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Amato-Lourenço LF, Bertoldi C, van Praagh M, Rillig M. Environmental factors influence airborne microplastic deposition in the soil of urban allotment gardens. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 375:126372. [PMID: 40334732 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126372] [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: 02/14/2025] [Revised: 05/02/2025] [Accepted: 05/03/2025] [Indexed: 05/09/2025]
Abstract
The widespread contamination of urban soils by airborne microplastics (MPs) is an emerging environmental concern, particularly in urban allotment gardens (UAGs) where food production occurs. This study investigates the vertical distribution of MPs in three UAGs in Berlin, Germany, over 90 days. Soil samples were collected at three depths (surface, 1-15 cm, and 15-30 cm) and analysed for MPs composition and concentration, with a detection limit of 0.1 μm using Optical PhotoThermal InfraRed (O-PTIR) spectroscopy. Results revealed that fibres were the dominant MP type, with the highest concentrations found in surface layers. MPs concentrations decreased with soil depth, and fibres showed limited vertical penetration. We also identified 19 different polymer types, with polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyester (PES), and polyethylene (PE) being the most common. Temporal variations in MPs deposition were observed, with a significant peak at 90 days. Environmental factors, including PM2.5 concentration, precipitation, and wind velocity, played a role in MPs deposition. Precipitation and PM2.5 were positively associated with increased deposition, while higher wind speeds reduced MPs accumulation. These findings highlight the pervasive presence of MPs in urban soils and suggest that environmental conditions significantly influence MPs distribution. Understanding these dynamics is essential for assessing the long-term ecological impacts of MPs on soil health in urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Crislaine Bertoldi
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Research, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Martijn van Praagh
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Research, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Matthias Rillig
- Plant Ecology, Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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2
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Balkrishna A, Tiwari A, Sinha S, Kumari A, Gohel V, Dev R, Bhattacharya K, Varshney A. Polystyrene microplastic induced airway hyper-responsiveness, and pulmonary inflammation are mitigated by bronchom treatment in murine model of lung disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2025; 187:118122. [PMID: 40319658 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2025.118122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2025] [Revised: 04/19/2025] [Accepted: 04/30/2025] [Indexed: 05/07/2025] Open
Abstract
Microplastics are global menace-associated with respiratory damages. The objective of this study was to investigate the airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR) and inflammation induced by polystyrene microplastic (PSMPs) in male C57BL/6 mice and its modulation by 'Bronchom', an herbal medicine. For the study, animals were pre-treated with varying doses of Bronchom before 21-day exposure to PSMPs, followed by assessment of pulmonary damages. PSMPs exposure in mice significantly induced AHR to methacholine, represented by elevated respiratory resistance, and reduced lung compliance. PSMPs also induced influx of pro-inflammatory cells and release of pro-inflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6 and MIP-2α in the bronchoalveolar lavage of PSMPs-exposed animals. Histopathological analysis confirmed leukocyte infiltration and mild fibrosis in the lung tissues of PSMPs-exposed animals. PSMPs-exposure also enhanced mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory biomarkers in lung tissues. Bronchom-treated mice showed significant protection against the PSMPs-induced AHR, inflammatory cell influx and cytokine expression, along with histopathological changes in dose-dependent manner. Pirfenidone used as a positive control showed beneficiary effects against PSMPs-induced respiratory distress. Interestingly, FTIR spectroscopy of the Bronchom-treated mice lung tissues indicated dose-dependent reduction in PSMPs-specific transmittance signatures, suggesting their reduced bioaccumulation. In human THP-1 macrophages, Bronchom also attenuated PSMPs-induced TNF-α and IL-6 cytokines release. Ultra-high-performance-liquid-chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QToF-MS) identified 80 phytochemicals, associated with robust anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant profile. These results indicated that Bronchom effectively mitigates PSMPs-induced respiratory distress-associated inflammation and PSMPs bioaccumulation in lung tissue, likely due to its rich phytochemical composition. This study highlights Bronchom as a promising herbal intervention against microplastic-associated pulmonary ailments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Acharya Balkrishna
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Foundation, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India; Department of Allied and Applied Sciences, University of Patanjali, Patanjali Yog Peeth, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India; Patanjali Yog Peeth (UK) Trust, 40 Lambhill Street, Kinning Park, Glasgow G41 1AU, United Kingdom; Patanjali Yogpeeth Nepal, Budhanilkanth Metropolitan Wada No.8, Mandikatar, Kathamandu, Nepal
| | - Aakanksha Tiwari
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Foundation, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India
| | - Sandeep Sinha
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Foundation, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India
| | - Ankita Kumari
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Foundation, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India
| | - Vivek Gohel
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Foundation, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India
| | - Rishabh Dev
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Foundation, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India
| | - Kunal Bhattacharya
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Foundation, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India
| | - Anurag Varshney
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Foundation, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India; Department of Allied and Applied Sciences, University of Patanjali, Patanjali Yog Peeth, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249 405, India; Special Centre for Systems Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110 067, India.
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3
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Prajapati A, Jadhao P, Kumar AR. Atmospheric microplastics deposition in a central Indian city: Distribution, characteristics and seasonal variations. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 374:126183. [PMID: 40185191 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126183] [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: 09/05/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2025] [Accepted: 04/01/2025] [Indexed: 04/07/2025]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastics (AMPs) transport and deposition in urban areas contribute to microplastics pollution. The present study investigates AMPs deposition, characteristics, potential sources, and the influence of meteorological factors in a central Indian city. AMPs were collected over three land-use types, viz. institutional, commercial, and industrial areas, during four seasons: summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. The deposition flux of microplastics ranged from 212.53 ± 52.32 to 543.25 ± 71.23 particles/m2/day. The AMPs were predominantly fibres (87.84 %), followed by films (5.43 %), with particle size <1000 μm contributed 43.67 %. The predominant polymer types identified were polyethylene terephthalate (PET, 37.39 %), nylon (20.49 %), and polypropylene (PP, 10.27 %). Higher deposition fluxes were recorded in summer, with 491.06 ± 73.37 particles/m2/day. Correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between rainfall and AMPs deposition, suggesting a potential cleaning role of rainfall. The estimated annual deposition flux of AMPs in Nagpur city was 3.22 × 1013 particles. Higher AMPs deposition was attributed to plastic waste littering, industrial emissions, and textiles. The estimated mean annual inhalation exposures of AMPs of size 50-250 μm for children and adults were 7375.84 ± 1312.89 and 3738.17 ± 665.39 MPs/kg-bw/year, respectively. The findings of this study contribute to understanding the fate of AMPs and its implications for human exposure. The findings underscore the importance of reducing and managing plastic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Prajapati
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, Maharashtra, 440020, India; Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur, Maharashtra, 440033, India
| | - Pradip Jadhao
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, Maharashtra, 440020, India; Acadamy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, New Delhi, 201002, India
| | - Asirvatham Ramesh Kumar
- CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, Maharashtra, 440020, India; Acadamy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, New Delhi, 201002, India.
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4
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Beaurepaire M, de Oliveira T, Gasperi J, Tramoy R, Saad M, Tassin B, Dris R. Stock and vertical distribution of microplastics and tire and road wear particles into the soils of a high-traffic roadside biofiltration swale. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 373:126092. [PMID: 40122329 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2025] [Accepted: 03/17/2025] [Indexed: 03/25/2025]
Abstract
Urban highways are a central infrastructure in megacities and represent diverse sources of microplastic pollution. Understanding the relative contribution of these microplastic sources, including the abrasion of macrolitter and the generation of tire and road wear particles (TRWP) is necessary to better assess the sources and fate of microplastics in terrestrial environments. This study focuses on microplastic (MP) and TRWP infiltration in the soil of a biofiltration swale alongside a high-traffic highway in the north of Paris, France. First, using manual core sampling, soil samples were collected and analysed by micro-Fourier Transformed Infrared (micro-FTIR) imaging and Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) to determine the stock and vertical distribution of microplastics and TRWP. Secondly, the relative contribution of major microplastics and TRWP sources into the soils were estimated. Finally, these field results were then used to provide an estimate of the mass balance of microplastics and TRWP on that site. Results revealed a median concentration of 5.4 μg MP g-1, three orders of magnitude lower than the median TRWP concentration of, 1.16 mg TRWP g-1. In both types of contaminations, surface samples presented a significantly higher microplastic abundance than deeper layers, with 90 % of the overall stock located in the surface layers. The major contributors to microplastics accumulation in the soils were found to be fragmentation of macrolitter found on-site, followed by road runoff. The TRWP accumulation on-site was significantly lower than the TRWP production from the local traffic, suggesting TRWP may either remain trapped in the road or are deposited away from the road. To better understand the distance around a road that is affected by TRWP and microplastic emissions, further studies should be conducted at varying distances around highways. The present study focusing on a site highly exposed to microplastic and TRWP pollution helps prioritize the sources and improves the understanding of the short scale transfer dynamics of the plastic pollution stemming from an urban road.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Beaurepaire
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Univ Paris Est Creteil, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Champs-sur Marne, France
| | | | | | - Romain Tramoy
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Univ Paris Est Creteil, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Champs-sur Marne, France
| | - Mohamed Saad
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Univ Paris Est Creteil, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Champs-sur Marne, France
| | - Bruno Tassin
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Univ Paris Est Creteil, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Champs-sur Marne, France
| | - Rachid Dris
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Univ Paris Est Creteil, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Champs-sur Marne, France.
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5
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Casella C, Cornelli U, Ballaz S, Zanoni G, Merlo G, Ramos-Guerrero L. Plastic Smell: A Review of the Hidden Threat of Airborne Micro and Nanoplastics to Human Health and the Environment. TOXICS 2025; 13:387. [PMID: 40423466 DOI: 10.3390/toxics13050387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2025] [Revised: 04/28/2025] [Accepted: 05/09/2025] [Indexed: 05/28/2025]
Abstract
Airborne micro and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) are a growing issue due to their possible health hazards. Since the current bibliography lacks a thorough evaluation, this review examines the sources, environmental dynamics, and health impacts of airborne MPs/NPs. Through atmospheric transport processes, these neo-pollutants spread around the world after being released, potentially settling in urban and remote areas. This review is the first to compare active and passive aerosol sampling methods, and microscopy, thermochemical, and spectroscopy analytical techniques, with a focus on their limitations in precisely quantifying micro-nanoscale plastic particles. It also draws attention to the potential toxicological effects of inhaled MPs/NPs, which can lead to oxidative stress, respiratory inflammation, and other negative health consequences. This review concludes by examining how airborne MPs/NPs may worsen their ecological impact by serving as carriers of hazardous chemicals and microbial pollutants. Despite growing awareness, there still are many unanswered questions, especially about the impact of long-term exposure and how atmospheric conditions affect the spread of MPs/NPs. The aim of this review was to bring attention to the issue of airborne MP/NP effects and to promote the development of advanced monitoring systems, a new multidisciplinary scientific field for the study of these novel pollutants, and global regulatory frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Casella
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Santiago Ballaz
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad del Espiritu Santo, Samborondón P.O. Box 09-01-952, Ecuador
| | - Giuseppe Zanoni
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Gabriele Merlo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Luis Ramos-Guerrero
- Grupo de Investigación en Bio-Quimioinformática, Carrera de Ingeniería Agroindustrial, Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de Las Américas (UDLA), Quito 170513, Ecuador
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6
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Chen Y, Chen J, Guo J, Yao M, Liu Y, Qian J, Ma Q. Release of microplastics during dental procedures and denture wear: Impact on dental personnel and patients. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 494:138463. [PMID: 40319856 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2025] [Revised: 04/23/2025] [Accepted: 04/30/2025] [Indexed: 05/07/2025]
Abstract
Plastic products are widely used in modern dentistry, including dental instruments and resin-based materials. In recent years, microplastics (MPs) that are generated from plastic products have been demonstrated to pose negative impacts on human health. However, the possible exposure of MP during dental procedures has been rarely explored. This study aims to assess the MP exposure faced by both dental personnel and patients via simulating the wear and cleaning procedures of dentures, as well as the grinding of resin-based materials under clinical settings. Additionally, environmental samples of the dental clinic were collected to determine the types and concentrations of MP settlement. The biological toxicity of the particles has also been evaluated. Results showed that denture releases MP particles into artificial saliva during soaking and cleaning processes. During the grinding of resin-based materials, MP could be detected in settlements with decreased concentration as the increase of distance from 25 cm to 100 cm. A substantial accumulation of particles was observed in the clinic within a single day. Grinding-generated MPs exhibited biological toxicity toward oral keratinocyte cells and triggered inflammation in macrophages at concentrations that could be encountered in clinical exposure. This study confirms the presence of MP exposure during dental procedures, providing valuable insights for the development of improved management regulations and pollution control measures in dental practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Chen
- Department of General Dentistry, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Research, Prevention and Treatment for Oral Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Stomatological Hospital affiliated Suzhou Vocational Health College, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215002, China
| | - Jingyao Guo
- Department of General Dentistry, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Research, Prevention and Treatment for Oral Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Minhui Yao
- Department of General Dentistry, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Research, Prevention and Treatment for Oral Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Department of General Dentistry, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Research, Prevention and Treatment for Oral Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Jieshu Qian
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Wuxi University, Jiangsu 214105, China
| | - Qian Ma
- Department of General Dentistry, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Research, Prevention and Treatment for Oral Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China.
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7
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Nafea TH, Shun Chan FK, Xu Y, Xiao H, He J. Unveiling the seasonal transport and exposure risks of atmospheric microplastics in the southern area of the Yangtze River Delta, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 367:125567. [PMID: 39710180 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.125567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2024] [Revised: 12/17/2024] [Accepted: 12/19/2024] [Indexed: 12/24/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the prevalence and impacts of suspended atmospheric microplastics (SAMPs) in the coastal metropolitan city of Ningbo in the Yangtze River Delta Region, China. The sampling was conducted at both urban centre and urban-rural fringe areas, near the coast but distant from large urban populations. SAMP abundance ranged from 0.017 to 0.430 items m-³, with an average of 0.145 ± 0.09 items m⁻³. The urban centre exhibited approximately 70% more SAMPs than the urban-rural fringe, highlighting the influence of population density and human activity on microplastic pollution. Fibres dominated SAMP composition at both sites, while urban samples featured a greater variety of microplastic forms, such as fragments, beads, and films. Rayon and Polyethylene terephthalate were the predominant polymers, which were found to be directly related to local industrial activities. SAMPs ranged in size from 20 μm to 4984.4 μm, with over 60% smaller than 1000 μm. Seasonal variation followed a winter > autumn > spring > summer pattern. Correlation and principal component analyses identified atmospheric temperature, pressure, wind speed, and rainfall as key factors influencing SAMP abundance. Notably, backward trajectory analysis showed that oceanic air masses carried significantly fewer SAMPs compared to terrestrial air, diluting concentrations in coastal regions. Annually, an estimated 4.67 × 101³ microplastics are suspended over Ningbo. This is the first comprehensive study of SAMP pollution in this region, revealing interactions between local sources, environmental variations, air mass dynamics, and exposure. The findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to mitigate atmospheric microplastic pollution in coastal urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiseer Hussain Nafea
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China; Center for Excellence in Regional Atmospheric Environment, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
| | - Faith Ka Shun Chan
- School of Geographical Sciences, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China
| | - Yuyao Xu
- Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo Monitoring Station, Ningbo, China
| | - Hang Xiao
- Center for Excellence in Regional Atmospheric Environment, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China.
| | - Jun He
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China; Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation Institute, Ningbo, China.
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8
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Fraga Filho CAD. Analysis of Brazilian plastic waste management in the global context and case study of the City of Vitória, Espírito Santo. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2025; 32:5645-5684. [PMID: 39961932 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-35865-4] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2025]
Abstract
This review analyses Brazil's current stage of plastic waste management, comparing it to what is being carried out worldwide. The Brazilian National Solid Waste Policy established principles and guidelines for solid waste management. However, a decade after its implementation, the results demonstrate timid results about those expected. Brazil's official solid waste and plastics recycling rates are around 4% and 1%, respectively, considerably behind countries with comparable economic growth levels. This work dedicates considerable attention to microplastic pollution, a worldwide concern with potential effects on water bodies, the atmosphere, soils, human health, and vegetal and animal lives. A case study on the solid waste management system in Vitória City, the capital of Espírito Santo, was developed. Besides, a portrait of the pollution in Vitória and Espírito Santo Bays in the atmosphere and mangrove areas is presented. The more critical issues found were the low adherence of the population's city in the selective waste collection (what is reflected in the low solid waste recycling rates), plastic debris, and tiny plastic in the waters, coexisting with heavy metals and hydrocarbons-originated from industrial and anthropogenic activities; microplastics are present in the atmosphere, adding their adverse effects to those of the pollutants already existing in the air and the illegal disposal of waste and the anthropogenic activities which degrade the mangrove ecosystems. A global treaty is being discussed at the United Nations. It's expected that their definitions, initially promised by the end of 2024, will be able to eradicate plastic pollution effectivelly.
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9
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Liu Y, Nie Z, Meng Y, Liu G, Chen Y, Chai G. Influence of meteorological conditions on atmospheric microplastic transport and deposition. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2025; 265:120460. [PMID: 39603587 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.120460] [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: 09/10/2024] [Revised: 11/24/2024] [Accepted: 11/25/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastics are of great concern because of their potential impact on the environment and human health. Although several studies have shown the presence of large quantities of microplastics in the air, questions about the transport and deposition of microplastics in the atmosphere remain unanswered. Based on these shortcomings, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the influence of meteorological conditions on atmospheric microplastic fate. Dry and wet deposition are the main removal mechanisms for atmospheric microplastic. Furthermore, by exploring how wind facilitates the long-range transport of microplastics between terrestrial and marine ecosystems, establishing a global microplastic cycle. Besides, this review also examines the effects of other meteorological conditions on atmospheric microplastic transport. Characteristics of current atmospheric microplastic models are summarized, particularly with respect to the consideration of meteorological conditions. Finally, we propose future research directions and mitigation measures for atmospheric microplastic pollution, which are necessary for mitigating atmospheric microplastic pollution and protecting ecosystems and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Zhongquan Nie
- Chengdu Industry and Trade College, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Yuchuan Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
| | - Guodong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Guangming Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China; College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
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10
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Clough M, Ochoa Rivera E, Parham RL, Ault AP, Zimmerman PM, McNeil AJ, Tewari A. Enhancing Confidence in Microplastic Spectral Identification via Conformal Prediction. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:21740-21749. [PMID: 39590922 PMCID: PMC11636256 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c05167] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 10/29/2024] [Accepted: 10/31/2024] [Indexed: 11/28/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are an emerging pollutant of concern, with environmental observations recorded across the world. Identifying the type of microplastic is challenging due to spectral similarities among the most common polymers, necessitating methods that can confidently distinguish plastic identities. In practice, a researcher chooses the reference vibrational spectrum that is most like the unknown spectrum, where the likeness between the two spectra is expressed numerically as the hit quality index (HQI). Despite the widespread use of HQI thresholds in the literature, acceptance of a spectral label often lacks any associated confidence. To address this gap, we apply a machine-learning framework called conformal prediction to output a set of possible labels that contain the true identity of the unknown spectrum with a user-defined probability (e.g., 90%). Microplastic reference libraries of environmentally aged and pristine polymeric materials, as well as unknown environmental plastic spectra, were employed to illustrate the benefits of this approach when used with two similarity metrics to compute HQI. We present an adaptable workflow using our open-access code to ensure spectral matching confidence for the microplastic community, reducing manual inspection of spectral matches and enhancing the robustness of quantification in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline
E. Clough
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Michigan, 930 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
| | - Eduardo Ochoa Rivera
- Department
of Statistics, University of Michigan, 1085 South University Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
| | - Rebecca L. Parham
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Michigan, 930 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
| | - Andrew P. Ault
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Michigan, 930 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
| | - Paul M. Zimmerman
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Michigan, 930 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
| | - Anne J. McNeil
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Michigan, 930 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
- Macromolecular
Science and Engineering Program, University
of Michigan, 2300 Hayward
Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
| | - Ambuj Tewari
- Department
of Statistics, University of Michigan, 1085 South University Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
- Department
of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 1301 Beal Avenue, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1055, United States
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11
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Klemmensen NDR, Sobrino Blanco M, Vollertsen J. Assessing microplastic contamination in Icelandic soils: Insights from remote, agricultural, and urban environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 955:177215. [PMID: 39490829 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.177215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2024] [Revised: 10/18/2024] [Accepted: 10/24/2024] [Indexed: 11/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination is a growing concern across many environments. However, research on MP accumulation in remote soils remains limited. This study investigated MP abundance in remote soil in western Iceland, with agricultural and urban soils as references. The MP was extracted and measured using state-of-the-art methods, capturing types, sizes, and shapes. Results showed that MP was present in all samples, with the lowest average count and mass observed in the remote samples (857 (±561) counts kg-1, corresponding to 64.37 (±47.96) μg kg-1) and the highest in the urban samples (26,206 (±25,345) counts kg-1, corresponding to 2175 (±1385) μg kg-1), showing that increase in anthropogenic activity gives increasing MP concentrations. In the remote samples, the particles were primarily medium-sized (median = 67 μm), lightweight polyester fragments. This study also investigated the influence of soil parameters such as water content, bulk density, and particle size on MP retention in remote soils. However, no other significant correlations were found when relating the count and mass to soil parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanna D R Klemmensen
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220 Aalborg, Øst, Denmark.
| | - María Sobrino Blanco
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220 Aalborg, Øst, Denmark; Forest Genetics and Ecophysiology Research Group, School of Forestry Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jes Vollertsen
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220 Aalborg, Øst, Denmark
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12
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Ageel HK, Harrad S, Abdallah MAE. Microplastics in indoor air from Birmingham, UK: Implications for inhalation exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 362:124960. [PMID: 39306070 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124960] [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: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a group of emerging contaminants that attracted increasing scientific and societal attention over the past decade. So far, most studies on MPs focus on characterizing their occurrence, fate, and impact in the aquatic environment. In contrast, very little is known about the magnitude, patterns, and associated risks of human exposure to MPs, particularly indoors, despite people spending most of their time indoors. This paper provides the first study hitherto of MPs in indoor air via both active and passive sampling from 30 homes and 30 workplaces in Birmingham, UK. The average concentration of MPs in the active air samples was 15.6 ± 5.4 MP/m3 in homes and 13.1 ± 6.5 MP/m3 in workplaces. For atmospheric deposition samples (passive sampling), the average MPs concentrations were 3735 ± 1343 MP/m2/day in homes and 3177 ± 1860 MP/m2/day in workplaces. Mean concentrations of MPs in UK homes were significantly higher (P<0.05) than those in workplaces for both active and passive air samples. This was mainly driven by carpeted floors in all the studied homes, while 13 of the sampled workplaces were uncarpeted. MPs concentrations in atmospheric deposition (passive) samples were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than airborne (active) MPs samples in the studied microenvironments. Nonetheless, a strong correlation (P < 0.01) was observed between the concentrations of MPs measured by active and passive sampling, indicating common sources of MPs to both active and passive samples collected from the same microenvironments. In terms of morphology, fibres were the dominant shape of MPs, followed by fragments, constituting together ≥90% of the identified MPs in all samples, with the remaining minor percent made up by foams. Airborne MPs were dominated by particles in the size range (10-25 μm), and the particles abundance decreased with increasing particle size. MPs in atmospheric fallout particles, were dominated by larger particles (50-100 μm) with lower contribution from smaller particles (10-25 μm) compared to airborne particles. Nonetheless, combined with the predominance of fibres, this raises concern over the risk from inhalation exposure because MPs fibres in the detected size ranges were observed to penetrate into human lung tissue. PET and PVC were the most abundant polymer types in the studied samples followed by PP and PE. The average daily inhalation exposure of UK adults and toddlers was estimated at 3.0 and 6.3 MP/kg body weight/day, respectively. The higher inhalation exposure of UK toddlers raises concern due to their incompletely developed immune and nervous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Khalid Ageel
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart Harrad
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamed Abou-Elwafa Abdallah
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom.
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Ferraz GM, de Moraes ADS, Dos Santos GB, de Miranda IT, Zucolotto V, Urban RC. Atmospheric microplastics deposition assessment in a countryside municipality in Southeastern Brazil: A case study at a state elementary school. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 369:143886. [PMID: 39638134 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143886] [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: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 11/01/2024] [Accepted: 12/02/2024] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
The widespread use of plastics has revolutionized modern life, but also led to environmental pollution. Although microplastics (MPs) have been detected in various environments, their presence in the atmosphere, particularly in Brazil, is poorly studied. This research investigated atmospheric MP concentrations at Alvaro Guião School in São Carlos, Brazil, from 2021 to 2022. Outdoor MP concentrations ranged from the limit of detection (LOD) to 168.03 items m-2 day-1, and indoor concentrations ranged from LOD to 60.16 items m-2 day-1. Predominantly, these MPs were fragments, even in the indoor environment, suggesting abundant sources, such as resuspension. Seasonal variations were not observed for outdoor fragments and fibers, nor for indoor fragments. However, indoor fiber concentrations were higher during the dry season (p > 0.05), likely due to winter clothing and reduced ventilation. Fragment sizes were mainly <60 μm, while fibers ranged from <60 μm to 3000-5000 μm. Polyester was the primary MP component (83-100% outdoors and 29-100% indoors), followed by ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA, 0-17% outdoors and 0-57% indoors), common in synthetic clothing and school supplies, respectively. Other plastics, found in packaging and bottles, like polyethylene (0-14%) and polyethylene terephthalate (0-6%), were also identified indoors. This study not only enhances the current understanding, but also pioneers analyses within a school environment. Despite being a work in progress, this study has already shown the presence of plastic particles in environments where children, one of the most susceptible groups to air pollution, spend a significant portion of their time. Furthermore, it can assist in developing an assessment of acceptable levels and guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel M Ferraz
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, 13565-905, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Aline Dos S de Moraes
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, 13565-905, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Gustavo B Dos Santos
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, 13565-905, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Ingrid T de Miranda
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, 13565-905, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Valtencir Zucolotto
- Nanomedicine and Nanotoxicology Group, São Carlos Physics Institute, University of São Paulo, 13566-590, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Roberta C Urban
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of São Carlos, 13565-905, São Carlos, SP, Brazil; School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
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14
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Laganà A, Visalli G, Facciolà A, Saija C, Bertuccio MP, Baluce B, Celesti C, Iannazzo D, Di Pietro A. Sterile inflammation induced by respirable micro and nano polystyrene particles in the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2024; 13:tfae138. [PMID: 39233846 PMCID: PMC11368663 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfae138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Sterile inflammation is involved in the lung pathogenesis induced by respirable particles, including micro- and nanoplastics. Their increasing amounts in the ambient and in indoor air pose a risk to human health. In two human cell lines (A549 and THP-1) we assessed the proinflammatory behavior of polystyrene nanoplastics (nPS) and microplastics (mPS) (Ø 0.1 and 1 μm). Reproducing environmental aging, in addition to virgin, the cells were exposed to oxidized nPS/mPS. To study the response of the monocytes to the inflammatory signal transmitted by the A549 through the release of soluble factors (e.g. alarmins and cytokines), THP-1 cells were also exposed to the supernatants of previously nPS/mPS-treated A549. After dynamic-light-scattering (DLS) analysis and protein measurements for the assessment of protein corona in nPS/mPS, real-time PCR and enzyme-linked-immunosorbent (ELISA) assays were performed in exposed cells. The pro-inflammatory effects of v- and ox-nPS/mPS were attested by the imbalance of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in A549, which was able to trigger the inflammatory cascade, inhibiting the immunologically silent apoptosis. The involvement of NFkB was confirmed by the overexpression of p65 after exposure to ox-nPS and v- and ox-mPS. The fast and higher levels of IL-1β, only in THP-1 cells, underlined the NLPR3 inflammasome activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
- Istituto Clinico Polispecialistico C.O.T. Cure Ortopediche Traumatologiche s.p.a., Viale Italia, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Visalli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Caterina Saija
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Bertuccio
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Baluce
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology and Lombardy Regional Rare Blood Bank, IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Consuelo Celesti
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Industrial Chemistry and Engineering, University of Messina, Via Stagno d'Alcontres, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Daniela Iannazzo
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Industrial Chemistry and Engineering, University of Messina, Via Stagno d'Alcontres, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Angela Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
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Nazeer N, Bhargava A, Soni N, Tiwari R, Ratre P, Mishra PK. Unravelling the molecular dimensions of atmospheric Micro(nano)Plastics: Exploring potential impacts on human health and strategies for detection. PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY OF THE EARTH, PARTS A/B/C 2024; 135:103604. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pce.2024.103604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2025]
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16
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Bai CL, Wang D, Luan YL, Huang SN, Liu LY, Guo Y. A review on micro- and nanoplastics in humans: Implication for their translocation of barriers and potential health effects. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142424. [PMID: 38795915 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
As emerging contaminants, micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) can absorb and leach various toxic chemicals and ultimately endanger the health of the ecological environment and humans. With extensive research on MNPs, knowledge about MNPs in humans, especially their translocation of barriers and potential health effects, is of utmost importance. In this review, we collected literature published from 2000 to 2023, focusing on MNPs on their occurrence in humans, penetrating characteristics in the placental, blood-brain, and blood-testis barriers, and exposure effects on mammalian health. The characteristics and distributions of MNPs in human samples were analyzed, and the results demonstrated that MNPs were ubiquitous in most human samples, except for kidneys and cerebrospinal fluid. In addition, the phenomenon of MNPs crossing barriers and their underlying mechanisms were discussed. We also summarized the potential factors that may affect the barrier crossing and health effects of MNPs, including characteristics of MNPs, exposure doses, administration routes, exposure durations, co-exposure to other pollutants, and genetic predisposition. Exposure to MNPs may cause cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and developmental and reproductive toxicity in mammals. People are encouraged to reduce their exposure to MNPs to prevent these adverse health effects. Finally, we discussed the shortcomings of current research on MNPs in humans, providing a valuable reference for understanding and evaluating the potential health risks from MNP exposure in mammals, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Lan Bai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Yu-Ling Luan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Si-Nan Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Liang-Ying Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Ying Guo
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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17
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Wu Q, Li R, You Y, Cheng W, Li Y, Feng Y, Fan Y, Wang Y. Lung microbiota participated in fibrous microplastics (MPs) aggravating OVA-induced asthma disease in mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 190:114776. [PMID: 38851522 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Environmental pollution is one of the risk factors for asthma. Currently, whether micro-plastics could aggravate asthma, is still unclear. In the air, fibrous MPs are the predominant shape. Since fibrous micro-plastics are reported to be detected in the lower respiratory tract and other body parts, the relationship of fibrous MP and asthma, as well as the potential mechanism is not well investigated. In this study, we produced fibrous MPs, whose lengths and widths were in accordance with the natural environment, and further, investigated the potential adverse effect of which on the asthma in a OVA (ovalbumin)-induced mice model, aiming at exploring the true life hazard of MP to the respiratory system. Following nasal exposure to fibrous MPs, the airway inflammation, mucus hypersecretion and fibrosis were aggravated in asthmatic mice. Fibrous MPs exposure also significantly increased the levels of total IgE, and, cardinal Th2 and Th1 pro-inflammatory cytokines participated in the etiopathogenesis of allergic airway inflammation. In addition, MP fibers exposure induced lung epithelial cells apoptosis, disruption of epithelial barrier integrity and activation of NLRP3 related signaling pathways. Moreover, fibrous MPs significantly altered the bacterial composition at the genus level. Compared to the control group, the relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella and Uncultured were decreased to 4.47% and 0.15% in OVA group, while Blautia and Prevotella were elevated to 4.96% and 2.94%. For the OVA + MPs group, the relative abundance of Blautia and Uncultured were decreased to 2.27% and 0.006%, while Prevotella was increased to 3.05%. Our study highlights the detrimental effect of fibrous MPs on asthmatic population and facilitates an indication of the latent mechanisms of fibrous MPs induced airway pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China
| | - Rui Li
- The Ninth People's Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China.
| | - Yifei You
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China
| | - Yan Li
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China
| | - Yan Feng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China
| | - Yuqin Fan
- The Ninth People's Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China
| | - Yan Wang
- The Ninth People's Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China.
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18
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Guo Z, Chen J, Yu H, Zhang Q, Duo B, Cui X. Characteristics, sources and potential ecological risk of atmospheric microplastics in Lhasa city. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:347. [PMID: 39073604 PMCID: PMC11286671 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-02125-w] [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: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastics are important contributors to environmental contamination in aquatic and terrestrial systems and pose potential ecological risks. However, studies on atmospheric microplastics are still limited in urban regions of the Tibetan Plateau, a sentinel region for climate and environmental change under a warming climate. In this study, the occurrence and potential ecological risk of atmospheric microplastics were investigated in samples of suspended atmospheric microplastics collected in Lhasa city during the Tibetan New Year in February 2023. The results show that the average abundance of atmospheric microplastics in Lhasa was 7.15 ± 2.46 MPs m-3. The sizes of the detected microplastics ranged from 20.34 to 297.18 μm, approximately 87% of which were smaller than 100 μm. Fragmented microplastics (95.76%) were the dominant shape, followed by fibres (3.75%) and pellets (0.49%). The primary polymer chemical components identified were polyamide (68.73%) and polystyrene (16.61%). The analysis of meteorological data and the backwards trajectory model indicated the air mass in Lhasa mainly controlled by westwards, and the atmospheric microplastics mainly originated from long-distance atmospheric transport. The potential ecological risk index assessment revealed that the atmospheric microplastic pollution in Lhasa was relatively low. This study provides valuable insights and a scientific foundation for future research on the prevention and control of atmospheric microplastic pollution in Lhasa and other ecologically sensitive cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zimeng Guo
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Education, School of Ecology and Environment, Tibet University, Lhasa, 850000, China
| | - Junyu Chen
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Education, School of Ecology and Environment, Tibet University, Lhasa, 850000, China
| | - Hanyue Yu
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Education, School of Ecology and Environment, Tibet University, Lhasa, 850000, China
| | - Qiangying Zhang
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Education, School of Ecology and Environment, Tibet University, Lhasa, 850000, China
| | - Bu Duo
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Education, School of Ecology and Environment, Tibet University, Lhasa, 850000, China.
| | - Xiaomei Cui
- Laboratory of Biodiversity and Environment on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Education, School of Ecology and Environment, Tibet University, Lhasa, 850000, China.
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19
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Chen NT, Yeh CL, Jung CC. Influence of agricultural activity in corn farming on airborne microplastic in surrounding elementary school. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174807. [PMID: 39019289 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been widely detected in agricultural soils, and agricultural activities have been identified as an important factor influencing the abundance of MPs in the air. However, no studies have investigated whether agricultural activities are contributors to airborne MPs in buildings near farms. We collected airborne MP samples using an active sampling method from an elementary school near corn farms during different cultivation stages to assess the impact of agricultural activities on MPs in the study school near farms. Our data showed that the predominant shapes, sizes, colors, and polymer compositions were fragments, 2-50 μm, black or grey, and polyethylene terephthalate, respectively, during all cultivation stages. The highest and lowest MP concentrations were recorded during the land preparation (56.8 ± 7.4 particles/m3, August 2022) and growth (2.5 ± 1.8 particles/m3, February 2022) stages, respectively. A multiple-path particle dosimetry model revealed that the deposition fractions of MPs in humans were highest in the head; the highest and lowest deposition rates and fluxes of MPs in the airway were found during the land preparation and growth stages, respectively. The concentration of MPs did not present a positive correlation with potassium or crustal elemental concentration; however, it did show a positive association with temperature value. Therefore, our data did not show that corn cultivation influences MP concentrations in the study school near corn farms; instead, temperature was an important influencing factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nai-Tzu Chen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, National Cheng-Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ling Yeh
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, National Cheng-Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.
| | - Chien-Cheng Jung
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung City, Taiwan.
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20
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Peries SD, Sewwandi M, Sandanayake S, Kwon HH, Vithanage M. Airborne transboundary microplastics-A Swirl around the globe. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 353:124080. [PMID: 38692389 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124080] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are persistent pollutants discovered and extensively researched in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems but have yet to receive attention in an atmospheric context. Although recent reports stated the presence of microplastics in the air, their global existence and distribution are not critically discussed to date. This review aimed to investigate the current status of research on atmospheric microplastics through bibliometric analysis and by comparing and summarising published research on global distribution. The review also provides a summary of methods that have been used to collect samples, identify microplastics, quantify their occurrence, and determine their transport mechanisms. The bibliometric analysis revealed that atmospheric microplastic studies predominantly originated in China. Clothing, vehicle, and tire materials were the major primary sources while house furniture, construction materials, landfills, urban dust, plastic recycling processes, and agricultural sludge were precursor secondary sources. Polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate microfibres have most frequently found in indoor and outdoor atmospheres. Level of urbanization and temporal or spatial distributions governs the fate of airborne microplastics, however, the knowledge gap in the retention and circulation of microplastics through the atmosphere is still large. Many challenges and limitations were identified in the methods used, presentation of data, aerodynamic processes facilitating atmospheric transport, and scarcity of research in spatially and temporally diverse contexts. The review concluded that there was a greater need for globalization of research, methods and data standardization, and emphasizes the potential for future research with atmospheric transportation modelling and thermochemical analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayuri Dimanthi Peries
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, University of Western Australia, Perth, 6009, Australia
| | - Madushika Sewwandi
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Sandun Sandanayake
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Hyun-Han Kwon
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Sejong University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Meththika Vithanage
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, University of Western Australia, Perth, 6009, Australia; Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka.
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21
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Chakraborty TK, Rahman MS, Nice MS, Netema BN, Islam KR, Debnath PC, Chowdhury P, Halder M, Zaman S, Ghosh GC, Rayhan MA, Asif SMH, Biswas A, Sarker S, Hasan MJ, Ahmmed M, Munna A. Application of machine learning and multivariate approaches for assessing microplastic pollution and its associated risks in the urban outdoor environment of Bangladesh. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134359. [PMID: 38691990 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134359] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are an emerging global concern due to severe toxicological risks for ecosystems and public health. Therefore, this is the first study in Bangladesh to assess MP pollution and its associated risks for ecosystems and human health in the outdoor urban environment using machine learning and multivariate approaches. The occurrences of MPs in the urban road dust were 52.76 ± 20.24 particles/g with high diversity, where fiber shape (77%), 0.1-0.5 mm size MPs (75%), blue color (26%), and low-density polyethylene (24%) polymer was the dominating MPs category. Pollution load index value (1.28-4.42), showed severe pollution by MPs. Additionally, the contamination factor (1.00-5.02), and Nemerow pollution index (1.38-5.02), indicate moderate to severe MP pollution. The identified polymers based on calculated potential ecological risk (2248.52 ± 1792.79) and polymer hazard index (814.04 ± 346.15) showed very high and high risks, respectively. The occurrences of MPs could effectively be predicted by random forest, and support random vector machine, where EC, salinity, pH, OC, and texture classes were the influencing parameters. Considering the human health aspect, children and adults could be acutely exposed to 19259.68 and 5777.90 MP particles/ year via oral ingestion. Monte-Carlo-based polymers associated cancer risk assessment results indicate moderate risk and high risk for adults and children, respectively, where children were more vulnerable than adults for MP pollution risks. Overall assessment mentioned that Dhaka was the most polluted division among the other divisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapos Kumar Chakraborty
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh.
| | - Md Sozibur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md Simoon Nice
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Baytune Nahar Netema
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Khandakar Rashedul Islam
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Partha Chandra Debnath
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Pragga Chowdhury
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Monishanker Halder
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Samina Zaman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Gopal Chandra Ghosh
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md Abu Rayhan
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Sk Mahmudul Hasan Asif
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Aditi Biswas
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Sarajit Sarker
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md Jahid Hasan
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Mahfuz Ahmmed
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Asadullah Munna
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
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Kek HY, Tan H, Othman MHD, Lee CT, Ahmad FBJ, Ismail ND, Nyakuma BB, Lee KQ, Wong KY. Transforming pollution into solutions: A bibliometric analysis and sustainable strategies for reducing indoor microplastics while converting to value-added products. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118928. [PMID: 38636646 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), as emerging indoor contaminants, have garnered attention due to their ubiquity and unresolved implications for human health. These tiny particles have permeated indoor air and water, leading to inevitable human exposure. Preliminary evidence suggests MP exposure could be linked to respiratory, gastrointestinal, and potentially other health issues, yet the full scope of their effects remains unclear. To map the overall landscape of this research field, a bibliometric analysis based on research articles retrieved from the Web of Science database was conducted. The study synthesizes the current state of knowledge and spotlights the innovative mitigation strategies proposed to curb indoor MP pollution. These strategies involve minimizing the MP emission from source, advancements in filtration technology, aimed at reducing the MP exposure. Furthermore, this research sheds light on cutting-edge methods for converting MP waste into value-added products. These innovative approaches not only promise to alleviate environmental burdens but also contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy by transforming waste into resources such as biofuels, construction materials, and batteries. Despite these strides, this study acknowledges the ongoing challenges, including the need for more efficient removal technologies and a deeper understanding of MPs' health impacts. Looking forward, the study underscores the necessity for further research to fill these knowledge gaps, particularly in the areas of long-term health outcomes and the development of standardized, reliable methodologies for MP detection and quantification in indoor settings. This comprehensive approach paves the way for future exploration and the development of robust solutions to the complex issue of microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yee Kek
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Huiyi Tan
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Chew Tin Lee
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - Nur Dayana Ismail
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Bemgba Bevan Nyakuma
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Computing, Pen Resource University, P. M. B. 086, Gombe, Gombe State, Nigeria
| | - Kee Quen Lee
- Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Keng Yinn Wong
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia.
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23
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Chen Y, Meng Y, Liu G, Huang X, Chai G. Probabilistic Estimation of Airborne Micro- and Nanoplastic Intake in Humans. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:9071-9081. [PMID: 38748887 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Little research exists on the magnitude, variability, and uncertainty of human exposure to airborne micro- and nanoplastics (AMNPs), despite their critical role in human exposure to MNPs. We probabilistically estimate the global intake of AMNPs through three main pathways: indoor inhalation, outdoor inhalation, and ingestion during indoor meals, for both children and adults. The median inhalation of AMPs is 1,207.7 (90% CI, 42.5-8.48 × 104) and 1,354.7 (90% CI, 47.4-9.55 × 104) N/capita/day for children and adults, respectively. The annual intake of AMPs is 13.18 mg/capita/a for children and 19.10 mg/capita/a for adults, which is approximately one-fifth and one-third of the mass of a standard stamp, assuming a consistent daily intake of medians. The majority of AMP number intake occurs through inhalation, while the ingestion of deposited AMPs during meals contributes the most in terms of mass. Furthermore, the median ANP intake through outdoor inhalation is 9,638.1 N/day (8.23 × 10-6 μg/d) and 5,410.6 N/day (4.62 × 10-6 μg/d) for children and adults, respectively, compared to 5.30 × 105 N/day (5.79 × 10-4 μg/d) and 6.00 × 105 N/day (6.55 × 10-4 μg/d) via indoor inhalation. Considering the increased toxicity of smaller MNPs, the significant number of ANPs inhaled warrants great attention. Collaborative efforts are imperative to further elucidate and combat the current MPN risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yuchuan Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Guodong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Xiaohua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Guangming Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
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24
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Vojnits K, de León A, Rathore H, Liao S, Zhao M, Gibon J, Pakpour S. ROS-dependent degeneration of human neurons induced by environmentally relevant levels of micro- and nanoplastics of diverse shapes and forms. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 469:134017. [PMID: 38518696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134017] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Our study explores the pressing issue of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) inhalation and their subsequent penetration into the brain, highlighting a significant environmental health concern. We demonstrate that MNPs can indeed penetrate murine brain, warranting further investigation into their neurotoxic effects in humans. We then proceed to test the impact of MNPs at environmentally relevant concentrations, with focusing on variations in size and shape. Our findings reveal that these MNPs induce oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and neurodegeneration in human neurons, with cortical neurons being more susceptible than nociceptors. Furthermore, we examine the role of biofilms on MNPs, demonstrating that MNPs can serve as a vehicle for pathogenic biofilms that significantly exacerbate these neurotoxic effects. This sequence of investigations reveals that minimal MNPs accumulation can cause oxidative stress and neurodegeneration in human neurons, significantly risking brain health and highlights the need to understand the neurological consequences of inhaling MNPs. Overall, our developed in vitro testing battery has significance in elucidating the effects of environmental factors and their associated pathological mechanisms in human neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Vojnits
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Andrés de León
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada; Department of Biology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Harneet Rathore
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Sophia Liao
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Michael Zhao
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Julien Gibon
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada; Office of Vice-Principal, Research and Innovation, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sepideh Pakpour
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada.
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25
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Chandra S, Walsh KB. Microplastics in water: Occurrence, fate and removal. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 264:104360. [PMID: 38729026 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
A global study on tap water samples has found that up to 83% of these contained microplastic fibres. These findings raise concerns about their potential health risks. Ingested microplastic particles have already been associated with harmful effects in animals, which raise concerns about similar outcomes in humans. Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment, commonly found disposed in landfills and waste sites. Within indoor environments, the common sources are synthetic textiles, plastic bottles, and packaging. From the various point sources, they are globally distributed through air and water and can enter humans through various pathways. The finding of microplastics in fresh snow in the Antarctic highlights just how widely they are dispersed. The behaviour and health risks from microplastic particles are strongly influenced by their physicochemical properties, which is why their surfaces are important. Surface interactions are also important in pollutant transport via adsorption onto the microplastic particles. Our review covers the latest findings in microplastics research including the latest statistics in their abundance, their occurrence and fate in the environment, the methods of reducing microplastics exposure and their removal. We conclude by proposing future research directions into more effective remediation methods including new technologies and sustainable green remediation methods that need to be explored to achieve success in microplastics removal from waters at large scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaneel Chandra
- College of Science and Sustainability, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton North, QLD 4702, Australia; Coastal Marine Ecosystems Research Centre, Central Queensland University, Gladstone Marina Campus, Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone, QLD 4680, Australia.
| | - Kerry B Walsh
- College of Science and Sustainability, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton North, QLD 4702, Australia
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26
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Nohara NML, Ariza-Tarazona MC, Triboni ER, Nohara EL, Villarreal-Chiu JF, Cedillo-González EI. Are you drowned in microplastic pollution? A brief insight on the current knowledge for early career researchers developing novel remediation strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170382. [PMID: 38307272 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) composed of different polymers with various shapes, within a vast granulometric distribution (1 μm - 5 mm) and with a wide variety of physicochemical surface and bulk characteristics spiral around the globe, with different atmospheric, oceanic, cryospheric, and terrestrial residence times, while interacting with other pollutants and biota. The challenges of microplastic pollution are related to the complex relationships between the microplastic generation mechanisms (physical, chemical, and biological), their physicochemical properties, their interactions with other pollutants and microorganisms, the changes in their properties with aging, and their small sizes that facilitate their diffusion and transportation between the air, water, land, and biota, thereby promoting their ubiquity. Early career researchers (ERCs) constitute an essential part of the scientific community committed to overcoming the challenges of microplastic pollution with their new ideas and innovative scientific perspectives for the development of remediation technologies. However, because of the enormous amount of scientific information available, it may be difficult for ERCs to determine the complexity of this environmental issue. This mini-review aims to provide a quick and updated overview of the essential insights of microplastic pollution to ERCs to help them acquire the background needed to develop highly innovative physical, chemical, and biological remediation technologies, as well as valorization proposals and environmental education and awareness campaigns. Moreover, the recommendations for the development of holistic microplastic pollution remediation strategies presented here can help ERCs propose technologies considering the environmental, social, and practical dimensions of microplastic pollution while fulfilling the current government policies to manage this plastic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoly Milhardo Lourenço Nohara
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering of Lorena, University of São Paulo, Estrada Municipal do Campinho, no number, Lorena, Brazil
| | - Maria Camila Ariza-Tarazona
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy
| | - Eduardo Rezende Triboni
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering of Lorena, University of São Paulo, Estrada Municipal do Campinho, no number, Lorena, Brazil
| | - Evandro Luís Nohara
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Taubaté, R. Daniel Daneli, no number, Taubaté, Brazil
| | - Juan Francisco Villarreal-Chiu
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Av. Universidad S/N Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza 66455, Nuevo León, Mexico; Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología (CIByN), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Km. 10 autopista al Aeropuerto Internacional Mariano Escobedo, Apodaca 66628, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Erika Iveth Cedillo-González
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy; National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology (INSTM), Via Giusti, Florence 50121, Italy.
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27
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Kek HY, Tan H, Othman MHD, Nyakuma BB, Ho WS, Sheng DDCV, Kang HS, Chan YT, Lim NHAS, Leng PC, Wahab NHA, Wong KY. Critical review on airborne microplastics: An indoor air contaminant of emerging concern. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 245:118055. [PMID: 38154562 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.118055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Airborne Microplastics (MPs), an emerging environmental issue, have gained recent attention due to their newfound presence in indoor environments. Utilizing the Web of Science database for literature collection, the paper presents a comprehensive review of airborne MPs including emission sources, assessment methods, exposure risks, and mitigation strategies. This review delves into the diverse sources and mechanisms influencing indoor airborne MP pollution, underscoring the complex interplay between human activities, ventilation systems, and the characteristics of indoor environments. Major sources include the abrasion of synthetic textiles and the deterioration of flooring materials, with factors like carpeting, airflow, and ventilation significantly impacting MP levels. Human activities, such as increased movement in indoor spaces and the intensive use of plastic-based personal protective equipment (PPE) post-pandemic, notably elevate indoor MP concentrations. The potential health impacts of airborne MPs are increasingly concerning, with evidence suggesting their role in respiratory, immune, and nervous system diseases. Despite this, there is a scarcity of information on MPs in diverse indoor environments and the inhalation risks associated with the frequent use of PPE. This review also stresses the importance of developing effective strategies to reduce MP emissions, such as employing HEPA-filtered vacuums, minimizing the use of synthetic textiles, and enhancing indoor ventilation. Several future research directions were proposed, including detailed temporal analyses of indoor MP levels, interactions of MP with other atmospheric pollutants, the transport dynamics of inhalable MPs (≤10 μm), and comprehensive human exposure risk assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yee Kek
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Huiyi Tan
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Bemgba Bevan Nyakuma
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Computing, Pen Resource University, P. M. B. 086, Gombe, Gombe State, Nigeria
| | - Wai Shin Ho
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - Hooi Siang Kang
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia; Marine Technology Centre, Institute for Vehicle System & Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Yoon Tung Chan
- Faculty of Civil Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - Pau Chung Leng
- Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - Keng Yinn Wong
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia.
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28
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Eberhard T, Casillas G, Zarus GM, Barr DB. Systematic review of microplastics and nanoplastics in indoor and outdoor air: identifying a framework and data needs for quantifying human inhalation exposures. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2024; 34:185-196. [PMID: 38184724 PMCID: PMC11142917 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-023-00634-x] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Humans are likely exposed to microplastics (MPs) in a variety of places including indoor and outdoor air. Research to better understand how exposure to MPs correlates to health is growing. To fully understand the possible impacts of MPs on human health, it is necessary to quantify MP exposure and identify what critical data gaps exist. OBJECTIVES The current paper provides a human exposure assessment of microplastics in the air using systematically reviewed literature that provided concentration of MPs in air as well as doses used in toxicology studies to calculate inhalation exposure dose. METHODS All published peer-reviewed journal articles, non-published papers, and grey literature that focused on micro- or nano-plastics in indoor and outdoor air were systematically searched using PRISMA guidelines. Literature that defined specific concentrations and size of MPs in air or exposed to human lung cells, animals, or humans with measurable health impacts were included in data extraction. Inhalational exposures were calculated for different age groups using published MP concentrations from the included literature using exposure dose equations and values from U.S. ATSDR and EPA. RESULTS Calculated mean indoor inhalational exposures from passive sampling methods were higher than those calculated from active sampling methods. When comparing indoor and outdoor sampling, calculated inhalation exposures from indoor samples were greater than those from outdoor samples. Inhalation exposures of MPs differed between age groups with infants having the highest calculated dose values for all locations followed by preschool age children, middle-school aged children, pregnant women, adolescents, and non-pregnant adults. MP doses used in toxicology studies produced higher calculated mean inhalational exposures than those from environmental samples. IMPACT This study is the first known systematic review of inhalational MP exposure from indoor and outdoor air. It also provides inhalational exposures calculated from previously published environmental samples of MPs as well as from toxicology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany Eberhard
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Gaston Casillas
- Agency of Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gregory M Zarus
- Agency of Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dana Boyd Barr
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Beaurepaire M, Gasperi J, Tassin B, Dris R. COVID lockdown significantly impacted microplastic bulk atmospheric deposition rates. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123354. [PMID: 38237852 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123354] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Here, microplastic atmospheric deposition data collected at an urban site during the French national lockdown of spring 2020 is compared to deposition data from the same site in a period of normal activity. Bulk atmospheric deposition was collected on the vegetated roof of a suburban campus from the Greater Paris and analysed for microplastics using a micro-FTIR imaging methodology. Significantly lower deposition rates were measured overall during the lockdown period (median 5.4 MP m-2.d-1) than in a period of normal activity in spring 2021 (median of 29.2 MP m-2.d-1). This difference is however not observed for the smallest microplastic size class. The dominant polymers identified were PP, followed by PE and PS. Precipitation alone could not explain the differences between the two campaigns, and it is suggested that the temporary drop in human activity during lockdown is the primary cause of the reduced deposition rates. This study provides novel insight on the immediate impact of human activities on atmospheric microplastics, thus enhancing the global understanding on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Beaurepaire
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Universite Paris Est Creteil, Champs sur Marne, France.
| | | | - Bruno Tassin
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Universite Paris Est Creteil, Champs sur Marne, France
| | - Rachid Dris
- LEESU, Ecole des Ponts, Universite Paris Est Creteil, Champs sur Marne, France
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30
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Frias J, Joyce H, Brozzetti L, Pagter E, Švonja M, Kavangh F, Nash R. Spatial monitoring of microplastics in environmental matrices from Galway Bay, Ireland. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116153. [PMID: 38354591 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116153] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic concentrations have been reported in a variety of environmental matrices and organisms across the world. Assessments of environmental concentrations are essential to understand trends and ensure decision-making processes that reduce environmental pressure. In this study, a combined sampling approach to surface waters, benthic sediments and biota in Galway Bay, Ireland, was carried out. Average concentrations of microplastics in surface waters were 1.42 ± 0.33 MPs m-3, in biota were 4.46 ± 0.36 MPs ind-1 and in benthic sediments were 5.60 ± 1.54 MPs kg-1. The diversity of polymers, microplastic types and colours were more abundant in surface waters and biota, when compared to benthic sediments. Integrated assessments of microplastics that follow existing monitoring programmes are essential to understand environmental trends. This work contributes to provide valuable information to descriptor 10 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive in Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Frias
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland.
| | - Haleigh Joyce
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland.
| | - Loann Brozzetti
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland.
| | - Elena Pagter
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland; Marine Institute, Fisheries and Ecosystems Advisory, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway H91 R673, Ireland.
| | - Mateja Švonja
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland.
| | - Fiona Kavangh
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland.
| | - Róisín Nash
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland.
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31
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Xu L, Bai X, Li K, Zhang G, Zhang M, Hu M, Huang Y. Human Exposure to Ambient Atmospheric Microplastics in a Megacity: Spatiotemporal Variation and Associated Microorganism-Related Health Risk. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:3702-3713. [PMID: 38356452 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are found in various human tissues and are considered harmful, raising concerns about human exposure to microplastics in the environment. Existing research has analyzed indoor and occupational scenarios, but long-term monitoring of ambient atmospheric microplastics (AMPs), especially in highly polluted urban regions, needs to be further investigated. This study estimated human environmental exposure to AMPs by considering inhalation, dust ingestion, and dermal exposure in three urban functional zones within a megacity. The annual exposure quantity was 7.37 × 104 items for children and 1.06 × 105 items for adults, comparable with the human microplastic consumption from food and water. Significant spatiotemporal differences were observed in the characteristics of AMPs that humans were exposed to, with wind speed and rainfall frequency mainly driving these changes. The annual human AMP exposure quantity in urban green land spaces, which were recognized as relatively low polluted zones, was comparable with that in public service zones and residential zones. Notably, significant positive correlations between the AMP characteristics and the pathogenicity of the airborne bacterial community were discovered. AMP size and immune-mediated disease risks brought by atmospheric microbes showed the most significant relationship, where Sphingomonas might act as the potential key mediator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Xu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xinyi Bai
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Kang Li
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Guangbao Zhang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Mengjun Zhang
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
- PKU-HKUST Shenzhen-Hongkong Institution, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
| | - Min Hu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yi Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
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Vélez-Terreros PY, Romero-Estévez D, Yánez-Jácome GS. Microplastics in Ecuador: A review of environmental and health-risk assessment challenges. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23232. [PMID: 38163182 PMCID: PMC10754870 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Pollution from plastic debris and microplastics (MPs) is a worldwide issue. Classified as emerging contaminants, MPs have become widespread and have been found not only in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems but also within the food chain, which affects both the environment and human health. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the consumption of single-use plastics has drastically increased, intensifying mismanaged plastic waste in countries such as Ecuador. Therefore, the aim of this review is to 1) summarize the state of MP-related knowledge, focusing on studies conducted with environmental matrices, biota, and food, and 2) analyze the efforts by different national authorities and entities in Ecuador to control MP contamination. Results showed a limited number of studies have been done in Ecuador, which have mainly focused on the surface water of coastal areas, followed by studies on sediment and food. MPs were identified in all samples, indicating the lack of wastewater management policies, deficient management of solid wastes, and the contribution of anthropogenic activities such as artisanal fishing and aquaculture to water ecosystem pollution, which affects food webs. Moreover, studies have shown that food contamination can occur through atmospheric deposition of MPs; however, ingredients and inputs from food production, processing, and packaging, as well as food containers, contribute to MP occurrence in food. Further research is needed to develop more sensitive, precise, and reliable detection methods and assess MPs' impact on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, biota, and human health. In Ecuador specifically, implementing wastewater treatment plants in major cities, continuously monitoring MP coastal contamination, and establishing environmental and food safety regulations are crucial. Additionally, national authorities need to develop programs to raise public awareness of plastic use and its environmental effects, as well as MP exposure's effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Y. Vélez-Terreros
- Centro de Estudios Aplicados en Química, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Av. 12 de Octubre 1076 y Roca, Quito, Pichincha, 170525, Ecuador
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Jang YL, Jeong J, Eo S, Hong SH, Shim WJ. Occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in greywater from a research vessel. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122941. [PMID: 37979649 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122941] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
The discharge of greywater from ships, an uncounted sea-based source of microplastics (MPs), is a growing concern. Yet, empirical data on MPs from this source are currently limited. Here, the abundances and characteristics of MPs in greywater from a research vessel were investigated according to water usage type (e.g., galley, cabin, and laundry). The mean abundance of MPs was highest in greywater from the laundry (177,667 n/m3), followed by the cabins (133,833 n/m3) and galley (75,000 n/m3). However, no significant differences were found in the MP abundances among greywater types due to high variability of triplicate samples collected every five days. Fiber-type MPs accounted for 66% of the total MP abundance and fragment-type MPs for 34%. Microplastics in the size range of 100-200 μm exhibited the highest levels among size classes. The dominant polymer identified in all greywater samples was polyester (53%), followed by polypropylene (23%). Marine coating origin MPs (6%) were also observed in all types of greywater. The greywater generation rate during the cruise was 0.15 m3/person∙day. Annual MP emissions per person by the greywater discharge of the research vessel was estimated to be 4.1 × 106 n/person∙year (equivalent to 3.0 g/person∙year).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Lee Jang
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongwook Jeong
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Soeun Eo
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hee Hong
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, 53201, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Joon Shim
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, 53201, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea.
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Chandrakanthan K, Fraser MP, Herckes P. Microplastics are ubiquitous and increasing in soil of a sprawling urban area, Phoenix (Arizona). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167617. [PMID: 37804992 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are environmental contaminants that have been extensively studied in marine and aquatic environments; terrestrial ecosystems, where most microplastics originate and have the potential to accumulate, typically receive less attention. This study aims to investigate the spatial and temporal soil concentrations of microplastics in a large desert metropolitan area, the Central Arizona-Phoenix Long-Term Ecological Research (CAP-LTER) area. Soil samples from the Ecological Survey of Central Arizona (ESCA) surveys (2005 and 2015) were leveraged to study spatial distributions and the temporal change of microplastic abundances. The temporal soil microplastics data were supplemented by microplastics deposition fluxes in a central location within the area (Tempe, AZ) for a period of one year (Oct 5th, 2020 to Sept 22nd, 2021). Samples were processed and microplastics were counted under an optical microscope to obtain quantitative information of their distribution in soil. Results for the spatial variation of the microplastic abundances in soil samples in Phoenix and the surrounding areas of the Sonoran Desert from 2015 depict microplastics as ubiquitous and abundant in soils (122 to 1299 microplastics/kg) with no clear trends between different locations. Microplastics deposition fluxes show substantial deposition in the local area (71 to 389 microplastics/m2/day with an average deposition flux of 178 microplastics/m2/day) but the role of resuspension and redistribution by dust storms to deposition may contribute to the unclear spatial trends. Comparison between the 2005 and 2015 surveys show a systematic increase in the abundance of microplastics and a decrease in microplastics size. Micro-Raman spectroscopy identified a variety of plastics including PE, PS, PVC, PA, PES and PP. However, a majority of microplastics remained chemically unidentifiable. Polyethylene was present in 75 % of the sampling sites and was the most abundant polymer on average in all soil samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew P Fraser
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States
| | - Pierre Herckes
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States.
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Edo C, Fernández-Piñas F, Leganes F, Gómez M, Martínez I, Herrera A, Hernández-Sánchez C, González-Sálamo J, Borges JH, López-Castellanos J, Bayo J, Romera-Castillo C, Elustondo D, Santamaría C, Alonso R, García-Gómez H, Gonzalez-Cascon R, Martínez-Hernández V, Landaburu-Aguirre J, Incera M, Gago J, Noya B, Beiras R, Muniategui-Lorenzo S, Rosal R, González-Pleiter M. A nationwide monitoring of atmospheric microplastic deposition. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:166923. [PMID: 37704133 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Plastic production continues to increase every year, yet it is widely acknowledged that a significant portion of this material ends up in ecosystems as microplastics (MPs). Among all the environmental compartments affected by MPs, the atmosphere remains the least well-known. Here, we conducted a one-year simultaneous monitoring of atmospheric MPs deposition in ten urban areas, each with different population sizes, economic activities, and climates. The objective was to assess the role of the atmosphere in the fate of MPs by conducting a nationwide quantification of atmospheric MP deposition. To achieve this, we deployed collectors in ten different urban areas across continental Spain and the Canary Islands. We implemented a systematic sampling methodology with rigorous quality control/quality assurance, along with particle-oriented identification and quantification of anthropogenic particle deposition, which included MPs and industrially processed natural fibres. Among the sampled MPs, polyester fibres were the most abundant, followed by acrylic polymers, polypropylene, and alkyd resins. Their equivalent sizes ranged from 22 μm to 398 μm, with a median value of 71 μm. The particle size distribution of MPs showed fewer large particles than expected from a three-dimensional fractal fragmentation pattern, which was attributed to the higher mobility of small particles, especially fibres. The atmospheric deposition rate of MPs ranged from 5.6 to 78.6 MPs m-2 day-1, with the higher values observed in densely populated areas such as Barcelona and Madrid. Additionally, we detected natural polymers, mostly cellulosic fibres with evidence of industrial processing, with a deposition rate ranging from 6.4 to 58.6 particles m-2 day-1. There was a positive correlation was found between the population of the study area and the median of atmospheric MP deposition, supporting the hypothesis that urban areas act as sources of atmospheric MPs. Our study presents a systematic methodology for monitoring atmospheric MP deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Edo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, E-28871 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisca Fernández-Piñas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. C Darwin 2, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Leganes
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. C Darwin 2, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - May Gómez
- Ecophysiology of Marine Organisms (EOMAR), IU-ECOAQUA, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Ico Martínez
- Ecophysiology of Marine Organisms (EOMAR), IU-ECOAQUA, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Alicia Herrera
- Ecophysiology of Marine Organisms (EOMAR), IU-ECOAQUA, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Cintia Hernández-Sánchez
- Applied Analytical Chemistry Research Group (AChem), Universidad de La Laguna. Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Javier González-Sálamo
- Applied Analytical Chemistry Research Group (AChem), Universidad de La Laguna. Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Javier Hernández Borges
- Applied Analytical Chemistry Research Group (AChem), Universidad de La Laguna. Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Joaquín López-Castellanos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44, E-30203, Cartagena, Spain
| | - Javier Bayo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44, E-30203, Cartagena, Spain
| | - Cristina Romera-Castillo
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar-CSIC, Paseo Marítimo de la Barceloneta, 37, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Elustondo
- Instituto de Biodiversidad y Medioambiente (BIOMA), Universidad de Navarra, Campues Universitario, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carolina Santamaría
- Instituto de Biodiversidad y Medioambiente (BIOMA), Universidad de Navarra, Campues Universitario, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Rocío Alonso
- Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Avda. Complutense, 40, Madrid, Spain
| | - Héctor García-Gómez
- Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Avda. Complutense, 40, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosario Gonzalez-Cascon
- Department of Environment, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Mónica Incera
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - Jesús Gago
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - Beatriz Noya
- Centro de Investigación Mariña da Universidade de Vigo (CIM-UVigo), Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - Ricardo Beiras
- Centro de Investigación Mariña da Universidade de Vigo (CIM-UVigo), Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - Soledad Muniategui-Lorenzo
- University of A Coruña. Grupo Química Analítica Aplicada (QANAP), Instituto Universitario de Medio Ambiente (IUMA), Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, A Coruña 15071, Spain
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, E-28871 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Miguel González-Pleiter
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. C Darwin 2, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
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Bhat MA. Indoor microplastics: a comprehensive review and bibliometric analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:121269-121291. [PMID: 37980322 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30902-0] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Indoor microplastic (MP) pollution is becoming a worldwide issue because people spend more time inside. Through dust and air, indoor MP pollution may harm human health. This review summarizes recent advancements in indoor MP research, covering pretreatments, quality control, filter membranes, and identification methods. Additionally, it conducts bibliometric analysis to examine the usage of keywords, publication records, and authors' contributions to the field. Comparatively, dust and deposition samples exhibit higher MP concentrations than indoor air samples. Fiber-shaped MPs are commonly detected indoors. The color and types of MPs display variability, with polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene identified as the dominant MPs. Indoor environments generally demonstrate higher concentrations of MPs than outdoor environments, and MPs in the lower size range (1-100 µm) are typically more abundant. Among the reviewed articles, 45.24% conducted pretreatment on their samples, while 16.67% did not undergo any pretreatment. The predominant filter utilized in most studies was the Whatman Glass microfiber filter (41.67%), and MPs were predominantly characterized using µ-FTIR (19.23%). In the literature, 17 papers used blank samples, and eight did not. Blank findings were not included in most research (23 articles). A significant increase in published articles has been observed since 2020, with an annual growth rate exceeding 10%. The keyword microplastics had the highest frequency, followed by fibers. This indoor MP study emphasizes the need for collaborative research, policymaking, and stakeholder involvement to reduce indoor MP pollution. As indoor MP research grows, so are opportunities to identify and minimize environmental and health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansoor Ahmad Bhat
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Environmental Engineering 26555, Eskişehir Technical University, Eskişehir, Türkiye.
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Hee YY, Hanif NM, Weston K, Latif MT, Suratman S, Rusli MU, Mayes AG. Atmospheric microplastic transport and deposition to urban and pristine tropical locations in Southeast Asia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166153. [PMID: 37562616 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastic transport is an important delivery pathway with the deposition of microplastics to ecologically important regions raising environmental concerns. Investigating atmospheric delivery pathways and their deposition rates in different ecosystems is necessary to understanding its global impact. In this study, atmospheric deposition was collected at three sites in Malaysia, two urban and one pristine, covering the Northeast and Southwest monsoons to quantify the role of this pathway in Southeast Asia. Air mass back trajectories showed long-range atmospheric transport of microplastics to all sites with atmospheric deposition varying from 114 to 689 MP/m2/day. For the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, monsoonal season influenced microplastic transport and deposition rate with peak microplastic deposition during the Northeast monsoon due to higher wind speed. MP morphology combined with size fractionation and plastic type at the coastal sites indicated a role for long-range marine transport of MPs that subsequently provided a local marine source to the atmosphere at the coastal sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yet Yin Hee
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia.
| | - Norfazrin Mohd Hanif
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Keith Weston
- Independent environmental consultant, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Mohd Talib Latif
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Suhaimi Suratman
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Uzair Rusli
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia
| | - Andrew G Mayes
- School of Chemistry, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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Huang Y, Liang B, Li Z, Zhong Y, Wang B, Zhang B, Du J, Ye R, Xian H, Min W, Yan X, Deng Y, Feng Y, Bai R, Fan B, Yang X, Huang Z. Polystyrene nanoplastic exposure induces excessive mitophagy by activating AMPK/ULK1 pathway in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells and dopaminergic neurons in vivo. Part Fibre Toxicol 2023; 20:44. [PMID: 37993864 PMCID: PMC10664492 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-023-00556-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are emerging environmental contaminants detected in human samples, and have raised concerns regarding their potential risks to human health, particularly neurotoxicity. This study aimed to investigate the deleterious effects of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, 50 nm) and understand their mechanisms in inducing Parkinson's disease (PD)-like neurodegeneration, along with exploring preventive strategies. METHODS Following exposure to PS-NPs (0.5-500 μg/mL), we assessed cytotoxicity, mitochondrial integrity, ATP levels, and mitochondrial respiration in dopaminergic-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells. Molecular docking and dynamic simulations explored PS-NPs' interactions with mitochondrial complexes. We further probed mitophagy's pivotal role in PS-NP-induced mitochondrial damage and examined melatonin's ameliorative potential in vitro. We validated melatonin's intervention (intraperitoneal, 10 mg/kg/d) in C57BL/6 J mice exposed to 250 mg/kg/d of PS-NPs for 28 days. RESULTS In our in vitro experiments, we observed PS-NP accumulation in cells, including mitochondria, leading to cell toxicity and reduced viability. Notably, antioxidant treatment failed to fully rescue viability, suggesting reactive oxygen species (ROS)-independent cytotoxicity. PS-NPs caused significant mitochondrial damage, characterized by altered morphology, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and decreased ATP production. Subsequent investigations pointed to PS-NP-induced disruption of mitochondrial respiration, potentially through interference with complex I (CI), a concept supported by molecular docking studies highlighting the influence of PS-NPs on CI. Rescue experiments using an AMPK pathway inhibitor (compound C) and an autophagy inhibitor (3-methyladenine) revealed that excessive mitophagy was induced through AMPK/ULK1 pathway activation, worsening mitochondrial damage and subsequent cell death in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells. Notably, we identified melatonin as a potential protective agent, capable of alleviating PS-NP-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Lastly, our in vivo experiments demonstrated that melatonin could mitigate dopaminergic neuron loss and motor impairments by restoring mitophagy regulation in mice. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated that PS-NPs disrupt mitochondrial function by affecting CI, leading to excessive mitophagy through the AMPK/ULK1 pathway, causing dopaminergic neuron death. Melatonin can counteract PS-NP-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and motor impairments by regulating mitochondrial autophagy. These findings offer novel insights into the MNP-induced PD-like neurodegenerative mechanisms, and highlight melatonin's protective potential in mitigating the MNP's environmental risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Huang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Boxuan Liang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiming Li
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Yizhou Zhong
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Wang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingli Zhang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxin Du
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongyi Ye
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyi Xian
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Weicui Min
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiliang Yan
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanhong Deng
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Feng
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruobing Bai
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingchi Fan
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingfen Yang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Food Safety and Health Research Center, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenlie Huang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China.
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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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40
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Yang T, Wang J. Exposure sources and pathways of micro- and nanoplastics in the environment, with emphasis on potential effects in humans: A systematic review. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2023; 19:1422-1432. [PMID: 36661032 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4742] [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: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants that are ubiquitous in the environment, and may be a potential threat to human health. This review describes the MP exposure sources and pathways through drinking water, food intake, and air inhalation. The unregulated discharge of MPs in water sources and the absence of required MP filter technology in water treatment plants are important routes of MP exposure through drinking water. The presence of MPs in food may lead to the accumulation of MPs in the body. Exposure to MPs can occur through airborne fallout and dust inhalation in both indoor and outdoor environments. This review summarizes the MP exposure sources and possible pathways in the human body, and illustrates that the intake of drinking water, food consumption, and air inhalation should be assessed in during routine activities. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:1422-1432. © 2023 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Chemistry and Eco-environmental Protection in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of High-Value Utilization of Characteristic Economic Plants, The College of Ecological Environmental and Resources, Qinghai MinZu University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Jiao Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
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41
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Davtalab M, Byčenkienė S, Uogintė I. Global research hotspots and trends on microplastics: a bibliometric analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:107403-107418. [PMID: 37199843 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27647-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics have become an integral part of the terrestrial and aquatic environments, which is one of the major concerns of communities around the world. Therefore, it is necessary to know the current status of studies and feasible potentials in the future. This study, conducted an in-depth bibliometric analysis of publications from 1990 to 2022 to present the influential countries, authors, institutes, papers, and journals on microplastics. Findings reveal that there has been a steady increase in microplastic publications and citations in recent years. And, the number of publications and citations has increased 19 and 35 times since 2015. Besides, we performed a comprehensive keyword analysis to show the significant keywords and clusters in this field. In particular, this study used the TF-IDF method as a text-mining analysis to extract the new keywords used in recent years (i.e., 2020-2022). New keywords can draw the attention of scholars to important issues and provide a basis for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehri Davtalab
- Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Saulėtekio ave. 3, LT-10257, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Steigvilė Byčenkienė
- Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Saulėtekio ave. 3, LT-10257, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ieva Uogintė
- Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), Saulėtekio ave. 3, LT-10257, Vilnius, Lithuania
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42
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Reeves A, Shaikh WA, Chakraborty S, Chaudhuri P, Biswas JK, Maity JP. Potential transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through microplastics in sewage: A wastewater-based epidemiological review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 334:122171. [PMID: 37437759 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122171] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, there is an urgent need to identify and investigate the various pathways of transmission. In addition to contact and aerosol transmission of the virus, this review investigated the possibility of its transmission via microplastics found in sewage. Wastewater-based epidemiological studies on the virus have confirmed its presence and persistence in both influent sewage as well as treated ones. The hypothesis behind the study is that the huge amount of microplastics, especially Polyvinyl Chloride and Polyethylene particles released into the open waters from sewage can become a good substrate and vector for microbes, especially Polyvinyl Chloride and Polyethylene particles, imparting stability to microbes and aiding the "plastisphere" formation. A bibliometric analysis highlights the negligence of research toward plastispheres and their presence in sewage. The ubiquity of microplastics and their release along with the virus into the open waters increases the risk of viral plastispheres. These plastispheres may be ingested by aquatic organisms facilitating reverse zoonosis and the commercial organisms already reported with accumulating microplastics through the food chain poses a risk to human populations as well. Reliance of high population density areas on open waters served by untreated sewage in economically less developed countries might bring back viral transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arijit Reeves
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | - Wasim Akram Shaikh
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Science and Technology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, 743368, India
| | - Sukalyan Chakraborty
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Jharkhand, 835215, India.
| | - Punarbasu Chaudhuri
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | - Jayanta Kumar Biswas
- Enviromicrobiology, Ecotoxicology and Ecotechnology Research Laboratory (3E-MicroToxTech Lab), Department of Ecological Studies, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, 741235, West Bengal, India; International Centre for Ecological Engineering, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, 741235, West Bengal, India
| | - Jyoti Prakash Maity
- Environmental Science Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, School of Applied Sciences, KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India.
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Sheng XY, Lai YJ, Yu SJ, Li QC, Zhou QX, Liu JF. Quantitation of Atmospheric Suspended Polystyrene Nanoplastics by Active Sampling Prior to Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37428629 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c02299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Plastic has been demonstrated to release nanoplastics (NPs) into the atmosphere under sunlight irradiation, posing a continuous health risk to the respiratory system. However, due to lack of reliable quantification methods, the occurrence and distribution of NPs in the atmosphere remain unclear. Polystyrene (PS) micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) represent a crucial component of atmospheric MNPs. In this study, we proposed a simple and robust method for determining the concentration of atmospheric PS NPs using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). Following active sampling, the filter membrane is directly ground and introduced into the Py-GC/MS system to quantify PS NPs. The proposed method demonstrates excellent reproducibility and high sensitivity, with a detection limit as low as down to 15 pg/m3 for PS NPs. By using this method, the occurrence of PS NPs in both indoor and outdoor atmospheres has been confirmed. Furthermore, the results showed that the abundance of outdoor PS NPs was significantly higher than that of indoor samples, and there was no significant difference in NP vertical distribution within a height of 28.6 m. This method can be applied for the routine monitoring of atmospheric PS NPs and for evaluating their risk to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Ying Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, College of Chemical Engineering and Environment, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Beijing 102249, China
| | - Yu-Jian Lai
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Su-Juan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qing-Cun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qing-Xiang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, College of Chemical Engineering and Environment, China University of Petroleum-Beijing, Beijing 102249, China
| | - Jing-Fu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
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Villafañe AB, Ronda AC, Rodríguez Pirani LS, Picone AL, Lucchi LD, Romano RM, Pereyra MT, Arias AH. Microplastics and anthropogenic debris in rainwater from Bahia Blanca, Argentina. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17028. [PMID: 37383205 PMCID: PMC10293668 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Concern about atmospheric microplastic (MP) contamination has increased in recent years. This study assessed the abundance of airborne anthropogenic particles, including MPs, deposited in rainfall in Bahia Blanca, southwest Buenos Aires, Argentina. Rainwater samples were collected monthly from March to December 2021 using an active wet-only collector consisting of a glass funnel and a PVC pipe that is only open during rain events. Results obtained show that all rain samples contained anthropogenic debris. The term "anthropogenic debris" is used to refer to the total number of particles as not all the particles found could be determined as plastic. Among all the samples, an average deposition of 77 ± 29 items (anthropogenic debris) m-2d-1 was found. The highest deposition was observed in November (148 items m-2d-1) while the lowest was found in March (46 items m-2d-1). Anthropogenic debris ranged in size from 0.1 mm to 3.87 mm with the most abundant particles being smaller than 1 mm (77.8%). The dominant form of particles found were fibers (95%), followed by fragments (3.1%). Blue color predominated (37.2%) in the total number of samples, followed by light blue (23.3%) and black (21.7%). Further, small particles (<2 mm), apparently composed of mineral material and plastic fibers, were recognized. The chemical composition of suspected MPs was examined by Raman microscopy. The analysis of μ-Raman spectra confirmed the presence of polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene vinyl acetate fibers and provided evidence of fibers containing industrial additives such as indigo dye. This is the first assessment of MP pollution in rain in Argentina.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Belén Villafañe
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Ana C. Ronda
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Av. Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Lucas S. Rodríguez Pirani
- CEQUINOR (UNLP, CCT-CONICET La Plata, associated with CIC), Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Blvd. 120 N° 1465, La Plata (1900), Argentina
| | - A. Lorena Picone
- CEQUINOR (UNLP, CCT-CONICET La Plata, associated with CIC), Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Blvd. 120 N° 1465, La Plata (1900), Argentina
| | - Leandro D. Lucchi
- Comité Técnico Ejecutivo, Municipalidad de Bahía Blanca, Av. Gral. San Martín 3474 , Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Rosana M. Romano
- CEQUINOR (UNLP, CCT-CONICET La Plata, associated with CIC), Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Blvd. 120 N° 1465, La Plata (1900), Argentina
| | - Marcelo T. Pereyra
- INQUISUR-Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Av. Alem 1253, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Andrés H. Arias
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Av. Alem 1253, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
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O'Brien S, Rauert C, Ribeiro F, Okoffo ED, Burrows SD, O'Brien JW, Wang X, Wright SL, Thomas KV. There's something in the air: A review of sources, prevalence and behaviour of microplastics in the atmosphere. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 874:162193. [PMID: 36828069 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Literature regarding microplastics in the atmosphere has advanced in recent years. However, studies have been undertaken in isolation with minimal collaboration and exploration of the relationships between air, deposition and dust. This review collates concentrations (particle count and mass-based), shape, size and polymetric characteristics for microplastics in ambient air (m3), deposition (m2/day), dust (microplastics/g) and snow (microplastics/L) from 124 peer-reviewed articles to provide a holistic overview and analysis of our current knowledge. In summary, ambient air featured concentrations between <1 to >1000 microplastics/m3 (outdoor) and <1 microplastic/m3 to 1583 ± 1181 (mean) microplastics/m3 (indoor), consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene. No difference (p > 0.05) was observed between indoor and outdoor concentrations or the minimum size of microplastics (p > 0.5). Maximum microplastic sizes were larger indoors (p < 0.05). Deposition concentrations ranged between 0.5 and 1357 microplastics/m2/day (outdoor) and 475 to 19,600 microplastics/m2/day (indoor), including polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate. Concentrations varied between indoor and outdoor deposition (p < 0.05), being more abundant indoors, potentially closer to sources/sinks. No difference was observed between the minimum or maximum reported microplastic sizes within indoor and outdoor deposition (p > 0.05). Road dust concentrations varied between 2 ± 2 and 477 microplastics/g (mean), consisting of polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene. Mean outdoor dust concentrations ranged from <1 microplastic/g (remote desert) to between 18 and 225 microplastics/g, comprised of polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polypropylene. Snow concentrations varied between 0.1 and 30,000 microplastics/L, containing polyethylene, polyamide, polypropylene. Concentrations within indoor dust varied between 10 and 67,000 microplastics/g, including polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene. No difference was observed between indoor and outdoor concentrations (microplastics/g) or maximum size (p > 0.05). The minimum size of microplastics were smaller within outdoor dust (p > 0.05). Although comparability is hindered by differing sampling methods, analytical techniques, polymers investigated, spectral libraries and inconsistent terminology, this review provides a synopsis of knowledge to date regarding atmospheric microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey O'Brien
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia.
| | - Cassandra Rauert
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Francisca Ribeiro
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, EX4 4QD, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Elvis D Okoffo
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Stephen D Burrows
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, EX4 4QD, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Jake W O'Brien
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Xianyu Wang
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Stephanie L Wright
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London SE1 9NH, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Environmental Exposures and Health, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Kevin V Thomas
- Queensland Alliance of Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
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46
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Jessieleena AA, Nambi IM. Distribution of microplastics in the catchment region of Pallikaranai marshland, a Ramsar site in Chennai, India. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 318:120890. [PMID: 36529343 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are persistent toxic pollutants, detected in different environmental compartments. Numerous studies on the characteristics and distribution of microplastics present in different environmental matrices are being carried out. However, limited studies have been performed in environmental systems like eco-sensitive freshwater marshlands. Therefore, to enrich the existing knowledge and understanding, this current study has analysed the distribution and characteristics of microplastics present in the catchment region of Pallikaranai marshland, Chennai, India. Both surface water and sediment samples were contaminated with microplastics in the range of 740-2826 items/m3and 700 to 5833 items/kg of dry sediment, respectively. Compared to other shapes, fibrous microplastics were predominant in most of the surface water (n = 11) and sediment (n = 8) samples. The abundant presence of smaller microplastics (<1 mm) in the surface water suggests elevated impacts on the aquatic species owing to their higher bioavailability. Elevated anthropogenic activities and frequent movement of people in urban and residential areas were noted to possibly influence the spatial distribution of microplastics. Furthermore, heavy metals' occurrence on microplastics was investigated using X-Ray Fluorescence Analyser (XRF) and Zn, Fe, Ti, and Ni are the commonly detected (>50% of the samples) elements. The estimated average pollution load index of 2.5 indicates the polluted state of Pallikaranai catchment region.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Angel Jessieleena
- Environmental and Water Resources Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 036, India.
| | - Indumathi M Nambi
- Environmental and Water Resources Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 036, India.
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47
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Bao M, Xiang X, Huang J, Kong L, Wu J, Cheng S. Microplastics in the Atmosphere and Water Bodies of Coastal Agglomerations: A Mini-Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2466. [PMID: 36767835 PMCID: PMC9915211 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are ubiquitously in various environments from the equator to the poles. Coastal agglomerations act as both a source and sink connecting the global microplastic cycles of oceans and continents. While the problem of microplastics is particularly severe and complex in the coastal zones, where both inland and marine pollution are concentrated, the present study aimed to provide hot topics and trends of coastal urban microplastic studies and to review the researches on microplastic pollution in the atmosphere and water bodies in coastal agglomerations in terms of characteristics, behavior, and health threat of microplastics. The results of the bibliometric analysis showed an increase in the annual output of microplastic research. Research hot topics and clusters were analyzed using the VOSviewer. Characteristics of microplastics varied in abundance, size, and polymer type in different environments and countries. Furthermore, coastal cities are taken as a system to sort out the input, output, and internal transmission pathways of microplastics. The health threat of microplastics to urban residents was briefly reviewed and the exposure and health risks of microplastics to infants and young children were of particular concern. Detailed and comprehensive studies on intervention and reduction in the transmission of microplastics between the atmosphere and water bodies, whether microplastics are harmful to infants and young children, and measures to reduce the risk of microplastic exposure are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengrong Bao
- Institute of Eco-Environmental Engineering, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaoqin Xiang
- Institute of Eco-Environmental Engineering, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jianshi Huang
- Institute of Eco-Environmental Engineering, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lingwei Kong
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Juan Wu
- Institute of Eco-Environmental Engineering, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Shuiping Cheng
- Institute of Eco-Environmental Engineering, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
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48
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Li Q, Yuan M, Chen Y, Jin X, Shangguan J, Cui J, Chang S, Guo M, Wang Y. The neglected potential source of microplastics from daily necessities: A study on protective mobile phone cases. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 441:129911. [PMID: 36103764 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129911] [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: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution has become a serious global environment problem. It is therefore of practical significance to investigate the MP pollution caused by using plastic materials on a daily basis. In this study, different protective mobile phone cases (PMPCs) were selected as a representative plastic commodity that are in contact with the human body for long periods to explore the generation and transportation of MPs during 3 months of actual use. The average abundances were 1122 particles cm-2 on the PMPC and 314 particles cm-2 on the palm, respectively. There were four main kinds of MPs produced during the use of different PMPCs, which indicated that waste plastics may be recycled and used as raw materials, resulting in a complex PMPC composition. The median sizes of MPs on the surfaces of PMPCs and palms were 28 and 32 µm, respectively, which were smaller than the sizes reported in other studies. The combined effect of ultraviolet ageing and friction was the main reason for MP generation during daily PMPC use. Based on the results of a fitted regression equation and Monte Carlo simulation, the sharply generation of MPs may occur when PMPC was used for approximately 33 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qilu Li
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, China.
| | - Meng Yuan
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, China
| | - Xinjie Jin
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, China
| | - Jingfang Shangguan
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China.
| | - Jinle Cui
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, China
| | - Shixiang Chang
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, China
| | - Mengran Guo
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
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49
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Wang X, Wei N, Liu K, Zhu L, Li C, Zong C, Li D. Exponential decrease of airborne microplastics: From megacity to open ocean. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 849:157702. [PMID: 35908694 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric transport has been recognized as an important route for microplastics (MPs) entering the ocean since the early 2019s, yet little data of their distribution patterns in marine air are currently available. In this study, we conducted continuous measurements of atmospheric MPs in the marine boundary layer across the western Pacific Ocean. Results suggested that synthetic MPs comprised 25.89 % of all identified particles, with the most being cotton and cellulose (51.68 %). Research revealed that atmospheric synthetic microfibers (22.54 %) are higher than the proportion of the surface oceanic synthetic microfibers (8.20 %) in the recent study. Further, the size of airborne MP fibers over open ocean is probably not the limiting factor during long-range transport. The mean abundance of atmospheric MPs over the western Pacific Ocean during sampling period was 0.841 ± 0.698 items/100 m3. Regression analysis revealed an exponential relationship between average MP abundance and average longitude of sampled stations, and the average abundance of airborne MPs in coastal megacity is three orders of magnitude higher than that in sampled marine air of western Pacific. This study provides a better understanding on the impact of atmospheric transport of MPs within the global plastic cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Nian Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Kai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Lixin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Changjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Changxing Zong
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Daoji Li
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China.
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Finnegan AMD, Süsserott R, Gabbott SE, Gouramanis C. Man-made natural and regenerated cellulosic fibres greatly outnumber microplastic fibres in the atmosphere. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 310:119808. [PMID: 35926740 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastics have been widely reported in studies around the world. Microfibres are often the dominant morphology found by researchers, although synthetic (i.e., plastic) microfibres are typically just a fraction of the total number of microfibres, with other, non-synthetic, cellulosic microfibres frequently being reported. This study set out to review existing literature to determine the relative proportion of cellulosic and synthetic atmospheric anthropogenic (man-made) microfibres, discuss trends in the microfibre abundances, and outline proposed best-practices for future studies. We conducted a systematic review of the existing literature and identified 33 peer-reviewed articles from Scopus and Google Scholar searches that examined cellulosic microfibres and synthetic microfibres in the atmosphere. Multiple analyses indicate that cellulosic microfibres are considerably more common than synthetic microfibres. FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy data obtained from 24 studies, showed that 57% of microfibres were cellulosic and 23% were synthetic. The remaining were either inorganic, or not determined. In total, 20 studies identified more cellulosic microfibres, compared to 11 studies which identified more synthetic microfibres. The data show that cellulosic microfibres are 2.5 times more abundant between 2016 and 2022, however, the proportion of cellulosic microfibres appear to be decreasing, while synthetic microfibres are increasing. We expect a crossover to happen by 2030, where synthetic microfibres will be dominant in the atmosphere. We propose that future studies on atmospheric anthropogenic microfibres should include information on natural and regenerated cellulosic microfibres, and design studies which are inclusive of cellulosic microfibres during analysis and reporting. This will allow researchers to monitor trends in the composition of atmospheric microfibers and will help address the frequent underestimation of cellulosic microfibre abundance in the atmosphere.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebekah Süsserott
- Geography Department, National University of Singapore, 1 Arts Link, #03-01 Block AS2, Singapore 117570, Singapore
| | - Sarah E Gabbott
- School of Geography, Geology and Environment, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Chris Gouramanis
- Research School of Earth Sciences, The Australian National University, Building 142, Mills Road, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
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