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The increased use of personal care products and detergents in modern society has raised concerns about their potential adverse effects on the environment. These products contain various chemical compounds that can persist in water bodies, leading to water pollution and ecological disturbances. Bioremediation has emerged as a promising approach to address these challenges, utilizing the natural capabilities of microorganisms to degrade or remove these contaminants. This review examines the current strategies employed in the bioremediation of personal care products and detergents, with a specific focus on their sustainability and environmental impact. This bioremediation is essential for environmental rejuvenation, as it uses living organisms to detergents and other daily used products. Its distinctiveness stems from sustainable, nature-centric ways that provide eco-friendly solutions for pollution eradication and nurturing a healthy planet, all while avoiding copying. Explores the use of microbial consortia, enzyme-based treatments, and novel biotechnological approaches in the context of environmental remediation. Additionally, the ecological implications and long-term sustainability of these strategies are assessed. Understanding the strengths and limitations of these bioremediation techniques is essential for developing effective and environmentally friendly solutions to mitigate the impact of personal care products and detergents on ecosystems. [Display omitted] • Bioremediation is an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to address environmental pollution. • Bioremediation techniques for degrading personal care products are subject to in-depth analysis. • Sustainability aspects of bioremediation are reviewed. • Insights on Life cycle assessment (LCA) studies were focussed. • Key challenges faced in implementing bioremediation strategies were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmful effects of triclosan (TCS) have been reported on several organisms; however, effects on early life stages of marine vertebrates are limited. Therefore, the objective of this work was to assess the effects of TCS during early development of the flatfish Solea senegalensis after initial characterization of cholinesterases (ChEs) and determination of selected biochemical markers baseline levels. Characterization of ChEs and determination of biochemical markers baseline levels of cholinergic activity, energy metabolism and oxidative stress were analysed in sole at 3 days after hatching (dah) and at the onset and end of metamorphosis. To assess TCS effects, fish were exposed during 96h to 30-500 μg L−1 TCS until 3 dah. Fish at 13 dah were exposed during 48h to 200-1,500 μg L−1 TCS and maintained until complete metamorphosis. Effects on survival, malformations, length, metamorphosis progression and biochemical markers were evaluated. The main ChE active form present in sole early life stages is acetylcholinesterase and baseline levels of oxidative stress and energy metabolism biomarkers changed according to fish developmental stage. Triclosan induced malformations (EC 50 = 180 μg L−1 at 3 dah), decreased growth (95 μg L−1 at 3 dah; 548 μg L−1 at 24 dah) and affected metamorphosis progression (391 μg L−1 at 17 dah). Impairment of antioxidant system was observed, with TCS affecting catalase at the end of metamorphosis test, however, no oxidative damage on lipids was detected. Glutathione S-transferase was the most sensitive endpoint during early larval test (LOEC = 30 μg L−1). Exposure to TCS affected S. senegalensis at individual and sub-individual levels, both at early larval stage and during the critical period of metamorphosis. Image 1 • Triclosan induced malformations and decreased growth on sole early life stages. • Triclosan accelerated sole metamorphosis at transient stages. • Biochemical enzymatic markers were the most sensitive endpoints to triclosan exposure. • Triclosan induced alterations on antioxidant system without causing oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Triclosan (TCS) is an antimicrobial agent used in diverse personal care products that is considered as an emerging contaminant of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Although TCS aquatic ecotoxicity is well known, information on the presence and effects on terrestrial organisms is still scarce. This study was aimed at exploring the embryotoxicity of TCS to the yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis) induced by the in-ovo injection of 150 ng TCS/g egg weight. Effects of TCS on embryo morphological traits (i.e. body mass, tarsus length and head size). Moreover, oxidative and genetic effects were assessed in the embryo liver, by measuring the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the activity of antioxidant (superoxide dismutase and catalase) and detoxifying (glutathione S -transferase - GST) enzymes, the levels of lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation. After the injection, the concentration of TCS measured in the yolk of unincubated eggs (159 ± 35 ng/g wet weight, ww) was close to the expected concentration. Triclosan was found in residual yolk (2.9 ± 1.1 ng/g ww), liver (2.3 ± 1.1 ng/g ww) and brain (0.2 ± 0.1 ng/g ww) of embryos soon before hatching. Triclosan did not significantly affect embryo morphological traits, while it increased ROS levels and promoted GST activity, inducing the onset of both oxidative and genetic damage. This study demonstrated, for the first time in a wild euriecious bird species with mixed habits, that TCS can be maternally transferred to developing embryos, representing a potential threat for offspring. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Embryotoxicity of Triclosan on the yellow-legged gull was investigated. • Triclosan levels in yolk of gull eggs was experimentally modulated. • Triclosan did not alter development of gull embryos. • Triclosan induced an oxidative stress situation in the liver of embryos. Triclosan induced oxidative stress in yellow-legged gull embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triclosan is frequently used for its antimicrobial properties and has been detected in human serum, urine, and breast milk. Animal and molecular studies have shown that triclosan exerts a wide range of adverse health effects at both high (ppm) and low (ppb) concentrations. Since triclosan is of growing concern to human and environmental health, there is a need to improve extraction procedures and to study additional effects from triclosan exposure. In this study, we have improved triclosan extraction from breast milk by using salt (MgSO 4 ) to reduce emulsion formation and increase water polarity and water (∼80%) to enhance the overall extraction efficiency (∼3.5 fold). This extraction method was applied to breast milk samples collected from donors who i) recorded their use of triclosan-containing personal care products and ii) provided matching infant stool samples. Of the participants who had detectable amounts of triclosan in their breast milk, nine (75%) of them reported daily use of triclosan-containing personal care products. Levels of triclosan in breast milk were compared to the donor's infant's fecal microbiome. We found that the bacterial diversity in the fecal microbiome of the infants exposed to breast milk with detectable triclosan levels differed compared to their peers exposed to milk containing non-detectable amounts. This finding implies that exogenous chemicals are impacting microbiome diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread occurrence of natural and synthetic organic chemicals in surface waters can cause ecological risks and human health concerns. This study measured a suite of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) in water samples collected by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 8 around the Denver, Colorado, metropolitan area. The results showed that 109 of 144 analyzed pharmaceutical compounds, 42 of 55 analyzed waste-indicator compounds (e.g., flame retardants, hormones, and personal care products), and 39 of 72 analyzed pesticides were detected in the water samples collected monthly between April and November in both 2014 and 2015. Pharmaceutical compounds were most abundant in the surface waters and their median concentrations were measured up to a few hundred nanograms per liter. The CEC concentrations varied depending on sampling locations and seasons. The primary source of CECs was speculated to be wastewater effluent. The CEC concentrations were correlated to streamflow volume and showed significant seasonal effects. The CECs were less persistent during spring runoff season compared with baseflow season at most sampling sites. These results are useful for providing baseline data for surface CEC monitoring and assessing the environmental risks and potential human exposure to CECs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human exposure to consumer and personal care products chemicals such as phenols, including parabens and other antimicrobial agents, can be assessed through biomonitoring by quantifying urinary concentrations of the parent chemical or its metabolites, often after hydrolysis of phase II conjugates. Developing suitable analytical methods for the concurrent quantification of multiple exposure biomarkers is challenging because optimal conditions for the hydrolysis of such conjugates (e.g., O-glucuronides, N -glucuronides, sulfates) may differ depending on the biomarker. We evaluated the effectiveness of seven commercial hydrolytic enzymes to simultaneously hydrolyze N -glucuronides (using the antibacterial triclocarban as example compound) and other conjugates (using select phenols and parabens as examples) by using on-line solid phase extraction–high performance liquid chromatography-isotope dilution-tandem mass spectrometry. Incubation (30 min, 55 °C) with a genetically engineered β -glucuronidase (IMCS, ≥15 units/μL urine) hydrolyzed N -glucuronide triclocarban, but did not fully hydrolyze the conjugates of phenols and parabens. By contrast, incubation (4 h, 37 °C) with solid β -glucuronidase ( Helix pomatia, Type H-1, ≥30 units/μL urine) or liquid β-glucuronidase/arylsulfatase ( Helix pomatia , 30 units/μL urine [i.e., 30 μL/100 μL urine]) in the presence of 100 μL methanol for 100 μL urine completely hydrolyzed N -glucuronide triclocarban and the conjugates of several phenols and parabens, without cleaving the ester bond of the parabens to form p -hydroxybenzoic acid. These results highlight the relevance of method validation procedures that include optimizing the hydrolysis of phase II urinary conjugates (e.g., enzyme type and amount used, reaction time, temperature) to quantify accurately and concurrently multiple exposure biomarkers for biomonitoring purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular-level biodegradation processes of bisphenol A (BPA), nonylphenol (NP) and triclosan (TCS) mediated by manganese peroxidase (MnP) were investigated with and without single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) and/or graphene (GRA). Although the incorporation of SWCNT, GRA or their combination (SWCNT+GRA) did not break up the complexes composed of manganese peroxidase (MnP) and these substrates, they had different effects on the native contacts between the substrates and MnP. GRA tended to decrease the overall stability of the binding between MnP and its substrates. SWCNT or SWCNT+GRA generally had a minor impact on the mean binding energy between MnP and its substrates. We detected some sensitive residues from MnP that were dramatically disturbed by the GRA, SWCNT or SWCNT+GRA. Nanomaterials changed the number and behavior of water molecules adjacent to both MnP and its substrates, which was not due to the destruction of H-bond network formed by sensitive regions and water molecules. The present results are useful for understanding the molecular basis of pollutant biodegradation affected by the nanomaterials in the environment, and are also helpful in assessing the risks of these materials to the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread and increasing use of personal care products (PCPs) have led to environmental contamination by substances included in these products. These substances have been detected in aquatic compartments and shown to cause adverse effects on non-target aquatic organisms. In this work toxicity of the antimicrobial triclosan (TCS) and of the UV-filter 3-(4-methylbenzylidene) camphor (4-MBC) was assessed in the embryos of Perez’ frog Pelophylax perezi. Lethal and sub-lethal parameters were evaluated in embryos in Gosner stage 8–9 exposed to 0.00013–1.3 mg/l of 4-MBC and 0.25–2.50 mg/l of TCS during 144 h. Survival, malformations, length and hatching were evaluated as apical endpoints. Biomarkers of neurotransmission, oxidative stress, energy metabolism and estrogenicity were determined at the biochemical level through the activities of cholinesterase (ChE), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and vitellogenin (Vtg). Embryo exposure to 4-MBC led to few developmental malformations (up to 3%) and a GST induction at 0.013 mg/l. Triclosan exposure reduced survival, delayed hatching (at 72 h) and development and induced malformations. In addiction ChE was inhibited in the highest concentrations tested and GST and LDH were induced at 0.79 mg/l, the LOEC registered for TCS in Perez' frogs. Overall, our study showed that TCS might exert adverse effects on P. perezi early life stages, but only at four orders of magnitude above the concentrations found in environment. Furthermore, our results highlight the need to assess PCPs toxicity at different levels of biological organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of selected pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) and the pesticide atrazine were investigated in seawater samples collected from stations located at effluent dominated sites in the Saudi Arabian coastal waters of the Red Sea. PPCPs were analysed using solid phase extraction (SPE) followed by high performance liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). A multi component method for the ultra-trace level quantification of 13 target PPCPs in Seawater was developed and validated for the here performed study. The method procedure is described in detail in the supplementary material section. 26 samples from 7 distinct locations (2 directly influenced by continuous sewage release) were chosen for the sampling of surface seawater. Based upon local sales information, 25 target substances (20 PPCPs, 4 pesticides and 1 stimulant) were chosen for the here reported method development. Thirteen PPCPs were detected and quantified in a total of 26 seawater samples. Metformin, diclofenac, acetaminophen, and caffeine were identified as the most abundant PPCPs, detected in maximum concentration higher than 3 μg/L (upper quantification limit for the here developed method). Concentrations were in the range of 7– >3000 (metformin), 3000 ng/L (caffeine). The contribution of direct sewage release on the PPCP levels detected was obvious, the target PPCPs were detected in the Al-Arbaeen and Al-Shabab coastal lagoons in high concentrations due to the low water exchange with the open sea and still ongoing sewage releases in the lagoons. Also, substantial amounts of antibiotics were detected in all samples. Levels and distribution profile of the detected PPCPs revealed high level release rates and give raise to concern on potential environmental risks associated with the here document long term exposure on the fragile coastal marine environment of the region but particularly in the nearby protected coral reef environment outside the harbour region of Jeddah. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic musks, chemical constituents of personal care products, enter the human body through dermal contact. Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying transdermal permeation of synthetic musks should enhance our understanding of their uptake and distribution in human skin and allow accurate evaluation of associated human exposure. Here, the transdermal permeation dynamics and distribution of galaxolide (HHCB) and tonalide (AHTN) were investigated using an in vitro skin diffusion model. The transdermal permeation amounts of HHCB and AHTN increased rapidly during the first 6 h. The applied HHCB and AHTN amounts did not affect percutaneous absorption rates. HHCB and AHTN remained primarily in the stratum corneum, accounting for 70.0% and 70.3% of the totals during the 24-h period, respectively. The percutaneous absorption rate of both chemicals was ∼11%. HHCB, AHTN, musk ketone, musk xylene, and Musk-T were detected in 29 personal care products. The average total concentrations of the musks were 3990, 54.0, 17.7, and 9.8 μg g −1 in perfume, shampoo, lotion, and shower gel, respectively. Among the four product categories, HHCB was dominant (57.4%–99.6%), followed by AHTN. The data clearly indicate that polycyclic and nitro musks are most commonly used in personal care products. The total estimated dermal intake (51.6 μg kg −1 bw day −1 ) was markedly higher than total dermal uptake (5.9 μg kg −1 bw day −1 ) when percutaneous absorption rates of the chemicals were added into the calculation. Uptake of HHCB and AHTN via dermal contact of personal care products was significantly higher than that from dust inhalation calculated according to earlier literature data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large quantities of personal care products (PCPs) are used daily and many of their chemical ingredients are subsequently released into marine environments. Cultures of the marine microalga Tetraselmis suecica were exposed for 24 h to three emerging compounds included in the main classes of PCPs: the UV filter benzophenone-3 (BP-3), the disinfectant triclosan (TCS) and the fragrance tonalide (AHTN). Concentrations tested, expressed as cellular quota (pg cell −1 ), ranged from 5 to 40 for BP-3, from 2 to 16 for TCS and from 1.2 to 2.4 for AHTN. A small cytometric panel was carried out to evaluate key cytotoxicity biomarkers including inherent cell properties, growth and metabolic activity and cytoplasmic membrane properties. BP-3 caused a significant increase in growth rate, metabolic activity and chlorophyll a fluorescence from 10 pg cell −1 . However, growth and esterase activity decreased in cells exposed to all TCS and AHTN concentrations, except the lowest ones. Also these two compounds provoked a significant swelling of cells, more pronounced in the case of TCS-exposed cells. Although all treated cells remained viable, changes in membrane potential were observed. BP-3 and AHTN caused a significant depolarization of cells from 10 to 1.6 pg cell −1 , respectively; however all TCS concentrations assayed caused a noticeable hyperpolarization of cells. Metabolic activity and cytoplasmic membrane potential were the most sensitive parameters. It can be concluded that the toxicological model used and the toxicological parameters evaluated are suitable to assess the toxicity of these emerging contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental contamination by pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) is barely studied in India despite being one of the largest global producers and consumers of pharmaceuticals. In this study, 29 pharmaceuticals and six metabolites were determined in sewage treatment plants (STPs) in Udupi (STP U : population served ∼150,000) and Mangalore (STP M : population served ∼450,000); the measured mean concentrations ranged from 12 to 61,000 ng/L and 5.0 to 31,000 ng/L, respectively. Atorvastatin (the most prescribed antihypercholesterolemic in India), mefenamic acid, and paraxanthine were found for the first time in wastewater in India at the mean concentrations of 395 ng/L, 1100 ng/L, and 13,000 ng/L, respectively. Select pharmaceutical metabolites (norverapamil and clopidogrel carboxylic acid) were found at concentrations of upto 7 times higher than their parent drugs in wastewater influent and effluent. This is the first study in India to report mass loading and emission of PPCPs and their select metabolites in STPs. The total mass load of all PPCPs analyzed in this study at STP U (4.97 g/d/1000 inhabitants) was 3.6 times higher than calculated for STP M . Select recalcitrant PPCPs (carbamazepine, diazepam, and clopidogrel) were found to have negative or no removal from STP U while additional treatment with upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor at STP M removed (up to 95%) these PPCPs from STP M . Overall, 5.1 kg of caffeine, 4.1 kg of atenolol, 2.7 kg of ibuprofen, and 1.9 kg of triclocarban were discharged annually from STP U . The PPCP contamination profile in the Indian STP was compared with a similar study in the USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) have been of wide concern due to their ecological toxicity, persistence, and ubiquity in aquatic environments. Peroxymonosulfate-based advanced oxidation processes (PMS-AOPs) have shown great potential for eliminating PPCPs due to their superior oxidation ability and adaptability. Biochar-based nanohybrids have been employed as emerging catalysts for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation. Until now, few researchers have summarized PMS activation by biochar-based catalysts for PPCPs removal. In this review, the types, sources, fates, and ecological toxicities of PPCPs were first summarized. Furthermore, various preparation and modification methods of biochar-based catalysts were systematically introduced. Importantly, the application of activating PMS with biochar-based multifunctional nanocomposites for eliminating PPCPs was reviewed. The influencing factors, such as catalysts dosage, PMS dosage, solution pH, temperature, anions, natural organic matters (NOMs), and pollutants concentration were broadly discussed. Biochar-based catalysts can act as electron donors, electron acceptors, and electron shuttles to activate PMS for the removal of PPCPs through radical pathways or/and non-radical pathways. The degradation mechanisms of PPCPs are correlated with persistent free radicals (PFRs), metal species, defective sites, graphitized degree, functional groups, electronic attributes, and the hybridization modes of biochar-based catalysts. Finally, the current problems and further research directions on the industrial application of biochar-based nanocomposites were proposed. This study provides some enlightenment for the efficient removal of PPCPs with biochar-based catalysts in PMS-AOPs. [Display omitted] • The types, sources, fates and ecological toxicities of PPCPs were summarized. • Biochar had superior catalytic properties by various modification methods. • PPCPs could be efficiently degraded in biochar-based catalysts/PMS systems. • Future development of biochar-based catalysts in AOPs was prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate the application of a high-throughput modeling framework to estimate exposure to chemicals used in personal care products (PCPs). As a basis for estimating exposure, we use the product intake fraction (PiF), defined as the mass of chemical taken by an individual or population per mass of a given chemical used in a product. We calculated use- and disposal- stage PiFs for 518 chemicals for five PCP archetypes. Across all product archetypes the use- and disposal- stage PiFs ranged from 10 −5 to 1 and 0 to 10 −3 , respectively. There is a distinction between the use-stage PiF for leave-on and wash-off products which had median PiFs of 0.5 and 0.02 across the 518 chemicals, respectively. The PiF is a function of product characteristics and physico-chemical properties and is maximized when skin permeability is high and volatility is low such that there is no competition between skin and air losses from the applied product. PCP chemical contents (i.e. concentrations) were available for 325 chemicals and were combined with PCP usage characteristics and PiF yielding intakes summed across a demonstrative set of products ranging from 10 −8 –30 mg/kg/d, with a median of 0.1 mg/kg/d. The highest intakes were associated with body lotion. Bioactive doses derived from high-throughput in vitro toxicity data were combined with the estimated PiFs to demonstrate an approach to estimate bioactive equivalent chemical content and to screen chemicals for risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the toxicity of triclosan (TCS) and galaxolide (HHCB) in freshwater has been reported, little study is shed light on their molecular toxicity mechanism and the regulation of humic acid (HA). In this work, freshwater algae E. gracilis was selected to explore these processes, and the molecular toxicity mechanism was analyzed by metabolomics. TCS was more toxic to E. gracilis than HHCB at 1 d exposure with the EC 50 value of 0.76 mg L−1, but HHCB showed a higher toxicity as the exposure time prolonged. HA could alleviate the toxicity of TCS and HHCB, mainly due to the inhibition of TCS uptake and oxidative stress, respectively. The perturbations on a number of antioxidant defense-related metabolites in response to TCS or HHCB also indicated oxidative stress was a main toxicity mechanism. However, the exposure to HHCB resulted in more pronounced perturbations in the purine metabolism than TCS, implying that HHCB may pose a genetic toxicity on algae. It may explain the higher toxicity of HHCB to algae as the exposure time increased. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding on the ecological risks of TCS or HHCB in natural waters. [Display omitted] • TCS showed a high toxicity to E. gracilis with 24 h EC 50 of 0.76 mg L−1. • Humic acid (HA) alleviated TCS toxicity mainly through inhibition of TCS uptake. • HHCB toxicity to E. gracilis increased with exposure time increased. • Decreased HHCB toxicity caused by HA was due to the decrease of oxidative stress. • Metabolomics revealed HHCB may pose a genetic toxicity on algae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet radiation (UV) and triclosan (TCS) affect the early development of marine fish; however, the corresponding molecular mechanisms are still not fully understood. Therefore, this work aims to study the effects of the single and combined exposure to these stressors during the thyroid-regulated metamorphosis of the flatfish Solea senegalensis. Sub-lethal exposure (5.89 kJ m−2 UV and/or 0.546 and 1.090 mg L−1 TCS for 48 h) was performed at the beginning of metamorphosis (13 days after hatching, dah), followed by a period in clean media until complete metamorphosis (24 dah). Malformations, metamorphosis progression, length, behavior and the expression of thyroid axis-related genes were studied. TCS induced malformations, decreased swimming performance, and induced metamorphosis acceleration at 15 dah, followed by a significant metamorphosis delay. Such effects were more noticeable in the presence of UV. The down-regulation of five thyroid axis-related genes occurred after exposure to TCS (15 dah), and after 9 days in clean media two genes were still down-regulated. UV exposure increased the effect of TCS by further down-regulating gene expression immediately after the exposure. Since several effects persisted after the period in clean media, implications of these stressors (mainly TCS) on the ecological performance of the species are suggested. [Display omitted] • The UV radiation exacerbated the effect of TCS. • TCS induced malformations, affected development and behavior. • TCS induced down-regulation of thyroid axis-related genes at metamorphosis onset. • The alteration on gene expression persisted after TCS exposure was interrupted. • Exposure to TCS during metamorphosis may lead to severe ecological consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic musks are organic compounds used as fragrance and fixative additives in several personal care products. Until now, little is known about their occurrence and distribution in these household commodities. However, this information is essential to perform a human dermal exposure assessment. Therefore, this study gives an overview on the levels of 12 synthetic musks in 140 personal care products from 7 different categories (body and hair wash, toilet soaps, shaving products, dentifrice products, deodorants/antiperspirants, moisturizers and perfumes). They were analysed by QuEChERS extraction followed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Detection limits were found between 0.01 ng g −1 (galaxolide) and 5.00 ng g −1 (musk xylene). Higher average concentrations of total synthetic musks were detected in perfumes (5245.05 μg g −1 ) and shampoos (487.67 μg g −1 ) for adults. Galaxolide, exaltolide and cashmeran were the most detected compounds. Combining these results with the daily usage amounts, an average daily dermal exposure of 75.69 μg kg bw −1 day −1 for adults and 15.54 μg kg bw −1 day −1 for babies/children was achieved. The main contributors for adult and babies/children dermal exposure were perfumes and lotions, respectively. About 40% of the adult daily dermal exposure is related to exaltolide, 30% galaxolide, and 15% tonalide, while for babies/children 96% occurs due to exaltolide. An estimate of the amount of musks discharged “down-the-drain” into the wastewater treatment systems through the use of toiletries was also performed. An average emission per capita of 6.7 mg day −1 was determined and galaxolide and exaltolide were the predominant musks in the effluents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal care products, such as additives, have raised widespread concerns about the potential threat to male reproductive health. The spermatogenesis in humans lasts for approximately 90 days, the average levels of these chemicals remain unclear during spermatogenesis. In our study, we pooled urine samples from each man during the days of 1–15, 16–31, 32–63, and ≥64, and examined exposure to 48 typical additive chemicals. By principal component analysis (PCA), k-means clustering, and Spearman's rank correlations, we then identified 6 PC scores and 4 clusters based on profiles of these chemicals. Some industrial, commercial or structural similar chemicals (e.g., phthalates) were significantly correlated compared to unrelated chemicals (e.g., benzophenone). PCA scores were associated with individual lifestyles (e.g., household income, tea consumption, and drinking tap water). Distinct exposure components and exposure patterns of personal care products may help the reproductive health assessment of men. We suggested more concerns for widespread exposure to these chemicals for men. [Display omitted] • Typical additive chemicals are exposed to men of reproductive age. • Six PC scores and four clusters were characterized profiles of cumulative chemical exposure. • Exposure patterns of chemicals may help the reproductive health assessment of adult men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal changes in the concentration of 21 pharmaceuticals in a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Ceské Budejovice were investigated over 12 months. The target compounds were 10 antibiotics, 4 antidepressants, 3 psychiatric drugs, 2 antihistamines and 2 lipid regulators. 272 Wastewater samples (136 influents and 136 effluents) were collected from March 2011 to February 2012 and analyzed using two-dimensional liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. All studied pharmaceuticals were frequently detected in both the influent and the effluent wastewater samples, except for meclozine, which was only found in the influent. The mean concentration of pharmaceuticals varied from 0.006 μg L-1 to 1.48 μg L-1 in the influent and from 0.003 μg L-1 to 0.93 μg L-1 in the effluent. The concentration of most pharmaceuticals was higher during winter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the stability of 124 target analytes in influent and effluent wastewater samples during short-term (4 °C) and long-term (-18 °C) storage was assessed. The most common storage scenario was considered, in which samples were frozen immediately after sampling without any pre-treatment. During short-term storage more analytes remained stable (concentration during storage was in the range of 60–120% of the initial concentration) at 4 °C than at -18 °C. During long-term storage (-18 °C), three types of behavior were observed: constant concentrations throughout the experimental period, decreasing concentrations with time, and loss of the compound from the sample after freezing. Differences between effluent and influent samples were observed for 50 out of 124 tested PPCPs. The amount of stable analytes decreased with time during long-term storage. 72% and 56% of the target compounds in the effluent and influent wastewater, respectively, remained stable during 60 days of storage. The number of stable compounds decreased to 57 (46%) and 46 (37%) in the effluent and influent, respectively, over 120 days. 15 Pharmaceuticals were lost after freezing/thawing cycle. The results stress the importance of storage factors during analysis of pharmaceuticals in wastewater. The stability of target compounds in the samples under the planned storage conditions should be checked before starting the experiment to obtain reliable data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Identification of estrogen active ingredients of personal care products (deodorants). [•] Investigation of different dispenser types of deodorants using a bioassay. [•] Activity of sprays was higher than that of roll-ons and sticks. [•] Estrogenic activities of fragrances are comparable to known endocrine disruptors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Limited information is available about the levels of exposure of paraben and bisphenols emerging from personal care products (PCPs) use in Indian women and the risk associated with it. In this study, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to determine the concentrations of six parabens (methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, butyl, benzyl-, and heptyl-parabens) and 8 bisphenols (Bisphenol A, B, F, P, S, Z, AP, and AF) in PCPs samples (n = 114) obtained from Indian market and in the urine samples of young adult females (n = 52). The concentrations measured in PCPs and urine samples were used to determine the estimated daily intake. The mean concentrations of 6 parabens and 8 bisphenols in PCPs ranged from 38.3 to 2.38 × 105 ng/g and 2.71–148 ng/g, respectively. In urine samples analysed, the mean concentrations of 6 parabens and 8 bisphenols ranged from 0.007 to 293 ng/mL and 0.10–10.8 ng/mL, respectively. There was no significant correlation of EDCs with age, BMI and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), but significant correlations (p < 0.05) were observed between urinary paraben and bisphenol concentrations. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) exists between the BMI and WHR groups by bisphenol concentrations. Estimated daily intake and exposure risks for parabens and bisphenols revealed no possible concerns for Indian young adult females. Hitherto, this is the first study to show that Indian young adult females were exposed to parabens and bisphenols. This study provides evidence on PCPs usage contribute to the urinary concentrations of EDCs. [Display omitted] • Parabens and bisphenols in personal care products and urine samples of Indian female. • MeP, EtP, PrP, BPA, BPP, BPS and BPAF found in PCPs and urine samples. • Paraben exposure is higher in leave-on cosmetics than in rinse-off cosmetics. • The urinary bisphenol concentrations showed significant association with different levels of waist-to-hip ratio and BMI. • The exposure risk assessment based on hazard quotient indicated no potential risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there are several works in the literature that study the presence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in surface waters, the vast majority focus their attention on pharmaceuticals and little information is found about personal care products (PCPs). Therefore, this study focused, for the first time, on the monitoring of five classes of PCPs – fragrance allergens, synthetic musks, phthalates, antioxidants, and ultraviolet-filters - in the surface water of four small-size typically pollution-impacted Portuguese rivers (Ave, Leça, Antuã and Cértima). A solid-phase microextraction (SPME) followed by gas chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) protocol was employed to analyse surface water samples collected in two seasonal campaigns - summer and winter (34 samples per season). A total of 22 out of 37 target PCPs were detected concomitantly at least once in one sampling point, being the most frequently detected α-isomethyl ionone, galaxolide, tonalide and cashmeran. The highest concentrations were confirmed for diethylhexyl phthalate (610.6 ng L−1), galaxolide (379.2 ng L−1), geraniol (290.9 ng L−1), linalool (271.2 ng L−1), benzophenone-3 (254.1 ng L−1) and citronellol (200.2 ng L−1). Leça River, traversing the more densely urban and industrialized area, had the highest levels of contaminants, which were also found in the sampling points located downstream of wastewater treatment plants discharge points. In general, higher levels were detected in summer, when the river flows are lower. Hazard quotients were determined and octocrylene, tonalide, and geraniol presented values above 1 in some sampling sites, which may indicate an ecotoxicological risk to the aquatic environment. The results presented suggest that these three PCPs should be included as priority pollutants in environmental monitoring schemes in surface waters, due to their high detection, persistence, and potential adverse effects. [Display omitted] • Thirty personal care products were detected in water from four Portuguese Rivers. • α-isomethyl ionone, galaxolide, tonalide, cashmeran were the most frequently detected. • The highest concentrations were found for diethylhexyl phthalate and galaxolide in the water. • Urban and industrialized sites had the highest contaminant levels, particularly in summer. • Octocrylene, tonalide, and geraniol may pose risk to the aquatic life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We studied urinary BPA and phthalate metabolite concentrations in Mexican children. [•] Urinary concentrations at third trimester and 8–13years were not correlated. [•] Personal care product use was associated with exposure to several phthalates. [•] Reduced or delayed use of certain personal care products in children may be warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane, commonly known as D5 (cyclopentasiloxane) has a wide application of use across a multitude of personal care product categories. The relative volatility of D5 is one of the key properties attributed to this substance that provide for the derived performance benefits from the use of this raw material in personal care formulations. On this basis, rapid evaporative loss following use of many products comprising D5 is expected following typical use application and corresponding wear time. Studies were conducted on three key product categories containing D5 (antiperspirants, skin care products and hair care products) to characterize the amount of D5 that may be destined to ‘go down the drain’ following simulated typical personal care use scenarios. Marketed antiperspirants and skin care products were applied to human subjects and hair care products were applied to human hair tressesand subsequently rinsed off at designated time points representative of typical consumer cleansing and personal hygiene habits. Wash water was collected at 0, 8 and 24h (antiperspirant and hair care analysis) and additionally at 4h (skin care analysis) post product application and samples were analyzed by isotope dilution headspace gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) to quantify the concentration of D5 destined to be available to go down the drain in captured wash water. It is demonstrated that significant amounts of D5 in ‘leave-on’ application products evaporate during typical use and that the concentration of D5 available to go down the drain under such conditions of use is only a very small (negligible) fraction of that delivered immediately upon product application. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The cyclic volatile methylsiloxane, decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) is used in a large variety of personal care products. Based on the physical–chemical properties of D5, it is likely that losses due to volatilisation may strongly influence the levels entering the aquatic environment. The aim of this study was to quantify the amount of D5 in waste wash water, after typical application and use in a range of deodorant and anti-perspirant (AP) products. Results implied significant losses after a 24h period (>99.9%), and suggest that the use of D5 in leave-on products, such as deodorants/AP is not likely to contribute a significant down-the-drain emission source. An illustrative example is presented, based on data reporting the use of D5 in a range of personal care products (both wash-off and leave-on), which suggests that the contribution of D5 used in wash-off products to the aquatic environment may be considerably more significant. Limitations associated with our understanding of the actual D5 inclusion levels in the products, the market share of the products containing D5, and the variability of consumer habits, are identified as data gaps that need to be addressed in order to better refine down-the-drain emission estimates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCAs) were in personal care products (PCPs). [•] The samples list polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters (PAPs) in their ingredients. [•] The concentrations of total PFCAs range from not detected to 19μgg−1 in PCPs. [•] Compounding agents contain high concentrations of PFCAs (35μgg−1). [•] PFCAs are detected in PCPs and compounding agents that use PAPs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Indoor and outdoor air concentrations of cyclic siloxanes were measured in rural, urban and indoor air. [•] D5 was the dominant siloxane detected in indoor and outdoor air. [•] A diurnal trend in siloxane concentrations in Chicago was identified. [•] Concentrations of cyclic siloxanes are higher during night hours than in day in urban air. [•] The relative magnitudes of D4, D5, and D6 differ between indoor and outdoor air. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In conventional sorption studies, the prior presence of contaminants in the soil is not considered when estimating the sorption parameters because this is only a transient state. However, this parameter should be considered in order to avoid the under/overestimation of the soil sorption capacity. In this study, the sorption of naproxen, carbamazepine and triclosan was determined in a wastewater irrigated soil, considering the initial mass of the compounds. Batch sorption–desorption tests were carried out at two soil depths (0–10cm and 30–40cm), using either 10mM CaCl2 solution or untreated wastewater as the liquid phase. Data were satisfactorily fitted to the initial mass model. For the two soils, release of naproxen and carbamazepine was observed when the CaCl2 solution was used, but not in the soil/wastewater system. The compounds’ release was higher in the topsoil than in the 30–40cm soil. Sorption coefficients (Kd ) for CaCl2 solution tests showed that in the topsoil, triclosan (64.9Lkg−1) is sorbed to a higher extent than carbamazepine and naproxen (5.81 and 2.39Lkg−1, respectively). In the 30–40cm soil, carbamazepine and naproxen Kd values (11.4 and 4.41Lkg−1, respectively) were higher than those obtained for the topsoil, while the triclosan Kd value was significantly lower than in the topsoil (19.2Lkg−1). Differences in Kd values were found when comparing the results obtained for the two liquid phases. Sorption of naproxen and carbamazepine was reversible for both soils, while sorption of triclosan was found to be irreversible. This study shows the sorption behavior of three pharmaceuticals in a wastewater irrigated soil, as well as the importance of considering the initial mass of target pollutants in the estimation of their sorption parameters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The effect of solution pH and levels of dissolved organic matter (DOM) on the sampling rates for model pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) and endocrine disrupting substance (EDS) by polar organic chemical integrative samplers (POCIS) was investigated in laboratory experiments. A commercially available POCIS configuration containing neutral Oasis HLB (hydrophilic–lipophilic balance) resin (i.e. pharmaceutical POCIS) and two POCIS configurations prepared in-house containing MAX and MCX anion and cation exchange resins, respectively were tested for uptake of 21 model PPCPs and EDS, including acidic, phenolic, basic and neutral compounds. Laboratory experiments were conducted with dechlorinated tap water over a pH range of 3, 7 and 9. The effects of DOM were studied using natural water from an oligotrophic lake in Ontario, Canada (i.e. Plastic Lake) spiked with different amounts of DOM (the concentration of dissolved organic carbon ranged from 3 to 5mgL−1 in uptake experiments). In experiments with the commercial (HLB) POCIS, the MCX-POCIS and the MAX-POCIS, the sampling rates generally increased with pH for basic compounds and declined with pH for acidic compounds. However, the sampling rates were relatively constant across the pH range for phenols with high pKa values (i.e. bisphenol A, estrone, estradiol, triclosan) and for the neutral pharmaceutical, carbamazepine. Thus, uptake was greatest when the amount of the neutral species in solution was maximized relative to the ionized species. Although the solution pH affected the uptake of some model ionic compounds, the effect was by less than a factor of 3. There was no significant effect of DOM on sampling rates from Plastic Lake. However, uptake rates in different aqueous matrixes declined in the order of deionized water>Plastic Lake water>dechlorinated tap water, so other parameters must affect uptake into POCIS, although this influence will be minor. MAX-POCIS and MCX-POCIS showed little advantage over the commercial POCIS configuration for monitoring in natural waters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Considerable research has been conducted examining occurrence and effects of human use pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment; however, relatively little research has been conducted examining personal care products although they are found more often and in higher concentrations than pharmaceuticals. Personal care products are continually released into the aquatic environment and are biologically active and persistent. This article examines the acute and chronic toxicity data available for personal care products and highlights areas of concern. Toxicity and environmental data were synergized to develop a preliminary hazard assessment in which only triclosan and triclocarban presented any hazard. However, numerous PCPs including triclosan, paraben preservatives, and UV filters have evidence suggesting endocrine effects in aquatic organisms and thus need to be investigated and incorporated in definitive risk assessments. Additional data pertaining to environmental concentrations of UV filters and parabens, in vivo toxicity data for parabens, and potential for bioaccumulation of PCPs needs to obtained to develop definitive aquatic risk assessments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A method based on ultrasound-assisted emulsification–microextraction (USAEME) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) has been developed for the analysis of regulated fragrance allergens in water. Extraction conditions such as the type of solvent, extraction temperature, irradiation time, and salting-out effect were optimized using a multivariate approach. Compounds were extracted during 2min in an acoustically emulsified media formed by 100μL chloroform and 10mL sample. The USAEME process provided an efficient and exhaustive extraction (enrichment factor ∼100) and, after centrifugation, the extract was ready for GC analysis. Validation was performed using spiked ultrapure water as well as other most complex matrices such as sewage water. Recoveries between 75% and 110% were generally obtained, and precision was characterized by RSD values <10% in most cases. The limits of detection (LODs) were at the sub-nanogram per millilitre level. The proposed procedure was applied to the determination of allergens in several real samples including tap water, baby bathwater, recreational place water, public washing place water, and sewage water. The presence of some of the target compounds was confirmed in all the samples excluding tap water, demonstrating the ubiquity of this group of cosmetic and personal care products ingredients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent added to a wide array of consumer goods and personal care products. Through its use, it is introduced into municipal sewer systems where it is only partially removed during wastewater treatment. In this study, triclosan was measured in dated sediment cores from four urbanized estuaries in order to reconstruct temporal and spatial trends of accumulation. Measurable concentrations of triclosan first appeared in each of the sediment cores near 1964, which corresponds with the US patent issuance date of triclosan. The presence of triclosan at each of the study sites at or near the patent date indicates that long-term preservation is occurring in estuarine sediments. Temporal trends of triclosan at each location are unique, reflecting between site variability. Concentrations at one site climbed to as high as 400ngg−1, due in part, to local commercial production of triclosan. At two locations, levels of triclosan rise towards the surface of each core, suggesting increasing usage in recent years. One location adjacent to a major combined sewer overflow had high sediment concentrations of triclosan, confirming their potential as a source of triclosan to estuaries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products may enter the terrestrial environment through the amendment of agricultural soils with manure or biosolids with potential impacts on beneficial soil microbe populations. The beneficial symbiotic relationship between most plant species and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi is a primary determinant of plant health and soil fertility. As such, there is increasing recognition of the need to study the impacts of anthropogenic stressors on plant–microbe interactions in soil ecotoxicology studies and risk assessment. A case study exploring the use of root-organ cultures to evaluate the effects of 12 common veterinary and human-use pharmaceuticals on the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus, Glomus intraradices grown on Daucus carota root-organ cultures is presented. The bioassays were conducted over a 28-day exposure period at concentrations up to 1000μgl−1. Root length and the fungal endpoints of hyphal growth and spore production were evaluated weekly during the study. Sulfamethoxazole and atorvastatin were the most phytotoxic compounds with EC50 values of 45μgl−1 and 65μgl−1, respectively. Three compounds exhibited selective mycotoxicity, whereby the fungal symbiont was adversely affected at concentrations significantly less than that calculated for root length. The EC50 for G. intraradices hyphal length was 45μgl−1 for doxycycline, while carbamazepine and 17-α-ethynyl estradiol targeted spore production with EC50 values of 113 and 116μgl−1, respectively. The assay results indicate that the root lengths responded quickly to the presence of phytotoxic pharmaceuticals in the culture medium. Hyphal length is a sensitive endpoint after 21 days exposure, while spore production requires 28 days exposure before significant differences could be detected. Root-organ cultures provide an effective means to evaluate chemical stressors on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and can be used to screen for root-based phytotoxicity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Synthetic musks, such as 7-acetyl-1,1,3,4,4,6-hexamethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene (AHTN) and 1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta-γ-2-benzopyran (HHCB), musk ketone (MK) and musk xylene (MX), are used as an alternative for natural musk. Due to their widespread use, these synthetic compounds turned up in different environmental compartments, such as wastewater, human and animal tissues. Yet, little is known about their distribution and occurrence in personal care and household products, information needed in order to evaluate the different human exposure routes. This paper gives an overview of the synthetic musk levels in six different product categories: body lotions, perfumes, deodorants, hair care products, shower products and sanitation products. Especially body lotions, perfumes and deodorants contained high levels of synthetic musks. Maximum concentrations of HHCB, AHTN, MX and MK were 22mgg−1, 8mgg−1, 26μgg−1 and 0.5μgg−1, respectively. By combining these results with the average usage of consumer products, low-, medium- and high-exposure profiles through dermal application could be estimated. HHCB was the highest contributor to the total amount of synthetic musks in every exposure profile (18–23700μgd−1). Exposure to MK and MX did not increase substantially (10–20-fold) between low- and high-exposure profiles, indicating that these compounds cover a less broad range. In comparison, exposure to HHCB and AHTN increased up to 10000 fold between low- and high-exposure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Many substances related to human activities end up in wastewater and accumulate in sewage sludge. The present study focuses on the analysis of widely used UV filters 3-(4-methylbenzylidene) camphor (4-MBC), octyl-methoxycinnamate (OMC), octocrylene (OC) and octyl-triazone (OT) in sewage sludge originating from a monitoring network in Switzerland. Mean concentrations in stabilised sludge from 14 wastewater treatment plants were 1780, 110, 4840 and 5510μg/kg dry matter for 4-MBC, OMC, OC and OT, respectively. Specific loads in sewage sludge show that UV filters originate mainly from private households, but surface runoff and industries may be considered as additional sources. This indicates that besides use for sunscreens and cosmetics UV filters might occur in plastics and other materials and be released to the environment by volatilization or leaching. Differences between the modeled per capita loads of UV filters in sewage sludge and the observed specific loads in sewage sludge are probably due to erroneous figures of production volumes, degradation and sorption during wastewater treatment as well as degradation processes during transport in the sewer or sludge treatment. Thus, further research is needed to elucidate the fate of UV filters after application and release into the environment. Other compounds used as UV filters should be included in future studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The presence of antimicrobials, antimicrobial-resistant bacteria (ARB), and the associated antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment is a global health concern. In this study, the concentrations of 25 antimicrobials, the resistance of Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains in response to the selection pressure imposed by 15 antimicrobials, and enrichment of 20 ARGs in E. coli isolated from hospital wastewaters and surface waters were investigated from 2016 to 2018. In hospital wastewaters, clarithromycin was detected at the highest concentration followed by sulfamethoxazole and sulfapyridine. Approximately 80% of the E. coli isolates were resistant, while 14% of the isolates exhibited intermediate resistance against the tested antimicrobial agents. Approximately 61% of the examined isolates were categorized as multidrug-resistant bacteria. The overall abundance of phenotypes that were resistant toward drugs was in the following order: β-lactams, tetracycline, quinolones, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, aminoglycosides, and chloramphenicol. The data showed that the E. coli isolates frequently harbored bla TEM , bla CTX-M , tetA , qnrS, and s ul2. These results indicated that personal care products were significantly associated with the presence of several resistant phenotypes and resistance genes, implying their role in co-association with multidrug resistance. Statistical analysis also indicated a disparity specific to the site, treatment, and year in the data describing the prevalence of ARB and ARGs and their release into downstream waters. This study provides novel insights into the abundance of antimicrobial, ARB and ARGs in Sri Lanka, and could further offer invaluable information that can be integrated into global antimicrobial resistance databases. • Clarithromycin was the most abundant antimicrobial found in hospital wastewaters. • 94% of E. coli were fully or intermediately resistant to the tested drugs. • 61% of the bacterial isolates were categorized as multidrug-resistant. • E. coli isolates frequently harbored bla TEM , bla CTX-M , tetA , qnrS, and s ul2. • PCPs likely facilitated the maintenance and persistence of ARB and ARGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occurrence of 15 different pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) (ibuprofen, diclofenac, ketoprofen, acetaminophen, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, amoxicillin, ofloxacin, tetracycline, metoprolol, triclosan, salicylic acid, N, N diethyl- meta -toluamide, caffeine and β-Estradiol) belongs to eight different classes in an urban stretch of River Ganges were detected for three seasons in two holy cities Rishikesh and Haridwar (India). The overall concentration of PPCPs in the River Ganges ranged between Below Detectable Limit (BDL) to 1104.84 ng/L, with higher concentrations at anthropogenically influenced lower reaches of the River Ganges at Haridwar. Acetaminophen, triclosan, N, N diethyl- meta -toluamide (DEET), tetracycline, and caffeine showed the highest detection frequency (>90–100%) in the river. PPCPs concentration, especially for NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, ketoprofen and acetaminophen), antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, tetracycline and ofloxacin) and metabolite (salicylic acid) was found to be higher in winter compared to summer in the Ganges, possibly due to the lower biodegradation efficiency related to lesser temperatures and inadequate sunlight. While metoprolol (beta-blockers), triclosan (antibacterial), DEET (insect repellent) and caffeine (human indicator) showed a higher load in summer, possibly due to their intense uses during this period. Results of risk quiescent (RQ) revealed higher ecological risk for algae while the moderate risk for river fish biota. Image 1 • 15 pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) were detected in River Ganges during different seasons. • Acetaminophen, triclosan, tetracycline, and caffeine were the most abundant compounds. • Mass bathing, urban runoff and effluent from sewage treatment could be a source of PPCPs. • Risk quotient for triclosan suggested ecological threat to fish biota in the Ganges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), widely applied in industrial and consumer products, can affect hormones associated with the human reproductive system. Because the incidence of reproductive diseases is increasing, a comprehensive exposure assessment of phthalates and bisphenol analogues (BPs) is required for childbearing-aged women. Phthalate metabolites and BPs were measured in urine samples collected from 509 childbearing-aged women (20–48 years) in Korea to investigate their current exposure status, profiles, influencing factors, and potential health risks. DEHP metabolites and BPA were the dominant compounds found, indicating that they are highly consumed in daily life. Bisphenol S (BPS), as an alternative to BPA, was detected in most urine samples. Total concentrations of phthalate metabolites and BPs ranged from 3.42 to 3570 (GM: 45.6) ng/mL and from

For the first time the occurrence of 25 organic micropollutants (OMPs) including; 11 personal care products (PCPs), six phthalate ester plasticizers (PEPs) and eight organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) was investigated in 72 water samples obtained from five bays in the Uganda sector of Lake Victoria. In addition, an assessment of the potential ecotoxic risk of the target OMPs to aquatic organisms was conducted. Water samples were analyzed for the target OMPs using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). All the target PCPs were found in all the water samples with the exception of musk ketone and 2,6-di- tert -butylphenol. Triclosan (89–1400 ng L−1), benzophenone (36–1300 ng L−1), and 4-methylbenzylidine camphor (21–1500 ng L−1) were the most predominant PCPs. All the six plasticizers were found in all the water samples with dibutyl phthalate (350-16 000 ng L−1), and bis -(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (210–23 000 ng L−1) detected at the highest concentrations. Five OPFRs out of the eight targeted were found in all the water samples. Tricresyl phosphate (25–8100 ng L−1), tris -(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (24–6500 ng L−1) and triphenyl phosphate (54–4300 ng L−1) were the most dominant OPFRs. The highest concentrations of OMPs were recorded in Murchison and Thurston Bays, presumably due to industrial wastewater effluents from the highly industrialized localities of the two Bays. Ecotoxicological risk assessment showed that PCPs (triclosan, musk ketone, and 4-MBC), plasticizers (dibutyl phthalate, bis-(2-ethylhexyl) adipate and bis-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) and OPFRs (tricresyl phosphate, triphenyl phosphate and tris-(2-chloroethyl) phosphate) pose a high ecotoxic risk to lives of aquatic organisms (risk quotients, RQ > 1). • 25 organic micropollutants (OMPs) analyzed in water from Lake Victoria. • First findings of OMPs residues in world's second largest fresh water lake. • Triclosan, dibutyl phthalate, tris -(2-chloroethyl) phosphate were most dominant. • Contamination attributable to industrial wastewater discharges and municipal waste. • Risk quotients showed high ecotoxic risk for most of the OMPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of 20 personal care products (PCPs), including seven preservatives, six UV filters, five anticorrosion agents, and two antimicrobials, were determined in 40 swimming pools using solid phase extraction followed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Among 14 targets detected, 1H-benzotriazole and triclocarban were observed in all samples. The detected concentrations of preservatives, UV filters, anticorrosion agents, and antimicrobials were in the ranges of not detected (nd)–179 ng L−1, nd–289 ng L−1, nd–58.4 ng L−1, and nd–56.9 ng L−1, respectively. The presence of preservatives, UV filters and antimicrobials in pool waters might be mainly brought in by human activities while anticorrosion agents were mainly from the source water. Furthermore, the concentrations of methylparaben, ethylparaben, 1H-benzotriazole, 5-methyl-1H-benzotriazole, 5-chloro-1H-benzotriazole, and 5,6-dimethyl-1H-benzotriazole in indoor pools were found higher than those in outdoor pools. The longer opening time and weaker light intensity for indoor pools might cause the difference. The redundancy analysis showed significantly negative correlations between the concentrations of parabens and the contents of residual chlorine in the pool waters. A higher chlorine residue may promote the decomposition of parabens. Health risk assessment showed that skin penetration would be the main approach for the intake of PCPs by swimmers while swimming. Compared with the non-athletic swimmers, the athletic swimmers might be more sensitive, but the health risks for both groups of swimmers could be negligible. • Methylparaben detected was positively correlated with propylparaben. • Anticorrosion agents in pools may source from tap water. • Personal care products detected were higher in indoor pools than the outdoor ones. • Higher residue chlorine may promote the decomposition of parabens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methylisothiazolinone is a commonly used biocide that is released into natural environments. In this work, the ability of the fungal strain Phanerochaete chrysosporium DSM 1556 to biotransform this compound was evaluated. The tested strain was able to remove MIT (at concentrations 50 μg L−1 and 30 mg L−1) from the growth medium with the efficiency 90% after the first 6 h and 100% after 12 h of incubation. Moreover, for the first time, qualitative LC-MS/MS and GC-MS analysis showed monohydroxylated and dihydroxylated methylisothiazolinone and N-methylmalonamic acid as the main products of fungal biodegradation. The ecological toxicity of the tested biocide and its derivatives was also evaluated by using an acute toxicity test with Daphnia magna. An approximately 90% decrease in the toxicity of metabolites formed in the P. chrysosporium culture was noticed. The concentration of MIT in soil and water samples collected in Poland was assessed for the first time. The analysis showed that the selected locations in Poland are contaminated by MIT in the range from 1.04–10.08 μg L−1. Image 1 • Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) occurs in soil and sewage samples in Poland. • The ability of P. chrysosporium DSM 1556 to eliminate MIT was shown. • Three metabolites of methylisothiazolinone were detected in P. chrysosporium cultures. • Lower toxicity of MIT metabolites compared to the parent compound were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerated lagoons, typically used by small communities, often provide limited removal of wastewater nutrients. Given increasingly stringent wastewater standards, it is imperative that effective, but economical and easy-to-operate, treatment technologies be developed. The Submerged Attached Growth Reactor (SAGR®) is a treatment process developed to perform nitrification near freezing temperatures. Previous tests on full-scale installations have shown that SAGR could consistently remove ammonia to below current Canadian standards and provide additional total suspended solids and biochemical oxygen demand removal. In this study, we evaluated removal of polar chemicals of emerging concern (CECs), including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and pesticides, at SAGR installations in two Manitoba First Nations communities (MCN and LPFN) under cold winter conditions. Both showed some removal of diclofenac, naproxen, clarithromycin, metoprolol, and trimethoprim, likely by biotransformation. Average naproxen removal was 21% (2.53 × 103 ng L−1) in MCN and 64% (1.58 × 103 ng L−1) in LPFN. Atenolol was well-removed by SAGR, by 80% on average (range of 64%–94%). Clarithromycin, metoprolol, and trimethoprim removal was similar within and between systems, ranging from 54% to 76% (30.8–3.07 × 102 ng L−1 removed). Carbamazepine was detected in nearly all samples, but was not well-removed, consistent with other treatment studies. Overall, results showed that SAGR technology could moderately remove CECs, while providing the designed treatment performance for other parameters. This work will help to improve our understanding of wastewater treatment in small and/or remote communities with limited infrastructure and challenging cold-weather conditions. • Novel cold-weather nitrifying wastewater polisher evaluated for polar CECs. • Reactor can consistently remove ammonia below discharge standards. • Some removal of pharmaceuticals observed, likely by biotransformation. • This reactor can improve lagoon-based wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies conducted globally have identified wastewater effluent as a key source of UV filters released into the aquatic environment. We assessed the annual release of UV filters from wastewater treatment plant effluent in Australia and evaluated the removal of these chemicals during wastewater treatment. Effluent samples were collected from 33 sites alongside matching influent samples. Sample collection predominately occurred during the Australian Census in August 2016, which allowed for accurate per capita normalisation of the results. A subset of sites was also sampled over the Southern Hemisphere summer (December–February) period. Five UV filters were detected with at least one detected in 95% of effluent samples. The summed concentration of UV filters ranged from 130 ng L−1 to 8400 ng L−1 and averaged 2800 (±1900) ng L−1. Of the target UV filters, 2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid (PBSA) and benzophenone 4 (BP4) showed the lowest removal efficiencies (11 ± 36% and 51 ± 43%, respectively) across all sites and were the most abundant in effluent. Average estimated removal efficiencies of the other compounds were between 59 (±24) % (4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC)) and 74 (±22) % (benzophenone 1 (BP1)). We did not find a trend in seasonal differences in the per capita release of UV filters in effluent samples. We estimate that approximately 40% of UV filter loads measured in influent are breaking through to the effluent resulting in the release of approximately 20 kg day−1 of the selected UV filters into the aquatic environment from treated wastewater effluent in Australia. Image 1 • 96% of Australian wastewater effluent samples contained either PBSA or BP4. • Summed UV filter concentrations in wastewater effluent averaged 2.8 ± 1.9 μg L−1 • Removal efficiencies were highly variable between sites (eg. PBSA mean 11 ± 36%). • Australian wastewater effluent releases an estimated 20 kg day−1 of five UV filters. • Higher average BP4 per capita loads compared to international studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]