Multiple Analysis Method Research Articles

Impact of Tax Knowledge, Tax Rates, Tax Payment Methods, Tax Sanctions on Taxpayer Compliance LevelsMicro Small and Medium Enterprises

The objective of this inquiry is to evaluate the impact of tax knowledge, tax rates, tax payment mechanisms, and tax sanctions on compliance among MSME taxpayers in Sumenep, Madura. The X variables consist of tax knowledge, tax rates, tax payment mechanisms and tax penalties. The Y variable is Micro Small and Medium Enterprises taxpayer compliance. The population consists of MSME taxpayers. The sampling technique used simple random sampling, and 132 sources were obtained. The data used is primary data taken using a questionnaire. This research uses a multiple linear analysis method processed with SPSS 24. The results of this research show that partially tax knowledge has a significant impact of 0.047. Tax rates have a significant effect of 0.000, tax payment mechanisms have a significant effect of 0.002 and tax penalties have a significant effect of 0.023. Meanwhile, simultaneously tax knowledge, tax rates, tax payment mechanisms, tax sanctions have a significant impact on taxpayer compliance of 0.000.

Macro-based collagen quantification and segmentation in picrosirius red-stained heart sections using light microscopy.

Picrosirius red staining constitutes an important and broadly used tool to visualize collagen and fibrosis in various tissues. Although multiple qualitative and quantitative analysis methods to evaluate fibrosis are available, many require specialized devices and software or lack objectivity and scalability. Here, we aimed to develop a versatile and powerful "QuantSeg" macro in the FIJI image processing software capable of automated, robust, and quick collagen quantification in cardiac tissue from light micrographs. To examine different patterns of fibrosis, an optional segmentation algorithm was implemented. To ensure the method's validity, we quantified the collagen content in a set of wild-type versus plakoglobin-knockout murine hearts exhibiting extensive fibrosis using both the macro and an established, fluorescence microscopy-based method, and compared results. To demonstrate the capabilities of the segmentation feature, rat hearts were examined post-myocardial infarction. We found the QuantSeg macro to robustly detect the differences in fibrosis between knockout and control hearts. In sections with low collagen content, the macro yielded more consistent results than using the fluorescence microscopy-based technique. With its wide range of output parameters, ease of use, cost effectiveness, and objectivity, the QuantSeg macro has the potential to become an established method for analysis of PSR-stained tissue. The novel segmentation feature allows for automated evaluation of different patterns of cardiac fibrosis for the first time.

Individual Tree-Level Monitoring of Pest Infestation Combining Airborne Thermal Imagery and Light Detection and Ranging

The infestation of pine shoot beetles (Tomicus spp.) in the forests of Southwestern China has inflicted serious ecological damages to the environment, causing significant economic losses. Therefore, accurate and practical approaches to detect pest infestation have become an urgent necessity to mitigate these harmful consequences. In this study, we explored the efficiency of thermal infrared (TIR) technology in capturing changes in canopy surface temperature (CST) and monitoring forest health at the scale of individual tree crowns. We combined data collected from TIR imagery and light detection and ranging (LiDAR) using unmanned airborne vehicles (UAVs) to estimate the shoot damage ratio (SDR), which is a representative parameter of the damage degree caused by forest infestation. We compared multiple machine learning methods for data analysis, including random forest (RF), partial least squares regression (PLSR), and support vector machine (SVM), to determine the optimal regression model for assessing SDR at the crown scale. Our findings showed that a combination of LiDAR metrics and CST presents the highest accuracy in estimating SDR using the RF model (R2 = 0.7914, RMSE = 15.5685). Our method enables the accurate remote monitoring of forest health and is expected to provide a novel approach for controlling pest infestation, minimizing the associated damages caused.

Study on the formation mechanism of pea protein nanofibrils and the changes of structural properties of fibril under different pH and temperature

The functional performance of plant proteins can be enhanced by converting them into nanofibrils using controlled acid-heat treatments. Initially, the impact of heating time on the morphology and properties of nanofibrils prepared from pea proteins was assessed. The pea protein nanofibrils (PPF) were formed by heating at 85 °C and pH 2.0 for different times (0–24 h). Multiple analytical methods were then used to characterize the properties of the nanofibrils, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence spectroscopy, molecular flexibility, and surface hydrophobicity. With increasing heating time, the protein molecules were gradually decomposed into small molecular weight peptides, which then assembled into nanofibrils. Initially, the length of the PPFs increased with heating time, but then it decreased, which was attributed to fibril fragmentation. In the food processing industry, pH and temperature are important factors affecting food preparation. For this reason, the effects of pH (2–9) and temperature (55, 85, 100 °C) on the properties of the nanofibrils were explored. These environmental conditions had a strong influence on the morphology and properties of PPFs. For instance, their flexibility increased with increasing pH, whereas their surface hydrophobicity decreased with increasing pH and temperature. Moreover, their charge went from positive to negative as the pH was ascended from below to above their isoelectric point. The findings of the structural properties of protein nanofibrils could provide some new insights into the wider application of nanofibrils in the food industry.

Rho GTPase-activating protein 4 is upregulated in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma and associated with poor prognosis and immune infiltration.

Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma (KIRC) is a malignant tumor that seriously threatens human health. Rho GTPase-activating protein 4 (ARHGAP4) plays an important role in the occurrence and development of tumors. The purpose of this study was to explore the role of ARHGAP4 in the progression of KIRC and its diagnostic and prognostic value. Multiple analytical methods and in vitro cell assays were used to explore the expression of ARHGAP4 and its value in the progression, diagnosis and prognosis of KIRC. The biological function of ARHGAP4 was studied by GO analysis and KEGG pathway analysis, and then the relationship between ARHGAP4 and immune infiltration was analyzed. The expression of ARHGAP4 was significantly up-regulated in KIRC. We found that the high expression of ARHGAP4 was related to the progression of KIRC and suggested a poor prognosis. Compared with normal tissues, ARHGAP4 had a better diagnostic value in KIRC. The biological function of ARHGAP4 was related to immunity, and its expression was also closely related to tumor immune infiltration and immune checkpoints. Our study demonstrated that ARHGAP4 may be a biomarker, which is related to the progression, diagnosis and prognosis of KIRC. Its biological functions are related to tumor immune infiltration.

Surface Markers for the Identification of Cancer Stem Cells.

Cancer stem cells have genetic and functional characteristics which can turn them resistant to standard cancer therapeutic targets. Identification of these cells is challenging and is done mainly by detecting the expression of antigens specific to stem cells. Currently, there is a significant number of surface markers available which can detect cancer stem cells by directly targeting the specific antigens present in cells. These markers possess differential expression patterns and sub-localizations in cancer stem cells compared to nonneoplastic and somatic cells. In addition to these biomarkers, multiple analytical methods and techniques, including functional assays, cell sorting, filtration approaches, and xenotransplantation methods, are used to identify cancer stem cells. This chapter will overview the functional significance of cancer stem cells, their biological correlations, specific markers, and detection methods.

Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) Model: Factors Influencing Mobile Banking Services’ Adoption in China

This study uses a modified UTAUT model to examine behavioral factors influencing mobile banking services’ (MBS) adoption in China. Despite the abundance of smart mobile phones, the uptake of mobile banking among the population remains low. To address this issue, this study integrates four variables—perceived financial cost, awareness, technology infrastructure support, and government regulations—into the UTAUT framework to explore their impact on driving the adoption of MBS. Based on convenient sampling techniques, it uses 567 valid responses collected through a self-administered questionnaire and applies multiple regression analysis methods for data analysis using SPSS-26 software. Results indicate that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, perceived financial cost, and awareness are significant drivers of behavioral intention to use MBS in China. Technological infrastructure support positively influences performance expectancy, and individuals’ intent to use and adopt MBS in China. Government support significantly drives the individual’s behavioral intention to use and adopt MBS. Furthermore, behavioral intention to use MBS significantly predicts its adoption in China. The practical and academic ramifications of MBS on the growth and development of sustainable mobile banking systems are presented.

Identifying artifacts in EDS of fouled RO membranes through Raman and ICP-MS analysis

Fouled reverse osmosis (RO) membranes, primarily characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (SEM-EDS), face several limitations including spectral inaccuracies and misidentification of elements caused by automatic peak assessment software. This work addresses the latter by analyzing fouled polyamide membranes from community RO plants of Rajasthan treating brackish groundwater. Initially, EDS analysis revealed unexpected elements including Sc, Ti, V, and Cr, alongside anticipated foulants like Ca, Mg, Al, Si, Fe, and Mn. However, upon manual reassessment guided by spectral libraries and elemental likelihood, the peaks originally identified by the software as Sc, Ti, and V were reattributed to Ca and Ba, emphasizing the importance of careful peak assignment. Further, Raman spectroscopy of the same membranes detected calcite, dolomite, and molybdenum-bearing minerals. A peak initially assigned to Mo by the software was reinterpreted as interlayer carbonate, supported by literature on hydrotalcite structures. Subsequent ICP-MS analysis of the deposited salts showed that both Sc and Mo were below the detectable threshold, validating the reassessed findings. This study underscores the challenges of accurately identifying the inorganic scales to develop the right descaling approach by emphasizing the importance of integrating multiple analytical methods for comprehensive analysis and effective membrane cleaning solutions.

WORKLOAD ALLOCATION AND SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS’ RETENTION AT CHAMWINO DISTRICT, TANZANIA

The study sought to assess the influence of workload allocation on teachers’ job retention in Cham-wino District Council of Tanzania. A cross-sectional research design was used with a quantitative research approach. The study used a sample size of 192 respondents selected using simple random sampling. The study involved a questionnaire as the main method of data collection. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analytical methods. The study found that, work-load allocation in terms of class size and administrative duties were negative and insignificantly related to teachers’ job retention. However, number of teaching hours and number of preparatory hours were positive and significantly related to teachers’ job retention (p-value <0.05). The study concludes that class size and administrative duties were the workload allocation factors that negatively affecting teacher job retention while number of teaching hours and number of preparatory hours were positively affecting teachers’ job retention in rural areas at public secondary schools in Chamwino district council of Tan-zania. Therefore, the study recommends that, reducing workload by hiring more staff and incorporating teaching assistants will enhance teachers’ retention.

Genetic liability of gut microbiota for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung function: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study.

The microbiota-gut-lung axis has elucidated a potential association between gut microbiota and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, there is a paucity of population-level studies with providing robust evidence for establishing causality. This two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis aimed to investigate the causal relationship between the gut microbiota and IPF as well as lung function. Adhering to Mendel's principle of inheritance, this MR analysis utilized summary-level data from respective genome-wide association studies (GWAS) involving 211 gut microbial taxa, IPF, and lung function indicators such as FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC. A bidirectional two-sample MR design was employed, utilizing multiple MR analysis methods, including inverse variance-weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger, and weighted mode. Multivariable MR (MVMR) was used to uncover mediating factors connecting the exposure and outcome. Additionally, comprehensive sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure the robustness of the results. The MR results confirmed four taxa were found causally associated with the risk of IPF. Order Bifidobacteriales (OR=0.773, 95% CI: 0.610-0.979, p=0.033), Family Bifidobacteriaceae (OR=0.773, 95% CI: 0.610-0.979, p=0.033), and Genus RuminococcaceaeUCG009 (OR=0.793, 95% CI: 0.652-0.965, p=0.020) exerted protective effects on IPF, while Genus Coprococcus2 (OR=1.349, 95% CI: 1.021-1.783, p=0.035) promote the development of IPF. Several taxa were causally associated with lung function, with those in Class Deltaproteobacteria, Order Desulfovibrionales, Family Desulfovibrionaceae, Class Verrucomicrobiae, Order Verrucomicrobiales and Family Verrucomicrobiaceae being the most prominent beneficial microbiota, while those in Family Lachnospiraceae, Genus Oscillospira, and Genus Parasutterella were associated with impaired lung function. As for the reverse analysis, MR results confirmed the effects of FEV1 and FVC on the increased abundance of six taxa (Phylum Actinobacteria, Class Actinobacteria, Order Bifidobacteriales, Family Bifidobacteriaceae, Genus Bifidobacterium, and Genus Ruminiclostridium9) with a boosted level of evidence. MVMR suggested monounsaturated fatty acids, total fatty acids, saturated fatty acids, and ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to total fatty acids as potential mediating factors in the genetic association between gut microbiota and IPF. The current study suggested the casual effects of the specific gut microbes on the risk of IPF and lung function. In turn, lung function also exerted a positive role in some gut microbes. A reasonable dietary intake of lipid substances has a certain protective effect against the occurrence and progression of IPF. This study provides novel insights into the potential role of gut microbiota in IPF and indicates a possible gut microbiota-mediated mechanism for the prevention of IPF.

Elucidation of protein-ligand interactions by multiple trajectory analysis methods.

The identification of interaction between protein and ligand including binding positions and strength plays a critical role in drug discovery. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) techniques have been widely applied to predict binding positions and binding affinity. However, there are few works that describe the systematic exploration of the MD trajectory evolution in this context, potentially leaving out important information. To address the problem, we build a framework, Moira (molecular dynamics trajectory analysis), which enables automating the whole process ranging from docking, MD simulations and various analyses as well as visualizations. We utilized Moira to analyze 400 MD simulations in terms of their geometric features (root mean square deviation and protein-ligand interaction profiler) and energetics (molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area) for these trajectories. Finally, we demonstrate the performance of different analysis techniques in distinguishing native poses among four poses.

Proposal of an innovative MCDA evaluation methodology: knowledge discovery through rank reversal, standard deviation, and relationship with stock return

Financial performance analysis is of vital importance those involved in a business (e.g., shareholders, creditors, partners, and company managers). An accurate and appropriate performance measurement is critical for decision-makers to achieve efficient results. Integrated performance measurement, by its nature, consists of multiple criteria with different levels of importance. Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) methods have become increasingly popular for solving complex problems, especially over the last two decades. There are different evaluation methodologies in the literature for selecting the most appropriate one among over 200 MCDA methods. This study comprehensively analyzed 41 companies traded on the Borsa Istanbul Corporate Governance Index for 10 quarters using SWARA, CRITIC, and SD integrated with eight different MCDA method algorithms to determine the position of Turkey's most transparent companies in terms of financial performance. In this study, we propose "stock returns" as a benchmark in comparing and evaluating MCDA methods. Moreover, we calculate the "rank reversal performance of MCDA methods". Finally, we performed a "standard deviation" analysis to identify the objective and characteristic trends for each method. Interestingly, all these innovative comparison procedures suggest that PROMETHEE II (preference ranking organization method for enrichment of evaluations II) and FUCA (Faire Un Choix Adéquat) are the most suitable MCDA methods. In other words, these methods produce a higher correlation with share price; they have fewer rank reversal problems, the distribution of scores they produce is wider, and the amount of information is higher. Thus, it can be said that these advantages make them preferable. The results show that this innovative methodological procedure based on 'knowledge discovery' is verifiable, robust and efficient when choosing the MCDA method.

A reliable quantification of organophosphorus pesticides in brown rice samples for proficiency testing using Japanese official analytical method, QuEChERS, and modified QuEChERS combined with isotope dilution mass spectrometry.

The objective of the present study is to provide reliable concentration values as assigned values for target pesticides in brown rice samples used in proficiency testing (PT) organized by the Hatano Research Institute (HRI). The test samples for PT were prepared by immersing brown rice in the pesticide solution and using a spray dryer by the HRI. Homogeneity and stability assessments were performed for PT samples, and the relative uncertainties due to inhomogeneity and instability were 0.58 %-0.78 % and 0 %-0.96 %, respectively. Quantification for the assigned values of target pesticides by the National Metrology Institute of Japan (NMIJ) was carried out using the multiple analytical methods including Japanese official analytical method, QuEChERS, and modified QuEChERS, which were combined with isotope dilution mass spectrometry, to ensure the reliability of the analytical results. The NMIJ assigned values were 0.065±0.004 mg/kg for chlorpyrifos, 0.217±0.012 mg/kg for diazinon, 0.138±0.008 mg/kg for fenitrothion, and 0.138±0.008 mg/kg for malathion.

Lower-ionosphere anomalies prior to strong earthquakes that occurred in north-central mainland Greece on March 2021 as revealed by multi-method analysis of VLF sub-ionospheric propagation data

In this work we present the multi-method analysis of very low frequency (VLF) data, acquired by the radio receiver with call name UWA, located in Athens (Greece), in the University of West Attica, focusing on two strong ( ) earthquakes (EQs) that occurred in north-central mainland Greece sequentially, on 3 and 4 March 2021, with very close epicenters. Specifically, we used the data acquired from seven VLF transmitters located in Europe, North/North-West to UWA, and their propagation paths include the specific EQs epicenters. We analyzed these data using multiple analysis methods in order to investigate for possible EQ-related anomalies, taking also into account all the other possibly ionosphere-influencing extreme events that occurred during the studied period. Especially, we applied the “nighttime fluctuation method” (NFM), as well as, the “terminator time method” (TTM) in order to reveal any statistical anomaly in the nighttime amplitude recordings of VLF sub-ionospheric propagation data within 15 days before each one examined EQs. Also, we calculated the scalogram (wavelet power spectrum over time) using Morlet mother wavelet of the same nighttime data searching for possible imprints of wave-like structures during the same time period. In terms of criticality analysis, first we applied the “natural time” (NT) analysis method to the daily-valued NFM VLF propagation quantities, and subsequently applied the “method of critical fluctuations” (MCF) to the raw nighttime amplitude VLF recordings, to check for any criticality signatures up to two weeks before the examined EQs. Taking into account all the above-mentioned analysis results, we conclude that there are multiple indications that the lower ionosphere was indeed disturbed due to the preparation processes of the above-mentioned EQs, offering different types of seismogenic indications.

Freedom of choice contrasted with course ownership – students’ and academic staff’s understanding of learner autonomy in a select engineering school

ABSTRACT Discussion of learner autonomy has often been led by educationalists and policy makers. How do learners interpret the notion? This question, as well as addressing how students’ understandings compared to those of their instructors’ were the questions that the research sought to answer. The research undertook to explore the notion of the autonomous learner as understood by 115 students and 49 instructors at a select French higher education engineering school. Data was collected using open-ended questions and analysed using triangulation to reduce systemic bias via multiple qualitative data analysis methods. Four themes emerged from the analysis. Analyses pointed to similarities and to differences in the ways students and instructors understood the meaning of learner autonomy. Divergent perspectives that students and instructors had revealed that students were more concerned with their ability to compose their curricular programme and choose means to attain objectives. Instructors, on the other hand, were concerned with students’ course subject ownership. Recommendations to bridge understandings and help form a shared vision of goals when speaking of learner autonomy are presented.

Analisis efektivitas kerja karyawan PT PLN (Persero) dipengaruhi oleh kedisiplinan kerja dan lingkungan kerja

This study aims to analyze the influence of work discipline and work environment on the effectiveness of PT PLN (Persero) employees. The research method used is a quantitative correlational method. The sample was selected using the incidental sampling technique with 100 employees as respondents. Data collection using a Likert scale questionnaire via Google Form. The analysis method used is the multiple statistical analysis method. The results of this study indicate that work discipline and work environment simultaneously have a positive and significant influence on work effectiveness. It can be concluded that if work discipline and work environment increase, work effectiveness will also increase.

Analysis of Determining Service Center Systems towards the Development of The Eastern Part of Medan City

The issues in the research area include a high concentration of built-up residential areas with the potential for slums and warehousing activities dominating trade and service areas or residential areas, leading to congestion. This requires attention, considering that the Eastern Part of Medan City has a high built-up area, necessitating the provision of affordable infrastructure and basic services for both newcomers and existing residents in the city. Several development theories and concepts can assist in determining and conceptualizing development in the research area. The study focuses on examining the Sub-Central Service System of the City as a center serving sub-urban areas. Various methods are used in determining service centers, including the scalogram method, Marshall's centrality index, and rank-size rule, which will ultimately provide recommendations for the central service system. After issuing recommendations from these three analyses, the determination of the existing urban internal structure is conducted using a scoring method to identify the central service location. Calculations from multiple service center analysis methods are scored and summed to obtain a total score. The neighborhood with the smallest score has the highest hierarchy value, and vice versa. It is revealed that the Sub-Central Service System is present in all sub-districts in the Eastern Part of Medan City, meaning each sub-district in each neighborhood already has comprehensive facilities. Consequently, the four sub-districts in the Eastern Part of Medan City have the potential for development as they meet service needs and can be directed to become service centers serving their respective sub-districts.

Selenium in Photochemical Vapor Generation: Mechanism Study and Potential Nonchromatographic Speciation Analysis.

The mechanism of selenium in the UV photochemical vapor generation (PVG) process was investigated by the use of multiple analytical methods. It was found that the UV-induced photooxidation trapping of the generated volatile SeH2 should be responsible for the previous opinion of relative inertness of Se(VI) in PVG with formic acid. Furthermore, the formation of Se(IV) was found during the PVG process, and the comproportionation of Se(IV) with SeH2 and the photooxidation of Se(IV) into Se(VI) were investigated. Then, a preliminary model was proposed for the PVG process of Se(VI) and Se(IV) with low-molecular-weight organic acids. Then, a novel, simple, and green photocontrolled method without any photocatalyst was thus proposed for the nonchromatographic speciation analysis of Se(IV) and Se(VI), with a limit of detection of 0.2 and 5 ng/mL, respectively.

Pengaruh Pengembangan Karir dan Kompensasi Terhadap Kepuasan Kerja Karyawan

Job satisfaction is a crucial factor to be considered in the management and empowerment of human resources within a company. This research aims to achieve the following objectives: (1) Determine the impact of career development on employee job satisfaction at PT Putmasari Perkasa Semarang. (2) Assess the influence of compensation on employee job satisfaction at PT Putmasari Perkasa Semarang. (3) Examine the combined impact of career development and compensation on employee job satisfaction at PT Putmasari Perkasa Semarang. Descriptive analysis is employed in this research, utilizing the multiple linear analysis method. The SPSS program is utilized for data processing and analysis. A quantitative descriptive research method is applied, where variables are measured using a Likert scale. Data collection involves the distribution of questionnaires to respondents, who are employees of PT Putmasari Perkasa Semarang. The findings of this research indicate that: (1) Career development significantly and positively influences employee job satisfaction at PT Putmasari Perkasa Semarang, with a significance level of 0.000 < 0.05. (2) Compensation also has a positive and significant impact on employee job satisfaction at PT Putmasari Perkasa Semarang, with a significance level of 0.000 < 0.05. (3) The combined influence of career development and compensation significantly affects employee job satisfaction at PT Putmasari Perkasa Semarang, with a significance level of 0.000 < 0.05.

A Dynamic Multiple Reaction Monitoring Analytical Method for the Determination of Fungicide Residues in Drinking Water

The extensive use of fungicides causes their continuous release into the environment through spraying, soil seepage, leaching, and runoff. It has been observed that their residues can be found in foods and a variety of environmental compartments, such as wastewater, lakes, rivers, sediments, drinking water sources (groundwater and surface water), treated water, and drinking water. A sensitive GC-MS/MS, using dynamic multiple reaction monitoring, an analytical method was developed to determine 10 fungicides (azoxystrobin, boscalid, captan, cyproconazole, cyprodinil, hexaconazole, metalaxyl, myclobutanil, paclobutrazol, and prochloraz) in drinking water. A solid-phase extraction method for sample preparations and validations was performed according to SANTE 2019 guidelines. All fungicides demonstrated mild or medium matrix effects (ME) ranging from 40.1% to 11.2%. Their recoveries ranged between 60% and 110%. The limits of detection were equal to or higher than 0.01 μg/L. The method was employed on 18 drinking water samples collected from public taps in Northern Evros, Greece, distributed in six sampling sites. Azoxystrobin, boscalid, cyproconazole, cypronidil, metalaxyl, and paclobutrazol mean concentrations did not surpass the allowable limit of 0.1 μg/L set by EU in any sampling site. Hexaconazole mean concentrations were higher than 0.1 μg/L in one sampling site, while prochloraz mean concentration showed limit exceedances in all sampling sites. Captan was not detected in any sampling site, and myclobutanil mean concentrations demonstrated exceedances of the permissible limit in four sampling sites. The presence of fungicide residues in the studied area is mainly due to the occasional point-sources pollution and preferential flow. Additionally, through the use of water, the risk of pesticides to human health was assessed for two different age groups. The sum of the hazard quotient values in each of the studied drinking water was less than unity. Consequently, the acute risk assessment procedure regards the examined drinking water as safe. Nevertheless, as prochloraz carcinogenic risk values were higher than the safe limit suggested by USEPA for both age groups, the existence of prochloraz residues raises concerns about chronic toxicity.