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This study investigated the relationship between geology, land use and occupation and the composition of groundwater in the Rio Grande do Sul Coastal Aquifer System (SAC), analyzing 17 physicochemical parameters. The results allowed defining background and anomalous values for the different parameters, as well as evaluating quality based on comparison with potability standards. Elements such as STD, Al, Fe and Mn presented a background range above the potability limits (515.6; 0.5; 2.0 and 0.7 mg/L), associated with local geological characteristics, indicating a natural composition of the system, while the anomalous nitrate values (2.1 to 16.1 mg/L) pointed to anthropogenic contamination. The results contribute to understanding the origin of groundwater contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ensuring that 99% of the population has access to clean water is one of the goals of the Sustainable Development Goals. However, in vulnerable areas, such as irregular urban occupations, high rates of waterborne diseases can be observed due to the lack of sanitation. In this context, this work evaluated the water quality of the Élisson Prieto neighborhood (“Ocupação do Glória”), in Uberlândia, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, and promoted awareness among the population about the importance of basic sanitation and diseases associated with the consumption of contaminated water. After mapping the area, water samples were collected and analyzed from 25 homes, of which the presence of coliform bacteria was detected in six points. These results indicated that the sanitary condition of the neighborhood is poor, exposing the population to health risks. The awareness process was carried out through an informative lecture, distribution of booklets, and application of questionnaires to residents. The local community was instructed on the correct decontamination and storage of water for consumption and hygiene care. The results indicated that this extension project was an important tool for transmitting the knowledge acquired at the university to the population about water quality and its impacts on health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bacteria Aeromonas sp. are naturally reported in aquatic ecosystems and possess pathogenic potential, being considered as emerging pathogens in humans and animals. They also cause considerable losses in fish farming and, through water, can contaminate numerous foods. This study quantified and analyzed the antimicrobial resistance profile of Aeromonas sp. in fish. A total of 72 samples of two fish varieties (leather fish, Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum x Leiarius marmoratus and round fish, Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus and Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus brachypomus) were purchased from two types of sources (fresh and frozen) and three commercial establishments (supermarket, market, and fishmonger). The 55 isolated Aeromonas cultures were evaluated for their antimicrobial resistance profile by the disc diffusion method. Upon quantification, the count of Aeromonas sp. ranged from 4.22 to 6.00 Log CFU/g; ten different species, including A. eucrenophila, A. hydrophila, A. caviae, A. media, A. jandaei, A. veronii bv. sobria, A. trota, A. schubertii, A. veronii bv. veronii, and A. shigelloides, were identified. Among the 55 isolates, 64.45% showed resistance to Ampicillin-sulbactam, and 75% were sensitive to gentamicin and ciprofloxacin. It was concluded that 100% of the evaluated samples were contaminated by Aeromonas sp., which may present a risk to consumer health since bacteria can be etiological agents of Foodborne Diseases. The antimicrobial resistance profile showed resistance to ampicillin and multi-resistance to different classes of antimicrobials, demonstrating problems with choosing an antimicrobial for treatment of any disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper evaluates the microbiological quality of ground beef through a meta-analytic study using Google Scholar Brazil database, with a focus on the search period between October 2020 and June 2021. A total of 108 scientific studies were evaluated with the analyzed variables, referring to the counts of mesophilic bacteria, psychrotrophic bacteria, total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella sp. in colony forming unit per gram of meat (CFU.g-1). Data were subjected to descriptive analysis and normal distribution by frequency histogram. The counts of mesophilic bacteria presented an average of 3.09 CFU.g-1, with a coefficient of variation of 68.53%. Psychrotrophic bacteria represented 27.27% of the data collected, close to 5.60 CFU.g-1. Regarding thermotolerant coliforms, 40% of the data collected had counts between 0.90 and 40% at 3.10 CFU.g-1. Eight studies showed effects (p < 0.001) on the presence of Salmonella sp. in ground beef. This meta-analytic study was classified as heterogeneous (Chi² = 80.39; p < 0.001) and with high inconsistency (I² = 81%). Besides, the meta-analysis allowed identifying low counts of mesophilic bacteria and Staphylococcus aureus in Brazilian studies addressing the microbiological quality of ground beef. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of products of microbial origin, bacteria, for agriculture has grown exponentially in the world, and in Brazil this growth is significant. In recent years, several companies have settled in the country and started to develop different products in this segment. The producer has the possibility of multiplying bacteria on the farms themselves in a process called on farm, a homemade way of multiplying bacteria. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the mixtures produced through the on farm method of multiplication of microorganisms from inoculants based on Azospirillum with different culture media. For this, three culture media were used: commercial product Multibacter®, yeast syrup plus sugar and yeast syrup, which were subsequently quantified. The syrups were produced in the on farm system, the sterilization of the place of packaging and allocation of the bioreactors was carried out, the samples of the syrups were diluted for incubation and the preparation of the TSA (Trypticasein Soy Agar) also took place. It was possible to conclude that the non-sterile culture media do not present satisfactory results for the multiplication of on farm microorganisms with Azospirillum syrups. Colony forming units are not parameters to indicate viability for non-sterile culture media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Function al enzyme assays to detect sublethal poisoning of Neotropical fish are paramount. Accordingly, we assayed a glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity in liver and kidney cytosols from Piaractus mesopotamicus injected with methyl parathion or benzo[a]pyrene using the substrate 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB), which is the usual substrate for assaying a known general activity of GST. Since the most reactive substrate is required to reveal specific changes in enzyme activity, we also used two alternative substrates, 1,2-dichloro-4-nitrobenzene (DCNB) and ethacrynic acid (ETHA). Activities with CDNB or ETHA did not change. However, assays with DCNB showed that methyl parathion caused a decrease in GST activity in the liver on the 24th, 48th and 96th hour after the injection. DCNB also revealed that GST activity in the liver increased seven days after benzo[a]pyrene injection, coming down to normal after fourteen days. Benzo[a]pyrene, but not methyl parathion, increased the activities with DCNB in cytosol from the kidney seven and fourteen days after the injection. Thus, a decreased liver GST activity assayed with DCNB corresponded to contamination of P. mesopotamicus with methyl parathion. The increase of this GST activity in the liver and the kidney correlates to pacu contamination with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the 1960s, an organochlorinated pesticide factory finished its activities and about 300 tons of the material was left in the Cidade dos Meninos neighborhood in Duque de Caxias - RJ. These substances contaminated the soil and the population present in the region. Based on this, the objective of this study is to understand the health risks related to pesticide contamination, in addition to knowing possible remediation methods and public policies aimed at the population of the Cidade dos Meninos. This is a bibliographic review of indexed articles and other scientific papers available in databases such as Science Direct, Pubmed and Scielo, in specific time periods. The studies related the contamination by organochlorinated pesticides to the manifestation of several diseases, including: breast cancer, testicular cancer, poor development of fetuses in pregnancies, as well as changes in the proportion of sexes of babies. In relation to the remediation methods that can be applied, the most indicated for the Cidade dos Meninos are phytoremediation and absorption, requiring the study of the materials that can be used in decontamination. We conclude that soil contamination by pesticides associated with little or no investment by authorities in the removal of pollutants can harm the health of local and adjacent residents due to food production and distribution. This scenario justifies the importance of further studies and efforts by authorities in soil treatment to reduce long-term damage to human health and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human activities exert constant pressures on groundwater. In fact, one of the most relevant problems is the anthropogenic addition of contaminants and pollutants, closely related with the land use. Analyzing the response of geoenvironmental factors associated to land use and occupation is an essential tool to identify how prone to contamination an aquifer is it, also widely used for territorial planning. Thus, the present study aimed to determine the aquifer contamination potential in Artur Nogueira city (São Paulo, Brasil). To do so, we used study area attributes related to the geology and geomorphology (aquifer units, unconsolidated materials, and slope), including soil use and occupation features. By using multi-criteria analysis and map algebra, this region exhibited a huge range of contamination potential. Our results showed that approximately 47 % of the city area displayed a medium potential. The highest one covered approximately 24 % of the study site. The large agricultural and livestock matrix in the region contributed strongly to those results. Another important factor was the physical environmental characteristics. This highlights how a planning lack regarding the land use and occupation directly influenced the groundwater contamination potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ice is essential for the proper conservation of fish, as it delays microbial growth, preserving the physical-chemical, microbiological and organoleptic characteristics. However, ice can be a source of health risk for consumers when produced under poor sanitary conditions. Critical points must be controlled during the ice production and storage stage, such as the use of potable water and hygienic-sanitary conditions. The presence of high populations of heterotrophic and coliform microorganisms and the poor physicochemical quality of the ice used for fish conservation can represent a potential risk to the consumer, which can be a carrier of diseases such as Salmonellosis, Escherichia coli infection and Staphylococcus aureus poisoning, in addition to reducing the shelf life of the product. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the microbiological and physical-chemical quality of the ice used in the conservation of fish marketed in Rio Branco - AC. 15 ice samples collected in three different supermarkets were analyzed. It was recommended the collection of ice manufactured with its own machinery and that it be used in the commercialization of fresh fish, which would be exposed and cooled in ice stalls on site 300g ice manually with the use of gloves and packed in sterilized glass bottles, in an isothermal box. The microbiological quality of these samples was analyzed by counting mesophilic and psychrotrophic heterotrophic microorganisms. In addition, the determination of the most probable number of total coliforms at 30°C, thermotolerant and the quantification of pH and free residual chlorine of the samples were performed. Regarding the determination of mesophilic microorganisms, values between 1,00x101 and 9,15x103 UFC/mL were recorded with samples (60%) out of the standard established by Ordinance MG/MS No. 888/2021. The amount of psychrotrophs varied between 1,00x101 and 8,98x103 CFU/mL. The presence of total coliforms at 30°C was recorded in 6 samples and of thermotolerants in 4 samples. Therefore, there was a variation in the quality standards of ices manufactured in supermarkets for fish conservation, constituting a potential risk to the health of consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the hygienic-sanitary and structural quality of butcher shops in the cities of Vale do Guaribas, in the State of Piauí, using a 40-item checklist based on Brazilian sanitary legislation. This observational, qualitative and quantitative descriptive field research evaluated ten butchers located in different municipalities of Vale do Guaribas, in the State of Piauí, in the period of April 2021. As a result, it was observed that 80% of the locations verified were classified as deficient, with unsatisfactory hygienic-sanitary and physical-structural conditions, considered inadequate according to the standards of current legislation. Only 20% of the places fit regular, reaching a percentage of adequacy between 51 and 75% of the total investigated items. As a result, most butchers are inadequate in terms of the requirements of the current legislation, which can be considered a means that are conducive to the contamination of meat and a risk to the health of consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption habits of the population have increased alarmingly and, as a result, the waste generated by these consumptions continues to increase at the same speed. In this context, the disposal of medicines by the user stands out. Disposal carried out improperly always ends up causing environmental contamination. These contaminations not only harm human health, but also the fauna and flora that make up this environment. Humans are completely dependent on the environment to ensure their quality of life and survival, and practices such as incorrect disposal end up contaminating them when they come into contact with these substances. In the case of laws, the legislation is deficient since it does not mention an adequate final destination for liquid waste. Its focus is on health facilities and does not include the general population. In view of the facts, the present study will aim to gather data on the disposal of these residues, highlighting research previously carried out on the effects triggered on the population's health as a result of inappropriate disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The peri-urbanization process in the Puebla Metropolitan Area--Tlaxcala, in Mexico, has included to a large extent, an irregular occupation of the land closely related to the environmental deterioration of an area of high ecological value. This article presents a study of the processes of population growth and urban expansion that have impacted on changes in land use in the northern periphery of the zmpt (by its acronym in Spanish), and as part of it, in La Malinche National Park. An analysis of the evolution of demographic behavior and urban expansion in the area was carried out, as well as the transformation of land uses by means of satellite images from different dates. The work allowed us to have the necessary social and economic panorama to quantify and establish the effects on changes in land use at the regional level and their consequences, obtaining said evaluative argument. It was possible to characterize the expansive urban process and verify that it has been the main cause of the acceleration of the phenomenon that has affected the conservation of the environment and the quality of life of the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The disapproval of broiler carcasses in slaughterhouses leads, directly, to losing quality and quantity of produced meat, to compromising the production line efficiency and causing processing additional costs. The carcasses can be partially or completely condemned, due to numerous causes. The identification of carcasses condemnation causes and the analyses of its factors enables to minimize losses and the improvement of the slaughter process. Thus, this research aimed to: identify the causes of total broiler carcasses condemnation, by utilization of quality tools, and elaborate an action plan that would reduce the total condemnation of broiler carcasses. The study was carried out in a slaughterhouse located in the western region of the state of Paraná. It was noted that the main cause of broiler carcasses condemnation was contamination (57.0%). The factors related with the contamination of broiler carcasses were the lack of uniformity in the weight of the broilers, the inappropriate pre slaughter fasting time, flaw in the regulation of cloaca's extracting machine, abdomen cutter and viscera extracting machine and the poor staff training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to identify the degree of knowledge of supermarket food handlers in the metropolitan region of Londrina, in relation to health legislation, and to verify the practical deficiencies in the implementation of these regulations. Fifty (50) employees who work in these establishments participated in the research, directly handling food and animal by-products. The survey was conducted through a questionnaire, and the sampling method was non-probabilistic. The level of knowledge of good handling and manufacturing practices, food safety, microbiological contamination, cross-contamination and food poisoning was evaluated. Most respondents did not have any specific training, and those who did took more than six months to take refresher and / or improvement courses. According to the results of the research, it was possible to conclude that there is a deficiency within the sectors where there are professionals who handle these foods, especially regarding good handling practices. However, it was concluded that it is still necessary to implement and increase the inspection of these sectors to improve the safety and quality of products of animal origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water is one of the most important resources for the subsistence of life on earth, although it is also one of the main vehicles for the transmission of diseases, which has driven an increased effort on the part of the responsible entities, to make it available, with the best possible quality for the consumption of the entire human population on earth. The present study aimed to assess the physical-chemical and microbiological quality of the water consumed by the population of the city of Huambo. Samples were taken at 2 points, where two were stored at room temperature and another in refrigerated conditions. Eight samples were taken from the public supply system network (taps) and eight from deep wells (cacimbas). The harvest took place from September 2013 to January 2014, and 15 physical-chemical and five microbiological parameters were analyzed. Of the two points analyzed, the public supply system network showed values of microorganisms, higher than 100 CFU / mL and is not in accordance with Decree-Law No. 306/2007 of 27 August, which provides for control and monitoring procedures, monitoring the quality of water for human consumption and its standard of potability. The analyzes of E. coli, sulfur-reducing Clostridium spores and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were absent in all samples analyzed. It was concluded that the observed microbiological contamination reinforces the need for constant monitoring of the microbiological quality of the water, aiming at the adequate potability standards for human consumption and then, preventing possible diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The beneficial effects of ultra-pasteurization milk treatment include elimination of milk pathogens, besides increasing the product's shelf-life, however, psychrotrophic bacteria are associated with several negative effects in the final product such as lipolysis, rancidification and gelation. This results from heat-resistant spores and its possible residual extracellular heat-resistant enzymes activity. With that in mind, this paper aimed to quantify psychrotrophic bacteria and perform a milk clotting test in UHT milk sold in Curitiba, Paraná. 60 samples from two brands were acquired (30 from A brand and 30 from B brand) each 15 days in different moments. Each time, 10 samples from a same batch were separated in two groups (D0 and D7), being D0: five samples analyzed in the purchase day, and D7: five samples analyzed after incubation at 37± 1ºC/7 days and evaluated regarding enumeration of psychrotrophic bacteria, Gram staining and milk clotting test. The heat-treating process effectiveness was evaluated by analyzing 30 samples from each brand, A and B, totalizing 60, being 10 from each different production batches, through the surface inoculation method in PCA, milk clotting test and classification of the isolated colonies by the Gram method. In D0, one (3,4%) sample (from A brand) resulted in Gram negative psychrotrophic growing (2,50 x 105 UFC/mL) . Samples from B brand did not result in bacterial growth. 25 samples (83,3%) did not clot, and five (16,7%) produced sponge clots. In D7, none of the samples presented bacterial growth, 20 (66,7%) did not clot and 10 (33,3%) produced sponge clots. Mesophilic bacterial culture was not done. The A brand UHT process did not grant sterilization regarding psychrotrophic bacteria, and the milk clotting results indicate possible coliforms contamination in both brands. Furthermore, clot absence in several samples could indicate preservatives usage, which is considered fraud. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The colonial raw milk cheese is a handmade product usually sold at open air markets. Thus, in addition to unstable production conditions, there are other variants that affect its sanitary quality until it reaches the point of sale. Due to the potential risk of foodborne illnesses, the risk of microbial contamination is high, so informal trade in milk and dairy products has related effects on public health. This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological quality of colonial cheeses sold in open air markets in the city of Fraiburgo/SC, in order to verify whether such products comply with the parameters required by current legislation. During a six-month period (November 2020 to April 2021), three samples of colonial cheese purchased from three different producers were collected monthly at the open air market in Fraiburgo, located in the Midwest of Santa Catarina. After being collected, the samples were taken to the microbiological laboratory of the Laboratório Terranálises (Fraiburgo/SC), where the analysis of enumeration of Escherichia coli, enumeration of coagulase-positive staphylococci and investigation of Salmonella spp. Based on the results obtained, it can be stated that 38.89% (7/18) of the colonial cheese samples are not in accordance with the current legal microbiological standards, with 27.78% (5/18) of the samples were in non-compliance with the Escherichia coli standard and 33.3% (6/18) were not in compliance with the accepted upper limit for coagulasepositive staphylococci. However, none of the samples were contaminated with Salmonella spp. Thus, it is necessary to invest in the proper use of good manufacturing practices in such products, as well as inspect open air markets to comply with sanitary standards in the hygienic handling of food, and train producers in relation to the correct way to store and transport their products in order to ensure its quality from the field to the sale to the purchaser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: water suitable for human consumption is the one that does not represent a risk to the health for the consumer, considering its organoleptic, physical, chemical and bacteriological characteristics, but this quality is affected by dumping of domestic, industrial and economic activities (Gamboa et al., 2015). Objective: this study was done in order to determine the microbiological quality of the Toca river, Tuaneca Abajo and the Center, department of Boyacá, Colombia. Materials and methods: in the basin, four sampling points were established, M1, M2, M3 and M4, at each point 50 ml samples of water were collected with 20 replicas, in sterile glass jars, refrigerated at 4 ° C in icopor coolers and processed in the shortest possible time in UPTC microbiology laboratory; where aerobic mesophiles, molds and yeasts were quantified by aerobic plate count; Total and fecal coliforms were evaluated using the Most Probable Number Technique (MPN). Results: the point sampling M1 had the highest of total coliforms values, equivalent to 1100 NMP/100mL, fecal coliforms: 43NMP/100mL. Likewise, of molds and yeasts 61X 103 CFU/mL; and the point with the highest value of mesophiles aerobic 13X104 CFU/mL corresponds to M2. Points M3 and M4 presented the absence of total coliforms. Conclusions: in contrast to Decree 1594 of 1984, on the use of water and liquid waste, the Toca River has poor water quality at sampling points M1 and M2, which present livestock activity and discharge of domestic wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To map the microbiological profile of cell contamination in health professionals who work in adult intensive care units. Methods: This is a scope review carried out in the second half of 2019. The searches were performed in the Lilacs and Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Library and Google academic databases with the keywords Cell Phone; Intensive Care Units; Health Personnel; Patient Safety and its corresponding keywords. Results: There was a predominance of coagulase-negative Staphylococcus and S. aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains- MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria. Conclusion: The contamination of cell phones with bacteria present on the skin and nasal cavities showed the low adherence to infection control measures, such as hand hygiene and disinfection of objects. It was identified that such contamination is coupled with the lack of standardized protocols, which contributes to the increase in infections related to health care and compromises the safety of patients and health professionals themselves in the hospital environment. This fact makes the control of nosocomial infections a great challenge, requiring the standardization of rules for the use of cell phones in this scenario, as well as the carrying out of educational activities with health professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diseases caused by helminths and protozoa transmitted by lettuce (Lactuca sativa) have a great impact on public health, being considered important zoonosis. That is why it is important to take care of the hygiene of this vegetable prior to consumption. The objective of this study was to evaluate the contamination by parasites of importance in public health in samples of lettuce produced and commercialized in Campos Novos city, Santa Catarina state. The study was carried out in two stages. In the first stage, samples of lettuce were collected from supermarkets and fruit plants associated with the city storekeeper's office. These lettuces, according to the packaging description, were produced hydroponically. In the second stage, samples of lettuce were collected from municipal and state schools. The parasitological techniques used were Willis Mollay, Dennis Stones and Swanson, Sheater and Faust. All 26 samples showed absence of parasites, suggesting a low or zero degree of contamination by these agents in vegetables consumed in the municipality. All places where samples were collected had adequate food quality and hygiene. It is always recommended to present the population with the risks of contamination and to emphasize the importance of hygiene and prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Due to the increased toxicity of wastewater and the limited efficiency of conventional systems, the application of alternative processes is required, among which the sono-photo-Fenton system is highlighted. Objective. This work aims at optimizing the variables that directly affect the oxidation power of the sono-photo-Fenton process, such as the pH of the solution and the concentration of the oxidizing and the promoting agents, for the treatment of a petrochemical wastewater, in order to validate the suitability of using designs of experiments based on a reduced number of runs. Materials and methods. For this purpose, a face-centered composite central experiment design was used, whose second-order regression model was validated. The results achieved were compared Conclusiones. Se demuestra, por tanto, la importancia de llevar a cabo diseños de experimentos que permitan optimizar sistemas de tratamiento de aguas usando un reducido número de corridas, lo cual se traduce en la reducción tanto de costos económicos como de tiempos de experimentación y análisis de la variable respuesta objeto de estudio. Palabras clave: diseño de experimentos, tratamiento del agua, proceso avanzado de oxidación, contaminante persistente, contaminación. Optimization of the sono-photo-Fenton process for wastewater treatment using a central composite design. ABSTRACT to those ones reported in the literature using a larger number of experimental runs. Results. Under optimized operating conditions (3 pH units, 525 mg/L H2O2 and 25,70 mg/L Fe2+), COD removals > 70 % were obtained. These results were similar to the optimal conditions previously obtained and informed in the literature by using a full factorial experiment design. Conclusions. Therefore, it is demonstrated the importance of conducting designs of experiments that allow optimizing water treatment systems using a reduced number of runs, which results in the reduction of both economic costs and times of experimentation and analysis of the response variable of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we have studied the conflict around scientific discourses as power speeches in two environmental conflicts in the city of Cordoba, Argentina - Pueblos Unidos and Vudas against Porta company. We have worked with 20 in depth interviews combining content analysis and discourse analysis techniques. From the analysis emerge two body configurations: First, environmental affected that refers to the contaminated bodies and to the conflictive relation with the scientific discourse that, articulated with the interests of capital does not account for the affliction presented by the bodies. Second, the existence of healthy bodies, free of pollution and the denunciation of scientific discoursed for manipulating the studies in order to sustain the idea of pollution. In conclusion, the scientific discourse functions as a discourse of power that goes through the struggles. The different configuration of bodies in each case is explained as an effectuation of the singular articulation that has occurred between the different fractions of capital and the scientific discourse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lago Agrio was formed as a city around the first oil station in the Amazon, while Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas became urbanized around a thriving commercial activity, in the interstices of large-scale cattle ranching. These two nuclei are today two intermediate cities with a high degree of urban dynamism, in which oil and large-scale livestock activities, previously on their periphery, have been integrated into the urban continuum. The purpose of this article is to unravel how violence and disputes around water are reconfigured in the face of urban growth and the formation of new peripheries in cities dominated by extractive activities. The theoretical-methodological framework is based on urban studies to draw up a dialogue with political ecology which, from a territorial viewpoint, explores daily life using anthropological methods, in order to observe what gives rise to environmental suffering and the disputes it triggers. The article concludes that the symbiosis between urban growth, in the absence of wastewater treatment systems, and the prevalence of extractive activities has caused water pollution to intensify in the midst of great environmental suffering. At the same time, however, belonging to the city has also promoted different forms of mediation with the authorities through the demand for urban services. The originality of the article lies in the analysis of a socio-environmental conflict over water, in which the new elements introduced by the dispersed expansion of cities are key, where urban rights give communities a tool to distance themselves from extractive activities to mitigate environmental suffering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to identify the degree of knowledge of supermarket food handlers in the metropolitan region of Londrina, in relation to health legislation, and to verify the practical deficiencies in the implementation of these regulations. Fifty (50) employees who work in these establishments participated in the research, directly handling food and animal by-products. The survey was conducted through a questionnaire, and the sampling method was non-probabilistic. The level of knowledge of good handling and manufacturing practices, food safety, microbiological contamination, cross-contamination and food poisoning was evaluated. Most respondents did not have any specific training, and those who did took more than six months to take refresher and / or improvement courses. According to the results of the research, it was possible to conclude that there is a deficiency within the sectors where there are professionals who handle these foods, especially regarding good handling practices. However, it was concluded that it is still necessary to implement and increase the inspection of these sectors to improve the safety and quality of products of animal origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural coagulants are natural compounds, such as seeds, mucilage and other compounds based or not based on plants, which have the ability to remove contaminants from water, sewage and effluents. Its use has a strong environmental, economic and social appeal, especially because these are compounds easily found in nature, such as moringa, okra and cactus, and therefore cheap, increasing the quality of life of society and mitigating damage/environmental impact. The aim of this review was to present the different types of natural coagulants, their respective uses and characteristics. This research was elaborated through search in the specialized literature, with about 160 researched articles and 38 effectively used, a research that focuses on discussing the benefits of natural coagulants against chemical coagulants, as well as the implications of different types of natural coagulants in the treatment of water, wastewater and sewage. It was found that the issues involving research on natural coagulants are an environmentally friendly, inexpensive way and an objective to be achieved, given the great demand for water and effluent treatment that occur around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of temperature and rainfall on nutrient levels, heavy metals, and etiologic agents in sludge samples collected at the Sewage Treatment Station of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil, was verified over 24 months. The results showed high levels of nitrogen (4.7-5.2%), phosphorus (1.4-2.2%), potassium (0.076-0.106%), magnesium (0.113-0.386%), iron 5.03%) and zinc (38.2-6902.1 mg Kg-1). For most of the investigated samples, the concentration of zinc was above the maximum allowed value (2,800 mg Kg-1). The concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, chrome, copper, and lead were below the maximum values allowed by the legislation. Parasitological analyzes identified thermotolerant coliforms (0.49-160 NMP g-1) and helminth eggs (1 egg), however, in amounts less than allowed by legislation. These results are indicative of the efficiency of the sewage treatment process. The results showed a significant influence of the meteorological parameters on the concentrations of nitrogen, copper, lead, zinc and pathogens in the sludge. The results also showed a strong correlation between the concentrations of copper, lead and zinc indicating that the presence of these elements in the sewage sludge has a common origin. The results demonstrated the feasibility of using the investigated matrix as fertilizer when collected in rainy periods when it favors the dilution of the elements present in their soluble forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to analyze and report what is a sporotrichosis and how it makes the domestic animals, to present what are the symptoms, their diagnosis, the forms of prevention and the treatments for a disease, emphasizing their action in the felines, seen which are the animals that most affect the disease. Caused by the fungus Sporotrix Schenkii, it has been more frequently in cats due to various routine habits that make them more vulnerable and prone to contraction. It is a tropical area fun, being able to accompany the different events and humid, considered a risk factor, that is, it can accompany the different species of animals as humans, having as main intermediates the contraction of sporotrichosis and can be acquired. through openings in the skin, scratches, bruises or direct contact with areas contaminated by the fungus. The study was based on scientific articles, which reported an action of the disease on animals in Brazil. Studying is also the sex most often followed, as are the possible forms of diagnosis, symptoms and treatments for the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental problems in graveyard areas are a major issue in contemporary society. Usually located in areas of low economic value and with no previous environmental statute, this activity may result in serious public health complications, mostly related to poisoning of the soil and groundwater bodies. In this regard, the present study conducted a survey of the existing graves in the municipal graveyard of Frederico Westphalen - RS, located in the northwest portion of the Rio Grande do Sul state. This survey ocurred through in loco data collection of the following information: Number, tipe (mausoleum, direct contact with the soil or above the soil), and state of conservation. The preliminary results point to a graveyard area of approximately 4.11 hectares, 2.377 graves, being 991 mausoleums, 1.115 above-ground graves and 271 with direct contact with the soil. Of those three, the one in wich the casket has direct contact with the soil poses a greater threat of poisoning, because of the leaking of necrochorume to the external medium. It is then concluded that the graveyard in general presents some graves where there is direct contact of the body with the soil, but it is important to note that this is in the older area, and this kind of burial is not done anymore. In this sense, is recomended the adoption of the criteria listed in the Resolution of the National Environment Council n° 335/2003" wich dispose on the procedures to the environmental licensing of graveyards, which involves hydrogeological studies of the medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to identify the main causes of total condemnation of poultry carcasses, under Federal Inspection in the Brazilian states from 2013 to 2017 and to estimate the economic loss on these condemnations. The Brazilian poultry industry is an international highlight, being the largest exporter and the second-largest producer of chicken meat in the world. In the poultry meat production process, the adopted mechanism to ensure food safety is inspection in industry. If the carcasses showed some kind of health problem order, rendering it unfit for human consumption, they may be totally or partially condemned. The main causes identified of total condemnations were Repugnant Aspect, Contamination, Colibacillosis, and Cachexia. The estimated economic loss for the period in Brazil was US$ 175.56 million. Actions that aim the biosafety at farm, sanitary management protocols and constant training to employees in the industry can contribute to minimizing these productive losses at slaughter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The healthy eating is important for the human being to keep in a balance body, who needs daily nutrients for the supplements of the daily activities routines. Among the diets components are included the green vegetables which are potential nutritional sources due to their constitution. To every the face of which is exposed, it aimed with the very present study the objective was to identify the parasitic structures found in the leafy green vegetables stemed from supermarket, "sacolão" market place, agroecological fair, fair free market and marketed in Montes Claros (MG). Thirty samples of lettuce, arugula and green onions (leafy green vegetables) were analyzed, constituting a completely randomized design with two replications, with distributed amounts in a 5 x 3 factorial arrangement (5 collection sites x 3 green vegetables). After the collection of the green vegetables, they were carried to the parasitology laboratory and analyzed according to the spontaneous sedimentation method. Greater parasitic contamination of Strongyloides stercoralis was found in the arugula collected at the agroecological fair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the demographic expansion, the demand in the food production and intense use of pesticides was increased, aiming the high index of production. The exposure of humans to pesticides is a serious public health problem, and there seems insoluble. The objective of this review was to address the impacts caused to the environment and to human health, due to the use of pesticides. A bibliographic review was carried out, with a survey of scientific articles on the use of pesticides in Brazil, from 1997 to 2018, using descriptors such as pesticides, human health, Brazil and contamination. Several pathologies and changes in the human organism were found due to the exposure to pesticides. Rural workers must use basic protection against exposure to pesticides, and the aerial spraying technique must be carried out and programmed correctly, so that the phenomenon of drift is minimized, reducing human and environmental contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was mainly focused on performing analysis of arsenic in stream sediments, soils and rocks in an area at the confluence of Piranhas and Seridó Rivers in Rio Grande do Norte state, northeast of Brazil. The methodology of collecting and preparing samples for analysis followed international standards of quality (QA / QC) and was carried out in conjunction with the Canadian Company Eldorado Gold Corp., through its Brazilian subsidiaries. Arsenic is present in concentrations above reference values in an area that is located upstream of the Oiticica Dam, which is under construction and has a storage capacity of 556 x 106/m³, and will supply a large portion of the population from the State semiarid region where live more than one hundred thousand people, considering only municipalities directly affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Minas Frescal cheese, which is obtained through milk coagulation, is widely consumed in Brazil, and presents a high moisture content, being a great way for microbial growth. That's why, for its production, it's necessary raw milk's pasteurization, besides good manufacturing techniques and practices following sanitary standards, thus avoiding serious contaminations caused by foodborne illness. Objective: the present study had as objective to evaluate the microbiologic quality of 3 Minas Frescal cheese samples coming from different manufacturing processes. Materials and methods: the microorganisms searched were total and thermotolerants coliforms, S. aureus and Salmonella spp. The origins of the samples were: industry, butchery and homemade/craft production. Results: from the 3 analyzed samples, the results were: the craft production and butchery ones presented above the allowed growth of total and thermotolerants coliforms; the 3 samples showed uncountable atypical colonies growth in the analysis of S. aureus preventing the count of the microorganisms in question; and none of them presented Salmonella spp's growth. Conclusion: thus, considering microbiologic quality, it was possible to conclude that only the industrialized Minas Frescal chesse is within standards given by ANVISA, while the other samples presented unsatisfactory results, which can harm the consumer's health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several species of parasites can be found in fish, both in natura and processed, which constitutes a potential risk to public health. The habit of consuming uncooked foods, is growing among populations, which may be associated with the possibility of a higher incidence of parasitic contamination and consumer exposure. In addition, the diseases that were not part of the daily life of several countries, have been introduced by the importation of species of non native fish. While many infections are endemic and tend to cause symptoms like moderate abdominal pain, some cases can be fatal in the absence of proper medical intervention. In addition, they are indicative of poor quality of the fish farming environment and the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the raw material. Infections with these parasites can be prevented by both captive / pisciculture care during capture in certified (estuarine) waters of free-living and controlled fish (tanks / cages), as well as proper cooking time and temperature). The present work investigated the literature on parasitic contamination in fish of international cuisine, its characteristics, diseases, levels of contamination, as well as procedures for prevention / control and decontamination, using mild methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Among the meat retailers, the free trade shows are an important means of commercializing this product. In this method of trade meat products are exposed to unfavorable environmental conditions and contrary to legislation. Objective: This study goal was to evaluate the hygienic sanitary conditions in which pig meat is marketed in Goiânia open fairs. Materials and Methods: A total of 71 fairs were visited, in which 45 had one or more stands, totaling 50 stands temperatures analyzed and collected. Only 3 fairs were not found, and 23 didn't encompassed swine huts. Results: A total of 284 compliant items and 716 in noncompliance were found. The average temperatures of pork meat marketed configured in 14.24° C to 23.2° C and chilled in which remained at room temperature. Regarding the stand's infrastructure, 48 (96%) presented poor hygienic conditions in utensils, and 50 (100%) contained no trash cans or a hand basin. It was noted that 47 (94%) had direct contact with cash on manipulation. In 50 (100%) stands, boning was carried out at the sale place, and 45 (90%) were left to be desired in the face contamination and 44 (88%) in the uniform cleaning. Conclusion: The deficiency in the supervision process is characterized by these professionals training lack, denoting guidelines under the risks in which they expose the consumers to the DTA's risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to analyze and determine the economic loss of the main causes of total condemnation of bovine carcasses in slaughterhouses under SIF inspection for the state of Mato Grosso from 2007 to 2017. Among the brazilian federative units, stands out the state of Mato Grosso which slaughtered 48,16 million cattle in the period from 2007 to 2017, corresponds to 18,75% of the national total. The economic loss was determined by multiplying the number of carcasses condemned totally by the average beef yield per carcass (which was 16 arrobas) by the arroba average annual price of beef meat. The main cause of the cases of condemnation total was the contamination and the economic loss was R$ 403,49 million. The factors that are associated with the occurrence of total condemnations of bovine carcasses by contamination are inadequate animal fasting time during the pre-slaughter stage, inadequate animal and carcass washing, and operations failures bleeding, skinning, and evisceration of the carcass. Finally, the other causes were emphysema (R$ 123,90 million), anemic infarction (R$104,98 million), food aspiration (R$88,04 million) and urinary cyst (R$ 72,03 million). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the dissemination of Salmonella in small-scale traditional salami production. Six different points of salami processing plant were selected and 20 samples of differents batchs were collected for the microbiological analyzes, totaling 120 samples. All samples were submitted to coliforms 35°C and 45°C counts by MPN and Salmonella detection, except for condiments, where only the presence of the pathogen was investigated. In addition, in the samples collected after smoking the pH was measured. During the salami production, the coliform counts decreased and Salmonella was isolated at all points in the flow chart with the exception of the carcass. The point where there was the high contamination was after healing (35%). Samples of condiments and salami after inlay presented 20% positivity and ground meat and final product presented 10% and 5%, respectively. It was verified that there was the dissemination of the pathogen during the production of salami and this fact occurred mainly due to failures in the food processing besides inadequate procedures of hygiene used during the production operations, being this fundamental step to obtain foods with microbiological quality and which do not pose risks of pathogen transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological quality of minced beef sold in supermarkets of the Federal District considering the importance of commercialization of this product and its susceptibility to microbiological contamination. For analyzes fifteen samples of minced beef, packed in polystyrene trays, within the valid period and exposed to consumption in the refrigerated counters were collected from different supermarkets. The analyzes carried out were: total counting of mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria, determination of total and thermotolerant coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus count, search for Salmonella spp. and molecular identification of Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella spp. using the PCR technique. The results showed that four minced beef samples (27%) were contaminated with Salmonella spp. (genetically confirmed) and were unfit for consumption in accordance with Brazilian legislation. It was also verified that thirteen samples (87%) showed unsatisfactory hygienic conditions due to the presence of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Among these thirteen samples, five samples (33%) had elevated Staphylococcus aureus counts (above 1.0 x 10³ CFU / g). The presence of Salmonella and high counts of Staphylococcus aureus in eight of the fifteen analyzed samples (53%) are indicators of poor hygiene of processing and storage of these minced beef, which in this way, may be a hazard to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present work was to determine the mobility of flumioxazin in Argisol, as a function of two pluviometric indices, as well as possible influences of the chemical and physical properties, on the action of the herbicide. 32 PVC tubes were used (10 cm in diameter by 50 cm in height). These containers were completely filled with the Argisol collected in the arable layer of an area where there was no herbicide application. Once the flumioxazin (50 g i.a. in 200 L/ha) was applied, the treatments were applied. Then, rainfall of 10 mm per day was simulated to reach the desired levels of rainfall (40 and 80 mm), so that the tubes were dismantled and 5 sorghum seeds (Sorghum bicolor) were seeded each depth (2.5; 5; 10; 15 and 30 cm) in the profile of the tubes. These were maintained for 15 days under field conditions to carry out the initial evaluation. Height, dry matter, and phytointoxication were evaluated to analyze possible changes that could be characterized as herbicide effects. Under experimental conditions, flumioxazin was sparingly mobile, remaining in the superficial layer (2.5 cm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological profile and hygienic-sanitary quality of eggs marketed in open markets and markets and to verify if there is a correlation between the microbiological findings and the commercialization conditions. A total of 36 samples were collected in six municipalities in the Recôncavo da Bahia. Hygienic-sanitary conditions were analyzed by means of a checklist. Quantification of total coliforms and Escherichia coli, mesophiles, psychrotrophs, molds and yeasts and analysis of the presence of Salmonella sp. In the observational analysis, it was verified that 91.67% and 68.53% of the samples of free markets and markets, respectively, did not comply with the parameters required by the legislation. Regarding the microbiological profile, there was no significant difference between free markets and markets, but it was found that some samples had high rates of microorganisms indicating inadequate hygienic conditions and fecal contamination. The analysis of Salmonella sp. detected only one sample outside current standards. A correlation was observed between the counts of microorganisms and the variables of the checklist "External soils", "External stains" and "Near other products", indicating higher concentrations of total coliforms and Escherichia coli in the samples that showed nonconformity. We conclude that only one sample was outside the parameters of the legislation. Although there is no limit for the counting of molds and yeasts, the presence of fungi internally or externally is considered improper for consumption, according to Ordinance No. 01/1990. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recreational environments such as squares and public parks the use of sand is very common, depending on the sanitary conditions of this sand is common to find fungi, parasites and other microorganisms that can pose health risks. In this context, the objective of this work is to perform parasitological and microbiological qualitative analysis of sand samples from the square and recreational park in the interior of the state of Rondônia, thus verifying the high risk of contamination that this place gives to the people who attend them. Among the selection criteria of the sites, were chosen those that there are flow of people and animals. For the parasitological analysis the method of Hoffman, Pons and Janer (Spontaneous Sedimentation) was used and for the analysis of bacteria and fungi we used the plating method. A total of 16 samples were collected, being collected in dry and rainy periods. For the collection was used sterile plastic collectors. From the parasitological analysis, the parasite that presented the highest prevalence was Balantidium coli. In the microbiological analyzes there was growth and isolation of some colonies and the ones with the highest prevalence were Aspergillus sp., Cryptococcus neoformans and Rhizopus sp. The bacteria identified were Pseudomonas sp. and Proteus sp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water is a natural resource indispensable to life, has enormous economic, environmental and social value, and it is fundamental to the survival of humans and ecosystems on our planet. Surface water must meet standards of quality and drinkability, and its physical, chemical and biological characteristics should meet the standards recommended by the World Health Organization. The present study aimed to evaluate the physical-chemical and biological properties of surface water of three water bodies in the Municipality of Teixeira de Freitas, Bahia. The following parameters were evaluated: BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand), Total Phosphorus, Total Nitrogen, Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Total Solids, Turbidity and Thermotolerant Coliforms. The evaluation showed that all of the three water bodies are contaminated and in disagreement with the limits established in CONAMA Resolution No. 357/05 for Class 2 freshwater. In addition, one of the three water bodies showed signs of eutrophication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research paper was to evaluate the process of managing infected solid waste in hospital unit in region of Fernandópolis - SP. The segregation assessment was held at the disposal of wastes contaminated, initially proceeded weighing of all infectious waste produced each week, and from the obtained data was calculated the amount corresponding to 1% of the same amount that was used in the research. The residue was evaluated for its composition, for this purpose were determined two groups: infectious and non-infectious and into last group separated in recyclable (plastic, paper, plastic and paper packaging), and non-recyclable: (common waste, chemicals and sharp piercing). After separation, the materials were weighed and calculating the residue mass deposed in an improperly manner, and the cost generated by the final deposition. Microbiological analysis was performed to assess contamination with pathogens. It has been found that were generated within ten weeks 8387.17 kg of infectious solid waste, and 1765.22 kg corresponded to the common waste, despised jointly, which prevented the reverse logistics and generated a monthly additional cost of R$ 2330.10 and annual of R$ 27,961.20. The residue showed contamination by Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Candida albicans, Proteus vulgaris, P. mirabilis, Salmonella, Aspergillus niger, Candida spp, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton mentagrophyes. The presence of these pathogens reinforces the impossibility of recycling materials and the presence of risk to human and animal health and the impact on the quality of the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The buffalo milk mozzarella cheese is a new product in the market, with high consumer acceptance and excellent prospects for trade. The cheese is rich in nutrients, which favors the proliferation of microorganisms that can cause food-borne diseases in the consumer. Staphylococcus aureus can cause gastro-enteritis in humans by the production of enterotoxins in food. One problem that may hinder the elimination of undesirable microorganisms in the food industry is the formation of biofilms. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus isolated from buffalo mozzarella cheese on sensitivity to sanitizers. Materials, Methods & Results: Fifty samples of buffalo mozzarella cheese were analyzed to investigate the presence of S. aureus. The isolates were obtained through microbiological analysis and identified by PCR. The similarity of the strains was compared through rep-PCR. The distinct strains were tested for biofilm formation in microtiter plates. Soy Tripticase Broth (TSB) was placed in each well of the microtiter plate and overnight cultures of each strain was added. Wells without bacterial culture were used as controls. A villous cap was then placed on the plate and incubated for 48 h at 37°C. During incubation, the biofilms formed on the surface of the villi of the caps. For quantification of biofilm formation, material that remained attached to the cap was stained with crystal violet, the stained biofilm was extracted and the OD570 of each well was measured. Each strain was classified as non-biofilm forming, weak forming, moderately formed or formative strong. Strong forming and non-biofilm forming strains were tested on high density polyethylene, stainless steel and glass surfaces. Plates of 4 cm² of the different materials were placed in TSB where the culture of each isolate was inoculated separately. At each 48 h incubation the plates were washed to remove unbound cells and re-inserted into TSB without the inoculum. After five replicates of the procedure, sterile swabs were passed over the entire surface of each plate for counting in Baird-Parker agar. They were also tested for sensitivity to sodium hypochlorite and iodine after biofilm formation. The biofilm plates were immersed in flasks containing sanitizers, where they remained for 10 min. At the established contact time, the plates were immersed in neutralizing solution for 30 s. After washing with PBS, a sterile swab was passed on the surface of each plate and counts on Baird-Parker agar were performed. The bands profiles obtained on rep-PCR were identical when compared to isolates from the same sample, indicating that each sample was contaminated with only one S. aureus strain. From the twenty S. aureus strain identified, two isolates were classified as strong biofilm formers, seven as moderate formers, ten weak formers and one as non-biofilm builder. The two strong forming strains produced biofilm on the three surfaces tested. The application of sodium hypochlorite and iodine sanitizers promoted a reduction of approximately 2 log bacterial populations on all surfaces of both the biofilm and non-forming strains. Discussion: Most strains of S. aureus isolated from buffalo milk mozzarella cheese have the ability to form biofilm on the surfaces of equipment and utensils that have stainless steel, glass or high density polyethylene components. Although biofilm forming strains are no longer resistant to sanitizers sodium hypochlorite and iodine than non-forming sanitizers, they reach higher concentrations in the biofilm, resulting in larger bacterial populations remaining after application of the sanitizers. These results support the recommendation that the good hygienic practices adopted by industries processing buffalo milk mozzarella cheese should include specific measures to control the Staphylococcus aureus contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inadequate soil classification may result in an inadequate disposal of soil, with financial and environmental impacts. Thus, the objective of this work was to demonstrate, through a case study, the inadequacy of the use of technical standard NBR 10.004, designed for the classification of industrial waste, when used to characterize and classify excavated soils with contamination potential. For that, a comparative evaluation of the analytical results, obtained by means of the leaching and solubilization tests, of four soil samples was carried out. According to the results obtained, the soils characterized were classified as Class II A - not inert, instead of inert IIB. The results show that it is imperative to readjust or a new method of soil classification, whenever this material needs to be evaluated according to the presence of potential contamination, able to guide its adequate final disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toothbrushes are daily contaminated by bacteria in the oral cavity or outside, therefore they are considered containers for microorganisms, capable of causing and transmitting diseases. The current work aimed to evaluate the knowledge and practices regarding hygiene and storage of toothbrushes, in order to compare actions executed by different groups, and identify the lack of adequate information when facing the subject. Data were collected through a questionnaire, in which three experimental groups were evaluated: 1- patients (n=50) treated at Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), 2- Dental students (n=50) from Centro Universitário Doutor Leão Sampaio and 3- Dental clinicians (n=50) from Juazeiro do Norte. A descriptive analysis of frequency distribution was performed, and One Way Anova and Bonfrerroni Post Hoc tests were performed, at a significance level of 5%. In the current research, it was found that the group of Dentists has a greater knowledge and practice better actions regarding the toothbrushes sanitation, higher than that of the group of Students, which was better that that of the group of Patients. However, regarding storage, the groups demonstrated to have not enough information regarding the adequate place and the ideal manner of storing their toothbrushes. It was concluded that, the group of Dentists performs the most part of recommended maneuvers regarding the care for toothbrushes hygiene compared to the other evaluated groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acai is considered a very nutritious food and currently has been widely consumed in the form of "acai in the bowl". The aim of this work was to evaluate the microbiological quality "acai in the bowl" preparation provided in a city of West Sao Paulo. It was collected 20 samples of acai in the bowl from various establishments and then it was performed the microbiological analysis according to RDC 12 de 2001. The results of this study showed that about 35% of the samples were considered unsuitable for molds and yeasts analyses. Approximately 7 samples presented minimum values allowed for the presence of total coliforms. Moreover, none of the samples were positive for Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli and thermotolerant coliforms. We emphasize the importance of investigating and assessing the conditions found in the food ready for consumption because failures in sanitary conditions may pose a potential health risk to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies evaluating the natural vulnerability of aquifers have relevant importance for the knowledge of subject environmental contamination areas. The correct application in vulnerability maps needs constant studies, aiming the improvement of the analyzes and the development of representative maps of the studied areas. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of different models for the interpolation of environmental indicators of aquifer vulnerability using the kriging technique. The study was carried out in the Santa Maria River Basin by analyzing the hydrogeological aspects of 255 tube wells, located in six municipalities in the southwest of the State of Rio Grande do Sul. The data indicated that the high vulnerability class prevailed in 47,45% of the evaluated wells, followed by the medium vulnerability class corresponding to 23,14%; the low vulnerability represented 14,50%, the extreme vulnerability class corresponded to 7,85% and insignificant indicated 7,05%. The spherical, exponential, gaussian and linear models were used to interpolate the data, to define the best fit from the application of the semivariogram function. The adjustments were evaluated through the least squares method, which evidenced the best approach from the spherical model among the tested models. The spatial distribution of vulnerability demonstrated the predominance of high vulnerability in the southern portion of the municipality of Santana do Livramento, central portion of Rosário do Sul, north and northeast of São Gabriel and center of Lavras do Sul. In some areas of the basin, in municipalities of Santana do Livramento and Lavras do Sul was found the class of extreme vulnerability aquifer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]