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Sun S, Ma M, Guo J, He X, Yin X, Sun T, Zhang Q, Kang S. Westerlies-driven transboundary transport of atmospheric mercury to the north-central Tibetan Plateau. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 932:173135. [PMID: 38734088 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The transboundary mercury (Hg) pollution has caused adverse effects on fragile ecosystems of the Tibetan Plateau (TP). Yet, knowledge of transport paths and source regions of atmospheric Hg on the inland TP remains poor. Continuous measurements of atmospheric total gaseous mercury (TGM) were conducted in the central TP (Tanggula station, 5100 m a.s.l., June-October). Atmospheric TGM level at Tanggula station (1.90 ± 0.30 ng m-3) was higher than the background level in the Northern Hemisphere. The identified high-potential source regions of atmospheric TGM were primarily located in the northern South Asia region. TGM concentrations were lower during the Indian summer monsoon (ISM)-dominant period (1.81 ± 0.25 ng m-3) than those of the westerly-receding period (2.18 ± 0.40 ng m-3) and westerly-intensifying period (1.91 ± 0.26 ng m-3), contrary to the seasonal pattern in southern TP. The distinct TGM minima during the ISM-dominant period indicated lesser importance of ISM-transported Hg to Tanggula station located in the northern boundary of ISM intrusion, compared to stations in proximity to South and Southeast Asia source regions. Instead, from the ISM-dominant period to the westerly-intensifying period, TGM concentrations showed an increasing trend as westerlies intensified, indicating the key role of westerlies in transboundary transport of atmospheric Hg to the inland TP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Lanzhou 730000, China; Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, CAS, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ming Ma
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Junming Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Lanzhou 730000, China; Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, CAS, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiaobo He
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Lanzhou 730000, China; Tanggula Cryosphere and Environment Observation Station, State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiufeng Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Lanzhou 730000, China; Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, CAS, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tao Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Qianggong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Tibetan Plateau Earth System, Environment and Resources (TPESER), Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research, CAS, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shichang Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Lanzhou 730000, China; Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, CAS, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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Mishra S, Ren Y, Sun X, Lian Y, Singh AK, Sharma N. Microplastics pollution in the Asian water tower: Source, environmental distribution and proposed mitigation strategy. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124247. [PMID: 38838812 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics generated from fragmentation of leftover plastics and industrial waste has reached in the remotely located Asian water tower (AWT) region, the 3rd pole of earth and origin site of several freshwater rivers. The accumulation of microplastics in AWT ecosystem has potential to alter the climatic condition contributing in global warming and disturbing the biodiversity structural dynamics. The present paper provides a comprehensive critical discussion over quantitative assessment of microplastics in different ecosystems (i.e. river, lakes, sediment and snow or glacier) of AWT. The hydrodynamic fate and transport of microplastics and their ecological impact on hydromorphology and biodiversity of AWT has been exemplified. Furthermore, key challenges, perspectives and research directions are identified to mitigate microplastics associated problems. During survey, the coloured polyethylene and polyurethane fibers are the predominant microplastics found in most areas of AWT. These bio-accumulated MPs alter the rhizospheric community structure and deteriorate nitrogen fixation process in plants. Significance in climate change, MPs pollution is enhancing the emissions of greenhouse gases (NH3 by ∼34% and CH4 by ∼9%), contributing in global warming. Considering the seriousness of MPs pollution, this review study can enlighten the pathways to investigate the effect of MPs and to develop monitoring tools and sustainable remediation technologies with feasible regulatory strategies maintaining the natural significance of AWT region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Mishra
- Yangtze Institute for Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Water Science and Technology, Hohai University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210098, China; State Key Laboratory of Hydrology-Water Resources and Hydraulic Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuling Ren
- Yangtze Institute for Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaonan Sun
- Yangtze Institute for Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanqing Lian
- Yangtze Institute for Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Water Science and Technology, Hohai University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210098, China; State Key Laboratory of Hydrology-Water Resources and Hydraulic Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Anurag Kumar Singh
- University School of Chemical Technology, Guru Govind Singh Indraprastha University, Sector 16c Dwarka, New Delhi, 110078, India
| | - Niraj Sharma
- Transport Planning and Environment Division, CSIR-Central Road Research Institute, New Delhi, 110025, India
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Liu P, Shao L, Zhang Y, Silvonen V, Oswin H, Cao Y, Guo Z, Ma X, Morawska L. Atmospheric microplastic deposition associated with GDP and population growth: Insights from megacities in northern China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 469:134024. [PMID: 38493631 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is evolving into one of the most pressing environmental concerns worldwide. This study assessed the impact of economic activities on atmospheric MP pollution across 17 megacities in northern China, analyzing the correlation between the deposition flux of atmospheric MPs and variables such as city population, gross domestic product (GDP), and industrial structure. The results have shown that the MP pollution is obviously impacted by human activities related to increased GDP, population, as well as tertiary service sector, in which the MP pollution shows most close relationship with the GDP growth. Polypropylene, polyamide, polyurethane, and polyethylene were identified as the primary components of atmospheric MPs. The average particle size of MPs in atmospheric dustfall is 78.3 µm, and the frequency of MP particles increases as the particle size decreases. The findings highlight the complex relationship between socio-economic development and atmospheric MP accumulation, providing essential insights for the formulation of targeted emission reduction strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengju Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Fine Exploration and Intelligent Development of Coal Resources & College of Geoscience and Surveying Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health (ILAQH), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia
| | - Longyi Shao
- State Key Laboratory for Fine Exploration and Intelligent Development of Coal Resources & College of Geoscience and Surveying Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Yaxing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Fine Exploration and Intelligent Development of Coal Resources & College of Geoscience and Surveying Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ville Silvonen
- Aerosol Physics Laboratory, Physics Unit, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere 33014, Finland
| | - Henry Oswin
- International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health (ILAQH), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia
| | - Yaxin Cao
- State Key Laboratory for Fine Exploration and Intelligent Development of Coal Resources & College of Geoscience and Surveying Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ziyu Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Fine Exploration and Intelligent Development of Coal Resources & College of Geoscience and Surveying Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xuying Ma
- College of Geomatics, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710054, China
| | - Lidia Morawska
- International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health (ILAQH), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia
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4
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Tao M, Li W, Zhou X, Li Y, Song H, Wu F. Effects of microplastics on the structure and function of bacterial communities in sediments of a freshwater lake. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 356:141880. [PMID: 38570049 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141880] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
As an emerging pollutant, microplastics (MPs) cause widespread concern around the world owing to the serious threat they pose to ecosystems. In particular, sediments are thought to be the long-term sink for the continual accumulation of MPs in freshwater ecosystems. Polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) have been frequently detected with large concentration variations in freshwater sediments from the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, one of the most economically developed regions in China, characterized by accelerated urbanization and industrialization, high population density and high plastics consumption. However, the impact of PE and PET on the sedimental bacterial community composition and its function has not been well reported for this specific region. Herein, PE and PET particles were added to freshwater sediments to assess the effects of different MP types on the bacterial community and its function, using three concentrations (500, 1500 and 2500 items/kg) per MP and incubations of 35, 105 and 175 days, respectively. This study identified a total of 68 phyla, 211 classes, 518 orders, 853 families and 1745 genera. Specifically, Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Acidobacteriota, Actinobacteriota and Firmicutes were the top five phyla. A higher bacterial diversity was obtained in control sediments than in the MP-treated sediments. The presence of MPs, whether PET or PE, had significant impact on the bacterial diversity, community structure and community composition. PICRUSt2 and FAPOTAX predictions demonstrated that MPs could potentially affect the metabolic pathways and ecologically functional groups of bacteria in the sediment. Besides the MP-related factors, such as the type, concentration and incubation time, the physicochemical parameters had an effect on the structure and function of the bacterial community in the freshwater sediment. Taken together, this study provides useful information for further understanding how MPs affect bacterial communities in the freshwater sediment of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Tao
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Weibin Li
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Xiaohong Zhou
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China.
| | - Yanan Li
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Haiya Song
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Fan Wu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
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Xu L, Wang Y, Wei F, Dai Z, Zhang M. Transport behavior of microplastics in soil‒water environments and its dependence on soil components. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123542. [PMID: 38355087 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123542] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution has become a global concern, and the transport behavior of MPs in soil-water systems is vital in determining their distribution and potential risks to the subsurface environment. To reveal the role of various soil components on MP migration, the downward transport behavior of polystyrene (PS) MPs were explored in this study via column experiments with mono or multi-soil components as porous media. Compared with the selected soil mineral volcanic rock (VR) and fine river sand (RS), condensed soil organic matter (SOM) resulted in higher transport efficiencies for PS microparticles, with greater than 90% total mass recovery under the experimental conditions. The more surface charges of SOM than minerals contribute to the high migration efficiency of PS MPs, and electrostatic repulsion is assumed a significant driving mechanism in the migration of negatively charged PS particles in soils. The ionic strength of porewater influenced the PS migration behaviors by altering the electrostatic interactions between the MPs and soil grains. The uniform mixing of SOM with mineral grains significantly enhanced the transport efficiency of PS MPs in the columns. The results provide supports for the prediction and prevention of the risks of MPs to the subsurface environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liheng Xu
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
| | - Yuhao Wang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Fang Wei
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Zhixi Dai
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
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Zhang Y, Kang S, Luo X, Shukla T, Gao T, Allen D, Allen S, Bergmann M. Microplastics and nanoplastics pose risks on the Tibetan Plateau environment. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2024; 69:589-592. [PMID: 38158291 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2023.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Yulan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Shichang Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Xi Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tanuj Shukla
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tanguang Gao
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Deonie Allen
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham 200003, UK
| | - Steve Allen
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham 200003, UK; Ocean Frontiers Institute, Dalhousie University, Halifax B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Melanie Bergmann
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar-und Meeresforschung, Bremerhaven D-27515, Germany
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Liu Y, Zhao S, Wang D, Wang S, Ding X, Han K, Wang R, Kou Y, Zhou G, Shen W. Environmental fate of microplastics in alpine and canyon-type river-cascade reservoir systems: Large-scale investigation of the Yalong River in the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170300. [PMID: 38272090 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Reservoirs are regarded as potential collection sites for microplastics (MPs), and ample water resources in plateau regions provide favorable natural conditions for hydroelectric power generation. However, research on the impact of cascade reservoir construction in the plateau region on the fate of MPs within the watershed is limited. In this study, the Yalong River, an alpine canyon river in the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, was selected as the research area. This study explored the distribution of MPs at various depths in water, sediment, and riverbank soil as well as the formation of "MP communities" within the river-cascade reservoir system. Furthermore, the effects of dam construction on MPs' migration in different environments were analyzed. The results revealed that the abundance of MPs in the water and sediment within the cascade reservoir area (CRA) was significantly higher than that in the river area (RA) (P < 0.001). Additionally, the trend of increasing MPs in water with decreasing altitude was notably slower in CRA. Regarding shape, the proportion of fibers in the water within the CRA was significantly lower than that in the RA, with a smaller vertical migration rate in the water than in the sediment. The proportion of MPs < 500 μm in the water within the CRA was significantly higher than that in the RA. High-density MPs were notably deposited in the reservoir sediments. The analysis of the MP communities revealed that the construction of cascade dams led to relative geographical isolation between different sampling sites, reducing the similarity of MP communities in the CRA. This study established a theoretical foundation for understanding the impact of cascade dam construction on the fate characteristics of MPs and their potential risks in plateau areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Liu
- College of Soil and Water Conservation Science and Engineering (Institute of Soil and Water Conservation), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Shaoting Zhao
- Agricultural Technology Promotion Center of Xi'an, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710000, PR China
| | - Dongzhi Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, PR China
| | - Shichen Wang
- College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Xiaofan Ding
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, PR China
| | - Kaiyang Han
- College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Ruiying Wang
- Xi'an Institute of Environmental Hygiene Sciences, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710075, PR China
| | - Yuyang Kou
- College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Guangqian Zhou
- College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Weibo Shen
- College of Soil and Water Conservation Science and Engineering (Institute of Soil and Water Conservation), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China; College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China.
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Zhao Z, Zheng X, Han Z, Li Y, He H, Lin T, Xu H. Polystyrene microplastics enhanced the effect of PFOA on Chlorella sorokiniana: Perspective from the cellular and molecular levels. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133455. [PMID: 38211521 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133455] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) commonly coexist with other contaminants and alter their toxicity. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), an emerging pollutant, may interact with MPs but remain largely unknown about the joint toxicity of PFOA and MPs. Hence, this research explored the single and joint effects of PFOA and polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on microalgae (Chlorella sorokiniana) at the cellular and molecular levels. Results demonstrated that PS-MPs increased PFOA bioavailability by altering cell membrane permeability, thus aggravating biotoxicity (synergistic effect). Meanwhile, the defense mechanisms (antioxidant system modulation and extracellular polymeric substances secretion) of Chlorella sorokiniana were activated to alleviate toxicity. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis illustrated that co-exposure had more differential expression genes (DEGs; 4379 DEGs) than single-exposure (PFOA: 2533 DEGs; PS-MPs: 492 DEGs), which were mainly distributed in the GO terms associated with the membrane composition and antioxidant system. The molecular regulatory network further revealed that PS-MPs and PFOA primarily regulated the response mechanisms of Chlorella sorokiniana by altering the ribosome biogenesis, photosynthesis, citrate cycle, oxidative stress, and antioxidant system (antioxidant enzyme, glutathione-ascorbate cycle). These findings elucidated that PS-MPs enhanced the effect of PFOA, providing new insights into the influences of MPs and PFOA on algae and the risk assessment of multiple contaminants. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION: MPs and PFAS, emerging contaminants, are difficult to degrade and pose a non-negligible threat to organisms. Co-pollution of MPs and PFAS is ubiquitous in the aquatic environment, while risks of co-existence to organisms remain unknown. The present study revealed the toxicity and defense mechanisms of microalgae exposure to PS-MPs and PFOA from cellular and molecular levels. According to biochemical and transcriptomic analyses, PS-MPs increased PFOA bioavailability and enhanced the effect of PFOA on Chlorella sorokiniana, showing a synergistic effect. This research provides a basis for assessing the eco-environmental risks of MPs and PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilin Zhao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Xiaoying Zheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Zongshuo Han
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Yue Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Haidong He
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Tao Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Hang Xu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
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Luo D, Chu X, Wu Y, Wang Z, Liao Z, Ji X, Ju J, Yang B, Chen Z, Dahlgren R, Zhang M, Shang X. Micro- and nano-plastics in the atmosphere: A review of occurrence, properties and human health risks. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133412. [PMID: 38218034 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The ubiquitous occurrence of micro/nano plastics (MNPs) poses potential threats to ecosystem and human health that have attracted broad concerns in recent decades. Detection of MNPs in several remote regions has implicated atmospheric transport as an important pathway for global dissemination of MNPs and hence as a global health risk. In this review, the latest research progress on (1) sampling and detection; (2) origin and characteristics; and (3) transport and fate of atmospheric MNPs was summarized. Further, the current status of exposure risks and toxicological effects from inhaled atmospheric MNPs on human health is examined. Due to limitations in sampling and identification methodologies, the study of atmospheric nanoplastics is very limited today. The large spatial variation of atmospheric MNP concentrations reported worldwide makes it difficult to compare the overall indoor and outdoor exposure risks. Several in vitro, in vivo, and epidemiological studies demonstrate adverse effects of immune response, apoptosis and oxidative stress caused by MNP inhalation that may induce cardiovascular diseases and reproductive and developmental abnormalities. Given the emerging importance of atmospheric MNPs, the establishment of standardized sampling-pretreatment-detection protocols and comprehensive toxicological studies are critical to advance environmental and health risk assessments of atmospheric MNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Luo
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xinyun Chu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Zhenfeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Zhonglu Liao
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xiaoliang Ji
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Jingjuan Ju
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Pingyang County Health Inspection Center, Wenzhou 325405, China.
| | - Zheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Randy Dahlgren
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Department of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Minghua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Department of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Xu Shang
- Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
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Xu L, Bai X, Li K, Zhang G, Zhang M, Hu M, Huang Y. Human Exposure to Ambient Atmospheric Microplastics in a Megacity: Spatiotemporal Variation and Associated Microorganism-Related Health Risk. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:3702-3713. [PMID: 38356452 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09271] [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: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are found in various human tissues and are considered harmful, raising concerns about human exposure to microplastics in the environment. Existing research has analyzed indoor and occupational scenarios, but long-term monitoring of ambient atmospheric microplastics (AMPs), especially in highly polluted urban regions, needs to be further investigated. This study estimated human environmental exposure to AMPs by considering inhalation, dust ingestion, and dermal exposure in three urban functional zones within a megacity. The annual exposure quantity was 7.37 × 104 items for children and 1.06 × 105 items for adults, comparable with the human microplastic consumption from food and water. Significant spatiotemporal differences were observed in the characteristics of AMPs that humans were exposed to, with wind speed and rainfall frequency mainly driving these changes. The annual human AMP exposure quantity in urban green land spaces, which were recognized as relatively low polluted zones, was comparable with that in public service zones and residential zones. Notably, significant positive correlations between the AMP characteristics and the pathogenicity of the airborne bacterial community were discovered. AMP size and immune-mediated disease risks brought by atmospheric microbes showed the most significant relationship, where Sphingomonas might act as the potential key mediator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Xu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xinyi Bai
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Kang Li
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Guangbao Zhang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Mengjun Zhang
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
- PKU-HKUST Shenzhen-Hongkong Institution, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
| | - Min Hu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yi Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
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Pan J, Zhang Q, Zhang K, Zhang Z, Guo X. Occurrence of microplastics in agricultural soils in ecologically fragile areas of China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166350. [PMID: 37591376 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
The pollution caused by microplastics (MPs), an emerging pollutant, has been receiving continuous concern. However, the distribution characteristics of MPs in ecologically fragile areas (EFAs), which are sensitive to environmental change and pollution, are still unclear. Here, the abundance and pollution characteristics of MPs in agricultural soils in four typical EFAs in China, namely semiarid farming-pastoral area (SFPA), desert-oasis interlaced area (DOIA), plateau composite erosion area (PCEA) and southwest karst area (SWKA) were investigated. MPs were detected in all agricultural soil samples with a mean abundance of 2685 ± 938 n/kg. DOIA (3193 ± 630 n/kg) had the largest abundance of MPs in agricultural soils, followed by SWKA (2948 ± 819 n/kg), SFPA (2920 ± 935 n/kg), and PCEA (1680 ± 320 n/kg). MPs in four EFAs were mostly small size (0-0.49 mm), accounted for 81.71 %. Fragmented and pelleted MPs were the main shapes, occupying for 51.26 % and 28.53 %, respectively. In addition, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) was applied to determine the polymer types of MPs and to assess the pollution risk of MPs, which ranged from 157 to 938, indicating a moderate to high risk. The results revealed that EFAs located in remote inland areas were considerably polluted by MPs, close to the developed coastal areas. This study provided systematic data on MPs pollution of EFAs, which is crucial in preventing further environmental degradation and promoting ecological restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianrui Pan
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Kaiyue Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Zhenming Zhang
- College of Resource and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550003, China.
| | - Xuetao Guo
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
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Wang X, Zhou Y. Combat plastics in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Science 2023; 381:1419. [PMID: 37769072 DOI: 10.1126/science.adk2906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Tibetan Plateau Earth System, Resources and Environment, Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yunqiao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Tibetan Plateau Earth System, Resources and Environment, Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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Lin YD, Huang PH, Chen YW, Hsieh CW, Tain YL, Lee BH, Hou CY, Shih MK. Sources, Degradation, Ingestion and Effects of Microplastics on Humans: A Review. TOXICS 2023; 11:747. [PMID: 37755757 PMCID: PMC10534390 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11090747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Celluloid, the predecessor to plastic, was synthesized in 1869, and due to technological advancements, plastic products appear to be ubiquitous in daily life. The massive production, rampant usage, and inadequate disposal of plastic products have led to severe environmental pollution. Consequently, reducing the employment of plastic has emerged as a pressing concern for governments globally. This review explores microplastics, including their origins, absorption, and harmful effects on the environment and humans. Several methods exist for breaking down plastics, including thermal, mechanical, light, catalytic, and biological processes. Despite these methods, microplastics (MPs, between 1 and 5 mm in size) continue to be produced during degradation. Acknowledging the significant threat that MPs pose to the environment and human health is imperative. This form of pollution is pervasive in the air and food and infiltrates our bodies through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. It is essential to assess the potential hazards that MPs can introduce. There is evidence suggesting that MPs may have negative impacts on different areas of human health. These include the respiratory, gastrointestinal, immune, nervous, and reproductive systems, the liver and organs, the skin, and even the placenta and placental barrier. It is encouraging to see that most of the countries have taken steps to regulate plastic particles. These measures aim to reduce plastic usage, which is essential today. At the same time, this review summarizes the degradation mechanism of plastics, their impact on human health, and plastic reduction policies worldwide. It provides valuable information for future research on MPs and regulatory development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Duan Lin
- Department of Seafood Science, College of Hydrosphere, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; (Y.-D.L.); (C.-Y.H.)
| | - Ping-Hsiu Huang
- School of Food, Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceutical Science College, No.4, Meicheng Road, Higher Education Park, Huai’an 223003, China;
| | - Yu-Wei Chen
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan; (Y.-W.C.); (C.-W.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan;
| | - Chang-Wei Hsieh
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan; (Y.-W.C.); (C.-W.H.)
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - You-Lin Tain
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan;
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Bao-Hong Lee
- Department of Horticulture, National Chiayi University, Chiayi 60004, Taiwan;
| | - Chih-Yao Hou
- Department of Seafood Science, College of Hydrosphere, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; (Y.-D.L.); (C.-Y.H.)
| | - Ming-Kuei Shih
- Graduate Institute of Food Culture and Innovation, National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, Kaohsiung 812301, Taiwan
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