Pub Date : 2024-07-26DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3030026
L. Geppner, Sophie Grammatidis, Harald Wilfing, M. Henjakovic
The global microplastic pollution issue, as a result of the indispensable usage of microplastics in building materials, packaged food, medical products and consumer goods, poses significant health problems for the population. These small particles can penetrate intact cell barriers in the intestines and alveoli, thereby entering the bloodstream. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the effects of reduced plastic consumption on blood pressure. Eight adult and healthy participants abstained from consuming commercially produced bottled beverages and restricted their primary fluid intake to tap water. Blood pressure was measured on both sides before, after 14 days and after 28 to 30 days of this partial plastic diet. Women exhibit a significant change in systolic blood pressure on the right arm after 2 and 4 weeks, while the left arm demonstrates no significant changes in blood pressure. On the contrary, in men, systolic blood pressure values on both arms show no significant alterations, attributable to the high variability across the three participants. Moreover, no significant differences in systolic blood pressure were observed when analysing the entire cohort. Significant findings are evident only at the two-week mark for diastolic blood pressure for all participants in both arms. When considering diastolic blood pressure separately for women and men, men again show no significant changes in blood pressure on either arm. However, women exhibit a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure on the left arm after 2 weeks and a statistically significant decline in diastolic blood pressure on the right arm after both 2 and 4 weeks. The results of the study suggest, for the first time, that a reduction in plastic use could potentially lower blood pressure, probably due to the reduced volume of plastic particles in the bloodstream. To confirm this hypothesis, a larger sample of male and female participants must be examined, ideally with the monitoring of plastic concentration in the blood.
{"title":"First Evidence of the Possible Influence of Avoiding Daily Liquid Intake from Plastic and Glass Beverage Bottles on Blood Pressure in Healthy Volunteers","authors":"L. Geppner, Sophie Grammatidis, Harald Wilfing, M. Henjakovic","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3030026","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3030026","url":null,"abstract":"The global microplastic pollution issue, as a result of the indispensable usage of microplastics in building materials, packaged food, medical products and consumer goods, poses significant health problems for the population. These small particles can penetrate intact cell barriers in the intestines and alveoli, thereby entering the bloodstream. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the effects of reduced plastic consumption on blood pressure. Eight adult and healthy participants abstained from consuming commercially produced bottled beverages and restricted their primary fluid intake to tap water. Blood pressure was measured on both sides before, after 14 days and after 28 to 30 days of this partial plastic diet. Women exhibit a significant change in systolic blood pressure on the right arm after 2 and 4 weeks, while the left arm demonstrates no significant changes in blood pressure. On the contrary, in men, systolic blood pressure values on both arms show no significant alterations, attributable to the high variability across the three participants. Moreover, no significant differences in systolic blood pressure were observed when analysing the entire cohort. Significant findings are evident only at the two-week mark for diastolic blood pressure for all participants in both arms. When considering diastolic blood pressure separately for women and men, men again show no significant changes in blood pressure on either arm. However, women exhibit a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure on the left arm after 2 weeks and a statistically significant decline in diastolic blood pressure on the right arm after both 2 and 4 weeks. The results of the study suggest, for the first time, that a reduction in plastic use could potentially lower blood pressure, probably due to the reduced volume of plastic particles in the bloodstream. To confirm this hypothesis, a larger sample of male and female participants must be examined, ideally with the monitoring of plastic concentration in the blood.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"12 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141801021","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-07-12DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3030025
Ana Montoya-Melgoza, Erik Coria-Monter, M. A. Monreal‐Gómez, Elizabeth Durán-Campos, D. Salas‐de‐León, J. Armstrong-Altrin, B. Quiroz-Martínez, S. Cházaro-Olvera
This study evaluated the ingestion of microplastics (MP) by copepods in Terminos Lagoon (TL), a RAMSAR-listed site in the southern Gulf of Mexico. The evaluation was carried out in two contrasting seasons of 2022, as follows: the dry (April) and the rainy (October). Copepods were collected using a conical plankton net (mesh size of 200 μm). In the laboratory, a pool of all pelagic adult copepod taxa was picked, and the MP inside the organisms were extracted, classified, and photographed using traditional optical and scanning electron microscopy. A total of 268 MP particles were extracted from the interior of copepods; among them, 149 and 119 corresponded to the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. The ingestion rate in the dry season was 0.14, while in the rainy season, it was 0.11. In addition, fibers, plastic fragments, and microspheres with different colors (blue, red, black, green, transparent, and multicolored), sizes, forms (angular, round, triangular, and twisted), and textures were also detected. Fibers were the most abundant MP found in a proportion of more than 85%. In addition, in some sampling sites, microspheres were observed with high relative abundance values (80%). In some sites, fragments reach 20% of the total abundance. Significant differences were observed between the two seasons. The sites closest to the urban area adjacent to TL observed high diversity and abundance of MP. The higher abundance of MP in the dry season is due to lower river discharge, on the other hand. Thus, MP particles accumulate and become available for consumption by copepods. This is the first study that has revealed that the MP was ingested by the copepods in TL. Furthermore, this study provides a baseline information for future research on the abundance of MP in the Gulf of Mexico region.
{"title":"Microplastics Ingestion by Copepods in Two Contrasting Seasons: A Case Study from the Terminos Lagoon, Southern Gulf of Mexico","authors":"Ana Montoya-Melgoza, Erik Coria-Monter, M. A. Monreal‐Gómez, Elizabeth Durán-Campos, D. Salas‐de‐León, J. Armstrong-Altrin, B. Quiroz-Martínez, S. Cházaro-Olvera","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3030025","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3030025","url":null,"abstract":"This study evaluated the ingestion of microplastics (MP) by copepods in Terminos Lagoon (TL), a RAMSAR-listed site in the southern Gulf of Mexico. The evaluation was carried out in two contrasting seasons of 2022, as follows: the dry (April) and the rainy (October). Copepods were collected using a conical plankton net (mesh size of 200 μm). In the laboratory, a pool of all pelagic adult copepod taxa was picked, and the MP inside the organisms were extracted, classified, and photographed using traditional optical and scanning electron microscopy. A total of 268 MP particles were extracted from the interior of copepods; among them, 149 and 119 corresponded to the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. The ingestion rate in the dry season was 0.14, while in the rainy season, it was 0.11. In addition, fibers, plastic fragments, and microspheres with different colors (blue, red, black, green, transparent, and multicolored), sizes, forms (angular, round, triangular, and twisted), and textures were also detected. Fibers were the most abundant MP found in a proportion of more than 85%. In addition, in some sampling sites, microspheres were observed with high relative abundance values (80%). In some sites, fragments reach 20% of the total abundance. Significant differences were observed between the two seasons. The sites closest to the urban area adjacent to TL observed high diversity and abundance of MP. The higher abundance of MP in the dry season is due to lower river discharge, on the other hand. Thus, MP particles accumulate and become available for consumption by copepods. This is the first study that has revealed that the MP was ingested by the copepods in TL. Furthermore, this study provides a baseline information for future research on the abundance of MP in the Gulf of Mexico region.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"51 14","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141654451","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-07-10DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3030024
Marcello Marchetti, Alessandro Perini, Michela Zanella, F. Benetti, Daniela Donelli
Carbopol® is a typical jelly agent belonging to the family of cross-linked polyacrylic acid copolymers. It is largely used in antibacterial gels due to its self-wetting properties. In its pristine physical form, Carbopol® falls under the definition of microplastics, though significant changes could occur once added to hydroalcoholic solvents of the liquid formulations. To date, no life-cycle data regarding the physical state are available for this substance or for other similar polymers of the same chemical class. The aim of the present study was the investigation of the fate of Carbopol®-derived microplastics used in the formulation of typical hand sanitizer gels available in the Italian market, such as Amuchina® X-Germ, along the product life cycle. An experimental model was designed to detect the presence of Carbopol® microparticles from product manufacturing to the final use. FTIR and µ-FTIR were used to detect and characterize solid particles after the optimization of the sample preparation of different experimental matrices. While Carbopol® as such can be classified as a microplastic, in the commercial product, Carbopol® particles were not detected. Ten volunteers used the product according to the instructions reported on the label, and finally they rinsed their hands. Carbopol®-based particles were not detected in the water rinse, indicating that, after usage, the original form of the Carbopol microparticles was not retrieved. The study proposes, for the first time, a simple and comprehensive experimental approach to identify and characterize microplastics in finished products and along the life cycle by simulating their real-life usage. This approach could be also useful to evaluate the release of chemical components into the environment through the use of dermal products.
{"title":"Study on the Fate of the Carbopol® Polymer in the Use of Hand Sanitizer Gels: An Experimental Model to Monitor Its Physical State from Product Manufacturing up to the Final Hand Rinse","authors":"Marcello Marchetti, Alessandro Perini, Michela Zanella, F. Benetti, Daniela Donelli","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3030024","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3030024","url":null,"abstract":"Carbopol® is a typical jelly agent belonging to the family of cross-linked polyacrylic acid copolymers. It is largely used in antibacterial gels due to its self-wetting properties. In its pristine physical form, Carbopol® falls under the definition of microplastics, though significant changes could occur once added to hydroalcoholic solvents of the liquid formulations. To date, no life-cycle data regarding the physical state are available for this substance or for other similar polymers of the same chemical class. The aim of the present study was the investigation of the fate of Carbopol®-derived microplastics used in the formulation of typical hand sanitizer gels available in the Italian market, such as Amuchina® X-Germ, along the product life cycle. An experimental model was designed to detect the presence of Carbopol® microparticles from product manufacturing to the final use. FTIR and µ-FTIR were used to detect and characterize solid particles after the optimization of the sample preparation of different experimental matrices. While Carbopol® as such can be classified as a microplastic, in the commercial product, Carbopol® particles were not detected. Ten volunteers used the product according to the instructions reported on the label, and finally they rinsed their hands. Carbopol®-based particles were not detected in the water rinse, indicating that, after usage, the original form of the Carbopol microparticles was not retrieved. The study proposes, for the first time, a simple and comprehensive experimental approach to identify and characterize microplastics in finished products and along the life cycle by simulating their real-life usage. This approach could be also useful to evaluate the release of chemical components into the environment through the use of dermal products.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"14 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141662385","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-07-08DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3030023
E. Curren, Audrey Ern Lee, Denise Ching Yi Yu, S. Leong
Microplastics are contaminants in marine ecosystems, posing great threats to biota and human health. In this work, we provide an overview of the progress made in understanding microplastic prevalence in tropical coastal environments, focusing on the Johor and the Singapore Straits as a case study. We examine the sources, distribution, transport, and ecological impact of microplastic pollution in this region through a systematic review. All papers relating to marine microplastics in Singapore’s sand and benthic sediments, seawater, and marine biota were used for analysis, from 2004 to 2023. In addition, we discuss the influence of envi-ronmental factors such as coastal morphology and anthropogenic activities on patterns of microplastic accumulation. We emphasize that microplastic pollution is more prevalent along the eutrophic Johor Strait compared to the Singapore Strait due to hydrological conditions. Rainfall is also a key factor that influences mi-croplastic abundance during the monsoon seasons. Furthermore, the bacterial and plankton assemblages of organisms on microplastic surfaces are diverse, with eutrophic waters enhancing the diversity of organisms on microplastic surfaces. Novel harmful cyanobacteria and bloom species of phytoplankton were also found on microplastic surfaces. By synthesizing existing research findings and highlighting regional characteristics, this paper contributes to ongoing efforts to mitigate microplastic pollution in tropical regions.
{"title":"Progress in Research on Microplastic Prevalence in Tropical Coastal Environments: A Case Study of the Johor and Singapore Straits","authors":"E. Curren, Audrey Ern Lee, Denise Ching Yi Yu, S. Leong","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3030023","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3030023","url":null,"abstract":"Microplastics are contaminants in marine ecosystems, posing great threats to biota and human health. In this work, we provide an overview of the progress made in understanding microplastic prevalence in tropical coastal environments, focusing on the Johor and the Singapore Straits as a case study. We examine the sources, distribution, transport, and ecological impact of microplastic pollution in this region through a systematic review. All papers relating to marine microplastics in Singapore’s sand and benthic sediments, seawater, and marine biota were used for analysis, from 2004 to 2023. In addition, we discuss the influence of envi-ronmental factors such as coastal morphology and anthropogenic activities on patterns of microplastic accumulation. We emphasize that microplastic pollution is more prevalent along the eutrophic Johor Strait compared to the Singapore Strait due to hydrological conditions. Rainfall is also a key factor that influences mi-croplastic abundance during the monsoon seasons. Furthermore, the bacterial and plankton assemblages of organisms on microplastic surfaces are diverse, with eutrophic waters enhancing the diversity of organisms on microplastic surfaces. Novel harmful cyanobacteria and bloom species of phytoplankton were also found on microplastic surfaces. By synthesizing existing research findings and highlighting regional characteristics, this paper contributes to ongoing efforts to mitigate microplastic pollution in tropical regions.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"109 14","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141667312","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-06-08DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3020020
Luís André Mendes, Ricardo Beiras, Jorge Domínguez
The availability of compostable plastic bags has increased greatly in the past few years, as it is perceived that this type of bags will be degraded after disposal. However, there are some knowledge gaps regarding the potential effects on the soil ecosystems. We assessed the rate of degradation of samples of four different types of commercial compostable bags in vermicomposting systems with the earthworm species Eisenia andrei. We also evaluated the biological response of E. andrei (survival and reproduction) to microplastics (MPs) from fragments of the plastic bags (<2000 µm) and assessed seedling emergence in common garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.) exposed to micronized plastic (<250 µm) and the respective leachate, following OECD and ISO guidelines, respectively. The rate of degradation differed significantly depending on the type of plastic rather than the substrate in the vermicomposting system. This finding suggests that the degradation process is more dependent on the microbial community colonizing the different plastic types than on earthworm activity. Regarding the biological response of the soil system, L. sativum seedling emergence was not significantly affected; however, earthworm reproduction was affected, suggesting that although compostable, some of the formulations may potentially be toxic to soil fauna.
过去几年中，可堆肥塑料袋的供应量大幅增加，因为人们认为这类塑料袋在处理后会降解。然而，在对土壤生态系统的潜在影响方面还存在一些知识空白。我们用蚯蚓物种 Eisenia andrei 评估了四种不同类型的商用堆肥袋样本在蚯蚓堆肥系统中的降解率。我们还评估了蚯蚓对来自塑料袋碎片（<2000 µm）的微塑料（MPs）的生物反应（存活和繁殖），并分别按照经合组织（OECD）和国际标准化组织（ISO）的指导方针，评估了暴露在微粒化塑料（<250 µm）和相应浸出液中的普通花园芹菜（Lepidium sativum L.）的出苗情况。降解率的显著差异取决于塑料的类型而不是蚯蚓堆肥系统中的基质。这一发现表明，降解过程更依赖于定殖在不同类型塑料中的微生物群落，而不是蚯蚓的活动。关于土壤系统的生物反应，L. sativum 的出苗没有受到显著影响；但蚯蚓的繁殖受到了影响，这表明尽管可以堆肥，但某些配方可能对土壤动物有潜在毒性。
{"title":"Earthworm (Eisenia andrei)-Mediated Degradation of Commercial Compostable Bags and Potential Toxic Effects","authors":"Luís André Mendes, Ricardo Beiras, Jorge Domínguez","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3020020","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3020020","url":null,"abstract":"The availability of compostable plastic bags has increased greatly in the past few years, as it is perceived that this type of bags will be degraded after disposal. However, there are some knowledge gaps regarding the potential effects on the soil ecosystems. We assessed the rate of degradation of samples of four different types of commercial compostable bags in vermicomposting systems with the earthworm species Eisenia andrei. We also evaluated the biological response of E. andrei (survival and reproduction) to microplastics (MPs) from fragments of the plastic bags (<2000 µm) and assessed seedling emergence in common garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.) exposed to micronized plastic (<250 µm) and the respective leachate, following OECD and ISO guidelines, respectively. The rate of degradation differed significantly depending on the type of plastic rather than the substrate in the vermicomposting system. This finding suggests that the degradation process is more dependent on the microbial community colonizing the different plastic types than on earthworm activity. Regarding the biological response of the soil system, L. sativum seedling emergence was not significantly affected; however, earthworm reproduction was affected, suggesting that although compostable, some of the formulations may potentially be toxic to soil fauna.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":" 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-06-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141369528","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-06-04DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3020019
Johannes Wolfgang Neupert, Daniel Venghaus, Matthias Barjenbruch
The environmental impact of tire wear emissions has become increasingly apparent, and efforts to reduce their impact on the environment are on the rise. To minimise the generation of tire wear, it is essential to consider the influencing factors. However, as it cannot be entirely prevented, measures to reduce immissions are also necessary. This paper summarises possible measures derived from the literature, stakeholder workshops, and the authors’ own conclusions, taking into account the different perspectives: tire, vehicle, road, sustainable mobility and emissions treatment. The presentation of the entry paths of tire wear into the environment and the hotspots of generation can be used to prioritise reduction measures. Measures should be implemented at a political level, technical solutions applied, and awareness raised among the general public. It is evident that reducing tire wear is a complex task that requires a transdisciplinary approach.
{"title":"Measures to Reduce the Discharge of tire Wear into the Environment","authors":"Johannes Wolfgang Neupert, Daniel Venghaus, Matthias Barjenbruch","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3020019","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3020019","url":null,"abstract":"The environmental impact of tire wear emissions has become increasingly apparent, and efforts to reduce their impact on the environment are on the rise. To minimise the generation of tire wear, it is essential to consider the influencing factors. However, as it cannot be entirely prevented, measures to reduce immissions are also necessary. This paper summarises possible measures derived from the literature, stakeholder workshops, and the authors’ own conclusions, taking into account the different perspectives: tire, vehicle, road, sustainable mobility and emissions treatment. The presentation of the entry paths of tire wear into the environment and the hotspots of generation can be used to prioritise reduction measures. Measures should be implemented at a political level, technical solutions applied, and awareness raised among the general public. It is evident that reducing tire wear is a complex task that requires a transdisciplinary approach.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"12 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-06-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141266429","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-05-20DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3020017
Philipp Lau, Julia Stein, Luisa Reinhold, Matthias Barjenbruch, Tim Fuhrmann, Ingo Urban, Katrin Bauerfeld, Andrea Holte
Microplastic (MP) has emerged as a significant environmental challenge due to increased plastic production and its widespread presence in the environment. This study aimed to assess MP concentrations throughout the treatment process at nine wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in Germany, from influent to effluent. A customized sampling technique was employed, followed by field and laboratory preparation and the quantification of polymers (PE, PP, PS, PMMA, and PET) using TED-GCMS. MP concentrations decreased progressively in the WWTPs, with influent concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 13.6 mg/L. Effluent concentrations in the conventional WWTPs ranged from 0.001 to 0.051 mg/L, while advanced treatment via filtration yielded concentrations below the limit of quantification at 0.005 mg/L. All tested of the WWTPs demonstrated an over 99% removal efficiency for microplastics. Despite effective retention by the WWTPs, a critical evaluation of the results is necessary. There is a need to optimize existing technologies and enhance the standardization of sampling, processing, and measurement methods, as well as intensify efforts towards creating preventive measures to reduce plastic emissions.
{"title":"Reduction in the Input of Microplastics into the Aquatic Environment via Wastewater Treatment Plants in Germany","authors":"Philipp Lau, Julia Stein, Luisa Reinhold, Matthias Barjenbruch, Tim Fuhrmann, Ingo Urban, Katrin Bauerfeld, Andrea Holte","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3020017","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3020017","url":null,"abstract":"Microplastic (MP) has emerged as a significant environmental challenge due to increased plastic production and its widespread presence in the environment. This study aimed to assess MP concentrations throughout the treatment process at nine wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in Germany, from influent to effluent. A customized sampling technique was employed, followed by field and laboratory preparation and the quantification of polymers (PE, PP, PS, PMMA, and PET) using TED-GCMS. MP concentrations decreased progressively in the WWTPs, with influent concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 13.6 mg/L. Effluent concentrations in the conventional WWTPs ranged from 0.001 to 0.051 mg/L, while advanced treatment via filtration yielded concentrations below the limit of quantification at 0.005 mg/L. All tested of the WWTPs demonstrated an over 99% removal efficiency for microplastics. Despite effective retention by the WWTPs, a critical evaluation of the results is necessary. There is a need to optimize existing technologies and enhance the standardization of sampling, processing, and measurement methods, as well as intensify efforts towards creating preventive measures to reduce plastic emissions.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"84 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141123069","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
We introduce a novel microscopic image dataset augmented with segmentation and detection labels specifically designed for microplastic analysis in sewage environments. Recognizing the increasing concern over microplastics—particles of synthetic polymers smaller than 5 mm—and their detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and human health, our research focuses on enhancing detection and analytical methodologies through advanced computer vision and deep learning techniques. The dataset comprises high-resolution microscopic images of microplastics collected from sewage, meticulously labeled for both segmentation and detection tasks, aiming to facilitate accurate and efficient identification and quantification of microplastic pollution. In addition to dataset development, we present example deep learning models optimized for segmentation and detection of microplastics within complex sewage samples. The models demonstrate significant potential in automating the analysis of microplastic contamination, offering a scalable solution to environmental monitoring challenges. Furthermore, we ensure the accessibility and reproducibility 12 of our research by making the dataset and model codes publicly available, accompanied by detailed 13 documentation on GitHub and LabelBox.
{"title":"Microscopic Image Dataset with Segmentation and Detection Labels for Microplastic Analysis in Sewage: Enhancing Research and Environmental Monitoring","authors":"Gwanghee Lee, Jaeheon Jung, Sangjun Moon, Jihyun Jung, Kyoungson Jhang","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3020016","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3020016","url":null,"abstract":"We introduce a novel microscopic image dataset augmented with segmentation and detection labels specifically designed for microplastic analysis in sewage environments. Recognizing the increasing concern over microplastics—particles of synthetic polymers smaller than 5 mm—and their detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and human health, our research focuses on enhancing detection and analytical methodologies through advanced computer vision and deep learning techniques. The dataset comprises high-resolution microscopic images of microplastics collected from sewage, meticulously labeled for both segmentation and detection tasks, aiming to facilitate accurate and efficient identification and quantification of microplastic pollution. In addition to dataset development, we present example deep learning models optimized for segmentation and detection of microplastics within complex sewage samples. The models demonstrate significant potential in automating the analysis of microplastic contamination, offering a scalable solution to environmental monitoring challenges. Furthermore, we ensure the accessibility and reproducibility 12 of our research by making the dataset and model codes publicly available, accompanied by detailed 13 documentation on GitHub and LabelBox.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"78 17","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140964413","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-05-07DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3020015
Carol A. Smith, Santosh Mandal, Chunlei Fan, Saroj Pramanik
Microplastics are tangible particles of less than 0.2 inches in diameter that are ubiquitously distributed in the biosphere and accumulate in water bodies. During the east-coast hot summers (23–29 °C) of 2021 and 2022, June through September, we captured copious amounts of the jellyfish Chrysaora chesapeakei, a predominant species found in the Patuxent River of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland on the United States East Coast. We determined that their gelatinous bodies trapped many microplastics through fluorescent microscopy studies using Rhodamine B staining and Raman Spectroscopy. The chemical nature of the microplastics was detected using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy headspace (SPME-GC-MS) and solvent extraction (GC-MS) methods through a professional commercial materials evaluation laboratory. Numerous plastic-affiliated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from diverse chemical origins and their functional groups (alkanes, alkenes, acids, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, esters, and alcohols) along with other non-microplastic volatile organic compounds were observed. Our findings corroborate data in the available scientific literature, distinguishing our finding’s suitability.
{"title":"Microplastic Volatile Organic Compounds Found within Chrysaora chesapeakei in the Patuxent River, Maryland","authors":"Carol A. Smith, Santosh Mandal, Chunlei Fan, Saroj Pramanik","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3020015","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3020015","url":null,"abstract":"Microplastics are tangible particles of less than 0.2 inches in diameter that are ubiquitously distributed in the biosphere and accumulate in water bodies. During the east-coast hot summers (23–29 °C) of 2021 and 2022, June through September, we captured copious amounts of the jellyfish Chrysaora chesapeakei, a predominant species found in the Patuxent River of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland on the United States East Coast. We determined that their gelatinous bodies trapped many microplastics through fluorescent microscopy studies using Rhodamine B staining and Raman Spectroscopy. The chemical nature of the microplastics was detected using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy headspace (SPME-GC-MS) and solvent extraction (GC-MS) methods through a professional commercial materials evaluation laboratory. Numerous plastic-affiliated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from diverse chemical origins and their functional groups (alkanes, alkenes, acids, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, esters, and alcohols) along with other non-microplastic volatile organic compounds were observed. Our findings corroborate data in the available scientific literature, distinguishing our finding’s suitability.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"26 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141004170","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-04-08DOI: 10.3390/microplastics3020014
Jack H. Prior, Justine M. Whitaker, A. Janosik
Primary consumers of microplastics are often zooplankton species such as the mysid shrimp, Americamysis bahia. Ingesting and interacting with these plastics can cause stress and lead to death. In the presence of some environmental stressors, gene expression may be altered without changing DNA sequences via the epigenetic methylation of the DNA. Mysid shrimp were exposed to 5-micrometer fluorescent polystyrene microbeads at different concentrations and different lengths of time. No significant effects were observed on mortality within 72 h, but mortality increased significantly thereafter. Microplastics were consumed by mysids and adhered to the mysid carapace and appendages. An ELISA-like (Enzyme-Linked Imuunosorbent Assay) colorimetric assay was employed to assess mysid DNA for differences in global percent methylation. No significant difference in the average percent methylated DNA nor difference in the number of methylation detections between treatments was found. This is one of few studies that has investigated DNA methylation effects due to microplastics-induced stress and the first study to detect DNA methylation in any member of the order Mysida.
微塑料的主要消费者通常是浮游动物，如糠虾（Americamysis bahia）。摄入这些塑料并与之相互作用会造成压力，导致死亡。在某些环境压力下，基因表达可能会通过 DNA 的表观遗传甲基化发生改变，而不会改变 DNA 序列。将糠虾暴露于不同浓度和不同时间长度的 5 微米荧光聚苯乙烯微珠中。72小时内未观察到对死亡率有明显影响，但之后死亡率明显上升。微塑料被糠虾吞食，并附着在糠虾的甲壳和附肢上。采用类似酶联免疫吸附试验（ELISA）的比色法来评估糠虾 DNA 的整体甲基化百分比差异。结果发现，不同处理间的平均甲基化 DNA 百分比和甲基化检测数量均无明显差异。这是研究微塑料诱导压力对 DNA 甲基化影响的少数研究之一，也是首次在糠虾目任何成员中检测 DNA 甲基化的研究。
{"title":"Short-Term Microplastics Exposure to the Common Mysid Shrimp, Americamysis bahia: Effects on Mortality and DNA Methylation","authors":"Jack H. Prior, Justine M. Whitaker, A. Janosik","doi":"10.3390/microplastics3020014","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3020014","url":null,"abstract":"Primary consumers of microplastics are often zooplankton species such as the mysid shrimp, Americamysis bahia. Ingesting and interacting with these plastics can cause stress and lead to death. In the presence of some environmental stressors, gene expression may be altered without changing DNA sequences via the epigenetic methylation of the DNA. Mysid shrimp were exposed to 5-micrometer fluorescent polystyrene microbeads at different concentrations and different lengths of time. No significant effects were observed on mortality within 72 h, but mortality increased significantly thereafter. Microplastics were consumed by mysids and adhered to the mysid carapace and appendages. An ELISA-like (Enzyme-Linked Imuunosorbent Assay) colorimetric assay was employed to assess mysid DNA for differences in global percent methylation. No significant difference in the average percent methylated DNA nor difference in the number of methylation detections between treatments was found. This is one of few studies that has investigated DNA methylation effects due to microplastics-induced stress and the first study to detect DNA methylation in any member of the order Mysida.","PeriodicalId":503046,"journal":{"name":"Microplastics","volume":"268 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140730457","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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