Executive summary workshop: toward the elimination of the use of solid fuels and kerosene in urban homes in the americas

Household air pollution is one of the principal causes of disease and premature death in low and middle-income countries (LMIC) and is an avoidable health risk. In the Americas, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that approximately 82,000 deaths in these countries were attributale to cooking, heating, and lighting with polluting fuels and technologies in 2016. Accelerating the transition to clean energy for all is an urgent and necessary public health intervention in the region of the Americas, to reduce the health risks that primarily affect socially and economically vulnerable populations, to achieve a continent healthier, more equitable and with sustainable development, contributing to the worldwide efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. To achieve this result, the health sector should be involved in the design of policy interventions to reduce exposure to indoor air pollution and its effects on health, as well associal inequities. In line with the WHO Indoor Air Quality Guidelines launched in November 2014, the PAHO Strategic Plan 2014-2019 has set itself the objective of helping Member States to reduce the percentage of population by 5% that depends on solid fuels for cooking in countries with a percentage of users equal to or greater than 10% of the population (priority countries). To measure progress, one indicator is the number of countries that are implementing large-scale programs to reduce solid fuel use (SFU) in the home, and a outcome indicator measures progress in the use of energy and clean technology for cooking at home. Evaluating the progress of the countries in the indicator of the Strategic Plan, some of its member states have successfully reduced solid fuel use (SFU) in the households by 5% and have implemented large-scale programs to transition to clean fuels. Nevertheless, in other countries in the region, progress has been almost non-existent. Following the first workshop carried out in Tegucigalpa (Honduras) in 2015, where new indoor air pollution guidelines were launched by the WHO, the workshop "Toward the elimination of solid fuels and kerosene in urban homes in the Americas" was organized and carried out in Mexico City (Mexico) from September 11 to 13, 2018.

Accidental Childhood Poisoning in Enugu; South-East; Nigeria

Background: Accidental childhood poisoning is one of the recognized causes of morbidity and mortality in children under the age of 5 years worldwide. The prevalence and type of substance ingested vary from place to place and over time.Aim: This study was conducted with the aim of ascertaining the frequency and pattern of accidental childhood poisoning in Enugu.Subjects and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at the Emergency Paediatric Unit of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, South­East, Nigeria from January 2003 to December 2012 (10 years). All the cases of childhood accidental poisoning that presented within the period were reviewed and important information extracted.Results: Sixty­five cases of childhood poisoning were recorded during the 10­year period, giving an incidence rate of 442 per 100,000 children. The mean age was 22.15 ± 11.7 months. Male:female ratio was 1.5:1. The prevalence was higher among those with low socioeconomic background. Kerosene poisoning was the most common agent. The overall mortality rate was 3.1% (2/65).Conclusion: Accidental childhood poisoning is common in Enugu, with appreciable mortality, with kerosene being the most common agent. We advocate regulatory policy on proper ways of storing kerosene and other harmful household chemicals and medications

Biodegradation of kerosene: Study of growth optimization and metabolic fate of P. janthinellum SDX7

Penicillum janthinellum SDX7 was isolated from aged petroleum hydrocarbon-affected soil at the site of Anand, Gujarat, India, and was tested for different pH, temperature, agitation and concentrations for optimal growth of the isolate that was capable of degrading upto 95%, 63% and 58% of 1%, 3% and 5% kerosene, respectively, after a period of 16 days, at optimal growth conditions of pH 6.0, 30 °C and 180 rpm agitation. The GC/MS chromatograms revealed that then-alkane fractions are easily degraded; however, the rate might be lower for branched alkanes, n-alkylaromatics, cyclic alkanes and polynuclear aromatics. The test doses caused a concentration-dependent depletion of carbohydrates of P. janthinellum SDX7 by 3% to 80%, proteins by 4% to 81% and amino acids by 8% to 95% upto 16 days of treatment. The optimal concentration of 3% kerosene resulted in the least reduction of the metabolites of P. janthinellum such as carbohydrates, proteins and amino acids with optimal growth compared to 5% and 1% (v/v) kerosene doses on the 12th and 16th day of exposure. Phenols were found to be mounted by 43% to 66% at lower and higher concentrations during the experimental period. Fungal isolate P. janthinellum SDX7 was also tested for growth on various xenobiotic compounds.

Effects on blood cell numbers and cytokines of dermal application rocket kerosene in mice / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To detect the number of cells and the level of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-γ and IL-17 cytokines in the peripheral blood of mice exposed to rocket kerosene by skin.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>ICR mice were randomly divided into the normal control group and RK experimental group (400 µl×1 group). RK undiluted fuel were applied directly to the dorsal skin of the mice. In control groups were treated with sesame oil (SO). the number of blood cells were detected by automatic blood cell counter and the level of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-γ and IL-17 cytokines in serum were detected by using flow cytometry and BD CBA Flex set kit.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>Compared with the normal group, WBC and LYM had a decreasing tendency 2 h and decreased significantly 6 h, 12 h and 1 d after RK exposure (P<0.05). They increased significantly 7 d after RK exposure (P<0.05). Compared with the normal group, the level of IL-6 increased significantly 2 h, 6 h, 12 h,1 d and 3 d (P<0.05). The level of TNF-α increased significantly 2h, 3d, 5d and 7d (P<0.05). The level of IL-10 increased significantly 2 h, 6 h, 3 d, 5 d and 7 d (P<0.05). The level of IFN-γ increased significantly 6 h and 3 d (P< 0.05). The level of IL-17 significantly increased 3 d, 5 d and 7d (P<0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>RK can change the number of immune cells, causing the immune cytokine changes in mice after RK cutaneous exposure.</p>

Complicaciones severas por el uso parenteral del Kerosene en intento de autólisis: a propósito de tres casos / Severe complications due to the parenteral use ofKerosene in autolysis intends: a propose of three cases

El suicidio o intento suicida es un proceder muy antiguo, realizado por el ser humano en contra de sí mismo. Se presentó un estudio descriptivo de tres pacientes, que en intento suicida se auto inocularon kerosene, combustible doméstico, lo que desencadenó severa necrosis tisular y lesión pulmonar aguda en uno de ellos. La falta de previsión desde su inicio en el personal facultativo sobre la envergadura de las complicaciones que posteriormente aparecieron, se puso de manifiesto en el estudio. Se realizaron sugerencias para futuros afectados por esta causa.

Suicide or suicidal intend is a very old procedure, carried out by the human being against himself. We presented the descriptive study of three patients who inoculated themselves kerosene, a domestic combustible, in a suicidal intend, unleashing severe tissue necrosis and acute pulmonary lesion in one of them. In the study it was clear the lack of prevision on the reach of the complications that lately appeared, from the part of the medical staff. We made suggestions for the persons injured for this cause in the future.

Discapacidad infantil por accidente doméstico / Children disability due to domestic accident

Se presenta el caso clínico de un paciente de 11 años de edad, que a los 7 sufrió graves quemaduras dermohipodérmicas con keroseno como consecuencia de un accidente doméstico, las que le causaron secuelas fisicomotoras invalidantes, desfiguración del rostro, dificultad para la alimentación y trastornos psicológicos. Todavía en el 2009, el niño recibía tratamiento integral en el Servicio de Rehabilitación Comunitaria del municipio de Mella en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba.

The case history of an 11 year-old patient who suffered from serious dermal and hypoepidermic burns with kerosene as a consequence of a domestic accident, which caused him physical and motor disabling sequels, disfigurement of the face, difficulty for feeding and psychological disorders is presented. Even in 2009, the boy received comprehensive treatment in the Community Rehabilitation Service of Mella municipality in Santiago de Cuba province.

Accidental poisoning in children: frequency and outcome of the cases at a military hospital

To determine the frequency of accidental poisoning by various agents and their associated outcome in children. Descriptive Study. The study was carried out in emergency department at PNS Shifa hospital Karachi, from January 2007 to December 2008. A total of 200 patients reported with accidental poisoning during the study period. Detailed history and examination regarding the nature of poisoning was taken. Relevant investigations for purpose of diagnosis were carried out. Mortality and morbidity was noted on predesigned proforma. Total 200 patients were admitted with accidental poisoning during the study period. 155[77.5%] of patients belonged to less than 5 year age group. Most frequently ingested poison was kerosene oil [51%], followed by insecticides [17.5%], Oral route was involved in majority of cases 194[97%]. Complications were observed in 6% of cases, Pneumonia was the most frequently occurring complication in 8 [4%] cases of kerosene oil ingestion, followed by seizures in 2 [1%] cases of insecticide ingestion. No mortality was reported in this study. Acute childhood poisoning is a significant public health problem affecting mainly toddlers. Main substances responsible for acute poisoning are Kerosene oil, insecticides, bleach and drugs

Epidemiology of acute poisoning in children due to household substances. Mortality and morbidity in Hazara division

Acute Poisoning in children due to house hold substances is a global problem, however mortality and morbidity is nowadays very less in developed countries due to precautionary measures and better treatment facilities while situation in developing countries like Pakistan is alarming one. The present study was conducted to know about the death and injuries due to household poisoning in children in Hazara Division. The purpose of study was also too seek measures to reduce the risk factor. This prospective study was carried out in the Paedriatic unit of Ayub Hospital Complex and Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad from July to 2008 to September 2009. A total number of 6 leases of acute poisoning of children were brought to emergency department of Ayub Hospital Complex. 45 cases were admitted in Paedriatic unit while 16 were treated in emergency department were sent back to home. There were 37 male children [60.65%] and 24 [39.34%] female. The maximum number of cases were between age group 1-5 years 43 [70.49%]. 99% percent cases in our this study were of accidental nature only one case was homicidal nature while suicidal was none. Insecticide / rodenticide were the commonist agent ingested, followed by pharmacutical products. Kerosene oil was the third commonist agent ingested in our studies. Mortality rate was 3.27%. Organo-phosphorus compound [insecticide], rodentcide and kerosene oil [petroleum products] and pharmaceutical products are common source of household accidental poison globally. In developed countries there frequencies is decreasing rapidly due to health education and precautionary measures adopted mandatorily by manufacturers but in developing countries like Pakistan the situation is same as 50 years back. The risk factor can be reduced by adopting preventive measures at national level through health education of masses and parents and making products safety measures mandatory for manufacturers, moreover parents must be educated about the harms of some Herbal agents containing Opiates and on safe storage of medicines and house hold poisonous agents

Mixture of kerosene and xylene: a contribution to clearing agents / Mezcla de kerosene y xileno: una contribución a agentes de aclaramiento

The aim of this study was to substitute costly and hazardous compound- xylene, used as clearing agent, with less costly compounds (mixture of xylene and kerosene) having less toxicity and without compromising the cellular integrity and staining characteristics of the sections. Tissues (liver and kidney) obtained from a presumable healthy adult Wistar rat, were fixed in 10 percent formol saline, separated in to five groups (A, B, C, D and E) and processed for light microscopic study adopting H & E staining procedure. During the clearing section, groups A, B, C, D and E were respectively cleared in solvent 1 (xylene only), solvent 2 (70ml xylene : 30ml kerosene), solvent 3 (50ml xylene : 50ml kerosene), solvent 4 (30ml xylene : 70ml kerosene) and solvent 5 (kerosene only). Our result revealed that tissues in groups A, B and C were properly cleared without any morphological impairment. The staining characteristics were also observed to be very bright. Groups D and E however presented poor staining intensity with reduced cellular details. Semi-stained transparent patches were also noticed. It is inferred from the present investigation that a mixture of xylene and kerosene could be employed in the clearing of tissues only at the prescribed ratio i.e. solvent 2 and solvent 3 without posing any health risk or compromising the cellular integrity.

El objetivo de este estudio fue el de sustituir el costoso y peligroso compuesto xileno, utilizado como agente de aclaramiento, por un compuesto menos costoso (mezcla de kerosene y xileno), con menor toxicidad y sin comprometer la integridad celular ni las características de tinción de las secciones. Los tejidos (hígado y riñon) fueron obtenidos a partir de una rata Wistar adulta presumiblemente sana, los que fueron fijados en solución de formalina salina al 10 por ciento, y separadas en cinco grupos (A, B, C, D y E) y tratadas para estudio con microscópico de luz, con tinción H & E. Durante el aclaramiento de las secciones histológicas, los grupos A, B, C, D y E, fueron, respectivamente, aclarados con el disolvente 1 (sólo xileno), solvente 2 (70ml de xileno: 30ml Kerosene), solvente 3 (50ml de xileno: 50ml Kerosene), solvente 4 (30ml xileno: 70ml kerosene) y solvente 5 (sólo el kerosene). Los resultados revelaron que los tejidos de los grupos A, B y C fueron aclarados correctamente sin alteraciones morfológicas. En la tinción también se observó como característica, ser muy brillante. Los grupos D y E, sin embargo presentaron una tinción de pobre intensidad con la reducción de los detalles celulares. Zonas con manchas semitransparentes también fueron observadas. Se infiere que una mezcla de xileno y kerosene podría ser empleado en el aclaramiento de los tejidos, sólo prescrito en la proporción del solvente 2 y 3, sin suponer ningún riesgo para la salud o comprometer la integridad celular.

Pattern and frequency of acute poisoning in children

To determine different agents involved in acute poisoning in children, determine time interval between ingestion of agent and report at the hospital and document its hospital outcome. This was descriptive case series study conducted at the Department of Paediatrics [Emergency and General Wards], Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar from Jan 2007 to July 2007. A total of hundred patients with history of acute poisoning were subjected to detailed history and examination regarding different aetiological agents, time interval between ingestion of agent and report at hospital and hospital outcome. Majority of patients were below six years of age, 69% were male while 31% were female. Pharmaceutical agents and kerosene oil poisoning were the leading cause constituting 29% each followed by opiate and organophosphorus constituting 17% and 15% respectively. Fifty three percent of cases belonged to urban while forty seven percent belonged to rural area. Forty percent of cases were brought to the hospital within first hour; followed by 38% and 22% in 1-6 and more than 6 hours respectively. Ninety four percent of patients were discharged with almost complete recovery while six percent expired during hospital stay. Acute poisoning is an important paediatric medical emergency and has got an important effect on morbidity and mortality in this age group. Toddlers are the most prone group in children to acute poisoning. Kerosene oil, drugs, organophosphorus and opiate are the common aetiological agents of poisoning in children. Hospital outcome is poor in patients with corrosives poisoning

Preventing paraffin-related injury

Paraffin [called kerosene in North America and other parts of the world] is the most commonly used fuel in non-electrified dwellings worldwide. It is especially popular in Africa and South Asia. Although paraffin offers many advantages-especially its comparatively low cost to produce- it poses tow major risk of injury. First, paraffin poisoning is common, either through ingestion or through inhalation of smoke and fumes. Second, paraffin is highly flammable, and poses fire risk through multiple causes. This commentary discusses strategies to prevent paraffin-related injury. Prevention of paraffin-related injury must be through multiple strategies, and should include policy-oriented change, changes to the safety of home environments, and behavioral changes targeting how individuals store and use paraffin and paraffin appliances. We review successful prevention strategies in each of these domains and discuss appropriate research and community initiatives that should be implemented to improve paraffin safety among at-risk populations

Two Cases of Chemical Pneumonitis Induced by Hydrocarbon Aspiration / 결핵및호흡기질환

Chemical pneumonitis induced by hydrocarbon aspiration is rare in Korea. Kerosene is a petroleum distillate with low viscosity and high volatility. We report two adult cases of chemical pneumonitis caused by the accidental aspiration of kerosene. They were treated successfully with antibiotics and systemic corticosteroids, and recovered without complications.

A Seven - Year Review of Accidental Kerosene Poisoning in Children at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital

Background: Accidental ingestion of kerosene is a potential source of morbidity and mortality in children. The objectives of the study are to determine to magnitude of the problem and proffer feasible solutions to reduce the frequency of occurrence. Methodology: The medical records of all cases of kerosene poisoning admitted into Paediatric Medical Ward and Emergency Paediatric Unit were identified and relevant data extracted and analysed. Results: Kerosene poisoning constituted 55 (1.2) of cases of all paediatric admissions within the period (Jan 1999 Dec 2005). The study showed that children 4 months to 8 years were affected with peak age of 18 months. Thirty-four (61.8) of the cases were aged below 2 years which conforms to findings in earlier studies in Nigeria. Main clinical feature was cough with difficulty in breathing in 52 (94.5) of cases. Others features noted were central nervous system involvement (14.5); vomiting (20); and fever 16 (29.1). There were 3 deaths giving the mortality of 5.5. Conclusion: The study has revealed that kerosene poisoning is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Government policies that will enhance the standard of living of people and education of parents/care givers are the identified imperatives for reduction of the problem

Effect of organic solvent on production of organic acids from municipal sludge / 生物工程学报

Organic acids are important chemicals. Municipal sludge can be reused by anaerobic fermentation, from which organic acids could be obtained with liquid-liquid extraction and useful substances be produced. Based on the determination of optimum organic solvent and extractant, it effect on production of volatile fatty acid (VFA) from municipal sludge was investigated in this research. The results showed that the proper organic solvent and extractant were sulfonated kerosene and trialkyl phosphine oxide. And, the VFA production was improved by a slight amount of sulfonated kerosene.

Effect of "Flit"[TM] on the productive profiles and the histopathological changes of internal organs of adult albino rats

This formulated product as composed of the necessary amounts of pyrethroids and the required amount of the Kerosine caused severe, unacceptable pathological developmental changes. Body weight of newborns showed progressive affection of the newly born, of which Kerosine has marked influence. Mother behaviour was studied from quality of nest, post parturient aggressive interest of mother towards their youngsters were found to be significantly affected. Male sexual activity was revealed from weight of testis or accessory organs and semen quality. Kerosine alone induced significant differences. Estrous cycle was affected and regressive activity prolonged whatever the animal is exposed. Number of dead and resorbed foeti was significantly different in Kerosine and the whole compound. Teratogenic affection of the born foeti were clear even with Kerosine alone and absence of accessory elements [thymus gland]. Thus, this formulation is described as being severely hazardous and care should be taken even with the manipulation of Kerosine alone

Acute poisoning in children: etiological agents, risk factors and outcomes

A total of 70 patients were thus included. The patients were followed till discharge. A Proforma was filled and results were analyzed on SPSS version 10 of computer programme. All consecutive patients of poisoning who visited the Emergency Ward during the study period fulfilling inclusion criteria were enrolled. The mean age was 2.89 years with range of 6 months to 10 years. Male to female ratio was 1.5:1. Kerosene was the commonest agent accounting for 50% of all cases, followed by pharmaceutical products [14.3%] and chemicals [12.9%]. Storage of Kerosene in empty bottles of beverages and lack of proper storage of drugs were the commonest risk factors identified. Oral ingestion was the most common route of intoxication. Most of the patients [84.3%] were discharged without any sequelae. Overall mortality was 5.7%. Conclusion most of toxic substances to which children were exposed were those stored in eatable containers i.e. kerosene oil. Minority of children with accidental poisoning developed serious toxicity. Parents can prevent many of these accidents by identifying, adequately storing and locking away toxic material

Biodesulfurización de queroseno con células inmovilizadas de Pseudomonas sp. No. 6 (aislado nativo) en un novedoso biorreactor de lecho de tubos con recirculación / Kerosene biodesulfurization by immobilized cells Pseudomonas sp. No. 6 (native isolated) at a new bioreactor of pipe bed with recirculation

En este trabajo se realizó la biodesulfurización de keroseno con células inmovilizadas de Pseudomonas spp. ATCC 39327, en un sistema emulsionado, W/O 30/70 (v/v), con Medio Mínimo de Sales (MMS) como fase dispersa. El sistema de inmovilización consta de dos paneles de 60 tubos cada uno. Los tubos de alta alúmina, tienen 140 mm de largo, 6.6 mm diámetro externo y 3.2 mm de diámetro interno, con una porosidad del 43 porciento y capacidad de retención de 9,5*109 células/g de soporte, colocados dentro de una columna de vidrio enchaquetada, de 80 por 400 mm de zona de reacción, conectada a un tanque de recirculación, y el fluido se mueve con aire a razón de 8.8 pies3/h. Después de 120 horas de proceso a 30 ºC y presión atmosférica se obtuvo una remoción del contenido de azufre de 43 porciento y una pérdida calórica menor del 2 porciento

Studies on exhaust emissions of catalytic coated spark ignition engine with adulterated gasoline.

Adulteration of automotive fuels, especially, gasoline with cheaper fuels is widespread throughout south Asia. Some adulterants decrease the performance and life of the engine and increase the emission of harmful pollutants causing environmental and health problems. The present investigation is carried out to study the exhaust emissions from a single cylinder spark ignition (SI) engine with kerosene blended gasoline with different versions of the engine, such as conventional engine and catalytic coated engine with different proportions of the kerosene ranging from 0% to 40% by volume in steps of 10% in the kerosene-gasoline blend. The catalytic coated engine used in the study has copper coating of thickness 400 microns on piston and inner surface of the cylinder head. The pollutants in the exhaust, carbon monoxide (CO) and unburnt hydrocarbons (UBHC) are measured with Netel Chromatograph CO and HC analyzer at peak load operation of the engine. The engine is provided with catalytic converter with sponge iron as a catalyst to control the pollutants from the exhaust of the engine. An air injection is also provided to the catalytic converter to further reduce the pollutants. The pollutants found to increase drastically with adulterated gasoline. Copper-coated engine with catalytic converter significantly reduced pollutants, when compared to conventional engine.