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Pérez-Flores J, Borges-Ramírez MM, Vargas-Contreras JA, Osten JRV. Inter-annual variation in the microplastics abundance in feces of the Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii) from the Selva Maya, México. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 941:173659. [PMID: 38839015 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are found in a wide range of ecosystems, from the Arctic to the deep ocean. However, there is no data on their presence in terrestrial mammals that inhabit the Selva Maya. The aim of this study is to detect the presence of MPs in the feces of the Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii) from the region of Calakmul, located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. We analyzed 129 fecal samples collected during 2017 and 2018, obtaining 57 and 72 samples during the rainy and dry seasons respectively. Sixty-eight percent of the samples contained 743 MPs with a mean of 19.3 ± 28.1 MPs/kg of dry weight (DW) feces in both years. An inter-annual variation in the average abundance of microplastic was observed during the two-year period (2017-2018), with a 72 % increase in these plastic particles in feces. Fourteen polymers were identified, with ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polypropylene (PP) and polyester (PES) being the most abundant during both years. Although the effects of MPs on the health of tapirs are not known, their presence is cause for concern. There is an urgent need for the implementation of appropriate plastic waste management programs in communities of the Selva Maya to diminish the consumption of MPs in species including humans where they pose a significant risk to health. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS: The use of plastics worldwide is increasing every day, so the presence of microplastics is and will continue to be a major environmental problem. It is known that contaminants can adhere to plastics, making them hazardous materials. Microplastics can contaminate remote areas such as Biosphere Reserves. Terrestrial species such as the tapir can ingest microplastics, putting their health at risk. Knowing the dispersion of microplastics is very important in order to manage them properly, taking into account their emission sources and type of polymer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Pérez-Flores
- Consejo Nacional de Humanidades, Ciencia y Tecnología (CONAHCYT), Av. Insurgentes Sur 1582, CP 03940 Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico; El Colegio de La Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Unidad de Chetumal, Avenida Centenario Km 5.5, CP 77014 Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | - Merle M Borges-Ramírez
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Campus VI, Av. Héroe de Nacozari 480, CP 24070, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico
| | - Jorge A Vargas-Contreras
- Facultad de Ciencias Químico-Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Campus V, Av. Ex Hacienda Kalá S/N, CP 24085 Campeche, Campeche, Mexico
| | - Jaime Rendón-von Osten
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Campus VI, Av. Héroe de Nacozari 480, CP 24070, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico.
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Pietrelli L, Dodaro G, Pelosi I, Menegoni P, Battisti C, Coccia C, Scalici M. Microplastic in an apex predator: evidence from Barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets in two sites with different levels of anthropization. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:33155-33162. [PMID: 38733443 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33637-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in terrestrial and freshwater environments and its accumulation along food chains has been poorly studied in birds. The Barn owl (Tyto alba) is an opportunistic and nocturnal apex predator feeding mostly on small mammals. In this note, we reported evidence of microplastics (MPs) contamination in Barn owl pellets collected, for the first time, in two sites with different levels of anthropization (low: natural landscape mosaic vs. high extensive croplands). The following polymers have been recorded: polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), expanded polyester (EPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyester (PL), viscose, and starch-based biopolymer. We found significant higher MPs frequency in the most anthropized site. Our results suggest that pellet' analysis may represent a cost-effective method for monitoring MP contamination along food chains in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giuseppe Dodaro
- Sustainable Development Foundation, Via Garigliano 61a, 00198, Rome, Italia
| | - Ilaria Pelosi
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Corrado Battisti
- "Torre Flavia" LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Città Metropolitana Di Roma, Servizio Aree protette - Parchi Regionali - Via Ribotta, 41 - 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristina Coccia
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Università Di Palermo, Piazza Marina 61, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Università Di Palermo, Piazza Marina 61, 90133, Palermo, Italy
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Mansfield I, Reynolds SJ, Lynch I, Matthews TJ, Sadler JP. Birds as bioindicators of plastic pollution in terrestrial and freshwater environments: A 30-year review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 348:123790. [PMID: 38537798 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global concern that has grown ever more acute in recent years. Most research has focused on the impact of plastic pollution in marine environments. However, plastic is increasingly being detected in terrestrial and freshwater environments with key inland sources including landfills, where it is accessible to a wide range of organisms. Birds are effective bioindicators of pollutants for many reasons, including their high mobility and high intra- and interspecific variation in trophic levels. Freshwater and terrestrial bird species are under-represented in plastic pollution research compared to marine species. We reviewed 106 studies (spanning from 1994 onwards) that have detected plastics in bird species dwelling in freshwater and/or terrestrial habitats, identifying knowledge gaps. Seventy-two studies focused solely on macroplastics (fragments >5 mm), compared to 22 microplastic (fragments <5 mm) studies. A further 12 studies identified plastics as both microplastics and macroplastics. No study investigated nanoplastic (particles <100 nm) exposure. Research to date has geographical and species' biases while ignoring nanoplastic sequestration in free-living freshwater, terrestrial and marine bird species. Building on the baseline search presented here, we urge researchers to develop and validate standardised field sampling techniques and laboratory analytical protocols such as Raman spectroscopy to allow for the quantification and identification of micro- and nanoplastics in terrestrial and freshwater environments and the species therein. Future studies should consistently report the internalised and background concentrations, types, sizes and forms of plastics. This will enable a better understanding of the sources of plastic pollution and their routes of exposure to birds of terrestrial and freshwater environments, providing a more comprehensive insight into the potential impacts on birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Mansfield
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - S J Reynolds
- School of Biosciences, College of Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; The Army Ornithological Society (AOS), c/o Prince Consort Library, Knollys Road, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 1PS, UK
| | - I Lynch
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - T J Matthews
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - J P Sadler
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Borges-Ramírez M, Escalona-Segura G, Huerta-Lwanga E, Iñigo-Elias E, Rendón-von Osten J. Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) feathers as bioindicators of exposure to metals and metalloids contamination in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas from Campeche state, Mexico. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 247:118241. [PMID: 38244967 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Landfills are sources of soil, water, and air pollution due to the release of toxic compounds such as metals and metalloids. In both tropical and temperate environments, scavenger birds such as the Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) that have learned to use these sites as a feeding area are probably exposed to metals, metalloids and other "persistent bioaccumulative toxic substances (PBTs)" released in open dumpsite (OD) and sanitary landfill (SL). The objective of this study is to evaluate the presence and distribution of toxic metals (Al, Sn, Hg, Cu, Pb, Cd, Cr) and As in OD and SL from urban, semi-urban and rural localities in Campeche, México, using molting feathers of C. atratus as bioindicators. A total of 125 Black Vulture primary and secondary wing feathers were collected from OD and SL. Metals were determined by voltammetry through acid digestion. The highest levels of metals occurred in landfills in urban, semi-urban, and rural localities. The elements with the highest concentrations were Al, with an average of 35.67 ± 33.51 μg g-1 from rural environments, and As, with 16.20 ± 30.06 μg g-1 from the urban localities. Mercury was the only element that had a very homogeneous distribution between the three environments we studied. In general, Pb, Hg, Cu and Cd were the elements that presented the lowest concentrations with 0.32 ± 0.35, 0.16 ± 0.22, 0.14 ± 0.31 and 0.06 ± 0.10 μg g-1, respectively regardless of any particular location or environment. Black Vultures from dumpsites are good bioindicators of what humans consume in urban, semi-urban, and rural environments. However, the conservation of vultures is of great importance since these scavenger birds perform ecosystem services by feeding on decomposing organic material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merle Borges-Ramírez
- Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Avenida Rancho, Polígono 2-A, Ciudad Industrial Lerma, CP. 24500, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico; Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Campus VI, Av. Héroes de Nacozari 480, Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, 24070, Campeche, Mexico
| | - Griselda Escalona-Segura
- Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Avenida Rancho, Polígono 2-A, Ciudad Industrial Lerma, CP. 24500, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico
| | - Esperanza Huerta-Lwanga
- Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Avenida Rancho, Polígono 2-A, Ciudad Industrial Lerma, CP. 24500, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico; Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 3, 6708PB, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Eduardo Iñigo-Elias
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, Cornell, University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA; 398 Ellis Hollow Creek Road, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA
| | - Jaime Rendón-von Osten
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Campus VI, Av. Héroes de Nacozari 480, Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, 24070, Campeche, Mexico.
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Zhang H, Nie M, Du X, Chen S, Liu H, Wu C, Tang Y, Lei Z, Shi G, Zhao X. Selenium and Bacillus proteolyticus SES increased Cu-Cd-Cr uptake by ryegrass: highlighting the significance of key taxa and soil enzyme activity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:29113-29131. [PMID: 38568308 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32959-x] [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: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/24/2024]
Abstract
Many studies have focused their attention on strategies to improve soil phytoremediation efficiency. In this study, a pot experiment was carried out to investigate whether Se and Bacillus proteolyticus SES promote Cu-Cd-Cr uptake by ryegrass. To explore the effect mechanism of Se and Bacillus proteolyticus SES, rhizosphere soil physiochemical properties and rhizosphere soil bacterial properties were determined further. The findings showed that Se and Bacillus proteolyticus SES reduced 23.04% Cu, 36.85% Cd, and 9.85% Cr from the rhizosphere soil of ryegrass. Further analysis revealed that soil pH, organic matter, soil enzyme activities, and soil microbial properties were changed with Se and Bacillus proteolyticus SES application. Notably, rhizosphere key taxa (Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Patescibacteria, Verrucomicrobia, Chloroflexi, etc.) were significantly enriched in rhizosphere soil of ryegrass, and those taxa abundance were positively correlated with soil heavy metal contents (P < 0.01). Our study also demonstrated that in terms of explaining variations of soil Cu-Cd-Cr content under Se and Bacillus proteolyticus SES treatment, soil enzyme activities (catalase and acid phosphatase) and soil microbe properties showed 42.5% and 12.2% contributions value, respectively. Overall, our study provided solid evidence again that Se and Bacillus proteolyticus SES facilitated phytoextraction of soil Cu-Cd-Cr, and elucidated the effect of soil key microorganism and chemical factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhang
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University / Research Center of Trace Elements, Wuhan, 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Se-Enriched Products Development and Quality Control, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/ National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Se-Enriched Food Development, Ankang, 725000, China
| | - Min Nie
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University / Research Center of Trace Elements, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xiaoping Du
- Key Laboratory of Se-Enriched Products Development and Quality Control, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/ National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Se-Enriched Food Development, Ankang, 725000, China
| | - Suhua Chen
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Heavy Metals Pollutants Control and Resource Utilization (Nanchang Hangkong University), Nanchang, 330063, China
| | - Hanliang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Geochemical Exploration, Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration, CAGS, Langfang, 065000, Hebei, China
| | - Chihhung Wu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Resources and Environment Monitoring & Sustainable Management and Utilization, Sanming University, Sanming, 365004, China
| | - Yanni Tang
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University / Research Center of Trace Elements, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zheng Lei
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University / Research Center of Trace Elements, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Guangyu Shi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Xiaohu Zhao
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University / Research Center of Trace Elements, Wuhan, 430070, China.
- Key Laboratory of Se-Enriched Products Development and Quality Control, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/ National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Se-Enriched Food Development, Ankang, 725000, China.
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Martín-Vélez V, Cano-Povedano J, Cañuelo-Jurado B, López-Calderón C, Céspedes V, Ros M, Sánchez MI, Shamoun-Baranes J, Müller W, Thaxter CB, Camphuysen CJ, Cózar A, Green AJ. Leakage of plastics and other debris from landfills to a highly protected lake by wintering gulls. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 177:13-23. [PMID: 38281470 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2024.01.034] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
GENERAL CONTEXT Gulls ingest plastic and other litter while foraging in open landfills, because organic matter is mixed with other debris. Therefore, gulls are potential biovectors of plastic pollution into natural habitats, especially when they concentrate in wetlands for roosting. NOVELTY We quantified, for the first time, the flow of plastic and other anthropogenic debris from open landfills to a natural lake via the movement of gulls. We focused on Fuente de Piedra, an inland closed-basin lake in Spain that is internationally important for biodiversity. METHODOLOGY In 2022, we sampled gull pellets regurgitated in the lake by lesser black-backed gulls Larus fuscus that feed on landfills, as well as their faeces, then characterized and quantified debris particles of ≥0.5 mm. By combining GPS and census data from 2010 to 2022, together with plastic quantification based on FTIR-ATR analysis, we estimated the average annual deposition of plastic and other debris by the wintering gull population into the lake. MAIN RESULTS 86 % of pellets contained plastics, and 94 % contained other debris such as glass and textiles. Polyethylene (54 %), polypropylene (11.5 %) and polystyrene (11.5 %) were the main plastic polymers. An estimated annual mean of 400 kg of plastics were moved by gulls into the lake. Only 1 % of plastic mass was imported in faeces. DISCUSSION Incorporating the biovectoring role of birds can provide a more holistic view of the plastic cycle and waste management. Biovectoring is predictable in sites worldwide where gulls and other waterbirds feed in landfills and roost in wetlands. We discuss bird deterrence and other ways of mitigating debris leakage into aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor Martín-Vélez
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM), CSIC, Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, Barcelona 37-49 08003, Spain; Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain.
| | - Julián Cano-Povedano
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Belén Cañuelo-Jurado
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Cosme López-Calderón
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain; Grupo de Investigación en Conservación. Biodiversidad y Cambio Global, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Vanessa Céspedes
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Macarena Ros
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Av. Reina Mercedes 6, Sevilla 41012, Spain
| | - Marta I Sánchez
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Judy Shamoun-Baranes
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1090 GE, The Netherlands
| | - Wendt Müller
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Wilrijk, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Chris B Thaxter
- British Trust for Ornithology, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2PU, UK
| | - Cornelis J Camphuysen
- COS Department, Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, P.O. Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, Texel, The Netherlands
| | - Andrés Cózar
- Department of Biology, Institute of Marine Research (INMAR), University of Cadiz and European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), Puerto Real 11510, Spain
| | - Andy J Green
- Department of Conservation Biology and Global Change, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Américo Vespucio 26, Sevilla 41092, Spain
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Shi W, Wu N, Zhang Z, Liu Y, Chen J, Li J. A global review on the abundance and threats of microplastics in soils to terrestrial ecosystem and human health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169469. [PMID: 38154650 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169469] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Soil is the source and sink of microplastics (MPs), which is more polluted than water and air. In this paper, the pollution levels of MPs in the agriculture, roadside, urban and landfill soils were reviewed, and the influence of MPs on soil ecosystem, including soil properties, microorganisms, animals and plants, was discussed. According to the results of in vivo and in vitro experiments, the possible risks of MPs to soil ecosystem and human health were predicted. Finally, in light of the current status of MPs research, several prospects are provided for future research directions to better evaluate the ecological risk and human health risk of MPs. MPs concentrations in global agricultural soils, roadside soils, urban soils and landfill soils had a great variance in different studies and locations. The participation of MPs has an impact on all aspects of terrestrial ecosystems. For soil properties, pH value, bulk density, pore space and evapotranspiration can be changed by MPs. For microorganisms, MPs can alter the diversity and abundance of microbiome, and different MPs have different effects on bacteria and fungi differently. For plants, MPs may interfere with their biochemical and physiological conditions and produce a wide range of toxic effects, such as inhibiting plant growth, delaying or reducing seed germination, reducing biological and fruit yield, and interfering with photosynthesis. For soil animals, MPs can affect their mobility, growth rate and reproductive capacity. At present epidemiological evidences regarding MPs exposure and negative human health effects are unavailable, but in vitro and in vivo data suggest that they pose various threats to human health, including respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, endocrine system, nervous system, and circulation system. In conclusion, the existence and danger of MPs cannot be ignored and requires a global effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshan Shi
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Nan Wu
- School of Geography, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Zengli Zhang
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Yuting Liu
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jingsi Chen
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jiafu Li
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
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Dai Y, Li L, Guo Z, Yang X, Dong D. Emerging isolation and degradation technology of microplastics and nanoplastics in the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 243:117864. [PMID: 38072105 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs, less than 5 mm in size) are widely distributed in surroundings in various forms and ways, and threaten ecosystems security and human health. Its environmental behavior as pollutants carrier and the after-effects exposed to MPs has been extensively exploited; whereas, current knowledge on technologies for the separation and degradation of MPs is relatively limited. It is essential to isolate MPs from surroundings and/or degrade to safe levels. This in-depth review details the origin and distribution of MPs. Provides a comprehensive summary of currently available MPs separation and degradation technologies, and discusses the mechanisms, challenges, and application prospects of these technologies. Comparison of the contribution of various separation methods to the separation of NPs and MPs. Furthermore, the latest research trends and direction in bio-degradation technology are outlooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaodan Dai
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China
| | - Lele Li
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China
| | - Zhi Guo
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China.
| | - Xue Yang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China
| | - Dazhuang Dong
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China
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9
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Hoynes K, Holland AE, Bryan AL, Kupferman CA, Beasley JC. Trace elements and heavy metals in black vultures (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) in the southeastern United States. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:9000-9010. [PMID: 38183546 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31722-y] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Many vulture species worldwide are declining at alarming rates due to a variety of anthropogenic causes, including exposure to pollutants and pharmaceuticals through consumption of contaminated carrion. However, little is known about the extent to which vultures are exposed to various contaminants as well as toxicity thresholds for trace elements and heavy metals. Our objective was to quantify levels of trace elements and heavy metals within black vulture (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) tissues to determine the extent to which populations in the Southeastern United States are exposed to carrion that contains high levels of contaminants. We collected 34 black vulture liver samples and examined differences in trace element and heavy metal concentrations between sexes and age classes (adult and juvenile). Further, we collected 81 blood and 42 feather samples from additional black and turkey vultures and compared differences between species and age classes. We found similar element concentrations between juvenile and adult black vultures with the exception of Cu, where levels were higher in juveniles compared to adults. However, we did observe substantial differences in element concentrations between species for both blood and feather samples, with black vultures generally having higher concentrations of most elements. Our data revealed higher element levels in both species compared to toxicity thresholds found in other bird of prey species, such as blood and liver toxicity threshold suggestions for Pb poisoning in Falconiformes. Further, while average contaminant levels were generally low, extreme outliers were observed for some elements, including Pb, suggesting some individuals were exposed to high levels of potentially toxic elements. More research is needed to better understand contaminant exposure in black and turkey vultures across a broader geographic region, as well as elucidate toxicity thresholds and non-lethal impacts of contaminant exposure in these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaleigh Hoynes
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Amanda E Holland
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, 2369 W. Orton Circle, Suite 50, West Valley City, UT, 84119, USA
| | - Albert L Bryan
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - Caitlin A Kupferman
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA.
| | - James C Beasley
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
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10
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Aguilar-Aguilar A, de León-Martínez LD, Forgionny A, Acelas Soto NY, Mendoza SR, Zárate-Guzmán AI. A systematic review on the current situation of emerging pollutants in Mexico: A perspective on policies, regulation, detection, and elimination in water and wastewater. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167426. [PMID: 37774864 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167426] [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: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Emerging pollutants (EPs) emerged as a group of new compounds whose presence in the environment has been widely detected in Mexico. In this country, different concentrations of pharmaceutical compounds, pesticides, dyes, and microplastics have been reported, which vary depending on the region and the analyzed matrix (i.e., wastewater, surface water, groundwater). The evidence of the EPs' presence focuses on the detection of them, but there is a gap in information regarding is biomonitoring and their effects in health in Mexico. The presence of these pollutants in the country associated with lack of proper regulations in the discharge and disposal of EPs. Therefore, this review aims to provide a comprehensive view of the current environmental status, policies, and frameworks regarding Mexico's situation. The review also highlights the lack of information about biomonitoring since EPs are present in water even after their treatment, leading to a critical situation, which is high exposure to humans and animals. Although, technologies to efficiently eliminate EPs are available, their application has been reported only at a laboratory scale thus far. Here, an overview of health and environmental impacts and a summary of the research works reported in Mexico from 2014 to 2023 were presented. This review concludes with a concrete point of view and perspective on the status of the EPs' research in Mexico as an alert for government entities about the necessity of measures to control the EPs disposal and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica Aguilar-Aguilar
- Centro de Investigación y Estudios de Posgrado, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí 78210, Mexico
| | | | - Angélica Forgionny
- Grupo de Materiales con Impacto, Mat&mpac, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad de Medellín, Medellín 55450, Colombia
| | - Nancy Y Acelas Soto
- Grupo de Materiales con Impacto, Mat&mpac, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad de Medellín, Medellín 55450, Colombia
| | - Sergio Rosales Mendoza
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud y Biomedicina, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Av. Manuel Nava No. 201, San Luis Potosí 78210, Mexico
| | - Ana I Zárate-Guzmán
- Centro de Investigación y Estudios de Posgrado, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí 78210, Mexico.
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11
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Ohoro CR, Wepener V. Review of scientific literature on available methods of assessing organochlorine pesticides in the environment. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22142. [PMID: 38045185 PMCID: PMC10692828 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) widely used in agriculture and industry, causing serious health and ecological consequences upon exposure. This review offers a thorough overview of OCPs analysis emphasizing the necessity of ongoing work to enhance the identification and monitoring of these POPs in environmental and human samples. The benefits and drawbacks of the various OCPs analysis techniques including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), gas chromatography-electron capture detector (GC-ECD), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) are discussed. Challenges associated with validation and optimization criteria, including accuracy, precision, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantitation (LOQ), must be met for a method to be regarded as accurate and reliable. Suitable quality control measures, such as method blanks and procedural blanks, are emphasized. The LOD and LOQ are critical quality control measure for efficient quantification of these compounds, and researchers have explored various techniques for their calculation. Matrix interference, solubility, volatility, and partition coefficient influence OCPs occurrences and are discussed in this review. Validation experiments, as stated by European Commission in document SANTE/11813/2017, showed that the acceptance criteria for method validation of OCP analytes include ≤20 % for high precision, and 70-120 % for recovery. This may ultimately be vital for determining the human health risk effects of exposure to OCP and for formulating sensible environmental and public health regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinemerem Ruth Ohoro
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Victor Wepener
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
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12
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Li K, Wang F. Global hotspots and trends in interactions of microplastics and heavy metals: a bibliometric analysis and literature review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:93309-93322. [PMID: 37542698 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29091-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are identified as emerging contaminants; however, their interactions with heavy metals in the environment have not been well elucidated. Here, the research progress, hotspots, and trends in the interactions of MPs and heavy metals were analyzed at a global scale using a bibliometric analysis combined with a literature review. We comprehensively searched the Web of Science Core Collection database from 2008 to July 5, 2022. A total of 552 articles published in 124 journals were selected, which came from 70 countries and 841 institutions. The most contributing journals, countries, institutions, and authors were identified. Visualization methods were used to identify high co-citation references and hot keywords in the 552 articles. Evolutionary and cluster analyses of hot keywords suggested several research hotspots in the co-contamination of MPs and heavy metals, including their toxicity and bioaccumulation, the adsorption and desorption behaviors, the environmental pollution and risk assessment, and their detection and characterization. Based on the current research status, several directions of priority are recommended to understand the interactions between MPs and heavy metals and their potential risks. This article can help recognize the current research status and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kehan Li
- College of Environment and Safety Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Shandong Province, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Fayuan Wang
- College of Environment and Safety Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Shandong Province, Qingdao, 266042, China.
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13
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Schutten K, Chandrashekar A, Bourdages M, Bowes V, Elliott J, Lee S, Redford T, Provencher J, Jardine C, Wilson L. Assessing plastic ingestion in birds of prey from British Columbia, Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:76631-76639. [PMID: 37243770 PMCID: PMC10300153 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27830-4] [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: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Since first being introduced for public use in the 1960s, plastic has become one of the most pervasive and ubiquitous forms of pollution globally. The potential fate and effects of plastic pollution on birds is a rapidly growing area of research, but knowledge of terrestrial and freshwater species is limited. Birds of prey have been particularly understudied, with no published data on plastic ingestion in raptors in Canada to date, and very few studies globally. To assess the ingestion of plastic in raptors, we analysed the contents of the upper gastrointestinal tracts from a total of 234 individuals across 15 raptor species, collected between 2013 and 2021. Upper gastrointestinal tracts were assessed for plastics and anthropogenic particles > 2 mm in size. Of the 234 specimens examined, only five individuals across two species had evidence of retained anthropogenic particles in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Two of 33 bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus, 6.1%) had retained plastics in the gizzard, while three of 108 barred owls (Strix varia, 2.8%) had retained plastic and non-plastic anthropogenic litter. The remaining 13 species were negative for particles > 2 mm in size (N = 1-25). These results suggest that most hunting raptor species do not appear to ingest and retain larger anthropogenic particles, though foraging guild and habitat may influence risk. We recommend that future research investigate microplastic accumulation in raptors, in order to gain a more holistic understanding of plastic ingestion in these species. Future work should also focus on increasing sample sizes across all species to improve the ability to assess landscape- and species-level factors that influence vulnerability and susceptibility of plastic pollution ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Schutten
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Akshaya Chandrashekar
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | | | - Victoria Bowes
- Government of British Columbia, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
| | - John Elliott
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Sandi Lee
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Tony Redford
- Government of British Columbia, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Claire Jardine
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Laurie Wilson
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Canada
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14
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Osten JRV, Benítez-Torres JA, Rojas-González RI, Morgado F, Borges-Ramírez MM. Microplastics in sediments from the southern Gulf of Mexico: Abundance, distribution, composition, and adhered pollutants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 873:162290. [PMID: 36804972 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 23 Mt of plastics reaches the ocean each year, fragmented into microplastics (MP). MPs are widely dispersed in the sea, becoming deposited in sediments. MPs are considered carriers of pollutants such as heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and, when ingested by biota, pose a high health risk. This study determined metals and PAHs in sedimentary microplastics from the southern Gulf of Mexico (GOM). One hundred twenty-four sediment samples were collected, covering an area of 26,220 km2. The mean (±SD) of MPs in sediments was 16.46 ± 17.76 MPs/kg. The most abundant polymers were cellophane (CE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyethylene (PE), polyamides (PA), and nylon (NYL). A strong correlation (r: 0.83) was found between MP density and sediment depth. PA and PE were found near shorelines and PVDF near oil platforms. Aluminum, arsenic, and tin had the highest concentration (89.6 ± 94.6, 23.1 ± 70.3, and 19 ± 29.2 μg g-1, respectively), and acenaphthylene was the PAH with the highest concentration (3.4 ± 12.6 μg g-1). This study shows that MP with a higher density is found at greater depths, and this research is one of the first to cover a large area of the Gulf of Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Rendón-von Osten
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Campus VI, Av. Héroe de Nacozari 480, CP 24070, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico.
| | - Jorge A Benítez-Torres
- Ecología Aplicada del Sureste A.C. (EASAC), Andador Caracol 1, Fraccionamiento Lavalle Urbina, CP 24087, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico.
| | - R Isaac Rojas-González
- Dirección de Investigación Pesquera en el Atlántico, Instituto Nacional de Pesca y Acuacultura, Av. México 190 Col Del Carmen, C.P. 04100, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Fernando Morgado
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Merle M Borges-Ramírez
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Campus VI, Av. Héroe de Nacozari 480, CP 24070, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico; El Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Avenida Rancho, Polígono 2-A, Ciudad Industrial Lerma, CP 24500, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico.
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15
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Han M, Ma A, Dong Z, Yin J, Shao B. Organochlorine pesticides and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in serum of Beijing population: Exposure and health risk assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 860:160358. [PMID: 36436633 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widespread environmental contaminants, but large-scale human biomonitoring and health risk assessment data on these contaminants remain limited. In this study, concentrations of 6 OCPs and 5 PAHs were determined by GC-MS/MS in 1268 human serum samples which were collected from the participants in 2017 Beijing Chronic Disease and Risk Factor Surveillance. The detection frequencies of OCPs and PAHs ranged from 64.7 % to 96.5 % and 89.4 % to 99.6 %, respectively. The most abundant contaminants in OCPs and PAHs were pentachlorophenol (PCP) and pyrene (Pyr) with median concentrations reaching up to 3.13 and 8.48 μg/L, respectively. Nonparametric tests were employed to assess the correlations among contaminants levels, demographic characteristics (age, gender, body mass index, residence) and serum biochemical indexes. Significantly higher serum levels of all PAHs were observed in suburb residents than that in urban residents (P < 0.001). Binary logistic regression analysis demonstrated that exposure to benzo(a)pyrene (OR 2.17 [1.29, 3.63]), phenanthrene (OR 1.06 [1.02, 1.11]), fluoranthene (OR 1.04 [1.02, 1.07]) and Pyr (OR 1.02 [1.01, 1.03]) might increase the occurrence of hyperglycemia, and exposure to hexachlorobenzene (HCB) (OR 1.53 [1.05, 2.22]) and pentachlorobenzene (OR 1.14 [1.02, 1.27]) were positively associated with hyperlipidemia. Furthermore, the hazard quotients (HQs) for serum HCB, PCP and p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene were calculated based on health-based guidance values to predict health risks. 0.2 % and 4.3 % of serum samples showed HQ values exceeding 1 for HCB and PCP, respectively, in case of the non-carcinogenic risk, while 23.1 % of HQs for HCB were above 1 in case of the carcinogenic risk for a risk level 10-5. Our study reveals that the body burden of the Beijing general population relative to OCPs and PAHs was nonnegligible. The past exposure of HCB and PCP might adversely affect the health status of the Beijing population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muke Han
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnostic and Traceability Technologies for Food Poisoning, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing 100013, China
| | - Aijuan Ma
- Institute of Non-communicable Chronic Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing 100013, China
| | - Zhong Dong
- Institute of Non-communicable Chronic Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing 100013, China.
| | - Jie Yin
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnostic and Traceability Technologies for Food Poisoning, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing 100013, China.
| | - Bing Shao
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnostic and Traceability Technologies for Food Poisoning, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing 100013, China
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16
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Krishnan RY, Manikandan S, Subbaiya R, Karmegam N, Kim W, Govarthanan M. Recent approaches and advanced wastewater treatment technologies for mitigating emerging microplastics contamination - A critical review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159681. [PMID: 36302412 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been identified as an emerging pollutant due to their irrefutable prevalence in air, soil, and particularly, the aquatic ecosystem. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are seen as the last line of defense which creates a barrier between microplastics and the environment. These microplastics are discharged in large quantities into aquatic bodies due to their insufficient containment during water treatment. As a result, WWTPs are regarded as point sources of microplastics release into the environment. Assessing the prevalence and behavior of microplastics in WWTPs is therefore critical for their control. The removal efficiency of microplastics was 65 %, 0.2-14 %, and 0.2-2 % after the successful primary, secondary and tertiary treatment phases in WWTPs. In this review, other than conventional treatment methods, advanced treatment methods have also been discussed. For the removal of microplastics in the size range 20-190 μm, advanced treatment methods like membrane bioreactors, rapid sand filtration, electrocoagulation and photocatalytic degradation was found to be effective and these methods helps in increasing the removal efficiency to >99 %. Bioremediation based approaches has found that sea grasses, lugworm and blue mussels has the ability to mitigate microplastics by acting as a natural trap to the microplastics pollutants and could act as candidate species for possible incorporation in WWTPs. Also, there is a need for controlling the use and unchecked release of microplastics into the environment through laws and regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhakrishnan Yedhu Krishnan
- Department of Food Technology, Amal Jyothi College of Engineering, Kanjirappally, Kottayam 686 518, Kerala, India
| | - Sivasubramanian Manikandan
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha Nagar, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105. Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramasamy Subbaiya
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, The Copperbelt University, Riverside, Jambo Drive, P O Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Natchimuthu Karmegam
- PG and Research Department of Botany, Government Arts College (Autonomous), Salem 636 007, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Woong Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea.
| | - Muthusamy Govarthanan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea; Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India.
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17
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Deoniziak K, Cichowska A, Niedźwiecki S, Pol W. Thrushes (Aves: Passeriformes) as indicators of microplastic pollution in terrestrial environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 853:158621. [PMID: 36084782 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is one of the leading global conservation issues. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of microplastics in the gastrointestinal tracts of Common Blackbirds Turdus merula (N = 16) and Song Thrushes Turdus philomelos (N = 18), songbirds with exceptionally terrestrial lifestyles and a wide distribution range. We searched for microplastics of over 100 μm in size and assessed whether their contamination differed regarding the age of the birds and the time of year. We used birds that had died as a result of collision with anthropogenic infrastructure, which were sampled during wildlife monitoring of anthropogenic infrastructures and citizen science projects in north-eastern Poland. We found that all the analysed individuals contained microplastic in their gastrointestinal tracts, which were classified as fibers, fragments, films and pellets. A total number of 1073 microplastics were observed, mostly consisting of fibers (84 %) and films (10 %) below 1 mm in size. The dominant colours of microplastics were transparent (75 %) and brown (14 %). The species average microplastic concentration was higher in Song Thrushes (40.1) than Common Blackbirds (21.9), however the difference was not statistically significant. Moreover, we found no seasonal or age-related differences in microplastic ingestion in either species. While our results show a ubiquity of microplastics in terrestrial environments, they also indicate that thrushes have the potential to be used as indicators of microplastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Deoniziak
- Laboratory of Insect Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bialystok, Konstantego Ciołkowskiego 1J, 15-245 Białystok, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra Cichowska
- Laboratory of Insect Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bialystok, Konstantego Ciołkowskiego 1J, 15-245 Białystok, Poland
| | | | - Wojciech Pol
- Department of Water Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bialystok, Konstantego Ciołkowskiego 1J, 15-245 Białystok, Poland
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18
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Monclús L, McCann Smith E, Ciesielski TM, Wagner M, Jaspers VL. Microplastic Ingestion Induces Size-Specific Effects in Japanese Quail. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:15902-15911. [PMID: 36302260 PMCID: PMC9671045 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c03878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution can pose a threat to birds. Yet, little is known about the sublethal effects of ingested microplastics (MP), and the effects of MP < 1 mm in birds remain unknown. This study therefore aimed at evaluating the toxicity of environmentally relevant polypropylene and polyethylene particles collected in the Norwegian coast in growing Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). Birds were orally exposed to 600 mg MP over 5 weeks, covering small (<125 μm) and large (3 mm) MP, both separately and in a mixture. We evaluated multiple sublethal endpoints in quail, including oxidative stress, cytokine levels, blood-biochemical parameters, and reproductive hormones in blood, as well as body mass. Exposure to small MP significantly induced the activities of the antioxidant enzymes catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, and glutathione peroxidase. Exposure to large MP increased the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (liver parameter) and decreased 17β-estradiol levels in females. Body mass was not directly affected by MP ingestion; however, quail exposed to small MP and a mixture of large and small MP had a different growth rate compared to control quail. Our study used similar levels of MP as ingested by wild birds and demonstrated size-dependent effects of MP that can result in sublethal effects in avifauna.
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19
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Romero-Calderón AG, Alvarez-Legorreta T, Rendón von Osten J, González-Jáuregui M, Cedeño-Vázquez JR. Stress responses in captive Crocodylus moreletii associated with metal exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 308:119685. [PMID: 35764186 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollution by metals has repercussions on wildlife health. It is known that some metals can have an influence on the neuroendocrine stress response, and at the same time, metals have pro-oxidant effects that can overwhelm the antioxidant system and cause oxidative stress. This study evaluates the association of metals with neuroendocrine stress activity and biomarkers of oxidative stress in 42 captive female Morelet's crocodiles (Crocodylus moreletii). We measured five metals of ecotoxicological importance (Hg, Cd, Pb, Cu and Zn), and three biomarkers of the oxidative stress response in the liver: glutathione (GSH) and glutathione disulfide (GSSG) as markers for antioxidant system and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) for oxidative damage. We also measured one biomarker of the neuroendocrine response to stress: corticosterone (B) in blood plasma. The mean ± SD concentrations of metals in the liver expressed in μg/g (dw) were: Cd: 0.004 ± 0.003, Hg: 0.014 ± 0.019, Cu: 0.017 ± 0.013, Zn: 0.043 ± 0.035, Pb: 0.16 ± 0.256. The mean ± SD of GSH was 0.42 ± 0.35 nmol/mg protein, the mean ± SD of GSSG was 0.24 ± 0.20 nmol/mg protein, the mean ± SD concentrations of TBARS were 0.36 ± 0.21 nmol/mg protein, and the mean ± SD of B was 393.57 ± 405.14 pg/mL. Hg presented a significant negative relationship with corticosterone. Cd had a negative relationship with both GSH and GSSG; meanwhile, Zn showed a negative relationship with TBARS levels, could be a protective element against hepatic oxidative damage. Finally, B had negative relationship with oxidative damage. The connection found between Hg and the neuroendocrine stress response, as well as the correlations of Cd and Zn with oxidative damage and antioxidant activity should be studied further, given their toxicological importance and implications for the conservation of C. moreletii and other crocodilians.
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Affiliation(s)
- A G Romero-Calderón
- Department of Sustainability Sciences. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Av. Centenario Km 5.5, 77014, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
| | - T Alvarez-Legorreta
- Department of Sustainability Sciences. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Av. Centenario Km 5.5, 77014, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
| | - J Rendón von Osten
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Campus VI, Av. Héroes de Nacozari 480, Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, 24070, Campeche, Mexico.
| | - M González-Jáuregui
- Centro de Estudios de Desarrollo Sustentable y Aprovechamiento de la Vida Silvestre (CEDESU), Av. Héroes de Nacozari 480, Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, 24070, Campeche, Mexico.
| | - J R Cedeño-Vázquez
- Department of Systematics and Aquatic Ecology. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Av. Centenario Km 5.5, 77014, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
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Yin K, Wang D, Zhao H, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Li B, Xing M. Polystyrene microplastics up-regulates liver glutamine and glutamate synthesis and promotes autophagy-dependent ferroptosis and apoptosis in the cerebellum through the liver-brain axis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 307:119449. [PMID: 35550135 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), which are emerging environmental pollutants, remain uncertainties in their toxic mechanism. MPs have been linked to severe liver metabolic disorders and neurotoxicity, but it is still unknown whether the abnormal metabolites induced by MPs can affect brain tissue through the liver-brain axis. Exposed to MPs of chickens results in liver metabolic disorders and increased glutamine and glutamate synthesis. The relative expression of glutamine in the C group was -0.862, the L-PS group was 0.271, and the H-PS group was 0.592. The expression of tight junction proteins in the blood-brain barrier (BBB) was reduced by PS-MPs. Occludin protein expression decreased by 35.8%-41.2%. Claudin 3 decreased by 19.6%-42.3%, and ZO-1 decreased by 28.3%-44.6%. Excessive glutamine and glutamate cooperated with PS-MPs to inhibit the Nrf2-Keap1-HO-1/NQO1 signaling pathway and triggered autophagy-dependent ferroptosis and apoptosis. GPX protein expression decreased by 30.9%-38%. LC3II/LC3I increased by 54%, and Caspase 3 increased by 45%. Eventually, the number of Purkinje cells was reduced, causing neurological dysfunction. In conclusion, this study provides new insights for revealing the mechanism of nervous system damaged caused by PS-MPs exposed in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Yin
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Dongxu Wang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Hongjing Zhao
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Yu Wang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Yue Zhang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Yachen Liu
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Baoying Li
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Mingwei Xing
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, PR China.
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21
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Zhang HY, Zhang CY, Rao WL, Zhang H, Liang GH, Deng X, Zhao JL, Guan YF, Ying GG. Influence of biofilms on the adsorption behavior of nine organic emerging contaminants on microplastics in field-laboratory exposure experiments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 434:128895. [PMID: 35429752 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in aquatic environments, which are important carriers of emerging contaminants (ECs). Biofilms can be attached to the surface of MPs in a natural aquatic environment, which may influence chemical adsorption; however, knowledge of its impact is still limited. This study investigated the effect of biofilms on MPs on the adsorption of ECs through field-laboratory exposure experiments. Three types of MPs were naturally colonized with biofilms in lake. Then, biofilm-absent/biofilm-attached MPs were exposed to nine EC solutions at a concentration of 8 μg/L of each compound in laboratory. Most compounds exhibited 3.8 times lower concentrations on biofilm-attached MPs than on biofilm-absent MPs; only a few compounds showed enhanced adsorption. Pseudo-equilibrium was achieved within 72 h based on adsorption kinetics, implying fast adsorption of ECs on biofilm-attached MPs. The partition coefficients (Kd) for biofilm-attached MPs were 0.14 (diclofenac) to 535 (miconazole) L/kg and were positively correlated with octanol/water partition coefficients (Kow). This indicated that chemical properties (such as Kow) of the compounds determined their final adsorption amounts on MPs, although these were influenced by the presence of the biofilm. Hence, multiple influencing factors should be considered when evaluating the carrier potential of MPs for ECs in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yan Zhang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Cai-Yun Zhang
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wan-Li Rao
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guo-Hai Liang
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xin Deng
- School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jian-Liang Zhao
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Yu-Feng Guan
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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22
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Melo-Agustín P, Kozak ER, de Jesús Perea-Flores M, Mendoza-Pérez JA. Identification of microplastics and associated contaminants using ultra high resolution microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 828:154434. [PMID: 35278555 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The present study establishes a new procedure to characterize micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) and identify contaminants adhered to the plastic particles in aquatic environments by applying ultra-high resolution microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. Naturally fragmented microplastics (MPs) were collected from Manzanillo and Santiago Bays, Mexico and analyzed using: Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), μ-RAMAN, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Environmental Electron Scanning Microscopy (ESEM). The information obtained from each of these techniques was integrated to produce a comprehensive profile of each particle. Sample preparation was tested by applying three different rinses (unrinsed, distilled water and alcohol) to untreated MPs collected from Manzanillo Bay, finding that when large impurities are present an alcohol rinse makes it easier to examine the associated contaminants. Based on this emerging methodology, polyethylene and polypropylene MPs were identified with associated contaminants such as arsenic, cadmium, aluminum, and benzene. This study demonstrates the presence of pollutants that may be linked to MNPs in aquatic ecosystems and proposes an accurate relatively fast procedure for their analysis that does not require chemical extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Melo-Agustín
- Departamento de Ingeniería en Sistemas Ambientales, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Avenida Wilfrido Massieu, esquina Cerrada Miguel Stampa s/n, Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Colonia Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Eva R Kozak
- Departamento de Estudios para el Desarrollo Sustentable de Zonas Costeras, Universidad de Guadalajara (UdeG), Gómez Farias 82, San Patricio Melaque, Jalisco 48980, Mexico
| | - María de Jesús Perea-Flores
- Centro de Nanociencias y Micro-Nanotecnologías (CNMN), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Luis Enrique Erro s/n, Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Colonia Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Jorge A Mendoza-Pérez
- Departamento de Ingeniería en Sistemas Ambientales, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Avenida Wilfrido Massieu, esquina Cerrada Miguel Stampa s/n, Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Colonia Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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23
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Fred-Ahmadu OH, Tenebe IT, Ayejuyo OO, Benson NU. Microplastics and associated organic pollutants in beach sediments from the Gulf of Guinea (SE Atlantic) coastal ecosystems. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 298:134193. [PMID: 35304206 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants of global concern due to their pervasiveness, sorptive capacity for organic and inorganic pollutants, and direct and indirect toxicity to organisms and ecosystems. This study aimed to assess the concentration and the statistical difference in the concentration of microplastic-sorbed organic pollutants from two ecosystems, the marine and estuarine lagoon. Surface sediment from the estuarine lagoon and marine ecosystems were sampled for microplastics (1-5 mm). A total of 3680 MP particles were collected. The plastics were analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). ∑PAHs, ∑PCBs and ∑OCPs were between 0.00 and 0.32 mg/kg, 0.00-0.53 mg/kg and 0.04-2.02 mg/kg, respectively. The results showed a correlation of -0.2, 0.8 and 0.2 between the number of MPs and the concentration of PAHs, PCBs and OCPs, respectively, suggesting that the potential risk of accumulation of plastic-sorbed PCBs is higher than those of OCPs and PAHs. Mann Whitney U test (at 95% confidence level) indicated no statistical difference in the concentration of organic pollutants in lagoon and beach MPs. In addition, we found no significant difference in the accumulation of organic pollutants in MPs from beach drift and high waterlines. The result suggests that the concentration of microplastics-sorbed organic pollutants in both ecosystems is comparable and likely to pose similar potential risks. We recommend that plastic pollution in all ecosystems require attention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Imokhai T Tenebe
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Dam Safety Division, Austin, TX, USA
| | | | - Nsikak U Benson
- Department of Chemistry, Covenant University, Km 10 Idiroko Road, Ota, Nigeria.
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24
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Sridharan S, Kumar M, Saha M, Kirkham MB, Singh L, Bolan NS. The polymers and their additives in particulate plastics: What makes them hazardous to the fauna? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 824:153828. [PMID: 35157873 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Due to the increasing concerns on global ecosystems and human health, the environmental risks posed by microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have become an important topic of research. Their ecological impacts on various faunal species have been extensively researched and reviewed. However, the majority of those studies perceive these micro(nano)-plastics (MNPs) as a single entity rather than a collective term for a group of chemically distinct polymeric particulates. Each of the plastic polymers can possess unique physical and chemical behavior, which, in turn, can determine the possible environmental impacts. Furthermore, many studies explore the adsorption, absorption, and release of other environmental pollutants by MNPs. But only a handful of them explore the leaching of additives possessed by these polymers. Data on the environmental behavior and toxicity of individual additives associated with different polymer particulates are scarce. Knowledge about the leachability and ecotoxicity of the additives associated with environmental MNPs (unlike large plastic particles) remains limited. The ecological impacts of different MNPs together with their additives and the basis of their toxicity have not been explored yet. The present review systematically explores the potential implications of environmentally predominant polymers and their associated additives and discusses their physicochemical characteristics. The review ultimately aims to provide novel insights on what components precisely make MNPs hazardous to the fauna. The paper also discusses the major challenges proposed in the available literature along with recommendations for future research to throw light on possible solutions to overcome the hazards of MNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinidhi Sridharan
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mahua Saha
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India
| | - M B Kirkham
- Department of Agronomy, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States of America
| | - Lal Singh
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur 440020, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Nanthi S Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The UWA Institute of Agriculture, M079, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
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25
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Orona-Návar C, García-Morales R, Loge FJ, Mahlknecht J, Aguilar-Hernández I, Ornelas-Soto N. Microplastics in Latin America and the Caribbean: A review on current status and perspectives. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 309:114698. [PMID: 35183939 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.114698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
A literature review was carried out to analyze the current status of microplastic research in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Specifically, this work focused on publications pertaining to (1) occurrence and distribution of microplastics in the environment, including water, sediments, and soil and (2) the environmental impact of MPs, particularly their presence and effects on aquatic and terrestrial organisms. The review included peer-reviewed articles from Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar and two iberoamerican open access databases (Redalyc and SciELO). It was found that LAC has only contributed to 5% of the global scientific output on microplastics, and overall the highest contributor within the region was Brazil (52%), followed by Chile (16%) and Mexico (13%). An additional section analyzing the barriers to conducting microplastic research in LAC and their exacerbation by the current COVID-19 pandemic was included to provide additional context behind the relatively low scientific production and improve recommendations encouraging research in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Orona-Návar
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico
| | - Raul García-Morales
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico; Centro de Nanociencias y Nanotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada Km. 107, C.P. 22860, Ensenada, B.C., Mexico
| | - Frank J Loge
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Jürgen Mahlknecht
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico
| | - Iris Aguilar-Hernández
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico.
| | - Nancy Ornelas-Soto
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico.
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26
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Wang Y, Liu C, Wang F, Sun Q. Behavior and mechanism of atrazine adsorption on pristine and aged microplastics in the aquatic environment: Kinetic and thermodynamic studies. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 292:133425. [PMID: 34954195 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants that have gained much attention due to their potential harm to aquatic ecosystems and organisms. In particular, MP conjugates are loaded with chemical contaminants (e.g., atrazine pesticide), which may be ingested by organisms and can pose higher risks. However, the combined pollution effects and interaction mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we systematically explored the adsorption behaviors and mechanisms of atrazine (ATZ) on pristine and aged MPs using kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamic models. The target MPs included polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP) as well as the corresponding aged types. Moreover, the effects of pH, humic acid (HA), ionic strength, and ion species (Cl-, SO42-, HCO3-, Mg2+, and Ca2+) of aqueous factors were evaluated. The adsorption capacities of MPs under kinetic equilibrium conditions were as follows: aged PE (0.940 mg g-1) > aged PP (0.677 mg g-1) > aged PS (0.663 mg g-1) > PS (0.565 mg g-1) > PE (0.535 mg g-1) > PP (0.410 mg g-1). The adsorption kinetics and isotherm model results suggested a combination of physisorption and chemisorption. The aging process and pH significantly affected the intrinsic charge on the surface of the MPs and their adsorption capacities. Moreover, the presence of water medium parameters might enhance or inhibit adsorption of different MPs. Hydrophobic and electrostatic attraction mainly contributed to the adsorption of ATZ on pristine MPs, whereas complex surface diffusion and hydrogen bonding dominated the ATZ adsorption on aged MPs with more oxygen-containing groups. In addition, we examined the desorption performance of ATZ from MPs under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions of warm-blooded animals, and found that the ATZ desorption ratio of aged PE (35.3%) showed the most significant effects among the six target types of MPs. This study provides in-depth insights into the co-existence and complex behaviors of MPs and the pesticide pollutant ATZ, to attract further attention to their ecological risks in freshwater environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China; School of Geographical Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China; Fujian Province Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Recycling, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Changqing Liu
- School of Geographical Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China; Fujian Province Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Recycling, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China
| | - Feifeng Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China; Fujian Province Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Recycling, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China.
| | - Qiyuan Sun
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China; Fujian Province Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Recycling, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007, China.
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27
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Cunha WA, Freitas ÍN, Gomes LAS, Gonçalves SDO, Montalvão MF, Ahmed MAI, Gomes AR, Luz TMD, Araújo APDC, Malafaia G. From carrion-eaters to plastic material plunderers: Toxicological impacts of plastic ingestion on black vultures, Coragyps atratus (Cathartiformes: Cathartidae). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 424:127753. [PMID: 34839977 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite plastic ingestion has already been reported in several bird species, its physiological impacts have been little inspected, especially in representatives of the Cathartidae family. Thus, in this study, we aimed to identify, characterize, and evaluate the effects arising from the ingestion of plastic materials by Coragyps atratus adults, that captured in landfill areas. Herein, a total of 51 individuals were captured, the frequency of plastic intake being higher than 40%. The plastic materials consisted mainly of low-density polyethylene and film-type polystyrene, as well as presenting irregular shapes and diameters between 10 and 30 mm. Biochemically, we observed in animals that contained plastics in the stomach ("plastic" group) high production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) - especially in the intestine, muscle and brain - whose activity of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) was not sufficient to counteract the oxidative stress. Moreover, in the liver of these same animals, we observed high production of nitrite and nitrate, suggesting a hepatic nitrosative stress. Plus, we observed a cholinesterase effect in animals from the "plastic" group, marked by increased activity of butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) (in the brain) and muscle and cerebral acetylcholinesterase (AChE). On the other hand, the biochemical changes perceived were not significantly correlated with the identified plastic material concentrations (2.808 ± 0.598 items/g of stomach content and 0.276 ± 0.070 items/g of stomach - fresh weight), body condition of the animals, size, and shape of the identified plastic materials. Hence, our study sheds the light on the toxicity of plastics deposited in landfills and their ingestion by C. atratus, which reinforces the hypothesis that these materials are harming the health of these birds and, consequently, the dynamics of their populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wallace Alves Cunha
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Conservação de Recursos Naturais do Cerrado, Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Urutaí, Goiás, Brasil
| | | | - Lux Attiê Santos Gomes
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Biológicas, Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Urutaí, Goiás, Brasil
| | | | - Mateus Flores Montalvão
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Conservação de Recursos Naturais, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | | | - Alex Rodrigues Gomes
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Biológicas, Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Urutaí, Goiás, Brasil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Agrárias, Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Rio Verde, Goiás, Brasil
| | - Thiarlen Marinho da Luz
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Biológicas, Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Urutaí, Goiás, Brasil
| | - Amanda Pereira da Costa Araújo
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Biológicas, Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Urutaí, Goiás, Brasil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiás, Brasil
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Conservação de Recursos Naturais do Cerrado, Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Urutaí, Goiás, Brasil; Laboratório de Pesquisas Biológicas, Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Urutaí, Goiás, Brasil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Conservação de Recursos Naturais, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brasil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia e Biodiversidade, Instituto Federal Goiano and Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiás, Brasil.
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