and development of freshwater organisms. The present study was conducted to examine the effects of chronic sub-lethal doses of polystyrene microsphere MPs on the oxidative status (ROS, SOD) and the immune response (IL-1ß, TNF-α) of genetically improved farmed tilapia (a kind of tilapia hereafter referred to as GIFT). GIFT juveniles (5.1 ± 0.2 g) were exposed to different concentrations of substances. The experimental groups were as follows: group A (control, no exposure), group B (exposed to a concentration of 75 nm), group C (exposed to a concentration of 7.5 μm), group D (exposed to a concentration of 750 μm), group E (exposed to a combination of 75 nm, 7.5 μm, and 750 μm), and group F (exposed to a combination of 75 nm and Chlorella). The ROS contents in the brain and gills were significantly decreased in group F, while a significant increase was observed in group D following a 14-day exposure. SOD activities in the intestine showed an elevation in group F, as did those in the brain and gills in group D, while the SOD levels in the gills generally decreased over time in groups B and F. Notably, the highest ROS and SOD were observed in the brain of group D, whereas the lowest were in the intestines at the same concentration. The activity of IL-1β in the liver was significantly up-regulated in all of the exposure groups. IL-1β was significantly up-regulated in the brain of group B and in the gills of group D. Similarly, TNF-α was significantly up-regulated in the brain of groups B/D/E, in the liver of groups B/C/D, in the intestine of group B, and in the gills of group D. Notably, the highest levels of IL-1β and TNF-α activities were recorded in the brain, while the lowest were recorded in the intestine of group D. Overall, this study revealed that GIFT's immune response and antioxidant system can be affected by MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Rice-Fish Farming Ecology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center (FFRC), Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (CAFS), No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China;
| | - Tracy Naa Adoley Addotey
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China;
| | - Jiazhang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Rice-Fish Farming Ecology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center (FFRC), Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (CAFS), No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China;
| | - Gangchun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Rice-Fish Farming Ecology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center (FFRC), Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (CAFS), No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China;
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Pop V, Ozunu A, Petrescu DC, Stan AD, Petrescu-Mag RM. The influence of media narratives on microplastics risk perception. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16338. [PMID: 37933256 PMCID: PMC10625762 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Media are the interface between scientists and citizens, communicating and interpreting the risk message and powerfully influencing individual awareness, public debate, and, hence, people's behavior. Pollution by microplastics (MPs), a threat to public health and terrestrial and marine ecosystems, has received research, media, and public interest. However, how MPs environmental and health risks are reflected in the media and assessed in the scientific literature does not find consensus over time. To date, few studies have examined social aspects around MPs, such as, for example, factors that influence awareness and perception of the risk of MPs. In this context, the objective of this study is twofold. First, we determined if media narratives influenced Romanians' awareness of MPs, and second, we investigated if media narratives influenced Romanians' perceptions of MPs health and environmental risk. Method An online survey was conducted among 417 Romanian respondents. The questionnaire had 21 questions. The questions were related to the awareness of MPs, the perceived health risk of MPs, the perceived environmental risk of MPs, the intensity of exposure to media narratives about the MPs impact on health and the environment, and the demographics. Binary logistic regression was run to identify what media narratives influenced MPs awareness and risk perception. In recent times, mass media has shaped perceptions of health and environmental risks, driven by events like COVID-19 and global climate change. Our study relies on media narratives as its foundation. Results Binary logistic regression showed that the awareness of MPs is influenced by the media narrative "Microplastics in the sea threaten fish stocks" (p = 0.001). When the frequency of exposure to this media narrative increases, the probability of reporting awareness of MPs increases. Likewise, an increase in age represents a higher probability of reporting awareness of MPs. The perceived health risk of MPs, with the highest weighting, was related to the dependent variable "Leakage of harmful chemicals from MPs affects the soil" (p = 0.014). Conclusions Media narratives about plastic and MPs pollution have increased over time, influencing the perception of this risk. The study argues the need for accurate and balanced media reporting on MPs to prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure that people clearly understand MPs risks. Furthermore, a closer examination of people's perceptions supports the design of appropriate interventions to reduce plastic consumption, thereby decreasing the risks of MPs pollution with benefits for human health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pop
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Ozunu
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Disaster Management Training and Education Centre for Africa (DiMTEC), University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Dacinia Crina Petrescu
- Department of Hospitality Services, Faculty of Business, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Cluj, Romania
- Department of Economy and Rural Development, Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Adrian-Daniel Stan
- Department of International Studies and Contemporary History, Faculty of History and Philosophy, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Ruxandra Malina Petrescu-Mag
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Economy and Rural Development, Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
- Doctoral School “International Relations and Security Studies”, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Leso V, Battistini B, Vetrani I, Reppuccia L, Fedele M, Ruggieri F, Bocca B, Iavicoli I. The endocrine disrupting effects of nanoplastic exposure: A systematic review. Toxicol Ind Health 2023; 39:613-629. [PMID: 37753827 DOI: 10.1177/07482337231203053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Good mechanical properties and low costs have led to a global expansion of plastic production and use. Unfortunately, much of this material can be released into the environment as a waste product and cleaved into micro- and nanoplastics (NPs) whose impact on the environment and human health is still largely unknown. Considering the growing worldwide awareness on exposure to chemicals that can act as endocrine disruptors, a systematic review was performed to assess the impact of NPs on the endocrine function of in vitro and in vivo models. Although a limited number of investigations is currently available, retrieved findings showed that NPs may induce changes in endocrine system functionality, with evident alterations in reproductive and thyroid hormones and gene expression patterns, also with a trans-generational impact. Nanoplastic size, concentration, and the co-exposure to other endocrine disrupting pollutants may have an influencing role on these effects. Overall, although it is still too early to draw conclusions regarding the human health risks derived from NPs, these preliminary results support the need for further studies employing a wider range of plastic polymer types, concentrations, and time points as well as species and life stages to address a great variety of endocrine outcomes and to achieve a broader and shared consensus on the role of NPs as endocrine disruptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veruscka Leso
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Beatrice Battistini
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Vetrani
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Liberata Reppuccia
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Fedele
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Ruggieri
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Bocca
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ivo Iavicoli
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Das A. The emerging role of microplastics in systemic toxicity: Involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165076. [PMID: 37391150 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental threats the world is facing currently. The degradation of macroplastics into smaller forms viz. microplastics (MPs) or Nanoplastics (NPs) is a potential threat to both terrestrial and marine ecosystems and also to human health by directly affecting the organs and activating a plethora of intracellular signaling, that may lead to cell death. There is accumulating evidence that supports the serious toxicity caused by MP/NPs at all levels of biological complexities (biomolecules, organelles, cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems) and the involvement of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in this process. Studies indicate that MPs or NPs can accumulate in mitochondria and further disrupt the mitochondrial electron transport chain, cause mitochondrial membrane damage, and perturb the mitochondrial membrane potential or depolarization of the mitochondria. These events eventually lead to the generation of different types of reactive free radicals, which can induce DNA damage, protein oxidation, lipid peroxidation, and compromization of the antioxidant defense pool. Furthermore, MP-induced ROS was found to trigger a plethora of signaling cascades, such as the p53 signaling pathway, Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathway including the c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), p38 kinase, and extracellular signal related kinases (ERK1/2) signaling cascades, Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-pathway, Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinases (PI3Ks)/Akt signaling pathway, and Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) pathways, to name a few. As a consequence of oxidative stress caused by the MPs/NPs, different types of organ damage are observed in living species, including humans, such as pulmonary toxicity, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, immunotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, hepatotoxicity, etc. Although presently, a good amount of research is going on to access the detrimental effects of MPs/NPs on human health, there is a lack of proper model systems, multi-omics approaches, interdisciplinary research, and mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amlan Das
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biosciences, The Assam Royal Global University, NH-37, opp. Tirupati Balaji Temple, Betkuchi, Guwahati, Assam 781035, India.
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Nguyen TLH, Duong TL, Nguyen THT, Dang TQ, Nguyen TH, Dao NN, Nguyen KT, Duong CD, Pham NN, Nguyen BQ. Microplastics and trace metals in river sediment: Prevalence and correlation with multiple factors. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165145. [PMID: 37385491 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), which are ubiquitous, are no longer novel emerging pollutants, yet our knowledge of them is insufficient. This study investigates the prevalence of MPs and trace metals in sediment belonging to Ma River, Vietnam, and their interaction with various parameters, including nutrients such as total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP), grain sizes, and MPs in surface water. The study revealed that the abundance of MPs in sediment (MPs/S) is relatively high (i.e., 1328.3 ± 1925.5 items.kg-1 dry weight), while the concentration of MPs in surface water (MPs/W) was relatively low (i.e., 57.3 ± 55.8 items.m-3) compared to other areas. Notably, the study found that arsenic and cadmium concentrations exceeded baseline levels, indicating their anthropogenic origin. To interpret the relationship between MPs/S, metals, and the aforementioned parameters, principal component analysis and Pearson correlation analyses were employed. The results demonstrated a significant correlation between metals and nutrients, as well as small grain sizes such as clay and silt. It was observed that the majority of metals displayed co-occurrence with one another but showed weak associations with the levels of MPs present in both water and sediment. Additionally, a weak correlation was observed between MPs/W and MPs/S. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the distribution and behavior of MPs and trace metals in aquatic systems are influenced by multiple factors, including nutrient levels, grain size, and other chemical and physical characteristics of the environment. While certain metals may have natural sources, others may result from human activities such as mining, industrial discharge, and wastewater treatment plants. As a result, understanding the sources and aspects of metal contamination are critical for determining their relationship with MPs and developing effective strategies for mitigating their impact on aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Lan Huong Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Lim Duong
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Huong Thuy Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Tran Quan Dang
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Hue Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Ngoc Nhiem Dao
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam; Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Kien Trung Nguyen
- Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Cong Dien Duong
- Institute of Mechanics, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 264 Doi Can, Ba Dinh, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Ngo Nghia Pham
- Faculty of Chemistry, VNU University of Science, 19 Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Bac Quang Nguyen
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam; Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam.
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Hossain MB, Yu J, Nur AAU, Banik P, Jolly YN, Mamun MA, Paray BA, Arai T. Distribution, characterization and contamination risk assessment of microplastics in the sediment from the world's top sediment-laden estuary. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 344:118472. [PMID: 37384995 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118472] [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: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have gained a serious attention as an emerging contaminant throughout the world because of their persistence and possible risks to aquatic ecosystems and human well-being. However, knowledge on MPs contamination from sub-tropical coastal systems is limited, and no study has been conducted on the MPs contamination in sediment from one of the highest sediment-laden estuaries, Meghna River, in the world. This is the first study to examine the quantity, morpho-chemical characteristics and contamination risk level of MPs from this large scale river. MPs were extracted from the sediment samples of 10 stations along the banks of the estuary by density separation, and then characterized using a stereomicroscope and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The incidence of MPs varied from 12.5 to 55 item/kg dry sediment with an average of 28.67 ± 10.80 item/kg. The majority (78.5%) of the MPs were under 0.5 mm in size, with fibers being the most (74.1%) prevalent MPs type. Polypropylene (PP) was found to be the predominant polymer (53.4%), followed by polyethylene (PE, 20%), polystyrene (PS, 13.3%), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC, 13.3%). The highest occurrence of PP indicted the MPs in the estuary might be originated from clothing and dying industries, fishing nets, food packages, and pulp industries. The sampling stations were contaminated with MPs as shown by the contamination factor (CF) values and pollutant load index (PLI), both of which were >1. This study exposed new insights on the status of MPs in the sediments of the Meghna River, laying the groundwork for future research. The findings will contribute to estimate the global share of MPs to the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Belal Hossain
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali-3814, Bangladesh.
| | - Jimmy Yu
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - As-Ad Ujjaman Nur
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali-3814, Bangladesh
| | - Partho Banik
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali-3814, Bangladesh
| | - Yeasmin N Jolly
- Atmospheric and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Centre Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Al- Mamun
- Materials Science Division, Atomic Energy Centre Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Bilal Ahamad Paray
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, PO Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Takaomi Arai
- Environmental and Life Sciences Programme, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
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Laju RL, Jayanthi M, Jeyasanta KI, Patterson J, Bilgi DS, Sathish N, Edward JKP. Microplastic contamination in Indian rural and urban lacustrine ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165146. [PMID: 37385488 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the microplastics (MPs) pollution of the lacustrine ecosystems of Tamil Nadu, South India. It examines the seasonal distribution, characteristics and morphology of MPs and assesses the risk posed by MPs pollution. MPs abundance in the 39 rural and urban lakes studied varies from 16 ± 2.69 to 118.17 ± 22.17 items/L (water) and 19.50 ± 4.75 to 156.23 ± 36.41 items/kg (sediment). The water and sediment of urban lakes show average MPs abundances of 88.06 items/L and 115.24 items/kg respectively, while the rural lakes exhibit average MPs abundances of 42.98 items/L and 53.29 items/kg. The results demonstrate that study areas with more residential and urban centers with higher population density and larger discharge of sewage have greater MP abundance. Urban zones have greater MP diversity integrated index (MPDII = 0.73) than rural zones (MPDII = 0.59). Fibres are the dominant group and polyethylene and polypropylene are the most commonly found polymers, possibly gaining entry through land-based plastic litter and urban activities in this region. The weathering index values, 50 % of MPs exhibit high degree of oxidation (WI >0.31) with an age of >10 years. SEM-EDAX results reveal that the weathered MPs from urban lakes have a wider variety of metal elements (Al, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr, Hg, Pb and Cd) than those from rural lakes (Na, Cl, Si, Mg, Al, Cu). Though PLI shows low risk (<10) in terms of abundance, PHI reflects pollution status III (10-100) and IV (100-1000) in rural areas and IV and V (>1000) in urban areas based on the toxicity score of the polymer. Ecological risk assessment shows minor risks (<150) at present. The assessment indicates the risk posed by the MPs to the lakes studied and emphasizes the necessity for best MP management practices in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Laju
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - M Jayanthi
- Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, India
| | | | - Jamila Patterson
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Deepak S Bilgi
- Department of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, India
| | - Narmatha Sathish
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
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Enyoh CE, Ovuoraye PE, Qingyue W, Wang W. Examining the impact of nanoplastics and PFAS exposure on immune functions through inhibition of secretory immunoglobin A in human breast milk. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132103. [PMID: 37527590 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132103] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Emerging contaminants such as nanoplastics (NPs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have been detected in the environment and breast milk, thus exposing infants to potentially harmful chemicals during breastfeeding. Breast milk contains secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA), an antibody that plays a vital role in disease protection and the development of the infant's immune system. This study employed molecular simulation and fractional factorial designs to assess the toxicity of NPs and PFAS on breast milk and their influence on infant immunity by inhibiting SIgA. The research found that NPs and PFAS have higher binding affinities to SIgA compared to the control compound. Polycarbonate (-10.7 kcal/mol) had the highest binding affinity among plastics, while Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA, - 8.0 kcal/mol) had the highest binding affinity among PFAS. The relative toxic index was higher for PFAS (2.4) than for plastics (1.9), suggesting that PFAS may pose a higher overall toxicity burden on the protein. The presence of specific combinations of NPs and PFAS in breast milk may potentially harm breastfeeding infants, although additional experimental studies are required to validate these findings. These results underscore the potential risks associated with these emerging contaminants in breast milk and their impact on infant immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Ebere Enyoh
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, 255 Shimo-Okubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama City, Saitama 338-8570, Japan.
| | - Prosper E Ovuoraye
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, PMB 1221 Effurun, Nigeria
| | - Wang Qingyue
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, 255 Shimo-Okubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama City, Saitama 338-8570, Japan.
| | - Weiqian Wang
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, 255 Shimo-Okubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama City, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
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Dronjak L, Exposito N, Sierra J, Schuhmacher M, Florencio K, Corzo B, Rovira J. Tracing the fate of microplastic in wastewater treatment plant: A multi-stage analysis of treatment units and sludge. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122072. [PMID: 37331579 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is ubiquitous in the environment presenting a global problem for both scientists and the general public. One of the major pathways of MPs entering the natural environment is through wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Once MPs reach the natural environment, they are posing threat to aquatic ecosystems and public health. The aim of this study is to investigate the concentration, morphology, and composition of MPs in different treatment units of a WWTP. Sampling included different points across WWTP in the water and sludge lines. Pre-treatment of the samples consists of advanced Fenton oxidation, and alkaline and enzymatic digestion followed by density separation. Once the particles were isolated, their morphology and size were studied using a stereoscopic and optical microscope followed by final confirmation with ATR-FTIR and micro-FTIR spectroscopy. Microplastic particle concentrations exhibit significant reductions as water undergoes treatment in the WWTP. For summer sampling, concentrations decreased from 351 MP/L (influent) to 35 MP/L (primary clarifier), 32 MP/L (biological reactor), and 13 MP/L (2.3 MP/L) (secondary clarifier). Similarly, winter sampling showed reductions from 403 MP/L (influent) to 159 MP/L (primary clarifier), 178 MP/L (biological reactor), and 26 MP/L (5.6 MP/L) (secondary clarifier). Removal efficiency of WWTP is high and exceeds 96%. The most abundant morphology is fibers followed by fragments and films. Polymers such as PE, synthetic cellulose, PP, PVC, PE-PP, PEEA, PA, acrylamide, and PES are widely detected in different units of WWTP. The number of MPs that are avoided from being emitted into the environment through direct water discharge was estimated to be 9.1 × 1012 MP/year. Removed MPs tend to accumulate in the sludge that is used for agricultural purposes although it should be managed as waste properly, avoiding the transition of MPs pollutants to terrestrial ecosystems adding to the number of MPs that will inevitably end up in receiving water bodies through direct WWTP effluent discharge that was set in 5.1 × 1010 MP/year in the studied WWTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Dronjak
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, University Rovira and Virgili, Paisos Catalans Avenue 26, 43007, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Nora Exposito
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, University Rovira and Virgili, Paisos Catalans Avenue 26, 43007, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Sierra
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, University Rovira and Virgili, Paisos Catalans Avenue 26, 43007, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain; Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Joan XXIII Avenue s/n, 08028, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Marta Schuhmacher
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, University Rovira and Virgili, Paisos Catalans Avenue 26, 43007, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Karin Florencio
- Acsa Obras e Infraestructuras S.A.U (Sorigué Group), Ronda Guinardó, 99, 08041, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Beatriz Corzo
- Acsa Obras e Infraestructuras S.A.U (Sorigué Group), Ronda Guinardó, 99, 08041, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joaquim Rovira
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, University Rovira and Virgili, Paisos Catalans Avenue 26, 43007, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain; Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, University Rovira and Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201, Reus, Catalonia, Spain.
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48
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Tobin C, Urban-Rich J, Larosee C, Mavrommati G. The importance of discourse when discussing microplastic pollution with oyster stakeholders in Massachusetts, USA. AMBIO 2023; 52:1488-1504. [PMID: 37312005 PMCID: PMC10406797 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-023-01870-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Oysters have socioeconomic and environmental importance globally and are currently threatened by microplastic pollution. Whether solutions (e.g., laws, policies, or best management practices) are needed to protect oysters from microplastic pollution is still in question given the complexity of the issue and the multitude of stakeholders involved. Minimal research has been done to examine the public's view of the microplastic problem and, separately, few economic studies have examined non-monetary values for oysters. Here, we employed a discourse-based method (deliberative multicriteria evaluation methodology) to engage with oyster-relevant stakeholders in Massachusetts, USA, to evaluate how the stakeholders discussed and interacted with each other on the topic of 'microplastics polluting oyster habitats' using hypothetical scenarios. Our qualitative analysis indicated that participants discussed human welfare and non-human welfare aspects of oysters when considering what is threatened by microplastic pollution in oyster habitats. In all the workshops, an important theme emerged which is the role of oysters in supporting services (e.g., the concept that microplastic filtration or ingestion by oysters might impact the oysters' role as eco-engineers). Decision-making is not a linear process, especially when complex pollutants (e.g., microplastics) are involved. Here, we learned that both environmental and social data are needed for the oyster stakeholders to make decisions, and discussion among stakeholders can highlight gaps in scientific knowledge. The results were then used to inform the development of a decision-making process for evaluating complex environmental issues, like microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Tobin
- School for the Environment, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 William T. Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125-3393 USA
| | - Juanita Urban-Rich
- School for the Environment, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 William T. Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125-3393 USA
| | - Christopher Larosee
- School for the Environment, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 William T. Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125-3393 USA
| | - Georgia Mavrommati
- School for the Environment, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 William T. Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125-3393 USA
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Geng Y, Liu Z, Hu R, Huang Y, Li F, Ma W, Wu X, Dong H, Song K, Xu X, Zhang Z, Song Y. Toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics: invisible killers of female fertility and offspring health. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1254886. [PMID: 37700763 PMCID: PMC10493312 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1254886] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are emergent pollutants, which have sparked widespread concern. They can infiltrate the body via ingestion, inhalation, and cutaneous contact. As such, there is a general worry that MPs/NPs may have an impact on human health in addition to the environmental issues they engender. The threat of MPs/NPs to the liver, gastrointestinal system, and inflammatory levels have been thoroughly documented in the previous research. With the detection of MPs/NPs in fetal compartment and the prevalence of infertility, an increasing number of studies have put an emphasis on their reproductive toxicity in female. Moreover, MPs/NPs have the potential to interact with other contaminants, thus enhancing or diminishing the combined toxicity. This review summarizes the deleterious effects of MPs/NPs and co-exposure with other pollutants on female throughout the reproduction period of various species, spanning from reproductive failure to cross-generational developmental disorders in progenies. Although these impacts may not be directly extrapolated to humans, they do provide a framework for evaluating the potential mechanisms underlying the reproductive toxicity of MPs/NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuli Geng
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanjing Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haoxu Dong
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kunkun Song
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaohu Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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50
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Chen Y, Xu H, Luo Y, Ding Y, Huang J, Wu H, Han J, Du L, Kang A, Jia M, Xiong W, Yang Z. Plastic bottles for chilled carbonated beverages as a source of microplastics and nanoplastics. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 242:120243. [PMID: 37354839 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Carbonated beverages are characterized by low temperatures, multiple microbubbles, high pressure, and an acidic environment, creating ideal conditions for releasing contaminants from plastic bottles. However, the release patterns of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of plastic type, CO2 filling volume, temperature, sugar content, and additive on the leakage of MPs/NPs and heavy metals. Our results showed that polypropylene bottles released greater MPs (234±9.66 particles/L) and NPs (9.21±0.73 × 107 particles/L) than polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate bottles. However, subjecting the plastic bottles to 3 repeated inflation treatments resulted in 91.65-93.18% removal of MPs/NPs. The release of MPs/NPs increased with increasing CO2 filling volume, driven by the synergistic effect of CO2 bubbles and pressure. After 4 freeze-thaw cycles, the release of MPs and NPs significantly increased, reaching 450±38.65 MPs and 2.91±0.10 × 108 NPs per liter, respectively. The presence of sugar leads to an elevation in MPs release compared to sucrose-free carbonated water, while the addition of additives to carbonated water exhibits negligible effects on MPs release. Interestingly, actual carbonated beverages demonstrated higher MPs concentrations (260.52±27.18-281.38±61.33 particles/L) than those observed in our well-controlled experimental setup. Our study highlights the non-negligible risk of MPs/NPs in carbonated beverages at low temperatures and suggests strategies to mitigate human ingestion of MPs/NPs, such as selecting appropriate plastic materials, high-pressure carbonated water pretreatment, and minimizing freeze-thaw cycles. Our findings provide insights for further study of the release patterns of the contaminants in natural environments with bubbles, pressure, low temperature, and freeze-thaw conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalin Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Haiyin Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China.
| | - Yuanling Luo
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; Changsha Environmental Protection College, Changsha 410004, China.
| | - Yuting Ding
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Junguo Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Honghui Wu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Jianing Han
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Linjing Du
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Anqi Kang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Meiying Jia
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Weiping Xiong
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Zhaohui Yang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
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