scholarly journals Ecotoxicological Impacts of Micro- and Nanoplastics in Terrestrial and Aquatic Environments

2021 ◽  
pp. 199-260
Author(s):  
Tânia Gomes ◽  
Agathe Bour ◽  
Claire Coutris ◽  
Ana Catarina Almeida ◽  
Inger Lise Bråte ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Research Priorities ◽  
Quality Criteria ◽  
Aquatic Organisms ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Aquatic Environments ◽  
Plastic Pollution ◽  
Toxicological Effects ◽  
Particle Characteristics ◽  
Ecotoxicological Effects ◽  
Underlying Mechanisms

AbstractPlastic pollution is a widespread environmental problem that is currently one of the most discussed issues by scientists, policymakers and society at large. The potential ecotoxicological effects of plastic particles in a wide range of organisms have been investigated in a growing number of exposure studies over the past years. Nonetheless, many questions still remain regarding the overall effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on organisms from different ecosystem compartments, as well as the underlying mechanisms behind the observed toxicity. This chapter provides a comprehensive literature review on the ecotoxicological impacts of microplastics and nanoplastics in terrestrial and aquatic organisms in the context of particle characteristics, interactive toxicological effects, taxonomic gradients and with a focus on synergies with associated chemicals. Overall, a total of 220 references were reviewed for their fulfilment of specific quality criteria (e.g. experimental design, particle characteristics, ecotoxicological endpoints and findings), after which 175 were included in our assessment. The analysis of the reviewed studies revealed that organisms’ responses were overall influenced by the physicochemical heterogeneity of the plastic particles used, for which distinct differences were attributed to polymer type, size, morphology and surface alterations. On the other hand, little attention has been paid to the role of additive chemicals in the overall toxicity. There is still little consistency regarding the biological impacts posed by plastic particles, with observed ecotoxicological effects being highly dependent on the environmental compartment assessed and specific morphological, physiological and behavioural traits of the species used. Nonetheless, evidence exists of impacts across successive levels of biological organization, covering effects from the subcellular level up to the ecosystem level. This review presents the important research gaps concerning the ecotoxicological impacts of plastic particles in different taxonomical groups, as well as recommendations on future research priorities needed to better understand the ecological risks of plastic particles in terrestrial and aquatic environments.

scholarly journals Identifying and prioritising unanswered research questions for people with hyperacusis: James Lind Alliance Hyperacusis Priority Setting Partnership

BMJ Open ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (11) ◽  
pp. e032178 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn Fackrell ◽  
Linda Stratmann ◽  
Veronica Kennedy ◽  
Carol MacDonald ◽  
Hilary Hodgson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lived Experience ◽  
Priority Setting ◽  
Healthcare Professionals ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Future Research ◽  
James Lind Alliance ◽  
Essential Resource ◽  
Underlying Mechanisms ◽  
Priority Setting Partnership

ObjectiveTo determine research priorities in hyperacusis that key stakeholders agree are the most important.Design/settingA priority setting partnership using two international surveys, and a UK prioritisation workshop, adhering to the six-staged methodology outlined by the James Lind Alliance.ParticipantsPeople with lived experience of hyperacusis, parents/carers, family and friends, educational professionals and healthcare professionals who support and/or treat adults and children who experience hyperacusis, including but not limited to surgeons, audiologists, psychologists and hearing therapists.MethodsThe priority setting partnership was conducted from August 2017 to July 2018. An international identification survey asked respondents to submit any questions/uncertainties about hyperacusis. Uncertainties were categorised, refined and rephrased into representative indicative questions using thematic analysis techniques. These questions were verified as ‘unanswered’ through searches of current evidence. A second international survey asked respondents to vote for their top 10 priority questions. A shortlist of questions that represented votes from all stakeholder groups was prioritised into a top 10 at the final prioritisation workshop (UK).ResultsIn the identification survey, 312 respondents submitted 2730 uncertainties. Of those uncertainties, 593 were removed as out of scope, and the remaining were refined into 85 indicative questions. None of the indicative questions had already been answered in research. The second survey collected votes from 327 respondents, which resulted in a shortlist of 28 representative questions for the final workshop. Consensus was reached on the top 10 priorities for future research, including identifying causes and underlying mechanisms, effective management and training for healthcare professionals.ConclusionsThese priorities were identified and shaped by people with lived experience, parents/carers and healthcare professionals, and as such are an essential resource for directing future research in hyperacusis. Researchers and funders should focus on addressing these priorities.

Microplastics pollution studies in India: a recent review of sources, abundances and research perspectives

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karthikeyan Perumal ◽  
Subagunasekar Muthuramalingam
Keyword(s):  
River Sediments ◽  
Threshold Level ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Aquatic Environments ◽  
Plastic Pollution ◽  
New Methods ◽  
Research Perspectives ◽  
Knowing That ◽  
Persistent Pollutants ◽  
Management Policies

Abstract Purpose: Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous, persistent pollutants that are reported in abundance in all environments and biota. This review highlights the identification, distribution and concentration of microplastics in all aquatic environments and biota in the India region which is one of the least studied with only forty-four papers published on microplastics during 2013-2020 in the web of science. Results: The present review focuses on the concentration of microplastics in different aquatic environments such as 3096 items/kg in marine sediments, 106 items/kg in biota, 59 items/L in seawater, 175 items/kg in sea salt, 33.9 items/L in lake water, 336 items/kg in lake sediments, 288 pieces/m3 in river water, and 328 items/kg in river sediments. Conclusion: Consequently, we studied the distribution and occurrence of pollution from MPs in coastal and freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes and biota. Therefore, we propose extending studies in all the above areas of microplastics knowing that there are many unique aquatic habitats and species that are yet unexplored. For future research, we suggest new methods for sampling MPs in all marine ecosystems and biota. Assessing research in each of these ways will allow suggesting a microplastic threshold level and devising control initiatives to minimize plastic consumption and its eventual hazard to the aquatic ecosystem. Moreover enforcing strict laws, enhancing legal initiatives, well-planned comprehensive waste management policies and spontaneous public engagement are essential to create awareness of marine plastic pollution and reduce the adverse effects of land-based plastics.

Riverine Macroplastics and How to Find Them

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tim van Emmerik ◽  
Anna Schwarz
Keyword(s):  
Spatiotemporal Variation ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Economic Damage ◽  
Aquatic Environments ◽  
Aquatic Species ◽  
Plastic Pollution ◽  
Comprehensive Overview ◽  
Plastic Debris ◽  
Factors Influencing ◽  
The World

<p>Macroplastic (>0.5 cm) pollution in aquatic environments is an emerging environmental risk, as it negatively impacts ecosystems, endangers aquatic species, and causes economic damage. Rivers are known to play a crucial role in transporting land-based plastic waste into the world’s oceans. However, rivers and their ecosystems are also directly affected by plastic pollution. To better quantify global plastic pollution pathways and to effectively reduce sources and risks, a thorough understanding of riverine macroplastic sources, transport, fate and effects is crucial. In our presentation, we discuss the current scientific state on macroplastic in rivers and evaluate existing knowledge gaps. We discuss the origin and fate of riverine plastics, including processes and factors influencing macroplastic transport and its spatiotemporal variation. Moreover, we present an overview of monitoring and modeling efforts to characterize riverine plastic transport and give examples of typical values from around the world (van Emmerik & Schwarz, 2020). With our presentation, we aim to present a comprehensive overview of riverine macroplastic research to date and suggest multiple ways forward for future research.</p><p> </p><p><strong>References</strong></p><p>van Emmerik, T, Schwarz, A. Plastic debris in rivers. WIREs Water. 2020; 7:e1398. https://doi.org/10.1002/wat2.1398</p>

scholarly journals Research priorities for neuroimmunology: identifying the key research questions to be addressed by 2030

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 ◽  
pp. 194
Author(s):  
Georgina MacKenzie ◽  
Sumithra Subramaniam ◽  
Lindsey J Caldwell ◽  
Denise Fitzgerald ◽  
Neil A Harrison ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Neural Development ◽  
Positive Impact ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Optimal Timing ◽  
Significant Progress ◽  
Medium Term ◽  
Research Teams ◽  
Research Questions ◽  
Underlying Mechanisms

Neuroimmunology in the broadest sense is the study of interactions between the nervous and the immune systems. These interactions play important roles in health from supporting neural development, homeostasis and plasticity to modifying behaviour. Neuroimmunology is increasingly recognised as a field with the potential to deliver a significant positive impact on human health and treatment for neurological and psychiatric disorders. Yet, translation to the clinic is hindered by fundamental knowledge gaps on the underlying mechanisms of action or the optimal timing of an intervention, and a lack of appropriate tools to visualise and modulate both systems. Here we propose ten key disease-agnostic research questions that, if addressed, could lead to significant progress within neuroimmunology in the short to medium term. We also discuss four cross-cutting themes to be considered when addressing each question: i) bi-directionality of neuroimmune interactions; ii) the biological context in which the questions are addressed (e.g. health vs disease vs across the lifespan); iii) tools and technologies required to fully answer the questions; and iv) translation into the clinic. We acknowledge that these ten questions cannot represent the full breadth of gaps in our understanding; rather they focus on areas which, if addressed, may have the most broad and immediate impacts. By defining these neuroimmunology priorities, we hope to unite existing and future research teams, who can make meaningful progress through a collaborative and cross-disciplinary effort.

scholarly journals Progress in the Research of the Toxicity Effect Mechanisms of Heavy Metals on Freshwater Organisms and Their Water Quality Criteria in China

2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 ◽  
pp. 1-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ya-jun Hong ◽  
Wei Liao ◽  
Zhen-fei Yan ◽  
Ying-chen Bai ◽  
Cheng-lian Feng ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Heavy Metals ◽  
Water Quality ◽  
Heavy Metal ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Quality Criteria ◽  
Aquatic Organisms ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Water Quality Criteria ◽  
Metal Pollutants ◽  
Heavy Metal Pollutants

Water quality criteria are the scientific basis for formulating water quality standards and environmental management practices. Due to the development of urbanization and industrialization, the problem of heavy metal pollution has become a serious environmental problem. Heavy metals not only have major impacts on aquatic organisms, but also seriously threaten human health. However, the current environmental criteria refer to the maximum value limitations of environmental factors in environmental media where harmful or detrimental effects are not produced on specific protected objects. This study reviewed the sources, hazard levels, toxic effect mechanisms, and the current research status of China’s water quality criteria for heavy metal pollutants. In addition, the focus and direction of future research on the toxic effects of heavy metal on aquatic organisms and the necessary criteria changes were discussed. The present study would provide an important theoretical basis for the future research of water quality criteria and risk assessment of heavy metal pollutants.

scholarly journals Ecotoxicological Effects of Silver Nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) on Parturition Time, Survival Rate, Reproductive Success and Blood Parameters of Adult Common Molly (Poecilia sphenops) and Their Larvae

Water ◽  
2022 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 144
Author(s):  
Sara Vali ◽  
Nava Majidiyan ◽  
Ahmad Mohamadi Yalsuyi ◽  
Mohammad Forouhar Vajargah ◽  
Marko D. Prokić ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Survival Rate ◽  
Reproductive Success ◽  
Hematological Parameters ◽  
Aquatic Organisms ◽  
Blood Parameters ◽  
Ag Nps ◽  
Toxicological Effects ◽  
Ecotoxicological Effects ◽  
Mature Fish ◽  
Poecilia Sphenops

Nanoparticles (NPs) can display toxicological effects on aquatic organisms. This study investigates ecotoxicological effects of Ag-NPs on reproductive and blood parameters of adult common molly (Poecilia sphenops) and their larvae. During the LC50 96 h test, female fish were exposed to concentrations of 0, 5, 15, 25, 35, 45 and 60 mg L−1 of Ag-NPs, while larvae were exposed to 0, 3, 5, 10 and 15 mg L−1. Finally, we aim to evaluate the effects of 0, 5, 10 and 15 mg L−1 of Ag-NPs on parturition time, reproductive success and hematological parameters of the mature fish exposed to sub-lethal concentration during a 62-day period. We also evaluated the survival rate of larvae. The results show a positive correlation between mortality rate and Ag-NP concentration. Values for LC50 96 h in adult fish and larvae were 26.85 mg L−1 and 6.22 mg L−1, respectively. A lack of parturition and reproductive success were seen in fish that underwent chronic exposure to Ag-NPs (15 mg L−1). The results show that RBC, WBC and hematocrit were significantly decreased in fish exposed to Ag-NPs. In addition, the serum concentrations of total protein, albumin, cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly increased in fish submitted to Ag-NPs (concentrations of 5–15). In conclusion, submitting a fish to higher concentration than 10 mg L−1 has adverse effects on reproductive system and blood parameters.

Current Postvention Research and Priorities for the Future

Crisis ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 38 (3) ◽  
pp. 202-206 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karl Andriessen ◽  
Dolores Angela Castelli Dransart ◽  
Julie Cerel ◽  
Myfanwy Maple
Keyword(s):  
Social Life ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Intercultural Collaboration ◽  
The Social ◽  
The Future ◽  
Suicide Bereavement ◽  
Ethical Approval

Abstract. Background: Suicide can have a lasting impact on the social life as well as the physical and mental health of the bereaved. Targeted research is needed to better understand the nature of suicide bereavement and the effectiveness of support. Aims: To take stock of ongoing studies, and to inquire about future research priorities regarding suicide bereavement and postvention. Method: In March 2015, an online survey was widely disseminated in the suicidology community. Results: The questionnaire was accessed 77 times, and 22 records were included in the analysis. The respondents provided valuable information regarding current research projects and recommendations for the future. Limitations: Bearing in mind the modest number of replies, all from respondents in Westernized countries, it is not known how representative the findings are. Conclusion: The survey generated three strategies for future postvention research: increase intercultural collaboration, increase theory-driven research, and build bonds between research and practice. Future surveys should include experiences with obtaining research grants and ethical approval for postvention studies.

scholarly journals Applied sport science and medicine of women’s rugby codes: a systematic-scoping review and consensus on future research priorities protocol

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. e001108
Author(s):  
Omar Heyward ◽  
Stacey Emmonds ◽  
Gregory Roe ◽  
Sean Scantlebury ◽  
Keith Stokes ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Scoping Review ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Consensus Method ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Delphi Consensus ◽  
Medicine Research ◽  
Sport Science ◽  
Priority Areas ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Scoping Reviews

Women’s rugby (rugby league, rugby union and rugby sevens) has recently grown in participation and professionalisation. There is under-representation of women-only cohorts within applied sport science and medicine research and within the women’s rugby evidence base. The aims of this article are: Part 1: to undertake a systematic-scoping review of the applied sport science and medicine of women’s rugby, and Part 2: to develop a consensus statement on future research priorities. This article will be designed in two parts: Part 1: a systematic-scoping review, and Part 2: a three-round Delphi consensus method. For Part 1, systematic searches of three electronic databases (PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, SPORTDiscus (EBSCOhost)) will be performed from the earliest record. These databases will be searched to identify any sport science and medicine themed studies within women’s rugby. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for Scoping Reviews will be adhered to. Part 2 involves a three-round Delphi consensus method to identify future research priorities. Identified experts in women’s rugby will be provided with overall findings from Part 1 to inform decision-making. Participants will then be asked to provide a list of research priority areas. Over the three rounds, priority areas achieving consensus (≥70% agreement) will be identified. This study has received institutional ethical approval. When complete, the manuscript will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. The findings of this article will have relevance for a wide range of stakeholders in women’s rugby, including policymakers and governing bodies.

scholarly journals Structural and Functional Remodeling of Mitochondria in Cardiac Diseases

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (8) ◽  
pp. 4167
Author(s):  
Xiaonan Sun ◽  
Jalen Alford ◽  
Hongyu Qiu
Keyword(s):  
Regulatory Network ◽  
Molecular Basis ◽  
Therapeutic Potential ◽  
Research Direction ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Cardiac Diseases ◽  
Functional Remodeling ◽  
Underlying Mechanisms ◽  
Mitochondrial Remodeling ◽  
Normal Cellular Function

Mitochondria undergo structural and functional remodeling to meet the cell demand in response to the intracellular and extracellular stimulations, playing an essential role in maintaining normal cellular function. Merging evidence demonstrated that dysregulation of mitochondrial remodeling is a fundamental driving force of complex human diseases, highlighting its crucial pathophysiological roles and therapeutic potential. In this review, we outlined the progress of the molecular basis of mitochondrial structural and functional remodeling and their regulatory network. In particular, we summarized the latest evidence of the fundamental association of impaired mitochondrial remodeling in developing diverse cardiac diseases and the underlying mechanisms. We also explored the therapeutic potential related to mitochondrial remodeling and future research direction. This updated information would improve our knowledge of mitochondrial biology and cardiac diseases’ pathogenesis, which would inspire new potential strategies for treating these diseases by targeting mitochondria remodeling.

scholarly journals A Brief Review of the Structure, Cytotoxicity, Synthesis, and Biodegradation of Microcystins

Water ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (16) ◽  
pp. 2147
Author(s):  
Anjali Krishnan ◽  
Xiaozhen Mou
Keyword(s):  
Health Hazard ◽  
Aquatic Organisms ◽  
Water Soluble ◽  
Cyanobacterial Blooms ◽  
Aquatic Environments ◽  
Natural Environments ◽  
Exposure Pathway ◽  
Environmental Transformation ◽  
Cyclic Heptapeptide ◽  
Harmful Cyanobacterial Blooms

Harmful cyanobacterial blooms pose an environmental health hazard due to the release of water-soluble cyanotoxins. One of the most prevalent cyanotoxins in nature is microcystins (MCs), a class of cyclic heptapeptide hepatotoxins, and they are produced by several common cyanobacteria in aquatic environments. Once released from cyanobacterial cells, MCs are subjected to physical chemical and biological transformations in natural environments. MCs can also be taken up and accumulated in aquatic organisms and their grazers/predators and induce toxic effects in several organisms, including humans. This brief review aimed to summarize our current understanding on the chemical structure, exposure pathway, cytotoxicity, biosynthesis, and environmental transformation of microcystins.

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