Toxics

16 pages, 2135 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synergistic Effects of Unmodified Tea Leaves and Tea Biochar Application on Remediation of Cr-Contaminated Soil

by Weili Qi, Yun Yang, Yan Xu, Xiaowen Teng, Jiawei Ma, Weijie Xu, Zhengqian Ye, Xianzhi Fang and Dan Liu

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 888; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120888 - 6 Dec 2024

Abstract

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) contamination in soil presents significant risks due to its high toxicity to both the environment and human health. Renewable, low-cost natural materials offer promising solutions for Cr(VI) reduction and soil remediation. However, the effects of unmodified tea leaves and tea-derived [...] Read more.

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) contamination in soil presents significant risks due to its high toxicity to both the environment and human health. Renewable, low-cost natural materials offer promising solutions for Cr(VI) reduction and soil remediation. However, the effects of unmodified tea leaves and tea-derived biochar on chromium-contaminated soils remain inadequately understood. In this study, tea tree pruning waste was converted into biochar at various temperatures, and the impacts of both unmodified tea leaves and tea biochar on soil Cr(VI) content, chromium fractionation, and soil biochemical properties were assessed using a soil incubation experiment. The results showed that the combined treatment of tea and tea biochar produced at 500 °C reduced Cr(VI) content by up to 49.30% compared to the control. Chromium fractionation analysis revealed a significant increase in the residual chromium fraction, accounting for 32.97% of total chromium, substantially reducing its bioavailability and mobility. Soil properties were markedly improved, with notable increases in pH (14.89%), cation exchange capacity (CEC; up to 100.24%), and organic matter content (up to 167.12%) under the combined treatments. Correlation analysis confirmed that Cr(VI) content reductions were positively correlated with increases in pH, nutrient retention, and enzyme activities, highlighting their role in chromium stabilization. This study underscores the synergistic potential of unmodified tea leaves and tea biochar as an innovative, eco-friendly strategy for Cr(VI) remediation, enhancing both soil quality and heavy metal stabilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon-Based Materials for Pollutant Immobilization and Removal in Soil and Water)

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14 pages, 12039 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Active Vitamin D Ameliorates Arsenite-Induced Thyroid Dysfunction in Sprague–Dawley Rats by Inhibiting the Toll-like Receptor 4/NF-KappaB-Mediated Inflammatory Response

by Hui Li, Jie Xiang, Qian Song, Ying Jin, Meitong Zhou, Lili Fan and Dapeng Wang

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 887; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120887 - 6 Dec 2024

Abstract

Arsenic, a well-known environmental endocrine disruptor, exerts interference on the body’s endocrine system. Our previous investigations have demonstrated that chronic exposure to sodium arsenite (NaAsO₂) can induce thyroid damage and dysfunction in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. Vitamin D (VD) is an indispensable [...] Read more.

Arsenic, a well-known environmental endocrine disruptor, exerts interference on the body’s endocrine system. Our previous investigations have demonstrated that chronic exposure to sodium arsenite (NaAsO₂) can induce thyroid damage and dysfunction in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. Vitamin D (VD) is an indispensable fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining thyroid health. In recent years, numerous studies have demonstrated the association between VD deficiency and the development of various thyroid disorders. However, the precise intervention roles and mechanisms of VD in arsenic-induced thyroid injury remain elusive. This study aimed to investigate the intervention effect of VD on NaAsO₂-induced thyroid dysfunction in SD rats. The results demonstrated that exposure to NaAsO₂ activates the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in thyroid tissue of rats, leading to apoptosis of thyroid cells and subsequent inflammatory damage and disruption of serum thyroid hormone secretion. Supplementation with TAK-242 (a TLR4 inhibitor) and VD effectively inhibits the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in rat thyroid tissue exposed to NaAsO₂, thereby reducing the inflammatory damage and dysfunction caused by arsenic exposure. In conclusion, the findings of this study offer innovative insights into the application of VD in the prevention and treatment of thyroid dysfunction caused by arsenic exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Caused from Environmental Fluoride and Arsenic Exposures)

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15 pages, 1055 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Plant Growth-Stimulating Bacteria on the Glutathione-S-Transferase Activity and the Toxic Effect of the Herbicide Metsulfuron-Methyl in Wheat and Canola Plants

by Darya Chetverikova, Margarita Bakaeva, Sergey Starikov, Aliya Kendjieva and Sergey Chetverikov

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 886; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120886 - 5 Dec 2024

Abstract

The ability of some rhizosphere bacteria to mitigate herbicidal stress in cultivated plants may be useful in agriculture and bioremediation. There is poor understanding of how bacteria directly or through herbicide degradation affect the biochemical processes in plants exposed to sulfonylurea herbicides. In [...] Read more.

The ability of some rhizosphere bacteria to mitigate herbicidal stress in cultivated plants may be useful in agriculture and bioremediation. There is poor understanding of how bacteria directly or through herbicide degradation affect the biochemical processes in plants exposed to sulfonylurea herbicides. In this study, treatment with a combination of herbicide metsulfuron-methyl (MSM) and bacteria (Pseudomonas protegens DA1.2 or P. chlororaphis 4CH) of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and canola (Brassica napus L.) plants was carried out. Activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST), an important enzyme for the herbicide detoxification, and acetolactate synthase (ALS), a target for MSM in plants, was measured by spectrophotometric assays. MSM residues were analyzed using the HPLC-MS. Then, 24 h after bacterial treatment, GST activity increased by 75–91% in wheat and by 38–94% in canola. On the 30th day, a decrease in MSM in the soil associated with bacterial treatment was 54.6–79.7%. An increase in GST activity and acceleration of MSM degradation were accompanied by a decrease in inhibition of the ALS enzyme in plants, which indicated a mitigation of the toxic effect. The results obtained are evidence that rhizospheric bacteria can have beneficial effects on plants exposed to MSM due to the combination of abilities to directly affect detoxification enzymes in plants and degrade MSM in the soil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights into the Biology of Plants Affected by Toxic Chemicals)

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12 pages, 1410 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Removal of the Active Pharmaceutical Substance Entecavir from Water via the Fenton Reaction or Action by the Cyanobacterium Microcystis novacekii

by Cléssius Ribeiro de Souza, Gabriel Souza-Silva, Carolina Paula de Souza Moreira, Olívia Maria S. R. Vasconcelos, Kenia Pedrosa Nunes, Cíntia Aparecida J. Pereira, Marcos Paulo Gomes Mol and Micheline Rosa Silveira

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120885 - 5 Dec 2024

Abstract

Entecavir (ETV) is an antiviral used to treat chronic infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, which affects approximately 250 million people worldwide. In order to mitigate the impacts of ETV on the environment, including potential harm to human health, this study evaluated [...] Read more.

Entecavir (ETV) is an antiviral used to treat chronic infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, which affects approximately 250 million people worldwide. In order to mitigate the impacts of ETV on the environment, including potential harm to human health, this study evaluated the use of the Fenton-like reaction, which uses iron complexed with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) at neutral pH, and the microbiological action of Microcystis novacekii in removing ETV from the aqueous medium. Aqueous concentrations of 100 mg/L were subjected to Fenton-like degradation. Solutions ranging from 1.2 to 120 mg/L were used for biodegradation. The results evidenced consistent effectiveness in completely removing ETV by the Fenton-like reaction after 90 s. However, removal by the action of M. novacekii did not return convincing results. Although entecavir exposure did not affect cyanobacterial cell growth, a gradual reduction in drug content was observed starting on the fourth day of exposure, with maximum removal of 28.9% at the lowest exposure concentration (1.2 mg/L), without, however, showing a significant difference. Statistically significant differences in drug removal were identified only after 14 days of exposure and at specific concentrations. The ETV degradation process through the Fenton reaction was effective and promising for practical application. Removal through M. novacekii showed limited efficacy for practical application for its direct use in the remediation of ETV in aquatic environments. However, we identified a slight decrease in the initial concentrations that could achieve greater efficiency in the drug’s degradation through associations with other microorganisms, physiochemical processes, or even genetic engineering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioremediation of Pollutants in Sewage Sludge)

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15 pages, 3825 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Screening of Etomidate and Its Analogs in Seized e-Liquids Using Thermal Desorption Electrospray Ionization Coupled with Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry

by Meng Li, Bicheng Lin and Binling Zhu

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 884; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120884 - 5 Dec 2024

Abstract

The growing popularity of e-cigarettes has raised significant concerns about the safety and potential abuse of these products. Compounds originally used in the medical field, such as etomidate, metomidate, and isopropoxate, have been illegally added to e-liquids, posing substantial risks to consumer health, [...] Read more.

The growing popularity of e-cigarettes has raised significant concerns about the safety and potential abuse of these products. Compounds originally used in the medical field, such as etomidate, metomidate, and isopropoxate, have been illegally added to e-liquids, posing substantial risks to consumer health, and facilitating the misuse of illicit drugs. To address these concerns, this study developed a rapid and efficient method for detecting etomidate, metomidate, and isopropoxate in e-liquids using thermal desorption electrospray ionization coupling triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (TD-ESI/MS/MS). The TD-ESI/MS/MS method exhibits high sensitivity, with detection limits for etomidate, metomidate, and isopropoxate reaching 3 ng/mL. Screening of 70 seized e-liquid samples from 12 cases using TD-ESI/MS/MS revealed that 46 samples contained only etomidate, 13 samples contained only isopropoxate, and 11 samples contained both etomidate and metomidate. The qualitative results obtained from TD-ESI/MS/MS were in complete agreement with those of GC-MS. Moreover, the TD-ESI/MS/MS method requires no pre-treatment steps and has a detection time of only 1 min, thereby saving experimental consumables and significantly reducing detection time. The method demonstrated high sensitivity, accuracy, and reproducibility, making it suitable for high-throughput screening in forensic and regulatory settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic The Challenges and Future Trends in Anthropogenic and Natural Pollution Control Engineering)

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16 pages, 37876 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Circ_0000284 Is Involved in Arsenite-Induced Hepatic Insulin Resistance Through Blocking the Plasma Membrane Translocation of GLUT4 in Hepatocytes via IGF2BP2/PPAR-γ

by Shiqing Xu, Zhida Hu, Yujie Wang, Qiyao Zhang, Zhi Wang, Teng Ma, Suhua Wang, Xiaohui Wang and Li Wang

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120883 - 4 Dec 2024

Abstract

Arsenic exposure can induce liver insulin resistance (IR) and diabetes (DM), but the underlying mechanisms are not yet clear. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the regulation of the onset of diabetes, especially in the progression of IR. This study aimed to investigate [...] Read more.

Arsenic exposure can induce liver insulin resistance (IR) and diabetes (DM), but the underlying mechanisms are not yet clear. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the regulation of the onset of diabetes, especially in the progression of IR. This study aimed to investigate the role of circRNAs in arsenic-induced hepatic IR and its underlying mechanism. Male C57BL/6J mice were given drinking water containing sodium arsenite (0, 0.5, 5, or 50 ppm) for 12 months. The results show that sodium arsenite increased circ_0000284 expression, decreased insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ), and inhibited cell membrane protein levels of insulin-responsive glucose transporter protein 4 (GLUT4) in the mouse livers, indicating that arsenic exposure causes liver damage and disruptions to glucose metabolism. Furthermore, sodium arsenite reduced glucose consumption and glycogen levels, increased the expression of circ_0000284, reduced the protein levels of IGF2BP2 and PPAR-γ, and inhibited GLUT4 protein levels in the cell membranes of insulin-treated HepG2 cells. However, a circ_0000284 inhibitor reversed arsenic exposure-induced reductions in IGF2BP2, PPAR-γ, and GLUT4 levels in the plasma membrane. These results indicate that circ_0000284 is involved in arsenite-induced hepatic insulin resistance through blocking the plasma membrane translocation of GLUT4 in hepatocytes via IGF2BP2/PPAR-γ. This study provides a scientific basis for finding early biomarkers for the control of arsenic exposure and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and discovering new prevention and control measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Effects of Exposure to Environmental Pollutants)

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17 pages, 4436 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Non-Genotoxic and Environmentally Relevant Lower Molecular Weight Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Significantly Increase Tumorigenicity of Benzo[a]pyrene in a Lung Two-Stage Mouse Model

by Alison K. Bauer, Deedee Romo, Finnegan Friday, Kaila Cho, Kalpana Velmurugan and Brad L. Upham

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 882; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120882 - 2 Dec 2024

Abstract

The World Health Organization has classified air pollution as a carcinogen, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are major components of air particulates of carcinogenic concern. Thus far, most studies focused on genotoxic high molecular weight PAHs; however, recent studies indicate potential carcinogenicity of [...] Read more.

The World Health Organization has classified air pollution as a carcinogen, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are major components of air particulates of carcinogenic concern. Thus far, most studies focused on genotoxic high molecular weight PAHs; however, recent studies indicate potential carcinogenicity of the non-genotoxic lower molecular weight PAHs (LMW PAHs) that are found in indoor and outdoor air pollution as well as secondhand cigarette smoke. We hypothesize that LMW PAHs contribute to the promotion stage of cancer when combined with benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), a legacy PAH. We specifically determined the effects of an LMW PAH mixture containing 1-methylanthracene (1MeA), fluoranthene (Flthn), and phenanthrene (Phe) combined with B[a]P on lung tumor promotion. To test this hypothesis, we used a two-stage, initiation/promotion BALB/ByJ female lung tumor mouse model. The mice were initiated with 3-methylcholanthrene followed by exposures to B[a]P, the LMW PAH mixture, and the combination of the LMW PAH mixture plus B[a]P, all at 10 mg/kg. The LMW PAHs combined with B[a]P significantly increased the promotion and incidence of lung tumors over that of B[a]P alone. The LMW PAHs in the absence of B[a]P did not significantly promote tumors, indicating strong co-promotional activities. We further assessed the effects of these PAHs on other hallmarks of cancer, namely, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid inflammatory infiltrates, pro-inflammatory transcripts, KC protein content, and mRNA expression of the gap junction (Gja1) and epiregulin (Ereg) genes. The LMW PAHs increased the biomarkers of inflammation, decreased Gja1 expression, and increased Ereg expression, all consistent with tumor promotion. This study indicates that non-genotoxic LMW PAHs can contribute to the cancer process and warrants further studies to assess the carcinogenic risks of other LMW PAHs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Pollutants in the Air and Health Risks)

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15 pages, 2078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heavy Metal Distribution in Aquatic Products from Eastern Guangdong and Associated Health Risk Assessment

by Jinyan Liu, You’an Yu, Zewei Sun, Keqin Zhang, Ping Li, Wenhua Liu and Ran Bi

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 881; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120881 - 2 Dec 2024

Abstract

With the rapid industrialization and urbanization of coastal areas, marine pollution (such as heavy metals) is increasingly contaminating the environment, posing significant public health risks. Eastern Guangdong, a key aquaculture and fisheries hub in China, has a growing market for aquatic products. Heavy [...] Read more.

With the rapid industrialization and urbanization of coastal areas, marine pollution (such as heavy metals) is increasingly contaminating the environment, posing significant public health risks. Eastern Guangdong, a key aquaculture and fisheries hub in China, has a growing market for aquatic products. Heavy metals persist in the environment and are difficult to degrade and bioaccumulate in marine organisms through the food web, presenting carcinogenic and mutagenic risks to humans, as top predators. This study analyzed 10 key species commonly consumed by residents of eastern Guangdong (bivalves, crustaceans, and fish), measuring the concentrations of six heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb) using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Pollution levels were assessed using the pollution index (Pi), and dietary exposure risks were evaluated via the target hazard quotient (THQ) for different age groups. Results showed that Pi values for all metals were within normal background levels, but bivalves had a high capacity for Cd accumulation, with pollution severity ranking as bivalves > crustaceans > fish. The THQ values for both adults and teenagers were <1 across all samples, indicating no risk to the health of residents. However, the TTHQ for Sanguinolaria sp. exceeded 1, indicating potential health risks. This study highlights the health risks of consuming heavy metal-contaminated aquatic products, particularly bivalves. Reducing the consumption of these high-metal species could help lower dietary exposure and associated risks. Our findings provide essential data for the quality assessment of aquatic products and offer dietary recommendations for residents in eastern Guangdong. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Radioactive Substances)

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15 pages, 2439 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence and Mechanism of Solid-Phase Particle Factors on Oil–Solid Separation of Oily Sludge Treated by Flotation Method

by Shuhui Wu, Xue Yao, Xiao Wang, Wenyan Yuan, Qiuhong Li, Xiaoyin Niu and Yanfei Ma

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 880; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120880 - 2 Dec 2024

Abstract

The solid phase composition in oily sludge (OS) is a key factor affecting the oil–solid separation of OS. In this paper, the effects and mechanisms of solid-phase particle factors on the oil content of residue phase were investigated in order to improve the [...] Read more.

The solid phase composition in oily sludge (OS) is a key factor affecting the oil–solid separation of OS. In this paper, the effects and mechanisms of solid-phase particle factors on the oil content of residue phase were investigated in order to improve the oil–solid separation efficiency. Flotation experiments were carried out on single-size sand and mixed-size sand OS consisting of three particle sizes at room temperature without adding flotation reagents. The effects of different-size particles as solid phase composition of OS and flotation parameter settings such as flotation temperature (Tp), flotation time (Tt), impeller speed (Rs) and liquid-solid ratio (L/OS) on the oil–solid separation efficiency were investigated. The experimental results showed that the oil content of residue phase decreased with the increasing of solid-phase particle size for single-size sand OS, and the optimal flotation conditions were Tp of 50 °C, Tt of 25 min, Rs of 1450 r/min and L/OS of 12:1. The oil–solid separation was more pronounced for mixed-size sand OS with a complex particle composition, while different particle compositions of the solid phase in OS promoted oil–solid separation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) characterisation of OS before and after flotation confirmed the relative advantage of coarse particle OS in the oil–solid separation process. The classical first-order model was well fitted to the flotation kinetic process of single-size sand and mixed-size sand OS. The response surface methodology (RSM) method was used to determine the Rs as the main control factor of the flotation process, and the oil content of residue phase in mixed-size sand OS was optimised to 2.63%. This study provides important process parameters and theoretical basis for the efficient treatment of OS. Full article

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18 pages, 2181 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of Combined Effect of Metals Exposure and Behavioral Factors on Depressive Symptoms in Women

by Olamide Ogundare and Emmanuel Obeng-Gyasi

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 879; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120879 - 2 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the combined effects of environmental pollutants (lead, cadmium, total mercury) and behavioral factors (alcohol consumption, smoking) on depressive symptoms in women. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 cycle, specifically exposure levels of heavy metals in [...] Read more.

This study investigates the combined effects of environmental pollutants (lead, cadmium, total mercury) and behavioral factors (alcohol consumption, smoking) on depressive symptoms in women. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 cycle, specifically exposure levels of heavy metals in blood samples, were used in this study. The analysis of these data included the application of descriptive statistics, linear regression, and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) to explore associations between environmental exposures, behavioral factors, and depression. The PHQ-9, a well-validated tool that assesses nine items for depressive symptoms, was used to evaluate depression severity over the prior two weeks on a 0–3 scale, with total scores ranging from 0 to 27. Exposure levels of heavy metals were measured in blood samples. BKMR was used to estimate the exposure–response relationship, while posterior inclusion probability (PIP) in BKMR was used to quantify the likelihood that a given exposure was included in the model, reflecting its relative importance in explaining the outcome (depression) within the context of other predictors in the mixture. A descriptive analysis showed mean total levels of lead, cadmium, and total mercury at 1.21 µg/dL, 1.47 µg/L, and 0.80 µg/L, respectively, with a mean PHQ-9 score of 5.94, which corresponds to mild depressive symptoms based on the PHQ-9 scoring. Linear regression indicated positive associations between depression and lead as well as cadmium, while total mercury had a negative association. Alcohol and smoking were also positively associated with depression. These findings were not significant, but limitations in linear regression prompted a BKMR analysis. BKMR posterior inclusion probability (PIP) analysis revealed alcohol and cadmium as significant contributors to depressive symptoms, with cadmium (PIP = 0.447) and alcohol (PIP = 0.565) showing notable effects. Univariate and bivariate analyses revealed lead and total mercury’s strong relationship with depression, with cadmium showing a complex pattern in the bivariate analysis. A cumulative exposure analysis of all metals and behavioral factors concurrently demonstrated that higher quantile levels of combined exposures were associated with an increased risk of depression. Finally, a single variable-effects analysis in BKMR revealed lead, cadmium, and alcohol had a stronger impact on depression. Overall, the study findings suggest that from exposure to lead, cadmium, mercury, alcohol, and smoking, cadmium and alcohol consumption emerge as key contributors to depressive symptoms. These results highlight the need to address both environmental and lifestyle choices in efforts to mitigate depression. Full article

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15 pages, 7972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

PM_2.5 Exposure Induces Glomerular Hyperfiltration in Mice in a Gender-Dependent Manner

by Hao Wang, Li Ma, Yuqiong Guo, Lingyu Ren, Guangke Li and Nan Sang

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 878; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120878 - 1 Dec 2024

Abstract

As one of the most common air pollutants, fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) increases the risk of diseases in various systems, including the urinary system. In the present study, we exposed male and female C57BL/6J mice to PM_2.5 for 8 weeks. [...] Read more.

As one of the most common air pollutants, fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) increases the risk of diseases in various systems, including the urinary system. In the present study, we exposed male and female C57BL/6J mice to PM_2.5 for 8 weeks. Examination of renal function indices, including creatinine (CRE), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), uric acid (UA), and urinary microalbumin, indicated that the kidneys of female mice, not male mice, underwent early renal injury, exhibiting glomerular hyperfiltration. Meanwhile, pathological staining showed that the kidneys of female mice exhibited enlarged glomerulus that filled the entire Bowman’s capsule in the female mice. Afterward, we explored the potential causes and mechanisms of glomerular hyperfiltration. Variations in mRNA levels of key genes involved in the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and kallikrein–kinin system (KKS) demonstrated that PM_2.5 led to elevated glomerular capillary hydrostatic pressure in female mice by disturbing the balance between the RAS and KKS, which in turn increased the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). In addition, we found that PM_2.5 increased blood glucose levels in the females, which enhanced tubular reabsorption of glucose, attenuated macular dense sensory signaling, induced renal hypoxia, and affected adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, thus attenuating tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF)-induced afferent arteriolar constriction and leading to glomerular hyperfiltration. In conclusion, this study indicated that PM_2.5 induced glomerular hyperfiltration in female mice by affecting RAS/KKS imbalances, as well as the regulation of TGF; innovatively unveiled the association between PM_2.5 subchronic exposure and early kidney injury and its gender dependence; enriched the toxicological evidence of PM_2.5 and confirmed the importance of reducing ambient PM_2.5 concentrations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxicity and Human Health Assessment of Air Pollutants)

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16 pages, 1917 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occurrence, Bioaccumulation, and Trophic Transfer of Short-Chain Chlorinated Paraffins (SCCPs) in a Marine Food Web from Laizhou Bay, Bohai Sea (Eastern China)

by Min Song, Dianfeng Han, Shunxin Hu, Qingkui Cui, Huanjun Li, Fan Li, Jianbai Zhang, Yongchun Liu, Mei Zhao, Cunxin Zhang and Yingjiang Xu

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120877 - 30 Nov 2024

Abstract

Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) are a persistent organic pollutant, and limited information is available on their bioaccumulation and trophic transfer, which would be affected by carbon chain length, chlorine content, and hydrophobicity. In this study, relevant data on SCCPs in water, sediments, and [...] Read more.

Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) are a persistent organic pollutant, and limited information is available on their bioaccumulation and trophic transfer, which would be affected by carbon chain length, chlorine content, and hydrophobicity. In this study, relevant data on SCCPs in water, sediments, and organisms collected from Laizhou Bay were analyzed to investigate the specific distribution of SCCPs and their bioaccumulation and trophic transfer. In water and sediments, the average SCCP concentrations (ΣSCCPs) were 362.23 ± 81.03 ng/L and 609.68 ± 90.28 ng/g d.w., respectively. In 28 species of organisms, the ΣSCCPs varied from 70.05 to 47,244.13 ng/g l.w. (average = 648 ± 7360) and the predominant homologs were C₁₃ (average = 34.91%) and Cl_5–7 (average = 93.13%), differing from those in water (average = C₁₁ 32.75% and average = Cl_5–7 88%) and sediments (average = C₁₃ 31.60% and average = Cl_6–8 87.16%). The logarithm bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) of ΣSCCPs were 1.18–2.74 and were positively correlated with the log K_ow. A significant negative linear relationship was observed between biota-sediment accumulation factors (BSAFs) and log K_ow. It is suggested that the hydrophobicity may affect the bioaccumulation of SCCPs. SCCPs demonstrated a trophic magnification factor (TMF) ranging from 2.19 to 3.00 (average = 2.51) and exhibited a significant linear correlation with carbon chain length (p < 0.05) and log K_ow values (p < 0.05), suggesting that SCCPs have biomagnification potential in Laizhou Bay that is affected by hydrophobicity and carbon chain length. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Environmental Behaviors of Persistent Contaminants: Fate, Distribution, Risk, and Challenges)

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12 pages, 309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prenatal Perfluoroalkyl Substance Exposure in Association with Global Histone Post-Translational Methylation in 2-Year-Old Children

by Wan-Ju Tsai, Wu-Shiun Hsieh, Pau-Chung Chen and Chen-Yu Liu

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 876; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120876 - 30 Nov 2024

Abstract

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have elimination half-lives in years in humans and are persistent in the environment. PFASs can cross the placenta and impact fetal development. Exposure to PFASs may lead to adverse effects through epigenetic mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate whether prenatal [...] Read more.

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have elimination half-lives in years in humans and are persistent in the environment. PFASs can cross the placenta and impact fetal development. Exposure to PFASs may lead to adverse effects through epigenetic mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate whether prenatal exposure to perfluorooctyl sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUA) was associated with global histone methylation level changes among the 130 2-year-old children followed-up in a birth cohort study in Taiwan. PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, and PFUA were measured by UHPLC/MS/MS in cord blood. Global histone methylation levels were measured from the blood leukocytes of 2-year-old children by Western blotting. Multivariable regression analyses were applied to adjust for potential confounding effects. Among the 2-year-old children, an IQR increase in the natural log-transformed PFUA exposure was associated with an increased H3K4me3 level by 2.76-fold (95%CI = (0.79, 4.73), p = 0.007). PFOA and PFNA exposures was associated with a decreased H3K27me3 level by 2.35-fold (95%CI = (−4.29, −0.41), p = 0.01) and 2.01-fold (95%CI = (−4.00, −0.03), p = 0.04), respectively. Our findings suggest that prenatal PFAS exposure affected histone post-translational modifications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effects of Environmental Exposures on Fetal Growth, Children Development and the Corresponding Mechanisms)

34 pages, 4477 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Mechanisms of Cadmium Toxicity in Living Organisms

by Slavena Davidova, Viktor Milushev and Galina Satchanska

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 875; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120875 - 30 Nov 2024

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal primarily found as a by-product of zinc production. Cd was a proven carcinogen, and exposure to this metal has been linked to various adverse health effects, which were first reported in the mid-19th century and thoroughly investigated [...] Read more.

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal primarily found as a by-product of zinc production. Cd was a proven carcinogen, and exposure to this metal has been linked to various adverse health effects, which were first reported in the mid-19th century and thoroughly investigated by the 20th century. The toxicokinetics and dynamics of Cd reveal its propensity for long biological retention and predominant storage in soft tissues. Until the 1950s, Cd pollution was caused by industrial activities, whereas nowadays, the main source is phosphate fertilizers, which strongly contaminate soil and water and affect human health and ecosystems. Cd enters the human body mainly through ingestion and inhalation, with food and tobacco smoke being the primary sources. It accumulates in various organs, particularly the kidney and liver, and is known to cause severe health problems, including renal dysfunction, bone diseases, cardiovascular problems, and many others. On a cellular level, Cd disrupts numerous biological processes, inducing oxidative stress generation and DNA damage. This comprehensive review explores Cd pollution, accumulation, distribution, and biological impacts on bacteria, fungi, edible mushrooms, plants, animals, and humans on a molecular level. Molecular aspects of carcinogenesis, apoptosis, autophagy, specific gene expression, stress protein synthesis, and ROS formation caused by Cd were discussed as well. This paper also summarizes how Cd is removed from contaminated environments and the human body. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cadmium and Trace Elements Toxicity)

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21 pages, 2887 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Substituent Groups on the Adsorption Efficiency of Phenols by Activated Carbon Developed by Hydrothermally Treated Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Stone

by Suhas, Sarita Kushwaha, Monika Chaudhary, Shubham Chaudhary, Vaishali Tyagi, Isabel Pestana da Paixão Cansado and Mohammad Hadi Dehghani

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120874 - 30 Nov 2024

Abstract

In this study, the novel activated carbon developed from Phyllanthus emblica fruit stone, through hydrothermal treatment at low pressure and temperature, was utilized for the removal of 4-nitrophenol, 4-chlorophenol, and phenol from water. The activated carbon produced (AC-HTPEFS) showed a well-developed porosity with [...] Read more.

In this study, the novel activated carbon developed from Phyllanthus emblica fruit stone, through hydrothermal treatment at low pressure and temperature, was utilized for the removal of 4-nitrophenol, 4-chlorophenol, and phenol from water. The activated carbon produced (AC-HTPEFS) showed a well-developed porosity with a surface area of 569 m² g⁻¹ and a total pore volume of 0.342 cm³ g⁻¹. The adsorption process was explored and efficiently applied regarding the removal of phenols and substituted phenols from wastewater. Thermodynamic analyses indicated that the adsorption process was endothermic and spontaneous. To analyze the equilibrium data, different isotherm models were employed. The Langmuir model applied best, with maximum adsorption capacities of 0.463, 0.434, and 0.387 mmol g⁻¹ at 25 °C for 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), 4-chlorophenol (4-CP), and phenol, respectively, regarding the AC-HTPEFS. The adsorption was mainly an endothermic process, and the results achieved were slightly higher than those obtained with a commercial activated carbon commonly used for this purpose. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Toxicity Reduction and Environmental Remediation)

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14 pages, 1585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Environmental Risks of Local Contamination of Garden Urban Soils with Heavy Metals Using Ecotoxicological Tests

by Dariusz Gruszka, Iwona Gruss and Katarzyna Szopka

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120873 - 30 Nov 2024

Abstract

Heavy metal soil contamination in urban areas poses a significant environmental hazard, particularly in regions with historical or ongoing industrial activities. These areas are often polluted with metals such as Pb, Cu, Cd, and Zn, which can be absorbed by plants and pose [...] Read more.

Heavy metal soil contamination in urban areas poses a significant environmental hazard, particularly in regions with historical or ongoing industrial activities. These areas are often polluted with metals such as Pb, Cu, Cd, and Zn, which can be absorbed by plants and pose risks to both ecosystems and human health. This study investigates soil contamination in urban gardens in Wroclaw, Poland, where elevated levels of trace elements were detected. Standard soil analyses, including macroelement content, granulometry, and trace element concentrations, were performed alongside an ecotoxicological evaluation using an Ostracodtoxkit test. The test evaluates the impact of contaminants on organism growth. An uncontaminated urban garden soil served as a reference. This study revealed that Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd concentrations in soils exceeded limits permitted by Polish regulations in several soil samples. Despite the high concentrations of total metals, the bioavailable forms of these metals (measured by extraction of 1 M NH₄NO₃ extraction) were significantly lower, highlighting that the total metal content may not fully reflect the environmental risk. Pb was identified as the primary contributor to growth inhibition of test organisms, showing a particularly strong correlation with ecotoxicity. These findings underscore the importance of using ecotoxicological tests to evaluate soil contamination risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Toxicity of Heavy Metals and Chemical Pollutants in Agricultural Soil and Plants: Ecological Risks and Remediation)

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27 pages, 5860 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Soil Amendments for Remediation of Heavy Metal-Contaminated Soils: Mechanisms, Impact, and Future Prospects

by Xinyi Nie, Xianhuai Huang, Man Li, Zhaochi Lu and Xinhe Ling

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120872 - 29 Nov 2024

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination is a critical factor contributing to soil degradation and poses significant environmental threats with profound implications for ecosystems and human health. Soil amendments have become an effective strategy to address these challenges by reducing heavy metal hazards and remediating contaminated [...] Read more.

Heavy metal contamination is a critical factor contributing to soil degradation and poses significant environmental threats with profound implications for ecosystems and human health. Soil amendments have become an effective strategy to address these challenges by reducing heavy metal hazards and remediating contaminated soils. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in soil amendments for heavy metal-contaminated soils, with a focus on natural, synthetic, natural-synthetic copolymer, and biological amendments. By thoroughly examining and contrasting their remediation mechanisms and effects, this study provides a detailed evaluation of their influence on soil physicochemical properties, leachable heavy metal content, and microbial communities. Through bibliometric analysis, current research priorities and trends are highlighted, offering a multidimensional comparison of these amendments and clarifying their varying applicability and limitations. Furthermore, this review explores future prospects and the inherent challenges in soil amendments for heavy metal contamination, aiming to offer valuable insights and theoretical references for the development and selection of novel, efficient, multifunctional, environmentally friendly amendments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Remediation Processes toward Heavy Metal-Contaminated Environment)

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13 pages, 6530 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles-Induced Genotoxic Effects in Mosquito Culex quinquefaciatus

by Aastha Saini, Kanwaljit Kaur Ahluwalia, Amrik Singh Ahluwalia, Neelam Thakur, Puneet Negi, Abeer Hashem, Khalid F. Almutairi and Elsayed Fathi Abd_Allah

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120871 - 29 Nov 2024

Abstract

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles are being extensively used in a wide range of industrial applications for producing a variety of different consumer products, including medicines and even food items. The consumption of these products is increasing at an alarming rate, and [...] Read more.

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles are being extensively used in a wide range of industrial applications for producing a variety of different consumer products, including medicines and even food items. The consumption of these products is increasing at an alarming rate, and this results in the release of these nanoparticles in the environment, causing a threat to organisms thriving in aquatic as well as terrestrial ecosystems. That is why screening such materials for their genotoxic effects, if any, becomes essential. A toxicity assay was performed to determine the LD₂₀ of these nanoparticles for the mosquito Culex quinquefaciatus by Probit analysis. Early fourth instar larvae were exposed to the selected dose of 50 µg/mL, which is <LD₂₀ value, for 24 h treatment. Chromosomal slides were prepared from lacto-aceto-orcein-stained gonads of adult mosquitoes developed from treated and control larvae. These nanoparticles were reported cytotoxic as a statistically significant decline in mitotic index in treated mosquitoes than controls were observed. The nanoparticles were also found to induce various structural and numerical chromosomal aberrations in the treated lot. In the end, it can be concluded that these nanoparticles do have a genotoxic effect. The present study provides a caution against further use of these nanoparticles. There must be the development of strategies for the safe, sustainable use as well as proper disposal of these nanoparticles so as to protect both biotic and non-biotic components of the environment. Full article

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15 pages, 4083 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Portable SpectroChip-Based Immunoassay Platform for Rapid and Accurate Melamine Quantification in Urine Samples

by Cheng-Hao Ko, Wei-Yi Kong, Abel Chernet Kabiso, Wei-Huai Chiu, Ashenafi Belihu Tadesse, Chitsung Hong, Chia-Fang Wu and Hung-Hsun Lin

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120870 - 29 Nov 2024

Abstract

Growing concerns about the health risks of melamine adulteration in food products highlight the urgent need for reliable detection methods. However, the long-term effects of chronic low-level melamine exposure remain inadequately explored. This study introduces THE ONE InstantCare platform, a portable immunoassay analyzer [...] Read more.

Growing concerns about the health risks of melamine adulteration in food products highlight the urgent need for reliable detection methods. However, the long-term effects of chronic low-level melamine exposure remain inadequately explored. This study introduces THE ONE InstantCare platform, a portable immunoassay analyzer integrating a SpectroChip-based spectral processing unit (SPU) with lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) for sensitive and accurate quantification of melamine in human urine. This platform provides a cost-effective, rapid, and user-friendly point-of-care (POC) solution for melamine detection. Analytical evaluations across eight melamine concentrations (0–100 parts per billion, ppb) achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.91 ppb. Validation with 24 human urine samples demonstrated strong concordance with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), yielding an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.9220, a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.9389, and 95% agreement in Bland–Altman analysis. High reproducibility was observed, with an intraday coefficient of variation (CV) of 6.53% and acceptable interday CV values, while interference studies confirmed reliability in the presence of common biological substances. By delivering results in approximately 10 min, THE ONE InstantCare platform significantly reduces analysis time compared to LC-MS, which typically requires several hours. This novel platform enhances food safety surveillance and advances human health risk assessments, particularly for evaluating melamine-linked kidney damage. Its versatility and robust performance make it a promising tool for environmental monitoring and clinical diagnostics, enabling the detection of diverse biomarkers with high sensitivity and reproducibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Techniques and Methods for Toxic Agent Analysis and Removal)

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