Search Results (422)

The present investigation provides a comparative six-month analysis of atmospheric pollution by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the urban region of Opole, Poland. The study employs dual monitoring methods: traditional quartz filter-based active air sampling and active moss biomonitoring using Pleurozium schreberi, Sphagnum fallax, and Dicranum polysetum mosses. The experimental campaign took place from August 2021 to February 2022, spanning the autumn and winter seasons. PAH concentrations were measured using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) following methodical sample extraction protocols. Filters documented transient air changes in PAHs, particularly high-molecular-weight (HMW) components such as benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), which exhibited considerable increases during the colder months due to heightened heating activities and less dispersion. The size of particles deposited on the filters varied from 0.16 to 73.6 μm, with an average size of 0.71 μm. Mosses exhibited cumulative uptake trends, with D. polysetum showing the greatest bioaccumulation efficiency, particularly for low- and medium-molecular-weight PAHs, followed by P. schreberi and S. fallax. Meteorological indices, including sun radiation and air temperature, demonstrated significant negative relationships with PAH buildup in mosses. Diagnostic ratio analysis verified primarily pyrogenic sources (e.g., fossil fuel burning), although petrogenic contributions were detected in D. polysetum, indicating its increased sensitivity to evaporative emissions. The study shows that the integration of moss biomonitoring with traditional filter samples provides a strong, complementary framework for assessing air quality, particularly in fluctuating meteorological settings. The results advocate for the integration of moss-based methodologies into environmental monitoring initiatives and provide significant insights into contaminant dynamics influenced by seasonal and meteorological factors. Full article

Crude oil exploration and transportation have led to significant soil contamination in nearby communities, yet seasonal and depth-related variations remain poorly understood. This study assessed physicochemical properties, potentially toxic elements, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in surface (0–15 cm) and subsurface (15–30 cm) soils from the Ibaa community and its pipeline Right of Way (ROW) in Rivers State, Nigeria. Samples were collected during wet and dry seasons from five locations, and analyses were conducted using standard methods. Results showed that soil temperature ranged from 27.5 to 31.2 °C, reflecting natural environmental conditions, while nitrate concentrations (1.23–3.45 mg/kg) and moisture content (14.3–23.9%) were within acceptable WHO limits. The pH values (4.61–5.72) suggested acidic conditions, particularly in the unremediated areas. Total Organic Carbon exceeded 3%, with a maximum of 6.23% recorded in the wet season, suggesting persistent hydrocarbon contamination. Phosphorus levels (2.65–6.02 mg/kg) were below the 15 mg/kg threshold. Notably, As (4.93 mg/kg) and Cd (1.67 mg/kg) concentrations exceeded the permissible WHO limits. Positive correlations were observed between As–Cd (r = 0.79), Cd–Cu (r = 0.85), and Pb–Cu (r = 0.64). Principal Component Analysis identified four components for physicochemical parameters (81.9% variance) and two for metals (82.6% variance), suggesting crude oil combustion and vehicular emissions as dominant pollution sources. Pb also correlated significantly with total PAHs in the dry season (r = 0.54, p < 0.05). The study highlights the influence of season and depth on contaminant behavior and emphasizes the urgent need for remediation and monitoring to mitigate ecological and public health risks. Full article

Atmospheric deposition through rainfall plays a significant role in transporting various anthropogenic contaminants to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. However, rainwater’s integrated ionic and molecular composition remains underexplored in semiurban environments. This study provides a comprehensive chemical characterization of rainwater collected during seven precipitation events from February to April 2025 in Athens, Georgia, USA. This semiurban area is characterized by substantial vehicular traffic, seasonal agricultural activities, and ongoing construction, while lacking significant industrial emissions. Targeted spectrophotometric analyses revealed heightened concentrations of nitrate (ranging from 2.0 to 4.3 mg/L), sulfate (17 to 26 mg/L), and phosphate (2.4 to 3.1 mg/L), with peak concentrations observed during high-intensity rainfall events. These findings are consistent with enhanced wet scavenging of atmospheric emissions. Concurrently, both targeted and non-targeted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses identified a diverse array of organic pollutants in the rainwater, including organophosphate, organochlorine, and triazine pesticides; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs); plasticizers; flame retardants; surfactant degradation products; and industrial additives such as bisphenol A, triclosan, and nicotine. Furthermore, several legacy contaminants, such as organochlorines, were detected alongside currently utilized compounds, including glyphosate and its metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA). The concurrent presence of elevated anion and organic pollutant levels during significant storm events suggests that atmospheric washout can be the primary deposition mechanism. These findings underscore the capability of semiurban atmospheres to accumulate and redistribute complex mixtures of pollutants through rainfall, even in the absence of large-scale industrial activity. The study emphasizes the importance of integrated ionic and molecular analyses for uncovering concealed pollution sources. It highlights the potential of rainwater chemistry as a diagnostic tool for monitoring atmospheric contamination in urbanizing environments. Full article

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in indoor dust pose significant health risks due to their persistence and carcinogenicity. This study comprehensively evaluates PAH concentrations, spatial distribution, sources and particle size distribution in indoor dust collected across 26 Chinese provinces. Each dust sample was fractionated into six fractions: F1 (1000–2000 μm), F2 (500–1000 μm), F3 (250–500 μm), F4 (125–250 μm), F5 (63–125 μm), F6 (<63 μm). The total concentration of the 17 PAHs (∑₁₇PAHs) ranged from 0.63 to 247 μg·g⁻¹, with a median value of 4.3 μg·g⁻¹. High ∑₁₇PAH concentrations were found in North China. PAHs with three rings and four rings were the most prevalent PAHs, accounting for 80.8% of ∑₁₇PAHs. PAH concentration is negatively correlated with dust particle size, and there are certain differences in the particle size distribution patterns of different types of dust samples. The diagnostic ratios and principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that indoor dust mainly originated from fuel combustion and traffic emissions. Full article

Indoor air pollution (IAP) has emerged as a critical yet underrecognized threat to public health, particularly in non-industrial environments such as homes, schools, and healthcare facilities. As individuals spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, exposure to indoor pollutants—such as particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and microbial contaminants—can lead to significant health risks. These risks disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions. The effects range from mild respiratory symptoms to severe outcomes like asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. This review investigates the sources, typologies, and health effects of indoor air pollutants, with a focus on their implications for maternal and child health. In particular, children’s developing systems and higher metabolic intake make them more susceptible to airborne toxins. The study also explores the legal and regulatory frameworks surrounding indoor air quality (IAQ), emphasizing how increased awareness and scientific evidence are expanding the scope of medical–legal responsibility. Legal liabilities may arise for property owners, designers, or manufacturers when poor IAQ leads to demonstrable health outcomes. Despite growing concern, there remains a significant research gap concerning the long-term health effects of chronic low-level exposure in residential settings and the efficacy of mitigation strategies. The evolution of smart building technologies and green construction practices offers promising avenues to improve IAQ while maintaining energy efficiency. However, standards and regulations often lag behind scientific findings, highlighting the need for updated, enforceable policies that prioritize human health. This work underscores the urgency of a multidisciplinary and preventive approach to IAQ, integrating public health, environmental engineering, and legal perspectives. Future research should focus on real-time IAQ monitoring, targeted interventions for high-risk populations, and the development of comprehensive legal frameworks to ensure accountability and promote healthier indoor environments. Full article

Marshmallows are confectioneries that are popular among children and teenagers around the world. Barbecues and the consumption of grilled marshmallows, especially by children, have become fashionable in many countries. Grilled marshmallows may contain carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Hydroxy-PAHs (OH-PAHs) concentration in the urine of volunteers after the consumption of grilled marshmallows, as biomarkers of exposure to PAHs, have been determined. A total of 24 participants consumed marshmallows grilled under similar conditions. Urine samples were collected before and after the consumption of grilled marshmallows. 1-hydroxypyrene and 9-hydroxyphenanthrene concentrations in urine samples were determined using the HPLC-FLD technique after enzymatic hydrolysis and isolation by solid-phase extraction (SPE). The average concentration of 1-hydroxypyrene was 0.21 ± 0.16 µg/g creatinine and of 9-hydroxypenanthrene was 2.78 ± 2.55 µg/g creatinine. The concentrations of OH-PAHs in the urine of volunteers eating colored grilled marshmallows were higher compared to the consumption of white ones. In the case of 9-hydroxyphenanthrene this difference was statistically significant p < 0.05. Grilled marshmallows constitute a source of exposure to PAHs, especially in the group of children and adolescents. Even consumption of small or moderate amounts of grilled marshmallows resulted in a significant increase in concentrations of PAH metabolites in the urine compared to the level of these compounds before the intake. Full article

Petroleum hydrocarbons (PHC) are organic pollutants that pose serious health risks to humans and the environment. Treating soils contaminated with these persistent pollutants is a global concern that is challenging to implement effectively. Synergistic remediation strategies, particularly those involving plants and functional endophytic bacteria, offer ecologically sustainable approaches for remediating PHC-contaminated soil and thus hold broad application prospects. This review collected the literature from databases including Elsevier, Web of Science, PubMed, and CNKI, using keywords such as endophytic bacteria, petroleum hydrocarbons, plants, microorganisms, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and alkanes. After screening the titles, abstracts, and secondary headings, 123 articles were selected for narrative synthesis. It systematically elaborates on the types, functions, sources, and distribution characteristics within plants of hydrocarbon-degrading endophytic bacteria. It comprehensively summarizes the key molecular pathways involved in the bacterial degradation of alkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Furthermore, from four dimensions—PHC metabolism modes, plant growth promotion (PGP), production of biosurfactants (PBS), and horizontal gene transfer—this article innovatively analyzes the mechanisms underlying the synergistic remediation of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated soil through functional bacterium–plant interactions. Finally, the review outlines future research directions in the field, providing a theoretical foundation and practical pathways for advancing green remediation strategies for PHC-polluted soil. Full article

This study investigated the bioaccumulation patterns of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the liver and muscle tissues of wild boars (n = 39) and domestic pigs (n = 38) from Northern Italy. This research addressed a critical gap in our understanding of how different ecologies and diets influence the uptake of persistent organic contaminants in two closely related species, one domestic and one wild. Significant differences in contaminant profiles were observed, largely attributable to distinct exposure routes and feeding behaviors. Wild boars displayed different quantities and families of environmental contaminants, with higher PCB levels in muscle and PFASs in liver. Conversely, domestic pigs exhibited markedly higher PAH concentrations, primarily linked to contaminated feed in controlled agricultural settings. The liver consistently demonstrated a central role in toxicant retention across both species. Notably, concentrations of several regulated PFAS compounds in both wild and farmed animals exceeded EU maximum levels (sum of PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, and PFHxS: 1.3 µg/kg), raising significant food safety concerns. These findings underscore the critical need for continuous environmental biomonitoring, stricter control of contaminant sources in agriculture, and updated risk assessments for both wild and domestic meat products to protect animal welfare and human health. Full article

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) derivatives, specifically azaarenes and nitrated and oxygenated PAHs, are emerging contaminants of concern due to their increased toxicity and persistence compared to the parent PAHs. Despite their toxicity, their simultaneous analysis in complex matrices, such as in fumes emitted from bituminous mixtures, remains challenging due to limitations of conventional analytical techniques. To address this, an advanced methodology was developed using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS Orbitrap Eclipse) equipped with an APCI source for the simultaneous identification and quantification of 14 PAH derivatives. Chromatographic and ionization parameters were optimized to ensure maximum sensitivity and selectivity. Following ICH Q2(R2) guidelines, the method was validated, demonstrating excellent linearity (R² > 0.99), high mass accuracy (≤5 ppm), strong precision (<15%), and excellent sensitivity. Limits of detection (LODs) ranged from 0.1 µg L⁻¹ to 0.6 µg L⁻¹ and limits of quantification (LOQs) ranged from 0.26 µg L⁻¹ to 1.87 µg L⁻¹. The validated method was successfully applied to emissions from asphalt pavement materials collected on quartz filters under controlled conditions, enabling the identification and quantification of all 14 targeted compounds. These results confirm the method’s robustness and suitability for trace-level analysis of PAH derivatives in complex environmental matrices. Full article

This paper constitutes a preliminary study that evaluates the organic pollutants desorbed from “fresh” plastic litter, i.e., recently stranded items, on three beaches in Cadiz (SW Spain): Bajo de Guia, La Jara, and La Puntilla. Beach litter items were collected and classified in laboratory according to their composition and use. Leachates were obtained by stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) and analysed with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Fifty-five target organic compounds—including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pesticides, fragrances, insect repellents, and UV filters—were quantified. Plastics accounted for the majority of litter by both number and weight. Cigarette butts and wipes were also prevalent and served as key sources of leachable PAHs. With respect to the main pollutants found in plastic films, hard plastics, and wipes, fragrances such as OTNE1 (1-Tetramethyl Acetyloctahydronaphthalene), OTNE2 (2-Tetramethyl Acetyloctahydronaphthalene), DEET (N, N-Diethyl-Meta-Toluamide), galaxolide, and tonalide were dominant, with concentrations exceeding 100 ng/g in some cases. DEET was the most common insect repellent detected. These findings underscore the role of beach litter, especially plastic waste, as a vector for persistent and emerging organic pollutants, highlighting the urgent need for improved waste management and monitoring practices to mitigate ecological risks associated with plastic pollution. Full article

This study investigates the presence, origin, and associated ecological and human health risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soils from uncultivated lands and beach sediments within the Yellow River Delta (YRD), China. The measured concentrations of 16 priority PAHs in soils spanned 24.97–326.42 ng/g (mean: 130.88 ng/g), while concentrations in sediments ranged from 46.17 to 794.32 ng/g, averaging 227.22 ng/g. In terms of composition, low-molecular-weight PAHs predominated in soil samples, whereas high-molecular-weight compounds were more prevalent in sediments. The positive matrix factorization (PMF) model results suggested that petroleum pollution and fuel combustion were the main sources of PAHs in soils, whereas the contribution in sediments was derived from petroleum and traffic pollution. The ecological risk assessment results indicated that there existed no obvious ecological risk of soil PAHs, but sediment PAHs could negatively impact the surrounding ecological environment, especially in the northern coastal beach area. In addition, soil PAHs posed no potential carcinogenic risk to humans. Further pollution prevention and management measures are required in this region to ensure the safety of the environment. Full article

In the context of increasing concern over long-term environmental impacts of closed landfill sites, this study investigates the composition of groundwater and leachate at a municipal waste landfill in southwestern Poland, two decades after its closure. The research, conducted in 2023, aimed to assess groundwater quality using 11 physico-chemical and 13 microplastic indicators. Groundwater and leachate samples were collected seasonally to assess of groundwater quality around landfill, including presence of heavy metals (Cd, Cr⁶⁺, Cu, Pb), PAHs and TOC, and microplastics. The results revealed persistent environmental degradation, with elevated concentrations of total organic carbon (24.8 mg/L) and cadmium (0.0211 mg/L), particularly in the second half of the year. Additionally, PET microplastics were detected in correlation with increased precipitation and leachate generation. These findings indicate that pollutants continue to migrate from the waste deposit into the surrounding groundwater, with seasonal patterns amplifying their presence. The study confirms that even decades after closure, municipal landfills can remain significant sources of both chemical and microplastic contamination, underlining the need for long-term monitoring and remediation strategies to protect groundwater resources. Full article

Urban river ecosystems are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities, with wastewater discharge being a significant contributor. The complex nature and diverse sources of wastewater pose challenges in assessing its impact on water quality and ecological health. This study investigated the distribution, toxicity, and ecological effects of organic pollutants in an urban river system during the dry season. A comprehensive analysis was conducted of 16 phthalate esters (PAEs), 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and 8 antibiotics, with a focus on several key pollutants. The results revealed distinct pollutant profiles: Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), Dimethyl phthalate (DEHP), and Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) were the predominant PAEs, while Chrysene was the most abundant PAH. Among antibiotics, Oxytetracycline and Norfloxacin were the dominant compounds. Wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents significantly altered the composition of organic pollutants in receiving waters. Although dilution reduced the concentrations of some pollutants, certain organic compounds were detected for the first time downstream of the WWTP, and some specific compounds exhibited increased concentrations. Toxicity prediction using the Concentration Addition (CA) model identified DBP as the primary contributor to overall toxicity, accounting for the highest toxic load among all detected pollutants. Furthermore, WWTP effluents induced significant shifts in microbial community structure downstream, with incomplete recovery to upstream conditions. Integrated analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequencing, water quality assessment, and toxicity prediction elucidated the multifaceted impacts of pollution sources on aquatic ecosystems. This study provides critical insights into the composition, spatial distribution, and toxicity characteristics of organic pollutants in urban rivers, as well as their effects on bacterial community structure. The findings offer a scientific foundation for urban river water quality management and ecological protection strategies. Full article

In response to the growing demand for sustainable protein sources, this study explores the valorization of sunflower meal—a by-product of oil extraction—as a protein-rich ingredient suitable for human nutrition. The aim was to optimize the extraction process and assess the nutritional and safety profile of the resulting protein flour. Mechanical stirring, ultrasound-assisted, and CO₂-assisted extraction methods were evaluated, with mechanical stirring selected for optimization due to its scalability and energy efficiency. A Taguchi L9 orthogonal array was employed to evaluate the effects of pH, temperature, and sample mass on protein content. A first-order regression model was developed and validated (R² = 0.86, p < 0.05), identifying optimal conditions at pH 10.0, 30 °C, and 60 g per 500 mL of distilled water. Under these conditions, protein content reached 49.87%. The extracted protein flour exhibited improved nutritional quality with high protein content, moderate solubility (53.4%), and favorable amino acid composition—particularly rich in glutamic acid, aspartic acid, and arginine. Safety analyses confirmed the absence of detectable aflatoxins and very low PAH levels. These results support the use of sunflower protein concentrate as a sustainable, nutritionally valuable, and safe ingredient for functional food applications. Further studies are recommended to improve functional properties and assess sensory acceptance. Full article

This study investigates the nutritional and chemical profile of cricket (Acheta domesticus) flour, evaluating its potential as a sustainable and highly nutritious food source. Cricket flour, with a protein content of approximately 60%, offers a significantly higher nutritional value compared to many traditional food sources. It is particularly rich in essential amino acids, making it a valuable and sustainable protein alternative. Additionally, the flour is rich in minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, and zinc. The administration of 100 g of cricket flour would exceed the recommended daily intake for adults for most nutrients, making its incorporation into more traditional foods such as bread and pasta at low percentages feasible, easily compensating for any imbalances and increasing their nutritional values. We found that an addition of a mere 10% of cricket flour to produce an experimental pasta fulfilled half of the recommended daily intake values for protein, lipids, and minerals. Chemical analyses of the pure cricket flour revealed only trace amounts of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and linear alkanes, with concentrations well below safety thresholds established for other food categories, indicating that cricket flour is safe for human consumption. The study’s findings confirm that cricket flour is a promising sustainable protein source, and its integration into classic foods could safely contribute to alleviating iron and copper deficiencies as well as malnutrition. Full article