Sci. Total Environ. [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Intelligent sediment-groundwater digital twin: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and reference architecture for reliable metal pollution risk assessment.
Pourmorad S, Morsilli M, Lombardo L … +2 more , Celico F, Dimuccio LA
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42361392 · Publisher ↗
Sediment-groundwater interfaces regulate the mobilisation, transport, and attenuation of metal contaminants within highly heterogeneous and multi-scale subsurface systems. However, efforts to operationalise digital twins...
Sediment-groundwater interfaces regulate the mobilisation, transport, and attenuation of metal contaminants within highly heterogeneous and multi-scale subsurface systems. However, efforts to operationalise digital twins in this domain remain fragmented across modelling paradigms, disciplines, and scales of observation and prediction. This study provides a performance-centred, quantitatively harmonised meta-analysis of sediment-groundwater digital twin (SG-DT) implementations, explicitly addressing scale dependence, spatial heterogeneity, and process-level controls. A PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis of 175 studies (1997-2026; 27 countries) was conducted. SG-DT applications were stratified across a continuum from pore and laboratory scales to site, reach, and basin domains. Scaling effects were analysed via stratified synthesis and meta-regression, while heterogeneity was operationalised through facies-based zonation, parameter variability, and multi-source observational constraints. Predictive performance was quantified using a redesigned, baseline-consistent effect size (E), enabling harmonisation across heterogeneous metrics and validation protocols. Uncertainty was estimated using random-effects models (REML) with Hartung-Knapp adjustments, and heterogeneity was assessed via τ and I with scale-aware interpretation. Results indicate a robust positive pooled performance gain for surrogate-enabled SG-DTs relative to non-updating baselines under scale-consistent validation, while highlighting limitations related to data dependence and extrapolation. In a subset of comparable studies, SG-DTs achieved a pooled out-of-sample R of 0.67 (95% CI: 0.62-0.72). Meta-regression identifies continuous data assimilation and explicit uncertainty quantification as key drivers of performance, whereas residual heterogeneity reflects unresolved scale mismatches and inconsistent representation of subsurface complexity. SG-DTs are defined as systems coupling a process-informed hydro(geo)chemical core capturing reaction kinetics and flow-transport-geochemical coupling, streaming observations, and an updating operator within a closed-loop framework. As secondary outputs, we provide a scale-aware reference architecture embedded in a continuous verification-validation-uncertainty quantification loop and the SED-GW-DT-REPORT v1.0 standard for reproducible, FAIR-aligned reporting. These findings establish an auditable, scale-consistent evidence base for advancing reliable digital twin development in sediment-groundwater systems.
Detection and targeted sequencing of influenza A virus subtypes using Dutch wastewater samples from influenza season 2023-2024 and 2024-2025.
Haver A, Hooyman SAE, van der Lee JM … +7 more , Iking J, van Weerd JH, de Jong AW, van Dissel JT, Laros JFJ, Lodder WJ, NRS Consortium
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42361391 · Publisher ↗
The substantial public health burden of influenza A viruses (IAV) requires continual monitoring of circulation to identify risks. Wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) enables non-invasive monitoring of IAV circulation in...
The substantial public health burden of influenza A viruses (IAV) requires continual monitoring of circulation to identify risks. Wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) enables non-invasive monitoring of IAV circulation in large populations. In this study, we use the WBS infrastructure set up in the Netherlands during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic to evaluate the practical application of monitoring IAV in wastewater. We employ RT-qPCR to identify trends in IAV positivity using 5618 wastewater samples taken at 40 treatment plants, which peaked during flu epidemics. Furthermore, custom primer panels were used to perform tiled-amplification and subsequent sequencing of the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) segments of the prevalent subtypes A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2) from 128 wastewater samples. This enabled (partial) recovery of IAV segments in 115 samples, which were used to determine relative subclade abundances and identify vaccine-resistant mutations, both of which corresponded well to clinical surveillance data. Although further improvements in sample virus concentration and assay sensitivity are required to consistently generate high-quality data and insights for public health professionals, we show that monitoring of IAV and associated subtypes in wastewater is feasible.
Impacts of temporal discrepancies between basal sap flow and canopy transpiration on estimating canopy ozone uptake in a warm temperate coniferous forest.
Tanaka R, Tokai S, Oi N … +3 more , Matsuda K, Izuta T, Watanabe M
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42361390 · Publisher ↗
Sap flow measured at basal trunk (F) has been used to estimate canopy transpiration and ozone uptake in forests. Although diurnal patterns of F do not always correspond to those of canopy transpiration, little is known a...
Sap flow measured at basal trunk (F) has been used to estimate canopy transpiration and ozone uptake in forests. Although diurnal patterns of F do not always correspond to those of canopy transpiration, little is known about the impact of such discrepancy on the estimation of canopy ozone uptake. We investigated the discrepancy in diurnal patterns between F and canopy transpiration, and its impact on estimating canopy ozone uptake in a Cryptomeria japonica stand. The F and sap flow near the top of the trunk (F, a proxy for canopy transpiration rate) were simultaneously measured. The F increased prior to the F in the morning and declined almost at the same time with F in the evening. Then the diurnal patterns of F were corrected to match those of F by two methods: one was the conventional 'shifting correction' (F) which shifts the F by the time lag between F and F, the other was the novel 'tracing correction' (F) which traces the diurnal patterns of F. These corrections for F did not affect the estimation of daily accumulated ozone uptake of the stand. However, canopy conductance (g) derived from F or F was lower than that derived from F in the morning. Consequently, the hourly g derived from F significantly responded to vapour pressure deficit, while that derived from F or F did not. We concluded that temporal discrepancies between F and canopy transpiration should be carefully considered toward a more accurate modelling of g and canopy ozone uptake.
Correlation between microbial source tracking markers and pathogens at beaches and estuaries in southern California.
Fani M, Chang E, Hernandez N … +3 more , Loflen C, Woodward D, Verbyla ME
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42361389 · Publisher ↗
Fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) have historically been used to assess public health risks associated with contact water recreation, and microbial source tracking (MST) has been introduced to distinguish human-associated f...
Fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) have historically been used to assess public health risks associated with contact water recreation, and microbial source tracking (MST) has been introduced to distinguish human-associated fecal pollution from natural sources of animal feces. While MST can identify human-associated fecal pollution, without interpretation it cannot differentiate between small amounts of fresh fecal contamination and large amounts of decayed pollution, which can present vastly different health risks. This study examined the ratio of HF183 and pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) as an indicator of the age of fecal contamination. The correlation was also assessed between these two individual markers, the HF183:PMMoV ratio, and two enteric viruses, norovirus genogroup II (NoV GII) and human adenovirus (HAdV). A total of 364 samples were collected under varying weather conditions over two years at impacted and reference surface water sites in southern California, including estuaries and adjacent ocean locations. The mean concentrations of MST markers and enteric viruses were higher during the rainy season compared to the dry season, especially at the impacted sites. NoV GII showed seasonality with higher detections and concentrations during the rainy season, while HAdV did not show such seasonal trends. The HF183:PMMoV ratio demonstrated a stronger correlation with enteric viruses than either marker alone, but when seasonal and weather effects were factored out, the HF183:PMMoV ratio and PMMoV had a stronger relationship with the concentration of enteric viruses. The results of this study indicate that the HF183:PMMoV ratio is a more reliable indicator of human fecal pathogens than the two individual markers by themselves. SYNOPSIS: The HF183:PMMoV ratio is a reliable and robust indicator for recreational water quality.
Assessing local to global associations between mining activity and atmospheric dust.
Muneeb F, Werner T, Barzin S … +1 more , Drysdale R
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42349208 · Publisher ↗
The global mining industry is growing in footprint and continues to occupy new locations globally in support of the energy transition. Associated mining activities like land clearing, blasting and truck haulage are known...
The global mining industry is growing in footprint and continues to occupy new locations globally in support of the energy transition. Associated mining activities like land clearing, blasting and truck haulage are known to generate dust, creating a range of environmental and health hazards. However, research tracking the global spatial and temporal patterns of mine-related dust has been lacking. This study assesses global spatio-temporal patterns of mine dust and factors that influence those distributions both globally and in localized Australian contexts through generalized additive models (GAMs). Spatial patterns of mine dust are evaluated using Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA), and the results indicate significant geographic heterogeneity - elevated levels of Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) were identified in tropical mining areas in South Asia, West Africa, and Southeast Asia, whereas lower levels of AOD were observed in the United States and Australia. Our statistical analysis indicates that GAMs effectively captured the variability in AOD (global R = 0.71; local R = 0.62). However, ground-based PM₁₀ measurements were a more reliable indicator of site-specific mining activity, showing a stronger relationship with mine production (r = 0.6). This study highlights key data uncertainties and complexities influencing our understanding of the impacts of mine dust beyond the local scale. Notably, it highlights an inconsistent disconnect between mines influencing regional dust levels, versus regional dust levels impacting mine operations themselves. It also underscores the importance of developing a standardized method for on-site dust monitoring at all mines worldwide and an improved network of in-situ measurement stations in support of better outcomes for the environment and human health.
Multi-indicator assessment of flood impacts on private well water quality.
Ben Arous Y, Bordeleau G, Wong C … +3 more , Paradis D, Gloaguen E, Chokmani K
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42349207 · Publisher ↗
Floods pose significant risks to groundwater quality, particularly for households relying on private wells. This study investigates the vulnerability of private wells completed in fractured crystalline bedrock aquifers i...
Floods pose significant risks to groundwater quality, particularly for households relying on private wells. This study investigates the vulnerability of private wells completed in fractured crystalline bedrock aquifers in a small watershed near Quebec City (Canada), to surface water intrusion and microbiological contamination during and after flood events. The study hypothesis was that flood events promote these processes in vulnerable private wells, with contrasting responses between non-floodplain and floodplain settings. Thirteen wells and three surface water sites were monitored over 1.5 years, encompassing four flood events. A novel multi-indicator approach was applied, combining hydrostatic and barometric pressure monitoring, stable isotopic composition of water (δO, δH), partial pressure of CO (pCO), pH, and microbiological indicators (total coliforms, Escherichia coli), to characterize flood-related contamination dynamics in private wells before, during, and after flood events. Results show that nearly all wells were contaminated by bacteria, with concentrations peaking during the 14-day post-flood period. Surprisingly, non-floodplain wells exhibited higher and more episodic contamination than floodplain wells, likely due to their location in recharge zones favoring vertical intrusion of stormwater. In contrast, floodplain wells displayed more constant but moderate contamination, possibly reflecting a hydraulic connection with the river. Stable isotope peaks confirmed rapid intrusion of surface water in several wells after summer storms, whereas the spring flood showed isotopic similarity between recharge water and groundwater, indicating that stable isotopes were not a reliable tracer of spring flood intrusion under snowmelt conditions. Hydrostatic data revealed sharp piezometric peaks indicative of focused recharge pathways, while pCO and pH analyses distinguished open versus closed geochemical system conditions, providing further insight into the vulnerability of the wells. Collectively, these findings highlight diverse contamination pathways and emphasize persistent vulnerability of private wells beyond immediate flood events. This study underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and improved well management to better assess and safeguard private well drinking water quality under increasing hydro-climatic variability.
Combined sewer overflow contribution to microplastic pollution in urban water bodies.
Vannini E, Francalanci S, Lippi S … +1 more , Tempestini S
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42349206 · Publisher ↗
Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) have recently gained attention as episodic but significant sources of microplastics (MPs) to urban receiving water bodies; however, the occurrence, magnitude and characteristics of MP poll...
Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) have recently gained attention as episodic but significant sources of microplastics (MPs) to urban receiving water bodies; however, the occurrence, magnitude and characteristics of MP pollution in this context remains poorly investigated. Through an in-field monitoring campaign in the city of Pisa (Italy), this research aimed to assess the impact of CSOs to microplastic pollution in urban aquatic environment and to predict MP abundance due to hydraulic overflowing event. MP analysis was conducted using Laser Direct InfraRed Chemical Imaging System (LDIR), an innovative technology which enables reliable quantification and characterization of MPs in terms of polymer composition, size and shape, thus supporting source identification. MP abundance ranged between (3.71 ± 0.16) × 10 and (1.28 ± 0.12) × 10 items/m, with values increasing with the overflow discharge. A positive correlation was observed between MP abundance and the discharged volume, highlighting the influence of precipitation-driver hydrodynamics. In the six monitored events, we observed a first flush effect, with MP concentrations reaching up to an order of magnitude higher than during subsequent stages of the event. Rubber, cellulosic materials and PMMA were identified as the predominant polymers, underlining the mixed sources related to urban runoff and wastewater inputs. Most of the detected MPs had size between 10 and 100 μm (77-93%), with fragment and pellet as predominant shapes (35-81% and 13-48%, respectively). The results highlighted the importance of including microplastics in CSO monitoring programs and provided insights on hydrological and hydraulic factors relevant to understand urban water pollution.
The potential of clay- and zeolite-based materials used in agricultural systems: Insights into greenhouse gas emission mitigation.
Bidast S, Mohseni A, Biswas B … +3 more , Golchin A, Milani D, Naidu R
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42341537 · Publisher ↗
Over the past two centuries, the atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHGs) have reached unprecedented levels because of population growth and urbanization, uncontrolled industrialization, deforestation and ag...
Over the past two centuries, the atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHGs) have reached unprecedented levels because of population growth and urbanization, uncontrolled industrialization, deforestation and agricultural expansion. While agricultural expansion is inevitable, accelerating in-situ soil storage via adsorption is perhaps one of the most feasible strategies for GHG abatement. For this purpose, naturally occurring and modified forms of clays and zeolites are abundant, cost-effective, and well-characterized materials that have demonstrated significant potential for GHG emission mitigation. This state-of-the-art review examines literature from the past-decade to evaluate the efficacy of clay and zeolite-based materials in mitigating GHGs, with a focus on their application in agricultural systems. It evaluates the effects of these materials on soil health, particularly their role in altering soil physicochemical properties and nutrient availability. Although numerous studies have explored the adsorption capacity of clays and zeolites for GHG emission mitigation purposes, there is a significant research gap regarding their applications within the agricultural sector. The lack of field-scale trials and variation and validation studies is exacerbating this gap. In this context, innovative solutions involving raw and synthetic clays and zeolites in on-farm operations and agricultural soils show promise but require deeper studies. This review therefore addresses this gap and highlights relevant strategies and methodologies.
Water soluble fuel compounds impair metabolism in benthic foraminifera: Ecotoxicological observations at cellular level.
Lintner M, Polovodova Asteman I, Bernhard JM … +7 more , Legin A, Schintlmeister A, Cyran N, Schmidt K, Wanek W, Golen J, Tyszka J
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42341536 · Publisher ↗
Every year, countless millions of litres of oil and other hydrocarbon products spill uncontrollably into the ocean through ship accidents or other human activities. Although the oil floats on the sea surface, many compon...
Every year, countless millions of litres of oil and other hydrocarbon products spill uncontrollably into the ocean through ship accidents or other human activities. Although the oil floats on the sea surface, many components dissolve in the seawater and, thus, can infiltrate benthic habitats and organisms living at the seafloor. In this study, we investigated the effect of water-soluble compounds from diesel and gasoline on benthic foraminifera (common unicellular eukaryotes). Our results reveal that aqueous diesel extracts have a strong impact on the metabolism of foraminifera through reduced carbon and nitrogen uptake within three days. Aqueous extracts from gasoline, on the other hand, had no effect on carbon uptake, but reduced nitrogen utilization. Cellular ultrastructure characterization by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cutting-edge nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) showed that the foraminifera incubated with diesel extract were strongly degraded whereas the cytoplasm in gasoline-extract incubated foraminifera was less affected. Collectively, these observations show that dissolved compounds from oil that enter the sea in an uncontrolled manner do not only float on the ocean surface but exert a negative effect on benthic foraminifera.
Wastewater genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 by nanopore sequencing uncovers JN.1 prevalence and novel spike mutational hotspots in Athens during winter 2024-2025.
Diamantopoulos MA, Adamopoulos PG, Athanasopoulou K … +4 more , Zafeiriadou A, Markou A, Thomaidis NS, Scorilas A
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42335736 · Publisher ↗
Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) provides an efficient, population-wide tool for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 transmission and evolution, overcoming limitations of clinical testing. Here, we designed and applied an upgraded...
Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) provides an efficient, population-wide tool for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 transmission and evolution, overcoming limitations of clinical testing. Here, we designed and applied an upgraded Spike-Seq workflow integrating third-generation nanopore sequencing on the PromethION platform to achieve complete spike gene coverage from wastewater samples collected in Athens (December 2024-February 2025). This workflow enabled simultaneous quantification of lineage-defining markers and detection of previously uncharacterized mutations in wastewater samples. Our results identified the sustained dominance of the JN.1 lineage (>80% frequency), with only transient signals from XFG, NB.1.8.1, and LP.8.1variants. Notably, we revealed recurrent substitutions in the N-terminal domain and S2 region, including L24F and I1130K, which indicate continued diversification of the dominant JN.1-associated viral population. Integration of sequencing with qPCR viral load data revealed a peak in community infection pressure in January 2025, which decoupled from the rising frequency of specific mutational hotspots. Our findings demonstrate the utility of amplicon-based wastewater nanopore sequencing for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 genetic diversity in wastewater.
Metallic trace element concentrations, vertical patterns and environmental implications in soils under the "cabruca" agroforestry system of Brazil's largest cocoa-producing region.
Dos Santos Bastos TR, Medeiros JC, do Nascimento CWA … +8 more , Alves PN, Morais PGC, Siqueira GM, Escobar MEO, Cardoso KM, Gloaguen TV, da Silva Lins SA, Boechat CL
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42335735 · Publisher ↗
The occurrence of elevated concentrations of metallic trace elements (MTEs) in chocolate and cocoa-derived products is a growing global concern. Although agroforestry systems such as cocoa-cabruca (AS-CC) are widely rega...
The occurrence of elevated concentrations of metallic trace elements (MTEs) in chocolate and cocoa-derived products is a growing global concern. Although agroforestry systems such as cocoa-cabruca (AS-CC) are widely regarded as sustainable, their soils have rarely been evaluated regarding metal-related risks and geogenic or anthropogenic origins. This study was conducted in the largest cocoa-producing region of Brazil, a high-productivity area where monitoring MTEs is essential due to their persistence and potential toxicity in soils. The objectives were to quantify MTE concentrations and vertical distribution in AS-CC soils, assess contamination and ecological risks using geochemical and ecological indices (Igeo, CF, EF, ERᵢ, and PERI), and evaluate potential anthropogenic influences. Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mo, Ni, Pb, V, Zn, and Fe were analyzed across AS-CC farms distributed among ten municipalities. A total of 50 composite soil were collected at depths of 0-5, 5-10, 10-20, 20-40, and 40-60 cm. Soil fertility and texture were determined, MTEs were extracted following EPA Method 3051A, and concentrations were measured by ICP-OES. Mean concentrations of Co, Cu, Mo, Pb, and Zn slightly exceeded local soil quality reference values, whereas Cd, Cr, Ni, V, and Fe remained below established thresholds. The Igeo classified 88% of surface samples (0-5 cm) as unpolluted to moderately polluted, and EF values indicated negligible anthropogenic enrichment. Moderate ecological risk was observed only for Cd, while PERI values reflected low overall ecological risk, although elevated Mo and Cd warrant targeted monitoring. Comparable or higher concentrations of Cd, Cr, V, Zn, and Fe at depth reflect the influence of parent materials such as granite, diorite, and basalt. Lithological diversity thus provides a key geochemical framework explaining vertical and spatial variability, reinforcing the importance of integrated, multi-index approaches to guide sustainable soil management in tropical cocoa agroforestry systems.
Evaluating groundwater quality influences from oil field operations and other anthropogenic activities in an urban setting, Santa Fe Springs, California.
Wright MT, Davis TA, Landon MK … +8 more , Land MT, Shimabukuro DH, Sowers TA, Schmer ME, Gannon RS, Kulongoski JT, Hunt AG, Watson E
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42330747 · Publisher ↗
Groundwater quality is often affected by anthropogenic activities in urban settings. This study examines groundwater quality in and around the Santa Fe Springs Oil Field in Los Angeles County, California, where oil and g...
Groundwater quality is often affected by anthropogenic activities in urban settings. This study examines groundwater quality in and around the Santa Fe Springs Oil Field in Los Angeles County, California, where oil and gas production commonly intersects with high density industrial, commercial and residential land uses. Utilizing a combination of new and historical data, we evaluated potential pathways that would allow for oil field formation fluids to migrate into groundwater and whether mixing may have occurred based on the distribution of groundwater and oil field formation fluid tracers in samples. Samples were analyzed for a wide array of constituents including volatile organic compounds, light hydrocarbons, major ions, and various isotopic compositions. Despite evidence of oil field infrastructure providing potential pathways of migration via uncemented annular spaces, casing breaches and historical disposal of oil field formation water in surface ponds, the distribution and occurrence of stable isotopes of water, chloride, boron, and total dissolved solids do not indicate mixing of oil field formation water and groundwater. However, methane isotopic signatures and the presence of heavier alkanes suggest gas from oil-bearing formations have migrated from depth via oil field well infrastructure. Volatile organic compound detections were mainly from manufactured compounds unrelated to oil and gas production, with a relatively limited number of petroleum hydrocarbons also detected. Volatile organic compounds were generally found in wells tapping shallow, modern aged groundwater, indicating anthropogenic activities occurring at or near land surface as the source. Study results suggest that while oil field infrastructure provides migration pathways for oil field formation fluids to be introduced into groundwater, urban land uses not related to oil and gas production are the primary drivers of groundwater quality degradation.
Monitoring sources and processes driving trace metal bioaccumulation in oysters from a European macrotidal estuary over forty years: A multi-isotope approach.
Barreira J, Ratié G, Sipkova A … +2 more , Freydier R, Araújo DF
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42322887 · Publisher ↗
We present 42 years (1979-2021) of elemental and isotopic data (Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb) from oysters (Crassostrea gigas) in the Gironde Estuary (SW France), integrated with historical river discharge records to disentangle anthr...
We present 42 years (1979-2021) of elemental and isotopic data (Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb) from oysters (Crassostrea gigas) in the Gironde Estuary (SW France), integrated with historical river discharge records to disentangle anthropogenic and environmental drivers of trace metal bioaccumulation. Cu and Zn concentrations in oyster tissues show pronounced interannual variability-up to twofold-closely tracking river flow. Their fluctuations likely reflect hydrological controls on the mobilization, speciation, and bioavailability of legacy-bound metals rather than new contaminant inputs. Cd concentrations decline more steadily, consistent with the attenuation of upstream industrial sources, while Pb displays a more complex trend shaped by legacy decline, hydrological variability, and possible changes in source composition. Stable isotope signatures (δZn, δCd, δCu, Pb/Pb) remained remarkably stable over four decades, indicating a constant source apportionment with a dominance of anthropogenic sources on the observed fingerprints. Nevertheless, metal-specific fractionation processes imprint distinct signatures: Zn is enriched in heavy isotopes due to kinetic adsorption onto suspended particles, whereas Cd is isotopically light, consistent with selective desorption via chloride complexation. Slightly heavier δCu values likely reflect vineyard runoff coupled with complexation in the dissolved phase. Pb isotope ratios reveal a gradual shift toward radiogenic values, shaped by diminishing industrial inputs and increasing lithogenic contributions. Together, these findings demonstrate that integrating hydrological data with multi-isotope analysis can disentangle source persistence from estuarine reactivity, offering a framework for interpreting long-term contamination dynamics under changing hydrological regimes.
Dune morphology and migration in the Nitzanim coastal dunes: Integrating ground penetrating radar and satellite-based analysis.
Hellman A, Lavi R, Frid M … +2 more , Frid V, Blumberg DG
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42320153 · Publisher ↗
This study presents a comprehensive examination of coastal dune morphology, migration, and internal structures in Nitzanim, Israel. Our approach integrated Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and satellite analysis to underst...
This study presents a comprehensive examination of coastal dune morphology, migration, and internal structures in Nitzanim, Israel. Our approach integrated Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and satellite analysis to understand their evolution and internal architecture. The methodology involved multi-frequency GPR (500 MHz, 250 MHz, and 100 MHz) for subsurface imaging and multi-temporal Landsat, Sentinel-2, and aerial/UAV imagery, with NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) analysis for long-term vegetation cover and dune migration monitoring. Results demonstrate a clear trend of decreasing vegetation cover across the study area from 1995 to 2025, which coincides with increased dune mobility and shifts in dune position, with peak migration rates occurring after a localized anthropogenic change: the construction of an artificial lake in 2005. For example, the northern dune's brink line shifted approximately 71 m eastward from its 1995 position, with its southern segment becoming completely exposed by 2015 due to vegetation loss. Concurrently, processed GPR profiles revealed a coherent sequence of quasi-linear internal reflectors within the dune body, with shallow reflections near the crest exhibiting a distinct eastward inclination, suggesting the prevailing direction of past sediment transport. The consistency of these structural elements across different GPR frequencies highlighted the robustness of the multi-frequency GPR methodology employed. Furthermore, the study revealed a relationship between vegetation dynamics and the internal stratification visible in GPR data. While high NDVI values in 1995 correlated with sand accumulation and a visible accumulation line, a reduction in vegetation cover between 2010 and 2025 coincided with an apparent decrease in vertically accreted stratification in GPR profiles, suggesting a relative increase in lateral dune migration during the most recent phase. The combined multidisciplinary approach offers crucial insights into the complex history of dune stabilization, reactivation, and migration in the Nitzanim coastal dunes. It contributes to process understanding in aeolian geomorphology, informing environmental management and conservation strategies in dynamic desert landscapes.
Performance of moving bed biofilm, periphyton, and halophyte biofilters in marine multi-trophic aquaculture systems.
Bell A, Ergas SJ, Main K … +2 more , Rhody N, Guttman L
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42320152 · Publisher ↗
Combining multi-trophic recirculating aquaculture system (MT-RAS) biofilter types leverages the strengths of different ecological biomes, benefits water treatment, resource recovery, economics, and environmental sustaina...
Combining multi-trophic recirculating aquaculture system (MT-RAS) biofilter types leverages the strengths of different ecological biomes, benefits water treatment, resource recovery, economics, and environmental sustainability. The overall goal of this study was to determine the effects of different aquaculture biofilter combinations on MT-RAS. Three duplicate biofilter combinations were tested in a pilot scale MT-RAS with red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus): 1) periphyton with halophytes (P + H), 2) periphyton with moving bed biofilm reactors (P + M), and 3) periphyton only (P). Experiments were performed in two trials (spring and summer) with four replicates. Water quality tests validated that NH/NH, NO, NO, and CO were below fish toxic limits for all biofilter combinations. Fish mortalities were low, with food conversion ratios between 1.1 and 2.0. In all trials, periphyton added dissolved oxygen (DO) to the water (at an average of +3.95 ± 6.52 mg/(L*d)), thus reducing energy costs. Periphyton was also found to include valuable lipid content (4.55 ± 2.24% of dry weight) with the detection of Ω-3 fatty acids. The P trials maintained a stable alkalinity and pH balance. The M + P trials removed NH/NH at a high rate; however, they also required more energy for DO. Edible sea purslane growth rates (1.0431 ± 0.3361 g/day/plant) were efficient in all P + H trials. The microbiome revealed abundance of Ignavibacterium bacteria, Navicula and Chlorella algae, Nitrospira, Nitrospirae, Nitrosospharota, and Nitrosoarchaeum nitrogen cyclers. Overall, periphyton biofilter combinations nitrify, denitrify, stabilize pH, photosynthesize, and produce oxygen and a value-added product.
Ignoring the solid phase significantly underestimates estrogenic steroid hormones in dairy shed effluent and effluent treatment systems.
Rachmani A, Northcott G, Lay M … +2 more , Manley-Harris M, Glasgow G
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42320151 · Publisher ↗
Free biologically active estrogenic steroid hormones (ESHs) 17α-estradiol, 17β-estradiol, and estrone were quantified in liquid and solid phases of a covered anaerobic pond (CAP) dairy effluent treatment system (ETS). To...
Free biologically active estrogenic steroid hormones (ESHs) 17α-estradiol, 17β-estradiol, and estrone were quantified in liquid and solid phases of a covered anaerobic pond (CAP) dairy effluent treatment system (ETS). Total mean concentrations (dissolved and particulate) of ESHs in CAP influent, sludge, and effluent were 4171 ng/L, 93,601 ng/L, and 4346 ng/L, respectively. Peak ∑ESH concentrations occurred in dairy shed effluent during April and July, coinciding with late pregnancy and calving periods. Organic carbon normalised adsorption coefficients (Koc) ranged from 3.06 to 3.78 mL/g, consistent with published soil and wastewater sludge values. Up to 99% of the total mass of ESHs in the ETS samples was detected in the particulate phase, underscoring the need to consider this fraction in dairy effluent treatment systems. 17α-estradiol dominated total ESHs in influent (2869 ng/L), while estrone predominated in samples of the CAP sludge (85,414 ng/L) and effluent (3140 ng/L). Anaerobic treatment reduced the total concentrations of 17α- and 17β-estradiol but increased the total concentration of estrone. Estrogenic equivalents were dominated by 17β-estradiol and were preserved or elevated post-treatment. The CAP system exhibited highly variable and largely ineffective removal of ESHs and estrogenic activity. Findings highlight the need to optimise CAP operation to improve energy recovery while mitigating environmental risks from ESHs in treated effluent.
Elevated invertebrate methylmercury concentrations across functional feeding groups in a eutrophic bog post-flooding.
Doncaster M, Hillier NK, O'Driscoll NJ
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42320150 · Publisher ↗
Mercury is a toxic environmental contaminant that is known to undergo long range transport, resulting in deposition in remote and pristine ecosystems. Increases in methylmercury concentration at low trophic levels may re...
Mercury is a toxic environmental contaminant that is known to undergo long range transport, resulting in deposition in remote and pristine ecosystems. Increases in methylmercury concentration at low trophic levels may result in greater risk to top predators in food webs. As a result, low trophic level invertebrates are important sentinels for ecosystem contamination and overall ecosystem health. Big Meadow Bog, located on Brier Island, Nova Scotia, is a disturbed wetland habitat that was subject to colonization by herring gulls (Larus argentatus), resulting in significant phosphate nutrient input from guano and is also affected by a recent water table restoration. Aquatic and terrestrial invertebrate families were sampled from Big Meadow Bog in addition to surface waters to examine the impacts of nutrients and flooding on mercury speciation and accumulation. Methylmercury (MeHg) and total mercury (THg) were analyzed in all samples and water to calculate invertebrate bioconcentration factors. Methylmercury concentrations were significantly different across invertebrate families, and functional feeding groups (FFG). Concentrations of MeHg in Big Meadow Bog were on average 1.61 times higher than MeHg concentrations observed at similar undisturbed sites.
Pesticides-induced histopathological and biochemical alterations in fish: Impacts and restoration strategies.
Islam S, Sohail M, Rohani MF … +2 more , Hossain S, Islam SMM
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42314237 · Publisher ↗
The extensive application of pesticides in urban and agricultural areas contaminates surface water. When these substances enter aquatic environments through runoff, they can cause various abnormalities in fish species. T...
The extensive application of pesticides in urban and agricultural areas contaminates surface water. When these substances enter aquatic environments through runoff, they can cause various abnormalities in fish species. The most commonly used pesticides in agricultural farmlands and urban environments are herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides. Although pesticides are beneficial for agricultural production, they have been shown to pose significant hazards to both human health and the environment. These chemicals have a high potential for bioaccumulation, environmental persistence, and toxicity. The degradation rate of pesticides can vary from a few hours to several days or even years, depending on environmental conditions and their chemical composition. However, pesticides induce various biochemical alterations, particularly changing the enzymatic activity, including alkaline phosphatase (APT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), peroxidase, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Additionally, pesticides induce histopathological changes in organs such as the gills, brain, liver, kidneys, intestine, and muscles. These histopathological alterations include pyknosis, cytoplasmic infiltrations, changes in the primary and secondary lamellae, lesions and deformities, tissue degeneration, atrophy, hyperplasia, congestion, necrosis, and apoptosis. Various techniques have been employed to control the effects of pesticides on fish species, including water treatment methods, hybrid technologies, and bioremediation approaches. Water treatment methods for pesticide removal include photo-fenton, chlorination, nanotechnology, and adsorption. Hybrid technologies include ultrafiltration and coagulation treatments, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), and photochemical degradation. Furthermore, bioremediation strategies, often combined with advanced technologies, are being employed to minimize pesticide pollution. This review highlights the effects of various pesticides on the histopathological and biochemical alterations in farmed fish, as well as potential strategies for mitigating pesticide contamination.
Nanoplastics influence on toxic metal bioaccumulation and antioxidant responses in Lactuca sativa L. irrigated with treated wastewater.
Barreiros AM, Silva HF, Araújo L … +5 more , Coelho J, Oliveira CM, Silva N, Matos M, Piçarra S
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42308986 · Publisher ↗
Freshwater scarcity has increased interest in circular water-use strategies, including the reuse of treated wastewater (TWW) for crop irrigation. While TWW contains nutrients beneficial for plant growth, it may also carr...
Freshwater scarcity has increased interest in circular water-use strategies, including the reuse of treated wastewater (TWW) for crop irrigation. While TWW contains nutrients beneficial for plant growth, it may also carry contaminants such as toxic metals (TM), which can be taken up by plants and pose risks to both crop and food safety. This field study investigates the influence of nanoplastics (NP), an emerging pollutant commonly found in waters, on TM bioaccumulation and antioxidant compound production in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), one of the most widely cultivated and consumed leafy vegetables in Western countries. Lettuce plants were grown under greenhouse conditions and irrigated throughout the entire growth cycle with TWW, either alone or supplemented with NP, TM, or both. The results indicate that the interaction between NP and TM leads to a decreased TM bioaccumulation (24%, 50%, and 79% for Cr, Ni, and Cd, respectively) and reduced phytotoxicity, although with negative impact on plant growth (ca. 60% reduction in biomass production). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the effects of nanoplastics and co-existing contaminants present in treated wastewater on crops. These findings provide new insights into plant responses under irrigation with TWW and highlight potential implications for crop safety within the context of circular water use.
Childhood residential proximity to the radiologically contaminated Coldwater Creek and later-life cardiovascular disease in the St. Louis Baby Tooth study.
Leung M, Lin JJY, Mittleman MA … +5 more , Farmer JG, Tang IW, McAlaine K, Mangano JJ, Weisskopf MG
Sci Total Environ · 2026 Jun · PMID 42308985 · Publisher ↗
Since the 1940s, Coldwater Creek-located in St. Louis, Missouri's northern suburbs-has been contaminated by radioactive waste produced by the Manhattan Project's effort to refine uranium for the first atomic bomb. Here,...
Since the 1940s, Coldwater Creek-located in St. Louis, Missouri's northern suburbs-has been contaminated by radioactive waste produced by the Manhattan Project's effort to refine uranium for the first atomic bomb. Here, we used the St. Louis Baby Tooth-Later Life Health Study (SLBT) to evaluate whether residential proximity to Coldwater Creek during childhood was associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence. Among 4209 eligible SLBT participants, we fit Cox models to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs between our CVD outcomes (any CVD, atherosclerotic CVD, and hypertension) and proximity of childhood residential addresses to Coldwater Creek (≤1 km, >1-5 km, >5-20 km, and > 20 km), adjusting for sociodemographics. Among participants ≤1 km from Coldwater Creek (~3% of our study population), the HR was 1.45 (95% CI: 1.14, 1.85) for any CVD and 1.81 (95% CI: 1.00, 3.25) for atherosclerotic CVD compared to those living >20 km from the creek. Despite more imprecision in the estimate, there was suggestive evidence of an association with hypertension (HR = 1.27; 95% CI: 0.98, 1.64). Our study suggests that living near Coldwater Creek as a child is associated with a higher risk of developing CVD, where our data suggests that associations were strongest with atherosclerotic subtypes.
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