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Umeh OR, Ophori DU, Ibo EM, Eke CI, Oyen TP. Groundwater systems under siege: The silent invasion of microplastics and cock-tails worldwide. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124305. [PMID: 38830527 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) contamination is one of the significant escalating environmental concerns worldwide, and this stems from the increasing production and unlawful disposal of plastic materials. Regretfully, the synthesis of plastic materials is expected to triple in the upcoming years. Nevertheless, MPs pollution in marine, aquatic, and terrestrial settings has received much attention, unlike in groundwater systems. This study exhaustively reviewed varying degrees of recent publications in various search engines and provided a detailed state of current knowledge and research progress vis-à-vis MPs and cock-tail pollution in groundwater systems. Evidently, groundwater sources are severely contaminated as a result of growing anthropogenic activities and vertical movement of MPs and cock-tails from the atmospheric, terrestrial, and aquatic environments, however, fewer researchers have fixated their attention on estimating the occurrence of MPs in groundwater resources, while sufficient information regarding their sources, sampling methods, abundance, transport pathways, fate, modeling techniques, appropriate and adequate data, sorption properties, separation from other environmental media, toxicity, and remedial measures are extensively lacking. In addition, MPs may combine with other toxic emerging contaminants to improve migration and toxicity; however, no research has been conducted to fully understand cock-tail migration mechanisms and impacts in groundwater systems. Over time, groundwater may be regarded as the primary sink for MPs, if effective actions are neglected. Overall, this study detected a lack of concern and innumerable voids in this field; hence, vital and nascent research gaps were identified for immediate, advanced, and interdisciplinary research investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odera R Umeh
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA.
| | - Duke U Ophori
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA.
| | - Eziafakaego M Ibo
- Department of Environmental Management, Pan African University Life and Earth Sciences Institute, Ibadan, Oyo State, 200002, Nigeria.
| | - Chima I Eke
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA.
| | - Toritseju P Oyen
- Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA.
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2
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Lahiri SK, Azimi Dijvejin Z, Gholamreza F, Shabanian S, Khatir B, Wotherspoon L, Golovin K. Liquidlike, Low-Friction Polymer Brushes for Microfibre Release Prevention from Textiles. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2400580. [PMID: 38529758 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202400580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
During synthetic textile washing, rubbing between fibres or against the washing machine, exacerbated by the elevated temperature, initiates the release of millions of microplastic fibres into the environment. A general tribological strategy is reported that practically eliminates the release of microplastic fibres from laundered apparel. The two-layer fabric finishes combine low-friction, liquidlike polymer brushes with "molecular primers", that is, molecules that durably bond the low-friction layers to the surface of the polyester or nylon fabrics. It is shown that when the coefficient of friction is below a threshold of 0.25, microplastic fibre release is substantially reduced, by up to 96%. The fabric finishes can be water-wicking or water-repellent, and their comfort properties are retained after coating, indicating a tunable and practical strategy toward a sustainable textile industry and plastic-free oceans and marine foodstuffs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudip Kumar Lahiri
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Zahra Azimi Dijvejin
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Farzan Gholamreza
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Sadaf Shabanian
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Behrooz Khatir
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Lauren Wotherspoon
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Kevin Golovin
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
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3
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Xu T, Cui J, Xu R, Cao J, Guo MY. Microplastics induced inflammation and apoptosis via ferroptosis and the NF-κB pathway in carp. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 262:106659. [PMID: 37586228 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), a new class of pollutant that threatens aquatic biodiversity, are becoming increasingly prevalent around the world. Fish growth may be severely inhibited by microplastics, resulting in severe mortality. Exposure to microplastics increases the likelihood of intestinal injuries, but the underlying mechanisms remain equivocal. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential toxic mechanisms underlying microplastic-induced intestinal injury in fish and to assist researchers in identifying novel therapeutic targets. In this study, a model of carp exposed to microplastics was established successfully. Histological observation showed that exposure to polyethylene microplastics caused damage to the intestinal mucosal surface and a significant increase in goblet cells, which aggregated on the surface of the mucosa. The mucosal layer was observed to fall off. Lymphocytes in the intestinal wall proliferated and aggregated. TUNEL staining showed that apoptosis occurred in the group exposed to microplastics. The qPCR results showed that the expression of Ferroptosis apoptotic factors COX-2 and ACSL4 was upregulated, while the expression of TFRC, FIH1, SLC7A11, and GPX4 was downregulated. The NF-κB pathway (p-p65, IκBα), inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6) and apoptosis genes (Bax, Caspase3) were upregulated. Semi-quantitative detection of related proteins by Western blotting was consistent with the gene expression results. In addition, the ELISA assay showed that lipid peroxidation and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) were increased in the microplastic exposed group. To conclude, lipid peroxidation induced by microplastics activates the NF-κB pathway and causes ferroptosis, ultimately resulting in intestinal damage and cellular apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianchao Xu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jie Cui
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Ran Xu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jingwen Cao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Meng-Yao Guo
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China.
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4
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Yadav S, Kataria N, Khyalia P, Rose PK, Mukherjee S, Sabherwal H, Chai WS, Rajendran S, Jiang JJ, Khoo KS. Recent analytical techniques, and potential eco-toxicological impacts of textile fibrous microplastics (FMPs) and associated contaminates: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 326:138495. [PMID: 36963588 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138495] [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: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite of our growing understanding of microplastic's implications, research on the effects of fibrous microplastic (FMPs) on the environment is still in its infancy. Some scientists have hypothesized the possibility of natural textile fibres, which may act as one of the emerging environmental pollutants prevalent among microplastic pollutants in the environment. Therefore, this review aims to critically evaluate the toxic effects of emerging FMPs, the presence, and sources of FMPs in the environment, identification and analytical techniques, and the potential impact or toxicity of the FMPs on the environment and human health. About175 publications (2011-2023) based on FMPs were identified and critically reviewed for transportation, analysis and ecotoxicological behaviours of FMPs in the environment. Textile industries, wastewater treatment plants, and household washing of clothes are significant sources of FMPs. In addition, various characterization techniques (e.g., FTIR, SEM, RAMAN, TGA, microscope, and X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy) commonly used for the identification and analysis of FMPs are also discussed, which justifies the novelty aspects of this review. FMPs are pollutants of emerging concern due to their prevalence and persistence in the environment. FMPs are also found in the food chain, which is an alarming situation for living organisms, including effects on the nervous system, digestive system, circulatory system, and genetic alteration. This review will provide readers with a comparison of different analytical techniques, which will be helpful for researchers to select the appropriate analytical techniques for their study and enhance their knowledge about the harmful effects of FMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangita Yadav
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheswar University of Science &Technology, Hisar, 125001, Haryana, India
| | - Navish Kataria
- Department of Environmental Sciences, J. C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, 121006, Haryana, India.
| | - Pradeep Khyalia
- Department of Environmental Science, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, 124001, Haryana, India
| | - Pawan Kumar Rose
- Department of Energy and Environmental Sciences, Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, 125055, Haryana, India
| | - Santanu Mukherjee
- Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Sultanpur, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India
| | - Himani Sabherwal
- Department of Environmental Sciences, J. C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, 121006, Haryana, India
| | - Wai Siong Chai
- Department of Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, 80424, Taiwan
| | - Saravanan Rajendran
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Tarapaca, Avda. General Velasquez, 1775, Arica, Chile
| | - Jheng-Jie Jiang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, 320314, Taiwan; Centre for Environment Risk Management (CERM), Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, 320314, Taiwan
| | - Kuan Shiong Khoo
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 602105, India; Centre for Research and Graduate Studies, University of Cyberjaya, Persiaran Bestari, 63000, Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Zhou Y, Li Y, Yan Z, Wang H, Chen H, Zhao S, Zhong N, Cheng Y, Acharya K. Microplastics discharged from urban drainage system: Prominent contribution of sewer overflow pollution. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 236:119976. [PMID: 37087916 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Urban drainage system is an important channel for terrigenous microplastics (<5 mm in size) to migrate to urban water bodies, especially the input load caused by overflow pollution in wet weather. Investigating how they transport and discharge is essential to better understand the occurrence and variability of microplastics in different water ecosystems. This study evaluated the abundance and distribution characteristics of microplastics in the drainage systems of typical coastal cities in China. The impacts of meteorological conditions and land use were explored. In particular, the prominent contribution of drainage sewer overflow pollution during storm events were investigated. The results showed that the microplastics abundance in daily sewage discharge from different drainage plots ranged between 13.6 and 30.8 items/L, with fibers as the dominant type of microplastics. Sewer overflow discharge can greatly aggravate microplastic abundance to 83.1 ± 40.2 items/L. Road runoff and sewer sediment scouring were the main pollution sources. Systematic estimates based on detailed data showed that the average microplastics emitted per capita per day in household wastewater was 3461.5 items. A quantitative estimation method was proposed to show that the annual emissions load of microplastics via urban drainage system in this research area was 5.83×1010 items/km2, of which the proportion of emissions in wet weather accounted for about 60%. This research provides the first full-process of assessment and source apportionment of the microplastic distribution characteristics in old drainage system. The occurrence of storm events is an important marker of increased microplastic abundance in urban rivers, with a view to urgent need for interception of surface runoff and purification of sewer overflow pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Yiping Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
| | - Zhenhua Yan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Haiying Wang
- Nanning Exploration & Survey Geoinformation Institute, Nanning 530022, China
| | - Huangjun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Sisuo Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Niqian Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Yu Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
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6
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Zhu L, Xie C, Chen L, Dai X, Zhou Y, Pan H, Tian K. Transport of microplastics in the body and interaction with biological barriers, and controlling of microplastics pollution. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 255:114818. [PMID: 36958263 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are one novel environmental pollutant sized < 5 mm that is ubiquitously present in numerous environmental media and particularly susceptible to interact with various toxic chemicals. Importantly, MPs can enter the food chain, and are bio-enriched and bio-accumulated with trophic levels, eventually endangering ecosystems and human health. However, there need to be more understanding regarding the bio-interaction of MPs with the host, particularly for biological barriers. This review aimed to summarize the latest findings regarding the main exposure routes of MPs that generated health burdens on humans. Furthermore, their interactions with biological barriers that generate adverse health effects and the underlying mechanisms were also reviewed. Additionally, we provided a comprehensive overview of recent advances regarding the removing and controlling of MPs. Finally, we discussed the future directions for MPs hazard prevention to provide helpful information for regulating decision-making and guiding safer plastics applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Caiyan Xie
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Liangkai Chen
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xingyu Dai
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Yuanzhong Zhou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Hong Pan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China.
| | - Kunming Tian
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China.
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7
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Li Y, Lu Q, Xing Y, Liu K, Ling W, Yang J, Yang Q, Wu T, Zhang J, Pei Z, Gao Z, Li X, Yang F, Ma H, Liu K, Zhao D. Review of research on migration, distribution, biological effects, and analytical methods of microfibers in the environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 855:158922. [PMID: 36155038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been proven to be one of the critical environmental pollution issues. Moreover, microfibers, the most prominent form of microplastics in the environment, have likewise attracted the attention of various countries. With the increase in global population and industrialization, the production and use of fibers continue to increase yearly. As a result, a large number of microfibers are formed. If fiber products are not used or handled correctly, it will cause direct/indirect severe microfiber environmental pollution. Microfibers will be further broken into smaller fiber fragments when they enter the natural environment. Presently, researchers have conducted extensive research in the identification of microfibers, laying the foundation for further resourcefulness research. This work used bibliometric analysis to review the microfiber contamination researches systematically. First, the primary sources of microfibers and the influencing factors are analyzed. We aim to summarize the influence of the clothing fiber preparation and care processes on microfiber formation. Then, this work elaborated on the migration in/between water, atmosphere, and terrestrial environments. We also discussed the effects of microfiber on ecosystems. Finally, microfibers' current and foreseeable effective treatment, disposal, and resource utilization methods were explained. This paper will provide a structured reference for future microfiber research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Li
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China; School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Qingbin Lu
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Yi Xing
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Kai Liu
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Wei Ling
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Jian Yang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, Guangdong, China.
| | - Qizhen Yang
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Tianqi Wu
- Human Resources Department, Yangquan Power Supply Company of State Grid Shanxi Electric Power Company, Yangquan 045000, Shanxi, China
| | - Jiafu Zhang
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Zengxin Pei
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Ziyuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Iron and Steel Industry Environmental Protection, No. 33, Xitucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Hongjie Ma
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Kehan Liu
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Ding Zhao
- Sinochem Environment Holdings Co., Ltd, Beijing 100071, China
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8
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Wang Q, Zhang M, Li R, Jiang XT. Does marine environmental research meet the challenges of marine pollution induced by the COVID-19 pandemic? Comparison analysis before and during the pandemic based on bibliometrics. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 183:114046. [PMID: 36057155 PMCID: PMC9376348 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has brought enormous challenges to the global marine environment. Various responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have led to increased marine pollution. Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected marine pollution research? This work comprehensively reviewed marine pollution publications in the Web of Science database before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results show that the COVID-19 outbreak has influenced the marine pollution research by: (i) increasing the number of publications; (ii) reshaping different countries' roles in marine pollution research; (iii) altering the hotspots of marine pollution research. The ranking of countries with high productivity in the marine pollution research field changed, and developed economies are the dominant players both before and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in this field. Other high-productivity countries, with the exception of China, have higher international cooperation rates in marine pollution research than those before the pandemic. Microplastic pollution has been the biggest challenge of marine pollution and has been aexplored in greater depth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the mining results of marine pollution publications show the mitigation of plastic pollution in the marine environment remains the main content requires future research. Finally, this paper puts forward corresponding suggestions for the reference of researchers and practitioners to improve the global ability to respond to the challenges posed by the pandemic to the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wang
- School of Economics and Management, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, People's Republic of China; Institute of Carbon Neutrality Economics and Energy Management, School of Economics and Management, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830046, People's Republic of China; Institute for Energy Economics and Policy, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, People's Republic of China.
| | - Min Zhang
- School of Economics and Management, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, People's Republic of China; Institute for Energy Economics and Policy, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongrong Li
- School of Economics and Management, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, People's Republic of China; Institute of Carbon Neutrality Economics and Energy Management, School of Economics and Management, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830046, People's Republic of China; Institute for Energy Economics and Policy, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xue-Ting Jiang
- Crawford School of Public Policy, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
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Liu D, Guo ZF, Xu YY, Ka Shun Chan F, Xu YY, Johnson M, Zhu YG. Widespread occurrence of microplastics in marine bays with diverse drivers and environmental risk. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 168:107483. [PMID: 36001911 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination in the sediment of marine bays has attracted widespread attention, whereas the distribution, sedimentation, morphology and risk of microplastics at regional scale remain poorly understood. By introducing a data mining framework into microplastic research, we compiled a microplastic dataset of 649 samples from 24 bays to enhance the understanding of geographical difference and drivers, transfer, composition profile and environmental risk of sedimental microplastics. Microplastic abundance varied from 0.72 to 1963.96 items/kg dry weight, with higher concentrations mainly occurring in East Asian bays. The spatial pattern in abundance was driven by the river plastic emissions, aquaculture production and hydrodynamic condition. A significantly positive correlation between microplastic abundance in water and sediment was found, and microplastic sedimentation was related to polymer density, hydrodynamic conditions and sediment properties. The dominant shape and polymer of sedimental microplastics were fiber and polypropylene, respectively, and the similarity of microplastic composition decreased with increasing geographical distance. The environmental risks of microplastics were partitioned into three classes (Rank II-Rank IV) with a two-dimensional assessment system considering the bioavailability and toxicity of microplastics, and Asian bays were identified as potential high-risk areas. To reduce the environmental risk of sedimental microplastics in bays, priority should be given to the removal of microfibers, and control measures depend on the risk classes and dominant polymers. Microplastic abundance and composition were significantly affected by methodological choices regarding sampling, pretreatment and identification, suggesting a unified methodology is essential to further enhance our knowledge on the distribution and risk of microplastics in marine bays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, Peoples Republic China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, Peoples Republic China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, Peoples Republic China
| | - Zhao-Feng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, Peoples Republic China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, Peoples Republic China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, Peoples Republic China
| | - Yao-Yang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, Peoples Republic China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, Peoples Republic China.
| | - Faith Ka Shun Chan
- School of Geographical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo 315100, Zhejiang, Peoples Republic China; School of Geography, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; Water@Leeds Research Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Yu-Yao Xu
- School of Geographical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo 315100, Zhejiang, Peoples Republic China
| | - Matthew Johnson
- School of Geography, University of Nottingham, University Park, NG7 2RD Nottingham, UK
| | - Yong-Guan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, Peoples Republic China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, Peoples Republic China
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10
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Belzagui F, Gutiérrez-Bouzán C. Review on alternatives for the reduction of textile microfibers emission to water. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 317:115347. [PMID: 35642816 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The microplastics (MPs) are considered one of the most threatening pollutants. One of the main concerns is their continuous and cumulative flow to water environments, as they are very difficult to be removed. Microfibers (MFs) are a significant type of MPs, with textile articles as one of the most renowned sources. This review aims to provide the current status of these MFs as pollutants, discussing possible alternatives from the manufacturing until the final disposition of MFs. There are many alternatives to reduce these pollutants from reaching the environment but also gaps that need to be further evaluated and addressed. Besides, it should be noticed that alternatives could be complementary between them. Some viable and non-contaminating solutions to reduce this pollution are currently on the market. Also, one relevant aspect is the final disposition or usage of the retained MFs to avoid them from reaching aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Belzagui
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, C/Colom 15, Terrassa, Spain
| | - Carmen Gutiérrez-Bouzán
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, C/Colom 15, Terrassa, Spain.
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11
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Zhao M, Cao Y, Chen T, Li H, Tong Y, Fan W, Xie Y, Tao Y, Zhou J. Characteristics and source-pathway of microplastics in freshwater system of China: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 297:134192. [PMID: 35257703 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134192] [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: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
China plays a key role in global plastic production, consumption and disposal, which arouses growing concern about microplastics (MPs) contamination in Chinese freshwater systems. However, few reviews have discussed the characteristics of MP pollution in whole freshwater systems at a national scale. In this review, we summarized the characteristics, sources and transport pathways of MPs in Chinese freshwater systems including surface water and sediment. Results showed that current research mainly focused on the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and its tributaries, as well as lakes and reservoirs along the Yangtze River. Large-scale reservoirs, rivers and lakes located in densely populated areas usually showed higher abundances of MPs. The majority of MPs in Chinese surface water and sediment mainly consisted of polyethylene and polypropylene, and the most common morphologies were fibers and fragments. To identify the sources and pathways, we introduced the source-sink-pathway model, and found that sewage system, farmland and aquaculture area were the three most prevalent sinks in freshwater systems in China. The source-sink-pathway model will help to further identify the migration of MPs from sources to freshwater systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Zhao
- Research Center for Environment and Health, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China; School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China
| | - Yanxiao Cao
- Research Center for Environment and Health, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China; School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China.
| | - Tiantian Chen
- Research Center for Environment and Health, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China; School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China
| | - Honghu Li
- Research Center for Environment and Health, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China; School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China
| | - Yifei Tong
- Wuhan Ecologic Environmental Carbon Technology Co., Ltd, Wuhan, 430073, China
| | - Wenbo Fan
- Research Center for Environment and Health, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China; School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China
| | - Yuwei Xie
- Research Center for Environment and Health, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China; School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China
| | - Ye Tao
- Research Center for Environment and Health, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China; School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China
| | - Jingcheng Zhou
- Research Center for Environment and Health, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China; School of Information and Safety Engineering, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, 430073, China.
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12
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A Meta-Analysis of the Characterisations of Plastic Ingested by Fish Globally. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10040186. [PMID: 35448447 PMCID: PMC9027263 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10040186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Plastic contamination in the environment is common but the characterisation of plastic ingested by fish in different environments is lacking. Hence, a meta-analysis was conducted to identify the prevalence of plastic ingested by fish globally. Based on a qualitative analysis of plastic size, it was determined that small microplastics (<1 mm) are predominantly ingested by fish globally. Furthermore, our meta-analysis revealed that plastic fibres (70.6%) and fragments (19.3%) were the most prevalent plastic components ingested by fish, while blue (24.2%) and black (18.0%) coloured plastic were the most abundant. Polyethylene (15.7%) and polyester (11.6%) were the most abundant polymers. Mixed-effect models were employed to identify the effects of the moderators (sampling environment, plastic size, digestive organs examined, and sampling continents) on the prevalence of plastic shape, colour, and polymer type. Among the moderators, only the sampling environment and continent contributed to a significant difference between subgroups in plastic shape and polymer type.
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13
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Yan M, Yang J, Sun H, Liu C, Wang L. Occurrence and distribution of microplastics in sediments of a man-made lake receiving reclaimed water. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 813:152430. [PMID: 34952049 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152430] [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: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been widely detected in the effluent discharged from wastewater treatment plants. However, few studies have focused on the occurrence of microplastics in the sediments of waterbodies receiving reclaimed water. The present study investigated the microplastics distribution in the sediments of such a lake in Tianjin, China receiving reclaimed water and determined the factors affecting the settlement of microplastics in the sediment column. Nine sediment cores were collected and the abundance, shape, size, and color of the microplastics were determined. The polymers of microplastics were identified and the mass concentrations of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polycarbonate (PC) were analyzed. Large amount of microplastics were found to accumulate in the sediments of the lake receiving reclaimed water. Eighteen polymers were found in the sediments and PA, PET, PP, PSF, and PU are much more than others. In surface sediments, PET and PC ranged from 2.43 to 10.62 mg/kg and 0.03 to 0.77 mg/kg, respectively. Fragment and fiber are the most common shapes, accounting for 67.5% and 24.8% of all the microplastics. The distribution of microplastics was influenced by polymer type, size, shape, and grain size of the sediments. Microplastic morphological diversities decreased with increasing depth of the sediments. Our findings provide evidence that the sediments of receiving waterbodies are important sinks of the microplastics in reclaimed water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Yan
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jintao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Hongwen Sun
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Chunguang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
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14
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Horton AA. Plastic pollution: When do we know enough? JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 422:126885. [PMID: 34418830 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is one of today's great environmental challenges. Research addressing the issue of plastic pollution is growing, improving our predictions of risk, and informing the development of long-term solutions and mitigations. Nonetheless, sufficient evidence already exists to show that immediate and widespread action must be taken to reduce plastic release to the environment, and thus limit future harm. Given the cross-sector and multi-stakeholder approach that will be required to address plastic pollution, it is essential that contrasting opinions and misconceptions are tackled with respect to the status of knowledge, relative importance of plastics as an environmental stressor, and measures to reduce or mitigate harm from plastics in the environment. This perspective article lays out some key considerations and recommendations for moving forward with respect to both research and action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice A Horton
- National Oceanography Centre, European Way, Southampton SO14 3ZH, UK.
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15
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Zainuddin AH, Aris AZ, Zaki MRM, Yusoff FM, Wee SY. Occurrence, potential sources and ecological risk estimation of microplastic towards coastal and estuarine zones in Malaysia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 174:113282. [PMID: 34995888 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113282] [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: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Extensive global plastic production has led to microplastic (MP) pollution of marine ecosystems. This study analysed the abundance of MPs in the surface water of tropical coastal and estuarine zones in Malaysia affected by rapid urbanisation and intense human activity. It also estimated the risk posed by MPs to the marine environment. Mean MP abundance ranged from 2.10 to 6.80 particles/L. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopic analysis found that the MP polymers were dominated by cellophane (54%), followed by polyester (33%) and polyethylene (2%). The risk posed by MPs was estimated with the risk quotient (RQ) method which found no potential ecological risk to both coastal and estuarine areas (RQ < 1). This study will serve as a baseline for future monitoring of MP pollution of marine water to assess the impact of heavily urbanised coastal and estuarine zones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azim Haziq Zainuddin
- International Institute of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 71050 Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Zaharin Aris
- International Institute of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 71050 Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia; Department of Environment, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Airlangga University, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia.
| | - Muhammad Rozaimi Mohd Zaki
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Fatimah Md Yusoff
- International Institute of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 71050 Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia; Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sze Yee Wee
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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16
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Gaylarde C, Baptista-Neto JA, da Fonseca EM. Plastic microfibre pollution: how important is clothes' laundering? Heliyon 2021; 7:e07105. [PMID: 34095591 PMCID: PMC8167216 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Plastic microfibre pollution produced by domestic and commercial laundering of synthetic textiles has recently been incriminated in the press and the scientific literature as the main source (up to 90%) of primary microplastics in the oceans. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the most common microfibre encountered. This review aims to provide updated information on worldwide plastic microfibre pollution caused by textile laundering and some possibilities for its control. Release of microfibres during domestic washing and tumble drying, their fate in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and the oceans, and their environmental effects on the aquatic biota are discussed, as well as potential control methods at the levels of textile modification and laundry procedures. Environmental effects on aquatic biota are important; as a result of their small size and length-to-diameter ratio, microfibers are more effectively incorporated by organisms than other plastic particle groups. Simulation laundering studies may be useful in the development of a Standard Test Method and modification of WWTPs may reduce microfibre release into aquatic systems. However, improvements will be necessary in textile design and appliance design, and recommendations should be made to consumers about reducing their personal impact on the environment through their laundering choices, which can include appliances, fabric care products and washing conditions. Official regulation, such as that introduced recently by the French government, may be necessary to reduce plastic microfibre release from clothes' laundering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Gaylarde
- University of Oklahoma, Department of Microbiology and Plant Biology, 770 Van Vleet Oval, Norman, OK, 73019, USA
| | - Jose Antonio Baptista-Neto
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Departamento de Geologia e Geofísica, Av. General Milton Tavares de Souza, s/n, 4 Andar, Campus da Praia Vermelha, 24210-346, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil
| | - Estefan Monteiro da Fonseca
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Departamento de Geologia e Geofísica, Av. General Milton Tavares de Souza, s/n, 4 Andar, Campus da Praia Vermelha, 24210-346, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil
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