Bioconcentration potential of ionic liquids: New data on membrane partitioning and its comparison with predictions obtained by COSMOmic

Ionic liquids (ILs) have recently gained significant attention in both the scientific community and industry, but there is a limited understanding of the potential risks they might pose to the environment and human health, including their potential to accumulate in organisms. While membrane and storage lipids have been considered as primary sorption phases driving bioaccumulation, in this study we used an in vitro tool known as solid-supported lipid membranes (SSLMs) to investigate the affinity of ILs to membrane lipid - phosphatidylcholine and compare the results with an existing in silico model. Our findings indicate that ILs may have a strong affinity for the lipids that form cell membranes, with the key factor being the length of the cation's side chain. For quaternary ammonium cations, increase in membrane affinity (logMA) was observed from 3.45 ± 0.06 at 10 carbon atoms in chain to 4.79 ± 0.06 at 14 carbon atoms. We also found that the anion can significantly affect the membrane partitioning of the cation, even though the anions themselves tend to have weaker interactions with phospholipids than the cations of ILs. For 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium cation the presence of tricyanomethanide anion caused increase in logMA to 4.23 ± 0.06. Although some of our data proved to be consistent with predictions made by the COSMOmic model, there are also significant discrepancies. These results suggest that further research is needed to improve our understanding of the mechanisms and structure-activity relationships involved in ILs bioconcentration and to develop more accurate predictive models.

Genome-centric analyses of 165 metagenomes show that mobile genetic elements are crucial for the transmission of antimicrobial resistance genes to pathogens in activated sludge and wastewater

Wastewater is considered a reservoir of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), where the abundant antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and mobile genetic elements facilitate horizontal gene transfer. However, the prevalence and extent of these phenomena in different taxonomic groups that inhabit wastewater are still not fully understood. Here, we determined the presence of ARGs in metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) and evaluated the risks of MAG-carrying ARGs in potential human pathogens. The potential of these ARGs to be transmitted horizontally or vertically was also determined. A total of 5,916 MAGs (completeness >50%, contamination <10%) were recovered, covering 68 phyla and 279 genera. MAGs were dereplicated into 1,204 genome operational taxonomic units (gOTUs) as a proxy for species ( average nucleotide identity >0.95). The dominant ARG classes detected were bacitracin, multi-drug, macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin (MLS), glycopeptide, and aminoglycoside, and 10.26% of them were located on plasmids. The main hosts of ARGs belonged to Escherichia, Klebsiella, Acinetobacter, Gresbergeria, Mycobacterium, and Thauera. Our data showed that 253 MAGs carried virulence factor genes (VFGs) divided into 44 gOTUs, of which 45 MAGs were carriers of ARGs, indicating that potential human pathogens carried ARGs. Alarmingly, the MAG assigned as Escherichia coli contained 159 VFGs, of which 95 were located on chromosomes and 10 on plasmids. In addition to shedding light on the prevalence of ARGs in individual genomes recovered from activated sludge and wastewater, our study demonstrates a workflow that can identify antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in complex microbial communities.

IMPORTANCE

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threatens the health of humans, animals, and natural ecosystems. In our study, an analysis of 165 metagenomes from wastewater revealed antibiotic-targeted alteration, efflux, and inactivation as the most prevalent AMR mechanisms. We identified several genera correlated with multiple ARGs, including Klebsiella, Escherichia, Acinetobacter, Nitrospira, Ottowia, Pseudomonas, and Thauera, which could have significant implications for AMR transmission. The abundance of bacA, mexL, and aph(3")-I in the genomes calls for their urgent management in wastewater. Our approach could be applied to different ecosystems to assess the risk of potential pathogens containing ARGs. Our findings highlight the importance of managing AMR in wastewater and can help design measures to reduce the transmission and evolution of AMR in these systems.

NSO-heterocyclic PAHs - Controlled exposure study reveals high acute aquatic toxicity

Environmental occurrence and hazardous nature of heterocyclic polyaromatic hydrocarbons (heterocyclic PAHs) has the potential to threaten the health of aquatic ecosystems. Here, we investigate the acute toxicity of heterocyclic PAHs (log KOW 3.7-6.9) to aquatic organisms: marine bacteria (Aliivibrio fischeri), freshwater green algae (Raphidocelis subcapitata), and water fleas (Daphnia magna) using passive dosing to maintain stable exposure. The membrane-water partition coefficient (KMW) of the heterocycles was measured to elucidate its relationship with toxicity. Our findings show that the tested heterocycles had little inhibitory effect on A. fischeri, while most compounds were highly toxic to R. subcapitata and D. magna. Toxicity generally increased with increasing KMW values, and nonpolar narcosis was identified as the most likely mode of toxic action of the heterocycles. Comparison of standard protocols with passive dosing emphasizes the importance of maintaining a constant concentration during toxicity testing, as very high losses occurred in standard tests and passive dosing experiments revealed higher toxicities. These results indicate a potentially high risk to aquatic life and call for more in-depth investigation of the (eco)toxic effects of NSO-PAHs.

Environmental persistence assessment of heterocyclic polyaromatic hydrocarbons - Ultimate and primary biodegradability using adapted and non-adapted microbial communities

Heterocyclic polyaromatic hydrocarbons (heterocyclic PAHs) are of increasing concern and their environmental and human health impacts should be assessed due to their widespread presence and potential persistence in the environment. This study investigated the ultimate and primary biodegradability of ten heterocyclic PAHs, nine of which were found to be non-readily biodegradable. To generate a microbial community capable of degrading such compounds, a bacterial inoculum isolated from the effluent of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) was adapted to a mixture of heterocyclic PAHs for one year. Throughout the adaptation process, bacterial samples were collected at different stages to conduct primary biodegradation, ultimate biodegradation, and inoculum toxicity tests. Interestingly, after one year of adaptation, the community developed the ability to mineralize carbazole, but in the same time showed an increasing sensitivity to the toxic effects of benzo[c]carbazole. In two consecutive primary biodegradation experiments, degradation of four heterocycles was observed, while no biodegradation was detected for five compounds in any of the tests. Furthermore, the findings of this work were compared with predictions from in silico models regarding biodegradation timeframe and sorption, and it was found that the models were partially successful in describing these processes. The results of study provide valuable insights into the persistence of a representative group of heterocyclic PAHs in aquatic environments, which contributes to the hazard assessment of this particular class of substances.

Trace analysis of benzophenone-type UV filters in water and their effects on human estrogen and androgen receptors

To carry out risk assessments of benzophenone-type UV filters (BPs), fast and accurate analytical methods are crucial to determine and monitor levels in the environment. This study presents an LC-MS/MS method that requires minimal sample preparation and yet can identify 10 different BPs in environmental samples such as surface or wastewater resulting in a LOQ range from 2 to 1060 ng/L. The method suitability was tested through environmental monitoring, which showed that, BP-4 is the most abundant derivative found in the surface waters of Germany, India, South Africa and Vietnam. BP-4 levels correlate with the WWTP effluent fraction of the respective river for selected samples in Germany. Peak values of 171 ng/L for 4-hydroxybenzophenone (4-OH-BP), as measured in Vietnamese surface water, already exceed the PNEC value of 80 ng/L, elevating 4-OH-BP to the status of a new pollutant that needs more frequent monitoring. Moreover, this study reveals that during biodegradation of benzophenone in river water, the transformation product 4-OH-BP is formed which contain structural alerts for estrogenic activity. By using yeast-based reporter gene assays, this study provides bio-equivalents of 9 BPs, 4-OH-BP, 2,3,4-tri-OH-BP, 4-cresol and benzoate and complements the existing structure-activities relationships of BPs and their degradation products.

Primary and ultimate degradation of benzophenone-type UV filters under different environmental conditions and the underlying structure-biodegradability relationships

Ten common benzophenone-based UV filters (BPs), sharing the same basic structure and differing only in their substituents, were investigated with respect to their primary and ultimate biodegradability. This study was carried out in order to gain deeper insights into the relationship between structure and biodegradability. The primary biodegradation of the selected BPs was studied in river water at environmentally relevant concentrations (1 µg/L) while varying specific, crucial environmental conditions (aerobic, suboxic, supplementation of nutrients). For this purpose, both batch and column degradation tests were performed, which allowed a systematic study of the effects. Subsequently, the ultimate biodegradation, i.e. the potential to achieve full mineralization of BPs, was examined according to OECD guideline 301 F. The results indicate that mineralization is limited to derivatives in which both aromatic rings contain substituents. This hypothesis was supported by docking simulations showing systematic differences in the orientation of BPs within the active site of the cytochrome P450 enzyme. These differences in orientation correspond to the substitution pattern of the BPs. This study provides valuable insights for assessing the environmental hazards of this class of trace organic compounds.

Natural Zeolites for the Sorption of Ammonium: Breakthrough Curve Evaluation and Modeling

The excessive use of ammonium fertilizer and its associated leakage threatens aquatic environments around the world. With a focus on the treatment of drinking water, the scope of this study was to evaluate and model the breakthrough curves for NH₄⁺ in zeolite-filled, fixed-bed columns. Breakthrough experiments were performed in single- and multi-sorbate systems with the initial K⁺ and NH₄⁺ concentrations set to 0.7 mmol/L. Breakthrough curves were successfully modeled by applying the linear driving force (LDF) and Thomas models. Batch experiments revealed that a good description of NH₄⁺ sorption was provided by the Freundlich sorption model (R² = 0.99), while unfavorable sorption was determined for K⁺ (n_F = 2.19). Intraparticle diffusion was identified as the rate limiting step for NH₄⁺ and K⁺ during breakthrough. Compared to ultrapure water, the use of tap, river, and groundwater matrices decreased the treated bed volumes by between 25% and 69%-as measured at a NH₄⁺ breakthrough level of 50%. The concentrations of K⁺ and of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were identified as the main parameters that determine NH₄⁺ sorption in zeolite-filled, fixed-bed columns. Based on our results, the LDF and Thomas models are promising tools to predict the breakthrough curves of NH₄⁺ in zeolite-filled, fixed-bed columns.

Environmental Hazard Screening of Heterocyclic Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons: Physicochemical Data and In Silico Models

Heterocyclic polyaromatic hydrocarbons (heterocyclic PAHs) are frequently found in the environment yet, compared to homocyclic PAHs, little attention has been paid to their environmental behavior and a comprehensive hazard assessment has not been undertaken. Surprisingly, the physicochemical data necessary to perform at least a screening-level assessment are also limited. To address this, we began by experimentally determining the physicochemical properties of heterocyclic PAHs, namely, water solubility (S_w), n-octanol-water partition coefficients (K_ow), and organic carbon-water partition coefficients (K_oc). The physicochemical data obtained in this study allowed for the development of clear structure-property relationships and evaluation of the predictive power of in silico models including conductor-like screening model for realistic solvation, the poly-parameter linear solvation energy relationship, and the quantitative structure-property relationship. Finally, heterocyclic and homocyclic PAHs were evaluated in terms of persistence, bioaccumulation, mobility, and toxicity to perform a screening-level comparative hazard assessment by integrating the data and evidence from multiple sources.

Treatment of electropolishing industrial wastewater and its impact on the immobilisation of Daphnia magna

The amount of industrial pollution entering the environment and its impact on living organisms is an ongoing concern. At the same time, due to an increasing awareness, new methods of wastewater treatment are being explored that are not only effective but also environmentally acceptable. Meeting environmental standards for permitted concentrations is a necessity, but investigating the effects of wastewater on living organisms is also an important issue. In this paper, the influence of metal ions (Fe(III), Cr(III), Ni(II), Cu(II)) in industrial wastewater from electropolishing of stainless steel on Daphnia magna has been investigated. Daphnids have been exposed to wastewater both before and after treatment (Ca(OH)₂ precipitation, sorption with peat). Immobilisation in a 48-h acute toxicity test and EC₅₀ has been determined. In the case of studied industrial wastewater, the organic content (expressed as total organic carbon) of the effluent has a positive impact in terms of the survival of D. magna and increases the range of heavy metal concentrations tolerated by them. The application of a two-stage process with Ca(OH)₂ neutralisation followed by sorption with peat allows for the removal of almost 100% of metal ions from the wastewater. The reduction obtained ensured a limited impact on D. magna and a decrease in immobilisation to less than 10%. Proper execution of the wastewater treatment process ensures a reduction of its negative impact on living organisms.

Environmental contamination by microplastics originating from textiles: Emission, transport, fate and toxicity

Microplastic (MP) pollution has become a global concern in terms of its environmental abundance and potential detrimental effects. Fibrous microplastics (FMPs) released from synthetic textiles are believed to contribute significantly to environmental MP pollution. This review provides an overview of current knowledge relating to the environmental impact of FMPs through a summary and discussion of (1) the concentrations in different environmental compartments including water, soil and air, (2) emission from wastewater treatment plants: via effluent discharges to waters and via sludge to land, (3) environmental transport and fate, and (4) toxicity and associated effects. How the properties of FMPs influence these aspects is discussed and their behaviour is compared to MPs of other shapes. We have summarised the Environmental Concentrations and derived Predicted No-Effect Concentrations for a preliminary risk assessment of FMPs by extrapolating the risk quotient for each respective environmental compartment. The uncertainties surrounding current assessment methods are discussed. In particular we address the need to improve determination of exposure levels and to better characterise the effects of FMPs. We conclude by presenting topics for future studies to address, which will improve our still limited understanding of the interactions between FMPs and the environment.

Structure-related endocrine-disrupting potential of environmental transformation products of benzophenone-type UV filters: A review

Benzophenone-type UV filters (BPs) represent a very diverse group of chemicals that are used across a range of industrial sectors around the world. They are found within different environmental compartments (e.g. surface water, groundwater, wastewater, sediments and biota) at concentrations ranging from ng/L to mg/L. Some are known as endocrine disruptors and are currently within the scope of international regulations. A structural alert for high potential of endocrine disrupting activity was assigned to 11 BP derivatives. Due to the widespread use, distribution and disruptive effects of some BPs, knowledge of their elimination pathways is required. This review demonstrates that biodegradation and photolytic decomposition are the major elimination processes for BP-type UV filters in the environment. Under aerobic conditions, transformation pathways have only been reported for BP, BP-3 and BP-4, which are also the most common derivatives. Primary biodegradation mainly results in the formation of hydroxylated BPs, which exhibit a structure-related increase in endocrine activity when compared to their parent substances. By combining 76 literature-based transformation products (TPs) with in silico results relating to their receptor activity, it is demonstrated that 32 TPs may retain activity and that further knowledge of the degradation of BPs in the environment is needed.

Mixture toxicity of six pharmaceuticals towards Aliivibrio fischeri, Daphnia magna, and Lemna minor

As the knowledge on the joint effects of pharmaceuticals towards different non-target organisms is still limited, the aim of our study was to evaluate the toxicity of mixtures of pharmaceuticals, as well as their baseline toxicity towards three selected organisms, namely the bioluminescent bacteria Aliivibrio fischeri, the crustacean Daphnia magna, and the duckweed Lemna minor. Different mixtures composed of three up to five pharmaceuticals having the same or different mechanisms of action in terms of their therapeutic activity (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioid analgesic, antibacterial and anti-epileptic drugs) were investigated. The observed EC₅₀s were compared with those predicted using the concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) models. In general, the EC₅₀ values for mixtures predicted with the CA model were lower than those obtained with the IA model, although, in some cases, test predictions of these two models were almost identical. Most of the experimentally determined EC₅₀ values for the specific mixtures were slightly higher than those predicted with the CA model; hence, a less than additive effect was noted. Based on the obtained results, it might be concluded that the CA model assumes the worst-case scenario and gives overall closer predictions; therefore, it should be recommended also for modeling the mixture toxicity of pharmaceuticals with different modes of action.

Toward the Proactive Design of Sustainable Chemicals: Ionic Liquids as a Prime Example

The tailorable and often unique properties of ionic liquids (ILs) drive their implementation into a broad variety of seminal technologies. The modular design of ILs allows in this context a proactive selection of structures that favor environmental sustainability─ideally without compromising their technological performance. To achieve this objective, the whole life cycle must be taken into account and various aspects considered simultaneously. In this review, we discuss how the structural design of ILs affects their environmental impacts throughout all stages of their life cycles and scrutinize the available data in order to point out knowledge gaps that need further research activities. The design of more sustainable ILs starts with the selection of the most beneficial precursors and synthesis routes, takes their technical properties and application specific performance into due account, and considers its environmental fate particularly in terms of their (eco)toxicity, biotic and abiotic degradability, mobility, and bioaccumulation potential. Special emphasis is placed on reported structure-activity relationships and suggested mechanisms on a molecular level that might rationalize the empirically found design criteria.

Review of the toxic effects of ionic liquids

Interest in ionic liquids (ILs), called green or designer solvents, has been increasing because of their excellent properties such as thermal stability and low vapor pressure; thus, they can replace harmful organic chemicals and help several industrial fields e.g., energy-storage materials production and biomaterial pretreatment. However, the claim that ILs are green solvents should be carefully considered from an environmental perspective. ILs, given their minimal vapor pressure, may not directly cause atmospheric pollution. However, they have the potential to cause adverse effects if leaked into the environment, for instance if they are spilled due to human mistakes or technical errors. To estimate the risks of ILs, numerous ILs have had their toxicity assessed toward several micro- and macro-organisms over the past few decades. Since the toxic effects of ILs depend on the method of estimating toxicity, it is necessary to briefly summarize and comprehensively discuss the biological effects of ILs according to their structure and toxicity testing levels. This can help simplify our understanding of the toxicity of ILs. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the key findings of toxicological information of ILs, collect some toxicity data of ILs to different species, and explain the influence of IL structure on their toxic properties. In the discussion, we estimated two different sensitivity values of toxicity testing levels depending on the experiment condition, which are theoretical magnitudes of the inherent sensitivity of toxicity testing levels in various conditions and their changes in biological response according to the change in IL structure. Finally, some perspectives, future research directions, and limitations to toxicological research of ILs, presented so far, are discussed.

Correction to: Ecotoxicity screening evaluation of selected pharmaceuticals and their transformation products towards various organisms

A Correction to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s11356-020-08881-3

In vitro methods for predicting the bioconcentration of xenobiotics in aquatic organisms

The accumulation of anthropogenic chemical substances in aquatic organisms is an immensely important issue from the point of view of environmental protection. In the context of the increasing number and variety of compounds that may potentially enter the environment, there is a need for efficient and reliable solutions to assess the risks. However, the classic approach of testing with fish or other animals is not sufficient. Due to very high costs, significant time and labour intensity, as well as ethical concerns, in vivo methods need to be replaced by new laboratory-based tools. So far, many models have been developed to estimate the bioconcentration potential of chemicals. However, most of them are not sufficiently reliable and their predictions are based on limited input data, often obtained with doubtful quality. The octanol-water partition coefficient is still often used as the main laboratory tool for estimating bioconcentration. However, according to current knowledge, this method can lead to very unreliable results, both for neutral species and, above all, for ionic compounds. It is therefore essential to start using new, more advanced and credible solutions on a large scale. Over the last years, many in vitro methods have been newly developed or improved, allowing for a much more adequate estimation of the bioconcentration potential. Therefore, the aim of this work was to review the most recent laboratory methods for assessing the bioconcentration potential and to evaluate their applicability in further research.

Ecotoxicity screening evaluation of selected pharmaceuticals and their transformation products towards various organisms

The intensive development of medical science has led to an increase in the availability and use of pharmaceutical products. However, nowadays, most of scientific attention has been paid to the native forms of pharmaceuticals, while the transformation products (TPs) of these substances, understood herein as metabolites, degradation products, and selected enantiomers, remain largely unexplored in terms of their characterization, presence, fate and effects within the natural environment. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to evaluate the toxicity of seven native compounds belonging to different therapeutic groups (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioid analgesics, beta-blockers, antibacterial and anti-epileptic drugs), along with the toxicity of their 13 most important TPs. For this purpose, an ecotoxicological test battery, consisting of five organisms of different biological organization was used. The obtained data shows that, in general, the toxicity of TPs to the tested organisms was similar or lower compared to their parent compounds. However, for example, significantly higher toxicity of the R form of ibuprofen to algae and duckweed, as well as a higher toxicity of the R form of naproxen to luminescent bacteria, was observed, proving that the risk associated with the presence of drug TPs in the environment should not be neglected.

Quantification and biodegradability assessment of meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid adsorbed on iron oxide nanoparticles

Many interesting applications of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have recently been developed based on their magnetic properties and promising catalytic activity. Depending on their intended use, such nanoparticles (NPs) are frequently functionalized with proteins, polymers, or other organic molecules such as meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) to improve their colloidal stability or biocompatibility. Although the coating strongly affects the colloidal properties and environmental behaviour of NPs, quantitative analysis of the coating is often neglected. To address this issue, we established an ion chromatographic method for the quantitative analysis of surface-bound sulfur-containing molecules such as DMSA. The method determines the amount of sulfate generated by complete oxidation of sulfur present in the molecule. Quantification of the DMSA content of DMSA-coated IONPs showed that reproducibly approximately 38% of the DMSA used in the synthesis was adsorbed on the IONPs. Tests for the biodegradability of free and NP-bound DMSA using a microbial community from a wastewater treatment plant showed that both free and NP-bound DMSA was degraded to negligible extent, suggesting long-term environmental stability of DMSA-coated IONPs.

Differential steric effects in the inelastic scattering of NO(X) + Ar: spin-orbit changing transitions

Spin-orbit changing transitions for bond-axis oriented collisions of NO(X) with Ar have been investigated with full quantum state selection via a crossed molecular beam experiment at collision energies of 532 cm^-1 and 651 cm^-1. NO(X) molecules were selected in their ground rotational state (Ω = 0.5, j = 0.5, f) before being adiabatically oriented using a static electric field, such that either the N- or O-end of the molecule was directed towards the incoming Ar atom. After collision, NO(X, Ω' = 1.5, j', e) molecules were probed quantum state specifically using velocity-map ion imaging, coupled with resonantly enhanced multi-photon ionization. Differences were observed between the experimental ion images and differential cross sections for collisions occurring at the two ends of the molecule, with results that could largely be accounted for by quantum mechanical scattering calculations. The bond-axis oriented data for the spin-orbit changing collisions are compared with similar results obtained previously for spin-orbit conserving transitions, and for field free scattering of NO(X) with Ar.

Validation and updating of QSAR models for partitioning coefficients of ionic liquids in octanol-water and development of a new LFER model

Since estimating the octanol-water partitioning coefficients (log P) of numerous ionic liquids (ILs) is tedious, time & material consuming and labor intensive, predicting by quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) approach is necessary. Although several researchers presented the QSAR models for the property, validation assessment of the models were not sufficiently performed due to lack of log P dataset. In this study, the log P values of external ILs were measured by a shaking-flask method or collected from literatures. The newly obtained external log P values were applied for the validation study of previous models. In results, it was found that previous models showed rather low predictabilities and/or non-ignorable prediction limits to some IL structures whose anions were not involved in the previous studies. Accordingly, to achieve better predictability, the parameters used for previous modeling were re-selected and also their coefficients were re-calculated by multiple linear regression analysis with an inclusion of the external validation set to previous training set. Moreover, for reasonable understanding of chemical meanings in octanol-water partitioning behavior of ILs, we developed a new prediction model with a few number of descriptors, which has a good accuracy of R² = 0.862 and standard error = 0.564 log units.

Effects of five sulphonamides on duckweed (Lemna minor) after prolonged exposure time and their dependency on photoradiation

Sulphonamides (SAs) are one of the most commonly used veterinary drugs and therefore their residues are regularly found in the environment. So far scientific attention has mostly been paid to the evaluation of their acute ecotoxicological effects with data on long-term effects for non-target organisms still largely missing. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to evaluate the potential toxicities of five sulphonamides to duckweed (Lemna minor) after prolonged exposure time (14days). To elucidate whether their phytotoxic effects result from potential photodegradation products, the toxicity of standard solutions of selected sulphonamides was also investigated in a standard 7-day test but after irradiation (by keeping them under the test conditions) for the selected time (after 7 and 14days). The ecotoxicological tests were accompanied by chemical analyses to be able to link the observed effects to the concentrations and nature of the exposed compounds. The results showed a shift in the toxicity of SAs: a strong decrease in toxicity for the two most toxic sulphonamides (sulphamethoxazole and sulphadimethoxine) and a slight increase in toxicity for three other SAs (sulphadimidine, sulphathiazole, sulphamerazine) in the prolonged test. However, a decrease in the toxicity and concentration of all the SAs was observed when stock solutions were irradiated prior to the toxicity experiment, which suggests that the observed effects towards L. minor of five SAs in the prolonged test cannot be directly associated with the degradation of these compounds under the test conditions but with their different mode of toxic action towards these organisms.

Toxicity of a Quinaldine-Based Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier (LOHC) System toward Soil Organisms Arthrobacter globiformis and Folsomia candida

The study aims to establish a preliminary environmental assessment of a quinaldine-based LOHC system composed of hydrogen-lean, partially hydrogenated, and fully hydrogenated forms. We examined their toxicity toward the soil bacteria Arthrobacter globiformis and the Collembola Folsomia candida in two exposure scenarios, with and without soil, to address differences in the bioavailability of the compounds. In both scenarios, no or only slight toxicity toward soil bacteria was observed at the highest test concentration (EC₅₀ > 3397 μmol L^-1 and >4892 μmol kg^-1 dry weight soil). The effects of the three quinaldines on F. candida in soil were similar, with EC₅₀ values ranging from 2119 to 2559 μmol kg^-1 dry weight soil based on nominal concentrations. Additionally, corrected pore-water-concentration-based EC₅₀ values were calculated by equilibrium partitioning using soil/pore-water distribution coefficients. The tests without soil (simulating pore-water exposure) revealed higher toxicity, with LC₅₀ values between 78.3 and 161.6 μmol L^-1 and deformation of the protective cuticle. These results assign the compounds to the category "harmful to soil organisms". Potential risks toward the soil environment of the test compounds are discussed on the basis of predicted no-effect concentrations.

Application of Calorimetric Low-Temperature Detectors for the Investigation of Z-Yield Distributions of Fission Fragments

In recent experiments, the new concept of calorimetric low-temperature detectors (CLTDs) was applied for the first time for the investigation of isotopic yields of fission fragments. Fragments from neutron-induced fission sources were mass-separated by the LOHENGRIN spectrometer at the ILL Grenoble and, after passing silicon nitride membranes used as degraders, detected in a CLTD array. The new detector concept of a thermal detector provides a fundamental advantage over conventional ionization-mediated detectors, in particular for heavier particle masses at low energies. Using fissile targets of235U,239Pu and241Pu, nuclear-charge separation was studied in the mass region 82 ≤ A ≤ 139. For light fragments, the Z resolution matches historically best values with conventional techniques, while for heavier masses substantial improvement was attained. We have gained first LOHENGRIN data on the isotopic yields in the light-mass group of241Pu. Towards mass-symmetry, known Z-yield data were supplemented in the range A = 110 to 113 for241Pu and239Pu. Extended data sets were cumulated for A = 92 and 96 due to a recent request from studies on the reactor anti-neutrino spectrum. Furthermore, considerable progress was achieved to extend isotopic yield measurements up to the heavy-mass region, hardly accessible until now.

Acute aquatic toxicity assessment of six anti-cancer drugs and one metabolite using biotest battery - Biological effects and stability under test conditions

Available ecotoxicological data for anti-cancer drugs and their metabolites are incomplete, and only some studies have been accompanied by chemical analysis. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to evaluate the acute toxicity of the six most commonly used cytostatics, namely cyclophosphamide (CF), ifosfamide (IF), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), imatinib (IMT), tamoxifen (TAM) and methotrexate (MET) and its metabolite - 7-hydroxymethotrexate (7-OH-MET), towards selected aquatic organisms, namely bacteria Vibrio fischeri, algae Raphidocelis subcapitata, crustaceans Daphnia magna and duckweed Lemna minor. All ecotoxicological tests were accompanied by chemical analysis to determine the differences between nominal and actual concentrations of investigated compounds and their stability under test conditions. For unstable compounds, tests were performed in static and semi-static conditions. It was observed that L. minor was the most sensitive organism. The compounds that were most toxic to aquatic organisms were 5-FU (highly toxic to algae, EC₅₀ = 0.075 mg L^-1), MET and TAM (very toxic to highly toxic to duckweed depending on the test conditions; EC_50MET 0.08-0.16 mg L^-1, EC_50TAM 0.18-0.23 mg L^-1). It is suspected that MET and 5-FU mainly affected algae and plants most probably because the exposure time was long enough for them to cause a specific effect (they inhibit DNA replication and act predominantly on actively dividing cells). Furthermore, the obtained results also suggest that the toxicity of the metabolites/potentially produced degradation products of MET towards duckweed is lower than that of the parent form, whereas the toxicity of TAM degradation products is in the same range as that of TAM.

Membrane partitioning of ionic liquid cations, anions and ion pairs - Estimating the bioconcentration potential of organic ions

Recent efforts have been directed towards better understanding the persistency and toxicity of ionic liquids (ILs) in the context of the "benign-by-design" approach, but the assessment of their bioaccumulation potential remains neglected. This paper reports the experimental membrane partitioning of IL cations (imidazolium, pyridinium, pyrrolidinium, phosphonium), anions ([C(CN)₃]^-, [B(CN)₄]^-, [FSO₂)₂N]^-, [(C₂F₅)₃PF₃]^-, [(CF₃SO₂)₂N]^-) and their combinations as a measure for estimating the bioconcentration factor (BCF). Both cations and anions can have a strong affinity for phosphatidylcholine bilayers, which is mainly driven by the hydrophobicity of the ions. This affinity is often reflected in the ecotoxicological impact. Our data revealed that the bioconcentration potential of IL cations and anions is much higher than expected from octanol-water-partitioning based estimations that have recently been presented. For some ILs, the membrane-water partition coefficient reached levels corresponding to BCFs that might become relevant in terms of the "B" (bioaccumulation potential) classification under REACH. However, this preliminary estimation need to be confirmed by in vivo bioconcentration studies.

Ultimate biodegradability and ecotoxicity of orally administered antidiabetic drugs

Hypoglycaemic pharmaceuticals are recently more and more frequently detected in the environment. In our previous study, we have shown that even though many of them undergo significant primary degradation some are transformed to stable products or undergo such transformation that a large part of the structure is still preserved. One of the main routes of elimination from wastewaters or surface waters is biodegradation and a lack thereof leads to accumulation in the environment. Within this work we tested the ultimate biodegradability of six oral antidiabetics: metformin and its main metabolite guanylurea, acarbose, glibenclamide, gliclazide, glimepiride and repaglinide. We also compared the experimental results obtained in this and accompanying work with models designed to predict biodegradability and showed that these models are only moderately successful. Additionally, we examined these compounds in acute Daphnia magna test to check if they might pose an ecotoxicological threat. Combining the results of biodegradability and toxicity tests allows a preliminary assessment of their potential environmental impact.

Angular distributions for the inelastic scattering of NO(X2Π) with O2(X3Σg-)

The inelastic scattering of NO(X²Π) by O₂(X³Σ_g^-) was studied at a mean collision energy of 550 cm^-1 using velocity-map ion imaging. The initial quantum state of the NO(X²Π, v = 0, j = 0.5, Ω=0.5, 𝜖 = -1, f) molecule was selected using a hexapole electric field, and specific Λ-doublet levels of scattered NO were probed using (1+1^') resonantly enhanced multiphoton ionization. A modified "onion-peeling" algorithm was employed to extract angular scattering information from the series of "pancaked," nested Newton spheres arising as a consequence of the rotational excitation of the molecular oxygen collision partner. The extracted differential cross sections for NO(X) f→f and f→e Λ-doublet resolved, spin-orbit conserving transitions, partially resolved in the oxygen co-product rotational quantum state, are reported, along with O₂ fragment pair-correlated rotational state population. The inelastic scattering of NO with O₂ is shown to share many similarities with the scattering of NO(X) with the rare gases. However, subtle differences in the angular distributions between the two collision partners are observed.

Mixture toxicity of six sulfonamides and their two transformation products to green algae Scenedesmus vacuolatus and duckweed Lemna minor

Since humans and ecosystems are continually exposed to a very complex and permanently changing mixture of chemicals, there is increasing concern in the general public about the potential adverse effects they may cause. Among all "emerging pollutants", pharmaceuticals in particular have raised great environmental concern. For these reasons the aim of our study was to evaluate the mixture toxicity of six antimicrobial sulfonamides (SAs) and their two most commonly identified degradation products - sulfanilic acid (SNA) and sulfanilamide (SN) - to limnic green algae Scenedesmus vacuolatus and duckweed Lemna minor. The ecotoxicological data for the single toxicity of SNA and SN towards selected organisms are presented. The concept of Concentration Addition (CA) was applied to estimate the effects, and less than additive effects were observed. In general terms, it seems sufficiently precautionary for the aquatic environment to consider the toxicity of a sulfonamide mixture as additive. The Concentration Addition model proves to be a reasonable worst-case estimation. Such a comparative study on the mixture toxicity of sulfonamides and their transformation products has been presented for the first time.

Primary degradation of antidiabetic drugs

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease affecting a large portion of the world population and is treated by orally administered drugs. Since these drugs are often taken in high doses and are excreted unchanged or partially metabolised many of them are nowadays detected in surface waters or wastewater treatment plants effluents. Unmetabolised antidiabetics or some of their transformation products retain their pharmacological activity, therefore their presence in the environment is highly undesired. One of the main routes of elimination from wastewaters or surface waters is biodegradation. Within this work we tested primary biodegradation of: metformin and its metabolite guanylurea, acarbose, glibenclamide, gliclazide and glimepiride. We also inspected what might be the extent of the degradation by examining the products formed during the degradation using liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Transformation of diabetes staple drug metformin to dead-end product guanylurea was generally confirmed. An alternative, though rather minor pathway leading to complete mineralisation was also found. Complete primary degradation was observed for acarbose, glibenclamide and glimepiride whereas gliclazide was shown to be resistant to biodegradation. These results allow a preliminary assessment of environmental persistency of a very important group of pharmaceuticals and show need for implementing monitoring programs.

Mixture toxicity of flubendazole and fenbendazole to Daphnia magna

Nowadays, residual amounts of many pharmaceuticals can be found in various environmental compartments including surface and ground waters, soils and sediments as well as biota. Even though they undergo degradability, their environmental discharge is relatively continuous, thus they may be regarded as quasi-persistent contaminants, and are also frequently regarded as emerging organic pollutants. Benzimidazoles, especially flubendazole (FLU) and fenbendazole (FEN), represent two anthelmintic drugs belonging to this group. Although their presence in environmental matrices has been reported, there is relatively little data concerning their (eco)toxicological impact. Furthermore, no data is available on their mixture toxicity. FLU and FEN have been found to have a strong impact on an environmentally important non-target organism - Daphnia magna. Moreover, these compounds are usually present in the environment as a part of pharmaceutical mixtures. Therefore, there is a need to evaluate their mixture toxicity, which was the main aim of this study. Single substance toxicity tests were carried out in parallel with mixture studies of FLU and FEN, with the application of two well established concepts of Concentration Addition (CA) and Independent Action (IA). As a result, both models (CA and IA) were found to underestimate the toxicity of mixtures, however CA yielded more accurate predictions.

Stereodynamics in NO(X) + Ar inelastic collisions

The effect of orientation of the NO(X) bond axis prior to rotationally inelastic collisions with Ar has been investigated experimentally and theoretically. A modification to conventional velocity-map imaging ion optics is described, which allows the orientation of hexapole state-selected NO(X) using a static electric field, followed by velocity map imaging of the resonantly ionized scattered products. Bond orientation resolved differential cross sections are measured experimentally for a series of spin-orbit conserving transitions and compared with quantum mechanical calculations. The agreement between experimental results and those from quantum mechanical calculations is generally good. Parity pairs, which have previously been observed in collisions of unpolarized NO with various rare gases, are not observed due to the coherent superposition of the two j = 1/2, Ω = 1/2 Λ-doublet levels in the orienting field. The normalized difference differential cross sections are found to depend predominantly on the final rotational state, and are not very sensitive to the final Λ-doublet level. The differential steric effect has also been investigated theoretically, by means of quantum mechanical and classical calculations. Classically, the differential steric effect can be understood by considering the steric requirement for different types of trajectories that contribute to different regions of the differential cross section. However, classical effects cannot account quantitatively for the differential steric asymmetry observed in NO(X) + Ar collisions, which reflects quantum interference from scattering at either end of the molecule. This quantum interference effect is dominated by the repulsive region of the potential.

Integral steric asymmetry in the inelastic scattering of NO(X2Π)

The integral steric asymmetry for the inelastic scattering of NO(X) by a variety of collision partners was recorded using a crossed molecular beam apparatus. The initial state of the NO(X, v = 0, j = 1/2, Ω=1/2, ϵ=-1,f) molecule was selected using a hexapole electric field, before the NO bond axis was oriented in a static electric field, allowing probing of the scattering of the collision partner at either the N- or O-end of the molecule. Scattered NO molecules were state selectively probed using (1 + 1') resonantly enhanced multiphoton ionisation, coupled with velocity-map ion imaging. Experimental integral steric asymmetries are presented for NO(X) + Ar, for both spin-orbit manifolds, and Kr, for the spin-orbit conserving manifold. The integral steric asymmetry for spin-orbit conserving and changing transitions of the NO(X) + O₂ system is also presented. Close-coupled quantum mechanical scattering calculations employing well-tested ab initio potential energy surfaces were able to reproduce the steric asymmetry observed for the NO-rare gas systems. Quantum mechanical scattering and quasi-classical trajectory calculations were further used to help interpret the integral steric asymmetry for NO + O₂. Whilst the main features of the integral steric asymmetry of NO with the rare gases are also observed for the O₂ collision partner, some subtle differences provide insight into the form of the underlying potentials for the more complex system.

Comprehensive approach for predicting toxicological effects of ionic liquids on several biological systems using unified descriptors

The challenge and opportunity for design of environmentally-benign ionic liquids (ILs) would start from prediction of their toxicological effects on several endpoints solely based on the structural formulas. Especially, a comprehensive yet simple equation able to predict several biological responses to IL toxicity is of much advantage. Therefore, based on 50 toxicity testing systems on ILs a comprehensively approachable prediction method was developed. For the modelling, approximately 1600 toxicity values measured by several biological systems and an amended linear free energy relationship (LFER) model were used. Since the toxicological activities of an IL could be differently described according to sensitivity of toxicity testing systems, the sensitivity of each of toxicity testing systems was also estimated in the modelling. By statistical analysis with the calculated descriptors, a LFER model was built. Also the sensitivity value of each system on the basis of the comprehensively approachable model was numerically estimated. In results, it was observed that the combination of single model and sensitivity terms was able to predict each of 50 toxicological effects of ILs with R(2) of 0.593~0.978, and SE of 0.098~0.699 log unit, and the total data set with R(2) of 0.901 and SE of 0.426 log unit.

Modelling for antimicrobial activities of ionic liquids towards Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans using linear free energy relationship descriptors

To predict antimicrobial activities i.e., minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal biocidal concentration (MBC) for ionic liquids (ILs) against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, six quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models were developed using linear free energy relationship (LFER) descriptors calculated by density functional theory and conductor screening model. The LFER descriptors are excess molar refraction, dipolarity/polarizability, H-bonding acidity, H-bonding basicity, McGowan volume, cationic interaction, and anionic interaction. By excluding some descriptors with ignorable contributions to training set, components of the QSAR models were simplified. Their estimated predictabilities were in R(2)=0.900, standard error (SE; in log unit of μM)=0.430 for log 1/MIC of E. coli, R(2)=0.934, SE=0.370 for log 1/MBC of E. coli, R(2)=0.910, SE=0.470 for log 1/MIC of S. aureus, R(2)=0.947, SE=0.350 for log 1/MBC of S. aureus, R(2)=0.892, SE=0.362 for log 1/MIC of C. albicans and R(2)=0.803, SE=0.233 for log 1/MBC of C. albicans. Then, except for log 1/MBC of C. albicans due to lack of data points, the models were validated by comparing between observed and calculated values of test set; its checked correlations were all within R(2) of 0.921.

The influence of salinity on the toxicity of selected sulfonamides and trimethoprim towards the green algae Chlorella vulgaris

This paper presents the investigation of the influence of salinity variations on the toxicity of sulfapyridine, sulfamethoxazole, sulfadimethoxine and trimethoprim towards the green algae Chlorella vulgaris after exposure times of 48 and 72 h. In freshwater the EC50 values ranged from 0.98 to 123.22 mg L(-1) depending on the compound. The obtained results revealed that sulfamethoxazole and sulfapyridine were the most toxic, while trimethoprim was the least toxic pharmaceutical to the selected organism. Deviations between the nominal and real test concentrations were determined via instrumental analysis to support the interpretation of ecotoxicological data. The toxicity effects were also tested in saline water (3, 6 and 9 PSU). The tendency that the toxicity of selected pharmaceuticals decreases with increasing salinity was observed. Higher salinity implies an elevated concentration of inorganic monovalent cations that are capable of binding with countercharges available on algal surfaces (hydroxyl functional groups). Hence it can reduce the permeability of pharmaceuticals through the algal cell walls, which could be the probable reason for the observed effect. Moreover, for the classification of the mode of toxic action, the toxic ratio concept was applied, which indicated that the effects of the investigated drugs towards algae are caused by the specific mode of toxic action.

Readily biodegradable and low-toxic biocompatible ionic liquids for cellulose processing

Ecotoxicity and biodegradability of ILs intended for cellulose processing were tested. Betaine-ester levulinate exhibits low environmental hazard potential (full degradability, low toxicity). Other ILs were partially degradable and moderately toxic.

Rotational Orientation Effects in NO(X) + Ar Inelastic Collisions

Rotational angular momentum orientation effects in the rotationally inelastic collisions of NO(X) with Ar have been investigated both experimentally and theoretically at a collision energy of 530 cm(-1). The collision-induced orientation has been determined experimentally using a hexapole electric field to select the ϵ = -1 Λ-doublet level of the NO(X) j = 1/2 initial state. Fully quantum state resolved polarization-dependent differential cross sections were recorded experimentally using a crossed molecular beam apparatus coupled with a (1 + 1') resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization detection scheme and subsequent velocity-map imaging. To determine the NO sense of rotation, the probe radiation was circularly polarized. Experimental orientation polarization-dependent differential cross sections are compared with those obtained from quantum mechanical scattering calculations and are found to be in good agreement. The origin of the collision-induced orientation has been investigated by means of close-coupled quantum mechanical, quantum mechanical hard shell, quasi-classical trajectory (QCT), and classical hard shell calculations at the same collision energy. Although there is evidence for the operation of limiting classical mechanisms, the rotational orientation cannot be accounted for by QCT calculations and is found to be strongly influenced by quantum mechanical effects.

Mobility and biodegradability of an imidazolium based ionic liquid in soil and soil amended with waste sewage sludge

Sorption on solids and biodegradation are main phenomena that can mitigate the pollution of soil and water by ionic liquids (ILs). ILs sorbed on soil particles become immobilized (temporarily or permanently) which prevents them from spreading into deeper layers of soil or groundwater but which also makes them less bioavailable. In this study we attempt to examine if amendment of soil with waste sludge has a potential to mitigate the transport and enhance biodegradation of ILs using 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium chloride ([OMIM][Cl]) as an example. We present the results of adsorption test (batch and column) and ultimate biodegradation of [OMIM][Cl] using microbial communities derived from soil. Finally, we combine all of these processes together to examine the fate of [OMIM][Cl] in a continuous column flow-through system in soil amended with waste sewage sludge. Addition of sludge serves two purposes: firstly increasing soil organic matter (formerly proved to facilitate retardation), and secondly augmenting soil with versatile microbial communities previously shown to successfully degrade ILs.

Reactive and Inelastic Channels in the Ca*···FCH3 Transition State: A Simple Branching Mechanism

To study the excited state dynamics between a calcium atom and the CH3F molecule, a Ca···CH3F 1:1 complex has been prepared by a supersonic expansion with laser ablation of calcium metal in the gas phase. Tunable laser excitation of these complexes in molecular states correlating to Ca (1)P1(4s4p) + CH3F allows observing two competitive channels: the direct dissociation and the reactive channel into CaF* + CH3. The translational recoil, as well as the alignment of the fragments Ca* and CaF* have been analyzed by velocity map imaging and time-of-flight mass spectrometry. This revealed that both the dissociation and reaction processes are quasi direct and are of comparable intensity. We provide a simple interpretation for this process: the electronically excited potential surface of the Ca*···FCH3 complex initiates a fast predissociation from a suspended well to two repulsive surfaces that lead either to Ca (1)P1(4s4p) (Ω = 1) + CH3F or to CaF((2)Δ) + CH3.

Steric effects and quantum interference in the inelastic scattering of NO(X) + Ar

New measurements of the differential steric effect for NO + Ar inelastic scattering highlight the importance of quantum interference.

Rotationally inelastic collisions of NO(X) with Ar are investigated in unprecedented detail using state-to-state, crossed molecular beam experiments. The NO(X) molecules are selected in the Ω = 0.5, j = 0.5, f state and then oriented such that either the ‘N’ or ‘O’ end of the molecule is directed towards the incoming Ar atom. Velocity map ion imaging is then used to probe the scattered NO molecules in well-defined quantum states. We show that the fully quantum state-resolved differential steric asymmetry, which quantifies how the relative efficiency for scattering off the ‘O’ and the ‘N’ ends of the molecule varies with scattering angle, is strongly affected by quantum interference. Significant changes in both integral and differential cross sections are found depending on whether collisions occur with the N or O ends of the molecule. The results are well accounted for by rigorous quantum mechanical calculations, in contrast to both classical trajectory calculations and more simplistic models that provide, at best, an incomplete picture of the dynamics.

Toxicity of anthelmintic drugs (fenbendazole and flubendazole) to aquatic organisms

Flubendazole (FLU) and fenbendazole (FEN) belong to benzimidazoles-pharmaceuticals widely used in veterinary and human medicine for the treatment of intestinal parasites as well as for the treatment of systemic worm infections. In recent years, usage of these drugs increased, which resulted in a larger contamination of the environment and possible negative effects on biota. Hence, in our research, we investigated an aquatic ecotoxicity of these pharmaceuticals towards: marine bacteria (Vibrio fischeri), green algae (Scenedesmus vacuolatus), duckweed (Lemna minor) and crustacean (Daphnia magna). Ecotoxicity tests were combined with chemical analysis in order to investigate the actual exposure concentration of the compounds used in the experiment as well as to stability and adsorption studies. As a result, study evaluating sensitivity of different aquatic organisms to these compounds and new ecotoxicological data is presented. The strongest negative impact of FLU and FEN was observed to D. magna.

Catalytically active perrhenate based ionic liquids: a preliminary ecotoxicity and biodegradability assessment

Recently it was shown that water and air stable perrhenate based ionic liquids (ILs) are promising catalysts for oxidation reactions.

A new perspective: imaging the stereochemistry of molecular collisions

The concept of the steric effect plays a central role in chemistry. This Perspective describes how the polarization of reactant molecules in space can be used to probe directly the steric effect, and highlights some of the new measurements that are made possible by coupling reactant orientation and alignment with ion imaging techniques.

In silico prediction of linear free energy relationship descriptors of neutral and ionic compounds

Prediction models for LFER descriptors – excess molar refraction (E), dipolarity/polarizability (S), H-bonding acidity (A) & basicity (B), McGowan volume (V), and interaction of cations (J⁺) and anions (J⁻) – of both ionic and neutral compounds.

The nanoparticle biomolecule corona: lessons learned – challenge accepted?

Besides the wide use of engineered nanomaterials (NMs) in technical products, their applications are not only increasing in biotechnology and biomedicine, but also in the environmental field.