Publications by authors named "Yun-Tian He"
Article Synopsis
- The study examines the environmental impact of discarded face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the release of micro(nano)plastics and organic compounds into aquatic ecosystems.
- Face masks were found to significantly release plastic microfibers and harmful organic materials, which pose risks to water quality and aquatic life, with potential DNA damage to microorganisms.
- The findings underscore the need for better disposal regulations for face masks to protect water quality and the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Discarded face masks from the global COVID-19 pandemic have contributed significantly to plastic pollution in surface water, whereas their potential as a reservoir for aquatic pollutants is not well understood. Herein, we conducted a field experiment along a human-impacted urban river, investigating the variations of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), pathogens, and water-borne contaminants in commonly-used face masks. Results showed that high-biomass biofilms formed on face masks selectively enriched more ARGs than stone biofilm (0.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF