bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in hydrogen gas leakage detection sensor technologies and safety measures
Authors: Menon Shyam Kumar , Kumar Adesh , Mondal Surajit
Published: January 2025

Hydrogen is hailed as a plentiful and clean energy source, which holds promise as a substitute for fossil fuels, particularly when produced through solar water splitting. However, its volatile and explosive nature necessitates stringent safety measures throughout its production, transportation, and utilization. This study analyzes hydrogen gas leakage detection by using various sensors such as ultrasonic, electrochemical, metal oxide (MOX), catalytic, and fiber Bragg grating sensors. Various sensor technologies are developed for hydrogen leak detection, and each offers unique advantages and challenges. Fiber optic sensors, leveraging changes in light interference, provide explosion resistance and durability, while ultrasonic sensors detect leaks through sound wave analysis, albeit with limited commercial application in hydrogen environments. Schlieren imaging offers real-time visualization of hydrogen behavior, predominantly in laboratory settings. Electrochemical sensors enable reliable detection through electrochemical interactions, while MOX sensors exhibit sensitivity and ease of manufacturing, albeit with challenges related to cross-sensitivity and response times. Catalytic gas sensors and thermal conductivity sensors offer alternative detection methods, with the former catalyzing hydrogen combustion for detection and the latter measuring temperature differentials upon exposure to hydrogen. The analysis of hydrogen leakage incidents highlights the importance of robust safety measures in hydrogen infrastructure and facilities. The integration of innovative sensing technologies with automated shutdown systems and robust materials has enhanced the reliability and efficiency of leak detection systems. Continued research and cooperation are essential to address residual challenges and further enhance the safety of hydrogen utilization in various industrial sectors.
Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness Against Medically Attended Outpatients Illness, United States, 2023–2024 Season
Authors: Chung Jessie R , Price Ashley M , Zimmerman Richard K , Moehling Geffel Krissy , House Stacey L , Curley Tara , Wernli Karen J , Phillips C Hallie , Martin Emily T , Vaughn Ivana A , Murugan Vel , Scotch Matthew , Saade Elie A , Faryar Kiran A , Gaglani Manjusha , Ramm Jason D , Williams Olivia L , Walter Emmanuel B , Kirby Marie K , Keong Lisa M , Kondor Rebecca , Ellington Sascha R , Flannery Brendan
Published: January 2025

Background

The 2023–2024 US influenza season was characterized by a predominance of A(H1N1)pdm09 virus circulation with cocirculation of A(H3N2) and B/Victoria viruses. We estimated vaccine effectiveness (VE) in the United States against mild-to-moderate medically attended influenza illness in the 2023–2024 season.

Methods

We enrolled outpatients aged ≥8 months with acute respiratory illness in 7 states. Respiratory specimens were tested for influenza type/subtype by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Influenza VE was estimated with a test-negative design comparing odds of testing positive for influenza among vaccinated versus unvaccinated participants. We estimated VE by virus subtype/lineage and A(H1N1)pdm09 genetic subclades.

Results

Among 6629 enrolled patients, 1780 (27%) tested positive for influenza, including 806 with A(H1N1)pdm09, 567 with B/Victoria, and 328 with A(H3N2). VE against any influenza illness was 44% (95% confidence interval, 36%–51%): 29% (15%–41%) against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, 74% (65%–81%) against B/Victoria, and 30% (8%–47%) against A(H3N2). Statistically significant protection against any influenza was found for all age groups except adults aged 50–64 years. Lack of protection in this age group was specific to influenza A–associated illness. We observed differences in VE by birth cohort and A(H1N1)pdm09 virus genetic subclade.

Conclusions

Vaccination reduced outpatient medically attended influenza overall by 44% and provided protection overall against circulating influenza A and B viruses. Serologic studies would help inform differences observed by age groups.
Cardioprotection exerted by intravenous statin at index myocardial infarction event attenuates cardiac damage upon recurrent infarction
Authors: Vilahur Gemma , Ben-Aicha Soumaya , Gutiérrez Manuel , Radike Monika , Mendieta Guiomar , Ramos Lisaidy , Alcover Sebastia , Casani Laura , Arderiu Gemma , Padró Teresa , Borrell-Pages María , Badimon Lina
Published: January 2025

Aims

Recurrent acute myocardial infarction (RE-AMI) is a frequent complication after STEMI, and its association with stent thrombosis can be life-threatening. Intravenous atorvastatin (IV-atorva) administration during AMI has been shown to limit infarct size and adverse cardiac remodelling. We determined by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) whether the cardioprotection exerted by IV-atorva at the index AMI event translates into a better prognosis upon RE-AMI in dyslipidemic pigs.

Methods and results

Hypercholesterolemic pigs underwent a first AMI (90-min coronary balloon occlusion). During ongoing ischaemia, animals received IV-atorva or vehicle. Forty days later, animals underwent RE-AMI and were sacrificed on Day 43. All animals remained on p.o. atorvastatin and a high-cholesterol diet from the first AMI until sacrifice. Serial CMR analysis was performed on Day 3 post-AMI, prior- (Day 40) and post-RE-AMI (Day 43). No differences were detected in oedema formation in both animal groups during AMI and RE-AMI. Gadolinium DE-CMR revealed smaller infarcts in IV-atorva-treated animals at index event at 3 and 40 days post-AMI compared to vehicle-administered pigs (P < 0.05). CMR analyses post-RE-AMI revealed smaller infarcts in the animals treated with IV-atorva at index event than in the vehicle-administered pigs. These IV-atorva at index event benefits were associated with higher left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction and normal LV wall motion in the jeopardized myocardium at RE-AMI (P < 0.05 vs. vehicle). The scar region of RE-AMI of animals treated with IV-atorva at index event showed reduced cardiac inflammatory infiltrate, apoptosis and senescence activation, and increased reparative fibrosis and neovessel formation vs. vehicle-administered pigs. Animals treated with IV-atorva at index event also showed lower C-reactive protein and higher interleukin-10 plasma levels in the setting of RE-AMI.

Conclusion

The cardioprotection afforded by IV-atorva administration during an index-AMI event shows a legacy effect attenuating myocardial damage and preserving cardiac contractile function upon RE-AMI. The potential benefits of this intravenous approach should be tested in the clinical setting.
Anatomy vs. shunt fraction: haemodynamic consequences in atrial septal defects and partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection—a comprehensive CMR study
Authors: Jacquemyn Xander , Van De Bruaene Alexander , Budts Werner , Dresselaers Tom , Bogaert Jan
Published: January 2025

Aims

Atrial septal defect (ASD) and partial abnormal pulmonary venous connection (PAPVC) are non-cyanotic congenital heart defects (CHDs) that produce a left-to-right shunt. This single-centre retrospective study aimed to assess the haemodynamic impact of isolated ASD, isolated PAPVC, and ASD-associated PAPVC using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR).

Methods and results

From our CMR registry (2002–24), 110 patients were included: isolated ASD (n = 64), isolated PAPVC (n = 18), and ASD-associated PAPVC (n = 28, mostly sinus venosus septal defects). CMR included geometric assessment of the cardiac chambers and great vessels, assessment of ventricular function, and flow patterns through the systemic (Qs) and pulmonary circulation (Qp). Patients were compared with a 40 control subjects with normal CMR findings. Significant differences were observed between controls, isolated ASD, isolated PAPVC, and ASD-associated PAPVC groups in left ventricular end-diastolic volumes (EDVs) indexed to body surface area (BSA) [80 mL/m2 (75–90) vs. 71 mL/m2 (57–79) vs. 71 mL/m2 (63–80) vs. 64 mL/m2 [57–72], P < 0.001], right ventricular EDVs/BSA [82 mL/m2 (74–88) vs. 110 mL/m2 (101–127) vs. 150 mL/m2 (120–165) vs. 154 mL/m2 (128–181), P < 0.001)] and Qp/Qs ratio [0.99 (0.95–1.01) vs. 1.49 (1.34–1.67) vs. 1.96 (1.55–2.40) vs. 2.15 (1.81–2.64), P < 0.001]. No significant modulating factors were found for cardiac chambers or great vessels geometry, ventricular function, or flow patterns between the patient groups.

Conclusion

Despite phenotypic differences, no specific anatomical influences were found, suggesting that outcomes in isolated ASD, isolated PAPVC, and ASD-associated PAPVC are mainly driven by the degree of shunting.
A pairwise and network meta-analysis of anti-inflammatory strategies after myocardial infarction: the TITIAN study
Authors: Laudani Claudio , Occhipinti Giovanni , Greco Antonio , Giacoppo Daniele , Spagnolo Marco , Capodanno Davide
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Multiple anti-inflammatory drugs have been tested for secondary prevention after myocardial infarction (MI), giving mixed results and questioning the efficacy of anti-inflammatory therapy. No head-to-head comparisons between anti-inflammatory drugs have been performed. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of anti-inflammatory drugs for secondary prevention after MI and the relative merits of specific drugs and administration strategies.

Methods and results

Randomized trials of anti-inflammatory therapy for secondary prevention after MI were identified. Primary efficacy and safety endpoints were trial-defined major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and serious adverse events. Secondary endpoints included all-cause death, individual MACE components, serious infection, cancer, and gastrointestinal adverse events. Pairwise meta-analyses were conducted with interaction analyses for drug type and timing of administration, in addition to network meta-analyses. Multiple sensitivity and meta-regression analyses were conducted to explore potential heterogeneity sources. Twenty-eight studies, involving 44 406 patients with a mean follow-up of 11 months, were included. Anti-inflammatory therapy reduced the incidence of MACEs [incidence rate ratio (IRR): 0.92; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.86–0.98] compared to control, without increasing serious adverse events. However, it was associated with a higher incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events (IRR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.07–1.36). No significant interaction was observed between the effects of anti-inflammatory therapy on MACE and the timing of administration.

Conclusion

In secondary prevention for MI, anti-inflammatory therapy significantly reduces MACE without increasing serious adverse events, but it is associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal adverse events.
Monitoring and assessment of population, reproductive, and health effects in colonial waterbirds breeding at contaminated Great Lakes sites in Michigan
Authors: Grasman Keith A , Annis Mandy , Eakin Carly , Moore Jeremy , Williams Lisa L
Published: January 2025

Immunological, reproductive, and population endpoints were assessed in fish-eating birds during 2010–2019 in the Saginaw River and Bay and River Raisin Areas of Concern (AOCs) and Grand Traverse Bay, which are ecosystems historically contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls, dibenzo-p-dioxins, and dibenzofurans. Reference sites were in the lower St. Marys River (herring gulls and Caspian terns), eastern Lake Superior (terns), and eastern Lake Huron (black-crowned night herons). Relative risk ratios for embryonic nonviability (from both infertility and mortality) in gull embryos were 2–3-fold higher than the reference site in both AOCs and Grand Traverse Bay. Twelve of 13 deformed embryos and chicks (e.g., crossed bills and gastroschisis) were observed at the contaminated sites. Productivity of 4-week-old tern chicks in Saginaw Bay was 35% lower than that at reference sites. In the River Raisin AOC, productivity of 4-week gull chicks was poor in 7 of 10 years. Numbers of breeding herring gulls decreased significantly in the River Raisin AOC, and breeding Caspian terns, a state-threatened species, declined in the Saginaw River and Bay AOC. The mean T cell-dependent phytohemagglutinin skin response was suppressed 50%–56% in gull chicks in both AOCs and Grand Traverse Bay, and 49% in terns and 33% in herons in Saginaw Bay. Antibody responses in gull chicks in the River Raisin AOC and Grand Traverse Bay were 1.6–2-fold lower than reference. Time trend analyses showed no significant improvements in reproductive and immune endpoints in either AOC or Grand Traverse Bay over the study period. Embryonic death increased with time in gulls in the lower Saginaw Bay, and antibody responses decreased in terns in the outer Saginaw Bay.
Past exposure determines response of freshwater microalgae to glyphosate-based contamination
Authors: dos Reis Camila Corrêa Lourenço , Guedes Thays de Andrade , Guimarães Pablo Santos , Martins Camila de Martinez Gaspar , Schneck Fabiana
Published: January 2025

Glyphosate-based herbicides are the most widely agrochemicals used in the world. This toxic compound reaches aquatic ecosystems and can affect microalgae, which are the basis of the trophic web and the main primary producers in these environments. We tested the sensitivity of two species of green algae (Chlorophyta) to a glyphosate-based herbicide (Roundup Transorb) and the effect of contamination history in population rescue. Strains of Desmodesmus communis and Pseudopediastrum boryanum were tested in isolation and in co-occurrence in a two-step experiment, with three and 10 days each, respectively. In the first step, we exposed populations of the two species to Roundup Transorb at 0, 350, 500, and 1000 μg‧L−1 glyphosate. Next, we transferred aliquots of each treatment to a new media where 20,000 μg‧L−1 of the glyphosate-based herbicide was added. Growth inhibition at the end of Step 1 was dose-dependent regardless of species and whether they were isolated or combined. Rescue after exposure to 20,000 μg‧L−1 of the glyphosate-based herbicide for three and 10 days was more successful for populations previously exposed to intermediate concentrations of 350 and 500 μg‧L−1. We suggest that these concentrations triggered a process that increased algal tolerance to the glyphosate-based herbicide. In addition, neither the species nor the fact that they were isolated or combined influenced glyphosate-based herbicide toxicity, at least for the concentrations tested in this study.
Microplastics in freshwater ecosystems: probabilistic environmental risk assessment and current knowledge in occurrence and ecotoxicological studies
Authors: Morales-Espinoza Leslie L , Gebara Renan Castelhano , Longo Elson , Fracácio Renata
Published: January 2025

Ecotoxicological studies involving microplastics (MPs) conducted on a laboratory scale may not always accurately mirror real environmental conditions (types, sizes, shapes, and concentrations of MPs). This review primarily focused on examining studies that investigated the prevalence of MPs in freshwater environments and accumulation in organisms worldwide, considering important factors such as morphology, particle size, and the specific polymer types involved. This review also encompassed ecotoxicological studies related to MPs, and ecological risk analyses were carried out based on the obtained ecotoxicological data. Based on the extensive dataset collected, we determined the hazardous concentration for 5% of the tested organisms (HC5) and estimated for the first time a predicted noneffect concentration (PNEC) value for two distinct types of MPs polymers: polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene (PE), based on the species sensitive distribution (SSD) curves obtained from nonobserved concentration (NOEC) values, with 0.003 mg L−1 for PS and 0.011 mg L−1 for PE. Furthermore, another PNEC value for 7 types of MPs (PE, PS, polyvinyl chloride, PA6, polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, and ethylene acrylic acid copolymer (EEA copolymer)) was calculated (0.0027 mg L−1 or 2.61 particles L−1). Subsequently, the risk quotient (RQ) was computed utilizing data obtained from the measured environmental concentrations of 18 places. An RQ value of 0.094 was obtained, inferring that MPs have a low-risk potential globally. However, when the RQ values were examined for each country separately, they exhibited significant variability (RQ = 22.06 in Malaysia and 0.000008 in Australia). Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on MP abundance in freshwater environments, the associated ecotoxicological research to reinforce the outcomes derived from the risk analysis, and their accumulation in biota.
Freshwater pollution: cardiotoxicity effect of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid and neonicotinoid imidacloprid mixture
Authors: Palazzolo Simone , Natale Sabrina , Capparucci Fabiano , Piro Maria Giovanna , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Peritore Alessio Filippo , Crupi Rosalia , Britti Domenico
Published: January 2025

Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) is a widely used chemical that accumulates in living things and the environment, especially the aquatic, over time. It is also known as a “forever chemical”. Furthermore, different anthropogenic substances are rarely found individually in the environment. Some of these substances are very toxic to aquatic species, such as imidacloprid (IMI), an insecticide belonging to the neonicotinoid family. The main objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of coexposure of these two contaminants at individual nontoxic concentration. In this study, we first analyzed different nominal concentrations of PFOS (from 0.1 to 10 μM) and IMI (from 75 to 1,000 μM) to highlight the morphological effects at 96 hr postfertilization and subsequently assessed the toxicity of mixture coexposure at both lethal and sublethal levels. Coexposure of PFOS and IMI at two individually nontoxic concentrations resulted in increased toxicity in terms of morphological alterations, accompanied by increased cell death in the pericardium. Molecular investigations confirmed the increased cardiotoxicity accompanied by cell death, showing overexpression of apoptosis-associated genes (caspase 3, bax, and bcl-2.) and a dysregulation of oxidative stress-related genes (cat, sod1, and gstp2). These results suggest that IMI could potentiate PFOS cardiotoxicity on zebrafish embryo development by alteration of antioxidative balance and induced apoptosis.
Genomic and cellular contributions to establish the fish Hyphessobrycon heterorhabdus as an Amazonian model for ecotoxicology
Authors: Cardoso Adauto Lima , Moreira Camila do Nascimento , Nascimento Yure Jefferson da Cruz do , Frade Luan Felipe da Silva , Noronha Renata Coelho Rodrigues , Amado Lílian Lund , Martins Cesar
Published: January 2025

The Amazon has environmental characteristics that make it unique, and the species that inhabit it have physiological features that demonstrate their adaptation to an Amazonian context. Amazonian ecosystems have been undergoing transformations that result from inadequate human actions, which have placed biodiversity at the limits of their biological abilities. Therefore, it is essential to identify organisms that reflect the conditions of the Amazon environment, considering the physiology of these species, and that they are established as bioindicators for this region. The fish Hyphessobrycon heterorhabdus is distributed throughout the lower and middle Amazon basin. Aiming to contribute to the establishment of this species as a bioindicator, we carried out for the first time its karyotyping, Illumina sequencing and assembly of the nuclear genome and mitogenome, in addition to establishing a cell line for this species. Individuals of H. heterorhabdus have 48 chromosomes, a number that is held in the cell line. Sequencing and genomic assembly generated a draft genome that is useful for recovering species-specific coding and regulatory genomic sequences. The established cell line was responsive to environmental variables, reflecting in vivo observations. Thus, it was possible to present a set of resources (standard karyotype, centromeric marker, draft genome, mitogenome, and cell line) and their applications and relevance in ecotoxicology. The toolkit should contribute to further studies on the response of organisms to the natural conditions of the Amazon and the impacts that this region has been receiving.
Diet and methyl mercury contamination of nestling red-winged blackbirds
Authors: Thalhuber Thomas J , Chumchal Matthew M , Drenner Ray W , Nowlin Weston H , Williams Dean A , Barst Benjamin D , Kennedy James H , Mitchell William A , Self Misty , Willoughby F Manton , Zudock Will
Published: January 2025

Methyl mercury (MeHg) is a widespread environmental contaminant that can have adverse effects on the health of vertebrate wildlife. This study focused on diets and MeHg contamination of nestling red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) from a wetland in north Texas, USA. In previous research at the study site, a risk assessment model suggested that if emergent aquatic insects (i.e., odonates) were the dominant prey item in nestling diets, the health of nestling red-winged blackbirds could be negatively affected. The purpose of this study was to follow up on an earlier risk assessment and determine whether nestling red-winged blackbirds were accumulating elevated concentrations of MeHg at our study site. We had four objectives: (1) estimate the proportion of emergent aquatic insects, spiders, and terrestrial insects in diets of nestling red-winged blackbirds using a stable isotope-based dietary mixing model; (2) assess the concentrations of MeHg in emergent aquatic insects, spiders, and terrestrial insects; (3) assess the concentrations of MeHg in blood of nestling red-winged blackbirds; and (4) determine whether nestling red-winged blackbirds had MeHg concentrations that were high enough to pose a health risk. We found that nestling red-winged blackbirds had a diet dominated by terrestrial insect prey with low concentrations of MeHg and that the nestlings had low concentrations of MeHg in their blood, well below hazardous levels. The results of the study suggest that caution must be used when interpreting risk assessment models for nestling red-winged blackbirds. Because their diets can consist of varying proportions of emergent aquatic insects, spiders, and terrestrial insects, risk assessments based on estimates of diet from the literature that suggest nestlings could be at risk from Hg contamination should be followed up with studies to assess diet and/or the actual level of contamination of nestlings.
Distribution of environmental microplastics in different tissues of indigenous freshwater bivalves (Unio spp.): a case study from the Sejenane River in Northern Tunisia
Authors: Belgacem Rihab , Zitouni Nesrine , Khazri Abdelhafidh , Abidi Oumaima , Alzwawy Ateeqah Ghayth , Béjaoui Mustapha , Bouleefah Fouzi , Banni Mohamed , Mahmoudi Ezzeddine
Published: January 2025

Microplastic (MP) pollution is a worldwide concern and represents an ecological threat to the aquatic environment, particularly freshwater ecosystems. It can pose risks to the health of organisms and potentially lead to bioaccumulation of these tiny particles in the food chain. This study focused in MP determination on three species of freshwater mussels (Unio gibbus, Unio ravoisieri, and Unio dureui) as potential models for ecological assessment in the Sejenane stream in Northern Tunisia. To achieve this, we assessed ingested microplastics in the gills and digestive gland tissues of these mussels. Raman microspectroscopy was used to examine and identify microparticles with size ranges under 5,000 μm. Our results indicated that the microparticles are categorized into three sequential size ranges: S1 (< .45–1.2 μm), S2 (< 1.2–3 μm), and S3 (≥ 3 μm). Over 50% of the S1 class was found in Unio gibbus. Our findings showed a higher occurrence of the S3 size class of microplastics (≥ 3 µm) in the gills of all studied mussels. More than 60% of the S3 class was identified in Unio durieui, followed by S2 (< 3–1.2 µm) and S1 (< 1.2–.45 µm). Polyethylene-vinyl acetate, polypropylene, low-density polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, high-density polyethylene, and polyethylene are the six different types of polymers that were found. Polyethylene terephthalate emerged as the dominant polymer type in Unio dureui, accounting for up to 59% of the gills and 55% of the digestive gland. Overall, it seems that freshwater mussels are capable of accumulating microplastics from environmental contamination. However, further studies in diverse freshwater ecosystems are necessary to validate the findings of this study.
Rapid screening of shellfish tainting from oil spills using an antibody-based biosensor
Authors: Prossner Kristen M , Redman Aaron D , Prosser Christopher M , Parkerton Thomas F , Unger Michael A
Published: January 2025

Tainting of shellfish by polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) following an oil spill poses possible health risks as well as socioeconomic impacts. Traditional screening approaches for evaluating PAH contamination have limitations that can prevent timely, objective spill response decisions. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between PAH concentrations measured in the oyster, Crassostrea virginica, interstitial fluid using a rapid antibody-based biosensor method, with PAH concentrations in oyster tissues determined using conventional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. To accomplish this objective, bioconcentration tests were performed to simulate oil spill exposures using a crude and heavy fuel oil containing different PAH compositions. This design allowed both the PAH concentration and composition in water and, subsequently, accumulated by oysters to be varied over time. Oysters sampled during uptake and depuration phases were analyzed using biosensor and conventional analysis methods to generate comparative data. Results indicated that biosensor measurements of oysters captured the kinetics of PAH accumulation during uptake and depuration phases. Further, significant positive correlations were observed between biosensor interstitial fluid and lipid-normalized PAH tissue concentrations. However, quantitative predictions appear to be modulated by the contamination source and target analyte list for tissue analysis. Thus, the biosensor can be applied for rapidly evaluating relative PAH contamination between biota samples and offers a promising new analytical tool for oil spill monitoring and fisheries management contexts. A generic model was also developed from study and literature data to predict PAH half-lives from bivalve tissues. These predictions can help inform field monitoring of shellfish and estimate recovery times required to achieve pre-spill conditions.
Ecotoxicology dilemmas: issues with dose, causality, response, mixtures, and modifying factors
Authors: McCarty Lynn S
Published: January 2025

Ecotoxicology has model assumptions that are the basis of the discipline’s scientific validity and regulatory utility. Using testing data to advance knowledge and practical applications is contingent on assumption validation of underlying models, an uncommon practice. Fundamental components—dose, causality, response—are confounded, as test metrics are each accumulations of a multiplicity of factors. Consequently, ecotoxicology test interpretation of both legacy and new approach methodologies is plagued by unaddressed issues related to interactions of within and between dose, causation, response, and modifying factors—each component is effectively a mixture—such that established relationships are more correlative than causal. Limited knowledge about the multiplicity of modifying factors influencing dose, causality, and response at each level of biological organization and the challenge of establishing dose metrics in upper ecological levels, where the paradigm is stressor-causality-response, further confounds the formidable task of in vitro to in vivo, laboratory-to-field, and toxicity-to-ecology translation. Although available aquatic ecotoxicity data and information have been successfully fitted to explanatory frameworks in past and present regulatory policies, environmental protection successes are more attributable to good policy than to scientific knowledge. Unresolved issues in the simple model frameworks and regulatory policies that initially advanced environmental protection are now impeding development of newer policies and procedures due to inadequate consideration of basic model assumptions. Resolution of the problem will begin when the problem definition of the tasks is refined to reflect the reality of the challenge. This is a necessary step towards achieving the objective of advancing the efficiency, effectiveness, and sophistication of environmental effects assessment and management in regulatory ecotoxicology.
Comparison of environmental radioactivity in road dust between a city and a megacity: geo-environmental evaluation, health risks, and potential remediation
Authors: Khan Rahat , Akhi Sayma Zahan , Khan Md Harunor Rashid , Sultana Sadiya , Aldawood Saad , Basir Md Samium , Parvez Md Shohel , Naher Kamrun , Habib Md Ahosan , Idris Abubakr M , Roy Dhiman Kumer
Published: January 2025

This pioneering study represents a comprehensive comparative analysis of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs: 226Ra (≈238U),232Th, 40K) on the roadside dust samples collected from a coastal city (Khulna) and a highly urban megacity (Dhaka), Bangladesh. The corresponding radioactivity was calculated based on Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis of elemental abundances (uranium [U], thorium [Th], and potassium [K]). Averagen=30 radioactivity levels of 226Ra (≈238U), 232Th, and 40K in the road dust of Khulna city were 46.82 ± 24, 74.79 ± 25, and 541.14 ± 160.8, whereas in Dhaka city, they were 84.4 ± 13, 126 ± 11, and 549 ± 48 (Bq.kg−1), respectively. Khulna city had 1.3, 2.5, and 1.4 times greater 226Ra (≈238U), 232Th, and 40K radioactivity than the global average values, respectively. For Dhaka city, the following values were 2.42, 4.2, and 1.4 times elevated. The levels of radioactivity in Dhaka city are significantly higher than those in Khulna city; however, both cities have exceeded the world average values. The mechanisms for the enrichment and dispersion of NORMs from their fundamental source (surface soil) were studied, considering waterlogging, relative solubility-controlled leaching and translocation, climate conditions, and aerodynamic fractionations (dry and wet air deposition). The computation of standard radiological indices indicates risks to human health. Respiratory harm can be inflicted by α-particles originating from the radioactive decay products of 232Th and 238U. In addition to public awareness, policymakers should prioritize limiting the evolution of dust particles to mitigate the associated health risks.
Enantioselective ecotoxicity of promethazine in two freshwater organisms: daphnia (Daphnia magna) and zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Coelho Maria Miguel , Ribeiro Ondina , Carvalho Ana Rita , Pérez-Pereira Ariana , Ribeiro Cláudia , Fernandes Carla , Remião Fernando , Carrola João Soares , Tiritan Maria Elizabeth
Published: January 2025

Chiral pharmaceuticals, racemic or enantiomerically pure forms and their metabolites, can reach aquatic ecosystems via wastewater effluents (inefficient treatment operations) or by direct human disposal. They may negatively affect nontarget organisms even at low environmental concentrations. To make an accurate risk evaluation, the (eco)toxicity of both enantiomers needs to be assessed. Promethazine (PMZ) is a chiral antihistamine that has been detected in aquatic ecosystems owing to its high consumption. Promethazine undergoes metabolism in the liver, producing chiral metabolites such as promethazine sulfoxide (PMZSO) and N-desmethylpromethazine (DMPMZ) that reach water bodies. However, knowledge regarding the enantioselective toxicity of PMZ and its metabolites on aquatic organisms is missing. This study aimed to explore the potential enantioselective toxicity of PMZ and its metabolites on two relevant freshwater organisms, daphniid and fish, representing different trophic levels. The half maximal effect concentrations (EC50s) in Daphnia magna of PMZ, DMPMZ, and PMZSO were 2.33, 2.31, > 4 mg L−1, respectively, > 4 and 2.50 mg L−1 for (R) and (S)-PMZ, respectively, and > 4 mg L−1 for the enantiomers of DMPMZ and PMZSO. In studies involving zebrafish, Danio rerio, (R, S)-PMZ showed a median lethal concentration (LC50) of .72 mg L−1, and specific assays revealed that (R)-PMZ exhibited more pronounced adverse effects on larvae at the embryonic, morphological, and biochemical level than the racemate and (S)-PMZ. Toxicity and potential bioaccumulation of these compounds in daphniids and fish were also conducted using in silico tests through proprietary software. The results revealed a concordance between the experimental and predicted EC50 and LC50 values in both species.
Quantifying sources of variability in fish bioaccumulation factor estimates for perfluoro-n-octane sulfonic acid: study design effects and implications for water quality criteria
Authors: Flinders Camille , Barnhart Brad , Ragsdale Renee
Published: January 2025

Numeric water quality criteria development approaches for the protection of aquatic life and human health incorporate bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) as key exposure pathways. These are typically derived from field-collected tissue and ambient water concentration data, and are often highly variable within and across species. Existing guidance for conducting BAF field studies is necessarily general to accommodate research objectives, ecosystem characteristics, and the chemicals and species of interest. However, the direction on evaluating study quality and understanding of the relative influence of study design components on BAFs is limited. We used a large, publicly available dataset of perfluoro-n-octane sulfonic acid (PFOS) concentrations in water and fish tissue to (1) evaluate overall patterns and drivers of water and fish tissue PFOS concentrations and derived BAFs, and (2) quantify how biological, environmental, and study design factors regarding water and tissue samples affect derived BAFs. PFOS tissue concentrations and BAFs differed significantly with species and, although variable, there was a significant positive relationship between PFOS water and fish tissue concentrations. Using biological, environmental, and study design variables, boosted regression tree analyses showed that spatial proximity between water and fish tissue sampling locations was the primary driver of BAF variability owing to large differences in water concentrations across hydraulically connected sites. Other variables, including temporal proximity between samples and biological and environmental factors, were less influential relative to spatial proximity. Our findings demonstrate that BAF study design decisions can have significant implications for key water quality criteria derivation components and highlight the need for sampling regimes that accurately characterize exposure to improve the quality of BAFs used in risk assessment and the development of regulatory standards.
Paint: a ubiquitous yet disregarded piece of the microplastics puzzle
Authors: Diana Zoie T , Chen Yuying , Rochman Chelsea M
Published: January 2025

Microplastics are widespread pollutants. Microplastics generated from the wear and tear of paints and coatings have recently been modeled to be a large source of microplastics to the environment. Yet, studies focused on microplastics broadly frequently overlook paint microplastics. In this article, we systematically reviewed the primary literature (turning up 53 relevant articles) on paint microplastic sources, identification methods, environmental concentrations, and toxicity to model organisms. Examples of sources of paint microplastics include paints from buildings and murals, crafts and hobbies, cars and roads, marine boats and structures, and industrial systems like pipes, sewers, and other infrastructure. Paint microplastics have been quantified in several marine samples from Europe and, to a lesser extent, East Asia. Reported concentrations of paint microplastics are up to 290,000 particles per kilogram of sediments, with the greatest concentration reported near a graffiti wall. Out of the toxicity studies testing paint microplastics, there have been 68 tested effects in total across all endpoints and organisms and 17 quantified lethal concentration 50% doses (ranging from 0.001 to 20 g/L). Of the tested effects, 45 observed endpoint values in the paint treatment were significantly different from the control (66%)—most of which were tests using antifouling paints. Overall, the number of studies on paint microplastics is small, limiting a holistic understanding of microplastics. Based on our synthesis of the state of the science on paint microplastics, we suggest a research agenda moving forward informed by research gaps.
The effects of a microplastic mixture on wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) across multiple life stages in an outdoor mesocosm experiment
Authors: Gene Sam M , Katzenback Barbara A , Wilson Jessica , Mallory Mark L , Provencher Jennifer F , Steel Elisabeth , Orihel Diane M
Published: January 2025

Microplastics have been found across the globe in the habitats of many amphibians. To investigate how exposure to microplastics affects hatching success, survival, growth, and development of wood frogs (Rana sylvatica), as well as how these animals may act as vectors for microplastics, a 96-day outdoor mesocosm experiment was conducted at the Queen’s University Biological Station (Ontario, Canada). Wood frogs were allocated to a negative control group or exposed to an additive-containing microplastic mixture (equal parts polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene terephthalate) at nominal water concentrations of 0.069 g/L or 0.691 g/L. Whereas hatchling survival, hatching success, and hatchling size did not differ among experimental groups, exposure to microplastics caused increased larval growth at both microplastic concentrations and delayed larval development at the highest concentration. However, there was little evidence that survival, body size, or development of metamorphs were affected by exposure to microplastics. We found microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract and on the skin of wood frogs and also inside the liver and leg muscle. In addition, the presence of frogs enhanced the flux of positively buoyant microplastics between the aquatic and terrestrial environment. This study provides new insights into how microplastic pollution affects the growth and development of wood frogs and suggests that amphibians with a biphasic life cycle may act as biovectors of plastics across water–land interfaces.
Using digital pathology to standardize and automate histological evaluations of environmental samples
Authors: Tanabe Philip , Schlenk Daniel , Forsgren Kristy L , Pampanin Daniela M
Published: January 2025

Histological evaluations of tissues are commonly used in environmental monitoring studies to assess the health and fitness status of populations or even whole ecosystems. Although traditional histology can be cost-effective, there is a shortage of proficient histopathologists and results can often be subjective between operators, leading to variance. Digital pathology is a powerful diagnostic tool that has already significantly transformed research in human health but has rarely been applied to environmental studies. Digital analyses of whole slide images introduce possibilities of highly standardized histopathological evaluations, as well as the use of artificial intelligence for novel analyses. Furthermore, incorporation of digital pathology into environmental monitoring studies using standardized bioindicator species or groups such as bivalves and fish can greatly improve the accuracy, reproducibility, and efficiency of the studies. This review aims to introduce readers to digital pathology and how it can be applied to environmental studies. This includes guidelines for sample preparation, potential sources of error, and comparisons to traditional histopathological analyses.
Presence, removal, and risks of psychopharmaceuticals in wastewater streams
Authors: Davey Charlie J E , Hartelust Anne Kiki , Helmus Rick , Praetorius Antonia , van Wezel Annemarie P , ter Laak Thomas L
Published: January 2025

Psychopharmaceuticals are used to treat psychological disorders and other conditions relating to the nervous system and are known to affect nontarget organisms at low concentrations. Their occurrence in the water cycle remains an understudied topic, with data lacking for many compounds, and risks not accounted for in removal targets. Therefore, this study aimed to provide insights into the presence, removal, and risks of psychopharmaceuticals in wastewater. Furthermore, the use of risk assessment in the context of proposed legislation is discussed. Thirty highly used psychopharmaceuticals were studied during 1 week in the wastewater of the Amsterdam West Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) using solid phase extraction and ultra high performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time of flight–high resolution mass spectrometry. Twenty target compounds were detected in the influent (17 ng–99 µg/L) and 16 in the effluent (34 ng/L–17 µg/L). Removal efficiencies during treatment ranged from 24% to >99%. Paracetamol, amphetamine, fluoxetine, levetiracetam, phenacetin, and sertraline demonstrated almost complete removal, whereas tramadol, lidocaine, lamotrigine, fluvoxamine, and carbamazepine had removals below 50%, with lidocaine demonstrating the lowest removal (24%). Utilizing existing ecotoxicity data, a preliminary risk assessment was performed to contextualize the calculated removal efficiencies. Here, sertraline and ibuprofen still demonstrated a potential risk, despite high removal efficiencies of both compounds. This study highlights that wastewater contains abundant numbers and ecotoxicologically relevant concentrations of psychopharmaceuticals that are insufficiently removed by the WWTP. The implementation of risk-based removal targets in legislation is discussed to facilitate the reduction in emissions of psychopharmaceuticals, for example, by adequate WWTP upgrades with advanced treatments to ensure a toxic-free environment.
Double-blind peer review is detrimental to scientific integrity
Authors: Mebane Christopher A
Published: January 2025

I make six arguments for why double-blind peer review practices increase vulnerability to scientific integrity lapses over more transparent peer review practices: (1) obscuring data from reviewers is detrimental; (2) obscuring sponsorship makes bias harder to detect; (3) author networks can be revealing; (4) undue trust and responsibility are placed on editors; (5) double-blind reviews are not really all that blind; and (6) willful blindness is not the answer to prestige bias. I offer an alternative approach that could provide a more transparent approach for improving scientific integrity and equity in publishing.
Factors affecting microplastic pollution of sandboxes in urban residential areas: Simple methodology for quality control in the context of potential exposure assessment for children
Authors: Krzciuk Karina , Dołęgowska Sabina , Gałuszka Agnieszka , Michalik Artur
Published: January 2025

Occurrence of microplastics in the environment is well studied, but our knowledge of their distribution in specific locations, such as the sandboxes, which are integral parts of popular playgrounds for children, is limited. Pioneering research on the factors affecting the microplastic pollution of sandboxes in urban residential areas was conducted within three estates in Kielce, Poland. Sand samples (Σ27) were collected from nine sandboxes and examined for the presence of microplastics, using a simple quality control methodology proposed by the authors. Microplastics were found in each sample and their contents ranged from 60 to 5,540 items/kg of sand. Fragments and fibers were the most prevalent types of microplastics in the samples. They contributed to approximately 95% of all microplastics found. Transparent fibers were the most abundant among fibers (63%) and red particles (57%) among fragments. A strong, positive, and significant correlation (rSpearman = 0.90) was found between the number of microplastic items and the location of sandboxes (above sea level). There was no correlation between the population density of the estates (rSpearman  =  0.03), the distance of the estates from the center (rSpearman  =  0.02), and the distance of the estates from main roads (rSpearman  =  0.43). Considering that sandboxes can be a potential source of microplastics for children, and assuming that sand ingestion by children is similar to the estimated daily soil ingestion rate, our results indicate that the number of microplastics ingested could be 1,106. Inhalation, dermal transport, and ingestion of microplastic particles from sandboxes pose a potential threat to children's health. However, more research is needed to better understand the health risks associated with this source of microplastics.
From water to land—Usage of Generalized Unified Threshold models of Survival (GUTS) in an above-ground terrestrial context exemplified by honeybee survival data
Authors: Bürger Leonhard Urs , Focks Andreas
Published: January 2025

In regulatory aquatic risk assessment, toxicokinetic-toxicodynamic (TKTD) methods, such as the generalized unified threshold model of survival (GUTS), are already established and considered ready for use, whereas TKTD methods for aboveground terrestrial species, like arthropods, are less developed and currently not intended for risk assessment. This could be due to the fact that exposure in aboveground terrestrial systems is more event-based (feeding, contact, overspray, etc.), whereas exposure in aquatic systems is simply related to substance concentrations in the surrounding water. To provide a generic TKTD framework for terrestrial invertebrates, we propose a new GUTS variant that includes an intermediate buffer between the external exposure and inside of the organism. This buffer can be interpreted as residues on the exoskeleton or in the stomach, depending on the uptake route. Such an uptake behavior is mechanistically reasonable and observable in laboratory experiments. This GUTS variant, BufferGUTS, is particularly suitable for discrete or discretized exposure scenarios. Testing our model on honeybee datasets for 13 pesticides reveals a similar or better reproduction of survival curves than existing models (GUTS-RED and BeeGUTS) while keeping the number of parameters the same and making no substance or species-specific assumptions. The proposed new BufferGUTS approach can prospectively be used to derive TKTD parameters for a variety of terrestrial arthropod species. A standardized model definition for terrestrial species will facilitate the comparison and extrapolation of parameters between species and the applicability for terrestrial risk assessments.