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The Flint Farmers' Market, which dates back to the early 1900s, is a popular community spot in downtown Flint. In the most recent Community Health Needs Assessment for Flint and surrounding Genesee County, from 2022, 45 percent of respondents to the assessment's resident survey indicated that they were dealing with stress, and 33 percent said they had mental health problems such as depression or anxiety. Features On a Saturday in May in Flint, Mich., residents took seats in one of three rings of chairs at a local food bank. Depression among Flint residents versus others Lingering effects More than 20 percent of nearly 2,000 adult Flint residents surveyed about five years after the water crisis began met the criteria for past-year depression. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the impact of parasites on goats, noting that they cause significant health issues such as anemia, poor growth, and reduced milk production, particularly when they infest the gastrointestinal tract. It also discusses methods to manage parasite problems, including proper feed and pasture management, avoiding overcrowding, using deworming medications wisely, and ensuring adequate nutrition for the animals.

A recent study conducted at Colorado State University focused on assessing human-source microbial contamination of stormwater in the U.S. The research highlighted the potential risks associated with stormwater runoff becoming contaminated with human fecal matter, emphasizing the importance of accurate estimation of human fecal contamination to guide the selection of stormwater treatment processes. The study recommended the use of human microbial source tracking markers to inform the selection of pathogen log reduction targets for stormwater treatment, aiming to protect public health based on the intended end use. This peer-reviewed research provides valuable insights into addressing microbial contamination in stormwater to ensure safe water management practices. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Indonesia conducted a study on the relationship between water quality and child diarrhea in Kelapa and Kelapa Dua Islands, Kepulauan Seribu. The study found that while the physical quality of water met health standards, there was significant microbiological contamination, particularly with Coliform Bacteria and Escherichia coli. The research highlights the need for improved water quality monitoring and environmental quality improvements in island regions to reduce public health impacts, especially on children under five. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Indira Gandhi National Open University conducted a study on the prevalence of multidrug-resistant enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) in the river Gomti at Jaunpur city, India. The study found that EPEC strains in the river exhibited virulent genes and were resistant to multiple classes of drugs, with the highest resistance observed against tetracycline. The research highlighted the need for proper management to address the large-scale fecal contamination of water in the area, likely caused by nearby animals or anthropogenic activities. The findings suggest a significant public health concern related to water quality in the region. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Devices, Systems, Kits, And Methods For On-Farm Detection Of Contamination" has been published online, focusing on the detection of foodborne pathogens on fresh produce. The inventors aim to create user-friendly tools for rapid, on-farm detection of contamination, addressing the limitations of current laboratory-based methods. The application describes drop dispensers and paper-based pads for isothermal amplification assays to detect genetic targets associated with contamination, providing a potential solution for field testing in the fresh produce industry. [Extracted from the article]

A recent survey conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Morning Consult found that over 60% of U.S. adults trust that store-bought turkey is free of contaminants, despite research showing fecal bacteria in ground turkey. Consumer Reports discovered that more than half of store-bought ground turkey packages tested positive for fecal contamination. The Physicians Committee recommends a plant-based Thanksgiving to avoid potentially contaminated turkey, cholesterol, and saturated fat, offering healthful recipes on their website. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers have submitted a patent application for a "Substantially Rigid and Stable Endoluminal Surgical Suite for Treating a Gastrointestinal Lesion" to address deficiencies in current endoscopic technologies for treating gastrointestinal conditions. The device aims to provide advanced endoluminal functionalities replicating capabilities of a surgical suite, allowing for the treatment of gastrointestinal perforations, bleeding, and removal of large polyps. The system includes an endoscope receiving member with inflatable balloons to form a chamber, elongated members for manipulation, and multiple lumens for instruments. The patent application was filed by inventors from various locations and assigned to Boston Scientific Scimed Inc. [Extracted from the article]

A pilot study in rural Bangladesh aimed to promote safe backyard poultry-raising practices to reduce exposure to poultry and poultry feces, which can lead to health risks, especially for children. The study involved a behavior change communication and counseling intervention, with some households receiving a subsidy for constructing a poultry shed. Results showed that households were more likely to confine poultry outside the house and maintain a feces-free living space after the intervention, with those receiving a subsidy showing higher compliance. Further research is needed to determine the impact of housing all poultry outside on reducing health risks associated with poultry ownership. [Extracted from the article]

Nestle SA has adjusted its profitability target and plans to make its water operations a separate business under new CEO Laurent Freixe. The company aims for a 17% trading operating margin, lower than the previous goal, and expects sales to increase by 4% in the medium term. Nestle will cut costs by 2.5 billion Swiss francs by 2027 while increasing advertising and marketing spending to strengthen its brands. The CEO's strategy includes separating water brands, such as Maison Perrier and Acqua Panna, into a standalone business to address recent challenges in the mineral waters sector. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Cincinnati, Ohio, focused on quantifying fecal sources in urban stormwater discharges. The research found that human, pet, and urban wildlife all contribute to water quality in storm outfall discharge, with varying pollutant sources based on weather conditions and land use. The study suggests that genetic-based fecal source identification methods combined with GIS land use mapping can enhance stormwater management in urban areas. The research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into improving water quality in urban environments. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses key points to maximize poultry processing productivity. It emphasizes the importance of properly performing specific operations pre-slaughter and at the plant to maintain or raise productivity. The article highlights the potential issues that can arise from improper feed withdrawal, such as suffocation or dehydration in birds. It also addresses challenges at the processing plant, including minimizing suffocation, reducing wing flapping, and ensuring careful handling during hanging and scalding. The article emphasizes the need for worker safety, proper clothing and footwear, and ergonomic adjustments to achieve high yields. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how community-university partnerships can improve deliberative and democratic practices in 2022. Topics covered include the collaboration's possible finding of common ground and solutions to complex problems, their formal occurrences with a clearly defined objective, and the typical negotiations of differences between persons of diverse backgrounds therein. Also noted are such partnerships' facilitation of training for future leaders and problem-solvers.

Researchers from the University of Cauca in Popayan, Colombia have conducted a study on the removal of Helicobacter pylori, a pathogen associated with fecal contamination, through a two-stage gravel filtration system. The study found that the system's efficiency in removing turbidity and color was 16% and 19% for the dynamic gravel filters (DyGF) and 34% and 30% for the up-flow gravel filters (UGF), respectively. However, the system's operation and maintenance limited the reduction of total coliforms, and the presence of H. pylori was higher in treated water than in raw water. The researchers concluded that the implementation of the gravel filtration system without the complement of slow sand filters (SSFs) is not reliable for ensuring water quality and H. pylori control. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers have submitted a patent application for a "Micro Super Critical Water Oxidation Solids Treatment System" that aims to address the lack of safe and affordable sanitation systems for the estimated 4.5 billion people worldwide who do not have access to them. The system includes an injector vessel, a reactor, a combined concentrator and phase separator, and a drying tunnel. The reactor heats a slurry batch to a temperature above the critical point of water, and the combined concentrator and phase separator separates solid ash volume from liquid and gaseous effluent. The system offers a process for treating human waste. [Extracted from the article]

Indian bonds have been added to the FTSE Russell emerging-market bond index, which has boosted sentiment in the market. The Bharatiya Janata Party's unexpected win in the Haryana polls has also contributed to the positive mood. However, the auto sector is facing challenges, with slowing sales and high inventory levels. Additionally, there are concerns about foreign fund selling and high valuations, as well as expectations of declining quarterly earnings. Indian funds have been buying shares to offset foreign investors' sales. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Buffer Tank Separation And Homogenization System" has been published online. The inventors of the system are CADUFF, Marco; FARRER, Christoph; FISCHER, Florian; FORRER, Christian; FRASSON, Valdinei; GEMPERLI, Adrian; GLATTHARD, Janine; HASLER, David; LEHMANN, Roland; RUDISULI, Daniel; SCHLAURI, Mathias; SEILER, Christian; STAUB, Andreas; and YEE, Shannon. The system is designed to separate human waste into solids and liquids using a buffer tank separation system, which includes a belt separator and a homogenizer. The purpose of this system is to provide non-sewered sanitation systems for areas where traditional sanitary sewer systems are not available or practical. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Reims in France have conducted a study using the freshwater mussel Dreissena polymorpha to monitor viral contamination of fecal origin in various water bodies. The study found that D. polymorpha was able to detect a wide range of viral concentrations, making it a useful tool for monitoring both low and highly contaminated sites. The researchers also observed spatial and temporal variations in viral contamination and identified different genogroups of viral contaminants in urban and rural areas. This study suggests that using D. polymorpha as a sentinel species in combination with standardized analysis methods can effectively characterize viral contamination at different scales. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to Boston Scientific Scimed Inc. for a substantially rigid and stable endoluminal surgical suite for treating gastrointestinal lesions. The invention aims to address deficiencies in current endoscopic technologies by providing a device and method for treating colon perforations, large polyps, tumors, and colon bleeding effectively and safely. The device functions as a miniature operating room inside the colon, providing advanced endoluminal functionalities and the ability to utilize articulating surgical instruments. The patent describes the system's components, including an endoscope receiving member, balloon guide catheter, and expandable chamber. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in rural eastern Ethiopian households as part of the EXCAM project aimed to assess fecal contamination using Escherichia coli as an indicator. A total of 1,310 samples were collected from 76 households, including hand rinses, drinking and bathing water, food, breast milk, and soil. The study found that E. coli was commonly present in the households, with higher concentrations found in soil and on hands, while lower concentrations were found in food, breast milk, and areolas. The study suggests that mothers, specifically their hands and areolas, may play a significant role in the transmission of fecal contaminants to infants in rural Ethiopian households. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from researchers at the University of Tras-os-Montes and Alto Douro in Portugal highlights the potential risk to public health posed by multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria found in freshwater bivalves. The study examined samples collected from the Tua River in Northern Portugal and found that 60% of the E. coli isolates were characterized as multidrug-resistant, including resistance to carbapenems, which are considered a last resort against such bacteria. The research emphasizes the importance of a "One Health" approach to combat antimicrobial resistance and calls for active surveillance to protect human, animal, and environmental health against the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in aquatic environments. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research conducted at Purdue University on the development of a portable, paper-based biosensor for detecting fecal contamination on fresh produce farms. The biosensor utilizes a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) testing platform and provides sensitive results within an hour of sample collection. The researchers evaluated the platform on a commercial lettuce farm and found it to have a concordance of 100% when compared to lab-based tests. This innovation has the potential to improve food safety and technology in the fresh produce industry. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a study on the physiological responses of European sardines to trace element contamination in the Mediterranean Sea. The study found evidence of multiple elements accumulating in sardines, with a contamination gradient within the Gulf of Lions. While macro-physiological parameters were not affected, pathways related to cellular organization, stress response, immune system, lipid homeostasis, and oxidative stress were upregulated in the liver. The study highlights the need for future research to examine the combined effects of multiple stressors, including large-scale contamination. [Extracted from the article]

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The article focuses on using microbial source tracking (MST) to identify fecal contamination sources in South Oyster Bay on Long Island, New York. The topics covered include the use of MST techniques to determine the sources of contamination; the presence of fecal coliform bacteria in different samples; and also mentions about the classification of source sites based on fecal coliform concentrations.

Alley Creek, a tributary to Little Neck Bay in Queens County, New York, has been designated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as impaired (Class I) for fecal coliform because of pollution from combined sewer overflow, including stormwater runoff. The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, conducted a 1-year study from August 2020 to June 2021 using microbial source tracking (MST) methods to assess potential host sources of fecal contamination (for example, human, canine, and waterfowl) from the following: three outfall sites, TI-025, TI-008, and TI-024; an artesian well (Q277) adjacent to Alley Creek; and natural waters within the Alley Creek watershed and Little Neck Bay. In addition to analyzing for MST markers, field measurements such as water temperature and specific conductance, samples for total suspended solids, and fecal indicator bacteria (FIB; enterococci and fecal coliform) were collected. Pharmaceutical compounds were also collected for analysis, and the results of sampling were compared spatially and temporally to help support management decisions related to mitigation of fecal sources to Alley Creek. Factors that could affect concentrations, including tidal conditions, seasonality, and weather conditions, also were assessed. A sediment resuspension laboratory experiment was designed to replicate tidal activity in Alley Creek using sediment collected in the sewers and on the shoreline, as well as water collected from Oakland Lake. These sediment samples were assessed to understand the relation between sediment resuspension and FIB in the water column. The human MST markers used for this study, Bacteroides HF183/BacR287, and crAssphage CPQ_056 and CPQ_064, were detected in most samples (27 of 28) collected at the three outfall sites along Alley Creek, whereas the canine marker BacCan was less prevalent (20 of 28 samples) but exhibited a pattern of relative concentrations similar to the human markers. The waterfowl MST GFD marker was detected in 7 of 28 samples collected at the three outfall sites. Human MST markers were not detected at Oakland Lake (which drains through a combined sewer line to Alley Creek at TI-008), indicating minimal or nonexistent influence of sewage contamination in the lake. Groundwater samples collected from Q277 did not contain any MST markers, and concentrations of fecal coliform were less than 10 colony forming units per 100 milliliters. Although FIB did not correlate well with total suspended solids for individual sample sets, samples collected following precipitation and high-turbidity events were typically found to have higher concentrations of FIB than dry-weather samples. Results from the pharmaceutical compounds analysis provided additional evidence for determining known and suspected human sources when coupled with MST markers. Together, the MST, pharmaceutical, and FIB data generated by this study, along with supplementary data such as locations of point sources, locations of wildlife populations, and tidal exchange data, may provide reliable information on source identification and transport mechanisms of fecal contamination to Alley Creek. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The U.S. Geological Survey worked collaboratively with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to assess the potential sources of fecal contamination entering seven estuarine embayments across Long Island, New York, from June 2018 to July 2019. Water samples are routinely collected by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation in Long Island embayments and analyzed for fecal coliform bacteria, an indicator of fecal contamination, to determine the closure of shellfish beds for harvest and consumption. Concentrations of fecal coliform signify the potential for pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria to be present. Indicator bacteria alone cannot determine the biological or geographical sources of contamination. Microbial source tracking (MST) is a method used to determine these sources of contamination. Microbial source tracking laboratory techniques can ascertain whether genetic material obtained from Bacteroides or Helicobacter bacteria in water or sediment is consistent with humans, canines (dogs), ruminants (deer, sheep), or waterfowl. Bacteroides and Helicobacter are genera of bacteria found in the gut of most warm-blooded animals. These techniques can also quantify the concentration of genetic markers found. Information such as the location, weather and season, surrounding land use, and additional water-quality data for the location where the sample was collected help determine the geographical source and conveyance of land-based water to the embayment. The presence of genetic material and fecal coliform in samples collected at the same time is important to show that the fecal coliform is likely from the host source detected. It is possible for waters with waste infiltration to have genetic material present but no fecal indicators, such as disinfected water from a sewage treatment plant or from groundwater that has passed through a sandy aquifer. Water samples were collected in the summer and winter seasons. In each of the two seasons, one sample was collected in dry weather and one, after a substantial rainfall. Groundwater and sediment samples were also collected throughout the study. Surface-water source sites sampled for Sag Harbor on Long Island, New York, include the Ligonee Brook Culvert, Otter Pond Culvert, Paynes Creek near Marjorie Lane, and Sag Harbor Sewage Treatment Plant Outfall sites. Human, canine, and waterfowl fecal contributions to Sag Harbor were detected across the landscape. Among the potential sources of fecal-contaminated water contributing to Sag Harbor--groundwater, pond and wetland drainage, stormwater (municipal separate storm sewer systems), marinas (boats), and the Sag Harbor sewage treatment plant--pond and wetland drainage and stormwater conveyances were the most likely transport mechanisms of fecal contamination into Sag Harbor. The most substantial source of fecal contamination to Sag Harbor was found to be discharge from sites draining ponds and wetlands, particularly during the summer months when waterfowl are more concentrated and tourism peaks. Fecal coliform contamination at these site types is increased by stormwater runoff, which is another substantial source. Sites with high fecal coliform bacteria concentrations in the summer that are exacerbated by stormwater include the Ligonee Brook Culvert and Otter Pond Culvert sites. Contributions of fecal contamination did not appear to be attributable to the Sag Harbor sewage treatment plant or to boats and marinas in Sag Harbor. Given the lack of humanassociated marker detections at source sites in Sag Harbor, the MST results indicated minimal influence from septic systems. Groundwater also showed minimal to no contributions to fecal coliform bacteria load into the harbor, which is consistent with results throughout Long Island. The sediment sampled at the Windmill Beach site did not contain fecal coliform bacteria and is unlikely to act as a source during resuspension events, such as an ebbing (outgoing) tide, storm-driven waves (particularly at low tide), and boat wakes. A classification scheme was developed that considered conditions such as high fecal coliform concentrations (particularly in dry weather samples) and contributions from human and canine waste based on detection of MST markers. The classes of sites were assessed to assist stakeholders and resource managers in prioritizing which source sites are consistently contributing fecal coliforms to Sag Harbor throughout the year. The Ligonee Brook Culvert site was determined to contribute substantial fecal contamination to Sag Harbor of the sites tested in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on using microbial source tracking to identify the sources of fecal contamination in Great South Bay on Long Island, New York. It further discusses that the study found that stormwater runoff and drainage from inland ponds and wetlands are the main sources of fecal contamination, with canine waste being the dominant contributor, while groundwater did not contribute significantly to fecal coliform loads.

The article focuses on using microbial source tracking to identify contamination sources in Port Jefferson Harbor, Setauket Harbor and Conscience Bay on Long Island, New York. The topics include the assessment of fecal contamination sources; the use of microbial source tracking techniques to determine the origins of contamination; and the identification of the main sources of fecal contamination in the Port Jefferson Harbor complex.

The U.S. Geological Survey worked in cooperation with the Concerned Citizens of Montauk and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to assess the potential sources of fecal contamination entering the Lake Montauk embayment as part of a study of seven estuarine embayments across Long Island, New York, from June 2018 to July 2019. Water samples are routinely collected by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation in Long Island embayments and analyzed for fecal coliform bacteria (FC), an indicator of fecal contamination, to determine the closure of shellfish beds for harvest and consumption. Concentrations of fecal coliform signify the potential for pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria to be present. Indicator bacteria alone cannot determine either the biological or geographical sources of contamination. Microbial source tracking (MST) is a method used to determine these sources of contamination. Microbial source tracking laboratory techniques can ascertain whether genetic material obtained from Bacteroides or Helicobacter bacteria in water or sediment is consistent with humans, canines (dogs), ruminants (deer, sheep), or waterfowl (water birds). Bacteroides and Helicobacter are genera of bacteria found in the gut of most warm-blooded animals. These techniques can also quantify the concentration of genetic markers found. Information such as sample location, weather and season, surrounding land use, and additional water-quality data for the location where the sample was collected help determine the geographical source and conveyance of land-based water to the embayment. The presence of genetic material and FC in samples collected at the same time is important to show that the fecal coliform is likely from the host source detected. It is possible for waters with waste infiltration to have genetic material present but no fecal indicators, such as disinfected water from a wastewater treatment plant or from groundwater that has passed through a sandy aquifer Water samples were collected in the summer and winter seasons. In each of the two seasons, one sample was collected in dry weather, and one, after substantial rainfall. Two groundwater samples and one sediment sample were also collected during this study. Surface-water source sites sampled for Lake Montauk include the Little Reed Pond Culvert, Little Reed Pond Outlet, South Beach, Stepping Stones Pond, and the Stepping Stones Pond Culvert sites. Human and waterfowl fecal contributions to Lake Montauk were detected across the landscape. Among the potential sources of fecal-contaminated water contributing to Lake Montauk--groundwater, pond drainage, stormwater runoff, and marinas (boats)--stormwater runoff and pond drainage were identified as the most likely transport mechanism of fecal contamination to Lake Montauk. Additionally, 15 of 16 samples collected throughout this study at receptor sites (the lake itself) had FC concentrations that were all at or below the FC reporting limit (less than 18 or 20 MPN/100 mL). The highest frequency of FC detections in source site samples was found to be under wet summer conditions at the South Beach, Stepping Stones Pond, and Stepping Stones Pond Culvert sites (300, 220, and more than 16,000 MPN/100 mL, respectively). Samples from receptor sites adjacent to marinas (Lake Montauk Inlet and Star Island North sites) had a higher frequency of human marker detections but were associated with FC concentrations at or below the reporting limit, indicating minimal human influence on FC loads from the sampled receptor sites to Lake Montauk during this study. The absence of FC and the human MST marker in all groundwater samples indicated limited transport of bacteria in the subsurface groundwater through the sandy aquifer material, which is consistent with results throughout Long Island. It is unlikely that water from septic systems influenced the lake given the available data. Although data for FC concentrations are unavailable for the sediment sample at the South Beach site, this sample was negative for all MST markers and is unlikely to contribute FC from the tested host organisms during resuspension events caused by tidal shifts or boat wakes Targeted sampling of the sediment and groundwater would be needed in and around Lake Montauk to fully determine the potential of fecal contamination from these sources. A classification scheme was developed that considered conditions such as high FC concentrations (particularly during dry weather samples) and contributions from human and canine waste based on detection of MST markers. The sites were assessed to assist stakeholders and resource managers in prioritizing which source sites are consistently contributing fecal coliforms to Lake Montauk throughout the year. The Little Reed Pond Culvert and South Beach sites were classified as locations most likely to contribute fecal contamination to Lake Montauk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on using microbial source tracking to identify the sources of fecal contamination in Patchogue and Bellport Bays on Long Island, New York. Topics include the potential sources of contamination; the use of genetic markers to determine contamination sources; and the findings of the study, which identified stormwater runoff and wetland drainage as the main transport mechanisms of fecal contamination in both bays.

This article discusses the potential effects of trace element contamination on the European sardine in the Mediterranean Sea. The study found evidence of multiple elements accumulating in sardines, with a contamination gradient within the Gulf of Lions. While macro-physiological parameters were not affected, pathways involved in cellular organization and response to stress were upregulated, particularly in the liver and muscle. The study also identified biomarkers of exposure and effects that may be important for monitoring sardine health. Further research is needed to understand the concomitant effects of multiple stressors, including large-scale contamination. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran discusses the findings of a study on Escherichia coli O157:H7, a pathogen that can contaminate drinking water and pose a significant public health risk. The study focused on the Gaza Strip, an area with limited access to clean water. Through a comprehensive Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment, the researchers estimated the annual infection risk and disease burden associated with O157:H7 in Gaza's drinking water. The study found that 6.9% of water samples tested positive for O157:H7, with infection risk and disease burden exceeding acceptable thresholds set by the World Health Organization. The researchers emphasize the need for proactive strategies to mitigate the public health risks associated with waterborne pathogens in Gaza. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses the prevalence of Cyclospora cayetanensis, a parasite that causes foodborne diseases, in agricultural environments in the southeastern United States. The study examined various sources such as wastewater sludge, portable toilets, irrigation pond water, and packing house dump tank water in a Georgia growing region over two years. The researchers found that while the parasite was detected in wastewater sludge samples, detections in pond and dump tank samples were likely false positives due to cross-reactions. The study suggests that additional sequence-based testing is needed to accurately interpret environmental data on Cyclospora. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Ibadan, Nigeria, evaluated the bacteriological quality of household water in the city. The study found that access to potable water is difficult for many residents, with none of the households using municipal tap water. The most common sources of water were wells and boreholes. The study revealed that nonpotable water samples were common, with detectable pathogens present. The researchers concluded that addressing the lack of access to potable water is crucial for preventing feco-orally transmitted infections. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Innovations for Poverty Action discusses the findings of a study on addressing fecal contamination in rural Kenyan households. The research suggests that combined water, sanitation, and handwashing interventions are more effective in reducing fecal contamination than single interventions alone. The study found that water treatment with chlorine improved water quality, but did not affect contamination levels on hands or toys. The research also found that household animal ownership, such as cattle and poultry, was protective against child stunting, and domesticated animal ownership was not associated with child diarrhea. The study concludes that household animal ownership does not need to be restricted to prevent child diarrheal disease or stunting, but calls for improved water, sanitation, and handwashing infrastructure to reduce household fecal contamination. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on how to check for unsafe levels of fecal contamination in beach water by recommending the Texas Beach Watch website, which provides weekly water-quality updates for various recreational beaches in Texas counties.

A new report discusses research findings on pediatrics, specifically focusing on a rare case of acute appendicitis induced by a parasitic infection called Balantidium coli. The report highlights that acute appendicitis caused by this parasite is uncommon, with only three documented cases globally. The case study presented involves a 7-year-old female patient who consumed pork daily and presented with abdominal pain and distension. The report emphasizes the importance of identifying parasites in pathological samples and suggests that the prevalence of parasitic infection and colonization by Balantidium coli may be higher than currently recognized, particularly in areas with close contact between humans and pigs. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at North Carolina State University has found that "sunny day flooding," which occurs during high tides, increases the levels of fecal bacteria in coastal waters. The study collected water samples over two summer months at three sites along a waterway in coastal North Carolina and found that floodwaters during high tides had relatively high levels of fecal bacteria. However, the elevated bacteria levels dissipated quickly and did not reach the same levels as stormwater runoff caused by rainfall. The researchers suggest that policymakers and public health officials should be aware of the potential risks associated with tidal flooding. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Cheongju, South Korea, explored the potential use of crAssphages as indicators of human fecal contamination in water and other environmental systems. The researchers found that crAssphages were prevalent in human fecal specimens, irrigation water samples, stream water samples, and fresh leafy greens samples. Interestingly, the concentrations of crAssphages were consistently higher than those of norovirus, and there was a significant correlation between the presence of crAssphage and norovirus in irrigation water samples. The study suggests that crAssphages could be reliable indicators for monitoring fecal-borne virus contamination in the food safety chain. [Extracted from the article]

A new study led by Prof. Dr. A. Murat Eren from the University of Oldenburg has identified a mysterious plasmid in the human gut that could potentially serve as a biomarker for identifying health hazards such as fecal contamination of water or Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Plasmids are small genetic elements that occur in bacterial cells and can influence microbial lifestyles. This particular plasmid, called pBI143, is present in the intestines of over 90% of individuals in industrialized countries. The researchers also found that the plasmid could be used as a biomarker for detecting fecal contamination in drinking water and as a non-invasive method to quantify the progress of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University have conducted a study on the genetic consequences of radiation exposure. They found that DNA damage caused by ionizing radiation can lead to various effects on the body, including the growth of altered cells and the development of malignant neoplasms. To study these genetic effects, the researchers used Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism and observed morphological changes in the wing, thorax, and antenna. They also discovered that alpha particles can cause the development of colored tumors, known as melanomas. This research provides valuable insights into the genotoxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic effects of radiation. [Extracted from the article]

Captive polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are well-documented as being prone to behavioural disorders and, as a result, their welfare is the cause of increasing concern. There is therefore a need for an evidence-based approach to the assessment of the welfare of this species and identification of valid welfare indicators is the first step towards achieving this. To this end, a critical evaluation of peer-reviewed literature was undertaken. Searches of Web of Science and Scopus took place in May 2020 for publications relevant to the welfare of captive polar bears which met inclusion criteria. Further, validity of extracted indicators was assessed via investigation of evidence of content, construct and criterion validity along with strength of evidence at publication-level. Database searches and snowballing unearthed 46 publications included for review. Identified indicators were sorted into nine behavioural, four physiological (based on physiological or biological sampling) and five physical (based on visual inspection) categories. Among behavioural indicators, the strongest evidence of validity was found for abnormal behaviour. For the physiological indicators, validity was only established for faecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentration. Content validity was assumed for all physical indicators. Generalisability and strength of evidence was generally compromised by low sample sizes and experimental limitations, and only a small number of papers investigated welfare indicators directly, resulting in a paucity of validated indicators. Potential welfare indicators that warrant further validation are highlighted. Overall, this review provides an overview of current valid and promising welfare indicators along with identified gaps in knowledge, relevant for the provision of a methodology for assessing and monitoring welfare of captive polar bears. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to determine the species of parasite that infected the population of Brussels during the Medieval and Renaissance periods, and determine if there was notable variation between different households within the city. We compared multiple sediment layers from cesspits beneath three different latrines dating from the 14th–17th centuries. Helminths and protozoa were detected using microscopy and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We identified Ascaris sp., Capillaria sp., Dicrocoelium dendriticum, Entamoeba histolytica, Fasciola hepatica, Giardia duodenalis, Taenia sp. and Trichuris sp. in Medieval samples, and continuing presence of Ascaris sp., D. dendriticum, F. hepatica, G. duodenalis and Trichuris sp. into the Renaissance. While some variation existed between households, there was a broadly consistent pattern with the domination of species spread by fecal contamination of food and drink (whipworm, roundworm and protozoa that cause dysentery). These data allow us to explore diet and hygiene, together with routes for the spread of fecal–oral parasites. Key factors explaining our findings are manuring practices with human excrement in market gardens, and flooding of the polluted River Senne during the 14th–17th centuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"I'm always really cautious when I start talking about citizen science as a thing", says Michael Pocock, an ecologist at the U.K. Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, co-chair of the British Ecological Society's Citizen Science Group and a board member of the U.S.-based Citizen Science Association. One of the most telling developments there - and an integral part of the citizen science story - is the growth of eBird and iNaturalist, the two largest biodiversity-focused, crowdsourced citizen science platforms. Mitchell and Ries have something else in common - both published important butterfly population studies in 2019 that showcased different types of large-scale citizen science data sets and demonstrated their value for analysis. Along with much of the global citizen science community, Ireland says he is excited by the promise of what's in store this April - when a wave of bioblitz-type events will be held as part of an even larger citizen science campaign coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the University of Ilorin in Nigeria assessed the quality of sachet water brands in the Ilorin metropolis for compliance with regulatory standards. The study found that while temperature and turbidity were within permissible limits, total hardness and pH increased during storage and exceeded standards in some samples. There were also variations in chlorides, nitrates, sulphates, and sodium contents, but all were within standards. However, all samples failed the zero-tolerance requirement for coliform, indicating possible fecal contamination and suggesting that some sachet water brands in Ilorin may be unfit for human consumption. The study highlights the need for regulatory agencies to intensify the certification process for sachet water factories and conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with standards. [Extracted from the article]