Persistence In Ecosystems Research Articles

Effect of Chlorpyrifos on the Red Blood Cells Morphology of Common Carp (Cyprinus Carpio): A Hematological Study

Chlorpyrifos, a widely applied insecticide, enters waterways through runoff, affecting a wide range of aquatic species. The environmental impact of chlorpyrifos (CPF), a commonly used organophosphate pesticide, on aquatic organisms remains a significant concern due to its toxicity and persistence in ecosystems. This study evaluates the effects of CPF on the morphology of red blood cells (RBCs) in the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) to better understand its hematological toxicity. Common Carp were exposed to sublethal concentrations of CPF (0, 10, 20, and 30 µL) for duration of seven days. Blood samples were collected and examined for alterations in RBC morphology. Control specimens showed minimal morphological changes which were due to natural conditions, while CPF exposure induced a concentration-dependent increase in cellular abnormalities, including double nucleated cells, nuclear displacement, cell deformation, and fragmentation. The highest CPF concentration (30 µL) resulted in severe RBC damage, including nuclear pyknosis, loss of cell integrity, and necrosis. These findings suggest that CPF exposure leads to significant erythrocyte damage, which may compromise overall fish health and survival. The results underscore the need for stringent environmental monitoring and regulation of pesticide use to mitigate its detrimental effects on aquatic life.

Biodegradation of plasticizers by novel strains of bacteria isolated from plastic waste near Juhu Beach, Mumbai, India

Phthalic acid esters are pivotal plasticizers in various applications, including cosmetics, packaging materials, and medical devices. They have garnered significant attention from the scientific community due to their persistence in ecosystems. The multifaceted aspects of PAEs, encompassing leaching, transformation, and toxicity, underscore their prominence as primary components of anthropogenic waste. In this study, we conducted an extensive investigation to isolate and evaluate bacterial strains with the potential to degrade plasticizers from soil samples collected at JUHU Beach, Mumbai. The degradation capabilities of the isolates were meticulously assessed, and their characterization was performed using established microbiological protocols followed by Sanger dideoxy 16S rRNA sequencing. Four isolates demonstrating notable plasticizer degradation proficiency were subjected to in-depth examinations of their growth dynamics and tolerance thresholds. The biodegradation capabilities of these isolates were evaluated under varying pH, temperature, and plasticizer concentrations. Optimization of degradation rates was achieved through a central composite design experiment. Phenotypic characterization of the isolates was conducted through phylogenetic analysis. The isolates were identified as novel strains belonging to Brevibacillus brevis, Acinetobacter baumannii, Moraxella sp., and Halomonas sp. respectively. The novel isolates were submitted to GenBank with accession numbers OP984197, OQ690115, PP174910, and PP177540 respectively.

Radiolytic Elimination of Nabumetone from Aqueous Solution: Degradation Efficiency, and Degradants' Toxicity.

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), including ionizing radiation treatment, are increasingly recognized as an effective method for the degradation of pharmaceutical pollutants, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Nabumetone (NAB), a widely used NSAID prodrug, poses an environmental risk due to its persistence in aquatic ecosystems and its potential toxicity to non-target organisms. In this study, the radiolytic degradation of NAB was investigated under different experimental conditions (dose rate, radical scavenging, pH, matrix effect), and the toxicity of its degradation products was evaluated. NAB was rapidly degraded at 300 Gy with prolonged irradiation. Mineralization of about 88% of NAB solutions was observed based on the evaluation of total organic carbon (TOC). The most efficient degradation of NAB occurred under N2O conditions, while it was retarded in the presence of thiourea. The water matrix components had a significant influence on the efficiency of degradation. In addition, the main degradation products were identified by LC-HRMS. Toxicity studies on different bacteria showed no significant impact of the NAB degradation products, while in silico predictive methods revealed their slightly increased toxicity compared to the parent compound, but considerably lower toxicity in comparison to its main active form 6-methoxy-2-naphthylacetic acid (MNA). Additionally, significantly lower toxicities are predicted for degradation products in N2O saturated solution. These results underline the importance of optimizing irradiation parameters for effective degradation and minimizing the formation of harmful by-products. Understanding all aspects of the AOP processes and the toxicological effects of the degradation products ensures effective mitigation of potential environmental and health risks of water treatment processes.

Effect of Temperature on the Biodegradation of Glyphosate by Soil Bacteria

Glyphosate, a broad-spectrum systemic herbicide, is widely used in agriculture to control weeds. Its extensive use has raised concerns about its environmental impact and persistence in ecosystems. Understanding the biodegradation of glyphosate is crucial for evaluating its long-term effects and developing effective remediation strategies. Biodegradation is the process by which microorganisms break down substances and plays a vital role in mitigating the accumulation of harmful compounds in the environment. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of temperature on glyphosate degradation by soil bacteria, which is crucial for understanding its breakdown in soil ecosystems. Soil bacteria have shown potential in degrading glyphosate, but the impact of temperature remains understudied. The research aims to study the effect of temperature conditions on glyphosate degradation by soil bacteria. Soil samples were collected from Mardi Bachok, Kelantan, and their coordinates, pH, and temperature were recorded. Soil samples were incubated in Mineral Salts Medium (MSM) containing 100 mg/L glyphosate at 28°C and 37°C for seven days, with optical density measured every 24 hours. Both temperature treatments showed microbial communities capable of thriving in glyphosate-supplemented MSM, utilizing it as a sole carbon and phosphate source. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in microbial growth between the two temperatures. These results suggest that soil bacteria are capable of thriving in a range of temperature conditions while effectively degrading glyphosate. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing effective bioremediation strategies and predicting the environmental fate of glyphosate in various climatic conditions. Future research should explore additional environmental factors and microbial interactions to further elucidate the complexities of glyphosate biodegradation in soil ecosystems.

A review on Toxic Effect Of Triazine On Hematological Parameters Of <i>Channa punctatus</i> (Bloch)

In both agricultural and non-agricultural settings across the globe, triazines have been widely utilised as a class of herbicides for the last half-century to suppress the growth of broadleaf and certain grassy weeds. First developed by J.R. Geigy Limited in 1956, with simazine as the pioneering compound, triazines revolutionized weed management, especially in crops such as maize and sorghum. These herbicides have since found widespread applications in the cultivation of various crops, including fruit, legumes, and even non-crop agriculture. Despite their effectiveness, the extensive and prolonged use of triazines has raised environmental concerns, particularly regarding their persistence and toxicity in aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, triazines have been utilized in aquaculture for controlling aquatic weeds and algae, but this use also contributes to environmental contamination. Recent research has extended into understanding the immunotoxicological effects of triazines, particularly in aquatic organisms like fish. The impact of triazines on the hematological and immunological systems of fish has been a focus of study due to their potential to disrupt immune functions, including changes in blood cell profiles, immune cell activity, and overall resistance to pathogens. For example, exposure to triazines has been linked to altered levels of phagocytic activity, oxidative burst responses, and immune cell proliferation. Hematological tests, such as the measurement of blood cell counts, nonspecific antibodies, and enzymes with bacteriolytic activity (e.g., lysozyme), provide valuable insights into the extent of immunomodulation caused by triazines. Furthermore, laboratory-based studies investigating the effects of triazines on immune activation in fish have demonstrated changes in both specific and nonspecific immune responses, which could increase susceptibility to infectious diseases. This paper discusses the historical development, agricultural use, environmental impact, and immunological consequences of triazine herbicides, with a particular emphasis on their effects on hematological and immune functions in aquatic organisms. The findings underscore the need for further research into the ecotoxicological risks of triazines, especially in relation to aquatic health and disease susceptibility.

Evaluation of asphalt mixtures modified with polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste, ubiquitous in packaging and shipping industries, offers logistical advantages through its lightweight, durable nature, fostering cost-effective transportation. However, concerns over PET’s environmental impact arise from its persistence in ecosystems and contribution to pollution, urging industries to prioritize responsible waste management and recycling strategies. Recognizing the pivotal role of the construction industry, leveraging PET recycling in asphalt mixtures presents an applicable solution to curtail the environmental footprint of PET waste. Roadway asphalt construction, a significant industry, holds substantial potential to integrate PET waste into asphalt, offering a promising avenue for sustainable waste utilization. This research investigates the integration of PET waste into Egyptian asphalt mixtures across nine distinct compositions, varying binder percentages (3.0%, 3.50%, and 4%) and PET ratios (6%, 7%, and 8%). Marshall and Hamburg Wheel Rutting tests were conducted, comparing these formulations against a control mix devoid of PET. Notably, optimal outcomes emerged from the 3% binder with 8% PET combination, exhibiting enhanced mix stability and stiffness while meeting established mix design standards, signifying promising improvements in sustainability without compromising performance metrics.

Integrated bio-electrochemical approach to Norfloxacin (NFX) degradation: Efficacy, degradation mechanisms, and toxicological insights

Norfloxacin (NFX), a widely used fluoroquinolone antibiotic, poses significant environmental concerns due to its persistence in ecosystems and its potential to foster antibiotic resistance. This study explores the degradation of NFX using a bio-electrochemical system (BES) facilitated by Bacillus subtilis isolated from animal waste sludge. Experimental parameters were optimized to maximize removal efficiency, with the optimal conditions determined as an NFX concentration of 200 mg/L, pH 7, and an applied potential of 1.2 V. The degradation pathway was elucidated through the identification of intermediate products, ultimately leading to the complete mineralization of NFX. To assess the environmental impact of BES-treated water, a series of eco-toxicity assays were conducted. Microbial diversity analysis revealed that soil exposed to BES-treated water maintained a balanced microbial community, contrasting with the disruptions observed in soils exposed to untreated NFX-contaminated water. Phytotoxicity tests, earthworm toxicity assay, and Artemia hatchability & lethality assays further confirmed the reduced toxicity of the BES-treated water. These findings highlight the efficacy of BES in the degradation of NFX, demonstrating its potential as a sustainable strategy for the remediation of antibiotic-contaminated environments and the mitigation of associated ecological risks.

The adsorption of chlorpyrifos and malathion under environmentally relevant conditions using biowaste carbon materials

Water bodies face persistent contamination from organophosphorus pesticides like chlorpyrifos and malathion, which pose substantial environmental and health hazards due to their toxicity and resilience in ecosystems. This study explores the potential of spent coffee grounds, a common agricultural byproduct, as an eco-friendly adsorbent for eliminating these pesticides from polluted water. Spent coffee grounds underwent carbonization at 400 °C and various activation treatments using KOH, H3PO4, CO2, and their combinations. The impact of these activation methods on the adsorption capacity of carbonized materials was assessed under environmentally relevant conditions (25 °C, pH=6, and typical pesticide concentrations in wastewater). Results revealed that the physical and chemical properties of biowaste-derived materials significantly influence their adsorption efficiency, with KOH-activated adsorbents exhibiting the highest capacities ((16.1 ± 0.8) mg g−1 for chlorpyrifos and (11.2 ± 0.2) mg g−1 for malathion). Spent coffee grounds carbonized at 400 °C without additional activation demonstrated similar adsorption performance to the best-performing material ((19.4 ± 0.4) mg g−1 for chlorpyrifos and (10.6 ± 0.4) mg g−1 for malathion), with notably lower economic and environmental costs. Given its straightforward preparation and significant adsorption capacity, this material stands out as a sustainable solution for treating agrochemical wastewater containing chlorpyrifos and malathion.

Simplified synthesis and identification of novel nanostructures consisting of cobalt borate and cobalt oxide for crystal violet dye removal from aquatic environments

Crystal violet dye poses significant health risks to humans, including carcinogenic and mutagenic effects, as well as environmental hazards due to its persistence and toxicity in aquatic ecosystems. This study focuses on the efficient removal of crystal violet dye from aqueous media using novel Co3O4/Co3(BO3)2 nanostructures synthesized via the Pechini sol–gel approach. The nanostructures, which were abbreviated to EN600 and EN800, were fabricated at calcination temperatures of 600 and 800 °C, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the synthesized samples have a cubic Co3O4 phase and an orthorhombic Co3(BO3)2 phase, with mean crystal sizes of 43.82 nm and 52.93 nm for EN600 and EN800 samples, respectively. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface areas of EN600 and EN800 samples were 65.80 and 43.76 m2/g, respectively, indicating a significant surface area available for adsorption. Optimal removal of crystal violet dye was achieved at a temperature of 298 K, a contact time of 70 min, and a pH of 10. The maximum adsorption capacities were found to be 284.09 mg/g for EN600 and 256.41 mg/g for EN800, which are notably higher compared to many conventional adsorbents. The adsorption process followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and fitted well with the Langmuir isotherm. The adsorption was exothermic, spontaneous, and physical in nature. Moreover, the adsorbents exhibited excellent reusability, retaining high efficiency after multiple regeneration cycles using 6 mol/L hydrochloric acid. These findings highlight the potential of these Co3O4/Co3(BO3)2 nanostructures as effective and sustainable materials for water purification applications.

Reusable pyrene-based fluorescent organogels for polychlorinated biphenyl detection and removal

Highly toxic hydrophobic polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) pollutants are resistant to degradation, and limited methods are available for their elimination, leading to their long-term persistence in ecosystems, which can harm humans and the environment. Therefore, early detection, removal, and continuous monitoring of PCBs are crucial. In this study, a novel fluorescent polymeric probe (P1) to detect PCB congeners (77, 118, and 126) in water was developed. P1 was synthesized by incorporating N,N’-dimethylacrylamide (DMAA) and pyren-1-ylmethyl methacrylate (PyMMA) to form p(DMAA-co-PyMMA). P1 demonstrated high sensitivity toward the most toxic coplanar PCB congeners, 77 and 126, via a fluorescence turn-on mechanism. This sensitivity was attributed to hydrophobic and π–π interactions between the PCBs and PyMMA units of P1. The detection limits for PCB congeners 77 and 126 were determined to be 0.028 and 0.039 mM, respectively. However, PCB 118, a mixed planar congener, exhibited less detection sensitivity than PCB 77 and 126. A porous three-dimensional polymeric organogel (OG) comprising butyl acrylate, PyMMA, and a cross-linker ethylene glycol dimethacrylate was synthesized for practical application. The OG selectively removed PCBs compared to other competing pollutants due to the high hydrophobicity of the PCBs, achieving removal rates of 63 % for PCB 77 and 55 % for PCB 126. The large surface area of the OG facilitated enhanced hydrophobic and π-π interactions between the PCBs and pyrene units. This work emphasizes the efficacy of P1 in detecting PCBs and the potential of using OG in eliminating PCBs, offering a viable method for monitoring and remedying PCB-contaminated environments.

Transport and Deposition of Microplastics at the Water–Sediment Interface: A Case Study of the White River near Muncie, Indiana

Microplastics, plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, pose a significant environmental threat due to their persistence and distribution in aquatic ecosystems. Research on the dynamics of microplastics within freshwater systems, particularly concerning their transport and deposition along river corridors, remains insufficient. This study investigated the occurrence and deposition of microplastics at the water–sediment interface of the White River near Muncie, Indiana. Sediment samples were collected from three sites: White River Woods (upstream), Westside Park (midstream), and Morrow’s Meadow (downstream). The microplastic concentrations varied significantly, with the highest concentration recorded upstream, indicating a strong influence from agricultural runoff. The types of microplastics identified were predominantly fragments (43.1%), fibers (29.6%), and films (27.3%), with fragments being consistently the most abundant at all sampling sites. A polymer analysis with selected particles using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed that the most common polymers were polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The hydrodynamic conditions played a crucial role in the deposition and transport of microplastics. The statistical analysis demonstrated a strong positive correlation between the microplastic concentration and flow velocity at the downstream site, suggesting that lower flow velocities contribute to the accumulation of finer sediments and microplastics. Conversely, the upstream and midstream sites exhibited weaker correlations, indicating that other environmental and anthropogenic factors, such as land use and the sediment texture, may influence microplastic retention and transport. This study provides valuable insights into the complex interactions between river dynamics, sediment characteristics, and microplastic deposition in freshwater systems. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on freshwater microplastic pollution and can help guide mitigation strategies aimed at reducing microplastic contamination in riverine ecosystems.

Degradation Acyclovir Using Sodium Hypochlorite: Focus on Byproducts Analysis, Optimal Conditions and Wastewater Application.

In recent years, the environmental impact of pharmaceutical residues has emerged as a pressing global concern, catalyzed by their widespread usage and persistence in aquatic ecosystems. Among these pharmaceuticals, acyclovir (ACV) stands out due to its extensive prescription during medical treatments for herpes simplex virus, chickenpox, and shingles, as well as its heightened usage amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. ACV is excreted largely unchanged by the human body, leading to significant environmental release through wastewater effluents. The urgency of addressing ACV's environmental impact lies in its potential to persist in water bodies and affect aquatic life. This persistence underscores the critical need for effective degradation strategies that can mitigate its presence in aquatic systems. This study focuses on employing sodium hypochlorite as an oxidative agent for the degradation of ACV, leveraging its common use in wastewater treatment plants. Our research aims to explore the kinetics of ACV degradation, identify and characterize its degradation byproducts, and optimize the conditions under which complete degradation can be achieved. By assessing the efficiency of sodium hypochlorite in real wastewater samples, this study seeks to provide practical insights into mitigating ACV contamination in aquatic environments. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive approach to understanding the degradation pathways of ACV and evaluating the feasibility of using sodium hypochlorite as a sustainable solution in wastewater treatment. By addressing the environmental concerns associated with ACV and offering practical solutions, this study contributes to the broader goal of sustainable pharmaceutical waste management and environmental stewardship.

Unlocking the Mysteries of Reproduction: Exploring Fecundity and Gonadosomatic Index in the Enigmatic Bornean Pygmy Halfbeak, Dermogenys colletei (Meisner, 2001) (Beloniformes: Zenarchopteridae)

The pygmy halfbeak Dermogenys colletei is known for its viviparous nature, this presents an intriguing case of relatively low fecundity, raising questions about potential compensatory reproductive strategies employed by this species. Our study delves into the examination of fecundity and the Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) in the Pygmy Halfbeak, D. colletei (Meisner, 2001), an intriguing viviparous fish indigenous to Sarawak, Borneo. We hypothesize that the Pygmy halfbeak, D. colletei, may exhibit unique reproductive adaptations to offset its low fecundity, thus enhancing its survival and fitness. To address this, we conducted a comprehensive study utilizing 28 mature female specimens of D. colletei, carefully measuring fecundity and GSI to shed light on the reproductive adaptations of this species. Our findings reveal that D. colletei indeed exhibits low fecundity, with a mean of 16.76 ± 2.01, and a mean GSI of 12.83 ± 1.27, providing crucial insights into the reproductive mechanisms at play in this species. These results underscore the existence of unique reproductive strategies in D. colletei, enabling its adaptation and persistence in Borneo's diverse aquatic ecosystems, and call for further ecological research to elucidate these mechanisms. This study lends to a better understanding of viviparous fish in Borneo and contributes to the broader field of aquatic ecology, enhancing our knowledge of species adaptations to unique ecological challenges.

Visible-light-driven calcium alginate hydrogel encapsulating BiOBr0.75I0.25 for efficient removal of oxytetracycline from wastewater

Oxytetracycline (OTC), a widely used antibiotic, poses significant environmental risks due to its persistence in ecosystems. This study introduces a visible-light-driven photocatalytic hydrogel system for effectively removing OTC from wastewater. The system employs calcium alginate (CA) hydrogel beads encapsulating a BiOBr0.75I0.25 solid solution, which utilizes the synergistic effects of adsorption and visible-light-driven photocatalysis. The BiOBr0.75I0.25 solid solution photocatalyst was synthesized via a solvothermal method, while CA hydrogel beads encapsulating BiOBr0.75I0.25 were prepared through ionic gelation of sodium alginate with calcium chloride. The novel hydrogel, CA-BiOBr0.75I0.25, demonstrated rapid adsorption, capturing over 50 % of OTC within 30 min and achieving a 90.92 % degradation rate within 60 min under visible light. This performance is associated with the unique petal-like structure of BiOBr0.75I0.25 and the high surface area of the hydrogel, facilitating efficient charge separation and radical generation critical for photocatalytic activity. Additionally, the system showed excellent stability and reusability, maintaining an 83 % removal efficiency after five cycles. These findings highlight the potential of this novel hydrogel as a sustainable solution for advanced wastewater treatment technologies.

Glyphosate and its formulated product Roundup Transorb R® affect locomotor activity and reproductive and developmental parameters in Jenynsia lineata fish: An intergenerational study

Glyphosate is the most widely utilized herbicide worldwide due to its effectiveness in controlling agricultural weeds. However, its persistence in aquatic ecosystems has raised concerns about the well-being of non-target organisms such as fish. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chronic exposure (21 days) to glyphosate or its formulated product Roundup Transorb R®, at an environmentally relevant concentration permitted by regulations in certain countries (65 μg/L of glyphosate), on the locomotor activity and reproductive success of the fish Jenynsia lineata, as well as on the morphology/development and locomotor activity of its offspring, as intergenerational effects. Neither the pure nor formulated herbicide altered the distance traveled and velocity of adult fish exposed to the herbicide (F0), but they negatively affected reproductive success, decreasing the percentage of positive response to the presence of the female, reducing the number of gravid females, causing abortions, and lowering offspring survival (F1). In the F1 generation, a decrease in weight and length was noted along with developmental abnormalities in both treatment groups (pure or formulated glyphosate), with the formulation causing more harm. Observed developmental abnormalities included muscle atrophy, ascites, pigmentary disorders, vertebral agenesis, spinal deviation, and exophthalmia. Furthermore, parental exposure to pure glyphosate led to an increase in the distance traveled and velocity of F1 (hyperlocomotion), whereas exposure to the formulated product resulted in a decrease in these behaviors (hypolocomotion) of F1. These findings highlight the toxic effects of glyphosate at very low concentrations, although varying between pure and formulated, and demonstrate the intergenerational consequences of herbicide exposure, underscoring the risk to the survival of fish offspring in glyphosate-contaminated environments.

Multidimensional occurrence and diet risk of emerging contaminants in freshwater with urban agglomerations

Freshwater systems near highly urbanized areas are extremely susceptible to emerging contaminants (ECs), yet their stereoscopic persistence in aquatic ecosystems and related risks remain largely unknown. Herein, we characterized the multi-mediums distribution of 63 ECs in Baiyangdian Lake, the biggest urban lake in the North of China. We identified variations in the seasonal patterns of aquatic EC levels, which decreased in water and increased in sediment from wet to dry seasons. Surprisingly, higher concentrations and a greater variety of ECs were detected in reeds than in aquatic animals, indicating that plants may contribute to the transferring of ECs. Source analysis indicated that human activity considerably affected the distribution and risk of ECs. The dietary risk of ECs is most pronounced among children following the intake of aquatic products, especially with a relatively higher risk associated with fish consumption. Besides, a comprehensive scoring ranking method was proposed, and 9 ECs, including BPS and macrolide antibiotics, are identified as prioritized control pollutants. These findings highlight the risks associated with aquatic ECs and can facilitate the development of effective management strategies.

Salt marsh soil organic carbon is regulated by drivers of microbial activity

Abstract Soil organic carbon is the foundation for soil health and a livable climate. Organic carbon is concentrated in coastal wetland soils, but dynamics that govern carbon persistence in coastal ecosystems remain incompletely understood. Whether microbial activity results in a gain or loss of carbon depends on environmental conditions that regulate microbial community attributes. We sought to identify which drivers of microbial activity have the greatest impact on organic carbon content in salt marsh soils. To address this question, we used the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses) statement to compile data on soil and ecosystem characteristics from 50 studies of over 60 salt marshes located around the world. We conducted a meta-analysis with structural equation modeling, including mediation and moderation analyses, to identify environmental drivers of salt marsh soil organic carbon content. High salinity, pH, nitrogen, and phosphorus were associated with increased microbial biomass carbon and soil organic carbon. Correlations between microbial biomass and organic carbon were strengthened by soil salinity and nitrogen, and weakened by soil water content. These results suggest that environmental conditions that control microbial growth and activity have potential to preserve or degrade organic carbon in salt marsh soils.

Harnessing Activated Hydrochars: A Novel Approach for Pharmaceutical Contaminant Removal

Water contamination is a pervasive global crisis, affecting over 2 billion people worldwide, with pharmaceutical contaminants emerging as a significant concern due to their persistence and mobility in aquatic ecosystems. This review explores the potential of activated hydrochars, sustainable materials produced through biomass pyrolysis, to revolutionize the removal of pharmaceutical contaminants from water sources. These materials possess high surface area, porous structure, and exceptional adsorption capabilities, making them a promising solution. The impact of pharmaceutical contaminants on aquatic ecosystems and human health is far-reaching, affecting biodiversity, water quality, and public health. To address this complex issue, a diverse range of techniques, including adsorption, biodegradation, and advanced oxidation processes, are employed in the pharmaceutical industry. Activated hydrochars offer substantial adsorption capacity, sustainable feedstock origins, and a minimal carbon footprint. This review highlights their potential in pharmaceutical contaminant removal and their broader applications in improving soil and air quality, resource recovery, and sustainable waste management. Interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of intelligent treatment systems are essential to fully unlock the potential of activated hydrochars. Regulatory support and policy frameworks will facilitate their responsible and widespread application, promising a cleaner and more sustainable future. This paper aims to inform scientists, environmental experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders about the promising role of activated hydrochars in addressing pharmaceutical contaminant challenges.

Real-time optical detection of mercury contamination in drinking water using an amphiphilic recognition probe at liquid crystal/aqueous interfaces.

Mercury contamination is a global environmental issue due to its toxicity and persistence in ecosystems. It poses a particular risk in aquatic systems, where it bioaccumulates and biomagnifies, leading to serious health impacts on humans. Therefore, effective detection technologies for mercuric ions in natural water resources are highly desirable. However, most existing detection methods are time-consuming, require complicated sample pre-treatment, and rely on expensive equipment, which hinders their widespread use in real-time detection. Here, we present a convenient, rapid, portable, user-friendly, and cost-effective sensing system for detecting Hg2+ ion contamination in water. This system utilizes a highly selective, amphiphilic, and structurally simple molecular probe, N-dodecylamine-di-thiocarbamate (DDC). DDC molecules align at the interface between the liquid crystal (LC) and water, inducing a homeotropic LC orientation. In water samples contaminated with Hg2+, a bright optical texture is observed, indicating the alignment of the 5CB LC in a planar manner at the LC/aqueous boundary. The minimum detectable concentration (LOD) for Hg2+ ions is 5.0 μM in distilled water, with a broad detection range from 5.0 μM to 2 mM. The sensor selectively detects Hg2+ ions over other common interfering metal ions, including Pb2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Cd2+, Zn2+, Cr2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, and Ca2+. Boolean logic gates, bar graphs, and truth tables are employed to explain the selectivity of this liquid crystal-based sensor. This work demonstrates the significant potential of the sensor for monitoring mercuric ions in natural water resources, offering a promising strategy for controlling mercury pollution.

Environmental implications of styrofoam waste and its utilization as lightweight fill material for embankment construction

This study investigates the adverse effects of styrofoam waste on the environment due to its non-biodegradable nature and persistence in natural ecosystems, encompassing issues such as visual pollution, habitat disruption, and potential health risks to flora and fauna. The research also delves into the feasibility of repurposing styrofoam waste as a lightweight fill material in embankment construction, aiming to improve the performance of such structures, with the primary objective of augmenting the structural performance of such constructions. The paper conducts an extensive assessment of the technical properties and engineering characteristics of a soil-styrofoam mixture. Key parameters under scrutiny encompass density, shear strength, and bearing capacity behaviors. Various proportions of styrofoam, specifically 0.0%, 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, and 0.8% by weight, were systematically incorporated into the soil mixture. Based on this study, the use of styrofoam can reduce the maximum dry density of the soil mixture, but still has the desired bearing capacity. These results indicate that the reuse of Styrofoam waste as an additional material in embankment construction has great potential to improve the performance and sustainability of embankment projects.