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Zhang Y, Jiang F, Li F, Lu S, Liu Z, Wang Y, Chi Y, Jiang C, Zhang L, Chen Q, He Z, Zhao X, Qiao J, Xu X, Leung KMY, Liu X, Wu F. Global daily mask use estimation in the pandemic and its post environmental health risks: Analysis based on a validated dynamic mathematical model. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 473:134572. [PMID: 38772106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp increase in disposable surgical mask usage. Discarded masks can release microplastic and cause environmental pollution. Since masks have become a daily necessity for protection against virus infections, it is necessary to review the usage and disposal of masks during the pandemic for future management. In this study, we constructed a dynamic model by introducing related parameters to estimate daily mask usage in 214 countries from January 22, 2020 to July 31, 2022. And we validated the accuracy of our model by establishing a dataset based on published survey data. Our results show that the cumulative mask usage has reached 800 billion worldwide, and the microplastics released from discarded masks due to mismanagement account for 3.27% of global marine microplastic emissions in this period. Furthermore, we illustrated the response relationship between mask usage and the infection rates. We found a marginally significant negative correlation existing between the mean daily per capita mask usage and the rate of cumulative confirmed cases within the range of 25% to 50%. This indicates that if the rate reaches the specified threshold, the preventive effect of masks may become evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Fei Jiang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Fengmin Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Zihao Liu
- School of information science and engineering, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Yuwen Wang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Yiming Chi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Chenchen Jiang
- First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Qingfeng Chen
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Zhipeng He
- Shandong Freshwater Fisheries Research Institude, Jinan 250013, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Jianmin Qiao
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Xiaoya Xu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Kenneth Mei Yee Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education and College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Fengchang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
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Jiang Y, Zhou C, Khan A, Zhang X, Mamtimin T, Fan J, Hou X, Liu P, Han H, Li X. Environmental risks of mask wastes binding pollutants: Phytotoxicity, microbial community, nitrogen and carbon cycles. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135058. [PMID: 38986403 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The increasing contamination of mask wastes presents a significant global challenge to ecological health. However, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the environmental risks that mask wastes pose to soil. In this study, a total of 12 mask wastes were collected from landfills. Mask wastes exhibited negligible morphological changes, and bound eight metals and four types of organic pollutants. Masks combined with pollutants inhibited the growth of alfalfa and Elymus nutans, reducing underground biomass by 84.6 %. Mask wastes decreased the Chao1 index and the relative abundances (RAs) of functional bacteria (Micrococcales, Gemmatimonadales, and Sphingomonadales). Metagenomic analysis showed that mask wastes diminished the RAs of functional genes associated with nitrification (amoABC and HAO), denitrification (nirKS and nosZ), glycolysis (gap2), and TCA cycle (aclAB and mdh), thereby inhibiting the nitrogen transformation and ATP production. Furthermore, some pathogenic viruses (Herpesviridae and Tunggulvirus) were also found on the mask wastes. Structural equation models demonstrated that mask wastes restrained soil enzyme activities, ultimately affecting nitrogen and carbon cycles. Collectively, these evidences indicate that mask wastes contribute to soil health and metabolic function disturbances. This study offers a new perspective on the potential environmental risks associated with the improper disposal of masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchao Jiang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China; Centre for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China
| | - Chunxiu Zhou
- Centre for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China
| | - Aman Khan
- College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Xueyao Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Tursunay Mamtimin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Jingwen Fan
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Hou
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Pu Liu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Huawen Han
- Centre for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China.
| | - Xiangkai Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China.
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Greenhalgh T, MacIntyre CR, Baker MG, Bhattacharjee S, Chughtai AA, Fisman D, Kunasekaran M, Kvalsvig A, Lupton D, Oliver M, Tawfiq E, Ungrin M, Vipond J. Masks and respirators for prevention of respiratory infections: a state of the science review. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0012423. [PMID: 38775460 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00124-23] [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: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYThis narrative review and meta-analysis summarizes a broad evidence base on the benefits-and also the practicalities, disbenefits, harms and personal, sociocultural and environmental impacts-of masks and masking. Our synthesis of evidence from over 100 published reviews and selected primary studies, including re-analyzing contested meta-analyses of key clinical trials, produced seven key findings. First, there is strong and consistent evidence for airborne transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other respiratory pathogens. Second, masks are, if correctly and consistently worn, effective in reducing transmission of respiratory diseases and show a dose-response effect. Third, respirators are significantly more effective than medical or cloth masks. Fourth, mask mandates are, overall, effective in reducing community transmission of respiratory pathogens. Fifth, masks are important sociocultural symbols; non-adherence to masking is sometimes linked to political and ideological beliefs and to widely circulated mis- or disinformation. Sixth, while there is much evidence that masks are not generally harmful to the general population, masking may be relatively contraindicated in individuals with certain medical conditions, who may require exemption. Furthermore, certain groups (notably D/deaf people) are disadvantaged when others are masked. Finally, there are risks to the environment from single-use masks and respirators. We propose an agenda for future research, including improved characterization of the situations in which masking should be recommended or mandated; attention to comfort and acceptability; generalized and disability-focused communication support in settings where masks are worn; and development and testing of novel materials and designs for improved filtration, breathability, and environmental impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Greenhalgh
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - C Raina MacIntyre
- Biosecurity Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Shovon Bhattacharjee
- Biosecurity Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Abrar A Chughtai
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Fisman
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohana Kunasekaran
- Biosecurity Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amanda Kvalsvig
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Deborah Lupton
- Centre for Social Research in Health and Social Policy Research Centre, Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matt Oliver
- Professional Standards Advocate, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Essa Tawfiq
- Biosecurity Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Ungrin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schulich School of Engineering; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joe Vipond
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Lin Z, Li Z, Ji S, Lo HS, Billah B, Sharmin A, Lui WY, Tse WKF, Fang JKH, Lai KP, Li L. Microplastics from face mask impairs sperm motility. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116422. [PMID: 38749155 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116422] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented plastic pollution from single-used personal protective equipment (PPE), especially face masks, in coastal and marine environments. The secondary pollutants, microplastics from face masks (mask MP), rise concern about their detrimental effects on marine organisms, terrestrial organisms and even human. Using a mouse model, oral exposure to mask MP at two doses, 0.1 and 1 mg MP/day for 21 days, caused no change in animal locomotion, total weight, or sperm counts, but caused damage to sperm motility with increased curvilinear velocity (VCL). The high-dose mask MP exposure caused a significant decrease in linearity (LIN) of sperm motility. Further testicular transcriptomic analysis revealed perturbed pathways related to spermatogenesis, oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolism and energy production. Collectively, our findings substantiate that microplastics from face masks yield adverse effects on mammalian reproductive capacity, highlighting the need for improved plastic waste management and development of environmentally friendly materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Lin
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zijie Li
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuqin Ji
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hoi Shing Lo
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Baki Billah
- Department of Zoology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ayesha Sharmin
- Department of Chemistry, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Wing-Yee Lui
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - William Ka Fai Tse
- Laboratory of Developmental Disorders and Toxicology, Center for Promotion of International Education and Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - James Kar-Hei Fang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Keng Po Lai
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China.
| | - Lei Li
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China.
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5
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Zhang P, Lu G, Sun Y, Yan Z, Zhang L, Liu J. Effect of microplastics on oxytetracycline trophic transfer: Immune, gut microbiota and antibiotic resistance gene responses. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134147. [PMID: 38565017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics and antibiotics are prevalent and emerging pollutants in aquatic ecosystems, but their interactions in aquatic food chains remain largely unexplored. This study investigated the impact of polypropylene microplastics (PP-MPs) on oxytetracycline (OTC) trophic transfer from the shrimp (Neocaridina denticulate) to crucian carp (Carassius auratus) by metagenomic sequencing. The carrier effects of PP-MPs promoted OTC bioaccumulation and trophic transfer, which exacerbated enterocyte vacuolation and hepatocyte eosinophilic necrosis. PP-MPs enhanced the inhibitory effect of OTC on intestinal lysozyme activities and complement C3 levels in shrimp and fish, and hepatic immunoglobulin M levels in fish (p < 0.05). Co-exposure of MPs and OTC markedly increased the abundance of Actinobacteria in shrimp and Firmicutes in fish, which caused disturbances in carbohydrate, amino acid, and energy metabolism. Moreover, OTC exacerbated the enrichment of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in aquatic animals, and PP-MPs significantly increased the diversity and abundance of ARGs and facilitated the trophic transfer of teta and tetm. Our findings disclosed the impacts of PP-MPs on the mechanism of antibiotic toxicity in aquatic food chains and emphasized the importance of gut microbiota for ARGs trophic transfer, which contributed to a deeper understanding of potential risks posed by complex pollutants on aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development of Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Guanghua Lu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development of Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
| | - Yu Sun
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development of Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Zhenhua Yan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development of Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Leibo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development of Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Jianchao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development of Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
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6
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Shende N, Hippargi G, Gurjar S, Kumar AR, Rayalu S. Occurrence of phthalates in facemasks used in India and its implications for human exposure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:166-182. [PMID: 36242556 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2135691] [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: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic polymers with additives are used in the manufacturing of face masks (FMs); hence, FMs could be a potential source of exposure to phthalic acid esters (PAEs). India stands second in the world in terms of the FMs usage since the beginning of Covid-19 pandemic. However, little is known about the PAEs content of FMs used in India. Some PAEs, such as DEHP and DBP are suspected endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs); hence, wearing FM may increase the risk of exposure to these EDCs. In this study, we collected 91 samples of FMs from eight Indian cities and analyzed for five PAEs viz. DMP, DEP, DBP, BBP, and DEHP. The PAEs contents in FMs ranged from 101.79 to 27,948.64 ng/g. The carcinogenic risk of N 95 with filter, N-95, and cloth masks was higher than the threshold levels. The findings indicate the need to control PAEs in FMs through regulatory actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandini Shende
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | | | - Suyog Gurjar
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Asirvatham Ramesh Kumar
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Sadhana Rayalu
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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7
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Gomez NCF, Cragg SM, Ghiglione JF, Onda DFL. Accumulation and exposure classifications of plastics in the different coastal habitats in the western Philippine archipelago. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 337:122602. [PMID: 37741539 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122602] [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: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Studies consistently ranked the Philippines as one of the top contributors of plastic wastes leaking into the ocean. However, most of these were based on probabilities and estimates due to lack of comprehensive ground-truth data, resulting also in the limited understanding of the contributing factors and drivers of local pollution. This makes it challenging to develop science-driven and locally-contextualized policies and interventions to mitigate the problem. Here, 56 sites from different coastal habitats in the western Philippine archipelago were surveyed for macroplastics standing stock, representing geographic regions with varying demography and economic activities. Clustering of sites revealed three potential influencing factors to plastic accumulation: population density, wind and oceanic transport, and habitat type. Notably, the amount and types of dominant plastics per geographic region varied significantly. Single-use plastics (food packaging and sachets) were the most abundant in sites adjacent to densely populated and highly urbanized areas (Manila Bay and eastern Palawan), while fishing-related materials dominated in less populated and fishing-dominated communities (western Palawan and Bolinao), suggesting the local industries significantly contributing to the mismanaged plastics in the surveyed sites. Meanwhile, isolated areas such as islands were characterized by the abundance of buoyant materials (drinking bottles and hygiene product containers), emphasizing the role of oceanic transport and strong connectivity in the oceans. Exposure assessment also identified single-use and fishing-related plastics to be of "high exposure (Type 4)" due to their high abundance and high occurrence. These increase their chances of encountering and interacting with organisms and habitats, thus, resulting into more potential harm. This study is the first comprehensive work done in western Philippines, and results will help contextualize local pollution, facilitating more effective management and policymaking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norchel Corcia F Gomez
- Microbial Oceanography Laboratory, The Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Simon M Cragg
- Institute of Marine Sciences and Centre for Enzyme Innovation, School of Biological Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
| | - Jean-François Ghiglione
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Sorbonne Université, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Microbienne (LOMIC), UMR 7621, Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls, Banyuls sur mer, France
| | - Deo Florence L Onda
- Microbial Oceanography Laboratory, The Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines; Pag-asa Island Research Station (PIRS), The Marine Science Institute, Pag-asa Island, Kalayaan Island Group, West Philippine Sea, Philippines.
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8
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Wang H, Zhu Z, Zhang L, Liu X, Sun W, Yan F, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Wang X, Wei C, Lai J, Chen Q, Zhu D, Zhang Y. The hind information: Exploring the impact of physical damage on mask microbial composition in the aquatic environment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116917. [PMID: 37611784 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Due to poor management and the lack of environmental awareness, lots of masks (an emerging form of plastic pollution) are discarded into the environment during the COVID-19, thereby jeopardizing the health of humans and the environment. Our study introduces a novel perspective by examining the impact of physical damage on the microbial composition of masks in the water environment. We focus on the variations in biofilm formation on each layer of both damaged and undamaged masks, which allows us to understand more about the biofilm on each layer and the significant changes that occur when masks are physically damaged. Research has shown that the community structure of microorganisms on discarded masks can be altered in just ten days, showing an evolution from undifferentiated pioneer colonizing species ("non-picky") to adaptive dominant species ("picky"). Especially, considering that discarded masks were inevitably damaged, we found that the biomass on the damaged samples is 1.62-2.38 times higher than that of the undamaged samples, respectively. Moreover, the microbial community structure on it was also significantly different. Genes involved in biogeochemical cycles of nutrients are more enriched in damaged masks. When damaged, the colonization process and community structure in the middle layer significantly differ from those in the inner and outer layers and even enrich more pathogenic bacteria. Based on the above, it is evident that the environmental risk of masks cannot be assessed as a whole, and the middle layer carries a higher risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Wang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China
| | - Zixian Zhu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China; Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, PR China
| | - Ling Zhang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China; College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, National Engineering Laboratory for Lake Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China
| | - Weihong Sun
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China
| | - Feifei Yan
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China; College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China
| | - Yuxin Zhou
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Disaster Monitoring and Evaluation of Hubei Province, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430077, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China
| | - Chunyan Wei
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China
| | - Jie Lai
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China
| | - Qingfeng Chen
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China
| | - Dong Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, PR China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo, 315830, PR China.
| | - Ying Zhang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, PR China.
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9
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Yang Q, Yang S, Jiao Y. Assessing disposable masks consumption and littering in the post COVID-19 pandemic in China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 334:122190. [PMID: 37467913 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Disposable masks associated with COVID-19 pandemic are one of the most thrown plastic garbage items in the environment, even three years later, and they need more than 450 years to completely decompose. Given their harm to the environment and the absence of monitoring efforts to quantify the consumption and improper disposal of disposable masks in China, we carried out a survey to assess the consumption and littering of disposable masks nationwide. Our objectives were to quantify the consumption and littering of disposable masks and estimate the plastic pollution caused by disposable masks in China. According to the national survey, which combined online and offline results performed in March 2023, about 69% Chinese people still wear masks, and among of them, more than 93% used disposable masks, with more than 70% using more than one piece each day. Therefore, at least 20.3 billion disposable masks were consumed by Chinese people in March 2023 and 238.5 billion will be consumed in 2023 if there are no significant changes in circumstances. Meanwhile, more than 67% of the mask-wearing public disposed of the disposable masks into the household waste bin, and 7% of them discarded them at will. This means about 1.4 billion disposable masks, amounting to at least 350 tons of plastic pollution, were casually discharged into the environment during March 2023. The finding shed light on the inadequate management and disposal of disposable masks and highlight the urgency of preventing plastic pollution from disposable masks in China. It is recommended to raise public awareness of proper handling of disposable masks, institute strict management guidelines, and support innovations and research for nontoxic, biodegradable, reusable and easily recyclable masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiying Yang
- Institute for Advanced Marine Research, China University of Geosciences, Guangzhou, 511462, China
| | - Shanshan Yang
- Institute for Advanced Marine Research, China University of Geosciences, Guangzhou, 511462, China; College of Marine Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Yaqian Jiao
- College of Marine Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China; College of Marine Sciences, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
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10
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Lu Y, Liu YX, Wang Y, Oestreich R, Xu ZY, Zhang W, Hügenell P, Janiak C, Yang XY. A facile spray-pressing synthesis approach for reusable photothermal masks. iScience 2023; 26:107286. [PMID: 37520721 PMCID: PMC10374458 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107286] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Certain types of face masks are highly efficient in protecting humans from bacterial and viral pathogens, and growing concerns with high safety, low cost, and wide market suitability have accelerated the replacement of reusable face masks with disposable ones during the last decades. However, wearing these masks creates countless problems associated with personnel comfort as well as more significant issues related to the cost of fabrication, the generation of medical waste, and environmental contaminants. In this work, we present a facile spray-pressing technique for the production of P-masks with a potential scale-up prospect by adding a graphene layer on one side of meltblown fabric and a functional layer on the other side. In principle, this technique could be easily integrated into the present automatic mask production process and the masks have self-cleaning and/or self-sterilizing properties when it is exposed to solar or simulated solar irradiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Lu
- Hoffmann Institute of Advanced Materials, Shenzhen Polytechnic, 7098 Liuxian Boulevard, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie und Strukturchemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Yi-Xuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing & Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing & Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Robert Oestreich
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie und Strukturchemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Zi-Yan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing & Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing & Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Philipp Hügenell
- Division Thermal Systems and Buildings, Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, Heidenhofstraße 2, Freiburg 79110, Germany
| | - Christoph Janiak
- Hoffmann Institute of Advanced Materials, Shenzhen Polytechnic, 7098 Liuxian Boulevard, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie und Strukturchemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Xiao-Yu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing & Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
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11
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Lin L, Huang Y, Wang P, Chen CC, Qian W, Zhu X, Xu X. Environmental occurrence and ecotoxicity of aquaculture-derived plastic leachates. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 458:132015. [PMID: 37437480 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic products such as fishing nets and foam buoys have been widely used in aquaculture. To enhance the desirable characteristics of the final equipment, plastic gear for aquaculture is mixed with a wide range of additives. Recent studies have shown that additives could be leached out to the environment with a long-term use of aquaculture plastics, forming aquaculture-derived plastic leachates. It should be emphasized that some leachates such as phthalic acid esters (PAEs) and organophosphate esters (OPEs) are endocrine disruptors, which could increase the exposure risk of aquatic products and subsequently display potential threats to human health via food chain. However, systematic studies on the release, occurrence, bioaccumulation, and toxic effects of aquaculture-derived plastic leachates are missing, overlooking their potential sources and ecotoxicological risks in aquatic environments. We have reviewed and compared the concentrations of major plastic leachates in the water environment and organisms of global aquaculture and non-farmed areas, confirming that aquaculture leachate is an important source of contaminants in the environment. Moreover, the toxic effects of aquaculture-derived plastic additives and the related mechanisms are summarized with fish as a representative, revealing their potential health risk. In addition, we proposed current challenges and future research needs, which provides scientific guidance for the use and management of plastic products in aquaculture industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lin
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yuxiong Huang
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Pu Wang
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ciara Chun Chen
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Wei Qian
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiaoshan Zhu
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Guangdong Laboratory of Southern Ocean Science and Engineering (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519000, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Xiangrong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
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12
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Tushar SR, Alam MFB, Bari ABMM, Karmaker CL. Assessing the challenges to medical waste management during the COVID-19 pandemic: Implications for the environmental sustainability in the emerging economies. SOCIO-ECONOMIC PLANNING SCIENCES 2023; 87:101513. [PMID: 36687378 PMCID: PMC9846901 DOI: 10.1016/j.seps.2023.101513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Emerging economies are struggling with proper and efficient management of waste due to their constrained resources and weak management. In recent days, this crisis has worsened due to the outbreak of the highly contagious COVID-19 pandemic. To avoid building up stockpiles and contaminating communities with potentially contagious medical waste (MW), and to ensure sustainability in the current and post-COVID-19 era, it is a dire need to develop and implement a safe and efficient medical waste management (MWM) system. This research, thereby, aims to identify, assess, and prioritize the key challenges to efficient and sustainable MWM to mitigate the impacts of the disruptions caused by situations like the pandemic in emerging economies. An integrated approach consisting of the Best-Worst Method (BWM), Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM), and Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification (MICMAC) has been proposed to achieve the objectives. Based on the literature review and expert feedback, a total of seventeen challenges were identified and later prioritized by using BWM. The top twelve challenges have been further analyzed using ISM-MICMAC to examine their interrelationships. This study reveals that lack of proper law enforcement and insufficient financial support from investors and the government are two crucial challenges for efficient MWM implementation. The research insights can assist healthcare facility administrators, practitioners, and city managers in identifying the associated challenges and shaping strategic decisions for establishing and managing efficient MWM systems to ensure sustainable development in the post-COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saifur Rahman Tushar
- Department of Industrial and Production Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Fahim Bin Alam
- Department of Industrial and Production Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - A B M Mainul Bari
- Department of Industrial and Production Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Chitra Lekha Karmaker
- Department of Industrial and Production Engineering, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore, Bangladesh
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13
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Natsathaporn P, Herwig G, Altenried S, Ren Q, Rossi RM, Crespy D, Itel F. Functional Fiber Membranes with Antibacterial Properties for Face Masks. ADVANCED FIBER MATERIALS 2023; 5:1-15. [PMID: 37361107 PMCID: PMC10189208 DOI: 10.1007/s42765-023-00291-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Reusable face masks are an important alternative for minimizing costs of disposable and surgical face masks during pandemics. Often complementary to washing, a prolonged lifetime of face masks relies on the incorporation of self-cleaning materials. The development of self-cleaning face mask materials requires the presence of a durable catalyst to deactivate contaminants and microbes after long-term use without reducing filtration efficiency. Herein, we generate self-cleaning fibers by functionalizing silicone-based (polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS) fibrous membranes with a photocatalyst. Coaxial electrospinning is performed to fabricate fibers with a non-crosslinked silicone core within a supporting shell scaffold, followed by thermal crosslinking and removal of the water-soluble shell. Photocatalytic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are immobilized on the PDMS fibers by colloid-electrospinning or post-functionalization procedures. The fibers functionalized with ZnO NPs can degrade a photo-sensitive dye and display antibacterial properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) due to the generation of reactive oxygen species upon irradiation with UV light. Furthermore, a single layer of functionalized fibrous membrane shows an air permeability in the range of 80-180 L/m2s and 65% filtration efficiency against fine particulate matter with a diameter less than 1.0 µm (PM1.0). Graphical abstract Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s42765-023-00291-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Papada Natsathaporn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), Rayong, 21210 Thailand
| | - Gordon Herwig
- Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie Altenried
- Laboratory for Biointerfaces, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Qun Ren
- Laboratory for Biointerfaces, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - René M. Rossi
- Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Crespy
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), Rayong, 21210 Thailand
| | - Fabian Itel
- Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
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14
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Kwiatkowska A, Granicka LH. Anti-Viral Surfaces in the Fight against the Spread of Coronaviruses. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:membranes13050464. [PMID: 37233525 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13050464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This review is conducted against the background of nanotechnology, which provides us with a chance to effectively combat the spread of coronaviruses, and which primarily concerns polyelectrolytes and their usability for obtaining protective function against viruses and as carriers for anti-viral agents, vaccine adjuvants, and, in particular, direct anti-viral activity. This review covers nanomembranes in the form of nano-coatings or nanoparticles built of natural or synthetic polyelectrolytes--either alone or else as nanocomposites for creating an interface with viruses. There are not a wide variety of polyelectrolytes with direct activity against SARS-CoV-2, but materials that are effective in virucidal evaluations against HIV, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV are taken into account as potentially active against SARS-CoV-2. Developing new approaches to materials as interfaces with viruses will continue to be relevant in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika Kwiatkowska
- Nalecz Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Polish Academy of Sciences, Ks. Trojdena 4 St., 02-109 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ludomira H Granicka
- Nalecz Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Polish Academy of Sciences, Ks. Trojdena 4 St., 02-109 Warsaw, Poland
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15
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Ivanoska-Dacikj A, Oguz-Gouillart Y, Hossain G, Kaplan M, Sivri Ç, Ros-Lis JV, Mikucioniene D, Munir MU, Kizildag N, Unal S, Safarik I, Akgül E, Yıldırım N, Bedeloğlu AÇ, Ünsal ÖF, Herwig G, Rossi RM, Wick P, Clement P, Sarac AS. Advanced and Smart Textiles during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic: Issues, Challenges, and Innovations. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11081115. [PMID: 37107948 PMCID: PMC10137734 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11081115] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has hugely affected the textile and apparel industry. Besides the negative impact due to supply chain disruptions, drop in demand, liquidity problems, and overstocking, this pandemic was found to be a window of opportunity since it accelerated the ongoing digitalization trends and the use of functional materials in the textile industry. This review paper covers the development of smart and advanced textiles that emerged as a response to the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2. We extensively cover the advancements in developing smart textiles that enable monitoring and sensing through electrospun nanofibers and nanogenerators. Additionally, we focus on improving medical textiles mainly through enhanced antiviral capabilities, which play a crucial role in pandemic prevention, protection, and control. We summarize the challenges that arise from personal protective equipment (PPE) disposal and finally give an overview of new smart textile-based products that emerged in the markets related to the control and spread reduction of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Ivanoska-Dacikj
- Research Centre for Environment and Materials, Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Krste Misirkov 2, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Yesim Oguz-Gouillart
- Department of Building and Urban Environment, Innovative Textile Material, JUNIA, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Gaffar Hossain
- V-Trion GmbH Textile Research, Millennium Park 15, 6890 Lustenau, Austria
| | - Müslüm Kaplan
- Department of Textile Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Design, Bartin University, Bartin 74110, Turkey
| | - Çağlar Sivri
- Management Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Bahcesehir University, İstanbul 34349, Turkey
| | - José Vicente Ros-Lis
- Centro de Reconocimiento Molecular y Desarrollo Tecnologico (IDM), Unidad Mixta Universitat Politecnica de Valencia, Universitat de Valencia, Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Universitat de València, Doctor Moliner 56, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | - Daiva Mikucioniene
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Design, Kaunas University of Technology, Studentu Str. 56, 50404 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Muhammad Usman Munir
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Design, Kaunas University of Technology, Studentu Str. 56, 50404 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Nuray Kizildag
- Institute of Nanotechnology, Gebze Technical University, Gebze, Kocaeli 41400, Turkey
- Integrated Manufacturing Technologies Research and Application Center, Sabanci University, Pendik, Istanbul 34906, Turkey
| | - Serkan Unal
- Integrated Manufacturing Technologies Research and Application Center, Sabanci University, Pendik, Istanbul 34906, Turkey
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Material Science and Nanoengineering, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | - Ivo Safarik
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Biology Centre, ISBB, CAS, Na Sadkach 7, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
- Regional Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacky University, Slechtitelu 27, 783 71 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Esra Akgül
- Department of Industrial Design Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Turkey
| | - Nida Yıldırım
- Trabzon Vocational School, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon 61080, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Çelik Bedeloğlu
- Department of Polymer Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Bursa Technical University, Bursa 16310, Turkey
| | - Ömer Faruk Ünsal
- Department of Polymer Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Bursa Technical University, Bursa 16310, Turkey
| | - Gordon Herwig
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - René M Rossi
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Peter Wick
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Particle-Biology Interactions, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Pietro Clement
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Particle-Biology Interactions, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - A Sezai Sarac
- Department of Chemistry, Polymer Science and Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Letters, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul 34469, Turkey
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16
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Tong Y, Lin L, Tao Y, Huang Y, Zhu X. The occurrence, speciation, and ecological effect of plastic pollution in the bay ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 857:159601. [PMID: 36283530 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159601] [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: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bay is a unique part of the ecosystem, acting as the intersection for marine and terrestrial systems and hosting diverse biological organisms. The ubiquitous application of plastics has resulted in a massive amount of plastic waste released and accumulated in the bay ecosystem, posing significant ecological effects. Thus, thoroughly understanding plastic pollution's occurrence, speciation, and ecological effect in the bay ecosystems is of vital importance. We conducted a comprehensive review on the sources and distribution of plastics in the bay ecosystem, and the associate ecological effects, from individual toxicity to trophic transfer in ecosystems. Among bay areas around the world, the concentrations of microplastics vary from 0.01 to 3.62 × 105 item/m3 in seawater and 0 to 6.75 × 105 item/kg in sediment. Small-sized plastic particles (mostly <2 mm) were widely reported in bay organisms with the concentration range of 0 to 22.5 item/ind. Besides, the toxicity of plastics on marine organisms has been documented in terms of mortality, growth, development, reproduction, enzyme activity and transcription. Since abundance of small plastic particles (e.g., micro- and nano-scale) is far greater than large plastic debris in the bay ecosystems, in-depth risk assessment of small-sized plastics needs to be conducted under environmentally realistic conditions. Our review could provide a better understanding on the occurrence, speciation, and ecological effect of plastic pollution in the bay ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Tong
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yi Tao
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yuxiong Huang
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Xiaoshan Zhu
- Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; South Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519000, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, Hainan, China.
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17
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Marco Tobías M, Åhlén M, Cheung O, Bucknall DG, McCoustra MRS, Yiu HHP. Plasma degradation of contaminated PPE: an energy-efficient method to treat contaminated plastic waste. NPJ MATERIALS DEGRADATION 2023; 7:33. [PMID: 37096160 PMCID: PMC10115383 DOI: 10.1038/s41529-023-00350-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The use of PPE has drastically increased because of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic as disposable surgical face masks made from non-biodegradable polypropylene (PP) polymers have generated a significant amount of waste. In this work, a low-power plasma method has been used to degrade surgical masks. Several analytical techniques (gravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), attenuated total reflection-infra-red spectroscopy (ATR-IR), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis/differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC) and wide-angle x-ray scattering (WAXS)) were used to evaluate the effects of plasma irradiation on mask samples. After 4 h of irradiation, an overall mass loss of 63 ± 8%, through oxidation followed by fragmentation, was observed on the non-woven 3-ply surgical mask, which is 20 times faster than degrading a bulk PP sample. Individual components of the mask also showed different degradation rates. Air plasma clearly represents an energy-efficient tool for treating contaminated PPE in an environmentally friendly approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Marco Tobías
- Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS UK
| | - Michelle Åhlén
- Nanotechnology and Functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Uppsala University, Ångströmlaboratoriet, Lägerhyddsvägen 1, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ocean Cheung
- Nanotechnology and Functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Uppsala University, Ångströmlaboratoriet, Lägerhyddsvägen 1, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - David G. Bucknall
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS UK
| | - Martin R. S. McCoustra
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS UK
| | - Humphrey H. P. Yiu
- Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS UK
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18
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Song G, Cao H, Liu L, Jin M. Analysis of Marine Microplastic Pollution of Disposable Masks under COVID-19 Epidemic-A DPSIR Framework. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16299. [PMID: 36498372 PMCID: PMC9735856 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Marine microplastic pollution (MMP) is becoming one of the most pressing environmental problems facing humanity today. The novel coronavirus epidemic has raised the issue of environmental contamination caused by large-scale improper disposal of medical waste such as disposable masks (DMs). To assess the impact of MMP caused by DMs and to seek solutions for the prevention and control of MMP, this study uses the Driving force-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework to establish a causal chain of MMP caused by DMs. The conclusion shows that the novel coronavirus epidemic has led to a surge in the use of DMs, which has brought pressure on resource constraints and environmental pollution at the same time. Improperly DMs enter the environment and eventually transform into MMP, which not only endangers the marine ecological system but also poses potential human health risks as well as economic and social hazards. In addition, further research on environmentally friendly masks (cloth masks and biodegradable masks) is essential to mitigate the environmental damage caused by the large-scale global use of DMs. This study provides a scientific and theoretical basis for the assessment of MMP from discarded DMs, and the findings of this study will provide a reference for the formulation of relevant policies.
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19
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Jiang H, Su J, Zhang Y, Bian K, Wang Z, Wang H, Wang C. Insight into the microplastics release from disposable face mask: Simulated environment and removal strategy. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 309:136748. [PMID: 36209868 PMCID: PMC9535493 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136748] [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: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The fight against the COVID-19 epidemic significantly raises the global demand for personal protective equipment, especially disposable face masks (DFMs). The discarded DFMs may become a potential source of microplastics (MPs), which has attracted much attention. In this work, we identified the detailed source of MPs released from DFMs with laser direct infrared spectroscopy. Polypropylene (PP) and polyurethane (PU) accounted for 24.5% and 57.1% of released MPs, respectively. The melt-blown fabric was a dominant MPs source, however, previous studies underestimated the contribution of mask rope. The captured polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE), and polystyrene (PS) in airborne only shared 18.4% of released MPs. To deepen the understanding of MPs release from medical mask into the aquatic environment, we investigated the effects of environmental factors on MPs release. Based on regression analysis, the effects of temperature, incubation time, and wearing time significantly affect the release of MPs. Besides, acidity, alkalinity, sodium chloride, and humic acid also contributed to the MPs release through corroding, swelling, or repulsion of fibers. Based on the exposure of medical mask to simulated environments, the number of released MPs followed the order: seawater > simulated gut-fluid > freshwater > pure water. Considering the risk of MPs released from DFMs to the environment, we innovatively established a novel flotation removal system combined with cocoamidopropyl betaine, achieving 86% removal efficiency of MPs in water. This work shed the light on the MPs release from DFMs and proposed a removal strategy for the control of MPs pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongru Jiang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Jiming Su
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Yingshuang Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Kai Bian
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Zhiyi Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China.
| | - Chongqing Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Energy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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