The presence of parasitic structures in sandy soil samples from beaches located along the north coast of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Beaches are a source of parasite contamination because protozoan cysts and helminth eggs and larvae can remain viable in sandy soils for months. Parasitic infections are mainly related to hygiene conditions, health, and environmental education, and can affect the life quality of the population. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the presence of parasitic structures in five beaches located along the north coast of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Eighty samples were collected in August and September 2020 at the beaches of Torres, Tramandaí, Capão da Canoa, Arroio Teixeira, and Arroio do Sal and processed with the spontaneous sedimentation method for microscopic analyses. The results showed that 32% (26/80) of samples were positive for the presence of parasitic structures, and there was a significantly higher frequency of positive samples in September than in August. Torres was the beach with the highest frequency of positive samples, while Arroio Teixeira and Arroio do Sal presented the lowest frequency of contamination. Nematode larvae, including hookworm larvae, were the most prevalent parasitic structures in the samples. Hence, the sandy soil from beaches must be monitored to develop programs and strategies for improving infrastructures and basic sanitation conditions, thus ensuring the health of the population.

Soil contamination by Ancylostoma spp. and Toxocara spp. eggs in elementary school playgrounds in the extreme south of Brazil / Contaminação do solo de praças de recreação de escolas de ensino fundamental por ovos de Ancylostoma spp. e Toxocara spp. no extremo sul do Brasil

Abstract Millions of people worldwide, and especially schoolchildren, may be infected by geohelminths due to their exposure to a contaminated environment. The aim of this study was to evaluate soil contamination by Ancylostoma spp. and Toxocara spp. eggs in recreation areas at elementary schools in Pelotas, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Sand samples were collected from 22 schools and were processed using the centrifugal flotation method. Helminth eggs with zoonotic potential were found in 12 out of the 22 schools (54.5%). Contamination by Ancylostoma spp. and Toxocara spp. was observed in 36.4% (8/22) and 27.3% (6/22) of the soil samples collected at these schools, respectively. These findings of eggs show that the school communities are exposed to risks of zoonotic transmission.

Resumo Milhões de pessoas podem ser acometidas por geohelmintos, especialmente crianças em idade escolar, devido a sua maior exposição a ambientes contaminados. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a contaminação do solo por ovos de Ancylostoma spp. e Toxocara spp. em áreas de recreação de escolas de ensino fundamental da cidade de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Foram colhidas amostras de areia de 22 escolas e processadas pelo método de centrífugo-flutuação. Em 54,5% (12/22) das escolas houve registro da presença de ovos de helmintos com potencial zoonótico. A contaminação por Ancylostoma spp. e Toxocara spp. foi observada em 36,4% (8/22) e 27,3% (6/22) das amostras de solo das escolas, respectivamente. Existe a presença de ovos de Ancylostoma spp. e Toxocara spp., havendo risco de transmissão de zoonoses à comunidade escolar.

Analysis on SARS‑CoV‑2 contamination in the environment exposure to the SARS‑CoV‑2 cases in Huangpu District of Shanghai in 2022 / 中国热带医学

@#Abstract: Objective　To analyze the detection of SARS‑CoV‑2 in household environment and public place environment of Huangpu District, and describe the feature of SARS‑CoV‑2 contamination in the environment exposure to the infected cases, so as to support the control strategies such as disinfection and health communication. Methods　The results of RT-PCR test for the environmental samples exposure to the cases infected by SARS‑CoV‑2 during February 1 to March 31 2022 in Huangpu District of Shanghai were collected as the research data. Pearson χ2 was used to test the significance of the differences between positive rates of SARS‑CoV‑2 contamination. Results　From February 1 to March 31, household environment samples had a higher positive rate (6.47%, 234/3 618) of SARS‑CoV‑2 contamination while the public place samples had a lower one (1.22%, 47/3 582) in Huangpu District of Shanghai (χ2=141.908, P<0.01). Among the household buildings, the lane houses of old style representing poorer living condition had the highest positive rates (8.31%, 96/1 155) of SARS‑CoV‑2 contamination while the apartments representing better living condition had the lowest (3.59%, 22/612) (F=5.25，P<0.05). Among the samples from household environment, samples regarding sewerage had the highest positive rates (13.30%,58/436) of SARS‑CoV‑2 contamination, while samples regarding the tool of cooking and sweeping had the lowest (3.10%,17/548) (F=9.84，P<0.01). Among the samples from public place environment, samples regarding entertainment tools had the highest positive rates (13.33%, 2/15) of SARS‑CoV‑2 contamination, while samples regarding the tool of cooking and sweeping had the lowest (0.62%, 4/646) (F=4.22，P<0.01). Conclusion　In the environment exposure to the SARS‑CoV‑2 infected cases, the disinfection, ventilation and cleaning should be intensified strictly. SARS‑CoV‑2's surviving in sewage environment should be evaluation dynamically. More health communication should be pushed to people of poorer living condition.

Vulneranilidad de la población costera frente a la contaminación orgánica y microbiológica en Santa Elena-Ecuador, 2020 / Vulneranility of the coastal population to organic and microbiological contamination in the Playa la Carioca Santa Elena-Ecuador community, 2020

La problemática de la contaminación marina y su marcada influencia en la salud de los ecosistemas costeros, está estrechamente relacionada con el aumento creciente de las poblaciones que habitan estas zonas y, de igual manera, con el incremento de las actividades domésticas, agrícolas e industriales que, por el mal manejo e inadecuado control de los desechos sólidos y líquidos, afectan el medio marino con significativas implicaciones a nivel ecológico, socioeconómico y de salubridad (Marín et al., 2005). Cada vez más la contaminación en el planeta abarca un tema importante de tratar, esto se debe al agotamiento de los recursos naturales y al calentamiento global que afecta a toda la humanidad de diferentes maneras. Vargas (2016) aclara que la sostenibilidad juega un papel fundamental que busca no poner en peligro al medio ambiente ni los recursos naturales que existen en el lugar. Con el propósito de evaluar los efectos e impactos que ocasionan la contaminación, la susceptibilidad al deterioro de funciones ecológicas, servicicos ecosistemicos, y la capacidad de adaptación, se desarrollo un análisis integrado de amenazas y vulnerabilidad ante la contaminación orgánica y microbiológica en la población costera de Santa Elena-Ecuador, 2020. La presente investigación permitio evidenciar el estado de vulnerabilidad de la localidad situada en zona costera de Santa Elena, ante la contaminación orgánica y microbiológica. Asimismo puede ser utilizada como soporte en la generación de planes y programas que ofrezcan para el control y disminución de la contaminación en los hogares como en la zona marino-costera, en la medida en que se identifican puntos clave para el fortalecimiento de la comunidad tanto en términos de infraestructura como el caso de los servicios de acueducto y alcantarillado así como de capital social y dependencia del uso de agua en la comunidad en estudio(AU)

The problem of marine pollution and its marked influence on the health of coastal ecosystems, is closely related to the growing increase in the populations that inhabit these areas and, in the same way, with the increase in domestic, agricultural and industrial activities that, due to the mismanagement and inadequate control of solid and liquid waste, affect the marine environment with significant implications at an ecological, socioeconomic and health level (Marín et al., 2005). More and more pollution on the planet encompasses an important issue to deal with, this is due to the depletion of natural resources and global warming that affects all of humanity in different ways. Vargas (2016) clarifies that sustainability plays a fundamental role that seeks not to endanger the environment or the natural resources that exist in the place. In order to evaluate the effects and impacts caused by pollution, susceptibility to deterioration of ecological functions, ecosystem services, and adaptation capacity, an integrated analysis of threats and vulnerability to organic and microbiological contamination was developed in the coastal population of Santa Elena-Ecuador, 2020. The present investigation allowed showing the state of vulnerability of the locality located in the coastal zone of Santa Elena, in the face of organic and microbiological contamination. It can also be used as a support in the generation of plans and programs that offer for the control and reduction of pollution in homes and in the marine-coastal zone, to the extent that key points are identified for the strengthening of the community both in terms of infrastructure, such as the case of the aqueduct and sewerage services, as well as social capital and dependence on the use of water in the community under study(AU)

Geohelminths in the soil of the Laguna dos Patos in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil / Geohelmintos no solo da Laguna dos Patos no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Abstract This study aimed at examining the prevalence of eggs and larvae of parasites - that may cause diseases to humans and other animals - in the soil of public squares located on the shore of Laranjal beaches, in the Laguna dos Patos, in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. Four fieldwork trips - one per season - were taken to collect samples on six squares built on the shore of these beaches. Five samples of soil were collected on every square on every fieldwork trip. The material was processed by Caldwell & Caldwell's technique. Four squares (66.7%) were positive for helminth eggs and sample positivity was 8.3% (10). Toxocara spp. and Ancylostoma spp. were the main genera found in these places. Even though prevalence was lower than the one observed by other studies which were carried out in the area, helminths with zoonotic potential were found in the soil of the squares. It should be highlighted that measures to control dogs in these areas must be implemented and public policies must be put forth to make pets' owners and beach goers aware of the need to mitigate environmental contamination.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a prevalência de ovos e larvas de parasitos - que podem causar doenças em humanos e outros animais - no solo de praças públicas localizadas na orla das praias do Laranjal, na Laguna dos Patos, em Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Quatro viagens de campo - uma por estação - foram realizadas em seis praças construídas na orla dessas praias. Cinco amostras de solo foram coletadas por praça em cada saída de campo. O material foi processado pela técnica de Caldwell e Caldwell. Quatro praças (66,7%) foram positivas para ovos de helmintos e a positividade da amostra foi de 8,3% (10). Toxocara spp. e Ancylostoma spp. foram os principais gêneros encontrados nesses locais. Embora a prevalência tenha sido menor que a observada por outros estudos realizados na área, helmintos com potencial zoonótico foram encontrados no solo das praças. Deve-se ressaltar que medidas para o controle de cães nessas áreas devem ser implementadas e políticas públicas devem ser concretizadas para tornar os donos de animais de estimação e frequentadores destas praias, conscientes da necessidade de mitigar a contaminação ambiental.

Potentially toxic metals of vegetable gardens of urban schools in Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil / Metais potencialmentetóxicos em hortas escolares na região urbana de Lages, Santa Catarina, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Urban environments are contaminated in many ways with persistent organic and inorganic pollutants as a result of anthropogenic activities, endangering human health and natural resources. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the soil contamination by cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in 10 vegetable gardens of urban schools located near or on Botucatu sandstone outcrops of Guarani Aquifer in the urban areas of Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil. In each garden, three soil samples at each position (in the soil immediately outside and the soil in the garden) were collected at a depth of 0-20 cm. The ISO 11466 method was used to extract the metals. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry was used to quantify the elements and certified materials to evaluate the quantities (SRM 2709a - San Joaquin Soil - NIST). To evaluate the data, principal component analyses and cluster analyses were performed. The cluster analysis for the evaluated metals showed that the highest contents of elements were reported in three gardens. Values above the prevention value defined by resolution no. 420/2005 of the National Council for the Environment -Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente (CONAMA) - were reported for cobalt in one garden and copper in three gardens; thus, these areas were categorized as Class III areas. Principal component analysis explained 74.7% of the data and showed the enrichment of some elements within gardens.

RESUMO: Ambientes urbanos são contaminados de muitas maneiras com poluentes orgânicos e inorgânicos persistentes como resultado de atividades antrópicas, colocando em risco a saúde humana e os recursos naturais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a contaminação do solo por cobalto (Co), cromo (Cr), cobre (Cu), manganês (Mn), níquel (Ni), chumbo (Pb) e zinco (Zn) em 10 hortas de escolas urbanas situadas próximo ou sobre áreas de afloramento de arenito Botucatu do Aquífero Guarani, no município de Lages, Santa Catarina. Em cada horta, três amostras de solo foram coletadas (dentro e fora da horta) na profundidade de 0-20 cm. O método ISO 11466 foi usado para extrair os metais. Utilizou-se espectrometria de emissão óptica com plasma indutivamente acoplado (ICP OES) para quantificar os elementos e materiais certificados (SRM 2709a - San Joaquin Soil - NIST). Para avaliar os dados foi feita a análise dos componentes principais e análise de agrupamento. Pela análise de agrupamento para os metais avaliados observou-se que as maiores concentrações de elementos foram encontradas em três hortas. Valores acima do valor de prevenção (PV) definido pela resolução no. 420/2005 do Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente (CONAMA) foram encontrados para Co em uma horta e Cu em três hortas, classificando essas áreas como classe III. A análise de componentes principais explicou 74,7% dos dados e mostrou o enriquecimento de alguns elementos dentro das hortas.

Helminth eggs with zoonotic potential in the vicinity of public schools in southern Brazil / Ovos de helmintos com potencial zoonótico nas proximidades de escolas públicas no extremo sul do Brasil

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate environmental contamination by helminth eggs with zoonotic potential that were found in dog feces in the vicinity of elementary schools. Seventy-nine samples of dog feces were collected from 28 municipal schools located in five neighborhoods in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. The samples were processed using the Willis-Mollay technique and analyzed using an optical microscope (40X), to identify any parasite eggs present. All neighborhoods were positive and 74.7% of the samples exhibited one or more helminth genera. The agent with the highest prevalence was Ancylostoma spp. (93.2%), followed by Trichuris spp. (18.6%), Toxocara spp. (11.9%) and Toxascaris (1.7%). These data show that there is a need for greater care towards controlling these helminths with zoonotic potential, including responsible pet ownership and daily activities to clean and collect dog feces in the vicinity of schools, because these are places where children play and study.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a contaminação ambiental por ovos de helmintos com potencial zoonótico, diagnosticados em fezes caninas depositadas nas proximidades de escolas primárias. Setenta e nove amostras de fezes foram colhidas em 28 escolas municipais localizadas em cinco bairros da cidade de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brasil. As amostras foram processadas pela técnica de Willis-Mollay e analisadas em microscópio óptico (40X), para identificar quaisquer parasitos presentes. Todos os bairros foram positivos e 74,7% das amostras apresentaram um ou mais gêneros de helmintos. O agente com maior prevalência foi Ancylostoma spp. (93,2%), seguido por Trichuris spp. (18,6%), Toxocara spp. (11,9%) e Toxascaris (1,7%). Esses dados mostram que há necessidade de maior cuidado no controle desses helmintos com potencial zoonótico, incluindo a posse responsável dos animais e atividades diárias de limpeza e colheita de fezes de cães nas proximidades das escolas, porque esses são locais onde as crianças brincam e estudam.

Avaliação antifúngica de uma solução à base de glucoprotamina e do óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratus em leveduras de ambiente hospitalar / Antifungal action of a solution based on the glucoprotamine and the essential oil from Cymbopogon citratus on the yeasts from the hospital environment

O objetivo deste estudo foi de avaliar a atividade antifúngica de uma solução à base de glucoprotamina (GLU) e de óleo essencial (OE) de Cymbopogon citratus. Candida tropicalis, Claviceps lusitaniae, Meyerozyma (Pichia) guilliermondii e Candida parapsilosis foram isoladas das superfícies de um hospital público de Pelotas, RS. A atividade antifúngica da GLU foi analisada nas concentrações de 0,25% a 0,0005%, e para o OE, obtido por Clevenger, foi utilizado nas concentrações de 17.500 μg/mL a 0,034 μg/mL. A análise cromatográfica foi efetuada por meio de CG/MS. A atividade anti-Candida foi analisada pela técnica de Microdiluição em Caldo para determinar a Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) e a Concentração Fungicida Mínima (CFM). A inibição pela GLU ocorreu em todas as concentrações testadas, enquanto o OE apresentou resultado de CIM que oscilou de 2846 a 5450 μg/mL, e CFM de 2853 a 5330 μg/mL. Alfa–citral (37,10%), beta–citral (32,77% e beta-mirceno (18,75%) foram considerados como os compostos majoritários do OE. Os dados obtidos neste trabalho destacam a atividade antifúngica da solução à base de GLU e do OE de C. citratus na eliminação dos isolados de Candida spp ambientais.

This study aimed at evaluating the antifungal activity of glucoprotamine solution (GLU) and the essential oil from Cymbopogon citratus (EO). Candida tropicalis, Claviceps lusitaniae, Meyerozyma (Pichia) guilliermondii and Candida parapsilosis were isolated from the samples, which were collected from the surfaces of a public hospital located in Pelotas, RS. The antifungal activity of GLU was detected at the concentrations from 0.25% to 0.0005%, while the EO, by Clevenger, was used at concentrations from 17.500 μg mL to 0.034 μg/mL. Chemical analysis was determined by GC/MS. The anti-Candida activity was performed by using Broth Microdilution technique to determine the Minimal Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) and the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). The inhibition by GLU occurred at all of the tested concentrations, whereas the EO showed MIC ranging from 2.846 to 5.450 μ/mL and the CFM from 2.853 to 5.330 μg/mL. Alfa–citral (37.10%), beta–citral (32.77%) and beta-mirceno (18.75%) were the majority compounds in the EO. The data obtained in the present study highlight the effectiveness of the solution based on GLU and EO for eliminating the environmental isolates of Candida spp.

Intestinal parasitosis and environmental contamination with helminths and protozoa in a Quilombola community of southeast Brazil / Parasitismo intestinal y contaminación ambiental con helmintos y protozoarios en una comunidad quilombola del sudeste de Brasil

Introduction: Intestinal parasitosis by helminths and protozoa is still today a global public health problem mainly affecting people living in conditions of social vulnerability, including rural communities. Objective: Describe human intestinal parasitosis and environmental contamination with helminths and protozoa in the Quilombola community of Quartel do Indaiá (of African descent) in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted of stool and soil samples by spontaneous sedimentation, and of plant samples by centrifugation sedimentation, to detect intestinal helminths and protozoa. Water samples were analyzed for total and fecal coliforms. Results: Helminths and protozoa were found in 45.5 percent of the people (n = 66). The species detected were Ascaris lumbricoides (18.2 percent), Entamoeba coli (18.2 percent), Endolimax nana (18.2 percent), ancylostoma (6.1 percent, Iodamoeba butschlii (4.6 percent), Giardia duodenalis (3 percent) and Trichuris trichiura (1.5 percent). More than one species were present in 19.7 percent of the samples. In 18 of the 39 sites sampled, the soil was contaminated with E. coli, E. nana, A. lumbricoides, I. butschlii and/or Enterobius vermicularis. Vegetables (n = 135) were contaminated in 75 samples with 7 of the 8 species analyzed. The contaminants were E. coli cysts, A. lumbricoides eggs and ancylostoma. All water samples were contaminated with total and fecal coliforms. Conclusions: The Quilombola community of Quartel do Indaiá had high levels of human infection and high environmental contamination with intestinal parasites or protozoa, probably due to lack of appropriate sanitary conditions. It is necessary to improve the access to treated water and sanitation(AU)

Introducción: El parasitismo intestinal por helmintos y protozoarios todavía es un problema de salud pública mundial, que afecta sobre todo personas en condiciones de vulnerabilidad social, incluso las comunidades rurales. Objectivo: Describir la infección humana y la contaminación ambiental por parásitos/comensales intestinales en una comunidade 'quilombola' Quartel do Indaiá (descendentes de esclavos) del Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal con análisis de muestras fecales y de tierra por sedimentación espontánea, y de vegetales por sedimentación con centrifugación para detección de parásitos o comensales intestinales. Se analizaron muestras de agua para detección de coliformes totales y fecales. Resultados: Se observó la ocurrencia de parásitos o comensales en 45.5 por ciento de las personas (n = 66). Las especies detectadas fueron Ascaris lumbricoides (18,2 por ciento), Entamoeba coli (18,2 por ciento), Endolimax nana (18,2 por ciento), anquilostomas (6.1 por ciento), Iodamoeba butschlii (4,6 por ciento), Giardia duodenalis (3 por ciento), and Trichuris trichiura (1,5 por ciento). Para 19,7 por ciento de las muestras se detectaron más de una especie. El suelo estuvo contaminado en 18 de los 39 sitios muestreados, con presencia de E. coli, E. nana, A. lumbricoides, I. butschlii y/o Enterobius vermicularis. Los vegetales (n = 135) presentaron contaminación en 75 muestras de 7, entre 8 especies analizadas. Sus contaminantes fueron quistos de E. coli y huevos de A. lumbricoides y anquilostoma. Todas las muestras de agua estaban contaminadas por coliformes totales y fecales. Conclusiones: La comunidad 'quilombola' Quartel do Indaiá presentó alta infección humana y alta contaminación ambiental por parásitos o comensales intestinales, lo que se debe probablemente a la falta de condiciones sanitarias. Se necesita mejorar el acceso para agua tratada y estructuras de saneamiento(AU)

Medicines Waste Policies And The Population Knowledge In Brazil

Objective: To investigate the degree of knowledge of the patients enrolled in the Unified Health System of the Medicine School of ABC (Faculdade de Medicina do ABC) regarding the proper use and disposal of medicaments. Methods: Participants were recruited for convenience, during their medical appointments at the clinic of the Medical School of ABC (Santo André, Sao Paulo, Brazil) in the period from 04 August to 30 September 2014. Data collection was conducted through a self-administered poll designed specifically for the purpose of this study, which consisted of 25 questions multiple choice about socioeconomic issues and the subject disposal of drugs, consumption and environmental pollution. Results: We selected the 140 patients’ polls. Most of them is of white ethnicity (58%) and female (58%). Level of education: 31% have completed secondary education (31%) or incomplete graduation (19%). Most of the participants (76%) buy drugs without a prescription, and most families (76%) seek understanding by reading the labels. 71.43% reported knowing that incorrect disposal of drugs could contaminate the environment, but 78% reported never having seen or received information about these. After using, 22.15% maintains the medication at home for future use, 55% of subjects reported improper disposal sites and 13% are delivered in health care institutions. Conclusion: Our study has showed that most participants inappropriately use and dispose of drugs, even though they know they can contaminate the environment.

Effects of chronic exposure to hexavalent chromium in water on oxidative stress parameters in Wistar rats

Hexavalent chromium [Cr (VI)] is a metal utilized in different industries and consequently disposed in the environment. It is a toxic substance and its reduction to trivalent Cr [Cr (III)] generates intermediates, which are responsible for the oxidation of molecules, and cause the oxidative stress. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate if Cr (VI) could induce oxidative stress in Wistar rats. In this study, Wistar rats were chronically exposed to 25 and 50 ppm of potassium dichromate in drinking water for 30 days. The levels of Cr were evaluated in the blood and tissues (liver, kidneys, and lungs). Oxidative stress was determined in the liver, kidneys, and lungs and was evaluated by DFCH, TBA-RS and carbonyl test. Antioxidant enzymes were evaluated through catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities. Regarding the results, Cr concentration was significantly elevated in all tissues, however, it was lower in the lungs. In relation to the oxidative stress parameters, there was a significant increase of DCFH levels in the kidneys and carbonyls in liver and kidneys. Regarding the antioxidant enzymes, SOD was decreased in all organs and GPx was diminished in the kidneys. These data indicated that Cr (VI) could induce oxidative stress in the kidneys and liver due to an imbalance between oxidative and antioxidant parameters. The lungs were little affected, possibly by the lowest chromium accumulation.

Literature Survey on Environmental Exposure to Antineoplastic Agents: / 医薬品情報学

Objective: In late 1970s, occupational exposure to antineoplastic agents was reported. Various countries, including Japan, have published guidelines for handling antineoplastic agents. Surveys are still being conducted to determine the levels of environmental exposure to antineoplastic agents at individual hospitals, and incidents of contamination are often reported. This study provides details regarding a literature survey conducted to evaluate the actual state of environmental contamination by antineoplastic agents and identify the related issues in order to promote environmental monitoring.Methods: The literature search was carried out from January 1, 1990 to July 31, 2017. PubMed and Ichushi-Web were searched with the following keywords: “antineoplastic agents,” “occupational exposure,” “surface contamination,” and “environmental monitoring.”Results: Following the literature search, 117 papers were included in the analysis. The findings showed that contamination by antineoplastic agents was widely reported in hospitals and places where antineoplastic drugs were not handled. The findings of this study regarding the actual state of environmental exposure are partial, as there is a lack of information on retail pharmacies and homes of outpatients who have received chemotherapy.Discussion: Therefore, further investigation is warranted. In addition, according to the current Japanese guidelines, published in 2015, environmental surveillance is not required to reduce contamination by antineoplastic agents. To promote environmental monitoring, we feel that it is necessary to determine a new survey method and the clarify optimum interval of environmental monitoring.

Enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica en pacientes ingresados en unidades de atención al grave. Cárdenas / Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases in in-patients of the intensive care unit. Cárdenas

RESUMEN Introducción: la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica es infradiagnosticada y presenta una elevada morbimortalidad. Constituye la sèptima causa de muerte en Cuba. En la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos, del Hospital General Docente "Julio M. Aristegui" de Cárdenas, provincia de Matanzas, resulta una causa de ingresos frecuentes, con evolución desfavorable que prolonga la estadía y elevan la mortalidad. Objetivo: determinar el comportamiento de esta enfermedad en Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, longitudinal y retrospectivo, en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos del Hospital General Docente "Julio M. Aristegui", de Cárdenas, durante el periodo de enero del 2015 a diciembre del 2016. El universo fue los pacientes ingresados por la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica. Las variables estudiadas fueron: sexo, edad, factores de riesgo, diagnóstico al ingreso, complicaciones, estadía, destino al egreso. Resultados: predominó el grupo etáreo de 65-74 años y el sexo masculino. El factor de riesgo más significativo fue el tabaquismo. La estadía y el número de días ventilados fue de 20-30 días. La gran mayoría de los pacientes fallecieron en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos. Conclusiones: La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, por sus factores de riesgo y complicaciones, conlleva al cuidado hospitalario del paciente en Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos (AU).

ABSTRACT Introduction: the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is under diagnosed and shows a high morbimortality. It is the fifth cause of death in Cuba. It is a frequent cause of admission in the Intensive Care Unit of the Teaching General Hospital "Julio M. Aristegui" of Cardenas, province of Matanzas, with an unfavorable evolution extending the staying and increasing mortality. Objective: to determine this disease behaviour in an intensive care unit. Materials and methods: a retrospective, longitudinal, descriptive study was carried out in the Intensive Care Unit of the General Teaching Hospital "Julio Aristegui" of Cardenas during the period January 2015- December 2016. The universe was the patients admitted due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The studied variables were sex, age, risk factors, diagnosis at the admission, complications, staying, and destination at discharge. Results: the 65-74 years-old age group and male sex predominated. The most significant risk factor was tobacco smoking. Staying and number of days under ventilation were 20-30 days. Most of the patients died in the Intensive Care Unit. Conclusions: the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, due to its risk factors and complications, leads to the hospital care of the patient in intensive care units (AU).

Factores de riesgo en la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica y su enfoque con los niveles de intervención de salud / Risk factors of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and their approach from the health intervention levels

RESUMEN Introducción: la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica constituye un problema de salud en el Hospital Territorial "Julio Miguel Aristegui Villamil" en Cárdenas de la provincia de Matanzas, siendo una de las causas de ingresos frecuentes en sus unidades de atención al grave, las cuales en ocasiones presentan una evolución desfavorable. El tabaquismo, la contaminación ambiental y otros factores son los elementos que hacen crecer esta enfermedad con complicaciones que prolongan la estadía y elevan la mortalidad. Objetivo: determinar los factores de riesgo de la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica en pacientes ingresados en unidades de atención al grave. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, longitudinal y retrospectivo para describir esta enfermedad en los pacientes ingresados en las unidades de atención al grave en el hospital de Cárdenas durante el periodo de enero del 2015 a diciembre del 2016. La muestra coincide con el universo. Las variables empleadas fueron sexo, edad, antecedentes patológicos personales y factores de riesgo. Resultados: predominó el grupo etáreo de 65-74 años (43.8%), el sexo masculino fue el más representado, los factores de riesgo más significativo el tabaquismo (86%) y las enfermedades cardiovasculares (69.8%). Conclusiones: en la última década la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica ha comenzado a preocupar a la comunidad médica internacional por su relación directa con el tabaquismo, dada la tendencia al aumento de este hábito (AU).

ABSTRACT Introduction: the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a problem in the Territorial Hospital "Julio Miguel Aristegui Villamil" in Cardenas, province of Matanzas. It is a cause of frequent admission in its units of care to seriously ill patients, having sometimes an unfavorable development. Tobacco smoking, environmental contamination and other factors are the elements making this disease to boost with longest staying and increased mortality. Objective: to determine the COPD's risk factors in in-patients of units of care to seriously ill patients. Materials and methods: a retrospective, longitudinal, descriptive study was carried out to describe this disease in the in-patients in the units of care to seriously ill patients in the hospital of Cardenas during the period from January 2015 to December 2016. The sample coincides with universe. The studied variables were sex, age, personal pathological antecedents. A card for collecting the information was used as database. Results: the 65-70-4 years-old age group predominated (43.8 %). the male sex was the most represented one; the most significant risk factors were tobacco smoking (86 %) and cardiovascular diseases (69.8 %). Conclusions: the COPD has began to worry the international medical community in the last decade due to its direct relation to smoking and given the tendency of this habit to increase (AU).

The effect of water source and soil supplementation on parasite contamination in organic vegetable gardens / O efeito da fonte de água e suplementação de solo na contaminação parasitária em hortas orgânicas

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine factors associated with vegetable contamination with zoonotic protozoan. Samples of water, soil and vegetables were collected from July/2014 to May/2016, totaling 83 samples, 21 properties of Londrina region, Paraná, Brazil. DNA amplification of Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia intestinalis in the samples was conducted using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR results were positive for T. gondii in 12.9% (8/62), Cryptosporidium spp. in 11.3% (7/62) and G. intestinalis in 25.8% (16/62) of the samples. DNA sequencing identified C. parvum in five samples and G. intestinalis Assemblage E in three. The statistical associations demonstrated greater probability of positive samples for T. gondii and for at least one of the three protozoa when the source of irrigation water was the river; a greater chance of positive samples for Cryptosporidium spp. when deer were present on the property; and a smaller chance of positive samples for at least one of the three etiologic agents when soil was supplemented with limestone. The results expose some critical contamination points, providing support for training farmers on good management practices during the production process.

Resumo O trabalho teve como objetivo determinar os fatores associados à contaminação de vegetais por protozoários zoonóticos. Amostras de água, solo e vegetais foram coletadas de julho/2014 a maio/2016, totalizando 83 amostras de 21 propriedades da região de Londrina, Paraná, Brasil. A amplificação de fragmentos de DNA de T. gondii, Cryptosporidium spp. e Giardia intestinalis foi realizada por meio da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). Os resultados da PCR foram positivos para T. gondii em 12,9% (8/62), Cryptosporidium spp. em 11,3% (7/62) e G. intestinalis. em 25,8% (16/62) das amostras. O sequenciamento de DNA identificou C. parvum em cinco amostras e G. intestinalis, Assemblage E em três amostras. As associações estatísticas evidenciaram maior probabilidade de amostras serem positivas para T. gondii ou para pelo menos um dos três protozoários quando a fonte de água de irrigação era o rio; uma maior chance de amostras positivas para Cryptosporidium spp. quando havia cervos na propriedade; e uma menor chance das amostras serem positivas para pelo menos um dos três agentes etiológicos quando o solo era suplementado com calcário. Os resultados expõem alguns pontos críticos de contaminação, fornecendo suporte para capacitar os agricultores em boas práticas de gestão durante o processo de produção.

Prevalência de anticorpos e fatores de risco associados à infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em galinhas domésticas da zona rural de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul / Prevalence of antibodies and risk factors associated with infection by Toxoplasma gondii in free range chickens of rural area of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

RESUMO: Toxoplasma gondii é um protozoário apicomplexa que infecta animais de sangue quente, podendo ser considerado um dos principais parasitas capazes de infectar os seres humanos. Galinhas domésticas podem ser facilmente infectadas por protozoários, uma vez que estas podem ingerir oocistos encontrados no solo, sendo consideradas boas indicadoras de contaminação ambiental por T. gondii. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a presença de anticorpos anti-T. gondii em galinhas domésticas criadas extensivamente e avaliar os fatores de risco associados ao protozoário, na zona rural de Santa Maria, RS, Brasil. No período de março de 2013 a fevereiro 2014 foram coletadas 597 amostras de sangue de galinhas domésticas em 74 propriedades, oriundas de nove estratos que representam cada distrito da zona rural. Para avaliar os fatores de risco, nessas propriedades foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico aos moradores. As amostras de soro foram testadas por imunofluorescência indireta, e 49,2% (294/597) foram positivas para anticorpos anti-T. gondii, com títulos variando de 16 a 4096. Das 74 propriedades analisadas, em 63 (85,1%) houve relatos que os gatos têm acesso ao deposito de alimentos, com associação significativa quando associado à presença de galinhas positivas (p=0,04) e o OR de 4,07. A variável "abate de animais" (aves e bovinos), em 51 (68,9%) das propriedades foi relatado o abate de bovinos e aves na propriedade, com valor de p significativo (p=0,05). A maioria das propriedades 59 (79,7%) foi relatada a presença de gatos domésticos, o que poderia estar associada com a alta soroprevalência encontrada em galinhas e a taxa de contaminação ambiental. A elevada prevalência de anticorpos encontrada neste estudo, além da alta frequência de propriedades com casos positivos, sugere uma grande contaminação ambiental nos distritos pesquisados, sendo assim um risco potencial para a saúde humana e animal.

ABSTRACT: Toxoplasma gondii is an apicomplex protozoan that infects warm-blooded animals and can be considered a major parasite capable of infecting humans. Domestic chickens can be easily infected by protozoa, since they can ingest oocysts found in the soil and are considered good indicators of environmental contamination by T. gondii. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in free range chickens and to evaluate the risks factors associated with the protozoan in rural area of Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. From March 2013 to February 2014, 597 blood samples from domestic chickens were collected from 74 farms, from nine layers representing each district in the rural area. To evaluate the risk factors, in these farms an epidemiological questionnaire was applied to the residents. Serum samples were tested by indirect immunofluorescence and 49.2% (294/597) were positive for anti-T.gondii antibodies, with titres varying from 16 to 4096. Of the 74 analyzed farms, 63 (85.1%) reported that cats had access to food deposits, with a significant association when positive chickens were present (p = 0.04) and the OR of 4.07. The variable "slaughter of animals" (poultry and cattle) in 51 (68.9%) of the farms was reported the slaughter of cattle and birds in the farm, with significant p value (p = 0.05). Most farms 59 (79.7%) reported the presence of domestic cats, which could be associated with the high seroprevalence found in chickens and the rate of environmental contamination. The high prevalence of antibodies found in this study, in addition to the high frequency of farms with positive cases, suggests a great environmental contamination in the studied districts, thus being a potential risk to human and animal health.

Concentração de elementos traços em serpentes do litoral e da região serrana do Espírito Santo / Trace element concentration in snakes of coastal and serrana region of the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil

Os elementos químicos, em sua maioria, encontram-se em ciclos bioquímicos e geoquímicos fechados e em concentrações que não causam efeitos nocivos aos organismos. Contudo, ações antrópicas aceleradas promovem alterações ambientais, como o aumento no aporte de contaminantes. Com essas informações, o presente trabalho buscou caracterizar a presença aos elementos traços em duas espécies de serpentes comuns na região sudeste, Boa constrictor e Bothrops jararaca. Os exemplares de B. constrictor (n=18) foram provenientes de atropelamentos ocorridos no trecho da Rodovia ES-060 do Km 0 ao Km 67,5. Os exemplares de B. jararaca (n=18) foram capturados por fazendeiros na zona rural da região serrana do Espírito Santo. Foram analisados 1 grama de fragmento de rim, de espécimes necropsiados. Os rins coletados foram digeridos com mistura ácida (HNO3;HCl; 1:1) a 300oC, 40min e a quantificação de microelementos (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb e Zn) foi realizada por espectrometria de emissão óptica com plasma indutivamente acoplado (ICP OES). Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre machos e fêmeas, exceto para Cromo nas B. constrictor (p=0,03), com média de 1,6595 nas concentrações de Cr nas fêmeas e 0,2896 em machos. Contudo, quando foram comparadas as diferentes espécies de serpentes, diferentes concentrações foram encontradas, para todos os elementos determinados, com destaque para o Ferro com uma concentração de 106,2mg/g em B. constrictor e 120,3mg/g em B. jararaca, provavelmente por esses animais virem de áreas próximas à portos de minério de ferro. A concentração de Zinco em B. constrictor foi de 1261,8mg/g e em B. jararaca foi de 28,4mg/g. O presente estudo indica que as serpentes analisadas, que habitam as regiões da Grande Vitória e serrana do Espírito Santo apresentam elevadas concentrações dos microelementos Zn e Fe.(AU)

Chemical elements are mostly involved in biochemical and geochemical cycles in concentrations which are harmless for organisms. However, accelerated human actions promote environmental changes such as the increase in contaminant intake. With this information, this study aimed to characterize the presence of trace elements in two snake species common in Southeastern Brazil, Boa constrictor and Bothrops jararaca. Copies of B. constrictor (n=18) were from pedestrian accidents which occurred on Highway stretch ES-060 from Km 0 to Km 67.5. Copies of B. jararaca (n=18) were captured by farmers in a rural mountainous area of Espíirito Santo State, Brazilo. They were analyzed 1 kidney fragment grass, autopsied specimens. Harvested kidneys were digested with acid mixture (HNO3 e HCl 1:1) at 300°C, 40 min and quantification of microelementos (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) were determined by spectrometric optical emission with inductively coupled plasma (ICP OES). significant differences between males and females were observed, except for Chrome in B. constrictor (p=0.03), with an average of 1.6595 in Cr concentration of females and 0.2896 in males. However, when different species of snakes were compared, different concentrations were found for all elements, especially iron with a concentration of 106.2mg/g in B. constrictor and 120.3mg/g in B. jararaca; probably these animals came from areas near iron ore ports. The concentration of zinc in B. constrictor was 1261.8mg/g and in B. jararaca 28,4mg/g. This study indicates that the analyzed snakes, which inhabit the regions of Greater Victoria and the mountainous region of the State of Espírito Santo have high concentrations of the microelements Zn and Fe.(AU)

Contaminación ambiental por ruido / Environmental contamination caused by noise

Los sonidos indeseados constituyen el estorbo público más generalizado en la sociedad actual. La contaminación sonora, representa un problema ambiental para el hombre por las afectaciones a la salud que pueden ocasionar, los peligros por ruido actualmente están identificados como un gran problema a resolver por la salud ambiental, son las formas de energía potencialmente nocivas en el ambiente, que pueden resultar en peligrosidad inmediata o gradual de adquirir un daño cuando se transfiere en cantidades suficientes a individuos expuestos. La liberación de energía física puede ser súbita y no controlada, como el caso de un ruido fuerte explosivo o mantenido y más o menos bajo control como en las condiciones de trabajo con la exposición a largo plazo a niveles inferiores de ruido constante. Con la vigencia de la actualización de los lineamientos de la política económica y social del partido y la Revolución para el período 2016-2021, los autores se han motivado a incursionar en la problemática haciendo una valoración del ruido como uno de los ejemplos más comunes de peligro físico que ocasiona efectos en la salud (AU).

Unwanted sounds are the most generalized public hindrance in the current society. Sound contamination is an environmental problem for people because of the health disorders it could cause. Dangers by noise are nowadays identified as a big problem to solve for the environmental health because they are the forms of energy potentially noxious in the environment that could result in an immediate or gradual risk of causing damage when they are transferred to the exposed individuals in enough quantity. The physical energy release could be unexpected and non-controlled as in the case of a strong explosive noise, or sustained and more or less under control as in working conditions with the long-term exposition to lower levels of constant noise. In force of the Party and Revolution social and economic politics up-dating for the period 2016-2021, the authors have been motivated to deal with this problem, stating that noise is one of the most common examples of physical danger causing effects on human health (AU).

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii contamination in an intensive care unit

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Acinetobacter baumannii is a major pathogen causing infections in intensive care units (ICUs). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the presence of A. baumannii in an ICU environment and gloves from ICU workers and to characterize the antimicrobial resistance of the isolates in comparison with those isolated from ICU patients at the same hospital. METHODS: ICU samples were collected from March to November 2010. Isolates biochemically characterized as Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-Acinetobacter baumannii complex were evaluated by PCR targeting the 16S rDNA and bla OXA-51 genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined using the disk diffusion method, and carbapenem-resistant isolates were also evaluated for the minimum inhibitory concentration of imipenem using broth microdilution. The presence of the bla OXA-23 gene was evaluated in isolates with reduced susceptibility to carbapenems. RESULTS: A. baumannii was detected in 9.5% (84) of the 886 samples collected from the ICU environment, including from furniture, medical devices, and gloves, with bed rails being the most contaminated location (23.8%; 20/84). Multidrug-resistant (MDR) A. baumannii was found in 98.8% (83/84) of non-clinical and 97.8% (45/46) of clinical isolates. Reduced susceptibility to carbapenems was detected in 83.3% (70/84) of non-clinical and 80.4% (37/46) of clinical isolates. All isolates resistant to carbapenems harbored bla OXA-23. CONCLUSIONS: We found a strong similarity between the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of non-clinical and clinical A. baumannii isolates. Such data highlight the ICU environment as a potential origin for the persistence of MDR A. baumannii, and hence the ICU may be a source of hospital-acquired infections caused by this microorganism.

Respiratory Disorders Among Workers in Slaughterhouses

BACKGROUND: Workers in slaughterhouses are exposed to a wide range of biological contaminants, such as bacteria and fungi, due to their working environment. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of respiratory disorders among workers in slaughterhouses. METHODS: This study was conducted on 81 workers in slaughterhouses and 81 healthy office workers as a reference group. The American Thoracic Society standard respiratory symptoms questionnaire was used to determine the prevalence of respiratory disorders. Besides, lung function tests were conducted using a calibrated spirometer at the beginning (preshift) and at the end (postshift) of the 1st working day. Single-stage Anderson sampler was used to measure the concentration of bioaerosols in different parts of slaughterhouses. RESULTS: The prevalence of respiratory disorders, such as cough, productive cough, breathlessness, phlegm, and wheezing, was 3.17, 4.02, 3.07, 4.66, and 3.94 times, respectively, higher among workers in slaughterhouses compared with the reference group. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of respiratory disorders was significantly higher among workers in slaughterhouses. Thus, the significant reduction in the percentage predicted lung function among workers in slaughterhouses might be associated with exposure to bioaerosols in their work environment.