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12 pages, 777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fit-for-Purpose Assessment of QuEChERS LC-MS/MS Methods for Environmental Monitoring of Organotin Compounds in the Bottom Sediments of the Odra River Estuary

by Dawid Kucharski, Robert Stasiuk, Przemysław Drzewicz, Artur Skowronek, Agnieszka Strzelecka, Kamila Mianowicz and Joanna Giebułtowicz

Molecules 2022, 27(15), 4847; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27154847 - 28 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2143

Abstract

Organotin compounds (OTCs) are among the most hazardous substances found in the marine environment and can be determined by either the ISO 23161 method based on extraction with non-polar organic solvents and gas chromatography analysis or by the recently developed QuEChERS method coupled [...] Read more.

Organotin compounds (OTCs) are among the most hazardous substances found in the marine environment and can be determined by either the ISO 23161 method based on extraction with non-polar organic solvents and gas chromatography analysis or by the recently developed QuEChERS method coupled to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). To date, the QuEChERS LC/MS and ISO 23161 methods have not been compared in terms of their fit-for-purpose and reliability in the determination of OTCs in bottom sediments. In the case of ISO 23161, due to a large number of interferences gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was not suitable for the determination of OTCs contrary to more selective determination by gas chromatography with an atomic emission detector. Moreover, it has been found that the derivatization of OTCs to volatile compounds, which required prior gas chromatography determination, was strongly affected by the sediments’ matrices. As a result, a large amount of reagent was needed for the complete derivatization of the compounds. Contrary to ISO 23161, the QuEChERS LC-MS/MS method did not require the derivatization of OTC and is less prone to interferences. Highly volatile and toxic solvents were not used in the QuEChERS LC-MS/MS method. This makes the method more environmentally friendly according to the principles of green analytical chemistry. QuEChERS LC-MS/MS is suitable for fast and reliable environmental monitoring of OTCs in bottom sediments from the Odra River estuary. However, determination of di- and monobutyltin by the QuEChERS LC-MS/MS method was not possible due to the constraints of the chromatographic system. Hence, further development of this method is needed for monitoring di- and monobutyltin in bottom sediments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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9 pages, 839 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection of Bisphenol A and Four Analogues in Atmospheric Emissions in Petrochemical Complexes Producing Polypropylene in South America

by Joaquín Hernández Fernández, Yoleima Guerra and Heidi Cano

Molecules 2022, 27(15), 4832; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27154832 - 28 Jul 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2122

Abstract

Because of its toxicity and impacts on the environment and human health, bisphenol A (BPA) has been controlled in numerous industrialized nations, increasing demand for bisphenol analogues (BP) for its replacement. However, the consequences of these chemicals on the environment and the health [...] Read more.

Because of its toxicity and impacts on the environment and human health, bisphenol A (BPA) has been controlled in numerous industrialized nations, increasing demand for bisphenol analogues (BP) for its replacement. However, the consequences of these chemicals on the environment and the health of persons exposed to their emissions are still being researched. The emissions from polypropylene manufacturing facilities in Colombia and Brazil were evaluated in this study, and the presence of bisphenol A and four BPs was detected among the gaseous compounds released, with total concentrations of BPs (∑BP) between 92 and 1565 ng g⁻¹. As the melt flow index (MFI) of the polymer rises, so does the quantity of volatiles in its matrix that are eliminated during deodorization, indicating that the MFI and the amount of bisphenol released have a directly proportional connection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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13 pages, 3461 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Dechlorane Plus Concentrations in Sequential Blood Samples of Pregnant Women in Taizhou, China

by Ji-Fang-Tong Li, Xing-Hong Li, Yao-Yuan Wan, Yuan-Yuan Li and Zhan-Fen Qin

Molecules 2022, 27(7), 2242; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27072242 - 30 Mar 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1532

Abstract

To develop an appropriate sampling strategy to assess the intrauterine exposure to dechlorane plus (DP), we investigated DP levels in sequential maternal blood samples collected in three trimesters of pregnancy, respectively, from women living in Taizhou. The median concentration of DPs (sum of [...] Read more.

To develop an appropriate sampling strategy to assess the intrauterine exposure to dechlorane plus (DP), we investigated DP levels in sequential maternal blood samples collected in three trimesters of pregnancy, respectively, from women living in Taizhou. The median concentration of DPs (sum of syn-DP and anti-DP) in all samples was 30.5 pg g⁻¹ wet-weight and 5.01 ng g⁻¹ lipid-adjusted weight, respectively. The trimester-related DP concentrations were consistently strongly correlated (p < 0.01), indicating that a single measurement of DP levels could represent intrauterine exposure without sampling from the same female repeatedly; however, the wet-weight levels significantly increased across trimesters (p < 0.05), while the lipid-adjusted levels did not significantly vary. Notably, whether lipid-adjusted weight or wet-weight levels, the variation extent of DP across trimesters was found to be less than 41%, and those for other persistent organic pollutants (POPs) reported in the literature were also limited to 100%. The limitation in variation extents indicated that, regardless of the time of blood collection during pregnancy and how the levels were expressed, a single measurement could be extended to screen for exposure risk if necessary. Our study provides different strategies for sampling the maternal blood to serve the requirement for assessment of in utero exposure to DP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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14 pages, 3422 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of BPZ and BPC on Oxidative Stress of Zebrafish under Different pH Conditions

by Ying Han, Yumeng Fei, Mingxin Wang, Yingang Xue and Yuxuan Liu

Molecules 2022, 27(5), 1568; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27051568 - 26 Feb 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1987

Abstract

To further understand the toxic effects of bisphenol Z (BPZ) and bisphenol C (BPC) on aquatic organisms, zebrafish (Danio rerio) were exposed to 0.02 mg/L BPZ and BPC mixed solution in the laboratory for 28 days. The impacts of BPZ and [...] Read more.

To further understand the toxic effects of bisphenol Z (BPZ) and bisphenol C (BPC) on aquatic organisms, zebrafish (Danio rerio) were exposed to 0.02 mg/L BPZ and BPC mixed solution in the laboratory for 28 days. The impacts of BPZ and BPC on the activity of the antioxidant enzymes, expression of antioxidant genes, and estrogen receptor genes in zebrafish under different pH conditions were studied. The changes of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), reduced glutathione (GSH), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (POD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the zebrafish were detected by spectrophotometry. The mRNA relative expression levels of CAT, GSH, SOD, ERa, and ERb1 in the experimental group were determined by fluorescence quantitative PCR. The results showed that SOD activity and MDA content were inhibited under different pH conditions, and the activities of GSH, GSH-Px, and POD were induced. The activities of POD and GSH induced in the neutral environment were stronger than those in an acidic and alkaline environment. The mRNA relative expression levels of SOD and GSH were consistent with the activities of SOD and GSH. The mRNA relative expression levels of CAT were induced more strongly in the neutral environment than in acidic and alkaline conditions, the mRNA relative expression levels of ERa were induced most weakly in a neutral environment, and the mRNA relative expression levels of ERb1 were inhibited the most in a neutral environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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12 pages, 1311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of VOCs Emitted from Biomass Combustion in a Small CHP Plant: Difference between Dry and Wet Poplar Woodchips

by Enrico Paris, Monica Carnevale, Beatrice Vincenti, Adriano Palma, Ettore Guerriero, Domenico Borello and Francesco Gallucci

Molecules 2022, 27(3), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27030955 - 31 Jan 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3073

Abstract

The combustion of biomass is a process that is increasingly used for the generation of heat and energy through different types of wood and agricultural waste. The emissions generated by the combustion of biomass include different kinds of macro- and micropollutants whose formation [...] Read more.

The combustion of biomass is a process that is increasingly used for the generation of heat and energy through different types of wood and agricultural waste. The emissions generated by the combustion of biomass include different kinds of macro- and micropollutants whose formation and concentration varies according to the physical and chemical characteristics of the biomass, the combustion conditions, the plants, and the operational parameters of the process. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of biomass moisture content on the formation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the combustion process. Wet and dry poplar chips, with a moisture content of 43.30% and 15.00%, respectively, were used in a cogeneration plant based on a mobile grate furnace. Stack’s emissions were sampled through adsorbent tubes and subsequently analyzed by thermal desorption coupled with the GC/MS. The data obtained showed that, depending on the moisture content of the starting matrix, which inevitably influences the quality of combustion, there is significant variation in the production of VOCs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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10 pages, 1812 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multiwell-Based Assay for Screening Thyroid Hormone Signaling Disruptors Using thibz Expression as a Sensitive Endpoint in Xenopus laevis

by Jinbo Li, Yuanyuan Li, Min Zhu, Shilin Song and Zhanfen Qin

Molecules 2022, 27(3), 798; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27030798 - 25 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2555

Abstract

There is a need for rapidly screening thyroid hormone (TH) signaling disruptors in vivo considering the essential role of TH signaling in vertebrates. We aimed to establish a rapid in vivo screening assay using Xenopus laevis based on the T3-induced Xenopus metamorphosis assay [...] Read more.

There is a need for rapidly screening thyroid hormone (TH) signaling disruptors in vivo considering the essential role of TH signaling in vertebrates. We aimed to establish a rapid in vivo screening assay using Xenopus laevis based on the T3-induced Xenopus metamorphosis assay we established previously, as well as the Xenopus Eleutheroembryonic Thyroid Assay (XETA). Stage 48 tadpoles were treated with a series of concentrations of T3 in 6-well plates for 24 h and the expression of six TH-response genes was analyzed for choosing a proper T3 concentration. Next, bisphenol A (BPA) and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), two known TH signaling disruptors, were tested for determining the most sensitive TH-response gene, followed by the detection of several suspected TH signaling disruptors. We determined 1 nM as the induction concentration of T3 and thibz expression as the sensitive endpoint for detecting TH signaling disruptors given its highest response to T3, BPA, and TBBPA. And we identified betamipron as a TH signaling agonist, and 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) as a TH signaling antagonist. Overall, we developed a multiwell-based assay for rapidly screening TH signaling disruptors using thibz expression as a sensitive endpoint in X. laevis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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21 pages, 2471 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Turning Frequency on Ammonia Emission during the Composting of Chicken Manure and Soybean Straw

by Qianqian Ma, Yanli Li, Jianming Xue, Dengmiao Cheng and Zhaojun Li

Molecules 2022, 27(2), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27020472 - 12 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2659

Abstract

Here, we investigated the impact of different turning frequency (TF) on dynamic changes of N fractions, NH₃ emission and bacterial/archaeal community during chicken manure composting. Compared to higher TF (i.e., turning every 1 or 3 days in CMS1 or CMS3 treatments, respectively), [...] Read more.

Here, we investigated the impact of different turning frequency (TF) on dynamic changes of N fractions, NH₃ emission and bacterial/archaeal community during chicken manure composting. Compared to higher TF (i.e., turning every 1 or 3 days in CMS1 or CMS3 treatments, respectively), lower TF (i.e., turning every 5 or 7 days in CMS5 or CMS7 treatments, respectively) decreased NH₃ emission by 11.42–18.95%. Compared with CMS1, CMS3 and CMS7 treatments, the total nitrogen loss of CMS5 decreased by 38.03%, 17.06% and 24.76%, respectively. Ammonia oxidizing bacterial/archaeal (AOB/AOA) communities analysis revealed that the relative abundance of Nitrosospira and Nitrososphaera was higher in lower TF treatment during the thermophilic and cooling stages, which could contribute to the reduction of NH₃ emission. Thus, different TF had a great influence on NH₃ emission and microbial community during composting. It is practically feasible to increase the abundance of AOB/AOA through adjusting TF and reduce NH₃ emission the loss of nitrogen during chicken manure composting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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12 pages, 3378 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tetrabromobisphenol A Disturbs Brain Development in Both Thyroid Hormone-Dependent and -Independent Manners in Xenopus laevis

by Mengqi Dong, Yuanyuan Li, Min Zhu, Jinbo Li and Zhanfen Qin

Molecules 2022, 27(1), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27010249 - 31 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1895

Abstract

Although tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) has been well proven to disturb TH signaling in both in vitro and in vivo assays, it is still unclear whether TBBPA can affect brain development due to TH signaling disruption. Here, we employed the T3-induced Xenopus metamorphosis assay [...] Read more.

Although tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) has been well proven to disturb TH signaling in both in vitro and in vivo assays, it is still unclear whether TBBPA can affect brain development due to TH signaling disruption. Here, we employed the T3-induced Xenopus metamorphosis assay (TIXMA) and the spontaneous metamorphosis assay to address this issue. In the TIXMA, 5–500 nmol/L TBBPA affected T3-induced TH-response gene expression and T3-induced brain development (brain morphological changes, cell proliferation, and neurodifferentiation) at premetamorphic stages in a complicated biphasic concentration-response manner. Notably, 500 nmol/L TBBPA treatment alone exerted a stimulatory effect on tadpole growth and brain development at these stages, in parallel with a lack of TH signaling activation, suggesting the involvement of other signaling pathways. As expected, at the metamorphic climax, we observed inhibitory effects of 50–500 nmol/L TBBPA on metamorphic development and brain development, which was in agreement with the antagonistic effects of higher concentrations on T3-induced brain development at premetamorphic stages. Taken together, all results demonstrate that TBBPA can disturb TH signaling and subsequently interfere with TH-dependent brain development in Xenopus; meanwhile, other signaling pathways besides TH signaling could be involved in this process. Our study improves the understanding of the effects of TBBPA on vertebrate brain development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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8 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determination of Hexabromocyclododecane in Expanded Polystyrene and Extruded Polystyrene Foam by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

by Tianao Mao, Haoyang Wang, Zheng Peng, Taotao Ni, Tianqi Jia, Rongrong Lei and Wenbin Liu

Molecules 2021, 26(23), 7143; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26237143 - 25 Nov 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2477

Abstract

A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method for the determination of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) in expanded polystyrene and extruded polystyrene foam (EPS/XPS) was developed. The EPS/XPS samples were ultrasonically extracted with acetone and the extracts were purified by filtration through a microporous membrane (0.22 μm) [...] Read more.

A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method for the determination of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) in expanded polystyrene and extruded polystyrene foam (EPS/XPS) was developed. The EPS/XPS samples were ultrasonically extracted with acetone and the extracts were purified by filtration through a microporous membrane (0.22 μm) and solid-phase extraction. The samples were analyzed using a GC/MS using the selected ion monitoring mode. The ions 157, 319 and 401 were selected as the qualitative ions, while ion 239 was chosen as the quantitative ion. An HBCD standard working solution with a concentration range of 1.0–50.0 mg/L showed good linearity. The detection limit of HBCD was 0.5 mg/kg, meeting the LPC limit (<100 or 1000 mg/kg). Six laboratories were selected to verify the accuracy of the method, and 10 samples were tested. The interlaboratory relative standard deviation range was 3.68–9.80%. This method could play an important role in controlling HBCD contamination in EPS/XPS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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14 pages, 14976 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A 110 Year Sediment Record of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Related to Economic Development and Energy Consumption in Dongping Lake, North China

by Wei Guo, Junhui Yue, Qian Zhao, Jun Li, Xiangyi Yu and Yan Mao

Molecules 2021, 26(22), 6828; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26226828 - 11 Nov 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1929

Abstract

A sedimentary record of the 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) pollutants from Dongping Lake, north China, is presented in this study. The influence of regional energy structure changes for 2–6-ring PAHs was investigated, in order to assess their sources and the impact of [...] Read more.

A sedimentary record of the 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) pollutants from Dongping Lake, north China, is presented in this study. The influence of regional energy structure changes for 2–6-ring PAHs was investigated, in order to assess their sources and the impact of socioeconomic developments on the observed changes in concentration over time. The concentration of the ΣPAH₁₆ ranged from 77.6 to 628.0 ng/g. Prior to the 1970s, the relatively low concentration of ΣPAH₁₆ and the average presence of 44.4% 2,3-ring PAHs indicated that pyrogenic combustion from grass, wood, and coal was the main source of PAHs. The rapid increase in the concentration of 2,3-ring PAHs between the 1970s and 2006 was attributed to the growth of the urban population and the coal consumption, following the implementation of the Reform and Open Policy in 1978. The source apportionment, which was assessed using a positive matrix factorization model, revealed that coal combustion was the most important regional source of PAHs pollution (>51.0%). The PAHs were mainly transported to the site from the surrounding regions by atmospheric deposition rather than direct discharge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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12 pages, 1956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A QSAR–ICE–SSD Model Prediction of the PNECs for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Their Ecological Risks in an Area of Electroplating Factories

by Jiawei Zhang, Mengtao Zhang, Huanyu Tao, Guanjing Qi, Wei Guo, Hui Ge and Jianghong Shi

Molecules 2021, 26(21), 6574; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26216574 - 30 Oct 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2789

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a class of highly fluorinated aliphatic compounds that are persistent and bioaccumulate, posing a potential threat to the aquatic environment. The electroplating industry is considered to be an important source of PFASs. Due to emerging PFASs and [...] Read more.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a class of highly fluorinated aliphatic compounds that are persistent and bioaccumulate, posing a potential threat to the aquatic environment. The electroplating industry is considered to be an important source of PFASs. Due to emerging PFASs and many alternatives, the acute toxicity data for PFASs and their alternatives are relatively limited. In this study, a QSAR–ICE–SSD composite model was constructed by combining quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR), interspecies correlation estimation (ICE), and species sensitivity distribution (SSD) models in order to obtain the predicted no-effect concentrations (PNECs) of selected PFASs. The PNECs for the selected PFASs ranged from 0.254 to 6.27 mg/L. The ΣPFAS concentrations ranged from 177 to 983 ng/L in a river close to an electroplating industry in Shenzhen. The ecological risks associated with PFASs in the river were below 2.97 × 10⁻⁴. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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15 pages, 1094 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occurrence of Phthalates in Bottled Drinks in the Chinese Market and Its Implications for Dietary Exposure

by Xiaohong Xue, Yaoming Su, Hailei Su, Dongping Fan, Hongliang Jia, Xiaoting Chu, Xiaoyang Song, Yuxian Liu, Feilong Li, Jingchuan Xue and Wenbin Liu

Molecules 2021, 26(19), 6054; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26196054 - 6 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

Ubiquitous occurrences of phthalic acid esters (PAEs) or phthalates in a variety of consumer products have been demonstrated. Nevertheless, studies on their occurrence in various types of bottled drinks are limited. In this study, fifteen PAEs were analyzed in six categories of bottled [...] Read more.

Ubiquitous occurrences of phthalic acid esters (PAEs) or phthalates in a variety of consumer products have been demonstrated. Nevertheless, studies on their occurrence in various types of bottled drinks are limited. In this study, fifteen PAEs were analyzed in six categories of bottled drinks (n = 105) collected from the Chinese market, including mineral water, tea drinks, energy drinks, juice drinks, soft drinks, and beer. Among the 15 PAEs measured, DEHP was the most abundant phthalate with concentrations ranging from below the limit of quantification (LOQ) to 41,000 ng/L at a detection rate (DR) of 96%, followed by DIBP (DR: 88%) and DBP (DR: 84%) with respective concentration ranges of below LOQ to 16,000 and to 4900 ng/L. At least one PAE was detected in each drink sample, and the sum concentrations of 15 PAEs ranged from 770 to 48,004 ng/L (median: 6286 ng/L). Significant differences with respect to both PAE concentrations and composition profiles were observed between different types of bottled drinks. The median sum concentration of 15 PAEs in soft drinks was over five times higher than that detected in mineral water; different from other drink types. Besides DEHP, DBIP, and DBP, a high concentration of BMEP was also detected in a tea drink. The estimated daily dietary intake of phthalates (EDI_drink) through the consumption of bottled drinks was calculated based on the concentrations measured and the daily ingestion rates of bottled drink items. The EDI_drink values for DMP, DEP, DIBP, DBP, BMEP, DAP, BEEP, BBP, DCP, DHP, BMPP, BBEP, DEHP, DOP, and DNP through the consumption of bottled mineral water (based on mean concentrations) were 0.45, 0.33, 12.5, 3.67, 2.10, 0.06, 0.32, 0.16, 0.10, 0.09, 0.05, 0.81, 112, 0.13, and 0.20 ng/kg-bw/d, respectively, for Chinese adults. Overall, the EDI_drink values calculated for phthalates through the consumption of bottled drinks were below the oral reference doses suggested by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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11 pages, 1158 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation on Distribution and Risk Assessment of Volatile Organic Compounds in Surface Water, Sediment, and Soil in a Chemical Industrial Park and Adjacent Area

by Rongrong Lei, Yamei Sun, Shuai Zhu, Tianqi Jia, Yunchen He, Jinglin Deng and Wenbin Liu

Molecules 2021, 26(19), 5988; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26195988 - 2 Oct 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2340

Abstract

The occurrences, distributions, and risks of 55 target volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in water, sediment, sludge, and soil samples taken from a chemical industrial park and the adjacent area were investigated in this study. The Σ₅₅-VOCs concentrations in the water, sediment, [...] Read more.

The occurrences, distributions, and risks of 55 target volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in water, sediment, sludge, and soil samples taken from a chemical industrial park and the adjacent area were investigated in this study. The Σ₅₅-VOCs concentrations in the water, sediment, sludge, and soil samples were 1.22–5449.21 μg L⁻¹, ND–52.20 ng g⁻¹, 21.53 ng g⁻¹, and ND–11.58 ng g⁻¹, respectively. The main products in this park are medicines, pesticides, and novel materials. As for the species of VOCs, aromatic hydrocarbons were the dominant VOCs in the soil samples, whereas halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons were the dominant VOCs in the water samples. The VOCs concentrations in water samples collected at different locations varied by 1–3 orders of magnitude, and the average concentration in river water inside the park was obviously higher than that in river water outside the park. However, the risk quotients for most of the VOCs indicated a low risk to the relevant, sensitive aquatic organisms in the river water. The average VOCs concentration in soil from the park was slightly higher than that from the adjacent area. This result showed that the chemical industrial park had a limited impact on the surrounding soil, while the use of pesticides, incomplete combustion of coal and biomass, and automobile exhaust emissions are all potential sources of the VOCs in the environmental soil. The results of this study could be used to evaluate the effects of VOCs emitted from chemical production and transportation in the park on the surrounding environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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9 pages, 2039 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distributions of Polychlorinated Naphthalenes in Sediments of the Yangtze River, China

by Zhitong Liu, Ke Xiao, Jingjing Wu, Tianqi Jia, Rongrong Lei and Wenbin Liu

Molecules 2021, 26(17), 5298; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26175298 - 31 Aug 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1944

Abstract

The pollution status of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) in the sediment of the Yangtze River Basin, Asia’s largest river basin, was estimated. The total concentrations of PCNs (mono- to octa-CNs) ranged from 0.103 to 1.631 ng/g. Mono-, di-, and tri-PCNs—consisting of CN-1, CN-5/7, and [...] Read more.

The pollution status of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) in the sediment of the Yangtze River Basin, Asia’s largest river basin, was estimated. The total concentrations of PCNs (mono- to octa-CNs) ranged from 0.103 to 1.631 ng/g. Mono-, di-, and tri-PCNs—consisting of CN-1, CN-5/7, and CN-24/14, respectively, as the main congeners—were the dominant homolog groups. Combustion indicators and principal component analysis showed that the emissions from halowax mixtures were the main contributor to PCNs in sediment, among most of the sampling sites. The mean total toxic equivalent (TEQ) was calculated to be 0.045 ± 0.077 pg TEQ/g, which indicates that the PCNs in sediments were of low toxicity to aquatic organisms. This work will expand the database on the distribution and characteristics of PCNs in the river sediment of China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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12 pages, 3348 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Pore Size Distribution and Amination on Adsorption Capacities of Polymeric Adsorbents

by Wei Liu, Yuxi Zhang, Shui Wang, Lisen Bai, Yanhui Deng and Jingzhong Tao

Molecules 2021, 26(17), 5267; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26175267 - 30 Aug 2021

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 3178

Abstract

Polymeric adsorbents with different properties were synthesized via suspension polymerization. Equilibrium and kinetics experiments were then performed to verify the adsorption capacities of the resins for molecules of various sizes. The adsorption of small molecules reached equilibrium more quickly than the adsorption of [...] Read more.

Polymeric adsorbents with different properties were synthesized via suspension polymerization. Equilibrium and kinetics experiments were then performed to verify the adsorption capacities of the resins for molecules of various sizes. The adsorption of small molecules reached equilibrium more quickly than the adsorption of large molecules. Furthermore, the resins with small pores are easy to lower their adsorption capacities for large molecules because of the pore blockage effect. After amination, the specific surface areas of the resins decreased. The average pore diameter decreased when the resin was modified with either primary or tertiary amines, but the pore diameter increased when the resin was modified with secondary amines. The phenol adsorption capacities of the amine-modified resins were reduced because of the decreased specific area. The amine-modified resins could more efficiently adsorb reactive brilliant blue 4 owing to the presence of polar functional groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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14 pages, 7170 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Water Matrix Certified Reference Material for Volatile Organic Compounds Analysis in Water

by Liping Fang, Linyan Huang, Gang Yang, Yang Jiang, Haiping Liu, Bingwen Lu, Yaxian Zhao and Wen Tian

Molecules 2021, 26(14), 4370; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26144370 - 20 Jul 2021

Viewed by 2429

Abstract

Water matrix certified reference material (MCRM) of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is used to provide quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) during the analysis of VOCs in water. In this research, a water MCRM of 28 VOCs was developed using a “reconstitution” approach [...] Read more.

Water matrix certified reference material (MCRM) of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is used to provide quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) during the analysis of VOCs in water. In this research, a water MCRM of 28 VOCs was developed using a “reconstitution” approach by adding VOCs spiking, methanol solution into pure water immediately prior to analysis. The VOCs spiking solution was prepared gravimetrically by dividing 28 VOCs into seven groups, then based on ISO Guide 35, using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to investigate the homogeneity and long-term stability. The studies of homogeneity and long-term stability indicated that the batch of VOCs spiking solution was homogeneous and stable at room temperature for at least 15 months. Moreover, the water MCRM of 28 VOCs was certified by a network of nine competent laboratories, and the certified values and expanded uncertainties of 28 VOCs ranged from 6.2 to 17 μg/L and 0.5 to 5.3 μg/L, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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16 pages, 6979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stable and Effective Online Monitoring and Feedback Control of PCDD/F during Municipal Waste Incineration

by Shijian Xiong, Fanjie Shang, Ken Chen, Shengyong Lu, Shaofu Tang, Xiaodong Li and Kefa Cen

Molecules 2021, 26(14), 4290; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26144290 - 15 Jul 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2392

Abstract

For the long-term operation of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI), online monitoring and feedback control of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofuran (PCDD/F) can be used to control the emissions to national or regional standards. In this study, 500 PCDD/F samples were determined [...] Read more.

For the long-term operation of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI), online monitoring and feedback control of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofuran (PCDD/F) can be used to control the emissions to national or regional standards. In this study, 500 PCDD/F samples were determined by thermal desorption gas chromatography coupled to tunable-laser ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TD-GC-TLI-TOFMS) for 168 h. PCDD/F emissions range from 0.01 ng I-TEQ/Nm³ to 2.37 ng I-TEQ/Nm³, with 44% of values below 0.1 ng I-TEQ/Nm³ (the national standard). In addition, the temperature of the furnace outlet, bed pressure, and oxygen content are considered as key operating parameters among the 13 operating parameters comprising four temperature parameters, four pressure parameters, four flow parameters, and oxygen content. More specifically, maintaining the furnace outlet temperature to be higher than 800 °C, or bed pressure higher than 13 kPa, or the oxygen content stably and above 10% are effective methods for reducing PCDD/F emissions. According to the analysis of the Pearson coefficients and maximal information coefficients, there is no significant correlation between operating parameters and PCDD/F I-TEQ. Only when there is a significant change in one of these factors will the PCDD/F emissions also change accordingly. The feedback control of PCDD/F emissions is realized by adjusting the furnace outlet temperature, bed temperature, and bed pressure to control the PCDD/F to be less than 0.1 ng I-TEQ/Nm³. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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14 pages, 1778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Joint Toxicity of BPZ, BPS, BPC and BPF to Zebrafish

by Ying Han, Yumeng Fei, Mingxin Wang, Yingang Xue, Hui Chen and Yuxuan Liu

Molecules 2021, 26(14), 4180; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26144180 - 9 Jul 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3228 | Correction

Abstract

Bisphenol Z (BPZ), bisphenol S (BPS), bisphenol C (BPC), and bisphenol F (BPF) had been widely used as alternatives to bisphenol A (BPA), but the toxicity data of these bisphenol analogues were very limited. In this study, the joint toxicity of BPZ, BPS, [...] Read more.

Bisphenol Z (BPZ), bisphenol S (BPS), bisphenol C (BPC), and bisphenol F (BPF) had been widely used as alternatives to bisphenol A (BPA), but the toxicity data of these bisphenol analogues were very limited. In this study, the joint toxicity of BPZ, BPS, BPC, and BPF to zebrafish (Danio rerio) was investigated. The median half lethal concentrations (LC50) of BPZ, BPS, BPC, and BPF to zebrafish for 96 h were 6.9 × 10⁵ µM, 3.9 × 10⁷ µM, 7.1 × 10⁵ µM, and1.6 × 10⁶ µM, respectively. The joint toxicity effect of BPF–BPC (7.7 × 10⁵–3.4 × 10⁵µM) and BPZ–BPC (3.4 × 10⁵–3.5 × 10⁵µM) with the same toxic ratio showed a synergistic effect, which may be attributed to enzyme inhibition or induction theory. While the toxicity effect of the other two bisphenol analogue combined groups and multi-joint pairs showed an antagonistic effect due to the competition site, other causes need to be further explored. Meanwhile, the expression levels of the estrogen receptor genes (ERα, ERβ1) and antioxidant enzyme genes (SOD, CAT, GPX) were analyzed using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in zebrafish exposure to LC₅₀ of BPZ, BPS, BPC, and BPF collected at 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. Relative expression of CAT, GPX, and ERβ1 mRNA declined significantly compared to the blank control, which might be a major cause of oxidant injury of antioxidant systems and the disruption of the endocrine systems in zebrafish. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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29 pages, 2594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heart Failure and PAHs, OHPAHs, and Trace Elements Levels in Human Serum: Results from a Preliminary Pilot Study in Greek Population and the Possible Impact of Air Pollution

by Eirini Chrysochou, Panagiotis Georgios Kanellopoulos, Konstantinos G. Koukoulakis, Aikaterini Sakellari, Sotirios Karavoltsos, Minas Minaidis and Evangelos Bakeas

Molecules 2021, 26(11), 3207; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26113207 - 27 May 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4223

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have been associated with environmental pollutants. The scope of this study is to assess any potential relation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), their hydroxylated derivatives, and trace elements with heart failure via their direct determination in human serum of Greek [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have been associated with environmental pollutants. The scope of this study is to assess any potential relation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), their hydroxylated derivatives, and trace elements with heart failure via their direct determination in human serum of Greek citizens residing in different areas. Therefore, we analyzed 131 samples including cases (heart failure patients) and controls (healthy donors), and the respective demographic data were collected. Significantly higher concentrations (p < 0.05) were observed in cases’ serum regarding most of the examined PAHs and their derivatives with phenanthrene, fluorene, and fluoranthene being the most abundant (median of >50 μg L⁻¹). Among the examined trace elements, As, Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, and Pb were measured at statistically higher concentrations (p < 0.05) in cases’ samples, with only Cr being significantly higher in controls. The potential impact of environmental factors such as smoking and area of residence has been evaluated. Specific PAHs and trace elements could be possibly related with heart failure development. Atmospheric degradation and smoking habit appeared to have a significant impact on the analytes’ serum concentrations. PCA–logistic regression analysis could possibly reveal common mechanisms among the analytes enhancing the hypothesis that they may pose a significant risk for CVD development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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17 pages, 1074 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers and Heavy Metals in a Regulated E-Waste Recycling Site, Eastern China: Implications for Risk Management

by Hongmin Yin, Jiayi Ma, Zhidong Li, Yonghong Li, Tong Meng and Zhenwu Tang

Molecules 2021, 26(8), 2169; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26082169 - 9 Apr 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2986

Abstract

Serious pollution of multiple chemicals in irregulated e-waste recycling sites (IR-sites) were extensively investigated. However, little is known about the pollution in regulated sites. This study investigated the occurrence of 21 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and 10 metals in a regulated site, in [...] Read more.

Serious pollution of multiple chemicals in irregulated e-waste recycling sites (IR-sites) were extensively investigated. However, little is known about the pollution in regulated sites. This study investigated the occurrence of 21 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and 10 metals in a regulated site, in Eastern China. The concentrations of PBDEs and Cd, Cu, Pb, Sb, and Zn in soils and sediments were 1–4 and 1–3 orders of magnitude lower than those reported in the IR-sites, respectively. However, these were generally comparable to those in the urban and industrial areas. In general, a moderate pollution of PBDEs and metals was present in the vegetables in this area. A health risk assessment model was used to calculate human exposure to metals in soils. The summed non-carcinogenic risks of metals and PBDEs in the investigated soils were 1.59–3.27 and 0.25–0.51 for children and adults, respectively. Arsenic contributed to 47% of the total risks and As risks in 71.4% of the total soil samples exceeded the acceptable level. These results suggested that the pollution from e-waste recycling could be substantially decreased by the regulated activities, relative to poorly controlled operations, but arsenic pollution from the regulated cycling should be further controlled. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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17 pages, 3096 KiB

Open AccessReview

Detecting and Quantifying Polyhaloaromatic Environmental Pollutants by Chemiluminescence-Based Analytical Method

by Ben-Zhan Zhu, Miao Tang, Chun-Hua Huang and Li Mao

Molecules 2021, 26(11), 3365; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26113365 - 2 Jun 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2408

Abstract

Polyhaloaromatic compounds (XAr) are ubiquitous and recalcitrant in the environment. They are potentially carcinogenic to organisms and may induce serious risks to the ecosystem, raising increasing public concern. Therefore, it is important to detect and quantify these ubiquitous XAr in the environment, and [...] Read more.

Polyhaloaromatic compounds (XAr) are ubiquitous and recalcitrant in the environment. They are potentially carcinogenic to organisms and may induce serious risks to the ecosystem, raising increasing public concern. Therefore, it is important to detect and quantify these ubiquitous XAr in the environment, and to monitor their degradation kinetics during the treatment of these recalcitrant pollutants. We have previously found that unprecedented intrinsic chemiluminescence (CL) can be produced by a haloquinones/H₂O₂ system, a newly-found ^●OH-generating system different from the classic Fenton system. Recently, we found that the degradation of priority pollutant pentachlorophenol by the classic Fe(II)-Fenton system could produce intrinsic CL, which was mainly dependent on the generation of chloroquinone intermediates. Analogous effects were observed for all nineteen chlorophenols, other halophenols and several classes of XAr, and a novel, rapid and sensitive CL-based analytical method was developed to detect these XAr and monitor their degradation kinetics. Interestingly, for those XAr with halohydroxyl quinoid structure, a Co(II)-mediated Fenton-like system could induce a stronger CL emission and higher degradation, probably due to site-specific generation of highly-effective ^●OH. These findings may have broad chemical and environmental implications for future studies, which would be helpful for developing new analytical methods and technologies to investigate those ubiquitous XAr. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Analysis of Organic Pollutants)

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