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Papers
8 resultsShowing papers from National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge
ClearMapping the evidence of the effects of environmental factors on the prevalence of antibiotic resistance in the non-built environment
Researchers conducted a systematic review mapping how environmental factors influence the spread of antibiotic resistance outside of hospitals and farms. They found that factors including temperature, heavy metals, microplastics, and wastewater discharge all contribute to resistance gene prevalence in natural environments. The study underscores the need for a holistic approach that considers environmental conditions alongside antibiotic use when addressing the global resistance crisis.
The Effects of Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) on the Mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis: A Multi-Biomarker Approach
Scientists exposed Mediterranean mussels to the flame retardant tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) for 28 days to assess its toxic effects using multiple biological markers. Researchers found that TBBPA caused measurable changes in the mussels' antioxidant defenses, immune responses, and cellular health. The study suggests that this widely used industrial chemical poses a meaningful risk to marine bivalves and the coastal ecosystems they inhabit.
Aeromonas spp. in Freshwater Bodies: Antimicrobial Resistance and Biofilm Assembly
Researchers isolated Aeromonas bacteria from freshwater sources and examined their ability to resist antibiotics and form protective biofilms. They found that many strains carried multiple antibiotic resistance genes and could form biofilms that made them harder to eliminate. The study highlights the role of freshwater environments as reservoirs for antibiotic-resistant bacteria that can potentially affect both animal and human health.
Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle Exposure on Human Glial Cells and Zebrafish Embryos
Researchers investigated the toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles on human brain glial cells and zebrafish embryos, finding that both were harmed at relatively low concentrations. The nanoparticles reduced cell viability in the glial cells and caused developmental abnormalities in the zebrafish embryos. The study suggests that the dissolved zinc ions released from these widely used nanoparticles play a significant role in their toxic effects on the nervous system.
Exploring the Interaction between Microplastics, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Biofilms in Freshwater
Researchers investigated the adsorption of benzo(a)pyrene and pyrene by five microplastic types in freshwater over 3 and 30 days, finding that polypropylene was the most efficient adsorbent while polystyrene was the least efficient for benzo(a)pyrene. The study also examined how bacterial biofilms on microplastics, including pathogenic species such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, interact with PAH adsorption dynamics.
Detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, microplastic presence and characterization of microbial communities in the soil of touristic zones at Alqueva’s edges (Alentejo, Portugal)
Researchers surveyed soil at three tourist sites along a Portuguese reservoir (Alqueva) and found microplastics—including polyamide, polyester, polystyrene, and styrene acrylonitrile resin—alongside low but detectable levels of carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The soil also harbored bacteria known to break down plastics, suggesting the ecosystem has some natural degradation capacity. Even at seemingly pristine recreational sites, persistent pollutants accumulate, highlighting the need for routine environmental monitoring at water-adjacent tourist areas.
Occurrence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, microplastics and biofilms in Alqueva surface water at touristic spots
Researchers monitored polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, microplastics, and biofilm communities in surface water samples collected seasonally across three tourist sites (two beaches and one marina) at Portugal's Alqueva reservoir during 2021. They found co-occurrence of PAHs and microplastics at all sites with seasonal variation, and noted that biofilm formation on microplastic surfaces introduced additional complexity to pollution characterization at recreational freshwater locations.
Impacts of a Changing Earth on Microbial Dynamics and Human Health Risks in the Continuum between Beach Water and Sand
This review examines how climate and environmental changes affect microbial pathogens at recreational beaches, where people are exposed through water contact, sand, and aerosols. Some microplastics entering beaches carry biofilm communities including potentially pathogenic bacteria, adding a health dimension to beach plastic pollution.