Showing papers in "Journal of hazardous materials advances in 2022"

Arsenic as an environmental and human health antagonist: A review of its toxicity and disease initiation.

Abstract: Arsenic is a naturally occurring and ubiquitously present metalloid in soil, water, food, and the environment. Arsenic exposure to human through various sources such as contaminated groundwater and other human activities have become a significant global concern. This is because arsenic has been shown to exhibit extreme toxic potential with serious health implications. Its exposure to humans is linked to myriads of disorders and this represents a major threat to the health, economic, and social well-being of people, especially, in the less-developed countries of the world. Major diseases that have been linked to arsenic poisoning are diabetes, hyperkeratosis, cancer, hypertension, and neurodegeneration, etc. Meanwhile, to date, there is no specific or approved remedy for arsenic poisoning. Chelation therapy for the management of arsenic poisoning is fraught with several side effects which limit its clinical usefulness. In this review article, we tried to provide an insight into some of the key scientific details that are documented in the literature as regards arsenic toxicity. These include its physicochemical properties, means of exposure, and possible mechanism of arsenic-induced toxicity. Furthermore, we also beamed our searchlight on the effect of arsenic on some major organs of the body. Online search Engines such as Google®, Scholar google®, SciFinder®, and PubMed® were used for literature search. Scientific journals that relate to the objective of this review without restriction to the year of publication were considered. This study revealed the significance of arsenic toxicity and its contribution to health-related challenges. Therefore, it is pertinent for policy Makers to increase awareness of arsenic toxicity and formulate guidelines for a cleaner environment. This will significantly reduce the incidence of arsenic-induced non-communicable diseases.

Bioaccumulation of lead (Pb) and its effects on human: A review

Abstract: • This review article discusses in detail the health effects in humans due to long-term exposure to lead. • The article also illustrates the complications when the blood lead level in both men and women is more. • The oxidative stress that occurs in the human cells causing severe cell damage has also been discussed. • Finally, the preventive measures and the treatment for lead toxicity and lead accumulation have been discussed along with chelation therapy. Lead is a prevalent heavy metal that pollutes the environment and accumulates in the human body via absorption, bioavailability, bioconcentration, and biomagnification disrupts the neurological, skeletal, reproductive, hematopoietic, renal, and cardiovascular systems. Lead's distinctive physical and chemical characteristics make it ideal for a variety of uses. It has been linked to human activities for ages and is harmful to health. This review article examines the long-term health consequences of lead exposure in humans. Acute and chronic symptoms of lead poisoning include kidney, brain, reproductive organ, and CNS/PNS damage. Toxic metals have a long half-life in the bone matrix and brain (2–3 years), causing neurological problems and bone loss. The article also shows the problems of high BPb in both men and women during pregnancy. Renal system blood lead levels of 30–60 g/dL may cause kidney failure in severe circumstances. The oxidative stress that occurs in human cells has also been explored. Finally, lead poisoning and lead buildup prevention and therapy have been reviewed. The use of micronutrients and antioxidants has demonstrated a reduction in harmful effects. Adults with BPb >45 g/dL should have chelation, whereas children should receive succimer.

Micro(nano)plastics sources, fate, and effects: what we know after ten years of research

Abstract: The last decade has been transformative for micro(nano)plastic (MnP) research with recent discoveries revealing the extent and magnitude of MnP pollution, even in the world's most remote places. Historically, while researchers recognized that most plastic pollution was derived from land-based sources, it was generally believed that microplastic particles (i.e., plastic fragments <5 mm) was only a marine pollution issue with effects largely impacting marine biota. However, over the last decade MnP research has progressed rapidly with recent discoveries of MnPs in freshwater, snow, ice, soil, terrestrial biota, air and even found in ocean spray. MnPs have now been found in every environmental compartment on earth, within tissues and gastrointestinal tracts of thousands of species, including humans, resulting in harmful effects. The last 10 years has also seen the development of new techniques for MnP analysis, and re-purposing of old technologies allowing us to determine the extent and magnitude of plastic pollution down to the nano size range (<1 µm). This short review summarizes what key milestones and major advances have been made in microplastic and nanoplastic research in the environment, including their sources, fate, and effects over the last decade.

Biofilm formation and its implications on the properties and fate of microplastics in aquatic environments: A review

Abstract: Particulate plastic fragments (micro and nano-plastics) in aquatic environments provide abundant solid substrates, which serve as an important habitat for a variety of microorganisms. Surfaces of microplastics (MPs) exhibit hydrophobicity that facilitate the adsorption of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the aquatic environment. Furthermore, MPs act as substrata, as well as a carbon source including the readily bioavailable DOC, which promote the formation of microbial biofilms. These biofilms have varied metabolic actions that govern the subsequent succession of micro- and meso-organisms habitation of MPs. The assemblage of ecosystems colonising the plastic environment is often referred to as the “plastisphere”. Polymer type, environmental conditions, including nutrient status, salinity, and season, affect the microbial composition of the biofilm. Microbial habitation accelerated by biofilm formation on particulate plastics enables the movement of microorganisms, especially in the aquatic environment, and impacts the transport and toxicity of contaminants associated with these particulate plastic fragments. This review paper describes the processes of microbial habitation and subsequent biofilm formation, the factors affecting biofilm formation, and the implications of biofilm formation on the mobility of microorganisms, degradation of MPs, and the bioavailability of contaminants associated with MPs.

Biochar production techniques utilizing biomass waste-derived materials and environmental applications – A review

Abstract: Biochar is an incredibly rich source of carbon formed through biomass's thermal decomposition. There is a rise of interest in employing biochar derived from biomass in various disciplines to address the most significant environmental challenges. This article evaluated and presented the preparation, characterization, and, most importantly, the environmental application of biochar in a comprehensive way. Process parameters are primarily responsible for determining biomass production. The physicochemical properties of biochar vary according to the type of biomass used. The development of biochar utilizing a variety of different approaches has been discussed. Biochar is typically prepared through pyrolysis, gasification, or hydrothermal carbonization. Biochar has been used in various applications, including soil remediation and enhancement, carbon sequestration, organic solid waste composting, water and wastewater decontamination, catalyst and activator, electrode materials, and electrode modifier. In summary, biochar has a vast number of possible uses in environmental reduction and the mechanism by which its performances should be further investigated.

When toxicity of plastic particles comes from their fluorescent dye: a preliminary study involving neotropical Physalaemus cuvieri tadpoles and polyethylene microplastics

Abstract: The toxicity of microplastics (MPs) has been demonstrated in several previous studies, exposing different model organisms to fluorescent-labeled particles. However, many of these studies did not report the use of control groups for unbound and leaching dyes, which limits the conclusions about the bioaccumulative potential of these micromaterials and their (eco)toxicological effects. Thus, considering the need to evaluate the possibility of the toxicity of MPs resulting from the leaching of their dyes, we used Physalaemus cuvieri tadpoles to investigate whether the leachate of fluorescently labeling polyethylene MPs (PE-MPs) with Nile red dye induces behavioral changes, redox imbalance, anticholinesterasic effect, as well as changes in the growth/development of animals. By observing that the response of P. cuvieri tadpoles exposed to fluorescent PE-MPs and their respective leachate were similar, we confirmed the hypothesis that, alone, the fluorescent PE-MPs leachate can induce changes in antioxidant activity (inferred by SOD and CAT activity), in the mechanisms that mediate/regulate the production of NO and MDA, as well as in the animals' AChE activity. These results suggest that the Nile red dye eluted from PE-MPs can induce toxicological effects. Furthermore, we observed that the Nile red dye, when binding to the lipid components of the feed (and later being ingested by the animals), can induce interpretive biases on the bioaccumulative potential of PE-MPs. Therefore, for the evaluation of the (eco)toxicity of PE-MPs, it is important that extensive post-labeling cleaning steps of the PE-MPs (e.g.: via dialysis) and monitoring of the elution of fluorescent probes not bound to these particles be carried out before being added to the exposure water and that control groups for unbound and leaching dyes be established in future experimental designs, accounting for fluorescence induced by any other confounding factors.

Recent developments in essentiality of trivalent chromium and toxicity of hexavalent chromium: Implications on human health and remediation strategies

Abstract: Among the many heavy metals, chromium (Cr) is one of the fascinating ones. In its two most prevalent oxidation forms, trivalent (Cr3+) and hexavalent (Cr6+), Cr has completely different toxicity and essentiality in human health, as well as in the soil. In humans, Cr3+ is a necessary micronutrient for metabolism of glucose, lipid, and proteins. In contrast, Cr6+ has no recognized biological functions and is a potent carcinogen. In the search for new and effective ways to protect humans from heavy metals, “gut remediation” using probiotics has been found to be a promising and sustainable approach. Here, we have reviewed the most recent literature on how Cr causes cellular toxicity and DNA damage via cellular oxidation and epigenetic modifications, along with current biological, chemical, and herbal remediation methods, with a focus on sustainable strategies such as gut remediation.

RSM-D-Optimal Modeling Approach for COD Removal from Low Strength Wastewater by Microalgae, Sludge, and Activated Carbon- Case Study Mashhad

Abstract: This work removes Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) from the effluent of a domestic wastewater treatment plant in Mashhad, Iran, low strength wastewater (COD 70 mg/L). Using two processes: activated carbon-activated sludge (AC-AS) and activated sludge- microalgae (AS- Microalgae) was studied. As independent variables, the concentrations of AC and AS for the AC-AS system and the concentrations of AS and microalgae for the AS-algal system were selected and optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) involving a four-level and a five-level optimal design (D-Optimal), respectively. The optimum experimental conditions for the AC-AS process (i.e. 0.05 g/L AC and 7 ml/L AS) led to a COD removal of 95% in 8 h. As for the AS-Microalgae process, a COD removal of 85% in 7 h was attained under optimal experimental conditions (i.e. 1 ml/L AS and 7 ml/L microalgae). The predicted and experimental removal efficiencies obtained for the AC-AS and the AS-Microalgae system were (91%, 91%) and (82%, 86%), respectively. An excellent correlation between the experimental and predicted values was also observed with determination coefficients of 0.99 (AC-AS system) and 0.83 (AS- Microalgae system). According to WHO discharge standards, the effluent treated by AS- Microalgae can be applied for agricultural lands, golf course irrigation, and industrial usages, reaching a typical value of COD lower than 30 mg/L. In addition, the effluent treated by AC-AS can be used for edible crops irrigation, parks and schoolyards irrigation, dishwashers and toilet flash tanks with a COD value lower than 12 mg/L.

Elemental Mercury (Hg0) Emission, Hazards, and Control: A brief review

Abstract: Coal is a widely distributed fossil energy that accounts for 30% of the world's primary energy consumption. However, various toxic pollutants (CO2, SO2, NOx, Hg, H2S, HCl, HCN, etc.) are discharged into the atmosphere during the coal combustion process. Among these poisonous pollutants, mercury (Hg) caused severe harm to the environment and human health. Mercury is a highly volatile metal, capable of spreading over thousands of kilometres, hence becoming a global pollutant, posing a great threat to human life and ecological safety. Coal–fired power plants are a significant source of elemental mercury (Hg0) emission to the atmosphere, the leading cause of mercury hazards in the environment. Thus, controlling the Hg0 emission from coal–fired power plants is crucial. Various advanced techniques have been developed and provided many reasonable solutions; most of them are associated with high operating costs or caused secondary pollutions. The sorbent injection technique is a promising choice with significant economic and environmental benefits for efficiently removing gaseous mercury. This paper briefly analyses the sources and associated health risks of elemental mercury coupled with existing research gaps in the gas purification sector and provide technical assistance to address these gaps.

Reduction of heavy metal uptake from polluted soils and associated health risks through biochar amendment: A critical synthesis

Abstract: Biochar is a carbonaceous material produced from the slow/fast pyrolysis of biomass under limited or no supply of oxygen. It has diverse uses from climate change mitigation to contaminant remediation from the environment. However, biochar's role in bringing these changes depends on its physicochemical properties, suggesting the use of function-specific biochar for achieving a specific target. This review summarizes the basic properties of biochar and how they are affected by different modification strategies. It also looks at remediation of heavy metal pollution using biochar, mitigation of heavy metal toxicity to plants including their impacts on physiological attributes, and human health mitigating effects. Biochar production conditions and feedstock is known to control the physicochemical properties of biochar. For instance, biochar's ash content increases with increasing pyrolysis temperature while there is a significant linear relationship between biochar's pH and pyrolysis temperature (r2 = 0.53, n = 112). Moreover, the cation exchange capacity of biochar decreases with the increase in pyrolysis temperature. When applied to soil, biochar interacts with soil and contaminants and can fix contaminants depending on their functionality. Biochars with positive surfaces (e.g. mineral doped biochars) have a large capacity to fix anionic contaminants while biochars with negative surfaces (e.g. acid-modified biochar) mostly fix cationic contaminants. The meta-analysis suggests that the overall effect of biochar application to polluted soils is the reduction of pollutant uptake by plants, with some exceptions for Fe and Mn. The reductions were estimated at 26.2% (Cd), 25.8% (Cu), 56.0% (Cr), 41.5% (As), 3.03% (Pb), 18.3% (Zn), 33.0% (Ni), and 22.8% (Mn). The underlying mechanisms for this reduction in the bioavailability of heavy metals in soils are diverse with charged metals being fixed through ion exchange, physical entrapment on biochar's surfaces and changes in soil chemistry. Amending heavy metal polluted soils with biochar reduced the overall daily intake of heavy metals (12.5%), hazard quotient (30.0%), and cancer risk (30.6%). However, these effects can be quite diverse depending on biochar properties, soil properties and the chemistry of concerned heavy metals. Altogether, our study provides a fundamental understanding of biochar mediated changes in heavy metal bioavailability in the contaminated soils and their subsequent effects on plants and animals.

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) for organic contaminants removal in water – A review

Abstract: Water hyacinth (WH) is well-known as an invasive species that threatens aquatic biodiversity worldwide. Manual or physical removal of this substance from water is necessary to avoid secondary water pollution caused using chemically synthesized herbicides by its control, resulting in organic waste generation. Researchers recently recommended, among other things, this waste might be converted into adsorbents that can be used for the remediation of water resources, as well as other applications. This is critically important since clean water is still required in all aspects of life, regardless of its quality. The remediation approaches presented for the treatment of water supplies through the remediation of organic contaminants utilizing WH are discussed in this study. Research into the use of WH for phytoremediation and the removal of organic contaminants has been conducted in detail. It can be seen from this review that the overview of various works was more concerned with the removal of organic dyes from water than with any other topic. A study of the underlying mechanisms in the adsorption processes is presented in this context. Towards the end of the paper, it is suggested that future research into the use of WH to remediate water resources will aid in the water resource environmental management.

Micro- and Nanoplastics Removal Mechanisms in Wastewater Treatment Plants: A Review

Abstract: In recent years, the intensification in environmental pollution with micro and nano-plastics (MNPs) has become a global environmental concern. MNPs are some of the emerging contaminants that appear as new challenges to the scientific community because of their adverse effect on human health and environment. Conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) can efficiently remove the MNPs from the wastewater. The reduction of MNPs from WWTPs has attracted much attention in the past decades. Despite the efficient removal, WWTPs are considered one of the key routes through which MNPs have been introduced to the environment, through the large volumes of effluent continually released to the water bodies. Therefore, a detailed understanding of the behavior of MNPs and their removal mechanisms in WWTPs is highly essential. Nevertheless, an inclusive review of the MNPs treatment techniques in WWTPs is infrequent. So, we review the treatment processes presently employed for MNPs removal in WWTPs to upgrade the existing designs further. In addition, the effectiveness of advanced treatment processes, such as membrane technologies, advanced oxidation process, electro-coagulation, nano technology, etc., in eliminating MNPs are presented and discussed. However, possible toxic microbial biotransformation of MNPs during biological treatment steps in WWTPs needs to be taken care of via further in-depth research. As a basic knowledge of removal mechanisms in WWTPs could reduce the environmental pervasiveness of MNPs, this review is likely to offer helpful information in establishing an efficient approach to control and minimize environmental pollution from MNPs.

Review of concerned SARS-CoV-2 variants like Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), Gamma (P.1), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529), as well as novel methods for reducing and inactivating SARS-CoV-2 mutants in wastewater treatment facilities

Abstract: The coronavirus known as COVID-19, which causes pandemics, is causing a global epidemic at a critical stage today. Furthermore, novel mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein have been discovered in an entirely new strain, impacting the clinical and epidemiological features of COVID-19. Variants of these viruses can increase the transmission in wastewater, lead to reinfection, and reduce immunity provided by monoclonal antibodies and vaccinations. According to the research, a large quantity of viral RNA was discovered in wastewater, suggesting that wastewater can be a crucial source of epidemiological data and health hazards. The purpose of this paper is to introduce a few basic concepts regarding wastewater surveillance as a starting point for comprehending COVID-19′s epidemiological aspects. Next, the observation of Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), Gamma (P.1), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529) in wastewater is discussed in detail. Secondly, the essential information for the initial, primary, and final treating sewage in SARS-CoV-2 is introduced. Following that, a thorough examination is provided to highlight the newly developed methods for eradicating SARS-CoV-2 using a combination of solar water disinfection (SODIS) and ultraviolet radiation A (UVA (315-400 nm)), ultraviolet radiation B (UVB (280-315 nm)), and ultraviolet radiation C (UVC (100-280 nm)) processes. SARS-CoV-2 eradication requires high temperatures (above 56°C) and UVC. However, SODIS technologies are based on UVA and operate at cooler temperatures (less than 45°C). Hence, it is not appropriate for sewage treatment (or water consumption) to be conducted using SODIS methods in the current pandemic. Finally, SARS-CoV-2 may be discovered in sewage utilizing the wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) monitoring method.

First observation of microplastics in surface sediment of some aquaculture ponds in hanoi city, vietnam

Abstract: A large amount of plastic waste has been released into the environment during the increase in global plastic production in the 21st century. Microplastics (0.1 µm to 5 mm in size) existing in hydro-systems, especially in aquatic sediments, can enter organisms and then human body through food chain. This paper provided the preliminary observation results on microplastic presence in the surface sediment of the aquaculture ponds (fish) in Hanoi city in 2021. Our results showed that microplastic concentrations ranged from 2,767 ± 240 to 2,833 ± 176 items.kg−1 dry weights for the surface sediment of the two aquaculture ponds. Two main shape groups of fiber and fragment were detected, of which fibers were dominated (62% and 82% for the two ponds observed). For microplastic fibers, green, white, black and red were main colors, whereas for fragments, yellow, blue and white were main ones. Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) were two main polymer types found in the sediment samples. The sources may mainly come from the microplastic contaminated water of the Nhue River, and the direct aquaculture activities. The results of this study contributed to build a dataset on microplastic pollution in aquatic environment, especially aquaculture ponds in Vietnam. Our study also revealed the need for microplastic observation in different environments and organisms, especially in aquaculture zone in Vietnam.

Circular economy and reduction of micro(nano)plastics contamination

Abstract: • Circular economy is viewed as central to reduce plastic pollution. • Link between circular economy and micro(nano)plastic contamination is seldom made. • Some recycling can lead to increased contamination with micro(nano)plastics. • Extended producer responsibility can be important for sustainable plastic production. Circular economy is viewed as the most promising path to a more sustainable use of plastic. It aims at reducing the consumption of resources by keeping materials within the value chain for longer periods compared to traditional linear material flow. Apart from reducing the consumption of plastics, plastic pollution (including microplastic contamination) is considered a major environmental risk. However, explicit considerations of microplastic contamination are seldom considered in studies on the transition to a circular plastic economy. In this perspective we provide reflections on why this is important, give examples of areas where recycling can lead to increased microplastic contamination and provide recommendations on how reduction of microplastic contamination and transition to circular economy can interconnected in future research. .

Adsorption of Organic Pollutants by Microplastics: Overview of A Dissonant Literature

Abstract: • Adsorption studies are most performed on PE, PS, PVC, and PP microplastics. • K ow may be a good indicator of adsorption when the compounds have low solubility. • Surface area of microplastics increase as their sizes decrease. • Adsorption of PFAS onto microplastics are enhanced in salt water. Microplastic formation in aqueous systems is among the inevitable consequences of plastic pollution, which has cascading environmental and health implications. As the microplastic sizes get smaller over time, their surface areas increase, which creates an implicit, dynamic, and inflating new domain, called the microplastisphere. This study summarizes and critically reviews literature on the adsorption of organic compounds (OCs), which are already in our aquatic systems, onto microplastic surfaces. This investigation reviews a database of 91 articles, 68 of which are used in an adsorption analysis for 178 OCs via 770 isotherms. The four most prevalent polymer types throughout the literature are polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Our analysis revealed that the octanol-water partitioning coefficient, K ow , can be a good surrogate for adsorption capacity for some polymer and OC types; however, the hydrophobicity of the OC alone may not necessarily indicate adsorption affinity. The water chemistry also played notable roles on the adsorption process, evidenced by the dramatic enhancement of adsorption during per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) adsorption onto PS in saltwater conditions. However, our work concluded that the variability within the database indicates a strong need for defined microplastics characterization and testing procedures to better represent the interactions of microplastics with the environment.

Recent advances in catalytic sulfate radical-based approach for removal of emerging contaminants

Abstract: • Carbon materials, MIL MOF, LMO, perovskite, and transition metals are the recently tested catalysts. • Dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide, 2-propanol, tert-butyl alcohol and nitrobenzene are the main spin traps and chemical probes. • Recent studies have shown the effectiveness of cSR-AOPs at alkaline conditions using transition metal-based activation. • Glass is the most commonly used material in SBR, continuous-flow packed-bed column, and thin-film cascade reactors. • Removal of endocrine disruptors, herbicides, analgesics, azo dyes, antibiotics and leachate treatment are recent applications. One of the many processes that utilize cost-effective materials for safe and efficient remediation of emerging contaminant pollution is the catalytic sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation process (cSR-AOP). SR (SO 4 •− ) generation is at the heart of this technology. SR is desirable because of its better selectivity (compared to hydroxyl radical (HR)) which results in fewer secondary reactions. While several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of SR, formation of SR is based on the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) or peroxydisulfate (PDS) or sulfite using heat, high pH, ultraviolet radiation or catalyst. Among the activation methods, heterogeneous catalytic activation involving the use of carbonaceous materials, transition metals and their oxides, and natural minerals offer promising benefits such as high pore volume, high specific surface area, and relatively lower production costs. The opportunities and challenges of cSR-AOP are not fully explored. This paper presents a critical review covering SR activation methods and mechanisms, the influence of operating conditions on SR generation and oxidative efficiency, and applications of cSR-AOPs for the removal of contaminants of emerging concern. Results obtained by recent studies on cSR-AOP applications are summarized vis-à-vis the influence of SR precursor, catalyst type, pH, temperature, and the reactor type/configuration that ensures catalyst regeneration/reusability. cSR-AOP has been applied for the remediation of contaminated groundwater and soil, treatment of leachate, and removal of potential endocrine disruptors (4-hydroxylbenzoic acid, 2,4-dichlorophenol, bisphenol A, and ortho-phenylphenol), herbicides (atrazine and chloroacetanilide herbicide metolachlor), analgesics (acetaminophen), azo dyes (acid orange 7 and methylene blue), antibiotics (tetracycline and sulfamethoxazole) from water in recent studies. cSR-AOP also holds future promise for drinking water treatment and total mineralization.

Adsorption of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to containers

Abstract: Mass transfer of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to container walls during sample collection and storage or experimentation is an important source of error in PFAS analysis. To minimize this error, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene containers are widely used for PFAS studies. However, there is sparse data to justify these container polymer choices. In this study, we investigated the adsorption of six common PFAS (in single-analyte solutions and in mixtures) to containers (made of HDPE, polypropylene, glass, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene) at 4°C and 20°C. All the containers adsorbed PFAS from the aqueous phase regardless of temperature. PFAS adsorption from single-analyte solutions ranged from 3.89 ng/cm2 (for hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid, GenX) to 30.34 ng/cm2 (for perfluorooctanesulfonamide, FOSA). In the mixtures, the highest PFAS adsorption (total concentration = 55.73 ng/cm2) occurred in the polypropylene container. The general trend of PFAS adsorption from the mixture was polypropylene > HDPE > PET > glass > polystyrene. In addition, adsorption to polypropylene containers made by three different manufacturers was substantially different for long-chain PFAS. PFAS adsorption to containers was influenced by PFAS chemistry, container hydrophobicity, and temperature. The result shows that container characterization for PFAS adsorption is an important step in PFAS studies.

Sulfonamides Repress Cell Division in the Root Apical Meristem by Inhibiting Folates Synthesis

Abstract: • The inhibitory effect of sulfanilamides on cell division in the root apical meristem was found and confirmed using transgenic marker plants. • Sulfonamides have been proved to reduce folate content of plants using high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV). • Addition of synthetic folic acid or folinic calcium salt hydrate could well relieve the inhibition of sulfonamides to root growth. • The antibiotic resistance genes Sul1 and sul2 gene were first transferred into Arabidopsis by Agrobacterium mediated transformation, and transgenic plants were resistant to sulfonamides. Sulfonamides, as broad-spectrum antibiotics, are widely used to protect against bacterial infections in livestock production. A large number of sulfa antibiotics are discharged into soil and water system, which poses a great threat to the safety of organisms. The antibacterial mechanism of sulfonamides is to prevent folate biosynthesis by competitively inhibiting bacterial dihydropteroate synthetase (DHPS). The inhibitory effect of sulfanilamide on root growth has been reported, but the mechanism has not been determined. Here, we used high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV) and transgenic technology to study the effect of sulfonamides on folate synthesis in plants. The results showed that the application of sulfonamide sharply reduced the content of folic acid in plants, resulting in strong inhibition of cell division in the root apical meristem. The inhibition of sulfonamide on cell division can be relieved by supplementing synthetic folic acid and folinic calcium salt hydrate. The transgenic plants expressing the bacterial antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) Sul1 or Sul2 showed obvious antibiotic resistance. Taking these results together, we suggest that sulfonamides repress cell proliferation in the root apical meristem by competitively inhibiting the biosynthesis of folic acid in plants.

Micro(nano)plastics as a vector of pharmaceuticals in aquatic ecosystem: Historical review and future trends

Abstract: Pharmaceuticals can be adsorbed by microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in the aquatic environment. The interaction between these emerging pollutants can induce several effects on environmental and human health. Thus, the current study aimed to summarize and discuss the literature on the interactions and ecotoxicity of MP/NPs with pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment. A scientometric and systematic review was conducted, and the data were summarized and discussed. The historical analysis indicated that the first article on the interactive effects between MP/NPs and pharmaceuticals was published in 2016. Scientific production is emerging in fourteen countries. Several types of MP/NPs (n = 13) and pharmaceuticals (n = 65) were studied, while the toxicity was evaluated in 30 articles (37.04 %). The interaction of MP/NPs with several pharmaceutical groups was confirmed, mainly antibiotics. In general, results confirmed the Trojan horse effects and indicated that MP/NPs changed the bioaccumulation and ecotoxicity of pharmaceuticals. The data reviewed demonstrated that future studies under environmentally relevant conditions are necessary for a better understanding of the mechanisms of action and toxicity of pharmaceuticals adsorbed to MP/NPs, especially mixtures with NPs. This study confirms that MP/NPs can alter the bioaccumulation and ecotoxicity of pharmaceuticals in aquatic organisms, indicating their potential toxicological risk.

A critical review on diverse technologies for advanced wastewater treatment during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: What do we know?

Abstract: • Effect of Membrane, UV irradiation, Ozonation, chlorination, advanced oxidation process, activated carbon and algae on SARS-CoV-2. • Advantages and disadvantages of each method of advanced wastewater treatment for removing viruses or SARS-CoV-2. • Analyze and evaluate each of the advanced wastewater treatment methods. Advanced wastewater treatment technologies are effective methods and currently attract growing attention, especially in arid and semi-arid areas, for reusing water, reducing water pollution, and explicitly declining, inactivating, or removing SARS-CoV-2. Overall, removing organic matter and micropollutants prior to wastewater reuse is critical, considering that water reclamation can help provide a crop irrigation system and domestic purified water. Advanced wastewater treatment processes are highly recommended for contaminants such as monovalent ions from an abiotic source and SARS-CoV-2 from an abiotic source. This work introduces the fundamental knowledge of various methods in advanced water treatment, including membranes, filtration, Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, ozonation, chlorination, advanced oxidation processes, activated carbon (AC), and algae. Following that, an analysis of each process for organic matter removal and mitigation or prevention of SARS-CoV-2 contamination is discussed. Next, a comprehensive overview of recent advances and breakthroughs is provided for each technology. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed.

Nickel Ferrite-based Composites and its Photocatalytic Application – A review

Abstract: • The effect and function of different types of dyes after and during photocatalysis is discussed. • The real time elimination of antibiotics like tetracycline, oxytetracycline, and ampicillin were also discussed by photocatalysis process. • The development of various combination of nickel ferrite composites were also observed. Nickel ferrite-based composites are effectively nominated against an organic pollutant for water remediation. The performance of various nickel ferrite-based composites like binary nickel ferrite-based composites, ternary nickel ferrite-based composites, and carbon nickel ferrite-based composites for the eradication of organic contaminants has been summarized in this review and also briefly discussed the photocatalytic mechanistic pathway to reach the non-harmful products. Obviously, the numerous aspects which support the photocatalytic degradation mechanism to accomplish the maximum removal of pollutants present in water, such as dyes like methylene blue, rhodamine B, methyl orange, congo red, and so on, have also been debated. In addition, the elimination of antibiotics like tetracycline, oxytetracycline, ampicillin, sulfamethoxazole, and organic compounds (phenol) has also been studied using these composites. Overall, this review manuscript provides the reader with information about the recent development of various combinations of nickel ferrite composites and their involvement in the degradation of pollutants as catalysts. Nickel ferrite based photocatalyst for the effective removal of organic dyes in the industrially polluted water.

An early comparison of nano to microplastic mass in a remote catchment's atmospheric deposition

Abstract: The existence of nano sized plastic (NP) has been discussed heavily in recent years, however physical proof from environmental samples and direct comparisons to characterized microplastics is limited. Here we compare microplastic (MP) particles and counts (>10 µm) to NP particle (<0.45 µm) mass concentrations from deposition at a remote field site in the French Pyrenees (elevation 1425 m a.g.l.). Using Thermal Desorption – Proton Transfer Reaction – Mass Spectrometry (TD-PTR-MS) analysis, the data shows that NP is present in atmospheric deposition in quantities up to 2.0 × 105 nanograms m−2 day−1 (1.1 × 105 nanograms m−2 day−1 standard deviation), comparable to that of the >10µm microplastic (up to 1.1 × 105 nanograms m−2 day−1, 2.7 × 104 nanograms m−2 day−1 standard deviation). This comparison indicates the quantity of NP and MP may be similar in this atmospheric deposition, however the estimated particle count for NP is understandably multiple orders of magnitude greater compared to MP. Backward trajectory modelling was used to consider the transport of these MP and NP particles. This highlighted the extended spatial influence of NP and its propensity to remain elevated over a 7-day period.

Electrochemical sensor based on Ca- doped ZnO nanostructured carbon matrix for algicide dichlone

Abstract: As many new pollutants continue to be introduced into the environment, environmental pollution has become the biggest concern in the current era. It requires the development of a more sensitive, effective and selective, cost-efficient modified electrode. We designed a sensitive and effective voltammetric sensor with synthesized calcium-doped zinc oxide (Ca-ZnO/CPE). The cyclic voltammetry (CV) method was employed to determine the electrochemical behavior of dichlone (DCN), referred to as fungicide and algaecide. The surface morphology of the developed sensor's matrix was carried out employing SEM, TEM, and XRD techniques. The Ca-ZnO NPs as a modifier in the carbon paste efficiently enhanced both the oxidative and reduction peak current of DCN in CVs. The effect of electrolyte pH and scan rate variation investigation results were used to determine the total number of electrons in the DCN electro-oxidation mechanism, the number of protons, charge transfer coefficient, and heterogeneous rate constant. Additionally, kinetic and thermodynamic aspects of DCN were investigated. The square wave voltammetry technique (SWV) showed the lowest detection limit (DL) of 5.98 × 10–8 M and a wide linearity range (3.5 × 10–7 M to 7.2 × 10–4 M). The environmentally-based approach successfully quantifies DCN in water and soil samples.

Sequestration of heavy metals from contaminated water using magnetic carbon nanocomposites

Abstract: Heavy metals are toxic to flora, fauna and human beings. This study focused on removing toxic metals from an aqueous medium using magnetic carbon (Fe3O4@Carbon) nanocomposites. The biogenic green synthesis approach was used to fabricate the magnetic nanocomposite using low-cost poplar sawdust powder. The characterization of the nanocomposites was done using FESEM, TEM BET and FTIR. The sequestration of Pb (II), Cu (II) and Cr (VI) from water by Fe3O4@Carbon nanocomposites were studied under batch mode. The adsorption capacities for Pb (II), Cu (II) and Cr (VI) were 151.5, 48.08, and leaves49.29 mg/g respectively. The removal of metals by magnetic composites was studied in a mono, binary and tertiary network of metal ions. Adsorption isotherms studies indicated the chemosorption of Cu (II) and Cr (VI) onto the surface of nanocomposites. The thermodynamic analysis revealed that removal of studied metals ions is spontaneous and feasible. In this study, the effectiveness of magnetic nanocomposites is also explored for the removal of other heavy metals from tap water and simulated water sample. The heavy metal removal efficiency of the nanocomposites was not affected up to thrice reuse of adsorbent.

Review of occurrence of pharmaceuticals worldwide for estimating concentrations range in aquatic environments at the end of the last decade

Abstract: This article has been withdrawn at the request of the Co-Editor-in-Chief. The paper was inadvertently accepted by the handling editor. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. The full Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://www.elsevier.com/about/ourbusiness/policies/article-withdrawal.

Removal of Cr (VI) and Cu (II) from tannery effluent with water hyacinth and arum shoot powders: A study from Jashore, Bangladesh

Abstract: • Water-hyacinth shoot powder and arum shoot powder are the excellent low-cost bio-adsorbents for the removal of Cr (VI) and Cu (II) from tannery effluent. • The effectiveness of water-hyacinth shoot powder is much higher than that of arum shoot powder for removing Cr (VI) and Cu (II). • 180 mins is the optimum time for the highest removal of Cr (VI) and Cu (II) from the solution. • The tannery effluent of SAF industry is a potential source of heavy metal contamination. The hexavalent form of chromium [Cr (VI)] and divalent form of copper [Cu (II)] are the major pollutants found in discharge effluents of tannery industries. Therefore, before discharging the effluent to the surrounding environment these elements need to be removed. Usually, low-cost bio-adsorbent are used to clean up the polluted effluent. Current research was conducted to determine the effectiveness of two bio-adsorbents namely water-hyacinth ( Eichhornia crassipes ) shoot powder (WSP) and arum ( Colocasia sculenta ) shoot powder (ASP) in removing chromium [Cr (VI)] and copper [Cu (II)] from tannery effluent (TE). To achieve the objectives, the two adsorbents were added to Cr (VI) and Cu (II) stock solutions (SS) and TE to determine their effectiveness in removing those metals. Removal of the metals from the SS and TE were investigated in batch processes at different contact times with the same bio-adsorbent doze of 5.0 mg L −1 . The Cr (VI) and Cu (II) were determined with the Spectrophotometer HACH DR3900. Chromium was determined by using Method No. 8023 and Cu (II) was determined by using Method No. 8506. The highest amount of Cr (VI) removed from the SS and the TE with the WSP were 85.29% and 87.50%, respectively at 180 mins. The WSP removed the highest amount of Cu (II), 87.96%, from the SS at 180 mins whereas 83.35% was the highest removal from the TE at 120 mins. The ASP removed the highest amount of Cr (VI), 79.46%, at 180 mins from the SS, while 77.08% of the metal was removed from the TE for the same. The highest amount of Cu (II), 78.57%, was removed from SS at 180 mins with the ASP, while 75.0% was the highest amount removed from the TE at the same contact time. The WSP was more effective than the ASP in removing Cr (VI) and Cu (II) from both the solutions. From these results, it could be said that the WSP and ASP could be used as the alternative bio-adsorbents for removal of Cr (VI) and Cu (II) from polluted TE.

Impacts of Metallic Nanoparticles Application on the Agricultural Soils Microbiota

Abstract: • Agricultural pesticides and metal-based fertilizers’ excessive use threaten the soil microbiota. • Metallic nanoparticles (Me-NPs) presence in agricultural soils impacts biogeochemical cycles. • Me-NPs have adverse effects on soil microbial structure and diversity. • Interactions between Me-NPs and other soil pollutants show potential risks to soil microbiota and agricultural productivity. Soils play a fundamental role in terrestrial life maintenance. However, agricultural soil pollution with metals (specifically, heavy metals) has resulted in a global ecological problem spanning decades. Agricultural pesticides and metal-based fertilizers overuse in the crop is an imminent threat to the ecosystem. In addition, the increasing demand for food has resulted in unsustainable practices in agriculture and severe damage to living organisms in the soil. Soil microbiota (SM) is a determining factor in the terrestrial environment quality since it plays an essential role in biogeochemical cycles and contributes enormously to successful food production. However, although more efficient than traditional agrochemicals, metallic nanoparticles (Me-NPs) use - sometimes overused - in agriculture has triggered numerous impacts on SM, mainly on microbial structure and diversity. Thus, this perspective aimed to address the Me-NPs application impacts in agriculture, mainly on the soil microbiota, and expand the discussion to the dangers to the ecosystem balance.

Insight into the Removal of Tetracycline-resistant Bacteria and Resistance Genes from Mariculture Wastewater by Ultraviolet/Persulfate Advanced Oxidation Process

Abstract: The antibiotic resistant bacteria and resistance genes are frequently detected recently in mariculture wastewater, thus posing a severe threat to the marine ecological environment. In this study, ultraviolet/peroxysulfate (UV/PS) process was adopted to treat tetracycline resistance pollutants and the influence of the seawater components, especially halogen ions, on UV/PS performance was investigated. The results showed that UV/PS process completely inactivated tetracycline resistant bacteria (TRBs) in five minutes and effectively removed tetracycline resistance genes (TRGs) for 1.18-2.17 log of tetA, tetM and tetW from mariculture wastewater. UV irradiation played an important role in the removal of three TRGs, where SO4·− contributed partly to the removal of tetA, while the partial removal of tetM and tetW was ascribed to the matrix composition, especially Cl− in mariculture wastewater. Due to UV competition effect, tetracycline as organic matter impacted heavily on the removal of the three TRGs in UV treatment, but even not in UV/PS system. This study demonstrated that UV/PS is a new alternative process to effectively remove tetracycline resistance pollutants in mariculture wastewater.

In-situ grown CNTs decorated SiCNWs for enhancing electromagnetic wave absorption efficiency

Abstract: • The CNT/SiCNWs composite was fabricated via pyrolysis and catalyst approach. • CNT/SiCNWs composite with 3D network structures displayed the excellent microwave absorption performance. • The combination of CNT and SiCNWs enhanced the polarization loss and improved impedance matching. The uniform growth of carbon nanotube (CNT)-decorated SiC nanowires (SiCNWs) to form a three-dimensional (3D) network can significantly enhance the interfacial polarization effect, making it a promising electromagnetic (EM) wave-absorbing material. Nevertheless, the dispersion of CNT-decorated SiCNWs is challenging. In this study, CNT/SiCNWs composites are successfully synthesized by the in situ growth of CNTs at different annealing temperatures under a N 2 atmosphere. Specifically, the CNT-decorated SiCNWs form a 3D network by vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) mechanism. The relative complex permittivity of the CNT/SiCNWs composites notably increases with increasing in temperature, adjusting the microstructure and dielectric properties. When the annealing temperature is 900 °C, the minimum reflection coefficient (RC min ) of the CNT/SiCNWs composites decreases from -34.7 to -44 dB with the thickness of the composites increasing from 3.5 to 3.9 mm. The effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) includes 4.2 GHz in the X band of 8.2–12.4 GHz. The results indicate that the CNT/SiCNWs composites exhibit superior EM wave absorption, which is facilitated by the interfacial polarization, dipole polarization, and conduction loss. The 3D network offers multilayer channels for multiple reflections and the scattering energy of the EM waves. Therefore, the CNT/SiCNWs composites are promising high-efficiency microwave-absorbing materials.