World Health Organization Standards Research Articles

Spatial health risk assessments of nickel in the groundwater sources of a mining-impacted area

Mining activities have increased the potential risks of metal pollution to the groundwater resources in arid areas across the globe. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the health risk associated with nickel (Ni) in the groundwater sources of a mining-impacted area, South Khorasan, Eastern Iran. A total of 110 stations were included in the study, comprising 62 wells, 40 qanats, and 8 springs in summer, 2020. Initially, the collected samples were tested for temperature, pH, and electrical conductivity (EC). Subsequently, the samples were filtered and treated with nitric acid (HNO3) to measure the concentration of Ni using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Hazard quotient (HQ) and non-carcinogenic risk assessments were employed to evaluate the potential risks of Ni to the inhabitants. The findings revealed that the concentration of Ni ranged from 0.02 to 132.39 μg l−1, and only two stations exhibited Ni concentrations above the WHO standards (20 μg l−1). The results demonstrated that 98.21% of the sampled locations had HQ values below one, indicating negligible risk, while 1.78% of the stations exhibited HQ values of one or higher, representing a high non-carcinogenic risk for water consumers. Overall, the concentration of nickel in the groundwater of South Khorasan exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) limit solely in the Halvan station, posing a non-carcinogenic risk for the residents in that area, and therefore, additional efforts should be made to provide healthier groundwater to consumers in this region.

Multivariate statistical methods for analysis of physicochemical and microbiological parameters of well water from the village M’Pody

The pollution of surface water and groundwater is a real public health problem that is currently receiving particular attention throughout the world. The use of water for food or hygiene purposes requires excellent physicochemical and microbiological quality. Well water is used for many purposes by the inhabitants of M’pody, a village in the Anyama district of Côte d’Ivoire. In this village, an epidemic of diarrhoea was detected in January 2020. This epidemic claimed sixty-nine (69) victims. This study aims to evaluate well water quality controls using the methods of principal component analysis (PCA), correspondence factorial analysis (CFA), analysis of variance (ANOVA) and self-organizing map (SOM) algorithm. The parameters studied were, turbidity (Tur), conductivity (Cond), hydrogen potential (pH), temperature (T), nitrate (NO3-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NO_{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}), nitrite (NO2-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NO_{2^{-}}$$\\end{document}), ammonium (NH4+\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NH_{4^{+}}$$\\end{document}), phosphates (PO43-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$PO_{4}^{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}), chlorides (Cl-)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$(Cl^{-})$$\\end{document}, total hydrotimetric degree (DHT), sulfates (SO42-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$SO_{4}^{2^{-}}$$\\end{document}), bicarbonate (HCO3-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$HCO_{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}), total alkalinity contents (TAC), escherichia coli (E.coli), thermotolerant coliforms (CTH) and enterococcus faecalis (E.faecalis). Data were collected from seventy-two (72) wells in the village during four campaigns in 2020. Physicochemical parameters were determined by electrochemical and spectrophotometric methods. Microbiological analysis was carried out using membrane filtration technique. Descriptive statistics revealed that Tur, Cond, pH and T parameters did not meet world health organization (WHO, 2017) standards. However, the parameters NO3-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NO_{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}, NO2-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NO_{2^{-}}$$\\end{document}, NH4+\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NH_{4^{+}}$$\\end{document}, PO43-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$PO_{4}^{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}, Cl-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$Cl^{-}$$\\end{document}, DHT, TAC, SO42-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$SO_{4}^{2^{-}}$$\\end{document} and HCO3-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$HCO_{3^{-}}$$\\end{document} comply with WHO standards. The results of bacteriological analyzes confirm the presence in very significant numbers of indicators of faecal contamination (CTH, E.coli and E.faecalis) in all wells. The logical explanations for faecal pollution would come from the infiltration of septic tanks located near the wells and the run-off of waste water carrying human and animal faecal matter. The diarrhea epidemic would therefore be caused by the consumption of this polluted water. PCA, FCA and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were jointly employed to identify the structure of wells and deduce the principal factors controlling the parameters of these well waters. ANOVA revealed the effect of human-induced activities as the main factors influencing the physicochemical and microbiological parameters of the studied well waters. Further studies should focus on multivariate statistical techniques for effective forecasting and monitoring of emerging pollution for improved water quality.

Possible influence of shipping operations on trace metals gradients along the Commodore Channel, Lagos State, Nigeria

The impact of shipping operations on the level of trace metals along the Commodore Channel of the Lagos lagoon is a topic that requires careful consideration. Shipping activities can have a significant impact on the water quality of the lagoon, which in turn can affect the health of the flora and fauna that depend on it. This study attempts to assess the impact of shipping operations on the level of trace metals along the Commodore Channel of the Lagos lagoon. Concentrations of trace metals in the Lagos Lagoon specifically the Commodore channel were determined in March 2016, and the downstream variation was compared. Trace metals (Pb, Cd, Fe, Zn and Co) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The concentration of trace metals were found to be beyond the permissible limits stipulated by World Health Organization (WHO) and European Union (EU). There exists an exception in the mean level of Zn (0.23±0.1107mg/L) in the harbor water which was lower than the WHO standard of 5mg/L as at the time of this study. The trace metals showed the decreasing order of Pb > Fe > Zn > Co > Cd with concentration of 1.0±0.6mg/L, 0.62±0.2mg/L. 0.23±0.1107, 0.14±0.12mg/L and 0.05±0.02mg/L respectively. The result of contamination factor showed the harbor water had very high degree of Pb and Cd contamination. This high CF can be caused by the shipping and vessel transportation route and gateway of the harbor into the country. Continuous monitoring is required to assess environmental quality and adopt suitable management techniques in order to prevent the negative impacts of shipping operations on trace metal occurrence in harbors.

Early Postnatal Care Utilization and Associated Factors Among Women Who Give Birth in the Last Six Weeks in Hosanna Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2022.

Background: The early postnatal period is defined as the first 48 h to 7 days after delivery. The early postnatal visit is especially the most critical time for the survival of mothers and newborns, particularly through early detection and management of postpartum complications. Despite the benefits, most mothers and newborns do not receive early postnatal care services from healthcare providers during the critical first few days after delivery. Objectives: This study is aimed at assessing the prevalence of early postnatal care utilization and associated factors among mothers who gave birth within the last 6 weeks in Hosanna town, Southern Ethiopia, from April 20 to May 30, 2022. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Hadiya Zone, Hosanna town, Southern Ethiopia. A simple random sample technique was used to recruit 403 mothers who had given birth in the previous 6 weeks from a family folder. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a standardized questionnaire. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the association between outcomes and explanatory variables, and the strength of the association was interpreted using an odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval. In our study, p values of 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of early postnatal care utilization among mothers who gave birth within 1 week of the study area was 25.8% (95% CI: 21.7-30.0). No formal and primary educational level of husband (AOR = 0.05, 95% CI: [0.02, 0.16]), antenatal care follow-up (AOR = 2.13, 95% CI: [1.11, 4.1]), length of hospital stay before discharge (≥24 h) (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: [0.16, 0.55]), and information about early postnatal care utilization (AOR = 3.08, 95% CI: [1.72, 5.52]) were factors significantly associated with early postnatal care utilization. Conclusion: In comparison to World Health Organization standards, the study's overall prevalence of early postnatal care utilization was low. Early postnatal care use was significantly associated with antenatal care follow-up, the husband's educational level, knowledge of early postnatal care use, and length of stay at the health institution following birth. As a result, the strength of health facilities is to improve service provision, information education, and communication.

Source Apportionment of Air Quality Parameters and Noise Levels in the Industrial Zones of Blantyre City

The increase in industrial activities has raised concerns regarding air quality in urban areas within Malawi. To assess the source apportionment of air quality parameters (AQPs) and noise levels, concentrations of AQPs (CO, TSP, PM 2.5, PM10) and noise levels were monitored at 15 sites in Makata, Limbe, Maselema, Chirimba, and Maone during dry and wet seasons, respectively. Active mobile multi-gas monitors and a Dylos DC1100 PRO Laser Particle Counter (2018 model) were used to monitor AQPs, while Integrated Sound Level Meters were used to measure noise levels. Monitoring and analysis were guided by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Malawi Standards (MS). A Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) model was used to determine source apportionment of AQPs, and matrix trajectories analysed air mass movement. In the wet season, the average concentration values of CO, TSP, PM10, and PM2.5 were 0.49 ± 0.65 mg/m3, 85.03 ± 62.18 µg/m3, 14.65 ± 8.13 µg/m3, and 11.52 ± 7.19 µg/m3, respectively. Dry season average concentration values increased to 1.31 ± 0.81 mg/m3, 99.86± 30.06 µg/m3, 24.35 ± 9.53 µg/m3, and 18.28 ± 7.14 µg/m3. Noise levels remained below public MS and WHO standards (85 dB). Positive correlations between AQPs and noise levels were observed, strengthening from weak in the dry season to moderately strong in the wet season. PMF analysis identified key factors influencing AQPs accumulation, emphasizing the need for periodic sampling to monitor seasonal pollution trends, considering potential impacts on public health and environmental sustainability. Further studies should look at factors affecting the dynamics of PMF in Blantyre City.

Body Mass Index Distributions and Obesity Prevalence in a Transgender Youth Cohort – A Retrospective Analysis

PurposeTo evaluate differences in auxological parameters between transgender and cisgender adolescents. MethodsRetrospective analysis of auxological data of 269 transgender and gender diverse patients (75% assigned female at birth or AFAB, 25% assigned male at birth or AMAB) at the outpatient clinic for Pediatric Endocrinology at the Vienna General Hospital. All were treatment naïve at initial measurement. Height and weight data were compared to current World Health Organization (WHO) standards, defining a standard deviation score (SDS) of ≥ 1 ≤ 2 as overweight and > 2 as obese. ResultsIn our untreated transgender population (mean age 15.7 years), 20% were overweight and 17% obese. Mean BMI was 0.64 SDS above the WHO average (p < .001). This result was more pronounced in the AFAB subgroup (+0.73 SDS, p < .001) than in the AMAB group (+0.37 SDS, p = .07). The AMAB group showed markedly higher BMI variance compared to WHO standards (p < .001) and to the AFAB group (p = .03), due to a higher relative number of underweight observations. When correcting for psychiatric diagnosis, transgender patients were still significantly overweight (p < .001). In patients for whom data both pregender-affirming hormone therapy and during gender-affirming hormone therapy was available (n = 133), BMI SDS did not change significantly over time (p = .22). DiscussionWe observed significantly higher rates of overweight and obesity in our adolescent transgender cohort. The reasons are likely complex and multifactorial. This makes eating and exercise behaviors central in both transgender care and future research.

ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN FISH AND WATER SAMPLES FROM BABBAN WUYA MADACHI RIVER: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMAN HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

This manuscript investigates the presence and concentration of heavy metals, namely zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd), in water and two commonly consumed fish species (Tilapia and Catfish) from the Babban Wuya Madachi River. Heavy metal contamination poses significant risks to both human health and environmental sustainability. The study employs Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) to analyze heavy metal concentrations in water and fish samples collected from ten different points along the river. The mean concentration of Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd in the Tilapia fish, Catfish and water are 50.85 ± 0.22, 2.84 ± 0.27, 7.89 ± 0.78, 0.80 ± 0.02 mg/kg; 33.87 ± 1.08, 1.49 ± 0.10, 3.74 ± 0.42, 0.33 ± 0.01mg/kg; and 0.07 ± 0.00, 0.09 ± 0.00, 0.05 ± 0.02, BDL mg/L respectively. Results indicate that water concentrations generally fall below World Health Organization (WHO) standards, while the concentrations of certain heavy metals in fish samples exceed WHO limits, notably Zn, Pb, and Cd. Moreover, concentration of Cu in fish samples is within the standard WHO limit of 2.25 mg/kg and in water its concentration is below the standard limit of 2mg/L. It has been reported that, heavy metals such as Zinc, Cd and Pb has a unique behavior that once absorbed by man it retained in the body system for long and accumulate to cause kidney problems and born demineralization through direct bone damage or indirect through renal dysfunction. The findings underscore the necessity of continued monitoring...

Assessment of Ambient Water Quality Deterioration in Proximity to Municipal Solid Waste Dumpsites in Urban Areas of Chattogram, Bangladesh

This study aims to assess the impact of waste dumping on groundwater quality within the Chattogram City Corporation area. Monitoring eight groundwater sampling points over four years, various physical and chemical parameters were analyzed, utilizing the APHA method. Parameters assessed include pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity, biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), Turbidity, Total Hardness, Ca-Hardness, Alkalinity, TSS, Chloride, Phosphate, Sulphate, Nitrite, Nitrate, Fluoride, Iron, Arsenic, Zinc, Copper, and Chromium. The findings were compared to the Department of Environment's (DoE) recommended values, as well as the Bangladesh standard and World Health Organization (WHO) values. During sample collection, deep tube wells near the dumping site points were prioritized. According to the investigation CNB, Ananda Bazar Halishahar and Arefin Nagar, deep pump water carries too many irons in their groundwater. Iron levels exceed both WHO and Bangladesh standards across all samples. Specifically, Arefin Nagar and Ananda Bazar Halishahar area sampling points S6, S7, and S8 surpass standards in TDS, Total Hardness, Turbidity, TSS, Chloride, and Iron. Water Quality Index (WQI) calculations suggest unsuitability for drinking purposes in all sampled water, with S5 and S8 demonstrating particularly high values, indicating their unsuitability for human consumption. Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI) calculations reveal a decrease at CNB sampling points S1 and S2, where waste dumping ceased in 2017. However, HPI values at other points show an increasing trend, indicating the leaching of heavy metals from solid waste into groundwater. S5 and S8 exhibit notably high HPI values (Average 464.99 and 319.59), suggesting an accumulation of heavy metals in the groundwater. Carcinogenic Risk Analysis of Arsenic highlights the failure of most sampled water to meet Carcinogenic Risk (CR) standards, signalling a potential cancer risk with prolonged use of this water.

CORRELATION ANALYSIS AND MODELLING OF HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATIONS AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS FROM SOIL SAMPLES OF FIVE SELECTED REFUSE DUMPSITES IN LAFIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Thousands of tons of solid wastes are generated and disposed daily in open dumps of most Nigerian cities due to rapid population explosion and commercial activities. In this study, concentrations of heavy metals and physicochemical parameters from 20 soil samples each from selected refuse dumpsites in wet and dry seasons were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) standard methods. The results showed that during the wet and dry seasons, the concentration of heavy metals, Hg, Cr, Mn were above that of World Health Organisation (WHO), and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), while that of Pb, As, Fe, Zn, Cu and Ni were below the tolerable limits. The results for physicochemical parameters in wet and dry seasons for nitrates, phosphates and organic matter were above WHO standards. Statistical test at 0.05 probability level (p &lt; 0.05) was used to determine the degree of association between pairs of the variables. The principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to measure the direct and inverse relationship between these parameters and heavy metal availability. Based on the different variables obtained at the study areas, a multiple linear regression analysis was determined from which a general linear model was formulated. The study recommends appropriate government agencies should as a matter urgency integrate the regular monitoring of waste disposal into the state developmental plan and framework in order to prevent excessive build-up of these metals in humans through the food chain.

Spatial analysis of leachate penetration at Lemna dumpsite, Calabar: Implications for sustainable waste management in Cross River State

This study rigorously investigated the spatial analysis of leachate penetration at Lemna dumpsite, located in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Purposeful soil sampling, performed at specific intervals (5 m, 25 m, and 50 m) along the Electrical Resistivity profile line within the dumpsite, was augmented by water sample collection from five boreholes near Lemna dumpsite. Utilizing Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Vertical Electric Sounding (VES) survey techniques, resistivity data were systematically gathered to comprehensively analyze the Leachate Penetration in the Lemna dumpsite. Laboratory analysis of soil and borehole water quality focused on Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, and Xylene (BTEX), with paired sample t-tests applied for statistical scrutiny. Analyzing the ERT and VES data employed sophisticated techniques embedded in Resistivity Two Dimension Invasion software and Advanced Geosciences Incorporation Earth Imager software. Substantial disparities (p < 0.05) emerged in the paired sample t-tests for BTEX in soil compared to National Environmental Standard Regulation and Enforcement Agency (NESREA) limits. Similarly, BTEX in borehole water displayed significant differences (p < 0.05) when compared to World Health Organization (WHO) standards, raising alarming concerns about the safety and portability of groundwater in the area. The examination of dumpsite leachate penetration revealed a resistivity anomaly of 8.01 Ωm and an inverse depth of 12.4 m, underscoring profound environmental implications and necessitating immediate remediation efforts. Additionally, Vulnerability and Aquifer Protective Capacity Index (VES) results, with a rating of <0.1, indicated severely compromised aquifer protective capacity, emphasizing the vulnerability of groundwater resources to further contamination. Our study advocates for strategic management, remediation, and monitoring measures to prevent contamination and safeguard water quality in the region.

Assessment of groundwater quality and alkaline earth metals from the Al Masaraat basin at Al Dhahirah Governorate, Sultanate of Oman

ABSTRACT Comprehending the physicochemical properties of water is vital for efficient groundwater management in the research area. Groundwater often sees an increase in chemical element concentrations as it moves underground due to water-rock interaction. Water quality is assessed by comparing various parameter levels with drinking water standards. The primary goal of this study is to assess the groundwater quality from Al Dhahirah Governorate by analysing the physicochemical characteristics (pH, EC, TDS, TH, and T) and evaluating the concentrations of alkali and alkaline earth metals. It involved collecting groundwater samples from 11 different sites in the area and using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) to analyse various elements, such as Ca, Na, Mg, and Sr. The study’s results reveal that the quality parameters of drinking water sources are within the Omani and World Health Organization (WHO) standards, except for Na, Mg, Sr, and TH level. The average concentrations of Na and Mg were 527.64 and 87.93 mg/L, respectively, while the average TH measured 658.86 mg/L, which is classified as very hard. The analysis of correlations among groundwater quality parameters indicates that physicochemical parameters influence the chemical properties of groundwater. To ensure safe drinking water, it is advisable to treat contaminated water before use and regularly monitor its quality. The findings contribute to the understanding of water quality in this region, providing valuable insights for environmental and public health considerations.

Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Roadside Soil of Tumfure Main Market, Gombe State

Heavy metal pollution has been a problem of concern in soil ecology in recent decades. This study evaluated the physico-chemical characteristics and heavy metal contents in roadside soil samples of Tumfure main market, Gombe, Nigeria. The soil samples were collected from six different sampling points with a control sample each by handpicking, this was followed by oven-drying, ground to fine grain, and then sieved using a 2 mm mesh sieve. The pH, electrical conductivity and bulk density were carried out on the soil samples, sieve and sedimentation method were used to determine the soil texture. The soil samples were weighed and digested using mixture of HCl and HNO3. The contents (mg/kg) of four metals (cadmium, copper, lead and zinc) were estimated using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Among the metals analyzed, the contents of Cd, Cu and Pb were not detected while the content of Zn (23.454 - 36.026) was found to be within the desirable permissible limits by the World Health Organization (WHO) and European Regulatory Standards (EURS) whose prevalence is to be considered non-toxic in unpolluted soils.

Total Suspended Particulate Matter (TSP)-Bound Carbonaceous Components in a Roadside Area in Eastern Indonesia

To evaluate carbonaceous components in the ambient air in the eastern region of Indonesia, 35 Total Suspended Particulate Matter (TSP) samples were collected on four characteristic roadsides on Sultan Alauddin Street, in Makassar City, using a high-volume air sampler. The average TSP concentration was 279.7 μg/m3, which exceeded both the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of Indonesia and the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The highest concentration reached 838.6 μg/m3 in the GR (gravel) site, which had the highest number of vehicles and was near a U-turn. TSP concentration was higher during peak hours (morning and late afternoon) than off-peak hours (noon). The main component of the total carbon (TC) fraction was organic carbon (OC), which showed a strong correlation with elemental carbon (EC) (r values for the morning, noon, and late afternoon were 0.89, 0.87, and 0.97, respectively), indicating that the carbon components were derived from common sources. TSP had a strong correlation with carbon components, except for char-EC. OC vs. soot-EC and EC vs. soot-EC also correlated well, suggesting the dominant influence of vehicle exhaust emissions. Non-exhaust emissions had a slight influence during peak hours, particularly at the GR site.

Thirty Years of Experience of Acute Flaccid Paralysis Surveillance for Polio - China, 1993-2022.

Detecting poliovirus infections proves to be highly challenging due to their asymptomatic nature and infectious potential, highlighting the crucial importance of effective detection methods in the context of polio eradication efforts. In many countries, including China, the primary approach for identifying polio outbreaks has been through acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance. In this study, we conducted an evaluation spanning three decades (1993-2022) to assess the effectiveness of AFP surveillance in China. Data on all AFP cases identified since 1993 and national-level AFP surveillance system quality indicators aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO) standards were collected for analysis. The quality indicators assess surveillance sensitivity, completeness, timeliness of detection notification, case investigation, and laboratory workup. Surveillance sensitivity is determined by the non-polio AFP (NPAFP) detection rate among children under 15 years of age. Between 1993 and 2022, a total of 150,779 AFP cases were identified and reported. Within this pool, surveillance identified 95 cases of wild poliovirus (WPV) and 24 cases due to vaccine-derived poliovirus. From 1995 onwards, the detection rate of NPAFP cases consistently adhered to the WHO and national standards of ≥1 case per 100,000, falling between 1.38 and 2.76. Starting in 1997, all timeliness indicators consistently achieved the criteria of 80%, apart from the consistency in meeting standards set for the rate of positive specimens sent to the national laboratory. AFP surveillance has been instrumental in China's accomplishment of maintaining a polio-free status. The ongoing adherence to key performance indicators, ensuring sensitivity and prompt specimen collection, demonstrates that AFP surveillance is proficient in detecting poliovirus in China. As we move into the post-eradication phase, AFP surveillance remains crucial for the sustained absence of polioviruses in the long term.

Significant differences in the length and weight measurements of Jordanian infants compared to the World Health Organization 2006 growth standards

BACKGROUND: In 2006, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced new growth standards based on data derived globally from optimally nourished breastfed infants. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of implementing WHO growth standards on the growth patterns of Jordanian infants. In addition, it was to ascertain the necessity of establishing country-specific growth standards and charts tailored to Jordanian infants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data of 102,846 infants (50.1% boys, 49.9% girls) aged 0–24 months, from 115 primary healthcare centers across the country were retrieved from a National E-health Program. Weight and length measurements were analyzed, and age- and sex-specific z-scores were calculated relative to the WHO growth standards. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Mann–Whitney U test was performed to determine significant differences between the measurements for boys and girls in terms of age, length, and weight. RESULTS: Jordanian infants exhibited significantly shorter length-for-age measurements than WHO standards with mean z-scores of −0.56 and −0.38, for boys and girls, respectively. Weight-for-age measurements showed a good fit and were comparable to the WHO growth standards for boys (mean z score = −0.05) and girls (mean z score = 0.04). Notably, Jordanian infants displayed higher weight-for-length measurements, with mean z-scores of 0.51 for boys and 0.47 for girls. CONCLUSION: The availability of Jordanian-specific growth standards will improve the accuracy of assessing infant growth and enhance the monitoring and evaluation of their health and development.

Assessment of tube well water quality in selected residential areas in Khulna

Clean water is vital for sustainable development, fostering socio-economic growth, ecological stability, and human survival. The study aimed to evaluate the quality of tube well water in specific residential areas of Khulna for drinking purposes, comparing it with the standards of World Health Organization (WHO) and Bangladesh (BD). Twenty tube well water samples were collected from residential areas at depths of 700-1500 ft. The samples were tasted with about 20 parameters, including physical: color, taste, odor, total dissolved solids (TDS) and total suspended solids (TSS); chemical: acidity/alkalinity (pH), arsenic (As), electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), bicarbonate (HCO3–), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), sodium (Na+), chloride (Cl–), iron (Fe), phosphate (PO43–), sulfate (SO42–), potassium (K+); and bacteriological parameters: total coliforms and E. coli bacteria. Most of the samples were found to have higher TDS (avg. 1380 mg/L), TSS (avg. 620 mg/L), Fe (avg. 20.2 mg/L), K+ (avg. 194.1 mg/L), and Na+ (avg. 439 mg/L) concentrations compared to the WHO and BD Standards. 90 to 95% of samples exhibited acceptable levels of EC, pH, DO, Mg2+, Ca2+, Cl–, and SO43–. The salinity levels in most of the samples were excessive to be used for drinking, and the levels were especially very high in samples S-01(Na+ 820 and Cl- 3195 mg/L) and S-04 (Na+ 660 and Cl- 2946 mg/L). The arsenic levels were found to be higher than acceptable limit in S-01 (0.086 mg/L) and S-04 (0.091 mg/L) as well. E. coli and other bacteria in a few samples (S-01, 04, 13, 16, 17, 19) were detected.

GROUNDWATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT IN THE RIVER ATBARA ALLUVIAL SEDIMENTS, EASTERN SUDAN

According to the standard rates for water testing, 45 wells were sampled and analyzed to evaluate and assess the groundwater chemistry, classify the hydrochemical facies, and identify the sources of salinity in the study area. The main constituents determined included Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Sulfate, Magnesium, Calcium, Nitrate, and Bicarbonate. Electrical conductivity, Total Dissolved Solids, Total and Excess Alkalinity, and pH were measured on-site during field trips. Using Piper's diagram, chemical information was utilized to identify the groundwater’s chemical facies. Despite most chemical concentrations being within the Sudanese Standards and Metrology Organization (SSMO) and World Health Organization (WHO) standard limits, salinity hazards were observed in the middle part of the study area, such as in Shaoat Sherg, Almugatah Shreg, and Umm Oud villages, attributed to the concentration of sodium and chloride in basaltic rocks. The dissolved solids in the study area ranged between 200 to 800 mg/L. The values of calcium ranged between 6.4 to 90 mg/L. The magnesium ion concentration ranged between 4.8 and 90 mg/L. The sodium concentration ranged between 7 and 420 mg/L. The concentration of chloride ranged between 6 and 1098 mg/L. Potassium ranged between 1.2 and 46 mg/L. The concentration of bicarbonate ranged between 78 and 793 mg/L. The sulfate concentration ranged between 0.5 and 508 mg/L. The nitrate (NO₃⁻) concentration was found to be very small. Based on Piper’s diagram, the samples resulted in 60% being mixed groundwater type and 40% being Na-HCO₃, Na-Cl, and Ca-Mg-HCO₃ groundwater types. Most samples were deemed good for human and agricultural use. Only nine were found to be above the recommended values, with reference to SSMO (2002) and WHO (2008) standards.

Solid CaCO3 Formation in Glioblastoma Multiforme and its Treatment with Ultra-Nanoparticulated NPt-Bionanocatalysts.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most prevalent form of central nervous system (CNS) cancer, stands as a highly aggressive glioma deemed virtually incurable according to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards, with survival rates typically falling between 6 to 18 months. Despite concerted efforts, advancements in survival rates have been elusive. Recent cutting-edge research has unveiled bionanocatalysts with 1% Pt, demonstrating unparalleled selectivity in cleaving C-C, C-N, and C-O bonds within DNA in malignant cells. The application of these nanoparticles has yielded promising outcomes. The objective of this study is to employ bionanocatalysts for the treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) in a patient, followed by the evaluation of obtained tissues through electronic microscopy. Bionanocatalysts were synthesized using established protocols. These catalysts were then surgically implanted into the GBM tissue through stereotaxic procedures. Subsequently, tissue samples were extracted from the patient and meticulously examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Detailed examination of biopsies via SEM unveiled a complex network of small capillaries branching from a central vessel, accompanied by a significant presence of solid carbonate formations. Remarkably, the patient subjected to this innovative approach exhibited a three-year extension in survival, highlighting the potential efficacy of bionanocatalysts in combating GBM and its metastases. Bionanocatalysts demonstrate promise as a viable treatment option for severe cases of GBM. Additionally, the identification of solid calcium carbonate formations may serve as a diagnostic marker not only for GBM but also for other CNS pathologies.

Assessing the quality of drinking water from selected water sources in Mbarara city, South-western Uganda.

This study assessed the physical, chemical, and microbiological quality with emphasis on risk score, source apportionment, geochemistry, feacal coliforms and water quality index of drinking water from selected water sources. A cross-sectional study was conducted in six villages in Mbarara city, south-western Uganda. Each selected source was inspected using a WHO-adopted sanitary inspection questionnaire. Each source's risk score was calculated. Thirty-seven samples were taken from one borehole, nine open dug wells, four rain harvest tanks, and twenty-three taps. The values for apparent color and phosphate were higher than the permissible level as set by the World Health Organization and Ugandan standards (US EAS 12). The isolated organisms were Klebsiella spp. (8.11%), Citrobacter divergens (62.16%), Citrobacter fluendii (2.7%), E. coli (35.14%), Enterobacter aerogenes (8.11%), Enterobacter agglomerus (5.4%), Proteus spp. (2.7%), Enterobacter cloacae (13.5%), and Proteus mirabilis (2.7%). Twelve water sources (32.4%) had water that was unfit for human consumption that was unfit for human consumption (Grade E), Five sources (13.5%) had water that had a very poor index (Grade D), nine (24.3%) had water of poor index (Grade C), eight (21.6%) had water of good water index (Grade B), and only three (8.1%) had water of excellent water quality index (Grade A). The piper trilinear revealed that the dominant water type of the area were Mgso4 and Caso4 type. Gibbs plot represents precipitation dominance. PCA for source apportionment showed that well, tap and borehole water account for the highest variations in the quality of drinking water. These results suggest that drinking water from sources in Mbarara city is not suitable for direct human consumption without treatment. We recommend necessary improvements in water treatment, distribution, and maintenance of all the available water sources in Mbarara City, South Western Uganda.

An evaluation of LLIN physical integrity and population attitudes towards net use, care and handling during the Magude project in southern Mozambique

BackgroundThe Magude Project assessed the feasibility of eliminating malaria in Magude district, a low transmission setting in southern Mozambique, using a package of interventions, including long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). As the efficacy of LLINs depends in part on their physical integrity, this metric was quantified for Olyset® Nets post mass-distribution, in addition to net use, care and handling practices and other risk factors associated with net physical integrity.MethodsNets were collected during a cross-sectional net evaluation, nine months after the Magude project commenced, which was 2 years after the nets were distributed by the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP). The physical integrity of the nets was assessed by counting and sizing the holes at different positions on each net. A structured questionnaire was administered to assess how the selected net was used and treated (care, wash and repair). Net bio-efficacy was assessed following the standard World Health Organization (WHO) cone bioassay procedures.ResultsOut of the 170 Olyset® Nets included in the analysis, 63.5% had been used the night before. The main reason for not using a net was the notion that there were no mosquitoes present. The average number of people using each net was 1.79. Two thirds of the nets had only been washed once or twice since distribution. Most nets (80.9%) were holed and 18% were torn, but none of the risk factors were significantly associated with net integrity, except for presence of mice in the household. Less than half of the participants noticed holes in holed nets, and of those only 38.6% attempted to repair those. None of the six nets that were tested for bio-efficacy passed the WHO threshold of 80% mosquito mortality.ConclusionOverall the majority of Olyset® Nets were in serviceable condition two years post-distribution, but their insecticidal effect may have been lost. This study—together with previous evidence on suboptimal access to and use of LLINs in Magude district—highlights that LLINs as an intervention could have been optimized during the Magude project to achieve maximum intervention impact.