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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), a new class of contaminants of emerging concern in different water sources and industrial discharges, have been highlighted, mainly ascribed to the high mobility, persistent, and bioaccumulative behaviors. In this work, the analytical detection of PFASs in the paper mill processing discharge (PMPD), physicochemical parameters, tannin and lignin, and phenolic content were carried out. The phytotoxicity evaluation and bioaccumulative profiles of PMPD-assisted irrigation have been conducted using a soilless cultivation system. The cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and human exposure risk were ascertained via in vitro assay on the human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell and the estimation of daily intake, respectively. PFASs were quantitatively detected at the mean concentration of 2712.72 ng/L, consisted of mainly perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), perfluoroalkane sulfonic acids (PFSAs), perfluoroalkane sulfonamidoacetic acids (FASAAs), perfluoroalkane sulfonamides (FASAs), and fluorotelomer sulfonic acids (FTSAs). Significant reductions of the physical elongation, dry weight, and chlorophylls up to 33.49%, 31.71%, and 52.17% were recorded. Profound increase in the proline (101.81%), hydrogen peroxide (55.56%), superoxide anion (67.86%), lipid peroxidation (43.91%), and protein oxidation (32.31%), and up-regulation of antioxidant enzymes activities have been quantified. Bioaccumulation and translocation of PFASs revealed a concentration-, chain length- and functional group-dependent trend within different plant compartments. PFASs-contaminated PMPD treatments induced dose-dependent cell viability reduction and DNA damage in the HepG2 cell. The findings have highlighted that PMPD could be an underestimated source of PFASs, which represents a sharp threat to plants and public health via the water-food crop-human continuum. Future studies gearing towards the genomic profiling of PFASs in different plant species are suggested. [Display omitted] • Detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the industrial effluent. • Phytotoxicity evaluation using a hydroponic system. • Distortions of physical traits and chlorophylls in the plant model. • PFASs triggered oxidative stress damages and up-regulation of antioxidant enzymes. • PFASs induced profound dose-dependent cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in human cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of varying nutrient conditions on biofilm formation of a Pseudomonas putida strain isolated from a paper machine under controlled conditions. Biofilm accumulation, was investigated using a laminar flow cell reactor in a defined mineral medium. Our results indicate that increasing nutrient concentration (from 0.1 to 0.5gl−1 glucose, C/N=40, C/P=100) or phosphate concentration (from C/P=200 to C/P=100) increased the rate and extent of biofilm accumulation, however, higher nutrient (1gl−1 glucose, C/N=40, C/P=100) or phosphate (C/P=50) concentration reduced biofilm accumulation rate because of a higher detachment. The rate and extent of biofilm accumulation increased with nitrogen concentration (from C/N=90 to C/N=20). Detachment is a key parameter that influences biofilm accumulation since the early stage (2h) of colonisation and strongly depends on nutrient conditions. In practice, controlling nutrient levels may be interesting to reduce biofilm formation in the paper industry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Paper mill wastes are a mixture of by-products from pulp production and on-site energy production, consisting of paper mill sludge, ash and cinders. Landfilling of these highly boron (B) and heavy metal laden waste products carries environmental risks. Poplars have been successfully employed in the phytomanagement and hydraulic control of B contaminated sites. Here, we assess the performance of hybrid poplars on a paper-mill waste landfill, investigate the accumulation of B by the trees and explore the relationship between local-scale root growth and substrate properties. Leaf and root tissue samples were collected on three plots and analyzed for their chemical properties and root traits. Additionally, we sampled four soil cores in the vicinity of each of the trees and determined chemical and physical properties. Using a principal component analysis followed by a cluster analysis, we identified three substrate types. This method delineated the soil effects on tree survival and growth, although correlations with individual soil element concentrations were weak. Despite signs of B toxicity in some leaves, B was not the key limiting factor for poplar growth. Instead, Ca deficiency caused by a Mg:Ca imbalance was the primary reason for the poor performance of some trees. Root growth was not limited by toxicity effects of soil contaminants. Our results show that hybrid poplars perform well under the harsh growing conditions on a multi-contaminated, B-laden substrate in a hemiboreal climate. Exploiting the differences in the performance of the four clones in relation to the soil types, could increase the success of revegetation on this and other landfills. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The removal of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) from solid matrices has received considerable attention because of the environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and potential toxicity of these compounds. This study presents a simple method using concentrated HNO3 as a suppression agent, and methanol–modified supercritical carbon dioxide (Sc-CO2) extraction for removing PFOS and PFOA from solid matrices. The optimal conditions were 16M HNO3 and 20% (v/v) methanol containing Sc-CO2, under a pressure of 20.3MPa and a temperature of 50°C. Extraction time was set at 70min (40min for static and 30min for dynamic extraction). PFOA and PFOS were identified and quantitated by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. The extraction efficiencies (with double extractions) were close to 100% for PFOA and 80% for PFOS for both paper and fabric matrices. The extraction efficiencies for sand were approximately 77% for PFOA and 59% for PFOS. The results show that this method is accurate, and effective, and that it provides a promising and convenient approach to remediate the environment of hazardous PFOA and PFOS contamination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bats constitute about 22% of known mammal species; they have various ecological roles and provide many ecosystem services. Bats suffer from several threats caused by anthropization, including exposure to toxic metals and metalloids. We analyzed 75 papers in a systematic literature review to investigate how species, diet, and tissue type impact bioaccumulation. Most studies documented element accumulation in fur, liver, and kidney; at least 36 metals and metalloids have been measured in bat tissues, among the most studied were mercury and zinc. Comparisons with known toxicological thresholds for other mammals showed concerning values for mercury and zinc in bat hair, lead and some essential metals in liver, and iron and calcium in kidneys. Moreover, accumulation patterns in tissues differed depending on bat diet: insectivorous bats showed higher metal concentrations in fur than in liver and kidney while frugivorous species showed higher values in liver and kidney than in fur. Finally, among the bat species that have been studied in more than two papers, the big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) show values of mercury in hair and copper in liver that exceed the known thresholds; as does copper in the liver of the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus). Most studies have been conducted in temperate North America and Eurasia, areas with the lowest bat species diversity; there is a paucity of data on tropical bat species. This review points out several information gaps in the understanding of metal contamination in bats, including a lack of measured toxicity thresholds specific for bat tissues. Data on trace element bioaccumulation and its associated health effects on bats is important for conservation of bat species, many of which are threatened. [Display omitted] • Study of bat ecotoxicology is predominantly from Europe, the USA, and Australia. • Hg, Cd, Pb, and Zn exceed thresholds for mammals in certain bat tissues. • Accumulation patterns of trace elements in bats differ depending on diet. • Bat-specific toxicity thresholds are needed to assess bioaccumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Diclofenac, metoprolol, telmisartan, and triclosan were significantly vermiremediated. • Micropollutant accumulation was not dependent on the concentration in sludge. • BAFs of the micropollutants were greater in the samples with lower ratio of sludge. • Presence of sludge showed positive effects on the earthworm biomass. • The earthworms substantially eliminated the present bacterial populations. Vermicomposting represents an environmentally friendly method for the treatment of various types of biowastes, including sewage sludge (SS), as documented in numerous studies. However, there are few papers providing insights into the mechanisms and toxicity effects involved in SS vermicomposting to present a comprehensive overview of the process. In this work, the vermiremediation of SS containing various micropollutants, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, endocrine disruptors, and per/polyfluoroalkyl substances, was studied. Two SSs originating from different wastewater treatment plants (WWTP1 and WWTP2) were mixed with a bulking agent, moistened straw, at ratios of 0, 25, 50, and 75% SS. Eisenia andrei earthworms were introduced into the mixtures, and after six weeks, the resulting materials were subjected to various types of chemical and toxicological analyses, including conventional assays (mortality, weight) as well as tissue- and cell-level assays, such as malondialdehyde production, cytotoxicity tests and gene expression assays. Through the vermiremediation process significant removal of diclofenac (90%), metoprolol (88%), telmisartan (62%), and triclosan (81%) was achieved. Although the concentrations of micropollutants were substantially different in the original SS samples, the micropollutants vermiaccumulated to a similar extent over the incubation period. The earthworms substantially eliminated the present bacterial populations, especially in the 75% SS treatments, in which the average declines were 90 and 79% for WWTP1 and WWTP2, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the vermiremediation of such a large group of micropollutants in real SS samples and provide a thorough evaluation of the effect of SS on earthworms at tissue and cellular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Lateritic gold deposits offer low-cost production, driven by demand and rising prices. • Supergene gold forms through the accumulation and redistribution during weathering. • Ferruginous Gravels and Duricrust deposits are an additional source of gold resources. • Evaluating lateritic gold faces sample heterogeneity and complex distribution challenges. • Understanding metallogeny principles enhances discovery success. Lateritic gold deposits are emerging as a substantial reservoir of precious metals. The growing demand and escalating gold price have focused on lateritic gold and other supergene deposits due to their potential for low-cost production. The occurrence of gold in economic concentrations has been described in supergene-enriched mineralization in many regions dominated by intensely weathered terrains of the humid tropics and sub-tropics, such as equatorial rainforests, savannas, and some Mediterranean regions. Lateritic gold deposits also occur in semi-arid belts with historically similar climates. These deposits form through the physical accumulation and biological and chemical redistribution of Au during the weathering of primary mineralization. This study focuses on the upper ferruginous part of a lateritic profile known as Ferruginous Gravels and Duricrust (FGD) deposits, which includes lateritic residuum and/or similar ferricrete, overlying the ferruginous saprolite or mottled zone. The FGD and saprolite are separate systems with different physical and chemical conditions for Au mobilization. Intense artisanal mining in areas considered barren by geochemical surveys reveals disparities in sampling and analytical methods, such as panning for coarse gold versus geochemical analysis of fine fractions. Coarse gold in FGD significantly contributes to total gold content. Still, small drill samples fail to represent gold distribution accurately—the friable nature of lateritic materials results in low sample recovery rates (55%-70%). This paper synthesizes information from diverse deposits in Africa, South America, and Australia, drawing on academic papers and technical reports from industry to provide a comprehensive global overview of the supergene gold metallogeny and exploration strategies leading to enhance the success of new discoveries or the re-assessment of known deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Closure of water circuits in papermaking is of vital importance for achieving a more sustainable and economic manufacturing of paper. The most important limiting factor for a further closure is the accumulation of dissolved and colloidal materials (DCM). The extent to which DCM can become enriched in the water depends not only on how many times water is reused but also on the degree to which this matter becomes reattached to the fibers and other solid components of the paper furnish. This study analyzes the accumulation of the most typical contaminants in newsprint (NP) and light weight coated (LWC) paper production. Results show that the release of DCM depends on the present contaminant load in the waters: higher at low contaminant load and lower at high contaminant load. A simulation was carried out to analyze the differences between assuming a constant and a variable release of contaminants to waters. Important differences were observed, especially at low fresh water consumption for those species with a major affinity for the fibers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Industrialization, urbanization, and population growth release many pollutants into water resources. Conventional mechanical wastewater treatment plants require a lot of electricity, are not sufficient to remove all pollutants, and generate a large amount of sludge. Therefore, it is crucial to develop economically accepted and environmentally friendly methods for wastewater treatment. The main advantages of bioremediation over conventional treatment methods include low cost, high efficiency, and minimizing the generation of chemical or biological sludge. Aquatic macrophytes can improve water quality by bioaccumulation/biosorption of toxic substances, excess nutrients and metals. Therefore, phytoremediation as a natural system presents itself as an environmentally friendly treatment technology for water remediation. This paper presents recent research on Azolla fern as a phytoremediation agent. Azolla can remove many pollutants from wastewater, including fluoride, ammonium, bisphenol A, dyes, chemical oxygen demand, nitrogen, phosphorus and toxic metals. Azolla is a floating water fern and its biomass produced during phytoremediation has various uses, such as animal feed, human food, production of hydrogen fuel, biogas production, medicine, water treatment, and biological fertilizer in rice fields. Therefore, phytoremediation with Azolla is recommended as an advanced treatment after conventional wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Residues of pharmaceuticals are ubiquitous in the environment, due to the increased use of drugs for treating humans and animals. If in agriculture water or biosolids from sewage treatment plants or manure from treated animals are used for irrigation or as a fertilizer respectively, drug residues may come into contact with plants. Subsequently these substances may be taken up, be translocated and even metabolized within the plant. The present paper reviews the literature on the metabolization of drugs for human and for veterinary use by plants after uptake from water or soil. Papers published between the years 2012–2018 have been included in this overview. Besides discussion on the outcome of the reviewed studies, two tables giving a comprehensive overview of drug related metabolites detected in plants or plant cell systems are provided. Finally trends and potential further developments within this field on the interface of food and environmental analysis are discussed. Highlights • The uptake and metabolization of active pharmaceutical ingredients by plants from the environment is reviewed. • Experimental approaches for studying drug translocation and metabolization in plants are discussed. • Developments in analytical techniques used for detecting and quantifying drug metabolites in plants are presented. • A comprehensive overview on the literature in this field (published since 2011) is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring and mapping of atmospheric deposition can be achieved by use of chemical transport models, technical sampling devices and/or bio-accumulators such as mosses, lichens, etc. Within the European Moss Survey programme, since 1990 every 5 years mos specimens have been collected and analysed for heavy metals, nitrogen and persistent organic pollutants according a harmonised methodology. Calculation and geostatistical mapping of percentile statistics of element concentration in moss is in the focus of this paper. Thereby, element- and survey-specific as well as heavy metals and surveys integrating statistical evaluations and GIS-mapping were performed. Cr, Sb and Zn show contrary to Fe and Pb, no constant decrease of element concentrations, but an intermediate increase between 2000 and 2005, which did not continue until 2015. Cd, Hg, Pb and N which are of priority according to the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution are in focus in this paper. Additionally, Cr is regarded as representing those elements with an intermediate increase between the years 2000 and 2005 as is also true for Sb and Zn. Surveys integrating percentile statistics depict the spatial patterns of, in most cases, declining element concentrations across time. Survey-specific statistical analyses corroborate that the spatial patterns of element concentrations in moss are changing element-specifically across time. The long-term information on the percentile statistics of bioaccumulation of atmospheric deposition in moss is essential for further scientific evaluation as well as for measurements and reporting of nature protection and environmental management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to determine the content and bioaccumulation patterns of eight trace elements (Li, Cr, Co, As, Se, Cd, Pb and Hg) and one radioisotope (U) in kidney, liver and muscle tissues of two fish species (Squalius orpheus and Barbus strumicae) from Nestos River (northern Greece), and the potential human health risk due to the fish muscle consumption. Kidney and liver accumulate higher element concentrations, except Hg. The site closer to the river-mouth presents higher concentrations since it receives effluents from agricultural activities. The upstream station shows lower element concentrations, due to obstruction of the free transportation of sediments and suspended matter downstream the irrigation dam. The sediment inhabitant and feeder B. strumicae showed elevated concentrations compared to the water column resident S. orpheus. According to calculated hazard indices, the consumption of the fish edible tissue poses zero health risk in developing chronic undesired effects in humans. • Trace element bioaccumulation was investigated in fish of Nestos River, Greece. • Higher concentrations of almost all elements were found in kidney and liver. • Species at the site closer to the river-mouth showed elevated concentrations. • Feeding habits are a significant factor for the element accumulation in fish. • The consumption of edible fish tissue poses no risks for human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores a retrospective non-targeted analysis (NTA), based on Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled to High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS), to assess hidden chemicals of emerging concern (CECs) in marine model organisms. Conventional ecotoxicological studies do not include evaluating the natural habitats of the collected organisms, missing the possibility of highlighting unexpected pollutants, and thus compromising the correctness and reliability of the experimental results. In this paper we reprocessed samples previously collected from the Venice Lagoon for ecotoxicological studies and used for targeted analysis of three bisphenols-related compounds (i.e. BPS, BPF and BPAF) on seawater and specimens of the clam Ruditapes philippinarum. Results from the validation were the following: accuracy, expressed as percentage recoveries (R%), in the range 80%

• BPA biodegradation in sea water depends on temperature, O 2 and microorganisms species • Sediments adsorption competes with biodegradation for BPA sequestration in seawater. • BPA accumulation in marine organisms is highly variable and not well quantified yet. • Even at low doses BPA is able to exert adverse biological effects in marine organisms. • BPA complexes with colloids mask the real concentration of BPA in seawater. The present paper provides a review of the most recent studies investigating the fate of bisphenol A, a well-known emerging toxic contaminant, in the marine environment, analyzing the possible mechanisms contributing to reduce or mask its concentration, making it almost undetectable in the seawater. The review includes a first part related to bisphenol A biodegradation in the seawater, focusing on process kinetics according to the different boundary conditions (oxygen concentration, temperature, pH, presence or absence of light). Other degradation processes are also mentioned, highlighting the absence, in the scientific literature, of specific studies dealing with them. The second part of the review, in turns, is related to bisphenol A adsorption on marine sediments focusing on adsorption rate and adsorption mechanisms. The third part analyzes bisphenol A bioaccumulation in marine organisms, which results an important process for the removal of the contaminant from the seawater. Finally the interaction of bisphenol A with Natural Organic Matter and with nano/microplastics is taken into account, and it is highlighted that the real concentration of bisphenol A can be masked as consequence of these interactions. Overall the review contributes to understand the real threat related to bisphenol A discharge in the marine environment, and to address future studies related to bisphenol A fate in the seawater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper looks at experiential feedback and the technical and scientific challenges tied to the MERITE-HIPPOCAMPE cruise that took place in the Mediterranean Sea in spring 2019. This cruise proposes an innovative approach to investigate the accumulation and transfer of inorganic and organic contaminants within the planktonic food webs. We present detailed information on how the cruise worked, including 1) the cruise track and sampling stations, 2) the overall strategy, based mainly on the collection of plankton, suspended particles and water at the deep chlorophyll maximum, and the separation of these particles and planktonic organisms into various size fractions, as well as the collection of atmospheric deposition, 3) the operations performed and material used at each station, and 4) the sequence of operations and main parameters analysed. The paper also provides the main environmental conditions that were prevailing during the campaign. Lastly, we present the types of articles produced based on work completed by the cruise that are part of this special issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Western North America is a region defined by extreme gradients in geomorphology and climate, which support a diverse array of ecological communities and natural resources. The region also has extreme gradients in mercury (Hg) contamination due to a broad distribution of inorganic Hg sources. These diverse Hg sources and a varied landscape create a unique and complex mosaic of ecological risk from Hg impairment associated with differential methylmercury (MeHg) production and bioaccumulation. Understanding the landscape-scale variation in the magnitude and relative importance of processes associated with Hg transport, methylation, and MeHg bioaccumulation requires a multidisciplinary synthesis that transcends small-scale variability. The Western North America Mercury Synthesis compiled, analyzed, and interpreted spatial and temporal patterns and drivers of Hg and MeHg in air, soil, vegetation, sediments, fish, and wildlife across western North America. This collaboration evaluated the potential risk from Hg to fish, and wildlife health, human exposure, and examined resource management activities that influenced the risk of Hg contamination. This paper integrates the key information presented across the individual papers that comprise the synthesis. The compiled information indicates that Hg contamination is widespread, but heterogeneous, across western North America. The storage and transport of inorganic Hg across landscape gradients are largely regulated by climate and land-cover factors such as plant productivity and precipitation. Importantly, there was a striking lack of concordance between pools and sources of inorganic Hg, and MeHg in aquatic food webs. Additionally, water management had a widespread influence on MeHg bioaccumulation in aquatic ecosystems, whereas mining impacts where relatively localized. These results highlight the decoupling of inorganic Hg sources with MeHg production and bioaccumulation. Together the findings indicate that developing efforts to control MeHg production in the West may be particularly beneficial for reducing food web exposure instead of efforts to simply control inorganic Hg sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The toxicity, environmental persistence and bio-accumulation of flame retardant additives have attracted a lot of attentions for several years. People try to develop perfect strategy to achieve green flame retardant materials. Bio-based flame retardants are one of the most environmentally friendly alternatives, but lots of natural resources are thermal unstable. Therefore, it is important and necessary to modify the performance of biological raw materials by using physical or chemical methods to meet the requirements of flame retardant materials. In this paper, biological element-nucleotide was embedded in the backbone of melamine fomaldehyde resin to form a functional microsphere (MFA). The MFA was employed in polypropylene (PP)/intumescent flame retardant (IFR) system to modify its flame retardant performance. The flammability of PP composites was evaluated by using the limiting oxygen index (LOI) and UL-94 vertical burning tests etc. The results showed that PP composites containing 17 wt% IFR and 1 wt% MFA achieves a LOI value of 27.0 and passes the UL-94 V-0 rating, while no less than 25 wt% single IFR is needed to obtain the same UL-94 rating. Furthermore, the MFA delays the time to the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and decreases 65% for PHRR. This paper provides a novel approach for constructing a bio-based IFR system and opens another door for the applications of bio-resources in flame retardant materials meanwhile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The active cellular efflux of toxicants is an efficient biological defense mode present in all organisms. By blocking this so-called multixenobiotic resistance transport—a process also referred to as chemosensitisation-, cellular bioaccumulation and the sensitivity of organisms towards environmental pollutants can increase. So far, a wide range of compounds, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and surfactants, have been identified as chemosensitisers. Although, significant on a cellular level, the environmental impact of chemosensitisation on the organism level is not yet understood. Critically evaluating existing data, this paper identifies research needs to support our tentative conclusion that chemosensitisation may well enhance the risks of chemical exposure to aquatic organisms. Our conclusion is based on studies investigating the impact of individual chemicals and complex environmental mixtures on aquatic wildlife and a chemosensitiser mixture toxicity model which, however, is subject to great uncertainty due to substantial knowledge gaps. Those uncertainties include the inconsistent reporting of effect data, the lack of representative environmental contaminants tested for chemosensitisation, and the publishing of highly unreliable nominal exposure concentrations. In order to confirm the tentative conclusion of this paper, we require the significant and systematic investigation of a broader set of chemicals and environmental samples with a harmonised set of bioassays and rigorously controlled freely dissolved effect concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past two decades, the combined electron spin resonance (ESR) and U-series dating method has been widely applied to date fossil teeth for archaeological studies through the use of the US-ESR model. The obtained age, compatible with both the ESR and U-series data determined in all dental tissues and the burial environment, is more flexible and reliable than the parametric uptake ages (by early, linear or recent uptake models), for which selection was often based on the expected age of the site. In this paper, the mathematical basis of the US-ESR model is described in detail, from the U-uptake description to the calculation of accumulation dose in the sample and the US-ESR age determination. An example is used to illustrate the calculation of the US-ESR age, associated dose rates and U-uptake parameters. While the description in this paper is specific to US-ESR model and more largely combined ESR/U-series dating of fossil teeth, we expect that some of the principles can be used in other applications of U-series dating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) is of great concern in global environments. Due to strong regulation of legacy PFASs, emerging PFASs including alternatives and precursors have been introduced to the industrial market. In this study, legacy and emerging PFASs were measured in seawater, sediment, and bivalves collected along the Korean coast to investigate the occurrence, distribution, contamination sources, and bioaccumulation potential of PFASs. Wide concentration ranges of legacy PFASs were detected in multiple environmental samples, indicating widespread contamination. C8-based PFASs (e.g., PFOA and PFOS) were still major contaminants in all of the environmental samples. Some precursors, such as 8:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (8:2 FTS) and N-ethyl-perfluorooctane sulfonamidoacetic acid (N-EtFOSAA), and perfluoro-2-propoxypropanoic potassium 9-chlorohexadecafluoro-3-oxanonane-1-sulfonate (F–53B), an alternative to PFOS, were detected in sediment or bivalve samples, implying a shift in consumption patterns from legacy to emerging PFASs. The highest concentrations of PFASs in environmental samples were found at the locations near industrial complexes, such as those for the semi-conductor, paper mill, automobile, and metal-plating industry. This result indicates that PFAS contamination is associated with intensive industrial activities in the coastal environment. Matrix-dependent contamination and profiles of PFASs were observed. Seawater was dominated by short-chained PFASs as a prompt reflection of regulation, while the sediment and bivalves were dominated by long-chained PFASs. Carbon-chain length was a major factor governing environmental behavior and bioaccumulation of PFASs. This was the first nation-wide survey on legacy and emerging PFASs in the coastal environment of Korea. Image 1 • Legacy and emerging PFASs were measured for multiple environmental matrices in Korea. • C8-based PFASs were still major contaminants in the coastal environment. • Predominant compounds of PFASs were different depending on multiple matrices. • Some precursors and F–53B, an alternative to PFOS, were detected in sediment or bivalves. • Carbon-chain length was a major factor for behavior and bioaccumulation of PFASs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The volatilization characteristics of three MSW-derived materials (FO, RT and FL) produced by local waste-management companies were investigated as potential solid recovered fuels (SRFs). FL was prepared from sorted domestic waste and consisted of non-recyclable plastics, refuse paper and biomass. RT and FO were obtained through active hygienization of unsorted MSW and refuse materials from selective waste-collection streams. RT was rich in plastics and had low biomass, whereas FO was mainly biomass and refuse paper. The rate of energy release during volatilization depended on the content of biomass and plastic, especially at a low conversion. Major contaminants had different rates of volatilization. Nitrogen and sulfur tended to accumulate in the charred solid, and were released as SO2 and nitrous oxides during both the volatilization–combustion stage and the char burning stage. Chlorine release was faster for the fuels rich in plastic waste. According to their ash melting characteristics and slagging indexes (Fs: 1188°C for FO, 1192°C for RT and 1234°C for FL) the three fuels were equivalent to commercial SRFs. The three fuels showed potential as standardized SRF, although it would be desirable to reduce their chlorine content and, in the case of FO, to increase it’s heating value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The application of management practices based on dogmas may lead to unexpected results, and hence to the bad allocation of economic resources. This is an especially relevant subject today given that, in a context of deep economic crisis, conservation has very limited resources. Here, we review e-alerts from 20 of the most important journals in the field of applied conservation ecology to identify topics that are vulnerable to dogma development, and then to suggest strategies to prevent this to happen. After examining 525 pre-selected papers, we identified several major questions within the sphere of some of the main agents of anthropogenic global change based on 129 papers. Specifically we reviewed knowledge accumulated during recent decades on the resilience of wildlife to cope with two of those agents, namely (a) habitat fragmentation, alteration and loss; and (b) the arrival of exotic invasive species. We critically discuss four common conservation questions within those two major areas: the pros and cons of supplementary feeding for conservation purposes, the ubiquity of the detrimental effect of invasive species and the feasibility of its eradication, as well as the efficiency of controlling generalist predators for both game and conservation purposes. We finally provide a list of five good practices to prevent the generation of dogma when applying the science of conservation biology to the abovementioned agents of global change, and as a way of optimizing the effectiveness and efficiency of biodiversity management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Studies on lipid accumulation and fatty acid composition of microalgae as a feedstock for biodiesel have been reported in numerous papers in recent years. However, in contrast to microalgae, documentation on cyanobacteria such as Arthrospira platensis with regard to lipid production has been sparse thus far. In this paper, we show the relatively high lipid accumulation potential of A. platensis KMMCC CY-007 in modified Schlösser medium. Four different growth conditions [7.5 candela (cd) and 1% CO2, 15 cd and 1% CO2, 7.5 cd and air, and 15 cd and air] were examined over 7 days in order to compare the impact of light intensity. Using two different growth conditions (7.5 cd and 1% CO2 bulk bubble and 7.5 cd and 1% CO2 fine bubble), changes in growth, lipid accumulation and fatty acid composition were compared. The highest lipid content of 37.96% was obtained at 7.5 cd and 1% CO2 fine bubble after 7 days, and the maximum net production (72.56%) of long chain fatty acid methyl esters (C16:0 and C18:0) detected at 7.5 cd and 1% CO2 bulk bubble. These data suggest the potential of A. platensis for production of crude lipid as a future feedstock for biodiesel production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Knowledge of the environmental behavior of chemicals is a fundamental part of the risk assessment process. The present paper discusses various methods of ranking of a series of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) according to the persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity (PBT) characteristics. Traditionally ranking has been done as an absolute (total) ranking applying various multicriteria data analysis methods like simple additive ranking (SAR) or various utility functions (UFs) based rankings. An attractive alternative to these ranking methodologies appears to be partial order ranking (POR). The present paper compares different ranking methods like SAR, UF and POR. Significant discrepancies between the rankings are noted and it is concluded that partial order ranking, as a method without any pre-assumptions concerning possible relation between the single parameters, appears as the most attractive ranking methodology. In addition to the initial ranking partial order methodology offers a wide variety of analytical tools to elucidate the interplay between the objects to be ranked and the ranking parameters. In the present study is included an analysis of the relative importance of the single P, B and T parameters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights • Flavopunctelia soredica (FS) and Rhizoplaca chrysoleuca (RC) were transplanted. • FS and RC are applicable biomonitors for atmospheric element deposition. • FS and RC discriminate element sources and yield comparable results. • FS and RC have shorter integration time for SO 2 than for metals. Abstract The biomonitoring of atmospheric element deposition via lichen transplantation is a powerful tool for assessing air quality in polluted areas devoid of native or expected lichens. In this paper, we explore how the elemental compositions in lichens respond to road emissions and compared the lichen responses under high air pollution conditions. Two foliose lichens, Flavopunctelia soredica (FS) and Rhizoplaca chrysoleuca (RC), were transplanted along two roads in a highly polluted area of Hebei, China. FS and RC were exposed to the road emissions for 3, 6, 9 and 12 months, and 25 elements (Al, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cs, Cu, Fe, K, La, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Rb, S, Sb, Sm, Sr, Tb, Th, Ti, V, and Zn) were measured using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). The pre-exposure and post-exposure results were higher in RC for 6 metals (Ca, Cd, Pb, La, Sm, and Tb), were higher in FS for 13 elements (Al, Ba, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Ni, Rb, S, V, and Zn), but were not significantly different between FS and RC for 3 metals (Cs, Sr, and Th), indicating that the element concentrations are specific to the element and lichen species. The results also showed a certain degree of air pollution at the initial site and severe air pollution at the exposure sites. During the exposure period, FS and RC exhibited roughly similar spatio-temporal patterns in element concentrations, with significant increases observed in relation to the distance to the road and exposure time. This result suggests that FS and RC are applicable as bioaccumulators and present good comparability. The release of SO 2 in the winter heating period elevated the lichen S concentrations, for which the lichens have an integration time of <3 months, whereas the road emissions accelerated the accumulation of metals, for which the lichens have an integration time of >3 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • TK/TD behavior in mice is MPs particle size-dependent. • Mice-based TK parameters and threshold criteria could be derived. • Assist in designing robust researches to evaluate human MP consumption. Abstract While a large body of literature has shown that microplastics (MPs) are highly likely to be accumulated in marine organisms and terrestrial animals, information about toxicity of MPs in mammal from a mechanistic point of view is more limited. Our paper fills this knowledge gap by assessing polystyrene (PS)-MPs-mice system based on toxicity-based toxicokinetic/toxicodynamic (TBTK/TD) modeling to quantify organ-bioaccumulation and biomarker responses appraised with published dataset. The key TBTK-parameters for mice liver, kidney, and gut posed by 5 or 20 μm PS-MPs could be obtained. We found that gut had the highest bioaccumulation factor (BCF) of ∼8 exposed to 5 μm PS-MPs with a mean residence time of ∼17 days. We showed that threshold concentrations of 5 and 20 μm PS-MPs among the most sensitive biomarkers were 8 ± 5 (mean ± SE) and 0.71 ± 0.14 μg g−1 bw, respectively, implicating that particle size was likely to affect TK/TD behavior in mice. The mice-based TK parameters and threshold criteria greatly assist in designing robust researches to evaluate MP consumption by humans. We establish a TBTK/TD framework for mechanistically assessing potential from mice size-specific MPs exposure that would offer a tool-kit for extrapolating to humans from health risk assessment perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A TLPB model for DCM removal was developed and agreed well with experimental data. • Monod model was used to obtain variation of biomass accumulation. • Effects of design parameters on performance were simulated. • A contour graph was used for CEA analysis under different conditions. Abstract Two-liquid phase biofilter (TLPB) is a new type biofiltration system for controlling hydrophobic volatile organic compounds. In this paper, a mathematical model was developed for a TLPB that can treat gaseous dichloromethane (DCM). The specific growth rate of the biomass inside the TLPB fitted the Monod model. u max and K s were 0.013 d−1 and 1.288 g m-3, respectively. The Henry's Law constant of the two liquid phase mixtures was obtained as 0.125 kPa m3 mol−1 under the addition of 10% silicone oil. Simulation results revealed that the model is a good tool for evaluating the removal performance of TLPB. Practical applications of the model indicated that an increase in the silicone-oil-to-mixture ratio and inoculated biomass improved the removal efficiency, whereas an increase in the inlet DCM concentration and gas velocity negatively affected the removal performance. Moreover, the model can be used to determine the design parameters and ensure that the outlet concentration satisfies the emission standards. The results of cost-effectiveness analysis indicated that the expenditure for DCM removal per year was low when TLPB was used to treat a high DCM concentration steam with a long empty-bed retention time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper characterises diffuse CO 2 degassing from lakes located inside volcanic caves on the islands of Terceira and Graciosa (in the Azores archipelago, Portugal). The Algar do Carvão lake is located inside a volcanic pit on Terceira at an altitude of 92 m and has a surface area of 11,500 m2 and a maximum depth of 8.2 m. The Furna do Enxofre lake is located inside a lava cave on Graciosa at an altitude of 500 m and has a surface area of approximately 300 m2 and a maximum depth of 9.3 m. The water temperature of both lakes is low, with values ranging between 11 °C and 13 °C, in both the winter and summer periods, and no variations are observed along their water columns. The electrical conductivity ranges from 585 μS cm−1 to 687 μS cm−1 in Furna do Enxofre and from 117 μS cm−1 to 131 μS cm−1 in Algar do Carvão, reflecting a higher mineralisation in the former lake. The pH values in Furna do Enxofre range between 6.50 and 6.58, which reflects the effect of CO 2 dissolution, while in Algar do Carvão, the pH values are more basic (7.42–8.53). The water types are Mg-HCO 3 for Furna do Enxofre and Na-HCO 3 for Algar do Carvão; the Mg-enrichment in Furna do Enxofre is associated with water–rock interactions, which are enhanced by the acidic environment. Diffuse CO 2 flux measurements were made using the accumulation chamber method, with a total of 37 measurements split into two surveys at Algar do Carvão and 71 measurements during a single survey at Furna do Enxofre. The total CO 2 emitted from Furna do Enxofre was 6100 kg d−1, which was much lower than that emitted from Algar do Carvão (0.32–2.0 kg d−1). A volcanic origin was assigned to the lake on Graciosa due to the δ13C isotopic signature of the CO 2 ; conversely, the CO 2 released in Algar do Carvão is derived from a biogenic CO 2 source. Considering the surface areas of the studied lakes, the CO 2 flux is in the range of 1.5–6.7 t km−2 d−1 for Algar do Carvão and is 508.3 t km−2 d−1 for Furna do Enxofre. Highlights • Water temperature is cold for both lakes and no variations are observed along the water column. • Water types are Mg-HCO 3 for Furna do Enxofre and Na-HCO 3 for the Algar do Carvão. • The CO 2 emission in Furna do Enxofre lake has a volcanic source as well as a biogenic origin. • A biogenic CO 2 source responds for the CO 2 emission in Algar do Carvão lake. • The total amount of CO 2 degassing to the atmosphere is as high as 6100 kg d−1 (Furna do Enxofre). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper analyzes the mass size distribution of some inorganic species present in the atmospheric aerosol from a field campaign carried out in Madrid throughout a complete year (February 2007–February 2008). Samplings were performed by means of a micro-orifice uniform deposit impactor (MOUDI). Ambient air was sampled during consecutive nocturnal and diurnal periods, and diurnal/nocturnal behaviors were compared for the twenty night-day sampling pairs that were gathered. Annual and seasonal averages were obtained, and some case studies under specific atmospheric conditions are discussed in the paper. Results have shown that the sulfate and ammonium mass was concentrated in the accumulation mode, between 0.18 and 0.56μm, so that gas-phase and condensation processes for secondary aerosol formation prevailed during the sampling periods in this area. An exception to this behavior was found during a fog event when distributions for these two species were centered in the 0.56–1 and 1–1.8μm size stages, corresponding to the droplet mode. In most of the samples, the ammonium mass measured in these size ranges was enough or almost enough to neutralize inorganic acidity by formation of ammonium sulfate and nitrate. However, a significant sulfate mass not neutralized by ammonium was found in the impactor backup quartz filter (aerodynamic diameter<0.056μm). The concentration of this sulfate and its contribution to the ultrafine fraction mass was higher under good dispersive conditions, prevailing in summer, when particle growth processes are not so favored due to the higher atmospheric dilution factors. The origin of this ultrafine sulfate has been attributed to direct emissions from traffic, associated to the nucleation mode. Regarding the nitrate concentration, it was found higher in the coarse mode than in the accumulation mode on an annual basis. The highest concentrations were measured in winter episodic situations. The marked seasonal variability shown in the accumulation mode by this species is related to the volatility of ammonium nitrate. Among all the studied ions, nitrate also presented the highest differences between the diurnal and nocturnal concentrations in all size ranges. This is probably related to the short time scale required for its formation from gaseous precursors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The goal of this paper is to introduce a statistical concept to derive ecological classifications of terrestrial and marine environments. Such ecological regionalisations reflect spatial combinations of biotic and abiotic characteristics and therefore may serve for environmental planning and monitoring issues. Referring to two case studies the paper presents how to calculate and map ecological defined regions from geodata by use of decision tree models and GIS-techniques. The first study deals with marine environments, exemplified by benthic habitats in the North Sea. The second study is on an ecological land classification of Europe which was computed using surface data on potential natural vegetation, elevation, soil texture and several climatic elements. Both the marine and the terrestrial ecoregions maps were combined with exposure data provided by environmental monitoring activities. The ecological land classification of Europe was intersected with measurement data on the metal loads in mosses taken from the German part of UN ECE moss surveys. In this way, the temporal development of the metal bioaccumulation within ecoregions since 1990 was assessed. The benthic habitat map was used to regionalise the temporal trend of the temperature conditions near the sea floor for the months of July and January from 1995 to 2000 by analysing these measurements according to the spatial categories of the habitat map. In the future, both ecological regionalisations should be used as a spatial framework for the analysis of up-to-date meteorological and phenological data in order to disclose climate change induced impacts. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Volatile aldehydes are produced during degradation of paper-based materials. This may result in their accumulation in archival and library repositories. However, no systematic study has been performed so far. In the frame of this study, passive sampling was carried out at ten locations in four libraries and archives. Despite the very variable sampling locations, no major differences were found, although air-filtered repositories were found to have lower concentrations while a non-ventilated newspaper repository exhibited the highest concentrations of volatile aldehydes (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, furfural and hexanal). Five employees in one institution were also provided with personal passive samplers to investigate employees’ exposure to volatile aldehydes. All values were lower than the presently valid exposure limits. The concentration of volatile aldehydes, acetic acid, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in general was also compared with that of outdoor-generated pollutants. It was evident that inside the repository and particularly inside archival boxes, the concentration of VOCs and acetic acid was much higher than the concentration of outdoor-generated pollutants, which are otherwise more routinely studied in connection with heritage materials. This indicates that further work on the pro-degradative effect of VOCs on heritage materials is necessary and that monitoring of VOCs in heritage institutions should become more widespread. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: One of the tasks of the HySafe Network of Excellence was the evaluation of available CFD tools and models for dispersion and combustion in selected hydrogen release scenarios identified as “standard benchmark problems” (SBEPs). This paper presents the results of the HySafe standard benchmark problem SBEP-V11. The situation considered is a high pressure hydrogen jet release from a compressed gaseous hydrogen (CGH2) bus in an underpass. The bus considered is equipped with 8 cylinders of 5kg hydrogen each at 35MPa storage pressure. The underpass is assumed to be of the common beam and slab type construction with I-beams spanning across the highway at 3m centres (normal to the bus), plus cross bracing between the main beams, and light armatures parallel to the bus direction. The main goal of the present work was to evaluate the role of obstructions on the underside of the bridge deck on the dispersion patterns and assess the potential for hydrogen accumulation. Four HySafe partners participated in this benchmark, with 4 different CFD codes, ADREA-HF, CFX, FLACS and FLUENT. Four scenarios were examined in total. In the base case scenario 20kg of hydrogen was released in the basic geometry. In Sensitivity Test 1 the release position was moved so that the hydrogen jet could hit directly the light armature on the roof of the underpass. In Sensitivity Test 2 the underside of the bridge deck was flat. In Sensitivity Test 3 the release was from one cylinder instead of four (5kg instead of 20). The paper compares the results predicted by the four different computational approaches and attempts to identify the reasons for observed disagreements. The paper also concludes on the effects of the obstructions on the underside of the bridge deck. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The paper summarizes the present and future course of biosorption and bioaccumulation, as the branch of science, pointing out on their basic assumptions, philosophy and the goals. The processes are presented as new tools for separation technologies of XXI century. The paper is the discussion with the literature on the future prospects of those processes, pointing out that research should be oriented on the practical applications, in order to make technologies from the processes and also discusses other than environmental possible future applications. It presents an own point of view on these techniques, after some years of working in this very area. Biosorption and bioaccumulation, involve interactions and concentration of toxic metals or organic pollutants (e.g. dyes) in the biomass, either living (bioaccumulation) or non-living (biosorption). The processes play an important role in natural cycling of matter in the environment. The paper discusses the possibilities which offer research on pollutants-biomass interactions, pointing out that the key to elaborate an efficient method working for the nature would be to understand the mechanisms governing the processes, parameters which influence both equilibrium and kinetics, through the observation of naturally occurring phenomena. Only then we would be able to control and carry out under industrial regime, so the processes would work beneficially for the environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The beneficial effect of vegetation on particle deposition is often stated in arboricultural literature but has rarely been researched in detail. To quantify these filtering effects of façade greening, it is necessary to study the accumulation properties of leaf surfaces on particle adsorption. In this paper attention will be given to a measure technique for particle adsorption on vegetation. The presented preliminary study aims to classify the total amount of particles by counting of particles on ESEM photographs. In the PhD research more attention will be given on the relation between particle reduction and the effect of vegetation on air quality improvements. Two locations were investigated, namely: leaves from near a traffic road and from a woodland. A difference in the particle amount was found at the underside and upper side of the leaves. For example, in a sampling at early autumn for the road location roughly 7000 particles (per 1275×950μm) were counted for the upper side, and, roughly 3200 particles for the underside. Also a difference in particle amount was found between the two different locations, respectively roughly 7000 particles for the upper side of the leaf at the road location and roughly 3300 for the woodland location. The comparison must give more insight into the sink capacity of vegetation, but also between the environments. In the paper, results of counting particles on leaves from both locations are provided via a factorial design approach with four independent factors at two levels (height, leaf, time and environment). The outcome of the factorial design shows that there is a difference between the collecting capacity of the leaf (upper side/underside) and between the environments (road/woodland). Fine and ultra-fine particles (i.e., the fractions that are potentially the most harmful to human health) were more abundantly found on the leaves than coarser particles. Also some energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS) of the adhered particles is provided. As the main conclusion of this research, it can be said that counting particles instead of weighing particles on a specific leaf area seems to be a proper way to classify aerosol deposition on vegetation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Since 1967, the alumina plants in the Marseilles area (Barasse and Gardanne) have been discharging the mineral residue (i.e., red mud) resulting from the alkaline processing of bauxite into the submarine Cassidaigne canyon (north-western Mediterranean Sea) through pipes situated at 320–330m in depth. The Barasse pipe stopped being used in 1988. From 1987 to 1996, many decrees and regulations were promulgated by the French State to rule the conditions under which the Gardanne alumina refinery was authorized to dispose of the bauxite residue in the sea. The refinery was required: (i) to study the hydrodynamic circulation in the Cassidaigne canyon to evaluate the potential dispersion and transport of fine elements discharged into the water mass and their impact on the pelagic ecosystem; (ii) to survey the marine environment every five years to control the expansion and thickness of the red mud deposit and compare the evolution of the benthic macrofauna at representative sampling sites in the environment affected by the red mud discharge with that of reference sites outside of the red mud plume; (iii) to study the effect of the discharge on fishing activities; and (iv) to investigate the toxicity of the red mud, particularly its persistence, accumulation, interaction and effect on the marine ecosystem, paying special attention to the bio-accumulation of chromium and vanadium. A Scientific Committee was created to insure an independent evaluation of the studies promised by the manufacturer in response to the State’s regulations. Since the beginning of the 1960s, data have been accumulating on the structure and long-term functioning of the Cassidaigne bathyal ecosystem. This paper presents the collaborative efforts of the State-Manufacturer-Committee triplet and summarizes the main results obtained during the last period’s sea campaigns (1991–2007). This paper also illustrates how national regulations concerning manufacturers, such as Gardanne alumina refinery, have provided new knowledge about the structure and functioning of a bathyal ecosystem in the Cassidaigne canyon in the north-western Mediterranean Sea. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The radiological risk associated with the use of solid materials has been traditionally established according to their radon exhalation rates, the accumulation chamber technique being the most widely used for the determination of this quantity. However, this coupled methodology has two important drawbacks: the calculated exhalation rate value depends strongly on the experimental setup used; hence widely varying values can be calculated for the same material. Furthermore, this technique usually requires long monitoring times (between 1 and 4 weeks). In this paper, we present a fast and reproducible method for the determination of radon potential (as an alternative to the exhalation rate) based on the application of the accumulation chamber technique. Radon potential is proportional to the emanation coefficient, and can be calculated within measuring times of less than 24h. The theoretical basis is developed and the experimental setup is discussed in detail in this paper. The procedures for the determination of different experimental parameters (leakage constant, slope correction) are shown as essential steps for the later determination of the radon potential. In addition, the robustness of the developed methodology is demonstrated, and the reproducibility tests carried out with the general system performance are shown. Finally, the radon potential for different materials is determined, allowing its prompt categorization according to its associated radiological risk. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dyes released by the textile industries pose a threat to the environmental safety. Recently, dye decolourization through biological means has gained momentum as these are cheap and can be applied to wide range of dyes. This review paper focuses on the decolourization of dye wastewaters through fungi via two processes (biosorption and bioaccumulation) and discusses the effect of various process parameters like pH, temperature, dye concentration etc. on the dye removing efficiency of different fungi. Various enzymes involved in the degradation of the dyes and the metabolites thus formed have been compiled. Genetic manipulations of microorganisms for production of more efficient biological agents, various bioreactor configurations and the application of purified enzymes for decolourization, which constitute some of the recent advances in this field, have also been reviewed. The studies discussed in this paper indicate fungal decolourization has a great potential to be developed further as a decentralized wastewater treatment technology for small textile or dyeing units. However, further research work is required to study the toxicity of the metabolites of dye degradation and the possible fate of the utilized biomass in order to ensure the development of an eco-friendly technology. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we study the sublethal effect of toxicants on the functioning (biomass production, nutrient recycling) and structure (species composition and complexity) of a simple aquatic ecosystem in a well-mixed environment (chemostat reactor). The modelled ecosystem consists of a nutrient consumed by a prey (e.g. bacteria, algae) which, in turn, is consumed by a predator (e.g. ciliates, daphnia) population. The dynamic behaviour of this ecosystem is described by a set of ordinary differential equations (ODE)s: one for the nutrient and one for each population. The system is stressed by a toxicant dissolved in the in-flowing water. The transport of the toxicant is modeled using a mass balance formulation leading to an ODE. Bioaccumulation in the prey and predator populations is via uptake from the water, in case of the predator also via consumption of contaminated prey. Mathematically, this process is described by a one-compartment model for the kinetics of the toxicant: uptake (from water and food) and elimination. The toxicant affects individuals which make up populations. In the model the physiological parameters depend on the internal concentration of the toxicant in individuals. Examples of physiological parameters are cost for growth and maintenance, and assimilation efficiency. In this paper, we use bifurcation theory to analyse the long-term dynamics of the models. In this way, the parameter space is divided into regions with qualitatively different asymptotic dynamic behaviour of the system. As logical choice for bifurcation parameters are the input rate of the nutrient and toxicant. The dynamic behaviour of the stressed ecosystem can be much more complicated than that of the unstressed system. For instance, the nutrient–prey–toxicant system can show bi-stability and oscillatory dynamics. Due to the toxic effects a total collapse (both prey and predator population go extinct) of the nutrient–prey–predator–toxicant system can occur after invasion of a predator. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The explosive compound hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) has been shown to cause both lethal and sublethal (reproductive and neurotoxic) effects in exposed oligochaetes. However, whether worms take up CL-20 and how much CL-20 enters worm bodies leading to toxicity (e.g., lethality) remain to be determined. In the present study, we used high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and radiolabeled tracer methods to investigate the CL-20 uptake in the whole worm body after contact exposures. Worms (Eisenia fetida) were exposed to filter paper spiked with non-radioactive or [U-14C]-labeled CL-20 for 1–3 d. The radiolabeled tracer method allowed us to detect the parent compound and transformation products in worms exposed to as low as 0.04 μg CL-20 cm−2 of filter paper. The HPLC method without radiolabeled tracer was far less sensitive with a detection limit of 2.17 μg CL-20 cm−2. Using the radiolabeled tracer, we were able to demonstrate that the worm body concentration linearly correlated to the filter paper concentration ≤0.34 μg cm−2 (r =0.94) if no breakdown products are assumed. At higher concentrations, the body concentration increased slowly and saturated at around 11 μg g−1 dry mass resulting in an estimated lethal critical body burden of 10–15 μg CL-20 g−1 dry mass. These findings demonstrate that CL-20 or potential transformation products are taken into the earthworm body through dermal contact. This information should prove valuable in assessing the bioaccumulation potential and ecological risks of CL-20. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The paper presents a novel methodology (RICH, Ranking and Identification of Chemical Hazards) for ranking and identification of xenobiotic organic compounds of environmental concern in stormwater discharged to surface water. The RICH method is illustrated as a funnel fitted with different filters that sort out problematic and hazardous compounds based on inherent physico-chemical and biological properties. The outcomes of the RICH procedure are separate lists for both water phase and solid phase associated compounds. These lists comprise: a justified list of compounds which can be disregarded in hazard/risk assessments, a justified list of stormwater priority pollutants which must be included in hazard/risk assessments, and a list of compounds which may be present in discharged stormwater, but cannot be evaluated due to lack of data. The procedure was applied to 233 xenobiotic organic chemicals (XOCs) of relevance for stormwater. Of these 233 compounds, 121 compounds were found to be priority pollutants with regard to solids phases (i.e. suspended solids, soil, or sediments) when stormwater is discharged to surface water and 56 compounds were found to be priority pollutants with regard to the water phase. For 11% of the potential stormwater priority pollutants the screening procedure could not be carried out due to lack of data on basic physico-chemical properties and/or data on bioaccumulation, resistance to biodegradation, and ecotoxicity. The tiered approach applied in the RICH procedure and the focus on the phases relevant for monitoring or risk assessment in the aquatic environment refines the list of “compounds of concern” when compared to the outcome of existing classification schemes. In this paper the RICH procedure is focused on effects in the aquatic environment exemplified with xenobiotic organic compounds (XOCs) found in urban stormwater, but it may be transferred to other environmental compartments and problems. Thus, the RICH procedure can be used as a stand-alone tool for selection of potential priority pollutants or it can be integrated in larger priority setting frameworks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Sources and fate of micro and nano plastic pollutants in Aquatic systems. • Nano-plastics are consumed as food by a variety of aquatic creatures, including zooplankton, benthic invertebrates, fish, bivalves, and large marine mammals. • Discussed about potential remediation methods for micro and nano plastics in ecosystem. • This review will serve as a roadmap for the future control and remediation of micro and nano-plastics. The rapid proliferation of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in our environment presents a formidable hazard to both biotic and abiotic components. These pollutants originate from various sources, including commercial production and the breakdown of larger plastic particles. Widespread contamination of the human body, agroecosystems, and animals occurs through ingestion, entry into the food chain, and inhalation. Consequently, the imperative to devise innovative methods for MPs and NPs remediation has become increasingly apparent. This review explores the current landscape of strategies proposed to mitigate the escalating threats associated with plastic waste. Among the array of methods in use, microbial remediation emerges as a promising avenue for the decomposition and reclamation of MPs and NPs. In response to the growing concern, numerous nations have already implemented or are in the process of adopting regulations to curtail MPs and NPs in aquatic habitats. This paper aims to address this gap by delving into the environmental fate, behaviour, transport, ecotoxicity, and management of MPs and NPs particles within the context of nanoscience, microbial ecology, and remediation technologies. Key findings of this review encompass the intricate interdependencies between MPs and NPs and their ecosystems. The ecological impact, from fate to ecotoxicity, is scrutinized in light of the burgeoning environmental imperative. As a result, this review not only provides an encompassing understanding of the ecological ramifications of MPs and NPs but also highlights the pressing need for further research, innovation, and informed interventions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades an increasing number of studies has been published concerning contamination of aquatic ecosystems with pharmaceuticals. Yet, the distribution of these chemical compounds in aquatic environments raises many questions and uncertainties. Data on the presence of selected pharmaceuticals in the same water bodies varies significantly between different studies. Therefore, since early 1990 s, wild organisms have been used in research on environmental contamination with pharmaceuticals. Indeed, pharmaceutical levels measured in biological matrices may better reflect their overall presence in the aquatic environments as such levels include not only direct exposure of a given organisms to a specific pollutant but also processes such as bioaccumulation and biomagnification. In the present paper, data concerning occurrence of pharmaceuticals in aquatic biota was reviewed. So far, pharmaceuticals have been studied mainly in fish and molluscs, with only a few papers available on crustaceans and macroalgae. The most commonly found pharmaceuticals both in freshwater and marine organisms are antibiotics, antidepressants and NSAIDS while there is no information about the presence of anticancer drugs in aquatic organisms. Furthermore, only single studies were conducted in Africa and Australia. Hence, systematization of up-to-date knowledge, the main aim of this review, is needed for further research targeting. [Display omitted] • The most common drugs in aquatic biota are antibiotics, antidepressants and NSAIDs. • There is lack of studies on anticancer drugs in aquatic organisms. • The presence of pharmaceuticals is most frequently tested in fish, followed by shellfish. • Several works report concentration of metabolites higher than that of primary compound. • Only few papers checked the presence of drugs in biota of "uncontaminated" sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The tanning industry uses large quantities of Cr whose contribution to the contaminant burden of aquatic organisms is not yet fully understood. The present study investigated Cr bioaccumulation by indigenous chironomids in a freshwater ecosystem impacted by tannery effluents. Total Cr content in sediments and in chironomids was determined on several occasions. Chromium distribution among sediments and pore waters, and Cr speciation in overlying and pore waters were studied in detail to understand possible factors controlling Cr bioavailability to chironomids. Total chromium concentration ranged from 69 to over 3000 μg g−1 dry weight in sediments and from negligible to over 300 μg g−1 dry weight in chironomids (values corrected for sediment gut content). Filterable (<0.45 μm) Cr concentration in overlying waters and pore waters from the surface sediment layers (upper 2 cm) ranged from 3 to 120 μg L−1, with Cr(VI) representing 0.5–28% of the total filterable Cr. Chromium profiles in pore waters as determined by diffusive equilibration in thin films (DET) and diffusive gradient in thin films (DGT) were comparable. DGT-labile Cr accounted for <2% of the total Cr measured by DET. Although Cr concentrations in sedimentary and aqueous matrices were not directly proportional to Cr levels measured in chironomids, the available findings suggested that Cr inputs from tanneries were bioavailable to resident chironomids. These observations are of particular importance considering that Cr(III), putatively of limited bioavailability and ecotoxicological concern, is the predominant redox form of Cr in bed sediments impacted by tannery discharges. The companion paper provides further insight into Cr bioavailability and effects in tannery impacted ecosystems using a combination of in situ and laboratory approaches. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Leather tanning uses large quantities of Cr(III) that mostly accumulates in sediments. • Bioavailability of chromium at tannery-contaminated sites is not fully understood. • Indigenous chironomids show Cr accumulation in zones impacted by tannery discharges. • Cr accumulation in chironomids is not proportional to Cr concentration in sediments. • Chironomid Cr burden exceeds reported tolerance levels for more sensitive organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The present study describes total mercury (THg) levels in surface water, sediment and biota from the Olifants River Basin (ORB) (South Africa) and investigates the trophic transfer of THg by means of trophic magnification factors (TMFs) in the subtropical ORB food web. Although levels in surface water, sediment and invertebrates were low, elevated levels of THg were measured in fish species of higher trophic levels (0.10–6.1 μg/g dw). This finding supports the biomagnificative character of mercury. THg concentrations in fish from the present study were find to be higher than most values reported in fish from other African aquatic ecosystems and comparable or lower compared to more industrialized regions. Fish length, trophic level, sediment THg levels and TOC in sediment were determining factors for THg levels in fish tissue. Concentrations were found to be higher in larger (and older) fish. Mercury has a high affinity for organic matter and will bind with the TOC in sediment, thus reducing the bioavailability of THg for aquatic biota which is reflected in the significant negative correlation between THg and TOC in sediment. A significant positive relationship between relative trophic level and THg concentrations was observed and also TMFs indicate biomagnification in the ORB food web. However, the trend of lower TMFs in tropical areas compared to temperate and arctic regions was not supported by the results. The consumption of fish from higher trophic levels at the average South African consumption rate is expected to pose a significant health risk. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Large data gap on THg levels and trophic transfer in (sub)tropical ecosystems. • Pollution status and biomagnification of THg in the subtropical ORB is studied. • This study confirms the previously reported biomagnificative character of Hg. • Higher levels of THg in fish species of higher trophic levels and TMFs > 1. • The consumption of fish from ORB is expected to pose a significant health risk. This paper contributes to the knowledge gap on the fate and transport of THg in (sub)tropical aquatic ecosystems, specifically in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Plastic pollution is ubiquitous in aquatic environments and its potential impacts to wildlife and humans present a growing global concern. Despite recent efforts in understanding environmental impacts associated with plastic pollution, considerable uncertainties still exist regarding the true risks of nano- and micro-sized plastics (<5 mm). The challenges faced in this field largely relate to the methodological and analytical limitations associated with studying plastic debris at low (environmentally relevant) concentrations. The present paper highlights how radiotracing techniques that are commonly applied to trace the fate and behaviour of chemicals and particles in various systems, can contribute towards addressing several important and outstanding questions in environmental plastic pollution research. Specifically, we discuss the use of radiolabeled microplastics and/or chemicals for 1) determining sorption/desorption kinetics of a range of contaminants to different types of plastics under varying conditions, 2) understanding the influence of microplastics on contaminant and nutrient bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms, and 3) assessing biokinetics, biodistribution, trophic transfer and potential biological impacts of microplastic at realistic concentrations. Radiotracer techniques are uniquely suited for this research because of their sensitivity, accuracy and capacity to measure relevant parameters over time. Obtaining precise and timely information on the fate of plastic particles and co-contaminants in wildlife has widespread applications towards effective monitoring programmes and environmental management strategies. Highlights • Global plastic pollution poses potential risks to aquatic wildlife and humans. • Several fundamental research questions remain to be addressed in this field. • Radiotracer techniques are highly sensitive and capable of real-time analysis in vivo. • We outline how radiotracers can contribute towards environmental plastics research. • Radiolabeled microplastics and chemicals can benefit bioaccumulation and contaminant transfer studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Chirality is a critical topic in the medicinal and agrochemical fields. One quarter of all agrochemicals was chiral in 1996, and this proportion has increased remarkably with the introduction of new compounds over time. Despite scientists have made great efforts to probe the enantiomeric selectivity of chiral chemicals in the environment since early 1990s, the different behaviours of individual enantiomers in biologically mediated processes are still unclear. In the present review, we highlight state-of-the-knowledge on the stereoselective biotransformation and accumulation of chiral contaminants in organisms ranging from invertebrates to humans. Chiral insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pharmaceuticals, flame retardants hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are all included in the target compounds. Key findings included: a) Changes in the enantiomeric fractions in vitro and in vivo models revealed that enantioselectivity commonly occurs in biotransformation and bioaccumulation. b) Emerging contaminants have become more important in the field of enantioselectivity together with their metabolites in biological transformation process. c) Chiral signatures have also been regarded as powerful tools for tracking pollution sources when the contribution of precursor is unknown. Future studies are needed in order to understand not only preliminary enrichment results but also detailed molecular mechanisms in diverse models to comprehensively understand the behaviours of chiral compounds. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • Scientists have made great efforts to probe the enantioselectivity of chiral pesticides in vitro and in vivo. • Chiral PCBs can undergo enantioselective metabolization to hydroxylated (OH)-PCBs by cytochrome P450 enzyme. • Stereoselecticity of chiral pharmaceuticals was caused by selective sorption, biodegradation and enantiomeric inversion. • Enantioselective uptake and metabolism of chiral α-HBCD were mostly reported in fish, rat, birds and humans. • EF s of 1 m-PFOS could be used to assess the pollution sources when contribution of PreFOS is unknown. This paper provided a critical review of the enantioselective biotransformation and bioaccumulation of chiral contaminants from in vitro and in vivo studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Recent studies have confirmed historic atmospheric deposition of uranium in Antarctica, with a steep and significant increase in levels deposited since the 1980s in Antarctic Peninsula ice core samples. To date, however, there has been little or no attention paid to uranium in the Antarctic food web. Here, we present results for uranium content in scales of three common nototheniid species (Trematomus bernacchii , Gobionotothen gibberifrons , Notothenia coriiceps) from coastal waters off James Ross Island (Antarctic Peninsula). While mean total uranium levels (mean ± SD) were low and similar between species (N. coriiceps 0.08 μg g−1 ± 0.01, T. bernacchii 0.17 μg g−1 ± 0.10; G. gibberifrons 0.11 μg g−1 ± 0.04), linear regressions against standard length indicated bioaccumulation in T. bernacchii (ANOVA, F = 7.8349, P = 0.0076). We suggest this may be the result of dietary specialisation on prey with calcareous shells that accumulate uranium. To the best of our knowledge, this paper provides the first quantitative baseline data on uranium levels in coastal Antarctic nototheniids. While the low levels recorded are unlikely to represent a threat within the food chain, we suggest that further long-term trophic studies (including stable isotope analysis) are needed, recognising that the feeding ecology of individual species (and even individuals) can have a strong effect on overall trends. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • First quantitative baseline uranium levels presented for Antarctic nototheniids. • Levels low but emerald rockcod show evidence of bioaccumulation. • Bioaccumulation linked with dietary specialisation on molluscs? • Possible links with atmospheric deposition and climate change. • In depth trophic studies needed on Antarctic food-web dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) have been commonly used as plasticizers and flame retardants in polyvinyl-chloride (PVC) products for the construction industry. During the last few years the production of SCCPs has been banned or reduced in Europe, Japan, USA, and Canada due to their toxic and bioaccumulative effects but they have been still produced and used under less controlled conditions worldwide. Middle chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) were suggested as a suitable alternative to SCCPs for PVC production instead. In this paper, the ecotoxicity of SCCPs and MCCPs is studied using the methods of potentially affected fraction of species (PAF) and the most sensitive species (MSS). Characterization factors (CFs) are estimated for SCCPs by the PAF method (for MCCPs suitable ecotoxicological indexes are not available) and for MCCPs by the MSS method (for SCCPs PEC values are negligible). Results of the present study indicate that from an ecotoxicological point of view, MCCPs may present similar ecological risks as SCCPs. Therefore, it is recommended both SCCPs and MCCPs not to be used worldwide in PVC products for the construction industry. The most suitable alternative for SCCPs seems to be inorganic compounds but their environmental impacts have not been sufficiently excluded yet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Phytoremediation is an in-situ natural, solar driven and eco-friendly approach. • Factors affecting heavy metals phytoremediation were discussed. • Cellular mechanisms of heavy metal detoxification and metal tolerance were reviewed. • Phytoremediation approach can be. • Utilisation of by-product s of phytoremediation have been elaborated. Abstract Rapid industrialisation, increased rate of waste production, higher agricultural inputs, mining, industrial waste, and contaminated irrigation water are increasing the heavy metal contamination in agricultural land and freshwater sources. These heavy metals contaminated resources are used by humans for food production that ultimately get accumulated in the food chain. Biomagnification of heavy metals can pose solemn health threats to human life, such as mutations, endocrine disruption, nephro-toxicity, etc. There has long been a need for decontamination of these resources and prevention from the further contamination to avert the negative effects on human health. The “phytoremediation” process is a very promising and eco-friendly approach for heavy metal remediation from contaminated sites with some limitations. An effort has been made to present the scattered information of phytoremediation technique in a single paper through this review. The present review describes the fundamentals of phytoremediation including the different associated processes, mechanism, and influencing factors. The mechanism of tolerance and detoxification of heavy metals by plants has also been discussed in brief. The possible amelioration/modification of a particular phytoremediation strategy has been advocated to increase its potential efficacy and further development of these strategies for future reference. The review tries to cover all the essential and adequate information of the relevant published data with some recent advances in phytoremediation approaches. It is recommended to apply the combination of different available techniques or phytoremediation techniques with modern chemical, biological and genetic engineering tools for an easy and effective decontamination of heavy metals from soil and agricultural land. The review advocates the development of site specific, farmer driven, sequential and phytoremediation strategies along with policy support for effective decontamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]