Levels, Distribution and Ecological Risk Assessment of PBDEs in Soils and Plants Around the Engineering Plastics Factory.

This study systematically investigated the pollution levels and migration trends of PBDEs in soils and plants around engineering plastics factory, and identified the ecological risks of PBDEs in the environment around typical pollution sources.The results showed that 13 kinds of PBDEs were widely detected in the surrounding areas, and the concentration level was higher than the general environmental pollution level. The total PBDE concentrations (∑13PBDEs) in soils ranged from 14.6 to 278.4 ng/g dry weight (dw), and in plants ranged from 11.5 to 176 ng/g dw. Both soil and plant samples showed that BDE-209 was the most important congener, the pollution level in soil and plant was similar, and the composition of PBDEs congener was similar. In the soil column (50 cm), the radial migration of PBDEs was mainly concentrated in the 0-30 cm section. Except for BDE-66, which was mainly located in the 20-30 cm soil layer, the concentration of PBDEs was the highest in the 0-10 cm region. Furthermore, the environmental risks of PBDEs in soil and plants were evaluated by hazard quotient method, and the HQ values were all < 1, which did not exhibit any ecological risk. The evaluation results also showed that the ecological risk of PBDEs in soil was higher than that of plants, especially penta-BDE, which should be paid more attention.

Decabromodifenyl Ether (BDE-209) in Surface Soils from Warsaw and Surrounding Areas: Characterization of Non-Carcinogenic Risk Associated with Oral and Dermal Exposure.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been used for many years as flame retardants. Due to their physicochemical and toxicological properties, they are considered to be persistent organic pollutants (POPs). BDE-209 is the main component of deca-BDE, the one PBDE commercial mixture currently approved for use in the European Union. The aim of this study was to analyse BDE-209 in surface soil samples from Warsaw and surrounding areas (Poland) as an indicator of environmental pollution with PBDEs, and to characterise the associated health risk. A total of 40 samples were analysed using gas chromatography with electron capture detection (GC-µECD). Concentrations of BDE-209 in soil ranged from 0.4 ng g-1 d.w. (limit of quantification) to 158 ng g-1 d.w. Overall, 52.5% of results were above the method's limit of quantification. The highest levels were found at several locations with heavy traffic and in the vicinity of a CHP plant in the city. The lowest concentrations were observed in most of the samples collected from low industrialized or green areas (<0.4 to 1.68 ng g-1 d.w.). Exposure to BDE-209 was estimated for one of the most sensitive populations, i.e., young children. The following exposure routes were selected: oral and dermal. No risk was found to young children's health.

The emerging and legacy persistent organic contaminants in corals of the South China Sea.

Seawater warming, ocean acidification and chemical pollution are the main threats to coral growth and even survival. The legacy persistent organic contaminants (POCs), such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and the emerging contaminants, including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), dechlorane plus (DPs) and novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) were studied in corals from Luhuitou fringing reef in Sanya Bay and Yongle atoll in Xisha Islands, the South China Sea (SCS). Total average concentrations of ∑16PAHs, ∑23OCPs, ∑34PCBs, ∑8PBDEs, ∑2DPs and ∑5NBFRs in 20 coral species (43 samples) from the SCS were 40.7 ± 34.6, 5.20 ± 5.10, 0.197 ± 0.159, 3.30 ± 3.70, 0.041 ± 0.042 and 36.4 ± 112 ng g-1 dw, respectively. PAHs and NBFRs were the most abundant compounds and they are likely to be dangerous pollutants for future coral growth. Compared to those found in other coral reef regions, these pollutants concentrations in corals were at low to median levels. Except for PBDEs, POCs in massive Porites were significantly higher than those in branch Acropora and Pocillopora (p < 0.01), as large, closely packed corals may be beneficial for retaining more pollutant. The current study contributes valuable data on POCs, particularly for halogenated flame retardants (HFRs, including PBDEs, DPs and NBFRs), in corals from the SCS, and will improve our knowledge of the occurrence and fate of these pollutants in coral reef ecosystems.

Chemical uptake into silicone wristbands over a five day period.

Silicone wristbands are a noninvasive personal exposure assessment tool. However, despite their utility, questions remain about the rate at which chemicals accumulate on wristbands when worn, as validation studies utilizing wristbands worn by human participants are limited. This study evaluated the chemical uptake rates of 113 organic pollutants from several chemical classes (i.e., polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), organophosphate esters (OPEs), alkyl OPEs, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), brominated flame retardants (BFR), phthalates, pesticides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) over a five-day period. Adult participants (n = 10) were asked to wear five silicone wristbands and then remove one wristband each day. Several compounds were detected in all participants' wristbands after only one day. The number of chemicals detected frequently (i.e. in at least seven participants wristbands) increased from 20% of target compounds to 26% after three days and more substantially increased to 34% of target compounds after four days of wear. Chemicals detected in at least seven participants' day five wristbands (n = 24 chemicals) underwent further statistical analysis, including estimating the chemical uptake rates over time. Some chemicals, including pesticides and phthalates, had postive and significant correlations between concentrations on wristbands worn five days and concentrations of wristbands worn fewer days suggesting chronic exposure. For 23 of the 24 compounds evaluated there was a statistically significant and positive linear association between the length of time wristbands were worn and chemical concentrations in wristbands. Despite the differences that exist between laboratory studies using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) environmental samplers and worn wristbands, these results indicate that worn wristbands are primarily acting as first-order kinetic samplers. These results suggest that studies using different deployment lengths should be comparable when results are normalized to the length of the deployment period. In addition, a shorter deployment period could be utilized for compounds that were commonly detected in as little as one day.

Polybrominated diphenyl ether contamination in sediments from rivers in the western Niger Delta of Nigeria.

This study investigated the concentrations of 39 polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners in sediments from three rivers in the western Niger Delta of Nigeria that have been affected by pollution from urbanization and industrial activities. The Σ39 PBDE concentrations in sediments from these rivers ranged from 0.29 to 95.5, 5.15 to 121, and 0.73 to 66.1 ng g-1 for the Afiesere (AR), Edor (ER), and Okpare Rivers (OR), respectively. The homologue distribution patterns indicated the prominence of tetra- and penta-BDE congeners in sediments from these rivers. The ecological risk assessment results showed that the penta-BDEs were the primary source of risk to sediment-dwelling organisms in these rivers. However, the human health risk assessment indicated negligible risks for exposure of both adults and children to PBDEs in these sediments. The source apportionment suggests that the PBDE contamination in these river sediments was derived from long-distance migration, debromination of highly brominated congeners, and commercial penta-BDEs. These results reflect the use of penta-BDE formulations in this region rather than octa- and deca-BDE formulations.

Factors impacting human exposure to legacy and emerging contaminants in residential dust in Beijing, China: Characteristics of indoor microenvironment.

Exposure to indoor dust is of concern since dust may be contaminated by various toxic chemicals and people spend considerable time indoors. Factors impacting human exposure risks to contaminants in indoor dust may differ from those affecting the loadings of contaminants, but the dominant factors have not yet been well clarified. In this study, the occurrence, human exposure, and related influencing factors of several classes of legacy and emerging contaminants in residential dust across Beijing were investigated, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and three types of flame retardants (FRs), i.e., organophosphate esters (OPEs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and novel halogenated FRs (NHFRs). OPEs (median: 3847 ng/g) were the most abundant group, followed by PBDEs (1046 ng/g) and NHFRs (520 ng/g). PFASs (14.3 ng/g) were one to two orders of magnitude lower than FRs. The estimated daily intakes of these contaminants were relatively higher for toddlers than other age groups, with oral ingestion being the main exposure pathway compared with dermal contact. Higher human exposure risks were found in new buildings or newly finished homes due to the elevated intake of emerging contaminants (such as OPEs). Furthermore, higher risks were also found in homes with wooden floors, which were mainly associated with higher levels of PFASs, chloroalkyl and alkyl OPEs, compared with tile floors. Citizens in the urban area also showed higher exposure risks than those in the suburban area. The quantity of household appliances and finishing styles (simple or luxurious) showed an insignificant impact on overall human exposure risks despite their significant effect on the levels of some of the dust contaminants. Results in this study are of importance in understanding human exposure to the co-existence of multiple contaminants in indoor dust.

Halogenated aromatic pollutants in routine animal-derived food of south China: Occurrence, sources, and dietary intake risks.

Halogenated aromatic pollutants (HAPs) including polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PCDD/Fs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PBDD/Fs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) exhibit diverse toxicities and bio-accumulation in animals, thereby imposing risks on human via animal-derived food (ADF) consumption. Here we examined these HAPs in routine ADFs from South China and observed that PBDEs and PCBs showed statistically higher concentrations than PCDD/Fs and PBDD/Fs. PCDD/Fs and PCBs in these ADFs were mainly from the polluted feed and habitat of animals, except PCDD/Fs in egg, which additionally underwent selective biotransformation/progeny transfer after the maternal intake of PCDD/F-polluted stuff. PBDEs and PBDD/Fs were mostly derived from the extensive use of deca-BDE and their polluted environments. Significant interspecific differences were mainly observed for DL-PCBs and partly for PBDD/Fs and PBDEs, which might be caused by their distinct transferability/biodegradability in animals and the different living habit and habitat of animals. The dietary intake doses (DIDs) of these HAPs via ADF consumption were all highest for toddlers, then teenagers and adults. Milk, egg, and fish contributed most to the DIDs and risks for toddlers and teenagers, which results of several cities exceeded the recommended thresholds and illustrated noteworthy risks. Pork, fish, and egg were the top three risk contributors for adults, which carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks were both acceptable. Notably, PBDD/Fs showed the lowest concentrations but highest contributions to the total risks of these HAPs, thereby meriting continuous attention.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in student dormitory microenvironments: Concentrations, sources, and human exposure.

Microenvironments, such as student dormitories, differ from general residential environments. They are characterized by small spaces, poor air circulation, high personnel densities, and electronic products, such as computers that are turned on for extended periods, leading to increased pollution concentrations. The limited space and poor air circulation reduce migration of contaminants, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), making it easier for PBDEs to accumulate. However, few studies have been conducted on small group dwellings, including student dormitory dwellings. We collected dust samples from student dormitories of a university to analyze the characteristics and traceability of PBDEs in dormitory microenvironments. The results showed that PBDE congeners were widely present in university dormitories and the order of median concentration of ∑10PBDEs was as follows: male old-fashioned dormitory (273 ng/g) > female four-person dormitory (132 ng/g) > female two-person dormitory (132 ng/g) > male two-person dormitory (96.2 ng/g) > female old-fashioned dormitory (91.6 ng/g) > male four-person apartment (51.8 ng/g). BDE-209 was the most abundant PBDE congener, followed by BDE-47, and BDE-28. PBDEs were also found in typical electrical appliances, with higher concentrations in laptops than in desktops, and higher concentrations in desktops than in idle ones. According to Spearman correlation and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), we also found that boards and wallpaper materials were common sources of contamination in the microenvironment of student dormitories, and that female dormitories had more sources of PBDE emissions. Human exposure to PBDEs in students is below the US Environmental Protection Agency reference dose. Although exposure to PBDEs generated in dormitories does not pose a significant health risk, the potential hazards of PBDEs to the reagent environment remain to be investigated.

Chromoproduct approach to achieve environmentally sound management of e-waste plastics: Colombian project case.

Research to prevent releases of brominated flame retardants listed as persistent organic pollutants by the Stockholm Convention (POP-BFRs) was conducted through an international cooperation project in Colombia. Six waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) management facilities implemented: 1) sorting e-waste by product type and color (black, white, and other; henceforth called chromoproducts), 2) sampling test products and their plastic fraction (called sets, separated by polymer type), 3) monitoring mass, bromine and antimony contents by hand-held X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and POP-BFRs such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and 4) differentiated treatment according to categories that used the Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (RoHS) hazardousness threshold of 1000 mg ∑PBDEs/kg. This scheme led to the proposal of a methodology for WEEE management called the "chromoproduct approach". 994,230 products were managed and grouped into 222 chromoproducts, from which 77 were analyzed: 50 below RoHS hazardousness (BRH), 16 above RoHS hazardousness (ARH), and 11 unknown RoHS hazardousness (URH). XRF indicators using bromine and antimony contents could rule out pollution in BRH chromoproducts; however, categorization still required GC-MS. One ARH plastics sample had 3620 mg ∑PBDEs/kg, while no POP-BFRs were found in the BRH plastics sample. The implementation of the chromoproduct approach traced 153.6 tonnes of ARH plastics. BRH plastics composition was estimated and used in a pilot-scale closed-loop economic activity. The chromoproduct approach seems promising for avoiding POP-BFR releases and promoting the upcycling of recyclable e-waste plastics.

Contamination levels, influencing factors, and risk assessment of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in house dust of northern Serbia.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a group of compounds that, due to their applications, are considered mainly indoor contaminants. To obtain the first information about the presence of PBDEs in Serbia, dust samples (n = 50) were collected in settlements in the northern Serbian province of Vojvodina. The selected/target congeners (BDE-28, 47, 99, 100, 153, 154, and 183) were extracted from house dust by microwave-assisted extraction technique, and purified extracts were analyzed on a dual-column gas chromatograph with micro-electron capture detectors. A wide range of ΣPBDEs was detected (0.295 to 394 ng g-1 dust), which reflects large differences in contamination among the examined homes. For the majority of samples (72%), ΣPBDEs were lower than 5 ng g-1 indicating that people living in Vojvodina province are exposed to low concentrations of PBDEs present in their households. Based on principal component analysis (PCA), balcony areas and age of the house positively correlate with the PBDE congeners with higher detection frequencies (≥ 50%), namely, with BDE-99, BDE-153, and BDE-183. Statistically significant positive correlation (p < 0.01) was obtained for BDE-99 and the number of household's members. Estimated daily intakes (EDItot) were calculated for ingestion and dermal absorption of dust for two age groups-adults and toddlers. These are the first data on PBDE status in the area of the Western Balkan, and the health risk assessment indicates that PBDE levels obtained in household dust do not pose a risk for human health.

Bioaccumulation and Trophodynamics of Novel Brominated Flame Retardants (NBFRs) in Marine Food Webs from the Arctic and Antarctic Regions.

The pervasive contamination of novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) in remote polar ecosystems has attracted great attention in recent research. However, understanding regarding the trophic transfer behavior of NBFRs in the Arctic and Antarctic marine food webs is limited. In this study, we examined the occurrence and trophodynamics of NBFRs in polar benthic marine sediment and food webs collected from areas around the Chinese Arctic Yellow River Station (n = 57) and Antarctic Great Wall Station (n = 94). ∑7NBFR concentrations were in the range of 1.27-7.47 ng/g lipid weight (lw) and 0.09-1.56 ng/g lw in the Arctic and Antarctic marine biota, respectively, among which decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) was the predominant compound in all sample types. The biota-sediment bioaccumulation factors (g total organic carbon/g lipid) of NBFRs in the Arctic (0.85-3.40) were 4-fold higher than those in the Antarctica (0.13-0.61). Trophic magnification factors (TMFs) and their 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of individual NBFRs ranged from 0.43 (95% CI: 0.32, 0.60) to 1.32 (0.92, 1.89) and from 0.34 (0.24, 0.49) to 0.92 (0.56, 1.51) in the Arctic and Antarctic marine food webs, respectively. The TMFs of most congeners were significantly lower than 1, indicating a trophic dilution potential. This is one of the very few investigations on the trophic transfer of NBFRs in remote Arctic and Antarctic marine ecosystems, which provides a basis for exploring the ecological risks of NBFRs in polar regions.

Organohalogen compounds in a hotspot for chemical pollution: Assessment in free-ranging Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis).

The assessment of chemical pollution in free-ranging living mammals is viable using remote biopsies and portrays a comprehensive scenario of environmental health. The Southwestern Atlantic Ocean holds incredible biodiversity, but it is under the constant and invisible threat of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) of anthropogenic origin, such as pesticides, brominated flame retardants, and industrial-use compounds (e.g., PCBs). Thus, this study aimed to assess the bioaccumulation of POPs (PCBs, DDTs, HCB, mirex and PBDEs) and natural organobromine compounds (MeO-BDEs) using gas-chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry in biopsy samples of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis, n = 20) that inhabit and forage both inside and in adjacent areas to degraded (Guanabara Bay) and conserved (Ilha Grande Bay) coastal bays in the Southeastern Brazil. Among the studied compounds, PCBs were predominant in the contamination profile with median concentration of 97.0 µg.g-1 lipid weight (lw), followed by the sum of the p,p' isomers of DDT, DDD, and DDE of 11.0 µg.g-1 lw, the brominated flame retardants PBDEs of 1.6 µg.g-1 lw, and the other organochlorine pesticides mirex of 0.78 µg.g-1 lw, and HCB of 0.049 µg.g-1 lw. The MeO-BDEs were detected with a median concentration of 22.8 µg.g-1 lw. 85 % of the Atlantic spotted dolphins analyzed in this study presented PCB concentration that exceeded even the less conservative threshold limits for adverse health effects (41 µg.g-1 lw). This study shows that despite the conservation status of preserved bays, cetacean species foraging in these locations are still under increased threat. Hence chemical pollution demands local and global efforts to be mitigated.

Tourmaline-enhanced bioremediation of Cd/BDE-153 co-contaminated soil: Migration, soil microorganism structure and enzyme activities.

The efficient remediation of the soil co-contaminated with heavy metals and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) from electronic disassembly zones is a new challenge. Here, we screened a fungus of F. solani (F.s) can immobilize Cd and remove PBDEs. wIt combined with tourmaline enhances the remediation of co- pollutants in the soil. Furthermore, the environment risks of the enhanced technology were assessed through the amount of Cd/BDE-153 in Amaranthus tricolor L. (amaranth) migrated from soil, as well as the changes of soil microorganism communities and enzyme activities. The results showed the combined treatment of tourmaline and F.s made the removal percentage of BDE-153 in rhizosphere soil co-contaminated with BDE-153 and Cd reached 46.5%. And the weak acid extractable Cd in rhizosphere soil decreased by 33.7% compared to control group. In addition, the combined remediation technology resulted in a 32.5% (22.8%), 45.5% (37.2%), and 50.7% (38.1%) decrease in BDE-153 (Cd) content in the roots, stems, and leaves of amaranth, respectively. Tourmaline combined with F.s can significantly increase soil microorganism diversity, soil dehydrogenase and urease activities, further improving the remediation rate of Cd and BDE-153co-pollutants in soil and the biomass of amaranth. This study provides the remediation technology of soil co-contaminated with heavy metal and PBDEs and ensure the maintenance of food security.

Uptake and translocation of brominated flame retardants in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.): Results from a standard soil-based biotest.

The uptake and translocation of four polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and four novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.) were investigated via the RHIZOtest, a standard soil-based biotest, optimized for organic compounds. Tomato plants were exposed to soil samples spiked with 0 (i.e. control), 5.00 or 50.00 ng g-1dw of each compound. Compared of those of the control, exposure to increasing spiking concentrations resulted in average reductions of 13% and 26% (w/w) in tomato plant biomass. Higher concentrations of NBFRs were analyzed both in roots, ranging from 0.23 to 8.01 ng g-1dw for PBDEs and from 1.25 to 18.51 ng g-1dw for NBFRs, and in shoots, ranging from 0.09 to 5.58 ng g-1dw and from 0.47 to 7.78 ng g-1dw for PBDEs and NBFRs, respectively. This corresponded to an average soil uptake of 5% for PBDEs and 9% for NBFRs at the lower soil-spiking level, and 3% for PBDEs and 6% for NBFRs at the higher soil spiking level. Consequently, among both initial spiking levels, the soil-root concentration factor (RCF) values were lower on average for PBDEs (0.13 ± 0.05 g dw soil g-1dw roots) than for NBFRs (0.33 ± 0.16 g dw soil g-1dw roots). Conversely, nondifferent values of the root-shoot transfer factor (TF) were calculated for both PBDEs (0.54 ± 0.13 g dw roots g-1dw shoots) and NBFRs (0.49 ± 0.24 g dw roots g-1dw shoots). The differences and similarities reported in the RCF and TF between and within the two groups of compounds can be explained by their properties. The calculated RCF and TF values of the PBDEs exhibited a decreasing trend as the number of bromine atoms increased. Additionally, a robust negative linear correlation was observed between RCF values and the respective logKow values for the PBDEs, at both soil-spiking levels. The root uptake of NBFRs exhibited a negative correlation with their hydrophobicity; however, this was not observed in the context of root-to-shoot transfer. The presence of a second aromatic ring appears to be the key factor influencing the observed variations in NBFRs, with biphenyl NBFRs (BTBPE and DBDPE) characterized by lower uptake and reduced translocation potential than monophenyl PBEB and HBB. Understanding the transfer of these compounds to crops, especially near plastic recycling waste sites, is crucial for understanding the risks of their potential inclusion in the human food chain.

Novel flame retardants detected in marine plastic litter in coastal areas in Central Chile.

Flame retardants (FRs) are released throughout the plastic life cycle, potentially impacting the environment, biodiversity, and human health. This study analyzed novel flame retardants (NFR) in marine plastic litter (MPL) from six coastal areas in central Chile in November 2017. Target chemicals (n = 19) were analyzed using ultrasonic extraction with hexane, gas chromatography, and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). From all nineteen NFRs analyzed, only ten (53 %) were routinely detected. BTBPE (1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy) ethane) showed the highest concentrations at the Bellavista site (618 to 424,000 pg g-1), and HBB (Hexabromobiphenyl), banned since 1970, was detected in Coliumo (2630 to 13,700 pg g-1). These results show emerging transport patterns and underscore the critical need for enhanced waste management practices for MPL in coastal regions to prevent adverse impacts on marine biodiversity.

Relationship between flame retardants and respiratory health- A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

Chronic respiratory diseases are a dealing cause of death and disability worldwide. Their prevalence is steadily increasing and the exposure to environmental contaminants, including Flame Retardants (FRs), is being considered as a possible risk factor. Despite the widespread and continuous exposure to FRs, the role of these contaminants in chronic respiratory diseases is yet not clear. This study aims to systematically review the association between the exposure to FRs and chronic respiratory diseases. Searches were performed using the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PUBMED, SCOPUS, ISI Web of Science (Science and Social Science Index), WHO Global Health Library and CINAHL EBSCO. Among the initial 353 articles found, only 9 fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included. No statistically significant increase in the risk for chronic respiratory diseases with exposure to FRs was found and therefore there is not enough evidence to support that FRs pose a significantly higher risk for the development or worsening of respiratory diseases. However, a non-significant trend for potential hazard was found for asthma and rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis, particularly considering urinary organophosphate esters (OPEs) including TNBP, TPHP, TCEP and TCIPP congeners/compounds. Most studies showed a predominance of moderate risk of bias, therefore the global strength of the evidence is low. The limitations of the studies here reviewed, and the potential hazardous effects herein identified highlights the need for good quality large-scale cohort studies in which biomarkers of exposure should be quantified in biological samples.

Selected legacy and emerging organic contaminants in sediments of China's Yangtze - the world's third longest river: Response to anthropogenic activities.

To explore contaminant concerns as a result of anthropogenic disturbance of the river system, this study provided the first extensive investigation of the contamination profiles, possible driving factors, and ecological risks of 40 target compounds including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), neonicotinoid pesticides (NNIs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in sediments of the whole Yangtze River (the world's third longest river). Among these target compounds, PPCPs were the dominant contaminants with a total concentration (∑15PPCPs) of 2.13-14.99 ng/g, followed by ∑7PCBs (

The impact of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) on pulmonary function in US adults: a cross-sectional study based on NHANES (2007-2012).

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are a group of chemicals widely used in various applications to prevent or slow down the spread of fire. However, they have adverse effects on human health. There is a relative scarcity of population-based studies regarding BFRs, particularly their impact on the respiratory system. This study aimed to investigate the influence of BFRs on pulmonary function using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The study found that elevated serum concentrations of certain BFRs were associated with pulmonary ventilatory dysfunction. Adjusted analyses revealed positive correlations between PBDE47, PBDE183, and PBDE209 concentrations and ventilatory dysfunction. The analysis of mixed BFRs showed a positive relationship with pulmonary ventilation dysfunction, with PBDE47 making the most significant contribution. Our study demonstrates that both individual and combined BFRs exposure can lead to impaired pulmonary ventilation function. These findings provide evidence of the adverse effects of BFRs on lung function, emphasizing the importance of further investigating the potential health consequences of these compounds. Further large-scale longitudinal studies are needed to investigate this relationship in the future.

Persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals in Ghanaian environment: a systematic review of food safety implications.

Advances in industrial and technological innovations have led to significant socio-economic benefits, but with overwhelming negative impacts on the environment. These impacts include the infiltration of organic contaminants into soil, water, and air, posing a threat to the environment and public health. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), heavy metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are increasingly released as waste, endangering the environment. In countries like Ghana, where regulations are weakly enforced, industrial waste is released uncontrollably, posing threats to public health, environmental integrity, and food systems. This study systematically evaluated existing literature on PBDEs, heavy metals, PAHs, and organic contaminant exposure in Ghana and proposes a roadmap for achieving food safety and protecting the environment and human health. The research identified high mobility of specific heavy metals and risks associated with PBDEs and PAHs in sediments, dumpsites, and various food items. Unregulated dumping of electronic waste with PBDEs raised environmental concerns. An integrated approach is needed to address the multifaceted impact of organic pollutants on public health and ecosystems. Urgent implementation of effective environmental management strategies and regulatory measures is crucial. The study proposed short- to mid-term priorities emphasising the need to foster collaboration and implementing global measures. The mid- to long-term strategy includes a national information surveillance system, local monitoring capacity development, and integrating land contamination controls with food safety legislation. These measures would mitigate risks, ensure sustainable practices, and improve overall food safety management in Ghana, serving as a model for regions facing similar challenges with diverse pollutants.

Investigation of organic contaminants in the blubber of a blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) first stranded on the coast of Taiwan.

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the blubber of a stranded blue whale found on the coast of Taiwan. The analysis included polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), Hexachlorobenzene (HCB), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The whale exhibited evident signs of emaciation, including low body weight, reduced blubber fat content, and thin blubber thickness. The dominant fatty acid type detected in the blubber was short-chain monounsaturated fatty acids (SC-MUFA), known to aid in thermoregulation. Stable isotope ratios indicated that the blue whale occupied a lower trophic position compared to a fin whale, suggesting its proximity to krill habitats in the Southern Ocean for feeding. The average concentrations of DDTs (1089.2 ± 4.7 ng/g lw; ΣDDT) and PCBs (1057.1 ± 49.8 ng/g lw) in the blubber were almost one order of magnitude higher than PAHs (41.7 ± 10.0 ng/g lw), HCB (70.6 ± 2. ng/g lw), and PBDEs (7.2 ± 1.2 ng/g lw). Pollutant concentrations in this individual blue whale were comparable to levels found in Norway, higher than those found in Chile, and notably lower than those found in Canada and Mexico. Calculating the biomagnification factor (BMF) for the POPs from krill (Euphausia superba) to the blue whale revealed significant bioaccumulation of pollutants in this particular whale. Additional research is imperative to achieve a thorough comprehension of bioaccumulation of POPs and their potential toxicological impacts on whale health.