Eye Irritation Research Articles

Geospatial Analysis of Malaria and Typhoid Prevalence Due to Waste Dumpsite Exposure in Kinshasa Districts with and without Waste Services: A Case Study of Bandalungwa and Bumbu, Democratic Republic of Congo

Municipal solid waste (MSW) management poses substantial challenges in rapidly urbanizing areas, with implications for both the environment and public health. This study focuses on the city of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo, investigating whether the presence or absence of solid waste collection services results in varying health and economic impacts, and additionally, seeking to establish a correlation between residing in proximity to dumpsites and the prevalence of diseases like malaria and typhoid, thereby providing a comprehensive understanding of the health implications tied to waste exposure. Health data were collected through survey questionnaires, and the geospatial distribution of 19 dumpsites was analyzed using Google Earth Pro 7.3.1 for satellite imagery and GIS software 10.3.1 to map dumpsites and define 1 km buffer zones around the largest dumpsites for household sampling. Statistical analyses were conducted using R Version 4.2.3, employing Chi-square tests for disease prevalence and logistic regression to assess associations between waste management practices and health outcomes. A multivariate regression was used to evaluate correlations between discomfort symptoms (e.g., nasal and eye irritation) and waste activities. The geospatial analysis revealed significant variation in dumpsite size and location, with larger dumpsites near water bodies and flood-prone areas. The study contributes valuable insights into waste-related health risks, emphasizing the need for improved waste management policies in rapidly urbanizing areas like Kinshasa. The socio-demographic analysis reveals distinct traits within the surveyed populations of two communes, Bandalungwa (Bandal) and Bumbu. Bumbu, characterized by larger open dumpsites and limited waste collection services, exhibits a higher prevalence of certain diseases, particularly typhoid fever, and malaria. This discrepancy is statistically significant (p < 2.2 × 10−16), suggesting a potential link between waste exposure and disease prevalence. In Bandal, self-waste collection is a high risk of exposure to typhoid (OR = 4.834 and p = 0.00001), but the implementation of a waste collection service shows protective effect (OR = 0.206 and p = 0.00001). The lack of waste collection services in Bumbu increases the risk of exposure, although not significantly (OR = 2.268 and p = 0.08). Key findings indicate that waste disposal methods significantly differ between Bandal and Bumbu. Bumbu’s reliance on burning and dumping creates environments conducive to disease vectors, contributing to elevated disease transmission risks. However, an in-depth correlation analysis reveals that specific waste management practices, such as burning, burying, and open dumping, do not exhibit statistically significant associations with disease prevalence, underlining the complexity of disease dynamics. This study contributes valuable insights into the importance for urban public health, particularly in rapidly urbanizing cities like Kinshasa, where inadequate waste management exacerbates health risks. By investigating the correlation between proximity to unregulated dumpsites and the prevalence of diseases such as malaria and typhoid fever, the research underscores the urgent need for targeted waste management policies. The stark health disparities between Bandal, with better waste services, and Bumbu, where services are lacking, highlight the protective effect of organized waste collection. These findings suggest that expanding public waste services and enforcing stricter regulations on waste disposal could reduce disease prevalence in vulnerable areas. Additionally, the study supports integrating waste management into urban planning as a critical public health measure. Its evidence-based approach offers valuable insights for policymakers in Kinshasa and other cities facing similar challenges, emphasizing the broader health implications of environmental governance in urban settings.

Exploring the cooking energy biomass and its impact on women's health and quality of life in rural households: a micro-environmental study from West Bengal in India.

Exposure to household air pollutants has become a significant environmental health concern in developing nations. This study aimed to understand the growing energy consumption within households, particularly for cooking, and its impact on women's health in rural areas. We conducted real-time monitoring of ambient particulate matter (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide (CO) levels in 61 rural kitchens in the Medinipur and Jhargram districts of West Bengal, India. Additionally, we calculated the Standard Living Index (SLI) based on socio-demographic factors from 540 households. Our analyses using ANOVA and chi-square methods revealed significant effects of cooking fuel types and locations on various health indicators among women. Eye irritation was prevalent across all fuel types, followed by shortness of breath (33%), coughing (22%), and dizziness (21%). Alarmingly, nearly half (48%) of children under five consistently accompanied their mothers during cooking, exposing them to health risks. Indoor air pollution, particularly from traditional fuels like fuelwood, cow dung cakes, and leaves, poses a grave threat to families. These fuels emit considerable amounts of PM2.5 and CO, with levels reaching as high as 565µg/m3 and 12.5ppm, respectively, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular complications. Clean cooking fuel users, such as those using LPG, reported improved quality of life scores across physical, psychological, social, and environmental categories. This study highlights the urgent need to transition to cleaner cooking fuels to mitigate adverse health effects on women and children in rural households.

“Floating Island Flap”—A New Technique for the Reconstruction of Full-Thickness Lower Eyelid Defects with Spontaneous Healing (Folded V-Y Island Flap with Orbicularis Oculi Muscle)

Background: Due to the high incidence of malignant tumors of the lower eyelids and the widespread use of surgery for their treatment, the reconstruction of tissues in this area is a frequent task for surgeons. Methods for restoring full-thickness lower eyelid defects are often invasive, pose a significant risk of complications, and do not provide optimal results. Methods: The authors developed a simple technique for the reconstruction of full-wall defects of the lower eyelids. It is a V-Y-type musculocutaneous island flap from the lower eyelid, with the orbicularis oculi muscle folded in the upper part and partially left for spontaneous healing, called by the authors a “floating island flap”. Between 2012 and 2023, 39 patients were operated on using this method. Results: Surgical procedures performed under local anesthesia were well tolerated by the patients. The healing process was quick and well accepted. Complications were rare. The most common were: eye irritation and temporary swelling of the flap. In 37 patients, proper protection of the eyeball and good esthetic results were achieved; only in two cases was the cosmetic result assessed as poor. Corneal defects occurred in two cases and healed after conservative treatment. In no cases was reoperation necessary. Conclusions: The developed method is simple and effective. It can be widely used in the reconstruction of full-thickness defects of the lower eyelids.

Assessment of the modification of the authorisation of the feed additive consisting of Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNCM I‐1077 for lambs and its extension of use to all ruminants and camelids reared for milk production/suckling/reproduction, all minor (young) ruminant species and camelids for fattening and Equidae other than horses (Lallemand SAS)

Abstract Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a preparation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNCM I‐1077 as a zootechnical feed additive for several animal species. The additive, existing in a not‐coated and a coated form, is currently authorised for use in feed for calves, cattle for fattening, dairy cows, dairy goats and dairy sheep, lambs, all minor ruminant species for fattening and rearing, horses and camelids for fattening and rearing. This application regards the request for the extension of use in all ruminants and camelids reared for milk production/suckling/reproduction, all minor (young) ruminant species and camelids for fattening and Equidae other than horses, and the modification of the authorisation for lambs to reduce the minimum use level. The identity of the active agent as S. cerevisiae was confirmed. Based on the qualified presumption of safety approach and since no concerns are expected from other components, the additive is considered safe for the target species, consumers and the environment. The not‐coated form of the additive is not irritant to skin or eyes. The additive in both formulations should be considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser and any exposure through skin and respiratory tract is considered a risk. No conclusion could be drawn on the eye irritation potential of the coated form of the additive due to the lack of data. The additive has the potential to be efficacious when used in feed for all ruminants and camelids reared for milk production/suckling/reproduction at the minimum proposed use level of 5 × 108 CFU (colony forming unit)/kg complete feed, all minor (young) ruminant species and camelids for fattening and lambs at 1 × 109 CFU/kg complete feed, and in all Equidae species other than horses at 3 × 109 CFU/kg complete feed.

Preparation of safflower fermentation solution and study on its biological activity

IntroductionSafflower, a traditional Chinese medicine, is rich in chemical components including flavonoids, polysaccharides, and alkaloids. It exhibits pharmacological effects such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-thrombosis properties, making it a valuable resource in the medical field. Furthermore, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, safflower is increasingly being utilized in the cosmetics industry.MethodsIn this study, yeast was employed to ferment safflower, and the optimal fermentation conditions were established through single-factor experiments and response surface methodology. Subsequently, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacy of the safflower fermentation solution was assessed using both cellular and zebrafish models. Finally, the safety of the safflower fermentation solution was evaluated through a cosmetic eye irritation test.ResultsFrom a total of 20 yeast strains, YF-5 was identified as the dominant strain for safflower fermentation. By optimizing the fermentation conditions, it was established that the optimal parameters for YF-5 fermentation of safflower are as follows: a fermentation temperature of 36.55°C, a material-to-liquid ratio of 1:20.46, a fructose concentration of 6.20%, a fermentation duration of 72 h, and an inoculum volume of 4%. The biological activities of safflower, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, were enhanced through yeast fermentation. In HaCaT cell and zebrafish oxidative damage assays, safflower fermentation solution inhibits the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) and increases superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity as well as total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC). In the RAW264.7 cell inflammatory damage assays, a 20% safflower fermentation solution was found to inhibit the release of TNF-α and NO in the inflammatory model, with inhibition rates of 30.94 and 28.86%, respectively. In the zebrafish inflammatory damage assays, the quantity of fluorescent neutral proteins in the 5% safflower fermentation solution was 0.7 times that observed in the dexamethasone (0.1 mg/mL) positive control group, indicating that its anti-inflammatory activity is comparable to that of dexamethasone (0.1 mg/mL). In the chicken embryo chorionic membrane experiment, it was observed that the safflower fermentation solution did not cause significant damage to the blood vessels of the chorionic allantoic membrane (CAM). This finding demonstrates that the safflower fermentation solution possesses a certain degree of safety.DiscussionSafflower fermentation solution has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactivities, and it has passed cosmetic safety evaluations. It can be used as a new natural cosmetic ingredient added to cosmetic products.

Evaluation of pesticide contamination risks and sustainable practices in Ecuadorian agriculture

Pesticide use is crucial in global agriculture to control pests and increase crop yields. In Ecuador, the use of pesticides, including fungicides and insecticides, is common in crops such as potatoes and tomatoes. However, the indiscriminate use of these products has proven to have negative consequences for human health and the environment. This study investigates these risks in Ecuadorian agriculture, specifically in the Paute canton, where inadequate data exacerbates these issues. Employing a descriptive research design, data were collected through validated surveys administered to 30 farmers (9 women and 21 men) residing in various rural communities. The study also included observational methods to complement survey data. Findings reveal that farmer, predominantly with primary education, face health risks from inappropriate pesticide use. Symptoms reported include eye irritation, headaches, and nasal irritation, which vary based on education level and safety practices. The research highlights the urgent need for improved pesticide management through targeted training and sustainable practices. This study’s insights into the extent of health issues and variability in safety measures provide a basis for developing effective interventions to mitigate the health and environmental impacts of pesticide use in Paute and similar regions.

Bleaching Agents: A Review of Their Utilization and Management

Exposure to disinfectants, cleansers, and bleaching chemicals irritates the eyes, respiratory systems, and skin, triggering asthma and allergic rhinitis symptoms. Bleach, as the major constituent of cleansers, when used improperly or mixed with other indoor cleaning agents, produces harmful halogenated volatile organic compounds. This manuscript assesses the influence of excessive exposure to disinfectants, including bleaching agents, when used against infectious conditions related to SARS-COVID-19 and its management. The use and impact of different bleaching agents in cleansing and their associated problems have been analyzed and presented in this review. This analysis focuses on the conventional and post-pandemic approach towards bleaches. Usage of bleaching agents increased by a staggering 20.4% and 16.4% from January to March 2020 compared to the same period in 2018 and 2019. Mounting use of bleaching agents during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in negative health effects like asthma, eye irritation, and skin allergies. An approximately 42% rise in poisoning cases, including a few deaths, has been associated with exposure to harmful chemicals involving bleaches during the recent pandemic. Bleaching agents are the primary sources of hazardous indoor pollutants; therefore, despite their importance in disinfection, their utility must be substantiated based on legal guidelines, disposal, and remedial measures. Thus, conducting future occupational exposure assessment studies for bleach hazard management is crucial.

Impact of Indoor Air Pollution on Women’s Health: A Study on Sylhet City

Indoor air pollution is a significant and often overlooked environmental concern that has far-reaching implications for human health. In Bangladesh, indoor air pollution is one of the greatest environmental health risks. The study aims to provide insights into the specific ways in which indoor air pollution affects women’s health and well-being, as well as to identify potential strategies for mitigating these effects. With a focus on the diverse sources of indoor pollutants and their potential health effects. This qualitative research paper describes the impact of indoor air pollution on women’s health, focusing on the experiences, perceptions, and challenges faced by women in relation to their indoor living environments. This research used a qualitative approach, descriptive type research, purposive sampling strategy, and utilizing semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection method. A sample size of 50 women is targeted, with data saturation as the criterion for stopping data collection. Thematic analysis is used to analyze the interview transcripts. A critical analysis of the health effects of indoor air pollution on women is presented, encompassing consequences. The effects include exacerbation of respiratory conditions, allergies, eye and skin irritations. In conclusion, this research paper emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between indoor air pollution and women’s health. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among public health experts, environmental scientists, policymakers, and advocates to develop effective strategies that safeguard women’s well-being.

Environmental health risk assessment and acute effects of sulfur dioxide (SO2) inhalation exposure on traditional sulfur miners at Ijen Crater Volcano, Indonesia

The Ijen Crater volcano is one of the geological wonders recognized by UNESCO. Inside it is a blue lake with a high acidity level, and a blue fire phenomenon has formed due to the very high concentration of sulfur. This crater is also one of Indonesia's largest sources of sulfur and is used by locals as a traditional sulfur mine. This study aims to measure SO2 concentrations and assess the health risks of SO2 exposure in traditional sulfur mine workers. The SO2 measurements were taken using impingers at six sample points along the mine workers' path. In addition, anthropometric data, work activity patterns, and health complaints during work were collected through direct interviews with 30 respondents selected based on inclusion criteria. Short-Term Health Impact Method was carried out based on a comparison of threshold level values and acute effects obtained from interviews regarding health complaints. The Hazard Question Index (HQ Index) of SO2 exposure was calculated using the health risk assessment method. The SO2 concentrations between 3.14 and 18.24 mg/m3. All sample points were above the quality standard threshold set by the EPA of 1.97 mg/m3. The most common health complaints workers experienced were eye irritation and coughing while working, followed by headache, shortness of breath, and skin irritation. The HQ index of SO2 exposure in workers was 1.02 for real-time exposure and 2.15 for long-term exposure. An HQ index ≥ 1 indicates a potential health risk for workers. Therefore, it is important to control workers' SO2 exposure.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCYC R618 (Benesacc®) for chickens for fattening and other poultry species for fattening and reared for laying (Global Nutritech Biyoteknoloji Ltd. Sti).

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCYC R618 as a zootechnical feed additive (functional group: gut flora stabiliser) for chickens for fattening and other poultry species for fattening and reared for laying. The additive has never been authorised. The strain under assessment S. cerevisiae (NCYC R618) qualifies for the qualified presumption of safety (QPS) and, consequently, the FEEDAP Panel concluded that the product is safe for the target species, the consumers and the environment. The FEEDAP Panel could not conclude on the skin and eye irritation or skin sensitisation potential of the additive. The additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. Due to the lack of sufficient data, the Panel cannot conclude on the efficacy of the additive under the proposed conditions of use.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lentilactobacillus buchneriDSM 32651 for all animal species (BioCC OÜ).

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lentilactobacillus buchneri DSM 32651 when used as a technological additive to improve ensiling of fresh plant material. The additive is intended for use in all fresh material for all animal species at a proposed minimum concentration of 1 × 108 colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh plant material. The bacterial species L. buchneri is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. The identity of the strain was established and no acquired antimicrobial resistance genes of concern were detected. Therefore, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concluded that the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for all the animal species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. Regarding user safety, the additive should be considered as a potential skin and respiratory sensitiser, and any exposure through skin and respiratory tract is considered a risk. The additive is not an eye irritant. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that the additive consisting of L. buchneri DSM 32651 at a minimum concentration of 1 × 108 CFU/kg fresh material may extend the aerobic stability of silage prepared from fresh plant material with a DM range of 28%-45%.

How environmentally friendly is the disposal of clear aligners? A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry study

Used clear aligner trays are often indiscriminately disposed of with general plastic waste and incinerated. This study aimed to analyze the smoke composition from incinerating 2 common aligner materials: glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PET-G) and polyurethane. Each of the 2 materials in triplets was thermoformed. The thermoformed trays were shredded and subjected individually to open-fire combustion, ignited using a methane torch, in a specially designed combustion chamber. The resultant smoke was collected and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to study its in-depth composition. A total of 20 peaks, corresponding to 20 compounds, were identified from each of the 2 material samples. O-xylene (21.06%) showed the maximum concentration in the PET-G sample, whereas 1,4-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadiene in polyurethane (18.88%). The first peak in the PET-G sample corresponded to benzene with a relative concentration of 5.18%. Four compounds were common to both samples: 1,4-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadiene; 1,3-cyclohexadiene, 2,3-dimethyl-; 1-hydroxymethly-4-methylenecyclohexane; and cyclohexanemethanol, 4-methylene-. Benzene, a group 1 carcinogen, was identified in the PET-G smoke sample, whereas tetrahydrofuran, a suspected carcinogen, was found in the polyurethane sample. Some compounds were hazardous, whereas most were skin, eye, and respiratory irritants. Possible mitigation strategies include proper case selection, efficient manufacturing, direct 3-dimensional printing, and developing biodegradable materials. Clinicians can set up 'used aligner collection points' to ensure responsible disposal. Proper disposal guidelines and stringent regulations are the need of the hour.

Dermal toxicity studies of 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one (CAS number: 2634-33-5) in Sprague-Dawley rats

Biocides are used as preservatives in various household products, and 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one (BIT) is one of the popular chemicals. Therefore, BIT is highly likely to be exposed to human skin, necessitating dermal toxicity evaluation. In this study, we aimed to investigate dermal toxicity, eyes and skin irritation, and skin sensitization of BIT. All studies were conducted according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development testing guidelines. In acute dermal toxicity using rats, no treatment-related responses were observed at the highest dose (2000 mg/kg). A 28-day repeated dermal toxicity study at 1, 4, and 12 mg/kg/day showed transient local skin irritation lesions, including erythema, exfoliation, and crust formation. Based on no systemic effects, the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of BIT of the 28-day repeated dermal toxicity study was determined to be 12 mg/kg/day. Eye and skin irritation tests showed that BIT is a strong irritant and corrosive to the eyes and a mild irritant to the skin. However, BIT showed no skin sensitization reactions in a local lymph node assay. These dermal toxicity studies can provide valuable information for the risk assessment of BIT.

Empowering vision: the impact of nursing-led educational program on patients with dry eye syndrome

BackgroundDry eye syndrome (DES) is a widespread ocular condition affecting the general population. It is a complex disorder affecting the eye surface, characterized by a tear film imbalance and ocular symptoms such as eye ache, burning, irritation, dryness, blurred vision, and foreign body sensation. DES can reduce visual acuity, increase the risk of ocular infection, and significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.AimDetermine the impact of nursing-led educational program on the management of DES and patients’ health outcomes including the intensity of DES symptoms and their influence on visual-related functions.MethodsThe study was conducted with a quasi-experimental design. Sixty adult patients diagnosed with DES were selected using a convenience sampling method. Two tools were employed for the collection of data. Tool I: Precipitating factors of DES structured interview schedule. Tool II: Ocular surface disease index (OSDI) to assess ocular irritation symptoms associated with DES and their effect on functions related to vision.ResultsA statistically significant decrease in the mean scores of OSDI in the study group two weeks after the implementation of the educational program regarding the ocular symptoms, functions associated with vision, environmental triggers, and overall score of OSDI.ConclusionImplementing an educational program for DES is effective in relieving symptoms, boosting patients’ understanding of managing symptoms effectively, and maintaining eye health. Therefore, patients must be instructed on dry eye early detection and management to enhance health-related outcomes and self-care practices.RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06288945.

Analysis of Nutritional Profiles, Mineral Content, and Contaminants in Palm Oil from Yenagoa Metropolis, Nigeria: Assessing Quality and Safety Standards

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the nutritional profiles, chemical compositions, and potential contamination of palm oil samples from different locations in Yenagoa Metropolis, Nigeria, to assess their quality and safety. Study Design: An analytical investigation was conducted, using proximate analysis, mineral content determination, and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to characterize the palm oil samples' composition and contamination levels. Place and Duration of Study: The research was carried out in Yenagoa Metropolis, Nigeria, from January to October 2023. Methods: Palm oil samples were collected from three distinct locations within Yenagoa Metropolis. Proximate analysis quantified moisture, ash, protein, fat, and carbohydrate contents. Mineral content was assessed for potassium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. GC-MS was employed to identify and quantify bioactive compounds and potential contaminants in the samples. Results: Moisture content ranged from 0.00% in sample C to 3.00% in sample A. Ash content was highest in samples B and C, at 20.06%, while sample C had the highest fat content at 47.0%. Potassium (10.9%) and phosphorus (0.53%) were also highest in sample C. GC-MS analysis revealed key bioactive compounds, such as n-hexadecanoic acid and squalene, but also detected harmful contaminants especially in samples A and B. Presence of Isobutylene glycol and various oxiranes can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, with prolonged exposure leading to severe health issues. Benzene, toluene, Trimethylamine compound with Borane, Pentane 3-ethyl-2-methyl and Heptane 2-methyl are associated with respiratory problems, neurological damage, and potential long-term organ effects. Contaminants in the oil samples were attributed to inadequate refining, contaminated raw materials, improper handling, and environmental pollution. This study emphasizes the nutritional value of palm oil while highlighting the need for improved quality control measures to ensure the safety and efficacy of palm oil products.

Molecular toxicological prediction of the ethanolic extract of the species Siparuna guianensis

The species Siparuna guianensis has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-infectious potential, but there is a lack of safety and toxicity parameters for the medicinal use of the plant. The aim of this study was to identify the phytochemical compounds and carry out the molecular toxicological prediction of the ethanolic extract of the species Siparuna guianensis. The ethanolic extract of the leaves of S. guianensis was obtained and GC-MS gas chromatography was carried out to identify the secondary metabolites, for subsequent quantification of the in silico toxicological properties in terms of carcinogenicity in rodents, Ames mutagenicity, eye irritation, skin irritation and sensitization. The molecules 2-undecanone, decanoic acid, ethyl ester of decanoic acid and 2-tetradecanone were the most satisfactory, with no risk of carcinogenicity in female mice, mutagenicity, skin sensitization or eye irritation, which suggests that the plant could be a promising and safe source for the development of future drugs with low toxicological potential.

Health Risks and Dust Exposure among Flour Mill Workers in Eastern India: A Comprehensive Study

Flour milling, a prevalent agricultural industry in semi-urban and urban areas of India, involves grinding whole wheat to produce flour. However, this indoor occupation exposes workers to hazardous flour dust for prolonged periods without adequate ventilation. To investigate the health implications, a study was conducted on 142 flour mill workers in and around Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The findings revealed significant health issues, including respiratory problems (20%), eye irritation (8.6%), headache (11.4%), and shortness of breath (31.4%) among workers. Alarming levels of PM2.5 (330–385 ?g m-3) and PM10 (420–470 ?g m-3) dust particles were recorded. Notably, workers with over 10-15 years of experience displayed reduced pulmonary function, with a decline in force vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). To mitigate these risks, the study recommends implementing personal protective equipment, improved ventilation, and regular medical care for flour mill workers.

Probing the relevance of synergistic lipid membrane disruption to the eye irritation of binary mixed nonionic surfactants

Nonionic surfactant aerosols play a crucial role in many industries, but they can cause acute irritation to users’ eyes during spraying. This cytotoxic process is associated with corneal cell necrosis causing cell membrane disruption. Industrial grade surfactants are typically polydisperse mixtures described by their nominal chemical structure but how the polydispersity affects their interactions with cell membrane, remains largely unexplored. A better understanding could benefit product formulations to maximise their efficiency whilst minimising their toxicity to the users. In this study, poly-oxyethylene glycol monododecyl ethers (C12E4, C12E23) were used to form ideal binary surfactant mixtures. The cytotoxicities of mono and polydispersed surfactants towards human corneal epithelial cells were examined, followed by a series of biophysical characterisations of interactions between surfactants and model cell membranes. Notably, to probe the journey of individual C12E4 and C12E23 surfactant molecules across the cell membrane from a binary surfactant mixture, “two-colour” neutron reflection measurements were achieved via Hydrogen/Deuterium substitution. The relative distributions of C12E4 and C12E23 across cell membranes and their nanostructural conformations revealed a synergistic membrane-lytic ability initiated by surfactant mixing, with the more hydrophobic C12E4 exhibiting stronger membrane binding potency than the hydrophilic C12E23. The exact molar ratio of C12E4 against C12E23 in the mixture determined how the mixed surfactant interacted with the cell membrane, and how the process directly impacted cytotoxicity and eye irritation. Thus, the cytotoxicity of polydisperse surfactants is not the same as monodisperse surfactant of the same average structure. This work provides a useful basis for the assessment of surfactant mixing by balancing their efficiency and toxicity.

Environmental Impact of Heavy Metals on Health in Soils Polluted with Medical Waste in Baiji City

Due to the environmental concerns of improper medical waste management inside and outside hospitals and health institutions, this issue is one of the most important environmental studies topics. Four places in Baiji City in Iraq were selected as study areas: Al-Hajjaj Health Center, Al-Boutama Health Center, Al-Zuwai Health Center, and Baiji General Hospital. This study investigates the environmental health risks of incineration treating hospital waste and health centers. According to the data obtained from practical and laboratory studies, Baiji General Hospital had the highest concentrations of the five toxic heavy metals tested, i.e., lead, cadmium, chromium, zinc, and nickel. These values peaked at 98.36, 59.54, 58.74, 79.52, and 13.32 mg/l for Pb+2, Cd+2, Cr+3, Ni+2, and Zn+2, respectively. Exceeding the measured values of toxic metal elements within internationally permissible limits increases the concentration of these toxic metals, posing greater health risks to the population. This process appears clearly and significantly if medical waste is burned in random locations, producing toxic fumes and gases that can cause diseases dangerous to health when inhaled; therefore, there must be mechanisms and scientific management to control the combustion process in private health incinerators. The survey results showed that the indiscriminate burning of medical waste in surveyed areas leads to diseases and can pose a tangible and immediate threat to human life, such as high blood pressure, eye irritations, suffocation of patients with difficulty and shortness of breath, and asthma, especially the elderly and newborns. Original overshooting of the measured values of toxic metal elements within the internationally permissible limits can increase the concentration of these toxic metals, posing more significant health risks to the population.

Blinded by smoke: Wildfire smoke exposure and eye irritation in australian wildland firefighters

PurposeWildfire occurrence is increasing worldwide, putting firefighters and general public at increased risk of eye injuries from smoke exposure. This study explored ocular symptoms and use of protective eyewear amongst wildland firefighters in Australia. MethodsAustralian wildland firefighters were invited to complete an online survey about the occurrence of eye irritation, use of protective eyewear and behaviours associated with occupational smoke exposure. Responses were analysed using logistic regression and qualitative inductive content analysis. Results338 wildland firefighters completed the survey. Eye irritation was reported by 90 % of firefighters at least sometimes during work and by 70 % after work. Frequency of eye irritation was greater amongst females than males (OR 2.01, CI 1.22–3.31, p < 0.001). Protective eyewear was used often or always by 67 % of firefighters on the fireground, however 55 % had to remove their protective eyewear due to sweat, fogging or another reason. Goggles were more likely to be removed compared to sunglasses and safety glasses (OR 4.28, CI 2.75–6.68, p < 0.001).Firefighters reported that, at times smoke exposure necessitated eye closure and impaired vision on the fireground. Firefighters also reported that protective eyewear helped to reduce eye symptoms, but its consistent use on the fireground was difficult. The severity and recovery from eye symptoms varied between participants. ConclusionAustralian wildland firefighters frequently experience eye irritation from smoke exposure, and this can affect operational capabilities. These findings can support the development of evidence-based strategies to help protect and aid recovery of the eye surface following smoke exposure.