World Health Organization Standards Research Articles

Assessment of Physicochemical and Bacteriological Quality of Government Intervention Borehole Water in Ipetu-Ijesa, Osun State

Access to clean and safe drinking water remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, where millions lack improved water sources. This study assessed the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of water from selected government intervention boreholes in Ipetu-Ijesa, Osun State. Water samples were collected from five boreholes and analysed for parameters including pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), nitrate levels, salinity, and microbial contamination (total coliform and Escherichia coli counts). The results indicated that most physicochemical parameters fell within the permissible limits set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Nigerian Standards for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). However, turbidity and total coliform counts exceeded safe limits in some locations. Total coliform counts ranged from 2.0 to 14.0 cfu/100 mL with a mean value of 7.0 cfu/100 mL. Borehole D (Oko Owo) exhibited the lowest contamination levels, while Borehole C (Bamikemo) recorded the highest total coliform count. No faecal coliforms were detected in the examined samples. Boreholes A, B, and C exhibited elevated conductivity, TDS, and temperature, suggesting potential contamination from environmental and anthropogenic sources. Borehole D had slightly acidic water, indicating possible metal leaching. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed strong correlations between conductivity, TDS, and temperature, highlighting potential underground contamination sources. Although the physicochemical characteristics and total coliform counts were mostly within permissible limits, deviations in some boreholes suggest the need for continuous monitoring and quality assessment to ensure safe drinking water.

Suitability of Grey-water Treated with Common Reed in Constructed Wetland for Irrigation Purposes in Akure, Nigeria

Effective grey-water management plays a crucial role in promoting environmentally sustainable practices. This research focuses on assessing the suitability of grey-water treated with common reed for irrigation purposes in Akure, Nigeria. Grey-water samples were sourced from a university hostel and subjected to treatment through a Constructed Wetland (CW) system, which was planted with common reed (Phragmites australis). The study spanned a three-year period (2016-2018), during which both the physico-chemical and microbial parameters of the raw and treated grey-water were evaluated before and after treatment. The findings revealed notable reductions in the treated grey-water’s physico-chemical and microbial characteristics, thereby indicating the effectiveness of the treatment process. Additionally, the levels of heavy metals in the treated grey-water were significantly reduced, meeting the World Health Organization (WHO) standards for safe use in irrigation. The study highlights the potential of common reed-based constructed wetlands to effectively remove contaminants from grey-water, underscoring their viability as a low-cost, eco-friendly solution for grey-water treatment in Akure, Nigeria, and similar regions. The study also concludes that common reed-treated grey-water can be a viable alternative for irrigation in agricultural settings, contributing to sustainable water management practices in areas like Akure. Consequently, the treated grey-water from this system is deemed safe and suitable for agricultural use, aligning with guidelines for wastewater reuse in irrigation.

The Concentration of Fine Particulate Matter from Antique Handmade Brick Kilns in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Air quality assessment in particulate matter with a size of less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) is essential because it affects urban residential health. Hence, this research studied the analysis of PM2.5 value from antique Mon handmade stove house usage in Chiang Mai, using the AERMOD air quality dispersion model. The data for the modeling was collected from a survey regarding the amounts of production and fuel, and the location of the brick kilns used to calculate the amount of air pollution emissions. The summarized values were the emission factor, the climate data as the surface meteorological data, the upper-air meteorological data obtained from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and national geographic data. The Albedo and Bowen ratios and the surface roughness values were identified using satellite data and then presented in a map of the dust intensity distribution. The results found that the highest value of PM2.5 concentration at the smoke point was 209.19 μg/m3, while the average values were 48.21 μg/m3. The PM2.5 concentration at the stack pointer was higher than the standard scores of Thai and World Health Organization (WHO) general atmospheric air quality standards. However emissions varied, and average PM2.5 concentrations exceeded WHO standards and, in the case of full operation, exceeded Thai standards, posing health risks.

Geographical Information System-driven intelligent surface water quality assessment for enhanced drinking and irrigation purposes in Brahmani River, Odisha (India).

River basins in Odisha suffer from serious anthropogenic interventions that degrade water quality, including runoff from agriculture, municipal wastewater, and industrial discharges. The Brahmani River, an essential source of water for industrial, agricultural, and drinking uses, is especially affected by overuse of fertilizer and pesticides. Ensuring health and cleanliness in cities and communities requires constant monitoring and management of drinking water sources. This study evaluates the river's water quality for drinking and agricultural applications and identifies key factors influencing its deterioration. Water samples were collected from 12 locations during pre-monsoon (PRM) and post-monsoon (POM) seasons (2017-2021) and analyzed for physicochemical parameters against World Health Organization (WHO) standards. For quality assessment, values of analyzed parameters of the surface water samples were compared with the WHO water quality standards. The findings show that the majority of the samples are fit for drinking and irrigation, with the main cations arranged as Ca2⁺ > Na⁺ > Mg2⁺ > K⁺ and anions as HCO₃⁻ > Cl⁻ > SO₄2⁻ > CO₃2⁻, respectively. The analytical results indicate slightly alkaline nature of the surface water in the study area. Strong correlations among ions (HCO₃⁻, Ca2⁺, Mg2⁺, Cl⁻, SO₄2⁻) suggest influences from natural processes (weathering, erosion) and anthropogenic activities. Seasonal variations assessed using Water Quality Index (WQI) and Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Water Quality Index (CCME-WQI) method indicate that water quality ranges from good to poor in PRM and good to marginal in POM seasons. The metrics and the criteria differ significantly, indicating that remedial action is necessary to enhance the quality of the water at these locations. Irrigation suitability indices (SAR, MH, %Na, PI, RSC, KI, ESP) further confirm the water's acceptability for agricultural use. The irrigation suitability of agriculture-dominated basin was assessed using Empirical Bayesian Kriging (EBK) modeling, achieving high accuracy with an RMSS error and an MS error. Spatial maps generated using Geographical Information System (GIS) software, along with Gibbs plots, Piper diagrams, and Wilcox diagrams, help delineate agricultural zones and highlight the dominant geochemical processes. The study concludes that both anthropogenic (sewage discharge, waste dumping) and geogenic (evaporation, mineral dissolution) factors significantly affect water quality. The findings highlight the effectiveness of EBK for sustainable irrigation and agriculture. To preserve this critical resource, measures such as reducing sewage outflows, managing stormwater discharge, and preventing solid waste disposal are essential. The purpose of this study is to pinpoint areas with low water quality and offer workable solutions to the nation's water resources management agency in order to enhance the drinking water supply or attain sustainable water resources. Findings revealed greater water stress in upstream areas compared to downstream regions, offering valuable insights for drinking, irrigation management, and drought-resistant crop planning.

A return on investment analysis for the 2017 increase in alcohol excise taxation in Lithuania.

To conduct a return on investment analysis of Lithuania's 2017 increase in alcohol excise taxation of 112% for beer, 111% for wine, and 23% for ethyl alcohol (spirits), resulting in a marked decrease in alcohol affordability. Economic analyses based on costs of the increased taxation and economic benefits derived from a societal perspective. Costs were measured according to World Health Organization standards, based on Lithuanian public data. Benefits were derived from the difference of direct (healthcare, childcare, legal) and indirect costs between 12 months pre- and post-enactment of the policy. All costs and benefits were expressed in 2023 Euros (€). Overall, there were net benefits from reductions in productivity losses and increases in tax revenue. Tax revenue increased by 20%, or more than €100 million, in the first-year post enactment, and productivity losses decreased over the same time period by about €35.3 million (95% confidence interval [CI]: -51.9 to -17.1; proportionally -7%; 95% CI: -11.0% to -4.0%), the latter based on marked reductions in premature mortality in all alcohol-attributable causes of death. In addition, healthcare costs decreased by about €3.8 million (95% CI: -8.4 to +0.1; proportionally -5%; 95% CI: -11.0% to +0.1%). On the other hand, childcare and legal costs increased compared with the year before, by €5.3 million (no 95% CI possible; proportionally: +7%) and €4.6 million (95% CI: +0.2 to +8.0; proportionally +5%; 95% CI: +0.3 to +8.7%), respectively. The final return on investment was 420 to 1, i.e. for each Euro invested, the return was €420. In the sensitivity analyses, the return on investment varied between 292 to 1 and 530 to 1, meaning that all assumptions resulted in a very positive return. The increase in excise taxation for alcohol on March 1, 2017 in Lithuania created a large return on investment and reduced alcohol-attributable mortality and hospitalizations.

Uncovering pyrethroid resistance mechanisms in Anopheles punctulatus group mosquitoes: A novel insight from Keerom, Papua, Indonesia

Background and Aim: Malaria control programs in Indonesia heavily rely on insecticide-based interventions such as long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS). However, the effectiveness of these strategies is increasingly compromised by the emergence of insecticide resistance, particularly in high-transmission regions like Papua Province. The mechanisms underlying pyrethroid resistance in local vector populations remain inadequately characterized. This study aimed to assess the permethrin resistance status and characterize the frequency of L1014F/S knockdown resistance (kdr) alleles in Anopheles punctulatus group mosquitoes in Keerom, Papua, to inform region-specific malaria vector control strategies. Materials and Methods: An entomological and molecular investigation was conducted in five villages across three districts of Keerom Regency. Larval and adult Anopheles mosquitoes were collected through standard World Health Organization techniques. Insecticide susceptibility was evaluated using 0.75% permethrin bioassays. Molecular identification and detection of kdr mutations (L1014F/S) were performed using species-specific polymerase chain reaction and sequencing protocols. Allele frequencies were analyzed using Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium models, and statistical comparisons were made using one-way analysis of variance. Results: Among 163 mosquitoes tested, permethrin resistance was confirmed across all districts, with mortality rates ranging from 50% to 68.66%. Molecular analyses identified Anopheles koliensis, A. punctulatus, and A. peditaeniatus. High frequencies of the L1014S mutation were detected in A. koliensis (0.87) and A. punctulatus (0.66), whereas A. peditaeniatus exhibited only wild-type alleles. No L1014F mutations were observed. The high prevalence of homozygous resistant genotypes indicates intense selection pressure, potentially linked to LLIN and agricultural insecticide use. Conclusion: This study provides the first molecular evidence of widespread permethrin resistance mediated by L1014S mutations in the A. punctulatus group in Papua. These findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced resistance monitoring and the integration of alternative insecticides and non-chemical vector control methods to sustain malaria control efforts in the region. Keywords: Anopheles punctulatus, knockdown resistance, L1014S, malaria vector control, Papua, pyrethroid resistance.

Cross-cultural adaptation of the questionnaire on self-reported olfactory functioning and olfaction-related quality of life (ASOF) into Farsi.

This research aimed to translate and assess the psychometric characteristics of the abbreviated Self-Reported Olfactory Functioning and Olfaction-Related Quality of Life (ASOF) among Iranian Farsi-speaking individuals. This tool development study, initiated after receiving authorization from the original questionnaire's corresponding author, involved the translation of the ASOF questionnaire using the forward-backward method, in line with the World Health Organization's standards. The research was conducted quantitatively, incorporating minor modifications in the Farsi version of the questionnaire items to ensure cultural relevance. The validity of the questionnaire, including face, content, and structural aspects, was evaluated. The internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha. Acceptable levels were observed in the item impact score, content validity index, and content validity ratio across all questionnaire items based on data from 30 healthy participants. The Cronbach's alpha coefficients for self-reported olfactory function and olfactory quality of life assessment were 0.906 and 0.943, respectively, falling within a permissible range. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the three-factor structure of the ASOF questionnaire, as evidenced by standard factor loadings and goodness of fit indices, using a sample of 120 patients. The study concludes that the Farsi version of the ASOF questionnaire is a reliable and valid tool. It can effectively be used to assess a broad spectrum of olfactory disorders and olfaction-related quality of life in Farsi-speaking populations.

Investigation of hydrochemical characteristic of groundwater quality of Bogoberi in Calabar Municipality in Cross River State, Southeastern Nigeria

A groundwater quality assessment was conducted in the Bogoberi community of Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Southeastern Nigeria, to evaluate the suitability of groundwater for drinking and other domestic purposes using different indices. A reconnaissance survey of five (5) borehole water samples were collected and analyzed using standard field and laboratory methods to determine various physicochemical properties. The results were compared with guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standards for Drinking Water Quality. The electrical conductivity varied between 97.2 and 254 μS/cm, while alkalinity levels ranged from 15 to 25 mg/L. Dissolved oxygen levels were between 2.5 and 5.2 mg/L, and biochemical oxygen demand ranged from 0 to 0.06 mg/L. Total dissolved solids were observed between 65.12 and 170.18 mg/L. The nitrate and sulphate ranged from 0.15 to 0.48 and 0 to 10.03 mg/L, respectively. The study area is dominated by the Calabar Flank unit. It is underlained by Teritary and Quarternary to Recent sediments known as the Benin Formation (Coastal Plain sands). The Benin Formation consists of alternating sequences of gravel and sand of various grain size, silt, clay and alluvium. In the area, the alternating sediments built up a multi-aquifer system. The Cretaceous sediments include mostly conglomerate, limestone, sandstone, mudstone, shale and marl of Calabar Flank. Statistical analysis gave significant correlation (at 0.05) between electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, alkalinity, and many other elements. The study aids in the understanding of chemistry of groundwater and setting background for related detailed study for long-term monitoring and management.

Groundwater contamination with heavy metals: A case study in Hebron, Palestine

The study aims to identify seasonal fluctuations in groundwater quality concerning heavy metal contamination. Specifically, it assesses heavy metal concentrations in groundwater in Wadi Al-Samen, evaluates its suitability for drinking purposes, and compares these levels with the World Health Organization standards. Groundwater samples were collected from 20 wells over two seasons and analyzed for 16 trace elements using atomic absorption spectrometry. The metals analyzed include barium, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, cadmium, chromium, boron, lithium, aluminum, arsenic, manganese, nickel, copper, zinc, lead, and selenium. Results showed that four samples exceeded the permissible limits for barium and lithium in both seasons, three samples exceeded the recommended zinc limits in both seasons, 17 samples exceeded the permissible selenium limit in the dry season, and 15 in the wet season, while one sample exceeded the recommended copper limit in both seasons. The heavy metal pollution index (HPI) and metal index (MI) were used to assess contamination levels. HPI values exhibited significant spatial variations, with recorded values of 17.2 in the dry season and 11.99 in the wet season, both below the critical threshold of 100. Groundwater quality was classified as poor in the Al-Hejreh well and very poor in the Al-Fawwar1 well, rendering it unsuitable for drinking. MI results indicated moderate heavy metal contamination, with mean MI values of 2.3 in the dry season and 2.2 in the wet season. The heavy metals detected in the study area were categorized into toxic elements, alkaline earth metals, alkali metals, transition metals, other metallic elements, and non-metallic elements. This research highlights groundwater contamination in Wadi Al-Samen and underscores the need for mitigation measures to reduce health risks for local residents.

Study of the Trace Element Composition of Drinking Water in Almaty City and Human Health Risk Assessment.

This research investigates the elemental composition of 78 drinking water samples collected during the summer, autumn, and winter of 2023 in different districts of Almaty city. Seasonal average concentrations and standard deviations were calculated for a range of chemical elements, including arsenic (As), beryllium (Be), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lithium (Li), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), selenium (Se), uranium (U), mercury (Hg), aluminum (Al), barium (Ba), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), strontium (Sr), vanadium (V), zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and sodium (Na), across three distinct datasets. The sites of sampling represent various categories of drinking water sources. The quality of drinking water was assessed by comparing the obtained data with current national, international, and World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Drinking water contaminant indices for the heavy metal groups were calculated and the water quality compliance with the hygienic criteria adopted in the Republic of Kazakhstan was determined. With the exception of two sampling points, the levels of non-carcinogenic risk remained below the acceptable threshold. The predominant pathway for exposure for both adults and children was identified as the oral ingestion of hazardous elements. Carcinogenic risks linked to Ni, Pb, and Cr presence in the drinking water of Almaty were identified, with risk values at the majority of sampling sites categorically classified within the "high risk" designation. No substantial differences in carcinogenic risk levels were detected between adults and children. These results underscore the necessity for enhanced water purification methodologies and ongoing surveillance to protect public health.

Exploration of concentration and variation of heavy metals in some borehole water from basement formation In Charanchi local government, Katsina state of Nigeria

Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium can contaminate water sources and pose serious health risks when consumed. Considering their potential health implications, this research aims to investigate the concentration and variation of heavy metals in some borehole water from basement formation in Charanchi local government area of Katsina state. The objectives are to identify heavy metals and their levels of concentration, understand the variation of heavy metals across the study area, and compare the result with the internationally accepted standard concentration value. Twenty borehole water samples were collected, and the coordinates of the various locations were taken using a handheld GPS. Microwave plasma Atomic Emission spectrometer (MP-AES) was used to analyze the concentration of the five heavy metals (Cd, As, Co, Pb, and Cr), and the mean concentration in part per million (ppm) was obtained using statistical analysis. The results obtained show that Charanchi local government Borehole’s water has an average heavy metal (Cd, As, Co, Pb and Cr) concentration of 0.0301, 14.058, 0.303, 0.113 and 0.050 (ppm) respectively. The differences were obtained by comparing the mean concentration of the heavy metals in the study area with that of the World Health Organization (W.H.O) and NAFDAC threshold limit standard. It was observed that the samples were contaminated with arsenic (As) metal which has high-risk implications. There is a need for urgent intervention and remediation measures by the authority concerned. It was recommended that Water treatment processes should be considered to reduce heavy metal levels, especially arsenic in the study area.

Infection control in dermatological practice

Prevention and control of health­care associated infections (HCAI) include a set of modern approaches and practices that reduce the socio­economic and medical burden of the problem of HCAI. Objective — to summarize the experience of implementing modern standards of infection control (IC) in dermatological practice in accordance with the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), Laws of Ukraine, Orders of the Ministry of Health and other regulatory documents of our state. Materials and methods. Modern approaches to the organization of IC have been systematized by using the analytical technique of the complex epidemiological method, according to WHO standards and regulatory documents of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, taking into account the specifics of the provision of medical services in dermatological practice. Results and discussion. WHO implements a policy of protecting patients and medical personnel from possible infection with pathogens of HCAI by improving standard and special IC procedures. Implementing recommendations on methods of medical influence for the prevention of HCAI differs in multiform medical institutions and specialties. There are differences in the regulation of standard operating procedures in therapeutic and surgical practices, which is due to the levels of risks and the probability of the occurrence of HCAI, as well as taking into account the levels of medical care. In the world, discussions among specialists on the structure, sequence and complexity of the introduction of a number of special IC measures in dermatological practice continue, and the spectrum of pathogens that cause them is being studied in depth. The spectrum of pathogens includes various taxonomic groups of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. The problem of the formation of resistance of microorganisms to specific therapeutic medications is growing. In our country, the regulatory framework on these issues for dermatologists, venereologists and cosmetologists is not systematized, but is contained in separate provisions in a number of Laws of Ukraine, Resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, Orders of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and other documents. Conclusions. The introduction of IC standards in dermatological practice in Ukraine is at an early stage. The creation of a regulatory document summarizing good IC practices is an urgent task that will contribute to increasing the effectiveness of HCAI prevention in dermatology, venereology, and cosmetology.

Long-term outcomes of a paediatric quality improvement project in Central Asia: changes take time, time for a change.

Quality health care is essential for reducing child mortality. A three-year World Health Organization (WHO) quality improvement (QI) project, implemented in the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan between 2012 and 2014, aimed to enhance the quality of paediatric hospital care and thereby reduce child mortality. The intervention included training on international guidelines, provision of medicines, supplies, and equipment, and supportive supervision. This study assessed whether the project was successful in improving clinical practices in the long term in both countries. We matched intervention hospitals with hospitals that did not participate in the QI project (control hospitals). We randomly selected medical records of children aged 2-59 months who were hospitalised with an acute respiratory infection or diarrhoea before the start of the QI project (2012), at its end (2015), and seven years after its completion (2021). We reviewed clinical practices from medical records to assess compliance with WHO standards for clinical care of children, which were emphasised in the project's training sessions. In the Kyrgyz Republic, the quality of care improved in intervention hospitals between the start and the end of the QI project for all indicators except one: unnecessary hospitalisations, unnecessarily prolonged hospitalisations, and unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions decreased, while the use of pulse oximetry and oral rehydration salts (ORS) prescriptions increased. This improvement was sustained until 2021. In control hospitals, some improvements were also observed between 2012 and 2015, but these were less substantial and less sustained. The interventions had less effect in Tajikistan between 2012 and 2015, and the improvements were not always sustained until 2021: unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions decreased and ORS prescriptions increased by 2015 but reverted to baseline levels by 2021. The QI project resulted in improvements in clinical practice in both countries, which were sustainable in the long term only in one country. The differences in long-term benefits may be attributable to factors within the health system environment. Issues related to health governance for, health financing, and health workforce were largely disregarded during the project's design and implementation, yet may be crucial for sustainability.

Efficiency Evaluation of a Photovoltaic-Powered Water Treatment System with Natural Sedimentation Pretreatment for Arsenic Removal in High Water Vulnerability Areas: Application in La Yarada Los Palos District, Tacna, Peru

Arsenic contamination poses a severe health risk in regions with high water vulnerability and limited treatment infrastructure. This study evaluates a photovoltaic-powered water treatment system for arsenic removal in La Yarada Los Palos District, Tacna, Peru, where arsenic concentrations reached up to 0.0417 mg/L, significantly surpassing the World Health Organization (WHO) limit of 10 µg/L (0.01 mg/L) for drinking water. The system integrates a natural sedimentation pretreatment stage in a geomembrane-lined reservoir, followed by oxidation with sodium hypochlorite, coagulation, and adsorption. Arsenic removal efficiencies ranged from 99.72% to 99.85%, reducing residual concentrations below WHO guidelines. Pretreatment significantly improved performance, reducing turbidity by up to 66.67% and TSS by up to 70.37%, optimizing subsequent treatment stages. Operationally, pretreatment decreased cleaning frequency from six to four cleanings per month, while backwashing energy consumption dropped by 33% (from 45.72 kWh to 30.48 kWh). The photovoltaic system leveraged the region’s high solar radiation, achieving an average daily generation of 20.31 kWh and an energy surplus of 33.08%. The system’s performance was evaluated within the context of existing arsenic removal technologies, demonstrating that the integration of natural sedimentation and renewable energy constitutes a viable operational alternative. Given the regulatory framework in Peru, where arsenic limits align with WHO standards, conventional water treatment systems are normatively and technically unfeasible under national legislation. Furthermore, La Yarada Los Palos District faces challenges due to its limited infrastructure for conventional electrification via power grid, as identified in national reports on rural electrification and gaps in access to basic services. Beyond its performance in the study area, the system’s modular design allows adaptation to diverse water sources with varying arsenic concentrations, turbidity levels, and other physicochemical characteristics. In remote regions with limited access to the power grid, such as the study site, photovoltaic energy provides a self-sustaining and replicable alternative, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas with high solar radiation. These conditions are not exclusive to Latin America but are also prevalent in remote regions of Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania, where groundwater arsenic contamination is a significant issue and renewable energy availability can enhance water treatment sustainability. These findings underscore the potential of using sustainable energy solutions to address water contamination challenges in remote areas. The modular and scalable design of this system enables its replication in regions with adverse hydrogeological conditions, integrating renewable energy and pretreatment strategies to enhance water treatment performance. The framework presented in this study offers a replicable and efficient approach for implementing eco-friendly water treatment systems in regions with similar environmental and resource constraints.

Influence of Urban and Rural Areas, Type of School, and Parents' Education Level on Nutrition Habits and Their Relationship with Dental Caries in Schoolchildren in Mallorca.

Background/Objectives: Habits such as a diet high in sugars and poor dental biofilm control are linked to a higher prevalence of caries and low socioeconomic status. This study aimed to analyze the nutrition habits of schoolchildren in Mallorca and their relationship with the presence of dental caries, depending on the type of school, geographic location, and parents' education level. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the prevalence of dental caries based on World Health Organization (WHO) standards and nutritional practices following guidelines from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This study included 718 students from three age groups: first-year elementary students (ages 5-6), sixth-year elementary students (age 12), and fourth-year secondary school students (age 15). Relevant sociodemographic factors were also considered in the analysis. Results: In schoolchildren aged 5-6 years, higher monthly consumption of processed and sugary foods, such as sweets (rural: 24.66 (CI 95%: 20.30-29.02); urban: 19.29 (CI 95%:16.27-22.304); p = 0.044), was noted in schoolchildren from rural sectors compared to those residing in urban areas. At 15 years of age, there was a higher consumption of potato chips in public schools than in subsidized/private schools (public: 26.95 (CI 95%: 24.42-29.49); subsidized/private: 18.29 (CI 95%: 13.92-22.65) p = 0.004). A high consumption of sweets is associated with an increased risk of caries (OR sweets: 1.76 CI: 1.04-2.98; p = 0.035). Fewer students with mothers with a lower education level eat dinner (elementary: 75%; secondary 91%; higher: 98%; p = 0.003). Conclusions: Higher consumption of sweets in rural areas and potato chips in public schools, along with the association between sweet consumption and caries risk, highlight how geographic location, school type, and parents' education level influence children's nutrition habits and caries.

Caries experience and care in Germany: results of the 6th German Oral Health Study (DMS • 6).

One goal of the 6th German Oral Health Study (DMS • 6) was to survey the caries experience and care for caries in a representative cross-sectional study across Germany. Using almost the same methodology as the previous studies DMS III (1997) to V (2014), data were collected on caries experience (including dmft/DMFT, root caries) in the three standard World Health Organization age groups (12-year-olds, 35- to 44-year-olds, and 65- to 74-year-olds) as well as among 8- and 9-year-olds. The caries experience expressed as dmft/DMFT in 8- and 9-year-olds was 1.4 teeth, 59.9% were caries-free; the DMFT among 12-year-olds was 0.5 teeth, with 77.6% caries-free. There was a significant decrease in caries-related restorations among 35- to 44-year-olds, with DMFT being 8.3 teeth. The group of 65- to 74-year-olds had a DMFT of 17.6 teeth, which was mainly due to higher tooth retention; 5.0% were edentulous. The prevalence of root caries was 13.8% among 35- to 44-year-olds and 59.1% among 65- to 74-year-olds. The various oral health measures taken over recent decades seem to continue to have a positive impact in terms of reduced caries experience. Nevertheless, it appears that the maximum has been reached among 12-year-olds; however, within this group there continues to be a strong polarization of dental caries in adolescents from families with a low education status and a comparatively high treatment need for the primary teeth. The social gradient in tooth decay and tooth loss extends over the entire life span. The DMS • 6 study, being representative of the oral epidemiology of the population, shows the sustainability of successful prevention measures for caries in all age groups and education groups in Germany. At the same time, social inequalities persist. From a socio-medical perspective, it would make sense to align future prevention strategies specifically to the lifeworld of groups and communities that have not yet been reached.

Assessment of heavy metal pollution of groundwater at the upper stream of Wadi Ranyah, Saudi Arabia, using multivariate statistical approach

Seventy-seven groundwater samples from Wadi Ranyah, Saudi Arabia, were analyzed to assess their physical and chemical properties. Initially, the physiochemical parameters were compared to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards and studied with Durov and Chadha diagrams. Multivariate statistical indices, such as the saturation index (SI), chloro-alkaline indices (CAI), Gibbs ratios, heavy metals pollution and evaluation indices (HPI and HEI), and the hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), were used to identify the sources of water pollution. Durov’s diagram showed that Ca and HCO3 ions were the dominant, and forward ion exchange was the main hydrochemical reaction. The SI results showed that the water samples were oversaturated with carbonates and in equilibrium with evaporite minerals, except for halite and sylvite. The CAI was positive in 83% of the samples, indicating forward ion exchange and Ca dominance. The Gibbs diagram showed that rock weathering (carbonate dissolution) was the dominant process controlling water chemistry. The levels of Cd, Cr, Pb, As, Hg, Li, and Mo exceeded the WHO limits in all samples, while Ni and Co exceeded the limits in 51% and 65% of the samples, respectively. The HPI and HEI results showed that the water samples were highly contaminated with heavy metals and unsuitable for consumption. The HCA showed that the main factors affecting the water salinity were dissolved carbonates, gypsum, the major ions, and some heavy metals. The HCA also showed that the main variables contributing to water salinity were dissolved carbonates, gypsum, major ions, and heavy metals. The study concluded that the water samples are not suitable for drinking and other domestic uses, and groundwater treatment measures are recommended to protect the population from serious health risks.

Smoothed Growth Trajectories for Weight, Length/Height, and BMI Percentiles of Children Aged 3 to 60 Months in Punjab, Pakistan.

Background/Objectives: This study aims to examine the crucial role of children's growth in assessing population health trends and developing targeted interventions. Specifically, the research aims to determine prevalent anthropometric trajectories among children from Punjab, Pakistan, and to compare these patterns with global and national growth standards established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess the weight and height of 20,845 children (51.48% boys and 48.52% girls) aged 3 to 60 months in Punjab, Pakistan. Growth reference charts for boys and girls were developed using the generalized additive model for location, scale, and shape, utilizing the Box-Cox power exponential distribution. The parameters analyzed included weight-for-age, length/height-for-age, and body mass index (BMI)-for-age. Results: The 3rd, 5th, 15th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 85th, 95th, and 97th smoothed percentile values with L, M, and S for weight, length/height, and BMI for both sexes from 3 to 60 months were presented. The median weight and length/height were increased significantly in both sexes. The median BMI increased steeply in early life, with a peak at 12 months, then declined in both boys and girls. Boys had a higher mean value than girls had in all the anthropometric variables. Punjabi children demonstrate smaller measurements compared to their counterparts in previous studies. The children were smaller, lighter and had lower BMI than that referred to in the WHO standards. The findings highlighted significant disparities between the growth metrics of children in Punjab and the WHO standards, and findings from other global studies. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for a multicentric approach in future research to better understand pediatric growth patterns in Punjabi children, considering their significant differences from WHO standards and other global studies.

Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Detection in Brewed Capsule Coffee.

As food packaging materials are in direct contact with the food we eat and cook under heat or pressure, consumers are apprehensive of their adverse effects on the food products. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are often used in food packaging because of their hydrophobic properties; however, some PFASs are carcinogens, thus prompting further studies on their effects. In this study, a pretreatment method of 31 PFASs in coffee was established using the QuEChERS extraction method and analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. We brewed 32 types of capsule coffee distributed in Korea, analyzed them for PFASs, and evaluated their safety. The results show that perfluorooctanoic acid and 8:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate levels are higher in machine-brewed capsule coffee than in capsule coffees brewed manually through a paper filter. However, the hazard quotient and excess cancer risk for all coffee samples are lower than the World Health Organization standards, and therefore, these samples are considered safe. The results of this study may aid in expanding the existing literature on PFAS detection in relation to human health.

3D porous Fe2O3-incorporated basalt filter unit for simultaneous removal of As(III) and As(V) from aqueous solutions: adsorption isotherm and mechanism.

The global community is very concerned about the removal of arsenic from contaminated water sources. There is significant global interest in practical methods for the removal of arsenic from polluted water sources. A 3D-porous Fe₂O₃-basalt composite was manufactured by a one-pot solvothermal approach and studied by several methods. The effects of pH, contact duration, adsorption isotherm, and Combodian ground water treatment on removal efficiency were systematically analyzed. The Fe₂O₃-basalt composite demonstrated adsorption capacities of 5.393mg/g for As(III) and 5.7117mg/g for As(V) at a neutral pH of 7. Adsorption behavior for both arsenic species aligned closely with the Langmuir isotherm model, while the adsorption isotherm followed a pseudo-second-order model. In Combodian ground water samples, the composite achieved arsenic removal efficiencies of 99.9% for As(III) and 97.3% for As(V), underscoring its potential as an effective adsorbent. Notably, the composite maintained high removal performance over five regeneration cycles, showing robust reusability for both As(III) and As(V) at neutral pH. Sustainability assessments in geothermal water samples confirmed that the Fe₂O₃-basalt composite reliably reduced arsenic levels to meet World Health Organization (WHO) standards for drinking water, supporting its applicability as a sustainable solution for arsenic mitigation in ground water systems.