Reduce Health Risks Research Articles

Comparing Cancer Risks and Mortality between Phytopharmaceuticals and Estrogen-Progestogen Medications for Menopausal Women: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

We evaluated the long-term risks of overall cancer and all-cause mortality associated with five types of phytopharmaceuticals and the most commonly used estrogen-progestogen medications for the treatment of postmenopausal syndrome in women. Using data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2018, we conducted a 1:2 matched cohort study with 12,087 eligible patients. We compared phytopharmaceuticals -only users (n = 4029, phytopharmaceuticals group) with HRT-only users (n = 8058, HRT group) with a washout period of ≥6 months. The phytopharmaceuticals group had significantly lower risks of overall cancer and all-cause mortality than the HRT group (adjusted hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.60 [0.40-0.9] and 0.40 [0.16-0.99], respectively) after over 180 days of use. Bupleurum and Peony Formula were associated with lower risks of overall cancer and all-cause mortality (aHR: 0.57 [0.36-0.92] and 0.33 [0.11-1.05], respectively). In conclusion, phytopharmaceuticals may serve as an alternative therapy to HRT for alleviating menopausal symptoms and reducing health risks, leading to more favorable long-term health outcomes. Further randomized control trials are necessary to validate the findings of this study.

Biocontrol of Fusarium head blight in rice using Bacillus velezensis JCK-7158.

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a destructive disease caused by several species of Fusarium, such as Fusarium graminearum and F. asiaticum. FHB affects cereal crops, including wheat, barley, and rice, worldwide. Fusarium-infected kernels not only cause reduced yields but also cause quality loss by producing mycotoxins, such as trichothecenes and zearalenone, which are toxic to animals and humans. For decades, chemical fungicides have been used to control FHB because of their convenience and high control efficacy. However, the prolonged use of chemical fungicides has caused adverse effects, including the emergence of drug resistance to pathogens and environmental pollution. Biological control is considered one of the most promising alternatives to chemicals and can be used for integrated management of FHB due to the rare possibility of environment pollution and reduced health risks. In this study, Bacillus velezensis JCK-7158 isolated from rice was selected as an ecofriendly alternative to chemical fungicides for the management of FHB. JCK-7158 produced the extracellular enzymes protease, chitinase, gelatinase, and cellulase; the plant growth hormone indole-3-acetic acid; and the 2,3-butanediol precursor acetoin. Moreover, JCK-7158 exhibited broad antagonistic activity against various phytopathogenic fungi and produced iturin A, surfactin, and volatile substances as active antifungal compounds. It also enhanced the expression of PR1, a known induced resistance marker gene, in transgenic Arabidopsis plants expressing β-glucuronidase (GUS) fused with the PR1 promoter. Under greenhouse conditions, treatments with the culture broth and suspension concentrate formulation of JCK-7158 at a 1,000-fold dilution inhibited the development of FHB by 50 and 66%, respectively. In a field experiment, treatment with the suspension concentrate formulation of JCK-7158 at a 1,000-fold dilution effectively controlled the development of FHB with a control value of 55% and reduced the production of the mycotoxin nivalenol by 40%. Interestingly, treatment with JCK-7158 enhanced the expression of plant defense-related genes in salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, ethylene, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling pathways before and after FHB pathogen inoculation. Taken together, our findings support that JCK-7158 has the potential to serve as a new biocontrol agent for the management of FHB.

METROLOGICAL CONTROL OF SENSORS FOR MONITORING WORKING CONDITIONS USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Metrological control plays a vital role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the data collected as part of the working conditions monitoring. It helps to prevent potential errors and guarantee the quality of the results, which is critical for the efficient assessment and management of occupational health and safety. The article aims to investigate and analyse the role and importance of metrological control of sensors in the system for monitoring working conditions at production facilities using artificial intelligence. The article examines the possibilities of using artificial intelligence (AI) to optimise metrological control and analysis of sensor data. The authors provide specific applications of AI to improve the metrological control of sensors and identify the advantages and challenges of introducing AI into the metrological control system at production facilities. These tasks will help to reveal the essence and potential of using AI in the metrological control of sensors for monitoring working conditions and emphasise its significance in improving the safety of workers. Using artificial intelligence to improve the accuracy of sensor measurements in monitoring working conditions helps to increase the efficiency and safety of production processes and reduce health risks for employees. The metrological control methodology is essential for ensuring the reliability of sensor and measuring device measurements. Applying machine learning algorithms to develop sensor calibration models can automate and optimise the processes of measuring working conditions, improving the accuracy and reliability of data. The proposed flowchart demonstrates an innovative approach to calibrating a sound level meter using artificial intelligence (AI). The results show that integrating AI into the occupational health and safety management system contributes to monitoring process automation, predicting risks and hazards to employee health, and optimising safety processes. These approaches can enhance the production processes’ efficiency, safety, and productivity. Keywords: measuring instruments, production environment, hazards, inspection, calibration.

Influence of agro-wastes derived biochar and their composite on reducing the mobility of toxic heavy metals and their bioavailability in industrial contaminated soils

The agro-waste derived valuable products are prime interest for effective management of toxic heavy metals (THMs). The present study investigated the efficacy of biochars (BCs) on immobilization of THMs (Cr, Zn, Pb, Cu, Ni and Cd), bioaccumulation and health risk. Agro-wastes derived BCs including wheat straw biochar (WSB), orange peel biochar (OPB), rice husk biochar (RHB) and their composite biochar (CB) were applied in industrial contaminated soil (ICS) at 1% and 3% amendments rates. All the BCs significantly decreased the bioavailable THMs and significantly (p < 0.001) reduced bioaccumulation at 3% application with highest efficiency for CB followed by OPB, WSB and RHB as compared to control treatment. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF), concentration index (CI) and ecological risk were decreased with all BCs. The hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) of all THMs were <1, except Cd, while carcer risk (CR) and total cancer risk index (TCRI) were decreased through all BCs. The overall results depicted that CB at 3% application rate showed higher efficacy to reduce significantly (p < 0.001) the THMs uptake and reduced health risk. Hence, the present study suggests that the composite of BCs prepared from agro-wastes is eco-friendly amendment to reduce THMs in ICS and minimize its subsequent uptake in vegetables.

Achieving Blessings Through the Flagship Zero Waste Program at SMAN 4 Mataram

Waste creates cultural problems as it impacts various aspects of life sustainability. Consequently, humans are dependent on their surrounding environment, making it crucial to preserve it to prevent existing issues from escalating into more significant hazards. One of the efforts that can be initiated early on from the school level to address environmental issues is the implementation of zero waste practices. The zero waste program at SMAN 4 Mataram has significantly improved the school environment and the surrounding community. This program, which includes initiatives such as saberling, waste tickets, maggot cultivation, compost production, and classroom cleanliness competitions, has effectively reduced waste volume and created a cleaner, healthier environment. Increased awareness and participation in waste management practices among students and staff have been notable outcomes, alongside the development of waste-based entrepreneurship. Data collection methods include observation, interviews, and surveys to assess the program's effectiveness and impact. he zero waste program at SMAN 4 Mataram has improved the community's well-being by creating a healthier environment and reducing health risks associated with waste accumulation. The program has instilled a sustainable environmental culture among students and staff, which can be passed on to future generations. For similar practices, it is recommended to enhance infrastructure and continually engage the community in environmental education and activities.

Lime for Lyme: Treatment of Leaf Litter with Dolomitic Lime Powder Impairs Activity of Immature Ixodes scapularis Ticks.

Background: Tick-borne diseases are an emerging threat to public health throughout the temperate world, leading to a growing field of research aimed at developing and testing intervention strategies for reducing human-tick encounters or prevalence of infection in ticks. Various wide-spectrum chemical acaricides have proven effective for controlling tick populations, but many of these have potential deleterious side-effects on health and the environment. In addition to chemical acaricides, certain compounds such as diatomaceous earth have been shown to have physical acaricidal properties. We hypothesized that dolomitic lime (CaMg(CO3)2, a corrosive, desiccant mineral that is already used extensively in agricultural and forestry contexts to balance the pH of soils, may affect ticks' locomotory activity, habitat position, or survival and that this should manifest as a reduction in the number of questing ticks collected by dragging. Objective: This study aimed to formally assess this hypothesis in a controlled laboratory setting. Methods: We carried out a microcosm experiment, with one control and three treated microcosm trays, each replicating the natural substrate characterizing I. scapularis habitat in northeastern North America. Each tray was infested with 200 living larvae and 50 nymphs, and then treated with 0 (control), 50, 100, or 500 g/m2 of lime powder. Ticks were collected by microdragging 24 and 72 h postliming. Results: Efficacy of liming at reducing the number of collected questing ticks ranged from 87% to 100% for larvae and 0% to 69% for nymphs 24 h postliming and from 91% to 93% for larvae and -47% to 65% for nymphs 72 postliming. Conclusion: This study provides the first experimental evidence of the potential efficacy of liming for impairing activity of questing immature ticks. Given that lime is a low-cost material, that methods for widespread application in deciduous woodlands already exist, and that it has been documented as having a limited negative impact on the environment, further assessment of lime application as a public health risk reduction intervention for tick-borne diseases is warranted.

Evaluating Classical Airplane Boarding Methods Focusing on Higher-Risk Passengers during Post-Pandemics

As the global civil aviation industry recovers and the restrictions imposed because of COVID-19 on the process of aircraft boarding gradually diminish, the issue of how to reduce health risks in special populations who are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 during Post-pandemics has become urgent. In this paper, we propose a health metric for the health risks of boarding groups based on the seat risk metrics used during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling the comparison of health risks among boarding groups. Secondly, based on the agent-based model using NetLogo, we evaluate the health risk of boarding groups from the boarding methods currently used in airline practice, using the health and efficiency metrics used during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, it was confirmed that health risk was associated with the boarding group sequences. As a result, specific boarding groups for high-risk groups are proposed when using the classical boarding methods for passengers at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Our results show that considering the placement of high-risk groups in the reverse pyramid fourth boarding group will contribute to a faster boarding for all methods (20.5% reduction in time) and a lower risk of transmission within this group (73.6% reduction) compared with the standard random boarding procedure.

Selection of pollution-safe head cabbage: Interaction of multiple heavy metals in soil on bioaccumulation and transfer

Screening for pollution-safe cultivars (PSCs) is a cost-effective strategy for reducing health risks of crops in heavy metal (HM)-contaminated soils. In this study, 13 head cabbages were grown in multi-HMs contaminated soil, and their accumulation characteristics, interaction of HM types, and health risks assessment using Monte Carlo simulation were examined. Results showed that the edible part of head cabbage is susceptible to HM contamination, with 84.62% of varieties polluted. The average bio-concentration ability of HMs in head cabbage was Cd> > Hg > Cr > As>Pb. Among five HMs, Cd and As contributed more to potential health risks (accounting for 20.8%–48.5%). Significant positive correlations were observed between HM accumulation and co-occurring HMs in soil. Genotypic variations in HM accumulation suggested the potential for reducing health risks through crop screening. G7 is a recommended variety for head cabbage cultivation in areas with multiple HM contamination, while G3 could serve as a suitable alternative for heavily Hg-contaminated soils.

Differential consumption pattern of traditional and packed food among rural children

The food consumption pattern of an individual reflects their food choices rather than nutrient intake in their diet. These patterns are strongly related to the health outcomes of the individuals. Home-cooked traditional food items are rapidly replaced by packed food items. As children being the future of any nation, thus their health is very important Therefore, improving the nutrition of these children would help to reduce health risks by promoting healthy food consumption. Present study was carried out during 2021–23 to understand the differential consumption pattern of traditional and packed food items among children in rural areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The data pertaining to study were collected using food frequency questionnaire with 2–5 years and 6–14 years old children. The key results indicated that packed food item consumption was dominant among 2–5-year-old children in their diets in NSV (Nutri-SMART villages), and non-NSV as explained maximum variation. However, among 6–14 years old children traditional and packed food items consumption was dominant in NSV, while packed food items were dominant in non-NSV as explained by maximum variation. There is a need to design local food resources based strategies to make aware the children about healthy food items and encourage them to consume by targeting access and availability of such foods.

Use of organo-mineral amendments and Lupinus angustifolius to enhance mine tailings rehabilitation

Uncontrolled mine waste disposal globally poses severe environmental and health risks due to high concentrations of toxic substances like heavy metals and organic pollutants. This jeopardizes soil fertility and ecological balance. In this study, we adopted a novel approach based on the use of low-cost amendments that can be used in small to tailing sites for better plant growth and reducing health risks. On a 37-ha-old abandoned pyrrhotite mine site (Kettara) which was operated for 34 years near Marrakesh a high amount of tailing material low in organic C, high in salt contents, and contaminated by various heavy metals still exists. This material is low in fertility and is only patchily discovered by vegetation which should hinder the material of aeolian erosion. To increase the fertility of the material and improve vegetation growth, the soil material has to be improved by different organo-mineral amendments and their combinations as Marble waste (Mw), Clay (Cy), and Compost (Cp). To determine the impact of these amendments on plant growth the fast-growing Lupinus angustifolius L. a legume plant found close to the mining site, identified with the Regional Herbarium 'MARK' code: MARK-14861. This plant serves as a pivotal component in the comprehensive approach aimed at rehabilitating the soils surrounding the mining site. To identify the most effective organo-mineral amendment, we examined 65 combinations by mixing mine tailing soils with varying proportions (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, or 10%) of the three distinct amendments and its combinations (Com), to identify the optimal rate for effective seeds germination and plant growth. Preliminary results on the germination index of L. angustifolius seeds revealed that four combinations (Com1: Cy2.5-Cp2.5-Mw10; Com2: Cy2.5-Cp5-Mw5; Com3: Cy7.5-Cp2.5-Mw7.5; and Com4: Cy10-Cp10-Mw10) maintained a high index due to improved soil properties. These combinations were used as the soil substrate material for a greenhouse experiment where plant growth, heavy metals accumulation, soil characteristics, and available metal content were determined. Our findings demonstrated that incorporating these four organo-mineral soil amendments into Kettara mine tailings led to a significant enhancement in plant growth. Notably, L. angustifolius plants exhibited a preferential accumulation of heavy metals in the root’s biomass (Cu: 565.60, Zn: 433.52, and Pb: 301.44 mg kg−1) with limited translocation to shoot parts (Cu: 37.44, Zn: 28.40, and Pb: 19.36 mg kg−1), particularly following the application of Com4. Furthermore, the properties of the mine soil were improved, including both neutralization of acidic soil pH (3 to ∼ 7) and reduction of metal elements bioavailability. Specifically, Com1, Com3, and Com4 effectively decreased the mobile fraction of metals in the tested mine tailings to exceptionally low levels achieving a reduction of 99% for copper, lead, and zinc, and 95% for arsenic. Our findings from this study indicated that our amendment holds promising potential for enhancing both plant growth and soil fertility, while simultaneously mitigating the mobility of heavy metals in heavy metal-contaminated acidic mine soils.

Experimental study on enhancing electrostatic charging of nonwoven filter media through novel electrode configurations

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the urgent need for efficient particle filtration to tackle public health challenges. This study compares the electrostatic charging capabilities of two types of electrodes: conventional Metal Lamellar Electrodes (MLE) and Modified Lamellar Plate Electrodes (MLPE) with PMMA insulation, in their role of charging nonwoven polypropylene filter media. Experimental analysis unequivocally demonstrates the superiority of MLPE in promoting effective electrostatic charge, as influenced by applied high voltage and inter-electrode distance, resulting in a significant enhancement in fine particle filtration. Numerical simulations of the electric field conducted using the COMSOL software and employing the Finite Element Method (FEM) validate these findings. FEM discretizes the domain into small finite elements and applies Laplace's equation in charge-free regions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the behavior of dual-electrode corona discharge systems. These simulations indicate higher field intensities for MLPE compared to MLE.By integrating experimental and numerical analyses, this study sheds light on the potential benefits of MLPE for air filtration systems, offering a noteworthy advancement in the control of airborne infections and reduction of environmental health risks. This research lays the groundwork for the development of more efficient and durable filtration systems, meeting the increasing demands for public health protection.The findings of this study suggest that the adoption of MLPE could significantly contribute to improving indoor air quality and mitigating the transmission of respiratory diseases. MLPE may also find utility in industrial filtration and air purification in sensitive work environments. Ultimately, this research sets the stage for the development of more efficient and sustainable filtration systems, addressing the growing needs for public health protection.

COVID-19 Prevention and Mitigation Decision-Making Processes While Navigating Chronic Disease Care: Perspectives of Black Adults with Heart Failure and Diabetes.

Heart failure and diabetes are comorbidities that disproportionately contribute to high morbidity and mortality among Blacks. Further compounding the racial and ethnic disparities in COVID-19 health outcomes, Blacks with cardiometabolic diseases are at high risk of experiencing serious complications or mortality from COVID-19. This study aimed to assess how Blacks with heart failure and diabetes navigated chronic care management during the COVID-19 pandemic. A mixed methods study including in-depth interviews and surveys with adults diagnosed with heart failure and diabetes (n = 17) was conducted in 2021-2022. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Participants reported that while the pandemic initially caused delays in access to health services, shifts to telemedicine allowed for continued care despite preferences for in-person appointments. Various sources of information were used in different ways to make decisions on how to best reduce health risks due to COVID-19, but individuals and institutions affiliated with science and medicine, or who promoted information from these sources, were considered to be the most trusted sources of information among those who relied on outside guidance when making health-related decisions. Individuals' self-awareness of their own high-risk status and perceived control over their exposure levels to the virus informed what COVID-19 prevention and mitigation strategies people used. Information backed by scientific data was an important health communication tool that alongside other factors, such as fear of mortality due to COVID-19, encouraged individuals to get vaccinated and adopt other COVID-19 prevention and mitigation behaviors.

Exploring environmental sustainability in dentistry among students and educators in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional survey

ObjectivesCreating environmentally sustainable healthcare culture within the dental field requires embedding the content in the dental curriculum at the undergraduate level. This study aimed to explore the current awareness and drivers among dental students and educators regarding environmentally sustainable dentistry (ESD) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and identify barriers and enablers to embrace it.MethodsA cross-sectional survey using online questionnaires was carried out in six undergraduate dental education institutes within the UAE. Data analysis included descriptive statistics.ResultsIn total 153 students and 53 educators participated in the survey. Most students and educators were not aware of any ESD content in their curricula. However, the majority of educators were familiar with the concept of ESD, while students were mostly unfamiliar or slightly familiar. Nonetheless, students largely agreed on its importance and their interest in learning it, as they viewed it relevant to their future practice. Educators agreed that the dental profession has a responsibility to be environmentally friendly and expressed their desire in introducing ESD content into the curricula. Several barriers were reported such as lack of knowledge, curricula space, educational resources, and time. Meanwhile, enablers included providing ESD capacity building, training and resources.ConclusionsThere was no explicit presence of ESD content in the dental curricula in the UAE. Despite the lack of adequate awareness on this topic among educators and more so among students, they both had positive views towards incorporating ESD into dental curricula. Overall, this study highlighted the importance of promoting ESD in dental programs. Clinical significance: ESD is gradually becoming a critical aspect of modern oral healthcare system. It has been mandated in the dental curricula in several regions globally. Embedding ESD in the UAE dental curricula would have several benefits for the environment as well as the future of the dental profession in the region. The clinical significance includes, but not limited to, improved treatment outcomes; patients, students and staff health and well-being; reduced health risks, and cost savings.

Quantitative evaluation of the impact of indoor relative humidity on deposition of aerosols generated during tooth grinding in a real-world clinical setting.

Exposure to aerosol particles generated from tooth grinding has a negative impact on the health of dental personnel. The aim of this study was to quantitatively analyze the impact of indoor relative humidity (IRH) on the deposition of these suspended particles in a well-controlled dental environment. In this study, a humidity control system was employed to effectively regulate and maintain indoor relative humidity (IRH). A novel computer-assisted numerical control system was developed to pre-treat the molar specimens, and accurately simulate clinical tooth grinding procedures. Each procedure was performed in triplicate, with an online real-time particle counter (ORPC; TR-8301, TongrenCo.) measuring aerosol production. All testing devices were controlled remotely. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests (Kruskal-Wallis/ Dunn's post hoc test with Bonferroni correction, p < 0.05). The findings showed that with increasing IRH, the maximum peak concentration of aerosol particles decreased by 397% from 6.51 × 107 particles/m3 at 30% to 1.64 × 107 particles/m3 at 80%. The Kruskal-Wallis test results indicated a statistically significant effect of IRH on the aerosol increment (p < 0.05). Increasing the IRH level can effectively promote the deposition of aerosol particles, with a return to baseline within 15min after reaching 60% or above. Our study suggested that maintaining IRH above 70% during the cleaning process, allowing natural recovery to ambient humidity levels within 15min after cleaning, and taking basic precautions, may lead to an adequate reduction in the possible health risks of aerosol contamination.

Reducing non-communicable diseases among Palestinian populations in Gaza: A participatory comparative and cost-effectiveness modeling assessment.

We sought to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of potential new public health and healthcare NCD risk reduction efforts among Palestinians in Gaza. We created a microsimulation model using: (i) a cross-sectional household survey of NCD risk factors among 4,576 Palestinian adults aged ≥40 years old in Gaza; (ii) a modified Delphi process among local public health experts to identify potentially feasible new interventions; and (iii) reviews of intervention cost and effectiveness, modified to the Gazan and refugee contexts. The survey revealed 28.6% tobacco smoking, a 40.4% prevalence of hypertension diagnosis (with a 95.6% medication treatment rate), a 25.6% prevalence of diabetes diagnosis (with 95.3% on treatment), a 21.9% prevalence of dyslipidemia (with 79.6% on a statin), and a 9.8% prevalence of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (without known treatment). A calibrated model estimated a loss of 9,516 DALYs per 10,000 population over the 10-year policy horizon. The interventions having an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) less than three times the GDP per capita of Palestine per DALY averted (<$10,992 per DALY averted)(<$10,992 per DALY averted) included bans on tobacco smoking in indoor and public places [$34 per incremental DALY averted (95% CI: $17, $50)], treatment of asthma using low dose inhaled beclometasone and short-acting beta-agonists [$140 per DALY averted (95% CI: $77, $207)], treatment of breast cancer stages I and II [$730 per DALY averted (95% CI: $372, $1,100)], implementing a mass media campaign for healthier nutrition [$737 per DALY averted (95% CI: $403, $1,100)], treatment of colorectal cancer stages I and II [$7,657 per DALY averted (95% CI: $3,721, $11,639)], and (screening with mammography [$17,054 per DALY averted (95% CI: $8,693, $25,359)]). Despite high levels of NCD risk factors among Palestinians in Gaza, we estimated that several interventions would be expected to reduce the loss of DALYs within common cost-effectiveness thresholds.

Re-evaluating the Need for Routine Maximal Aerobic Capacity Testing within Fighter Pilots.

INTRODUCTION: There is a current belief in aviation suggesting that aerobic training may reduce G-tolerance due to potential negative impacts on arterial pressure response. Studies indicate that increasing maximal aerobic capacity (<mml:math id="ie1" display="inline"><mml:mrow><mml:mover><mml:mtext>V</mml:mtext><mml:mo>˙</mml:mo></mml:mover></mml:mrow></mml:math>o₂ max) through aerobic training does not hinder G-tolerance. Moreover, sustained centrifuge training programs revealed no instances where excessive aerobic exercise compromised a trainee's ability to complete target profiles. The purpose of this review article is to examine the current research in the hope of establishing the need for routine <mml:math id="ie2" display="inline"><mml:mrow><mml:mover><mml:mtext>V</mml:mtext><mml:mo>˙</mml:mo></mml:mover></mml:mrow></mml:math>o₂-max testing in air force pilot protocols.METHODS: A systematic search of electronic databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, the Aerospace Medical Association, and Military Medicine was conducted. Keywords related to "human performance," "Air Force fighter pilots," "aerobic function," and "maximal aerobic capacity" were used in various combinations. Articles addressing exercise physiology, G-tolerance, physical training, and fighter pilot maneuvers related to human performance were considered. No primary data collection involving human subjects was conducted; therefore, ethical approval was not required.RESULTS: The <mml:math id="ie3" display="inline"><mml:mrow><mml:mover><mml:mtext>V</mml:mtext><mml:mo>˙</mml:mo></mml:mover></mml:mrow></mml:math>o₂-max test provides essential information regarding a pilot's ability to handle increased Gz-load. It assists in predicting G-induced loss of consciousness by assessing anti-G straining maneuver performance and heart rate variables during increased G-load.DISCUSSION: <mml:math id="ie4" display="inline"><mml:mrow><mml:mover><mml:mtext>V</mml:mtext><mml:mo>˙</mml:mo></mml:mover></mml:mrow></mml:math>o₂-max testing guides tailored exercise plans, optimizes cardiovascular health, and disproves the notion that aerobic training hampers G-tolerance. Its inclusion in air force protocols could boost readiness, reduce health risks, and refine training for fighter pilots' safety and performance. This evidence-backed approach supports integrating <mml:math id="ie5" display="inline"><mml:mrow><mml:mover><mml:mtext>V</mml:mtext><mml:mo>˙</mml:mo></mml:mover></mml:mrow></mml:math>o₂-max testing for insights into fitness, risks, and tailored exercise.Zeigler Z, Acevedo AM. Re-evaluating the need for routine maximal aerobic capacity testing within fighter pilots. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(5):273-277.

Natural Ventilation to Manage Ammonia Concentration and Temperature in a Rabbit Barn in Central Mexico

The concentration of ammonia (NH3) and the temperature of the air surrounding the rabbit habitat in the farm condition basic health processes such as breathing and feeding. The indoor climate in a rabbit farm is largely conditioned by the ventilation system (air conditioning). The objective of this study was to build a numerical model based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in order to evaluate, by numerical simulations, the air dynamics of a rustic farm. After the validation of the computational model, the thermal gradient and ammonia concentration were analyzed under three wind incidence angles (0°, 45°, and 90° with respect to the horizontal Z axis of the facility). The results of the simulations showed that, in the area occupied by the rabbits (AOR), the concentration of ammonia with respect to the source was reduced by 37.3% in the most favorable case (wind direction at 45°), and 21.2% in the least favorable case (wind direction at 0°), and the indoor temperature presented a maximum difference of 2 °C with respect to the outside temperature. Climate control is a more expensive cost in rabbit farm exploitation; dynamics modulation can serve as an auxiliary tool for reducing health risks in rabbits. The use of models based on fluid dynamics allowed us to understand the efficiency of the ventilation system, which must be increased to reduce the found temperature gradient. Through numerical simulation it will be possible to find alternatives to increase the ventilation rate.

Integrating quantitative microbiological risk assessment and disability-adjusted life years to evaluate the effects of urbanization on health risks for river recreationists

Urban rivers provide an excellent opportunity for water recreation. This study probabilistically assessed health risks associated with water recreation in urban rivers in the Bitan Scenic Area, Taiwan, by employing quantitative microbial risk assessment and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Moreover, the effects of urbanization on the health risks of river recreation induced by waterborne pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) were investigated. First, data on river E. coli levels were collected in both the Bitan Scenic Area and the upstream river section, and model parameters were obtained through a questionnaire administered to river recreationists. Monte Carlo simulation was then employed to address parameter uncertainty. Finally, DALYs were calculated to quantify the cumulative effects in terms of potential life lost and years lived with disability. The results indicated that the 90 % confidence intervals for the disease burden (DB) were 0.2–74.1 × 10−6, 0.01–94.0 × 10−6, and 0.3–128.9 × 10−6 DALY per person per year (pppy) for canoeing, swimming, and fishing, respectively, in the Bitan Scenic Area. Furthermore, urbanization near the Bitan Scenic Area approximately doubled the DB risks to river recreationists in upstream rural areas. At the 95th percentile, the DB risks exceeded the tolerances recommended by the World Health Organization (1 × 10−6) or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1 × 10−4). The findings suggest that the simultaneous implementation of effluent sewer systems and best management practices can reduce health risks to river recreationists by at least half, reducing the DALY levels below 1 × 10−4 or even 1 × 10−5 pppy.

Removal performance of leonardite toward volatile organic compounds and toxic metals from landfill leachates

AbstractLeachate from municipal waste contains volatile organic compounds and potentially toxic metals. The leaching of which into water sources also jeopardizes access to clean water. Therefore, reducing the concentration of pollutants in leachate is important to reduce health risks and environmental pollution. In this study, the efficacy of granulated organic leonardite added to leachate from municipal waste in reducing the toxic concentrations of the leachate for different time points (30, 60, 90, and 120 min) at a shaking speed of 200 rpm was investigated. Results demonstrated that leonardite significantly removed various contaminants, including organic acids (71.16%), alcohols (74.31%), aldehydes (68.01%), esters (78.28%), ethers (81.03%), ketones (68.52%), hydrocarbons (84.25%), N compounds (78.56%), S compounds (80.67%), organic N (86.01%), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (93.26%), NH4‐N (84.83%), NO3‐N (89.30%), SO4 (76.62%), PO4 (73.85%), organic C (50.07%), Hg (96.80%), Pb (95.99%), Cu (82.68%), Al (65.56%), total Cr (98.11%), Cd (99.28%), Li (96.31%), Ni (97.27%), and As (67.79%). The leonardite granules used in this study showed high adsorption and removal performance for organic/inorganic and volatile compounds in landfill leachate. These results indicate that leonardite can be a suitable adsorption material for leachate pretreatment. However, it is necessary to perform a durability test to use the material in the long term as a covering on landfills.

Synergistic emission reductions and health effects of energy transitions under carbon neutrality target

China's climate and environmental problems remained prominent. Energy transition was the key to improve climate and pollution, and it was at a critical period. Previous studies mostly focused on the impact of climate policies on the reduction of air pollutants and the environmental health impacts of individual sector or pathway policies. Thus, focusing on the synergistic abatement of CO2 and air pollutants and health effects of energy transition in carbon neutrality was significant for building beautiful and healthy China. LEAP-HEA model was constructed to project energy demand, CO2 and air pollutants, and assess energy transition's environmental health effects from 2020 to 2060. LMDI model was adopted to decompose the abatement contribution. Synergistic assessment index was used to estimate the coordinated abatement effects. Cost-effectiveness of energy transition and regional heterogeneity of PM2.5 toxicity were not considered. The results indicated: (1) energy demand would decrease and structure would be optimized significantly under deep energy transition scenario. (2) Deep energy transition could promote earlier realization of carbon neutrality. It would contribute significantly to CO2 and air pollutants abatement with strong synergistic effects. (3) Energy transition would reduce health risks with large economic benefits. Recommendations were proposed based on the conclusions.