Comportamiento de la población chilena en las buenas prácticas de higiene

Las enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos causan una alta carga de morbilidad, con una mayor ocurrencia en ambientes domiciliarios. El objetivo del estudio es asociar hábitos relacionados con buenas prácticas de higiene con variables sociodemográficas en una muestra representativa de la población chilena. Estudio de análisis secundario, realizado a partir de la Encuesta nacional de Salud (ENS) 2016-2017, donde se analizaron las preguntas de buenas prácticas de higiene. La muestra contempla 6.233 participantes, de los cuales el 62,8% corresponde a sexo femenino. Se identificó que las mujeres tienen mejores hábitos de higiene en la manipulación de alimentos respecto a los hombres. Por otro lado, los adultos entre 45-64 años y mayores a 65 años, presentan mejores hábitos relacionados con inocuidad alimentaria, en relación con otros grupos etarios. En conclusión, las variables sociodemográficas como sexo, edad, nivel educativo son determinantes en las buenas prácticas de higiene. Se debe educar a la población en la manipulación de alimentos, para garantizar la inocuidad alimentaria.

Foodborne diseases cause a high burden of morbidity, with a greater occurrence in home environments. The objective of the study is to associate habits related to good hygiene practices with sociodemographic variables in a representative sample of the Chilean population. Secondary analysis study, conducted from the National Health Survey (NHS) 2016-2017, where the questions of good hygiene practices were analyzed. The sample contemplates 6,233 participants, of which 62.8% corresponds to female sex. It was identified that women have better hygiene habits in food handling compared to men. On the other hand, adults aged 45-64 years and over 65 years had better habits related to food safety than other age groups. In conclusion, sociodemographic variables such as sex, age and educational level are determining factors in good hygiene practices. The population should be educated in food handling to ensure food safety.

Limitations of allometry, morphometry, and fluctuating asymmetry in detecting environmental stress caused by lead soil contamination in aphids under field conditions

ABSTRACT One of the tools used to investigate the influence of environmental contaminants and other stresses on the development of organisms is the analysis of morphometric traits used to detect changes in growth and size patterns. To evaluate the effects of the heavy metal lead (Pb) present in experimentally contaminated soil on the morphometric traits of the aphid Brevicoryne brassicae (L.) reared on cultivated Brassica oleracea L. (var. acephala), we analyzed three different metrics: morphometry, allometry, and fluctuating asymmetry (FA). Additionally, we aimed to assess the effectiveness of these analyses in detecting environmental stress. We cultivated kale plants in soil contaminated with the maximum allowable limit of Pb for local soils in Brazil, and the colonization of plants by aphids occurred naturally under field conditions. After collection, we photographed and measured the antennae, tibiae, and total body length of aphids from the control and contaminated treatments. We observed no significant differences in the allometry and morphometric analysis, and the presence of the contaminant did not result in any observed FA. The study demonstrated that the morphometric trait analyses employed were not effective in detecting environmental stress resulting from field exposure of aphids to Pb in soil, since these insects suffered a reduction in their population density in the presence of Pb, as indicated in our previous findings. This result diverges from those found in studies conducted under laboratory conditions. We discussed mechanisms of metal accumulation, detoxification in aphids, and population aspects in natural conditions.

Pesticide contamination of lactating mothers' milk in Latin America: a systematic review

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To identify the prevalence of contamination by pesticides and their metabolites in the milk of lactating mothers in Latin America. METHODS In this systematic review, the PubMed, LILACS, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched up to January 2022 to identify observational studies. The Mendeley software was used to manage these references. The risk of bias assessment was evaluated according to the checklist for prevalence studies and writing design, by the Prisma guidelines. RESULTS This study retrieved 1835 references and analyzed 49 studies. 69.38% of the analyzed studies found a 100% prevalence of breast milk contamination by pesticides among their sample. Main pesticides include dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its isomers (75.51%), followed by the metabolite dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) (69.38%) and hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) (46.93%). This study categorized most (65.30%) studies as having a low risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS This review shows a high prevalence of pesticide contamination in the breast milk of Latin American women. Further investigations should be carried out to assess contamination levels in breast milk and the possible effects of these substances on maternal and child health.

Contamination of equipment and surfaces in the operating room anesthesia workspace: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Contamination of the breathing circuit and medication preparation surface of an anesthesia machine can increase the risk of cross-infection. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contamination of the anesthetic medication preparation surface, respiratory circuits, and devices used in general anesthesia with assisted mechanical ventilation. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted at the surgical center of a philanthropic hospital, of medium complexity located in the municipality of Três Lagoas, in the eastern region of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. METHODS: Eighty-two microbiological samples were collected from the breathing circuits. After repeating the samples in different culture media, 328 analyses were performed. RESULTS: A higher occurrence of E. coli, Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae (P < 0.001) were observed. Variations were observed depending on the culture medium and sample collection site. CONCLUSION: The study findings underscore the inadequate disinfection of the inspiratory and expiratory branches, highlighting the importance of stringent cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces.

Microbial contamination status of swimming places for infants and young children in Shijia-zhuang City and comparison with other public places, 2021–2022 / 环境与职业医学

Background At present, China's Public places health management regulations list 7 categories and 28 sub-categories of public places, but infant and young child swimming places are not in the list yet. Objective To understand the microbial pollution status in commercial infant and young child swimming places in Shijiazhuang City, compare with the microbial pollution in other five types of public places, and find the potential safety hazards in infant and young child swimming places. Methods A total of 3438 microbial samples were collected from the environment of infant and young child swimming places and 5 types of public places (hotels, barber stores, waiting rooms, shopping malls and supermarkets, and conventional swimming places) in Shijiazhuang City from 2021 to 2022. Sampling and monitoring were carried out according to the requirements of Examination methods for public places—Part 6: Technical specifications of health monitoring (GB/T 18204.6-2013). Chi-square test was used to compare hygiene qualification by microbial indicators, and Kruskal-Wallis H test was used to compare overall distributions of total bacterial counts on the surface of public articles. Results From 2021 to 2022, the highest qualified rate of microbial indicators on the surface of public articles was Staphylococcus aureus (100%) for all tested public places in Shijiazhuang City, followed by coliforms (99.44%), and that of total bacterial count was relative low (92.83%). The qualified rate of total bacterial count on the surface of public articles in the swimming places for infants and young children was 87.76%, and the qualified rates in hotels, barber stores, waiting rooms, shopping malls and supermarkets were all above 92%, and the difference among the 5 types of places was statistically significant (P<0.001). The highest value of total bacterial count on the surface of public articles in the swimming places for infants and young children was 80000 CFU·(25 cm2)−1 [100 CFU·(25 cm2)−1=4 CFU·cm−2]; that in 4 types of public places such as hotels (except mouthwash cups), barber stores, waiting rooms, and shopping malls or supermarkets was 2500 CFU·(25 cm2)−1. The difference of total bacteria count on the surface of public articles was statistically significant in comparing infant and young child swimming places with hotels (except mouthwash cups) or barber stores (H=5.432, H=2.997, both Ps<0.05); but the difference was not significant in comparing with waiting rooms and shopping malls or supermarkets (P>0.05). The qualified rates of total bacteria count and coliforms in pool water of infant and young child swimming places were 45.99% and 74.69% respectively, and the two indicators in pool water of conventional swimming places were 94.57% and 98.91% respectively; both showed significant differences between the two types of public places (χ2=162.532, χ2=71.910, both Ps<0.001). Conclusion Compared to conventional swimming places, hotels, barber stores, waiting rooms, and shopping malls or supermarkets, the infant and young child swimming places are not optimistic in hygiene condition; therefore, there is an urgent need to formulate national health standards for infants and young child swimming places, and include them in standard management to further improve their hygiene condition.

Efecto de la actividad truchícola sobre la concentración de coliformes totales y Escherichia coli en aguas de la cuenca alta del río Savegre, Costa Rica

Introducción: La acuacultura de truchas ha incrementado gradualmente en las tierras altas de Costa Rica. Las aguas residuales de esta actividad son descartadas directamente en los ríos, sin tratamientos previos. Como consecuencia, la actividad truchícola puede contaminar severamente el agua de los ríos con bacterias que pueden afectar la salud humana. Objetivo: Evaluar la contaminación bacteriana por la acuacultura de truchas en el río Savegre, Costa Rica. Métodos: Contamos los coliformes totales y Escherichia coli de muestras mensuales (2015-2018) en tres secciones del proyecto de acuacultura más grande de la cuenca alta del río. Recolectamos las muestras en la entrada de los estanques para las truchas, a la salida, y 200 m hacia abajo. Resultados: Encontramos menos coliformes totales y E. coli en el agua recolectada justo en la salida del agua de los estanques. El número de coliformes totales fue mayor en el 2016 y 2017, y de E. coli en el 2016. Conclusiones: Conteos de coliformes y de E. coli es muy alto en el río, pero inesperadamente, su número disminuye en el agua residual descartada de los estanques. Podría ser que el mucus producido por las truchas o sustancias liberadas del musgo que cubre la pared de los estanques reduzca el crecimiento de bacterias, como se ha sido sugerido en otros estudios. La contaminación del río parece venir de otras fuentes.

Introduction: The trout aquacultural activity has gradually increased in Costa Rican highlands. Residual waters from this activity are discarded directly in the rivers without any previous treatment process. Consequently, this activity could severely contaminate the river with bacteria that can affect human health. Objective: To evaluate bacterial contamination from trout aquaculture on Río Savegre, Costa Rica. Methods: We counted total coliforms and Escherichia coli from monthly samples (2015-2018) at three sections of the largest aquacultural development in the upper drainage of the river. We collected samples at the fish ponds entrance, exit and 200 m downwards. Results: We found fewer total coliforms and E. coli in the water collected just at the exit of the fish ponds. We counted more total coliforms in 2016 and 2017, and more E. coli in 2016. Conclusions: Coliform and E. coli counts are high in the river, but, unexpectedly, low in the water discarded from the fish tanks. Perhaps the mucus produced by the trouts or substances released by mosses on the fish tank walls reduce bacterial growth, as suggested by other studies. River pollution appears to come from other sources.

Validación de la metodología para cuantificar el fluconazol y sus impurezas orgánicas en materia prima por cromatografía líquida de alta resolución / Method validation for the quantification of fluconazole and its organic impurities in raw material using high-performance liquid chromatography

Introducción. La eficiencia de una metodología para analizar una sustancia farmacológica puede verse afectada por las condiciones reales del laboratorio de cada país, incluyendo el clima. Por esta razón, se requiere validar el método con las pautas recomendadas para ello y optimizar el proceso, para asegurar el éxito y la confianza en los resultados. Objetivo. Validar una metodología para la cuantificación simultánea del fluconazol (materia prima) y sus impurezas orgánicas mediante cromatografía líquida de alta resolución con detector de arreglo de diodos en condiciones de clima tropical y con todos los requisitos normativos. Materiales y métodos. Se hicieron pruebas previas a la validación del método: idoneidad del sistema, estudio de filtros, límite de cuantificación, ausencia del error sistemático, estudios de degradación forzada y estabilidad de las soluciones. Además, se validaron: la especificidad, la linealidad, la exactitud, la precisión y la robustez. Resultados. La pureza espectral del método se logró al obtener la separación de los productos de degradación de los picos de los analitos. La estabilidad de las soluciones no se vio afectada, en la frecuencia evaluada de 24 horas, a temperatura ambiente y de refrigeración. Se obtuvo una linealidad con coeficientes de correlación mayores o iguales a 0,999 para la valoración y mayores o iguales a 0,997 para las impurezas. La recuperación estuvo en el rango de 98 a 102,0 % de fluconazol, con una exactitud entre el 80 y el 120 % para las impurezas. El factor de repetibilidad y reproducibilidad no superó la desviación estándar relativa del 2,0 % para la valoración y, la del 5,0 %, para las impurezas, lo cual mostró una solidez adecuada del método. Además, se obtuvo un tiempo corto de ejecución del análisis, lo que permitió la rápida determinación de la calidad de la materia prima. Conclusión. Se demostró que el método de cuantificación de fluconazol, validado por cromatografía líquida de alta resolución con detector de arreglo de diodos, es lo suficientemente selectivo, preciso, exacto, lineal y robusto; además, es capaz de generar resultados analíticos veraces en condiciones de uso reales, incluyendo el clima tropical de Colombia.

Introduction. The real laboratory conditions of each country, including climate, can affect the method's efficiency in analyzing a pharmacological substance. Thus, it is necessary to validate the process according to the corresponding guidelines and optimize it to ensure success and confidence in the results. Objective. The objective was to validate a methodology for fluconazole and its organic impurities quantification in raw material using high-performance liquid chromatography, with a diode array detector, under tropical climate conditions, and complying with all regulatory requirements. Materials and methods. We performed pre-validation tests of the method consisting of system adequacy, filters study, quantification limit, absence of systematic error, forced degradation studies, and solutions stability. In addition, we validated the specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision, and robustness of the system. Results. Separation of the degradation products from the analyte peaks allowed the achievement of the method's spectral purity. The solution's stability was not affected during the evaluated time (24 hours) at room temperature and under refrigeration. Linearity resulted in correlation coefficients greater than or equal to 0.999 for the evaluation and greater than or equal to 0.997 for impurities. We obtained a fluconazole recovery varying from 98 to 102% with an accuracy between 80 to 120% for impurities detection. The repeatability and reproducibility factor did not exceed a relative standard deviation of 2.0% for the evaluation and of 5.0% for the impurities, demonstrating the adequate robustness of the method. In addition, a short analysis execution time allowed the quick determination of the raw material quality. Conclusion. We demonstrated that the fluconazole quantification method validated by high-performance liquid chromatography is sufficiently selective, precise, exact, linear, and robust to generate accurate analytical results under real conditions, including the tropical climate of Colombia.

Control microbiológico de alimentos en la vía pública en Cuenca, Ecuador

El comercio ambulante de alimentos listos para el consumo ha crecido exponencialmente a nivel mundial. Sin embargo, la falta de condiciones óptimas de preparación y expendio de estos alimentos pueden afectar su inocuidad. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la calidad microbiológica de 19 tipos de alimentos (n= 417), con y sin tratamiento térmico, expendidos en espacios públicos en Cuenca, Ecuador. Según el grupo de alimentos, se analizaron aerobios mesófilos, coliformes/Escherichia coli, mohos y levaduras, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Listeria spp., Clostridium perfringes y Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Para la identificación y recuento de los microorganismos se aplicaron normativas nacionales y, en casos de ausencia, se adoptaron normas de otros países. Como resultado, el 55,4% de las muestras se consideraron no aptas para el consumo. S. aureus fue el microorganismo patógeno presuntivo de mayor prevalencia (81,7%). El incumplimiento de las normativas fue significativamente mayor entre los alimentos sin tratamiento térmico (54,1%) en comparación con aquellos térmicamente tratados (24%) y los que combinan ingredientes con y sin tratamiento (21,9%) (p<0,001). Se destaca el alto porcentaje de incumplimiento de alimentos sin tratamiento térmico que son manipulados en su preparación, como los jugos. Además, se observó que el tratamiento térmico no garantizó la inocuidad, sugiriendo una posible recontaminación del alimento luego de su preparación hasta su expendio y consumo, por medios ambientales y/o adición de otros ingredientes contaminados. Este estudio recalca la necesidad de acciones concretas con este sector, basados principalmente en capacitación, infraestructura e inclusión, para garantizar la salud de los consumidores.

Street-vending trade in ready-to-eat foods has grown exponentially, worldwide. However, the lack of optimal conditions for the preparation and sale of these foods can affect their safety. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of 19 types of foods (n= 417), with and without heat treatment, sold in public spaces in Cuenca, Ecuador. According to the food group, mesophilic aerobes, coliforms/Escherichia coli, molds and yeasts, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Listeria spp., Clostridium perfringens, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus were examined. For microorganisms identification and counting, national regulations were applied and, in cases of absence, regulations from other countries were adopted. As a result, 55,4% of the samples were considered inadequate for consumption. S. aureus was the most prevalent presumptive pathogenic microorganism (81.7%). Non-compliance with regulations was significantly higher among foods without heat treatment (54.1%) compared to those heat treated (24%) and those that combine ingredients with and without treatment (21.9%) (p<0.001). The high percentage of non-compliance with foods without heat treatment that is handled for preparation, such as juices, stands out. In addition, it was observed that the heat treatment did not guarantee safety, suggesting possible food recontamination after preparation until sale and consumption, due to environmental means and/or the addition of other contaminated ingredients. This study emphasizes the need for concrete actions in this sector, mainly based on training, infrastructure, and inclusion, to guarantee consumers' health.

Análise microbiológica da carne comercializada nos açougues da cidade de Nampula, Moçambique / Microbiologiacal analysis of meat sold in the butcheries of Nampula city, Mozambique / Análisis microbiológico de carne vendida en carnicerías de la ciudad de Nampula, Mozambique

As condições higiênico-sanitárias precárias que caracterizam os açougues de Moçambique contribuem para a contaminação de carnes, constituindo um atentado à saúde dos consumidores. Este estudo visou realizar uma análise microbiológica da carne bovina comercializada nos açougues da cidade de Nampula, Moçambique. Foram analisadas, sob padrões laboratoriais ISO, a carne bovina fresca e as zaragatoas de sete açougues licenciados. A análise revelou que 100% das amostras de todos os açougues foram contaminadas por bactérias aeróbias mesófilas, porém, no limite aceitável de contaminação. Cinco açougues apresentaram valores superiores a 1,5 × 106 UFC/g de contaminação. Para Staphylococcus aureus, todas as amostras apresentaram valores superiores a 100 UFC/g; para Escherichia coli, quatro amostras apresentaram valores acima dos limites aceitáveis; e 71% das amostras foram contaminadas por Salmonella spp. Quanto aos utensílios e equipamentos, houve contaminação em 14% das amostras. Assim, recomenda-se a implementação de boas práticas de manipulação de carne nos açougues da cidade de Nampula, de modo a promover a obtenção de carne de qualidade pelos consumidores.

The precarious hygienic-sanitary conditions that characterize the butcheries in Mozambique, contribute to the contamination of meat, which can jeopardize the health of consumers. This study aimed to perform a microbiological analysis of the bovine meat sold in the butcheries of Nampula city, Mozambique. We analyzed, under ISO laboratory standards, bovine meat and swabs from seven licensed butcheries. The analysis revealed that 100% of the samples were contaminated by mesophilic aerobic bacteria; however, the contamination remained within the acceptable range. Five butcheries presented values over 1.5 × 106 CFU/g of contamination. For Staphylococcus aureus, all samples presented values higher than 100 CFU/g; for Escherichia coli, four samples were showed values over the acceptable range; and 71% of the samples were contaminated by Salmonella spp. Regarding utensils and equipment, 14% of the samples were contaminated. Thus, we recommend implementing good meat handling practices in butcheries of Nampula city to promote the obtention of quality meat by consumers.

Las precarias condiciones higiénicas y sanitarias que caracterizan a las carnicerías en Mozambique contribuyen a la promoción de la contaminación de la carne, constituyendo un ataque a la salud de los consumidores. Este estudio tuvo el objetivo de realizar análisis microbiológico de carne vacuna vendida en carnicerías de la ciudad de Nampula, Mozambique. Se analizó, bajo patrones de laboratorio ISO, carne vacuna fresca e hisopos de siete carnicerías. El análisis reveló que el 100% de las muestras estaban contaminadas por bacterias aerobias mesófilas en todas las carnicerías, pero dentro del límite aceptable de contaminación. Cinco carnicerías presentaron valores superiores a 1,5 × 106 UFC/g de contaminación. Para Staphylococcus aureus, todas las muestras presentaron valores superiores a 100 UFC/g; para Escherichia coli, cuatro muestras presentaron valores por encima de los límites aceptables; mientras que el 71% de las muestras estaban contaminadas por Salmonella spp. En las muestras de utensilios y equipos hubo contaminación en un 14%. Por lo que se recomienda implementar buenas prácticas de manejo de carne en las carnicerías de la ciudad de Nampula, con el fin de promover la adquisición de carne de calidad para los consumidores.

MICROBIAL PROFILE AND ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY OF BACTERIAL PATHOGENS ISOLATED FROM PAPER CURRENCIES CIRCULATING IN SOME RESTAURANTS AND BUTCHERIES IN HAWASSA, SIDAMA, ETHIOPIA, 2020-21

Currency notes could play a signicant role in transmitting pathogenic microorganisms amongst individuals in the society. This study was aimed to determine the microbial prole and Antibiotic susceptibility of bacterial pathogens isolated from Ethiopian paper notes in circulation. 64 currency paper notes of different denomination were tested for bacterial contamination using standard microbiological methods. Antibiotic susceptibility proles of the isolates were determined with approved methods. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Overall mean AMBC was 4.08 log units, with the highest 6.58 log units recorded from denomination 5 followed by 4.50, 3.03, 2.20 log units from denominations 10, 50 and 100 respectively. Total Coliforms (TC) displayed the same pattern with the highest mean counts of 6.52 log units, from denomination 5 and lowest counts of 2.19 log units from denomination 100. Out of 64 currency notes, 35 (54.7%) were contaminated with bacteria. The predominant bacteria isolates were E. coli (60.5%), Salmonella spp. (23.6%) and Shigella spp. (13.2%). Each isolate was resistant to four or more antibiotics tested. All isolates were resistant against Cefepime and Tetracycline and sensitive to Ceftriaxone. This study revealed that currency notes are contaminated with pathogenic bacteria and in most cases these bacterial isolates were resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. Therefore, contaminated notes are identied as potential public health threat, because pathogens can be spread by circulating the notes and become source of infection. Awareness creation is important among public in this regard.

Reduction of Microbial Contamination of Chechin nchabe (Cooked Fermented Cassava) Produced in Noun (West Cameroon) by a Second Fermentation

The Chechim nchabe is a traditional food widely consumed in Foumban, Foumbot, Koutaba, Massangam, Kouoptamo, Malentouen and Magba, 07 Departments of Noun (West region of Cameroon). It is obtained by fermenting cassava sticks cooked on the surface of river or spring water. Unfortunately, the bad hygienic quality of the environment during production promotes its contamination by pathogenic germs. The objective of this study is to carry out a second fermentation in order to reduce contamination of Chechim nchabe by pathogens germs during production. To achieve this objective, a survey on the socio-economic data, profile of the producers, production protocol and characteristics of product have been realized. After microbiological analysis of Chechim nchabe, a second fermentation was performed in the laboratory. From the results, it appears that all the producers are women, aged between 51 and 58 years and 87% of them not attending school. The water used for soaking the cassava revealed that 54% of women use river water and 46% spring water. The Chechim nchabe samples collected after traditional production in the 07 Departments of Noun, show average contamination of Enterobacteriaceae, moulds, staphylococci, Escherichia coli and lactic acid bacteria with respective concentrations of 4.7; 4.1; 4.4; 4.7 and 4.8 Log10ufc/mL. However, Chechim nchabe produced in urban areas such as Foumbot and Foumban recorded low contamination compared to that produced in rural areas like Massangam, which were heavily contaminated with Escherichia coli and Enterobacteriaceae. It was also noted that the Chechim nchabe produced in spring water is more contaminated than that produced in river water. The second fermentation for 10 hours of Chechim nchabe in a basin, after 12 hours of traditional fermentation, eliminated all of pathogenic germs from Chechim nchabe. This second fermentation of 10 hours could be a solution to guarantee the sanitary quality of Chechim nchabe before its consumption.

ÉVALUATION DES RISQUES DE CONTAMINATION DE L'ENVIRONNEMENT ET DES HUMAINS PAR LES PRATIQUES D'UTILISATION DES PESTICIDES DANS LA PRODUCTION DES LÉGUMES À MBANZA – NGUNGU (RDC)

The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices of market gardeners in Mbanza – Ngungu regarding the use of pesticides, but also to consider the risks of contamination of the environment and related humans. To do this, surveys were conducted with 111 market gardeners in the study area, randomly selected and distributed in six market gardening sites, on the use of pesticides. The results obtained reveal the use of certain pesticides canceled in the DRC and the EU; a lack of supervision and training of market gardeners on pesticide management; poor management of pesticides considering the observed aspects; the appearance of signs of pesticide poisoning in some market gardeners; the decrease in amphibians (toad) and clarias in the Loma site, a fact attributed to the excessive use of pesticides; the involvement of children in the management of these products which are so dangerous for them. In order to reduce the risk of intoxication of market gardeners and consumers of vegetables, and of environmental pollution, it is already urgent and important that a certain number of suitable measures, in the immediate future, be taken by political and administrative decision-makers and to promote the training of market gardeners in Mbanza - Ngungu for the judicious use of pesticides.

Assessment Of Groundwater Quality - A Case Study

The shortage and contamination of sources of surface water, as well as the increasing demand for agricultural practices, groundwater is important for many domestic, commercial, and industrial purposes. Human health and agricultural yields were significantly affected either by quality and concentration levels of groundwater. 25 groundwater samples were used in this study, which has been conducted in five different mandals of the Palnadu region. The samples were obtained from a variety of bore wells using the random sampling method, and the physical and chemical characteristics of water quality parameters were evaluated. The study covered the maximum amount of groundwater in the five mandals of Nuzendla, Vinukonda, Savalyapuram, Romicharla and Ipur as well as the suitable treatment methods for trying to turn the water in to the potable form.

Determination of Knowledge Based on Aflatoxin Poisoning among Broiler Farmers in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Background: There is a scarcity of information concerning knowledge of aflatoxin contamination of feeds among farmers even in aflatoxin-prone regions in Kenya. Thus, knowledge of aflatoxins in feeds among poultry farmers is of paramount importance in designing plans to minimize risks of aflatoxin exposure. Therefore, this study sought to assess the Determinants of Knowledge on Aflatoxin Among Broiler farmers in Nairobi City County, Kenya. Methodology: The study utilized an analytical cross-sectional study design. A total of 240 farmers were sampled from a population of 600 farmers within Nairobi City County. A structured questionnaire was administered to farmers within Nairobi City County. SPSS version 26 was used to analyze the data descriptively. Results were presented in tables and figures. Ethical approval was sought from relevant authorities and parties before the commencement of the study. Results: Results from the study show that the majority of the farmers (58.2%) had knowledge of aflatoxin. There was a significant association (p<0.05) between the socio-demographic characteristics of farmers and knowledge of aflatoxin. Conclusion: The study concludes that the farmers had adequate knowledge of aflatoxin occurrence in feeds and methods to reduce the contamination. There is a need for continuous sensitization of farmers on aflatoxin, particularly on feed management practices by the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Health Division of Public Health in Kenya.

Heavy Metal Contaminants in Popularly-consumed Vegetables of Freetown, Sierra Leone

The contamination of the environment with heavy metals is one of the challenges that make up Sierra Leone's environmental problem, with urbanization being one of the main causes; due to the lack of proper waste dumpsites and landfills for infrastructural development, rivers, and streams are polluted. The loss of biodiversity, but river and stream pollution have a significant impact on aquatic life. Animals and plants in contaminated water sources "may perish or reproduce improperly". This study assessed the level of concentration of heavy metals namely; chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and lead (Pb) in some commonly-consumed vegetables like Manihot esculenta (Cassava) leaves, Ipomoea batatas (Potato) leaves, Amaranthus viridis (African spinach), Corchorus olitorius (Krain krain); Solanum lycopersicum (Tomatoes); Cucumis sativus (Cucumber); Brassica oleracea (Cabbage); Abelmoschus esculentus fruits (Okra); Capsicum annuum (Bell Pepper); and Lactuca sativa (Lettuce) which were all purchased at local market places in Freetown. The vegetable samples were analyzed using an X-ray fluorescence machine (XRF) to determine their heavy metal concentration. The goal was to determine the food safety status of the vegetables by comparing the results to the maximum permissible limit (MPL) for vegetables, as set by WHO/FAO. The levels of Zn, Cr, Fe, Cu, and Pb in all vegetable samples varied from 4.70 – 5.69 %; 3.46 – 4.58 %; 4.00 – 4.52 %; 2.87 – 3.42 %; and 0.5 – 1.2 %, respectively. This result indicates that the metals were present at unsafe levels. According to the result, the maximum concentration values are much higher than the MPL value suggested by WHO/FAO for vegetables, implying that eating vegetables from the source market sites in this study may pose a health risk to humans. Heavy metals in vegetables should be monitored on a regular basis to prevent excessive accumulation of these heavy metals in the human food chain. When it comes to vegetable marketing, certain precautions should be implemented.

Enumeration of Salmonella Species Isolated in Ready–to–Eat Fruits Vended in Bukuru Market, Jos South, Plateau State

Background: Despite control measures to curtailed salmonella fruit contamination over the years, pathogenic disease outbreaks caused by the ingestion of Salmonella contaminated fresh-cut-fruits pose a significant problem to human health by the consumption of fresh and minimally processed fruits. This study aimed to enumerate and determine the prevalence of Salmonella species isolated in ready-to-eat fruits vended in Bukuru Market Jos South, Plateau state. Methodology: A total of seventy-eight ready-to-eat vended fruit samples were purchased and cultured for the enumeration of bacterial isolates according to National Food Safety Standard for Microbiological Examination. Pulp pH value of each fruit was obtained by immersing litmus paper into the pulp and results recorded. Results: Of the 78 fruits specimen, 22 (28.2%) were Salmonella positive. The prevalence rates of salmonella isolated were found to be higher (22.7%) in both coconut and avocado followed by watermelon (18.2%) and sweetmelon (13.6%) as compared with other fruits in the study area. Lower rates of 4.5% were found in banana, pawpaw, and dates with a rise in apple with 9.1% respectively. Conclusion: The study showed a high p<0.05 (7.811) prevalence of pathogenic Salmonella species isolated in ready-to-eat fruits in the study area revealing that the spread of salmonella is not independent of fruits thereby suggestive of contamination made available by fruit vendors in this part of the world. Thus, epidemiological traceability and significant measures must be taken to check the safety of these vended products before consumption.

Footwear Usage and Practice in Indian Healthcare Centres

Healthcare Centres are where the patients get treated, but most of the time, we ignore that it is also a major source of Infections, to both patients and visitors. In India, many hospitals don抰 allow patients & visitors to enter with their Footwear on, whereas, Doctors & other Health Care Workers can. There are no specific guidelines for visitors and patients for wearing Footwear in India. Also, the Indian National Guidelines of infection prevention & control doesn抰 provide sufficient protocol regarding the importance of wearing Footwear for patients and visitors in Healthcare Centres. This article focuses on finding the risk of acquiring Infection & transmission of microorganisms when a patient walks barefoot within the hospital.

Analysis of Aflatoxin Levels in Broiler Chicken Feed from Selected Farms in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Aflatoxin levels in animal feed should be observed from the farm to the table to ensure the safety of the feed to animals and humans. The contamination of cereals and other agricultural supplies used in animal feed production could happen in the farm in the pre-harvest phase or in the post-harvest phase. The study sought to determine Aflatoxin levels in broiler feed from selected farms in Nairobi City County. A total of 42 feed samples were collected. Samples were analyzed using the LCMS/MS technique. Results from the study show that Aflatoxin levels in broiler starter were; B1(17.26±3.07 ppb), B2 (2.44±0.84 ppb), G1 (8.87±2.41 ppb), G2 (0.9±0.44 ppb) and Total AF (29.47±6.13 ppb). Aflatoxin levels in broiler finisher were B1 (17.17±3.09 ppb), B2 (2.68±1.18 ppb), G1 (9.25±2.7 ppb), G2 (1±0.45 ppb) and Total AF (30.1±6.88 ppb). Results from analysis of feed samples showed that AFB1 levels in both broiler starter and broiler finisher were above the KEBS limit but were below the EAC, EU and WHO/FAO limit. Total Aflatoxin levels were above the KEBS limit but below the EAC limit. There is need to enhance the capacity of feed surveillance and monitoring in the country through various laboratory analysis techniques among various agencies in the feed value chain to ensure feed safety.

Risco de contaminação por aerossóis em consultório odontológico e comparação a procedimentos eletivos / Risk of contamination by aerosols in dental offices and comparison to elective procedures / Riesgo de contaminación por aerosoles en consultorios dentales y comparación con procedimientos electivos

Durante os procedimentos odontológicos, os profissionais devem se preocupar com a disseminação e a formação de aerossóis, sendo essa uma rota de transmissão potencial. O objetivo foi demonstrar o risco de contaminação por aerossóis da cavidade bucal durante o atendimento em consultórios odontológicos e comparar cinco procedimentos eletivos, utilizou-se um marcador (corante alimentício) na água do reservatório do equipamento odontológico para identificar a contaminação por produção de aerossóis. Estabeleceu-se os círculos A, B e C com raios de 50, 100 e 150 cm, respectivamente, a partir do ponto central do encosto da cabeça na cadeira odontológica. Estabeleceu-se um planejamento fatorial e teste de Tukey para comparação das médias dos pontos de contaminação e para os pontos não contáveis de contaminação aplicou-se a Análise de Componentes Principais (ACP). O tipo de procedimento e a interação entre o local e tipo de procedimento não se mostraram estatisticamente significativos, mas verificou-se maior incidência significativa no círculo A (raio de 50 cm). Aplicando a ACP foi possível relacionar a contaminação do tórax do paciente e da ponta do sugador com os procedimentos de Ultrassom e Incisivo Central Superior, assim como a relação da contaminação do jaleco do cirurgião dentista e da ponta da caneta de alta rotação com os procedimentos de Primeiro Molar Superior, Primeiro Molar Inferior e Incisivo Central Inferior. Precauções para minimizar a contaminação e o espalhamento dos aerossóis devem ser utilizadas nos atendimentos odontológicos para diminuir os riscos de contaminação da equipe profissional, dos pacientes e do ambiente.

During dental procedures, professionals should be concerned with the spread and formation of aerosols, as this is a potential transmission route. The objective was to demonstrate the risk of contamination by aerosols in the oral cavity during care in dental offices and to compare five elective procedures. Circles A, B and C were established with radii of 50, 100 and 150 cm, respectively, from the central point of the headrest on the dental chair. A factorial design and Tukey's test were established to compare the averages of the contamination points and for the non-countable points of contamination, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied. The type of procedure and the interaction between the location and the type of procedure were not statistically significant, but there was a significant higher incidence in circle A (50 cm radius). Applying PCA, it was possible to relate the contamination of the patient's thorax and the tip of the sucker with the Ultrasound and Upper Central Incisor procedures, as well as the relationship of contamination of the dentist's coat and the tip of the high-speed pen with the procedures of Upper First Molar, Lower First Molar and Lower Central Incisor. Precautions to minimize contamination and the spread of aerosols must be used in dental care to reduce the risk of contamination of the professional team, patients and the environment.

Durante los procedimientos dentales, los profesionales deben preocuparse por la propagación y formación de aerosoles, ya que esta es una ruta potencial de transmisión. El objetivo fue demostrar el riesgo de contaminación por aerosoles en la cavidad bucal durante la atención en los consultorios odontológicos y comparar cinco procedimientos electivos. Se establecieron círculos A, B y C con radios de 50, 100 y 150 cm, respectivamente, desde el punto central del reposacabezas del sillón dental. Se estableció un diseño factorial y la prueba de Tukey para comparar los promedios de los puntos de contaminación y para los puntos de contaminación no contables se aplicó el Análisis de Componentes Principales (PCA). El tipo de procedimiento y la interacción entre la ubicación y el tipo de procedimiento no fueron estadísticamente significativos, pero hubo una incidencia significativamente mayor en el círculo A (50 cm de radio). Aplicando PCA se logró relacionar la contaminación del tórax del paciente y la punta de la ventosa con los procedimientos de Ultrasonido e Incisivo Central Superior, así como la relación de la contaminación de la bata del odontólogo y la punta del bolígrafo de alta velocidad con los procedimientos de Primer Molar Superior, Primer Molar Inferior e Incisivo Central Inferior. Precauciones para minimizar la contaminación y la propagación de aerosoles deben ser utilizados en la atención odontológica para reducir el riesgo de contaminación del equipo profesional, los pacientes y el medio ambiente.

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.