Drinking Water Research Articles

Assessment of the Quality of Borehole Water Collected Around Unlined Solid Waste Dumpsites within Awka Metropolis

Groundwater is an important natural resource that is essential to man and other living things. However, it can become polluted resulting from natural and anthropogenic conditions. The quality of selected groundwater samples collected from boreholes around abandoned and active dumpsites in Awka metropolis, Nigeria between January and March 2023, was assessed using water quality index (WQI) method. The samples were analyzed for their physico-chemical properties and some selected heavy metals using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The results of the physico-chemical analysis showed that the mean pH ranged from 5.75 – 6.71 in January as compared to 5.92 – 6.98 in February and 5.94 – 6.84 in March indicating slight acidity. Calcium and magnesium content ranged from 8 – 20mg/l of Ca2+ and 96 – 314 mg/l of Mg2+ ion. The concentration of heavy metals in the samples were all seen to be within the standard limits for potable water (Fe (0.057 – 2.384 ppm), Cu(0.00 – 0.185 ppm) except for mercury, lead and cadmium(Hg (0.00 – 0.248 ppm), Pb (0.00 – 0.051 ppm), Cd (0.006 – 0.39 ppm) for the month of February whereas heavy metal concentration for the month of March ranged from Fe (1.432 – 2.908 ppm), Cu (0.00 – 0.008 ppm), Hg (0.00 – 0.016 ppm), Pb (0.00 – 0.003 ppm), Cd (0.00 – 0.01ppm). Pollution Index of the sampled borehole water from the different locations shows that some were potable and can be consumed without treatment. The study shows that solid wastes contribute to the level of contamination caused by Heavy metals and some physico-chemical parameters in groundwater matrix.

Electrochemical Biosensor for Detecting both Pb2+ and Hg2+ in Human Blood

Many studies have demonstrated that lead ion ( Pb2+ ) and mercury ion ( Hg2+ ) are harmful to human health. Lead was found to accumulate in the kidney, leading to oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in the nephrons, and possess marked testicular toxicity. Mercury is well-known to produce nephrotoxicity, inflammatory responses and induce oxidative stress and apoptosis. These heavy metals can enter the human body in various ways, such as through skin or inhalation routes, or contaminated drinking water and food. But heavy metal poisoning is not easy to diagnose because existing detecting measures has many disadvantages cause them can’t widely spread. So, seeking an easy way to detect them in human blood to discover lead or mercury poisoning is an unmet need. This paper develops a new reusable biosensor for detecting both Pb2+ and Hg2+ in human blood. This work is based on the reaction between guanine and Pb2+ form of G-quadruplex and Hg2+ connect two thymines together cause the variation of electrochemical signal. The signal is magnified by methylene blue-gold nanoparticles (MB-AuNP) to increase the limit of detection Although the reuse part of sensor is still in theory, but this approach can make the cost of sensor low and create the feasibility of recycle. Overall, providing a new idea to make contributions to the prevention of heavy metal poisoning is the reason why this study is conducted.

Resilience Adaptation Through Risk Analysis for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators in the Context of the European Union Resilience Directive

To combat new threats to critical infrastructure, the European Union enacted new regulations for their member states. With the directive on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity (NIS2) and the directive on critical infrastructure resilience (EU RCE), EU member states must identify critical infrastructure (CIs) and enable measures to reduce the risk of default in stress situations. The topic of resilience in urban water systems has already been of interest in previous research. However, there are still open questions. As it is a multidisciplinary term, understanding resilience and its adaptation into management systems is not an easy task for practitioners. This study will provide an overview of resilience within the framework of municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) and show the current situation of existing implementation of safety and security regulations, taking Germany as an example. One of the main requirements of the EU RCE is a risk assessment (RA) for CIs. Until now, risk analysis for WWTP in research was mostly carried out for individual WWTP. By applying guidelines from the drinking water sector, this paper shows a possible methodology for a risk analysis. This paper aims to support practitioners by forming a common understanding of resilience and risk as well as providing an example for a risk analysis.

Irrigation Water in Northwest Syria: Impact of the Recent Crisis and Drought

This study examines how Northwest Syria’s arable and irrigated areas are changing, with a particular emphasis on processes that have affected cultivation and water availability since 2011. A substantial decline in cultivated areas is revealed by the analysis of 502 samples from various stakeholders, including farmers, well owners, well-digging companies, agricultural pharmacies, and service offices. District-specific variations show a decrease of 15.3% and 8.5% in total cultivated land and irrigated areas, respectively. Particularly in areas known for their summer vegetables and winter crops, such Al-Bab and Jebel Saman, agricultural productivity has drastically decreased since 2011. Today, 67% of irrigation comes from groundwater wells, especially in Jabal Saman and Idleb, whereas Jisr-Ash-Shugur depends on the Orontes River. Due to drought and a lack of regulatory oversight, the number of irrigation wells has risen since 2011, severely reducing water supplies and driving up irrigation prices. High fuel and electricity costs, uncontrolled well drilling, broken machinery, and insufficient irrigation systems are some of the main obstacles. A lot of well owners would rather sell drinking water, which would cut down on irrigated land and crop cultivation. The needs of the stakeholders include subsidies for fuel and electricity, the development of alternative energy, well repairs, improvements to irrigation systems, the provision of agricultural inputs, and better local water management. This study emphasizes the critical need for focused interventions to support agriculture and livelihoods in Northwest Syria and offers significant insights for sustainable water management solutions.

Measurement model of the influence of strategic management accounting on the growth of drinking water companies in South Kalimantan

This study discusses strategic human resource management in Regional Drinking Water Companies (PDAM) in South Kalimantan, focusing on operational challenges and dynamics of clean water management. This study uses quantitative methods with SEM PLS analysis to evaluate company efficiency, performance, and growth. Data were collected from four PDAMs representing various districts, covering 153 respondents. The results of the analysis show that company efficiency has a significant effect on growth, with T-Statistics 4.414 and P-Value 0.000. In addition, company performance is proven to affect efficiency (T-Statistics 8.820, P-Value 0.000) and growth (T-Statistics 2.696, P-Value 0.007). The application of strategic management accounting also contributes positively to efficiency (T-Statistics 2.670, P-Value 0.008) and growth (T-Statistics 2.605, P-Value 0.009). Mediation analysis shows that company performance and efficiency play a role in linking strategic management accounting to growth. This study provides important insights for PDAM management to implement strategic management accounting practices to improve efficiency, performance, and sustainable growth in facing challenges in the public service sector.

Effectiveness of The Culture-Based Anti-Stunting Education Package on Family Behavioral Changes in Stunting Prevention

Stunting remains a pressing global health concern, as evidenced by the prevalence of stunting in Indonesia. The Pasuruan Regency Government continues its efforts to reduce the stunting rate. Coastal areas are characterized by a relatively high incidence of stunting, which stands at 22.8%. The urgency of this research lies in the need for a change in family behavior toward stunting prevention through education optimalization in coastal areas. Stunting prevention education within the family can be summarized into the "Anti-Stunting Education Package", consisting of education on nutritious maternal food intake starting from 1000 days before childbirth, exclusive breastfeeding, adolescent health, and access to clean water. This research aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of anti-stunting education package in changing family behavior to prevent stunting in coastal areas. This was pre-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design approach. The research is conducted in coastal areas with a sample size of 30 stunting families selected through purposive sampling. The results of the research indicate that the Anti-Stunting Education Package is highly effective in improving knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral changes among mothers in supporting stunting prevention in coastal areas. This study falls under TKT 3, which demonstrates the analytical concept and experimental functions, providing stunting education through booklets with a focus on local culture to prevent stunting in coastal areas. The outcomes of this research serve as an innovation and technological development for maritime community well-being.

Fluoride exposure and risk of fractures: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis

Abstract Introduction Fluoride (F) is a widespread natural element, whose exposure occurs mostly through drinking water, fluoridated foods and use of toothpastes. At high levels, it may adversely affect human health by altering thyroid and cognitive function in children, and inducing dental and skeletal fluorosis. Since bone health significantly impacts quality of life, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of F exposure on risk of bone fractures. Methods We conducted a literature search in online databases and selected studies that were carried out in humans and reported risk estimates with 95% confidence intervals for bone fractures according to F exposure. We eventually performed a meta-analysis using a random effects model, comparing the highest versus the lowest exposure, and one-stage dose-response model, to explore the shape of the association. Results Of the 1052 potentially eligible articles, 28 were included in the quantitative analyses. Most studies were conducted in adults (n = 26) and in Western countries (North America=16, Europe=11) and assessed fluoride exposure in drinking water, urine, serum, toenail or diet. The preliminary dose-response curve showed a positive non-linear relation between F exposure through drinking water and bone fracture risk, regardless of site, starting at 1.5 mg/L. Sex-stratified analyses, based on a lower number of studies, showed similar trends, with an indication of higher susceptibility in males compared with females. Conclusions Overall, risk of bone fractures appears to non-linearly increase along with exposure to fluoride in drinking water, regardless of bone site and sex, at levels of exposure above the WHO standard and similar to those that have associated to altered thyroid and cognitive function. Under a public health perspective, fluoride in drinking water should be kept below 1.5 mg/L to prevent bone fractures. Key messages • Our analysis revealed a positive non-linear association between fluoride in drinking water and bone fracture risk. • Public Health actions should be oriented in keeping fluoride in drinking water below 1.5 mg/L to prevent bone fractures.

The Presence of Heavy Metals in Drinking Water and Its Possible Impact on the Development of Type 1 Diabetes in Children

This study aimed to determine the relationship between the concentration of heavy metals in drinking water and the number of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) cases in two regions of Poland. The number of births in 2015-16 in Pomeranian Voivodeship was 50,461, while the number of new T1DM cases was 219. In Lublin Voivodeship, the number of births in the same period reached 39,381, and the number of new T1DM cases was 221. The incidence of T1DM, calculated per 100 live births, amounted to 0.43 and 0.56 in Pomeranian and Lublin. The statistical analysis of collected data proved that the number of new T1DM cases in Pomeranian Voivodeship is correlated to the concentrations of selenium (Se; p < 0.0001), lead (Pb; p < 0.00001), cadmium (Cd; p < 0.00001), zinc (Zn; p < 0.00001) and arsenic (As; p = 0.00001). In the case of Lublin Voivodeship, the number of new T1DM cases was correlated to the concentrations of Se (p = 0.0000001), Pb (p < 0.000001), Cd (p = 0.0000001) and Zn (p < 0.00001) in drinking water. No correlation was found between the number of new T1DM cases and arsenic concentration in the drinking water samples from Lublin Voivodeship. The results indicated that environmental exposure to specific heavy metals may contribute to the risk of T1DM, underscoring the need for stringent environmental controls and public health policies to mitigate these risks.

Assessment of radioactive nuclides and heavy metals in soil and drink water in Lahij city, Yemen

This study was conducted in Lahij city, Yemen, to evaluate the concentrations and potential health risks of natural radioactive nuclides and heavy metals in soil and drinking water. A total of 21 soil samples and 17 water samples were collected from various locations. A high-purity germanium gamma detector HPGe was used to measure the concentrations of 40K, 232Th, and 226Ra in all samples, along with the concentrations of heavy metals. In soil samples, the average concentrations of 40K, 232Th, and 226Ra were 731.5, 30.7, and 28.16 Bq kg−1, respectively. While some samples showed higher than permissible levels for 226Ra and 232Th, the overall average remained within acceptable limits. However, 40K levels were almost twice the recommended global limits. In water samples, the average concentrations of these nuclides were 5.38, 0.73, and 0.66 Bq L−1, all within the global safety limits. Radiological risk assessments for soil indicated an average radium equivalent activity (Raeq) of 124.4 Bq kg−1, absorbed dose rate in air of 59.9 nGy h−1, annual effective dose rate of 0.07 mSv y−1, outdoor excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) of 0.26 × 10−3, and annual gonad equivalent dose (AGED) of 336.6 mSv y−1. Risk indices, including the activity concentration index (Iγ), external hazard index (Hex), and internal hazard index (Hin), averaged 0.48, 0.34, and 0.41, respectively, all below global limits except for AGED, which slightly exceeded the recommended level. For drinking water, the total ingestion dose was calculated for different age groups. The average doses for infants, children, and adults were 0.15, 0.27, and 0.19 mSv y−1, respectively. The doses for children and adults exceeded the permissible limits, while those for infants were within safe levels. Heavy metal concentrations were measured in all samples, and the Hazard Quotient (HQ) was calculated. In soil samples, HQ values for all metals >1, indicating potential health risks. In water samples, HQ values were also >1 for all metals except vanadium (V) and iron (Fe). To reduce the dangers associated with radioactive nuclides and heavy metals, regular monitoring and cleanup are crucial, and further research is needed to understand contamination sources and long-term health impacts.

Mercury speciation in environmental samples associated with artisanal small-scale gold mines using a novel solid-phase extraction approach to sample collection and preservation

In artisanal small-scale gold mines (ASGM), mercury (Hg) is known to pollute nearby river waters and sediments where it can be methylated to the highly bioavailable methylmercury (MeHg). The assessment of Hg speciation in water samples has been challenging for many years, with recommended procedures often not adequately allowing for analysis of samples in a suitable timeframe. Using a novel solid-phase extraction (SPE) method for sampling and preservation of Hg species, representative speciation data can be safely and easily collected and retained for up to 4-weeks (MeHg = 115 ± 8% refrigerated and 109 ± 13% unrefrigerated storage; Hg2+ = 100 ± 14% refrigerated and 94 ± 12% unrefrigerated storage). Concentrations of MeHg in environmental water samples and drinking water were below detection limit across two ASGM sites in western Kenya and concentrations of Hg2+ were below drinking water guidelines; however, drinking water sources contribute 20–30% of the tolerable weekly intake of Hg, indicating a need to minimise exposure of Hg from dietary sources to prevent Hg poisoning. Sediments from receiving rivers at ASGM sites showed total Hg concentrations above guideline limits (0.08–1.84 mg kg−1 total Hg) along the length of the river; however, MeHg concentrations fluctuated dependent on the stagnation of the river due to damns and ponds (5.9 ± 14.3 µg kg−1 MeHg). The findings show that SPE can be used as a robust sample collection and preservation approach for Hg speciation, which can better inform mitigation measures, understand ecological and human health implications, and improve environmental monitoring.

Empagliflozin treatment rescues abnormally reduced Na+ currents in ventricular cardiomyocytes from dystrophin-deficient mdx mice

Abstract Background Cardiac arrhythmias represent a major cause of death in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a devastating muscle disease caused by dystrophin deficiency. An important source for arrhythmia vulnerability in DMD patients is impaired ventricular impulse conduction, which predisposes for ventricular asynchrony, and the development of reentrant circuits. Using the dystrophin-deficient mdx mouse model for DMD, we and others previously reported that the absence of dystrophin results in a significant peak Na+ current (INa) loss both in ventricular cardiomyocytes of the working myocardium, and in Purkinje fibers, ventricular myocytes specialized for rapid electrical impulse conduction. This finding provided a mechanistic explanation for ventricular conduction defects and concomitant arrhythmias in the dystrophic heart. Purpose In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that empagliflozin (EMPA), an inhibitor of sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 in clinical use to treat type II diabetes and nondiabetic heart failure, rescues the loss of peak INa in dystrophin-deficient ventricular cardiomyocytes. Methods In a first set of experiments, we treated a cohort of mdx mice with 15 mg/kg body weight/day EMPA via the drinking water. After 4 weeks of treatment, ventricular cardiomyocytes were isolated from these mice, as well as from untreated wild-type and mdx control mice, via Langendorff heart perfusion and enzymatic digestion. Peak INa was measured using the whole cell patch clamp technique. In a second experimental approach, peak INa was compared after a 24 hour exposure of isolated mdx ventricular cardiomyocytes with 1 µM EMPA, 10 µM of the Na+-H+ exchanger 1 inhibitor cariporide, or 10 µM cariporide in combination with 1 µM EMPA. In a third set of experiments, we superfused freshly isolated mdx ventricular cardiomyocytes with 1 or 10 µM EMPA in order to examine the acute action of the drug on peak INa. Results Consistent with the literature, we found peak INa of mdx ventricular cardiomyocytes to be substantially decreased compared to wild-type. Peak INa of ventricular cardiomyocytes derived from mdx mice, which had received EMPA for 4 weeks, was restored to wild-type level. Moreover, incubation of isolated mdx ventricular cardiomyocytes with EMPA for 24 hours significantly increased their peak INa. This effect did not depend on Na+-H+ exchanger 1 inhibition by the drug. The voltage dependencies of INa activation and fast inactivation were neither modified by long-term treatment nor incubation with EMPA. Finally, acute application of EMPA did not influence peak INa. Conclusion Our findings indicate that EMPA treatment can correct abnormally reduced peak INa of dystrophin-deficient ventricular cardiomyocytes. Long-term EMPA administration may diminish arrhythmia vulnerability in DMD patients.

Cancer incidence associations with drinking water arsenic levels and disinfection methods in Maine, USA

ABSTRACT Maine is a largely rural state where nearly half of the population uses drinking water from private wells. Arsenic (As) is present in some groundwater in the state and has been linked to cancer, and a lack of testing and treatment may expose people with private wells to elevated As levels. Disinfection byproducts (DBPs) include known and suspected carcinogens that form when chlorine or chloramines are added to water. People served by public water systems may be exposed to elevated levels of regulated DBPs such as trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids associated with chlorine and/or unregulated nitrogenous DBPs, or N-DBPs, such as nitrite and N-nitrosodimethylamine associated with chloramines. Contrary to initial expectations, there were no significant associations between median town As in well water and bladder, lung, kidney, or skin cancer incidence. Furthermore, bladder, melanoma, and other skin cancer incidence rates were negatively correlated with the percent of the town population using private wells. Analysis of cancer incidence associated with chlorine and chloramine disinfection showed elevated melanoma, and other skin cancer with chloramine use and elevated bladder and non-melanoma skin cancer with chlorine use compared to the no disinfectant case. We recommend more research on the links between disinfectant use and cancer.

Main challenges and measures taken by public health institutions in response to war in Kyiv Region

Abstract Background The establishment of martial law due to Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine led to specific adjustments in the functioning of the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (СDС). The negative impact of hostilities is determined by the increased morbidity rate of communicable and non-communicable diseases, insufficient supply of safe drinking water and food to damaged sites, inadequate living conditions, etc. Objectives The purpose of the work was to create an effective system for responding to biological, chemical and radiation hazards and eliminating the consequences of an emergency situation in the realities of martial law. Methods We used the most common methods, namely descriptive, statistical, microbiological and сhemical laboratory tests. Results The activities of the CDC under martial law include daily monitoring studies of environmental objects. The epidemic situation of acute intestinal infection (AII) and other communicable diseases (CD) is constantly analyzed. The Kyiv Oblast CDC became the basic institution for the implementation of the ‘pilot project’ in the direction of sanitary and epidemic assessment and monitoring of environmetal objects in 188 de-occupied areas. The main public health risks were identified: providing the population with high-quality drinking water; low immunization rate of the population; sites for the location of internally displaced persons; natural foci of especially dangerous diseases, such as tularemia, leptospirosis, infection fevers, etc. In 2022, the overall level of CD in the Kyiv region decreased by 44.0% from 2021. The most common nosologies were acute respiratory viral infections and influenza (98.9%), AII (42.4%), tuberculosis (15.3%), Lyme disease (15.3%), and viral hepatitis (14.2%). Conclusions Based on the research conducted, mechanisms have been developed for responding to hazards of various origins by public health institutions, including risk assessmant and laboratory studies. Key messages • The main focus of the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention is aimed at effective response to hazards of various origins in order to ensure public health under martial law. • Risk assessment in de-occupied territories has become an important tool for identifying correct approaches to prevent negative consequences for public health.

Inhibition of B cell activation by Ibrutinib improves cardiac function in experimental myocardial infarction in mice

Abstract Background Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) is a key downstream mediator of B cell receptor (BCR) signaling. Upon BCR cross-linking, phosphorylated BTK modulates B cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation. Ibrutinib, which is clinically used in B-cell malignancies, irreversibly binds to the BTK kinase domain and blunts downstream BTK signaling. Purpose Here, we aimed to monitor B cell dynamics and activation in experimental myocardial infarction (MI) in mice, and evaluate the effect of B cell inhibition by Ibrutinib in cardiac function. Methods MI was induced in male 10-week-old C57BL/6 mice by permanent LAD ligation and Ibrutinib (25 mg/kg/day) was given in the drinking water. After 3, 7, 14, and 28 days, single cell suspensions were prepared for flow cytometry from peripheral blood, spleen, mediastinal lymph nodes (MLNs), and the bone marrow, as well as from the remote and infarcted myocardium. Total B cells and B cell subsets were quantified in the different locations by flow cytometry and B cell activation was monitored by BTK551 phosphorylation. After 28 days, cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography. Results We found that total B cell numbers decrease in blood and spleen, and increase in MLNs, while plasma cells and plasmablasts increased in the infarcted heart on day 7 and 14 after MI. In the bone marrow, hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) increase after MI, while common lymphoid progenitors (CLP) and early-stage B cell progenitors (pre-pro and pro B cells) peak at day 7 after MI. The later-stage B cell progenitors (pre and immature B cells) showed a biphasic response, with an early decrease after 7 days and a later increase on day 14. Compared to the control group (vehicle), Ibrutinib treatment decreased B cell numbers in MLN and spleen by 27% and 14%, respectively, as well as decreased mature B cells by 28% in the bone marrow on day 28 after MI. Both BTK expression and phosphorylation in pro-B cells were inhibited by Ibrutinib by 8% and 15%, respectively. The inhibition of BTK phosphorylation was also evident in MLNs and spleen. Notably, Ibrutinib-treated mice showed an improved cardiac function on day 28 after MI, with stroke volume (SV) elevated by 41%, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) elevated from 20% to 36% (p < 0.05), and fractional shortening (FS) elevated from 8.8% to 17.59% (p < 0.05). Conclusion Experimental MI leads to B cell lymphopoiesis in the bone marrow, mobilization into the infarcted myocardium, and activation in peripheral lymphoid organs. Ibrutinib treatment inhibits B cell development in the bone marrow, as well as B cell activation in peripheral lymphoid organs, and improves cardiac function post MI. Our data provides a meaningful insight for targeting B cells for the clinical treatment of patients with MI.Figure

Breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes and practices of HIV-positive women in Africa, a systematic review

Abstract Background Breastfeeding (BF) is essential to ensure the health and survival of children, especially in regions where diarrhoea, pneumonia and malnutrition are common causes of child mortality. The WHO currently recommends, along with antiretroviral treatment, exclusive BF (EBF) for the first six months and mixed BF for the next six months and extending it to 24 months. In sub-Saharan Africa, more than one million HIV-positive women face the challenge of infant feeding due to limited access to treatment and safe water. The aim of this study was to understand the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of HIV-positive mothers in Africa to provide evidence for public health strategies. Methods We conducted a systematic review of studies on Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of BF among HIV-exposed children in African countries, following the principles of the PRISMA statement and identified by searching major databases of records published between 2013 and 2023. Results Of the 498 articles identified, 21 met the inclusion criteria. 70% of the studies were conducted in Ethiopia, South Africa, and Kenya. 95% of the studies were conducted in health care facilities. Mothers showed good knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding EBF of HIV-exposed children, but low knowledge and fear of continuing to practice BF later on. The HIV-positive mothers mentions a range of recommendations received from health workers, identified as their main source of information. Stigma against mothers who practice EBF was found. The primary reason for early cessation of BF was due to work. Conclusions Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the infant feeding currently recommended by WHO for HIV-positive mothers was weak. There is little evidence of what happens in other African countries and in women with limited access to the health system. Public health policies need to be strengthened to ensure that health workers are trained in the current guidelines to improve HIV-positive women’s BF. Key messages • HIV-positive mothers are afraid to continue breastfeeding their babies after 6 months. • More studies about the breastfeeding practices of children of HIV-positive mothers with limited access to health services are needed.

Determinants of Acute Watery Diarrhea in Children Under Five Years: A Comprehensive Analysis

Background: Acute watery diarrhea (AWD), which has a sudden onset and is associated with a risk of severe dehydration, is primarily spread through unsafe water, poor sanitation, and inadequate hygiene. Socioeconomic factors, like low parental education and poverty, further increase risks. WHO-recommended interventions, including oral rehydration therapy, zinc supplementation, and rotavirus vaccinations, have reduced diarrhea-related deaths globally. Aim of the study: This study aims to explore the socio-demographic, environmental, and behavioral factors associated with childhood watery diarrhea, particularly in high-risk regions. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Pediatric, 250 Bedded General Hospital, Khulna, Bangladesh, with 210 children aged 0–60 months presenting acute watery diarrhea, enrolled over one year July 2023 to June 2024. Eligible children met specific inclusion criteria, while exclusion was applied to cases of chronic diarrhea or unrelated pre-existing conditions. Data confidentiality was maintained, with ethical approval granted. The analysis involved descriptive statistics in SPSS (version 26) for comprehensive result interpretation. Result: The study included 210 children under five, with a mean age of 14.51±5.34 months; most were aged 7-12 months (38.10%), and 54.29% were male. Caregivers were predominantly aged 28.39±4.11 years, with 73.81% having completed primary education. Key findings included high MMR vaccination rates (62.38%), significant exclusive breastfeeding for six months (58.57%), and recent diarrhea reports among 20.95% of caregivers. In terms of WASH practices, 60.48% used piped water, 57.62% stored drinking water separately, and 95.71% had toilet facilities. Notably, 67.14% used water only for handwashing, and 45.24% washed hands with soap post-toilet use. Conclusion: Safe water, sanitation, and handwashing practices are essential to reducing acute watery diarrhea in children under five. Children in households with untreated water and inconsistent caregiver handwashing face higher risks. Targeted public health initiatives to improve water treatment and hygiene could greatly reduce diarrhea incidence and improve child health outcomes.

Planetary health as a paradigm shift towards health and well-being

Abstract Planetary health is a concept that focuses not only on human health but wider - on the health of our planet. Health is not only a privilege of human beings. Planetary health emphasizes the interconnected nature of human health and environmental health. This also makes a shift in the direction from human anthropocentricity to a more fair approach - health of the whole planet. Human well-being is dependent on the health of the planet, including clean air, water, and food sources. Paradigm shift towards planetary health promotes a holistic view of health that encompasses social, economic, and environmental factors. It considers the complex interactions between humans, animals, plants, and ecosystems. Planetary health insists on a preventative approach by addressing root causes such as pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. We should be aware of human responsibility linked to terrible symptoms of our Planet like heat waves, fires, droughts, floods... Planetary health approaches underline the importance of sustainable practices that protect the environment, promoting human health, but also actions to achieve that. By adopting sustainable lifestyles, industries, and policies, we can ensure the well-being of current and future generations. Planetary health calls for global collaboration, interconnecting nature, environment and human health challenges. By prioritizing planetary health, we show that we can be less selfish and that we respect nature and the environment. Planetary health insists on a paradigm shift towards a more integrated and sustainable approach using social and nature sciences in a holistic approach. But, we should also use Planetary health concept as a call for peace, which is a condition for all other achievements.

“And Justice for All”: Modifying the Ninth Circuit’s <em>Feres</em> Doctrine Test to Reduce Service Member Inequity

In 1946, the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) waived what was once absolute: federal sovereign immunity for government-caused torts. Nevertheless, the Supreme Court’s Feres doctrine declines to extend the FTCA’s immunity waiver to certain tort claims of military service members. The doctrine precludes petitioners who have suffered an injury incident to their military service from bringing a negligence claim against the government. Its origins are not without controversy and modern courts often have trouble applying it in an equitable manner. In 2021, for example, the U.S. Navy negligently contaminated the drinking water supply of thousands of civilians and service members on the island of Oahu. Although recent case law applying the FTCA to drinking water-related torts indicates a willingness to allow some of these claims to proceed, that willingness has not been extended to service members due to the Feres doctrine. This Note argues that the Feres doctrine is inequitable because it excludes service members’ injuries in an overbroad manner. Further, this Note proposes a modified Feres test based on the Ninth Circuit’s interpretation of the doctrine to promote equity and applies it to the Navy’s actions on Oahu.

Evaluating manganese removal in groundwater using pilot scale biofilters: The role of filter media characteristics during start-up

This study investigated the influence of filter media characteristics on manganese (Mn) removal in groundwater biofilters during the start-up phase. Six pilot scale biofilters containing three different granular activated carbons (GAC), two anthracite, and one sand media were run for 133 days to examine their Mn removal performance at a drinking water utility, while also monitoring ATP and bacterial growth as indicators of biological activity. Key findings demonstrate the critical role of media characteristics, especially for GAC media. Initial Mn adsorption on GAC, with its higher surface area, higher macropore volume, and surface charge, promoted physicochemical and biological oxidation, thus contributing to the early onset of Mn removal during the start-up of the GAC biofilters. In contrast, biological processes dominated Mn removal on anthracite and sand biofilters during start-up. As expected, the presence of Mn-oxidizing bacteria was detected in biofilters, and ATP levels were correlated to Mn removal until the biofilters were acclimated, showing the potential of ATP as an acclimation monitoring metric. Once acclimated, all biofilters consistently reduced Mn levels from 60.9 ± 4.5 µg/L to below 5 µg/L (>90 % removal), while concurrently removing iron, thereby highlighting the biofilter's effectiveness at low water temperatures (<15 °C). This study demonstrates the advantage of GAC media for Mn removal in biofilters during start-up in regions with lower water temperatures.

Elimination of mutagenic contaminants from water using cellulose bearing ferrous-phthalocyanine

BackgroundWe previously investigated methods for separating mutagenic contaminants from aqueous solutions using cellulose-bearing covalently bound trisulfo-Cu-phthalocyanine (blue cotton and blue rayon). Mutagenic contaminants with three or more fused aromatic rings in their structures were adsorbed onto blue cotton and rayon. Since Cu-phthalocyanine is considered an unsuitable absorption ligand for byproducts of water chlorination, such as 3-chloro-4-(dichloromethyl)-5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanone (Mutagen X or MX), we investigated the development of a new material for the elimination of MX from aqueous solvents.ResultsWe selected green cellulose powder bearing ferrous phthalocyanine (FePh), hereafter referred to as green cellulose or GP, as the candidate material. GP is composed of cationized cellulose (white cellulose, WP) and FePh tetracarboxylic acid. The mutagenicity of MX dissolved in buffer or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solution significantly decreased after treatment with GP. The effects of GP on the elimination of MX from the solvent were very close to being expired after 70 cycles of repeated adsorption of the same GP, and the capacity of GP for MX removal was estimated to be exhausted after 120 cycles of repeated adsorption based on the extrapolation of the obtained result; thus, the interacting ligands on GP may be saturated after complete MX adsorption. The mutagenicity of MX dissolved in aqueous buffer significantly decreased after treatment at pH7.4 but not at pH 4.0. Since MX is dissociated to be the anionic form at pH 6 or higher, the negative charge of MX in the buffer at pH 7.4 may interact with the positive charge of ferrous ions in GP to create a linkage between MX and GP. After GP adsorbed MX, mutagenicity was extracted with water or acetonitrile and recovered in the eluent. Thus, the reversible interaction between MX and FePh may have caused adsorption of MX onto GP.ConclusionGP could be used as a new eliminator and recovery agent for MX in chlorinated drinking water. Developing new materials for the removal and recovery of agents for the detection of mutagenic contaminant-related chlorination in water is beneficial for environmental health.