Potential Environmental Risks Research Articles

Lignin‐Based Macromolecular Photoinitiator for Non‐Migration, Self‐Adhesive, and Water‐Resistant Eutectogels toward Underwater Reliable Communication

AbstractHydrophobic conductive gels have attracted much attention in underwater sensing as the soft robots and wearable sensors. Among the various methods for preparing conductive gels, UV‐initiated polymerization shows advantages of rapid curing and significant energy savings. However, traditional commonly used photoinitiators in UV‐initiated polymerization often migrate or diffuse within conductive gels, especially with prolonged use or underwater, posing potential environmental and health risks. Herein, a novel lignin‐based macromolecular photoinitiator (L‐BF) is first designed by incorporating benzoylformate into the lignin backbone, demonstrating excellent UV absorption, high radical initiation efficiency, and hydrophobicity. Subsequently, hydrophobic eutectogels (HEG) are prepared via UV‐initiated polymerization using L‐BF as photoinitiator. The HEG shows excellent mechanical properties (toughness of 5.67 MJ m−3 and strain of 941%) and scarcely L‐BF migration underwater. Moreover, the hydrophobic network of L‐BF endowed HEG with hydrophobicity (water contact angle exceeds 110°; swelling ratio is <5.8%), superior underwater adhesion (255 kPa), even maintained excellent sensing performance (gauge factor of 4.69), and long‐term reproducibility (20 000 cycles) in air and underwater. Validation confirms the potential of HEG as an effective wearable sensor for underwater posture monitoring and communication, advancing the use of lignin and low‐migration conductive gels in marine exploration.

Molybdenum doping leads to faster photo-dissolution of commercial molybdate red pigment than chrome yellow pigment under sunlight irradiation

The photo-dissolution of lead chromate pigments poses specific environmental hazards. In this study, we report that doping molybdenum in lead chromate pigments, resulting in commonly known molybdate red pigment, increases the risk of heavy metal leaching when exposed to light. Commercial molybdate red pigments undergo photo-dissolution when exposed to simulated sunlight and exhibit lower photostability compared to lead chromate pigments such as chrome yellow. After 24 h of irradiation, the leaching rates of toxic lead and chromium from molybdate red pigments were 2.98 and 3.70 times higher, respectively, than those from chrome yellow pigments. The primary factor leading to decreased pigment photostability is the activation of pigment semiconductors facilitated by molybdenum doping. Molybdate red pigments exhibit a broader light absorption spectrum and more efficient separation and transfer of photogenerated charge carriers than chrome yellow pigments, boosting the photochemical activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to illustrate the doping effect on the photostability of commercial inorganic pigments and the consequent heavy metal leaching. Our results suggest that Mo doping reduces the photostability of lead chromate pigments, highlighting the potential elevated environmental risks associated with complex inorganic pigments.

Current Research Status, Opportunities, and Future Challenges of Nine Representative Persistent Herbicides.

Pesticides are extensively utilized in contemporary agriculture to manage pests, enhance crop yields, and sustain productivity. Nevertheless, the persistent herbicide represents a dual-edged weapon. On one hand, their prolonged efficacy enables reduced application frequency during crop growth seasons, resulting in cost savings on labor. However, the presence of these residues within fields poses safety risks to soil quality, sensitive crops in subsequent rotations, agricultural product quality, and the ecological environment. This review presents a comprehensive review on the mechanisms of action, application risks, ecotoxicology, and residue analysis methods of nine representative persistent herbicides (namely, atrazine, imazethapyr, imazapic, mesosulfuron-methyl, halosulfuron-methyl, fomesafen, diflufenican, quinclorac, and pyroxasulfone). The objective is to guide their scientific and rational utilization in agricultural practices while minimizing phytotoxicity risks and effectively monitoring and controlling soil pollution. These can not only provide practical recommendations for mitigating potential plant toxicity and ecological environmental risks but also contribute valuable technical insights for efficient soil pollution monitoring and prevention. Additionally, unaddressed research objectives were also anticipated.

Characteristics of soil microplastics and ecological risks in the Qilian Mountains region, Northeast Tibetan Plateau

Microplastics (MPs) pollution has become a vital global environmental issue. However, comprehensive understanding of the ecological risks of MPs in soils of Northeast Tibetan Plateau still requires further study. In this study, we used the Agilent 8700 Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) spectroscopy to analyze the characteristics of 10–1000 μm MPs in soils of different vegetation types throughout the Qilian Mountains basin, and to comprehensively explore the ecological risks of MPs in various ecological environments. The results indicate that MPs abundance is highest in soil of shrub areas (26,369 ± 32,147 items kg−1-dry weight (dw)), followed by woodland (22,215 ± 22,544 items kg−1-dw), desert (17,769 ± 9,040 items kg−1-dw), grassland (16,462 ± 12,872 items kg−1-dw), and forest (15,662 ± 13,857 items kg−1-dw). MPs in soils of different vegetation types show similar physical and chemical characteristics, with the shape dominated by fragments (93%–96%), followed by fibers and a few beads, with dominant sizes of 10–30 μm (63%–76%), and polymers dominated by polyamide (PA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Additionally, the environmental risks posed by the fundamental characteristics of MPs have been quantified through the Pollution Load Index (PLI), Pollution Hazard Index (PHI), and Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI) models. According to the PLI assessment, the current levels of MPs in the environment have not yet imposed significant burdens on the ecosystem. However, the results of PHI and PERI indicate a higher risk of MPs pollution in the Qilian Mountains. This study offers vital information for MPs pollution in the whole Qilian Mountains regions and their potential environmental risks in remote areas’ soil.

Drift when applying biocides to control crawling and flying insects on walls

BackgroundInsecticides are sprayed on external building walls for treatments against crawling and flying insects. These applications can lead to drift into non-target areas and thus to undesirable environmental pollution. This emission pathway needs to be considered during exposure assessments within product authorisations to assess potential environmental risks. However, now, there is only one default value for deposition that is used in all calculations based on the Emission Scenario Document of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development at a distance of 50 cm to the treatment area. This is not sufficient for a risk assessment.ResultsWhen applying a chemical barrier of 50 cm at the bottom of the building wall, wind direction had the greatest influence on drift, while changing the nozzle type had no significant effect. Compared with the measured ground sediments, the OECD default value was deemed to be realistic at a distance of 57 cm from the treatment area. When treating the entire building wall, the wind direction as well as the nozzle used show significant influence on the measured values of drift. The default value for deposition proposed for modelling environmental exposure in OECD document ESD PT18 No. 18 was exceeded. Thus, the exposure estimation might not be protective enough.ConclusionDrift values used for the environmental exposure assessment of biocidal products during treatments of building walls should be adapted. This is especially relevant for treatments of entire building walls, where the current default value was exceeded for all distances from the building wall. Wind direction and nozzle type can reduce environmental impact. This finding can be used as a measure to reduce unnecessary exposure in the environment in the future.

Abstract A032: Disparities in molecular subtypes of acute lymphoblastic leukemia incidence by age, race/ethnicity, and sex in the United States

Abstract Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common cancer in children and a heterogeneous disease comprising several molecular subtypes. The increased risks of ALL in individuals assigned male at birth and in those of Hispanic/Latino ethnicity compared to non-Hispanic White individuals are well known. Less well-established are potential differences in the prevalence of specific molecular subtypes of ALL by sex or racial/ethnic groups. Here, we provide updates on incidence patterns for lymphoid leukemias reported by cancer registries across the United States, leveraging recent data on molecular subtypes of ALL. We obtained data from the North American Association of Central Cancer Registry (NAACCR) for United States-specific incidence cases from 2000 through 2020. Diagnoses and leukemia subtype reporting, limited to ALL only, was based on the International Classification of Diseases for Oncology, Third Edition (ICD-O-3). Age-adjusted (2000 US Standard) incidence rates (AAIR) were calculated using SEER*Stat (version 8.4.3). Incidence rate ratios (IRR) were calculated to assess patterns in leukemia incidence by sex and by race/ethnicity across three age groups: 0- 14 (children), 15-39 (adolescents and young adults, AYA) and 40+ (older adults) years. Information on selected molecular subtypes of ALL was available for cases diagnoses 2010 onwards, from ICD-0-3 histology codes that were determined by genetics and/or immunophenotyping. Overall and in each age group compared to non-Hispanic Whites (NHWs), Blacks/African- Americans (B/AAs) had significantly lower AAIRs for ALL whereas Hispanic/Latinos (H/Ls) had significantly higher AAIRs, in particular for B-cell ALL. Analysis by molecular subtypes revealed that overall, H/Ls were at higher risk for BCR::ABL1 translocation than NHWs, with the greatest difference seen in AYAs in which H/Ls had a 2.5-fold (95% CI=2.08-3.00) higher risk of BCR::ABL1. In children, H/Ls had significantly higher incidences of several ALL subtypes compared with NHWs, including BCR::ABL1 (IRR=1.5; 95% CI=1.13-1.98) and TCF3::PBX1 (IRR=2.0; 95% CI=1.43-2.79) but also ETV6::RUNX1 and high hyperdiploidy (both IRR=1.27; 95% CI=1.12-1.43). Males were at significantly higher risk than females for ALL and its subtypes across all ages combined and stratified age categories. In particular, males had a 2.5- fold increased risk of precursor T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia compared to females (IRR=2.5; 95% CI=2.28-2.73) in all ages combined, and a 3.0-fold increased risk in both AYAs (95% CI=2.59-3.46) and older adults (95% CI=2.54-3.54). Among molecular subtypes, the highest IRR was observed for BCR::ABL1 in AYAs wherein males were at 50% increased risk (IRR=1.5; 95% CI=1.27-1.76). In addition to confirming the previously reported disparities in ALL incidence by race/ethnicity and by sex, we report an increased incidence of particular molecular subtypes of ALL in Hispanics/Latinos and in males. Studies to investigate potential genetic and environmental risk factors underlying these disparities are warranted. Citation Format: Anmol A. Pardeshi, Juanita Elizabeth Quino, Nicholas Acuna, Talar Habeshian, Raymond Hughley, Isabella Ortiz, Michelle Tran, Ying Yan, Cindy Zamora, Joseph l. Wiemels, Kai-Ya Tsai, Lihua Liu, Adam J de Smith. Disparities in molecular subtypes of acute lymphoblastic leukemia incidence by age, race/ethnicity, and sex in the United States [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A032.

Tailoring the selective generation of high-valent cobalt-oxo by asymmetrically coordinated single-atom cobalt-activated peracetic acid for efficient water decontamination

The novel nonradical Fenton-like oxidation based on high-valent cobalt-oxo [CoIVO] species is a promising candidate for selectively removing emerging organic contaminants (EOCs) in complex water; however, efficient and targeted generation of CoIVO is hampered by the high Co-3d orbital occupancy and high bond dissociation energy of deprotonation. Herein, an O doping strategy to construct asymmetric coordination (CoN3O) in Co single-atom catalyst (Co-SAC) is developed to steer peracetic acid (PAA) activation for selectively generating CoIVO. Theoretical calculations suggest that asymmetric coordination of CoN3O could induce significant electron delocalization around Co centers, thus promote adsorption and peroxy O–O bond cleavage of PAA. The asymmetric electronic structure also exerts an additional local electric field, which favors the cleavage of O–H bond via a proton-coupled electron transfer pathway for subsequent CoIVO generation. Consistent with the theoretical prediction, the established CoN3O/PAA system exhibits admirable Fenton-like activity in degrading various EOCs to low-toxicity intermediates through exclusive generation of CoIVO, greatly reducing potential environmental risks. Our work provides a fundamental understanding of the structure–activity–selectivity relationships at an atomic level and provides a design guide to develop advanced CoIVO-involved Fenton-like catalyst for more extensive applications.

Novel insights into photoaging mechanisms and environmental persistence risks of polylactic acid (PLA) microplastics: Direct and indirect photolysis

Polylactic acid (PLA), as a biodegradable plastic, exhibits high sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, yet the mechanisms and environmental risks of its photoaging remain unclear. This study uses quantum chemical calculations (DFT and TD-DFT) and kinetic simulations to explore the direct and indirect photoaging of PLA. Direct photoaging indicates that the highest oscillator intensity absorption peaks occurred at 172 and 246 nm, corresponding to the 13th singlet (S13) and 48th triplet (T48) states, thereby initiating the Norrish I and Norrish II mechanisms. The innovative “electron-hole” technology effectively clarifies the variations in photoaging mechanisms under different wavelengths. Indirect photoaging involves multiple reactive oxygen species (ROS) like •OH, 1O2, •O2−, and •HO2. The study confirms the anhydride production hypothesis and proposes two novel •OH-induced mechanisms: carbonyl carbon addition and branched methyl hydrogen dehydrogenation. Both mechanisms are thermodynamically advantageous, but their products pose potential environmental risks. ROS species and concentrations impact both PLA's photoaging mechanisms and environmental persistence. Low •OH concentration in northeast China, especially in winter, suggests a significant photoaging risk. This study offers pioneering insights into photoaging mechanisms and emphasizes the pivotal role of ROS, offering recommendations for managing PLA environmental impacts and fates in China.

A systematic survey of environmental DNA in Palau's lakes and waterfalls reveals an increase in Leptospira levels after flooding

ObjectiveLeptospirosis is an important bacterial zoonosis which is widespread in tropical and subtropical islands and influences human and animal health which has secondary economic effects. Although leptospirosis is endemic in Palau, an Oceanian Pacific Island country, few systematic surveys of potential risk factors for Leptospira infection, such as weather and host animals, have been conducted in the natural environment. We used environmental DNA metabarcoding to assess the distribution, species diversity, and abundance of pathogenic Leptospira in this endemic region to investigate the potential environmental risks. MethodsForty-two paired water samples, representing fine and rainy weather conditions, were collected from four representative waterfalls and lakes on Babeldaob Island, the largest island in Palau. High-throughput sequencing analysis was conducted for polymerase chain reaction products of leptospiral 16S rRNA and vertebrate animal mitochondrial 12S rRNA genes. ResultsWe revealed greater Leptospira diversity and abundance in samples collected after continuous rain, particularly in the presence of flooding, compared with samples collected under typhoon, monsoon, or fine weather conditions. From same samples, six mammalian species including cats (Felis catus), mice (Mus musculus), Yap flying fox (Pteropus yapensis), rats (Rattus spp.), and pigs (Sus scrofa) were repeatedly detected. These may be candidates of host animals of Leptospira in Palau; however, their detection was not clearly correlated with that of Leptospira. ConclusionWe repeatedly detected several species of pathogenic Leptospira from water samples of a wide region of Babeldaob Island. We confirmed that Leptospira contamination in freshwater environments increased under rainy conditions, particularly in the presence of flooding. This information could be used to improve public health control measures in this region.

Appropriate flame-spraying treatment exacerbates thermal oxidative degradation of residual polyethylene films

In dryland farming, plastic film mulching can significantly increase crop yields, but the resulting residues impair soil health. Heretofore, only few studies had examined how heat treatment facilitates the rapid degradation of polyethylene (PE) residual films. Herein, we characterized the variations in micro-morphology, functional groups, and crystallinity of PE residual films after moderate heat exposure using a self-made flame-spraying equipment. The results revealed that solid residues (SR) obtained from flame-spraying showed a gravimetric weight loss of 9.39 %–15.35 % compared with untreated PE residual films (UPF). Scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed considerable pits, cracks, and visible roughness in appearance and an increase in the oxygen-to‐carbon (O/C) atomic ratio. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy identified characteristic oxygen-containing functional groups and double bonds. X-ray diffraction showed that flame-spraying treatments did not alter the crystal form of polymer, but increased the crystallinity. Higher flame-spraying temperatures resulted in larger oxygen-containing bond indices and lower crystallinity, suggesting a more severe decomposition of PE residual film. The possible volatile gaseous products at different reaction temperatures were predicted using thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (TG-FTIR). Degradation of the PE residual film started at 220 °C, and concentrated release of major products such as long-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons, ketones, and CO2, occurred in the temperature range of 340 °C–440 °C. These results highlighted the effectiveness of the moderate flame-spraying method in accelerating rapid decomposition of residual films, and a flame-spraying temperature range of 220 °C–340 °C should be recommended to avoid potential environmental risks induced by the release of large quantities of degradation products. This study will contribute to enhance our understanding of the thermal oxidative degradation behavior of PE waste and provide a scientific basis for the rapid and clean establishment of PE residual films mitigation in agricultural fields.

Vanadium redox speciation in the acid-extractable phase of Krka River estuary surface sediment

This study investigated the redox speciation and mobility of V in the acid-extractable fraction of surface sediments from the Krka River estuary using an optimized IC-UV/Vis analytical method. The separation of V(IV) and V(V) redox species was done using anion-exchange based chromatographic method, while pseudo-total V concentrations were measured using HR ICP-MS analytical instrumentation. Extracted V concentrations from the sediment fraction (pH = 5, HCl) and determined pseudo-total V concentrations were used to calculate the Enrichment Factor (EF) and Risk Assessment Code (RAC), indicating potential anthropogenic influence and environmental risk. A simple PHREEQC model was developed to asses V speciation in the oxic bottom seawater layer simulating possible remobilization of the leached sediment phase. The results of the study show that minor fraction of V is present in the acid-extractable phase across the surface sediment of Krka River estuary. Higher V mobility is mostly observed at locations rich with clay minerals, terrigenous input, and carbonates. Anthropogenic influence was linked to higher enrichment but lower mobility, suggesting binding to less mobile sediment phases (reducible, organic and residual fractions). The predominance of reduced V(IV) species in the acid-extractable sediment fraction indicates a potentially low V toxicity risk in the sediments of Krka River estuary, even in cases of high potential remobilization of V. However, the model predicted complete oxidation of V(IV) to V(V) upon remobilization into the oxic bottom water layer. This highlights the complexity of V behavior in natural estuarine systems, where the toxicity risks of possible V remobilization still remain unclear. Results of this study demonstrate the need for the strengthening efforts in speciation of V in the mobile sediment phase to obtain a cohesive outlook on its potential toxicity and biogeochemical cycling.

Occurrence and risk assessment of p-phenylenediamines and their quinones in aquatic environment: From city wastewater to deep sea

p-Phenylenediamines (PPDs) and PPD-derived quinones (PPD-Qs) have been considered emerging pollutants recently. Their available data on sediment and sewage sludge are limited, especially the ecological risks. Here, typical PPDs and PPD-Qs were measured in the sludge of wastewater treatment plants and surface sediment of a developed river basin (including reservoirs, estuaries, and rivers) and deep-sea troughs. The total concentrations of PPDs (∑PPD) were highest in sludge (range: 9.06–248 ng g−1), followed by surface sediment of the Dongjiang River basin, China (3.33–85.3 ng g−1), and lowest in sediment of the Okinawa Trough (0.01–7.46 ng g−1). The median value of ∑PPD in surface sediment of rivers (9.54 ng g−1) was higher than those in reservoirs (4.28 ng g−1) and estuaries (5.26 ng g−1). N-(1,3-Dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) was the major congener in all samples, accounting for over 60 % of ∑PPD. For quinones, 6PPD-Q and IPPD-Q were frequently detected in sludge, only trace 6PPD-Q was detected in the sediment of estuaries (nd-0.62 ng g−1) and rivers (nd-5.24 ng g−1), and both of them were absent from the sediment of the Okinawa Trough. The occurrence of PPDs in the trough may be the in-situ release of microplastics, and due to the low-light and weak alkaline conditions of deep-sea water, quinones may hardly photodegrade from PPDs. The PPD concentrations in sludge were positively correlated with local GDP, and the annual PPD emission from sludge will exceed 1370 kg in China. The results of ecological risk assessments indicated low risks for PPDs in sludge-amended soil, median risks for several PPDs in river sediment, but median to high risks for 6PPD-Q contamination sludge-amended soil. For the first time, we explored the potential environmental risk of PPDs and related quinones in sludge used as a soil conditioner.

Improving the growth of pea plant by biochar–polyacrylamide association to cope with heavy metal stress under sewage water application in a greenhouse

Sewage water is extensively used for irrigation, serving as a valuable resource for plant growth to enhance agricultural productivity. However, this practice also results in a significant accumulation of heavy metals in the soil, posing potential environmental and health risks. A study was designed to evaluate the combined effect of amendments on heavy metal immobilization in soil and improved growth and yield in pea plants. For this, the soil for each treatment was mixed with biochar (BC) (1% w/w), polyacrylamide (PAM) (0.5% w/w), and also applied in combination. Pea plants were irrigated with tap water (TW), sewage water (SW), and tap + sewage water (TW + SW). A factorial design was applied to analyze data statistically. The combined application of the biochar and polymer showed a positive response by significantly enhancing the plant growth parameters (39%–84%), physiological attributes (67%–69%), and reducing Cd (56%) and Cr (65%) concentration in soil applied with SW and TW + SW. Moreover, treatment with a combined application of BC and PAM significantly reduced Cd concentrations by 43% in roots, 50% in shoots, and 91% in grains. Similarly, Cr concentrations were reduced by 51% in roots, 51% in shoots, and 94% in grains compared to the control. Overall, the study results indicate reduced bioaccumulation and health risks associated with potentially toxic elements (PTEs), supporting the application of the polymer and biochar for irrigating pea plants with TW + SW. Leveraging the combined benefits of polymer and biochar amendments appears to be an effective strategy to remediate PTE-contaminated soil, thereby increasing plant growth and yield.

Heavy metal migration and lithium isotope fractionation under extreme weathering of basalt on tropical Hainan Island, China

Basalt weathering can cause heavy metal enrichment in soils, and lithium isotopes serve as an effective tracer for this weathering process. However, the relations among weathering intensity, heavy metal migration, and Li isotope fractionation remain unclear. We conducted systematic examinations of a basalt weathering profile on tropical Hainan Island in China. The characteristics of mineralogy, elemental and Li isotopic geochemistry indicate that the profile has undergone changes from initial to advanced and ultimately extreme weathering stages. The corresponding dominant minerals are primary minerals, clay minerals such as kaolin-group, and the Al–Fe–Ti (hydro)oxides. The variations of Fe-group heavy metals within the profile are very similarly to that of Fe, exhibiting a pattern of loss-gain-loss. Newly formed secondary minerals preferentially incorporate lighter 6Li, leading to a gradual increase in Li content and a decrease in δ7Li. Due to the high δ7Li value of rainwater input, the ongoing impact of secondary mineral adsorption is partially counteracted. This results in the δ7Li of laterite and topsoil being maintained within a narrow range (−3.2‰ ∼ −1.9‰), despite the broader variation observed across the entire profile (−3.2‰ ∼ +2.8‰). Comparing basalt weathering profiles in different climatic zones reveals a very complex Li isotope behavior and its controlling factors. Therefore, it is essential to carefully evaluate the influence of atmospheric input, secondary mineral adsorption, dissolution, and redeposition processes on Li isotopes. Throughout the entire profile, Cr, Ni, and Cu exhibit enrichment relative to soil background values, indicating that the weathering of tropical basalt may pose potential environmental risks for these elements.

17β-Trenbolone Exposure Enhances Muscle Activity and Exacerbates Parkinson's Disease Progression in Male Mice.

Parkinson's disease (PD) ranks as the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, and while the neuroprotective effects of estrogen are well-documented, the impact of androgens on neurological disorders remains understudied. The consequences of exposure to 17-trenbolone (17-TB), an environmental endocrine disruptor with androgen-like properties, on the mammalian nervous system have received limited attention. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the biological effects of 17-TB exposure on PD. In our investigation using the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD mouse model, we discovered that 17-TB exposure elevated testosterone hormone levels prevented androgen receptor (AR) reduction, upregulated the expression of muscular dystrophic factors (Atrogin1, MuRF1, Musa1, and Myostatin), improved muscle strength, and enhanced locomotor activity in the open field test. However, it is noteworthy that exposure to 17-TB also led to an upregulation of neuroinflammatory cytokines (NLRP3, IL-6, IL-1α, and IL-1β) in PD mice. Crucially, 17-TB exposure induced downregulation of nigral apoptotic proteins DJ-1 and Bcl-2 while upregulating Bax and Caspase-3 in PD mice. This exacerbated neuronal apoptosis, ultimately intensifying dopaminergic neuronal degeneration and death in the substantia nigra and striatum of PD mice. In conclusion, our findings indicate that while 17-TB mitigates muscle atrophy and enhances motor activity in PD mice, it concurrently exacerbates neuroinflammation, induces neuronal apoptosis, and worsens dopaminergic neuronal death, thereby aggravating the progression of MPTP-induced Parkinsonism. This underscores the importance of considering potential environmental risks in neurodegeneration associated with Parkinson's disease, providing a cautionary tale for our daily exposure to environmental endocrine chemical disruptors.

Unraveling the fate of 6PPD-Q in aquatic environment: Insights into formation, dissipation, and transformation under natural conditions

The widespread occurrence of N-(1,3-Dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine-quinone (6PPD-Q) in aquatic environments and its hazards to aquatic species underscore the necessity of comprehending its environmental fate. Here, we investigated the transformation from 6PPD to 6PPD-Q and the attenuation of 6PPD-Q in surface water under natural conditions. Contrary to prior findings, this work revealed that 6PPD-Q and its precursor 6PPD-OH/6PPD-(OH)2, were not detected through target analysis and suspect screening during 6PPD transformation in the surface water under the natural conditions. 6PPD-Q predominantly accumulated in TWPs in ambient atmosphere with 1.28 % mass yield from the 6PPD dissipation. Subsequently, 6PPD-Q was eluted from TWPs and released to the water environment. The investigation on the natural attenuation of 6PPD-Q in the surface water demonstrated that direct and indirect photolysis facilitated the rapid dissipation of 6PPD-Q with a half-life of 2.57 h. Utilizing the liquid chromatography high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS), including both time of flight (TOF) MS and Orbitrap MS, twelve novel transformation products (TPs) of 6PPD-Q were identified by using a comprehensive non-targeted screening strategy. The results from two dimensions gas chromatography (GC×GC) TOF-MS revealed additional two TPs. Based on the molecular structure of TPs, four major pathways of 6PPD-Q attenuation were proposed, including bond cleavage, hydroxylation, quinone cleavage and rearrangement. All TPs were predicted to exhibit lower toxicity, indicating the natural attenuation of 6PPD-Q reduced its toxicity and potential environmental risks. This study provides crucial insights into the environmental fate of 6PPD-Q, highlighting the significance of understanding both its formation from 6PPD and its subsequent attenuation processes under natural conditions.

Co-transport of citrate-modified biochar nanoparticles and released plant-available silicon in saturated porous media: Effect of LMWOAs and solution chemistry

Citrate-modified biochar nanoparticles (CBCNPs) represent a promising amendment with plant-available silicon (PASi) releasing capacity. However, the co-transport behavior with released PASi remain poorly understood. This study investigated their co-transport in saturated porous media under various solution chemistry and low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOAs). Experimental and two-site kinetic model results revealed that higher ionic strength caused favorable aggregation and size-selective, hindering CBCNPs transport. Divalent Ca2+ ions retained CBCNPs more effectively than K+ due to stronger charge screening and cation bridging. The pH buffering capacity of CBCNPs resulted in consistent transport behavior across a broad pH range (4–8). XDLVO calculation clarified the impact mechanisms of IS, ion types and pH on CBCNPs transport. Furthermore, LMWOAs exhibited a time-dependent blocking effect on CBCNPs transport. Oxalic acid (OA) and citric acid (CA) facilitated CBCNPs transport though mechanisms beyond XDLVO, including steric hindrance, competitive adsorption, and surface hydrophilicity. The presence of LMWOAs significantly hindered PASi co-transport, with the inhibitory effect ranked as acetic acid (AA) ≈ CA > OA > absence of organic acids. The inhibition is attributed to the blocking effect and formation of Si-organic acid complexes, as evidenced by breakthrough curves and density functional theory calculations. This study provides novel insights into the co-transport of CBCNPs with released PASi through mutual mechanisms, indicating both potential environmental benefits and risks.

Maternal Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Offspring Chromosomal Abnormalities: The Japan Environment and Children's Study.

Although recent in vitro experimental results have raised the question of whether maternal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may be a potential environmental risk factor for chromosomal abnormalities, epidemiological studies investigating these associations are lacking. This study examined whether prenatal PFAS exposure is associated with a higher prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities among offspring. We used data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study, a nationwide birth cohort study, and employed logistic regression models to examine the associations between maternal plasma PFAS concentrations in the first trimester and the diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities in all births (artificial abortions, miscarriages, stillbirths, and live births) up to 2 years of age. In addition, we examined associations with mixtures of PFAS using multipollutant models. The final sample consisted of 24,724 births with singleton pregnancies, of which 44 confirmed cases of chromosomal abnormalities were identified (prevalence: 17.8/10,000 births). When examined individually, exposure to perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) showed positive associations with any chromosomal abnormalities with age-adjusted odds ratios of 1.81 (95% CI: 1.26, 2.61) and 2.08 (95% CI: 1.41, 3.07) per doubling in concentration, respectively. These associations remained significant after Bonferroni correction, although they did not reach the adjusted significance threshold in certain sensitivity analyses. Furthermore, the doubling in all PFAS included as a mixture was associated with chromosomal abnormalities, indicating an age-adjusted odds ratio of 2.25 (95% CI: 1.34, 3.80), with PFOS as the predominant contributor, followed by PFNA, perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnA), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). The study findings suggested a potential association between maternal exposure to PFAS, particularly PFOS, and chromosomal abnormalities in offspring. However, the results should be interpreted cautiously, because selection bias arising from the recruitment of women in early pregnancy may explain the associations. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13617.

Research on Environmental Legal Risks in Foreign Investment of Chinese Transnational Corporations

Since the development of the trend of economic globalization, the number of China's overseas investment projects has risen sharply, but at the same time, the potential environmental problems and risks in the investment process have become evident. This essay discusses the environmental legal risks faced by Chinese transnational enterprises in the process of outbound investment and analyzes the specific impact of host country environmental regulation risk and multilateral treaty environmental regulation risk. As global environmental problems become increasingly serious, the investment activities of transnational corporations (TNCs) may be harmful to the local environment while promoting local economic development. This essay summarizes the current status of research on environmental legal in Chinese and international academia, emphasizes that home countries should take responsibility for environmental protection in their investment places when promoting overseas investment. This essay proposes a strategy covering three dimensions--international level, home country and TNCs, in order to promote the sustainable development of TNCss overseas investment.

Effects of Exposure to Different Types of Metal-Organic Framework Nanoparticles on the Gut Microbiota and Liver Metabolism of Adult Zebrafish.

Metal-organic framework nanoparticles (MOF NPs) have received much attention for their potential use in nanopesticides. However, little is known about the potential health and environmental risks associated with these materials. In this study, the toxicological responses of zebrafish exposed to five MOF NPs for short and long periods of time were evaluated. The acute toxicity results showed that the toxicity of the five MOF NPs to zebrafish embryos and adult zebrafish was in the order of Cu-MOF > ZIF-90 > ZIF-8 > Fe-MOF > Zr-MOF. Histopathological analysis revealed that ZIF-8, ZIF-90, and Cu-MOF NPs caused liver swelling and vacuolization in zebrafish. The cellular ultrastructure showed that ZIF-8, ZIF-90, and Cu-MOF NPs severely damaged the mitochondrial structure in intestinal epithelial cells and liver cells. The 16S rDNA sequencing data showed that all five MOF NPs significantly altered the dominant microorganisms in the zebrafish intestine. The microbial markers of intestinal inflammation, Proteobacteria (Aeromonas, Plesiomonas, and Legionella), were significantly increased in the Fe-MOF, ZIF-8, Zr-MOF, and Cu-MOF treatment groups. Metabolomics results indicated that the levels of inflammatory promoting factors (Leukotriene E4, 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid) in arachidonic acid metabolism were decreased, and the levels of inflammatory suppressing factors (8,9-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid) were increased. Metabolites related to oxidative stress, such as glutamine, pyridoxamine, and l-glutamic acid in vitamin B6 metabolism and other signaling pathways, were significantly reduced. Overall, these results suggest that the different MOF NPs had widely varying toxicity to zebrafish, and further attention should be paid to the toxicity of MOF NPs in the real environment.