Pollution Research Articles

Prevalence of non-tuberculous mycobacteria among people with acid-fast positive presumptive tuberculosis in Mali.

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are environmental agents that can cause opportunistic pulmonary disease in humans and animals, often misdiagnosed as tuberculosis (TB). In this study, we describe the cases of NTM identified during the first national anti-TB drug resistance survey conducted in Mali and explore associated risk factors. Sputum was collected from people presenting for pulmonary TB diagnosis from April to December 2019, regardless of age. Microscopy-positive patients were enrolled and tested using the Xpert MTB/RIF assay. A patient who tested negative for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) was tested for the presence of mycobacteria by amplification of the IS6110 and 16SrRNA (16S) genes through double quantitative real-time PCR, followed by nested PCR and Sanger sequencing of the IS6110-negative samples for NTM species identification. 1,418 sputum smear-positive patients were enrolled, including 1,199 new cases, 211 previously treated cases, and 8 whose previous treatment history was unknown. Based on the results of Xpert MTB/RIF assay and in-house PCR methods, 1,331 (93.9%) patients were positive for MTBC, 48 (3.4%) for NTM, and no species identification was possible for 39 (2.7%). Advanced age of 65 and over with an OR 8.8 (95% CI 2.3-33.2 and p = 0.001) and previous TB treatment with an OR 3.4 (95% CI 1.2-9.6 and p = 0.016) were the risk factors statistically associated with NTM detection. M. avium complex (MAC) was the predominant NTM species, detected in 20 cases. Detection of NTM in people presumed to have TB is an ongoing challenge, confounding correct TB diagnosis. Concomitant use of microscopy and GeneXpert testing among at-risk individuals could improve patient management.

Whole genome analysis, detoxification of ochratoxin a and physiological characterization of a novel Bacillus velezensis MM35 isolated from soil

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a significant global contaminant that poses severe challenges to food safety and public health. This study aims to isolate the OTA-degrated probiotics and evaluate genetic and biological characteristic. Here, The degradation rate of a new strain named Bacillus velezensis MM35 isolated from soil was the highest (87.10% within 48 h), and its culture supernatant was the main component of OTA degradation (63.95%) by high performance liquid chromatography. Further investigation revealed that the extracellular enzyme that degrades OTA in the culture supernatant of MM35 may be a small molecule enzyme with certain heat resistance. Genome-wide analysis showed that MM35 contains a cluster of carboxypeptidases encoding OTA-degrading potential, and had good metabolic and catalytic synthesis ability, and strong application potential in the synthesis and degradation of carbohydrates and proteins. A variety of secondary metabolites with antibacterial properties, such as non-ribosomal peptide synthetase and terpenoids, were identified in its metabolites. Consistent with the predicted results, MM35 showed various enzyme production characteristics such as cellulase and xylanase. Furthermore, MM35 could inhibit the growth of a variety of pathogenic bacteria, and showed high co-aggregation ability to Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium. In addition, MM35 has certain tolerance to harsh environments such as strong acid, bile salt, and high temperature. Additionally, the adhesion rate of MM35 was 5.4%, and the invasion rate was 2.1% in IPEC-J2 cells. In summary, the data suggest MM35 isolated strain has high OTA degradation efficiency, antibacterial activity and intestinal colonization, which provided a new way for the treatment of OTA contamination in food and feed industries.

The accumulation process of pollutants in deposited particles of different sizes on different roads in Beijing, China.

Road-Deposited Sediments (RDS) samples were collected from four different roads in Beijing, and the distribution of pollutants in RDS with various particle sizes was compared. In this study, the cumulative mass of RDS exhibited a positive correlation with the number of dry days, and the RDS load below 75μm was also influenced by road traffic volume. As traffic volume escalated, there was a corresponding increase in the load of these smaller RDS. Most pollutants accumulated within RDS with sizes below 150μm, rendering them the primary contributors to the pollution. In terms of the antecedent dry-weather days, fifteen days emerged as a potentially pivotal point, with both the rate of pollutant accumulation and the contribution of pollution sources to RDS having stabilized after this duration. The origins of pollutants in roads of different functional areas exhibited certain disparities. The pollutants on major roads with high traffic volume were attributed to frequent vehicular activities. The pollutants on residential roads stemmed from soil particles and fallen leaves in the roadside green belts as well as from human activities. And the pollutants on urban-rural crossroad might be attributed to the industrial contamination with factories located on one side.

Transfer Hydrogenative Cleavage of N═N Bond of Azoarenes to Aminoarenes Using Ruthenium Catalyst

AbstractTextile industry contaminants cause significant pollution of water resources, making them a major worry in the modern age. Azo dyes, one of the most harmful synthetic colors generated in textile industry pollutants, are particularly persistent in water bodies due to their chemical composition. In this study, an efficient transfer hydrogenative cleavage of the ─N═N─ moiety containing azoarene to their corresponding aminoarenes is accomplished using a terpyridine‐based ruthenium complex. This report depicts the suitable transformations from the azoarene by adopting a minimal base and catalyst loading. The preliminary mechanistic studies disclosed the selective conversion of azoarenes to its complete ─N═N─ cleavage products, aminoarenes, through the hydrazoarenes intermediate.

Endotyping in Chronic Rhinosinusitis-An EAACI Task Force Report.

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a clinical syndrome defined by typical sinonasal symptoms persisting for at least 12 weeks. CRS is divided into two distinct phenotypes, CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and without (CRSsNP). The aim of the review is to provide an update on the current knowledge in CRS endotypes. The prevailing hypothesis regarding the pathogenesis of CRS suggests that dysfunctional interactions between the host and environmental stressors at the mucosal surface drive the diverse inflammatory mechanisms. Genetic and epigenetic variations in the mucosal immune system are believed to play a significant role in the pathomechanisms of CRS. Various environmental agents (such as microbes and irritants) have been implicated in CRS. In a healthy state, the sinonasal mucosa acts as a barrier, modulating environmental stimulation and mounting appropriate immune responses against pathogens with minimal tissue damage. Different endotypes may exist based on the specific mechanistic pathways driving the chronic tissue inflammation of CRS. There is a need to understand endotypes in order to better predict, diagnose, and treat CRS. This literature review provides an update on the role of the endotypes in CRS and the limitations of endotyping CRS in clinical practice. Understanding of the pathogenesis and optimal management of CRS has progressed significantly in the last decades; however, there still are several unmet needs in endotype research.

Taurine stimulation of planarian motility: a role for the dopamine receptor pathway.

Taurine, a normal dietary component that is found in many tissues, is considered important for a number of physiological processes. It is thought to play a particular role in eye development and in the maturation of both the muscular and nervous systems, leading to its suggested use as a therapeutic for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Taurine increases metabolism and has also been touted as a weight loss aid. Due to its possible benefits to health and development, taurine is added as a supplement to a wide array of products, including infant formula and energy drinks. Despite its pervasive use as a nutritional additive and implied physiological actions, there is little consensus on how taurine functions. This is likely because, mechanistically, taurine has been demonstrated to affect multiple metabolic pathways. Simple models and straightforward assay systems are required to make headway in understanding this complexity. We chose to begin this work using the planarian because these animals have basic, well-understood muscular and nervous systems and are the subjects of many well-tested assays examining how their physiology is influenced by exposure to various environmental, nutritional, and therapeutic agents. We used a simple behavioral assay, the planarian locomotor velocity test (pLmV), to gain insight into the stimulant properties of taurine. Using this assay, we observed that taurine is a mild stimulant that is not affected by sugars or subject to withdrawal. We also provide evidence that taurine makes use of the dopamine D1 receptor to mediate this stimulant effect. Given the pervasiveness of taurine in many commercial products, our findings using the planarian system provide needed insight into the stimulant properties of taurine that should be considered when adding it to the diet.

Measurement the levels of toxic metals by using cold vapor atomic absorption spectroscopy technique and measurement of Vit A by using HPLC in autistic children

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by stereotypic/repetitive behavior, impaired communication, imagination, and social interactions. Recently, studies have investigated the possible association between the etiology of autism and the potential roles of various environmental agents, especially heavy metals. The present study aimed to examine levels of toxic metals in serum samples of autism. The levels of arsenic, cadmium and lead in serum of this child were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry and compared with those of healthy children who had been assessed in previous studies. The autism had higher levels of Arsenic (65.32 ±7.89) cadmium (10.36±1.06 μg/g) and lead (7.6±0.86 μg/g), as well as significant decrease in the concentration of vitamin A (4.29± 0.66) as comparison with control group.

Control of Bacillus cereus in rice cake and food contact surfaces with novel Becedseptimavirus genus phage BCC348 and its partial SPOR domain-containing endolysin LysBCC348

Here, we investigated the novel bacteriophage BCC348 and its endolysin LysBCC348 as alternative antimicrobials against the major foodborne pathogen Bacillus cereus. The Becedseptimavirus genus phage BCC348 effectively inhibited the growth of B. cereus ATCC 27348 with a remarkable burst size of ∼600 PFU/infected cell. The cation-dependent amidase endolysin LysBCC348 lysed the host B. cereus and Listeria monocytogenes and EDTA-treated Gram-negative pathogens. In a cold storage model of Korean rice cake, Garaetteok, BCC348 significantly reduced artificially contaminated B. cereus counts to undetectable levels within 3 days. Treatment with LysBCC348 also achieved a ∼1.3-log reduction of B. cereus and ∼60% biofilm removal from food contact surfaces. Genes related to DNA modification and sporulation prevention in BCC348, as well as a partial sporulation-related repeat (SPOR) domain in LysBCC348, are thought to enhance the efficacy of BCC348 in controlling B. cereus. These results suggest that BCC348 and LysBCC348 are promising alternative candidates to mitigate B. cereus contamination in the food industry.

Consensus on the key characteristics of metabolism disruptors.

Metabolism-disrupting agents (MDAs) are chemical, infectious or physical agents that increase the risk of metabolic disorders. Examples include pharmaceuticals, such as antidepressants, and environmental agents, such as bisphenol A. Various types of studies can provide evidence to identify MDAs, yet a systematic method is needed to integrate these data to help to identify such hazards. Inspired by work to improve hazard identification of carcinogens using key characteristics (KCs), we developed 12 KCs of MDAs based on our knowledge of processes underlying metabolic diseases and the effects of their causal agents: (1) alters function of the endocrine pancreas; (2) impairs function ofadipose tissue; (3) alters nervous system control of metabolic function; (4) promotes insulin resistance; (5) disrupts metabolic signalling pathways; (6) alters development and fate of metabolic cell types; (7) alters energy homeostasis; (8) causes inappropriate nutrient handling and partitioning; (9) promotes chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation in metabolic tissues; (10) disrupts gastrointestinal tract function; (11) induces cellular stress pathways; and (12) disrupts circadian rhythms. In this Consensus Statement, we present the logic that revealed the KCs of MDAs and highlight evidence that supports the identification of KCs. We use chemical, infectious and physical agents as examples to illustrate how the KCs can be used to organize and use mechanistic data to help to identify MDAs.

The global regulator SpoVG is involved in biofilm formation and stress response in foodborne Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a primary culprit of food poisoning. As a highly adaptable pathogen, S. aureus demonstrates formidable biofilm-forming and stress tolerance capabilities, inducing significant challenges to eradicate food contamination caused by this organism. SpoVG, a regulatory protein in S. aureus, controls the expression of numerous genes. However, its role in biofilm formation and stress response in foodborne S. aureus remains to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the functions of SpoVG involved in food-related stress responses and biofilm formation in S. aureus RMSA50. The results demonstrated that SpoVG deletion enhanced biofilm formation and resistance to heat and desiccation, while decreased tolerance to oxidative stress. Further analysis revealed that cell aggregation and the accumulation of extracellular DNA (eDNA) may contribute to the enhanced biofilm formation. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-qPCR) revealed that the expression levels of nuc and sasC, which are related to cell aggregation and eDNA concentration, were significantly altered in the spoVG mutant. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) confirmed that SpoVG directly binds to the promoter region of nuc and sasC to regulate their expression. These findings suggest that SpoVG may serve as a target to decrease biofilm formation and control S. aureus contamination in the food industry.

A comprehensive study on methylene blue removal via polymer and protein nanoparticle adsorbents

Water pollution, particularly from industrial contaminants such as dyes, is a significant global concern. Various technologies, including nanoscale materials, are employed for water and wastewater treatment. Among these, adsorption process as an effective method due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. This study comprised both theoretical and experimental phases. Initially, computer simulations were utilized to evaluate the interaction between methylene blue and three selected nanoparticles, ultimately choosing Bovine Serum Albumin protein nanoadsorbent based on energy considerations. Subsequently, adsorption experiments were conducted using this nanosorbent. The results indicated a maximum dye removal efficiency of 69% under the conditions of pH 11, an initial dye concentration of 100 mg/L, an adsorbent dose of 0.5 g/L, a contact time of 60 min, and an optimal temperature of 25 °C. The maximum adsorption capacity under optimal conditions was found to be 38.52 mg/g. Additionally, the adsorption isotherm followed the Langmuir equation, and the kinetics adhered to the pseudo-second-order model.

Physicochemical wastewater treatment improvement by hydrodynamic cavitation nanobubbles

Hydrodynamic nanobubble aeration is proposed as an innovative approach to enhancing physicochemical wastewater treatment. Integrating a novel cavitation system to replace conventional aeration significantly improves standard oxygen transfer efficiency and energy consumption. The changes in size and surface charge of air, oxygen (O2), ozone (O3), and chitosan nanobubbles were studied as a function of the reactor diameter. Interestingly, it was found that increasing the radial dispersion length had no significant effect on the measured parameters. Flotation, Coagulation-flocculation (CF), and Advanced Oxidation (AOPs) processes of municipal wastewater comparing convective air and O3 NBs aeration were carried out at pilot plant scale. The use of O3 NBs in the flotation process improves 160 % the suspended solids removal compared to the air-NBs- process. The CF process was evaluated by adding a chitosan dose to the convective processes and monitoring the water quality parameters in real-time. The results demonstrated that the interaction of chitosan with O3 NBs eliminates more than 80 % of the initial chemical oxygen demand (COD). Finally, the AOP carried out with O3 NBs reaches a removal efficiency of 99.8 % total suspended solids and 90 % COD. This modular system presents a practical and efficient alternative for removing municipal and industrial wastewater contaminants.

River invertebrate biodiversity benefits from upstream urban woodland

In urban environments, invertebrate communities are subjected to a broad mixture of impacts, including diffuse pollution. Pollutant mixtures and habitat degradation can combine to apply stress on community diversity. Water quality is influenced by the assemblage and mosaic of catchment land cover. Amongst a wider suite of Nature-Based Solutions, the value of urban woodland is increasingly recognized as having potential to support a range of ecosystem services. Despite an increasing focus on establishing urban woodland for aquatic conservation, its actual influence is yet to be manifested. Therefore, we explored trees’ location in riparian and upstream catchment, within and outside of the urban area. We conducted a combination of systematic literature review and statistical analysis to better understand the woodland influence. Despite the wide range of bioindicators studied and broad worldwide spectrum of geo-climatic regimes covered, literature evidence for benefits were found in at least half the cases. With a focus on the overall family richness and the sensitive orders Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera family richness as bioindicators, the statistical analysis comprised a national study in England covering 143 sites with substantial urban cover, totaling 4226 invertebrate community observations over 30 years. Two satellite-derived land cover maps were used to enable discrimination between urban and extra-urban woodland. The analysis supported the literature evidence that impervious land had negative effects and woodland positive effects. In the urban and upstream catchment, woodland was more important than pasture or cropland. There was some evidence of those woodland effects being more advantageous when trees are located within the urban area itself. Benefits attributable to woodland were distinctly apparent against a backdrop of improving macroinvertebrate diversity found to be synchronous with long-term reductions in urban pollution signatures. The presence of sparse land, even in small amounts, was detrimental to macroinvertebrate diversity. These areas of low vegetative cover might be detrimental due to high sediment input and legacy industrial contamination. Given the increasing accessibility of land cover data, the approach adopted in this case study is applicable elsewhere wherever macroinvertebrate community data are also available.

Biocontrol of Salmonella Schwarzengrund and Escherichia coli O157:H7 planktonic and biofilm cells via combined treatment of polyvalent phage and sodium hexametaphosphate on foods and food contact surfaces

Salmonella Schwarzengrund and Escherichia coli O157:H7 are ones of foodborne pathogens that can produce biofilms and cause serious food poisoning. Bacteriophages are an emerging antibacterial strategy used to prevent foodborne pathogen contamination in the food industry. In this study, the combined antibacterial effects of the polyvalent phage PS5 and sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) against both pathogens were investigated to evaluate their effectiveness in food applications. The combined treatment with phage PS5 (multiplicity of infection, MOI = 10) and 1.0% SHMP inhibited the growth of S. Schwarzengrund and E. coli O157:H7, and the viable counts of both decreased by more than 2.45 log CFU/mL. In KAGOME vegetable and fruit mixed juice, the combined treatment with PS5 (MOI = 100) and 1.0% SHMP also resulted in significant pathogen inactivation at 4 °C after 24 h. PS5 (1010 PFU/mL) and 1.0% SHMP showed stronger synergistic effects on biofilm formation and the removal of established biofilms on polystyrene plates. Additionally, we evaluated their combined effects on reducing the biofilms of S. Schwarzengrund and E. coli O157:H7 on glass tubes and cabbage leaves at 4 °C. These findings indicate the utility of this approach in the biocontrol of the planktonic and biofilm cells of S. Schwarzengrund and E. coli O157:H7 on foods and food contact surfaces.

Gene expression and DNA methylation changes in response to hypoxia in toxicant-adapted Atlantic killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus).

Coastal fish populations are threatened by multiple anthropogenic impacts, including the accumulation of industrial contaminants and the increasing frequency of hypoxia. Some populations of the Atlantic killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus), like those in New Bedford Harbor (NBH), Massachusetts, have evolved a resistance to dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) that may influence their ability to cope with secondary stressors. To address this question, we compared hepatic gene expression and DNA methylation patterns in response to mild or severe hypoxia in killifish from NBH and Scorton Creek (SC), a reference population from a relatively pristine environment. We hypothesized that NBH fish would show altered responses to hypoxia due to trade-offs linked to toxicant resistance. Our results revealed substantial differences between populations. SC fish demonstrated a dose-dependent changes in gene expression in response to hypoxia, while NBH fish exhibited a muted transcriptional response to severe hypoxia. Interestingly, NBH fish showed significant DNA methylation changes in response to hypoxia, while SC fish did not exhibit notable epigenetic alterations. These findings suggest that toxicant-adapted killifish may face trade-offs in their molecular response to environmental stress, potentially impacting their ability to survive severe hypoxia in coastal habitats. Further research is needed to elucidate the functional implications of these epigenetic modifications and their role in adaptive stress responses.

An Updated Review on the Role of Phytoconstituents in Modulating Signalling Pathways to Combat Skin Ageing: Nature’s Own Weapons and Approaches

Abstract: Various geographical areas exhibit varying degrees of prevalence and severity of dermatological issues. The most commonly observed skin issues among adolescents during their growth period on a global scale encompass dry skin, dyspigmentation, wrinkles, fungal infections, as well as benign and malignant tumors. These conditions arise as a consequence of diminished functional capacity and heightened skin susceptibility. The primary manifestation of the whole process of skin ageing is its visual presentation, which encompasses changes in both the structure and function of the skin. The look and function of human skin exhibit particular variations as individuals age, representing a time-dependent phenomenon. This review article primarily examines the discussion surrounding the diverse phytoconstituents and their impact on signalling pathways in cellular metabolism, as well as their interaction with environmental factors and xenobiotic agents that contribute to skin aging. Ultraviolet (UV) light induces the rapid formation and subsequent accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within skin cells, hence accelerating oxidative stress and the ageing process of the skin. One effective approach to addressing age-related skin disorders entails the utilization of exogenous supplementation through the consumption of dietary antioxidants, as well as the application of antioxidant-based lotions to the skin prior to sun exposure. Several plant species include phenolic components, including ascorbic acid, ellagitannins, and carotenoids, which have the ability to protect the skin from harmful UV radiation, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and influence several survival signalling pathways. This comprehensive study elucidated multiple processes by which phytoconstituents exert their effects for intervention purposes. Additionally, it highlighted the ability of these phytoconstituents to modulate the NF-κB signalling pathway, MAPK signalling, Nrf2 signalling, and other pathways, hence demonstrating their potential anti-aging properties.

Perizinan Lingkungan Sebagai Upaya Mengendalikan Pencemaran Akibat Industrial Waste Sesuai Undang-Undang Nomor 6 Tahun 2023

This journal examines environmental permits in the enforcement of current legislative rules aimed at mitigating industrial pollution. The author elucidates that the issue of environmental pollution stemming from industrial waste has emerged as a global concern, as it poses a threat to human health and environmental sustainability. Despite the existence of legislation concerning environmental contamination, numerous infractions continue to be perpetrated by industry. The urgency of this research is considering that the environmental permit policy is a preventive government tool as an effort to control community behavior, and also repressive in overcoming environmental problems caused by human activities. Environmental licenses are a crucial governmental regulation designed to safeguard the environment from industrial waste contamination, thereby preventing harm that could adversely affect the community. Consequently, obtaining an environmental permit is crucial for implementing legislation pertaining to environmental protection, ensuring that industries adhere to established standards and are accountable for their waste production. The author asserts that robust environmental legislation may eliminate industrial waste contamination. Nevertheless, sustained collaboration is essential among all stakeholders, including the government, industry, and society, to guarantee the success of these initiatives.

Comparative Study of Biosorption and Traditional Methods for Heavy Metal Removal from Industrial Wastewater in Panipat

In this research paper, I have thoroughy described about the topic Comparative Study of Biosorption and Traditional Methods for Heavy Metal Removal from Industrial Wastewater in Panipat.” Industrial wastewater contamination by toxic heavy metals poses a significant environmental threat globally, especially in rapidly industrializing regions like Panipat District in Haryana, India. Panipat, renowned for its extensive textile and chemical industries, generates substantial volumes of wastewater laden with heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg). Recent studies have revealed that the concentrations of these metals in Panipat's industrial effluents frequently surpass the permissible limits set by environmental regulations. Traditional methods for heavy metal removal, including chemical precipitation and ion exchange, are widely utilized but often entail high operational costs and the generation of secondary pollutants like sludge. Biosorption, an emerging and sustainable technology, offers a promising alternative by utilizing biological materials such as algae, bacteria, and agricultural waste to adsorb heavy metals from wastewater. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact of biosorption compared to traditional methods in Panipat District. By examining heavy metal removal efficiencies, conducting cost analysis, and assessing environmental implications, this research seeks to provide valuable insights into sustainable wastewater treatment practices.

Environmental protection, health, and occupational safety initiatives: Reducing filter waste and environmental contamination from oil leaks in coal mining excavators

Background: Hazardous and toxic waste contamination in the mining industry is primarily generated from the servicing and maintenance of heavy equipment. One of the key issues in this process is hydraulic oil leaks in excavator units. Additionally, the use of B30 fuel impacts the filter replacement interval, as its lifetime is shorter, thereby contributing to the amount of hazardous and toxic waste. Based on data obtained during the August-November 2023 period, hydraulic system leaks amounted to 4,899 liters. The aim of this study is to assess the implementation of improvement plans aimed at reducing filter waste and environmental contamination caused by oil leaks in excavators. Method: This study is a descriptive quantitative analysis aimed at describing the impact of strategies implemented to reduce filter waste and environmental contamination caused by oil leaks in excavators. The research was conducted at PT. Anteraja Mahada Makmur (PT. AMM) on the jobsite of PT. Multi Harapan Utama (PT. MHU) from August 2023 to March 2024. The variables studied included strategic steps composed of alternative solutions, which serve as the foundation for planning the repair of oil leaks and engine filter damage. The population of the study encompasses all maintenance activities within the company, involving personnel, materials, environment, machinery, and methods. The sample focuses specifically on maintenance activities involving factors that experience deviations, such as personnel, machinery, and methods. Results: The implementation of the improvement plan consists of creating a Standard Form for Follow up suggestion, Creating a special Group for equipment health, Adding a discussion of Plant service H+2 and details of Follow up Equipment Health activities, Cleaning the radiator every 6000 hours by lowering it, Activating tropical spec (+55 degrees) by jumpering CN05 Controller Pump, Installing additional filters to reduce the load on the main filter, Creating Guidance PPM (Machine Inspection Program) and Standardizing Hydraulic Pressure, Sharing Knowledge related to the Hydraulic System, Rebuilding existing tools with available materials, Installing Autodownload VHMS on the Big Digger unit, Developing SS6 for web-based data processing. Conclusion: The implementation of the improvement plan strategy carried out at PT. AMM Site MHU went well and showed maximum results. This can be seen from the positive changes for all elements targeted for improvement (man/workers, machines and methods) which generally have an impact on reducing engine filter waste and environmental contamination due to oil leaks in the excavator unit.

Association of Major Histocompatibility Complex Polymorphism With Acute Phase Response in Broiler Chicken.

Stress associated with changes in host immunity occurs in response to altered environmental conditions, endogenous imbalances, infectious agents and harmful stimuli. The importance of genetic diversity in chickens has increased due to individual immune differences towards resistance and susceptibility to various stimuli. This study aimed to investigate the association of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) polymorphism with acute phase response (APR) in Ross 308 broiler chickens. The allelic diversity of the LEI0258 microsatellite marker was determined in 120 Ross broilers. In addition, acute phase proteins (APPs), including serum amyloid A (SAA) and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), were analysed as markers of the APR. Furthermore, leukocyte count and the heterophil/lymphocyte ratio (H/L ratio) were examined. The antibody response to the Newcastle disease vaccine (NDV) was also measured to assess humoral mediated immunity. Lastly, the correlation between immune responses and MHC alleles was investigated to identify the most effective alleles in a stress-related situation. A total of six alleles, ranging from 195 to 448bp, were identified. Association study revealed a significant influence of MHC alleles on APPs in Ross population (p<0.05). Notably, Allele 448 had a significant correlation with SAA concentration and the H/L ratio. Allele 207 displayed a positive association with AGP concentration, whereas Allele 195 showed a negative association. Furthermore, a significant association was observed between Allele 448 and basopenia, as well as between Allele 195 and monocytosis. Results confirmed the significance of MHC as a candidate gene marker for immune responses, which supports its use for vaccine design, genetic improvement of disease-resistant traits and resource conservation in commercial broiler chickens.