Household Settings Research Articles

Collections and Pedagogies of Objects in European Learning Environments

Abstract Collections have long been recognized as spaces that offer countless opportunities to learn—and to teach. Academic collections in particular, embedded as they were in very particular kinds of learning environments, have long created moments involving teaching and researching simultaneously; however, the quality and character of this research in early modern European academic environments has been the subject of some recent debate. Given what is a widespread acknowledgement of their links to learning and instructional potency, we still know relatively little about the perimeters of the lessons that specific objects housed in collections were embedded within, or more specifically how historical actors from a range of social backgrounds used collections to teach with real things (realia) across time and space. This special issue is devoted to a preliminary investigation of the historically situated dimensions of “teaching collections” (Lehrsammlungen) and specific object-pedagogical approaches to teaching in formal, or semi-formalized, household settings.

Safety and security of household water purifiers against pathogenic microbial contamination and bio-risk evaluation of their microbial community structures

Household water filters, particularly point-of-use systems, are crucial to ensure safe drinking water consumption by eliminating microbial contaminants. This study evaluated the efficacy of three types of water purifiers (ultrafiltration [UF], nanofiltration [NF], and reverse osmosis [RO]) against microbial contamination. In our experiments, Escherichia coli and bacteriophage MS2 were used as two microbial indicators in daily household settings to track the spatial and temporal profiles of their behavior from the filter inlets to in-UF, NF, and RO water purifiers, and then to effluents. The results showed that both NF and RO water purifiers removed 100 % of the indicator organisms. The UF water purifier achieved 100 % removal of E. coli, but the removal of MS2 phage was poor. The presence of coexisting ions and natural organic matter in tap water can significantly affect the behavior of MS2 phages during the water treatment process. Their presence reduces the charge repulsion effect of the UF membrane on the MS2 phage as well as promotes the migration of the MS2 phage on the post-activated carbon cartridge that was placed in the last unit of the water purifier system, which could increase the pathogen transmission risks in drinking water supplies. The bacterial community structures of the cartridge materials and cartridge effluents from each unit were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, which revealed distinct microbial profiles of the different purifiers. Environmental conditions such as pH, nutrient availability, materials, and operational parameters can affect the composition of bacterial communities. Scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) was used to examine the surface morphology of the membranes after they were exposed to water contaminants, which demonstrated that the inherent differences in the membrane structure influenced the retention of pollutants and microorganisms on the surfaces. In summary, this study demonstrates that both NF and RO water purifiers can significantly reduce the presence of various enteric and opportunistic pathogenic bacteria in drinking water, leading to safer potable water, whereas UF water purifiers may have certain risks owing to their UF membranes and post-activated carbon. In addition, secondary microbial contamination may be introduced by the post-activated carbon units of water purifiers, especially after long-term usage. Therefore, we concluded that addressing the secondary microbial pollution caused by post-activated carbon after prolonged use and long-term shutdown is essential for maintaining the safety and quality of drinking water.

A Multi-Channel Urine Sensing Detection System Based on Creatinine, Uric Acid, and pH.

Urine analysis represents a crucial diagnostic technique employed in clinical laboratories. Creatinine and uric acid in urine are essential biomarkers in the human body and are widely utilized in clinical analysis. Research has demonstrated a correlation between the normal physiological concentrations of creatinine and uric acid in urine and an increased risk of hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney disease. Furthermore, the pH of urine indicates the body's metabolic processes and homeostatic balance. In this study, an integrated multi-channel electrochemical sensing system was developed, combining electrochemical analysis techniques, microelectronic design, and nanomaterials. The architecture of an intelligent medical detection system and the production of an interactive interface for smartphones were accomplished. Initially, multi-channel selective electrodes were designed for creatinine, uric acid, and pH detection. The detection range was 10 nM to 100 μM for creatinine, 100 μM to 500 μM for uric acid, and 4 to 9 for pH. Furthermore, interference experiments were also conducted to verify the specificity of the sensors. Subsequently, multi-channel double-sided sensing electrodes and function-integrated hardware were designed, with the standard equations of target analytes stored in the system's read-only memory. Moreover, a WeChat mini-program platform was developed for smartphone interaction, enabling off-body detection and real-time display of target analytes through smartphones. Finally, the aforementioned electrochemical detection electrodes were integrated with the smart sensing system and wirelessly interfaced with smartphones, allowing for intelligent real-time detection in primary healthcare and individual household settings.

Assessment of the quality of life of cats affected by paraparesis/paraplegia and urinary retention, and their impact on caregivers.

In cats affected by severe thoracolumbar spinal cord pathologies, paraplegia and paraparesis, often accompanied by urinary retention, pose significant challenges, impacting both the cats' welfare and owners' lives. This study aimed to assess the quality of life (QoL) of cats affected by these conditions, and to evaluate the social and familial implications for caregivers. The study was structured into two parts. The first part comprised direct observations of aspects of QoL in cats both in household and shelter settings, while the second part involved the distribution of questionnaires to cat owners and shelter operators. Cats with paraplegia/paraparesis and urinary retention can maintain a good QoL, with hindlimb mobility significantly influencing QoL scores. Shelter cats showed a comparable QoL to household cats, challenging the anecdotal beliefs that shelter cats with severe neurological impairments are destined to lead substandard lives. Operator surveys highlighted the feasibility of managing these cats in shelter environments, emphasising the importance of collaboration between caregivers and veterinary professionals. Likewise, owner surveys revealed a manageable time commitment for care, with most owners achieving proficiency in manual bladder expression within 1 month. Despite challenges, most of the owners reported positive experiences and did not contemplate euthanasia for their cats. Regular veterinary visits and occasional physiotherapy were common practices among caregivers. Owners who respond to the questionnaire and shelter operators have a high commitment to cats with paraplegia/paraparesis. Although the study acknowledges this potential bias, it suggests that dedicated care can ensure a good QoL for cats with severe spinal injuries, both in shelter and household settings. Effective communication between caregivers and veterinary professionals is essential for accurate information dissemination and optimal care provision. This research contributes to raising awareness of managing these conditions and emphasises the importance of collaborative care approaches in veterinary medicine.

The impact of chronic conditions on productivity-adjusted life years (PALYs) in both the workplace and household settings in the general adult population in Finland

ObjectivesThis study aimed to quantify the burden of eight non-communicable conditions on productivity-adjusted life year (PALY) at work and within the household among the Finnish general adult population. MethodsSurvey data on 18–79-year-old Finnish respondents collected in 2022 was used to calculate age- and sex-specific productivity indices at work and within the household using zero- and one-inflated beta regression for individuals with and without a certain condition (asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, depression or other mental health problem, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, hypothyroidism or other thyroid disease, migraine or other chronic headache, and musculoskeletal disease). Age and sex distributions of the Finnish population obtained from Statistics Finland together with the prevalence of the condition and the estimated productivity indices were used to produce the population-level one-year losses in PALYs at work and within the household. ResultsAmong eight conditions, depression and other mental health problems had the highest PALY losses (99 570 PALY loss burden at work, 256 086 PALY loss at home, and 250 980 PALY loss in general adult populations), with diabetes having the lowest (3 666 PALY loss burden at work, 46 344 PALY loss at home, and 43 443 PALY loss in general adult populations). All the examined conditions were as significant in affecting both the productivity at work and the within-household productivity. ConclusionsDepression and other mental health problems have a major effect on self-reported work ability and productivity when compared with other chronic conditions.

Improving household food safety through combining nudge strategies with knowledge-based intervention: The effectiveness and mechanism

The role of household settings is vital in the global challenge of foodborne diseases, serving as key areas for outbreaks. Despite significant efforts by governmental and research institutions to promote safe food handling, traditional knowledge-based interventions often are short in boosting motivation. Our study addressed this issue by integrating motivational nudge strategies with declarative and procedural knowledge-based interventions, targeting 914 primary household food handlers. Through randomized controlled trials, the impact of these interventions was rigorously evaluated. We found that a combination of mindful nudging and declarative knowledge-based intervention significantly improved compliance with food safety guidelines. Additionally, our analysis highlighted the critical mediating role of attitudes in this process. This research may present practical multidisciplinary intervention strategies for promoting safe food-handling behaviors.

Assessment of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Associated Risk Factors in Asymptomatic Patients Attending Muhoza Health Center

Background: H. pylori, is a bacterial pathogen that colonizes the gastric mucous lining and the epithelial tissue of the stomach. Helicobacter pylori strains infections can lead to several diseases such as duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers, adenocarcinoma of the distal stomach, mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and autoimmune diseases. The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence of H. pylori infection and risk factors associated with H. pylori in asymptomatic participants attending Muhoza health center Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 13th September to 13th October. Stool samples from 60 eligible participants were collected in sterile containers and they were immunoserologicaly analysed. Rapid tests were used to detect H. pylori antigens. A liquid in the testing kit was mixed with a small portion of the stool. The mixture was poured to the sample hole on the rapid test which displayed results. Data regarding risk factors were collected using questionnaires and were analyzed statistically using SPSS 20. Results: The prevalence of H. pylori infection was 37%. Females were more affected than males, with 25% and 12% respectively. Age, education, source of water and household population were significantly associated with Helicobacter pylori with p-values < 0.05. The study was limited since it was one health center based, hence not having large representative population. Conclusion: Education of the population about prevention of the infection, supply clean, treated water for home usage and drinking, are recommended to the local government authorities in Musanze. Screening for H. pylori infection, good adherence on antibiotics against H. pylori, hand washing, and proper household settings to reduce crowding issue are recommended. Further researches are recommended for more conclusive results. Keywords: H. pylori infection, risk factors, stomach, asymptomatic.

Leftover love: Exploring the behavioural heterogeneity of household meal wasters

Meal leftovers are a major component of household food waste. However, there is a limited understanding of leftover food management behaviours, which can assist in reducing food waste in household settings. This study segments households with distinctive behaviours associated with meal leftover management. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis were used for consumer segmentation. Data on meal leftovers and food management behaviours were collected using a national-level survey of 1728 Australian households. We identified two heterogenous groups of households regarding leftover meal management, ‘Self-sufficient savers’ (59% of the sample) and ‘Naïve discarders’ (41% of the sample). The findings indicate that inefficient cooking and storing behaviours lead to cooked meals being discarded. ‘Naïve discarders’ dispose of leftover meals either immediately or after storing them because they do not have sufficient cooking skills to repurpose leftovers or judge the safety of the food after storing them. They also lack meal-planning skills. In contrast, the ‘Self-sufficient savers’ demonstrated efficient cooking skills and storing behaviours. They read and followed the storage and meal portioning instructions. Results highlight the need for customised interventions targeting consumers with low cooking and storing knowledge to contribute towards overall food waste minimisation.

Challenges in diagnosis of clinical and subclinical Plasmodium falciparum infections in Ghana and feasibility of reactive interventions to shrink the subclinical reservoir

BackgroundReactive case detection (RCD) aims to reduce malaria transmission stemming from asymptomatic carriers. Symptomatic individuals diagnosed with malaria at a health centre are followed to their households, where members of the index case and neighbouring households are tested and treated for malaria. An RCD programme was tested in the Ashanti region of Ghana in order to study diagnostic accuracy in the hospital and household settings, assess the prevalence of subclinical infections and possible clustering in index case households, and identify operational challenges for future RCD programmes. Currently, transmission in this region is high, but reactive interventions might become an option once transmission is reduced.Methods264 febrile individuals were enrolled at the Mankranso Government Hospital and tested for malaria using rapid diagnostic tests (RDT). From the pool of RDT-positive febrile index cases, 14 successful RCD follow-ups were conducted, and 233 individuals were enrolled from the index case, neighbour, and control households. The sensitivity of diagnostic tools for clinical and subclinical cases was compared, including RDT, expert microscopy by World Health Organization-certified microscopists, field microscopy, and qPCR.ResultsPoor diagnosis and low receptivity to RCD-style follow-ups were major limitations to a successful and effective RCD programme. Field microscopy detected only 49% of clinical infections compared to RDT. 54% of individuals did not agree to a follow-up, and 66% of attempted follow-ups failed. The system effectiveness of RCD, calculated as the product of correctly diagnosed index cases, successful follow-ups, and proportion of asymptomatic infections detected by RDT, was very low at 4.0%.ConclusionsDue to low system effectiveness and the endemic nature of the disease setting in which asymptomatic prevalence is high and infections are not clustered around index case households, RCD is currently not a feasible option for malaria control in this region. The operational challenges identified through this study may help inform future reactive intervention programme designs once transmission is reduced.

Assessing Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Social Determinants Among COVID-19 Case-Contact Dyads in Household Settings.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)is a contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).The COVID-19 outbreak raised several public and mental health concerns including tremendous psychological distress. To assess post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among COVID-19-positive patientsand household contacts and to determine the socio-demographic factors associated with PTSD in the study population. A cross-sectional study was conducted among COVID-19-positive patients and their family members in Ernakulam district. A daily list of COVID-19-positive patients was obtained from the district officials. Confirmed cases and their close contacts in households were contacted over telephone and were interviewed after obtaining consent. Post-traumatic stress was assessed by the PTSD Symptom Scale - Interview Version (PSS-I-5) questionnaire. There were 279 study participants, of whom 93 were COVID-19 positive and the remaining 186 were their contacts.More than a third (34, 36.6%) of cases suffered from PTSD while about a fifth (40, 21.5%) of contacts suffered from PTSD. Among cases, persons belonging to the below poverty line (BPL) had 2.9l (1.19, 7.24) times higher risk compared to those above poverty line (APL). Women also had a 2.8 (1.14, 7.01) higher odds compared to males. Among contacts, graduates had a 9.54 (95% CI: 1.84, 49.36) increased odds whereas homemakers were found to be protected (0.195 (0.06, 0.66)) against PTSD compared to the employed group. Psychological counselling and support are essential for addressing PTSD among women and those living with BPL, as these groups are disproportionately affected.

Development of integrated assessment tool for water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services in non-household settings under climate change context

Access to improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services is crucial in recognizing human rights to water and sanitation and due to their impacts on education, livelihoods, and human health. However, these services are often inadequate in non-household settings such as prisons, refugee camps, schools, and healthcare facilities. Progress in monitoring to ensure sustainable services in these settings has been limited. Although several tools are available to assess WASH services in both household and non-household settings, they have limitations, and none has taken a holistic approach to evaluate WASH performance in all non-household settings. Furthermore, the impacts of climate change on WASH services are rarely considered in these evaluations, making the inadequacies of WASH services worse. To address these gaps, an integrated tool was developed to assess WASH performance in non-household settings, incorporating financial, institutional, environmental impact, technical, social, and climate change factors. The tool provides scores for indicators to solve the problem of a lack of final aggregated data to enable decision-makers to determine the level of WASH performance in a setting. Moreover, it provides qualitative explanations for each score, allowing decision-makers to identify areas for improvement. This tool offers valuable and insightful data for improving WASH facilities and ensuring sustainable services in non-household settings, particularly for WASH service providers and local governments.

Garlic Extract Increased Acrylamide Formation in French Fries Obtained by Different Cooking Methods.

Fried potato products are the largest dietary source of acrylamide, a potential carcinogen formed at high temperatures. Previous studies suggested that garlic powder could decrease the development of acrylamide; however, there has not been much focus on the effect of garlic extract. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of garlic extract exposure on the development of acrylamide in French fries in popular home cooking techniques such as pan-frying, air-frying, and oven-frying. Initially, the antioxidative profile, total phenolic content, and chlorogenic acid content of garlic were analyzed. Subsequently, potatoes were treated with garlic extract and fried using pan-frying, air-frying, and oven-frying techniques. Acrylamide levels were then quantified through HPLC and compared to control groups. The findings showed that garlic exposure increased the acrylamide formation in French fries obtained with air-frying (311.95 ± 0.5 μg/kg) and with oven-frying (270.32 ± 23.4 μg/kg) (p < 0.005 *). This study offers new insights into varying acrylamide formation levels in domestic practices. Unlike previous studies, this study is the first to question the effect of aqueous garlic extract exposure. Further research is required to comprehend the interaction between garlic exposure and acrylamide formation in household settings.

Successful treatment of Enterococcus gallinarum infection in a neonate with vancomycin: a case report

BackgroundEnterococcus gallinarum (EG) is typically found in the gastrointestinal tracts of birds and mammals. Although its strains are rarely isolated from clinical specimens, EG can lead to septicemia in immunocompromised individuals. EG infections are uncommon in household settings, but their incidence has been rising due to increased antibiotic usage and invasive treatments, particularly in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). EG inherently exhibits resistance to vancomycin but is highly sensitive to linezolid. Despite showing in vitro resistance, vancomycin has shown clinical efficacy in treating EG meningitis.Case presentationA neonate born at 30 + 2 weeks gestation was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) after EG was detected in blood and cerebrospinal fluid cultures. Susceptibility testing indicated that the bacterial strain was resistant to vancomycin and sensitive to linezolid. Initially, vancomycin was selected for treatment. However, due to persistent EG cultures in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid, the treatment was adjusted to linezolid. This led to a rapid decrease in platelet (PLT) count, suspected to be an adverse reaction. Concurrently, the patient experienced recurrent fever and elevated inflammatory marker levels, prompting the discontinuation of linezolid and a return to vancomycin. Subsequent administration of vancomycin stabilized the patient’s condition, as evidenced by improved C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), and cerebrospinal fluid parameters, ultimately leading to discharge after an eight-week treatment period.ConclusionThis retrospective analysis highlights the efficacy of vancomycin in treating EG infections, suggesting that specific genetic phenotypes may influence treatment sensitivity. Monitoring vancomycin blood levels is crucial for determining treatment effectiveness.

Neonicotinoids as emerging contaminants in China's environment: a review of current data.

Neonicotinoids (NEOs), the most widely used class of insecticides, are pervasive in the environment, eliciting concerns due to their hydrophilicity, persistence, and potential ecological risks. As the leading pesticide consumer, China shows significant regional disparities in NEO contamination. This review explores NEO distribution, sources, and toxic risks across China. The primary NEO pollutants identified in environmental samples include imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, and acetamiprid. In the north, corn cultivation represents the principal source of NEOs during wet seasons, while rice dominates in the south year-round. The high concentration levels of NEOs have been detected in the aquatic environment in the southern regions (130.25ng/L), the urban river Sects.(157.66ng/L), and the downstream sections of the Yangtze River (58.9ng/L), indicating that climate conditions and urban pollution emissions are important drivers of water pollution. Neonicotinoids were detected at higher levels in agricultural soils compared to other soil types, with southern agricultural areas showing higher concentrations (average 27.21ng/g) than northern regions (average 12.77ng/g). Atmospheric NEO levels were lower, with the highest concentration at 1560pg/m3. The levels of total neonicotinoid pesticides in aquatic environments across China predominantly exceed the chronic toxicity ecological threshold of 35ng/L, particularly in the regions of Beijing and the Qilu Lake Basin, where they likely exceed the acute toxicity ecological threshold of 200ng/L. In the future, efforts should focus on neonicotinoid distribution in agriculturally developed regions of Southwest China, while also emphasizing their usage in urban greening and household settings.

Investigating Thoracic Vertebral Fractures in Residential Environments

IntroductionThoracic vertebral fractures within homes are pivotal public health concerns due to their associated morbidity and significant healthcare expenditures. This study aims to dissect the intricate epidemiology of these injuries, integrating comprehensive risk factors beyond conventional demographics and location analyses. MethodsUtilizing a decade of data (2013-2022) from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), this study examines thoracic vertebral fractures across age and gender in household settings. Inclusion criteria targeted specific thoracic spine-related terms, analyzing fractures by location (e.g., kitchen, stairs) and associated products. Data processing employed R programming, with statistical analysis focusing on descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression to identify fracture patterns and assess gender differences in fracture risks through Adjusted Odds Ratios (AORs). ResultsAnalysis of 46,371 thoracic vertebral fractures identified stairs as the primary site (26.81%), with subsequent frequent locations being bedrooms (18.52%), living rooms (17.88%), and kitchens (16.29%). Gender-specific risk analysis revealed females had a higher likelihood of fractures on stairs (AOR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.16-1.37, p < .001) and in bedrooms (AOR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.09-1.54, p < .001). The most affected age group was 51-60, showcasing the multifaceted nature of risk factors beyondmere location. DiscussionThis study transcends prior insights by detailing the influence of various factors, including socioeconomic status and lifestyle, on fracture risk. It emphasizes the complexity of household fractures, highlighting gender and age as pivotal but not exclusive risk determinants. ConclusionBy offering a comprehensive analysis that incorporates a wide array of risk factors, this study advances the understanding of thoracic vertebral fractures in residential environments. It underscores the necessity for targeted preventive measures that are cognizant of the multifactorial nature of these injuries, paving the way for improved safety interventions and public health policies.

Reproductive & developmental toxicity of quaternary ammonium compounds†.

Quaternary ammonium compounds are a class of chemicals commonly used as disinfectants in household and healthcare settings. Their usage has significantly increased in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, quaternary ammonium compounds have replaced the recently banned disinfectants triclosan and triclocarban in consumer products. Quaternary ammonium compounds are found in daily antimicrobial and personal care products such as household disinfectants, mouthwash, and hair care products. Due to the pervasiveness of quaternary ammonium compounds in daily use products, humans are constantly exposed. However, little is known about the health effects of everyday quaternary ammonium compound exposure, particularly effects on human reproduction and development. Studies that investigate the harmful effects of quaternary ammonium compounds on reproduction are largely limited to high-dose studies, which may not be predictive of low-dose, daily exposure, especially as quaternary ammonium compounds may be endocrine-disrupting chemicals. This review analyzes recent studies on quaternary ammonium compound effects on reproductive health, identifies knowledge gaps, and recommends future directions in quaternary ammonium compound-related research. Summary Sentence Quaternary ammonium compounds, a class of disinfecting compounds that have skyrocketed in usage during the COVID-19 pandemic, are emerging as reproductive and developmental toxicants.

Investigation of COVID-19 transmission during the first community outbreak in a remote island population, Falkland Islands, April to June 2022.

After 2 years of no community outbreaks of COVID-19, the Falkland Islands (FI) reported their first community case in April 2022. Because of high vaccine coverage (88% of entire population), no specific control measures were instigated, and cases spread rapidly. We undertook a retrospective cohort study to determine the extent of transmission and the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccine in a population with limited natural immunity. We extracted data on age, sex, and vulnerability for the FI registered population from a patient information system and linked to COVID-19 case line-list and vaccination datasets. Cases were individuals with positive SARS-CoV-2 PCRs or Lateral Flow Devices (LFDs), from 26 April to 30 June 2022. Univariable analyses compared case risk factors to non-cases. Relative vaccine effectiveness was calculated using Poisson regression with robust error variance, comparing against individuals with vaccination more than the 20 weeks prior to the outbreak. Models were adjusted for age, sex, extreme vulnerability, and previous infection. Of the 3,343 registered population, 44% (n = 1,467) were cases, with no COVID-19 hospitalisations or deaths. In univariable analysis, being female (RR 1.12, p = 0.004) and under 18 years (RR 1.70, p<0.001) were associated with increased COVID-19 risk. Relative vaccine effectiveness was 39.0% (95% CI, 1.03 to 62.5) and 33.0% (95% CI, 8.3 to 51.0) 1 to 9 weeks after receiving 2nd and 1st boosters respectively. We showed widespread transmission in a small island population with limited natural immunity, disproportionately affecting children and women, indicative of transmission in educational and household settings. Despite limited natural immunity, our findings suggested that vaccination was effective protecting against severe disease and booster doses provided additional short-term protection against infection. We would recommend optimizing coverage with boosters of vaccine in remote island populations such as FI. Follow-up would be needed to assess duration of protection after booster vaccination.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Chronic Respiratory Symptoms among Street Sweepers in Bangkok, Thailand: A Cross-sectional Study.

Chronic respiratory diseases are becoming a more prominent cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Street sweepers are commonly found in low- and middle-income countries. This job involves outdoor work that exposes workers to various health hazards and air pollution, particularly affecting respiratory health. There is still limited research focusing specifically on street sweepers. The study aims to examine the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms and the associated factors in street sweepers in Bangkok, Thailand. We undertook a cross-sectional survey between February and April 2023. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed, stratifying the sample according to district locations within Bangkok, Thailand. Data were collected through a questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, occupational and environmental factors, and respiratory symptoms using a modified version of the Medical Research Council questionnaire. Data analysis included bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression. The response rate was 98.0% (n = 341). The prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms among street sweepers in Bangkok, Thailand, with at least one respiratory symptom was reported by 33.7% of the participants, specifically cough (22%), phlegm (20.2%), dyspnea (17.6%), and wheeze (7.0%). The average age of the sample group was 43.2 years, with a majority being female (85.9%). Among the participants, 88.3% were non-smokers, while 37.2% reported exposure to secondhand smoke. All participants reported the use of respiratory protective equipment, with face masks used at 78.9%. 7.3% of the participants lived near sources of pollution, and 12.0% were involved in household pollution activities. An average annual air quality index in the workplace area was categorized as 'good' at 57.8%. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations of chronic respiratory symptoms with the following factors: exposure to secondhand smoke [odds ratio (OR) =2.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3-4.2] and household activities (OR = 3.0, 95% CI 1.3-6.6). Exposure to secondhand smoke and indoor air pollutants in household environments are significant factors associated with the symptoms. Raising awareness about secondhand smoke hazards in household and environmental settings and promoting self-care practices related to various activities with potential exposure to indoor air pollution is crucial.

Patterns and socioeconomic differences in secondhand exposure to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products at home in Hong Kong adolescents.

Smoke or aerosols from cigarettes, e-cigarettes (ECs), or heated tobacco products (HTPs) are harmful. Yet, there is little knowledge about the specific patterns of secondhand tobacco exposure by source within household settings and the socioeconomic status (SES) differences in adolescents. We used territory-representative student data from a cross-sectional school-based survey in 2020-2021 to calculate the weighted prevalence of secondhand exposure to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and HTPs in the past seven days. Parental education and perceived family affluence were used as indicators of socioeconomic status. Generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze associations. Among 22039 participants, 29.8% reported any secondhand tobacco exposure (SH-Any) at home, primarily from cigarettes (27.4%), followed by e-cigarettes (4.0%) and HTPs (0.9%). Tertiary parental education level was associated with lower SH-Any exposure (Adjusted odds ratio, AOR=0.49; 95% CI: 0.45-0.53, p<0.001), fewer exposure days (β= -0.685, p<0.001), lower exposure to cigarettes (SH-CC) (AOR=0.49; 95% CI: 0.45-0.54, p<0.001) and to e-cigarettes or HTPs (SH-EC/HTP) (AOR=0.57; 95% CI: 0.45-0.71, p<0.001). 'Poor' family affluence was associated with higher exposures [AOR(SH-Any) =1.14; 95% CI: 1.06-1.22, p=0.001; β(days)=0.160, p<0.001; AOR(SH-CC) =1.15; 95% CI: 1.07-1.24, p<0.001], except for SH-EC/HTP exposure, which was higher in students in an affluent family (AOR =1.66; 95% CI: 1.25-2.21, p<0.001). Significant SES differences in SH-EC/HTP exposure were found only in groups with low parental education level. Dose-response relationships were found between lower SH-Any and SH-CC and higher SES categories (p for trend<0.001). Adolescents experienced a high prevalence of tobacco smoke exposure at home, primarily from cigarettes. Higher SES was associated with lower tobacco exposure, except for SH-EC/HTP, which was higher among adolescents from affluent families. Additionally, high parental education level was protective against exposure to SH-EC/HTP. Comprehensive control measures to reduce the use of these tobacco products are needed to protect adolescents of diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

Designing Home Automation Routines Using an LLM-Based Chatbot

Designing Home Automation Routines Using an LLM-Based Chatbot