Inadequate Disposal Research Articles

Waste management in subsidized housing in Palangka Raya city based on SNI 3242:2008

The decision of the Low Income Community (MBR) to designate the location of subsidized housing provides an opportunity for housing development. However, this new development has led to environmental problems, in particular inadequate disposal of household waste. The locations of social housing, which are mostly on the outskirts of the city and far from landfills (TPS), mean that MBRs tend to dispose of their waste indiscriminately. The impact on the environment is evident in the pollution of water. In addition, the socio-economic aspects of the community are disrupted, ranging from the emergence of unpleasant odors to the disruption of environmental esthetics. Urban waste management in Indonesia always adheres to the technical operating procedures outlined in SNI 19-2454-2002. In this study, waste management in subsidized housing in Palangka Raya City is investigated based on SNI 3242:2008 through qualitative and descriptive analysis. The results of the analysis show that waste management in subsidized housing requires a collective role and commitment to implement the 3Rs concept (reduce, reuse and recycle). It also requires the support of the City Government, both in terms of waste infrastructure and awareness campaigns that emphasize the importance of environmental protection through proper waste management.

Design and mechanic analysis of asphalt pavements with subgrade reinforced using the AEMC software

The Construction industry is one of the major contributors to waste generation in various aspects of its production chain. Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) stand out, generated by the lack of reuse and inadequate disposal, as well as a lack of knowledge about the potential uses of this material. Thus, this article presents a methodology for the use and design of asphalt pavement layers that use CDW as coarse aggregate and/or infrastructure layer. In this context, a mechanical analysis of the material used as a subgrade reinforcement in asphalt pavements for roads is carried out. In this sense, the study promoted the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test of recycled aggregate, and subsequently, empirical design was performed using the DNIT method and mechanistic structural evaluation using the MeDiNa AEMC. The results of stresses, strains, and displacements reveal that the material can partially replace the simple granular gravel (BGS) as a sub-base material, contributing positively to the structural performance of the road infrastructure. It should be noted that this is a preliminary study, but the use of the material may be of interest in the short and medium term, significantly contributing to another way of useful and conscious disposal, bringing sustainability to the Construction industry.

Paint booth waste as an alternative aggregate for the production of interlocking concrete blocks

Inadequate disposal of hazardous waste results risks to the environment and human health. Although the use of hazardous waste in new processes and/or products has received limited attention in the literature, there is still significant potential to be investigated. Reducing the usage of natural resources and waste management are important for sustainable practices during concrete production. This study investigated the mechanical and leaching behavior of paint booth waste (PBW) as a partial substitute (10, 20, 30 and 40%) of coarse aggregate in concrete mixtures for the manufacture of interlocking blocks. A sample of PBW used in this research differs from those in the literature due to its granulometry characterized by aggregates of different sizes. Concrete consistency, compressive strength, water absorption, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and leaching tests were carried out. The PBW did not influence the consistency in the fresh state of the concrete. The blocks with smaller substitutions (10 and 20%) presented denser structures and with greater strengths, surpassing 35 MPa after 28 days. Higher levels of PBW resulted in more porous concrete blocks with greater water absorption. The concrete-PBW mixtures showed no metal toxicity, i.e., the incorporation of this waste in the construction material avoided metal leaching. Concrete blocks with up to 20% PBW demonstrated satisfactory mechanical and environmental performance.

Electronic Waste Problem in Developing Nations: Mismanagement, Health Implications, and Circular Economy Opportunities

Introduction: Electronic waste (e-waste) has emerged as a global concern due to the exponential growth in electronic consumption and inadequate disposal practices, specifically in developing countries. Among the various dimensions of this problem, the contamination of soil with e-waste has garnered significant attention, owing to its profound implications for environmental integrity and human health. Discussion: The soil contamination leads to diverse ecological repercussions, encompassing disruptions in the cycling of nutrients and biodiversity, as well as the potential for contaminants to accumulate in the food chain. Effective management strategies are imperative to address this multifaceted challenge, the implementation of governmental regulations, the adoption of sustainable e-waste recycling practices, and the raising of public awareness campaigns. The circular economy holds great potential for addressing the environmental and economic challenges. To build a more resilient and eco-friendly urban future, collaborative solutions are necessary to address infrastructural, policy, and awareness issues. In many circumstances, waste management is not primarily the government's duty. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the business sector actively participate in trash management efforts through public education events and charity initiatives. This significant revolution has the potential to meaningfully advance smart city development through the use of technology-driven initiatives. Conclusion: By proactively addressing and reducing e-waste contamination in soil, we can mitigate the effects of environmental hazards and safeguard human health from the negative consequences associated with this burgeoning predicament.

Overcoming policy gaps for effective plastic waste management: A case study of Dikkowita Fishery Harbour, Sri Lanka

This study focuses on plastic waste management in the Dikkowita fishery harbour in Sri Lanka. Plastic bottles and polythene packaging are identified as the primary sources of plastic waste accumulation. Inadequate waste disposal methods are also observed. The study reviews successful policy frameworks worldwide, including extended producer responsibility, plastic bag bans, and Pay-As-You-Throw systems. Insights from case studies in other harbours and ports are incorporated. The study explores implementing a circular economy approach, considering Sri Lanka's specific challenges. The recommendations aim to guide policymakers and stakeholders in effectively managing plastic waste, reducing its negative impacts, and promoting sustainable resource utilisation. Further details on the study methodology, key findings (such as specific amounts of plastic waste), and policy measures for improving plastic waste management in fishery harbours could be incorporated for a more comprehensive study presentation.

Biological and productive aspects of the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) in meal moth rearing residues Ephestia kuehniella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

AbstractThe inadequate disposal of organic waste generated in insect biofactories breeding biological agents may become a potential environmental problem. The use of Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) may play an important role in the circular economy of this process, transforming waste into high‐quality biomass. Therefore, this work aims to analyse the degradation of organic residues of Ephestia kuehniella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) production using the black soldier fly. Four types of waste from the moth breeding process were evaluated: residues of the meal diet when moth larvae were in the last instar; residues of the meal diet when completing the cycle; residues formed by webs in the pupation process mixed with residual exoskeleton, and residues of dead adults. These residues were tested in isolation and in mixtures of 50%, using as control a standard diet composed of chicken feed. Survival rate, development time, emerged adults, weight, size, residue reduction, and bioconversion were evaluated. The residue used in diets affected the total development time of H. illucens. The mean number of survivors differed from 87% to 74% for larvae that reached the pre‐pupal stage. The viability of pre‐pupae to adult stage ranged from 54% to 6% for residue treatments and 97% for the control. Differences in the growth and weight gain of larvae were significantly different. The rate of residue reduction from 54% to 80% and bioconversion into larval biomass were satisfactory. However, regarding adult emergence, the numbers show variations, indicating that certain residues are not suitable for the maintenance of fly breeding.

Assessment of Solid Waste Disposal Practices and Management Strategies in Eke Okigwe Market, Imo State, Nigeria

Effective solid waste management is necessary to safeguard environmental and public health in communities. However, inadequate disposal practices and facilities pose sustainability challenges in many locales. This study assesses waste management strategies and practices in Eke Okigwe Market, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed using survey of 220 participants found the most common primary disposal methods were burning (41.5%) and waste collection services (36.9%). Major challenges included inadequate infrastructure (42.2%), lack of storage facilities (22.5%), and insufficient collection (9.2%). Awareness of regulations was high (74.4%) but compliance varied from full (23.2%) to partial (46.4%). Vendors/owners (53.6%) and administrators (27.7%) were the main stakeholders, displaying moderate (50%) to limited (17.7%) collaboration. Air pollution (40.9%), health hazards (36.4%), and soil contamination (13.6%) were top environmental concerns. Semi-structured interviews revealed a mandatory biweekly collection program organized through unsanitary open dumps. An informal fee-based system operated via waste pickers. Governance required upgrade, as sub-administrators reported to an executive committee. Key findings were triangulated. Collection frequency significantly predicted disposal methods (R2=47.5%), with less improper disposal associated with higher frequency. Awareness positively correlated with compliance (r=.750). Disposal methods also correlated negatively with challenges faced (r=-.673) and collection frequency (r=-.689). This mixed methods case study characterized multifaceted waste management challenges. Upgrades to infrastructure, stakeholder integration, and education programs are needed for optimized, sustainable practices aligned with regulations through coordinated multi-level reforms.
 
 Received: 16 November 2023 / Accepted: 28 December 2023 / Published: 5 January 2024

Optimizing Waste Collection Efficiency by NodeMCU enabled Ultrasonic Trash Can Surveillance and ThingSpeak Dashboards

The use of inflexible route schedules for garbage collection results in inadequate waste disposal, posing environmental risks and incurring high operational expenses, including fuel costs and landfill fees, even when the waste containers are not completely full. This study utilizes a cost-effective Internet of Things (IoT) monitoring system to facilitate dynamic routing. The aim is to enhance the efficiency and frequency of waste collection by optimizing it based on real-time fill levels, rather than following fixed cycles. The prototype employs an ultrasonic distance sensor in conjunction with a NodeMCU ESP8266 micro-controller to detect the fill level of a trash can. The collected data is then transmitted to the ThingSpeak cloud platform. Real-time visualization dashboards display live data on waste levels in different containers, providing guidance for collection scheduling. The estimated scope entails conducting circuit simulation using Proteus, optimizing PCB layout, and developing an integrated IoT prototype connected to ThingSpeak for IoT analytics. Ultimately, integrating cost-effective IoT edge sensors such as ultrasonic ranging with cloud analytics dashboards greatly enhances effectiveness, sustainability, and intelligent allocation of resources in public trash collection. This results in economic and environmental advantages by reducing landfill overflow through the digitalization of smart cities.

Exploring fungal potential for enhancement of environment

Inadequate effluent disposal has caused damage to the environment worldwide. This study aimed to perform a scientometric analysis of studies exploiting fungi applied to improve the quality of effluents. We used Web of Science, Scopus and Pubmed databases to search for publications between 1980 and 2023. The pollutants and effluent quality parameters most commonly addressed in scientific literature were identified, revealing trends and gaps in the field. A correlation analysis was performed between the variables Research and Development (R&D), gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, and number of inhabitants per country to investigate whether these variables are correlated with the number of research studies in each country. In addition, a linear regression was performed to investigate the effect of the number of inhabitants per country of each country on the number of studies. A total of 11183 articles were obtained, of which 2001 were identified as related to the main topic, and then more than 30 different types of pollutants were removed, such as primarily including dyes (951), phenolic compounds (682), and heavy metals (562). Concerning effluent quality parameters, chemical oxygen demand was most frequently mentioned in the articles obtained from the literature review (620). The world’s most populous countries produce the largest number of studies related to the topic. Our results highlight the bioremediation potential importance of fungi in the scientific literature, even under inhospitable conditions for microorganisms (such as toxicity, low temperatures, and high acidity), reducing environmental damage in aquatic environments and mitigating harm to public health.

Assessment of Solid Waste Management Practices in High-Density Residential Townships: A Case Study of Mtendere Township in Lusaka, Zambia.

Solid waste management is critical to a country’s economic and social growth, affecting public health, environmental stability, and economic advancement. The rising amount and complexity of trash generated by the contemporary economy endangers ecosystems and human health. This study was set out to assess the current state of Solid Waste Management practices in the densely populated residential areas of Mtendere Township in Lusaka district of Zambia. A mixed method study design comprising of qualitative and quantitative methods was utilized in this study. Quantitative data were collected through structured surveys which enabled statistical analysis to discern trends. Qualitative insights were derived from open-ended interviews with key stakeholders and site observations. 385 study participants were selected to participate in the study via purposeful sampling technique. The study disclosed that the majority of respondents were females (57.6%) and belonged to the age group of 25-34 (37.0%). A significant proportion of study participants were self-employed (34.8%) and most of them had attained secondary level of education (42.4%). The study also revealed that, the predominant method used for waste collection was door-to-door (44.2%), followed by open dumping (24.3%) and burning waste (19.9%). The study also uncovered that, the majority of respondents, (71.0%), reported waste collection every 3 days, indicating a relatively infrequent collection schedule. Also, a smaller portion of the sample, (13.8%), stated that waste collection occurred less than once a week. The study further revealed that, the majority of respondents (93.8%) were not aware about waste segregation and recycling programs in Mtendere Township, indicating a need for the development and implementation of waste management strategies that promote waste segregation and recycling. The study also disclosed that, only a small minority of respondents (1.1%) perceived that, there were sufficient waste disposal facilities in Mtendere Township in Zambia. In contrast, the majority of participants, (87%) believed that there was a lack of adequate waste disposal facilities in Mtendere Township. The study further disclosed that, most of the respondents (59.4%) described Mtendere township as dirty indicating a prevailing perception of poor hygiene while a small proportion of respondents (19.2%) regarded the township as very dirty. The study further disclosed that, insufficient waste collection frequency (35.9%), lack of waste segregation and recycling programs (28.3%), and inadequate waste disposal facilities (40.6%) as major challenges faced by Mtendere Township in the management of solid waste in Lusaka, Zambia. Also 28.6% of the respondents pointed out that poor enforcement of waste management regulations and lack of community awareness and participation on the proper waste management (60.5%) as other significant challenges faced by Mtendere Township in the management of solid waste. The study also exposed that every single respondent (100%) has personally experienced environmental or health effects of inadequate solid waste management in Mtendere Township. This study further revealed air pollution (36.2%), Water contamination (32.2%) which increased the risk of waterborne diseases like cholera and spread of diseases (64.9%) as environmental or health effects caused by in-adequate Solid Waste Management in Mtendere Township in Zambia. It also disclosed that, foul odors (86.6%), and aesthetically unpleasant surroundings (81.2%) as other environmental or health effects caused by in-adequate Solid Waste Management. It is therefore, recommended that, there is need to conduct a study to assess the impact of increased waste collection frequency on waste accumulation and hygiene conditions in the township. Also exploring the economic aspects of waste management, analyzing social and behavioural factors influencing waste management practices, and understanding the role of technology and innovation in enhancing efficiency will contribute to a holistic understanding of sustainable waste management practices and inform future strategies in this domain.

Toxic effects of environmental-relevant exposure to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) micro and nanoparticles in zebrafish early development

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a commonly used thermoplastic in industry due to its excellent malleability and thermal stability, making it extensively employed in packaging manufacturing. Inadequate disposal of PET packaging in the environment and natural physical-chemical processes leads to the formation of smaller particles known as PET micro and nanoplastics (MNPs). The reduced dimensions enhance particle bioavailability and, subsequently, their reactivity. This study involved chemical degradation of PET using trifluoroacetic acid to assess the impact of exposure to varying concentrations of PET MNPs (0.5, 1, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L) on morphological, functional, behavioral, and biochemical parameters during the early developmental stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Characterization of the degraded PET revealed the generated microplastics (MPs) ranged in size from 1305 to 2032 μm, and that the generated nanoplastics (NPs) ranged from 68.06 to 955 nm. These particles were then used for animal exposure. After a six-day exposure period, our findings indicate that PET MNPs can diminish spontaneous tail coiling (STC), elevate the heart rate, accumulate on the chorion surface, and reduce interocular distance. These results suggest that PET exposure induces primary toxic effects on zebrafish embryo-larval stage of development.

AVALIAÇÃO DA DEGRADAÇÃO TÉRMICA DO CAROÇO DE ABACATE RESIDUAL PARA A PRODUÇÃO DE BIOCARVÕES

EVALUATION OF THERMAL DEGRADATION OF RESIDUAL AVOCADO SEED FOR BIOCHAR PRODUCTION. The thermal degradation kinetics of avocado seed biomass (Persea americana) was investigated at the heating rates of 5, 15, 20 and 25 ºC min-1 using thermogravimetric (TGA) and differential thermogravimetric (DTG) analysis techniques in the temperature range from ambient to 780 ºC. Chemical analysis of the avocado seed resulted in: 51.4% cellulose, 42.4% hemicellulose, 20.1% lignin, 2.1% ash, 5.6% extractives. The pyrolysis products were characterized via FTIR, SEM/EDS. The isoconversional methods of Ozawa-Flynn-Wall (OFW) and Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS) have yielded activation energy, Eα, varying from 36-323 kJ mol-1, respectively. The calorific value of biochars produced in the present study in the range of 265 to 475 ºC was 16,17 to 20,24 MJ kg-1, respectively, which are comparable to those reported values in the literature. Analyzing the DTG simultaneously with the addition of thermal energy, it can be seen that low molecular weight compounds represent the first degradation curves, followed by hemicellulose, cellulose and, lignin. The results obtained in the present work indicate that its feasible to prepare biochars with tunable properties from residual avocado seeds using a slow pyrolysis process, adding commercial value and reducing the environmental impact caused by the inadequate disposal of lignocellulosic materials.

Reproductive cytotoxic and genotoxic impact of polystyrene microplastic on Paracentrotus lividus spermatozoa

In recent decades, industrialization, intensive agriculture, and urban development have severely impacted marine environments, compromising the health of aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Inadequate disposal results in hundreds of tons of plastic products released annually into the environment, which degrade into microplastics (MPs), posing health risks due to their ability to biomagnify and bioaccumulate. Among these, polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) are significant pollutants in marine ecosystems, widely studied for their reproductive toxicological effects. This research aimed to evaluate the reproductive cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of PS-MPs on sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) spermatozoa in vitro. Results showed that PS-MPs significantly reduced sperm viability and motility without altering morphology, and induced sperm DNA fragmentation mediated by reactive oxygen species production. Furthermore, head-to-head agglutination of the spermatozoa was observed exclusively in the sample treated with the plastic agents, indicating the ability of microplastics to adhere to the surface of sperm cells and form aggregates with microplastics on other sperm cells, thereby impeding movement and reducing reproductive potential. These findings suggest that PS-MPs can adversely affect the quality of sea urchin sperm, potentially impacting reproductive events.

Hazard Assessment of Soil Contamination resulting from Solid Waste Trench Landfill Systems

Contamination due to the inadequate disposal of solid waste can cause irreversible environmental damage and public health risks. In the state of São Paulo (Brazil), legislation allows small municipalities to license landfills adopting the trench model. In most cases, it is not mandatory to carry out environmental protection works such as waterproof lining and the drainage of leachate and gases. The aim of this research was to evaluate soil contamination hazards resulting from Solid Waste Trench Landfill Systems (SWTLS). An consultation with experts was carried out in which a Hazard Level (HL) score was applied that considered factors such as geology, pedology, geomorphology, hydrography, groundwater, environmental protection, land use, composition and gravimetric demographic densities. A resource management unit, UGRHI 16 - Tietê Batalha Hydrographic Basin, was defined as the study area, where hazard level was identified to the trench landfill. It was also found that all the municipalities studied are exempt from installing linings in their landfills, in accordance with Brazilian standards, as water surpluses, analyzed in terms of local rainfall, comply with the limits established by regulation. However, the evaluation carried out as part of the present research considered other important factors, through which the existence of risks at different levels for all the municipalities evaluated in relation to the adoption of small SWTLS was noted. The study concluded that the factors adopted for the research are relevant to decision making in terms of system design and the definition of criteria regarding the need for protective lining.

Biogas-based electricity production from landfills in places of irregular disposal: Overview for the southeast region of Brazil

In Brazil, a substantial part of its urban population has its waste disposed of at inappropriate places, such as open dumps and controlled tipping. This causes environmental impacts, in addition to disregarding the positive externalities arising from the correct waste disposal. Given this scenario, this research aimed to estimate the potential for generating electricity, considering the implementation of sanitary landfills to serve municipalities with inadequate waste disposal. The study had its methodology tested in municipalities in the most populous region of Brazil, the Southeast. A Python algorithm to calculate the methane production from the waste was created based on the software Landfill Gas Emission Model (LandGEM). Moreover, another algorithm was developed to allocate the mini plants based on the electricity generated, to optimize the logistics of the distance. The CO2 emission reduction due to sanitary landfills opening was predicted as well. If the sanitary landfills were to be implemented, an amount of 11,795.7 GWh would be generated over the 20 years of study and an average value of 467.1 million tons of CO2 would no longer be emitted per year. Public policies are necessary for this scenario to become a reality in Brazil, such as research incentives and market development.

Community Participation in Management of Environmental Pollution in Thika Town, Kenya

The residents of Thika Town in Kenya have long grappled with environmental degradation, primarily driven by its status as an industrial hub housing over 20 factories engaged in local and international productions. This industrial activities coupled with urban expansion to accommodate a growing population has adversely affected the town's environmental sustainability. This study investigates the role of community participation in addressing environmental pollution in Thika town. The study's objectives were assessing community awareness about environmental pollution, understanding the impacts of pollution on local communities, and evaluating the extent of community involvement in pollution management. The research was conducted in four residential estates namely Makongeni, Umoja, Kiboko and Landless within Thika town. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study collected both quantitative and qualitative data through questionnaires and interviews, with quantitative data being analysed descriptively using statistical software. The study identified water and air pollution and solid waste pollution as significant environmental concerns, primarily attributed to industrial emissions, affluence, and sewage. These forms of pollution resulted in various adverse consequences, including respiratory illnesses, structural damage, increased livestock, and human mortality. The study revealed lack of community engagement as a substantial portion of residents were not part of community-based organizations focused on environmental education and advocacy, highlighting a significant gap contributing to ongoing environmental degradation. The study recommends sensitization campaigns to raise awareness among residents about their role in environmental degradation and encourage the adoption of eco-friendly behaviours. Additionally, it underscores the need for policy formulation and implementation to address inadequate waste disposal practices originating from both domestic and industrial sources within the town. In summary, community involvement and policy intervention are essential components in addressing environmental pollution in Thika town

Difficulties and facilities perceived by nursing workers in relation to exposure to biological material

Objective: To describe the difficulties and/or facilities perceived by nursing workers in situations involving exposure to biological material. Methods: This was a qualitative study carried out with eight female mid- and higher-level nursing workers who had been working for at least six months in the Medical and Surgical Clinics of a public general hospital. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, carried out remotely (videoconferencing) and in person, between December 2021 and April 2022. The Content Analysis technique was used to analyze the data. Results: The difficulties were: high demand; non-adherence to Personal Protective Equipment; inadequate disposal of materials used by students; management of emotional issues; implementation of the protocol; lack of knowledge of the source patient; and non-recognition of exposure by the exposed worker. As for facilities, these were: aspects related to care (guidance, reception, service and agility); control of the situation; segregation of hospital waste; knowledge of the protocol and of the source patient. Conclusion: There is a need for interventions that seek to overcome the difficulties and strengthen the facilities found in this study to reduce/avoid the occurrence of possible exposures and promote the quality of the service provided.

Chemical attributes of the soil in area with organic waste from cachaça production in the Lambedouro Valley – Viçosa of Ceará

It is important to monitor the chemical attributes of the soil in waste disposal areas, as this is a resource that is widely affected by waste on the ground. This study aimed to identify the changes in soil chemistry caused by the improper disposal of organic waste from cachaça production. The experiment was conducted in the Lambedouro district, located 12 km from the city of Viçosa of Ceará. A completely randomized design (DIC) was used, with two areas for collecting soil samples with 10 repetitions in each area, the control was done outside the transect, at each collection point two samples were collected, one on the east side and one on the west side, both at a distance of 1 m from the indicated point. For the chemical analysis, a composite sample was taken from the single samples collected in the 100 m linear transect. The data obtained was submitted to the normality and F tests, with a 5% significance level. The use of organic waste from the production of cachaça as a nutrient source for the soil is an alternative way of disposing of it properly; however, some of it needs proper treatment before it can be used. Inadequate disposal of organic waste from cachaça production did not negatively affect soil chemistry, especially fertility-related parameters, but it did negatively affect soil pH for sugarcane production.

Red mud application as filler in asphalt mixtures production

Red mud is the solid waste from bauxite processing during aluminium production. Its inadequate disposal causes social, economic and environmental prejudices. The industrial solid waste insertion evaluation in the production chain is beneficial and necessary. This work aims to evaluate the mechanical performance of asphalt mixtures produced with red mud as filling material. Asphalt mixtures with 5% and 7% red mud were produced, and permanent deformation and moisture-induced damage tests were carried out. A mixture without red mud addition (control) was produced for comparison. The results showed that the mixtures with red mud presented permanent deformation resistance greater than the control one, with more than 40% reduction in rutting deformation. The moisture damage did not significantly affect the mixtures tested. The red mud application as a filler in asphalt mixtures is viable and can be an alternative to reduce the damage such a waste can cause to the environment.

Prevalence and risk factors related to intestinal parasitosis in children under 18 years of age in four populations of Colombia: a cross-sectional study

Objective: To identify the profile of intestinal parasitosis in children of four populations in the municipalities of Quibdó, Apartadó, Guachené, and Granada, Colombia, in 2012.
 Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a secondary source of information, in which sociodemographic factors associated with the presence of parasites were analyzed in a univariate and bivariate manner.
 Results: A total of 240 individuals were analyzed. Two thirds of them were parasitized. The most frequent species were Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (22.9%), Endolimax nana (19.2%), Blastocystis hominins (19.2%), and Giardia intestinalis (20.8%). An association between inadequate excreta disposal (latrine or septic tank) and the presence of parasitic colonization was found with a prevalence ratio (PR) of 1.34 [1.14, 1.59] (p=0.005). Similarly, housing construction with wood or baharequewas 1.31 times more frequent in subjects with parasitic forms in their stool samples than those with brick houses.Discussion: A higher frequency of intestinal parasites was found for the different age groups compared to several reports worldwide and in Latin America. The most frequent species of parasites were similar to those reported in the literature.Conclusions: Isolated populations in Colombia, such as those studied, have a higher frequency of intestinal parasites than other populations.