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Organophosphates esters (OPEs) have become a preferred alternative in nail polish as plasticizers due to health concerns over previously used additives like dibutyl phthalate. However, the true extent of nail technicians' exposure to OPEs is largely unknown. This study shows that nail salon workers are significant exposed to OPEs, with varied concentrations found in air, dust, masks, and urine. The total concentrations of 11 OPEs in ultrasonic personal air samplers (UPAS) ranged from 251 to 1007 ng/m³, and in air conditioner filter dust from 371 to 14473 ng/g. Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) was the most abundant compound found in the nail polishes used in these salons. On average, the concentrations of TPHP and diphenyl phosphate (DPHP) in workers' urine after work were 5.2 and 1.8 times higher than those before work, respectively. Two nail salons that had the highest nail polish usage also had very high concentrations of TPHP in surgical masks, dust, and UPAS. TPHP concentrations in workers' urine after work were 19 and 13 times those before work, respectively, in these two salons. Human internal exposure assessment showed that the average exposure dose of TPHP after work was 1.8 times higher than that before work. On average, use of masks reduced OPEs in urine by 77%. In conclusion, frequent mask replacement is highly recommended, especially in long working circumstances. Without regular replacement, masks may accumulate OPEs from the air, potentially becoming another source of human exposure to OPEs. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the occupational exposure of nail salon workers to OPEs, particularly considering that most practitioners in this industry are young women of reproductive age. [Display omitted] • TPHP concentrations in workers' urine were 5.2 times higher after work. • Nail polish usage led to the highest concentrations of TPHP in worker's urine. • Masks reduced worker exposure to OPEs by an average of 77%. • Frequent mask replacement is recommended, especially for long-term working conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron-biochar composite is a promising catalyst in Fenton-like system for removal of organic pollutants. Nevertheless, low cycling rate of Fe(III)/Fe(II), high iron leaching and low H 2 O 2 utilization efficiency impedes its application. Herein, a iron-based biochar (C-Fe) coated with tartaric acid (TA) was synthesized. The specific structure of inherent graphitized carbon and TA coating improved the removal efficiency of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) to 93%, promoted 2-fold increase in HO• production in H 2 O 2 activation, improved the cycling rate of Fe(III)/Fe(II), and mitigated Fe leaching significantly. The developed HO• and 1O 2 dominated Fenton-like system had an excellent pH universality and anti-interference to inorganic ions and real water matrixes. Moreover, C-Fe-TA has been shown to efficiently degrade DBP by using the dissolved oxygen in water to generate HO•. This work provided a novel insight for sustainable and efficient HO• and 1O 2 generation, which motivated the development of new water treatment technology based on efficient iron-biochar catalyst. [Display omitted] • Iron-based biochar coated (C-Fe) with tartaric acids (TA) was synthesized. • HO.• production and DBP removal was improved in (C-Fe-TA) Fenton-like system. • Tartaric acid coating improved the cycling rate of Fe(III)/Fe(II). • Tartaric acid coating mitigated the Fe leaching significantly. • Graphitized C and TA coating simultaneously facilitated HO.• and 1O 2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalate esters (PAEs), as emerging pollutants, pose a serious threat to human health and have become a major concern in the fields of environmental protection and food safety. Selective adsorption using molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) is feasible, but most MIPs use the potentially toxic methacrylic acid (MAA) as a functional monomer, along with other crosslinking agents. In this study, MIP adsorbent was prepared using only ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as both the functional monomer and crosslinking agent, without the inclusion of MAA. The adsorbent was utilized for the adsorption of PAEs from an ethanol aqueous solution. The results showed that EGDMA-based MIP (EMIP) achieved better adsorption performance of PAEs than MAA-based MIP (MMIP) due to more interactions of EGDMA with PAEs than MAA with them. For the adsorption of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) using EMIP, 95% of the equilibrium adsorption capacity was achieved within the first 15 min. In the isotherm analysis, the theoretical maximum adsorption capacity of EMIP was obtained as high as 159.24 mg/g at 20 °C in an ethanol (10 v%) aqueous solution. Furthermore, the adsorption of EMIP was not affected by the pH of the solution. The adsorption process of EMIP followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich isotherm model. Ethanol had a significant impact on the adsorption of DBP, and the results of molecular simulation could validate this. In addition, the regeneration experiments indicated that EMIP could be recycled 5 times without significant performance change and had a high recovery efficiency of 94.55%. [Display omitted] • Only EGDMA is used for preparing MIP, excluding the potentially toxic MAA. • EGDMA-based MIP achieves a higher adsorption performance than MAA-based one. • 95% of equilibrium adsorption capacity can be achieved within the initial 15 min. • The influence of ethanol on PAEs adsorption is validated by molecular simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of leachates from micronized beached plastics of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean on coastal marine ecosystems was investigated by using a multidisciplinary approach. Chemical analysis and ecotoxicological tests on phylogenetically distant species were performed on leachates from the following plastic categories: bottles, pellets, hard plastic (HP) containers, fishing nets (FN) and rapido trawling rubber (RTR). The bacteria Alivibrio fischeri , the nauplii of the crustaceans Amphibalanus amphitrite and Acartia tonsa , the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis , the embryos of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus , the ephyrae of the jellyfish Aurelia sp. and the larvae of the medaka Oryzias latipes were exposed to different concentrations of leachates to evaluate lethal and sub-lethal effects. Thirty-one additives were identified in the plastic leachates; benzophenone, benzyl butyl phthalate and ethylparaben were present in all leachates. Ecotoxicity of leachates varied among plastic categories and areas, being RTR, HP and FN more toxic than plastic bottles and pellets to several marine invertebrates. The ecotoxicological results based on 13 endpoints were elaborated within a quantitative weight of evidence (WOE) model, providing a synthetic hazard index for each data typology, before their integrations in an environmental risk index. The WOE assigned a moderate and slight hazard to organisms exposed to leachates of FN and HP collected in the Mediterranean Sea respectively, and a moderate hazard to leachates of HP from the Atlantic Ocean. No hazard was found for pellet, bottles and RTR. These findings suggest that an integrated approach based on WOE on a large set of bioassays is recommended to get a more reliable assessment of the ecotoxicity of beached-plastic leachates. In addition, the additives leached from FN and HP should be further investigated to reduce high concentrations and additive types that could impact marine ecosystem health. [Display omitted] • Beached-plastic leachate toxicity was assessed in aquatic organisms. • Chemical analyses detected a cocktail of leached compounds. • Leachate toxicity was found in marine zooplankton and not in bacteria and fish. • Weight of Evidence estimated environmental hazards in fishing nets and hard plastics. • Additives leached from certain plastics should be further monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) contamination has raised global concern for decades, while its health risk with toxic mechanisms requires further elaboration. This study used zebrafish ZF4 cells to investigate the toxicity of ferroptosis with underlying mechanisms in response to DBP exposure. Results showed that DBP induced ferroptosis, characterized by accumulation of ferrous iron, lipid peroxidation, and decrease of glutathione peroxidase 4 levels in a time-dependent manner, subsequently reduced cell viability. Transcriptome analysis revealed that voltage-dependent anion-selective channel (VDAC) in mitochondrial outer membrane was upregulated in ferroptosis signaling pathways. Protecting mitochondria with a VDAC2 inhibitor or siRNAs attenuated the accumulation of mitochondrial superoxide and lipid peroxides, the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), and the overload of iron levels, suggesting VDAC2 oligomerization mediated the influx of iron into mitochondria that is predominant and responsible for mitochondria-dependent ferroptosis under DBP exposure. Furthermore, the pivotal role of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) was identified in the transcriptional regulation of vdac2 by ChIP assay. And the intervention of atf4b inhibited DBP-induced VDAC2 upregulation and oligomerization. Taken together, this study reveals that ATF4-VDAC2 signaling pathway is involved in the DBP-induced ferroptosis in zebrafish ZF4 cells, contributing to the in-depth understanding of biotoxicity and the ecological risk assessment of phthalates. [Display omitted] • Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) exposure induces ferroptosis in zebrafish cell. • Voltage-dependent anion-selective channel 2 (VDAC2) is responsible for ferroptosis. • Activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) regulates vdac2 expression. • ATF4-VDAC2 signaling pathway participates in the DBP-induced ferroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasticizers such as phthalate esters (PAEs) are commonly used in various consumer and industrial products. This widespread use raises valid concerns regarding their ubiquity in the environment and potential negative impacts. The present study investigates the distribution of eight common plasticizers in the largest European lagoon (Curonian Lagoon) located in the SE Baltic Sea. The concentration levels of plasticizers in the water column, containing both the dissolved and particulate-bound phases, and in sediments were evaluated to reveal seasonal patterns in distribution and potential effects on the lagoon ecosystem. A total of 24 water samples and 48 sediment samples were collected across all four seasons from the two dominant sedimentary areas within the lagoon. The average concentration of total PAEs in the water column ranged from 1 to 21 μg L−1, whereas sediment concentration varied from 5.0 to 250 ng g−1. The distribution of plasticizers was influenced by the patterns in hydrodynamics and water circulation within the lagoon. The confined south-central area contained a higher amount of PAEs in sediments, accounting for most of the lagoon's plasticizer accumulation. More than 7 tons of plasticizers are stored in the 5 upper centimetres of sediment, with over 3 tons persisting for more than five years. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), Diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP), and Dibutyl phthalate (DnBP) were the most abundant PAE congeners, with DEHP posing the highest risk quotient to algae, based on water column concentration. Several other congeners demonstrated medium to high-risk levels for organisms living in the lagoon. [Display omitted] • The concentration of plasticizer in sediment exhibits strong seasonal pattern. • Higher molecular weight of plasticizers tends to accumulate more in sediment. • Grain size and organic carbon content dominate the distribution of plasticizer in environment. • Plasticizers can remain stored in sediment for periods exceeding 5 years. • The concentration of specific plasticizers pose a high ecological risk in the lagoon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is the largest producer and consumer of phthalates in the world. However, it remains unclear whether China's phthalate restrictions have alleviated indoor phthalate pollution. We extracted the concentrations of dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in indoor dust at 2762 sites throughout China between 2007 and 2019 from the published literature. Based on these data, we investigated the effects of phthalate restrictions and environmental factors on the temporal-spatial distribution and sources of phthalates and estimated human exposure and risk of phthalates. The results revealed that the mean concentrations of phthalates in indoor dust throughout China decreased in the following order: DEHP > DBP > DIBP > DMP > DEP > BBP. The concentrations of six phthalates were generally higher in northern and central-western China than in southern regions. BBP and DEHP concentrations decreased by 73.5% and 17.9%, respectively, from 2007 to 2019. Sunshine was a critical environmental factor in reducing phthalate levels in indoor dust. Polyvinyl chloride materials, personal care products, building materials, and furniture were the primary sources of phthalates in indoor dust. The phthalates in indoor dust posed the most significant threat to children and older adults. This study provides a picture of phthalate pollution, thus supporting timely and effective policies and legislation. [Display omitted] • China's phthalate restrictions have alleviated indoor specific phthalate pollution. • BBP and DEHP concentrations decreased by 73.5% and 17.9%, respectively, from 2007 to 2019. • Sunshine was a key environmental factor in reducing phthalate levels in indoor dust. • Policymakers should consider limiting the use of phthalates in personal care products. • More attention should be paid to the health risks of children and the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) plasticizers are virulent endocrine disruptors that are mixed into plastics while fabricating and can filter out once they release into the surrounding environments. Plastic surfaces serve as new habitats for microorganisms, referred to as 'plastisphere'. Previous metagenomic investigations of the 'plastisphere' indicated that marine plastic surfaces may harbor microbes that degrade PAEs plasticizers. To our knowledge, the potential of microorganisms in the marine 'plastisphere' to metabolize PAEs is poorly understood. In this study, by screening the natural microbial community on plastic debris that had been deployed in situ for up to 20 months, a novel marine bacterium, Microbacterium esteraromaticum DEHP-1, was successfully isolated, which could degrade and mineralize 10–200 mg/L dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). According to the results of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and whole genome mining of strain DEHP-1, we found that strain DEHP-1 may metabolize DBP by successive removal of the ester side chain by esterase 2518 to produce mono-butyl phthalate (MBP) and phthalic acid (PA), whereas the degradation of DEHP may take place by the direct action of monooxygenase 0132 on the fatty acid side chain of the DEHP molecule to produce di-n-hexyl phthalate (DnHP) and DBP, and then the subsequent hydrolysis of DBP by de-esterification to PA and finally into the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Non-targeted metabolomics results showed that intracellular degradation of PAEs did not happen. However, exposure to PAEs was found to significantly affect pathways such as arginine and proline, riboflavin, glutathione and lysine degradation. Therefore, the intracellular metabolic behavior of strain DEHP-1 exposed to PAEs was proposed for the first time. This study sheds light on the metabolic capacity and strategies of bacteria in the marine 'plastisphere' to effectively degrade PAEs and highlights the importance of marine microbes in mitigating plastic poisonousness. [Display omitted] • A new marine strain capable of degrading and mineralizing PAEs was isolated. • Strain DEHP-1 metabolizes PAEs pathways and key gene clusters were revealed. • Strain DEHP-1 uses diverse mechanisms to metabolize DBP and DEHP. • Intracellular metabolic response model of strain DEHP-1 under PAEs stress was probed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), one of the most widely used plasticizers, is a known environmental endocrine disruptor that impairs male and female fertility. In this study, oral administration of DBP was given to pregnant mice on 14.5 days post coitus (dpc) for 3 days; and additionally, DBP was added into the culture of 14.5 dpc fetal ovaries for 3 days. DBP exposure during gestation disturbed the progression of meiotic prophase I of mouse oocytes, specifically from the zygotene to pachytene stages. Meanwhile, the DBP-exposed pachytene oocytes showed increased homologous recombination sites and unrepaired DNA damage. Furthermore, DBP caused DNA damage by increasing oxidative stress, decreased the expression of multiple critical meiotic regulators, and consequently induced oocyte apoptosis. Moreover, the effect of DBP on meiosis I prophase involved estrogen receptors α and β. Collectively, these results demonstrated a set of meiotic defects in DBP-exposed fetal oocytes. As aberrations in homologous recombination can result in aneuploid gametes and embryos, this study provides new support for the deleterious effects of phthalates. Image 1 • Fetal exposure of DBP inhibits the progression of meiotic prophase I in oocytes. • Fetal exposure of DBP increases Homologous Recombination crossovers and DNA damage. • DBP induces oxidative stress and apoptosis in fetal ovary. • Effect of DBP on meiotic prophase I is mediated by Estrogen receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are widely used in various consumer goods. Consequently, humans are constantly exposed to EDCs, which is associated with a variety of endocrine-related diseases. In this study, we demonstrated the effects of bisphenol A (BPA), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) on estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) expression under normoxia and hypoxia. First, we confirmed the effects of EDCs on ER activity using OECD Test Guideline 455. Compared to the 100% activity induced by 1 nM 17-β-estradiol (positive control), BPA and BBP exhibited 50% ERα activation at concentrations of 1.31 μM and 4.8 μM, respectively. In contrast, and consistent with previous reports, DEHP did not activate ERα. ERα is activated and degraded by hypoxia in breast cancer cells. BPA, BBP, and DEHP enhanced ERα-mediated transcriptional activity under hypoxia. All three EDCs decreased ERα protein levels under hypoxia in MCF-7 cells. The transcriptional activity of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 was decreased and secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was increased by BPA and BBP under hypoxia in MCF-7 cells, but not by DEHP. All three EDCs decreased the ERα protein expression level in Ishikawa human endometrial adenocarcinoma cells, and DEHP caused a weak decrease in VEGF secretion under hypoxia. These results demonstrate down-regulation of ERα by EDCs may influence the pathological state associated with hypoxia. Image 1 • BPA, BBP, and DEHP enhanced ERα-mediated transcriptional activity under hypoxia. • BPA, BBP and DEHP decreased ERα protein levels in the hypoxic state regardless of estrogenic activitiy. • BPA, BBP, and DEHP slightly inhibited HRE activity in MCF-7 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Di(n- butyl) phthalate (DBP) is extensively used in industrial applications as plasticizer and stabilizer and its presence in the environment may present health risks for human. Previous studies have demonstrated its mutagenic, teratogenic, and carcinogenic ability. However, its effect on mammalian oocyte maturation remains unknown. In this study, we examined the effect of DBP on oocyte maturation both in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed that DBP could significantly reduce mice oocyte germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and polar body extrusion (PBE) rates. In addition, oocyte cytoskeleton was damaged and cortical granule-free domains (CGFDs) were also disrupted. Finally, DBP induced early apoptosis of oocyte and granulosa cells (GCs). Collectively, these data demonstrate that DBP could reduce meiosis competence and mouse oocyte development. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • DBP could reduce meiosis competence and mice oocyte development. • DBP reduce mice oocyte meiosis and development, induced oocyte early apoptosis. • DBP effects on oocyte maturation both in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The concentrations, congener profiles and spatial distribution of 13 phthalate esters (PAEs) in the freshwater fish ponds in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region were investigated in water and sediment samples collect from 22 sites during Jul. 2016–Sept. 2017. The di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) was the predominant compounds in both water and sediment samples, accounting for 70.1% and 66.1% of ∑PAEs, respectively. The DEHP concentrations in the water samples collected from the sites of Zhongshan (35.7 μg/L), Jingmen (17.3 μg/L) and Nanhai (14.2 μg/L) were higher than that collected from other sampling sites (p < 0.05), and exceed the Chinese environmental quality standards for surface water (DEHP, 8.00 μg/L). The concentrations of ΣPAEs (mean and median were 11.8 mg/kg dw and 7.95 mg/kg dw) in sediment was higher than that in sediment of river and estuary in the PRD region (p < 0.05). The median concentrations of DEHP and di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) exceeded recommend environmental risk limit (ERL) that posed a potential risk to the aquaculture fish pond environment in the PRD. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • Phthalate esters were determined in the aquaculture fish ponds of PRD. • DEHP was the predominant compounds in the fish ponds. • DEHP content in the water sample exceeded the local environmental quality standard. • The DEHP and DBP exceeded a recommend environmental risk limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are environmental endocrine disruptors thought to interfere with glucose metabolism in humans. Most of the related research has focused on population epidemiological studies, with the underlying mechanisms remaining unresolved. Using an in vivo animal model, we examined the effects of oral administration of two commonly used PAEs [di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP)] on glucose homeostasis and insulin secretion. DEHP (750 mg/kg, 1/40 LD 50), DBP (500 mg/kg, 1/40 LD 50), and DEHP (750 mg/kg) + DBP (500 mg/kg) exert an influence on glucose metabolism and elicit a reduction in insulin sensitivity in rats. Furthermore, these substances induce detrimental effects on the structure and functionality of pancreatic β-cells. DEHP and/or DBP triggered an increase in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduction in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity; a reduction in the phosphorylation of phosphatidyl inositol 3 kinase (PI3K) and phospho-protein kinase B (p-Akt473) proteins; an increase in the relative expression of Bax, Caspase-8, cleaved-Caspase-9, and cleaved-Caspase-3; and a reduction in the relative expression of Bcl-2-related Bax in pancreatic tissue and of gastrocnemius glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) in the gastrocnemius muscle. Based on these findings, these PAEs can disrupt glucose metabolism, possibly via oxidative damage of the PI3K/Akt/GLUT4 pathway; this damage induces pancreatic β-cell apoptosis, affects pancreatic β-cell function, and affects glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in rats. To the best of our knowledge, this study was the first to show that the combined effect of the two PAEs affects glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in rats that is significantly higher than the effects of each PAE. Thus, safety standards and studies do not consider this effect as a significant oversight when blending PAEs. We assert that this must be addressed and corrected for establishing more impactful and safer standards. [Display omitted] • Typical phthalic acid esters (PAEs) can cause glucose metabolism disorders in rats. • PI3K/Akt/GLUT4 is involved in the disorders of rats exposed to typical PAEs. • A combination of typical PAEs caused more pronounced effects than single PAEs. • Typical PAEs are risk factor to induce type-2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human exposure to phthalates (PAEs) occurs primarily through diet, but the contribution of dietary exposure to the total internal exposure of PAEs has not been well studied. This work investigated the relationship between dietary exposure and human internal exposure to PAEs. Daily food samples were determined to evaluate the health risk of dietary exposure, and phthalate metabolites (mPAEs) were determined from urine samples of 360 volunteers of Guangzhou to assess their internal exposure. The total mPAEs concentration in the urine samples ranged from 8.43 to 1872 ng/mL, with mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) being the most predominant mPAEs. The concentration of PAEs in food ranged from n.d-40200 μg/kg, and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBzP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) were the most prevalent. PAE exposure was significantly associated with age, and children exhibited the highest concentration of mPAEs. Using Monte Carlo simulation to estimate PAE exposure's health risk eliminated uncertainties caused by single-point sampling and provided more reliable statistical results. The hazard quotient (HQ) was used to evaluate PAE exposure health risks. The results showed that 37% of the volunteers had HQ levels higher than 1 based on urinary mPAE concentrations, while 24% of the volunteers had HQ levels greater than 1 because of dietary exposure to PAEs. Dietary intake was the predominant exposure route for PAEs, and accounted for approximately 65% (24% out of 37%) of the cases where HQ levels exceeded 1. The work revealed the correlation between dietary external and internal exposure to PAEs, and further studies are needed to better understand the implications. [Display omitted] • The relationship between dietary exposure and internal exposure to PAEs was evaluated. • Dietary exposure accounted for approximately 65% of the volunteers where HQ levels exceeded 1. • 37% of the volunteers had PAE exposures exceeding the recommended daily intake level. • PAE exposure correlated significantly with age, with children having the highest levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human hair and street dust from rural and urban areas in Chongqing were collected to analyze Organophosphate esters (OPEs) and phthalate esters (PAEs). Concentrations of OPEs in urban hair were significantly higher than those in rural hair, whereas PAEs concentrations in rural hair were significantly higher than those in urban hair. Different composition patterns of OPEs were observed in rural and urban hair, where tris (2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate (TCIPP), tris (butyl) phosphate (TNBP) and triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) were the dominating analogues in rural hair, accounting for 62.1% of the OPEs burden, and tris (methylphenyl) phosphate (TMPP) exhibited a high contribution in urban hair, responsible for 51.3% of total OPEs, which differed from the composition profiles in corresponding street dust. Analogous composition patterns of PAEs were found in hair of both areas. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dibutyl phthalate (DNBP), diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) and diethyl phthalate (DEP) were the most abundant analogues in hair samples, while DEHP was the predominant analogue in dust samples. No clear tendency was obtained between the increasing ages and the concentrations of both compounds. Most OPEs and PAEs congeners showed significantly positive correlation with one another in rural hair. On the contrary, different correlation patterns were observed in urban hair for OPEs and PAEs, indicating multiple or additional sources existed in urban areas. Significant correlations of OPEs and PAEs were found between hair and corresponding street dust samples, but poor correlations of OPEs and PAEs were observed between rural hair and rural indoor dust, suggesting that street dust may be a predominant exogenous source for human exposure to OPEs and PAEs in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diethyl phthalate (DEP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) are two typical small phthalate esters, extensively used in personal care and consumer products. Although previous studies have linked phthalate esters to several health issues, it is still unclear whether they can affects the early stages of embryonic development. In this study, we evaluated the early developmental neurotoxicity as well as the cytotoxicity of DEP and DBP, using mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Our results showed that both DEP and DBP could decrease mESC viability in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, while DBP could activate the caspase-3/7 enzymes and cause cell membrane damage as well as intracellular ROS accumulation, interestingly DEP treatment only showed stimulation of ROS production. In addition, DEP and DBP treatment at non-cytotoxic concentrations, abnormally altered the expression levels of several vitally important regulators of embryo development. For instance, neural ectoderm markers, such as Pax6 , Nestin , Sox1 and Sox3 , were significantly up-regulated upon DEP and DBP exposure. In conclusion, our work suggests a potential developmental toxicity of DEP and DBP on mammals, especially for neural ectoderm specification. Our findings help better understand the association between health problems and DEP/DBP exposure and most significantly remind us of the importance of additional health risk tests for these two largely used chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Exposure to phthalate esters (PAEs) has been associated with childhood asthma, but the congener-specific effects of PAEs on childhood asthma were unclear. We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze observational studies on the associations between specific effects of PAEs and the risk of childhood asthma. Material and methods Relevant studies were identified by searching three databases up to October 20, 2016. The reference lists of the retrieved articles were also reviewed. We included observational studies that reported risk estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations between phthalate exposure and the risk of childhood asthma. Fixed-effects models were generally applied to calculate pooled risk estimates. When heterogeneity was present, random-effects models were applied. Results A total of nine studies featuring 43 data points were included in our final meta-analyses. Results indicated that the benzyl butyl phthalate (BBzP) exposure had a significant association with the risk of childhood asthma. The Odd Ratios (ORs) were from 1.39 to 1.41 for different combination strategies. Subgroup analyses by different exposure period or samples used showed that prenatal exposure to BBzP had a stronger association with the risk of childhood asthma (OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.09–1.75), compared to those with postnatal exposure. Besides, the association was evident when the phthalate exposure was measured from dust samples. The OR for the associations between di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) in dust and childhood asthma was 2.71 (95% CI = 1.39–5.28), and 2.08 (95% CI = 1.10–3.92) for BBzP. Conclusions Our study suggested a positive association between DEHP and BBzP exposure and childhood asthma. Future studies are warranted to identify the underlying mechanisms of the association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) is a common environmental pollutant, it is high in paints, adhesives and other decorative materials, food packaging bags, cleaning agents, is a plasticizer is very widely used in daily life. However, it remains unknown whether BBP causes damage to oocytes cultured in vitro and whether there is an effective rescue strategy. Here, we evaluated the effects of exposure to different concentrations of BBP (10, 50, and 100 μM) on the meiosis of porcine oocytes. The results showed that exposure to BBP (100 μM) severely impaired expansion of cumulus-oocyte complex (COCs) and PBE (control:71.6% vs 100 μM: 48.8%). Spindle conformation and chromosome alignment were also significantly abnormal (34.8% and 46.0%, respectively) compared to the control (11.1% and 17.5%, respectively), and BBP caused damage to microfilaments and cortical granules (CGs). In addition, oocyte exposure to BBP induced impaired mitochondrial function and disrupted mitochondrial integrity. Silibinin is a natural active substance isolated from the seeds of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertneri with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Noteworthy, we added different concentrations of silibinin (10, 20, and 50 μM) to BBP-exposed oocytes for rescue experiments, where 50 μM effectively rescued BBP-induced meiotic failure (70.6%). It also prevented the generation of excessive autophagy and apoptosis in oocytes by inhibiting the production of ROS. In a word, our results suggest that supplementation of silibinin attenuates the impaired oocyte development caused by BBP exposure，which provides a potential strategy to protect oocytes from environmental pollutants. The exposure to Butyl Benzyl Phthalate (BBP) can severely impair the expansion of Cumulus-Oocyte Complexes (COCs) and Pre-Implantation Embryos (PBE). BBP can cause damage to microfilaments and cortical granules (CGs) and significantly alter spindle conformation and chromosome alignment when compared to the control group. Furthermore, BBP exposure can impair mitochondrial function and disrupt mitochondrial integrity in oocytes. Silibinin was found to be effective in rescuing BBP-induced meiotic failure and preventing excessive autophagy and apoptosis in oocytes by inhibiting Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production. [Display omitted] • BBP exposure led to the failure of oocyte meiotic maturation. • BBP exposed oocytes involved mitochondrial function disruption and early apoptosis. • Silibinin supplementation enhances meiotic competency of oocytes exposed to BBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollution of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) in aquatic environments is becoming an extensive environmental problem and detrimental to aquatic animals. Here, we quantified the response pattern of the bacterial community and metabolites of swimming crab (Portunus trituberculatus) juveniles exposed to 0.2, 2, and 10 mg/L DBP using 16 S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing coupled with metabolomic technique. The results showed that DBP changed the bacterial community compositions in a concentration-dependent pattern and decreased the Shannon index at the second developmental stage of the swimming crabs. The Rhodobacteraceae taxa were specifically enriched by crabs when challenged by 2 and 10 mg/L DBP, with an increased in Shannon index and enhanced drift in its assembly. Moreover, DBP changed the metabolic profiling of the swimming crab, highlighted by increased levels of lactate, valine, methionine, lysine, and phenylalanine in the 10 mg/L DBP-exposed crabs. Rhodobacteraceae presented the most considerable contribution to the metabolic potentials in phthalate and benzoate degradation, lactate production, and amino acid biosynthesis. Overall, our results indicated an adaptive change of crab-associated bacteria helped the host resist DBP stress. The findings extend our insights into the relationship between the microbiota and its host metabolism under DBP stress and reveal the potential microbiota modalities for DBP detoxification. [Display omitted] • Bacterial community changed in a DBP concentration-dependent pattern. • DBP increased the Shannon index of Rhodobacteraceae via enhanced drift process. • DBP changed the metabolic profiling of the swimming crab. • Rhodobacteraceae contributed most to DBP degradation and metabolite biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uptake and accumulation by plants is a significant pathway in the migration and transformation of phthalate esters (PAEs) in the environment. However, limited information is available on the mechanisms of PAE metabolism in plants. Here, we investigated the metabolism of di- n -butyl phthalate (DnBP), one of the most frequently detected PAEs, in pumpkin ( Cucurbita moschata ) seedlings via a series of hydroponic experiments with an initial concentration of 10 mg L −1 . DnBP hydrolysis occurred primarily in the root, and two of its metabolites, mono- n -butyl phthalate (MnBP) and phthalic acid (PA), were detected in all plant tissues. The MnBP concentration was an order of magnitude higher than that of PA in shoots, which indicated MnBP was more readily transported to the shoot than was PA because of the former's dual hydrophilic and lipophilic characteristics. More than 80% of MnBP and PA were located in the cell water-soluble component except that 96% of MnBP was distributed into the two solid cellular fractions (i.e., cell wall and organelles) at 96 h. A 13–20% and 29–54% increase of carboxylesterase (CXE) activity shown in time-dependent and concentration-dependent experiments, respectively, indicated the involvement of CXEs in plant metabolism of DnBP. The level of CXE activity in root subcellular fractions was in the order: the cell water-soluble component (88–94%) >> cell wall (3–7%) > cell organelles (3–4%), suggesting that the cell water-soluble component is the dominant locus of CXE activity and also the domain of CXE-catalyzed hydrolysis of DnBP. The addition of triphenyl phosphate, a CXE inhibitor, led to 43–56% inhibition of CXE activity and 16–25% increase of DnBP content, which demonstrated the involvement of CXEs in plant metabolism of DnBP. This study contributes to our understanding of enzymitic mechanisms of PAE transformation in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic and plasticiser pollution of marine environments is a growing concern. Although phthalates, one group of plasticisers, are rapidly metabolised by mammals, they are found ubiquitously in humans and have been linked with metabolic disorders and altered adipose function. Phthalates may also present a threat to marine mammals, which need to rapidly accumulate and mobilise their large fat depots. High molecular weight (HMW) phthalates may be most problematic because they can accumulate in adipose. We used blubber explants from juvenile grey seals to examine the effects of overnight exposure to the HMW, adipogenic phthalate, benzyl butyl phthalate (BBzP) on expression of key adipose-specific genes and on phosphorylation of Akt in response to insulin. We found substantial differences in transcript abundance of Pparγ, Insig2, Fasn, Scd, Adipoq and Lep between moult stages, when animals were also experiencing differing mass changes, and between tissue depths, which likely reflect differences in blubber function. Akt abundance was higher in inner compared to outer blubber, consistent with greater metabolic activity in adipose closer to muscle than skin, and its phosphorylation was stimulated by insulin. Transcript abundance of Pparγ and Fasn (and Adipoq in some animals) were increased by short term (30 min) insulin exposure. In addition, overnight in vitro BBzP exposure altered insulin-induced changes in Pparγ (and Adipoq in some animals) transcript abundance, in a tissue depth and moult stage-specific manner. Basal or insulin-induced Akt phosphorylation was not changed. BBzP thus acted rapidly on the transcript abundance of key adipose genes in an Akt-independent manner. Our data suggest phthalate exposure could alter seal blubber development or function, although the whole animal consequences of these changes are not yet understood. Knowledge of typical phthalate exposures and toxicokinetics would help to contextualise these findings in terms of phthalate-induced metabolic disruption risk and consequences for marine mammal health. [Display omitted] • Examined juvenile grey seal blubber response to benzyl butyl phthalate (BBzP). • Gene expression and total Akt differed by tissue depth and moult stage/mass change. • Signalling through Akt was initiated by insulin and unaffected by BBzP. • BBzP altered basal and insulin-induced PPARγ expression independent of Akt. • Phthalates may disrupt blubber function in seals in a life-stage specific way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a plasticizer derived from phthalate ester, is used as an additive in industrial products such as plastics, paints, and medical devices. However, DEHP is known as an endocrine-disrupting chemical, causing cancers and adverse effects on human health. This study evaluated DEHP biodegradation efficiency via food waste composting during 35 days of incubation. At high DEHP concentrations (2167 mg kg−1) in food waste compost mixture, the DEHP biodegradation efficiency was 99% after 35 days. The highest degradation efficiency was recorded at the thermophilic phase (day 3 - day 11) with the biodegradation rate reached 187 mg kg−1 day−1. DEHP was metabolized to dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and dimethyl phthalate (DMP) and would be oxidized to benzyl alcohol (BA) and mineralized into CO 2 and water via various metabolisms. Finally, the compost's quality with residual DEHP was evaluated using Brassica chinensis L. seeds via 96 h of germination tests. The compost (at day 35) with a trace amount of DEHP as the end product showed no significant effect on the germination rate of Brassica chinensis L. seeds (88%) compared to that without DEHP (94%), indicating that the compost can be reused as fertilizer in agricultural applications. These results provide an improved understanding of the DEHP biodegradation via food waste composting without bioaugmentation and hence facilitating its green remediation and conversion into value-added products. Nevertheless, further studies are needed on DEHP biodegradation in large-scale food waste composting or industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abundance of plastic debris (PDs) and its correlation with phthalic acid esters (PAEs), a class of pollutants associated with plastics, is not well understood, although PDs have been reported in relation to the release and distribution of aquatic pollutants such as PAEs. Few studies have linked the distribution of these pollutants in seawater. The current study examined the abundance and relationship of PDs and PAEs in seawater from Sharm Obhur and the Red Sea. Estimates were also made of their ecological impacts. Sharm Obhur is a semi-enclosed bay on the eastern shore of the Red Sea, near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and is heavily impacted by human activities. Contaminants from Sharm Obhur may be transported into the deep waters of the Red Sea by the subsurface outflow. The PAEs concentrations in the study area ranged from 0.8 to 1224 ng/L. Among the six PAEs studied, diethyl phthalate (DEP) (22–1124 ng/L), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) (9–346 ng/L) and di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) (62–640 ng/L) were the predominant additives detected across all the sampling sits. Whereas the other PAEs, dimethyl phthalate (DMP) (5–76 ng/L), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) (4–25 ng/L) and di-n-octyl phthalate DnOp (0.5–80 ng/L) were generally lower in most samples. The sum of the six analyzed PAEs (∑ 6 PAEs) was lower at Sharm Obhur (587 ± 82 ng/L) and in the Red Sea shelf (677 ± 182 ng/L) compared to the Red Sea shelf break (1266 ± 354 ng/L). This suggests that degradation and adsorption of PAEs were higher in Sharm Obhur and on the shelf than on the shelf break. In contrast, there was no difference in the abundance of PDs between Sharm Obhur (0.04 ± 0.02 PDs/m3), Red Sea shelf (0.05 ± 0.02 PDs/m3) and in the Red Sea shelf break (0.03 ± 0.1 PDs/m3). Polyethylene (32%) and polypropylene (8%) were dominant, mostly smaller than 5 mm2 (78%), with the majority consisting of white (52%) and black (24%) fragments (39%), fibers (35%) and films (24%). A positive correlation between PAE concentration and abundance of PDs, suggests either a common source or a causal link through leaching. The ecological risk of ∑ 4 PAEs (DMP, DEP, DBP and DEHP) ranged from (0.20–0.78), indicating a low to moderate risk for the Red Sea. The pollution index of PDs ranged from (0.14–0.36), showing that the Sharm Obhur and both sites of Red Sea suffered relatively low pollution. [Display omitted] • This study examined MP concentrations and PAE distribution in a semi-enclosed Sharm Obhur leading to the Red Sea. • DEP, DBP and DEHP are the predominant PAEs. • A positive relationship was found between PAE concentration and PDs abundance. • The ecological risk of PAEs and PDs was found from low to moderate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prenatal exposure to plastic chemicals has been associated with alterations to early-life immune function in children. However, previous studies have generally been small and focused on limited repertoires of immune indices. In a large population-based pre-birth cohort (n = 1074), third-trimester measurements of eight phthalate metabolites and three analogues of bisphenols were used to estimate prenatal exposure to phthalate and bisphenol compounds. In cord blood, immune cell populations were measured by flow cytometry and an extensive panel of cytokines and chemokines were measured by multiplex immunoassay. We used these cord blood analytes to estimate "early life" immune profiles. The full study sample comprises data from 774 infants with prenatal plastic metabolite measurements and any cord blood immune data. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate whether prenatal phthalate and bisphenol exposure was prospectively associated with cord blood immune cell populations and cytokine and chemokine levels. Generally, inverse associations were observed between prenatal phthalate exposure and cord blood immune indices. Higher exposure to di-n-butyl phthalate was associated with lower cord blood levels of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10); higher exposure to the sum of dibutyl phthalates was associated with lower cord blood levels of IP-10; and higher exposure to benzyl butyl phthalate was associated with lower cord blood levels of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β). There was less evidence of associations between bisphenols and cord blood immune indices. These results extend previous work examining prenatal plastic chemical exposure and early-life immune development and highlight the importance of further examination of potential associations with health-related outcomes. [Display omitted] • Prenatal phthalate exposure is associated with lower cytokine levels at birth. • Exposure to di-n-butyl phthalate is associated with lower PDGF and IP-10 levels. • Exposure to the sum of dibutyl phthalates is associated with lower IP-10 levels. • Exposure to benzyl butyl phthalate is associated with lower IL-1β levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic additives (PAs) are chemical compounds incorporated into the plastic during the manufacturing process. Phthalate acid esters, bisphenols, and nonylphenols are all PAs found in marine environments and associated with endocrine-disrupting processes. However, our knowledge regarding the impact of endocrine-disrupting PAs on coral-reef organisms is limited. As reef population structure is directly linked to reproduction and larval settlement processes, interference with hormonal systems can impact coral-reef community structure, particularly if the effects of PAs differ among species. In the current study we exposed the reproductive products of four tropical coral-reef invertebrates to environmentally-relevant concentrations of four prevalent PAs in seawater: dibutyl phthalate (DBP), dimethyl phthalate, (DMP), 4-nonylphenol (4-NP), and bisphenol A (BPA), as well as to 103 higher laboratory concentrations of these PAs. Our results revealed that apart from the significant negative effect of the 1 μg/L of 4-NP on the settlement of the soft coral Rhytisma fulvum , none of the other tested materials demonstrated a significant effect on the exposed organisms at environmentally-relevant concentrations in seawater. The 4-NP high laboratory concentration (1000 μg/L), however, had significant negative effects on all the examined species. The high laboratory BPA concentration (1000 μg/L) significantly reduced fertilization success in the solitary ascidian Herdmania momus , up to its complete failure to reproduce. Moreover, the high laboratory DMP concentration (100 μg/L) had a significant negative effect on planulae settlement of the stony coral Stylophora pistillata. Our findings demonstrate the negative and selective effects of PAs on the development and reproduction of coral-reef organisms; and, specifically, the significant effect found following exposure to 4-NP. Consequently, if we aim to fully understand the impact of these contaminants on this endangered ecosystem, we suggest that the actual concentrations within the living organism tissues should be tested in order to produce relevant risk assessments for brooding-coral species. [Display omitted] • Plastic additives (PAs) selectively affected coral-reef organisms. • High laboratory concentrations of PAs negatively affected gametes and larvae. • At environmentally-relevant concentrations, only 4-NP reduced planulae settlement. • Negative effects of PAs can selectively disrupt coral-reef community structure. • Effects of PAs on brooding organisms require determining at within-tissue levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To increase understanding on the mechanisms of cultivar difference in contaminant accumulation in crops, this study was designed to compare the physiological responses to di- n -butyl phthalate (DBP) exposure between low ( Lvbao70 ) and high ( Huaguan ) DBP cultivars of Chinese flowering cabbage ( Brassica parachinensis L.). Under high DBP exposure, significant differences in various physiological responses were observed between the two cultivars, which might account for the variation in DBP accumulation. Ultrastructure observation also showed different alterations or damages in the mesophyll cell structures between both cultivars, especially for the chloroplast disintegration, starch grain quantity, and plastoglobuli accumulation. Compared with Huaguan , Lvbao70 suffered greater decreases in biomass, chlorophyll content, carbon assimilation, gas exchange parameters, photosynthetic electron transport capacity, and antioxidase activities, which would have resulted in a great reduction of photosynthetic capacity. Although Lvbao70 enhanced energy dissipation and activities of some antioxidant enzymes, they did not provide sufficient protection against oxidative damage caused by DBP. The result suggested that the lower DBP tolerance of Lvbao70 might be associated with its poor physiological performances, which was responsible for its lower DBP accumulation to protect itself from toxicity. Additionally, Lvbao70 had a significantly lower transpiration rate and stomatal conductance than Huaguan , which might be the factors regulating DBP-accumulation variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monobutyl phthalate (MBP) is the main metabolite of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) in vivo. MBP has a stable structure, can continuously accumulate in living organisms, and has the potentially to harm animal and human reproductive function. In the ovarian follicle microenvironment, MBP may lead to defects in follicular development and steroid production, abnormal meiotic maturation, impaired ovarian function and other reproductive deficits. In this study, SMART-seq was used to investigate the effects of MBP exposure on the in vitro maturation (IVM) and development of porcine oocytes. The results showed that differentially expressed genes after MBP exposure were enriched in the biological processes cytoskeleton, cell apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria. Glycine (Gly) improved the developmental potential of porcine oocytes by regulating mitochondrial and ER function. The effect of Gly in protecting oocytes against MBP-induced damage was studied. The results showed that the addition of Gly significantly decreased the rate of MBP-induced spindle abnormalities, decreased the frequency of MBP-induced mitochondria-associated ER membrane (MAM) interactions, and downregulated the protein and gene expression of the linkage molecules Mitofusin 1 (MFN1) and Mitofusin 2 (MFN2) in the MAM. Additionally, treatment with Gly restored the distribution of the 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor 1 (IP 3 R1) and voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1), further decreasing the intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+] i) levels and mitochondrial Ca2+ ([Ca2+] m) , increasing the ER Ca2+ ([Ca2+] ER) levels, and thus significantly increasing the ER levels and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ m). Gly also decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased the levels of Glutathione (GSH), oocyte apoptosis-related indicators (Caspase-3 activity and Annexin V) and oocyte apoptosis-related genes (BAX , Caspase 3 and AIFM1). Our results suggest that Gly can ameliorate microtubule cytoskeleton abnormalities and improve oocyte maturation by reducing the defective mitochondrial–ER interactions caused by MBP exposure in vitro. Graphical abstract showing how Gly ameliorates MBP-induced meiotic abnormalities and apoptosis in porcine oocytes. [Display omitted] • More than 100 genes were altered in porcine oocytes after Monobutyl phthalate (MBP) exposure. • MBP exposure causes abnormal colocalization of mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum. • MBP exposure induces oxidative stress and apoptosis of oocytes. • Glycine ameliorates meiosis defects caused by MBP exposure in porcine oocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) is an extensively used plasticizer that has aroused widespread concern about its potential toxicity. Previous evidences demonstrate that BBP exposure is associated with asthma and impaired lung function. Accumulating data indicates that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), a particular manner of neutrophil death, play a vital role in the pathogenesis of respiratory diseases. However, the immunotoxicity effects of BBP in lung injury are unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate the potential impacts of BBP-induced NETs on lung injury and fibrosis. Mice treated with BBP exhibited significant lung injury, with alveolar hemorrhage, lung edema and increased neutrophil infiltration. Meanwhile, BBP promoted extensive neutrophil infiltration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and NETs deposition in lung tissues. Moreover, BBP clearly triggered NETs formation in vitro , which was confirmed by net-like structures decorated with myeloperoxidase and citrullinated histone H3. Furthermore, BBP fueled glucose uptake and ROS burst of neutrophils playing essential roles during NETs formation. Additionally, we proved that NETs could promote fibrogenesis in murine lung epithelial cells and observed lung fibrosis remarkably after BBP-induced injury. Taken together, our findings indicated that exposure to BBP could increase the risk for lung injury and fibrosis by disturbing innate immunity via NETs formation. [Display omitted] • BBP exposure induces lung injury and fibrosis. • BBP exhibits its immunotoxicity by inducing NETs formation. • BBP fuels glucose uptake and ROS burst of neutrophils during NETs formation. • NETs promote fibrogenesis of lung epithelial cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) can negatively impact freshwater organisms via physical effects of the polymer itself and/or exposure to chemicals added to plastic during production to achieve desired characteristics. Effects on organisms may result from direct exposure to plastic particles and/or chemical additives or effects may manifest as indirect effects through ecological interactions between organisms (e.g., reduced food availability that impairs a consumer). To disentangle these issues, we used a simplified freshwater food web interaction comprising microbes and macroinvertebrate detritivores to evaluate the toxicity of 1) polyvinyl chloride (PVC) MPs without added chemicals (virgin), 2) the common chemical additive dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and 3) PVC MPs with incorporated DBP. Exposure to virgin PVC MPs (0.33 and 3.3 mg/L) caused negligible ecological effect with the exception of reduced macroinvertebrate feeding rates at 3.3 mg/L. Exposure to DBP (1 mg/L) both individually and when incorporated into the PVC MPs negatively impacted all tested endpoints, including microbial and macroinvertebrate respiration, feeding rate and assimilation efficiency. DBP leached rapidly from the MPs into the water, and also accumulated in macroinvertebrates and their food, providing multiple routes of exposure. Our findings suggest that additives which are intentionally incorporated into MPs could play a key role in MP toxicity and contribute to the disruption of key ecological interactions underpinning ecosystem processes, such as leaf litter decomposition. [Display omitted] • Virgin PVC microplastics had little effect on microbial/invertebrate physiology. • PVC microplastics containing dibutyl phthalate affected invertebrate physiology. • Dibutyl phthalate readily leached from PVC microplastics. • Dibutyl phthalate accumulated in the water, leaves and invertebrates. • Microplastic chemical additives may disrupt key benthic food web interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-contamination of organic pollutants and heavy metals is universal in the natural environment. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), a typical plasticizer, frequently coexists with cadmium (Cd) in nature. However, little attention has been given to the impacts of co-contamination by DBP and Cd on microbial communities or the responses of microbes. To address this, a microcosm experiment was conducted by supplying the exogenous DBP-degrading bacterium Glutamicibacter nicotianae ZM05 to investigate the interplay among DBP-Cd co-contamination, the exogenous DBP-degrading bacterium G. nicotianae ZM05, and indigenous microorganisms. To adapt to co-contamination stress, microbial communities adjust their diversity, interactions, and functions. The stability of the microbial community decreased under co-contamination, as evidenced by lower diversity, simpler network, and fewer ecological niches. Microbial interactions were strengthened, as evidenced by enriched pathways related to microbial communications. Meanwhile, interactions between microorganisms enhanced the environmental fitness of the exogenous DBP-degrading bacterium ZM05. Based on co-occurrence network prediction and coculture experiments, metabolic interactions between the non-DBP-degrading bacterium Cupriavidus metallidurans ZM16 and ZM05 were proven. Strain ZM16 utilized protocatechuic acid, a DBP downstream metabolite, to relieve acid inhibition and adsorbed Cd to relieve toxic stress. These findings help to explain the responses of bacterial and fungal communities to DBP-Cd co-contamination and provide new insights for the construction of degrading consortia for bioremediation. [Display omitted] • DBP-Cd co-contamination decreased the stability of microbial community. • Microbial interactions enhanced environmental fitness of DBP-degrading bacterium. • Strain ZM05 and strain ZM16 had synergistic interactions under co-contamination. • Microbial interactions expanded niches of degrading bacterial consortium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An indirect estimation method was followed to derive exposure levels of fifteen phthalate congeners in urban population of Delhi, India. The exposure media samples were collected from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) campus and Okhla industrial area. GC–MS analysis of the samples indicated di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) to be the most abundant congener and its estimated total daily intake level reached upto 70 μg kg−1 d−1. Out of the studied congeners, intake doses for di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) and DEHP, reached levels near or above the established exposure limit. In JNU, DEHP, dimethyl phthalate (DMP) and butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) had 69% share in combined daily intake of Σ15 phthalates (CDI15); whereas, in Okhla, DEHP, diethyl phthalate (DEP), diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP), DnBP and DMP shared 64% of the CDI15. Food was found to be the major source of exposure contributing 67% and 74% of the estimated CDI15 at JNU and Okhla respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The concentrations of six priority phthalic acid esters (PAEs) in intensively managed suburban vegetable soils in Nanjing, east China, were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The total PAE concentrations in the soils ranged widely from 0.15 to 9.68 mg kg−1 with a median value of 1.70 mg kg−1, and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), bis-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and di-n-octyl phthalate (DnOP) were the most abundant phthalate esters. Soil PAE concentrations depended on the mode of use of plastic film in which PAEs were incorporated as plasticizing agents and both the plastic film and poultry manure appeared to be important sources of soil PAEs. Vegetables in rotation with flooded rice led to lower concentrations of PAEs in soil. The results indicate that agricultural plastic film can be an important source of soil PAE contamination and further research is required to fully elucidate the mechanisms of PAE contamination of intensive agricultural soils with different use modes of use of plastic film. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Thyroid hormone (TH) agonist and antagonist activities of water sources along the Yangtze River in China were surveyed by a green monkey kidney fibroblast (CV-1) cell-based TH reporter gene assay. Instrumental analysis was conducted to identify the responsible thyroid-active compounds. Instrumentally derived l-3,5,3′-triiodothyronine (T3) equivalents (T3-EQs) and thyroid receptor (TR) antagonist activity equivalents referring to dibutyl phthalate (DBP-EQs) were calculated from the concentrations of individual congeners. The reporter gene assay demonstrated that three out of eleven water sources contained TR agonist activity equivalents (TR-EQs), ranging from 286 to 293 ng T3/L. Anti-thyroid hormone activities were found in all water sources with the TR antagonist activity equivalents referring to DBP (Ant-TR-EQs), ranging from 51.5 to 555.3 μg/L. Comparisons of the equivalents from instrumental and biological assays suggested that high concentrations of DBP and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) were responsible for the observed TR antagonist activities at some locations along the Yangtze River. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Low-molecular-weight (LMW) phthalate acid esters (PAEs) tend to enter the atmosphere, flying for several kilometers, so it is easy to endanger human health. This work is the first to use quantum chemistry calculations (Gaussian 16 program) and computational toxicology (ECOSAR, TEST, and Toxtree software) to comprehensively study the ozonolysis mechanism of six LMW PAEs (dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dipropyl phthalate (DPP), diisopropyl phthalate (DIP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP)) in the atmosphere and the toxicity of DMP (take DMP as an example) in the conversion process. The results show that the electron-donating effect of the ortho position of the LMW PAEs has the most obvious influence on the ozonolysis. We summarized the ozonation reaction law of LMW PAEs at the optimal reaction site. At 298 K, the law of initial ozonolysis total rate constant of the LMW PAEs is k DIP > k DPP > k DIBP > k DMP > k DEP > k DBP , and the range is 9.56 × 10−25 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 — 1.47 × 10−22 cm3 molecule−1 s−1. According to the results of toxicity assessment, the toxicity of products is lower than DMP for aquatic organisms after ozonolysis. But those products have mutagenicity, developmental toxicity, non-genotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and corrosiveness to the skin. The proposed ozonolysis mechanism promotes our understanding of the environmental risks of PAEs and provides new ideas for studying the degradation of PAEs in the tropospheric gas phase. [Display omitted] • A summary of the initial ozonolysis law of LMW PAEs in the atmosphere. • Taking DMP as an example, the ozonolysis mechanism of PAEs was discussed deeply. • Evaluated the ecotoxicity and health effects of DMP and ozonation products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]