Human Contamination Research Articles

This seems fishy: Technology-Critical Elements as a growing concern to aquatic biota and elasmobranchs in particular

Human activities have significantly impacted our natural environments, resulting in extensive degradation, with chemical contamination emerging as a critical concern. This type of pollution has far-reaching implications, affecting ecological health and socioeconomic dimensions. The concept of “contaminants of emerging concern” encompasses newly recognized environmental pollutants, highlighting their diverse and often understudied effects. This category includes microplastics, antibiotics, pharmaceuticals, and metals, among others, many of which lack adequate regulations and understanding of their ecological and human impacts. A subset of these pollutants, termed Technology-Critical Elements (TCEs), holds significance in high-tech industries but also poses environmental challenges due to increased extraction, manufacturing, and disposal. Aquatic environments, the ultimate chemical contaminant sinks, require heightened attention with regard to TCE dynamics and effects. Despite increasing research on TCEs in various aquatic taxa, a lack of comprehensive data hinders further knowledge assessments. In this scenario, fish, key environmental health indicators and links to human contamination, demand focused studies. Cartilaginous fish, specifically, are often overlooked, although ecologically and economically significant, warranting research into TCE effects. This type of research displays the potential to shed light on TCE dynamics, ecological outcomes, and guide conservation strategies for these species and their habitat, also aligning with the One Health concept, acknowledging the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment and contributing to SDG goals, underpinning marine ecosystem conservation.

Optimal control and cost effectiveness analysis of contamination associated with aflatoxins in maize kernels, livestock and humans

Aflatoxin contamination poses a significant challenge in food safety and security as it affects both health of consumers and supply chains. Due to health impacts associated with aflatoxin contamination, countries have set standards and restrictions for importing food crops and animal feed, resulting in greater economic losses to farmers, transporters, and crop processors. Three controls, namely good farming practices, biological control and public education and awareness campaigns, have been mostly used in countries where aflatoxin contamination has occurred. Since resources are scarce, there is a need to find the optimal and cost-effective strategy to reduce the burden on farmers. This study aimed to find optimal and cost-effective control strategy to mitigated aflatoxin contamination in maize kernels, livestock and humans. A deterministic model was developed and analyzed for studying the impact of implementing three time dependent controls on the dynamics and control of aflatoxin contamination in maize kernels, livestock and humans. We use optimal control theory to find the necessary conditions for existence of the optimal controls and to determine the optimal strategy for controlling the aflatoxin contamination. We also carry out cost-effectiveness analysis through Incremental Cost Effective Ratio (ICER) to obtain the most effective strategy. Simulation results for the optimal control problem suggest that strategy which involve implementation of all controls performs well than other strategies in controlling the aflatoxin contamination in maize kernels, livestock and humans. Therefore, to control aflatoxin contamination initiatives should focus on good farming practices, biological control and public education and awareness campaigns.

Success rate of rapid DNA technology in kinship analysis for forensic purpose.

Reducing the time required for DNA analysis in forensic genetics can yield significant benefits, both in determining genealogical relationships for legal proceedings and in criminal cases. Swift identification of individuals plays a pivotal role in solving crimes and apprehending perpetrators. Additionally, in situations like mass disasters, prompt victim identification holds utmost importance. The Rapid DNA technology, introduced in 2012 to expedite DNA analysis, has evolved to streamline the process into a single step. This advancement not only minimizes the risk of human error and contamination, but also boasts a remarkable time advantage, delivering results in as little as 90min. In this study, DNA profiles of 30 families (consisting of mothers, fathers, and children) were analyzed using the RapidHITTM ID System. The system automatically calculated maternity-paternity probabilities to assess the suitability of Rapid DNA technology for kinship analysis. For validation, DNA profiles were also generated using the 3500 GA method. The study revealed that 9 out of 30 families exhibited discrepancies in DNA profiling, leading to inaccuracies in automatic kinship analysis. Consequently, while the method offers rapid and user-friendly advantages for forensic sciences, the software underlying the system requires re-evaluation. Issues such as maternal-paternal exclusion in kinship analyses, arising from challenges like un-called alleles, warrant further attention.

The host specificity of pilus gene traA in Escherichia coli and its use in tracking human fecal pollution

A reliable and accurate fecal source tracking (FST) approach is important in water quality management and preventing foodborne and waterborne diseases. In this study, a genetic marker of Escherichia coli (E. coli) was identified and utilized to differentiate between human and animal sources of fecal contamination. Nucleotide polymorphisms of 14 genes coding for cellular surface proteins, mainly fimbriae, were analyzed using the 22 draft genomes of E. coli strains from human and three domestic animal sources in Japan. A signature sequence, traAh, within the pilin gene traA, was found to be highly associated with E. coli of human origin. Subsequently, an end-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, namely PCR-Htra, was developed, specifically targeting traAh. The high association between traAh and E. coli of human origin was validated through the PCR-Htra amplification. This encompassed 1045 E. coli strains isolated from surface water, human feces or sewages, and feces from 12 animal species, including domestic and wild animals in the states of Missouri and Virginia in the United States of America (USA). The data suggested that the sensitivity and specificity of PCR-Htra assay were 49.0 % and 99.5 % respectively in distinguishing human-origin E. coli from nonhuman-source ones. Furthermore, the result of our in silico analysis of GenBank® data suggests that traAh may have a global distribution as the sequence was found in human-origin E. coli isolated from at least 14 countries around the world. Thus, the PCR-Htra may provide a new FST tool for rapid and accurate detection of human-origin E. coli, serving as a means to identify human fecal contamination in water.

Benchmarking Metagenomic Classifiers on Simulated Ancient and Modern Metagenomic Data.

Taxonomic profiling of ancient metagenomic samples is challenging due to the accumulation of specific damage patterns on DNA over time. Although a number of methods for metagenome profiling have been developed, most of them have been assessed on modern metagenomes or simulated metagenomes mimicking modern metagenomes. Further, a comparative assessment of metagenome profilers on simulated metagenomes representing a spectrum of degradation depth, from the extremity of ancient (most degraded) to current or modern (not degraded) metagenomes, has not yet been performed. To understand the strengths and weaknesses of different metagenome profilers, we performed their comprehensive evaluation on simulated metagenomes representing human dental calculus microbiome, with the level of DNA damage successively raised to mimic modern to ancient metagenomes. All classes of profilers, namely, DNA-to-DNA, DNA-to-protein, and DNA-to-marker comparison-based profilers were evaluated on metagenomes with varying levels of damage simulating deamination, fragmentation, and contamination. Our results revealed that, compared to deamination and fragmentation, human and environmental contamination of ancient DNA (with modern DNA) has the most pronounced effect on the performance of each profiler. Further, the DNA-to-DNA (e.g., Kraken2, Bracken) and DNA-to-marker (e.g., MetaPhlAn4) based profiling approaches showed complementary strengths, which can be leveraged to elevate the state-of-the-art of ancient metagenome profiling.

Environmental Surveillance for Salmonella Typhi and its Association With Typhoid Fever Incidence in India and Malawi.

Environmental surveillance (ES) for Salmonella Typhi potentially offers a low-cost tool to identify communities with a high burden of typhoid fever. We developed standardized protocols for typhoid ES, including sampling site selection, validation, characterization; grab or trap sample collection, concentration; and quantitative PCR targeting Salmonella genes (ttr, staG, and tviB) and a marker of human fecal contamination (HF183). ES was implemented over 12 months in a historically high typhoid fever incidence setting (Vellore, India) and a lower incidence setting (Blantyre, Malawi) during 2021-2022. S. Typhi prevalence in ES samples was higher in Vellore compared with Blantyre; 39/520 (7.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.4%-12.4%) vs 11/533 (2.1%; 95% CI, 1.1%-4.0%) in grab and 79/517 (15.3%; 95% CI, 9.8%-23.0%) vs 23/594 (3.9%; 95% CI, 1.9%-7.9%) in trap samples. Detection was clustered by ES site and correlated with site catchment population in Vellore but not Blantyre. Incidence of culture-confirmed typhoid in local hospitals was low during the study and zero some months in Vellore despite S. Typhi detection in ES. ES describes the prevalence and distribution of S. Typhi even in the absence of typhoid cases and could inform vaccine introduction. Expanded implementation and comparison with clinical and serological surveillance will further establish its public health utility.

B-018 Compact all in one, Fully Automated Molecular Diagnostic System “ExiStation™ FA 96” in 100 minutes

Abstract Background Traditional PCR method’s instruments are discrete the processes of sample collection, nucleic acid(NA) extraction, and NA amplification. As human labor is required between the instruments, there is a risk of human error, infection and contamination. Biosafety facilities such as biosafety cabinet, level D protective clothing, and negative pressure facilities are required for ensuring safe testing. To improve the testing environment, the molecular diagnostic market has developed and started using automated instruments, though, which take up larger space and take longer time to test. As a result, it is necessary to develop instrument that takes up less space and reduces testing time to a minimum, so, space and time can be saved. Methods In this study, we developed an automated systematic genetic diagnostic instrument. In order to carry out the entire process within one integrated instrument, automatic mechanism of de-capping and re-capping of sample tube, sample aspiration, and sample transfer were developed. The system also includes integrated key steps of NA extraction and amplification (qPCR). We developed a primer/probe design technology that can accurately detect viruses with high accuracy in performing PCR tests using extracted genes, as well as precision temperature control algorithm and optimized real-time nucleic acid amplification using reverse transcription enzymes and gene amplification enzymes. In order to carry out all these functions within one device, we maximized user convenience by developing software for instrument operation, result analysis, and a Graphic User Interface for automation Results ExiStation™ FA 96 is largely composed of sample processing, gene extraction, and gene amplification (qPCR). (Photo to be in poster) Sample Processing automatically opens a cap of sample tube, then transfer a required quantity of sample to cartridge. While opening the cap, the barcode attached to sample tube is automatically identified and the information required for a test is entered. After sampling, the cap is automatically re-capped and placed back in the sample tube rack. When collecting samples, it measures the sample level in the tube and indirectly check the viscosity by detecting the pressure inside the tip, minimizing aspiration errors. The Extraction step performs the function of extracting genes. It consists of three modules of 32 wells, and the number of samples can even be adjusted in eight units, so the instrument can be operated flexibly upon the number of samples requested. Then, the qPCR step follows. The ExiStation™ FA 96 setup allows simultaneous testing of up to 20 targets for 94 samples in approximately 100 min. The instrument is equipped with a HEPA filter and UV lamp to maintain clean, and since the sample tubes are inserted directly on the instrument, it is no of necessity or save the costs such as of negative pressure rooms, biosafety cabinet, and level D protective clothing. Conclusion ExiStation™ FA 96 is a fully automated molecular diagnostic test instrument that can quickly and accurately process large amounts of samples, while greatly reducing user risks and shortening molecular diagnostic test time.

An Unusual Case of Human Scabies with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Diagnostic and Management Challenges in a Resource-Constrained Setting: Case Report

Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. Human contamination occurs mainly through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. The diagnosis of human scabies in case of co-morbidity with another chronic skin disease could be a real challenge. Here, we report an unusual and rare case of co-morbidity of crusted scabies with systemic lupus erythematosus in resource-limited setting treated successfully with a combination of medical treatments with lifestyle and dietary measures. This case also showed the diagnostic and management challenges in a setting where the health system presents some weaknesses.

Insecticide susceptibility status on Aedes aegypti (Linn) and Aedes albopictus (Skuse) of Chittorgarh district, Rajasthan, India

Vector-borne diseases are a major burden to human health. It accounts for more than 17% of the total infectious diseases and causes more than 0.7 million deaths annually. Mosquitoes are potential vectors for many vector-borne diseases that cause illness to public health, globally. Vector species of the genus Aedes i.e., Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are the vector for many arboviruses such as dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika in India. Dengue is one of the most prevalent viral infections causing a high number of cases throughout the world and resistance to insecticides can be a reason for the failure of vector control strategies. This study was carried out to check the degree of resistance among these vectors in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, India through standard World Health Organization protocol. The resistance was monitored to pyrethroids i.e., deltamethrin (0.05%), permethrin (0.75%), alphacypermethrin (0.05%); organochlorine i.e., DDT (4%), and an organophosphate larvicide i.e., temephos (0.02 mg/L) in both vector species. Complete resistance to DDT was observed among all tested populations of both species. All tested populations of Aedes albopictus were found susceptible to pyrethroids. Aedes aegypti was found resistant in the Mangalwad population, unconfirmed resistant in Bhopalsagar and Rashmi populations while the remaining are susceptible to permethrin. The Mangalwad population was also found unconfirmed resistant to deltamethrin and alphacypermethrin. Larvae of both species were found susceptible to temephos. Decreasing the use of DDT will help to reduce the impact on human health and environmental contamination. However, temephos as a larvicide, deltamethrin, and alphacypermethrin as an adulticide can be used in critical disease outbreaks at a minimum concentration as mosquitoes are found susceptible in the study area.

Evaluation of four human-associated fecal biomarkers in wastewater in Southern Ontario

Human fecal biomarkers (HFBs) have a longstanding history in the field of microbial source tracking (MST) serving as indicators of human fecal contamination in drinking and recreational water. Further, HFBs have aided in recent efforts to monitor human pathogen transmission within communities. The dilution of wastewater from various sources throughout the sewershed cannot be controlled and human fecal biomarkers (HFBs) can be used to normalize target human pathogen concentrations so that fluctuations in fecal matter in wastewater can be accounted for. In the current study, we monitored the prevalence of four HFBs – including two viruses, Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV), cross-assembly phage (crAssphage), as well as two human-associated Bacteroides markers, HF183 and BacHuman - in wastewater samples from ten Southern Ontario wastewater treatment plants and evaluated their temporal and spatial variation in context of environmental factors that may impact the ability of HFB to normalize pathogen concentrations in wastewater. Environmental variables including precipitation, wastewater flow rate, temperature, and concentrated mass were also analyzed for their potential correlation with HFB variation in wastewater. The four HFBs were detected at high concentrations across all 10 sampling locations. The median concentrations across all sampling sites were: PMMoV 3.6 Log gene copies (GC)/mL; crAssphage 5.0 Log GC/mL; HF183 6.8 Log GC/mL and BacHuman 6.9 Log GC/mL. All HFBs were found to be similarly stratified across all 10 sites, and the bacterial markers were consistently found at higher concentration compared to the viral HFBs at all sites. The coefficient of variation (CV) for each HFB was used to characterize the variability of each biomarker at each sewershed. BacHuman and crAssphage were found to have lower CV than PMMoV and HF183, indicating that BacHuman and crAssphage may perform better in reflecting the variations in abundance of human feces in wastewater or MST applications.

Mercury Exposure among Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Miners in Four Gold Mining Districts in the East Region of Cameroon

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is the single largest intentional-release of mercury (Hg) in the world. In Cameroon, there is paucity of data concerning the contribution of ASGM to human mercury contamination. This study aimed at providing new data for a region in Cameroon where ASGM is practiced, through an assessment of the concentration of total mercury (T-Hg) in hair as a function of occupational exposure, and investigating symptoms related to Hg toxicity. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed involving 60 gold miners from four gold mining districts: Batouri, Kette, Ngoura and Bétaré-Oya. Questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data, nature of work processes and symptoms of Hg toxicity. Scalp hair samples were drawn from all 60 respondents and analysis for total mercury (T-Hg) in hair was done via a milestone DMA-80 Mercury Analyzer. The results show that males (86.7%) were generally represented than females (13.3%). The minimum, maximum and mean concentrations of Hg in hair of miners across the four districts was 0 μg/g, 8.97 μg/g and 2.09±1.84 μg/g respectively. Over three-quarters (71.7%) of the miners had T-Hg in hair above the occupational toxic threshold of 1 μg/g set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), also identified as 66.7% in the “alert level” and 5% as “high” according the German Human Biomonitoring (HBM) Commission. The factors affecting the concentration of mercury in hair according to a multiple linear regression model (R2 = 0.400 and p = 0.03) were living in Bétaré-Oya, younger age, male sex, burning of amalgam, and increased number of working days per week. According to the same model (R2 = 0.076 and p = 0.940), the symptoms associated with mercury exposure were unusual tiredness, excessive sleeping, dizziness and visual difficulties. ASGM in the east region of Cameroon, therefore, is significantly contributing to Hg contamination in humans as a result of occupational exposures to Hg, and there is urgent need for interventions to mitigate human exposure, especially as adverse health effects cannot be excluded following long-term exposures.

The Fascinating Cross-Paths of Pathogenic Bacteria, Human and Animal Faecal Sources in Water-Stressed Communities of Vhembe District, South Africa.

Access to clean and safe drinking water still remains a major challenge in the developing world, causing public health risks in terms of waterborne infections, especially in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to track and detect enteric pathogens (Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium str. LT2, Shigella flexneri, and Campylobacter jejuni subsp. jejuni) in rural water sources. It also sought to establish a correlation between these pathogens and the sources of faecal pollution. Multiplex qPCR and specific primers and probes were used for detection and tracking. The study successfully correlated the occurrence of target pathogens with sources of human and animal faecal contamination using host-specific genetic markers (BacHum and HF183 for humans, BacCow for cows, Pig-2-Bac for pigs, Cytb for chickens, and BacCan for dogs). The study revealed that enteric pathogens were found in 47.69% and 32.80% of samples during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. These pathogens were associated with human or animal faecal contamination. Correlations between pathogens and contamination sources were significant (p ≤ 0.05), with varying strengths during the wet and dry seasons. The findings emphasize the importance of identifying faecal contamination sources to protect rural communities from waterborne infections.

Evaluation of a novel chlorine dioxide-based packaging technology to reduce human enteric virus contamination on refrigerated tomatoes and blueberries

IntroductionChlorine dioxide (ClO2) is a promising antimicrobial with various food applications, one of those being inclusion in packaging. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a novel ClO2-based antimicrobial packaging system (InvisiShield™) for its efficacy against human norovirus (hNoV) and hepatitis A virus (HAV) in refrigerated fresh produce.MethodsGrape tomatoes or blueberries were placed in polypropylene trays and selectively inoculated with 6.0 log10 hNoV Genome Equivalent Copies (GEC; 20% stool suspension) or 6.2 log10 HAV GEC (cell culture lysate). Trays were heat sealed with a three-phase polymer film consisting of a base, channeling agent, and the ClO2 active (treatment); or control (no active) film and stored at 7°C for 24, 48 h, and 7 days. At each timepoint, the product was collected and processed for virus concentration using the sequential steps of elution and polyethylene glycol precipitation. Viruses in extracts were quantified using RNase-RT-qPCR.Results and discussionLog10 reductions (LR) in hNoV GEC for tomatoes were 2.2 ± 1.3, 2.9 ± 0.7, and 3.6 ± 0.3, after 24, 48 h and 7 days, respectively. For blueberries, hNoV LR were 1.4 ± 0.7, 1.7 ± 0.5, and 2.7 ± 0.2 GEC, respectively. Hepatitis A virus GEC LR were 0.4 ± 0.2, 1.0 ± 0.1, and 2.1 ± 0.7 for tomatoes, and 0.1 ± 0.2, 1.2 ± 0.4, and 3.2 ± 0.2 for blueberries, after 24, 48 h and 7 days, respectively. Position of the fruit in the tray did not affect inactivation (p > 0.05). Sensory analysis on the treated tomato products revealed no statistically significant difference in appearance, flavor and texture attributes compared to the control. This novel ClO2-based antimicrobial packaging system effectively reduced concentrations of hNoV and HAV, as evaluated using reduction in GEC as proxy for infectivity, on grape tomatoes and blueberries after one day, with efficacy improving over 7 days of refrigerated storage. This technology shows promise as an antiviral treatment as applied to refrigerated fresh produce items.

Applicability of F-specific bacteriophage subgroups, PMMoV and crAssphage as indicators of source specific fecal contamination and viral inactivation in rivers in Japan.

To date, several microbes have been proposed as potential source-specific indicators of fecal pollution. 16S ribosomal RNA gene markers of the Bacteroidales species are the most widely applied due to their predominance in the water environment and source specificity. F-specific bacteriophage (FPH) subgroups, especially FRNA phage genogroups, are also known as potential source-specific viral indicators. Since they can be quantified by both culture-based and molecular assays, they may also be useful as indicators for estimating viral inactivation in the environment. Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) and crAssphage, which are frequently present in human feces, are also potentially useful as human-specific indicators of viral pollution. This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of FPH subgroups, PMMoV, and crAssphage as indicators of source-specific fecal contamination and viral inactivation using 108 surface water samples collected at five sites affected by municipal and pig farm wastewater. The host specificity of the FPH subgroups, PMMoV, and crAssphage was evaluated by principal component analysis (PCA) along with other microbial indicators, such as 16S ribosomal RNA gene markers of the Bacteroidales species. The viabilities (infectivity indices) of FRNA phage genogroups were estimated by comparing their numbers determined by infectivity-based and molecular assays. The PCA explained 58.2% of the total information and classified microbes into three groups: those considered to be associated with pig and human fecal contamination and others. Infective and gene of genogroup IV (GIV)-FRNA phage were assumed to be specific to pig fecal contamination, while the genes of GII-FRNA phage and crAssphage were identified to be specific to human fecal contamination. However, PMMoV, infective GI-FRNA phage, and FDNA phage were suggested to not be specific to human or pig fecal contamination. FRNA phage genogroups, especially the GIV-FRNA phage, were highly inactivated in the warm months in Japan (i.e., July to November). Comparing the infectivity index of several FRNA phage genogroups or other viruses may provide further insight into viral inactivation in the natural environment and by water treatments.

Monitoring Mining-Induced Geo-Hazards in a Contaminated Mountainous Region of Indonesia Using Satellite Imagery

Mining-induced or enhanced geo-hazards (MGHs) pose significant risks in rural mountainous regions with underground mining operations by harming groundwater layers, water circulation systems, and mountain stability. MGHs occurring in naturally contaminated environments can severely amplify socio-environmental risks. A high correlation was found among undermining development, precipitation, and hazards; however, details of MGHs have yet to be adequately characterized. This study investigated multiple mining-induced/enhanced geo-hazards in a naturally contaminated mountain region in Bone Bolango Regency, Gorontalo Province, Indonesia, in 2020, where a rapidly developing coexisting mining sector was present. We utilized PlanetScope’s CubeSat constellations and Sentinel-1 dataset to assess the volume, distribution, pace, and pattern of MGHs. The findings reveal that severe landslides and floods accelerated the mobilization of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) via the river water system, thus considerably exacerbating socio-environmental risks. These results indicate potential dangers of enhanced PTE contamination for marine ecosystems and humans at a regional level. The study design and data used facilitated a comprehensive assessment of the MGHs and associated risks, providing important information for decision-makers and stakeholders. However, limitations in the methodology should be considered when interpreting the findings. The societal benefits of this study include informing policies and practices that aim to mitigate the negative impacts of mining activities on the environment and society at the local and regional levels.

A review of heavy metals accumulation and control in active agricultural soil

Agricultural soil is contaminated with dangerous heavy metals (HMs) from anthropogenic activities and natural processes. These HMs are passed to humans through the consumption of crops produced in the contaminated soil. Crop production in a contaminated field and irrigation with raw untreated sewage and industrial effluents exposed food crops to HMs contaminations. Consumption of foods contaminated with HMs can be dangerous due to their persistent nature and tendency to accumulate in human tissues. HMs contamination in humans can lead to serious health problems and, in severe cases, can cause death. This review article aimed to compile soil treatment methods reported to be effective in reducing HMs uptake by food crops in active agricultural fields, outline research gaps and suggest areas for future research. Soil treatment with biochar is the most effective control method reported, was found to mitigate the uptake of Cd, Cr, Pb, Zn, and Cu in different crops. Other control measures are the application of inorganic sorbents, chelating agents, and nanomaterials to soil and hydroponic water; the use of microorganisms and their products; gene modification of the food crop; and soil washing and filtration. The control methods reported in soil and the hydroponic solution were found to significantly lower Cd, Pb, Ni, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Mn, Hg, and Fe uptake in cereal grains and different types of vegetable and tuber crops.

Exploring health risk issues related to the use of triazoles among farmers in the Souss Massa region, Morocco

ABSTRACT The use of triazole fungicides has been steadily increasing since the 1980s relative to other fungicides available worldwide. There are few studies on triazole handling practices and their effects on farmers’ health. This study investigates farmers’ practices and health risks related to pesticide exposure. A survey of male agricultural workers (n = 76) was conducted in the Souss Massa region of Morocco. Results indicate that most triazole users lack education and agricultural training, relying on suppliers’ advice or recommendations from fellow farmers. Inappropriate practices were observed, such as disregarding pre-harvest intervals and recommended doses. Additionally, 79% of farmers experienced discomfort, including skin itching, eye irritation, and respiratory problems. Age, literacy, and farming experience influenced behaviours and contributed to environmental and health hazards. Urgent actions are needed to minimise human poisoning and environmental contamination.

Construction of green versatile coating integrating fireproof, electric-conduction and self-cleaning performance for cotton fabrics

The development of conductive cotton fabrics possessing superb self-cleaning and fire-proof performances exhibits vast vistas in wearable electronic devices. However, the secretion substances from human body or contaminants from the environment may interpret the normal functions of the devices and induces short-circuiting and even fire. Herein, a new strategy for the fabrication of multifunctional cotton fabrics was introduced, involving with the sequent coating of bio-based flame-retardant, conductive two-dimensional material and hydrophobic long chain alkyl silane. The multiple coating endowed the cotton fabric with a higher limited oxygen index value of 36.7% and a dramatical reduction in peak of heat release rate (74.4%) and total heat release rate (62.4%), also with a rapid self-extinguishing ability during burning. The deposition of MXene tremendously promoted the conductivity of the fabric and the coated fabric could make a steady-state electrothermal response of 129.3 °C at 5 V. Moreover, the fabric showed an excellent self-cleaning ability for common dyes and contaminants which allowed it to retain the normal functions under various conditions. The multifunctional cotton fabric designed in this work showed a high prospective in the practical applications of wearable electronics, flexible sensors, early warning, and even special membranes for extreme environments.

Berdampakkah Cemaran Dioksin Bagi Keadaan Gizi Dan Kesehatan?

Dioxins and related compounds can contaminate food and have an impact on human nutrition and health. The impact of dioxin contamination on nutrition and health is not widely known by consumers, because the effect lasts a long time after dioxin accumulates in fat tissue. Dioxins in the body can cause free radicals that can trigger oxidative stress, so that damage to several important cellular components can occur. Consumption of foods that contain antioxidants is an effort to minimize the negative effects caused by dioxin contamination in humans.

Environmental risk assessment for fecal contamination sources in urban and peri-urban estuaries, in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, FL, USA.

Fecal pollution of estuaries and adjacent creeks and streams is of significant concern along the Gulf of Mexico. The prospective threat to human life and water quality impairment via fecal pollution is a substantial danger to the strength and resistance of coastline areas. Pensacola, FL, has a prosperous coastal tourism industry that is utilized for numerous other uses, such as recreational watersports and boating, seafood, and shellfish harvesting. However, the frequency and severity of fecal contamination present possible socio-economic issues, specifically financial hardships. Therefore, understanding the source, abundance, and fate of fecal microbial pollutants in aquatic systems signifies an imperative initial stage for detecting the host sources and techniques to lessen their transport from the landscape. This research aimed to quantify the fecal indicator bacteria (FIB), Escherichia coli, and perform microbiological fecal source tracking to verify if the fecal inputs are of either animal or human host origin. Surface water samples were taken from urban and peri-urban creeks for two sampling periods (February 2021 and January 2022), and IDEXX Colilert-18 (USEPA Standard Method 9223) was used for E. coli enumeration. DNA extractions were obtained from each sample, and quantitative PCR was utilized for fecal microbial source tracking (MST) to detect human, dog, ruminant, and bird host-specific Bacteroides DNA. The result indicates elevated quantities of FIB, E. coli, that surpass the threshold considered safe regarding human health. E. coli at six sites over the two sampling periods exceeded the impairment threshold, reaching as high as 866.4 MPN/100ml. Fecal source tracking identified human host fecal contamination at four of nine sites, dogs at three of nine, and birds at one site. However, those sites with sources identified via MST all had E. coli levels below impairment thresholds. No sites were determined to be positive for ruminant as a source or for the pathogen Helicobacter pylori. No canine host fecal inputs were found in January 2022, and only one site with human sewage. Our results highlight the utility of MST in assessing bacterial inputs to water bodies and the challenges.