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Distribution, abundance and risks of microplastics in the environment
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This bibliometric analysis reviewed the global state of microplastic research, finding that microplastics have been detected in water bodies and sediments across all seven continents and four oceans. The study highlights that meaningful comparisons between studies remain difficult due to inconsistent sampling methods and concentration units. Researchers note that while microplastics and their adsorbed pollutants can harm marine organisms, the effects on human health through contaminated seafood remain unclear.
Microplastics (plastic particles < 5 mm) have received increasing attention in recent years due to their wide distribution in the environment. A bibliometric analysis was carried out using Web of Science, with significant contributions being observed by English and French research institutions in the microplastic field. Analysis of keywords revealed that the research hotspots were distribution, abundance, and risks of microplastics in the environment. Microplastics have been detected in water bodies and sediments of seven continents and four oceans. However, meaningful comparisons among studies are difficult due to the inconsistencies in sampling methods and concentration units. Moreover, studies have shown that the chemical composition of microplastics, as well as the pollutants adsorbed onto them, can have negative impacts on marine organisms. It remains unclear whether and how the consumption of aquatic products contaminated with microplastics affect human health. Therefore, it is advised that future research should focus on the transfer, accumulation, and effects of microplastics in the food chain.
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This review synthesizes global microplastic research conducted across seven continents, documenting the physical and chemical characteristics of microplastics, their bioaccumulation in sediments and marine organisms, and comparing detection technologies used across different regions.
Research Trends on The Presence of Microplastic Particles in The Environment and The Impact of Microplastics Around the World From 2010 - 2022: A Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.