4.8 Review

Unraveling the potential human health risks from used disposable face mask-derived micro/nanoplastics during the COVID-19 pandemic scenario: A critical review

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MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2022)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Catalytic deconstruction of waste polyethylene with ethylene to form propylene

Richard J. Conk et al.

Summary: This study presents a method for converting polyolefins into monomers by partial dehydrogenation and tandem isomerizing ethenolysis. The results demonstrate the potential of mild catalysis in degrading stable polyolefins.

SCIENCE (2022)

Article Environmental Sciences

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) enhanced polystyrene particles uptake by human colon adenocarcinoma Caco-2 cells

Yaxuan Liu et al.

Summary: This study investigated the toxic effects of PS particles and PFOS on human colon adenocarcinoma cells in vitro, revealing that the presence of PFOS increased cell uptake of PS nanoparticles and elucidated the toxic mechanism. This provides important insights for assessing the risk of combined pollution of MNPs and PFOS on human health.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2022)

Article Environmental Sciences

Polystyrene microplastics-induced cardiotoxicity in chickens via the ROS-driven NF-?B-NLRP3-GSDMD and AMPK-PGC-1a axes

Yue Zhang et al.

Summary: The study found that microplastics caused severe pathological damage to the hearts of chickens, leading to myocardial pyroptosis, inflammation, and mitochondrial damage. PS-MPs triggered alterations in NF-kappa B-NLRP3-GSDMD and AMPK-PGC-1 alpha pathways via ROS overload, resulting in oxidative stress, myocardial pyroptosis, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and energy metabolism disorders.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2022)

Article Environmental Sciences

Theoretical investigation on the interactions of microplastics with a SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragment and their potential impacts on viral transport and exposure

Fan Zhang et al.

Summary: The interaction between microplastics (MPs) and SARS-CoV-2 was investigated using molecular dynamic simulations. The results showed that there was a strong affinity between MPs and the SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragment, regardless of the environmental conditions. The interaction involved electrostatic and hydrophobic processes, and the strength of the interaction was associated with the structural parameters of the MPs. This study highlights the importance of understanding the impact of MPs on the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, as humans are exposed to MPs through their lungs.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2022)

Article Environmental Sciences

Metabolomic disorders unveil hepatotoxicity of environmentalmicroplastics in wild fish Serranus scriba (Linnaeus 1758)

Nesrine Zitouni et al.

Summary: This study investigates the presence of small environmental microplastics in the liver of Serranus scriba fish caught from coastal regions in Tunisia. The findings reveal differences in the abundance, size distribution, and presence of plastic additives across different sites. The study also highlights the impact of microplastics on the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and neurotoxicity of the fish liver.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2022)

Article Environmental Sciences

Chronic exposure to polyvinyl chloride microplastics induces liver injury and gut microbiota dysbiosis based on the integration of liver transcriptome profiles and full-length 16S rRNA sequencing data

Xuebing Chen et al.

Summary: Exposure to polyvinyl chloride microplastics (PVC-MPs) causes liver injury and dysbiosis of gut microbiota in mice. Furthermore, PVC-MPs exposure leads to decreased levels of serum and hepatic triglyceride and total bile acid. RNA sequencing analysis of liver tissue identified differentially expressed genes associated with multiple pathways.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2022)

Article Environmental Sciences

Evaluation of potential toxicity of polyethylene microplastics on human derived cell lines

Ravi Gautam et al.

Summary: Polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) have different effects on human cells, depending on the size of the microplastics, cell type, and tissue. PE-MPs can induce intracellular oxidative stress and inflammatory response, but the effects vary among different cell lines.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2022)

Article Environmental Sciences

Distinct accumulation of nanoplastics in human intestinal organoids

Zongkun Hou et al.

Summary: This study investigates the accumulation, toxicity, and mechanism of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) in human intestinal cells. The results show that PS-NPs can accumulate in different types of intestinal cells, leading to cell apoptosis and inflammatory response. The inhibition of clathrin-mediated endocytosis effectively reduces the accumulation of PS-NPs in secretive cells. This research not only reveals the potential uptake and toxicity of PS-NPs in human intestines, but also proposes a therapeutic approach to alleviate their toxicity through endocytosis inhibition.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2022)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Surfactant-sodium dodecyl sulfate enhanced degradation of polystyrene microplastics with an energy-saving electrochemical advanced oxidation process (EAOP) strategy

Jinrong Lu et al.

Summary: This study proposes a new strategy to improve the treatment efficiency of microplastics by adding sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) in electrochemical advanced oxidation process (EAOP). The results show that this strategy significantly enhances the degradation rate of microplastics and alters their characteristics. The study also identifies the attack of oxidants as the key reason for the degradation. Cost analysis reveals that the strategy is cost-effective.

WATER RESEARCH (2022)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Quantitative assessment of interactions of hydrophilic organic contaminants with microplastics in natural water environment

Jinsong He et al.

Summary: This study investigates the interaction between microplastics and hydrophilic organic contaminants in water environment, and finds that the adsorption process is pH-dependent. The aged state of polystyrene is also found to significantly affect the adsorption performance.

WATER RESEARCH (2022)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Polyvinyl chloride degradation by a bacterium isolated from the gut of insect larvae

Zhe Zhang et al.

Summary: This study isolates a PVC-degrading bacterium from the gut of insect larvae and uses a multi-omic approach to shed light on the PVC degradation pathway. The findings provide new insights into the mechanism of PVC degradation.

NATURE COMMUNICATIONS (2022)

Article Environmental Sciences

Personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution driven by the COVID-19 pandemic in coastal environment, Southeast Coast of India

Kannan Gunasekaran et al.

Summary: The study highlights the increase in plastic waste in the marine environment due to the rise in the use of single-use plastics and personal protective equipment. Surveying 6 beaches along the coast of India, the research found a comparable density of PPE to previous studies, with face masks being the most recorded type. Though a significant reduction in PPE presence was recorded on all beaches, the potential threat of PPE to terrestrial and aquatic organisms in India is confirmed.

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2022)

Review Environmental Sciences

SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus in water and wastewater: A critical review about presence and concern

Hai Nguyen Tran et al.

Summary: The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in water and wastewater is primarily through patients' stools and masks, while disinfection is effective in inactivating most coronaviruses. However, the survival period of coronaviruses in water varies depending on several factors.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Different effects of nano- and microplastics on oxidative status and gut microbiota in the marine medaka Oryzias melastigma

Hye-Min Kang et al.

Summary: The study demonstrates that nanoplastics and microplastics have different pathways of impact on marine medaka, with nanoplastics inducing oxidative stress and microplastics causing intestinal damage and dysbiosis of gut microbiota.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Reproductive toxicity of polystyrene microplastics: In vivo experimental study on testicular toxicity in mice

Baolian Hou et al.

Summary: This study evaluated the impact of microplastics on spermatogenesis in mice, showing a significant reduction in sperm count and an increase in deformity rate. Exposure to microplastics caused atrophy, shedding, and apoptosis of sperm cells in the testis, and disrupted the balance of Nrf2/HO-1/NF-κB pathway, leading to abnormal sperm quality in ICR mice.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Proinflammatory properties and lipid disturbance of polystyrene microplastics in the livers of mice with acute colitis

Haibin Zheng et al.

Summary: Exposure to polystyrene microplastics induced inflammatory effects and exacerbated acute colitis and lipid disorders in mice, suggesting that populations with chronic diseases might be more sensitive to environmental contamination.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2021)

Review Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

Protective Face Masks: Current Status and Future Trends

Alberto Tunon-Molina et al.

Summary: During the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks have played a crucial role in personal protection. However, traditional face masks made of materials lacking inactivation properties may still lead to infection transmission. Researchers have been working on developing face masks with antimicrobial, self-cleaning, reusable, and biodegradable properties to provide extra protection in a sustainable way.

ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Effects of exposure of polyethylene microplastics to air, water and soil on their adsorption behaviors for copper and tetracycline

Yuan Wang et al.

Summary: The adsorption behaviors of Cu(II) and tetracycline (TC) on polyethylene microplastics exposed to different environments varied, with marine- and soil-exposed microplastics showing higher adsorption and stabilization capacities. The adsorption isotherms were better described by Langmuir model for water- and soil-exposed microplastics, while kinetic experiments revealed differing intra-particle diffusion effects. Additionally, the glycosyl composition and density functional theory analysis suggested that biofilm components and metal-antibiotic complexes played a role in the adsorption process.

CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta

Antonio Ragusa et al.

Summary: The study revealed the presence of microplastic fragments in human placentas, with different shapes and possible origins from man-made coatings, paints, adhesives, etc.

ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL (2021)

Review Environmental Sciences

Understanding plastic degradation and microplastic formation in the environment: A review

Kai Zhang et al.

Summary: Plastic waste pollution is a global issue that poses a potential threat to ecosystems and human health, but knowledge on plastic environmental degradation and microplastic formation is still limited. Future research should further study the key factors influencing plastic degradation to predict the fate of plastics in different environments.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Effects of polystyrene microparticles on inflammation, antioxidant enzyme activities, and related gene expression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Ehsan Ahmadifar et al.

Summary: The study aimed to evaluate the adverse impacts of polystyrene microparticles (PS-MPs) on inflammation, immune, and antioxidative responses in Nile tilapia. Results showed that exposure to PS-MPs led to significant changes in antioxidative, inflammatory, and detoxification-related genes in the fish, indicating potential detrimental effects on their health.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

The impact of polystyrene microplastics on cardiomyocytes pyroptosis through NLRP3/Caspase-1 signaling pathway and oxidative stress in Wistar rats

Jialiu Wei et al.

Summary: The study revealed that exposure to microplastics can damage cardiac structure and function in Wistar rats, leading to oxidative stress, pyroptosis, apoptosis, and activation of inflammasomes in cardiac tissue. These findings suggest that pyroptosis plays a crucial role in microplastic-induced cardiotoxicity and may contribute to understanding the mechanisms of cardiac dysfunction caused by microplastics.

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Cardiovascular toxicity assessment of polyethylene nanoplastics on developing zebrafish embryos

Mengqi Sun et al.

Summary: The study revealed that nanoplastics can induce cardiovascular toxicity in zebrafish embryos, causing issues such as severe pericardial edema, decreased cardiac output, and slowed blood flow velocity. Additionally, nanoplastics may lead to vascular endothelial dysfunction, hypercoagulable blood state, and systemic inflammation.

CHEMOSPHERE (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

The influence of different polymer types of microplastics on adsorption, accumulation, and toxicity of triclosan in zebrafish

Cheng Sheng et al.

Summary: Different types of microplastics can affect the adsorption, accumulation, and toxicity of triclosan in zebrafish, with polypropylene having the highest adsorption capacity. Co-exposure to triclosan and polypropylene microplastics significantly increased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in the liver, as well as enhanced neurotoxicity in the brain. Microplastics contributed more to metabolic disorders in the liver compared to triclosan alone.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Polystyrene microplastics induced male reproductive toxicity in mice

Haibo Jin et al.

Summary: This study investigated the toxic effects of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on male reproductive systems in mice. The results showed that PS-MPs accumulated in the testis, entered testicular cells, and led to decreased sperm quality and testosterone levels. Additionally, PS-MPs induced testicular inflammation and disruption of the blood-testis barrier, demonstrating the potential reproductive dysfunctions caused by microplastics.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Sorption of organochlorine pesticides on polyethylene microplastics in soil suspension

Chengli Zhang et al.

Summary: The study found that microplastics have a good adsorption effect on OCPs in soil, with equilibrium adsorption taking 12 hours and the process described by a pseudo-second-order model. The Freundlich model is more suitable for describing the adsorption isotherm data, indicating that the process occurs on the non-uniform surface of microplastics. Additionally, microplastics showed better adsorption effects on OCPs when the solution/soil ratio was between 75:1 and 100:1, and as the diameter of microplastics increased, the adsorption capacity decreased.

ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

In vitro evaluation of nanoplastics using human lung epithelial cells, microarray analysis and co-culture model

Sheng Yang et al.

Summary: The study demonstrated that PS-NPs can reduce cell viability, disrupt redox balance, induce inflammatory responses, and lead to cell death. Additionally, PS-NPs can decrease the repair ability of epithelial cells and cause tissue damage in the lung.

ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Size-dependent impact of polystyrene microplastics on the toxicity of cadmium through altering neutrophil expression and metabolic regulation in zebrafish larvae

Li Qin et al.

Summary: This study found that micro-polystyrene particles and 100 nm polystyrene particles have different impacts on the toxicity of cadmium on zebrafish larvae, altering neutrophil expressions. Metabonomics analysis revealed that the two types of particles induced different metabolisms in combination with cadmium treatment. Additional biomarkers of immune impact should be explored to understand the toxicological mechanisms of nanoplastics and reduce environmental effects.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Face masks as a source of nanoplastics and microplastics in the environment: Quantification, characterization, and potential for bioaccumulation

Jie Ma et al.

Summary: The study found that billions of disposable face masks are consumed daily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and may serve as a source of nanoplastics and microplastics in the environment. More than one billion nanoparticles and microplastics were released from each surgical or N95 face mask, with most particles sized in the nano range. The middle layers of masks released more particles than the outer and inner layers.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Chronic exposure to UV-aged microplastics induces neurotoxicity by affecting dopamine, glutamate, and serotonin neurotransmission in Caenorhabditis elegans

Haibo Chen et al.

Summary: Chronic exposure to aged polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) may cause more severe neurotoxicity compared to virgin PS-MPs, affecting dopamine, glutamate, and serotonin neurotransmission. These findings highlight the potential risks of aged microplastics on the neural systems of organisms.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Uncovering the release of micro/nanoplastics from disposable face masks at times of COVID-19

Silvia Morgana et al.

Summary: The study reveals that single-use face masks can release a significant amount of microplastics and nanoparticles into aquatic environments, potentially posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

The sorption of persistent organic pollutants in microplastics from the coastal environment

Lin-Chi Wang et al.

Summary: The study found that microplastic pellets collected from sandy beaches around Taiwan contained various organic pollutants, with high concentrations of PCDD/Fs, PBDD/Fs, PBDEs, and other POPs. These pollutants were mainly adsorbed into the inner part of microplastic pellets, resulting in a high ratio of total concentrations to surficial concentrations.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Time-dependent metabolic disorders induced by short-term exposure to polystyrene microplastics in the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis

Tiziana Cappello et al.

Summary: The research conducted a short-term exposure experiment on marine mussels with red polystyrene microplastics, revealing the impacts on various metabolic pathways including amino acid metabolism, osmotic equilibrium, antioxidant defense system and energy metabolism. This study provides the first insights into the early mechanisms of toxicity of polystyrene microplastics in marine invertebrates.

ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Enhanced reproductive toxicities induced by phthalates contaminated microplastics in male mice (Mus musculus)

Yongfeng Deng et al.

Summary: The study found that contaminated microplastics can transport phthalate esters into the tissues of mice, leading to increased reproductive toxicity. The accumulation of microplastics primarily occurs in the gut and liver, impacting sperm physiology and spermatogenesis.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Environmentally relevant concentrations of microplastics influence the locomotor activity of aquatic biota

Tao Sun et al.

Summary: The study found that exposure to microplastics in the environment significantly reduced the locomotor ability of aquatic organisms, including average speed and moving distance, likely resulting in various physiological changes such as reduced energy reserves, metabolic disorders, and gut microbiota dysbiosis.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Size effects of microplastics on accumulation and elimination of phenanthrene in earthworms

Guanghui Xu et al.

Summary: Research shows that different sizes of microplastics have diverse impacts on the accumulation and elimination of organic pollutants by earthworms, with larger sizes causing more severe DNA damage and increasing the accumulation of pollutants. Additionally, nano-size microplastics significantly inhibit the bacteria responsible for degrading pollutants in earthworms, leading to higher residual concentrations of pollutants.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Estimation of COVID-19 generated medical waste in the Kingdom of Bahrain

Khadija Al-Omran et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has generated a significant amount of waste, posing a serious threat to the environment and potentially leading to secondary complications. It is important for all parties involved to pay more attention to and assess the impact of this waste on the environment and human health.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

The macro-debris pollution in the shorelines of Lake Tana: First report on abundance, assessment, constituents, and potential sources

Tadele Assefa Aragaw

Summary: Monitoring macro-debris in the shores of freshwater systems is crucial for estimating plastic pollution levels. A study in Ethiopia's Lake Tana revealed varying composition and distribution of debris along different shorelines, with plastics as dominant materials. Local waste management systems could help reduce pollution into the lake.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2021)

Review Environmental Sciences

Biodegradable and multifunctional surgical face masks: A brief review on demands during COVID-19 pandemic, recent developments, and future perspectives

Vahid Babaahmadi et al.

Summary: This article discusses the challenges of providing current coronavirus vaccines to the public and emphasizes key measures to reduce transmission, highlighting the importance of wearing masks. It also mentions the environmental impact of masks and the importance of biodegradable materials in meeting future demands.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Neglected microplastics pollution in global COVID-19: Disposable surgical masks

Maocai Shen et al.

Summary: With the outbreak and spread of COVID-19 globally, disposable surgical masks have become widely used, but irresponsible disposal of masks can lead to significant microplastic pollution. Masks can release a large amount of microplastic fibers, and the addition of organic solvents as well as weathering can increase the release of microplastics.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

An investigation into the leaching of micro and nano particles and chemical pollutants from disposable face masks - linked to the COVID-19 pandemic

G. L. Sullivan et al.

Summary: The study found that disposable plastic face masks emit micro and nano scale polymeric fibers, particles, chemicals, and heavy metals when submerged in water to simulate environmental conditions. The presence of toxic chemicals and potential risks from certain residues raise concerns about the safety of daily use and disposal of these masks.

WATER RESEARCH (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Unprecedented plastic-made personal protective equipment (PPE) debris in river outlets into Jakarta Bay during COVID-19 pandemic

Muhammad Reza Cordova et al.

Summary: Increased plastic use during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to challenges in reducing marine plastic debris. In Jakarta Bay, Indonesia, there was a 5% increase in debris abundance and a 23-28% decrease in weight in March-April 2020 compared to March-April 2016, with plastics making up 46% of the river debris.

CHEMOSPHERE (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Toxicity of polystyrene nanoplastics and zinc oxide to mice

Fernanda Neves Estrela et al.

Summary: The study evaluated the effects of zinc oxide and polystyrene nanoplastics on Swiss mice, showing that exposure led to cognitive impairment without causing changes in locomotor or anxiety-related behaviors. Accumulation of nanomaterials in the brain was observed, but there were no differences between the effects of exposure to the binary combination of pollutants and the control group.

CHEMOSPHERE (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Size-dependent chronic toxicity of fragmented polyethylene microplastics to Daphnia magna

Dahee An et al.

Summary: The chronic toxicity of fragmented microplastics (MPs) on Daphnia magna was higher compared to MP beads, leading to reduced feeding, survival rate, body length, and offspring in the exposed organisms. Further studies are needed to understand the underlying toxicity mechanisms and potential ecological risks posed by MP fragmentation.

CHEMOSPHERE (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

The Kidney-Related Effects of Polystyrene Microplastics on Human Kidney Proximal Tubular Epithelial Cells HK-2 and Male C57BL/6 Mice

Yung-Li Wang et al.

Summary: The study aimed to investigate the effects of PS-MPs on kidney cells in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that PS-MPs caused mitochondrial dysfunction, ER stress, inflammation, and autophagy in kidney cells, and accumulated in both cells and mouse kidneys.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Release of Microplastics from Discarded Surgical Masks and Their Adverse Impacts on the Marine Copepod Tigriopus japonicus

Jiaji Sun et al.

Summary: Surgical masks are widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic, but improper disposal may lead to serious microplastic pollution in coastal marine environments. Research shows that discarded masks could release over 1370 trillion microplastics globally in 2020, with a daily release rate of 396 billion, impacting marine ecosystems through ingestion by marine organisms.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Near-complete depolymerization of polyesters with nano-dispersed enzymes

Christopher Delre et al.

Summary: By dispersing enzymes with deep active sites, semi-crystalline polyesters can be efficiently degraded in a short period of time, with up to 98% conversion of polyester to small molecules. This method allows for complete elimination of the need to separate and landfill products in compost facilities, with degradation achieved in standard soil composts and household tap water.

NATURE (2021)

News Item Multidisciplinary Sciences

MICROPLASTICS ARE EVERYWHERE - BUT ARE THEY HARMFUL?

XiaoZhi Lim

Summary: Scientists are urgently studying the tiny plastic specks found in marine animals and in humans.

NATURE (2021)

Article Food Science & Technology

Plastic waste as the potential carriers of pathogens

Jian Meng et al.

Summary: Studies have shown that microorganisms on the surface of plastics may include pathogens, potentially leading to disease transmission. In addition, the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes between microorganisms on plastic surfaces may facilitate the persistence of pathogens in the environment.

CURRENT OPINION IN FOOD SCIENCE (2021)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Reuse of face masks among adults in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 pandemic

Linda Yin-king Lee et al.

Summary: A study on the practice of reusing face masks among adults in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 pandemic found that many adults, despite having sufficient stock of face masks, still perceived inadequacy and chose to reuse them, indicating a need for further improvement in awareness and proper use of face masks.

BMC PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

Review Chemistry, Multidisciplinary

Chemical Analysis of Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Challenges, Advanced Methods, and Perspectives

Natalia P. Ivleva

Summary: Microplastics and nanoplastics have emerged as significant particulate pollutants, raising concerns due to their presence in global environments, drinking water, and food. The complex and diverse nature of these particles highlights the importance of reliable methods for their chemical identification, quantification, and characterization.

CHEMICAL REVIEWS (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Aged microplastics decrease the bioavailability of coexisting heavy metals to microalga Chlorella vulgaris

Zezheng Wang et al.

Summary: Environmental aging of ubiquitous microplastics affects the growth of microalgae, with aged microplastics showing greater inhibition than virgin microplastics. Heavy metals such as copper and cadmium also significantly inhibit cell growth, and toxicity increases with higher concentrations. The combined toxicity of aged microplastics with heavy metals is less than that of individual heavy metals, indicating a potential interaction between different pollutants.

ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Response of tyramine and glutamate related signals to nanoplastic exposure in Caenorhabditis elegans

Shuting Wang et al.

Summary: Neurotransmission related signals, specifically tyramine and glutamate, play crucial roles in regulating the toxicity of nanoplastics in Caenorhabditis elegans. Tyramine induces toxicity while glutamate alleviates toxicity, with both signals being mediated through neurons. Tyramine receptor TYRA-2 and glutamate receptors GLR-4 and GLR-8 act upstream of specific signaling pathways to regulate nanoplastic toxicity.

ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Used disposable face masks are significant sources of microplastics to environment

Xianchuan Chen et al.

Summary: The consumption of disposable face masks has increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to environmental pollution due to improper disposal. Used face masks have shown a substantial increase in releasing microplastics, which could pose a threat to the environment.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Disposable masks release microplastics to the aqueous environment with exacerbation by natural weathering

Zheng Wang et al.

Summary: The study found that disposable masks exposed to shoreline environments are susceptible to UV weathering and physical abrasion from sand, leading to the release of microplastic particles and increasing the risk to marine ecosystems.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Review Engineering, Environmental

Toxic effects on bioaccumulation, hematological parameters, oxidative stress, immune responses and neurotoxicity in fish exposed to microplastics: A review

Jun-Hwan Kim et al.

Summary: Exposure to microplastics in aquatic environments leads to bioaccumulation in fish, affecting hematological properties, changing blood physiology, inducing imbalance in reactive oxygen species production and antioxidant capacity, causing oxidative damage, impacting immune responses, and causing neurotoxicity. This study examined various indicators of microplastic toxicity in fish to facilitate the identification of biomarkers following exposure.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Polystyrene microplastics trigger hepatocyte apoptosis and abnormal glycolytic flux via ROS-driven calcium overload

Siwen Li et al.

Summary: This study elucidates the mechanism of microplastics-induced hepatotoxicity, involving Ca2+ overload, oxidative stress, and AMPK-PGC-1α signaling regulation. By controlling Ca2+ overload and ROS, damage to liver cells caused by microplastics can be prevented.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Review Engineering, Environmental

Overview of microplastics pollution with heavy metals: Analytical methods, occurrence, transfer risks and call for standardization

Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy et al.

Summary: Identification and quantification of metals in microplastics are crucial for determining exposure levels and potential toxicity. Effective protocols and techniques for accurate metal quantification are essential. The review highlights the variability in methods and elements analyzed, emphasizing the need for standardization in future research.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Spectral imaging for characterization and detection of plastic substances in branded teabags

Jun-Li Xu et al.

Summary: The study introduces an innovative and cost-effective approach to detect and quantify plastic substances in teabags using near infrared hyperspectral imaging and multivariate analysis. It reveals the presence of numerous plastic particles in teabags, with an increased release of particles after steeping nylon teabags and microwave treatment.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

COVID-19: Performance study of microplastic inhalation risk posed by wearing masks

Lu Li et al.

Summary: Wearing face masks has become the new normal worldwide due to the global spread of COVID-19. This study found that wearing masks significantly reduces the inhalation risk of particles, including microplastics, even after prolonged use. Different types of masks pose varying risks of microplastic inhalation, with N95 masks posing the least risk. Reusing masks after disinfection processes can increase the risk of inhaling microplastics.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Systematic toxicity evaluation of polystyrene nanoplastics on mice and molecular mechanism investigation about their internalization into Caco-2 cells

Dihui Xu et al.

Summary: The study found that polystyrene nanoparticles accumulated in various organs of mice, leading to cell apoptosis, inflammation, and structural disorder. These nanoparticles also caused hematological system injury and lipid metabolism disorder. Furthermore, the study showed that different types of polystyrene nanoparticles could disrupt cell junctions with varying levels of toxicity.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Post COVID-19 pandemic: Biofragmentation and soil ecotoxicological effects of microplastics derived from face masks

Jin Il Kwak et al.

Summary: The increase in used face masks due to the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about environmental pollution, particularly the generation of nanofibers from mask filters impacting soil species. Research findings suggest adverse effects on soil organisms and emphasize the importance of proper disposal of face masks to preserve human health and the ecosystem amidst the ongoing pandemic.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Photolysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons adsorbed on polyethylene microplastics

Kazushi Noro et al.

Summary: This study investigated the photolysis of PAHs on microplastics under sunlight conditions, revealing that the half-life values were significantly longer than those in the aqueous phase. Additionally, degradation of PAHs by OH radicals produced from the photolysis of nitrate was observed.

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Estimating marine plastic pollution from COVID-19 face masks in coastal regions

Hemal Chowdhury et al.

Summary: This study estimated the annual face mask utilization and plastic pollution from mismanaged face masks in coastal regions of 46 countries, highlighting that with lower waste management facilities, the number of plastic debris entering the ocean will rise, and calling for significant investments from global communities in improving waste management facilities.

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Cellular internalization and release of polystyrene microplastics and nanoplastics

Ling Liu et al.

Summary: Microplastics and nanoplastics, specifically 50 nm and 500 nm polystyrene particles, can be internalized into living cells through passive membrane penetration and active endocytosis, accumulating mainly in lysosomes. Larger particles, like 5 mu m polystyrene particles, are unable to adhere to or be internalized by cells due to their size and weak Brownian motion.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2021)

Review Environmental Sciences

Microplastics are a hotspot for antibiotic resistance genes: Progress and perspective

Yi Liu et al.

Summary: Research has found that microplastics can harbor antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and absorb pollutants, potentially providing hosts and exerting selection pressure for ARGs. Selective enrichment of ARGs and antibiotic resistance bacteria on microplastics has been observed in various environments.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Microplastics accumulate fungal pathogens in terrestrial ecosystems

Gerasimos Gkoutselis et al.

Summary: Microplastics serve as a carrier for diverse fungal organisms, including potential pathogens, attracting distinctive fungal communities. Studies have shown that plastic waste harbors a variety of fungal species, some of which may pose risks to human health.

SCIENTIFIC REPORTS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Occurrence of Polyethylene Terephthalate and Polycarbonate Microplastics in Infant and Adult Feces

Junjie Zhang et al.

Summary: This study quantitatively determined the concentrations of PET and PC microplastics in human feces samples from New York State, revealing the presence of these microplastics in some meconium samples.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS (2021)

Article Pharmacology & Pharmacy

Detection of Microplastic in Human Placenta and Meconium in a Clinical Setting

Thorsten Braun et al.

Summary: The study identified the presence of microplastics (> 50 μm) in placenta and meconium samples from caesarean deliveries, with polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyurethane being the main types detected. However, airborne polyurethane microplastics were also found in the operating room, indicating potential contamination sources. Further research into nano-sized plastics in human tissues is recommended.

PHARMACEUTICS (2021)

Review Multidisciplinary Sciences

Plastics degradation by microbes: A sustainable approach

Zeenat et al.

Summary: Plastics play a crucial role in various sectors globally, but excessive use poses a serious threat to the environment and human life. Therefore, it is essential to find effective biodegradable methods to alleviate the burden of plastics on the environment.

JOURNAL OF KING SAUD UNIVERSITY SCIENCE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Multistable inflatable origami structures at the metre scale

Christopher Delre et al.

Summary: Using inspiration from origami, rigid-walled deployable structures that are multistable and inflatable have been designed. A library of bistable origami shapes created and then combined to build meter-scale functional structures.

NATURE (2021)

Article Gastroenterology & Hepatology

Detection of microplastics in human colectomy specimens

Yusof Shuaib Ibrahim et al.

Summary: This study found that microplastics are ubiquitously present in the human colon, predominantly in the form of filaments, with a majority being transparent. Among the analyzed filaments, 90% were polycarbonate, 50% were polyamide, and 40% were polypropylene.

JGH OPEN (2021)

Article Dentistry, Oral Surgery & Medicine

Contamination of surgical mask during aerosol-producing dental treatments

Madline Gund et al.

Summary: This study investigated the microbiological contamination of surgical masks during dental treatment and the transfer of microorganisms from the mask to the hands. Results showed that all masks and gloves used during treatment displayed bacterial contamination. After touching the masks with new sterile gloves, microorganisms were recovered indicating that used masks have the potential to be a source of bacterial contamination of the hands.

CLINICAL ORAL INVESTIGATIONS (2021)

Article Engineering, Environmental

An efficient method for extracting microplastics from feces of different species

Zehua Yan et al.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2020)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Polystyrene microplastic particles: In vitro pulmonary toxicity assessment

Cheng-Di Dong et al.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2020)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Hepatotoxicity of pristine polyethylene microplastics in neotropical physalaemus cuvieri tadpoles (Fitzinger, 1826)

Amanda Pereira da Costa Araujo et al.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2020)

Review Environmental Sciences

Micro- and nanoplastic toxicity on aquatic life: Determining factors

Tanja Kogel et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2020)

Review Environmental Sciences

Environmental exposure to microplastics: An overview on possible human health effects

Joana Correia Prata et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2020)

Review Environmental Sciences

A Detailed Review Study on Potential Effects of Microplastics and Additives of Concern on Human Health

Claudia Campanale et al.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH (2020)

Article Chemistry, Multidisciplinary

Degradation Rates of Plastics in the Environment

Ali Chamas et al.

ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING (2020)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Assessment of cancer risk of microplastics enriched with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Madhu D. Sharma et al.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2020)

Article Environmental Sciences

Microbial degradation and other environmental aspects of microplastics/plastics

Jianhua Yuan et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2020)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

An engineered PET depolymerase to break down and recycle plastic bottles

V. Tournier et al.

NATURE (2020)

Review Chemistry, Multidisciplinary

Interaction of freshwater microplastics with biota and heavy metals: a review

Nafiaah Naqash et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS (2020)

Article Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Micro- and nano-plastics activation of oxidative and inflammatory adverse outcome pathways

Moyan Hu et al.

REDOX BIOLOGY (2020)

Article Green & Sustainable Science & Technology

Effective uptake of submicrometre plastics by crop plants via a crack-entry mode

Lianzhen Li et al.

NATURE SUSTAINABILITY (2020)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Aging mechanism of microplastics with UV irradiation and its effects on the adsorption of heavy metals

Ruofan Mao et al.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2020)

Review Toxicology

The plastic brain: neurotoxicity of micro- and nanoplastics

Minne Prust et al.

PARTICLE AND FIBRE TOXICOLOGY (2020)

Article Mechanics

On respiratory droplets and face masks

Talib Dbouk et al.

PHYSICS OF FLUIDS (2020)

Article Environmental Sciences

Microplastics release phthalate esters and cause aggravated adverse effects in the mouse gut

Yongfeng Deng et al.

ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL (2020)

Review Environmental Sciences

Transmission of COVID-19 virus by droplets and aerosols: A critical review on the unresolved dichotomy

Mahesh Jayaweera et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH (2020)

Review Engineering, Environmental

Marine Plastic Debris: A New Surface for Microbial Colonization

Robyn J. Wright et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (2020)

Review Environmental Sciences

Zebrafish: An emerging model to study microplastic and nanoplastic toxicity

Jacky Bhagat et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2020)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Nanoplastics impair the intestinal health of the juvenile large yellow croaker Larimichthys crocea

Huaxin Gu et al.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2020)

Article Environmental Sciences

Surgical face masks as a potential source for microplastic pollution in the COVID-19 scenario

Tadele Assefa Aragaw

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2020)

Review Immunology

Environmental pollutants and the immune response

Takafumi Suzuki et al.

NATURE IMMUNOLOGY (2020)

Article Environmental Sciences

Covid-19 face masks: A potential source of microplastic fibers in the environment

Oluniyi O. Fadare et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2020)

Article Environmental Sciences

Impacts of microplastics exposure on mussel (Mytilus edulis) gut microbiota

Luen-Luen Li et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2020)

Review Environmental Sciences

Microplastics in the environment: Interactions with microbes and chemical contaminants

F. K. Mammo et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2020)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Microplastics aggravate the adverse effects of BDE-47 on physiological and defense performance in mussels

Huaxin Gu et al.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2020)

Review Medicine, General & Internal

Effectiveness of N95 respirators versus surgical masks against influenza: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Youlin Long et al.

JOURNAL OF EVIDENCE BASED MEDICINE (2020)

Article Environmental Sciences

Reproductive toxicity of primary and secondary microplastics to three cladocerans during chronic exposure

Gayathri Jaikumar et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2019)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Toxicity-based toxicokinetic/toxicodynamic assessment for bioaccumulation of polystyrene microplastics in mice

Ying-Fei Yang et al.

JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (2019)

Article Environmental Sciences

Impacts of polystyrene microplastic on the gut barrier, microbiota and metabolism of mice

Yuanxiang Jin et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2019)

Article Microbiology

The neuroactive potential of the human gut microbiota in quality of life and depression

Mireia Valles-Colomer et al.

NATURE MICROBIOLOGY (2019)

Article Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

Things we know and don't know about nanoplastic in the environment

Stephan Wagner et al.

NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY (2019)

Article Environmental Sciences

An assessment of the toxicity of polypropylene microplastics in human derived cells

Jangsun Hwang et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2019)

Review Engineering, Environmental

Microplastics in freshwaters and drinking water: Critical review and assessment of data quality

Albert A. Koelmans et al.

WATER RESEARCH (2019)

Article Infectious Diseases

Contamination by respiratory viruses on outer surface of medical masks used by hospital healthcare workers

Abrar Ahmad Chughtai et al.

BMC INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2019)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Detection of Various Microplastics in Human Stool A Prospective Case Series

Philipp Schwabl et al.

ANNALS OF INTERNAL MEDICINE (2019)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Plastic Teabags Release Billions of Microparticles and Nanoparticles into Tea

Laura M. Hernandez et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (2019)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Microplastics induce transcriptional changes, immune response and behavioral alterations in adult zebrafish

Giacomo Limonta et al.

SCIENTIFIC REPORTS (2019)

Review Chemistry, Multidisciplinary

Neurotoxicity of Nanomaterials: An Up-to-Date Overview

Daniel Mihai Teleanu et al.

NANOMATERIALS (2019)

Article Chemistry, Multidisciplinary

Neuronal damage induced by nanopolystyrene particles in nematode Caenorhabditis elegans

Man Qu et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE-NANO (2019)

Article Environmental Sciences

Exposure to the fungicide propamocarb causes gut microbiota dysbiosis and metabolic disorder in mice

Sisheng Wu et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2018)

Article Environmental Sciences

Polystyrene microplastics induce microbiota dysbiosis and inflammation in the gut of adult zebrafish

Yuanxiang Jin et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2018)

Editorial Material Environmental Sciences

Current opinion: What is a nanoplastic?

Julien Gigault et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2018)

Article Environmental Sciences

Investigating microplastic trophic transfer in marine top predators

Sarah E. Nelms et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2018)

Review Environmental Sciences

Marine microplastic debris: An emerging issue for food security, food safety and human health

Luis Gabriel Antao Barboza et al.

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2018)

Article Environmental Sciences

Maternal transfer of nanoplastics to offspring in zebrafish (Danio rerio): A case study with nanopolystyrene

Jordan A. Pitt et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2018)

Article Environmental Sciences

Polystyrene microplastics induce gut microbiota dysbiosis and hepatic lipid metabolism disorder in mice

Liang Lu et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2018)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Gene expression variability across cells and species shapes innate immunity

Tzachi Hagai et al.

NATURE (2018)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Microplastics in Seafood and the Implications for Human Health

Madeleine Smith et al.

CURRENT ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH REPORTS (2018)

Review Environmental Sciences

Micro(nano)plastics: A threat to human health?

Messika Revel et al.

CURRENT OPINION IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & HEALTH (2018)

Review Green & Sustainable Science & Technology

Occurrence of microplastics and its pollution in the environment: A review

Jia-Qian Jiang

SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION (2018)

Article Environmental Sciences

Cytotoxic effects of commonly used nanomaterials and microplastics on cerebral and epithelial human cells

Gabriella F. Schirinzi et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH (2017)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Combined Effects of UV Exposure Duration and Mechanical Abrasion on Microplastic Fragmentation by Polymer Type

Young Kyoung Song et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (2017)

Article Environmental Sciences

Size- and shape-dependent effects of microplastic particles on adult daggerblade grass shrimp (Palaemonetes pugio)

Austin D. Gray et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY (2017)

Article Infectious Diseases

The efficacy of medical masks and respirators against respiratory infection in healthcare workers

Chandini Raina MacIntyre et al.

INFLUENZA AND OTHER RESPIRATORY VIRUSES (2017)

Review Environmental Sciences

The plastic in microplastics: A review

Anthony L. Andrady

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2017)

Article Environmental Sciences

Enhanced uptake of BPA in the presence of nanoplastics can lead to neurotoxic effects in adult zebrafish

Qiqing Chen et al.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2017)

Article Environmental Sciences

Ingestion and Egestion of Microplastics by the Cladoceran Daphnia magna: Effects of Regular and Irregular Shaped Plastic and Sorbed Phenanthrene

Camilla Krogh Frydkjaer et al.

BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY (2017)

Review Chemistry, Analytical

Sampling, isolating and identifying microplastics ingested by fish and invertebrates

A. L. Lusher et al.

ANALYTICAL METHODS (2017)

Review Environmental Sciences

Microplastics in aquatic environments: Implications for Canadian ecosystems

Julie C. Anderson et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2016)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Uptake and Accumulation of Polystyrene Microplastics in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) and Toxic Effects in Liver

Yifeng Lu et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (2016)

Article Environmental Sciences

POLYCARBONATE AND POLYSTYRENE NANOPLASTIC PARTICLES ACT AS STRESSORS TO THE INNATE IMMUNE SYSTEM OF FATHEAD MINNOW (PIMEPHALES PROMELAS)

Anne-Catherine Greven et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY (2016)

Review Environmental Sciences

The behaviors of microplastics in the marine environment

Jundong Wang et al.

MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH (2016)

Review Chemistry, Analytical

Marine microplastic- associated biofilms - a review

Sonja Oberbeckmann et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY (2015)

Article Environmental Sciences

Pollutants bioavailability and toxicological risk from microplastics to marine mussels

Carlo Giacomo Avio et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (2015)

Editorial Material Engineering, Environmental

The Rise of Stem Cell Toxicology

Francesco Faiola et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (2015)

Review Chemistry, Analytical

Pathways for degradation of plastic polymers floating in the marine environment

Berit Gewert et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE-PROCESSES & IMPACTS (2015)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Strong Sorption of PCBs to Nanoplastics, Microplastics, Carbon Nanotubes, and Fullerenes

I. Velzeboer et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (2014)

Review Endocrinology & Metabolism

Assessing the Human Gut Microbiota in Metabolic Diseases

Fredrik Karlsson et al.

DIABETES (2013)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Life in the Plastisphere: Microbial Communities on Plastic Marine Debris

Erik R. Zettler et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (2013)

Article Chemistry, Multidisciplinary

Nano- and microscaled particles for drug targeting to inflamed intestinal mucosa-A first in vivo study in human patients

Carsten Schmidt et al.

JOURNAL OF CONTROLLED RELEASE (2013)

Article Environmental Sciences

Biodegradation of low-density polyethylene by marine bacteria from pelagic waters, Arabian Sea, India

Kumar Harshvardhan et al.

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2013)

Article Environmental Sciences

Competitive sorption of persistent organic pollutants onto microplastics in the marine environment

Adil Bakir et al.

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2012)

Review Neurosciences

Mind-altering microorganisms: the impact of the gut microbiota on brain and behaviour

John F. Cryan et al.

NATURE REVIEWS NEUROSCIENCE (2012)

Review Environmental Sciences

Microplastics in the marine environment

Anthony L. Andrady

MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN (2011)

Article Biochemical Research Methods

The validated embryonic stem cell test to predict embryotoxicity in vitro

Andrea E. M. Seiler et al.

NATURE PROTOCOLS (2011)

Review Fisheries

Lysozyme: an important defence molecule of fish innate immune system

Shailesh Saurabh et al.

AQUACULTURE RESEARCH (2008)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Ingested microscopic plastic translocates to the circulatory system of the mussel, Mytilus edulis (L.)

Mark A. Browne et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (2008)

Article Engineering, Environmental

Biodegradation of agricultural plastic films: A critical review

Ioanna Kyrikou et al.

JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT (2007)

Review Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

A review of biodegradation of synthetic plastic and foams

R. Gautam et al.

APPLIED BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY (2007)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Evaluation of control measures implemented in the severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak in Beijing, 2003

XH Pang et al.

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2003)

Review Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology

Microbiological deterioration and degradation of synthetic polymeric materials: recent research advances

JD Gu

INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION (2003)

Article Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into embryoid bodies comprising the three embryonic germ layers

J Itskovitz-Eldor et al.

MOLECULAR MEDICINE (2000)