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The effect of 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47), a persistent environmental pollutant commonly used as a flame retardant in various consumer products, on pancreatitis has not been clearly elucidated, although it has been reported to be toxic to the liver, nervous system, and reproductive system. Acute pancreatitis (AP) and chronic pancreatitis (CP) models were induced in this study by intraperitoneal injection of caerulein. The aim was to investigate the impact of BDE-47 on pancreatitis by exposing the animals to acute (1 week) or chronic (8 weeks) doses of BDE-47 (30 mg/kg in the low-concentration group and 100 mg/kg in the high-concentration group). Additionally, BDE-47 was utilized to stimulate mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages, pancreatic primary stellate cells, and acinar cells in order to investigate the impact of BDE-47 on pancreatitis. In vivo experiments conducted on mice revealed that chronic exposure to BDE-47, rather than acute exposure, exacerbated the histopathological damage of AP and CP, leading to elevated fibrosis in pancreatic tissue and increased infiltration of inflammatory cells in the pancreas. In vitro experiments showed that BDE-47 can promote the expression of the inflammatory cytokines Tnf-α and Il-6 in M1 macrophages, as well as promote acinar cell apoptosis through the activation of the PERK and JNK pathways via endoplasmic reticulum stress. The findings of this study imply chronic exposure to BDE-47 may exacerbate the progression of both AP and CP by inducing acinar cell apoptosis and dysregulating inflammatory responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are mutagenic, carcinogenic, and persistent organic pollutants of the marine and coastal environment. No previous research has precisely used barnacles as potential PCBs bioindicators in the Caspian sea. The present survey was done to add the PCBs concentrations amongst the barnacle and sediment samples collected from 5 important Iranian ports besides the Caspian sea. Barnacle and sediment samples were collected from Astara, Anzali, Caspian, Kiashahr, and Chamkhaleh ports. Samples were transferred to the laboratory and analyzed for the presence and concentration of PCBs using GC-MS. Eighty different types of PCB were detected in the examined samples. PCBs concentration ranged from 02.00±00.10 to 53.00±00.60 ng/g. PCB-77 (53.00±00.60 ng/g in Chamkhaleh, 53.00±01.20 ng/g in Caspian, 53.00±02.40 ng/g in Anzali, and 53.00±2.7 ng/g in Astara ports) had the highest concentration in barnacle samples. PCB-52 (53.00±00.70 ng/g in Chamkhaleh port) had the highest concentration in sediment samples. PCB-114 had the lowest concentration amongst the barnacle (02.00±00.10 ng/g in Astara port) and sediment (03.00±00.20 ng/g in Anzali port) samples. This study is the first report evaluating the presence and concentration of PCBs in barnacle in the Caspian Sea. The role of barnacles and sediments as biomonitors of PCBs was determined. It seems necessary to set strict rules to prevent pollutants from entering the Caspian Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nd3+-doped graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets incorporated with heteropoly phosphotungstic acid (Nd3+-g-C3N4-HPA) were synthesised, and their optical response, band structure and charge separation efficiency were analysed. UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectral studies revealed that Nd3+ doping and HPA incorporation led to an increase in absorption intensity, which enhances the range of visible light absorption. Improved separation efficiency and reduction in the recombination rate of photogenerated electrons and holes are supported by photoluminescence studies. This novel photocatalyst was applied for the removal of the antibiotic, ceftriaxone sodium from water and attained complete degradation within 75 min of sunlight irradiation, demonstrating that the Nd3+-g-C3N4-HPA photocatalyst would be beneficial for eliminating persistent organic pollutants like dyes and pharmaceutical compounds from wastewater. Investigations revealed that superoxide anion radicals and holes play a significant role in the photocatalytic degradation of pollutants. Furthermore, a possible degradation pathway of ceftriaxone sodium was proposed using mass spectral analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic persistent chemicals, which are used in many industrial and commercial applications. Hundreds of different PFAS have been identified in the environment and they are commonly found also in human blood. Due to the chemical stability and extensive use, PFAS pose a risk for human health and wildlife. Mounting evidence indicates that PFAS-exposure adversely affects many organs including liver, kidney, and reproductive tissues and induces tumors in laboratory rodents. Epidemiological studies show association between PFAS-exposure and some tumors also in humans. Effects of PFAS-exposure are complex and obviously do not depend only on the concentration and the structure of PFAS, but also on age and sex of the exposed individuals. It has been difficult to show a causal link between PFAS-exposure and tumors. Moreover, molecular mechanisms of the PFAS effects in different tissues are poorly understood. PFAS are not directly mutagenic and they do not induce formation of DNA binding metabolites, and thus are assumed to act more through non-genotoxic mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the involvement of PFAS-compounds in tumor development in tissues where PFAS exposure has been associated with cancer in epidemiological and animal studies (liver, kidney, testicle and breast). We will focus on molecular pathways and mechanisms related to tumor formation following PFAS-exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 2D/2D Van der Waals (VDW) heterojunction between BCN/CuPc. • Phosphate group insertion between copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and B-doped and N -deficient g-C 3 N 4 (BDCNN) to design and construct a Van der Waals heterojunction. • Phosphate group as a charge modulator and an efficient conduit for charge transfer. • Interfacial interaction charge transfer mechanism. The realization of 2D/2D Van der Waals (VDW) heterojunctions represents an advanced approach to achieving superior photocatalytic efficiency. However, electron transfer through Van der Waals heterojunctions formed via ex-situ assembly encounters significant challenges at the interface due to contrasting morphologies and potential barriers among the nanocomposite substituents. Herein, a novel approach is presented, involving the insertion of a phosphate group between copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and B-doped and N -deficient g-C 3 N 4 (BDCNN), to design and construct a Van der Waals heterojunction labeled as xCu[acs]/yP-BDCNN. The introduction of phosphate as a charge modulator and efficient conduit for charge transfer within the heterojunction resulted in the elimination of spatial barriers and induced electron movement from BDCNN to CuPc in the excited states. Consequently, the catalytic central Cu2+ in CuPc captured the photoelectrons, leading to the conversion of CO 2 to C 2 H 4 , CO and CH 4. Remarkably, this approach resulted in a 78-fold enhancement in photocatalytic efficiency compared to pure BDCNN. Moreover the findings confirm that the 2D-2D 4Cu[acs]/9P-BDCNN sheet-like heterojunction effectively boosts photocatalytic activity for persistent pollutants such as methyl orange (MO), methylene blue (MB), rhodamine B (RhB), and tetracycline antibiotics (TCs). The introduction of "interfacial interacting" substances to establish an electron transfer pathway presents a novel and effective strategy for designing photocatalysts capable of efficiently reducing CO 2 into valuable products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Electronic products sorted by black, white or other color are called chromoproducts. • Chromoproducts were categorized according to their likelihood of POP-BFRs content. • Chromoproduct approach used to sort polluted/clean plastic at e-waste facilities. • Bromine and antimony contents by weight might be indicators of POP-BFRs pollution. • Chromoproducts composition and plastics separated by polymer type allowed upcycling. Research to prevent releases of brominated flame retardants listed as persistent organic pollutants by the Stockholm Convention (POP-BFRs) was conducted through an international cooperation project in Colombia. Six waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) management facilities implemented: 1) sorting e-waste by product type and color (black, white, and other; henceforth called chromoproducts), 2) sampling test products and their plastic fraction (called sets, separated by polymer type), 3) monitoring mass, bromine and antimony contents by hand-held X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and POP-BFRs such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and 4) differentiated treatment according to categories that used the Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (RoHS) hazardousness threshold of 1000 mg ∑PBDEs/kg. This scheme led to the proposal of a methodology for WEEE management called the "chromoproduct approach". 994,230 products were managed and grouped into 222 chromoproducts, from which 77 were analyzed: 50 below RoHS hazardousness (BRH), 16 above RoHS hazardousness (ARH), and 11 unknown RoHS hazardousness (URH). XRF indicators using bromine and antimony contents could rule out pollution in BRH chromoproducts; however, categorization still required GC–MS. One ARH plastics sample had 3620 mg ∑PBDEs/kg, while no POP-BFRs were found in the BRH plastics sample. The implementation of the chromoproduct approach traced 153.6 tonnes of ARH plastics. BRH plastics composition was estimated and used in a pilot-scale closed-loop economic activity. The chromoproduct approach seems promising for avoiding POP-BFR releases and promoting the upcycling of recyclable e-waste plastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) is a chemotherapy drug mainly used to treat leukemia. It is a persistent organic pollutant and can remain in the environment for a long period of time. The presence of 6-MP in the environment poses a number of hazards and needs to be assessed to monitor its potential risk to human health and the environment. However, due to its trace amount in complicated matrices, a clean-up and preconcentration step before its determination is compulsory. Results: As a highly efficient adsorbent for the extrication of 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), a novel carbon nanotube doped with camphor: decanoic acid deep eutectic solvent was synthesized and applied as a packing material for the pipette-tip micro solid phase extraction sorbent of 6-MP from tap, wastewater and seawater samples before its spectrophotometric determination. Characteristics and structure of this adsorbent was fully investigated. Factors affecting extraction, including type and volume of the eluent, ionic strength and pH of the sample solution, amount of adsorbent, and number of extraction and elution cycles were optimized using one-factor-at-a-time and response surface methodologies. The method was found to be linear in the range of 1 to 1000 µg/L with a limit of detection and quantification of 0.2 and 0.7 µg/L, respectively. Reproducibility as relative standard deviation was better than 4.6%. Conclusion: Application of deep eutectic solvent modified carbon nanotube indicated suitable microextraction results and good potential for rapid extraction of trace amounts of 6-MP from different aqueous samples. The amount of sample required for the analysis was less than 10 mL and only 1.5 mg of the adsorbent was used. The total analysis time, including extraction was less than 15 min and the adsorbent could be used for at least 10 times, without significantly losing its adsorption ability. Compared to using unmodified usual carbon nanotubes, deep eutectic solvent doped carbon nanotubes showed 19.8% higher extraction ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sufficient homogeneity of the certified parameter(s) over the whole fill series of a matrix reference material (RM) is a fundamental quality criterion. In practice, the heterogeneity of the target parameter is evaluated, whereby a relative value can be calculated of how much the target parameter is varying over the RM-batch. A high degree of homogeneity (low heterogeneity) is an inherent quality mark of a good RM. Here, we report how challenging matrix RMs were produced by using particle suspensions at the core of the material processing step. The examples of matrix RMs produced span from whole water reference materials for persistent organic pollutants, PM2.5-like atmospheric dust certified for specific ions to microplastic RMs. Most of these RMs were subsequently used in different phases of analytical method development or for method validation. Common to all these matrices is that they cannot be easily mixed, handled, or dosed to prepare larger sample batches. In all cases, a continuously stirred suspension of particles was used during material processing. In general, relative between-bottle heterogeneities from 1.6 to 6% were achieved for the target parameters in these matrix presentations. Concerning developments of new CRMs in emerging fields, the co-dependence between the availability of validated analytical methods with good repeatability and testing materials with a known and high homogeneity of the target parameter(s) becomes particularly challenging. This situation is an RM/Method causality dilemma. To overcome that hurdle, strategies are proposed for stepwise processes where RM producers and a network of analytical method developers could work hand in hand. In addition, development of a portfolio of inexpensive and well-homogenised common samples coupled with a reporting interface is suggested. This would benefit method developers and RM producers alike. As more and more data is compiled for a specific matrix, it paves the way for new and challenging RMs that can later be used by a wider community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to explore the relationship of adipose tissue concentrations of some persistent organic pollutants (POPs) with the risk of endometriosis and the endometriotic tissue expression profile of genes related to the endometriosis-related epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. This case–control study enrolled 109 women (34 cases and 75 controls) between January 2018 and March 2020. Adipose tissue samples and endometriotic tissues were intraoperatively collected to determine concentrations of nine POPs and the gene expression profiles of 36 EMT-related genes, respectively. Associations of POPs with endometriosis risk were explored with multivariate logistic regression, while the relationship between exposure and gene expression profiles was assessed through Spearman correlation or Mann–Whitney U tests. After adjustment, increased endometriosis risk was associated with p,p'-DDT, PCB-180, and ΣPCBs. POP exposure was also associated with reduced gene expression levels of the CLDN7 epithelial marker and increased levels of the ITGB2 mesenchymal marker and a variety of EMT promoters (HMGA1, HOXA10, FOXM1, DKK1, CCR1, TNFRSF1B, RRM2, ANG, ANGPT1, and ESR1). Our findings indicate that exposure to POPs may increase the risk of endometriosis and might have a role in the endometriosis-related EMT development, contributing to the disease onset and progression. Further studies are warranted to corroborate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the association between serum concentrations of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and the risk of type 2 diabetes within the general population. A ten-year follow-up historical cohort study was conducted during 2009–2019 as part of the Bushehr MONICA cohort study in Iran. Of 893 non-diabetes participants at base line, 181 individuals were included in the study. The concentration of nine PCB congeners was measured in individuals' serum samples at baseline, and the risk of type 2 diabetes was determined based on fasting blood sugar at the end of follow-up. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess the study outcomes after adjusting for covariates. This study included 59 diabetes individuals (32.6%; mean [SD] age: 58.64 [8.05]) and 122 non-diabetes individuals (67.4%; mean [SD] age: 52.75 [8.68]). Multivariable analysis revealed that a one-tertile increase (increasing from 33rd centile to 67th centile) in Σ non-dioxin-like-PCBs (OR 2.749, 95% CI 1.066–7.089), Σ dioxin-like-PCBs (OR 4.842, 95% CI 1.911–12.269), and Σ PCBs (OR 2.887, 95% CI 1.120–7.441) significantly associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The strongest association was obtained for dioxin-like PCBs. The results highlight a significant correlation between PCB exposure and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The evidence suggests that additional epidemiological studies are necessary to clarify the link between PCBs and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter, published in the Journal of Parkinson's Disease, discusses the use of remote sensing data as a tool for studying the environmental aspects of Parkinson's Disease (PD). The authors highlight the challenges of correlating environmental factors to the disease process, such as the long latency period between exposure and disease manifestation and recall biases in retrospective evaluations. They propose using archived satellite aerosol data records, supported by ground ambient monitoring data, to provide accurate and unbiased retrospective environmental data. The authors conducted a study with 50 PD patients and matched controls, analyzing air quality data from the past 10 years. They were able to build an air pollution profile for each subject and suggest that this approach can enrich future epidemiological studies. The study was supported by the American University in Cairo. [Extracted from the article]

This document provides an overview of the importance of water quality and the issue of water pollution, with a focus on its impact on human health and ecosystems. It emphasizes the need for safe and accessible water for all, as recognized by the United Nations. The document highlights the role of catalysis, particularly photocatalysis, in addressing water pollution by degrading organic pollutants. It includes examples of catalysts and their effectiveness in degrading specific pollutants. The document also discusses the use of traditional catalytic processes and the combination of catalytic and photocatalytic processes for water treatment. It specifically examines the use of zero-valent metal-based persulfate activation systems, such as zero-valent copper, for the removal of organic pollutants like Orange G dye. The document also reviews the application of nanocatalysts in wastewater purification, discussing recent studies and identifying challenges for their practical implementation. It emphasizes the importance of conducting research under real-world conditions and the need for catalysts that are active, stable, selective, and environmentally friendly. The document concludes by acknowledging the authors' contributions and expressing hope that their work will contribute to solving water pollution challenges. [Extracted from the article]

Lakes are the main reservoirs of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) from land, atmosphere and rivers. POPs in lakes undergo complex exchange, transformation, and degradation between water-air-sediment-biota interfaces, which are constrained and regulated by various physical, chemical and biological factors. POPs can affect ecological conditions, chemical properties of water and sediments, and biodiversity of the lake system. Therefore, it is important to study the sources, migration, transformation, environmental behavior and ecological impacts of POPs in lake ecosystems. This review summarizes research progress on detection technologies, diversity and origins, historical records, migration and transformation, distribution patterns, degradation and toxic effects of POPs in lakes. Finally, future directions related to POPs in lakes were summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium sulfide (CdS)-based photocatalysts are prepared following a hydrothermal procedure (with CdCl2 and thiourea as precursors). The HydroThermal material annealed (CdS-HTa) is crystalline with a band gap of 2.31 eV. Photoelectrochemical investigation indicates a very reducing photo-potential of −0.9 V, which is very similar to that of commercial CdS. CdS-HTa, albeit having similar reducing properties, is more active than commercial CdS in the reductive dehalogenation of 2,2-dichloropropionic acid (dalapon) to propionic acid. Spectroscopic, electro-, and photoelectrochemical investigation show that photocatalytic properties of CdS are correlated to its electronic structure. The reductive dehalogenation of dalapon has a double significance: on one hand, it represents a demanding reductive process for a photocatalyst, and on the other hand, it has a peculiar interest in water treatment because dalapon can be considered a representative molecule of persistent organic pollutants and is one of the most important disinfection by products, whose removal from the water is the final obstacle to its complete reuse. HPLC-MS investigation points out that complete disappearance of dalapon passes through 2-monochloropropionic acid and leads to propionic acid as the final product. CdS-HTa requires very mild working conditions (room temperature, atmospheric pressure, natural pH), and it is stable and recyclable without significant loss of activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic dyes are persistent organic environmental pollutants that can cause extensive damage to living beings and to the ecosystem as a whole. Cost-effective, sustainable, and efficient strategies to deal with this type of pollution are necessary as it commonly resists conventional water treatment methods. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using the aqueous extract from the leaves, stem, and fruits of Leucaena leucocephala (Leucena) were produced and characterized through UV–vis, TEM, EDS, SDL, XPS, XRD, and zeta potential, and they proved to be able to promote adsorption to remediate methylene blue and tartrazine pollution in water. The nanoremediation was performed and did not require direct exposure to sunlight or any special lamp or a specific reduction agent. The AgNPs produced using the extract from the leaves exhibited the best performance in nanoremediation and also presented antioxidant activity that surpassed the one from butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Consequently, it is an interesting nanotool to use in dye nanoremediation and/or as an antioxidant nanostructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants that impart several hazardous effects on the environment. Extracellular enzymes released by filamentous fungi are well-known participants in the degradation of such organic pollutants. The present study aims to determine the interaction of pyrene with Lac1 protein, coding for the extracellular laccase enzyme from Trichoderma sp. CNSC-2. Lac1 sequence analysis revealed the stable and acidic nature of the laccase enzyme. The dominance of random coils (54.8%) and extended strands (28.3%) in secondary structure defined protein flexibility. 3D homology modeling followed by validation revealed a high-quality model with 94.8% residues in the favored zone of Ramachandran plot. Molecular docking study with pyrene displayed a significant binding affinity of −7.82 kcal mol−1 with the amino acid residues at the active binding site of Lac1, indicating a strong role in pyrene binding. Trichoderma sp. CNSC-2 achieved 69.42 ± 0.4% of pyrene removal efficiency at 100 mg l−1 pyrene concentration on day 12 of incubation. Laccase activity during pyrene degradation simultaneously increased, and the highest activity was observed on day 6 of incubation. Enzyme production was found to be optimum at pH 6 (p < 0.001) and 30°C temperature (p < 0.0001). FTIR analysis showed deviation in the amide bands of laccase in the presence of pyrene, and additional peaks coinciding with pyrene metabolites were observed. The decrease in intensity of laccase due to quenching by pyrene interaction was determined by fluorescence spectroscopy. Thus, this study suggested a strong binding affinity of pyrene to the laccase active site implying the potential role of laccase enzyme from Trichoderma sp. CNSC-2 in pyrene degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A descriptive annotated bibliography is presented of recent selected publications dealing with the reported health benefits and risks of fish and seafood consumption; fish and seafood including farmed and wild-caught finfish, crustaceans, mollusks, and seaweeds. The bibliography is presented in four parts, namely (1) review papers dealing with both the health benefits and risks of fish and seafood consumption, (2) specific papers dealing with health benefits related to: antioxidants; bone health; brain and mental health; cancer prevention; diabetes prevention; elderly and senior adults; fermentation; heart health and hypertension; immune response and allergies; infant and child health; lipids, fatty acids and sterols; minerals and trace elements; obesity and overweight reduction; polysaccharides; pregnancy and gestational health; proteins, peptides and amino acids; and vitamins and bioactive compounds; (3) specific papers dealing with health risks related to: algal blooms and shellfish biotoxins; antibiotics use and residues; cancer risks; chemicals; chronic kidney disease; microbial quality and safety; microplastics; minerals and heavy metals; parasites and pathogens; pesticides and persistent organic pollutants; public perception and media; seafood allergy; and smoking risks; and (4) supporting papers dealing with consumption advisories and dietary guidelines; improved decontamination and processing methods; and fish, food and nutrient security. A total of 552 papers are presented together with their annotated summaries. On the basis of the papers presented in this review, it is believed that the higher nutritional value and health benefits derived from increased fish and seafood consumption far out-way the potential negative risks to human health, and as such fish and seafood represent a valuable and much healthier alternative than processed fast-foods and many terrestrial animal food products in the global fight against heart disease and related health ailments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzotriazole ultraviolet (UV) stabilizers (BUVSs) are used in great quantities during industrial production of a variety of consumer and industrial goods. As a result of leaching and spill, BUVSs are detectable ubiquitously in the environment. As of May 2023, citing concerns related to bioaccumulation, biomagnification, and environmental persistence, (B)UV(S)‐328 was recommended to be listed under Annex A of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. However, a phaseout of UV‐328 could result in a regrettable substitution because the replacement chemical(s) could cause similar or unpredicted toxicity in vivo, relative to UV‐328. Therefore, the influence of UV‐327, a potential replacement of UV‐328, was investigated with respect to early life development of newly fertilized rainbow trout embryos (Oncorhynchus mykiss), microinjected with environmentally relevant concentrations of UV‐327. Developmental parameters (standard length), energy consumption (yolk area), heart function, blue sac disease, mortality, and behavior were investigated. Alevins at 14 days posthatching, exposed to 107 ng UV‐327 g−1 egg, presented significant signs of hyperactivity; they moved on average 1.8‐fold the distance and at 1.5‐fold the velocity of controls. Although a substantial reduction in body burden of UV‐327 was observed at hatching, it is postulated that UV‐327, due to its lipophilic properties, interfered with neurological development and signaling from the onset of neurogenesis. If these results hold true across multiple taxa and species, a potential contributor to neurodevelopmental disorders might have been identified. These findings suggest that UV‐327 poses an unknown hazard to rainbow trout embryos and alevins, rendering UV‐327 a potential regrettable substitution to UV‐328. However, a qualified statement on a regrettable substitution requires a comparative investigation on the teratogenic effects between the two BUVSs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:762–771. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is growing worldwide recognition of the threat posed by persistent organic pollutants (POPs) to wildlife populations. We aimed to measure exposure levels to POPs in a Southern Hemisphere aquatic waterbird species, the nomadic gray teal (Anas gracilis), which is found across Australia. We collected wings from 39 ducks harvested by recreational hunters at two sites (one coastal, one inland) in Victoria, southeastern Australia, in 2021. We examined three groups of POPs: nine congeners of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 13 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and 12 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The PCBs, OCPs, and PAHs were detected at quantifiable levels in 13%, 72%, and 100% of birds, respectively. Of the congeners we tested for in PCBs, OCPs, and PAHs, 33%, 38%, and 100% were detected at quantifiable levels, respectively. The highest levels of exposure to POPs that we found were to the PAH benzo[b]fluoranthene, occurring at a concentration range of 1.78 to 161.05 ng/g wet weight. There were some trends detected relating to differences between geographical sites, with higher levels of several PAHs at the coastal versus inland site. There were several strong, positive associations among PAHs found. We discuss potential sources for the POPs detected, including industrial and agricultural sources, and the likely role of large‐scale forest fires in PAH levels. Our results confirm that while Australian waterbirds are exposed to a variety of POPs, exposure levels are currently relatively low. Additional future investigations are required to further characterize POPs within Australian waterbird species. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:736–747. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are two families of persistent organic pollutants that are dangerous as they remain in the atmosphere for long periods and are toxic for humans and animals. They are found all over the world, including the penguins of Antarctica. One of the mechanisms that explains the toxicity of these compounds is related to oxidative stress. The main idea of this theoretical research is to use conceptual density functional theory as a theory of chemical reactivity to analyze the oxidative stress that PCBs and PBDEs can produce. The electron transfer properties as well as the interaction with DNA nitrogenous bases of nine PCBs and ten PBDEs found in Antarctic penguins are investigated. From this study, it can be concluded that compounds with more chlorine or bromine atoms are more oxidizing and produce more oxidative stress. These molecules also interact directly with the nitrogenous bases of DNA, forming hydrogen bonds, and this may be an explanation for the toxicity. Since quinone-type metabolites of PCBs and PBDEs can cause neurotoxicity, examples of quinones are also investigated. Condensed Fukui functions are included to analyze local reactivity. These results are important as the reactivity of these compounds helps to explain the toxicity of PCBs and PBDEs. Methods: All DFT computations were performed using Gaussian16 at M06-2x/6–311 + g(2d,p) level of theory without symmetry constraints. Electro-donating (ω-) and electro-accepting (ω +) powers were used as global response functions and condensed Fukui functions as local parameters of reactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Findings related to the association between persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are inconclusive. Objectives: To estimate the strength of the association between POP exposure and GDM in a systematic review with meta‐analysis. Search strategy: MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science were searched until July 2023. Selection criteria: Cohort and case–control studies analysing the association between POPs and GDM. Data collection and analysis: We assessed the risk of bias using the Quality in Prognosis Studies scale (QUIPS). Standardised mean differences were pooled using random‐effect models. Main results: Sixteen articles including 12 216 participants were selected. The risk of bias was high in four articles (25%), moderate in 11 (68.75%) and low in one (6.25%). Small mean difference between GDM cases and controls was observed for PFHpA (0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.1–0.35, I2 = 0.0%), PCB180 (0.37, 95% CI 0.19–0.56; I2 = 25.3%), BDE47 (0.23, 95% CI 0.0–0.45, I2 = 0%), BDE99 (0.36, 95% CI 0.14–0.59; I2 = 0%), BDE100 (0.42, 95% CI 0.19–0.64; I2 = 0%) and HCB (0.22, 95% CI 0.01–0.42, I2 = 39.6%). No considerable difference was observed for the rest of POPs. Conclusion: Small mean differences between GDM cases and controls were observed for some POPs. However, evidence shows mostly moderate quality and results were heterogeneous. Improved research methodology is needed to assess POPs and GDM risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid and sensitive assessment of the toxicity of oxygenated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OPAHs), widely distributed persistent organic pollutants in the environment, is crucial for human health. In this study, using high-performance liquid chromatography, the separation and detection of four purines, xanthine (X), guanine (G), adenine (A), and hypoxanthine (HX) in cells were performed. The aim was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of three OPAHs, namely 1,4-benzoquinone (1,4-BQ), 1,2-naphthoquinone (1,2-NQ) and 9,10-phenanthrenequinone (9,10-PQ), with higher environmental concentrations, from the perspective of purine nucleotide metabolism in human skin fibroblast cells (HFF-1). The results revealed that the levels of G and A were low in HFF-1 cells, while the levels of HX and X showed a dose-response relationship with persistent organic pollutants concentration. With increased concentration of the three persistent organic pollutants, the purine metabolism in HFF-1 cells weakened, and the impact of the three persistent organic pollutants on purine metabolism in cells was in the order of 9,10-PQ > 1,4-BQ > 1,2-NQ. This study provided valuable insights into the toxic mechanisms of 1,4-BQ, 1,2-NQ and 9,10-PQ, contributing to the formulation of relevant protective measures and the safeguarding of human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Procellariiform seabirds are known to have high rates of plastic ingestion. We investigated the bioaccessibility of plastic-associated chemicals [plastic additives and sorbed persistent organic pollutants (POPs)] leached from plastic over time using an in vitro Procellariiform gastric model. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), commonly ingested by Procellariiform seabirds, were manufactured with one additive [decabrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE-209) or bisphenol S (BPS)]. HDPE and PVC added with PBDE-209 were additionally incubated in salt water with 2,4,4'-trichloro-1,1'-biphenyl (PCB-28) and 2,2',3,4,4',5'-hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB-138) to simulate sorption of POPs on plastic in the marine environment. Our results indicate that the type of plastic (nature of polymer and additive), presence of food (i.e., lipids and proteins) and gastric secretions (i.e., pepsin) influence the leaching of chemicals in a seabird. In addition, 100% of the sorbed POPs were leached from the plastic within 100 hours, while only 2–5% of the additives were leached from the matrix within 100 hours, suggesting that the remaining 95% of the additives could continue to be leached. Overall, our study illustrates how plastic type, diet and plastic retention time can influence a Procellariform's exposure risk to plastic-associated chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Chlordecone is a persistent organochlorinated insecticide, extensively used in the French West Indies and has been contaminating the population for more than thirty years. Its potentiation effect on hepatotoxic agents has been demonstrated in animal models. We investigated the relationship between environmental exposure to chlordecone and the progression of liver fibrosis. Methods: This study included 182 consecutive patients with chronic alcoholic hepatitis whose liver fibrosis was assessed using non-invasive methods. Measured plasma chlordecone concentrations at inclusion were used as surrogate of long-term exposure under steady-state conditions. As the pharmacokinetic processing of chlordecone is largely determined by the liver, we used a human physiologically based pharmacokinetic model to predict plausible changes in the steady-state blood chlordecone concentrations induced by liver fibrosis. Results: With a median follow-up of 27.1 years after the onset of alcohol consumption, we found a significant decrease in the risk of advanced liver fibrosis with increasing plasma chlordecone concentration (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.56; 95% confidence interval: 0.34–0.95 for the highest vs. lowest tertile, p = 0.04). Changes induced by liver fibrosis influenced the pharmacokinetic processing of chlordecone, resulting in substantial modifications in its steady-state blood concentrations. Conclusion: According to this human model of coexposure to alcohol, reverse causality is the most plausible explanation of this inverse association between plasma chlordecone concentrations and progression of liver fibrosis. This study underlines the importance of considering the pharmacokinetic of environmental contaminants in epidemiological studies when biomarkers of exposure are used to investigate their own impact on the liver. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03373396. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strandings provide valuable information about rare marine organisms and their relationship with their environment. In the southern Gulf of México, specifically on the central coast of Campeche, Mexico, strandings of oceanic cetaceans have rarely been recorded, therefore, biological information has also been scarce. One of such rare stranding cases occurred on September 7, 2022, on the coast of Seybaplaya, Campeche. The specimen was identified as a female of Tursiops truncatus with the morphology features of the oceanic ecotype. The carcass was examined shortly after death, and samples for different analyses were obtained fresh. Tissue samples were collected, and some particular observations were made to define the individual's general health status. Results of the analyses revealed damage in the liver, lungs, and kidneys, probably related to 1) the advanced age of the organism (>35 years), and 2) the presence of persistent organic pollutants. Most importantly, this study contributed two new findings, the first record of the parasite Anisakis and the presence of renal calculi in the oceanic ecotype of T. truncatus in the southern Gulf of Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important principle of international environmental law, the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities (the CBDR principle) is being applied to various international environment protection regimes including environmental governance on the high seas as an important guiding principle in the law of the sea. This may be beneficial for engaging the international community to protect the high seas in solidarity. However, the application of the CBDR principle encounters difficulties, which include obstacles regarding cross-sector application, different understandings of the CBDR principle and difficulties in implementation of international instruments. This article argues that the differentiation should not depend exclusively on the traditional dichotomy of developing and developed countries but must be determined on a fluid and case-by-case basis. This suggests that the details of the differentiated responsibilities should also be context-specific rather than uniform for all States. Moreover, the implementation of the CBDR principle to address environmental problems on the high seas should be based on substantive fairness. Finally, this article makes several observations. First, the demands of developing countries in the field of maritime emission reduction should be considered. Second, obligation of capacity building and the transfer of marine technology prescribed in the BBNJ Agreement should be encouraged and implemented. Third, strengthening international cooperation in plastic pollution control on the high seas is expected. Fourth, the international community should provide developing countries with the financial support and technical assistance in persistent organic pollutants control. All of these may contribute to the protection of the high seas environment and the future realization of the sustainable development of the oceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast milk holds an immense nutritional value as it contains health-promoting substances in a unique, optimal form. Additionally, breast milk's significance extends to health and environmental protection, as it serves as an indicator of both maternal and infant exposure. In this study, breast milk samples collected in 2013 and in 2014–2016 from mothers in Vienna (Austria) were analysed for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), as well as further substances which have been listed under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) due to their persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic properties. The total concentration of the PBDE congeners in the samples (n = 18, sampled 2013) ranged from 0.055 to 52 ng/g lipid, and from 0.002 to 2.5 ng/g breast milk. In the pooled sample, the sum of PBDEs was detected at a level of 4.4 ng/g lipid. Based on the 2014–2016 study population, certain PFAS were detected in all samples (n = 40). Exposure to the sum of four specific PFAS including perfluorooctanesulphonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluoro-n-nonanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluoro-1-hexanesulfonate (PFHxS) ranged between 0.014 and 0.12 ng/L breast milk. In the pooled sample, PFOS and PFOA were found in concentrations of 0.025 ng/g and of 0.045 ng/g, respectively. In addition, the first generation of POPs, mainly organochlorine compounds, was measured in a pooled sample of breast milk from participants sampled in 2014–2016 as part of the WHO/UNEP breast milk monitoring program and compared to the POPs measured in pooled samples collected in 1987/1988 and 1992/1993, respectively. Therefore, this paper demonstrates the effectiveness of the Stockholm Convention on POPs by comparing the Austrian results from the WHO/UNEP global breast milk study from 1987 to 2016. However, the data also show that, despite these reductions, health-relevant levels are still being reached, particularly in terms of children's health when the presence of the new generation of POPs, such as PBDEs and PFAS, in human breast milk is taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) exist in the atmosphere in the vapor and particulate phases, as well as in solubilized form in fog/rain/cloud waters. In the current paper, fogwater samples are collected during 42 events between 2015 and 2021 at four different sites (Strasbourg, Geispolsheim, Erstein, Cronenbourg) in the Alsace region. Organics are extracted using liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) supported on a solid cartridge (XTR Chromabond), and then analyzed by gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The total PAHs and PCBs concentrations in fog samples vary between 0.58 and 6.7 µg L−1 (average of 2.70 µg L−1), and 0.14 and 15.5 µg L−1 (average of 2.75 µg L−1). Low-molecular-weight (LMW) PAHs are predominant and highly detectable compared to high-molecular-weight (HMW) PAHs, while pentachloro-biphenyls are the dominant PCB congener. The PAHs and PCBs concentrations have increased over the sampling years at all sites, except for a slight decrease in PCBs level at Geispolsheim. A diagnostic ratio (DR) and principal component analysis (PCA) are applied to suggest potential contamination sources at Strasbourg metropolitan. Their results reveal that PAHs derive from a mixture of pyrogenic activities, while PCBs mainly come from industrial activities. The results also reveal, in some cases, inter-site variability for simultaneous and successive fog events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Live-strandings of cetaceans are uncommon in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico. However, an adult female bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) with normal body condition was recorded at Pelicano's Beach on the coast of Veracruz State. Health assessment showed multiple external injuries, possibly caused by the stranding event, as well as potential bacterial infection, and, thus, the individual was held in temporary facilities for rehabilitation. Blood samples were taken to assess the health status of the individual and were also analyzed for concentrations of 20 pollutants (14 organochlorine pesticides [OCPs] and six heavy metals [HMs]). The animal was released and found dead within a few days. The concentration of OCPs and HMs were close or above the government limits. Although these were lower than those reported in other living, free-ranging bottlenose dolphins, there are well-known negative effects for health. Low OCP values were attributed to an offloading process through lactation or mobility of the lipophilic OCPs that pass from blood to fat. Whereas HM concentrations (mainly non-essential metals: mercury [Hg], lead [Pb], and cadmium [Cd]-2.73, 21.13, and 12.67 µg L-1, respectively) were probably linked to the diet and the possible distribution of the specimen (possibly offshore). This is the first report on pollutants from anthropogenic origin in the area where uncontrolled activities are of major concern within a protected national reef park. Since marine ecosystems are under continuous pressure, several health issues for top predators are being noticed; therefore, this study underlines the relevance of studying health status of marine mammals in the Mexican waters of the Gulf of Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective and economical processes for the advanced treatment of coking wastewater were urgently needed to reduce the persistent organic pollutants of external drainage. In the present work, we investigated the degradation of organic pollutants in coking wastewater through IHC/FO (imping stream hydrodynamic cavitation (IHC) coupled with the Fenton oxidation (FO) process) and IHC alone for their feasibility in the advanced treatment of coking wastewater. To select the optimum parameters, attention was paid to the effects of main operation conditions including inlet fluid pressure, medium temperature, initial pH, reaction time, and initial Fe(II) and initial H2O2 concentrations. The results showed that the effects of conditions that need energy to be maintained (such as initial pH and inlet pressure) on the organic pollutant removal efficiency through IHC/FO were less pronounced than those through IHC alone. Moreover, the application of IHC/FO could remove more organic pollutants from coking wastewater than IHC even at an energy-efficient condition. For example, the highest COD removal efficiency of 12.5% was achieved in the IHC treatment at 0.4 MPa, pH 3, and 60 min for the reaction time. In the case of IHC/FO, the maximum COD removal of 33.2% was obtained at pH 7, 0.1 MPa, 12 mmol/L H2O2, and 3 mmol/L Fe2+ after reacting for 15 min. The ultraviolet and visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis) absorption spectra and gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis further revealed that the kinds and amounts of pollutants (especially those that had benzenes) remaining in water treated through IHC/FO were much fewer and smaller than in water treated through IHC alone. The better performances of IHC/FO than IHC alone were likely related to the more hydroxyl radicals produced through IHC/FO. Taken together, our findings indicate that IHC/FO has great application potential in the advanced treatment of coking wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cutaneous melanoma arises from skin melanocytes and has a high risk of metastatic spread. Despite better prevention, earlier detection, and the development of innovative therapies, melanoma incidence and mortality increase annually. Major clinical risk factors for melanoma include fair skin, an increased number of nevi, the presence of dysplastic nevi, and a family history of melanoma. However, several external inducers seem to be associated with melanoma susceptibility such as environmental exposure, primarily unprotected sun experience, alcohol consumption, and heavy metals. In recent years, epidemiological studies have highlighted a potential risk of β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), the most studied organochlorine pesticide, causing cancer induction including melanoma. Methods: We evaluated in vitro the impact of this pollutant on epidermal and dermal cells, attempting to describe mechanisms that could render cutaneous cells more prone to oncogenic transformation. Results: We demonstrated that β-HCH impacts melanocyte biology with a highly cell-type specific signature that involves perturbation of AKT/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and AMPK activation, resulting in lowering energy reserve, cell proliferation, and pigment production. Conclusions: In conclusion, long-term exposure to persistent organic pollutants damages melanocyte metabolism in its function of melanin production with a consequent reduction of melanogenesis indicating a potential augmented skin cancer risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The entire human population is exposed to persistent organic pollutants throughout their lives. Among them, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial and consumer products that are known to exert adverse effects on human health. As they bioaccumulate in the human brain and are known to be neurotoxic in experimental models, they are assumed to be involved in neurodegenerative processes. In this proof-of-concept study, we measured the level of 18 PFAS in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from 8 patients hospitalized with suspected normal pressure hydrocephalus. We then analyzed whether PFAS levels could be related to both biological and clinical markers of Alzheimer's disease. We showed that PFAS and perfluorooctanesulfonate were found in all CSF samples from a French region without fluorochemical industries. Moreover, we observed a significant difference between the levels of PFAS and perfluorooctanesulfonate in the CSF of patients with both Alzheimer's disease markers and cognitive impairment compared with those with only 1 or neither. Two previous studies have shown that PFAS levels in human CSF increase with age and are linked to impaired blood–brain barrier integrity. Our results provide the first evidence of a link between PFAS accumulation in the central nervous system and clinical and biological markers of Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to enhance the photocatalytic activity of ZnO films for persistent organic pollutants. The photocatalysis method has gained significant interest as a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to enhance the safety of clean water by eliminating persistent organic pollutants. Zinc oxide as a transition metal oxide is recognized as a highly effective material for photocatalysis. Even so, ZnO can be modified to increase its action and result in a more significant degradation of organic pollutants. In the photocatalytic process, an electron from the valence band is excited and moves to a higher energy level, the conduction band. Thus, an electron-hole pair is formed. Unstoichiometry transition metal oxides, such as MnOx are hole-trapping co-catalysts that promote oxidation processes. This research reported the sol-gel synthesis of ZnO nanostructured films co-catalytic modified with MnOx for organic dye degradation. The confirmed features of ZnO/MnOx films are characterized by different analytical tools such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The surface of the zinc oxide revealed a hexagonal wurtzite structure and a visible ganglia-like pattern. MnOx co-catalytic modification plays a vital role in the percent degradation of the organic dye under UV-irradiation conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have reported health risks associated with seafood contamination, but few data exist on levels in commercially available seafood in the US. To better understand, the magnitude of foodborne exposure and identify vulnerable populations in the US, we measured concentrations of veterinary drugs, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [PAHs], polybrominated diphenyl ethers [PBDEs] and polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs]), and legacy and current-use pesticides in 46 seafood samples purchased from retail outlets. Measured levels were used to estimate risk based on available maximum residue limits (MRLs) and toxic equivalence (TEQ) factors for analytes. Only seventeen of the 445 analytes were detected, at low substance frequencies. However, half of the samples tested positive for one or more analyte, with total concentrations ranging from below the limit of detection (LOD) to as high as 156 µg/kg wet weight. Based on the risk assessment for individual pesticides and veterinary drugs, the hazard quotients (HQ) were all <1, indicating no risk. However, for the sum of PCB126 and PCB167, two dioxin-like PCBs detected in our samples, the TEQ was nearly two orders of magnitude higher than the WHO limits in one catfish sample. Moreover, vulnerable groups with higher rates of consumption of specific fish types may face higher risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: By modifying the biotic and abiotic properties of the soil, plants create soil legacies that can affect vegetation dynamics through plant–soil feedbacks (PSF). PSF are generally attributed to reciprocal effects of plants and soil biota, but these interactions can also drive changes in the identity, diversity and abundance of soil metabolites, leading to more or less persistent soil chemical legacies whose role in mediating PSF has rarely been considered. These chemical legacies may interact with microbial or nutrient legacies to affect species coexistence. Given the ecological importance of chemical interactions between plants and other organisms, a better understanding of soil chemical legacies is needed in community ecology. In this Viewpoint, we aim to: highlight the importance of belowground chemical interactions for PSF; define and integrate soil chemical legacies into PSF research by clarifying how the soil metabolome can contribute to PSF; discuss how functional traits can help predict these plant–soil interactions; propose an experimental approach to quantify plant responses to the soil solution metabolome; and describe a testable framework relying on root economics and seed dispersal traits to predict how plant species affect the soil metabolome and how they could respond to soil chemical legacies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorinated paraffins (CPs) are widely used persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Based on the carbon chain length, CPs can be classified as short-chain (C10-13) CPs (SCCPs), medium-chain (C14-17) CPs (MCCPs), and long-chain (C≥18) CPs (LCCPs). Since SCCPs have been listed as POPs of particular concern by the Stockholm Convention, the production of MCCPs and LCCPs is increased sharply. Therefore, the number of studies focusing on MCCPs and LCCPs has increased recently. Herein, we comprehensively reviewed recent studies on the biological occurrence, bioaccumulation, transmission, and transformation of CPs. CPs are pervasively distributed across biotas and exhibit diverse accumulation properties in different tissues. MCCPs and LCCPs are more abundant than SCCPs in some organisms. The absorption, translocation, and elimination behaviors of CPs directly influence their accumulation in organisms. The maternal transfer is an elimination pathway for CPs and could explain the discrepancy in CPs accumulation in opposite sexes of some organisms. With the establishment of novel screening methods, several transformation products of CPs have been identified in plants, microorganisms, and humans. By comparing the biotransformation pathways of CPs in different organisms, common and unique pathways have been identified in various species, although further studies on the transformation of CPs in humans and other animals are required. This review describes some noteworthy and prospective studies focused on the biological behavior of CPs. The review also derives novel conclusions based on recent studies in this field to provide a comprehensive understanding of the environmental fate of CPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are widely distributed persistent organic pollutants and their monitoring in environmental media has received extensive attention. The soil matrix is complex, and efficient and simple extraction of PFAAs remains a challenge for analysts. In this work, a simple and rapid method has been developed for the determination of 21 PFAAs in soil by chelating resin-assisted extraction combined with high-performance liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Treatment with chelating resins effectively released PFAAs bound to metal ions, thereby greatly improving the extraction efficiency of PFAAs in soil. The complete extraction procedure only required 30 min. Under the optimized conditions, the quantification limits of the 21 PFAAs were from 0.03 to 0.49 ng/mL. Single PFAAs were detected in soil samples with concentrations ranging from 0.10 to 2.60 ng/g and recoveries between 70 and 126%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous tons of hazardous wastes containing persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are stored in an unsafe manner in the petrochemical industries. The planetary ball mill causes the formation of mineral Cl compounds during the degradation of polychlorinated compounds in the presence of various reagents. In addition, the planetary ball mill has been applied for the synthesis of diverse organic-inorganic hybrid nanomaterials. In the present study, Fe-metal organic framework was prepared using a planetary ball mill, and then Fe@C nanocomposite with core/shell structure was synthesised by carbonisation. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were utilised to study the synthesised materials. The nanocomposite was used as a reagent to degrade persistent organic pollutants in the sludge of a petrochemical wastewater treatment plant by a planetary ball mill. CaO was also used to compare the effect of nanocomposites on system performance. Ion chromatography (IC) analysis was carried out to determine chlorine mineralisation. Furthermore, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy were applied to determine chemical bonds. The results illustrated a zero-valent iron nanoparticle in the core protected by carbon shell in a synthesised nanocomposite with a core/shell structure. Hence, nanocomposite was the most efficient additive, with 97% dechlorination efficiency in the first hour while the efficiency of the planetary ball mill in the presence of CaO was only 76% after 12 hours of milling. Furthermore, major changes occurred in the organic phases, carbon and chlorine bonds. Simultaneously, graphite and amorphous carbon were produced in the final products after milling. This indicates that aromatic structures and C-Cl bonds were broken down into inorganic compounds. Thus, this study presented a practical method of producing materials while degrading hazardous pollutants in petrochemical wastewater sludge through a planetary ball mill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving improved energy efficiency, a green economy and degradation of environmental pollutants are important challenges to achieving sustainable development strategies. Herein, we have designed and synthesized a series of LaFe 1-x O 3 (LaFeO 3 , LaFe 0.95 O 3 , and LaFe 0.9 O 3) crystals with Fe vacancies for photo-assisted electrocatalysis (PAEC). These catalysts are used for both the anodic and cathodic reactions, where the anode efficiently removes persistent organic pollutants such as methylene blue (MB), and the cathode converts water into hydrogen gas. We observed that the presence of Fe vacancies leads to rearranging the electronic structure on the surface, enhancing the photo-assisted electrocatalytic activity. The rate constant for the photo-assisted electrocatalytic LaFe 0.90 O 3 was measured to be 0.996 min−1, which is 2.37 times and 2.74 times higher than that of the electrocatalytic (0.420 min−1) and photocatalytic (0.363 min−1) processes, respectively. The hydrogen production efficiency reached 1.42 μmol min−1. This study provides the first evidence of the photo-assisted electrocatalytic mechanism and potential applications of LaFeO 3 -based catalysts in enhancing the electro-oxidation of pollutants. It offers additional insights for the rational design and construction of more efficient PAEC catalysts for effective wastewater purification and energy recovery. [Display omitted] • The photo-assisted electrocatalysis for LaFe 1-x O 3 has been demonstrated. • The LaFe 0.90 O 3 owned outstanding electrocatalytic and photocatalytic performance. • The presence of Fe vacancies can enhance photo-assisted electrocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving the complete mineralization of persistent pollutants in wastewater is still a big challenge. Here, we propose an efficient photo‐self‐Fenton reaction for the degradation of different pollutants using the high‐density (Ag: 22 wt %) of atomically dispersed AgCo dual sites embedded in graphic carbon nitride (AgCo−CN). Comprehensive experimental measurements and density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrate that the Ag and Co dual sites in AgCo−CN play a critical role in accelerating the photoinduced charge separation and forming the self‐Fenton redox centers, respectively. The bimetallic AgCo−CN exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance toward the phenol even under extreme conditions due to an efficient degradation pathway and in situ generation of the hydrogen peroxide producing the main active oxygen species (⋅OH and 1O2) and showed long‐term activity in a self‐design photo‐Filter reactor for the purification of the phenol. Our discoveries pave the way for the design of efficient single‐atoms photocatalysts‐based photo‐self‐Fenton reaction for recalcitrant pollutant treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are classified as priority pollutants because of their persistent nature, carcinogenicity, and mutagenicity; therefore, they must be eliminated. Herein, synthesis of nitrogen‐doped metal hexacyanoferrate nanoparticles (N−MHCF; M=Cu, Zn) was achieved using the green protocol in co‐precipitation techniques for the oxidative removal of PAH pollutants, namely, anthracene (ANT) and phenanthrene (PHE). PXRD and XPS analysis confirmed the doping of Nitrogen in MHCF nanocomposite. The optimum conditions, concentration of PAHs (10 mg L−1), and catalyst dose (20 mg) at neutral pH under sunlight to eliminate PAHs were reported. The degradation followed the Langmuir model and Ist‐order kinetics. The highest photodegraFdation was found for N−CuHCF (ANT: 95 %; PHE: 93 %), as compared to N−ZnHCF (ANT: 90 %; PHE: 87 %), which might be due to a high negative zeta charge (−30.3 mV), surface area, and lower band gap energy (1.7 eV). The GC‐MS technique showed that photocatalysts (N−MHCF) break down PAH contaminants into minor metabolites in exposure to solar irradiation. Up to eight consecutive cycles of use were possible with nanocomposites without any appreciable decrease in activity. Largely because of favorable surface characteristics, N−MHCF nanostructure fabricated via the green method is of great importance with a bright future in industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are typical persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that are commonly found in the environment. They are carcinogenic, teratogenic, mutagenic and biodegradable obviously. In this paper, the modified mussel shells were used to adsorb and remove anthracene. The results show that the adsorption removal rate of the mussel shells was higher after calcination at 600 °C. 5% H3PO4 solution was more suitable for shell treatment than 3 mol/L ZnCL, solution. As the dosage of the modified shells was 0. 5 g/L, the adsorption reached a stable state, and the removal rate of PAHs was about 69.44%; the adsorption efficiency rose with the increase of time. It can be seen that as a new and cheap biological adsorbent, the modified shells can be used to remove PAHs from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used, ubiquitous, and highly persistent man-made chemicals. Groundwater of a vast area of the Veneto Region (northeastern Italy) was found to be contaminated by PFAS from a manufacturing plant active since the late 1960s. As a result, residents were overexposed to PFAS through drinking water until 2013, mainly to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to estimate the rates of decline in serum PFOA and their corresponding serum half-lives, while characterizing their determinants. METHODS: We investigated 5,860 subjects more than 14 years of age who enrolled in the second surveillance round of the regional health surveillance program. Two blood samples were collected between 2017 and 2022 (average time between measurements: 4 years). Serum PFOA excretion rates and half-lives were estimated based on linear mixed effect models, modeling subject-specific serum PFOA concentrations over time and correcting for background concentrations. For modeling determinants of half-life [age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking-habit, alcohol consumption, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)], we added interaction terms between each covariate and the elapsed time between measurements. Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) apparent half-lives were also estimated. A separate analysis was conducted in children (푛 =480). All analyses were stratified by sex. RESULTS: Median initial serum concentrations of PFOA was 49 ng/mL (range: 0.5–1,090), with a median reduction of 62.45%. The mean estimated PFOA half-life was 2.36 years [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.33, 2.40], shorter in women (2.04; 95% CI: 2.00, 2.08) compared to men (2.83; 95% CI: 2.78, 2.89). Half-lives varied when stratified by some contributing factors, with faster excretion rates in nonsmokers and nonalcohol drinkers (especially in males). CONCLUSIONS: This study, to our knowledge the largest on PFOA half-life, provides precise estimates in young adults whose exposure via drinking water has largely ceased. For other PFAS, longer half-lives than reported in other studies can be explained by some ongoing exposure to PFAS via other routes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Domestic wastewater is a source of persistent organic pollutants and pathogens to the aquatic environment, including groundwater aquifers. Wastewater contaminants include a variety of personal care products, pharmaceuticals, endocrine disrupters, bacteria, and viruses. Groundwater from 22 wells completed in a semi-confined to confined, fractured Silurian dolostone aquifer in southern Wellington County, Ontario, Canada, was analyzed for 14 organic wastewater contaminants (4 art ificial sweeteners, 10 pharmaceuticals) as well as E. coli, total coliforms, and 6 human enteric viruses. Enteric viruses were detected in 8.6% of 116 samples, and at least one organic wastewater contaminant was detected in 82% of the wells (in order of decreasing detection frequency: acesulfame, ibuprofen, sulfamethoxazole, triclosan, carbamazepine, and saccharin). Virus indicator metrics [positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV), sensitivity, specificity] were calculated at the sample and well level for the organic wastewater compounds, E. coli, and total coliforms. Fecal bacteria were not good predictors of virus presence (PPV = 0%-8%). Of the potential chemical indicators, triclosan performed the best at the sample level (PPV = 50%, NPV = 100%), and ibuprofen performed the best at the well level (PPV = 60%, NPV = 67%); however, no samples had triclosan or ibuprofen concentrations above their practical quantification limits. Therefore, none of the compounds performed sufficiently well to be considered reliable for assessing the potential threat of enteric viruses in wastewater-impacted groundwater in this bedrock aquifer. Future studies need to evaluate the indicator potential of persistent organic wastewater contaminants in different types of aquifers, especially in fractured rock where heterogeneity is strong. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are environmental contaminants with unfavorable impacts on human health and nature. This study aimed to determine the PFOA and PFOS concentration in water and fish samples from Karun, the largest river in Iran. According to the results, the PFOA and PFOS in water samples were 5.81–69.26 ng/L and not detected (n.d.)–35.12 ng/L, respectively. The dry season displayed higher concentrations in water samples than in the wet season. The maximum PFOS concentration measured was related to Barbus barbules sp. (27.89 ng/g). The human health risk assessment indicated minor risks (hazard ratio, HR < 1) from PFOA and PFOS through consuming contaminated drinking water and fish. Only HR value of PFOS in downstream area exceeded slightly 1.0, indicating potential health risk due to consumption of the river fish. Considering the average PFASs concentration, the risk quotients (RQs) showed low ecological risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and characterization of two new porphyrin-based porous organic polymers (POPs) via Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction and leverage the two obtained POPs is reported for the fabrication of electrochemical aptasensors to detect kanamycin at an ultratrace level. The resultant electrochemical aptasensor demonstrates a high linear relationship with the logarithmic value of kanamycin concentration in the range 5 × 10−5–5 μg/L with the limit of detection of 17.6 pg/L or 36.3 fM. During the analysis of real samples from milk and river, a relative standard deviation of less than 4.39%, and good recovery values in the range 97.0–105% were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript role of MWCNTs on the photocatalytic response of zinc oxide (ZnO) semiconductor photocatalyst is reported. Developing a cheap, stable, and effective photo catalyst is necessary for remediation of persistent organic pollutants. To address this challenge, ZnO/MWCNT composites are fabricated via sonication technique with interfacial engineering for effective photocatalytic response. X‐ray diffraction spectra confirms hexagonal structure of ZnO/MWCNT composites with the average particle size distribution of 73–80 nm. FT‐IR spectra confirms bonding structure, however SEM images confirm the homogeneous distribution of MWCNTs in the ZnO system which acts as an effective adsorbent sites. The highest degradation (90%) of methylene blue (MB) dye on ZnO95MWCNT5 composite has been observed. It is expected that MWCNTs taking part to electron transfer facilitation in spatial separation and electron–hole pairs of ZnO during photo catalysis mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]