We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Papers
7 resultsShowing papers from Virginia Commonwealth University
ClearInternational consensus guidelines for the definition, detection, and interpretation of autophagy-dependent ferroptosis
This scientific review provides guidelines for understanding a specific type of cell death called autophagy-dependent ferroptosis, where cells essentially digest their own protective components and then die from iron-driven damage. While not directly about microplastics, this process is relevant because microplastics and nanoplastics have been shown to trigger oxidative stress and iron-related cell damage in tissues. Understanding these cell death pathways helps researchers assess how plastic particle exposure could harm organs like the liver, brain, and lungs.
Impact of environmental toxin exposure on male fertility potential
This review examines how environmental toxin exposures, including endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in plastics, may contribute to declining male fertility. Researchers found consistent evidence linking exposure to phthalates, bisphenol A, and other synthetic chemicals to reduced sperm quality and hormonal disruption. The study suggests that the dramatic increase in human chemical exposures over recent decades may be a significant factor in the observed decline in male reproductive health.
Mosaic pattern: lung functional heterogeneity at the alveolus level
Researchers used a crystal ribcage system to track aerosol transport in ex vivo lungs during active ventilation, capturing the first real-time observations of particle movement at the alveolar level. The study revealed heterogeneous aerosol distribution patterns within alveoli, with implications for understanding how inhaled microplastics and other particles deposit in deep lung tissue.
Uptake of Nanoplastic particles by zebrafish embryos triggers the macrophage response at early developmental stage
Zebrafish embryos were exposed to fluorescently labeled nanoplastic particles of 30 nm and 100 nm, finding that uptake increased exponentially with time and that nanoparticles penetrated natural barriers triggering macrophage activation at early developmental stages. The results demonstrate that nanoplastics can interact with the embryonic immune system even before organ development is complete.
Ecological interactions influencing microplastic loading in small terrestrial birds
Researchers examined how ecological interactions among soil organisms influence microplastic loading in small terrestrial bird nests, finding that foraging behavior and habitat use create pathways for plastic accumulation in nest materials.
An Empirical Equation for Rapid Validation of the Performance of Commercial N95 Equivalent Respirators
This study investigated why many commercial N95-equivalent respirators failed to achieve the 95% filtration efficiency standard during the COVID-19 pandemic by measuring dozens of products following standard testing protocols. Fiber diameter, solidity, and surface charge were identified as key specifications affecting filtration performance.
Caught in a trap: how to capture a quantum dot
This piece describes how quantum dots — which can reliably emit single photons on demand — may enable precise photon manipulation for emerging quantum technologies. It is a science communication overview rather than a primary research study.