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Wang J, Wang Y, Li Z, Wang J, Zhao H, Zhang X. Gut microbiota, a key to understanding the knowledge gaps on micro-nanoplastics-related biological effects and biodegradation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 944:173799. [PMID: 38852863 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173799] [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: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Micro-nanoplastics (MNPs) pollution as a global environmental issue has received increasing interest in recent years. MNPs can enter and accumulate in the organisms including human beings mainly via ingestion and inhalation, and large amounts of foodborne MNPs have been frequently detected in human intestinal tracts and fecal samples. MNPs regulate the structure composition and metabolic functions of gut microbiota, which may cause the imbalance of intestinal ecosystems of the hosts and further mediate the occurrence and development of various diseases. In addition, a growing number of MNPs-degrading strains have been isolated from organismal feces. MNPs-degraders colonize the plastic surfaces and form the biofilms, and the long-chain polymers of MNPs can be biologically depolymerized into short chains. In general, MNPs are gradually degraded into small molecule substances (e.g., N2, CH4, H2O, and CO2) via a series of enzymatic catalyses, mainly including biodeterioration, fragmentation, assimilation, and mineralization. In this review, we outline the current progress of MNPs effects on gut microbiota and MNPs degradation by gut microbiota, which provide a certain theoretical basis for fully understanding the knowledge gaps on MNPs-related biological effect and biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiping Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yutong Wang
- China University of Mining & Technology-Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenyu Li
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Hongbo Zhao
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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2
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Nalbone L, Giarratana F, Genovese M, Panebianco A. Occurrence of microplastics in store-bought fresh and processed clams in Italy. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116739. [PMID: 39029150 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Compared to the large amount of data on wild samples, only a few studies reported microplastic occurrence in store-bought bivalves in which the production chain can be the main contamination route. Microplastic occurrence was herein investigated in 100 samples of store-bought clams sold as fresh or processed (vacuum-frozen or in brine) in Italy. A 10 % KOH was used for soft tissue digestion and FT-IR spectroscopy for polymer identification. A total of 135 potential microplastics ranging in size between 20 μm and 5000 μm were enumerated estimating an annual dietary intake via clam consumption of 59.472 microplastics/person. No significant difference in the average abundance between the two commercial conditions was observed, while a prevalence of smaller particles was detected in processed samples suggesting a detrimental effect of cooking during production. Polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS) were identified posing an overall low risk (class II). Microplastic occurrence in store-bought seafood requires additional and specific attention and future studies should investigate microplastic contribution linked to the production chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Nalbone
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell 'Annunziata, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy.
| | - Filippo Giarratana
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell 'Annunziata, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy; Riconnexia srls, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell 'Annunziata, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy.
| | - Martina Genovese
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell 'Annunziata, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy.
| | - Antonio Panebianco
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell 'Annunziata, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy.
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3
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Barthelemy N, Mermillod-Blondin F, Krause S, Simon L, Mimeau L, Devers A, Vidal JP, Datry T. The Duration of Dry Events Promotes PVC Film Fragmentation in Intermittent Rivers. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:12621-12632. [PMID: 38954776 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c00528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The majority of microplastics (MPs) found in the environment originate from plastic fragmentation occurring in the environment and are influenced by environmental factors such as UV irradiation and biotic interactions. However, the effects of river drying on plastic fragmentation remain unknown, despite the global prevalence of watercourses experiencing flow intermittence. This study investigates, through laboratory experiments, the coupled effects of drying duration and UV irradiation on PVC film fragmentation induced by artificial mechanical abrasion. This study shows that PVC film fragmentation increases with drying duration through an increase in the abundance and size of formed MPs as well as mass loss from the initial plastic item, with significant differences for drying durations >50% of the experiment duration. The average abundance of formed MPs in treatments exposed to severe drying duration was almost two times higher than in treatments nonexposed to drying. Based on these results, we developed as a proof of concept an Intermittence-Based Plastic Fragmentation Index that may provide insights into plastic fragmentation occurring in river catchments experiencing large hydrological variability. The present study suggests that flow intermittence occurring in rivers and streams can lead to increasing plastic fragmentation, unraveling new insights into plastic pollution in freshwater systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nans Barthelemy
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, LEHNA UMR 5023, CNRS, ENTPE, Villeurbanne F-69622, France
- Lyon-Grenoble Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, UR RiverLy, INRAE, Villeurbanne 69625, France
| | | | - Stefan Krause
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Laurent Simon
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, LEHNA UMR 5023, CNRS, ENTPE, Villeurbanne F-69622, France
| | - Louise Mimeau
- Lyon-Grenoble Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, UR RiverLy, INRAE, Villeurbanne 69625, France
| | - Alexandre Devers
- Lyon-Grenoble Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, UR RiverLy, INRAE, Villeurbanne 69625, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Vidal
- Lyon-Grenoble Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, UR RiverLy, INRAE, Villeurbanne 69625, France
| | - Thibault Datry
- Lyon-Grenoble Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, UR RiverLy, INRAE, Villeurbanne 69625, France
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4
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Yarahmadi A, Heidari S, Sepahvand P, Afkhami H, Kheradjoo H. Microplastics and environmental effects: investigating the effects of microplastics on aquatic habitats and their impact on human health. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1411389. [PMID: 38912266 PMCID: PMC11191580 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1411389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are particles with a diameter of <5 mm. The disposal of plastic waste into the environment poses a significant and pressing issue concern globally. Growing worry has been expressed in recent years over the impact of MPs on both human health and the entire natural ecosystem. MPs impact the feeding and digestive capabilities of marine organisms, as well as hinder the development of plant roots and leaves. Numerous studies have shown that the majority of individuals consume substantial quantities of MPs either through their dietary intake or by inhaling them. MPs have been identified in various human biological samples, such as lungs, stool, placenta, sputum, breast milk, liver, and blood. MPs can cause various illnesses in humans, depending on how they enter the body. Healthy and sustainable ecosystems depend on the proper functioning of microbiota, however, MPs disrupt the balance of microbiota. Also, due to their high surface area compared to their volume and chemical characteristics, MPs act as pollutant absorbers in different environments. Multiple policies and initiatives exist at both the domestic and global levels to mitigate pollution caused by MPs. Various techniques are currently employed to remove MPs, such as biodegradation, filtration systems, incineration, landfill disposal, and recycling, among others. In this review, we will discuss the sources and types of MPs, the presence of MPs in different environments and food, the impact of MPs on human health and microbiota, mechanisms of pollutant adsorption on MPs, and the methods of removing MPs with algae and microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aref Yarahmadi
- Department of Biology, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | | | - Parisa Sepahvand
- Department of Biology, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
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5
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Sharma S, Bhardwaj A, Thakur M, Saini A. Understanding microplastic pollution of marine ecosystem: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:41402-41445. [PMID: 37442935 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28314-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are emerging as prominent pollutants across the globe. Oceans are becoming major sinks for these pollutants, and their presence is widespread in coastal regions, oceanic surface waters, water column, and sediments. Studies have revealed that microplastics cause serious threats to the marine ecosystem as well as human beings. In the past few years, many research efforts have focused on studying different aspects relating to microplastic pollution of the oceans. This review summarizes sources, migration routes, and ill effects of marine microplastic pollution along with various conventional as well as advanced methods for microplastics analysis and control. However, various knowledge gaps in detection and analysis require attention in order to understand the sources and transport of microplastics, which is critical to deploying mitigation strategies at appropriate locations. Advanced removal methods and an integrated approach are necessary, including government policies and stringent regulations to control the release of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Aprajita Bhardwaj
- Department of Biotechnology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Monika Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Anita Saini
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Maharaja Agrasen University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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6
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Liu Y, Cao Y, Li H, Liu H, Bi L, Chen Q, Peng R. A systematic review of microplastics emissions in kitchens: Understanding the links with diseases in daily life. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 188:108740. [PMID: 38749117 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108740] [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: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The intensification of microplastics (MPs) pollution has emerged as a formidable environmental challenge, with profound global implications. The pervasive presence of MPs across a multitude of environmental mediums, such as the atmosphere, soil, and oceans, extends to commonplace items, culminating in widespread human ingestion and accumulation via channels like food, water, and air. In the domestic realm, kitchens have become significant epicenters for MPs pollution. A plethora of kitchen utensils, encompassing coated non-stick pans, plastic cutting boards, and disposable utensils, are known to release substantial quantities of MPs particles in everyday use, which can then be ingested alongside food. This paper conducts a thorough examination of contemporary research addressing the release of MPs from kitchen utensils during usage and focuses on the health risks associated with MPs ingestion, as well as the myriad factors influencing the release of MPs in kitchen utensils. Leveraging the insights derived from this analysis, this paper proposes a series of strategic recommendations and measures targeted at mitigating the production of MPs in kitchen settings. These initiatives are designed not solely to diminish the release of MPs but also to enhance public awareness regarding this pressing environmental concern. By adopting more informed practices in kitchens, we can significantly contribute to the reduction of the environmental burden of MPs pollution, thus safeguarding both human health and the ecological system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinai Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Yu Cao
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Huiqi Li
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Huanpeng Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Liuliu Bi
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Qianqian Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Renyi Peng
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Key Lab of Biohealth Materials and Chemistry of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
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7
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Cecchi T, Poletto D, Berbecaru AC, Cârstea EM, Râpă M. Assessing Microplastics and Nanoparticles in the Surface Seawater of Venice Lagoon-Part I: Methodology of Research. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:1759. [PMID: 38673116 PMCID: PMC11051501 DOI: 10.3390/ma17081759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) both represent significant concerns in environmental sciences. This paper aims to develop a convenient and efficient methodology for the detection and measurement of MPs and nanoparticles from surface seawater and to apply it to the water samples collected from the UNESCO site of Venice and its lagoon, more precisely in the Venice-Lido Port Inlet, Grand Canal under Rialto Bridge, and Saint Marc basin. In this study, MPs were analyzed through optical microscopy for their relative abundance and characterized based on their color, shape, and size classes, while the concentration and the mean of nanoparticles were estimated via the Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis technique. Bulk seawater sampling, combined with filtration through a cascade of stainless-steel sieves and subsequent digestion, facilitates the detection of MPs of relatively small sizes (size classes distribution: >1 mm, 1000-250 μm, 250-125 μm, 125-90 μm, and 90-32 μm), similar to the size of MPs ingested by marine invertebrates and fishes. A protocol for minimizing interference from non-plastic nanoparticles through evaporation, digestion, and filtration processes was proposed to enrich the sample for NPs. The findings contribute to the understanding of the extent and characteristics of MPs and nanoparticle pollution in the Venice Lagoon seawater, highlighting the potential environmental risks associated with these pollutants and the need for coordinated approaches to mitigate them. This article is based on scientific research carried out within the framework of the H2020 In-No-Plastic-Innovative approaches towards prevention, removal and reuse of marine plastic litter project (G.A. ID no. 101000612).
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Cecchi
- Chemistry Department, Istituto Technico Technologico, Via Montani 7, 63900 Fermo, Italy;
| | - Davide Poletto
- Venice Lagoon Plastic Free, Castello 2641, 30122 Venice, Italy
| | - Andrei Constantin Berbecaru
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Elfrida Mihaela Cârstea
- National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics INOE 2000, Atomistilor 409, 077125 Magurele, Romania;
| | - Maria Râpă
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania;
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8
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Xue J, Xu Z, Hu X, Lu Y, Zhao Y, Zhang H. Microplastics in maternal amniotic fluid and their associations with gestational age. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:171044. [PMID: 38382607 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171044] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a growing global concern due to its potential threat to human health, particularly concerning fetal health. Nevertheless, few studies have examined the sources of fetal MPs exposure and its impact on fetal development. In this study, MPs levels in maternal amniotic fluid (AF) and their associations with measures of fetal growth were investigated. Specifically, 40 human AF samples were collected to determine the presence and characteristics of MPs using laser direct infrared (LD-IR) spectroscopy. MPs were found in 32 out of 40 AF samples, with an average abundance of 2.01 ± 4.19 particles/g. Polyethylene (PE, 38.80 %) and chlorinated polyethylene (CPE, 26.98 %) were the most prevalent polymers. The majority of MPs (87.56 %) were 20-100 μm in size, and fragments (71.23 %) evidently prevailed in morphology. Additionally, a questionnaire was designed to explore the associations between MPs levels in the AF and maternal dietary habits, aiming at unveiling the potential sources of MPs in AF. The MPs levels in the AF were positively associated with the frequency of seafood consumption (r = 0.781, P < 0.001) and bottled water intake (r = 0.386, P = 0.014). Moreover, the associations between MPs levels in maternal AF and measures of fetal growth were evaluated. The abundance of total MPs in maternal AF were significantly negatively associated with gestational age (β = -0.44, 95 % CI, -0.83, -0.05). This study confirms the presence of MPs in human AF and provides compelling evidence linking them to gestational age, while highlighting the potential risks associated with dietary habits. These findings underscore the need for further investigation into the mechanisms of MPs transmission from mother to fetus and the potential health implications during fetal development, offering valuable insights for future policies aimed at safeguarding maternal and fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyang Xue
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Zhendong Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaobing Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China.
| | - Hai Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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9
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Chan K, Zinchenko A. Functional upcycling of waste PET plastic to the hybrid magnetic microparticles adsorbent for cesium removal. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 354:141725. [PMID: 38492679 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Accumulation of mismanaged plastic in the environment and the appearance of emerging plastic-derived pollutants such as microplastics strongly demand technologies for waste plastic utilization. In this study, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from waste plastic bottles was directly utilized to prepare a matrix of an adsorbent for cesium (Cs+) removal. The organic matrix of PET-derived oligomers obtained by aminolysis depolymerization was impregnated with bentonite clay and magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs), playing the roles as a major adsorptive medium for Cs+ removal and as a functional component to primarily provide efficient separation of the hybrid adsorbent from aqueous system, respectively. The obtained hybrid composite microparticles were next tested as an adsorbent for the removal of Cs+ cation from aqueous solutions. The adsorption process was characterized by fast kinetics reaching ca. 60% of the equilibrium adsorption capacity within 5 min and the maximum adsorption capacity toward Cs+ was found to be 26.8 mg/g. The adsorption process was primarily dominated by the cationic exchange in bentonite, which was not significantly affected by the admixture of the competing mono- and divalent cations (Na+, K+, and Mg2+). The proposed approach here exploits the sustainable utilization scenario of plastic waste-derived material to template complex multifunctional nanocomposites that can find applications for pollution cleaning and environmental remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayee Chan
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
| | - Anatoly Zinchenko
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
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10
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Rajput P, Kumar P, Priya AK, Kumari S, Shiade SRG, Rajput VD, Fathi A, Pradhan A, Sarfraz R, Sushkova S, Mandzhieva S, Minkina T, Soldatov A, Wong MH, Rensing C. Nanomaterials and biochar mediated remediation of emerging contaminants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170064. [PMID: 38242481 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170064] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
The unrestricted release of various toxic substances into the environment is a critical global issue, gaining increased attention in modern society. Many of these substances are pristine to various environmental compartments known as contaminants/emerging contaminants (ECs). Nanoparticles and emerging sorbents enhanced remediation is a compelling methodology exhibiting great potential in addressing EC-related issues and facilitating their elimination from the environment, particularly those compounds that demonstrate eco-toxicity and pose considerable challenges in terms of removal. It provides a novel technique enabling the secure and sustainable removal of various ECs, including persistent organic compounds, microplastics, phthalate, etc. This extensive review presents a critical perspective on the current advancements and potential outcomes of nano-enhanced remediation techniques such as photocatalysis, nano-sensing, nano-enhanced sorbents, bio/phyto-remediation, which are applied to clean-up the natural environment. In addition, when dealing with residual contaminants, special attention is paid to both health and environmental implications; therefore, an evaluation of the long-term sustainability of nano-enhanced remediation methods has been considered. The integrated mechanical approaches were thoroughly discussed and presented in graphical forms. Thus, the critical evaluation of the integrated use of most emerging remediation technologies will open a new dimension in environmental safety and clean-up program.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Botany, MMV, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - A K Priya
- Department of Chemical Engineering, KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | | | | | - Amin Fathi
- Department of Agronomy, Ayatollah Amoli Branch, Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran
| | - Arunava Pradhan
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), Campus of Gualtar, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; IB-S - Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-Sustainability, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Rubab Sarfraz
- Institute of Environmental Microbiology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | | | | | | | | | - Ming Hung Wong
- Southern Federal University, Rostov-on-Don 344006, Russia; Consortium on Health, Environment, Education, and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai Po, Hong Kong, China
| | - Christopher Rensing
- Institute of Environmental Microbiology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
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11
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Marcellus KA, Bugiel S, Nunnikhoven A, Curran I, Gill SS. Polystyrene Nano- and Microplastic Particles Induce an Inflammatory Gene Expression Profile in Rat Neural Stem Cell-Derived Astrocytes In Vitro. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:429. [PMID: 38470760 DOI: 10.3390/nano14050429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are considered an emerging environmental pollutant due to their ubiquitous presence in the environment. However, the potential impact of microplastics on human health warrants further research. Recent studies have reported neurobehavioral and neurotoxic effects in marine and rodent models; however, their impact on the underlying cellular physiology in mammals remains unclear. Herein, we exposed neural stem cells and neural stem cell-derived astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neurons to various sizes and concentrations of polystyrene nano- and microplastics. We investigated their cellular uptake, impact on cytotoxicity, and alteration of gene expression through transcriptome profiling. The cell type most affected by decreased viability were astrocytes after 7 days of repeated exposure. Transcriptional analysis showed that 1274 genes were differentially expressed in astrocytes exposed to 500 nm microplastics, but only 531 genes were altered in astrocytes exposed to 50 nm nanoplastics. Both canonical pathway and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that upregulated pathways were involved in neuroinflammation, innate and adaptive immunity, cell migration, proliferation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and cytoskeleton structures. The downregulated pathways were involved in lipid metabolism, specifically fatty acid oxidation and cholesterol metabolism. Our results show that neural stem cell-derived astrocytes repeatedly exposed to nano- and microplastics for 7 days undergo changes that are hallmarks of astrogliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen A Marcellus
- Regulatory Toxicology Research Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Steven Bugiel
- Regulatory Toxicology Research Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Andrée Nunnikhoven
- Regulatory Toxicology Research Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Ivan Curran
- Regulatory Toxicology Research Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Santokh S Gill
- Regulatory Toxicology Research Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
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12
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Maharjan KK. Microplastics research in Nepal: Present scenario and current gaps in knowledge. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24956. [PMID: 38318064 PMCID: PMC10838786 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The topic of microplastics has drawn considerable scholarly interest in recent times. The objective of this study is to provide an overview of the current state of microplastic pollution research in Nepal and to make future research recommendations. To achieve the objective, three popular databases (Web of Science, SCOPUS and Google Scholar) were used. The results showed that the current scenario for microplastic research in Nepal is in its early stage, which commenced in 2020. A total of six papers were recorded over the period from 2020 to 2023. The research conducted in the fields were rivers, lakes, snow, and sediments. Studies have provided evidence of the occurrence of microplastics in diverse aquatic ecosystems. Lakeshore sediments show concentrations of 100.5 ± 58.6 items/kg dry weight, while shoreline sediments of Phewa lake exhibit variability between 55 and 122.5 items/kg. The lake water in winter records 2.96 ± 1.83 Microplastics per Liter (MPs/L), river water indicates 202 ± 100 items/m3, and snow demonstrates 30 MP/L. In freshwater ecosystems, microplastics, specifically fibers, were found to be the prevailing type, while fragments were recorded in road dust. The study conducted in Nepal provided evidence of the presence of a wide range of polymers. The polymers encompassed polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide, polystyrene (PS), and polyester. Microplastic research in Nepal, initiated in 2020, covered rivers, lakes, snow, and sediments. Diverse aquatic ecosystems reveal microplastic presence, emphasizing the need for continued study and awareness. Although extensive research has been carried out on the subject of microplastic contamination and its effects on various creatures on a global scale, an examination of the implications of microplastics on animals, plants, and humans in Nepal has not been found in any scholarly publications. There exists a noticeable deficit of research investigating the consumption of microplastics by human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kishor Kumar Maharjan
- Department of Environmental Science, Tri-Chandra Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal
- Faculty of Environmental Management, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
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Shanmugiah J, Zaheer J, Im C, Kang CM, Kim JS. Comparison of PET tracing and biodistribution between 64Cu-labeled micro-and nano-polystyrene in a murine inhalation model. Part Fibre Toxicol 2024; 21:2. [PMID: 38297341 PMCID: PMC10829228 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-023-00561-7] [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] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent studies showed the presence of microplastic in human lungs. There remains an unmet need to identify the biodistribution of microplastic after inhalation. In this study, we traced the biodistribution of inhaled micro-sized polystyrene (mPS) and/or nano-sized PS (nPS) using 64Cu with PET in mice. METHODS We used 0.2-0.3-µm sized mPS and 20-nm sized nPS throughout. 64Cu-DOTA-mPS, 64Cu-DOTA-nPS and/or 64CuCl2 were used to trace the distribution in the murine inhalation model. PET images were acquired using an INVEON PET scanner at 1, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after intratracheal instillation, and the SUVmax for interesting organs were determined, biodistribution was then determined in terms of percentage injected dose/gram of tissue (%ID/g). Ex vivo tissue-radio thin-layer chromatography (Ex vivo-radioTLC) was used to demonstrate the existence of 64Cu-DOTA-PS in tissue. RESULTS PET image demonstrated that the amount of 64Cu-DOTA-mPS retained within the lung was significantly higher than 64Cu-DOTA-nPS until 72 h; SUVmax values of 64Cu-DOTA-mPS in lungs was 11.7 ± 5.0, 48.3 ± 6.2, 65.5 ± 2.3, 42.2 ± 13.1, and 13.2 ± 2.3 at 1, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h respectively whereas it was 31.2 ± 3.1, 17.3 ± 5.9, 10.0 ± 3.4, 8.1 ± 2.4 and 8.9 ± 3.6 for 64Cu-DOTA-nPS at the corresponding timepoints. The biodistribution data supported the PET data with a similar pattern of clearance of the radioactivity from the lung. nPS cleared rapidly post instillation in comparison to mPS within the lungs. Higher accumulation of %ID/g for nPS (roughly 2 times) were observed compared to mPS in spleen, liver, intestine, thymus, kidney, brain, salivary gland, ovary, and urinary bladder. Ex vivo-radioTLC was used to demonstrate that the detected gamma rays originated from 64Cu-DOTA-mPS or nPS. CONCLUSION PET image demonstrated the differences in accumulations of mPS and/or nPS between lungs and other interesting organs. The information provided may be used as the basis for future studies on the toxicity of mPS and/or nPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joycie Shanmugiah
- Division of RI Application, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 75 Nowon-Gil, Gongneung-Dong, Nowon-Gu, Seoul, 01812, Korea
- Radiological and Medico-Oncological Sciences, Korea National University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Javeria Zaheer
- Division of RI Application, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 75 Nowon-Gil, Gongneung-Dong, Nowon-Gu, Seoul, 01812, Korea
| | - Changkeun Im
- Division of RI Application, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 75 Nowon-Gil, Gongneung-Dong, Nowon-Gu, Seoul, 01812, Korea
- Radiological and Medico-Oncological Sciences, Korea National University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong Mo Kang
- Division of RI Application, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 75 Nowon-Gil, Gongneung-Dong, Nowon-Gu, Seoul, 01812, Korea
- Radiological and Medico-Oncological Sciences, Korea National University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Su Kim
- Division of RI Application, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 75 Nowon-Gil, Gongneung-Dong, Nowon-Gu, Seoul, 01812, Korea.
- Radiological and Medico-Oncological Sciences, Korea National University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 01812, Republic of Korea.
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Bodus B, O'Malley K, Dieter G, Gunawardana C, McDonald W. Review of emerging contaminants in green stormwater infrastructure: Antibiotic resistance genes, microplastics, tire wear particles, PFAS, and temperature. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167195. [PMID: 37777137 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167195] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Green stormwater infrastructure is a growing management approach to capturing, infiltrating, and treating runoff at the source. However, there are several emerging contaminants for which green stormwater infrastructure has not been explicitly designed to mitigate and for which removal mechanisms are not yet well defined. This is an issue, as there is a growing understanding of the impact of emerging contaminants on human and environmental health. This paper presents a review of five emerging contaminants - antibiotic resistance genes, microplastics, tire wear particles, PFAS, and temperature - and seeks to improve our understanding of how green stormwater infrastructure is impacted by and can be designed to mitigate these emerging contaminants. To do so, we present a review of the source and transport of these contaminants to green stormwater infrastructure, specific treatment mechanisms within green infrastructure, and design considerations of green stormwater infrastructure that could lead to their removal. In addition, common removal mechanisms across these contaminants and limitations of green infrastructure for contaminant mitigation are discussed. Finally, we present future research directions that can help to advance the use of green infrastructure as a first line of defense for downstream water bodies against emerging contaminants of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Bodus
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| | - Kassidy O'Malley
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| | - Greg Dieter
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| | - Charitha Gunawardana
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
| | - Walter McDonald
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Marquette University, 1637 W. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
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15
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Jiménez-Arroyo C, Tamargo A, Molinero N, Reinosa JJ, Alcolea-Rodriguez V, Portela R, Bañares MA, Fernández JF, Moreno-Arribas MV. Simulated gastrointestinal digestion of polylactic acid (PLA) biodegradable microplastics and their interaction with the gut microbiota. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166003. [PMID: 37549707 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the environment as well as their presence in foods and humans highlight the urgent need for studies on the effects of these particles on humans. Polylactic acid (PLA) is the most widely used bioplastic in the food industry and medical field. Despite its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) status, recent animal model studies have shown that PLA MPs can alter the intestinal microbiota; however, to date, no studies have been reported on the possible gut and health consequences of its intake by humans. This work simulates the ingestion of a realistic daily amount of PLA MPs and their pass through the gastrointestinal tract by combining the INFOGEST method and the gastrointestinal simgi® model to evaluate possible effects on the human colonic microbiota composition (16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis) and metabolic functionality (lactic acid and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) production). Although PLA MPs did not clearly alter the microbial community homeostasis, increased Bifidobacterium levels tended to increase in presence of millimetric PLA particles. Furthermore, shifts detected at the functional level suggest an alteration of microbial metabolism, and a possible biotransformation of PLA by the human microbial colonic community. Raman spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) characterization revealed morphological changes on the PLA MPs after the gastric phase of the digestion, and the adhesion of organic matter as well as a microbial biofilm, with surface biodegradation, after the intestinal and colonic phases. With this evidence and the emerging use of bioplastics, understanding their impact on humans and potential biodegradation through gastrointestinal digestion and the human microbiota merits critical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Jiménez-Arroyo
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL, CSIC-UAM, C/ Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - A Tamargo
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL, CSIC-UAM, C/ Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - N Molinero
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL, CSIC-UAM, C/ Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - J J Reinosa
- Instituto de Cerámica y Vidrio, CSIC, c/ Kelsen, 28049 Madrid, Spain; Encapsulae S.L., c/Lituania 10, 12006 Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| | - V Alcolea-Rodriguez
- Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica, CSIC, c/ Marie Curie, 2, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - R Portela
- Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica, CSIC, c/ Marie Curie, 2, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - M A Bañares
- Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica, CSIC, c/ Marie Curie, 2, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - J F Fernández
- Encapsulae S.L., c/Lituania 10, 12006 Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| | - M V Moreno-Arribas
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL, CSIC-UAM, C/ Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
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Taghipour H, Ghayebzadeh M, Mousavi SMS, Sharifi H, Payandeh A. Incidence and exposure to microplastics in table salt present in the Iran market. Toxicol Rep 2023; 11:129-140. [PMID: 37520774 PMCID: PMC10372495 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastics and microplastics (MPs) are toxic, pervasive and threatening the biotic and abiotic components of the earth, and they threaten food safety and food security by moving in the food chain. In this study, the amounts and characteristics of 40 table salt samples with different brands, including sea salt (No = 13), rock (No = 13), bulk (No = 8) and non-standard (No = 6), were investigated with a combination of sieving, filtration, observation and FTIR, Micro-Raman and SEM techniques. The results showed that all the salts were contaminated with MPs. In general, the abundance range of detected particles was 700-5470 MPs/kg. The abundance of MPs was higher in counterfeit and non-standard salts (1825 ± 1808 MPs/kg). Investigating the relationship between the effect of the purification process (Kruskal-Wallis Test, P = 0.841), the type of packaging (Kruskal-Wallis Test, P = 0.609), and the type of salt (Kruskal-Wallis Test, P = 0.942), on the abundance of MPs using a comparison test Kruskal-Wallis was not significant. However, the numerical difference was recognizable. The most identified polymer in the salts was cellulose acetate, which probably causes by unmanaged plastic litter in the environment (especially cigarette butts). The dominant form of particles was fragment-shaped, which is the most abundant form of identified MPs in the environment. Both environmental pollution and secondary pollution (during production and packaging), respectively, contribute to the contamination of salts with MPs. The estimated human dietary intake (EDI) and the amount of estimated annual intake (EAI) for different ages in Iran were obtained EDI = 5-59 MPs/capita/day and EAI = 1967-21563 MPs/capita/year. The surface morphology of the particles showed that the MPs were affected by continuous weathering, mechanical fracture and oxidation. MPs are a threat to human health due to the absorption and transmission of dangerous pollutants and their inherent toxicity. Therefore, a solution must be thought of to prevent the contamination of the food chain through salts by MPs, (with protective measures at the salt source, and by improving its production processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Taghipour
- Health and Environment Research Center, School of Public Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Mehdi Ghayebzadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Islamic Republic of Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Seyedeh Maryam Seyed Mousavi
- Health and Environment Research Center, School of Public Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Hamze Sharifi
- Health and Environment Research Center, School of Public Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Abolfazl Payandeh
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Genetics of Non-communicable Disease Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
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17
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Simionov IA, Călmuc M, Iticescu C, Călmuc V, Georgescu PL, Faggio C, Petrea ŞM. Human health risk assessment of potentially toxic elements and microplastics accumulation in products from the Danube River Basin fish market. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 104:104307. [PMID: 37914033 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to quantify the concentration levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) such as aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel, lead, zinc, and mercury, as well as microplastics occurrence in various tissues of fish and seafood species, commercialized in the Lower Danube River Basin. A health risk assessment analysis was performed based on the PTEs concentration levels in the muscle tissue. Estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and target cancer risk (TR) of PTEs were calculated. It was observed that the species within the seafood category registered the highest levels of PTEs. For instance, in the muscle tissue of bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis (from the Black Sea), the highest value was observed in the case of Zn (37.693 mg/kg), and the presence of polystyrene polymer was identified. The values associated with EDI, THQ, HI, and TR of PTE exposure were significantly lower than 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira-Adeline Simionov
- Rexdan Research Infrastructure, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania; Department of Food Science, Food Engineering, Biotechnologies and Aquaculture, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Mădălina Călmuc
- Rexdan Research Infrastructure, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Cătălina Iticescu
- Rexdan Research Infrastructure, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania; Department of Chemistry, Physics and Environment, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania.
| | - Valentina Călmuc
- Rexdan Research Infrastructure, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Puiu-Lucian Georgescu
- Rexdan Research Infrastructure, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania; Department of Chemistry, Physics and Environment, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Caterina Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Ştefan-Mihai Petrea
- Rexdan Research Infrastructure, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania; Department of Food Science, Food Engineering, Biotechnologies and Aquaculture, "Dunarea de Jos" University Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
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Islam MS, Islam Z, Jamal AHMSIM, Momtaz N, Beauty SA. Removal efficiencies of microplastics of the three largest drinking water treatment plants in Bangladesh. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165155. [PMID: 37379932 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs) are intended to provide safe water to the municipality, typically by treating surface waters from rivers, lakes, and streams. Regrettably, all of these water sources for DWTPs have been reported to be contaminated by microplastics (MPs). Hence, there is an urgent need to investigate the removal efficiencies of MPs from raw waters in the conventional DWTPs anticipating public health concerns. In this experiment, MPs in the raw and treated waters of the three major DWTPs of Bangladesh, having different water treatment processes, were evaluated. The concentrations of MPs in the inlet points of Saidabad Water Treatment Plant phase-1 and 2 (SWTP-1 and SWTP-2), which share a similar water source of the Shitalakshya River, were 25.7 ± 9.8 and 26.01 ± 9.8 items L-1. The third plant, Padma Water Treatment Plant (PWTP) utilizes water from the Padma River and had an initial MP concentration of 6.2 ± 1.6 items L-1. The studied DWTPs, with their existing treatment processes, were found to reduce the MP loads substantially. The final MP concentrations in treated waters of SWTP-1, SWTP-2, and PWTP were 0.3 ± 0.03, 0.4 ± 0.01, and 0.05 ± 0.02 items L-1 with the removal efficiencies of 98.8, 98.5, and 99.2 %, respectively. The considered size range of MP was 20 μm to <5000. Fragments and fibers were the two predominant MP shapes. In terms of polymer, the MPs were polypropylene (PP, 48 %), polyethylene (PE, 35 %), polyethylene terephthalate (PET, 11 %), and polystyrene (PS, 6 %). The field emission scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FESEM-EDX) revealed the fractured and rough surfaces of the remaining MPs, which were also found to be contaminated with heavy metals, like lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn). Hence, additional initiatives are required to remove the residual MPs from the treated waters to safeguard the city dwellers from potential hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Saiful Islam
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh.
| | - Zahidul Islam
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - A H M Shofiul Islam Molla Jamal
- Institute of National Analytical Research & Service (INARS), Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Nasima Momtaz
- Biological Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Sadia Afrin Beauty
- Saidabad Water Treatment Plant, Dhaka Water Supply & Sewerage Authority, Dhaka 1204, Bangladesh
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Baba FV, Esfandiari Z. Theoretical and practical aspects of risk communication in food safety: A review study. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18141. [PMID: 37539121 PMCID: PMC10395359 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18141] [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: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, food safety hazards have introduced as one of the most important threats to public health worldwide. Considering numerous crises in the field of food safety at global, regional, and national levels, and their impact on the physical and mental health of consumers, it is very vital to evaluate risk communication strategies in each country. Food safety risk communication (FSRC) aims to provide the means for individuals to protect their health from food safety risks and make informed decisions about food risks. The purpose of this study is to present FSRC as one of the key parts of risk analysis, its importance considering the prevalence of food contamination and recent crises related to food. Additionally, the stages of implementation of FSRC are mentioned. In FSRC, it is essential to comply with the principles and prerequisites. There are various strategies for FSRC nowadays. Different platforms for FSRC are rapidly evolving. Choosing and evaluating the appropriate strategy according to the target group, consensus of stakeholders, cooperation and coordination of risk assessors and risk managers have a significant impact in order to improve and implement FSRC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahra Esfandiari
- Corresponding author. Hezar Jarib St, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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Râpă M, Darie-Niță RN, Matei E, Predescu AM, Berbecaru AC, Predescu C. Insights into Anthropogenic Micro- and Nanoplastic Accumulation in Drinking Water Sources and Their Potential Effects on Human Health. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15112425. [PMID: 37299225 DOI: 10.3390/polym15112425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Anthropogenic microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are ubiquitous pollutants found in aquatic, food, soil and air environments. Recently, drinking water for human consumption has been considered a significant pathway for ingestion of such plastic pollutants. Most of the analytical methods developed for detection and identification of MPs have been established for particles with sizes > 10 μm, but new analytical approaches are required to identify NPs below 1 μm. This review aims to evaluate the most recent information on the release of MPs and NPs in water sources intended for human consumption, specifically tap water and commercial bottled water. The potential effects on human health of dermal exposure, inhalation, and ingestion of these particles were examined. Emerging technologies used to remove MPs and/or NPs from drinking water sources and their advantages and limitations were also assessed. The main findings showed that the MPs with sizes > 10 μm were completely removed from drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). The smallest NP identified using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Pyr-GC/MS) had a diameter of 58 nm. Contamination with MPs/NPs can occur during the distribution of tap water to consumers, as well as when opening and closing screw caps of bottled water or when using recycled plastic or glass bottles for drinking water. In conclusion, this comprehensive study emphasizes the importance of a unified approach to detect MPs and NPs in drinking water, as well as raising the awareness of regulators, policymakers and the public about the impact of these pollutants, which pose a human health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Râpă
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca Nicoleta Darie-Niță
- Physical Chemistry of Polymers Department, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Grigore Ghica Voda Alley, 700487 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ecaterina Matei
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andra-Mihaela Predescu
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrei-Constantin Berbecaru
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian Predescu
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
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Thiele CJ, Grange LJ, Haggett E, Hudson MD, Hudson P, Russell AE, Zapata-Restrepo LM. Microplastics in European sea salts - An example of exposure through consumer choice and of interstudy methodological discrepancies. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 255:114782. [PMID: 36934543 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are contaminants of emerging concern, not least due to their global presence in marine surface waters. Unsurprisingly, microplastics have been reported in salts harvested from numerous locations. We extracted microplastics from 13 European sea salts through 30% H2O2 digestion and filtration over 5-µm filters. Filters were visually inspected at magnifications to x100. A subsample of potential microplastics was subjected to Raman spectroscopy. Particle mass was estimated, and human dose exposure calculated. After blank corrections, median concentrations were 466 ± 152 microplastics kg-1 ranging from 74 to 1155 items kg-1. Traditionally harvested salts contained fewer microplastics than most industrially harvested ones (t-test, p < 0.01). Approximately 14 µg of microplastics (< 12 particles) may be absorbed by the human body annually, of which a quarter may derive from a consumer choosing sea salt. We reviewed existing studies, showing that targeting different particle sizes and incomplete filtrations hinder interstudy comparison, indicating the importance of method harmonisation for future studies. Excess salt consumption is detrimental to human health; the hazardousness of ingesting microplastics on the other hand has yet to be shown. A portion of microplastics may enter sea salts through production processes rather than source materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina J Thiele
- Centre for Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Laura J Grange
- School of Ocean and Earth Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton Waterfront Campus, European Way, Southampton SO14 3ZH, UK; Currently at School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2DG, UK
| | - Emily Haggett
- Centre for Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Malcolm D Hudson
- Centre for Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Philippa Hudson
- Philippa Hudson, Bournemouth University, Talbot Campus, Fern Barrow, Poole BH12 5BB, UK
| | - Andrea E Russell
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Lina M Zapata-Restrepo
- Centre for Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
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22
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Zhu J, Dong X, Zhao N, Jiang S, Jin H. Microplastics in polystyrene-made food containers from China: abundance, shape, size, and human intake. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:40084-40093. [PMID: 36607577 PMCID: PMC9821365 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-25093-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Polystyrene-made food containers (PMFCs) have been widely used as takeout containers in China. However, the pollution of microplastics (MPs) in PMFCs used in Chinese restaurants remains not well known. For the first time, this study analyzed MPs in PMFC samples (n = 354) collected from different restaurants in 28 Chinese cities. MPs were detected in all PMFC samples, with an abundance of 5-173 items/container. PMFC samples from Taiyuan (mean of 86 items/container) contained the highest mean abundance of MPs. A relatively lower abundance of MPs was found in PMFCs from Urumqi (mean of 19 items/container) and Fuzhou (18 items/container). Fiber was the predominant shape of MPs in most of the PMFC samples. The abundance of MPs in PMFCs was positively correlated with the proportion of fiber. The major polymer composition of MPs was polystyrene, accounting for a mean of 45-90% of total polymers for MPs in PMFCs from different cities. The abundance of MPs in PMFC samples was negatively correlated with the proportion of polystyrene. The mean estimated oral exposure of MPs for the general population in different Chinese cities was 0.24-1.4 items/kg bw/day. Such data is important for human MP exposure risk assessment and also for elucidating the sources of human exposure to MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiang Zhu
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, 318000, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowei Dong
- Jinhua Institute for Food and Drug Control, Jinhua, Zhejiang, 321000, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengtao Jiang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, 318000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hangbiao Jin
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Morales IDG, Macusi ED, Jondonero MAP, Guihawan JQ, Bacosa HP, Amparado RF. Facemask: Protection or threat? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 188:114681. [PMID: 36758311 PMCID: PMC9902895 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Facemasks were widely used as a protection against SARS-COV-2, which significantly reduced COVID-19 transmission during the pandemic. However, concerns have been raised regarding its adverse impacts on human health due to intense use and mismanagement. Although rampant plastic littering was the norm before the pandemic, the magnitude of the problem is worsening as potentially COVID-19-infected facemasks are thrown along the shoreline. This study assessed the discarded facemasks on the most popular beach destinations in Mati City, Davao Oriental, Philippines. A total of N = 284 discarded facemasks were found in a cumulative area of 22,500 m2, with an average density of 8.4 × 10-4 items/m2. The surgical facemask (82 %; n = 234) was the most abundant type of facemask found in the areas, followed by KF94 (16 %; n = 45) and KN95 (2 %; n = 5). The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) showed significant differences in the visual counts of facemasks on the three beaches (p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilah Dianne G Morales
- Environmental Science Graduate Program, College of Science and Mathematics, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines.
| | - Edison D Macusi
- Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences (IALS), Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU), Mati City, Davao Oriental, Philippines
| | | | - Jaime Q Guihawan
- Environmental Science Graduate Program, College of Science and Mathematics, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines
| | - Hernando P Bacosa
- Environmental Science Graduate Program, College of Science and Mathematics, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines
| | - Ruben F Amparado
- Environmental Science Graduate Program, College of Science and Mathematics, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines
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24
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Microplastics in Terrestrial Domestic Animals and Human Health: Implications for Food Security and Food Safety and Their Role as Sentinels. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040661. [PMID: 36830448 PMCID: PMC9951732 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Terrestrial domestic animals are exposed to microplastics, therefore, contaminating the food chain, in the case of livestock, or acting as sentinels for human exposure, in the case of companion animals. The aim of this review was to address the importance of terrestrial domestic animals on human exposure to microplastics. Animal products may already show some microplastics contamination, which may occur during their lifetime, possibly also compromising productivity, and during processing, originating from equipment and packaging. Moreover, release of microplastics in animal feces (or manure) leads to the contamination of agricultural fields, with possible impacts and internalization in plants. Therefore, microplastics pose a threat to food security, compromising food productivity, and food safety, by being a foreign material found in animal products. Conversely, in urban environments, companion animals (cats and dogs) may be relevant sentinels for human exposure. While oral exposure may vary in pets compared to humans, due to indiscriminate ingestion and chewing or licking behaviors, airborne exposure is likely to be a good indicator for human exposure. Therefore, future studies should address the importance of terrestrial domestic animals for human exposure of microplastics, both in the food chain and as sentinels for environmental exposure.
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25
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Frank Y, Vorobiev D, Mandal A, Lemeshko Y, Rakhmatullina S, Darbha GK. Freshwater Fish Siberian Dace Ingest Microplastics in the Remote Yenisei Tributary. TOXICS 2022; 11:38. [PMID: 36668764 PMCID: PMC9865856 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11010038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This study analyzed microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract of Siberian dace (Leuciscus leuciscus subsp. baicalensis (Dybowski, 1874)) in the remote Yenisei tributary of the Nizhnyaya (Lower) Tunguska River (Siberia, Russia). µRaman analysis showed that 60% of the fish from two different sites had ingested plastic microparticles (on average, 1.55 ± 1.95 items per individual). The most common type of microplastic were fibers, and the most abundant size category was 300 to 1000 µm. In the studied population, no significant differences in the MP content between the two sites or between males and females were found (p > 0.05). The tendency for higher MP ingestion by Siberian dace at earlier ages (2+ and 3+) compared to later (4+ and 5+) was observed, which may be connected to the features of the fish biology and ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Frank
- Biological Institute, Tomsk State University, Lenina Ave. 36, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Danil Vorobiev
- Biological Institute, Tomsk State University, Lenina Ave. 36, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Abhishek Mandal
- Environmental Nanoscience Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246, West Bengal, India
| | - Yana Lemeshko
- Biological Institute, Tomsk State University, Lenina Ave. 36, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | | | - Gopala Krishna Darbha
- Environmental Nanoscience Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246, West Bengal, India
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26
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Jiménez‐Arroyo C, Tamargo A, Molinero N, Moreno‐Arribas MV. The gut microbiota, a key to understanding the health implications of micro(nano)plastics and their biodegradation. Microb Biotechnol 2022; 16:34-53. [PMID: 36415969 PMCID: PMC9803334 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of plastic debris on the environment and plant, animal, and human health are a global challenge, with micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) being the main focus. MNPs are found so often in the food chain that they are provoking an increase in human intake. They have been detected in most categories of consumed foods, drinking water, and even human feces. Therefore, oral ingestion becomes the main source of exposure to MNPs, and the gastrointestinal tract, primarily the gut, constantly interacts with these small particles. The consequences of human exposure to MNPs remain unclear. However, current in vivo studies and in vitro gastrointestinal tract models have shown that MNPs of several types and sizes impact gut intestinal bacteria, affecting gut homeostasis. The typical microbiome signature of MNP ingestion is often associated with dysbiosis and loss of resilience, leads to frequent pathogen outbreaks, and local and systemic metabolic disorders. Moreover, the small micro- and nano-plastic particles found in animal tissues with accumulated evidence of microbial degradation of plastics/MNPs by bacteria and insect gut microbiota raise the issue of whether human gut bacteria make key contributions to the bio-transformation of ingested MNPs. Here, we discuss these issues and unveil the complex interplay between MNPs and the human gut microbiome. Therefore, the elucidation of the biological consequences of this interaction on both host and microbiota is undoubtedly challenging. It is expected that microbial biotechnology and microbiome research could help decipher the extent to which gut microorganisms diversify and MNP-determinant species, mechanisms, and enzymatic systems, as well as become important to understand our response to MNP exposure and provide background information to inspire future holistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alba Tamargo
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL)CSIC‐UAMMadridSpain
| | - Natalia Molinero
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL)CSIC‐UAMMadridSpain
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27
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Microplastic in Food and Water: Current Knowledge and Awareness of Consumers. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14224857. [PMID: 36432543 PMCID: PMC9695129 DOI: 10.3390/nu14224857] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the widespread of microplastics in the food chain and environment became a topic of much research. This article focused on the knowledge and awareness of people with higher education levels-mostly young ones. The aim of this study is to analyze to what extent consumers know about and are aware of the source of microplastics, the level of exposure, and potential health hazards connected to the contamination of food and water with microplastics. The test group, consisting of 410 people, is mostly able to correctly characterize what microplastics mean and knows its sources. A majority of the group is aware of potential presence of microplastics in water; however, the knowledge about contamination of other elements of the environment seems to be gradually lowering. The majority of the people taking part in the research know that microplastic might be present in foods, and they are aware that after entering the human body, it might accumulate in internal organs. Moreover, when asked about potential health hazards, the group chose mostly tumors and gastrointestinal disorders, while disorders of the reproductive system were chosen less frequently. Consumers' knowledge regarding the sources and health hazards of microplastics seems to be more common among women, in groups living in cities and among people who studied physics-related subjects and medicine.
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28
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Occurrence and exposure to microplastics in salt for human consumption, present on the Lebanese market. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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29
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Afrin S, Rahman MM, Akbor MA, Siddique MAB, Uddin MK, Malafaia G. Is there tea complemented with the appealing flavor of microplastics? A pioneering study on plastic pollution in commercially available tea bags in Bangladesh. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155833. [PMID: 35561914 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a global concern, mainly due to its adverse effects on organisms and ecosystems. However, our knowledge of its impact on humans, in particular, is still very limited. Thus, while we have not gathered definitive information on their consequences, studies that aim to identify the MP's sources constitute subsidies to better understand the various exposure pathways to these pollutants. Thus, we investigated the possible presence of MP-like particles in teabag samples (of different brands) obtained in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Surprisingly, all analyzed samples (five brands) were contaminated with MPs. Fragments and fibers were identified in a higher percentage, and a wide variety of colors was identified, with a predominance of brown, blue, and red colors. Scanning electron microscope images of teabags exhibited net-like structures of fiber particles with a smooth surface. Furthermore, we observed irregularly shaped MPs and rougher surfaces and fragments in the process of detachment from the main fiber, oxidation flakes, and fracture-like. The average size of these pollutants was between 200.6 and 220.7 μm, and the polymer types identified via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were polytetrafluoroethylene, high-density polyethylene, polycarbonate, nylon, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate, cellulose acetate, and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, the last three being the most frequent in the analyzed samples. Finally, we noticed that MPs from tea bags in Dhaka could cause an average emission of 10.9 million grams of MPs/year. Although the teabags analyzed in our study are not "complemented with the appealing flavor of MPs", it is very likely that tea ingestion in Dhaka is accompanied by the concomitant ingestion of plastic particles making teabags an important route of human exposure to these micropollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Afrin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; Laboratory of Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh.
| | - Md Ahedul Akbor
- Institute of National Analytical Research and Services (INARS), Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka-1205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Abu Bakar Siddique
- Institute of National Analytical Research and Services (INARS), Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka-1205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Khabir Uddin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Laboratory of Toxicology Applied to the Environment, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Programa in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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30
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Ekvall MT, Naidu S, Lundqvist M, Cedervall T, Värendh M. The forgotten tonsils—does the immune active organ absorb nanoplastics? FRONTIERS IN NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fnano.2022.923634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanoplastics are defined as plastic particles broken down to extremely small sizes (1–100 nm) with unknown effects to the human body and immune system. Air and food exposure scenarios involving blood, lungs and intestine are considered in the literature. The fact that plastics also needs to pass the nose, oral cavity, and throat is so far ignored in the literature. The tonsils are immunologically important tissue in the oral cavity in which ingested and inhaled agents are incorporated through crypts with the capacity to capture agents and start early immunologic reactions. We argue that the tonsil is a very important tissue to study in regard to micro and nanoplastic human exposure and immunologic response. Nano-sized particles are known to be able to travel through the natural barriers and have different effects on biology compared to larger particle and the bulk material. It is therefore, although difficult, important to develop experimental methods to detect and identify nanoplastics in the tonsils. In preliminary experiments we have optimized the breakdown of tonsil tissues and tried to retrieve added polystyrene nanoparticles using density-based separation and concentration. The polystyrene was followed by FTIR spectrometry and could be detected in micro- and nano-size, in the tissue breakdown solution but not after density-based separation. When nanoplastics are incorporated in the human body, it is possible that the small plastic pieces can be detected in the tonsil tissue, in the lymph system and it is of importance for future studies to reveal the immunological effects for humans.
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31
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Sharma S, Sharma B, Dey Sadhu S. Microplastic profusion in food and drinking water: are microplastics becoming a macroproblem? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2022; 24:992-1009. [PMID: 35699396 DOI: 10.1039/d1em00553g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are extremely complex, and as the food chain comes full circle, it is dreaded that these could have a deleterious influence on humans. Although the risk of plastics to humans is not yet established, their occurrence in food and water destined for human consumption has been reported. The prevalence of micro-sized plastics in the ecosystem and living organisms, their trophic transfer along the food web, and the discernment of food species as competent indicators have become research priorities. The scale of the issue is massive, but what are the main culprits and causes, and could there be a solution in sight for this global problem? Despite the massive amount of research in the field, a collation of available data and pertinent hazard evaluation remains difficult. In order to identify the knowledge gaps and exposure pathways, several traits related to food chain assessment are presented with the goal of properly evaluating and managing this emerging risk. We apprehend three possible noxious consequences of small plastic particles, firstly, due to the plastic particles themselves; secondly, due to the extrication of tenacious organic pollutants adsorbed onto the plastics; and thirdly, due to the leaching of components such as monomers and additives from the plastics. The exigency for the standardization of protocols to bring about consistency in data collection and analysis, involving solutions, stakeholder costs, and benefits, are discussed. Harmonized methods will enable meticulous assessment of the impacts and threats that microplastics pose to the biota and increase the comparability between studies. We emphasize the contribution of the "honest broker" in science, providing an overarching analysis to devise the most viable solutions to microplastic pollution for private and public leadership to utilize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Sharma
- Department of Biological Sciences and Engineering, Netaji Subhas University of Technology, Dwarka Sec-3, Delhi, India
| | - Bhasha Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Shivaji College, University of Delhi, India
| | - Susmita Dey Sadhu
- Department of Polymer Science, Bhaskaracharya College of Applied Sciences, Dwarka Sec-2, Delhi, India.
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