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Abstract Insufficient dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration is recognized as one of the major factors limiting efficient nitrogen removal in constructed wetlands (CWs). This study investigated four biochar-based vertical subsurface flow constructed wetlands (VSFCWs) (system I: intermittent aeration without biochar addition; system II: intermittent aeration with biochar addition; system III: tidal flow without biochar addition; system IV: tidal flow with biochar addition) to compare the effect of oxygen supply strategies on the performance and mechanism of nitrogen removal. The results showed that NH 4 + N removal efficiencies were 85.83%, 87.88%, 96.19%, and 98.30% for systems I–IV respectively. The abundance of microbes involved in nitrogen transformation also increased in all VSFCWs, particularly in the tidal flow mode with biochar addition. The higher oxygen utilization rate and higher surface area provided by biochar could significantly improve microbial abundance and then enhance nitrogen removal. Most notably, the rate of nitritation (2.92, 3.82, 3.14 and 4.27 mg N L−1 h−1) was higher than that of nitration (0.51, 0.66, 0.83 and 0.89 mg N L−1 h−1) in systems I–IV, respectively, and the percentages of NO 2 −-N denitrified via simultaneous nitrification denitrification (SND) in systems I–IV were 58.20%, 55.10%, 50.89% and 51.89%, respectively. Therefore, in addition to conventional nitrification denitrification, partial nitrification and SND via NO 2 −-N were also the significant nitrogen transformation pathways in the four VSFCWs at high DO concentrations (2.43–6.84 mg L−1). These results demonstrated that the tidal flow biochar-based VSFCWs performed well in nitrogen removal due to efficient oxygen supplementation and enhanced microbial community abundance. Highlights • Intermittent aeration and tidal flow strategies markedly improved DO concentration. • The tidal flow biochar-based VSFCW removed nitrogen most effectively. • Partial nitrification and SND via nitrite were main nitrogen removal pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The landfilling of paper mill sludge (PMS) has been restricted or even banned in many countries due to the raised concern about greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and contamination of the soil and water, calling for a sustainable PMS management approach. The potential valorization of PMS to nanomaterials combined with traditional biorefinery was examined in this work. Three types of PMS-derived cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) were prepared and evaluated: enzymatically assisted CNF (AU: with in-house produced enzyme and CT: with commercial enzyme), mechanically pretreated CNF (BT), and chemically pretreated CNF by TEMPO oxidation (TEMPO). It was found that enzyme-assisted mechanical fibrillation-derived CNFs had a comparable average diameter (27.9 nm for AU and 22.7 nm for CT) with that produced from mechanical pretreatment (26.5 nm for BT) and TEMPO oxidation pretreatment (20.0 nm for TEMPO), and they showed the best drainage properties among the three types of CNF. The CNFs resulting from enzymatic pretreatment reduced 15% of energy consumption compared to the mechanical method and had better thermostability than TEMPO oxidation method. In addition, the on-site produced enzyme showed similar performance to the commercial enzymes towards the CNF properties. These findings provide new insights into a promising integrated strategy in engineering CNF from PMS with on-site enzyme production as a novel and sustainable approach for PMS management and valorization. [Display omitted] • A novel and integrated biorefinery strategy was developed for enzyme hydrolysis-assisted CNF fabrication. • The in-house enzyme was comparable to the commercial enzyme in CNF preparation. • The CNF prepared by enzyme was compared with that using mechanical and chemical pretreatment. • The enzyme-hydrolysis-assisted CNF had the best drainage property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cumulating epidemiological studies demonstrated that environmental exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during the early stages of fetal development is associated with the increase in disease susceptibility in later life. The fetal developmental plasticity is considered as a protective mechanism against an undesirable prenatal environment. Dioxin is one of the environmental contaminants and is considered a diabetogenic factor. Experimental animal and human epidemiological studies have revealed that dioxin exposure was associated with insulin resistance and altered beta cell function. But the effect of dioxin exposure in early stage of fetal development is still largely unknown. In this report, we used the human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line, VAL-3, as a model, together with Methyl-CpG Binding Domain (MBD) protein-enriched genome sequencing and transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq), in order to determine the dynamic changes of the epigenetic landscape and transcriptional dysregulation in hESC upon dioxin exposure. The bioinformatics analyses including the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) analysis and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) highlighted the predisposed neural, hepatic, cardiac and metabolic toxicological effects of dioxin during the fetal development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater remediation is a complicated system with time-consuming and costly challenges, which should be carefully controlled by appropriate groundwater management. This study develops an integrated optimization method for groundwater remediation management regarding cost, contamination distribution and health risk under multiple uncertainties. The integration of health risk into groundwater remediation optimization management is capable of not only adequately considering the influence of health risk on optimal remediation strategies, but also simultaneously completing remediation optimization design and risk assessment. A fuzzy chance-constrained programming approach is presented to handle multiple uncertain properties in the process of health risk assessment. The capabilities and effectiveness of the developed method are illustrated through an application of a naphthalene contaminated case in Anhui, China. Results indicate that (a) the pump-and-treat remediation system leads to a low naphthalene contamination but high remediation cost for a short-time remediation, and natural attenuation significantly affects naphthalene removal from groundwater for a long-time remediation; (b) the weighting coefficients have significant influences on the remediation cost and the performances both for naphthalene concentrations and health risks; (c) an increased level of slope factor ( sf ) for naphthalene corresponds to more optimal strategies characterized by higher environmental benefits and lower economic sacrifice. The developed method could be simultaneously beneficial for public health and environmental protection. Decision makers could obtain the most appropriate remediation strategies according to their specific requirements with high flexibility of economic, environmental, and risk concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, well-defined magnetic and thermal dual-responsive nanomaterials were synthesized, which contained ultrafine core-shell Fe@SiO 2 nanoparticles as magnetic core and poly( N -isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) as thermosensitive outer shell. The fabricated nanoparticles were characterized and investigated for the adsorption of four phenolic compounds, including bisphenol A (BPA), tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), 4- tert -octylphenol (4-OP) and 4- n -nonylphenol (4-NP). The experimental results demonstrated that the excellent adsorption rates were attributed to hydrophobic effect, hydrogen-bonding interaction, and electrostatic attraction. The adsorption process followed pseudo-second-order kinetics model and nonlinear isotherms, indicating heterogeneous adsorption process. The adsorption efficiency of 4-NP using Fe@SiO 2 @PNIPAM was more than 90% under optimized condition within 2 h. The determined maximum adsorption amounts of BPA, TBBPA, 4-OP and 4-NP were 2.43, 6.83, 24.75, and 49.34 mg g −1 , respectively. Meanwhile, a magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) method with Fe@SiO 2 @PNIPAM was established to determine these four compounds simultaneously. Under the optimal conditions, the linearity ranges were in the range of 2–200, 2–300, 2–100 and 2–100 μg L −1 for BPA, 4-OP, TBBPA, and 4-NP, respectively, and the detection limits were in the range of 0.58–0.76 μg L −1 , respectively. The applicability of the proposed method was evaluated by analyzing three fresh water samples, and satisfactory spiked recoveries in the range 70.9–119.9% were achieved. It was proved that these adsorbents could be easily collected and recycled owing to the appropriate magnetism. The results also demonstrated that the as-prepared adsorbents had promising potential in the enrichment and analysis of detrimental organic pollutants from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemistry coupled with granulated activated carbon catalysis of peroxymonosulfate (electro/GAC/PMS) as a novel wastewater treatment process was performed for the degradation of Acid Orange 7 (AO7) in aqueous solution. The decolorization of AO7 was compared under different permutations and combinations of electro-oxidation, GAC and PMS. It showed that the electro/GAC/PMS process was the most effective and the decolorization of AO7 followed pseudo-first order kinetics. The surface chemistry of GAC samples was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Compared with the fresh samples, π-electron density and hydroxyl group content decreased under the GAC/PMS system, but kept the similar values under the electro/GAC/PMS system. Electron paramagnetic resonance and radical scavenger studies were used to verify the formation of sulfate radicals (SO 4 − ) and hydroxyl radicals ( OH). The optimized conditions were found to be: current density 8 mA cm −2 ; PMS concentration 5 mM; GAC dosage 0.5 g L −1 ; and initial pH value 5.0. GAC recycling experiments over 4 runs showed some decrease in reactivity. Overall, the results indicate that 100% color removal was readily achieved and 50.4% of TOC was removed which shows high efficiency of the electro/GAC/PMS process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale irrigation projects have impacted the regional surface-groundwater interactions in the North China Plain (NCP). Given this concern, the aim of this study is to evaluate levels of PAH pollution, identify the sources of the PAHs, analyze the influence of surface–groundwater interactions on PAH distribution, and propose urgent management strategies for PAHs in China’s agricultural areas. PAH concentrations, hydrochemical indicators and stable isotopic compositions ( δ 18 O and δ 2 H) were determined for surface water (SW) and groundwater (GW) samples. PAHs concentrations in surface water and groundwater varied from 11.84 to 393.12 ng/L and 8.51–402.84 ng/L, respectively, indicating mild pollution. The seasonal variations showed the following trend: PAHs in surface water at the low-water phase > PAHs in groundwater at the low-water phase > PAHs in surface water at the high-water phase > PAHs in groundwater at the high-water phase. Hydrochemical and δ 18 O value of most groundwater samples distributed between the Yellow River and seawater. The mean value of mixture ratio of the Yellow River water recharge to the groundwater was 65%, few anomalous sites can reach to 90%. Surface–groundwater interactions influence the spatial distribution of PAHs in the study area. In light of the ongoing serious pollution, management practices for source control, improved control technologies, and the construction of a monitoring network to warn of increased risk are urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic minerals are important compositions in biochars, but their roles in biochar functions are investigated limitedly, which restricted our understanding on biochar applications. This study applied different biomasses to produce biochars. Their properties as well as sorption to bisphenol A (BPA) were studied, with a major focus on the role of inorganic compositions. Oxalates, carbonates, as well as KCl crystals were observed in the produced biochars depending on the feedstocks and temperatures. Oxalates and KCl formed at relatively low temperature (200–300 °C), while carbonates generally formed at pyrolysis temperature above 400 °C. The separated insoluble crystal particles and the dissolved salts have limited contribution to the apparent BPA sorption, but ash content removal altered BPA sorption. The potential impact of inorganic composition to BPA sorption should be resulted from biochar properties. Based on biochar characterization and sorption comparison before and after ash removal, we proposed that the formation of inorganic mineral compositions in biochar particles may have blocked the inner pores, which limited the significance of these sorption sites. As a result, the interactions of BPA and biochars were mostly determined by biochar surface functional groups. The acid treatment removed most of the inorganic compositions, and exposed more sorption sites, which consequently increased BPA sorption. Biochar sorption capacity may be further increased if the accessibility of the inner pores could be enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landfill leachate (LL) is harmful to aquatic environment because it contains high concentrations of dissolved organic matter, inorganic components, heavy metals, and other xenobiotics. Thus, the remediation of LL is crucial for environmental conservation. Here, a potential application of the forward osmosis (FO) filtration process with ammonium bicarbonate (NH 4 HCO 3 ) as a draw solution (DS) was investigated to remediate membrane bioreactor-treated LL (M-LL). After the leachate treatment, the toxicity and removal efficiencies of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were evaluated using zebrafish and cultured human cells. The water recovery rate was improved using the current protocol up to 86.6% and 91.6% by both the pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) mode and the forward osmosis (FO) mode. Water flux increased with the increasing DS concentrations, but solution velocities decreased with the operation time. Toxicity tests revealed that the M-LL treated by NH 4 HCO 3 had no toxic effect on zebrafish and human cells. Moreover, green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression in the transgenic zebrafish Tg(cyp1a:gfp) induced by PAHs was very weak compared to the effects induced by untreated M-LL. Since the diluted DS met local safety requirements of liquid fertilizer, it could be directly applied as the liquid fertilizer for fertigation. In conclusion, this novel FO system using NH 4 HCO 3 as the DS provides a cheap and efficient protocol to effectively remove PAHs and other pollutants in LL, and the diluted DS can be directly applied to crops as a liquid fertilizer, indicating that this technique is effective and eco-friendly for the treatment of different types of LL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal doped WO 3 mixed oxides (named as W-M-O, M = Nb, Fe, Cr, Cu, Ti or Sn, respectively) with high structure stability were synthesized by modified sol-gel method using citric acid as organic crosslinking agent, and were evaluated for catalytic elimination of low-concentration toluene, monochlorobenzene and 1,2-dichloroethance with high toxicity and relatively stable molecule structure, as the typical examples for the pollutants of various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Results of the structure-property-performance relationship research showed that mesoporous structure and nanocrystalline/amorphous state were formed, and binary metal components were dispersed into each other, which contributed to promoting the metal/metal electron interaction and adjusting the physicochemical properties of mixed metal oxides. The sequence of apparent catalytic activity for toluene degradation was: W–Nb–O＞W–Fe–O＞W–Cr–O, W–Cu–O＞W–Ti–O＞W–Sn–O＞WO 3 , and the sequence for monochlorobenzene degradation was: W–Nb–O＞W–Fe–O＞W–Cr–O, W–Ti–O＞W–Cu–O＞W–Sn–O＞WO 3. There existed cooperative catalytic effect: mesopore and surface acid sites of catalysts facilitated adsorption, activation and breakage of the C-X bond, and then redox sites of catalysts promoted deep oxidation of a series of reaction intermediates to transform into CO 2 and H 2 O. Especially, the optimized W–Nb–O catalyst deserved more attention, since it represented remarkable catalytic activity, selectivity and durability for three typical VOCs degradation along with good resistance to water vapor and corrosion of HCl. [Display omitted] • WO 3 based transition metal mixed oxides were prepared by modified sol-gel method. • Interaction between WO 3 and MO x affected the properties of mixed oxides. • WO 3 –Nb 2 O 5 displayed the best catalytic performance for VOCs elimination. • Cooperative catalytic effect was observed in WO 3 –Nb 2 O 5 catalyst system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During prenatal and postnatal development, exposure to environmental chemicals with estrogenic activity, such as bisphenol AF (BPAF), may result in reproductive disorders. Currently, the mechanisms behind such disorders in male offspring induced by gestational and lactational exposure to BPAF remain poorly understood. Here, female rats from gestational day (GD) 3–19 were exposed to 100 mg BPAF/kg/day by oral gavage. On the day of birth (postnatal day (PD) 0), cross-fostering took place between treated and control litters, and cross-fostered mother rats were given BPAF 100 mg/kg/day during the postnatal period (PD 3 to PD 19). HPLC-MS/MS analysis showed that BPAF was transferred via cord blood and lactation, finally bio-accumulating in the offspring testes. Pups exposed to BPAF both prenatally and postnatally showed a significant increase in testis testosterone levels compared with that of the control, while all pups exposed to BPAF showed a significant decrease in testis inhibin B (INHB) levels. Compared with the control, RNA-seq revealed that 279 genes were significantly differentially expressed in the testes of pups exposed to BPAF both prenatally and postnatally, including genes involved in cell differentiation and meiosis. These results indicate that gestational and lactational exposure to BPAF in the mother can impair reproductive function in male offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a hepato-toxicant and potential non-genotoxic carcinogen, was widely used in industrial and commercial products. Recent studies have revealed the ubiquitous occurrence of PFOS in the environment and in humans worldwide. The widespread contamination of PFOS in human serum raised concerns about its long-term toxic effects and its potential risks to human health. Using fatty liver mutant foie gras ( fgr −/− )/transport protein particle complex 11 (trappc11 −/− ) and PFOS-exposed wild-type zebrafish embryos as the study model, together with RNA sequencing and comparative transcriptomic analysis, we identified 499 and 1414 differential expressed genes (DEGs) in PFOS-exposed wild-type and trappc11 mutant zebrafish, respectively. Also, the gene ontology analysis on common deregulated genes was found to be associated with different metabolic processes such as the carbohydrate metabolic process, glycerol ether metabolic process, mannose biosynthetic process, de novo’ (Guanosine diphosphate) GDP- l -fucose biosynthetic process, GDP-mannose metabolic process and galactose metabolic process. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis further highlighted that these deregulated gene clusters are closely related to hepatitis, inflammation, fibrosis and cirrhosis of liver cells, suggesting that PFOS can cause liver pathogenesis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in zebrafish. The transcriptomic alterations revealed may serve as biomarkers for the hepatotoxic effect of PFOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transport of nanoscale zerovalent iron (NZVI) particles colloidally stabilized with 70,000 Da carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), through sands with mean grain diameters of 180, 340 and 1140 μm (referred to as fine, intermediate and coarse-sized sand, respectively) was investigated in a 70-cm long, two-dimensional tank. The effect of NZVI concentrations (1 and 3 g-Fe L −1 ) and CMC concentrations (1 and 2 g L −1 ) and injection velocities (0.96 and 0.40 cm min −1 ) on particle transport were also evaluated with the intermediate sand. The overall NZVI mass fractions eluted from the tank were 36%, 25% and 16% in the coarse, intermediate and fine sands, respectively, when injected with 1 g L −1 NZVI stabilized in 1 g L −1 CMC. However, the mass fraction eluted reduced to 2.33% when the injection velocity was reduced from 0.96 to 0.40 cm min −1 in the intermediate-sized sand. Maximum transport efficiency (38% NZVI mass eluted) in the intermediate-sized sand was achieved with 3 g L −1 NZVI suspended in 2 g L −1 CMC at an injection velocity of 0.96 cm min −1 . The transport efficiency was substantially decreased (11% NZVI mass eluted) when 3 g L −1 NZVI was stabilized with only 1 g L −1 CMC. The NZVI mean particle diameters in the porewaters remained unchanged at different locations in the tank suggesting that straining or gravity settling did not influence NZVI deposition. After NZVI injection, the hydraulic conductivity in the tank reduced by 80%–96%, depending on the CMC concentration and injection velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct injection of nanoscale zerovalent iron (NZVI) particles is being considered for remediation of contaminated sites. However, the transport characteristics of NZVI under horizontal flow conditions are not fully understood. In this study, NZVI particles were stabilized with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and injected in vertical and horizontal columns to compare the effects of the flow direction on the transport. Columns were packed with sand of mean grain diameters of 180, 340 or 1140 µm (referred to as fine, intermediate and coarse sand, respectively), and were injected with CMC-NZVI suspensions of 0.3, 1 or 3 g Fe L −1 . Experimental breakthrough curves showed that with the coarse and intermediate sands, the steady-state effluent concentration in the horizontal column were up to 84% lower than those in the vertical column regardless of the initial NZVI concentration. However, in the fine sand the differences were insignificant, except at the highest NZVI particle concentration. Additionally, in the horizontally-oriented columns containing the coarse or intermediated sand, NZVI aggregates particles were non-uniformly distributed in the cross-section of the columns and there higher deposition in the bottom-half of the cross-section due to gravity effects. These deposition patterns can be accounted for, in part, by the gravitational settling of the large aggregates of NZVI, especially at high NZVI concentrations. A particle trajectory analysis in three dimensions demonstrated that under horizontal flow, gravity forces resulted in lower deposition of NZVI on the bottom-half of a single collector, as particles approaching the bottom-half of the collector were deflected by gravity to collectors below. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Permanganate (Mn (VII)) is an environmentally-friendly mild oxidant in the field of advanced oxidation treatment, however, manganese colloids are produced as byproducts, which is difficult to separate from water, resulting in secondary pollution. This study used potassium methyl silicates (PMS) as surface modifiers to improve the aggregation of colloidal particles by increasing the hydrophobicity of the colloidal surface, and then explored the oxidation of bisphenol A (BPA) by Mn (VII) under the influence of potassium methyl silicate and the solid-liquid separation performance of the reaction system. The results showed that PMS and sodium silicate (SS) substantially enhanced the degradation of BPA by Mn (VII), and the promotion effect of potassium methyl silicate was greater than that of sodium silicate. PMS provided not only enough adsorption sites for MnO 2 colloidal particles formed in the reaction process, but also reaction space for Mn (VII) to catalyze the oxidation of BPA. PMS combined with the hydroxyl group of MnO 2 through hydrogen bonds and forms hydrophobic PMS-MnO 2 complexes which accelerated sedimentation by polycondensation. The strong adsorption ability of in situ formed MnO 2 colloids also accelerated the deposition of PMS-MnO 2 complex. This study solved the low efficiency problem of Mn (VII) oxidation degradation of organic pollutants and difficult separation of manganese containing colloids and provided a new strategy for the efficient utilization of Mn (VII). [Display omitted] • PMS significantly improved the degradation efficiency of bisphenol A by Mn (VII). • PMS combines with the –OH group of in-situ MnO 2 by H-bond to form PMS-MnO 2 complex. • Hydrophobic PMS-MnO 2 complex accelerates sedimentation by polycondensation of PMS. • In-situ MnO 2 with strong adsorption accelerates the deposition of PMS-MnO 2 complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of alkylphenols to environment cannot be ignored, as they are common product from chemical industries and potential threat to human health. Some alkylphenols are listed as persistent toxic substances (PTS) by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). In this study, the optimized magnetic reduced graphene oxide (MrGO) was synthesized by a facile solvothermal method, and investigated for adsorption of three typical alkylphenols. In neutral condition, MrGO showed extremely high adsorption capacity of three typical alkylphenols, 4-heptylphenol (4-HP), 4- tert -octylphenol (4-OP), and 4-nonylphenol (4-NP), which could reach 938.9 mg g−1 (40 °C), 987.8 mg g−1 (40 °C), and 989.7 mg g−1 (20 °C), respectively. This study revealed that the adsorption process was a heterogeneous multi-layer physical adsorption, and the adsorption rates were related to the number of unoccupied vacancies on the adsorbent surface. From batch experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the main adsorption interactions between MrGO and alkylphenols were deduced to be π–π, hydrogen-bond, and hydrophobic interactions. What's more, the different affinities of MrGO towards different targets were further distinguished and explained in detail. The wonderful stability and recyclability of MrGO made it a promising cost-effective remediation candidate. • Magnetic reduced graphene oxide exhibits excellent adsorption for target phenols. • Adsorption follows pseudo-second-order kinetics and Freundlich adsorption isotherm. • The strong adsorption was due to hydrogen-bond, π-π interaction and hydrophobicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this critical review was to provide a comprehensive summary of paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) producing species and knowledge gaps in detecting PSTs in drinking water resources, with a focus on recent development of PSTs monitoring methods and tools for drinking water monitoring. PSTs, which are also called Saxitoxins (STXs), are a group of neurotoxins not only produced by marine dinoflagellates but also freshwater cyanobacteria. The presence of PSTs in freshwater has been reported from all continents except Antarctica. PSTs in poisoned sea food such as shellfish, molluscs and crustaceans may attack the nerve system after consumption. The high incidences of PSTs occurring in drinking water sources showed another route of potential human exposure. A development of simple and fast screening tools for drinking water surveillance of PSTs is needed. Neurotoxins produced by freshwater cyanobacteria are understudied relative to microcystin and little study is done around PSTs in drinking water monitoring. Some fast screening methods exist. The critical issues for using them in water surveillance, particularly matrix effect and cross-reactivity are summarized, and future research directions are high-lighted. We conclude that monitoring routines at drinking water resources should start from species level, followed by a profound screening of toxin profile. For practical monitoring routine, fast screening methods should be combined with highly sensitive and accurate analytical methods such as liquid chromatography/liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/LC-MS). A thorough understanding of toxin profile in source water is necessary for screening tool selection. • The risk of finding PSPs in drinking water resources is elaborated. • Recent developments of PSTs monitoring methods and tools are presented. • A gap between detection level and regulation level in paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins (PSPs) in practice was discovered. • A multistep monitoring system for practical application for PSPs monitoring in drinking water treatment plants was suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a persistent environmental pollutant, has been associated with decreased birth weight. The dysregulation of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H1 9 has been implicated in pregnancy complications such as intra-uterine growth retardation (IUGR), preeclampsia (PE), however, the expression and function of H19 in PFOS-exerted detrimental effects in the placenta remains to be unveiled. Here, we explored the role of H19 in PFOS-induced placental toxicity. Results showed that PFOS caused decreased cell growth in human HTR-8/SVneo cells. Expression of H19 was increased, while miR-19a and miR-19b expression were decreased in mice placenta tissues and in HTR-8/SVneo cells exposed to PFOS. A significant hypomethylation was observed at the H19 promoter in the placentas of mice that were gestational exposed to high dose of PFOS. H19 was confirmed to bind with miR-19a and miR-19b, targeting SMAD4. Furthermore, H19 appeared to partially improve the cell growth of HTR-8/SVneo cells exposed to PFOS via upregulation of miR-19a and miR-19b. In summary, our findings revealed that H1 9/miR-19a and miR-19b/SMAD4 axis exerted important functions in PFOS-induced placenta cell toxicity. Image 1 • PFOS exposure suppresses cell growth in human HTR-8/SVneo cells. • PFOS enhances expression of H19 in placenta of mice and HTR-8/SVneo cells. • PFOS reduced miR-19a and miR-19b expression in placenta of mice and HTR-8/SVneo cells. • Suppression of H19 partially attenuates PFOS-induced cell growth inhibition in HTR8/SVneo cells. • Upregulation of miR-19a and miR-19b partially attenuates PFOS-induced cell growth inhibition in HTR8/SVneo cells. • H19 regulates SMAD4 expression by competitively sponging miR-19a and miR-19b exposed to PFOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Granular activated carbon (GAC) was used as catalyst for the activation of peroxydisulfate (PDS) to decolorize and degrade Acid Orange 7 (AO7) in water. EPR spectra and radical quencher experiments were employed to identify the active species for AO7 oxidation in the PDS/GAC system. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and chronoamperometry test were carried out to identify the contribution of nonradical mechanism for AO7 decay. The investigation of crucial operational parameters on the decolorization indicated 100 mg/L AO7 can be almost totally decolorized in a broad range of pH. Common inorganic anions adversely affect the AO7 decolorization process and the inhibition was in the order of: HCO 3 − > H 2 PO 4 − > SO 4 2− > Cl− > NO 3 −. UV–vis spectra showed the destruction of the aromatic moiety of AO7 molecule during the oxidation reaction of the PDS/GAC system. The transformation of nitrogen related to the azo bond in AO7 molecule in this system was observed by monitoring the released N-containing inorganic ions. Recycle experiments showed GAC cannot be reused directly but its catalytic ability can be restored by using electrochemical method. Image 1 • Granular activated carbon (GAC) was an excellent activator of PDS. • AO7 was mainly decolorized by the reactive radicals produced via surface reaction. • Electron transfer from AO7 to PDS mediated by GAC also involved in AO7 removal. • The reusability of GAC can be significantly improved by electrochemical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existence of β-naphthoxyacetic acid (BNOA) pesticide in water system has aroused serious environmental problem because of its potential toxicity for humans and organisms. Therefore, exploiting an efficient method without secondary pollution is extremely urgent. Herein, a promising Ti/PbO 2 –Co-Pr composite electrode has been successfully fabricated through simple one-step electrodeposition for efficiently electrocatalytic degradation of BNOA. Compared with Ti/PbO 2 , Ti/PbO 2 –Co and Ti/PbO 2 -Pr electrodes, Ti/PbO 2 –Co-Pr electrode with smaller pyramidal particles possesses higher oxygen evolution potential, excellent electrochemical stability and outstanding electrocatalytic activity. The optimal degradation condition is assessed by major parameters including temperature, initial pH, current density and Na 2 SO 4 concentration. The degradation efficiency and chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency of BNOA reach up to 94.6% and 84.6%, respectively, under optimal condition (temperature 35 °C, initial pH 5, current density 12 mA cm−2, Na 2 SO 4 concentration 8.0 g L−1 and electrolysis time 3 h). Furthermore, Ti/PbO 2 –Co-Pr electrode presents economic energy consumption and superior repeatability. Finally, the possible degradation mechanism of BNOA is put forward according to the main intermediate products identified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer. The present research paves a new path to degrade BNOA pesticide wastewater with Ti/PbO 2 –Co-Pr electrode. Image 1 • Compact pyramidal structure Ti/PbO 2 –Co-Pr anode is fabricated by electrodeposition. • Co/Pr-modified Ti/PbO 2 anode displays superb stability and catalytic activity. • Ti/PbO 2 –Co-Pr anode shows high efficiency for β-naphthoxyacetic acid degradation. • Electrochemical degradation mechanism of β-naphthoxyacetic acid is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work studies consolidation of phosphate mine tailings through alkaline activation process with the addition of slag for adjusting the gel structure. As increasing slag contents in the raw materials, more (Na,K) 2 O–CaO–Al 2 O 3 –SiO 2 –H 2 O (C-A-S-H) and (Na,K) 2 O–Al 2 O 3 –SiO 2 –H 2 O (N-A-S-H) gels were formed in the mine tailings-based mortars. Compressive strength of the mortars increased as increasing the slag contents from 0 to 40%, and then it kept a plateau. Evolution in microstructure of these mortars were characterized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements. The study provides fundamentals for the co-disposal of phosphate mine tailings with blast furnace slag through alkaline activation process. • The compressive strength increases until 40% slag and 60% mine tailings. • Slag converts into C-A-S-H gel, while phlogopite forms into N-A-S-H gel. • More gel formation, higher compressive strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([BMIM][PF 6 ])-modified magnetic graphene oxide (MGO-IL) was prepared for the first time, and was used to adsorb and remove arsenic (As(Ⅲ) and As(V)) ions from aqueous solution. MGO-IL was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and magnetization curves. Effects of ionic liquid type, solution pH, initial arsenic concentration and contact time on the adsorption performance of MGO-IL for As(Ⅲ) and As(V) were studied. The experimental results showed that the adsorption equilibrium was achieved within 30 min, with maximum adsorption capacities of 160.65 mg g−1 for As(Ⅲ) and 104.13 mg g−1 for As(V), respectively, and MGO-IL could be rapidly isolated from solution by applying a magnetic field. MGO-IL was reused for 5 times, without marked decrease in its adsorption capacities. Moreover, common coexisting anions did not interfere with the absorption of As(Ⅲ) and As(V). Compared with MGO, the sorption quantities of MGO-IL for As(Ⅲ) and As(V) were greatly enhanced, and the equilibrium time was significantly reduced. Therefore, MGO-IL can potentially serve as an excellent adsorbent for the simultaneous separation and removal of As(Ⅲ) and As(V) from water. Image 1 • MGO-IL was prepared and characterized. • MGO-IL exhibited high adsorption capacities for As(Ⅲ) and As(Ⅴ). • Adsorption of As(Ⅲ) and As(Ⅴ) onto MGO-IL was fast. • MGO-IL showed good anti-interference ability and reusability. • MGO-IL can be used for removal of As(III) and As(Ⅴ) from aqueous solution. Capsule: Ionic liquid-modified magnetic graphene oxide for efficient removal of As(Ⅲ) and As(V) ions from aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol A (BPA), an important environmental pollutant, is known to damage reproductive development. However, the underlying epigenetic mechanism in Leydig cells during BPA exposure has not been explored in detail. In this study, TM3 Leydig cells were treated with BPA (0, 20, 40 and 80 μM) for 72 h. The differentially expressed TET1 cell model was constructed to explore the mechanism of BPA-induced cytotoxicity. Results showed that BPA exposure significantly inhibited cell viability and increased apoptosis of TM3 Leydig cells. Meanwhile, the mRNA of TET1, Cav3.2 and Cav3.3 decreased significantly with the increase of BPA exposure. Importantly, TET1 significantly promoted proliferation of TM3 Leydig cells and inhibited apoptosis. Differentially expressed TET1 significantly affected BPA-induced toxicity in TM3 Leydig cells. Notably, TET1 elevated the mRNA levels of Cav3.2 and Cav3.3. MeDIP and hMeDIP confirmed that TET1 regulated the expression of Cav3.3 through DNA hydroxymethylation. Our study firstly presented that TET1 participated in BPA-induced toxicity in TM3 Leydig cells through regulating Cav3.3 hydroxymethylation modification. These findings suggest that TET1 acts as a potential epigenetic marker for reproductive toxicity induced by BPA exposure and may provide a new direction for the research on male reproductive damage. [Display omitted] • BPA exposure leads to down-regulation of TET1 gene expression in TM3 cells. • Knockdown of TET1 aggravates the cytotoxicity of BPA to TM3 cells. • Knockdown of TET1 inhibits the expression of Cav3.2 and Cav3.3. • TET1 regulates Cav3.3 expression through hydroxymethylation in TM3 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE209) and lead (Pb) are the two common contaminants at e-waste recycling sites (EWRSs). A laboratory incubation study was conducted to explore the impacts of a step and repeated BDE209-Pb exposures on accumulation and metabolism of BDE209 in earthworms Eisenia fetida for the first time. The results indicated that BDE209 concentrations in repetitively-polluted soils were clearly higher. And the existence of high-level Pb could promote the bioaccumulation of BDE209 in earthworms along the exposure time. The post-clitellum contents of BDE209 were more than the pre-clitellum during the entire incubation. Additionally, GC/MS analysis results demonstrated that BDE206, BDE208, BDE153, BDE99, BDE47 and BDE28 could be detected in Eisenia fetida throughout 28-d experiment, and BDE206 and BDE208 were predominant metabolic products. A step exposure decreased the capability to metabolize BDE209 in the presence of Pb. Average bioaccumulation factor (BAF) for a step treatment was 0.525, as well as it was more than 1.1 times that of repeated exposure (BAF = 0.48). SEM observations suggested that a step exposure mode aggravated the damage in earthworms than repeated exposure. The results and related findings will establish a useful scientific basis for soil ecological risk assessment at EWRSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread application of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) has raised concerns over the adverse effects on aquatic species. In this study, transcriptomic analysis was applied to evaluate the chronic toxicity of ZnO NPs on the freshwater invertebrate Daphnia magna and the intergenerational effects were then further investigated. Parent daphnia (F0) were exposed to ZnO NPs at 3, 60, and 300 μg L−1 for 21 days. ZnO NPs significantly inhibited the reproduction (first pregnancy and spawning time, total number of offspring) and growth (molting frequency and body length) of F0. Here, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in lysosomal and phagosome, energy metabolism and endocrine disruption pathways were significantly downregulated. Furthermore, disruption on the transport and catabolic processes probably resulted in the particle accumulation. The inhibited pathways related to energy metabolism may partially account for the body length, molting and reproductive restriction. The suppression of growth and reproduction may attribute to the down-regulation of insulin secretion and ovarian steroidogenesis pathways, respectively. Partial recovery of growth and reproductive inhibition in F1 – F3 descended from the F0 generation exposure did not support constant transgenerational effects. This study unravels the molecular mechanisms and transgenerational consequences of the toxicity of nanoparticles on Daphnia. [Display omitted] • Transgenerational effects and recovery of ZnO NPs in D. magna were Investigated. • ZnO NPs inhibited the growth and reproduction of the F0 generation of D. magna. • Particle uptake, digestive system, and endocrine system may be altered in F0. • Transgenerational effects were not detected in the F3 offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efflorescence transitions of aerosol particles have been intensively investigated due to their critical impacts on global climate and atmospheric chemistry. In the present study, we present a critical review of efflorescence kinetics focusing on three key issues: the efflorescence relative humidity (ERH) and the influence factors for aerosol ERH (e.g. particle sizes, and temperature); efflorescence processes of mixed aerosols, concerning the effect of coexisting inorganic and organic components on the efflorescence of inorganic salts; homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation rates of pure and mixed aerosols. Among the previous studies, there are significant discrepancies for measured aerosol ERH under even the same conditions. Moreover, the interactions between organic and inorganic components remain largely unclear, causing efflorescence transition behaviours and chemical composition evolutions of certain mixed systems to be debatable. Thus, it is important to better understand efflorescence to gain insights into the physicochemical properties and characterize observed efflorescence characteristics of atmospheric particles, as well as guide further studies on aerosol hygroscopicity and reactivity. • The efflorescence kinetics of pure and mixed aerosols is systematically reviewed. • The interactions between organic and inorganic components in aerosols are discussed. • This review will help us understand the liquid-solid phase transition of aerosol particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lacewing, Chrysoperla sinica , is an important predatory insect, which plays an important role in the integrated pest management of agroforestry pests. However, the extensive use of insecticides negatively affects C. sinica. The acute toxicity, risk level, and, sublethal effects on growth and production, predation ability, protective enzyme activity and genotoxicity of four insecticides: indoxacarb, emamectin benzoate, imidacloprid and lambda -cyhalothrin to C. sinica were studied. The results showed that all four insecticides had lethal toxicity to larvae of C. sinica. Among them, emamectin benzoate had the highest toxicity with LC 50 value of 7.41 mg/L. The insecticides also had different effects on the growth and reproduction of C. sinica , of which lambda -cyhalothrin had the greatest impacts. Even at a very low LC 1 concentration (3.37 mg/L), it had strong impacts on the growth, reproduction and predatory ability of C. sinica. The four insecticides also caused a decrease in the predatory ability of the lacewing, of which lambda -cyhalothrin had the greatest effect. During the larval stage, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) were significantly decreased by the four insecticides. At the pupal and adult stages, the effects of the four insecticides on the activities of protective enzymes were different, and the activities of SOD, CAT and POD decreased or increased. Indoxacarb and lambda -cyhalothrin exposure induced DNA damage in the haemocytes of C. sinica and produced obvious genotoxicity. These results provide important scientific basis for the rational use of these insecticides and the protection and utilization of lacewing. Image 1 • Emamectin benzoate has a high acute toxicity on the larvae of lacewing. • Lambda -cyhalothrin has serious sublethal effects on the different stages of lacewing. • Decreased the predatory ability, impacted the activities of protective enzymes and induced DNA damage in lacewing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A novel Ni-TiO 2 nanotube array (Ni-TNTA) bimetallic nanometer electrode was developed. The electrode fabrication method was optimized, and the Ni-TNTA bimetallic nanoelectrode was used to efficiently remove nitrate from groundwater. The Ni-TNTA bimetallic nanoelectrode was prepared via an electrochemical method, chemical bath deposition method and calcining method. When the current density was 30 mA cm−2 after 90 min of electrolysis, the removal rate of nitrate was as high as 93.4%, whereas the removal rate of a TiO 2 nanoelectrode made via the traditional method was only 56.0%. Under the same conditions, the newly developed Ni-TNTA bimetallic nanoelectrode increased the removal rate of nitrate by 66.8%. The results showed that the removal rate of nitrate was the highest when the Ni-TNTA bimetallic nanoelectrode was prepared with a 10 min chemical bath and calcination at 500 °C. The effect of the electrode on the removal rate of nitrate was investigated for different current densities, initial concentrations, temperature and pH. When the solution was alkaline, the removal efficiency of nitrate improved. When the current density and temperature increased, the removal rate of nitrate accordingly increased. However, as the initial concentration of the solution increased, the removal rate of nitrate decreased. An IrO 2 electrode was used as the anode, the Ni-TNTA bimetallic nanoelectrode was used as the cathode, and 0.3 g L−1 NaCl was added into the solution. The removal rate of nitrate was 89.6% after 90 min of electrolysis and barely produced nitrite or ammonia. Highlights • A novel Ni-TNTA bimetallic nanoelectrode was fabricated. • The novel nanoelectrode was used for electrochemical denitrification. • The novel nanoelectrode has high reduction efficiency for nitrate. • Very few by-products produced when added appropriate sodium chloride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Chaohu Lake is one of the five largest freshwater lakes in China situated in Anhui Province. Water, sediment and aquatic organisms were collected from Chaohu Lake. Trace metals were measured to investigate their bioaccumulation pattern and trophic transfer in the food web as well as potential health risk assessment through fish consumption. Trophic interactions were investigated by stable nitrogen isotope. Linear regression of log metal concentration versus δ15N was used to determine whether there is biomagnification or biodilution. Results showed that concentrations of trace metals in water were rather low except Hg, some of which surpassed the scope of quality standard. Trace metals in sediment exceeded background values nevertheless within the range for the protection of aquatic life. Therein, geochemical fractionation showed that Cd would pose a considerable potential ecological risk. Trace metals were higher in plankton except for Cu and Zn was higher in shrimp due to metabolic needs. Decreasing trend was observed in Pb, Cr, Cd, As and Hg levels with increasing trophic level whereas increasing trend was observed in Zn. Trace metals in fish were lower than legislation thresholds except for Cr in two samples that exceeded the threshold value. Nonetheless, total target hazard quotient values and target cancer risk were lower than unit and within acceptable range, indicating there was no health risk for inhabitants from trace metals through fish consumption. Highlights • Hg in water surpassed the scope of national quality standard. • Cd was the most available metal in the lake sediment. • Plankton accumulated more metals but shrimp had more Cu and Zn. • Pb, Cr, Cd, As, and Hg biodiluted but Zn biomagnified in the food web. • No potential health risk for fish consumers in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Geochemical distribution of trace elements in sediments could reflect the impact of anthropogenic activities on environmental changes in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, rare earth elements (REEs) were used as geochemical tracers to study the environmental processes in a complex and dynamic aquatic environment. Both surface and core sediment samples were collected from Poyang Lake, the largest freshwater lake located in the middle-low region of the Yangtze River. Sediment samples were analyzed for their respective REE spatial distributions, fractionation, and co-occurrence patterns. The inner relationships and geochemistry characters of REEs were assessed by geostatistics and co-occurrence network analysis. Results indicated that total REE concentrations in the sediments from Poyang Lake ranged from 145.1 to 351.1 μg g−1, with an average concentration of 254.0 μg g−1. Light rare earth element (LREE, La - Sm) enrichment was evident in all sediment samples, indicating the effects of river-lake interactions and the contributions from terrestrial inputs. The negative Ce and Eu anomalies were found in most sediment samples, indicating the differentiation between Ce, Eu, and other REEs in the processes of sediment transportation and deposition. Collectively, the identification of the major contamination sources of REEs in sediment, analyzed by the patterns of the co-occurrence networks and REE fractionation, revealed that the REEs in sediments from Poyang Lake originated both natural and anthropogenic sources and were disturbed by the impact of anthropogenic activities. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • Accumulation and distribution of REEs in sediments from Poyang Lake were studied. • Obvious fractionation between LREEs and HREEs is observed in sediments. • A weak Ce and Eu anomalies were found in most of the sediments. • Co-occurrence and fractionation patterns of REEs were used for source identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nanoscale zero valent iron (nZVI) particles have been studied in recent years as a promising technology for the remediation of contaminated soil. Although the potential benefits of nZVI are considerable, there is a distinct need to identify possible risks after environmental exposure to nZVI. This work firstly introduced the remediation of nZVI for heavy metals and chlorinated organic compounds in contaminated soil. And the corresponding stabilization mechanisms were discussed. We also highlighted the factors affecting nZVI reactivity, including nZVI surface area, nZVI stabilizers, soil pH, soil organic matter and soil types. In addition, this review shows a critical overview of the current understanding of toxicity of nZVI particles to soil bacteria and fungi. The toxicity mechanisms, cellular defenses behaviors and the factors affecting the toxicity of nZVI were summarized. Finally, the remaining barriers to be overcome in materials development for environment application are also discussed. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • The immobilization mechanisms of heavy metals by nZVI were summarized. • Reaction behaviors of chlorinated organic compounds associated nZVI were summarized. • The biological toxicity of nZVI in soil was reviewed with critical analysis. • Future challenges in application of materials in soil remediation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoremediation using plants is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective strategy for removing cadmium (Cd) from soil. Plants used for phytoremediation must have a high Cd accumulation capacity and strong Cd tolerance. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanism of Cd tolerance and accumulation in plants is of great interest. In response to Cd exposure, plants produce various thio-rich compounds, such as glutathione, phytochelatins, and metallothioneins, which play important roles in Cd immobilization, sequestration, and detoxification. Therefore, sulfur (S) metabolism is crucial for Cd tolerance and accumulation. In this study, we report that the overexpression of low-S responsive genes, LSU1 and LSU2 , confers Cd tolerance in Arabidopsis. First, LSU1 and LSU2 promoted S assimilation under Cd stress. Second, LSU1 and LSU2 inhibited the biosynthesis and promoted the degradation of aliphatic glucosinolates, which could limit the consumption and enhance the release of S, thus, facilitating the production of the S-rich metabolites, glutathione, phytochelatins, and metallothioneins. We further demonstrated that the Cd tolerance mediated by LSU1 and LSU2 was dependent on the myrosinases BGLU28 and BGLU30, which catalyze the degradation of aliphatic glucosinolates. In addition, the overexpression of LSU1 and LSU2 improved Cd accumulation, which has great potential for the phytoremediation of Cd-contaminated soil. [Display omitted] • Overexpressing LSU1 and LSU2 confers Cd tolerance and promotes Cd accumulation in Arabidopsis. • LSU1 and LSU2 inhibit the production of aliphatic GLs and promoted their degradation under Cd stress. • LSU1 and LSU2 enhance S absorption and assimilation under Cd stress. • LSU1 and LSU2 facilitate the production of S-rich detoxification metabolites under Cd stress. • Cd tolerance mediated by LSU1 and LSU2 is dependent on myrosinases BGLU28 and BGLU30. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rough-interval-based multicriteria decision analysis method (RI-MCDA) is developed for supporting the selection of remediation strategies for 1,1-dichloroethane contaminated sites. The concept of ‘‘rough interval’’ is introduced in the design framework to represent dual-uncertain parameters. Three rough-interval scenarios generated through pair-wise combining the values under three confidence levels (i.e. 68.3%, 95.4% and 99.7%) and one deterministic scenario adopted crisp numbers for parameters are introduced into the framework. The proposed method is then applied to a contaminated site in the Pudong district of Shanghai, China. Fifty remediation alternatives under four duration options (i.e. 5, 10, 15, and 20 years) and ten criteria, including daily total pumping rate, total cost and rough-interval risk information in light of uncertainty parameter (e.g. slope factor), are taken into consideration to compare different alternatives through RI-MCDA. Results indicated that the most desirable remediation strategy lied in A25 for the 5-year, A10 for the 10-year, A15 for the 15-year, and A11 for the 20-year remediation. Compared to the traditional MCDA, the proposed RI-MCDA shows the uniqueness in addressing the interaction between dual intervals of highly uncertain parameters, as well as their joint impact on the decision results, which reduces the subjectivity as much as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal affecting the normal growth of plants. Nitrate (NO 3 −) and ammonium (NH 4 +) are the primary forms of inorganic nitrogen (N) absorbed by plants. However, the mechanism of N absorption and regulation under Cd stress remains unclear. This study found that: (1) Cd treatment affected the biomass, root length, and Cd2+ flux in Solanum nigrum seedling roots. Specifically, 50 μM Cd significantly inhibited NO 3 − influx while increased NH 4 + influx compared with 0 and 5 μM Cd treatments measured by non-invasive micro-test technology. (2) qRT-PCR analysis showed that 50 μM Cd inhibited the expressions of nitrate transporter genes, SnNRT2;4 and SnNRT2;4-like , increased the expressions of ammonium transporter genes, SnAMT1;2 and SnAMT1;3 , in the roots. (3) Under NH 4 + supply, 50 μM Cd significantly induced the expressions of the aquaporin genes, SnPIP1;5 , SnPIP2;7 , and SnTIP2;1. Our results showed that 50 μM Cd stress promoted NH 4 + absorption by up-regulating the gene expressions of NH 4 + transporter and aquaporins, suggesting that high Cd stress can affect the preference of N nutrition in S. nigrum. [Display omitted] • 50 μM Cd increased Cd2+ influx of S. nigrum seedlings compared with 5 μM Cd. • 50 μM Cd inhibited NO 3 − influx and NH 4 + efflux in root meristem zone. • NH 4 + influx was promoted by 50 μM Cd in root elongation zone compared with 5 μM Cd. • Cd treatment promoted NH 4 + transporter SnAMT1;3 expression in roots. • 50 μM Cd promoted aquaporin SnTIP2;1 expression in roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landfill leachate has become an important source of environmental pollution in past decades, due to the increase of waste volume. Acute toxic and genotoxic hazards to organisms can be caused by landfill leachate. Thus, how to efficiently recover water from landfill leachate and effectively eliminate combined toxicity of landfill leachate are the most pressing issues in waste management. In this study, EDTA-Na 2 Zn as draw solution (DS) was used to remove the toxicity of membrane bioreactor-treated landfill leachate (MBR-treated landfill leachate) in forward osmosis (FO) process, and nanofiltration (NF) was designed for recovering the diluted DS. Zebrafish and human cells were used for toxicity assay after the novel wastewater treatment process using EDTA-Na 2 Zn as DS. Results showed that the water recovery rate of MBR-treated landfill leachate (M-LL) in FO membrane system could achieve 66.5% and 71.2% in the PRO and FO mode respectively, and the diluted DS could be efficiently recovered by NF. Toxicity tests performed by using zebrafish and human cells showed that M-LL treated by EDTA-Na 2 Zn had no toxicity effect on zebrafish larvae and human cells, but it had very slight effect on zebrafish embryos. In conclusion, all results indicated that EDTA-Na 2 Zn as DS can effectively eliminate toxicity of landfill leachate and this method is economical and eco-friendly for treatment of different types of landfill leachate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have suggested that maternal exposure to Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), poly-chlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) may affect foetal growth and infant development. The aim of our study was to determine whether the childbearing-aged residents living near a chemical plant have a greater exposure risk. Concentrations of 17 PCDD/Fs congeners and 12 non-ortho and mono-ortho dioxin-like PCBs were measured using HRGC-HRMS in the blood of 30 non-occupational childbearing-aged women living near a chemical plant (Dagu) that had been producing chlorinated pesticides from 1958 to 2004. The factors that influenced the body burden were investigated based on responses to a questionnaire. Levels of PCDD/Fs + PCBs were in the range of 16.43–155.29 pg WHO 2005-TEQ g −1 lipid. PCDDs and PCDFs contributed 56.72% and 34.44%, respectively, to the total TEQ value. Total WHO-TEQ was approximately tenfold higher in the participants living in the vicinity of the plant (distance: 1.52 ± 0.148 km) than in the groups living farther away (distance: 4.93 ± 1.124 km). A negative correlation between total WHO-TEQ and distance to Dagu was observed by multiple linear regression models. The data provide basic information for monitoring dioxin-like chemicals in the district and for the future study of the relationship between POPs and pregnancy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To our knowledge, little evidence is available about effects of aircraft noise (AN), a non-chemical stressor, on cognitive function. Again, it is unknown whether or not the heat stress (HS)-induced cognitive deficits can be exacerbated by AN. The adult male mice were assigned to four groups: group 1 mice exposed to non-HS (24–26 °C 2 h daily for 4 consecutive days) and white noise (WN) (2 h daily for 4 consecutive days), group 2 mice exposed to WN and HS (32–34 °C 2 h daily for 4 consecutive days), group 3 mice exposed to AN and non-HS (2 h daily for 4 consecutive days) and group 4 mice exposed to AN and HS (2 h daily for consecutive 4 days). Cognitive function were determined by passive avoidance, Y-maze, Morris water maze, and novel object recognition tests. Gut barrier and blood-brain-barrier (BBB) permeability, upload of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation, systemic and central inflammation, and stress reactions were examined. Heat stressed mice displayed both increased stress reactions and learning and memory loss. Heat stress also caused gut barrier hyperpermeability, increased upload of LPS translocation, systemic inflammation, BBB disruption and hippocampal neuroinflammation. Aircraft noise stressed mice did not display systemic inflammation but caused gut barrier hyperpermeability, increased upload of LPS translocation, increased stress reactions, BBB disruption, hippocampal neuroinflammation and cognitive deficits. Aircraft noise exposure further exacerbated the heat stress-induced cognitive deficits and its complications. Our data suggest that AN, like HS, causes cognitive impairments via similar mechanisms in male mice. [Display omitted] • Heat or aircraft noise induced learning and memory loss in mice. • Heat-induced cognitive deficits can be potentiated by aircraft noise. • Heat or aircraft noise induced gut barrier and blood-brain-barrier disruption and neuroinflammation. • Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responses were stimulated by heat or aircraft noise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we have constructed a novel graphitic carbon nitride/multiwall carbon nanotube (GCN/CNT) doped Ti/PbO 2 as anode for highly effective degradation of acetaminophen (ACE) wastewater. The ACE removal efficiency of 83.2% and chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency of 76.3% are achieved under the optimal condition of temperature 25 °C, initial pH 7, current density 15 mA cm−2 and Na 2 SO 4 concentration 6.0 g L−1. The excellent electrocatalytic activity of Ti/PbO 2 -GCN-CNT anode for ACE oxidation is ascribed to the effective suppression of oxygen evolution and the enhanced electron transfer after introducing GCN and CNT. Furthermore, Ti/PbO 2 -GCN-CNT electrode displays excellent stability and reusability. ACE degradation is accomplished by direct oxidation and indirect oxidation, and ∙OH radical plays primary role in the indirect oxidation of ACE wastewater. The intermediates of ACE degradation are detailly investigated using LC-MS analysis and a possible degradation mechanism is proposed. [Display omitted] • Compact pyramidal structure Ti/PbO 2 -GCN-CNT anode is prepared by electrodeposition. • Ti/PbO 2 -GCN-CNT anode has high oxygen evolution potential and superb stability. • Ti/PbO 2 -GCN-CNT anode shows high catalytic activity for acetaminophen degradation. • Degradation condition is optimized and possible degradation mechanism is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]