| 1. |
- Fang, Zhao, 1986, et al.
(författare)
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TiO2 nanoparticle interactions with supported lipid membranes – an example of removal of membrane patches
- 2016
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Ingår i: RSC Advances. - 2046-2069. ; 6:94, s. 91102-91110
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- There is a need for different levels of model systems for effect studies of engineered nanoparticles and the development of nanoparticle structure–activity relationships in biological systems. Descriptors for nanoparticles based on their interactions in molecular model systems may become useful to predict toxicological responses of the nanoparticles in cells. Towards this end, we report on nanoparticle-induced formation of holes in supported model membranes. Specifically, TiO2 nanoparticle – lipid membrane interactions were studied under low ionic strength, basic conditions (pH 8), using different membrane compositions and several surface-sensitive analytical techniques. It was found that for mixed POPC/POPG (PG fractions ≥ 35%) membranes on silica supports, under conditions where electrostatic repulsion was expected, the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles resulted in transient interaction curves, consistent with the removal of part of the lipid membrane. The formation of holes was inferred from quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) monitoring, as well as from optical measurements by reflectometry, and also verified by atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging. The interaction between the TiO2 nanoparticles and the PG-containing membranes was dependent on the presence of Ca2+ ions. A mechanism is suggested where TiO2 nanoparticles act as scavengers of Ca2+ ions associated with the supported membrane, leading to weakening of the interaction between the membrane and the support and subsequent removal of lipid mass as TiO2 nanoparticles spontaneously leave the surface. This mechanism is consistent with the observed formation of holes in the supported lipid membranes.
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| 2. |
- Hartmann, Nanna B., et al.
(författare)
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Are We Speaking the Same Language? Recommendations for a Definition and Categorization Framework for Plastic Debris
- 2019
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Ingår i: Environmental Science and Technology. - : American Chemical Society (ACS). - 0013-936X .- 1520-5851. ; 53:3, s. 1039-1047
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Copyright © 2019 American Chemical Society. The accumulation of plastic litter in natural environments is a global issue. Concerns over potential negative impacts on the economy, wildlife, and human health provide strong incentives for improving the sustainable use of plastics. Despite the many voices raised on the issue, we lack a consensus on how to define and categorize plastic debris. This is evident for microplastics, where inconsistent size classes are used and where the materials to be included are under debate. While this is inherent in an emerging research field, an ambiguous terminology results in confusion and miscommunication that may compromise progress in research and mitigation measures. Therefore, we need to be explicit on what exactly we consider plastic debris. Thus, we critically discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a unified terminology, propose a definition and categorization framework, and highlight areas of uncertainty. Going beyond size classes, our framework includes physicochemical properties (polymer composition, solid state, solubility) as defining criteria and size, shape, color, and origin as classifiers for categorization. Acknowledging the rapid evolution of our knowledge on plastic pollution, our framework will promote consensus building within the scientific and regulatory community based on a solid scientific foundation.
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| 3. |
- Kukkonen, J., et al.
(författare)
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Towards a Comprehensive Evaluation of the Environmental and Health Impacts of Shipping Emissions
- 2022
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Ingår i: Springer Proceedings in Complexity. - Cham : Springer International Publishing. - 2213-8684 .- 2213-8692. ; , s. 329-336
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- We present a new concept for marine research, applied in the EU-funded project EMERGE, “Evaluation, control and Mitigation of the EnviRonmental impacts of shippinG Emissions” (2020–2024; https://emerge-h2020.eu/ ). For the first time, both the various marine and atmospheric impacts of the shipping sector have been and will be comprehensively analyzed, using a concerted modelling and measurements framework. The experimental part of the project focuses on five European geographical case studies in different ecologically vulnerable regions, and a mobile onboard case study. The EMERGE consortium has also developed a harmonised and integrated modelling framework to assess the combined impacts of shipping emissions, both (i) on the marine ecosystems and (ii) the atmospheric environment. The first results include substantial refinements of a range of models to be applied, especially those for the STEAM and OpenDrift models. In particular, the STEAM (Ship Traffic Emission Assessment Model) model has been extended to allow for the effects of atmospheric and oceanographic factors on the fuel consumption and emissions of the ships. The OpenDrift model has been improved to take into account the partitioning, degradation, and volatilization of pollutants in water. The predicted emission and discharge values have been used as input for both regional scale atmospheric dispersion models, such as WRF-CMAQ (Weather Research and Forecasting—Community Multiscale Air Quality Model) and SILAM (System for Integrated modeLling of Atmospheric composition), and water quality and circulation models, such as OpenDrift (Open source model for the drifting of substances in the ocean) and Delft3D (oceanographic model). The case study regions are Eastern Mediterranean, Northern Adriatic Sea, the Lagoon of Aveiro, the Solent Strait and the Öresund Strait. We have also conducted a substantial part of the experimental campaigns scheduled in the project. The final assessment will include the benefits and costs of control and mitigation options affecting water quality, air pollution exposure, health impacts, climate forcing, and ecotoxicological effects and bioaccumulation of pollutants in marine biota.
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| 4. |
- Nylund, Amanda, 1989, et al.
(författare)
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Hydrographical implications of ship-induced turbulence in stratified waters, studied through field observations and CFD modelling
- 2023
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Ingår i: Frontiers in Marine Science. - 2296-7745. ; 10
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Ship-related energy pollution has received increasing attention but almost exclusively regarding radiated underwater noise, while the effect of ship-induced turbulence is lacking in the literature. Here we present novel results regarding turbulent wake development, the interaction between ship-induced turbulence and stratification, and discuss the impact of turbulent ship wakes in the surface ocean, in areas with intense ship traffic. The turbulent wake development was studied in situ, using Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCP) and conductivity, temperature, depth (CTD) observations of stratification, and through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling. Our results show that the turbulent wake interacts with natural hydrography by entraining water from below the pycnocline, and that stratification influences the turbulent wake development by dampening the vertical extent, resulting in the wake water spreading out along the pycnocline rather than at the surface. The depth and intensity of the turbulent wake represent an unnatural occurrence of turbulence in the surface ocean. The ship-induced turbulence can impact local hydrography, nutrient dynamics and increase plankton mortality due to physical disturbance, especially in areas with intense traffic. Therefore, sampling and modelling of e.g., contaminants in shipping lanes need to consider hydrographic conditions, as stratification may alter the depth and spread of the wake, which in turn governs dilution. Finally, the frequent ship traffic in estuarine and coastal areas, calls for consideration of ship-induced turbulence when studying hydrographic processes.
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| 5. |
- Zhao, Fang, et al.
(författare)
-
TiO2 nanoparticle interactions with supported lipid membranes – an example of removal of membrane patches
- 2016
-
Ingår i: RSC Advances. - : Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). - 2046-2069. ; 6:94, s. 91102-91110
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- There is a need for different levels of model systems for effect studies of engineered nanoparticles and the development of nanoparticle structure–activity relationships in biological systems. Descriptors for nanoparticles based on their interactions in molecular model systems may become useful to predict toxicological responses of the nanoparticles in cells. Towards this end, we report on nanoparticle-induced formation of holes in supported model membranes. Specifically, TiO2 nanoparticle – lipid membrane interactions were studied under low ionic strength, basic conditions (pH 8), using different membrane compositions and several surface-sensitive analytical techniques. It was found that for mixed POPC/POPG (PG fractions ≥ 35%) membranes on silica supports, under conditions where electrostatic repulsion was expected, the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles resulted in transient interaction curves, consistent with the removal of part of the lipid membrane. The formation of holes was inferred from quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) monitoring, as well as from optical measurements by reflectometry, and also verified by atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging. The interaction between the TiO2 nanoparticles and the PG-containing membranes was dependent on the presence of Ca2+ ions. A mechanism is suggested where TiO2 nanoparticles act as scavengers of Ca2+ ions associated with the supported membrane, leading to weakening of the interaction between the membrane and the support and subsequent removal of lipid mass as TiO2 nanoparticles spontaneously leave the surface. This mechanism is consistent with the observed formation of holes in the supported lipid membranes.
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| 6. |
- Abbas, Zareen, 1962, et al.
(författare)
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Synthesis, characterization and particle size distribution of TiO2 colloidal nanoparticles
- 2011
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Ingår i: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects. - : Elsevier BV. - 0927-7757. ; 384:1-3, s. 254-261
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Nanoparticles of controlled size, well defined shape, pure phase and of clean surfaces are ideal model systems to investigate surface/interfacial reactions. In this study we have explored the possibility of synthesizing TiO2 nanoparticles in the size range of 7–20 nm under well controlled experimental conditions. A simple method based on the hydrolysis of TiCl4 was used to obtain particles having surfaces free from organics. Stable dispersions of TiO2 nanoparticles of various sizes were obtained by optimizing the reaction/dialysis time and temperature. The synthesized TiO2 particles were found to be predominantly of anatase phase and narrow particle size distributions were obtained. The TiO2 particles were characterized with respect to their phase, size and shape by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. Particle size distribution in a colloidal dispersion was obtained by the electrospray scanning mobility particle sizer (ES-SMPS) method and compared with an average particle size determined from dynamic light scattering (DLS). The average particle sizes obtained by the DLS and ES-SMPS methods were in good agreement, while a primary particle size of 4 nm was found in X-ray diffraction irrespective of the particle size in solution. Early stages of the nucleation process were monitored by the ES-SMPS method. These results show that small particles of 4–5 nm are initially formed and it is highly likely that large particles are formed due to aggregation of primary particles.
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| 7. |
- Alasonati, E, et al.
(författare)
-
Asymmetrical flow field flow fractionation - Multidetection system as a tool for studying metal-alginate interactions
- 2006
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Ingår i: Environmental Chemistry. ; 3:3, s. 192-198
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The present study explores the potential use of asymmetrical flow field flow fractionation (aFlFFF) with a multidetection system for the study of metal-alginate interactions. aFlFFF, coupled on-line to a differential refractive index and seven angle laser light scattering detectors was used to provide information on the alginate size distributions. In parallel, the metal distributions of metal-alginate complexes were probed by aFlFFF-high resolution inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Average values and continuous distributions of molar masses, radiuses of gyration and hydrodynamic radiuses, which are critical for understanding the role of alginates as carriers of metal pollutants, were evaluated in presence of Pb or Cd and compared with those in metal-free solutions of alginate. The values of number average and weight average molar mass, weight average radius of gyration and shape factor for alginate were 150 and 188 kg mol(-1), 53 nm and 1.7, respectively. Alginate molar mass and radius of gyration distributions were slightly shifted to higher values by the addition of micromolar concentrations of Pb or Cd. The alginate size distribution in the presence of Cd was similar to the alginate-alone control, whereas in the presence of Pb the size distribution was broader with a shift of the maximum toward higher molar masses.
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| 8. |
- Arvidsson, Rickard, 1984, et al.
(författare)
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Challenges in Exposure Modeling of Nanoparticles in Aquatic Environments
- 2011
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Ingår i: Human and Ecological Risk Assessment. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1080-7039 .- 1549-7860. ; 17:1
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Managing the potential environmental risks of nanoparticles requires methods to link nanoparticle properties with macro-scale risks. This study outlines challenges in exposure modeling of nanoparticles in aquatic environments, such as the role of natural organic matter, natural colloids, fractal dimensions of agglomerates, coatings and doping of particles, and uncertainties regarding nanoparticle emissions to aquatic environments. The pros and cons of the exposure indicators mass concentration, particle number concentration, and surface area are discussed. By applying colloid chemistry kinetic equations describing particle agglomeration and sedimentation for the case of titanium dioxide nanoparticles, a limited exposure assessment including some of the factors mentioned is conducted with particle number concentration as the exposure indicator. The results of the modeling indicate that sedimentation, shear flows, and settling are of less importance with regard to particle number based predicted environmental concentrations. The inflow of nanoparticles to the water compartment had a significant impact in the model, and the collision efficiency (which is affected by natural organic matter) was shown to greatly affect model output. Implications for exposure modeling, regulation and science are discussed. A broad spectrum of scientific disciplines must be engaged in the development of exposure models where nano-level properties are linked to macro-scale risk.
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| 9. |
- Arvidsson, Rickard, 1984, et al.
(författare)
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Exposure assessments of nanoparticles in aquatic environments – considerations, review and recommendations
- 2013
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Rapport (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Synthetic nanoparticles are new forms of chemical substances. They can be found in several different forms, such as free particles, surface bound and dissolved in liquid. Nanoparticles can also exist as free, individual particles or agglomerate consisting of multiple particles. This report discusses the assessment of possible risks of nanoparticles. Chemical risk is usually considered to consist of two elements: (1) Exposure to the substance, and (2) the substance's toxicity. So far, the risk-related research on nanoparticles has had a strong focus on the particles ' toxic effects. In this report, we would instead focus on how exposure to nanoparticles can be calculated and assessed, with focus on nanoparticles in water. In the report, we provide an initial background and definitions of nanomaterials and nanoparticles, and describe briefly a standard method of risk assessment of chemicals in the environment. Then we go through important considerations that should be made in the exposure assessment of nanoparticles. First we discuss three considerations related to the emissions of nanoparticles, namely the lack of data for annual production of nanoparticles, the importance of applying a substance flow perspective, and lack of data for so-called emission factors for nanoparticles of various products and materials. Furthermore, we discuss considerations for modeling of nanoparticles behavior in water, mainly by listing a number of key processes with large influence. These are agglomeration, sedimentation, and dissolution. Related to that, we discuss how natural organic materials, coatings and aging of particles can affect these processes. We note here three particle properties that are important in order to describe nanoparticles dispersion in water, in a similar way that the octanol-water partition coefficient and half-life is important to describe the fate of organic chemicals in the environment. For nanoparticles these are the particle size (a) and the density (ρ). We also identify a number of more complex parameters affecting particle behavior in the environment, but not only because of the different particle characteristics, but also depending on characteristics related to the environment. These are the collision efficiency (α), point of zero charge (pHpzc), Hamaker constant (A) and a so-called form factor (β) that affect the sedimentation. In addition to the general difficulty to measure or calculate these parameters they also co-vary. Furthermore, we make a review of 11 currently available exposure models for nanoparticles in aquatic environment. We note that the studies differ regarding modeling method, which sources of emissions that are included, the nanoparticles taken into account, estimated concentrations in the environment, and whether the results are presented as mass or particle concentration. Only two studies trying to model the nanoparticle exposure based on particle properties in a manner similar to standard methods for chemical risk assessment. The other modeling studies are instead based on data on flows of specific nanomaterials, and not on generic algorithms. Next, we describe a number of challenges that occur when measuring nanoparticles in the environment. Finally, we provide the following recommendations to ensure good exposure assessment of nanoparticles in the future: 1. Information of flows and stocks of nanoparticles in society need to be collected. 2. Emission factors would need to be developed for each product that makes use of nanoparticles. 3. Emissions should be reported both as mass and particle number until it becomes clearer which one is most relevant. 4. More research is needed in order to determine which particle properties need to be known in order to calculate the concentration of nanoparticles in the environment. 5. At least the particle size and particle size distribution, as well as the specific particle density should be reported. 6. More research is required to improve the experimental measurements of nanoparticles to be able to validate exposure models.
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| 10. |
- Arvidsson, Rickard, 1984, et al.
(författare)
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MODELLING ENVIRONMENTAL FATE OF TiO2 NANOPARTICLES IN WATER – IMPLICATIONS FOR EMPIRICAL VALIDATION STUDIES
- 2009
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Ingår i: 4th International Conference on the Environmental Effects of Nanoparticles and Nanomaterials, 6-9 September, Vienna, Austria.
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Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- The potential environmental effects of nanoparticles (NPs) require interdisciplinary research to assess the risks. One part of a risk assessment concerns exposure, which builds on knowledge of the environmental fate. In this particular case the fate of TiO2 NPs in the water compartment was modelled by applying a second order kinetic rate equation and the DLVO theory. Assumptions were made regarding water parameters such as pH, salt concentration and temperature, as well as regarding particle properties such as Hamaker constant, primary particle size and point of zero charge. The effect of sedimentation was taken into account, but as one would expect the influence of sedimentation on such small particles is very small. The model was implemented in MATLAB®. Results indicate the importance of agglomeration as an important fate mechanism, and that pH andpoint of zero charge are important parameters with regards to agglomeration. Other parameters such as the Hamaker constant, salt concentration and temperature were shown not to have a significant effect, which is in goodcorrelation with empirical studies. Also, we would like to see our model validated by empirical studies. Important implications then are to include a continuous inflowof NPs in the experimental setup and to work at environmentally relevant water properties. For example is the effect of natural organic matter (NOM) on theagglomeration not modelled, despite that its significance has been pointed out in many studies. This is due to a weak link between mathematical expressions andempirical data for this particular part of the model. It is of importance that this linkage is strengthened both by theoretical and empirical studies on NOM aimingat producing mathematical expressions, and empirical data, that can assist fate modelling of NPs.
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