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Due to the widely discharge of chromium (Cr) by mining and smelting industries, etc., contamination of paddy soils and rice has become serious problems. Therefore it is crucial to explore how rice takes up Cr. Cr(III) is the most common Cr form in the long-term water flooding paddy soils. Here, we demonstrate that OsYSL15 , a key gene for Fe(III) uptake, is equally applicable for Cr(III) uptake in rice. Firstly, the antagonistic effect of Cr(III) and Fe(III) in the uptake process was found. Rice could accumulate more Cr(III) under Fe-deficient conditions. And the Fe(III) content in the protoplasts of rice root cells gradually decreased with the increase exposure of Cr(III). Knockdown of OsYSL15 in rice significantly reduced the Cr(III) uptake rate. Compared with wild type rice, the accumulation of Cr(III) in OsYSL15 mutant was decreased by 40.7%− 70.6% after gene editing. These results indicate that OsYSL15 is a key gene responsible for Cr(III) uptake in rice, which can guide the screening or genetic modification for low-Cr-accumulation rice varieties. [Display omitted] • There is a competitive relationship between Cr(III) and Fe(III) in uptake process in rice. • Accumulation of Cr(III) decreased 40.7%− 70.6% in rice without OsYSL15 transporter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The superoxide radical (•O 2 −)-mediated peroxymonosulfate (PMS)-based photo-Fenton-like reaction enables highly selective water decontamination. Nevertheless, the targeted construction of •O 2 −-mediated photo-Fenton-like system has been challenging. Herein, we developed an electron-rich/-poor dual sites driven •O 2 −-mediated cascade photo-Fenton-like system by modulating electron density. Experimental and theoretical results demonstrated that PMS was preferentially adsorbed on electron-poor Co site. This adsorption promoted O−O bond cleavage of PMS to generate hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2), which then migrated to electron-rich O site to extract e g electrons for O−H bond cleavage, rather than competing with PMS for Co site. The developed versatile cascade reaction system could selectively eliminate contaminants with low n-octanol/water partition constants (K OW) and dissociation constants (pKa) and remarkably resist inorganics (Cl−, H 2 PO 4 − and NO 3 −), humic acid (HA) and even real water matrices (tap water and secondary effluent). This finding provided a novel and plausible strategy to accurately and efficiently generate •O 2 − for the selective water decontamination. [Display omitted] • Redistributing electron density to construct dual sites accelerated cascade reaction. • The contaminants selective degradation behavior by •O 2 − was revealed. • The CuCoO/O-CN/PMS/vis system was stable and resistant to environmental interference. • The effect of oxygen dope on the contaminant degradation pathway was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although antibiotic alternatives are widely used in livestock and poultry breeding industry after in-feed antibiotics ban, their intervention effects on antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in these food animals' feces remain poorly understood. Here effects of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) and astragalus polysaccharide (APS), as typical antibiotic alternatives in China, on ARGs in layer feces were estimated by performing metagenomic sequencings and fluorescence quantitative PCR. Fructooligosaccharide significantly reduced sum abundance of ARGs and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) by increasing Lactobacillus clones and reducing Escherichia clones which had relatively higher abundances of ARG subtypes and MGE subtypes in layer feces. However, at least parts of core ARGs and MGEs categories were not reduced by FOS, such as aminoglycosides- and tetracyclines-resistant genes, Tn916, Integrase, and so on. MGEs and microbiome, especially Escherichia genus and Lactobacillus genus, were the key factors affecting ARGs' sum abundance. MGEs had a higher correlation coefficient with ARGs' sum abundance than Escherichia genus and Lactobacillus genus. These findings firstly reveal the defects of antibiotic alternatives in controlling bacterial resistance in livestock and poultry breeding after in-feed antibiotics ban, and more strategies are needed to control pollutions and risks of core ARGs and MGEs in food animals' feces under a special environment. [Display omitted] • FOS significantly reduced sum abundances of ARGs and MGEs in feces of layer. • However, abundances of partial core ARGs and MGEs in feces were not reduced by FOS. • FOS mainly increased Lactobacillus clone and reduced Escherichia clone in feces. • Sum abundance of ARG subtypes in Escherichia is 12–15 times that in Lactobacillus. • Sum abundance of MGE subtype in Escherichia is 69–76 times that in Lactobacillus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the near-neutral and high-salt conditions, the Fenton technology with hydroxyl radicals (HO•) as the main reactive species is difficult to satisfy the removal of trace emerging contaminants (ECs) in pharmaceutical sewage. Here, a layered double hydroxide FeZn-LDH was prepared, and the selective formation of ≡Fe(IV)=O in Fenton-like system was accomplished by the chemical environment regulation of the iron sites and the pH control of the microregion. The introduced zinc can increase the length of Fe-O bond in the FeZn-LDH shell layer by 0.22 Å compared to that in Fe 2 O 3 , which was conducive to the oxygen transfer process between ≡Fe(III) and H 2 O 2 , resulting in the ≡Fe(IV)=O formation. Besides, the amphoteric hydroxide Zn(OH) 2 can regulate the pH of the FeZn-LDH surface microregion, maintaining reaction pH at around 6.5–7.5, which could avoid the quenching of ≡Fe(IV)=O by H+. On the other hand, owing to the anti-interference of ≡Fe(IV)=O and the near-zero Zeta potential on the FeZn-LDH surface, the trace ECs can also be effectively degraded under high-salt conditions. Consequently, the process of ≡Fe(IV)=O generation in FeZn-LDH system can satisfy the efficient removal of ECs under near-neutral and high-salt conditions. [Display omitted] • ≡Fe(IV)=O was generated on the surface of the layered double hydroxide FeZn-LDH. • The elongated Fe-O bond will facilitate the generation of ≡Fe(IV)=O. • Buffering of pH by Zn(OH) 2 provides a suitable environment for ≡Fe(IV)=O generation. • ≡Fe(IV)=O can satisfy ECs degradation under near-neutral and high-salt conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the adsorption mechanism of 66 coexisting pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) on microplastics treated with potassium persulfate, potassium hydroxide, and Fenton reagent for 54, 110, and 500 days. The total adsorption capacity (q e) of 66 PPCPs on 15 original microplastics was 171.8 – 1043.7 μg/g, far below that of 177 long-term aged microplastics (7114.0 – 13,114.4 μg/g). Around 69.8% of q e was primarily influenced by the total energy, energy of the highest occupied molecular orbital, and energy gap of PPCPs, calculated using the B3LYP/6–31 G* level. Furthermore, 111 aged microplastics exhibited similar total q e values. Additionally, we developed predictive models based on attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to predict the individual and total q e on 192 microplastics. These models, including the maximal information coefficient and gradient boosting decision tree regression, exhibited high accuracy with R training 2 values of 0.9772 and 0.9661, respectively, and p-values below 0.001. Spectroscopic analysis and machine learning models highlighted surface functional group alterations and the importance of the 1528–1700 cm−1 spectral region and carbon skeleton in the adsorption process. In summary, our findings contribute to understanding the adsorption of PPCPs on microplastics, particularly in the context of long-term aging effects. [Display omitted] • Adsorption of 66 pollutants on 177 long-term aged microplastics was implemented. • First prediction of adsorption capacity by microplastics' ATR-FT-IR transmittances. • The adsorption mechanism was drawn using machine-learning models. • 69.8% of microplastics' adsorption was linked with pollutants' energy. • Microplastics' 1528 – 1700 cm−1 and carbon skeleton controlled adsorption capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonicotinoids (NEOs) and fipronil (FIP) are ubiquitous in aquatic environment, yet the transformation and water-sediment exchange are largely unknown for these systemic insecticides and their transformation products (TPs). Herein, occurrence, field-based partitioning coefficients, and fugacity fractions (ff) of NEOs, FIP, and their TPs were analyzed in the drainage and receiving rivers near a rice paddy field. NEOs and FIPs were frequently detected in the sediments with concentrations of TPs being often higher than the parent compounds. Average ff values of NEOs (0.944–1.00) were larger than those of FIPs (0.399–0.716), indicating NEOs had a greater tendency to diffuse from sediment into water. Similar as well-studied hydrophobic compounds, hydrophobicity was the main factor impacting the water-sediment exchange of moderately hydrophobic FIPs. Alternatively, electrostatic interactions governed the fate of hydrophilic NEOs in water-sediment system. The log K d values of NEOs were positively correlated with their N/C ratios (p < 0.05), possibly because the negatively charged sediments (zeta potential were from −19.1 ± 0.6 to −5.84 ± 0.57 mV) generated electrostatic attraction with amino functional group. Our study highlighted the ubiquitousness of TPs and distinct water-sediment interaction for moderately hydrophobic and hydrophilic insecticides in an agriculture-dominated watershed. [Display omitted] • Neonicotinoids (NOEs) and fipronil (FIP) were frequently detected in the sediments. • Sediment residues of the transformation products were higher than the parent compounds. • Sediment acted as a secondary source for NEOs while a sink for FIPs. • Electrochemical interactions played a critical role in water-sediment partitioning of NEOs. • Hydrophobicity was the main factor impacting the water-sediment exchange of FIPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the catalytic mechanism and mass transfer efficiency in the removal of amitriptyline using an electro-peroxide process, a CuFe 2 O 4 -modified carbon cloth cathode was prepared and utilized in a reaction unit. The results demonstrated a remarkable efficacy of the system, achieving 91.0% amitriptyline removal, 68.3% mineralization, 41.2% mineralization current efficiency, and 0.24 kWh/m3 energy consumption within just five minutes of treatment. The study revealed that the exposed Fe atoms of the ferrite nanoparticles, with a size of 22.7 nm and 89.7% crystallinity, functioned as mediators to bind the adsorbed O atoms. The 3d xy , 3d xz , and 3d 2 z orbitals of Fe atoms interacted with the 2p z orbital of O atoms of H 2 O 2 and O 3 to form σ and π bonds, facilitating the adsorption-activation of H 2 O 2 and O 3 into hydroxyl radicals. These hydroxyl radicals (∼ 1.15 × 10 13 mol/L) were distributed at the cathode-solution interface and rapidly consumed along the direction of liquid flow. The flow-through cathode design improved the mass transfer of aqueous O 3 and in-situ generated H 2 O 2 , leading to an increased yield of hydroxyl radicals, as well as the contact time and space between hydroxyl radicals and amitriptyline. Ultimately, this resulted in a higher degradation efficiency of the system. [Display omitted] • Fe atom in CuFe 2 O 4 acted as preferential mediator in bonding O atoms of H 2 O 2 and O 3. • The formation of σ and π bonds facilitated H 2 O 2 and O 3 into hydroxyl radicals. • Flow-through cathode promoted diffusion and increased hydroxyl radical yield. • Enhancing the contact time and space between hydroxyl radicals and amitriptyline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • RGO-Ce/WO 3 nanosheets were firstly loaded on CF by a one-pot hydrothermal method. • Effective degradation and mineralization of CIP were achieved in RCW/CF system. • RCW/CF cathode produce more O 2 −, H 2 O 2 and OH to degrade CIP. • Carbon black and PTFE adhesive was substituted compared to traditional EF process. Abstract Development of an efficient cathode in advanced oxidation process is an important challenge. In this work, we synthesized a low-cost, high-catalytic-active and stable reduced graphene oxide (RGO)-Ce/WO 3 nanosheets (RCW) to modify carbon felt (CF) as cathode to degrade ciprofloxacin (CIP) in electro-Fenton process. Compared to traditional heterogeneous electro-Fenton process, carbon black was substituted by RGO and poly tetra fluoroethylene was avoided to be used as binder. We found that RCW/CF cathode reached about 100% degradation efficiency of CIP after 1 h and 98.55% mineralization degree after 8 h. Meanwhile, it had a very high current density, about 2.5 times that of CF. RCW/CF cathode produced more O 2 −, H 2 O 2 and OH via one-electron reduction process (O 2 →O 2 - →H 2 O 2). The modified cathode kept a stable performance for high CIP degradation efficiency during 5 cycles. The introduction of RGO could promote electron transfer, and the adding of Ce into the WO 3 lattice provided superior conditions for the adsorption and activation of oxygen molecules, thus promoting the formation of active oxygen species on the surface of RCW. This novel RCW/CF composite is an efficient and promising electrode for removal of CIP in the wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles have been applied in diverse commercial products, which could lead to toxic effects on aquatic microbes and would inhibit some important ecosystem processes. The study aimed to investigate the chronic impacts of TiO 2 nanoparticles with different concentrations (5, 50, and 500 mg L −1 ) on Populus nigra L. leaf decomposition in the freshwater ecosystem. After 50 d of decomposing, a significant decrease in decomposition rates was observed with higher concentrations of TiO 2 nanoparticles. During the period of litter decomposition, exposure of TiO 2 nanoparticles led to decreases in extracellular enzyme activities, which was caused by the reduction of microbial especially fungal biomass. In addition, the diversity and composition of the fungal community associated with litter decomposition were strongly affected by the concentrations of TiO 2 nanoparticles. The diversity and composition of the fungal community associated with litter decomposition was strongly affected. The abundance of Tricladium chaetocladium decreased with the increasing concentrations of TiO 2 nanoparticles, indicating the little contribution of the species to the litter decomposition. In conclusion, this study provided the evidence for the chronic exposure effects of TiO 2 nanoparticles on the litter decomposition and further the functions of freshwater ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acrylamide (AA) is a high production volume chemical in industrial applications and widely found in baked or fried carbohydrate-rich foods. In this study, we unravelled that AA induced developmental toxicity associated with oxidative stress status and disordered lipid distribution in heart region of developing zebrafish. Treatment with AA caused a deficient cardiovascular system with significant heart malformation and dysfunction. We also found that AA could reduce the number of cardiomyocytes through the reduced capacity of cardiomyocyte proliferation rather than cell apoptosis. The cardiac looping and ballooning appeared abnormal though cardiac chamber-specific identity in the differentiated myocardium was maintained well after AA treatment through MF20/S46 immunofluorescence assay. Furthermore, treatment with AA disturbed the differentiation of atrioventricular canal, which was demonstrated by the disordered expressions of the atrioventricular boundary markers bmp4 , tbx2b and notch1b and further confirmed by the ectopic expressions of the cardiac valve precursor markers has2 , klf2a and nfatc1 through whole-mount in situ hybridization. Thus, our studies provide the evidence of cardiac developmental toxicity of AA in the cardiovascular system, and also raised health concern about the harm of trans-placental exposure to high level of AA for foetuses and the risk of high exposure to AA for the pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To decontaminate heavy metal-containing waste water, a microbial biotechnology was developed by using the synergy between S ulfate reducing bacteria (SRB), Bacillus cereus ( B. cereus ) and Camellia oleifera cake (COC). In this process the COC degradation assisted by B.cereus , created an anoxic environment and provided energy and nutrition for SRB. Both of B. cereus and SRB played significant roles through biosorption, bioaccumulation and biosurfactant production. Meanwhile, a flotation technology commonly used in many effluent treatments has been led into this system for increasing the efficiency as well. After desorption and regeneration with acid and deionized water, the biosorbents could be reused to adsorb metal ions. 97% of heavy metals removal was achieved by the proposed technology. For multiple heavy metals-containing solutions, the capacities are in the order of Cd 2+ > Zn 2+ > Cu 2+ . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toluene and xylene are volatile organic compounds, and long-term exposure to toluene and xylene may cause brain structure and nervous system damage. To evaluate exposure to toluene and xylene in the environment, it is usually possible to monitor their metabolites in organisms, hippuric acid (HA) and methylhippuric acid (MHA). In this work, we designed a new magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) sorbent, zirconium postsynthetic-modified magnetic covalent organic polymer (Fe 3 O 4 @COP-COOZr), for purifying and enriching HA and 4-MHA. Zirconium ions were immobilized on the magnetic COP surface by postsynthetic modification without the use of additional coating layers or chelating ligands. The developed Fe 3 O 4 @COP-COOZr interacted with HA and 4-MHA through the π-π stacking effect and electrostatic interactions, as well as strong chelation with coordinatively unsaturated zirconium sites. The promising affinity material of Fe 3 O 4 @COP-COOZr in MSPE had high stability and recyclability. The established MSPE-HPLC-UV method showed low sorbent consumption (10 mg) and high sensitivity (LODs less than 0.1 μg L−1), and can be used for the analysis of HA and 4-MHA in real samples. The recoveries of the proposed method in real urine samples for the simultaneous determination of HA and 4-MHA were in the range of 83.5–103.2 %, and the RSDs were 0.9–7.1 %. [Display omitted] • Fe 3 O 4 @COP-COOZr were prepared by postsynthetic modification through metal chelation. • Unsaturated zirconium of Fe 3 O 4 @COP-COOZr provided more sites through chelation/coordination interactions for HA and 4-MHA. • The approach exhibited low sorbent consumption and comparable sensitivity for HA and 4-MHA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research was conducted to explore the effects of road salts on lead leaching from lead contaminated soil samples that were collected in an old residence area in Erie, PA. The synthetic precipitate leaching procedure (SPLP) test was employed to evaluate lead leaching from one of the lead contaminated soils in the presence of various levels of road salts (5%, 10%, 20%, 30% and 40%). The results of the leaching test showed that lead leaching dramatically increased as the road salt content increased as a result of the formation of lead-chloride complexes, but different lead leaching patterns were observed in the presence of NaCl- and CaCl 2 -based road salts at a high content of road salts (>20%). Additional leaching tests that include 30% road salts and different soil samples showed a variety of leaching patterns by soil samples. The sequential extraction of each soil sample showed that a high fraction of organic matter bound lead was associated with lead contamination. The higher the fraction of organic matter bound lead contained in soil, the greater the effects of calcium on reducing lead leaching, observations showed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This multi-centered study was designed to evaluate the biological effects of exposure to antineoplastic drugs (ADs) at PIVAS (Pharmacy Intravenous Admixture Service) across ten Chinese hospitals. 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was used as a biomarker of DNA oxidative damage and lymphocyte apoptosis assays using peripheral lymphocyte cells were used to detect primary DNA damage. The mutagenicity activity was estimated with the Ames fluctuation test. 158 exposed and 143 unexposed workers participated in this study. The urinary 8-OHdG/Cr concentrations of the exposed group was 22.05 ± 17.89 ng/mg Cr, which was significantly higher than controls of 17.36 ± 13.50 ng/mg Cr (P < 0.05). The rate of early lymphocyte apoptosis was slightly increased in exposed group than that of the control group (P = 0.087). The mutagenic activity was significantly higher in the exposed group relative to the control group (P < 0.05). Moreover, while no statistically significant difference was observed, higher concentrations of 8-OHdG/Cr in urine and an early lymphocyte apoptosis rate were found in exposed group II as compared to exposed group I. In addition, a significant correlation between early lymphocyte apoptosis and exposure time to ADs was also observed (P < 0.05). In conclusion, our study identified elevated biomarkers in PIVAS workers exposed to ADs. However whether these findings could lead to increased incidence of genotoxic responses remains to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil-water emulsions separation is frequently required considering the production and environmental issues. Herein, a nano-modification strategy has been proposed for carboxylated poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) block polyether (mANP) using epoxy-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 -GPTMS), achieving the construction of a highly efficient demulsifier (M-mANP). Bottle tests showed that M-mANP could separate over 98.5% of water from the asphaltene-stabilized water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion at mANP concentration of 150 ppm within 2 min at room temperature. The demulsification efficiency for crude oil-in-water emulsion was nearly 100%. According to interfacial tension and wettability tests, the nano-modification endows M-mANP with good amphiphilicity and high interfacial activity, which enables M-mANP to rapidly adsorb at the oil-water interface. Molecular dynamics simulation shows that abundant oxygen-containing groups (hydroxyl, ether bond, ester and carboxyl groups, Fe−O and Si−O bond) in M-mANP could strengthen the interaction with water, facilitating the replacement of asphaltene molecules at interfacial film. Observation of demulsification process by microscope reveals that the nano-size promotes M-mANP to bridge small dispersed droplets, enhancing the flocculation and coalescence of droplets. The nano-modified carboxylated polyether with outstanding demulsification ability shows a promising application for the treatment of different oil-water emulsions. [Display omitted] • A nano-modified carboxylated polyether demulsifier (M-mANP) has been synthesized. • The nano-modification endows M-mANP with good amphiphilicity and high interfacial activity. • The nano-modification enhances interaction of M-mANP with water by forming more hydrogen bonds with water. • The nano-sized M-mANP bridges dispersed droplets more effectively, thus promoting droplets collision and coalescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contaminated soil, pristine biochar has poor applicability for immobilizing vanadium (V), which mainly exists as oxyanions in soil. To elucidate the immobilization potential and biotic/abiotic stabilizing mechanisms of a ferrous sulfate (FS)-modified sludge biochar in a V-contaminated soil from a mining area, we investigated the effects of biochar addition on the soil characteristics, growth of alfalfa, leachability, bioavailability, speciation, and fractionation of V, and changes in the microbial community structure and metabolic response. The results showed that the water extractable, acid-soluble (F1), and pentavalent fractions of V in soil decreased by up to 99 %, 95 %, and 55 %, respectively, whereas the reducible and (F2) oxidizable (F3) fractions increased by up to 45 % and 76 %, respectively. After the soil was treated with the FS-modified biochar for 90 d, the V concentration in the roots and shoots of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) decreased by up to 81.5 % and 96 %, respectively. The changes in the speciation, fractionation, and efficient immobilization of V in the studied soil were due to the combined effects of the biochar-induced decrease in soil pH, adsorption and precipitation by elevated iron concentrations, reduction and complexation due to an increase in the organic matter content, and microbial reduction by Proteobacteria. [Display omitted] • Amorphous FeOOH was formed on biochar surface after ferrous sulfate modification. • Ferrous sulfate modified biochar markedly reduced vanadium mobility in soil. • Soil pH, iron and organic matter contents control vanadium mobility in soil. • Preoteobacteria was responsible for the biotic reduction of V(V) to V(IV) in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) is reportedly related to a variety of cancers including bladder cancer. However, little is known about the biological mechanism underlying this association. In the present study, PM 2.5 exposure was significantly associated with increased levels of m6A modification in bladder cancer patients and bladder cells. METTL3 expression was aberrantly upregulated after PM 2.5 exposure, and METTL3 was involved in PM 2.5 -induced m6A methylation. Higher METTL3 expression was observed in bladder cancer tissues and METTL3 knockdown dramatically inhibited bladder cancer cell proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion, inducing apoptosis and disrupting the cell cycle. Mechanistically, PM 2.5 enhanced the expression of METTL3 by inducing the promoter hypomethylation of its promoter and increasing the binding affinity of the transcription factor HIF1A. BIRC5 was identified as the target of METTL3 through m6A sequencing (m6A-Seq) and KEGG analysis. The methylated BIRC5 transcript was subsequently recognized by IGF2BP3, which increased its mRNA stability. In particular, PM 2.5 exposure promoted the m6A modification of BIRC5 and its recognition by IGF2BP3. In addition, BIRC5 was involved in bladder cancer proliferation and metastasis, as well as VEGFA-regulated angiogenesis. This comprehensive study revealed that PM 2.5 exposure exerts epigenetic regulatory effects on bladder cancer via the HIF1A/METTL3/IGF2BP3/BIRC5/VEGFA network. A proposed model for oncogenic BIRC5 mRNA stability via m6A modification stimulated by PM 2.5 in the development and progression of bladder cancer. [Display omitted] • METTL3 involves in PM 2.5 -induced m6A methylation in bladder cancer. • METTL3 may play an oncogene-like role in bladder cancer. • PM 2.5 upregulates METTL3 expression via promoter hypomethylation and transcription factor HIF1A. • PM 2.5 -induced m6A modification regulates the mRNA stability and expression level of BIRC5 through METTL3/IGF2BP3. • PM 2.5 participates in the angiogenesis process by regulating BIRC5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important and necessary to effectively detect the chemical warfare agents, such as highly toxic never agent sarin. However, based on the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect, detection of nerve agent simulant dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) which is weakly interacted with SERS-active substrate has been the most challenge for the routine SERS detection method. To overcome this challenge, we put forward a thin water film confined SERS strategy. Under the space-confinement of water film, Raman measurements are carried out in the water evaporation process. The subsequent water evaporation induces concentrating of the DMMP molecules, which are thus successfully restricted within the strong electromagnetic field enhanced area above the SERS substrates, leading to the enhancement of their Raman signals. This study provides a new way to achieve the efficient SERS-based detection of the target molecules weakly interacted with the metal substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel polyethylenimine-functionalized ion-imprinted hydrogel (Cu(II)- p (PEI/HEA)) was newly synthesized by 60 Co-γ-induced polymerization for the selective removal of Cu(II) from aqueous solution. The adsorption performances including the adsorption capacity and selectivity of the novel hydrogel were much better than those of similar adsorbents reported. The hydrogel was characterized via scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, thermal gravimetric analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to determine the structure and mechanisms. The adsorption process was pH and temperature sensitive, better fitted to pseudo-second-order equation, and was Langmuir monolayer adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacity for Cu(II) was 40.00 mg/g. The selectivity coefficients of ion-imprinted hydrogel for Cu(II)/Pb(II), Cu(II)/Cd(II) and Cu(II)/Ni(II) were 55.09, 107.47 and 63.12, respectively, which were 3.93, 4.25 and 3.53 times greater than those of non-imprinted hydrogel, respectively. Moreover, the adsorption capacity of Cu(II)- p (PEI/HEA) could still keep more than 85% after four adsorption–desorption cycles. Because of such enhanced selective removal performance and excellent regeneration property, Cu(II)- p (PEI/HEA) is a promising adsorbent for the selective removal of copper ions from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global anthropogenic changes are altering the temperature and nutrients of the ecosystem, which might also affect the extent of cadmium (Cd) toxicity in organisms. This study aimed to investigate the combined effects of temperature and nutrient availability (here, nitrogen [N] and phosphorus [P]) on Cd toxicity in duckweed (Lemna aequinoctialis). The growth parameters, nutrient uptake, and Cd tolerance of plantlets reached their highest values for duckweed grown in medium with 28 mg/L N and 2.4 mg/L P (N:P = 11.67) at 25 °C under 1 mg/L CdCl 2 exposure. Raising the temperature (from 18 °C to 25 °C) and levels of N and P (from 0.01 N/P to 2 N/P) enhanced photosynthetic capacity and nutrient uptake, thus promoting plant growth and diluting the toxic effects of Cd. Although Cd uptake increased with increasing temperature, duckweed with relatively high biomass exhibited a lower accumulation of the toxic metal because their growth rate exceeded Cd uptake rate. Increasing N and P supply also enhanced the tolerance of duckweed to Cd by limiting Cd bioavailability. Our study therefore suggests the importance of combined effects from temperature and nutrients for Cd toxicity and provides novel insights for a comprehensive analysis of Cd toxicity associated with the environmental factors of a particular ecosystem. [Display omitted] • Duckweeds obtained the highest biomass and Cd tolerance when grown at 25 ℃. • Nutrients uptake and Cd contents reached their highest values when the N/P ratio was 11.67. • The high N/P ratio (17.5–583.33) and cold stress (18 ℃) exacerbated Cd toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Botanical filtration has been proved to be effective for indoor gas pollutant removal. To understand the roles of different transport, storage and removal mechanism by a dynamic botanical air filter, a series of experimental investigations were designed and conducted in this paper. Golden Pothos ( Epipremnum aureum ) plants was selected for test, and its original soil or activated/pebbles root bed was used in different test cases. It was found that flowing air through the root bed with microbes dynamically was essential to obtain meaningful formaldehyde removal efficiency. For static potted plant as normally place in rooms, the clean air delivery rate (CADR), which is often used to quantify the air cleaning ability of portable air cleaners, was only ∼5.1 m 3 /h per m 2 bed, while when dynamically with air flow through the bed, the CADR increased to ∼233 m 3 /h per m 2 bed. The calculated CADR due to microbial activity is ∼108 m 3 /h per m 2 bed. Moisture in the root bed also played an important role, both for maintaining a favorable living condition for microbes and for absorbing water-soluble compounds such as formaldehyde. The role of the plant was to introduce and maintain a favorable microbe community which effectively degraded the volatile organic compounds adsorbed or absorbed by the root bed. The presence of the plant increased the removal efficiency by a factor of two based on the results from the bench-scale root bed experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pattern of acid rain is dependent on the ratio of SO 4 2− and NO 3 −, which change may affect the dissolution activity of dull heavy metals in the aquatic environment and further complicate the ongoing challenge of ecosystem stability and increase risks. In this study, we assessed the combined effects of acid rain (SO 4 2-: NO 3 - was 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2) and ZnO nanoparticles (30 ng L-1) on plant litter decomposition through a microcosm experiment. The highest dissolution of ZnO nanoparticles was achieved when the SO 4 2-: NO 3 - ratio was 1:2, and there were no significant differences among other treatments. The fungal biomass showed significant decreases under acute exposures but tended to be adaptive during chronic exposures. The co-exposure significantly stimulated the activities of leucine-aminopeptidase, glycine-aminopeptidase, polyphenol oxidase, and cellobiohydrolase. Besides, the fungal diversity and the relative abundance of some functional genera (e.g. Anguillospora) were enhanced when the SO 4 2-: NO 3 - ratio was 1:2 and 2:1. In conclusion, the decomposition rate of plant litter was increased by 123–204% by co-exposures. Collectively, the findings underline the importance of considering environmental context to assess nanoparticle toxicity. [Display omitted] • Co-exposures of acid rain and ZnO nanoparticles accelerated leaf decomposition. • The ratio of S: N influences the dissolution of ZnO nanoparticles. • Aquatic fungi had adaptive ability to the combined effect. • Microbial extracellular enzymes were stimulated by the combined effect. • Co-exposures enhanced the fungal community diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trichomes of Arabidopsis thaliana serve as accumulation sites for heavy metals such as Cd2+, and thereby both help plants cope with heavy metal stress and detoxify the soil. These trichomes are also believed to prime plant defenses against insect herbivores in response to mechanical stimulation. Because Cd2+ in such trichomes may be beneficial for plant defenses, we hypothesized that mechanical stimulation would enhance sequestration of Cd2+ in trichomes. We quantified the distribution and concentration of Cd2+ in leaves of A. thaliana , of the glabrous mutant gl1–1 of A. thaliana , and Brassica rapa L. subsp. pekinensis (Lour.) Hanelt (Chinese cabbage) and examined how these changed following mechanical stimulation of the trichomes or leaves. Light brushing or exposure to caterpillars of Spodoptera exigua led trichomes of both A. thaliana and Chinese cabbage to accumulate Cd2+ complexes more rapidly and to a higher concentration than trichomes in unstimulated controls. Comparison to responses in leaves of gl1–1 mutants suggested that this acceleration and enhancement of Cd2+ storage requires signaling through trichomes. In wild type A. thaliana , Cd2+ was found exclusively in trichomes, whereas in gl1–1 mutants, Cd2+ was found mainly in the - mesophyll cells. Results suggest a mechanobiological pathway for improving heavy metal detoxification of soils through the action of hyperaccumulator plant leaves containing non-glandular trichomes. [Display omitted] • Mechanical stimulation of trichomes accelerated Cd2+ accumulation in trichome. • Mechanical stimulation of trichomes increased Cd2+ concentration in the leaf. • Mechanical stimulation of A. thaliana trichomes depleted Cd2+ from culture plates. • Mechanical stimulation of trichomes improved the phytoextraction capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen-doped biochar (NCMs) has shown great potential as metal-free catalysts for persulfates. To understand the evolution law of properties of NCMs with preparation conditions, eleven NCMs were prepared and characterized by EA, BET, Raman, XPS, and conductivity. Surface area and conductivity can be improved by higher pyrolysis temperature and longer retention time. Distribution of nitrogen species of NCMs was greatly influenced by pyrolysis temperature. Subsequently, these NCMs were applied to activate peroxymonosulfate to degrade 2,4-dichlorophenol. A linear correlation of the initial apparent degradation rate constant (k obs) of 2,4-dichlorophenol with conductivity and ratio of graphitic N was newly established, revealing that conductivity and graphitic N of NCMs would be the key property deciding degradation efficiency of 2,4-dichlorophenol. Positive effect of conductivity can be ascribed to the mediated electron-transfer mechanism. Electron-transfer mechanism is also proved by quenching experiments and solvent deuterium isotope effect experiment. Graphitic N would be the main active site for PMS activation. Understanding the evolvement rule of properties of NCMs with preparation conditions combined with the correlations between reactivity and properties of NCMs is meaningful for preparation of nitrogen-doped biochar as well as the development of carbonaceous materials with high performance in persulfates-based advanced oxidation processes. [Display omitted] • Higher pyrolysis temperature and longer retention time can increase SSA and conductivity. • Nitrogen species was significantly influenced by pyrolysis temperature. • A linear correlation between k obs with conductivity and graphitic N was established. • Mediated electron-transfer and graphitic N would be the main mechanism and active sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have proved the impacts of nanoplastic pollution in freshwaters on aquatic organisms and ecosystems. To explore toxic mechanisms of nanoplastics on stream functioning, we conducted a microcosm experiment to investigate the effects of polystyrene nanoparticles (PS NPs, 1–100 μg L−1) on the process of leaf litter decomposition mediated by the microbial community. The chronic exposure to PS NPs at 1 and 100 μg L−1 caused significant decreases in leaf litter decomposition and nutrient (carbon and nitrogen) releases. During the ecological process, some extracellular enzymes (i.e., β-glucosidase, glycine-aminopeptidase, and phenol oxidase) rather than fungal biomass were suppressed. Besides, decreases in the relative abundance of Anguillospora and Setophaeosphaeria weakened their functions in leaf litter decomposition. Thus, the microcosm experiment showed that PS NPs inhibited stream leaf decomposition by modulating the microbial metabolic activity and fungal community structure. Overall, the results of this study provide evidence for the consequences of nanoplastic pollution on freshwater microbial community and stream ecosystem functioning, which is conducive to evaluate the potential risks of nanoplastics in aquatic environments. [Display omitted] • Nanoplastics at 1 and 100 μg L−1 slowed litter decomposition rate. • Nanoplastics enhanced fungal biomass but suppressed enzyme activities. • Fungal community structure was affected through decreasing hub genera percentage. • Fungal hyphae were damaged by nanoplastic pollution. • Inhibitions on litter decay were due to metabolic activity and fungal community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have proved the impacts of nanoplastic pollution in freshwaters on aquatic organisms and ecosystems. To explore toxic mechanisms of nanoplastics on stream functioning, we conducted a microcosm experiment to investigate the effects of polystyrene nanoparticles (PS NPs, 1–100 μg L−1) on the process of leaf litter decomposition mediated by the microbial community. The chronic exposure to PS NPs at 1 and 100 μg L−1 caused significant decreases in leaf litter decomposition and nutrient (carbon and nitrogen) releases. During the ecological process, some extracellular enzymes (i.e., β-glucosidase, glycine-aminopeptidase, and phenol oxidase) rather than fungal biomass were suppressed. Besides, decreases in the relative abundance of Anguillospora and Setophaeosphaeria weakened their functions in leaf litter decomposition. Thus, the microcosm experiment showed that PS NPs inhibited stream leaf decomposition by modulating the microbial metabolic activity and fungal community structure. Overall, the results of this study provide evidence for the consequences of nanoplastic pollution on freshwater microbial community and stream ecosystem functioning, which is conducive to evaluate the potential risks of nanoplastics in aquatic environments. [Display omitted] • Nanoplastics at 1 and 100 μg L−1 slowed litter decomposition rate. • Nanoplastics enhanced fungal biomass but suppressed enzyme activities. • Fungal community structure was affected through decreasing hub genera percentage. • Fungal hyphae were damaged by nanoplastic pollution. • Inhibitions on litter decay were due to metabolic activity and fungal community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pervasiveness of microplastics (MPs), which can absorb pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), has a certain impact on pollutant migration in natural waters. The adsorption behaviors of PPCPs on the aged polypropylene (PP) followed the pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm, and the adsorption capacity (q e) on the aged PP was much higher than that on the fresh PP. The Weber-Morris and Boyd models confirmed that the liquid-film and intra-particle diffusion affected the adsorption of PPCPs on the aged PP while the surface diffusion was a rate-limiting step for the fresh PP. The analysis of SEM-EDS, BET, FT-IR, and XPS further showed that changes in the type and content of the surface functional groups of PP led to differences in adsorption capacity and adsorption interactions. The Dragon -descriptor-based LFER and the quantum-chemical-descriptor-based QSAR models reflected the difference in adsorption interaction mechanisms. The examined models showed that the adsorption of the fresh PP toward PPCPs relied on hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interaction, while for the aged PP electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding controlled the adsorption. The findings clarified interactions between PPCPs and MPs and provided a theoretical basis for the assessment of environmental behavior and ecological risk when MPs and PPCPs coexist. [Display omitted] • Oxygen-containing functional groups caused differences in adsorption behaviors. • Quantum chemical descriptors of the developed models reflected interactions. • Electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding controlled the adsorption process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A series of graphene/TiO2 composites were fabricated using a single-step nonionic surfactant strategy combined with the solvothermal treatment technique. Their phase structure, morphology, porosity, optical absorption property, as well as composition and structure, were characterized. The as-prepared composites were successfully applied to degrade aqueous persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as rhodamine B, aldicarb, and norfloxacin in simulated sunlight (λ >320nm) and visible light (λ >400nm) irradiation. The degradation mechanism and kinetics of aqueous POPs were studied in detail. The mineralization of aqueous POPs and the recyclability of the composites were also tested in the same condition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Chromite ore processing residue (COPR) poses a great environmental and health risk with persistent Cr(VI) leaching. To reduce Cr(VI) and subsequently immobilize in the solid matrix, COPR was incubated with nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) and the Cr(VI) speciation and leachability were studied. Multiple complementary analysis methods including leaching tests, X-ray powder diffraction, X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were employed to investigate the immobilization mechanism. Geochemical PHREEQC model calculation agreed well with our acid neutralizing capacity experimental results and confirmed that when pH was lowered from 11.7 to 7.0, leachate Cr(VI) concentrations were in the range 358–445mgL−1 which contributed over 90% of dissolved Cr from COPR. Results of alkaline digestion, XANES, and XPS demonstrated that incubation COPR with nZVI under water content higher than 27% could result in a nearly complete Cr(VI) reduction in solids and less than 0.1mgL−1 Cr(VI) in the TCLP leachate. The results indicated that remediation approaches using nZVI to reduce Cr(VI) in COPR should be successful with sufficient water content to facilitate electron transfer from nZVI to COPR. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Incidental ingestion of Chromite ore processing residue (COPR) particles poses a potential health risk. The purpose of this study was to determine the Cr bioaccessibility from COPR using the in vitro gastrointestinal (IVG) procedure. The bioaccessible Cr(VI) was 53.8% and 42.9%, respectively, in the gastric and intestinal phases from a total of 19490mgkg−1 Cr(VI) in COPR. Food intake including milk, dough, and ascorbic acid resulted in a significant decrease in Cr(VI) bioaccessibility. Some organic acids such as lactic, malic, and citric acid moderately reduced Cr(VI), while acetic acid exhibited no capacity for Cr(VI) reduction. The integrated area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) of the IVG extraction was used to calculate bioaccessibility. Compared with the bioaccessibility conventionally estimated using concentrations at the end of the extraction (CEP), the AUC technique should be implemented to confirm the accuracy of the IVG method when reduction of Cr(VI) occurs during the extraction. The absence of Cr(VI) phases in extracted residues as evidenced by XANES and XRPD analysis confirmed the Cr(VI) release and Cr(VI) reduction by food and ascorbic acid. With readily bioaccessible Cr(VI) and rapid human uptake, reduction of Cr(VI) might not be as effective a detoxification pathway as initially thought. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Effect of norfloxacin (Nor) on the sorption of 1,3-dinitrobenzene (1,3-DNB), and PAHs (naphthalene (NAPH), phenanthrene (PHEN) and pyrene (PYR)) to K+-montmorillonite was studied. Nor suppressed 1,3-DNB sorption due to their competition for the same sorption sites. 1,3-DNB was sorbed on K+-montmorillonite surface via cation–polar interaction and n–π electron donor–acceptor interaction. Nor also was sorbed on these sites through cation exchange, cation bridging and/or surface complexation. Nor increased three PAHs sorption on montmorillonite and the enhanced magnitude was positively correlated with the π-donor strength of three PAHs. The enhanced sorption of PAHs by Nor was primarily attributed to π–π interaction between π-electron-depleted quinoline ring of Nor and π-electron-rich PAHs. Compared with cation (Nor+) and anion (Nor−), zwitterion (Nor±) of Nor increased PHEN and PYR sorption more pronounced due to additional cation–π interaction between the sorbed Nor± and PAHs. 1H NMR spectrum provided direct evidence for π–π and cation–π complexation between PAHs and Nor+ in solution by ring-current-induced upfield chemical shifts of amino group and methylene group of Nor+. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this study, considering that Hg2+ in wet flue gas desulfurization (FGD) systems can easily be reduced and then released into atmosphere, causing secondary pollution, the researches about Hg2+ reduction and Hg0 re-emission mechanism were carried out. The effects of several experimental parameters on the reduction were studied, including initial pH, temperature, and concentrations of Cl− and S(IV). Our experimental results indicated that Cl− had a restraining effect on the Hg2+ reduction and Hg0 re-emission, after 24h reaction, only 20.5% of Hg2+ was reduced with 100mM Cl− in simulated desulfurization solution. Cl− can slow Hg2+ reduction and Hg0 re-emissions dramatically through changing reaction mechanism, with formation of new intermediate: ClHgSO3 −, which can decompose to Hg0, but much more slowly than Hg(SO3)2 2− or HgSO3. Simulating the conditions of the practical application (initial pH 5, T =50°C, S(IV)=5mM, Cl− =100mM), we also found that Ca2+, NO3 −, F−, etc. all had obvious effects on reduction rates. Based on the material balance and characteristic of the reactants, the reduction emission mechanism of Hg2+ has been established, providing theoretical basis for industrial application of mercury control in wet FGD systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

N-doped titania hollow spheres were prepared using hydrothermally prepared carbon spheres as template. The prepared hollow spheres were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectrum (DRS). The photocatalytic activity of as-prepared hollow titania spheres was determined by degradation of Reactive Brilliant Red dye X-3B (C.I. reactive red 2) under visible light irradiation, and was compared to commercial P25 titania. It was revealed that the photocatalytic activity of the titania hollow spheres enhanced a lot. The apparent rate constant of the titania hollow spheres was almost 17 times as that of P25 titania. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present work was focused on photocatalytic oxidation of the model molecule reactive brilliant X-3B by lanthanide-modified TiO2 samples under artificial solar and UV irradiation. Experimental results showed that the TiO2 samples doping with lanthanide (Ce and Gd) could greatly enhance the activity of pure TiO2, and could extend the absorption range to visible region. The optimum doping amount was 0.2 and 0.5at.% for Ce- and Gd-doped TiO2 particles, respectively. The degradation kinetics of X-3B on Ce-doped TiO2, Gd-doped TiO2, and pure TiO2 were studied as well. The results exhibited that the degradation of X-3B on all the samples were in accordance with the first-order model. The trend of apparent reaction rate constants k app was as follows, Gd-doped TiO2 >Ce-doped TiO2 >pure TiO2, under solar illumination. Scatchard plot analysis was used to evaluate the adsorption phenomena of as-prepared samples, and it indicated that lanthanide doping can improve the efficiency of interfacial adsorption of TiO2 samples. The trend was the same as that of photocatalytic activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel magnetically separable composite photocatalyst, anatase titania-coated magnetic activated carbon (TMAC), was prepared in this article. In the synthesis, magnetic activated carbon (MAC) was firstly obtained by adsorbing magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles onto the activated carbon (AC), and then the obtained MAC was directly coated by anatase titania nanoparticles prepared at low temperature (i.e. 75°C). The prepared samples were characterized by XRD, SEM and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The composite photocatalyst can be easily separated from solution by a magnet, its photocatalytic activity in degradation of phenol in aqueous solution also has dramatic enhancement compared to that of the neat titania. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The migration risk of antibiotic and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) have attracted lots of attentions due to their potential threaten to public health. Strategies to reduce their vertical mobilization risk are urgently required for groundwater safety and human health. Biochar enjoys numerous interests due to its excellent sorption affinity. However, little was known about the efficacy of biochar amendment in impeding the vertical mobilization of antibiotic and ARGs. To fill this gap, a column study was carried out to investigate biochar-induced variations in the leaching behavior of dissolved organic matter (DOM), sulfamethazine (SMZ) and ARGs. Results showed that biochar addition enhanced DOM export from soil, changed its composition and impeded the vertical transport of SMZ. Biochar amendment could effectively decrease the occurrence of extracellular and intracellular sul2 in soil and impede its vertical transportation, however, it did not work out with sul1 gene. Structural equation modeling analysis demonstrated that the abundance of sul2 was significantly controlled by SMZ concentration, while the primary drivers of sul1 were SMZ concentration and DOM content. These results indicated the failure in inhibiting the vertical transfer of sul1 under biochar amendment and highlighted the important role of DOM in the leaching of soil ARGs. [Display omitted] • Biochar enhanced the export of DOM from soil and changed its composition. • Biochar reduced the presence of soil sul2 in both eDNA and iDNA but not for sul1. • Biochar can impede the vertical transport of SMZ and sul2, not for sul1 and intI1. • The main driver of sul2 in leachate was SMZ and sul1 was also controlled by DOC. • Biochar-induced elevated DOC might compete with sul1 in eDNA for sorption sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The production of dibutyl phthalate directly from oxidation and esterification of cyclohexane, catalyzed by CuO-modified sulfated zirconia (SZCu) by one-pot under mild condition, was studied. The esterification reaction process was monitored by UV–vis spectra and the distribution of the products was analyzed by gas chromatograph–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The result revealed that the SZCu catalyst was efficient in the direct oxidation and esterification of cyclohexane to ester. The selectivity for ester (dibutyl phthalate) can reach up to 72.2wt.%, and the yield of ester was 29.5wt.%. The esterification reaction, that offers several advantages such as usage of environmental friendly oxidant, simple work-up procedure, no-solvent conditions, short reaction times, easy recovery and reusability of the catalyst, is necessary for chemosynthesis industry from the environment standpoint. The regeneration property of SZCu was also tested in this work. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Various ferrites modified carbon nanotubes (MFe 2 O 4 /CNTs; M = Co, Cu, Mn) were synthesized and characterized using TEM-EDS, FTIR, BET, TG-DTA, VSM, and XRD. MFe 2 O 4 /CNTs were used as adsorbents for removing ciprofloxacin (CIP), and the adsorption mechanism was revealed in a comparative manner based on the experimental results and density functional theory calculations. The adsorption capacities of CIP on MFe 2 O 4 /CNTs were 63.32 (Co), 61.60 (Cu), and 46.35 (Mn) mg/g, respectively. Different M components of MFe 2 O 4 affected the adsorption behavior of CIP on them, while the specific surface area and total pore volume showed no significant impact. The investigation on the adsorption energy and the bond formation indicated that CIP was more favorably captured by CoFe 2 O 4 /CuFe 2 O 4 than MnFe 2 O 4. The local density of states of metal atoms and O atoms (from the ketone or carboxyl groups of CIP) showed that the d -band centers of Co and Cu atoms were above the Fermi level, while that of Mn was below the Fermi level, providing the fundamental understanding of the promoted O adsorption on CoFe 2 O 4 and CuFe 2 O 4 and restrained adsorption on MnFe 2 O 4. This observation was supported by the electron localization function in terms of the stronger charge density overlap between Co-O/Cu-O than that of Mn-O. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of high crystalline magnetic nano spinel ferrites modified carbon nanotubes (MFe 2 O 4 /CNTs) as adsorbent. • Elucidation of adsorption process of ciprofloxacin on MFe 2 O 4 /CNTs via electrostatic, π-π interaction, and hydrogen bonding. • Interpretation of the interaction difference in terms of adsorption energy, bond formation, LDOS, and EFL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited peroxymonosulfate (PMS, HSO 4 −) activation efficiency resulted from slow metal reduction has been a challenge in visible-light (vis) assisted sulfate radical-based oxidation. Herein, a Z-scheme photocatalyst composed of nitrogen-defect-rich graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets embedded with nickel cobaltate nanoparticles (NiCo 2 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 -N vac) was elaborately designed to accelerate Ni(III)/Ni(II) and Co(III)/Co(II) cycles for PMS activation in PMS/vis system. The NiCo 2 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 -N vac exhibited remarkable enhancement with a tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) degradation rate constant (0.1168 min−1), higher than those of NiCo 2 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 (0.0724 min−1) and g-C 3 N 4 (0.0233 min−1), respectively. Also, the removal efficiencies of 95.5%, 94.2%, 98.0% and 91.4% for carbamazepine, 4-chlorophenol, atrazine and p-nitrophenol were achieved within 30 min, respectively. Theoretical and experimental results suggested that nitrogen (N) vacancies modulated electric structure to build Z-scheme-charge-transfer platform for rapid reduction of Ni(III) and Co(III), thereby accelerating PMS activation for remarkable removal of emerging pollutants. NiCo 2 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 -N vac exhibited excellent stability and corresponding electrical energy per order (EE/O) in different water matrix was evaluated. Additionally, TCH degradation behavior, pathways and toxicity of products were analyzed, respectively. This work provided an novel paradigm to design the efficient photo-activator of PMS for environmental remediation. [Display omitted] • Z-scheme NiCo 2 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 -N vac was designed to accelerate PMS activation. • N vacancies lower barrier for achieving Z-scheme charge transfer route. • NiCo 2 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 -N vac had remarkable performance for various emerging pollutants. • Lower EE/O values in different water matrix engendered more economic benefits. • Degradation pathway and toxicity of products was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonicotinoid insecticides are ubiquitous in surface water worldwide, yet the transportation and transformation of these compounds in aquatic environment remain unclear. In the present study, polar organic chemical integrative sampler with mixed-mode adsorbents (POCIS-MMA) was developed for simultaneously tracing environmental fate of seven neonicotinoids and 10 transformation products (TPs) from a paddy field to receiving waters in Poyang Lake basin, Jiangxi, China. All neonicotinoids (5.20 ± 0.75‒866 ± 143 ng/L) and seven TPs (116 ± 4‒334 ± 78 ng/L) were detected, demonstrating widespread occurrence of these insecticides in aquatic environment. Dinotefuran (up to 802 ± 139 ng/L) and its TP, 1-methyl-3- (tetrahydro-3-furylmethyl) guanidium dihydrogen (DN) (103 ± 4‒320 ± 76 ng/L) were the dominant neonicotinoids and TPs with mean concentrations of 200 ± 296 and 208 ± 58 ng/L, respectively. Spatial attenuation of neonicotinoids stretched downstream along the rivers, while TP concentrations firstly increased (D1‒S6) and then kept constant (S7‒S16) from upstream to downstream. Though paddy field was the main source of neonicotinoids, additional input sources downstream were identified by analyzing the composition of neonicotinoids and their TPs. Our study highlighted the applicability of POCIS-MMA passive sampling to investigate the transportation and transformation of neonicotinoids in agricultural waterways. [Display omitted] • A POCIS method was developed to trace transportation and transformation of neonicotinoids. • Dinotefuran and DN were the dominant neonicotinoids and transformation products. • Transformation of neonicotinoids occurred when they moved along agricultural waterways. • Molar ratios of neonicotinoids to its TPs is an effective index for source diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Timely detection of formaldehyde is pivotal because formaldehyde is slowly released from the indoor decorative materials, jeopardizing our healthy. Herein, a high-response formaldehyde gas sensor based on Ag-ZnO/In 2 O 3 nanofibers was successfully fabricated. Compared with all the control samples, the hybrid exhibits superior sensitivity (0.65 ppm−1), excellent selectivity (≥ 12.5) and durable stability (the deviation value ≤ 3%). Particularly, an ultra-high response value of about 186 towards 100 ppm of formaldehyde at 260 °C was achieved, heading the list of outstanding candidates. Additionally, the limit of detection is as low as 9 ppb. The enhanced gas sensing properties can be mainly attributed to multi-level heterojunctions (n-n heterojunction and Ohmic junction) and the "spill-over" effect of Ag, ultimately increasing the adsorption of gas molecules on the surface of sensing material. This work verifies that proper design of multi-level heterojunctions significantly upgrade the sensing performance. [Display omitted] • A high-response HCHO gas sensor is obtained based on Ag-ZnO/In 2 O 3 NFs. • Its response value (~183) is exceptionally high. • The enhanced performance is closely related to surface active oxygen. • Abundant active oxygen results from the multi-level heterojunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the photochemical activity of nitrogen-doped biochars (NCMs) by investigating their role in the degradation of sulfamethazine under simulated sunlight irradiation. NCMs with different doping amounts were prepared from corn straw and urea. Results showed that nitrogen doping can notably enhance the photodegradation of SMT rather than raw char. NCMs are of photochemical activity under visible light, which was confirmed by monochromatic light experiments. Quenching experiments, ESR, pH effect, and the influence of O 2 were carried out to explore the involved oxidation mechanism in this system. Results showed that 1O 2 was the main reactive oxygen species. 1O 2 was produced from O 2 by both energy transfer and electron transfer. DFT calculations showed that pyridinic N doping can decrease the energy of intersystem crossing and thus benefit the generation of 1O 2 by triplet-triplet energy transfer. Results underscore the explicit importance of nitrogen element in photochemical reactivity of chars under simulated light irradiation even when the nitrogen content is low. It is a meaningful reminder for us to pay more attention to the assessment of the fate and transport of contaminants in the soil where it is rich in NCMs as well as the potential use of NCMs for pollutants remediation, since visible light is very abundant near the earth's surface. [Display omitted] • Nitrogen doping can enhance the photochemical activity of chars. • Nitrogen-rich chars can response to higher wavelength light in the visible spectrum. • Singlet oxygen is the dominant reactive oxygen species. • Singlet oxygen was generated from O 2 by both energy transfer and electron transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) play a dominant role in protective biofilms. However, studies exploring the underlying protective mechanism of EPS have mainly focused on activated sludge, whereas their positive roles in protecting soil microbes from environmental stress have not been elucidated. In this study, we revealed the response of soil bacterial communities to various dosages of sulfadiazine (SDZ) present in manure, with a special emphasis on the role of EPS. Sequencing analysis showed that the bacterial community demonstrated stronger symbiotic relationships and weaker competitive interaction patterns to cope with disturbance induced by SDZ. EPS was mainly composed of tyrosine-like and tryptophan-like substances, and moreover, carboxyl, hydroxyl and ether groups were the main functional groups. An adaptation mechanism, namely the enhanced secretion of tryptophan-like substances, could help alleviate the SDZ stress effectively in the biofilms occurring in soil that experienced long-term manure application. Furthermore, the existence of EPS weakened the accumulation of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in soil. Our results for the first time systematically uncover the joint action of biofilm tolerance and ARGs in resisting SDZ stress, which enhances understanding of the protective role of EPS and the underlying mechanisms governing biofilm functions in soil environments. ga1 • The presence of SDZ caused significant changes in bacterial community of two soils. • Key taxa showed stronger symbiotic relationships to cope with SDZ exposure. • Tyrosine-like and tryptophan-like substances were the main components of soil EPS. • The existence of EPS weakened the accumulation of ARGs in soil. • Enhanced secretion of C2 might help avoid the bloom of ARGs in farmland soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing high-efficient hybrids carbon catalysts for PMS-based advanced oxidation process (AOPs) are crucial in the field of environmental remediation. In this work, novel carbon nanocubes (xFe‒N‒C) with three-dimensional porous structure and abundant well-dispersed FeN x sites were obtained via a skillful cage-encapsulated-precursor pyrolysis strategy. The as-synthesized xFe‒N‒C exhibited superb activity for phenol degradation by activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS). Besides, the catalytic system not only possessed good recycling performance, wide pH adaptation and relatively low activation energy, but also had high resistance to environmental interference. Singlet oxygen (1O 2) dominated non-radical process was responsible for phenol degradation rather than traditional radical pathways. Impressively, the doping level of Fe could regulate FeN x contents in catalysts, and the catalytic activity of xFe‒N‒C was greatly enhanced with increasing FeN x contents. Based on density functional theory calculations (DFT), the introduction of FeN x sites regulated the electronic structure of catalysts. Such electron-deficient Fe center acted as electron acceptor to receive electrons transmitted by the adsorbed PMS, thus generating highly reactive 1O 2 for rapid phenol oxidation. This work provides a new insight into the innovation in transition metal-nitrogen hybrid carbon catalysts and highlights the pivotal roles of FeN x sites in 1O 2 generation during PMS activation process. ga1 • Carbon nanocubes with abundant FeN x active sites were successfully synthesized. • Fe‒N‒C exhibited excellent catalytic activity and stability. • Fe‒N‒C/PMS system possessed high tolerance to pH and water constituents. • The crucial role of FeN x sites in carbocatalysis was revealed by DFT calculations. • Dominant 1O 2 was identified and PMS activation mechanism was elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A clean and efficient process is processed to selective recovery valuable metals. • The spent anode powder of the spent LIBs is used as reducing agent. • Lithium is preferentially leached by reduction roasting and water leaching. • The optimal selective recovery system of transition metals is NH 3 ⋅H 2 O and (NH 4) 2 SO 3. • The whole selective separation process reduces the subsequent separation process. In this study, a promising process has been developed for selective recovery of valuable metals from spent lithium ion batteries (LIBs). First, reduction roasting which used spent anode powder as reduction agent and water immersion are applied to preferentially recover lithium. Subsequently, an ammonia leaching method is adopted to eff ;ectively separate nickel and cobalt from water immersion residue. Results indicate that Li 2 CO 3 , (NiO) m· (MnO) n , Ni, Co are the ultimate reduction products at 650 °C for 1 h with 5% anode powder. 82.2 % Li is preferentially leached via water immersion after reduction roasting and Li 2 CO 3 products are obtained by evaporation crystallization. Thermodynamics shows that reducing ammonia leaching is feasible for water immersion residue. Amounts of 97.7 % Ni and 99.1 % Co can be selectively leached by NH 3· H 2 O and (NH 4) 2 SO 3 while Mn remain in the residue as (NH 4) 2 Mn(SO 3) 2· H 2 O, (NH 4) 2 Mn(SO 4) 2· 6H 2 O and (NH 4) 2 Mn 2 (SO 3) 3 under the optimized conditions. Ammonia leaching kinetic show the activation energy of Ni and Co is 84.44 kJ/mol and 91.73 kJ/mol, which indicate the controlling steps are the chemical reaction. Summarily, the whole process achieves the maximum degree of selective recovery and reduces the environmental pollution caused by the multistep purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Exposure of ZIF-8 NPs led to decreases in fungal biomass and enzyme activities. • ZIF-8 NPs caused changes in fungal community structure as well as hub species. • ZIF-8 NPs at 10 μg L−1 significantly promoted the decomposition of leaf litter. • ZIF-8 NPs at 1000 μg L−1 significantly inhibited C and N loss of leaves. Synthesis of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 nanoparticles (ZIF-8 NPs) and evaluation of their potential threats on ecosystem functioning has been reported in this work. A 45-day indoor experiment was conducted to explore the effects of ZIF-8 NPs at three different concentrations (10, 100, and 1000 μg L−1) on the aquatic fungal community associated with Populus nigra L. leaf litter decomposition. After chronic exposure, ZIF-8 NPs at 1000 μg L−1 significantly inhibited fungal biomass and extracellular enzyme activities as a result of inhibition on carbon and nitrogen loss of leaves. Besides, ZIF-8 NPs at 10 μg L−1 increased the percentage of Anguillospora in the fungal community and led Monographella cucumerina and Mycosphaerella tassiana to become the hub species, which eventually significantly promoted the decomposition of leaf litter. In conclusion, our study provides a reference for the possible ecotoxicity of ZIF-8 NPs on aquatic fungi, confirms the influence of ZIF-8 NPs on nutrient cycling in streams, and also emphasizes the importance of fungal community structure and hub species in the process of leaf litter decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Analysis of engineered particles in stormwater green infrastructures (SGI). • GSI retain TiO 2 engineered particles. • Elemental ratios were used to estimate the concentrations of TiO 2 engineered particles. • The particle size distribution of TiO 2 was determined by AF4. • The occurrence of TiO 2 engineered particles was confirmed by TEM-EDS analysis. Stormwater conveys natural and engineered (nano)-particles, like any other pollutants, from urban areas to water resources. Thus, the use of stormwater green infrastructures (SGI), which infiltrate and treat stormwater, can potentially limit the spread of engineered (nano)-particles in the environment. However, the concentration of engineered (nano)-particles in soil or biofilter media used in SGI has not been measured due to difficulties in distinguishing natural vs. engineered (nano)-particles. This study reports, for the first time, the concentration and size distribution of TiO 2 engineered (nano)-particles in soils collected from SGI. The concentrations of TiO 2 engineered (nano)-particles were determined by mass balance calculations based on shifts in elemental concentration ratios, i.e., Ti to Nb, Ti to Ta, and Ti to Al in SGI soils relative to natural background elemental ratios. The concentrations of TiO 2 engineered (nano)-particles in SGI soils varied between 550 ± 13 and 1800 ± 200 mg kg−1. A small fraction of TiO 2 engineered (nano)-particles could be extracted by ultrapure water (UPW) and Na 4 P 2 O 7 ; however, the concentration of TiO 2 engineered (nano)-particles was higher in the Na 4 P 2 O 7 -extracted suspensions than in UPW-extracted suspensions. The concentration of TiO 2 in the nanosize range increased with the increase in extractant (Na 4 P 2 O 7) volume to soil mass ratio due to the increased disaggregation of soil heteroaggregates. The size distribution of TiO 2 engineered (nano)-particles in the < 450 nm Na 4 P 2 O 7 -extracted suspension from one of the SGI soils was determined by asymmetrical flow-field flow fractionation coupled to inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer, and was found to vary in the range of 25−200 nm with a modal size of 50 nm. These results demonstrated that the increase in the Ti to natural tracers (e.g., Nb, Ta, and Al) elemental ratios in the SGI soil relative to bulk soil can be used to estimate the concentration of TiO 2 engineered (nano)-particles in SGI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper mainly focuses on the SERS substrates with different dimensions. • The effects of SERS substrate structure on the detection performance of explosives are reviewed. • The surface modification, target explosives, EF and LOD of SERS substrates are summarized. • The future opportunities and challenges of SERS-based explosive sensors are prospected. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technology has been reported to be able to quickly and non-destructively identify target analytes. SERS substrate with high sensitivity and selectivity gave SERS technology a broad application prospect. This contribution aims to provide a detailed and systematic review of the current state of research on SERS-based explosive sensors, with particular attention to current research advances. This review mainly focuses on the strategies for improving SERS performance and the SERS substrates with different dimensions including zero-dimensional (0D) nanocolloids, one-dimensional (1D) nanowires and nanorods, two-dimensional (2D) arrays, and three-dimensional (3D) networks. The effects of elemental composition, the shape and size of metal nanoparticles, hot-spot structure and surface modification on the performance of explosive detection are also reviewed. In addition, the future development tendency and application of SERS-based explosive sensors are prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The hydrometallurgical and pyroelectrochemical routes are combined to extract Li 2 CO 3 and Co powder from spent LIBs. • An optimized acid leaching process has a high extraction rate over 99% for both Li and Co. • The Co 3 O 4 produced from spent LIBs is electrochemically split to Co powder and oxygen in molten salt. Recycling of the spent LIBs to extract Li and Co not only offers raw materials for batteries but also lays a sustainable way for battery development. Herein, we adopt a route combining hydrometallurgical and pyro-electrochemical routes to extract Li 2 CO 3 and Co powder from the spent LIBs of cell phones. The LiCoO 2 -based cathode materials were firstly dissolved in H 2 SO 4 solution containing H 2 O 2 as the reductant, and the optimal conditions for attaining a high extraction rate of 99% were studied. After that, the precipitated Co(OH) 2 was calcinated in air under 500 °C to generate Co 3 O 4 which was thereafter electrochemically converted into Co powder and oxygen in molten Na 2 CO 3 -K 2 CO 3. Overall, the hybrid method employing both hydro- and pyro-route provides an effective pathway to recover both Li 2 CO 3 and Co powder from spent LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a simple method of biocathode fabrication in a Cr(VI)-reducing microbial fuel cell (MFC) is demonstrated. A self-assembling graphene was decorated onto the biocathode microbially, constructing a graphene/biofilm, in situ. The maximum power density of the MFC with a graphene biocathode is 5.7 times that of the MFC with a graphite felt biocathode. Cr(VI) reduction was also enhanced, resulting in 100% removal of Cr(VI) within 48 h, at 40 mg/L Cr(VI), compared with only 58.3% removal of Cr(VI) in the MFC with a graphite felt biocathode. Cyclic voltammogram analyses showed that the graphene biocathode had faster electron transfer kinetics than the graphite felt version. Energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) analysis revealed a possible adsorption-reduction mechanism for Cr(VI) reduction via the graphene biocathode. This study attempts to improve the efficiency of the biocathode in the Cr(VI)-reducing MFC, and provides a useful candidate method for the treatment of Cr(VI) contaminated wastewater, under neutral conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]