Foodborne Diseases Due to Underestimated Hazard of Joint Mycotoxin Exposure at Low Levels and Possible Risk Assessment

The subject of this review paper is to evaluate the underestimated hazard of multiple mycotoxin exposure of animals/humans for the appearance of foodborne ailments and diseases. The significance of joint mycotoxin interaction in the development of foodborne diseases is discussed, and appropriate conclusions are made. The importance of low feed/food levels of some target mycotoxins co-contaminations in food and feedstuffs for induction of target foodborne mycotoxicoses is also studied in the available literature. The appropriate hygiene control and the necessary risk assessment in regard to possible hazards for animals and humans are also discussed, and appropriate suggestions are made. Some internationally recognized prophylactic measures, management of the risk, and the necessity of elaboration of new international regulations in regard to the maximum permitted levels are also carefully discussed and analysed in the cases of multiple mycotoxin contaminations. The necessity of harmonization of mycotoxin regulations and control measures at international levels is also discussed in order to facilitate food trade between the countries and to ensure global food safety.

A review on aeromoniasis in poultry: A bacterial disease of zoonotic nature

Aeromonas spp. are widely distributed in surface water, sewage, untreated and chlorinated, drinking water, as well as meats, fish, shellfish, poultry, and their products. A disease caused by Aeromonas spp. is designated as aeromoniasis. It can affect different aquatic animals, mammals, and birds in different geographic regions. Moreover, gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal disease conditions may be provoked in humans as a result of food poising with Aeromonas spp. Some Aeromonas spp. have been identified, however, Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila), A. caviae, and A. veronii bv sobria may be of public health significance. Aeromonas spp. are members of family Aeromonadaceae and genus Aeromonas. They are Gram-negative rod-shaped, facultative anaerobic, and oxidase and catalase-positive bacteria. The pathogenicity of Aeromonas in different hosts is mediated by several virulence factors such as endotoxins, cytotoxic enterotoxin, cytotoxins, hemolysins, adhesins, and extracellular enzymes such as proteases, amylases, lipases, ADP-ribosyltransferases, and DNases. Most avian species are susceptible to either natural or experimental infections with Aeromonas spp. Infection usually arises through feacal-oral route. Traveler's diarrhea as well as other systemic and local infections are the clinical picture of food poisoning associated with aeromoniasis in humans. Despite Aeromonas spp. being sensitive to various antimicrobials, multiple drug resistance has been commonly reported worldwide. Accordingly, this review highlights aeromoniasis in poultry regarding Aeromonas virulence factors epidemiology, pathogenicity, zoonosis, and antimicrobial resistance.

Mechanisms and Health Aspects of Food Adulteration: A Comprehensive Review

Food adulteration refers to the alteration of food quality that takes place deliberately. It includes the addition of ingredients to modify different properties of food products for economic advantage. Color, appearance, taste, weight, volume, and shelf life are such food properties. Substitution of food or its nutritional content is also accomplished to spark the apparent quality. Substitution with species, protein content, fat content, or plant ingredients are major forms of food substitution. Origin misrepresentation of food is often practiced to increase the market demand of food. Organic and synthetic compounds are added to ensure a rapid effect on the human body. Adulterated food products are responsible for mild to severe health impacts as well as financial damage. Diarrhea, nausea, allergic reaction, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, etc., are frequently observed illnesses upon consumption of adulterated food. Some adulterants have shown carcinogenic, clastogenic, and genotoxic properties. This review article discusses different forms of food adulteration. The health impacts also have been documented in brief.

One-Year Ocular Safety Observation of Workers and Estimations of Microorganism Inactivation Efficacy in the Room Irradiated with 222-Nm far Ultraviolet-C Lamps

Two krypton-chloride germicidal excimer lamp units (Care222 TRT-104C11-UI-U3, USHIO Inc.) were installed in the examination room of an ophthalmology department. The irradiation dose was set not to exceed the former (i.e., before 2022) threshold limit value (TLV) (22 mJ/cm² /8 hours) recommended by the ACGIH. Section 1: The eyes and lids of the 6 ophthalmologists (5 wore glasses for myopic correction) who worked in the room for a mean stay of 6.7 hours/week were prospectively observed for 12 months. Slitlamp examinations revealed neither acute adverse events such as corneal erosion, conjunctival hyperemia, lid skin erythema nor chronic adverse events such as pterygium, cataract, or lid tumor. The visual acuity, refractive error, corneal endothelial cell density remained unchanged during the study. Section 2: The irradiation of samples placed on the table or floor using the same fixtures in the room (5-7.5 mJ/cm² ) was associated with >99% inhibition of φX174 phage and >90% inhibition of S. aureus. In conclusion, no acute or chronic health effects in human participants was observed in a clinical setting of full-room ultraviolet germicidal irradiation by 222-nm lamp units and high efficacy in deactivation of microorganisms was determined in the same setting.

Occurrence and Health Risk Assessment of Cadmium Accumulation in Three Tricholoma Mushroom Species Collected from Wild Habitats of Central and Coastal Croatia

This study deals with the biomonitoring of cadmium (Cd) heavy metal in the three selected Tricholoma mushroom species collected from wild habitats of central and coastal Croatia. For this, mushroom (T. columbetta: n = 38, T. portentosum: n = 35, and T. terreum: n = 34) and surface soil samples were collected from nine forest localities of Croatia and analyzed for Cd concentration using inductively coupled plasma−optical emission spectrometry (ICP−OES) through the acid digestion method. The findings revealed that Cd was present in Tricholoma spp. and surface soil. However, the maximum mean Cd concentration (mg/kg dry weight) was recorded in T. portentosum (cap: 0.98; stipe: 0.72), followed by T. columbetta (cap: 0.96; stipe: 0.73) and T. terreum (cap: 0.81; stipe: 0.63). The bioconcentration factor (BCF) value (>1) revealed that the selected Tricholoma spp. had the potential for Cd accumulation. Moreover, the principal component (PC) and hierarchical cluster (HC) analyses were used to derive the interactions and similarities between Cd levels Tricholoma spp. and sampling localities. The multivariate analysis suggested that central sampling localities had higher Cd levels as compared to coastal localities. However, the daily intake of metals (DIM < 0.426) and health risk index (HRI < 1) showed that there was no potential health risk associated with the consumption of selected Tricholoma spp. The findings of this study are helpful to understand the Cd accumulation behavior of wild edible Tricholoma spp. collected from Croatia.

Towards Integrated Air Pollution Monitoring and Health Impact Assessment Using Federated Learning: A Systematic Review

Environmental issues such as environmental pollutions and climate change are the impacts of globalization and become debatable issues among academics and industry key players. One of the environmental issues which is air pollution has been catching attention among industrialists, researchers, and communities around the world. However, it has always neglected until the impacts on human health become worse, and at times, irreversible. Human exposure to air pollutant such as particulate matters, sulfur dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide contributed to adverse health hazards which result in respiratory diseases, cardiorespiratory diseases, cancers, and worst, can lead to death. This has led to a spike increase of hospitalization and emergency department visits especially at areas with worse pollution cases that seriously impacting human life and health. To address this alarming issue, a predictive model of air pollution is crucial in assessing the impacts of health due to air pollution. It is also critical in predicting the air quality index when assessing the risk contributed by air pollutant exposure. Hence, this systemic review explores the existing studies on anticipating air quality impact to human health using the advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI). From the extensive review, we highlighted research gaps in this field that are worth to inquire. Our study proposes to develop an AI-based integrated environmental and health impact assessment system using federated learning. This is specifically aims to identify the association of health impact and pollution based on socio-economic activities and predict the Air Quality Index (AQI) for impact assessment. The output of the system will be utilized for hospitals and healthcare services management and planning. The proposed solution is expected to accommodate the needs of the critical and prioritization of sensitive group of publics during pollution seasons. Our finding will bring positive impacts to the society in terms of improved healthcare services quality, environmental and health sustainability. The findings are beneficial to local authorities either in healthcare or environmental monitoring institutions especially in the developing countries.

Evaluation of Health Hazard and Governance Performance of Air Pollution: A Case Study of Z City

Based on the date of the main pollutant discharge and the change of pollutant concentration in Z city, this study performed the statistical analysis of the concentration data in excel. The data covers 3 years from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2017. An exposure-response relationship model was used established to evaluate the health hazards caused by air pollution and the corresponding economic losses, further analyzing the relationship between air pollution, health hazards, and economic benefits. The results of the study showed that the changes in SO₂ and NO₂ concentrations in Z City from 2015 to 2017 have a great influence on the mortality rate of the local population, respiratory mortality, the rate of internal medicine of outpatients, and the rate of chronic bronchitis disease. The economic losses between 2015 and 2017 caused by PM10, the primary pollutant in the air, were 3.9 billion, 3.5 billion, and 2.9 billion respectively, accounting for 3.60%, 2.88%, and 2.09% of Z City's GDP, which were enormous. Finally, countermeasures of feasible treatment and in government performance were put forward.

Hazard of chemical substances contamination of protective clothing for firefighters - a survey on use and maintenance

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the work was to analyze the impact of selected factors concerning the use and maintenance of firefighters' protective clothing worn during rescue operations on the hazard of contamination by chemical substances.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The participants were firefighters (N = 688) from rescue and firefighting units of the State Fire Service in Poland, aged <30, 31-40, 41-50 or >60 years, with different seniority: up to >21 years of service. The survey questionnaire developed by the authors was used. The questionnaire was available online. The Statistica 10.0 statistical package using the χ2 test was applied in the analysis of the significance of the results.

RESULTS

As reported by the vast majority (>60%) of the firefighters, the maintenance was carried out after recording an average or a high level of contamination. It was pointed out that removal of the contaminants from protective clothing was difficult (83%). The surfaces of the legs and sleeves of protective clothing were the most contaminated areas. A feeling of discomfort was observed (90%) after returning from firefighting operations due to fire, smoke, or combustion residues.

CONCLUSIONS

It is necessary to conduct training and information actions concerning the use and maintenance of protective clothing and the harmfulness of chemicals contaminating the garments used by firefighters. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(2):235-48.

Occupational Health and Safety Statistics as an Indicator of Worker Physical Health in South African Industry

Operations in general industry, including manufacturing, expose employees to a myriad of occupational health hazards. To prevent exposure, occupational health and safety regulations were enacted, with both employers and workers instituting various risk reduction measures. The analysis of available occupational disease and injury statistics (indicators of worker physical health) can be used to infer the effectiveness of risk reduction measures and regulations in preventing exposure. Thus, using the READ approach, analyses of occupational disease and injury statistics from South African industry, derived from annual reports of the Compensation Fund, were conducted. The publicly available database of occupational disease and injury statistics from the South African general industry is unstructured, and the data are inconsistently reported. This data scarcity, symptomatic of an absence of a functional occupational disease surveillance system, complicates judgement making regarding the effectiveness of implemented risk reduction measures, enacted occupational health and safety regulations and the status of worker physical health from exposure to workplace hazards. The statistics, where available, indicate that workers continue to be exposed to occupational health impacts within general industry, notwithstanding risk reduction measures and enacted regulations. In particular, worker physical health continues to be impacted by occupational injuries and noise-induced hearing loss. This is suggestive of shortcomings and inefficiencies in industry-implemented preventive measures and the regulatory state. A robust national occupational disease surveillance system is a regulatory tool that should detect and direct policy responses to identified occupational health hazards.

Levels of filamentous fungi and selected mycotoxins in leafy and fruit vegetables and analysis of their potential health risk for consumers

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the presence, concentration and generic composition of filamentous fungi. Considering the significant role of mycotoxins in the pathogenicity of fungal contaminants of vegetables, the scope of the study was extended by determination of aflatoxins and deoxynivalenol.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the years 2019-2020, samples of vegetables (lettuce, spinach, tomato, red pepper) collected on conventional farms located in eastern Poland were subjected to mycological examination. The concentration and species composition of filamentous fungi were determined by the method of plate dilutions on malt agar. The isolated strains were identified with the use of macroscopic and microscopic methods. Samples were also analyzed for the presence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), total aflatoxin (AFT) and deoxynivalenol (DON) using the immunoenzymatic ELISA method.

RESULTS

The median concentrations of filamentous fungi ranged from 2.778-3.204 log₁₀ CFU g ^-1. Overall, 40 fungal species were identified in the examined vegetables, of which 38 are classified as potentially pathogenic for humans. The mean prevalence values for AFB1 and AFT were moderate or high (16.0-60.0% and 57.8-75.6%, respectively) and very low for DON (0-2.2%). The median concentrations of filamentous fungi, AFB1 and AFT were distinctly greater in leafy vegetables than on non-leafy tomato and pepper fruits, and the differences were highly significant (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The levels of filamentous fungi and mycotoxins in Polish vegetables could be classified as moderate or low. The abundant presence of species with various pathogenic abilities may pose a risk for some categories of people consuming raw vegetables, mostly for immuno-compromised persons or atopics susceptible to food allergy caused by ingested moulds.

Association between Whole-Body Vibration exposure and musculoskeletal disorders among dumper operators: A case-control study in Indian iron ore mines

BACKGROUND

Dumper operators in mines worldwide are subjected to Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) due to whole-body vibration exposure. This study evaluated the working-life-Whole-Body Vibration (WBV)-exposure and their association with various MSDs among dumper operators in mines which remains poorly addressed.

METHODS

This case-control study in Indian iron ore mines was conducted to compare randomly selected 65 dumper operators and 65 office workers. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and were analysed using logistic regression models.

RESULTS

The study revealed that majority of the dumper operators were exposed to WBV exceeding the ISO-2631 limits. Compared with controls, the dumper operators had a much higher risk of upper back pain (age-overweight-adjusted odds ratio ORao = 5.37, 95%CI = 1.78-16.20), lower back pain (ORao = 2.72, 95%CI = 1.25-5.94), knee and leg pain (ORao = 3.68, 95%CI = 1.22-11.11), and having 2+ MSDs (ORao = 5.05, 95%CI = 1.88-13.51, vs. no MSDs). Working-life-WBV-exposure was higher among dumper operators having upper back pain (mean (SD) = 7.1 (1.91) vs. 5.7 (1.91), p <  0.01) and lower back pain (mean (SD) = 6.63 (2.10) vs. 5.55 (1.71), p <  0.01) compared to those without these MSDs. Older age was associated with higher risk of MSD pains.

CONCLUSION

Dumper operators have excess MSDs due to high working-life-WBV-exposure. Their MSDs and working-life-WBV-exposure should be regularly evaluated and reduced.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about radiation safety among the undergraduates in Eastern province dental college

BACKGROUND

Despite the fact that X-rays have a direct or indirect effect on tissues, imaging techniques have become an important part of modern dentistry, and dentists rely on them for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. This necessitates that dentists have adequate expertise and attitude in order to defend themselves and their patients.

AIM

The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of clinical side dental students and General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) regarding dental radiation protection safety protocol.

STUDY DESIGN

It is a prospective cross-section study among dental undergraduates and GDPs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and sixteen participants took part in this study and comprised 116 clinical side dental students and GDPs. Participants' data were gathered through a questionnaire that asked about their knowledge and practice of radiation biology, danger, and protection. Collected data subjected to statistical analysis using the SPSS 21. Pearson Chi-square test was done to evaluate the statistical significance. The P value fixed at ≤ 0.05 for significant.

RESULTS

From 116 participants, around 89.7%% of the participants believed that dental X-rays are harmful and 81% are having knowledge about annual radiation dose limit for a dentist, and overall, 56% of the participants were aware about the harmful effects of radiation exposure.

CONCLUSION

There is a need to expand the curriculum to provide better exposure to radiation protection and its practice so that these students on graduation will be well-grounded with the principle governing dental radiography.

Public health implication of solid waste generated by households in Bekwarra Local Government area

Background

This study was conducted in Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria, to determine the public health implication of solid waste generated by households.

Methods

A cross sectional descriptive design was employed, using a semi-structured questionnaire together with an observation checklist to elicit information from the respondents. Proportionate sampling was used to select 400 respondents of 18 years and above for the study area. Data collected were analysed using the Microsoft Excel 2007 and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 20.

Results

Respondents knowledge concerning solid waste disposal was assessed and the results showed that majority of the respondents 193 (63.7%) had high level of knowledge of solid waste disposal, while 170 (42.5%) had average level of knowledge of solid waste disposal. Wastes produced by households in the study include vegetables (95.5%), ash (94%), clothing/rag (94.2%), wood (95%), and animal waste (86.2%) had the highest abundance. Diseases associated with these wastes produced by households include cholera (18.2%), malaria (47.2%), lassa fever (10.7%) and diarrhea (23.9%) with malaria been the most prevalence infection.

Conclusion

The result shows solid waste posed a serious health hazard and lead to the spread of infectious diseases. These issues can be addressed through health education and enlightenment of the people on waste disposal.

Beirut Ammonium Nitrate Blast: Analysis, Review, and Recommendations

A massive chemical detonation occurred on August 4, 2020 in the Port of Beirut, Lebanon. An uncontrolled fire in an adjacent warehouse ignited ~2,750 tons of Ammonium Nitrate (AN), producing one of the most devastating blasts in recent history. The blast supersonic pressure and heat wave claimed the lives of 220 people and injured more than 6,500 instantaneously, with severe damage to the nearby dense residential and commercial areas. This review represents one of the in-depth reports to provide a detailed analysis of the Beirut blast and its health and environmental implications. It further reviews prior AN incidents and suggests actionable recommendations and strategies to optimize chemical safety measures, improve emergency preparedness, and mitigate the delayed clinical effects of blast and toxic gas exposures. These recommended actionable steps offer a starting point for government officials and policymakers to build frameworks, adopt regulations, and implement chemical safety protocols to ensure safe storage of hazardous materials as well as reorganizing healthcare system disaster preparedness to improve emergency preparedness in response to similar large-scale disasters and promote population safety. Future clinical efforts should involve detailed assessment of physical injuries sustained by blast victims, with systemic mitigation and possible treatment of late blast effects involving individuals, communities and the region at large.

Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Certain Aspects of the Cytotoxic and Genotoxic Hazard of Hospital Wastewaters by Using a Range of In Vitro Assays

Health care facilities and hospitals generate significant amounts of wastewater which are released into the sewage system, either after a preliminary treatment or without any further treatment. Hospital wastewater may contain large amounts of hazardous chemicals and pharmaceuticals, some of which cannot be eliminated entirely by wastewater treatment plants. Moreover, hospital effluents may be loaded with a plethora of pathogenic microorganisms or other microbiota and microbiome residues. The need to monitor hospital effluents for their genotoxic hazard is of high importance, as detailed information is scarce. DNA-based information can be acquired directly from samples through the application of various molecular methods, while cell-based biomonitoring assays can provide important information about impaired cellular pathways or mechanisms of toxicity without prior knowledge of the identity of each toxicant. In our study, we evaluated samples of chlorinated hospital wastewater discharged into the sewage system after this disinfection process. The assessment of cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity of the hospital effluents was performed in vitro by using a broad battery of biomonitoring assays that are relevant for human health effects. All the tested hospital wastewater samples could be classified as potentially genotoxic, and it is concluded that the microbiota present in hospital wastewater might contribute to this genotoxic potential.

Nocturnal Hypoglycaemia in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: Database Analysis of a Cohort Using Telemedicine Support for Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose over a 10-Year-Long Period

Background and Objectives: In patients with diabetes mellitus, hypoglycaemic episodes, especially during night hours, carry a significant risk. Data about the occurrence of nocturnal hypoglycaemia in real-world settings are of clinical importance. The aim of our study was to evaluate the occurrence of nocturnal hypoglycaemia among patients with diabetes using self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) with telemedicine support. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analysed the central database of an internet-based supportive system between 2010 and 2020 when 8190 SMBG users uploaded nearly 10 million capillary blood glucose values. Nocturnal hypoglycaemia was defined as capillary blood glucose < 3.0 mmol/L measured between 00:00 and 05:59 h. Results: The database contained 914,146 nocturnal blood glucose values from 7298 users; 24,623 (2.7%) glucose values were below the hypoglycaemic threshold and 2363 patients (32.4%) had at least one hypoglycaemic glucose value. Nocturnal hypoglycaemia was more often found in patients with type 1 vs. type 2 diabetes (n = 1890 (80.0%) vs. n = 387 (16.4%), respectively). Hypoglycaemic blood glucose values were most frequently observed in the age group of 10.0–19.9 years (n = 481 (20.4%)). Patients with nocturnal hypoglycaemia were mostly on insulin treatment (1854 (78.5%) patients with 20,727 (84.1%) hypoglycaemic glucose values). Only 356 patients (15.1%) with nocturnal hypoglycaemia performed a retest within 120 min. Within a one-day-long (1440 min) timeframe, the elapsed median time until a retest, yielding a safe blood glucose value (>3.9 mml/L), was 273 min (interquartile range: 157–300 min). Conclusions: Nocturnal hypoglycaemia should be considered as a persisting challenge to antihyperglycaemic treatment in patients living with diabetes. Continuous efforts are needed to improve both antihyperglycaemic treatment and patient education for preventing nocturnal hypoglycaemia, and to act adequately if hypoglycaemic values are detected.

Valley Fever: Environmental Risk Factors and Exposure Pathways Deduced from Field Measurements in California

Coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley fever, has been reported among military personnel in Coccidioides-endemic areas of the southwestern United States since World War II. In this study, the prevalence of Coccidioides was confirmed in different soil and dust samples collected near three military bases in California using DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) methods. Analyses of physical and chemical parameters revealed no significant differences between Coccidioides-positive and -negative sites. Soil samples collected in the Mojave Desert (near Twentynine Palms MCAGCC) showed the highest percentage of Coccidioides-positive soil and dust samples. Samples from the San Joaquin Valley (near NAS Lemoore) showed the lowest percentage of positive samples and were restricted to remnants of semi-natural areas between agricultural fields. Our results suggest that soil disturbance around all three military bases investigated poses a potential Coccidioides exposure risk for military personnel and the public. We conclude that once lands have been severely disturbed from their original state, they become less suitable for Coccidioides growth. We propose a conceptual framework for understanding exposure where disturbance of soils that exhibit natural or remnants of native vegetation (Creosote and Salt Bush) generate a high risk of exposure to the pathogen, likely during dry periods. In contrast, Coccidioides-positive sites, when undisturbed, will not pose a high risk of exposure.

Priority Setting for Management of Hazardous Biocides in Korea Using Chemical Ranking and Scoring Method

Biocides are non-agricultural chemical agents for the prevention of unhygienic pests. The worldwide demand for biocidal products has been rapidly increasing. Meanwhile, biocides have been causing negative health effects for decades, resulting in public health scares. Therefore, governments around the world have tried to strictly control biocides, and it is necessary to prioritize the health risks of biocides for efficient management. Chemical ranking and scoring (CRS) methods have been developed for the effective management of chemicals. However, existing methods do not use suitable variables to evaluate biocides, thus possibly underestimating or overestimating the actual health risks. We developed a new CRS method that reflects the exposure and toxicity characteristics of biocides. Eleven indicators were chosen as appropriate for prioritizing biocides, and scoring based on the globally harmonized system of classification and labeling of chemicals (GHS) improved the efficiency of the method. Correlations between individual indicators in this study were low (−0.151–0.325), indicating that each indicator was independent and well-chosen for prioritizing biocides. The effect of each indicator on the total score showed that carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and reproductive toxicity (CMR) chemicals ranked high with r = 0.558. This result demonstrated that the most dangerous toxicants should play a more decisive role in the top ranking than the others. We expect that our method can be efficiently used to screen regulated biocides by prioritizing their health hazards, thus leading to better policy decision making about biocide use.

The INDUSEM Position Paper on the Emerging Electronic Waste Management Emergency

Electronic waste or e-waste is a serious and concerning issue globally. Exponential increase in the production of these instrument have created a man-made problem of e-waste; United Nations has called it as "tsunami of e-waste." Informal management and unsafe disposals have compounded the problem further. The hazardous chemicals, metals, and organic pollutants released from e-waste can lead to serious health consequences such as organ damage, genetic defects, neuropsychiatric illness, and cancer. Problem of e-waste is colossal and should be seen as major public health emergency. In India, use of electronic instrument has increased considerably with less focus on formal waste management and safe disposal. This has created a major health hazard. International health agencies, Indian Council of Medical Research, e-waste regulating bodies, academic institutes, and various government and non-government organizations should join hands together to effectively manage the problems of e-waste. Swacch Bharat Abhiyan started by the honorable Prime Minster should consider e-waste as the top most priority in terms of its safe management and disposal.

Work safety in plastination

In this article, information is given on potential physical and health hazards in the steps of the silicone cold temperature method, often referred to as "S 10 Standard Method." The main potential hazards related to plastination, as well as recommended measures to effectively avoid explosion and health hazards are discussed. Some specialty chemicals pose chronic health hazards. Exposure to these chemicals can be avoided by standard laboratory hygiene, that is wearing personal protective equipment like safety goggles and protective gloves. Inhalation hazard, for example when working at open dehydration containers or when opening a gas curing box, is preferentially avoided by the action of an appropriate ventilation system. Acetone is the standard solvent used for dehydration and defatting of the specimens to be plastinated. Like for other flammable liquids, explosion protection must be considered when handling acetone. The concentration of acetone vapour in the air must be kept below the lower explosion limit through appropriate room or workplace ventilation. Furthermore, all potential sources of ignition should be removed from the explosion hazard zone. If electrical devices need to be operated inside the explosion hazard zone, they need a special design and approval. The conditions covered by this approval can be found on the identification plate of the individual device.

Evidence for Contamination of Silica Microparticles in Advanced Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrices Prepared Using Silica-Coated Plastic Tubes

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) therapy has been widely applied in regenerative dentistry, and PRF preparation has been optimized to efficiently form fibrin clots using plain glass tubes. Currently, a shortage of commercially available glass tubes has forced PRF users to utilize silica-coated plastic tubes. However, most plastic tubes are approved by regulatory authorities only for diagnostic use and remain to be approved for PRF therapy. To clarify this issue, we quantified silica microparticles incorporated into the PRF matrix. Blood samples were collected into three different brands of silica-containing plastic tubes and were immediately centrifuged following the protocol for advanced-PRF (A-PRF). Advanced-PRF-like matrices were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and silica microparticles were quantified using a spectrophotometer. Each brand used silica microparticles of specific size and appearance. Regardless of tube brands and individual donors, significant, but not accidental, levels of silica microparticles were found to be incorporated into the A-PRF-like matrix, which will be consequently incorporated into the implantation sites. Presently, from the increasing data for cytotoxicity of amorphous silica, we cannot exclude the possibility that such A-PRF-like matrices negatively influence tissue regeneration through induction of inflammation. Further investigation should be performed to clarify such potential risks.

Communities' perceptions of health hazards induced by climate change in Mount Darwin district, Zimbabwe

Climate change contributes toward many global challenges, such as increases in diseases in some communities, thereby accelerating health hazards to disasters. Establishing the extent to which local communities understand and perceive climate change and related health hazards is important for effective disaster risk management strategies. The objective of this study was to investigate communities' perceptions of health hazards induced by climate change in Mount Darwin district of Zimbabwe. This was in the light that besides the visible indications that climate is changing, the local people still perceive the climate change phenomenon as mystical or even a non-event. The study was situated within the social capital theory contextualised within the climate change, disaster management and the knowledge and perception realm constructed through social relationships, networks and interactions. A mixed-method research approach was used to assess the extent of knowledge and perceptions related to climate change and climate change-related health hazards. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to survey 204 participants from 10 wards in Mount Darwin, Zimbabwe. Respondents were purposively selected as they were mostly characterised by high vulnerability levels. While 38% of the respondents were not aware of climate change, 7% correctly identified climate change as caused by both natural and man-made forces. Most (89%) of the respondents stated that hazards occur mainly because of meteorological and hydrological causes. The study therefore recommended further education and awareness programmes to deepen community understanding of climate change. Despite the communities having some knowledge gaps and lacking an in-depth understanding of how climate change alters disease, there was some vital information within the Mount Darwin community that could have been used in local disaster risk management initiatives.

[Problems with Advertisements for Health Foods]

We have been studying the way advertisements for medicines have been monitored by the Health, Labour and Welfare Sciences Research Grants. In the last fiscal year, we identified products that were being advertised to general consumers, such as OTC drugs and designated quasi-drugs, and made recommendations to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare on the methods of advertisement. Members of our research group, including physicians, pharmacists, and consumers, pointed out that advertisements for so-called health foods and foods with functional claims were much more unregulated than those for drugs, including OTC drugs. Thus, this fiscal year, we decided to focus on health foods. Advertisements for health foods are regulated by the Health Promotion Act and the Act against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations; moreover, in many cases, cautions are issued by the Consumer Affairs Agency or prefectures. Several studies also reported health damage in patients who, because of their belief in advertisements, intentionally discontinued treatment or missed the opportunity to receive appropriate medical treatment. Here, we report inappropriate advertisements for health foods that may cause health hazards.

Effect of characteristics and life in cities in China on residents' smoking behaviour

Objective

This study aimed to identify the relationship between city-level economic development and smoking behaviour.

Methods

Using multilevel mixed-effects logistic methods, we examined the relationship between smoking/passive smoking and respondents’ lifestyles in the city.

Results

We found that respondents living in cities with higher per capita gross domestic product (GDP) were less likely to smoke than those living in cities with lower per capita GDP (odds ratio [OR] = 0.977, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.958–0.997). Further, respondents with higher levels of life satisfaction and subjective social status were less likely to smoke than those with lower levels of these variables (OR = 0.942, 95% CI: 0.893–0.994; OR = 0.955, 95% CI: 0.928–0.983, respectively). In terms of passive smoking, respondents with higher levels of subjective social status in their cities were less likely to smoke than those with lower levels (OR = 0.972, 95% CI: 0.948–0.996). Smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke were more common among those with lower socioeconomic status.

Conclusions

Smoking is one of the most serious public health hazards in China. People’s smoking behaviour is significantly related to characteristics of their cities and their socioeconomic status. Improved smoking-prevention measures are urgently required in China.

Antimicrobial properties of nanorods: killing bacteria via impalement

Silver is known to possess anti-microbial properties that are of chemical origin. It is believed that either Ag atoms bind to thiol groups in bacterial enzymes or Ag+ ions enter bacterial cells and denature the DNA molecule to kill bacteria. Silver nanorods, however, may kill bacteria by another mechanism: it is possible that the sharp tips of the nanorods puncture bacterial cells and kill bacteria via impalement-a physical mechanism. To test if this can indeed happen, we have compared the anti-microbial properties of silver and CdS nanorods. No significant difference is found between the two even though CdS does not possess the chemical properties of silver. This indicates that the physical kill mechanism is indeed likely and therefore nanorods of any material may possess anti-microbial properties. In that case, it is possible to overcome serious short- and long-term health hazard issues which have been posed by silver nanoparticles by replacing them with nanorods of innocuous elements or compounds. A surface containing nanorods of varying heights presents an undulating bed of spikes to microbes and is most inhospitable to bacteria.

Reproductive Toxic Chemicals at Work and Efforts to Protect Workers' Health: A Literature Review

A huge number of chemicals are produced and used in the world, and some of them can have negative effects on the reproductive health of workers. To date, most chemicals and work environments have not been studied for their potential to have damaging effects on the workers' reproductive system. Because of the lack of information, many workers may not be aware that such problems can be related to occupational exposures. Newly industrialized countries such as Republic of Korea have rapidly amassed chemicals and other toxicants that pose health hazards, especially to the reproductive systems of workers. This literature review provides an overview of peer-reviewed literature regarding the teratogenic impact and need for safe handling of chemicals. Literature searches were performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Search strategies were narrowed based on author expertise and 100 articles were chosen for detailed analysis. A total of 47 articles met prespecified inclusion criteria. The majority of papers contained studies that were descriptive in nature with respect to the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords: “reproductive and heath or hazard and/or workplace or workers or occupations.” In the absence of complete information about the safe occupational handling of chemicals in Republic of Korea (other than a material safety data sheet), this review serves as a valuable reference for identifying and remedying potential gaps in relevant regulations. The review also proposes other public health actions including hazard surveillance and primary prevention activities such as reduction, substitution, ventilation, as well as protective equipment.

Bridging the gap between real-life data and simulated data by providing a highly realistic fall dataset for evaluating camera-based fall detection algorithms

Fall incidents are an important health hazard for older adults. Automatic fall detection systems can reduce the consequences of a fall incident by assuring that timely aid is given. The development of these systems is therefore getting a lot of research attention. Real-life data which can help evaluate the results of this research is however sparse. Moreover, research groups that have this type of data are not at liberty to share it. Most research groups thus use simulated datasets. These simulation datasets, however, often do not incorporate the challenges the fall detection system will face when implemented in real-life. In this Letter, a more realistic simulation dataset is presented to fill this gap between real-life data and currently available datasets. It was recorded while re-enacting real-life falls recorded during previous studies. It incorporates the challenges faced by fall detection algorithms in real life. A fall detection algorithm from Debard et al. was evaluated on this dataset. This evaluation showed that the dataset possesses extra challenges compared with other publicly available datasets. In this Letter, the dataset is discussed as well as the results of this preliminary evaluation of the fall detection algorithm. The dataset can be downloaded from www.kuleuven.be/advise/datasets.

The surface reactivity and implied toxicity of ash produced from sugarcane burning

Sugarcane combustion generates fine-grained particulate that has the potential to be a respiratory health hazard because of its grain size and composition. In particular, conversion of amorphous silica to crystalline forms during burning may provide a source of toxic particles. In this study, we investigate and evaluate the toxicity of sugarcane ash and bagasse ash formed from commercial sugarcane burning. Experiments to determine the main physicochemical properties of the particles, known to modulate biological responses, were combined with cellular toxicity assays to gain insight into the potential reactions that could occur at the particle-lung interface following inhalation. The specific surface area of the particles ranged from ∼16 to 90 m(2) g(-1) . The samples did not generate hydroxyl- or carbon-centered radicals in cell-free tests. However, all samples were able to 'scavenge' an external source of hydroxyl radicals, which may be indicative of defects on the particle surfaces that may interfere with cellular processes. The bioavailable iron on the particle surfaces was low (2-3 μmol m(-2) ), indicating a low propensity for iron-catalyzed radical generation. The sample surfaces were all hydrophilic and slightly acidic, which may be due to the presence of oxygenated (functional) groups. The ability to cause oxidative stress and membrane rupture in red blood cells (hemolysis) was found to be low, indicating that the samples are not toxic by the mechanisms tested. Cytotoxicity of sugarcane ash was observed, by measuring lactate dehydrogenase release, after incubation of relatively high concentrations of ash with murine alveolar macrophage cells. All samples induced nitrogen oxide release (although only at very high concentrations) and reactive oxygen species generation (although the bagasse samples were less potent than the sugarcane ash). However, the samples induced significantly lower cytotoxic effects and nitrogen oxide generation when compared with the positive control.

Health Risk Assessment of Pesticide Residues via Dietary Intake of Market Vegetables from Dhaka, Bangladesh

The present study was designed to assess the health risk of pesticide residues via dietary intake of vegetables collected from four top agro-based markets of Dhaka, Bangladesh. High performance liquid chromatography with a photo diode array detector (HPLC-PDA) was used to determine six organophosphorus (chlorpyrifos, fenitrothion, parathion, ethion, acephate, fenthion), two carbamate (carbaryl and carbofuran) and one pyrethroid (cypermethrin) pesticide residues in twelve samples of three common vegetables (tomato, lady’s finger and brinjal). Pesticide residues ranged from below detectable limit (<0.01) to 0.36 mg/kg. Acephate, chlorpyrifos, ethion, carbaryl and cypermethrin were detected in only one sample, while co-occurrence occurred twice for fenitrothion and parathion. Apart from chlorpyrifos in tomato and cypermethrin in brinjal, all pesticide residues exceeded the maximum residue limit (MRL). Hazard risk index (HRI) for ethion (10.12) and carbaryl (1.09) was found in lady’s finger and tomato, respectively. Rest of the pesticide residues were classified as not a health risk. A continuous monitoring and strict regulation should be enforced regarding control of pesticide residues in vegetables and other food commodities.

Potential hazards associated with combustion of bio-derived versus petroleum-derived diesel fuel

Fuels from renewable resources have gained worldwide interest due to limited fossil oil sources and the possible reduction of atmospheric greenhouse gas. One of these fuels is so called biodiesel produced from vegetable oil by transesterification into fatty acid methyl esters (FAME). To get a first insight into changes of health hazards from diesel engine emissions (DEE) by use of biodiesel scientific studies were reviewed which compared the combustion of FAME with common diesel fuel (DF) for legally regulated and non-regulated emissions as well as for toxic effects. A total number of 62 publications on chemical analyses of DEE and 18 toxicological in vitro studies were identified meeting the criteria. In addition, a very small number of human studies and animal experiments were available. In most studies, combustion of biodiesel reduces legally regulated emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and particulate matter. Nitrogen oxides are regularly increased. Among the non-regulated emissions aldehydes are increased, while polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are lowered. Most biological in vitro assays show a stronger cytotoxicity of biodiesel exhaust and the animal experiments reveal stronger irritant effects. Both findings are possibly caused by the higher content of nitrogen oxides and aldehydes in biodiesel exhaust. The lower content of PAH is reflected by a weaker mutagenicity compared to DF exhaust. However, recent studies show a very low mutagenicity of DF exhaust as well, probably caused by elimination of sulfur in present DF qualities and the use of new technology diesel engines. Combustion of vegetable oil (VO) in common diesel engines causes a strongly enhanced mutagenicity of the exhaust despite nearly unchanged regulated emissions. The newly developed fuel "hydrotreated vegetable oil" (HVO) seems to be promising. HVO has physical and chemical advantages compared to FAME. Preliminary results show lower regulated and non-regulated emissions and a decreased mutagenicity.

A GIS-aided assessment of the health hazards of cadmium in farm soils in central Taiwan

A geostatistical method was developed to examine the correlation, or lack of it, between the levels of cadmium (Cd) detected in farm soils and those detected in the human specimens collected from residents around the contaminated areas in Changhua County where cadmium contamination of staple rice has been documented. We used the Taiwan EPA environment data in 2002 and human data which were generated by the National Health Research Institutes during 2003–2005. Kriging interpolation methods were used to determine soil Cd concentrations. A Zonal statistical function was performed to assess the individual exposure. Soil Cd levels and tissue Cd levels in residents were analyzed for contamination hotspots and other areas to determine correlation between the two variables. Three Cd contamination hotspots were identified, in which no correlation was found between soil Cd levels and tissue Cd levels in residents. Our results demonstrate how GIS spatial modeling technique can be used to estimate distribution of pollutants in an area using a limited number of data points. Results indicated no association between the soil contamination and the exposure of residents to Cd, suggesting that both the soils and the residents are receptors of Cd as a pollutant from as yet unidentified sources.

Emission rates of volatile organic compounds released from newly produced household furniture products using a large-scale chamber testing method

The emission rates of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured to investigate the emission characteristics of five types of common furniture products using a 5 m³ size chamber at 25°C and 50% humidity. The results indicated that toluene and α-pinene are the most dominant components. The emission rates of individual components decreased constantly through time, approaching the equilibrium emission level. The relative ordering of their emission rates, if assessed in terms of total VOC (TVOC), can be arranged as follows: dining table > sofa > desk chair > bedside table > cabinet. If the emission rates of VOCs are examined between different chemical groups, they can also be arranged in the following order: aromatic (AR) > terpenes (TER) > carbonyl (CBN) > others > paraffin (PR) > olefin (HOL) > halogenated paraffin (HPR). In addition, if emission strengths are compared between coated and uncoated furniture, there is no significant difference in terms of emission magnitude. Our results indicate that the emission characteristics of VOC are greatly distinguished between different furniture products in terms of relative dominance between different chemicals.

CyanoHAB occurrence and water irrigation cyanotoxin contamination: ecological impacts and potential health risks

The world-wide occurrence of harmful cyanobacteria blooms "CyanoHAB" in fresh and brackish waters creates problems for all life forms. During CyanoHAB events, toxic cyanobacteria produce cyanotoxins at high levels that can cause chronic and sub-chronic toxicities to animals, plants and humans. Cyanotoxicity in eukaryotes has been mainly focused on animals, but during these last years, data, related to cyanotoxin (mainly microcystins, MCs) impact on both aquatic and terrestrials crop plants irrigated by water containing these toxins, have become more and more available. This last cited fact is gaining importance since plants could in a direct or indirect manner contribute to cyanotoxin transfer through the food chain, and thus constitute a potent health risk source. The use of this contaminated irrigation water can also have an economical impact which appears by a reduction of the germination rate of seeds, and alteration of the quality and the productivity of crop plants. The main objective of this work was to discuss the eventual phytotoxicity of cyanotoxins (microcystins) as the major agricultural impacts induced by the use of contaminated water for plant irrigation. These investigations confirm the harmful effects (ecological, eco-physiological, socio-economical and sanitary risk) of dissolved MCs on agricultural plants. Thus, cyanotoxin phytotoxicity strongly suggests a need for the surveillance of CyanoHAB and the monitoring of water irrigation quality as well as for drinking water.