Article
Environmental Sciences
Caroline Fink-Mercier, Jean-Francois Lapierre, Marc Amyot, Paul A. del Giorgio
Summary: This study evaluates the impact of wetlands and surface coverage of water on riverine concentrations and yields of total Hg and MeHg, and finds that surface coverage of water is the major driver of concentrations and fluxes at the whole network scale. The study also demonstrates the moderating effect of seasonality on the relationship between landscape properties and Hg forms.
JOURNAL OF GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH-BIOGEOSCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Jin Zheng, Jie-Liang Liang, Pu Jia, Shi-wei Feng, Jing-li Lu, Zhen-hao Luo, Hong-xia Ai, Bin Liao, Jin-tian Li, Wen-sheng Shu
Summary: This study used genome-resolved metagenomics to reveal the vast phylogenetic and metabolic diversities of putative MeHg producers and degraders in AMD sediments. The diversity of MeHg-metabolizing microorganisms (particularly MeHg degraders) in AMD sediments is much higher than previously recognized. Microbial and abiotic factors affecting MeHg accumulation in AMD sediments were identified using multiple linear regression analysis. This work emphasizes the importance of using genome-resolved metagenomics to survey MeHg-metabolizing microorganisms and provides a framework for understanding the microbial basis of MeHg accumulation.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Caroline Fink-Mercier, Paul A. del Giorgio, Marc Amyot, Jean-Francois Lapierre
Summary: The co-loading of mercury (Hg) with dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is a significant driver of the distribution patterns of mercury in aquatic ecosystems. Although DOC has been used as a predictor of Hg concentrations and exports in boreal regions, the relationship between Hg and methylmercury (MeHg) with DOC is highly variable. This study explores this relationship in 18 boreal rivers in eastern James Bay territory, and finds that hydrology and biogeochemical processes play a role in governing the patterns of Hg, MeHg, and DOC.
WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Laura Mancini, Roberto Miniero, Eleonora Beccaloni, Kevin di Domenico, Ines Lacchetti, Camilla Puccinelli, Maria Rita Cicero, Federica Scaini, Mario Carere
Summary: This study quantified the concentrations of total mercury (Hgtot) and methylmercury (MeHg) in sediment and mussels in the east basin of the Orbetello lagoon. The results showed that Hgtot concentrations in sediments exceeded the environmental quality standard, while the Hgtot concentration in mussels did not exceed the limit values of the European food legislation. The findings suggest that these compounds can accumulate in the upper levels of the trophic chain in the lagoon, posing a risk to human health.
MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Qingqing Wu, Baolin Wang, Haiyan Hu, Andrea G. Bravo, Kevin Bishop, Stefan Bertilsson, Bo Meng, Hua Zhang, Xinbin Feng
Summary: Methylmercury produced in rice paddies poses a high risk to humans and wildlife. Sulfate reduction and methanogenesis play important roles in controlling the reduction of Hg(II) and MeHg. Oxidative demethylation is the main degradative pathway for MeHg in rice paddies.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiaoquan Liu, Yingjun Wang, Zheng Li, Yue Song, Yanbin Li, Yongguang Yin, Yong Cai
Summary: Riverine mercury is a major source of mercury in coastal oceans, and the Yellow River is the main contributor to mercury contamination in the Bohai Sea. Suspended particulate matter plays a dominant role in the transport of mercury in the river-estuary system. The study highlights distinct patterns in the distribution and transport of total mercury and methylmercury.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yuping Xiang, Ailing Zhu, Yingying Guo, Guangliang Liu, Baowei Chen, Bin He, Yong Liang, Yongguang Yin, Yong Cai, Guibin Jiang
Summary: Iron sulfide nanoparticles (FeSNp) have shown to significantly reduce the bioavailability of both Hg(II) and MeHg in aquatic environments, inhibiting MeHg production and integration into food webs, although there is a potential risk of release when the sorbed contaminants are oxidized, increasing exposure risk to aquatic organisms. These findings provide valuable information for the development of in situ Hg remediation systems.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yufan Zhang, Xiangqin Wang, Yang Yang, Yingmei Huang, Xiaomin Li, Shiwen Hu, Kexue Liu, Yan Pang, Tongxu Liu, Fangbai Li
Summary: In order to assess the risks and develop remediation strategies for mercury-contaminated soils in paddy fields, understanding the mechanisms of mercury transformation and migration is crucial. This study investigated the changes in mercury fractions in a spiked acidic paddy soil under anoxic and oxic conditions, and established a kinetic model to quantitatively estimate the transformation processes. The results provided new insights into the exogenous mercury transformation processes and could be useful in predicting mercury availability in periodically flooded acidic paddy fields.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Chongyang Qin, Xiaoyu Xu
Summary: This study investigated the potential for mercury (Hg) methylation in two different aquatic systems. One system, Fourmile Creek (FMC), had a history of Hg pollution from groundwater, while the other, the H02 constructed wetland, only received atmospheric Hg deposition. The study found that FMC had a stronger Hg methylation potential and higher Hg bioavailability compared to the H02 wetland, which was attributed to differences in microbial communities. This study highlights the importance of long-term monitoring and sustainable ecological modifications for Hg-contaminated sites.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Stefanie Helmrich, Dimitri Vlassopoulos, Charles N. Alpers, Peggy A. O'Day
Summary: Mercury is a global health concern, especially harmful for fetuses and children. Methylmercury is an environmentally relevant form of mercury, and its production and transformation rates are crucial for management.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Xiaochuan Jin, Ting Sun, Ziyi Wu, Deyong Wang, Fan Hu, Jiaxuan Xu, Xian Li, Jieqiong Qiu
Summary: A simple thymine-rich oligonucleotide was designed to detect Hg(II) via specific coordination chemistry. The method utilizes a fluorescent recognizer to selectively detect Hg(II).
ANALYTICA CHIMICA ACTA
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Laure Laffont, Johanna Menges, Sylvaine Goix, Sophie Gentes, Regine Maury-Brachet, Jeroen E. Sonke, Alexia Legeay, Patrice Gonzalez, Raphaelle Rinaldo, Laurence Maurice
Summary: The study in French Guiana aimed to investigate the impact of gold-mining activities on mercury concentrations and isotopic signatures in freshwater fish consumed by local residents. Analysis of Hg concentrations and isotopic ratios in fish muscles revealed differences in biogeochemical processes between fish from impacted and pristine areas, indicating potential influences of suspended particles on mercury concentrations. The study also highlighted the potential of Hg isotopes in fish as complementary tracers to understand the sources and processes of mercury accumulation in aquatic ecosystems.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Emily A. Seelen, Celia Y. Chen, Prentiss H. Balcom, Kate L. Buckman, Vivien F. Taylor, Robert P. Mason
Summary: This study focused on evaluating the impact of point source contamination on water column mercury concentrations and source dynamics in estuaries in the Northeast United States. Findings indicated that contaminated sites have strong internal recycling of mercury, leading to elevated concentrations in water columns, while uncontaminated sites showed strong connections to the local watershed. Furthermore, in-situ methylation of dissolved water column mercury appeared to dominate the methylmercury source pathway.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Dandan Duan, Pei Lei, Wenlu Lan, Tianshen Li, Hao Zhang, Huan Zhong, Ke Pan
Summary: This study investigated the concentrations of total mercury and methylmercury in sediments from seven mangrove forests in China, finding that litterfall plays a significant role in regulating the levels of mercury. The organic matter in the sediments was predominantly derived from litterfall, influencing the accumulation of MeHg. Furthermore, the addition of mangrove litter stimulated the production of MeHg under anaerobic conditions, suggesting that litterfall acts as a source of inorganic Hg and labile carbon, facilitating Hg methylation.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Wang Xueqiu, Liu Xuemin, Wu Hui, Tian Mi, Li Ruihong, Zhang Chao Sheng
Summary: The China Geochemical Baselines project collected mercury data of drainage catchment sediments and soils from 2008 to 2012. They identified 57 mercury anomalous regions exceeding the risk limits of China National Environmental Standards for Heavy Metals in Soil. The main sources of mercury anomalies were natural geological mineralisation belts, mining activities, and anthropogenic sources such as urbanisation emission and agriculture, leading to higher levels of mercury pollution in eastern China.
JOURNAL OF GEOCHEMICAL EXPLORATION
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ming-Huang Wang, Chiu-Wen Chen, Chih-Feng Chen, Lin-Chi Wang, Ta-Kang Liu, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: This study investigated the concentrations and distribution of 16 US EPA polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in water treatment plants, sewage treatment plants, and industrial water treatment plant sludge in Taiwan. The results revealed the presence of these compounds, with 2-4 ring PAHs being the predominant compounds. The study also assessed the contributions from different sources and evaluated the toxicity levels.
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yee Cheng Lim, Chih-Feng Chen, Chiu-Wen Chen, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: This study developed an alternative method for disposing of dredged harbor sediments by co-sintering them with waste rice husk into lightweight aggregates (LWA). The addition of rice husk and sintering temperature were found to significantly impact the performance of the LWA. Results showed that LWA with 10-15% rice husk, sintered at 1150 degrees C, exhibited suitable properties for lightweight concrete applications. Co-treating waste rice husk and dredged harbor sediments into LWA can contribute to waste reduction, circular economy, and minimization of environmental impacts.
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Reeta Rani Singhania, Anil Kumar Patel, Tirath Raj, Mei-Ling Tsai, Chiu-Wen Chen, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: The increasing demand for energy resources due to population growth and industrialization has led to the exploration of alternative renewable fuels, with bio-ethanol produced from lignocellulosic biomass being the most popular. However, challenges such as inducible enzyme secretion by fungi and the complicated structure of biomass hinder the efficient production of ethanol. This article discusses the challenges and possible solutions for cellulase action on cellulosic biomass at a high solid loading, highlighting the need for biomass pretreatment to enhance enzyme efficiency.
Article
Ecology
Chih-Feng Chen, Yun-Ru Ju, Yee Cheng Lim, Frank Paolo Jay B. Albarico, Chiu-Wen Chen, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: The concentrations, sources, and ecological risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in seawater along the coast of Taiwan were assessed. It was found that the characteristics of PAHs differed between the dissolved and particulate phases, with 3-ring PAHs dominating the dissolved phase and 5-ring PAHs dominating the particulate phase. Coal and biomass combustion were identified as the main sources of PAHs, while petroleum and petroleum combustion also contributed to the northeastern coast's PAHs. The toxicity and risks of PAHs were higher in the particulate phase compared to the dissolved phase.
REGIONAL STUDIES IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ming-Huang Wang, Chih-Feng Chen, Frank Paolo Jay B. Albarico, Chiu-Wen Chen, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: This study analyzed the concentrations of phthalate esters (PAEs) and microplastics (MPs) in sludge samples collected from different wastewater treatment plants in Taiwan. The results showed that the highest PAE concentrations were found in sewage treatment plants, with DEHP being the main contributing substance. The abundance of microplastics in sludge varied among different samples, but showed no significant correlation with PAE concentrations. The estimated toxicological risks to exposed adults from DEHP and DnBP in contaminated sludge were found to be low.
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Parushi Nargotra, Vishal Sharma, Yi-Chen Lee, Yung-Hsiang Tsai, Yung-Chuan Liu, Chwen-Jen Shieh, Mei-Ling Tsai, Cheng-Di Dong, Chia-Hung Kuo
Summary: The urgent demand for alternative energy sources is due to the burden on fossil fuels and resulting energy crisis and climate change. Lignocellulosic biomass is a renewable and alternative bioresource for energy generation. Different pretreatment strategies have been established to overcome biomass recalcitrance, and biological pretreatment using microbial enzymes is a promising method. Cellulases, hemicellulases, and ligninolytic enzymes have numerous industrial applications. This review provides a detailed description of these enzymes and their prospective applications in lignocellulosic biomass valorization. Solid state fermentation and enzyme immobilization strategies are discussed, along with future prospects.
Article
Ecology
Yee Cheng Lim, Frank Paolo Jay B. Albarico, Chih-Feng Chen, Chiu-Wen Chen, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: This study evaluated sediment metal pollution in Hsingda Harbor, a multi-functional harbor in southwestern Taiwan. The contamination level and ecological risks were determined using multiple sediment pollution indices based on total metal contents and their chemical partitioning fractions. The results identified fisheries-related activities and a nearby coal-fired power plant as the primary sources of potentially toxic metal pollution. The findings provide valuable information for environmental pollution control and mitigation during harbor development and management.
REGIONAL STUDIES IN MARINE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Anusuiya Singh, Chiu-Wen Chen, Anil Kumar Patel, Cheng-Di Dong, Reeta Rani Singhania
Summary: The depletion of fossil fuels has led to an energy crisis, which has resulted in a shift towards alternative energy resources. Lignocellulosic biomass or agricultural residue can be used to produce bioethanol to address the energy crisis and reduce environmental pollution. Sorghum distillery residue (SDR) generated during Kaoliang liquor production can be utilized to produce bioethanol and solve environmental problems.
BIOENGINEERING-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Chih-Feng Chen, Yun-Ru Ju, Ming-Huang Wang, Frank Paolo Jay B. Albarico, Shu-Hui Lee, Chiu-Wen Chen, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: This study comprehensively assessed the occurrence and potential ecological risks of 12 endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) in the surface sediments of seven major harbors in Taiwan. Phthalates (PAEs) and alkylphenols (APs) were found to be widely present and may pose risks to aquatic ecosystems. The concentrations of PAEs and APs in the sediments were correlated with their production, indicating the level of anthropogenic pollution. The estimated risk quotients suggest moderate to high potential risks for algae and low to moderate potential risks for crustaceans and fish.
SOIL & SEDIMENT CONTAMINATION
(2023)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Henna Mohi ud din Wani, Chiu-Wen Chen, Chun-Yung Huang, Reeta Rani Singhania, Young Joon Sung, Cheng-Di Dong, Anil Kumar Patel
Summary: Bioactive peptides derived from proteinaceous red algae biomass have attracted significant attention for their varied structures and potential applications. However, there is a lack of research on feasible approaches for producing and purifying bioactive peptides. This article explores the latest trends in easily applicable approaches for extracting bioactive peptides for cutaneous applications. It also emphasizes the importance of peptide purity and bioactivity, and suggests future research directions to increase yield and improve separation methods, as well as conducting human clinical trials to validate their health benefits.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Yee Cheng Lim, Chih-Feng Chen, Chiu-Wen Chen, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: This study evaluated the feasibility of using harbor sediments and oyster shells for lightweight aggregate (LWA) production. It was found that the LWAs prepared with a 5-15% oyster shell content and sintered at 1125℃ were suitable for structural lightweight concrete, meeting the regulations for building materials in Taiwan.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ashutosh Tiwari, Chiu-Wen Chen, Dibyajyoti Haldar, Anil Kumar Patel, Cheng-Di Dong, Reeta Rani Singhania
Summary: Biorefinery is a promising alternative to petrorefinery for sustainable development, with lignocellulosic biomasses as the most important raw material. Enzymatic conversion of biomasses into bioethanol is considered the most sustainable method, but biomass recalcitrance presents a major challenge. Pretreatment targeting lignin, the main contributor to recalcitrance, is necessary to make cellulose and hemicellulose more accessible to enzymes. Laccase, a lignin-degrading enzyme, is a potential option for biological pretreatment, although its slow reaction rate is a limitation. This article provides insights into biorefinery and emphasizes the significance of laccase.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Rhessa Grace Guanga Ortizo, Vishal Sharma, Mei-Ling Tsai, Jia-Xiang Wang, Pei-Pei Sun, Parushi Nargotra, Chia-Hung Kuo, Chiu-Wen Chen, Cheng-Di Dong
Summary: Bioactive peptides derived from fish byproduct protein hydrolysate have vast potential as functional food ingredients. Enzymatic hydrolysis is the preferred method for the preparation of these peptides due to its high specificity, mild reaction conditions, and lack of residual organic solvents. However, the use of proteases and the availability of food-grade enzymes pose limitations. Current research focuses on the purification and identification of these peptides, as well as their bioactivities, including antiproliferative, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antiglycemic, antitumor, and antioxidative functions. The growing interest in proteomics and the utilization of marine and aquatic waste stems from the bioactivity and sustainability of these products.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Parushi Nargotra, Vishal Sharma, Mei-Ling Tsai, Shu-Ling Hsieh, Cheng-Di Dong, Hui-Min David Wang, Chia-Hung Kuo
Summary: The increasing concerns about climate change and the overexploitation of non-renewable resources have led to the need for alternative renewable and eco-friendly resources for the production of innovative materials, achieving the goals of bioeconomy. Lignocellulosic biomass (LB), derived from plant-based agro-industrial food waste and crop residues, can be utilized for the production of various value-added chemicals and bioproducts. Cellulose, derived from LB, is the most abundant natural and biodegradable organic polymer, with wide-ranging applications in lignocellulosic biorefineries and food industries. However, the extraction of cellulose from LB is challenging due to the recalcitrant nature of biomass. A suitable cellulose extraction method through LB fractionation is necessary to improve cellulose yield. Nanocellulose (NC) has great potential and researchers are interested in developing environmentally friendly cellulose extraction methods. Cellulose nanofibrils and nanocrystals have excellent mechanical properties, non-toxic characteristics, and biodegradability, making them suitable for diverse industrial sectors. This review emphasizes the potential role of cellulose extraction and NC production from agro-food waste, discusses different pretreatment methods for cellulose extraction from LB, and highlights the applications and future directions of cellulose and NC-based commercial products.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
