Effect Of Micro Research Articles

Trophic transfer effects of PS nanoplastics and field-derived nanoplastics in the freshwater clam Corbicula fluminea

Plastic pollution is of global concern. Many studies investigated the effect of micro and nanoplatics towards aquatic organisms. However, relatively few studies were assessed on freshwater organisms. Another aspect of this pollution is the impact of trophic transfer on plastic distribution and on food chain in order to evaluate its potential risk towards environmental and human health. In this context, the objective of this study was to assess the ecotoxicological impacts of different types of nanoplastics (NPs) on freshwater organisms exposed through trophic transfer. Freshwater microalgae Scenedesmus subspicatus were contaminated for 48 hours with realistic concentrations of NPs (0.008, 10 and 100 µg/L). Two types of NPs were tested: commercial PS NPs and NPs generated from macro-sized plastics collected in the field (ENV NPs). Freshwater Corbicula fluminea bivalves were then fed with the contaminated algae every 48h for 21 days. Results showed that trophic exposure led to the induction of oxidative stress (CAT activity). Overall, NPs trophic exposure caused downregulations of genes implicated in many cellular processes (immunity, oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, endocytosis, apoptosis).This present study allowed to demonstrate the relevance of investigating the trophic transfer effects of NPs on a freshwater trophic chain. Further studies should focus more on larger levels of the food chain.

Length scale effects of micro- and meso‑scale tensile tests of unirradiated and irradiated Zircaloy-4 cladding

Zircaloy-4 is an essential material for cladding structures within fission-based reactors. To explore the changes in properties measured on differing length scales, FIB-machined micro-scale tensile tests were performed on both irradiated and control groups of Zircaloy-4. This was correlated with tensile testing on femtosecond laser-machined meso‑scale specimens. Pronounced size effects were found when varying specimen geometry. Increases in tensile geometry size were associated with a reduction in measured yield stress for both irradiated and unirradiated samples. Meso-scale testing found strength and strain values similar to that of bulk-scale testing.

Gut-lung microbiota dynamics in mice exposed to Nanoplastics

Concern has grown over potential health effects of micro- and nanoplastics (M/NPs) exposure. There is significant interest in understanding their impact on animal and human microbiota due to its crucial role in preserving health, as research in this area is rapidly advancing. We conducted a sub-chronic exposure study involving 12 male mice, divided into two groups: a control group (n = 6) and a PET-NPs exposure group (n = 6). PET-NPs, administered by oral gavage at a dose of 0.5 mg/day in 0.1 ml/mice, were given daily for 28 days. Microbiota analyses were performed on lung, colon, oral cavity, and stool samples using 16S rRNA sequencing. Additionally, fecal short and medium-chain fatty acids were analyzed by GC/MS. No significant changes were observed in the fecal and oral microbiome of the treated mice, nor in the fecal fatty acid levels. However, there were prominent alterations in the colon, characterized by increased abundance of Gram-negative bacteria belonging to Veillonella and Prevotella genera, and of amino acid metabolism pathways, coupled with a decrease in Lactobacillus. PET-NPs ingestion caused unexpected alterations in the lung microbiome with an increase in the Pseudomonas and changes in microbial energy metabolism and nitrogen utilization. This study provides insights into the differential impact of PET-NPs exposure on various microbiome niches.

Microplastics in Farmed Animals—A Review

Environmental pollution from plastics has become one of the biggest concerns globally. Microplastics (MPs) are plastic materials less than 5 mm in size. They remain in the environment for hundreds to thousands of years without degrading, only breaking down further to nanoplastics (NPs). Micro- and nanoplastics can be the origin of many diseases and can carry various pathogenic substances on their surface and spread them throughout the biosphere, starting with contained additives and ending with adsorbed toxins from the environment and potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Exposure routes for humans and animals are through air, water and food/feed. Due to the placement of livestock—including ruminants, fish and poultry—and humans at the top of the food web, any pollution in water, air or soil can eventually be transferred to livestock and from livestock to humans. The presence of microplastics in the intestines of aquaculture species, ruminants and poultry, for instance, was found to cause a change in the intestinal microbial population and, as a result, the occurrence of diseases. These particles have also been observed in other organs such as liver, kidneys, lung, spleen, heart, ovaries, and testicles of animals, which causes biochemical changes, structural destruction, and malfunction. While the complete extent of the negative health impacts of microplastics remains still largely unknown, their ubiquitous presence and the transmission of chemicals from microplastics to organisms is a notable issue, underscoring the importance of gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the potential threats posed by microplastics to animal and ultimately human health, coupled with a need for drastic reduction of the plastic freight into the environment. This review article summarizes recent findings on the effect of micro- and nanoplastics on farmed animals and, ultimately, on humans. Action is needed to reduce the number of microplastics to which farmed animals, and thereby humans, are exposed.

Difference in the toxic effects of micro and nano ZnO particles on L. minor - an integrative approach.

The toxicity of nano-sized ZnO particles (nZnO) was evaluated and compared to that of their micro-sized counterparts (mZnO) using an integrative approach to investigate the mechanism of toxicity, utilizing duckweed (Lemna minor) as plant model. Following 7days of exposure to nZnO or mZnO (2.5, 5, 25, and 50mg L-1) growth rate, photosynthesis, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity parameters have been determined in duckweed. Phytotoxicity of both ZnO forms at relatively low concentrations was due to the release of free Zn ions into the nutrient media. However, the accumulation of Zn in plants treated with nZnO was significantly higher than in those treated with mZnO. Both mZnO and nZnO significantly reduced growth rate and impaired the functionality of the photosynthetic apparatus as evidenced by structural changes of chloroplasts, a decline in the efficiency of photosystem II, and chlorophyll a content. Additionally, exposure to mZnO and nZnO resulted in the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased lipid peroxidation, the formation of carbonylated proteins, DNA damage, and alterations in antioxidant defense mechanisms. Overall, nZnO caused significantly stronger toxic effects than mZnO. The mechanism of nZnO toxicity to L. minor, as determined by multivariate statistical analysis, involved the disruption of primary photosynthetic reactions due to a redox imbalance in the cell caused by the enhanced absorption of Zn into plant tissues.

Impacts of graphene oxide contamination on a food web: Threats to somatic and reproductive health of organisms

Contamination of aquatic food webs with nanomaterials poses a significant ecological and human health challenge. Ingestion of nanomaterials alongside food disrupts digestion and impairs physiological processes, with potential consequences for organism fitness and survival. Complex interactions between nanomaterials and biota further exacerbate the issue, influencing life-history strategies and ecosystem dynamics. Accumulation of nanomaterials within autotrophic and detritus-based food webs raises concerns about biomagnification, especially for top-level consumers and seafood-dependent human populations. Understanding the extent and impact of nanomaterial contamination on aquatic biota is crucial for effective mitigation strategies. To address this challenge, we conducted a comprehensive study evaluating the bioaccumulation effects of graphene oxide (GO), a commonly used nanomaterial, within an aquatic food chain. Using a gnotobiotic freshwater microcosm, we investigated the effects of micro- and nano-scale GO sheets on key organisms: green algae (Chlorella vulgaris), brine shrimp (Artemia salina), and zebrafish (Danio rerio). Two feeding regimes, direct ingestion and trophic transfer, were employed to assess GO uptake and transfer within the food web. Direct exposure involved individual organisms being exposed to either nano- or micro-scale GO sheets, while trophic transfer involved a sequential exposure pathway: algae exposed to GO sheets, artemias feeding on the algae, and zebrafish consuming the artemias. Our study provides critical insights into nanomaterial contamination in aquatic ecosystems. Physicochemical properties of GO sheets, including ζ-potential and dispersion, were influenced by salt culture media, resulting in aggregation under salt conditions. Microscopic imaging confirmed the bioaccumulation of GO sheets within organisms, indicating prolonged exposure and potential long-term effects. Notably, biodistribution analysis in zebrafish demonstrated the penetration of nano-sized GO into the intestinal wall, signifying direct interaction with vital organs. Exposure to GO resulted in increased zebrafish mortality and impaired reproductive performance, particularly through trophic transfer. These findings emphasize the urgent need to address nanomaterial contamination in aquatic food webs to protect ecosystem components and human consumers. Our study highlights the importance of developing effective mitigation strategies to preserve the integrity of aquatic ecosystems, ensure resource sustainability, and safeguard human well-being. In conclusion, our study provides crucial insights into the impact of nanomaterial pollution on aquatic biota. By recognizing the challenges posed by nanomaterial contamination and implementing targeted interventions, we can mitigate the adverse effects, preserving the integrity of aquatic ecosystems and safeguarding human health.

Business English Literacy in Improving the Effectiveness of MSME Businesses

This study examines the impact of Business English literacy on the effectiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This study employs a qualitative research design to investigate the impact of Business English literacy on the effectiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. In today's globalized business environment, proficiency in Business English is crucial for MSMEs seeking to expand their market reach, engage in international trade, and enhance communication with global partners. The research explores how improved English literacy contributes to better business outcomes, such as increased sales, optimized marketing strategies, and more efficient operations. The study underscores the strong correlation between Business English skills and business success by analysing case studies and conducting surveys with MSME owners and employees. Investing in Business English training programs can significantly enhance the growth and competitiveness of MSMEs in the global market.

Drosophila melanogaster as a tractable eco-environmental model to unravel the toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics

Micro- and nanoplastics have emerged as pervasive environmental pollutants with potential ecotoxicological impacts on various organisms, including the model organismDrosophila melanogaster. Here we comprehensively synthesize current research on the adverse effects of micro- and nanoplastics onDrosophila, highlighting key findings and identifying gaps in the literature. Micro- and nanoplastics can lead to physical damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, genotoxicity, epigenetic changes, apoptosis, and necrosis inDrosophila. Exposure to plastic debris affects nutrient absorption, energy metabolism, and reproductive health, often in a sex-specific manner. For instance, male flies are generally more susceptible to the toxic effects of polystyrene microplastics than female flies, showing greater mortality and metabolic disruptions. Furthermore, the combined exposure of plastics with heavy metals can exacerbate toxic effects, leading to enhanced oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and gut damage. While antagonistic effects have been identified particularly with silver compounds, where polystyrene microplastics reduce the bioavailability and toxicity of silver. The adverse effects of plastic particles onDrosophiladepend on size, with smaller particles penetrating deeper into tissues and eliciting stronger toxic responses. The chemical composition of the plastics and the presence of additives also play crucial roles in determining toxicity levels. Chronic exposure to low levels can be as harmful as acute high-dose exposure, highlighting the need for comprehensive, long-term studies to fully understand the ecological and biological impacts of plastic pollution.

Perspectives on the Toxic Effects of Micro- and Nanoplastics on the Environment: A Bibliometric Analysis of the 2014 to 2023 Period.

Over the past decade, micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have garnered significant attention due to their frequent detection in and potential toxic effects on the environment and organisms, making them a serious threat to human health. To comprehensively understand the research on MNPs' toxicity, we employed the R language-based Bibliometrix toolkit (version 4.3.0), VOSviewer (version 1.6.11) and CiteSpace (version 6.3.R1) to perform statistical and visual analyses of 3541 articles pertaining to MNPs' toxicity between 2014 and 2023, which were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database. The analysis revealed that research related to MNPs' toxicity has experienced a rapid increase in recent years. China's particularly prominent influence in the field of MNPs' toxicity is evidenced by its academic exchanges and the establishment of a mature cooperation system with other countries (regions), such as the USA and Germany. Studies related to MNPs' toxicity are primarily published in leading journals, including the Science of the Total Environment, Environmental Pollution, and the Journal of Hazardous Materials. The Chinese Academy of Sciences was identified as the leading institution in terms of research on MNPs' toxicity, contributing 203 papers to the total number of studies published. Keyword co-occurrence and burst analyses indicated that the current research on MNPs' toxicity mainly focuses on the toxic effects of MNPs on aquatic organisms, the combined toxicity of MNPs and other contaminants, and the toxic effects and mechanisms of MNPs. Future research should integrate computational toxicology and toxicomics to enhance our understanding of MNPs' toxicity mechanisms and assess the potential health risks posed by atmospheric MNPs.

Micro: bit programming effects on elementary STEM teachers’ computational thinking and programming attitudes: a moderated mediation model

Cultivating computational thinking (CT) for K-12 students has become the central issue in the digital age. However, the most significant impediment to the long-lasting development of students’ CT is teachers’ lack of CT and positive programming attitudes (PA). Therefore, this research aimed to explore the effects of Micro: bit programming training activities on STEM teachers’ CT and PA. We conducted a quasi-experimental study with 55 elementary STEM teachers that included 12 Micro: bit programming training activities and measured changes in teacher CT and PA levels using the TCTS and TPAS. The results revealed that Micro: bit programming training activities effectively enhanced STEM teachers’ CT and PA. Further analysis showed that Micro: bit programming training activities mainly improved problem-solving and creativity in CT and cognition and beliefs in PA of STEM teachers. Meanwhile, we found that Micro: bit programming training activities benefited CT and PA enhancement for STEM teachers with high educational level and low teaching years. Furthermore, the findings indicated a partially mediated effect of STEM teachers’ PA in terms of educational level affecting CT, and teachers’ teaching years also significantly moderated the second half of this mediated effect. Generally, this research expands the training approaches of CT and PA for elementary school STEM teachers while clarifying the multifactorial influence mechanisms related to CT and PA, which can provide practical references for future STEM teacher training.

The effects of micro- and macrovascular diabetic complications on ischemic stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Objectives: The present study aimed to examine the effects of diabetes complications on the ischemic stroke risk among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Patients and methods: The medical records of all patients (n=5,468) who were admitted to a tertiary care hospital between January 1, 2021, and June 1, 2022, were retrospectively reviewed. Of 911 patients diagnosed with T2DM for at least two years, 37 patients with a history of hemorrhagic cerebrovascular disease were excluded. Consequently, the study was conducted with 874 patients (460 males, 414 females; mean age: 65.5±12.1 years; range, 39 to 92 years) with T2DM. Demographic data, presence of chronic disease other than diabetes, duration of diabetes, retinopathy, nephropathy, peripheral arterial disease, and diabetes medications were recorded. The patients were divided into two groups: those with and without a history of ischemic stroke. The two groups were compared in terms of demographic characteristics and diabetes complications. Results: The prevalence of ischemic stroke was 18.6% (n=163). Patients with ischemic stroke were older than those without ischemic stroke, had longer diabetes durations, and had higher rates of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and insulin use (p=0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.001, respectively). Diabetic retinopathy (41.7%), diabetic nephropathy (27.6%), and peripheral arterial disease (16.6%) were more commonly observed among patients with ischemic stroke compared to the others. Examining the parameters differing between the groups, diabetes duration, hypertension, insulin use, and peripheral arterial disease were found to be independent risk factors for ischemic stroke (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.001, and p=0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Examining the relationship between diabetes complications and ischemic stroke risk from a broader perspective, the present study provided important implications for clinical management. Large-scale studies are needed in the future.

A study on the effect of fluorescently stained micro(nano)plastics on the full life history of Skeletonema costatum

As a new type of environmental pollutant, micro(nano)plastics have become a research hotspot in recent years, and their effects on the full life history of marine microalgae have not been studied. To investigate the effects of micro(nano)plastics on the growth, photosynthesis, physiological morphology and interaction of microalgae during the full life cycle, we selected fluorescently stained polystyrene (PS) plastic microbeads as the target pollutant. By sampling and testing the growth rate, photosynthesis and physiological morphology parameters of algal species, the influence of different concentrations of PS (10, 50 and 100 mg/L) and different particle sizes (0.1, 0.5 and 1 μm) on the full life history of Skeletonema costatum (S. costatum) was investigated. The results showed that after adding PS (particle sizes of 0.5 and 1 μm), the response of S. costatum showed a dual character, while adding the same kind of microplastics (MPs) with a particle size of 0.1 μm inhibited S. costatum throughout the full life cycle. Compared with previous studies, short-term experimental data may overestimate the true ecological risks of MPs. In addition, 0.1 μm fluorescent-stained MPs obviously accumulated around the microalgae, indicating that MPs mainly adhered to the surface of algal cells and may enter the food chain by direct or indirect ways, which can cause negative effects on the aquatic ecosystem. This study supports a more accurate assessment of the true risk of MPs to marine aquatic ecosystems.

Justification of membrane filtration parameters in the production of whey protein isolate

The research was aimed at studying the combined effect of micro- and ultrafiltration technological parameters for justification of rational modes in the production of whey protein isolate. The process flow of whey protein isolate production was determined. It includes whey purification from casein dust and fat, pasteurization, ultrafiltration, microfiltration, ultrafiltration (combined with diafiltration), spray drying. Concentration was carried out from a dry matter mass fraction of 5.4-5.6% to 11.3-12.6% (protein concentration factor is 6.5-13). Microfiltration of the resulting retentate was used to maximize disposal of milk fat. The process was carried out using ceramic membranes (pore size from 0.14 pm to 1.4 pm). Their protein retention capacity was 0.2-0.4%, fat retention capacity was 64.6-76.2%. Rational microfiltration modes were selected. They are inlet pressure 0.15-0.2 MPa and temperature 10-15 °C. The microfiltration permeate was treated via repeated ultrafiltration combining it with diafiltration. It was possible to achieve the protein content in dry matter of the product not more than 87% using diafiltration with half the volume of water. However, it does not meet the requirements for the isolate. Increasing the amount of water for diafiltration caused a rise in the protein content in dry matter of the concentrate. The protein mass fraction in the whey protein isolate before drying was at least 17%. The whey protein isolate powder was characterized by the high protein content (93% in terms of SNF), quality and safety indicators met the requirements of regulatory documentation.

The Ecological Effects of Micro(nano)plastics in the Water Environment

Aquatic systems worldwide are subject to severe and diverse anthropogenic pressures, almost always acting simultaneously and inevitably challenging the resilience of whole ecosystems [...]

Effect of micro and nanobubble size and concentration on membrane fouling: Strategies for energy-saving and ultrafiltration efficiency enhancement

The impact of micro and nanobubbles (MNBs) on preventing membrane fouling in various filtration techniques has been effectively demonstrated. However, there remains a gap in understanding the influence of their size and concentration on membrane fouling. Moreover, the substantial energy demand for MNBs-aided filtration processes hinders the wide adoption of this technology on a global scale. This study controlled MNB size and concentration by optimizing the release pressure of air-saturated water and introducing intermittent operation schemes. At 0.35 MPa, the MNBs averaged 91 μm and 117.9 nm with concentrations of 3.27E+3 and 6.85E+6 particles mL−1. Increasing the pressure to 0.60 MPa reduced the average size to 31 μm and 119.9 nm. Concentrations to 6.43E+5 and 9.40E+6 particles mL−1. Bubbles released at 0.60 MPa reduced TMP from −0.0109 MPa attained with 0.35 MPa bubbles to −0.0052 MPa making a 70 % decrease. Comparing continuous and optimal intermittent release patterns (30 min) revealed marginal differences: normalized transmembrane pressure (4 %), cleaning efficiency (9 %), and rejection efficiency (2.4 %). Our approach enhances membrane filtration efficiency, maintains performance, reduces energy consumption, and advances sustainable filtration technologies encouraging global adoption.

Effect of nano-silica on the flexural behavior and mechanical properties of self-compacted high-performance concrete (SCHPC) produced by cement CEM II/A-P (experimental and numerical study)

The extensive use of cement exacerbates the greenhouse effect by increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. So, many standards recommend using Portland-composite cement in construction as one of the methods for reducing CO2 emissions, especially cement CEM II/A-P. This paper presents an extensive experimental and numerical study to investigate the effect of micro and nano-silica on the flexural behavior and mechanical properties of Self-Compacted High-Performance Concrete (SCHPC) produced by cement CEM II/A-P. The extensive experimental work consisted of eight mixtures: three with micro-silica (MS), four with nano-silica (NS), and a reference mixture without silica. For both MS and NS, different percentages of adding or replacement content were tested to study their effect on the following: (a) the workability of fresh concrete, (b) concrete compressive strength, (c) splitting tensile strength, (d) flexural behavior including flexural tensile strength, and (e) the optimum percentage of each of the MS and NS to get the maximum structural and economic benefits of using for SCHPC with CEM II/A-P. Also, through a statistical program, these experimental results were used to obtain accurate formulae that could predict both the splitting tensile strength (fsp) and modulus of rupture (fctr) for SCHPC with adding nano-silica. In addition, the numerical study verified the experimental results based on the finite element program ANSYS. The flexure behavior of SCHPC beams is verified using the Microplane model (recently added to ANSYS). The experimental results showed that adding NS is more effective than replacing or adding MS for SCHPC mixture with CEM II/A-P to increase the concrete compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural tensile strength, especially for the mixture with adding NS content of 4 %. The numerical results showed the ability of the coupled damage-plasticity microplane model to simulate the flexural behavior of the tested SCHPC beams with MS or NS well. This research confirms nano-silica's structural and economical efficiency in the behavior of SCHPC beams. It was found that the optimum percentage of adding NS is 4 % for SCHPC mixtures with CEM II/A-P.

A Heterogeneous Viscosity Flow Model for Liquid Transport through Nanopores Considering Pore Size and Wettability.

The confinement effect in micro- and nanopores gives rise to distinct flow characteristics in fluids. Clarifying the fluid migration pattern in confined space is crucial for understanding and explaining the abnormal flow phenomena in unconventional reservoirs. In this study, flow characteristics of water and oil in alumina nanochannels were investigated with diameters ranging from 21 nm to 120 nm, and a heterogeneous viscosity flow model considering boundary fluid was proposed. Compared with the prediction of the HP equation, both types of fluids exhibit significant flow suppression in nanochannels. As the channel size decreases, the deviation degree increases. The fluid viscosity of the boundary region displays an upward trend as the channel size decreases and the influence of the interaction between the liquid and solid walls intensifies. The thickness of the boundary region gradually decreases with increasing pressure and eventually reaches a stable value, which is primarily determined by the strength of the interaction between the liquid and solid surfaces. Both the pore size and wettability are essential factors that affect the fluid flow. When the space scale is extremely small, the impact of wettability becomes more pronounced. Finally, the application of the heterogeneous flow model for permeability evaluation has yielded favorable fitting results. The model is of great significance for studying the fluid flow behavior in unconventional reservoirs.

Uptake and Effects of Micro‐, Submicro‐ and Nanoplastics Investigated on in vitro Models of the Intestinal Barrier and the Liver

Uptake and Effects of Micro‐, Submicro‐ and Nanoplastics Investigated on in vitro Models of the Intestinal Barrier and the Liver

Pengaruh Persepsi Pelaku Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah Tentang Akuntansi, Pengetahuan Akuntansi, Dan Skala Usaha Terhadap Penggunaaan Informasi Akuntansi Di Kabupaten Gresik

This study aims to examine the effect of micro, small and medium business actors' perceptions of accounting, accounting knowledge, and business scale on the use of accounting information in Gresik Regency. This study examines accounting information on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Gresik Regency using independent variables, namely the perception of micro, small and medium enterprises about accounting, accounting knowledge and business scale. The research population is MSMEs registered at the Department of Cooperatives and Trade of Gresik Regency. Sampling using the purposive sampling method with a total sample of 100 respondents. Data collection is done by sending a questionnaire via broadcast messages in the form of google from. The data analysis technique used is multiple linear regression analysis. The results of hypothesis testing indicate that the perception variables of micro, small and medium enterprises about accounting, accounting knowledge and business scale have a significant and significant effect on the use of accounting information. Based on these results, the Office of Cooperatives and SMEs are expected to be able to carry out regular counseling to MSMEs in order to improve the quality of human resources and individual understanding in order to develop their business, because by increasing these three variables it can develop and optimize users of accounting information that is useful for developing their business.

Enhancing mechanical and radiation shielding properties of concrete with lead monoxide and granodiorite: Individual and synergistic effects at micro and nano particle scales

AbstractThis study investigates the individual and combined effects of micro and nano lead monoxide (PbO) and granodiorite (GD) on concrete's mechanical and radiation shielding properties. Both materials were partially substituted for cement at varying ratios. Additionally, mixtures with optimal radiation shielding performance were prepared to explore the synergy of combining them. The mentioned materials are used for the first time in an extensive study at the nano scale to investigate their impact on concrete's mechanical properties, microstructure, and gamma radiation attenuation. Two gamma ray sources of uranium (U238) and cesium (Cs137) were used measure the radiation attenuation coefficients for all designed concrete mixes. A simple methodology was followed to assess the concrete shields efficiency via utilizing portable handheld gamma‐ray spectrometer that offers two reading modes. Results indicated that increasing the ratio of PbO is directly proportional to the concrete ability to attenuate radiation, where the optimal individual replacement ratios were recorded at 5% for micro and nano particle sizes. At this ratio, the linear attenuation coefficient (μ) values were improved by 39.57% and 24.78% for the nano and micro PbO, respectively. Additionally, the optimal ratio for improving mechanical properties was at 3% and 2% for nano and micro PbO, while the higher ratios showed a decline in mechanical properties especially at 5% micro PbO with 7.02% reduction in the compressive strength value. Regarding GD powder, the optimal replacement ratios for improving concrete radiation shielding were consistent with those enhancing its mechanical properties at 4% and 7% in both nano and micro scales, respectively. The combined mixes further enhanced the overall concrete performance, especially its radiation shielding ability. Compared to the control mix, the compressive strength, tensile strength, and μ were increased by 25.7%, 16.2%, and 44.7% at the optimal mixture of 5% nano PbO + 4% nano GD.