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Yang W, Gao P, Ye Z, Chen F, Zhu L. Micro/nano-plastics and microalgae in aquatic environment: Influence factor, interaction, and molecular mechanisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 934:173218. [PMID: 38761949 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173218] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nano-plastics, as emerging persistent pollutant, are frequently detected in aquatic environments together with other environmental pollutants. Microalgae are the major primary producers and bear an important responsibility for maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems. Numerous studies have been conducted on the influence of micro/nano-plastics on the growth, photosynthesis, oxidative stress, gene expression and metabolites of microalgae in laboratory studies. However, it is difficult to comprehensively evaluate the toxic effects of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae due to different experimental designs. Moreover, there is a lack of effective analysis of the aforementioned multi-omics data and reports on shared biological patterns. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to compare the acute, chronic, pulsed, and combined effect of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae and explore hidden rules in the molecular mechanisms of the interaction between them. Results showed that the effect of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae was related to exposure mode, exposure duration, exposure size, concentration, and type of micro/nano-plastics. Meanwhile, the phenomenon of poisoning and detoxification between micro/nano-plastics and microalgae was found. The inhibitory mechanism of micro/nano-plastics on algal growth was due to the micro/nano-plastics affected the photosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, and ribosome pathways of algal cells. This brought the disruption of the functions of chloroplasts, mitochondria, and ribosome, as well as impacted on energy metabolism and translation pathways, eventually leading to impairment of cell function. Besides, algae resisted this inhibitory effect by regulating the alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism and purine metabolism pathways, thereby increasing the chlorophyll synthesis, inhibiting the increase of reactive oxygen species, delaying the process of lipid peroxidation, balancing the osmotic pressure of cell membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Yang
- School of Resources & Environmental Science, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Hubei Key Laboratory of Biomass-Resources Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, PR China
| | - Pan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, PR China
| | - Zongda Ye
- Technical Innovation Center of Mine Geological Environmental Restoration Engineering in Southern Karst Area, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanning, Guangxi 530028, PR China; Natural Resources Ecological Restoration Center of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi 530029, PR China
| | - Funing Chen
- Technical Innovation Center of Mine Geological Environmental Restoration Engineering in Southern Karst Area, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanning, Guangxi 530028, PR China; Natural Resources Ecological Restoration Center of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi 530029, PR China
| | - Liandong Zhu
- School of Resources & Environmental Science, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Hubei Key Laboratory of Biomass-Resources Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, PR China.
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2
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Ye J, Qiu W, Pang X, Su Y, Zhang X, Huang J, Xie H, Liao J, Tang Z, Chen Z, Li F, Xiong Z, Su R. Polystyrene nanoplastics and cadmium co-exposure aggravated cardiomyocyte damage in mice by regulating PANoptosis pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 347:123713. [PMID: 38462200 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123713] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastics (M/NPs) are the novel contaminants ubiquitous in the environment. Cadmium (Cd), a kind of heavy metal pollutant widely distributed, could potentially co-exist with PS-NPs in the environment. However, their combined effects on cardiomyocyte and its molecular mechanism in mammals remained ambiguous. Here, we examined whether PANoptosis, an emerging and complicated kind of programmed cell death, was involved in PS-NPs and Cd co-exposure-elicited cardiac injury. In this study, 60 male mice were orally subjected to environmentally relevant concentrations of PS-NPs (1 mg/kg) and/or CdCl2 (1.5 mg/kg) for 35 days. As we speculated, PS-NPs and Cd co-exposure affected the expression of pyroptosis(Caspase-1, Cleaved-Caspase-1, GSDMD, N-GSDMD, AIM2, Pyrin, NLRP3, IL-18, IL-1β)-, apoptosis(Caspase-3, Cleaved-Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Cleaved-Caspase-8, Caspase-7, BAX)- and necroptosis (t-RIPK3, p-RIPK3, t-RIPK1, p-RIPK1, t-MLKL, p-MLKL, ZBP1)-related genes and protein, resulting in growth restriction and damaged myocardial microstructure in mice. Notably, the combined effects on Cd and PS-NPs even predominantly aggravated the toxic damage. Intriguingly, we fortuitously discovered PS-NPs and/or Cd exposure facilitated linear ubiquitination of certain proteins in mice myocardium. In summation, this study shed light toward the effects of Cd and PS-NPs on cardiotoxicity, advanced the understanding of myocardial PANoptosis and provided a scientific foundation for further exploration of the combined toxicological effects of PS-NPs and heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Ye
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenyue Qiu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyue Pang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiman Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinting Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianjia Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoming Xie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianzhao Liao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaoxin Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zefeng Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhaojun Xiong
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Rongsheng Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
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3
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Khoshnamvand M, Hamidian AH, Ashtiani S, Ali J, Pei DS. Combined toxic effects of polystyrene nanoplastics and lead on Chlorella vulgaris growth, membrane lipid peroxidation, antioxidant capacity, and morphological alterations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:28620-28631. [PMID: 38561535 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33084-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the utilization of amino-functionalized polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NH2). This surge in usage can be attributed to their exceptional characteristics, including a substantial specific surface area, high energy, and strong reactivity. These properties make them highly suitable for a wide range of industrial and medical applications. Nevertheless, there is a growing apprehension regarding their potential toxicity to aquatic organisms, particularly when considering the potential impact of heavy metals like lead (Pb) on the toxicity of PS-NH2. Herein, we examined the toxic effects of sole PS-NH2 (90 nm) at five concentrations (e.g., 0, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/L), as well as the simultaneous exposure of PS-NH2 and Pb2+ (using two environmental concentrations, e.g., 20 μg/L for Pb low (PbL) and 80 μg/L for Pb higher (PbH)) to the microalga Chlorella vulgaris. After a 96-h exposure, significant differences in chlorophyll a content and algal growth (biomass) were observed between the control group and other treatments (ANOVA, p < 0.05). The algae exposed to PS-NH2, PS-NH2 + PbL, and PS-NH2 + PbH treatment groups exhibited dose-dependent toxicity responses to chlorophyll a content and biomass. According to the Abbott toxicity model, the combined toxicity of treatment groups of PS-NH2 and PbL,H showed synergistic effects. The largest morphological changes such as C. vulgaris' size reduction and cellular aggregation were evident in the medium treated with elevated concentrations of both PS-NH2 and Pb2+. The toxicity of the treatment groups followed the sequence PS-NH2 < PS-NH2 + PbL < PS-NH2 + PbH. These results contribute novel insights into co-exposure toxicity to PS-NH2 and Pb2+ in algae communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Khoshnamvand
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Hamidian
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.
| | - Saeed Ashtiani
- Department of Physical Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology, Technicka 5, Prague 6, Prague, 16628, Czech Republic
| | - Jafar Ali
- Key Lab of Groundwater Resources and Environment (Jilin University), Ministry of Education, Changchun, 130021, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - De-Sheng Pei
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
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4
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Behmanesh M, Chamani A, Chavoshi E. Potentially Toxic Elements' Accumulation in Relation to Sediment Physicochemical Attributes and Microplastic Content in Zayandeh-Rood River, Iran. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2024; 86:274-287. [PMID: 38551678 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-024-01059-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are an emerging pollutant whose ability to adsorb potentially toxic elements (PTEs) poses a serious threat to aquatic ecosystems, including rivers. In highly developed basins, the abundance of MPs in river sediment is expected to be high, elevating the sedimentary accumulation of PTEs. This hypothesis was tested in the Zayandeh-Rood River, Central Iran, with 21 sediment sampling stations distributed along the entire river stretch. Results of sediment analysis showed significant variations in the abundance and size of MPs, with concentrations ranked as Ba (270.71 mg/kg) > Li (21.29 mg/kg) > Cs (2.50 mg/kg) > Be (1.44 mg/kg) > Sn (1.17 mg/kg) > Mo (1.06 mg/kg) > Ag (0.76 mg/kg), along with sediment physicochemical attributes such as EC, TOC, pH and grain size. MPs were identified in all sediment samples with a mean of 588 items/kg dry weight. Except for Ag, all other PTEs were classified as uncontaminated but exhibited increased enrichment downstream. According to the results of the generalized additive model (maximum R-sq of 0.766), the sedimentary concentration of the majority of PTEs is nonlinearly and positively associated with smaller and more abundant MPs. This study acknowledges that MPs might influence sediment porosity, permeability and structure, thereby directly affecting the settling dynamics of other particles, especially PTEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mokarrameh Behmanesh
- Environmental Science and Engineering Department, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Atefeh Chamani
- Environmental Science and Engineering Department, Waste and Wastewater Research Center, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Elham Chavoshi
- Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
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5
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Xiong X, Wang J, Liu J, Xiao T. Microplastics and potentially toxic elements: A review of interactions, fate and bioavailability in the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 340:122754. [PMID: 37844862 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics (MPs) have obtained growing public concern due to widespread distribution and harmful impacts. Their distinctive features including porous structure, small size, as well as large specific surface area render MPs to be carriers for transporting other pollutants in the environment, especially potentially toxic elements (PTEs). Considering the hot topic of MPs, it is of great significance to comb the reported literature on environmental behaviors of co-occurrence of MPs and PTEs, and systematically discuss their co-mobility, transportation and biotoxicity to different living organisms in diverse environmental media. Therefore, the aim of this work is to systematically review and summarize recent advances on interactions and co-toxicity of MPs and PTEs, in order to provide in-depth understanding on the transport behaviors as well as environmental impacts. Electrostatic attraction and surface complexation mainly govern the interactions between MPs and PTEs, which are subordinated by other physical sorption processes. Besides, the adsorption behaviors are mainly determined by physicochemical properties regarding to different MPs types and various condition factors (e.g., ageing and PTEs concentrations, presence of substances). Generally speaking, recently published papers make a great progress in elucidating the mechanisms, impact factors, as well as thermodynamic and kinetic studies. Bioavailability and bioaccumulation by plant, microbes, and other organisms in both aquatic and terrestrial environment have also been under investigation. This review will shed novel perspectives on future research to meet the sustainable development goals, and obtain critical insights on revealing comprehensive mechanisms. It is crucial to promote efficient approaches on environmental quality improvement as well as management strategies towards the challenge of MPs-PTEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinni Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Waters Safety & Protection in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Waters Safety & Protection in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Waters Safety & Protection in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Tangfu Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Waters Safety & Protection in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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García-Pimentel MM, Fernández B, Campillo JA, Castaño-Ortiz JM, Gil-Solsona R, Fernández-González V, Muniategui-Lorenzo S, Rodríguez-Mozaz S, León VM. Floating plastics as integrative samplers of organic contaminants of legacy and emerging concern from Western Mediterranean coastal areas. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:166828. [PMID: 37690766 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the role of floating plastics as integrative samplers of organic contaminants. To this end, plastics items were collected in two Western Mediterranean coastal areas: the Mar Menor lagoon, and the last transect of Ebro river. Floating plastics were identified and characterized by attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry. Then, organic contaminants were extracted from plastic items by ultrasonic extraction with methanol, and the concentrations of 168 regulated and emerging contaminants were analysed. These compounds were analysed by stir bar sorptive extraction coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), except for bisphenol analogues, which were analysed with a ultraperformance liquid chromatography pump coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (UHPLC-MS/MS), and pharmaceutical compounds, determined by UPLC coupled to hybrid triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS). All the contaminants groups considered were detected in the samples, being particularly relevant the contribution of plastic additives. The most frequently detected contaminants were UV-filters, PAHs, pharmaceuticals and synthetic musks. Apart from plasticizers, the individual contaminants octocrylene, homosalate, galaxolide, salycilic acid and ketoprofen were frequently detected in plastics items. The results pointed out to urban and touristic activities as the main sources of pollution in the coastal areas investigated. The utility of floating plastics as integrative samplers for the detection of organic contaminants in aquatic ecosystems has been demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M García-Pimentel
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Apdo. 22, C/ Varadero 1, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain.
| | - B Fernández
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Apdo. 22, C/ Varadero 1, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain
| | - J A Campillo
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Apdo. 22, C/ Varadero 1, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain
| | - J M Castaño-Ortiz
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), 17003 Girona, Spain; University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - R Gil-Solsona
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), 17003 Girona, Spain; University of Girona, Girona, Spain; Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC) Severo Ochoa Excellence Centre, Department of Environmental Chemistry, C/ Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - V Fernández-González
- Grupo de Química Analítica Aplicada, Instituto Universitario de Medio Ambiente (IUMA), Departamento de Química Analítica, Facultade de Ciencias, Universidade da Coruña, Campus A Coruña, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - S Muniategui-Lorenzo
- Grupo de Química Analítica Aplicada, Instituto Universitario de Medio Ambiente (IUMA), Departamento de Química Analítica, Facultade de Ciencias, Universidade da Coruña, Campus A Coruña, E-15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - S Rodríguez-Mozaz
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), 17003 Girona, Spain; University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - V M León
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Apdo. 22, C/ Varadero 1, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain.
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7
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Douvris C, Vaughan T, Bussan D, Bartzas G, Thomas R. How ICP-OES changed the face of trace element analysis: Review of the global application landscape. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167242. [PMID: 37742982 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The 50th anniversary of Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) will be observed in 2024. ICP-OES was first commercially available in 1974, and since then, it has become one of the most widely used analytical techniques in the world. ICP-OES is a powerful tool for the determination of trace and ultratrace elemental concentrations in a wide variety of samples specifically for multielement analysis. It is used in a wide range of applications, including environmental monitoring, food analysis, and medical diagnostics. This review aims to explore recent applications of ICP-OES in areas such as food analysis, microplastics, materials, dietary supplements, human tissue, and bodily fluids. The utilization of ICP-OES in these fields has ignited the interest of prospective ICP-OES users and inspired current practitioners, as the 50th anniversary approaches, it is of value of providing an updated review. It is important to note that this work does not seek to encompass a comprehensive review of ICP-OES, given the vast number of published results in this field. Undertaking such a comprehensive task would be a daunting challenge. Consequently, an overview of the ICP-OES instrumental technique is provided, followed by a highlighting of recent significant applications in the aforementioned fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Douvris
- Theobald Science Center, Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, NY, 11568, USA
| | - Trey Vaughan
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, McNeese State University, Lake Charles, LA, 70601, USA
| | - Derek Bussan
- Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center, Agricultural Research Center, US Department of Agriculture, Grand Forks, ND, 58203-9034, USA.
| | - Georgios Bartzas
- School of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 9 Heroon Polytechniou str., 157 80 Zografos, Athens, Greece
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do Amparo SZS, Carvalho LDO, Silva GG, Viana MM. Microplastics as contaminants in the Brazilian environment: an updated review. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1414. [PMID: 37925384 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12011-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have long been present in marine and terrestrial environments and have emerged in recent decades as a global environmental concern. This pollutant has been detected with increasing frequency in Brazilian territory and herein primarily highlights current information and developments about the quantity, distribution, techniques of identification, origins, and sources of microplastics and related pollutants in the Brazilian environment. We evaluated 79 publications from 2018 to December 2022, and some aspects can be highlighted: 27% of studies were published in the Journal Marine Pollution Bulletin; 22% of all studies were conducted in São Paulo city; and 52% of all microplastics found were collected from biota followed by sediment samples. According to the findings given here, microplastics in Brazilian habitats, which can reach concentrations of 4367 to 25,794 items m-2 in sediments, are becoming a serious problem in the Anthropocene age, and some topics regarding the open questions in this area were pointed out in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sthéfany Z S do Amparo
- Departamento de Química-ICEx, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, ZIP 30.270-901, Brazil.
- Centro de Tecnologia em Nanomateriais e Grafeno - CTNano, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, ZIP 31.310-260, Brazil.
| | - Luciana de O Carvalho
- Departamento de Química-ICEx, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, ZIP 30.270-901, Brazil
- Centro de Tecnologia em Nanomateriais e Grafeno - CTNano, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, ZIP 31.310-260, Brazil
| | - Glaura G Silva
- Departamento de Química-ICEx, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, ZIP 30.270-901, Brazil
- Centro de Tecnologia em Nanomateriais e Grafeno - CTNano, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, ZIP 31.310-260, Brazil
| | - Marcelo M Viana
- Departamento de Química-ICEx, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, ZIP 30.270-901, Brazil.
- Centro de Tecnologia em Nanomateriais e Grafeno - CTNano, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, ZIP 31.310-260, Brazil.
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Sodré FF, Arowojolu IM, Canela MC, Ferreira RS, Fernandes AN, Montagner CC, Vidal C, Dias MA, Abate G, da Silva LC, Grassi MT, Bertoldi C, Fadini PS, Urban RC, Ferraz GM, Schio NS, Waldman WR. How natural and anthropogenic factors should drive microplastic behavior and fate: The scenario of Brazilian urban freshwater. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 340:139813. [PMID: 37586495 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139813] [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: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Brazil maintains its position at the top of the global ranking of plastic producers, yet recycling efforts have been incipient. Recent data reveals an annual production of approximately 14 million tons of plastic waste, not accounting for the surge in the usage of plastic masks and related materials due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, what remains largely unreported is that over half of post-consumer plastic packaging in Brazil is managed without any monitoring, and it remains unclear how this will contribute to the occurrence of plastic waste and microplastics in Brazilian freshwaters. This scenario requires the consideration of several other crucial factors. Studies have been carried out mainly in marine and estuarine waters, while data on freshwaters are lacking. Brazil has continental dimensions and the highest water availability on the planet, yet the demand for water is greatest in regions with medium to low supply. Many densely populated Brazilian urban areas face chronic flood problems, possess inadequate levels of wastewater treatment, and display inadequate solid waste management practices. Consequently, urban freshwater with tropical characteristics in Brazil presents an intriguing scenario and is complementary to the most commonly studied marine environments. In this study, we explore the nuances of pollution in Brazilian urban freshwater and discuss how various parameters, such as organic matter, suspended solids, temperature, and pH, among others, influence the behavior of microplastics and their interactions with organic and inorganic contaminants. Furthermore, we address how microplastic conditions, such as biofouling, the type of plastic, or degradation level, may impact their behavior. By analyzing how these conditions change, we propose priority themes for investigating the occurrence of microplastics in Brazilian urban freshwater systems under different degrees of human impact. Ultimately, this study aims to establish a network dedicated to standardized monitoring of microplastic pollution in Brazilian urban freshwaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando F Sodré
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
| | - Imisi M Arowojolu
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Maria C Canela
- Exact Sciences and Technology Center, State University of the North Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos Dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo S Ferreira
- Exact Sciences and Technology Center, State University of the North Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos Dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Andreia N Fernandes
- Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Cristiane Vidal
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana A Dias
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Gilberto Abate
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of Paraná, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Marco T Grassi
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of Paraná, PR, Brazil
| | - Crislaine Bertoldi
- Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Chemistry Department, Federal University of Paraná, PR, Brazil
| | - Pedro S Fadini
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Roberta C Urban
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel M Ferraz
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Natalí S Schio
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Walter R Waldman
- Science and Technology Center for Sustainability, Federal University of São Carlos, Sorocaba, SP, Brazil
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Vrinda PK, Amal R, Abhirami N, Mini DA, Kumar VJR, Devipriya SP. Co-exposure of microplastics and heavy metals in the marine environment and remediation techniques: a comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:114822-114843. [PMID: 37922080 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30679-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and heavy metals are significant pollutants in the marine environment, necessitating effective remediation strategies to prevent their release into the sea through sewage and industrial effluent. This comprehensive review explores the current understanding of the co-exposure of MPs and heavy metal-enriched MPs, highlighting the need for effective remediation methods. Various mechanisms, including surface ion complexation, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic forces, contribute to the adsorption of heavy metals onto MPs, with factors like surface area and environmental exposure duration playing crucial roles. Additionally, biofilm formation on MPs alters their chemical properties, influencing metal adsorption behaviors. Different thermodynamic models are used to explain the adsorption mechanisms of heavy metals on MPs. The adsorption process is influenced by various factors, including the morphological characteristics of MPs, their adsorption capacity, and environmental conditions. Additionally, the desorption of heavy metals from MPs has implications for their bioavailability and poses risks to marine organisms, emphasizing the importance of source reduction and remedial measures. Hybrid approaches that combine both conventional and modern technologies show promise for the efficient removal of MPs and heavy metals from marine environments. This review identifies critical gaps in existing research that should be addressed in future studies including standardized sampling methods to ensure accurate data, further investigation into the specific interactions between MPs and metals, and the development of hybrid technologies at an industrial scale. Overall, this review sheds light on the adsorption and desorption mechanisms of heavy metal-enriched MPs, underscoring the necessity of implementing effective remediation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punmoth Kalyadan Vrinda
- Department of Ocean Studies and Marine Biology, Pondicherry University, Port Blair, 744112, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
| | - Radhakrishnan Amal
- School of Environmental Studies, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, India, 682022
| | - Nandakumar Abhirami
- Department of Aquatic Environment Management, Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400061, India
| | - Divya Alex Mini
- Department of Aquatic Environment Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Panangad, Kochi, 682508, Kerala, India
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11
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Ganie ZA, Khandelwal N, Choudhary A, Darbha GK. Clean water production from plastic and heavy metal contaminated waters using redox-sensitive iron nanoparticle-loaded biochar. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 235:116605. [PMID: 37437871 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The unceasing release of tiny plastics (microplastics and nanoplastics) and their additives, like metal ions, into the aquatic systems from industries and other sources is a globally escalating problem. Their combined toxic effects and human health hazard are already proven; hence, their remediation is requisite. This study utilised the nano-zerovalent iron-loaded sugarcane bagasse-derived biochar (nZVI-SBC) for simultaneous removal of Nanoplastics (NPs) of different functionality and size along with metal ions (Ni2+, Cd2+, AsO43-, and CrO42-). Batch and column experiments were conducted, and the results showed an efficient removal of contaminants with maximum sorption of carboxylate-modified NPs of size 500 nm (qmax = 90.3 mg/g) among all three NPs types. Significant removal was observed in Cd2+ in case of cations and CrO42- in case of anions with qmax = 44.0 and 87.8 mg/g, respectively. Kinetics and the isotherm modelling better fitted the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Sips isotherm model, respectively for both NPs and metal ions. The designed material worked well in pH range of 4-8, ionic strength 1-20 mM and in complex aqueous matrices, with >90% removal. FTIR, zeta potential and the imaging analysis of the reaction precipitates confirmed the electrostatic attraction, pore retention and complexation as the potential mechanisms for removing NPs, whereas, XPS studies confirmed the reduction co-precipitation and surface complexation as the possible mechanism for removing metal ions. High values of attachment efficiency factor calculated from colloidal filtration theory (CFT) validated the experimental results and justified the high sorption of carboxylate modified 500 nm NPs particles. The synthesized material successfully removed both NPs of varying size and functionality and metal ions simultaneously with significant efficacy in complex environmental samples proving the broad applicability of material in realistic environmental conditions and different types of water treatment processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahid Ahmad Ganie
- Environmental Nanoscience Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research- Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal, 741246, India
| | - Nitin Khandelwal
- Environmental Nanoscience Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research- Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal, 741246, India
| | - Aniket Choudhary
- Environmental Nanoscience Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research- Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal, 741246, India
| | - Gopala Krishna Darbha
- Environmental Nanoscience Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research- Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal, 741246, India; Centre for Climate and Environmental Studies, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal, 741246, India.
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12
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Shirkhorshidi B, Ghanatghestani MD, Moeinpour F, Parvaresh H. Exploring the interaction between microplastics and heavy metals: unveiling the impact of microplastics on lead sorption and desorption in soil. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1017. [PMID: 37531022 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11640-9] [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: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
The global attention on microplastics in soils, particularly in agricultural soils, has been growing. However, there is a need to investigate the impact of microplastics on the ability of agricultural soils to add and remove pollutants. To address this, a series of batch experiments were conducted to examine how high-density polyethylene microplastics affect the adsorption and desorption of lead in a field soil under different conditions. The equilibrium for both lead adsorption and desorption, with and without microplastics, was reached within 120 min. The adsorption kinetics of lead followed the quasi-second-order model, and the Langmuir model provided a more accurate fit for the adsorption isotherm compared to the Freundlich model. Generally, the addition of microplastics decreased lead adsorption but increased its excretion. The effects varied depending on the dosage of microplastics, particle size, and solution pH. Higher microplastic dosage and larger particle size resulted in a more pronounced reduction in lead adsorption and an increase in lead excretion, although these effects also depended on the solution pH. Analysis using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the adsorption lead on the surface of microplastics. Both types of microplastic samples, before and after lead adsorption, exhibited similar X-ray diffraction patterns, indicating that the microplastics maintained their high crystallinity and did not undergo any new crystalline phase formation. Consequently, the introduction of microplastics into the soil may enhance the mobility of lead by reducing the soil's adsorption capacity, thereby posing greater risks to the agricultural ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behrooz Shirkhorshidi
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Mohsen Dehghani Ghanatghestani
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran.
| | - Farid Moeinpour
- Department of Chemistry, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, 7915893144, Iran.
| | - Hossein Parvaresh
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran
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13
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Rodrigues JP, Rivera-Hernández JR, Bernárdez P, Rocha-Santos T, Duarte AC, Santos-Echeandía J. Metal(oid)s in plastic debris, with distinct features, from Spanish Mediterranean beaches with different anthropogenic pressure: Are these particles potential monitors for metal pollution? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115107. [PMID: 37327722 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115107] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Metal(oid)s concentrations have been quantified in plastic pieces collected from four beaches located in the Mediterranean coast of Spain with different characteristics (i.e. anthropogenic pressure, zone). Metal(oid)s content was also related to selected plastic criteria (i.e. color, degradation status, polymer). The selected elements were quantified with mean concentrations in the sampled plastics with the following order: Fe > Mg > Zn > Mn > Pb > Sr > As > Cu > Cr > Ni > Cd > Co. Moreover, black, brown, PUR, PS, and coastal line plastics concentrated the higher metal(oid)s levels. Local of sampling (influence of mining exploitation) and severe degradation were key factors for uptake of metal(oid)s from water by plastics as modification of surfaces strengths their adsorption capacity. Determined high levels of Fe, Pb and Zn in plastics reflected the pollution degree of the marine areas. Therefore, this study is a contribution for the potential use of plastics as pollution monitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Patrício Rodrigues
- Department of Chemistry & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - José Roberto Rivera-Hernández
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Joel Montes Camarena s/n Cerro del Vigía, 82047 Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Patricia Bernárdez
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - Teresa Rocha-Santos
- Department of Chemistry & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Armando Costa Duarte
- Department of Chemistry & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Juan Santos-Echeandía
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain.
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14
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Matluba M, Ahmed MK, Chowdhury KMA, Khan N, Ashiq MAR, Islam MS. The pervasiveness of microplastic contamination in the gastrointestinal tract of fish from the western coast of Bangladesh. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115145. [PMID: 37331273 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of microplastics (MPs) in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of fish from the western coast of Bangladesh, the world's largest mangrove ecosystem. Altogether, 8 different species of fish (5 demersal and 3 pelagic) were examined. Microplastics were detected in every individual fish with an average abundance of 7.1 ± 3.14 particles per specimen. The demersal species were observed to consume more microplastics (7.78 ± 3.51) than the pelagic species (5.92 ± 2.06). Moreover, small-sized fish was found to accumulate higher MPs/body weight than large-sized fish. Polypropylene was the most abundant polymer type (45 %) and fiber was the most prevalent shape (71 %). SEM analysis revealed cracks, pits, and foreign particles on the microplastics' surface, representing their ability to bear organic pollutants and heavy metals. This study will be a source of information for future research and a guide for policy-makers to take better actions to protect and restore marine resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marhaba Matluba
- Department of Oceanography, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Kawser Ahmed
- Department of Oceanography, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | | | - Nasim Khan
- Department of Oceanography, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | | | - Muhammad Saiful Islam
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh.
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15
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Raju MP, Veerasingam S, Suneel V, Saha M, Rathore C, Naik A, Suneetha P, Ramakrishna SSVS. Seasonal variation and spatial distribution of microplastic pellets and their associated contaminants along the central east coast of India. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:68489-68503. [PMID: 37126173 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27100-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pellets (MPPs) are one of the significant sources of plastic pollution on shorelines worldwide. In this study, for the first time, we have examined the occurrence of MPPs and their spatial and seasonal distributions, adsorbed contaminants, polymer composition, and ecological risks at eight renowned beaches of Andhra Pradesh, central east coast of India. A total of 3950 MPPs were collected from eight beaches along the central east coast of India during October 2020, representing pre-northeast monsoon (pNEM), and during January 2021, representing the northeast monsoon (NEM). The abundance of MPPs was higher during the NEM than those found in the pNEM. ATR-FTIR and SEM analyses were conducted to characterize the polymer types and weathering patterns of MPPs. Energy-Dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) results show the MPP adsorbance of heavy metals such as Ni, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn. The degree of contamination and polymer hazard risks of MPPs were assessed using the pollution load index (PLI) and polymer hazard index (PHI). The conducive wind and currents during the NEM lead to higher MPP abundance than during the pNEM. However, the spatial variations of MPPs showed significant differences among the beaches. This study revealed that the presence of MPPs on the beaches along the central east coast of India might pose a considerable polymer hazard risk to the ecosystem. The substantial surface weathering features of MPPs would lead to more toxic nanoplastics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallela Pruthvi Raju
- Department of Meteorology and Oceanography, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, 530003, India
| | | | - Vasimalla Suneel
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, 403004, Dona Paula, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India.
| | - Mahua Saha
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, 403004, Dona Paula, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
| | - Chayanika Rathore
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, 403004, Dona Paula, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
| | - Akshata Naik
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, 403004, Dona Paula, India
| | - Pilli Suneetha
- Department of Meteorology and Oceanography, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, 530003, India
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16
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Osten JRV, Benítez-Torres JA, Rojas-González RI, Morgado F, Borges-Ramírez MM. Microplastics in sediments from the southern Gulf of Mexico: Abundance, distribution, composition, and adhered pollutants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 873:162290. [PMID: 36804972 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 23 Mt of plastics reaches the ocean each year, fragmented into microplastics (MP). MPs are widely dispersed in the sea, becoming deposited in sediments. MPs are considered carriers of pollutants such as heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and, when ingested by biota, pose a high health risk. This study determined metals and PAHs in sedimentary microplastics from the southern Gulf of Mexico (GOM). One hundred twenty-four sediment samples were collected, covering an area of 26,220 km2. The mean (±SD) of MPs in sediments was 16.46 ± 17.76 MPs/kg. The most abundant polymers were cellophane (CE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyethylene (PE), polyamides (PA), and nylon (NYL). A strong correlation (r: 0.83) was found between MP density and sediment depth. PA and PE were found near shorelines and PVDF near oil platforms. Aluminum, arsenic, and tin had the highest concentration (89.6 ± 94.6, 23.1 ± 70.3, and 19 ± 29.2 μg g-1, respectively), and acenaphthylene was the PAH with the highest concentration (3.4 ± 12.6 μg g-1). This study shows that MP with a higher density is found at greater depths, and this research is one of the first to cover a large area of the Gulf of Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Rendón-von Osten
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Campus VI, Av. Héroe de Nacozari 480, CP 24070, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico.
| | - Jorge A Benítez-Torres
- Ecología Aplicada del Sureste A.C. (EASAC), Andador Caracol 1, Fraccionamiento Lavalle Urbina, CP 24087, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico.
| | - R Isaac Rojas-González
- Dirección de Investigación Pesquera en el Atlántico, Instituto Nacional de Pesca y Acuacultura, Av. México 190 Col Del Carmen, C.P. 04100, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Fernando Morgado
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Merle M Borges-Ramírez
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquería y Oceanografía del Golfo de México (EPOMEX), Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Campus VI, Av. Héroe de Nacozari 480, CP 24070, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico; El Colegio de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Avenida Rancho, Polígono 2-A, Ciudad Industrial Lerma, CP 24500, Campeche, Campeche, Mexico.
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17
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Tumwesigye E, Felicitas Nnadozie C, C Akamagwuna F, Siwe Noundou X, William Nyakairu G, Odume ON. Microplastics as vectors of chemical contaminants and biological agents in freshwater ecosystems: Current knowledge status and future perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 330:121829. [PMID: 37196837 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are becoming ubiquitous, and their environmental fate is becoming an issue of concern. Our review aims to synthesize current knowledge status and provide future perspectives regarding the vector effect of MPs for chemical contaminants and biological agents. The evidence in the literature indicates that MPs are a vector for persistent organic pollutants (POPs), metals and pharmaceuticals. Concentrations of chemical contaminant in orders of six-fold higher on MPs surfaces than in the surrounding environmental waters have been reported. Chemical pollutants such as perfluoroalkyl substances (PAFSs), hexachlorocyclohexane (HCHs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), exhibiting polarities in the range of 3.3-9 are the commonest chemicals reported on MP surfaces. Regarding metals on MPs including chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), cobalt (Co), the presence of C-O and N-H in MPs promote a relatively high adsorption of these metals onto MP surfaces. Regarding pharmaceuticals, not much has been done, but a few studies indicate that commonly used drugs such as ibuprofen, ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen have been associated with MPs. There is sufficient evidence supporting the claim that MPs can act as vectors for viruses, bacterial and antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes, and MPs act to accelerate horizontal and vertical gene transfer. An area that deserves urgent attention is whether MPs can act as vectors for invertebrates and vertebrates, mainly non-native, invasive freshwater species. Despite the ecological significance of invasive biology, little research has been done in this regard. Overall, our review summarises the state of the current knowledge, identifies critical research gaps and provides perspectives for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Tumwesigye
- Centre for Environmental Water Quality, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - Chika Felicitas Nnadozie
- Centre for Environmental Water Quality, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - Frank C Akamagwuna
- Centre for Environmental Water Quality, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda, South Africa
| | | | | | - Oghenekaro Nelson Odume
- Centre for Environmental Water Quality, Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda, South Africa.
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18
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Andria G, Scarpetta M, Spadavecchia M, Affuso P, Giaquinto N. SNOWED: Automatically Constructed Dataset of Satellite Imagery for Water Edge Measurements. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23094491. [PMID: 37177695 PMCID: PMC10181759 DOI: 10.3390/s23094491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring the shoreline over time is essential to quickly identify and mitigate environmental issues such as coastal erosion. Monitoring using satellite images has two great advantages, i.e., global coverage and frequent measurement updates; but adequate methods are needed to extract shoreline information from such images. To this purpose, there are valuable non-supervised methods, but more recent research has concentrated on deep learning because of its greater potential in terms of generality, flexibility, and measurement accuracy, which, in contrast, derive from the information contained in large datasets of labeled samples. The first problem to solve, therefore, lies in obtaining large datasets suitable for this specific measurement problem, and this is a difficult task, typically requiring human analysis of a large number of images. In this article, we propose a technique to automatically create a dataset of labeled satellite images suitable for training machine learning models for shoreline detection. The method is based on the integration of data from satellite photos and data from certified, publicly accessible shoreline data. It involves several automatic processing steps, aimed at building the best possible dataset, with images including both sea and land regions, and correct labeling also in the presence of complicated water edges (which can be open or closed curves). The use of independently certified measurements for labeling the satellite images avoids the great work required to manually annotate them by visual inspection, as is done in other works in the literature. This is especially true when convoluted shorelines are considered. In addition, possible errors due to the subjective interpretation of satellite images are also eliminated. The method is developed and used specifically to build a new dataset of Sentinel-2 images, denoted SNOWED; but is applicable to different satellite images with trivial modifications. The accuracy of labels in SNOWED is directly determined by the uncertainty of the shoreline data used, which leads to sub-pixel errors in most cases. Furthermore, the quality of the SNOWED dataset is assessed through the visual comparison of a random sample of images and their corresponding labels, and its functionality is shown by training a neural model for sea-land segmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorio Andria
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Polytechnic University of Bari, Via E. Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Marco Scarpetta
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Polytechnic University of Bari, Via E. Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Maurizio Spadavecchia
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Polytechnic University of Bari, Via E. Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Paolo Affuso
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Polytechnic University of Bari, Via E. Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Giaquinto
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Polytechnic University of Bari, Via E. Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
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Trindade LDS, Gloaguen TV, Benevides TDSF, Valentim ACS, Bomfim MR, Gonzaga Santos JA. Microplastics in surface waters of tropical estuaries around a densely populated Brazilian bay. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 323:121224. [PMID: 36754197 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Brazil is the fourth largest producer of plastic waste in the world, but studies on pollution of rivers and estuaries by microplastics are still scarce. This study is located in the state of Bahia (Northeast region) in ten estuarine environments around Todos dos Santos Bay (TDB), the largest Brazilian bay, where more than 3 million Brazilians live. The aim of the study was the evaluation of the input of microplastics into the TSB by river. Microplastic abundance, size, morphology and water quality were determined during three sampling campaigns. All river samples were highly polluted with microplastics (mostly <150 μm), up to 33,000 items m-3, exceeding values observed in most estuaries worldwide. The poor quality of the river water reflect the deficient treatment of domestic wastewater in the state of Bahia (49% are not treated), and in this study is shown a correlation with the abundance of microplastics, indicating their possible main source. Artisanal fishing can also contribute locally to this pollution. Morover, the results highlight the importance of sampling small microplastics (<100 μm) to avoid important underestimation of this pollution. Based on these data, the three major rivers would discharge 3.88 trillion items into the Bay each year, equivalent to 4.75 × 105 m2 of plastic. Further research in surface water systems is essential, given that the average wastewater treatment rates in the country and in the Northeast and North regions are only 43%, 32%, and 12%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laiana Dos Santos Trindade
- Center for Agricultural, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Reconcavo of Bahia, 44380-000, Cruz Das Almas, Brazil
| | - Thomas Vincent Gloaguen
- Center for Technology and Exact Sciences, Federal University of Reconcavo of Bahia, 44380-000, Cruz Das Almas, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Marcela Rebouças Bomfim
- Center for Agricultural, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Reconcavo of Bahia, 44380-000, Cruz Das Almas, Brazil.
| | - Jorge Antônio Gonzaga Santos
- Center for Agricultural, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Reconcavo of Bahia, 44380-000, Cruz Das Almas, Brazil.
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20
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Li C, Sun H, Shi Y, Zhao Z, Zhang Z, Zhao P, Gao Q, Zhang X, Chen B, Li Y, He S. Polyethylene and poly (butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate)-based biodegradable microplastics modulate the bioavailability and speciation of Cd and As in soil: Insights into transformation mechanisms. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 445:130638. [PMID: 37056010 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) that enter the soil can alter the physicochemical and biochemical properties of soil and affect speciation of heavy metals (HMs), thereby perturbing the bioavailability of HMs. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects are not understood. Therefore, we investigated the effects of MPs from poly (butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate)-based biodegradable mulch (BM) and polyethylene mulch (PM) in Cd- or As-contaminated soil on soil properties and speciation of HMs. MPs were characterised using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The addition of MPs reduced the bioavailability of HMs in soil and promoted the transformation of HMs into inert fractions. The mechanisms underlying the reduction of the bioavailability of HMs in soils could be as follows: (1) the entry of MPs into the soil changed its properties, which reduced the bioavailability of HMs; (2) FTIR and XPS analyses revealed that the hydroxyl and carboxyl groups and benzene ring present on the surface of aged MPs stabilized complexes (As(V)-O) with As(V) may have directly reduced the bioavailability of As(V) in soil; (3) aged BM exposed more amounts and types of reactive functional groups and was more effective in stabilising soil HMs than PM. Overall, this study provides new insights regarding the complexation mechanisms of soil HMs by MPs from different plastic mulch sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaohang Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Huarong Sun
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Yilan Shi
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Zhengxiong Zhao
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Qiyan Gao
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Bin Chen
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Yongtao Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an 710021, China; College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Shuran He
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
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21
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Lu X, Hu H, Li J, Li J, Wang L, Liu L, Tang Y. Microplastics existence affected heavy metal affinity to ferrihydrite as a representative sediment mineral. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 859:160227. [PMID: 36400290 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The coexistence of minerals, heavy metals and microplastics in sediment has been widely reported, while the interactions between minerals and heavy metals may be affected by the presence of microplastics. Therefore, to elucidate the effect of microplastics on the interactions between heavy metals and sediment minerals, this study conducted a series of experiments using polystyrene (PS) microplastics, Pb/Cr/Cd and ferrihydrite (Fh). The presence of PS microplastics with ferrihydrite (Fh-MPs200, mass ratio of ferrihydrite to PS of 200:1) improved the adsorption capacity of ferrihydrite, especially with an increase of 36 % for Pb. Morphological characterization demonstrated that the nano-ferrihydrite particles were dispersed on the surface of the PS microplastics, increasing the available reaction sites of the ferrihydrite particles. Furthermore, the results of zeta potential and pH effect showed that the reduction in electrostatic repulsion after adding PS was another critical reason for the increase in Pb adsorption by Fh-MP200. As a result, the presence of PS microplastics enhanced the complexation of Pb ions and the hydroxyl groups on the ferrihydrite surface. This study demonstrated that the presence of microplastics in the sedimentary environment can alter the dispersion and surface properties of minerals, thereby affecting the accumulation and transportation of heavy metals at the water-sediment interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Lu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Hongwei Hu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, PR China
| | - Jiawei Li
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Jiangpeng Li
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Lili Liu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China.
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22
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Liu Q, Wu H, Chen J, Guo B, Zhao X, Lin H, Li W, Zhao X, Lv S, Huang C. Adsorption mechanism of trace heavy metals on microplastics and simulating their effect on microalgae in river. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:113777. [PMID: 35780846 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and heavy-metal contamination in freshwater is an increasing concern. Fe, Mn, Pb, Zn, Cr, and Cd are common heavy metals that can easily flow into rivers causing water pollution. Microplastics act as carriers for heavy metals and increase the transport of contaminants in freshwater systems. We investigated the adsorption mechanisms of three kinds of MPs having similar particle sizes, namely polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with respect to trace heavy metals of Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd under different temperature and salinity conditions. The reaction kinetics of the adsorption of different trace heavy metals on different MPs were consistent with both the quasi primary and quasi secondary kinetic models, indicating the complexity of heavy metal adsorption by MPs. The adsorption rate of heavy metal on MPs was mainly controlled by intra-particle diffusion, and the isotherm model indicated that the adsorption of Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd by MPs occurred in the form of monolayer physical adsorption. Additionally, an increase in temperature and decrease in salinity were favourable to improve the affinity of MPs toward heavy metals (through adsorption). Zeta potential measurements and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses indicated that electrostatic force interaction was the main mechanism of the adsorption process; oxygen-containing functional groups, π-π interaction, and halogen bonds played important roles in the process of adsorption. Furthermore, the growth inhibition and oxidative stress of microalgae Chlorella vulgaris (GY-D27) due to PP, PS, and PVC were analysed; notably, MPs or Pb inhibited the growth of Chlorella vulgaris. However, the reduced toxicity to Chlorella vulgaris, with respect to a mixture of Pb and MPs, was confirmed using superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activities. Our results can be applied for the risk assessment of heavy metals and MPs in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Haowen Wu
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Jiajiao Chen
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Biaohu Guo
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Xiufang Zhao
- Ecological Science Institute, LingNan Eco & Culture-Tourism Co., Ltd., Dongguan, 523125, China
| | - Hui Lin
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Wei Li
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Sihao Lv
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Cong Huang
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, China.
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23
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Campanale C, Savino I, Massarelli C, Uricchio VF. Assessment of metals associated with virgin pre-production and freshwater microplastics collected by an Italian river. NANOIMPACT 2022; 28:100438. [PMID: 36372349 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2022.100438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Recently, microplastics (MPs) have been detected in almost all environmental matrices (water, soil, air, biota). Their presence is of concern due to high environmental persistence and their ability to release or bind pollutants. In light of this, the present work aimed to quantify a poorly studied pollutant category associated with MPs: metals. This analysis was conducted on virgin MPs, used as raw materials in the plastics' production process and on environmental MPs taken from the Ofanto river in Southern Italy. The MP samples were initially grouped for colour, shape and ageing and following mineralised by a microwave digestor. The metals and metalloids Pb, Ba, Sb, Sn, Cd, Mo, Se, Zn, Cu, Ni, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ti, Al, V, Ca, K, Mg, Na were subsequently quantified with ICP-MS. All the analysed elements were found on both types of samples (virgin and environmental MPs), with higher concentrations detected on environmental samples (above 14,400 μg/g-1) rather than on pristine ones (above 5000 μg/g-1). Many of these inorganic compounds are probably adsorbed by the surrounding environment, and others are intentionally added during the plastic production process to improve their properties (e.g. additives). Noticeable differences were detected concerning the metal's distribution and amount observed in the two types of MP particles analysed. Moreover, trace element concentrations were also linked to the colour and shape of the environmental particles analysed. Most abundant levels of metals were quantified on aged black fragments, followed by coloured and transparent fragments and black pellets. Our concluding remarks underline the role of MPs as a vehicle for the transport of metals, with significant differences between the high abundance of these pollutants examined in our particles collected in a freshwater environment and the significantly lower concentrations revealed previously in marine MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Campanale
- Italian National Council of Research - Water Research Institute, Bari, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Savino
- Italian National Council of Research - Water Research Institute, Bari, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Carmine Massarelli
- Italian National Council of Research - Water Research Institute, Bari, Italy
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24
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Nguyen TB, Ho TBC, Huang CP, Chen CW, Chen WH, Hsieh S, Hsieh SL, Dong CD. Adsorption of lead(II) onto PE microplastics as a function of particle size: Influencing factors and adsorption mechanism. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 304:135276. [PMID: 35690170 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The adsorption of Pb ions, on high-density polyethylene (PE) microplastics (MPs) with the diameter of 48-500 μm, was examined in this study. According to the Langmuir isotherm, MP of the smallest size, 48 μm, had the greatest adsorption capacity of 0.38 μmol g-1. The mechanism of Pb ions adsorption onto PE MPs was chemical adsorption, in particular, hydrogen bonding and surface complexation. Pb adsorption onto PE particles was proceeded at a rapid rate, as predicted by the pseudo-second-order rate model (R2 > 0.99). The PE 48 μm had the maximum adsorption capacity of 0.44 μmol g-1 (or 0.2 mol m-2) at pH 5. While humic acid can operate as a bridging agent, boosting heavy metal adsorption on the surface of PE MPs, fulvic acid has the reverse effect. The findings indicated that PE particles may serve as a carrier of heavy metals in the aquatic environment, posing perceived risks to the environment and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh-Binh Nguyen
- Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, 81157, Taiwan
| | - Thi-Bao-Chau Ho
- Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, 81157, Taiwan
| | - C P Huang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, 19716, DE, USA
| | - Chiu-Wen Chen
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, 81157, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Hsin Chen
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan; Research Center for Smart Sustainable Circular Economy, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan; Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, Taichung 411, Taiwan
| | - Shuchen Hsieh
- Department of Chemistry, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, 80424, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Ling Hsieh
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, 81157, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Di Dong
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, 81157, Taiwan.
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25
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Changfu Y, Jiani G, Yidi Y, Yijin L, Yiyao L, Yu F. Interface behavior changes of weathered polystyrene with ciprofloxacin in seawater environment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 212:113132. [PMID: 35305981 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
With the progress of research on micro-nano plastics, the weathering degradation process in the natural environment has gradually become the focus of academic discussion. This study adopted the Fenton immersion method to accelerate the simulation of the weathering process of microplastics in nature, and explored the interface behavior of the weathered microplastics and hydrophilic antibiotics. It was found that the weathered polystyrene (PS) has a smaller crystallinity, increased oxygen-containing functional groups, and cracks appear on the surface, making it more likely to be weathered. At the same time, the rougher surface and stronger hydrophilicity of the weathered PS particles made it easier to adsorb hydrophilic antibiotics. Subsequent studies showed that the adsorption of ciprofloxacin (CIP·HCl) by weathered PS is much larger than that of original PS particles, whose maximum adsorption is 5.45 mg/g in the isotherm experiments. We found that the adsorption behavior of weathered PS particles with CIP in seawater would be weakened in the real seawater environment and humic acid, which might be due to the competitive adsorption of CIP by various ions. Further studies have shown that changes in the ionic strength and pH of the solution also affected the adsorption behavior to varying degrees. The results of dynamic adsorption were the same as the static adsorption, and the adsorption rate and capacity of weathered PS particles were enhanced compared with the original particles. The results of this article not only provided a data reference for studying the weathering process of microplastics but also helped to explore the ultimate fate of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Changfu
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, No 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, PR China
| | - Guan Jiani
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, No 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, PR China
| | - Yang Yidi
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, No 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, PR China
| | - Liu Yijin
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, No 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, PR China
| | - Li Yiyao
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, No 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, PR China
| | - Fei Yu
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, No 999, Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, PR China.
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26
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Mukherjee AG, Wanjari UR, Bradu P, Patil M, Biswas A, Murali R, Renu K, Dey A, Vellingiri B, Raja G, Iyer M, Valsala Gopalakrishnan A. Elimination of microplastics from the aquatic milieu: A dream to achieve. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 303:135232. [PMID: 35671819 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have become a significant source of concern as they have emerged as a widespread pollutant that harms the aquatic environment. It has become an enormous challenge, having the capacity to biomagnify and eventually affect human health, biodiversity, aquatic animals, and the environment. This review provides in-depth knowledge of how MPs interact with different toxic organic chemicals, antibiotics, and heavy metals in the aquatic environment and its consequences. Membrane technologies like ultrafiltration (UF), nanofiltration (NF), microfiltration (MF), and dynamic membranes can be highly effective techniques for the removal of MPs. Also, hybrid membrane techniques like advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), membrane fouling, electrochemical processes, and adsorption processes can be incorporated for superior efficiency. The review also focuses on the reactor design and performance of several membrane-based filters and bioreactors to develop practical, feasible, and sustainable membrane technologies. The main aim of this work is to throw light on the alarming scenario of microplastic pollution in the aquatic milieu and strategies that can be adopted to tackle it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Goutam Mukherjee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Pragya Bradu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Megha Patil
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Antara Biswas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Reshma Murali
- Department of Biosciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Kaviyarasi Renu
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700073, India
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ganesan Raja
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Mahalaxmi Iyer
- Livestock Farming & Bioresources Technology, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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27
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Cormier B, Cachot J, Blanc M, Cabar M, Clérandeau C, Dubocq F, Le Bihanic F, Morin B, Zapata S, Bégout ML, Cousin X. Environmental microplastics disrupt swimming activity in acute exposure in Danio rerio larvae and reduce growth and reproduction success in chronic exposure in D. rerio and Oryzias melastigma. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 308:119721. [PMID: 35809711 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), widely present in aquatic ecosystems, can be ingested by numerous organisms, but their toxicity remains poorly understood. Toxicity of environmental MPs from 2 beaches located on the Guadeloupe archipelago, Marie Galante (MG) and Petit-Bourg (PB) located near the North Atlantic gyre, was evaluated. A first experiment consisted in exposing early life stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) to MPs at 1 or 10 mg/L. The exposure of early life stages to particles in water induced no toxic effects except a decrease in larval swimming activity for both MPs exposures (MG or PB). Then, a second experiment was performed as a chronic feeding exposure over 4 months, using a freshwater fish species, zebrafish, and a marine fish species, marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma). Fish were fed with food supplemented with environmentally relevant concentrations (1% wet weight of MPs in food) of environmental MPs from both sites. Chronic feeding exposure led to growth alterations in both species exposed to either MG or PB MPs but were more pronounced in marine medaka. Ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities were only altered for marine medaka. Reproductive outputs were modified following PB exposure with a 70 and 42% decrease for zebrafish and marine medaka, respectively. Offspring of both species (F1 generation) were reared to evaluate toxicity following parental exposure on unexposed larvae. For zebrafish offspring, it revealed premature mortality after parental MG exposure and parental PB exposure produced behavioural disruptions with hyperactivity of F1 unexposed larvae. This was not observed in marine medaka offspring. This study highlights the ecotoxicological consequences of short and long-term exposures to environmental microplastics relevant to coastal marine areas, which represent essential habitats for a wide range of aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettie Cormier
- Bordeaux University, EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Avenue des Facultés, 33400, Talence, France; Man-Technology-Environment Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Fakultetsgatan 1, 701 82, Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Jérôme Cachot
- Bordeaux University, EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Avenue des Facultés, 33400, Talence, France
| | - Mélanie Blanc
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Fakultetsgatan 1, 701 82, Örebro, Sweden; MARBEC, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, IRD, INRAE, 34250, Palavas-les-flots, France
| | - Mathieu Cabar
- MARBEC, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, IRD, INRAE, 34250, Palavas-les-flots, France
| | - Christelle Clérandeau
- Bordeaux University, EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Avenue des Facultés, 33400, Talence, France
| | - Florian Dubocq
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Fakultetsgatan 1, 701 82, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Florane Le Bihanic
- Bordeaux University, EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Avenue des Facultés, 33400, Talence, France
| | - Bénédicte Morin
- Bordeaux University, EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Avenue des Facultés, 33400, Talence, France
| | - Sarah Zapata
- Bordeaux University, EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Avenue des Facultés, 33400, Talence, France
| | - Marie-Laure Bégout
- MARBEC, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, IRD, INRAE, 34250, Palavas-les-flots, France
| | - Xavier Cousin
- MARBEC, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, IRD, INRAE, 34250, Palavas-les-flots, France
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28
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The ecotoxicological consequences of microplastics and co-contaminants in aquatic organisms: a mini-review. Emerg Top Life Sci 2022; 6:339-348. [PMID: 35972188 PMCID: PMC9788381 DOI: 10.1042/etls20220014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs, <5 mm in size) are a grave environmental concern. They are a ubiquitous persistent pollutant group that has reached into all parts of the environment - from the highest mountain tops to the depths of the ocean. During their production, plastics have added to them numerous chemicals in the form of plasticizers, colorants, fillers and stabilizers, some of which have known toxicity to biota. When released into the environments, MPs are also likely to encounter chemical contaminants, including hydrophobic organic contaminants, trace metals and pharmaceuticals, which can sorb to plastic surfaces. Additionally, MPs have been shown to be ingested by a wide range of organisms and it is this combination of ingestion and chemical association that gives weight to the notion that MPs may impact the bioavailability and toxicity of both endogenous and exogenous co-contaminants. In this mini-review, we set the recent literature within what has been previously published about MPs as chemical carriers to biota, with particular focus on aquatic invertebrates and fish. We then present a critical viewpoint on the validity of laboratory-to-field extrapolations in this area. Lastly, we highlight the expanding 'microplastic universe' with the addition of anthropogenic particles that have gained recent attention, namely, tire wear particles, nanoplastics and, bio-based or biodegradable MPs, and highlight the need for future research in their potential roles as vehicles of co-contaminant transfer.
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29
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Sun Y, Shaheen SM, Ali EF, Abdelrahman H, Sarkar B, Song H, Rinklebe J, Ren X, Zhang Z, Wang Q. Enhancing microplastics biodegradation during composting using livestock manure biochar. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 306:119339. [PMID: 35461884 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradation of microplastics (MPs) in contaminated biowastes has received big scientific attention during the past few years. The aim here is to study the impacts of livestock manure biochar (LMBC) on the biodegradation of polyhydroxyalkanoate microplastics (PHA-MPs) during composting, which have not yet been verified. LMBC (10% wt/wt) and PHA-MPs (0.5% wt/wt) were added to a mixture of pristine cow manure and sawdust for composting, whereas a mixture without LMBC served as the control (CK). The maximum degradation rate of PHA-MPs (22-31%) was observed in the thermophilic composting stage in both mixtures. LMBC addition significantly (P < 0.05) promoted PHA-MPs degradation and increased the carbon loss and oxygen loading of PHA-MPs compared to CK. Adding LMBC accelerated the cleavage of C-H bonds and oxidation of PHA-MPs, and increased the O-H, CO and C-O functional groups on MPs. Also, LMBC addition increased the relative abundance of dominant microorganisms (Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Deinococcus-Thermus, Bacteroidetes, Ascomycota and Basidiomycota) and promoted the enrichment of MP-degrading microbial biomarkers (e.g., Bacillus, Thermobacillus, Luteimonas, Chryseolinea, Aspergillus and Mycothermus). LMBC addition further increased the complexity and connectivity between dominant microbial biomarkers and PHA-MPs degradation characteristics, strengthened their positive relationship, thereby accelerated PHA-MPs biodegradation, and mitigated the potential environmental and human health risk. These findings provide a reference point for reducing PHA-MPs in compost and safe recycling of MPs contaminated organic wastes. However, these results should be validated with other composting matrices and conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Sun
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, PR China
| | - Sabry M Shaheen
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285, Wuppertal, Germany; King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Meteorology, Environment, and Arid Land Agriculture, Department of Arid Land Agriculture, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esmat F Ali
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamada Abdelrahman
- Cairo University, Faculty of Agriculture, Soil Science Department, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ, United Kingdom; Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Hocheol Song
- Department of Environment, Energy, and Geoinformatics, Sejong University, Guangjin-Gu, Seoul, 05006, Republic of Korea
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285, Wuppertal, Germany; Department of Environment, Energy, and Geoinformatics, Sejong University, Guangjin-Gu, Seoul, 05006, Republic of Korea
| | - Xiuna Ren
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, PR China
| | - Zengqiang Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, PR China
| | - Quan Wang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, PR China.
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He K, Wang J, Chen Q, Wu F, Yang X, Chen J. Effects of cascade dams on the occurrence and distribution of microplastics in surface sediments of Wujiang river basin, Southwestern China. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 240:113715. [PMID: 35659701 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The influence of cascade dams on the migration of microplastics (MPs) was conducted by analyzing the spatial distribution of MPs in sediments of the Wujiang river basin (Wujiang river basin) in Southwest China. The results showed that the abundance of MPs in Wujiang river basin sediments ranged from 310 to 2620 items/kg dw (mean: 1354 items/kg dw, a high level compared with aquatic sediments worldwide). The main chemical components of these MPs were polypropylene and polyethylene. High abundance of MPs in tributary sediments suggested that tributary inputs contributed to the main stream and reservoirs. Statistical analysis showed that gross domestic product (GDP) and the basin area of cascade reservoirs, rather than hydraulic retention time and reservoir age, were the dominating factors in the distribution of MPs in the Wujiang river basin. The accumulation of MPs in cascade reservoirs implied the interception effect of cascade dams. The rapid development of cascade dam systems and the interception effect of dams should be taken into account when predicting the flux of MPs from rivers to the ocean. Heavy metals found on the surface of the MPs showed the compound pollution of MPs and heavy metals in dammed rivers and cascade reservoirs. Our results deepen the understanding of the migration of MPs in rivers alongside intensive cascade hydropower development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangkang He
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550002, PR China; College of Resource and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, PR China
| | - Jingfu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550002, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China.
| | - Quan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550002, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Fengxue Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550002, PR China; College of Resource and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, PR China
| | - Xiaohong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550002, PR China; College of Resource and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, PR China
| | - Jingan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550002, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
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A Review on Heavy Metal Ion Adsorption on Synthetic Microfiber Surface in Aquatic Environments. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2022; 194:4639-4654. [PMID: 35779174 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-022-04029-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic microfibers (SMFs), tiny particles which gets fragmented from large fragments of large synthetic fibers having less than 10 µm in diameter, have gathered ubiquitously in each and every corner of the earth. After their release into the aquatic environment, they remain there without natural degradation. Furthermore, it can be anticipated that floating units are transported along the food chain leading to bioaccumulation. It has been estimated that approximately 10-20 Mt of large fabric products as garbage enter into aquatic system per annum. Recently, these synthetic fragments have been investigated as transporters of heavy metal ions (HMs) showing different types of interactions. Yet, the underlying mechanism of these types of interaction is not known, especially the factors stimulating this process and how badly they affect biotic communities. Through this article, a detailed survey was carried out on the sources of microfibers and HMs into the aquatic environment, adsorption of different types of HMs on the SMF surface, mechanics favors these HM-MF interactions, particularly highlighting the significant roles of interaction on microbial biofilm formation. Their collaborative effects which possess harmful effects on aquatic as well as terrestrial organisms was also discussed. Lastly, the future investigations should focus on rigorous research in this field. This article to the best of our knowledge briefly describes the current research developments and emphasizes the vital function of the microorganisms on MFs-HMs interactions with the encouragement for rigorous research in this field to reveal accurate mechanisms and decrease the hazards related with MF presence.
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Izar GM, Choueri RB, Martinez ST, da Rocha GO, Albergaria-Barbosa ACR. The application of the DAPSI(W)R(M) framework to the plastic pellets chain. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 180:113807. [PMID: 35667257 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Single-use plastic, few global engagement and lack of policies contribute to the global challenge about plastic marine litter. This form of contamination can cause injury and death of marine wildlife. Microplastics (>5 mm) represent an important fraction of plastic litter. They include the plastic pellets that are used as raw material within plastic industry that can be unintentionally spilled into the environment during the industrial processes. In an initiative in order to facilitate the understanding and communication of plastic pellets as a social and environmental problem, we applied the Drivers-Activities-Pressures-State changes-Impacts (on Welfare)-Responses (as Measures) (DAPSI[W]R[M]) framework to plastic pellets chain. We also analyzed possible mitigating measures and their actions along the plastic pellets chain. This DAPSI(W)R(M) framework aim to show an overview of the plastic pellets chain and solutions for politicians and decision makers to help solve this socio-environmental problem that needs the engagement of all stakeholders involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Izar
- Polytechnic School, Interdisciplinary Center of Energy and Environment, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Barão de Jeremoabo street, s/n, Campus Ondina, 40170-290 Salvador, Bahia, Brazil; Marine Geochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Geoscience, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Barão de Jeremoabo street, s/n, Campus Ondina, 40170-115 Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - R B Choueri
- Departament of Marine Science, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Silva Jardim street, 136, 11015-020 Santos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - S T Martinez
- Polytechnic School, Interdisciplinary Center of Energy and Environment, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Barão de Jeremoabo street, s/n, Campus Ondina, 40170-290 Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - G O da Rocha
- Polytechnic School, Interdisciplinary Center of Energy and Environment, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Barão de Jeremoabo street, s/n, Campus Ondina, 40170-290 Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - A C R Albergaria-Barbosa
- Marine Geochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Geoscience, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Barão de Jeremoabo street, s/n, Campus Ondina, 40170-115 Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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Abstract
Microplastic debris is a persistent, ubiquitous global pollutant in oceans, estuaries, and freshwater systems. Some of the highest reported concentrations of microplastics, globally, are in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM), which is home to the majority of plastic manufacturers in the United States. A comprehensive understanding of the risk microplastics pose to wildlife is critical to the development of scientifically sound mitigation and policy initiatives. In this review, we synthesize existing knowledge of microplastic debris in the Gulf of Mexico and its effects on birds and make recommendations for further research. The current state of knowledge suggests that microplastics are widespread in the marine environment, come from known sources, and have the potential to be a major ecotoxicological concern for wild birds, especially in areas of high concentration such as the GoM. However, data for GoM birds are currently lacking regarding typical microplastic ingestion rates uptake of chemicals associated with plastics by avian tissues; and physiological, behavioral, and fitness consequences of microplastic ingestion. Filling these knowledge gaps is essential to understand the hazard microplastics pose to wild birds, and to the creation of effective policy actions and widespread mitigation measures to curb this emerging threat to wildlife.
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Trevisan R, Ranasinghe P, Jayasundara N, Di Giulio RT. Nanoplastics in Aquatic Environments: Impacts on Aquatic Species and Interactions with Environmental Factors and Pollutants. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10060326. [PMID: 35736934 PMCID: PMC9230143 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10060326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Plastic production began in the early 1900s and it has transformed our way of life. Despite the many advantages of plastics, a massive amount of plastic waste is generated each year, threatening the environment and human health. Because of their pervasiveness and potential for health consequences, small plastic residues produced by the breakdown of larger particles have recently received considerable attention. Plastic particles at the nanometer scale (nanoplastics) are more easily absorbed, ingested, or inhaled and translocated to other tissues and organs than larger particles. Nanoplastics can also be transferred through the food web and between generations, have an influence on cellular function and physiology, and increase infections and disease susceptibility. This review will focus on current research on the toxicity of nanoplastics to aquatic species, taking into account their interactive effects with complex environmental mixtures and multiple stressors. It intends to summarize the cellular and molecular effects of nanoplastics on aquatic species; discuss the carrier effect of nanoplastics in the presence of single or complex environmental pollutants, pathogens, and weathering/aging processes; and include environmental stressors, such as temperature, salinity, pH, organic matter, and food availability, as factors influencing nanoplastic toxicity. Microplastics studies were also included in the discussion when the data with NPs were limited. Finally, this review will address knowledge gaps and critical questions in plastics’ ecotoxicity to contribute to future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Trevisan
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-000, Brazil
- Correspondence:
| | - Prabha Ranasinghe
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; (P.R.); (N.J.); (R.T.D.G.)
| | - Nishad Jayasundara
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; (P.R.); (N.J.); (R.T.D.G.)
| | - Richard T. Di Giulio
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; (P.R.); (N.J.); (R.T.D.G.)
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Zhou J, Liu X, Jiang H, Li X, Li W, Cao Y. Antidote or Trojan horse for submerged macrophytes: Role of microplastics in copper toxicity in aquatic environments. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 216:118354. [PMID: 35358874 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Due to their unique surface structures and physicochemical properties, microplastics (MPs) can adsorb other contaminants, thus impacting their toxicity and fate in aquatic ecosystems. In the present study, the adsorption and transportation of copper ions (Cu2+) in polyethylene (PE, 5 and 150 μm) and their combined effects on four submerged macrophyte species were assessed. Results demonstrated that the addition of PE reduced the Cu2+ concentration in copper sulfate (CuSO4) solution and the adsorption of Cu2+ in PE (10 mg/L) increased with CuSO4 concentration (100-600 μmol/L). PE alone exhibited no inhibitory effects on macrophytes, while Cu2+ showed fatal toxicity toward the macrophytes. However, the combination of PE and Cu2+ showed lower inhibitory effects on macrophytes and the toxicity attenuation varied among species. Additionally, PE may act as a carrier (like a Trojan horse) for the environmental transfer of Cu2+, thereby hosting Cu2+ toxicity against macrophytes in the imported environment. Our findings indicate that PE acts as both an antidote to and carrier of Cu2+ toxicity in macrophytes. This study should help in clarifying the combined effects and risk assessments of MPs and heavy metals in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingzhe Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaoning Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Hydropower Engineering Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Hongsheng Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xingjian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Hydropower Engineering Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China; Center for Plant Ecology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yu Cao
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China.
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Lin Y, Xie J, Xiang Q, Liu Y, Wang P, Wu Y, Zhou Y. Effect of propiconazole on plastic film microplastic degradation: Focusing on the change in microplastic morphology and heavy metal distribution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 822:153609. [PMID: 35121034 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
With the rapid increase in the use of plastic films, microplastic (MP) pollution in agricultural soils has become a global environmental problem. Propiconazole is widely used in agriculture and horticulture; however, its role in plastic film degradation remains elusive. Butylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT) and polyethylene (PE) films were used to analyze the effects of propiconazole on plastic film and MP degradation. We identified the surface morphologies of PBAT and PE at different propiconazole concentrations and soil pH values, as well as the adsorption and release characteristics of heavy metals during the degradation process via scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Propiconazole accelerated the degradation of MPs, adsorption of heavy metals (Ni and Zn), and release of Sn at low concentrations (≤40 mg/kg); however, these effects were evidently absent at a high concentration (120 mg/kg). Furthermore, MPs were more prone to degradation in acidic or alkaline soils than in neutral soil when they coexisted with propiconazole. Hence, we suggest that PBAT and PE plastic films may not be suitable for application in acidic and alkaline soils with propiconazole, because of shorter rupture time and more heavy metal adsorption. PBAT degraded faster, absorbed and released more heavy metals than PE. Under all tested conditions, the heavy metal contents in MPs gradually approached those in soil, which proves that MPs are carriers of heavy metal pollutants. These results may help in assessing the impact of MPs on soil environments and provide a theoretical basis for the standardized propiconazole and plastic film usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimiao Lin
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Jiafei Xie
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Qingqing Xiang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yi Liu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Pingya Wang
- Zhoushan Institute for Food and Drug Control, Zhoushan 316012, China
| | - Yichun Wu
- Zhoushan Institute for Food and Drug Control, Zhoushan 316012, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Environmental Microplastic Pollution Research Center, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
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Orona-Návar C, García-Morales R, Loge FJ, Mahlknecht J, Aguilar-Hernández I, Ornelas-Soto N. Microplastics in Latin America and the Caribbean: A review on current status and perspectives. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 309:114698. [PMID: 35183939 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.114698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
A literature review was carried out to analyze the current status of microplastic research in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Specifically, this work focused on publications pertaining to (1) occurrence and distribution of microplastics in the environment, including water, sediments, and soil and (2) the environmental impact of MPs, particularly their presence and effects on aquatic and terrestrial organisms. The review included peer-reviewed articles from Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar and two iberoamerican open access databases (Redalyc and SciELO). It was found that LAC has only contributed to 5% of the global scientific output on microplastics, and overall the highest contributor within the region was Brazil (52%), followed by Chile (16%) and Mexico (13%). An additional section analyzing the barriers to conducting microplastic research in LAC and their exacerbation by the current COVID-19 pandemic was included to provide additional context behind the relatively low scientific production and improve recommendations encouraging research in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Orona-Návar
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico
| | - Raul García-Morales
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico; Centro de Nanociencias y Nanotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada Km. 107, C.P. 22860, Ensenada, B.C., Mexico
| | - Frank J Loge
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Jürgen Mahlknecht
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico
| | - Iris Aguilar-Hernández
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico.
| | - Nancy Ornelas-Soto
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849, Mexico.
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Hanslik L, Huppertsberg S, Kämmer N, Knepper TP, Braunbeck T. Rethinking the relevance of microplastics as vector for anthropogenic contaminants: Adsorption of toxicants to microplastics during exposure in a highly polluted stream - Analytical quantification and assessment of toxic effects in zebrafish (Danio rerio). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 816:151640. [PMID: 34774627 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Given the increasing amounts of plastic debris entering marine and freshwater ecosystems, there is a growing demand for environmentally relevant exposure scenarios to improve the risk assessment of microplastic particles (MPs) in aquatic environments. So far, data on adverse effects in aquatic organisms induced by naturally exposed MPs are scarce and controversially discussed. As a consequence, we investigated the potential role of MPs regarding the sorption and transfer of environmental contaminants under natural conditions. For this end, a mixture of four common polymer types (polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride) was exposed to natural surface water in a polluted stream for three weeks. Samples of water, MP mixture, sediment, and suspended matter were target-screened for the presence of pollutants using GC/LC-MS, resulting in up to 94 different compounds. Possible adverse effects were investigated using several biomarkers in early developmental stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Exposure to natural stream water samples significantly inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity, altered CYP450 induction and modified behavioral patterns of zebrafish. In contrast, effects by samples of both non-exposed MPs and exposed MPs in zebrafish were less prominent than effects by water samples. In fact, the analytical target screening documented only few compounds sorbed to natural particles and MPs. Regarding acute toxic effects, no clear differentiation between different MPs and natural particles could be made, suggesting that - upon exposure in natural water bodies - MPs seem to approximate the sorption behavior of natural particles, presumably to a large extent due to biofilm formation. Thus, if compared to natural inorganic particles, MPs most likely do not transfer elevated amounts of environmental pollutants to biota and, therefore, do not pose a specific additional threat to aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Hanslik
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Group, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 504, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Sven Huppertsberg
- Hochschule Fresenius GmbH, University of Applied Sciences Fresenius, Limburger Str. 2, Idstein, D-65510, Germany
| | - Nadine Kämmer
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Group, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 504, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany
| | - Thomas P Knepper
- Hochschule Fresenius GmbH, University of Applied Sciences Fresenius, Limburger Str. 2, Idstein, D-65510, Germany
| | - Thomas Braunbeck
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Group, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 504, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
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Squadrone S, Pederiva S, Bezzo T, Sartor RM, Battuello M, Nurra N, Griglione A, Brizio P, Abete MC. Microplastics as vectors of metals contamination in Mediterranean Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:29529-29534. [PMID: 33783703 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13662-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are contaminants of great concern all over the world. Microplastics constitute pollutants themselves; moreover, other contaminants such as metals are easily absorbed on their plastic surface, becoming bioavailable to marine biota such as zooplankton.We collected marine zooplankton from Mediterranean Sea to investigate trace elements associated with microplastics. Samples were subjected to visual sorting by a stereomicroscope, collected with sterile tweezers, pooled and subjected to sonication, filtration, and drying before being subjected to acid extraction. An ICP-MS was utilized for multi-elemental determination.Aluminum, iron, chromium, zinc, nickel, molybdenum, manganese, lead cobalt, and copper were found at concentrations of mg/kg while arsenic, vanadium, rubidium, and cadmium at level of μg kg-1. Other elements such as silver, beryllium, bismuth, selenium, tin, and thallium were under the limit of quantitation. Lower levels of iron and manganese in samples from Italy were found in comparison to England and Brazil, while aluminum, copper, and zinc registered comparable values. The presence of metals in marine waters is strictly related to sediment lithology and anthropogenic inputs, but plastic plays a key role as vectors for metal ions in the marine system, being able to concentrate metals several order of magnitude higher than in surrounding waters and exerting potential toxicity for living beings after chronic exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Squadrone
- Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Chemistry Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy.
| | - Sabina Pederiva
- Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Chemistry Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Tabata Bezzo
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, via Accademia Albertina 13, 10123, Turin, Italy
| | - Rocco Mussat Sartor
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, via Accademia Albertina 13, 10123, Turin, Italy
- Pelagosphera, Marine Environmental Services Cooperative, via Umberto Cosmo 17/bis, 10131, Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Battuello
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, via Accademia Albertina 13, 10123, Turin, Italy
- Pelagosphera, Marine Environmental Services Cooperative, via Umberto Cosmo 17/bis, 10131, Turin, Italy
| | - Nicola Nurra
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, via Accademia Albertina 13, 10123, Turin, Italy
- Pelagosphera, Marine Environmental Services Cooperative, via Umberto Cosmo 17/bis, 10131, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandra Griglione
- Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Chemistry Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Brizio
- Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Chemistry Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Cesarina Abete
- Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Chemistry Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, via Bologna 148, 10154, Turin, Italy
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Jang FH, Wong C, Choo J, Aun Sia ES, Mujahid A, Müller M. Increased transfer of trace metals and Vibrio sp. from biodegradable microplastics to catfish Clarias gariepinus. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 298:118850. [PMID: 35041899 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic ingestion has been documented in various aquatic species. This causes physical damage, and additionally contaminated microplastics transfer attached pollutants and microbial pathogens to ingesting organisms. Continued metal accumulation can lead to toxicity and adverse health effects; attached microbial pathogens can cause dysbiosis - which lowers host immunity and promotes infections. Catfish, Clarias gariepinus, are a major food source in Southeast Asia, a hotspot of plastic pollution. This study aimed to quantify the transfer of the trace metals copper (Cu) and lead (Pb) -at environmentally relevant concentrations-from microplastics (polyamide 12, PA12, and polylactic acid, PLA) to catfish. Fish were reared for three months and exposed to seven different combinations of feed, supplemented with plastics and metals. At monthly intervals, fish gills, intestines, liver, and edible muscles were analysed for Cu and Pb concentrations using ICP-OES, and the intestines content assessed for Vibrio sp.. Our results showed that biodegradable PLA transferred higher amounts of metals to catfish than expected and also led to increased Vibrio counts in the intestines compared to PA12. Trace metal accumulation was significantly different in varying tissues, with highest concentrations observed in the gills, followed by liver, intestines, and lastly edible muscles. The results of this study further support the existing evidence that microplastics act as efficient shuttles to concentrate and transfer metals. They also indicate that their uptake can cause dysbiosis (increased numbers of Vibrio sp.). Most importantly, however, our study highlights that biodegradable polymers, such as PLA, could actually pose a greater environmental threat when ingested compared to the more common polymers such as PA12.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faddrine Holt Jang
- Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Changi Wong
- Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Jenny Choo
- Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Edwin Sien Aun Sia
- Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Aazani Mujahid
- Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Moritz Müller
- Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
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41
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Scopetani C, Chelazzi D, Cincinelli A, Martellini T, Leiniö V, Pellinen J. Hazardous contaminants in plastics contained in compost and agricultural soil. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 293:133645. [PMID: 35051512 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.133645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Macro-, meso- and microplastic (MAP, MEP, MP) occurrence in compost is an environmental issue whose extent and effects are not yet understood. Here, we studied the occurrence of MAPs, MEPs and MPs in compost samples, and the transfer of hazardous contaminants from plastics to compost and soil. MAPs/MEPs and MPs concentrations in compost were 6.5 g/kg and 6.6 ± 1.5 pieces/kg; from common recommendations for compost application, we estimated ∼4-23 × 107 pieces MPs and 4-29 × 104 g MAPs/MEPs ha-1 per year ending into agricultural soils fertilized with such compost. Regarding contaminants, bis(ethylhexyl) phthalate, acetyl tributyl citrate, dodecane and nonanal were extracted in higher concentrations from plastics and plastic-contaminated compost than from compost where MAPs/MEPs had been removed prior to extraction and analysis. However, some contaminants were present even after MAPs/MEPs removal, ascribable to short- and long-term release by MAPs/MEPs, and to the presence of MPs. DEHP concentration was higher in soils where compost was applied than in fields where it was not used. These results, along with estimations of plastic load to soil from the use of compost, show that compost application is a source of plastic pollution into agricultural fields, and that plastic might transfer hazardous contaminants to soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costanza Scopetani
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, University of Helsinki, Niemenkatu 73, FI-15140, Lahti, Finland.
| | - David Chelazzi
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff" and CSGI, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cincinelli
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff" and CSGI, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Florence, Italy
| | - Tania Martellini
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Florence, Italy
| | - Ville Leiniö
- Muovipoli Ltd, Niemenkatu 73, 15140, Lahti, Finland
| | - Jukka Pellinen
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, University of Helsinki, Niemenkatu 73, FI-15140, Lahti, Finland
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Wang X, Zhang R, Li Z, Yan B. Adsorption properties and influencing factors of Cu(II) on polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate microplastics in seawater. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 812:152573. [PMID: 34954173 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As an emerging contamination in the ocean, microplastics can act as effective vectors of pollutants, the ecological risks caused by the combined pollution of microplastics and other pollutants have attracted growing attention. In this work, Copper (Cu(II)) was chosen as the classic pollutant, polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) pellets were used as the typical marine microplastics, the adsorption performance of Cu(II) on PS and PET beads was investigated by adsorption kinetics and isotherm experiments, and other influencing conditions, such as pH, salinity, coexisting heavy metals ions and aging treatment, were evaluated. The results indicated that the adsorption behavior of Cu(II) on PS and PET was spontaneous and endothermic in the simulated seawater environment, and the batch experimental data can be effectively described by pseudo-second-order model and Freundlich isothermal model. Besides, the adsorption capacity of microplastics for Cu(II) was the best at pH 7, the change of salinity had no obvious effect on the adsorption in the natural marine environment. Moreover, co-existence of lead (Pb(II)) exhibited evident impacts on Cu(II) sorption onto PS and PET, which confirmed the adsorption competition effect between them. Additionally, high temperature aging treatment of microplastics in different environments for different duration time could obviously affect the properties of microplastics. It was found that the microplastics after being exposed to high temperature environment in the air for 168 h showed relatively stronger adsorption amount for Cu(II). In summary, these findings suggested that electrostatic interaction and distributed diffusion mechanisms may be the main mechanisms of adsorption, while no new functional groups were generated after the adsorption, indicating that physisorption may dominate the adsorption performance of PS and PET pellets for Cu(II). This study provides supplementary insights into the role of microplastics as carriers of heavy metals in the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Wang
- College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, PR China
| | - Ruixin Zhang
- College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, PR China
| | - Zhaoying Li
- College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, PR China
| | - Bo Yan
- College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, PR China; Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Chemistry and Food Technology (TUST), Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300457, PR China; Tianjin Marine Environmental Protection and Restoration Technology Engineering Center, Tianjin 300457, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry, Tianjin 300457, PR China.
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43
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Jiang X, Yang Y, Wang Q, Liu N, Li M. Seasonal variations and feedback from microplastics and cadmium on soil organisms in agricultural fields. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 161:107096. [PMID: 35074634 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic film mulching is an important agricultural technology that plays a critical role in increasing crop yield and maintaining soil moisture. However, long-term coverage and untimely recovery lead to a large amount of plastic residues in soils. This decomposes into smaller plastics over time, which can reduce sowing quality, destroy the soil structure, and have adverse effects on soil organisms. In this study, the seasonal variations and correlations of microplastics and cadmium (Cd) in Wuxi farmland soils of Taihu Lake, China, were investigated in the spring and winter. The microplastics were mainly in the form of films, fibers, and debris and were mainly transparent and black in color. Microplastic abundance reached 890 particles/kg soil, with the majority of microplastics (>72.5%) being 0-500 μm. Polyethylene microplastics were the main polymers, accounting for >54.65%. In addition, the abundance of soil microplastics in the winter was significantly correlated with Cd, indicating that microplastics and heavy metals present a risk of coexposure to soil organisms. Furthermore, the response of in situ earthworms to microplastic-Cd pollution revealed that microplastics can be used as a vector to transfer heavy metals in the soil environment and may accumulate in the bodies of soil organisms. Multiomics techniques demonstrated bacterial community structure dysbiosis and metabolic changes of in situ earthworms under microplastic heavy metal-contaminated soils. The abundance of microplastics in earthworm casts and intestines was higher than that in the soil samples. These results reveal the potential risks from microplastics entering the soil environment and heavy metal pollution in soil ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Na Liu
- Norwegian Research Center NORCE, Nygårdsgaten 112, 5008 Bergen, Norway
| | - Mei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Li Z, Chang X, Hu M, Fang JKH, Sokolova IM, Huang W, Xu EG, Wang Y. Is microplastic an oxidative stressor? Evidence from a meta-analysis on bivalves. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 423:127211. [PMID: 34844346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a major threat to the marine environment attracting attention from scientific and public communities. Although we have sufficient evidence that microplastic is ubiquitous in all ecosystems, the question of the harmfulness of microplastic exposure is still under debate. Filter feeders like bivalves are commonly exposed to microplastics in water and sediments and thus can serve as excellent biological indicators for microplastic pollution. A relatively rich toxicological literature has been focusing on microplastic effects on bivalves but we have yet to reach an agreement on the toxic effects and mechanisms of microplastics. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis and bibliometrics analysis of the microplastic studies in bivalves. The bibliometric analysis (used to evaluate the general research trends) showed that the investigation of microplastic distribution in the marine environment and the molecular mechanisms of microplastic toxicity are the two major hot spots of research. Based on analyses of ecologically and environmentally relevant microplastics concentrations, particle sizes and polymer types, we discuss the physiological effects of microplastics on bivalves, and the severity and direction of the effects at the cellular, tissue, organ and organismal levels. The meta-analysis results show that microplastics can induce time-dependent oxidative stress in bivalves. Generally, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased during short-term exposure but declined after long-term exposure to microplastics. Non-linear response of GPx, GST and SOD enzymes to MP exposure over time indicate that these enzymes are not good biomarkers of MPs effects in marine bivalves. The tissue glutathione levels and catalase (CAT activity) showed an increase during both short- and long term MP exposures and thus can be used as oxidative stress biomarkers of sublethal MPs effects in marine bivalves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoqing Li
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences at Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Satellite Ocean Environment Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueqing Chang
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences at Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Menghong Hu
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences at Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.
| | - James Kar-Hei Fang
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Food Safety and Technology Research Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Inna M Sokolova
- Department of Marine Biology, Institute for Biological Sciences, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Satellite Ocean Environment Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou, China
| | - Elvis Genbo Xu
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M 5230, Denmark
| | - Youji Wang
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences at Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Satellite Ocean Environment Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.
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45
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Yu J, Chen L, Gu W, Liu S, Wu B. Heterogeneity effects of nanoplastics and lead on zebrafish intestinal cells identified by single-cell sequencing. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 289:133133. [PMID: 34861263 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Plastic particles in water environment can adsorb heavy metals, leading to combined toxicity on aquatic organisms. However, current conclusions are mostly obtained based on cell population-average responses. Heterogeneity effects among cell populations in aquatic organisms remain unclear. This study firstly analyzed the basic toxic effects of 20 μg L-1, 200 μg L-1 100 nm polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs), 50 μg L-1 lead (Pb), and their combined exposures on zebrafish intestine. Results found that combined exposure of 200 μg L-1 PS-NPs and 50 μg L-1 Pb induced highest MDA, 8-OHdG, and TNF-α levels. Thus 200 μg L-1 PS-NPs, 50 μg L-1 Pb and their combined exposures were chosen to analyze the heterogeneity effects on zebrafish intestine cells by single-cell RNA sequencing. A total of 38,640 zebrafish intestinal cells were obtained and identified as seven cell populations, including enterocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, B cells, T cells, enteroendocrine cells, and goblet cells. 200 μg L-1 PS-NPs exposure had the greatest influence on macrophages, while Pb exposure mostly influenced enterocytes. Results of MDA, 8-OHdG, and TNF-α analyses indicated that 20 μg L-1 and 200 μg L-1 PS-NPs increased the Pb toxicity. However, the scRNA-seq showed that the synergistic effects did not exist in most cell populations, except for goblet cells. Co-exposure of 200 μg L-1 PS-NPs and Pb caused similar transcriptome profiles with 200 μg L-1 PS-NPs exposure in macrophages, which changed immunological recognition and apoptosis processes. The Pb exposure influenced the macrophages by direct cytotoxicity. However, the Pb alone and combined exposures induced similar toxicities in the enterocytes, including the generation of oxidative stress and abnormality of lipid metabolism. This study shows the scRNA-seq is a powerful method to identify the target cell populations and corresponding toxic effects during combined exposure of pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Ling Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Weiqing Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Su Liu
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Bing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
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46
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Liu S, Huang J, Zhang W, Shi L, Yi K, Yu H, Zhang C, Li S, Li J. Microplastics as a vehicle of heavy metals in aquatic environments: A review of adsorption factors, mechanisms, and biological effects. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 302:113995. [PMID: 34700080 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have recently attracted much attention due to their widespread distribution in the aquatic environment. Microplastics can act as a vector of heavy metals in the aquatic environment, causing a potential threat to aquatic organisms and human health. This review mainly summarized the occurrence of microplastics in the aquatic environment and their interaction with heavy metals. Then, we considered the adsorption mechanisms of MPs and heavy metals, and further critically discussed the effects of microplastics properties and environmental factors (e.g., pH, DOM, and salinity) on the adsorption of heavy metals. Finally, the potential risks of combined exposure of MPs and heavy metals to aquatic biota were briefly evaluated. This work aims to provide a theoretical summary of the interaction between MPs and heavy metals, and is expected to serve as a reference for the accurate assessment of their potential risks in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - JinHui Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - LiXiu Shi
- College of Chemical and Food Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha, 410114, PR China
| | - KaiXin Yi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - HanBo Yu
- College of Chemical and Food Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha, 410114, PR China
| | - ChenYu Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - SuZhou Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - JiaoNi Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
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47
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Chen X, Ali S, Yuan L, Guo F, Huang G, Shi W, Chen X. Characterization and source analysis of heavy metals contamination in microplastics by Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 287:132172. [PMID: 34509006 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The increasing presence of microplastics in marine environment is a critical issue and the plastic-metal contamination has received much attention. However, conventional methods for heavy metal determination are time-consuming, need sample pretreatments, require a strict operation environment, or have high limits of detection. In this study, heavy metals contaminated microplastics samples collected from a remote coral island were quantified and analyzed by using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). The characters of the trace metals in microplastics were used to determine the sources of the contaminants, and the potential origins of the metals were demonstrated from the statistical analysis. LIBS is a facile and non-destructive trace analysis technique and the strategy led to rapid and multi-metals detection of individual samples. Heavy metals such as copper (Cu), lead (Pb), iron (Fe), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr) were detected and quantified in the individual microplastics samples. The findings showed that LIBS is a promising strategy for the characterization of microplastics and for the analysis of the source of heavy metals contaminants present in the microplastics particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Shujat Ali
- College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Leiming Yuan
- College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Fengyi Guo
- College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Guangzao Huang
- College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Wen Shi
- College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Xiaojing Chen
- College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China.
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48
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Khalid N, Aqeel M, Noman A, Khan SM, Akhter N. Interactions and effects of microplastics with heavy metals in aquatic and terrestrial environments. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 290:118104. [PMID: 34500399 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Contamination of waters and soils with microplastics (MPs) is an emerging environmental issue worldwide. MPs constitute a cocktail of various additives and polymers besides adsorbing toxic heavy metals from the environment. This co-occurrence of MPs with heavy metals poses a threat to the health of organisms and is poorly understood. Ingestion of MPs contaminated with heavy metals may also result in subsequent transfer of heavy metals up in the food chain. MPs surfaces play a crucial role in the adsorption of heavy metals. Aged/biofouled MPs facilitate greater adsorption of metals and certain microplastic (MP) polymers adsorb some metals more specifically. External factors involved in the process of adsorption/accumulation of heavy metals are the solution pH, salinity, and the concentration of relevant heavy metals in the media. Desorption greatly depends upon pH of the external solution. This is more concerning as the guts/digestive systems of organisms have low pH which could enhance the desorption of toxic metals and making them accumulate in their bodies. The aim of this article is to discuss the abundance, distribution, adsorption, and desorption behavior of MPs for heavy metals, and their combined toxic effects on flora and fauna based on the limited research on this topic in the literature. There is an overarching need to understand the interactions of MPs with heavy metals in different ecosystems so that the extent of ecotoxic effects they pose could be assessed which would help in the environmental regulation of these pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noreen Khalid
- Department of Botany, Government College Women University, Sialkot, 51310, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Aqeel
- State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, PR China
| | - Ali Noman
- Department of Botany, Government College University, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Shujaul Mulk Khan
- Department of Plant Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Noreen Akhter
- Department of Botany, Government College Women University, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
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49
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Xie M, Huang JL, Lin Z, Chen R, Tan QG. Field to laboratory comparison of metal accumulation on aged microplastics in coastal waters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 797:149108. [PMID: 34303246 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquity of microplastics in the environment has attracted much attention on their risks. Though newly produced plastics were considered inert to aqueous metals, a few studies suggest aged microplastics can accumulate metals. Still, knowledge gap exists on the comparability of metal accumulation in field condition and that acquired in controlled laboratory settings. Accordingly, we comparatively assessed the field accumulation and laboratory adsorption of metals on aged microplastics in coastal waters. Microplastics of different polymeric types were aged for 8 weeks at three coastal sites with different contamination levels. Microplastics accumulated metals to substantial concentrations during ageing (median concentrations, μg g-1: Fe = 950, Mn = 94, Zn = 19, Cu = 2.8, Ni = 1.7, Pb = 1.6, and Cd = 0.005). Adsorption capacity of (aged) microplastics was evaluated in laboratory using a stable isotope tracer method. At environmentally realistic concentrations (μg L-1, 114Cd = 1.7, 65Cu = 4.4, 62Ni = 5.4, 206Pb = 0.5, and 68Zn = 13), the median concentrations of newly adsorbed isotopes on the aged microplastics were 0.01, 1.4, 0.07, 0.56, and 1.1 μg g-1, respectively, one to two orders of magnitude higher than those adsorbed on pristine microplastics. However, the composition pattern of metals accumulated on aged microplastics differed from the composition of metals newly adsorbed in laboratory: the prior one reflected the contamination status of ageing sites and varied by polymeric types; whereas the laboratory newly adsorbed metals on aged microplastics were uniformly correlated to particulate Fe and Mn concentrations, suggesting Fe and Mn mineral coatings mediated the ensuing metal adsorption. Such discrepancy unveiled the complexity of metal accumulation behavior in the real environment and highlighted that cares should be taken when translating laboratory findings to risk assessment of metal contaminated microplastics in the real environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwei Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science and College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; Key Laboratory of the Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems of Ministry of Education, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; Center for Marine Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Jun-Lin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science and College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Zhi Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science and College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Rong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science and College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; Key Laboratory of the Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems of Ministry of Education, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; Center for Marine Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Qiao-Guo Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science and College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; Key Laboratory of the Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems of Ministry of Education, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; Center for Marine Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
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Turner A, Filella M. Hazardous metal additives in plastics and their environmental impacts. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 156:106622. [PMID: 34030075 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Historically, many additives and catalysts used in plastics were based on compounds of toxic metals (and metalloids), like arsenic, cadmium, chromium(VI), and lead. Despite subsequent restrictions, hazardous additives remain in plastics in societal circulation because of the pervasiveness of many products and the more general contamination of recycled goods. However, little is understood about their presence and impacts in the environment, with most studies focusing on the role of plastics in acquiring metals from their surroundings through, for example, adsorption. Accordingly, this paper provides a review of the uses of hazardous, metal-based additives in plastics, the relevant European regulations that have been introduced to restrict or prohibit usage in various sectors, and the likely environmental impacts of hazardous additives once plastics are lost in nature. Examination of the literature reveals widespread occurrence of hazardous metals in environmental plastics, with impacts ranging from contamination of the waste stream to increasing the density and settling rates of material in aquatic systems. A potential concern from an ecotoxicological perspective is the diffusion of metals from the matrix of micro- and nanoplastics under certain physico-chemical conditions, and especially favorable here are the acidic environments encountered in the digestive tract of many animals (birds, fish, mammals) that inadvertently consume plastics. For instance, in vitro studies have shown that the mobilization of Cd and Pb from historical microplastics can greatly exceed concentrations deemed to be safe according to migration limits specified by the current European Toy Safety Directive (17 mg kg-1 and 23 mg kg-1, respectively). When compared with concentrations of metals typically adsorbed to plastics from the environment, the risks from pervasive, historical additives are far more significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Turner
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Montserrat Filella
- Department F.-A. Forel, University of Geneva, Boulevard Carl-Vogt 66, CH-1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
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