Offensive Odor Research Articles

Innovative use of Biomagic-Enzyme complex for pig farm odor reduction, harmful bacteria inhibition, and immune enhancement

The global increase in livestock production has correspondingly intensified farm odors due to harmful bacteria, reduced immunity, and disease progression. In this study, we treated feces with Biomagic-Enzyme complex for 4 months to understand the relationship between farm odor, immunity against common viral diseases, immune cytokines, and changes in the microbiota. A gas meter (MultiRAE) was used to measure ammonia (NH3) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) while odor intensity and offensiveness were characterized by the non-objective scaling method. A complete blood count was performed and plasma was obtained after blood centrifugation at 3,000 rpm for 20 minutes. The cytokine profile was evaluated using commercial kits. Microbial DNA was extracted and purified from fecal samples to analyze the microbiota. Microbial DNA and viral RNA/DNA were obtained from fecal samples and amplified to determine the expression of transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), and porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2). Our results indicated that Biomagic reduced odor nuisance by decreasing ammonia levels, resulting in faint and fairly offensive odor intensity. After the enzyme treatment, Escherichia coli populations significantly reduced across all 3 farms. In contrast, beneficial Lactobacillus spp. levels remained stable, indicating the enzyme selectively targeted harmful bacteria while preserving beneficial ones. The beneficial Lachnospiraceae, Spirochaetaceae, and Bacteroidaceae were found to be higher in the third month of treatment. TGEV was not detected, while PRRS and non-pathogenic PCV2 showed a positive infection rate. In conclusion, Biomagic reduced ammonia, prevented viral infection from pig farms, and improved gut-beneficial bacteria and microbiota.

Development of odorless cassava-based ‘fufu’ with mixed starter cultures through a fermentation process and characterization of its functional, chemical properties and sensory qualities

The quest for satiable odourless ‘fufu’ meal as a substitute to ‘garri’ or change in meal have been the request of researchers. ‘Fufu’ is starchy based food with objectionable odour released during fermentation as a result of activities of some microbial metabolites. It is highly desirable dough meal but limited by the undesirable and offensive odour made from the cassava mash. Therefore, this research aimed at studying the development and assessment of odourless ‘fufu’ alongside its chemical composition and sensory quality. Freshly harvested cassava roots were peeled washed and cleaned, and cut into three sections. A portion was simply grated without inoculum (CW). A section was grated, blanched for 15 min at 65 °C, and added with the six (6) groups of pure isolates. They were Bacteria (BA), Yeast & Bacteria (BY), Yeast (YA), Mould & Bacteria (BM), Yeast & Mould (MY), and Mould (MA). The final quantity was chopped into 3 to 4 cm length, immersed in sterile water (SW) to make eight samples. The samples were allowed to ferment for 72 h. The samples were made into ‘fufu’. The physicochemical values were evaluated. There was steady increase in microbial load in all the media used during the fermentation period, having population of LAB (Lactic Acid Bacteria) being the most highest load (1.93 × 107 cfu/g) that contributed to the acidification of the ‘fufu’ within 72 h of fermentation. The bulk density, swelling index, oil & water absorption capacities rise from 0.588 gm3 to 0.769 ml, 0.1 to 2.2 ml, 125% to 214% and 300 to 580%. The ‘fufu’ whiteness of the samples were affected by starter cultures in samples MY (59%) and MA (68.2%). Pasting characteristics favours samples CW, BA, BY and YA. The sensory qualities of the samples MY and MA had least acceptance.

Visible-Light Driven Gas Phase Hydrogen Sulfide Degeneration Using g-C3N4 Hybrid Photocatalysts and Its Countermeasures of Catalytic Poisoning

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a toxic gas generated by chemical plants and geothermal power plants, with a rotten-egg bad odor. High concentration of H2S are lethal, and even concentrations as low as 2 ppm are known to cause adverse effects, such as nausea, eye tearing, and headaches. Also, continuous exposure to H2S causes diseases, for example nervous, sensory, and circulatory systems.In Japan, the Offensive Odor Control Law standards for output concentration of H2S and such bad-odor gas is below 0.2 ppm. However, it is reported that 50% of humans can smell H2S at a concentration of 8 ppb, thus it is difficult to prevent an odor problem simply by complying with the legal regulations. The Claus method that is known as a treatment of H2S gas conversion with oxygen under high temperature and high pressure conditions to obtain molten sulfur requires a high H2S concentration (approximately 25%) in the feed and does not achieve complete removal, resulting in H2S emissions of approximately 100 ppm, which is unsuitable for fundamental odor control.Photocatalytic environmental remediation is an effective technology currently under extensive investigation. There are several studies of gas-phase H2S decomposition using titanium dioxide (TiO2), however most of them involve decomposition as a sacrificial reagent after alkaline adsorption, or gas-phase decomposition under relatively high concentration conditions of 100 ppm or more. [1] Although hydrogen sulfide decomposition by TiO2 under low concentration conditions has been reported [2], hydrogen sulfide is decomposed by irradiation of UV light because TiO2 is not responsive to visible light.In this study, hybrid photocatalysts were prepared with the aim of realizing low-concentration hydrogen sulfide gas-phase decomposition under visible light. By combining carbon nitride (g-C3N4), which is responsive to visible light and has a large specific surface area, with metal sulfide photocatalysts, the g-C3N4/CdS catalyst scored to treat 10 ppm of H2S gas to less than 1 ppm. The effectivity of these photocatalysts was higher than the one of the titanium oxide irradiated UV light, and it is considered that the hybrid photocatalysts’ effectivity was promoted by combination of heterojunctional photocatalysts, and its H2S adsorption performance.Whereas the outlet H2S concentration was increased over time, it was around 3 ppm after 3 h H2S injection. This phenomenon was confirmed for all catalysts in the result, but their gradients varied from catalyst to catalyst. In this study we investigated the catalytic “Poisoning” effect, which is also known as problem of precious metal catalysts, and to prevent the reduction of activity we implemented post treatment and catalytic cycle. The g-C3N4/Mo catalyst was found to be almost unaffected by sulfuric poisoning, with scoring to treat 10 ppm of H2S to nearly 1 ppm. Analyzing the performance of each catalyst evaluated in this study and the effects of poisoning could solve the odor problem in actual H2S emission plants, as well as improve the efficiency of photocatalysis in the gas phase.

Advancements in synergistic fermentation of probiotics and enzymes for non‐grain feed raw materials

AbstractTo address the escalating challenge of food scarcity and the associated conflicts between human and animal consumption, it is imperative to seek alternative resources that can substitute for traditional feed. Non‐grain feed (NGF) raw materials represent a category of biomass resources that are distinct from grains in their composition. These materials are characterized by their high nutritional content, cost‐effectiveness, ample availability, and consistent supply, which contribute to their significant economic potential. Nonetheless, the extensive application of NGF is currently hindered by several limitations, including a high concentration of antinutritional factors, suboptimal palatability, and an offensive odor, among other shortcomings. The synergistic fermentation of probiotics and enzymes (SFPE) is an innovative approach that integrates the use of a diverse array of enzymes during the feed fermentation process, as well as various strains of probiotics throughout the feed digestion process. This method aims to enhance the nutritional value of the feed, diminish the presence of antinutritional factors, and improve the overall palatability, thereby facilitating the optimal utilization of NGF. This strategy holds the promise of not only replacing conventional feed options but also mitigating the pressing issue of grain scarcity. This paper delves into the practical applications of NGF and presents an overview of the latest research advancements in SFPE fermentation techniques, which can provide cutting‐edge and valuable reference for researchers who devote themselves to research in this field in the future.

Internet of Things-Based Home Trash Capacity Tracking System with Instant Notifications

Garbage created from routine household activities is collected and stored in household garbage cans. Location This garbage makes rubbish collection easier to live in and helps to maintain a clean household environment. Household garbage cans are often designed to fit specific demands and feature a tight-fitting cover to keep sickness and animals out and to minimize unwanted odors. The layout To stop the spread of bacteria or fungus, something must be easy to clean. Lack of technology to monitor garbage bin fullness and inability to precisely monitor fill capacity, which can lead to trash overflow, offensive odors, and animal nuisances. Thus, volume sensorization techniques and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies are the answers to this challenge. To enable real-time waste capacity volume monitoring and to give users level information about trash charging through the Blynk platform, the system will deliver When the garbage can is full, an alarm sensor-equipped warning will ring. The Arduino IDE and the C programming language are the software used. The findings of the study demonstrate that the garbage can capacity monitoring system The information about waste filling levels that are provided in real-time by this IoT-based system is effective. By using this approach, homeowners can easily keep a clean and healthy home environment by knowing when it's time to remove the trash.

Prevalence and Factors Related to High Risk of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity among Japanese High School Students.

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) onset in minors can greatly impact learning and future employment. This study investigated the prevalence of MCS and related factors in high school students to determine whether it was the same as in adults. A comprehensive survey was conducted on 80 high schools in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. The survey incorporated the Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory, as well as items related to allergies, the living environment, and lifestyle. Of the 4630 students analyzed, according to Hojo's cut-off value, 9.0% were classified as high-risk for MCS and 77.9% reported some allergy-like symptoms. Significant factors associated with elevated MCS risk included female sex, having various allergic conditions, having experienced living in a new home or home renovations or extensions, proximity to environmental stressors (freeways, national highway, factories, rubbish dumps, or sources of offensive odors), insufficient physical activity (exercising less than once a week outside of physical education classes), having cold hands and feet, being fatigued, having a bedtime earlier than 11 p.m., and having moderate-frequent subjective stress. Overall, 9.0% of high school students in Japan are at high risk for MCS. Enhancing awareness of MCS-like symptoms and addressing allergies, living environments, and lifestyle habits may mitigate these symptoms.

Preharvest CaCl2-HCl electrolyzed water treatment maintained the quality of broccoli sprouts during storage

A new electrolyzed water-CaCl2-HCl electrolyzed water (CHEW) was obtained by combining slightly acidic electrolyzed water and calcium. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of preharvest CHEW treatment on the quality during storage of broccoli sprouts. Preharvest CHEW treatment not only reduced the electrolyte leakage, reactive oxygen species, weight loss and the number of microorganisms during storage of broccoli sprouts, but also slowed down the breakdown of cell structure and maintained color and textural properties of broccoli sprouts. Besides, preharvest CHEW treatment reduced the degradation of active substances in broccoli sprouts during storage. The contents of important bioactive compounds in broccoli sprouts–glucoraphanin and sulforaphane, along with the enzymatic activity and genes involved in glucosinolates metabolism have also been further investigated. On day 12 of storage, compared to preharvest tap water treatment, the contents of glucoraphanin and sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts with preharvest CHEW treatment increased by 63% and 128%, respectively. Meanwhile, the generation of offensive odors in broccoli sprouts during storage was also inhibited under preharvest CHEW treatment. In general, preharvest CHEW treatment maintained the good quality during storage and prolong the shelf life of broccoli sprouts, which provides a new perspective for postharvest preservation of broccoli sprouts.

Ayurvedic Management Of Sheetada With Special Reference To Gingivitis

Sheetada is one of the common problems of Dantamoola which is portrayed by the Raktasrava (Bleeding gum), Durghandha (halitosis), Krushnta (Discolouration of gums), Kledata (Excessive dischargre) Mruduta (Softnes of gums), Sheernata (gum downturn). It very well may be associated by Gingivitis. Gingivitis is caused mainly by the accumulation of debris, plaque, and calculus at the tooth margin, due to neglect of oral care . Among all periodontal disease Sheetada is an early stage of periodontal disease. It is caused by vitiated Kapha and Rakta which produces spontaneous bleeding from dark, slimy and soft gums with offensive odour and gum recession. In present study we have discussed a case of 52 year old female patient came to our OPD with chief complaints of foul smell from mouth,bleeding from gums on brushing,pain and swollen gums from last 6 months. This case was intervened with Dantamoola shodhana(dental scaling) followed by Pratisarana with Kushtadi Churna and Gandoosha with Lakshadi Taila.These intervention showed a potential improvement in the management of Sheetada.

Pelatihan Pemanfaatan Limbah Organik dari Buah-buahan dan Sayuran Sebagai Bahan Baku Pembuatan Eco Enzyme

People have a significant need to consume fruits in daily life. Overall, the pulp of the fruit is the only part that is utilized; thus far, fruit rind is rarely utilized and is merely wasted. Similarly, whenever it relates to vegetables, only the desirable sections are picked; the tougher sections, such as the stems, are usually eliminated. Potential raw materials for the production of eco enzyme (which can be used as liquid organic fertilizer) abounds in the profusion of fruit and vegetable waste. Typically, organic waste is neglected, resulting in an offensive odor that affects the environment's cleanliness and may pose health risks. In an attempt to mitigate the adverse effects caused by organic waste, alternative raw materials for the production of liquid organic fertilizer and eco-enzymes may be derived from fruit and vegetable peel waste. The production process of eco enzyme commences with the segregation of organic waste, which will serve as its main material. Subsequently, blend the components in the suggested proportions (1 part sugar/molasses to 3 parts organic matter to 10 parts water). Three months after the mixture is complete, eco-enzymes may be harvested. The collaborators of this community service endeavor consist of housewives, beverage vendors, and organic waste-focused community organizations. Encouraging economic and social autonomy in the community is the objective of this Community Service Program activity, to educate and raise awareness among the general public regarding the proper disposal of organic garbage in order to create a more sanitary and habitable environment and a greener planet, enhance both soft and physical skills while fostering greater social harmony and comfort.

Simultaneous biofiltration of H2S, NH3, and toluene using compost made of chicken manure and sugarcane bagasse as packing material.

Offensive odors from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) are caused by volatile inorganic compounds such as hydrogen sulfide and ammonia and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as toluene. To treat these pollutants, biofiltration is an effective and economical technology used worldwide due to its low investment and environmental impact. In this work, a laboratory-scale prototype biofilter unit for the simultaneous biofiltration of hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and toluene was evaluated by simulating the emission concentrations of the El Salitre WWTP Bogotá, Colombia, using a compost of chicken manure and sugarcane bagasse as packing material for the biofilter. The prototype biofilter unit was set to an operation flow rate of 0.089 m3/h, an empty bed residence time (EBRT) of 60 s, and a volume of 0.007 m3 (6.6 L). The maximum removal efficiency were 96.9 ± 1.2%for H2S, at a loading rate of 4.7 g/m3 h and a concentration of 79.1 mg/m3, 68 ± 2% for NH3, at a loading rate of 1.2 g/m3 h and a concentration of 2.0 mg/m3, and 71.5 ± 4.0%for toluene, at a loading rate of 1.32 g/m3h and a concentration of 2.3 mg/m3. The removal efficiency of the three compounds decreased when the toluene concentration was increased above 40 mg/m3. However, a recovery of the system was observed after reducing the toluene concentration and after 7 days of inactivity, indicating an inhibitory effect of toluene. These results demonstrate the potential use of the prototype biofilter unit for odor treatment in a WWTP.

Evaluation of Elnady preserved tissues as a teaching aid for undergraduate animal science courses

Abstract The use of tissue specimens for undergraduate instruction is a very valuable tool. However, fresh tissue specimens are not always available and many common preservation techniques can result in discoloration, offensive odors, and/or dangerous chemical residues. The Elnady Technique was developed as a means to produce tissue specimens that “are realistic, durable, have no offensive odor, and are dry, soft and flexible” (Elnady, F.A. 2016 The Elnady Technique: An innovative, new method for tissue preservation. Altex. 33:237-242. doi:10.14573/altex.1511091). Briefly for soft tissue, specimens were preserved by fixing in formalin. The tissue specimen was then dehydrated with a series of acetone baths. Once the tissue was fully dehydrated, the specimen was impregnated in glycerin. Excess glycerin was then removed by draining followed by immersion in cornstarch. Cornstarch residue was removed with a soft brush, and the specimen was stored in a plastic bag. Multiple specimens (including female reproductive tract of the cat, goat, horse, and sow; digestive tract of cat, chicken, and dog; one day old lamb stomach; goat rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum; and sheep heart and kidney) have been preserved and used in various animal science course laboratories (126 laboratory sections and 1696 students at Berry College). Some of the specimens have been in use for seven years and are still in usable condition. Anonymously surveyed Berry College Animal Science Faculty strongly agreed or agreed Elnady preserved tissues are a useful teaching aid (n = 5). The Elnady Technique has proven to be a useful means of preserving tissue samples used in undergraduate animal science courses.

Comprehensive hygienic assessment of ambient air pollution in the area of food and processing industry enterprises’ location

The purpose of the study is to assess atmospheric air pollution in a city where food and processing enterprises operate using a complex of instrumental, olfacto-odourimetric, calculated, and survey methods.
 Materials and methods. Analytical studies of ambient air pollution were performed using the FOCUS GC-DSQ-II chromatography-mass spectrometer. Olfacto-odourimetric studies of the presence and intensity of odour in the area of the enterprises were carried out in accordance with the method of organoleptic control downwind at various distances from sources. The measurement of the odour level at the discharge of the coffee extract spray dryer was carried out by dynamic olfactometry on the ECOMA TO-8 olfactometer. The calculation of odour dispersion was implemented according to a program using a methodology for calculating concentrations of harmful substances in ambient air.
 Results. It was established that at the time of the research, the source of a persistent specific odour reaching the residential area was a coffee production enterprise. Up to seventy eight volatile organic compounds in concentrations not exceeding hygienic standards have been identified in the ambient air in the area of the enterprise’s location. Field olfacto-odorimetric studies and the conducted dispersion calculation indicate an offensive odour to be capable of causing “annoyance” to the population (3 points or higher with a probability of ≥ 5% according to the results of field studies or ≥ 3.5 OU (odour units) according to the calculation results) spreads up to 4 km from the main source of emissions.
 Limitations. The main limitation of the study is the peculiarities of the operating mode of different enterprises, which makes it difficult to fully assess the environmental situation in the area of their location at the time of the research.
 Conclusion. The results of these studies indicate the use of various methodological approaches (field olfacto-odorimetric measurements, calculation of odour dispersion), along with conducting population surveys, to significantly expand the possibilities of instrumental analysis for an objective assessment of ambient air pollution by complex multicomponent mixtures of odorous substances.

Surgical complications and subsequent revision surgeries among noma cases treated in Ethiopia.

Noma, an overlooked infectious disease, inflicts severe facial tissue damage, posing substantial challenges in patient care. This study delves into surgical complications and subsequent revision surgeries among noma cases treated in Ethiopia. The research employed a cross-sectional retrospective review of medical records treated between 2007 and 2019 retrieved from the Facing Africa database. The review encompasses 235 noma cases. Twenty-four cases (19 females and 5 males) experienced various complications, predominately major complications leading to subsequent revision surgeries. The identified complications included flap necrosis, abscess formation, tenderness, graft site infection, flap bulking, dental misalignment, corner of the mouth dehiscence, infected bone and plate, flap malpositioning, restricted mouth opening with ankylosis, neuropathic pain, recurrent flap infection, and offensive odor. Revision surgeries included wound cleansing, abscess drainage, skin graft removal, exploratory surgery, wound care, debulking, scar removal, debridement, trismus release, commisuroplasty, and flap repositioning. These findings illuminate the intricacies of noma surgery in Ethiopia, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nature and frequency of complications for optimizing treatment outcomes. Insights from this study can guide healthcare providers, especially novice surgeons, and policymakers, in refining surgical interventions and enhancing outcomes for noma patients. Improved knowledge in this realm is crucial for advancing patient care and developing targeted interventions. 5.

Plastic Solid Waste Management Assessment Among Selected Schools in Gwadabawa Local Government, Sokoto, Nigeria

The objective of this work was to assess the plastic solid waste management among selected schools in Gwadabawa Local Government, Sokoto, Nigeria. A descriptive survey (cross-sectional) study was employed and collected data from portions of schools and respondents. The findings indicate that, demographic characteristics of teacher respondents involved in this study are: Males are 66.7%, females are 33.3%; and the levels of education include, NCE/diploma (58.0%), BSc (26.7%), MSc (13.3%), and PhD (2.0%). Regards to students involved, 48.0% are males, 60.0% are females; 36.0% are 18-20 years old, and 64.0% are above 20 years old. The level of education of students include, 60.0% diploma students, and 40.0% certificates students. The effects are listed in the order of frequency as submitted by participants: Release of gases (20.5%), land pollution (17.0%), water pollution (15.0%), attraction of vermin (11.0%), breeding of diseases (10.5%), loss of biodiversity (7.5%), reduction of beauty of environment (7.5%), offensive odour (5.0%), flooding (5.0%), and particulates release (1.0%). Methods of waste elimination are: open disposal occurs among 37.5% schools; likewise, open disposal and burning, occur in 37.5%; while, use as fertilizer was recorded in 12.5% schools. Waste collection methods are either open dumping (80.0%), or use of containers (20.0%). The use of segregation of waste; therewith, only 20.0% practice segregation, the remaining 80.0% do not practice segregation, rather openly display mixtures of waste materials. The possible remedies to mitigate plastic solid waste mismanagement and effects include, education (awareness) and behavior change (53.3%) was mostly stated, funding (26.7%), improvisation (15.3%), scavenging (3.3%), and innovations (1.3%). Policy makers need to act urgently in diverse ways, and the people are supposed to be educated on ways of remediating plastic waste pollution.

Plastic Solid Waste Management Assessment Among Selected Schools in Gwadabawa Local Government, Sokoto, Nigeria

The objective of this work was to assess the plastic solid waste management among selected schools in Gwadabawa Local Government, Sokoto, Nigeria. A descriptive survey (cross-sectional) study was employed and collected data from portions of schools and respondents. The findings indicate that, demographic characteristics of teacher respondents involved in this study are: Males are 66.7%, females are 33.3%; and the levels of education include, NCE/diploma (58.0%), BSc (26.7%), MSc (13.3%), and PhD (2.0%). Regards to students involved, 48.0% are males, 60.0% are females; 36.0% are 18-20 years old, and 64.0% are above 20 years old. The level of education of students include, 60.0% diploma students, and 40.0% certificates students. The effects are listed in the order of frequency as submitted by participants: Release of gases (20.5%), land pollution (17.0%), water pollution (15.0%), attraction of vermin (11.0%), breeding of diseases (10.5%), loss of biodiversity (7.5%), reduction of beauty of environment (7.5%), offensive odour (5.0%), flooding (5.0%), and particulates release (1.0%). Methods of waste elimination are: open disposal occurs among 37.5% schools; likewise, open disposal and burning, occur in 37.5%; while, use as fertilizer was recorded in 12.5% schools. Waste collection methods are either open dumping (80.0%), or use of containers (20.0%). The use of segregation of waste; therewith, only 20.0% practice segregation, the remaining 80.0% do not practice segregation, rather openly display mixtures of waste materials. The possible remedies to mitigate plastic solid waste mismanagement and effects include, education (awareness) and behavior change (53.3%) was mostly stated, funding (26.7%), improvisation (15.3%), scavenging (3.3%), and innovations (1.3%). Policy makers need to act urgently in diverse ways, and the people are supposed to be educated on ways of remediating plastic waste pollution.

Efficient electrosynthesis of HO2- from air for sulfide control in sewers

Electrochemically in-situ generation of oxygen and caustic soda is promising for sulfide management while suffers from scaling, poor inactivating capacity, hydrogen release and ammonia escape. In this study, the four-compartment electrochemical cell efficiently captured oxygen molecules from the air chamber to produce HO2- without generating toxic by-products. Meanwhile, the catalyst layer surface of PTFE/CB-GDE maintained a relatively balanced gas-liquid micro-environment, enabling the formation of enduring solid-liquid-gas interfaces for efficient HO2- electrosynthesis. A dramatic increase in HO2- generation rate from 453.3 mg L-1 h-1 to 575.4 mg L-1 h-1 was attained by advancement in operation parameters design (flow channels, electrolyte types, flow rates and circulation types). Stability testing resulted in the HO2- generation rate over 15 g L-1 and the current efficiency (CE) exceeding 85%, indicating a robust stable operational capacity. Furthermore, after 120 mg L-1 HO2- treatment, an increase of 11.1% in necrotic and apoptotic cells in the sewer biofilm was observed, higher than that achieved with the addition of NaOH, H2O2 method. The in-situ electrosynthesis strategy for HO2- represents a significance toward the practical implementation of sulfide abatement in sewers, holding the potential to treat various sulfide-containing wastewater.

Safeguarding ecosystems using innovative approaches to manage animal wastes

Animal wastes (AWs) are excreta or discarded materials associated with animal production industries. It could be in solid, liquid, or gaseous form, such as animal dung or droppings, discarded feed, feathers, fur, decayed bodies of dead animals, blood waste, effluent from animal farms, milk wastes, urine, and fart. Animal wastes are generated in high quantity, even beyond the control of animal farmers, due to the increase in animal production globally. These wastes pollute the ecosystem. They release greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrous oxide (N2O) into the atmosphere through anaerobic fermentation which deplete ozone layer. Nitrogen and phosphorus constituents of Aws alter soil texture and pollute water bodies through run-off and direct disposal into water systems. The resultant effects of the pollution include climate change, degradation of soil and burning of crops, death of aquatic biota, release of offensive odour, especially ammonia (NH3) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S), and cause diseases of public health concern to human beings and animals. These consequences are due to the emission of harmful gases and compounds and the presence of pathogens in the waste. Animal wastes are potential sources of income and resources, and their environmental consequences could be reduced if farmers could use innovative approaches such as vermicomposting, production of biogas using wastes, membrane filtration, liquid – solid separation, thermal treatment and chemical treatment approaches to manage animal wastes. Government regulation and policies against indiscriminate disposal and application of animal wastes, coupled with the sensitization of people to the benefits and dangers associated with animal waste, could also prevent environmental challenges.

Identification of odor-causing compounds in six species of odor-producing microalgae separated from drinking water source with distinct fishy odor: Insight into microalgae growth and odor characteristics

Fishy odor, as an offensive and unpleasant odor, could occur in drinking water source with poor nutrition, it is usually considered to be associated with odor-producing microalgae. However, the specific relations among fishy odor, fishy odorants and responsible microalgae were not elucidated comprehensively. In this paper, the odor-causing compounds generated from six microalgae with fishy odor characteristic, isolated in drinking water source Tongyu River, were identified simultaneously. The sensory evaluation result indicated that Tongyu River was principally related to fishy odor (odor intensity 6.5–7.6). Correspondingly, seven, nine, seven, six, seven and seven olfactory detection peaks (ODP) were screened by combining data of GC/O/MS and GC/GC/TOFMS in Cyclotella, Cryptomonas ovate, Melosira, Dinobryon sp., Synedra and Ochromonas sp., which were isolated in Tongyu River and cultured in laboratory. Totally twenty odor-causing compounds, including hexanal, 2-hexenal, 3-hexen-1-ol, heptanal, 1-octen-3-one, 2,4-heptadienal, 2-tetradecanone, 3,5-octadien-2-one, octanal, 1-octen-3-ol, 2-octenal, nonanal, 2,4-octadienal, 2-nonenal, decanal, 2,6-nonadienal, 2-decenal, undecanal, 2,4-decadienal and dodecanal, were screened and identified in all isolated microalgae. Additionally, fishy odor intensity for all identified microalgae increased obviously as microalgae cell number increased and microalgae cell ruptured in cultivation cycles through pearson and spearman correlation analysis. For the first time, twenty odor-causing compounds associating with fishy odor were recognized from six isolated microalgae, which would provide more scientific basis and theoretical support for preventing and treating fishy odor episode of drinking water source.

Obturator hygiene among patients with maxillary defects at two teaching hospitals in Ghana

Background: An obturator may be defined as the component of a prosthesis that fits into and closes a defect within the oral cavity or other body defects. Cleaning one’s obturator is essential to prevent offensive odour, poor aesthetics, the accumulation of plaques, and damage to both natural and prosthetic teeth due to bacteria contamination in the oral cavity.Aim: The study aimed to determine how palatal obturator wearers practice good obturator cleaning habits.Method: A cross-sectional study design was used for this study. A sample size of 40 palatal obturator wearers was used. Data was collected using a well-structured questionnaire. The questionnaire included demographic data (age, sex, educational level, occupation and years of wearing a prosthesis, obturator cleaning habits, obturator cleaning methods, and obturator wearing habits. The data were summarized using Descriptive statistics with tables and charts and analyzed using a chi-square test from Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 22.0) and Microsoft Office Excel 2016 at p-value< 0.05.Results: Sixteen (40%) of the total number were males, and 24(60%) were females giving a male-to-female ratio of 2:3. Twelve (30%) of the participants fell between the ages 31-40 years. Participants with tertiary education have better cleaning habits and knowledge of cleaning agents used. Fifteen (37.5%) participants who had worn a palatal obturator between 1-2 years frequently visited the dental clinic for a check-up; however, this number gradually decreased.Conclusion: The majority of the patients evaluated had good clean habits with their prostheses and the cleaning agents used. However, participants with tertiary education had better prosthesis hygiene and maintenance methods.

CASE REPORT: A SUCCESSFUL STRATEGY FOR TREATMENT OF RETAINED FETAL MEMBRANES COMBINED WITH PUERPERAL METRITIS IN A DAIRY COW

A Holstein dairy cow on a farm located in central Taiwan gave birth after 281 days of gestation; however fetal membranes were not expelled until 12[Formula: see text]h post-parturition. Preventive antibiotics of ceftiofur (750[Formula: see text]mg) combined with flunixin (750[Formula: see text]mg) were administered intramuscularly for three consecutive days. On day 11 postpartum, expulsion of partial fetal membranes and reddish-brown vaginal discharge with an offensive odor were reported. Intrauterine lavage using 800[Formula: see text]ml of sterile saline and 500[Formula: see text]ml of 0.2% chlorhexidine solution was performed, followed by intrauterine infusion with 300[Formula: see text]ml of 0.5% povidone iodine. On day 21 postpartum, a vaginal discharge score (VDS) of 3 was graded by Metricheck[Formula: see text] and uterine cytology revealed 76.1% polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs), all of which suggested endometritis. An additional intrauterine infusion of 0.5% povidone iodine was subsequently prescribed, followed by two low doses of PGF[Formula: see text] to control uterine infection. On day 49 postpartum, a VDS of 0 with a proportion of 3.8% PMNs was revealed, indicating available criteria for breeding. Estrus induction and timed artificial insemination were scheduled and pregnancy was confirmed 33 days after artificial insemination. In summary, we have demonstrated a successful two-step treatment for a Holstein having retained fetal membranes (RFMs) combined with puerperal metritis (PM) to have a favorable result of 65 days open.