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Background: The Monkeypox virus (MPXV), a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, is responsible for the zoonotic disease known as MPX. Primarily found in western and central Africa, emerging studies indicate a shift in transmission dynamics. Ongoing MPX outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have escalated into significant public health concerns. Objectives: This review endeavors to provide a comprehensive analysis of the public health implications, clinical consequences, and preventive measures related to the current MPX outbreak in the DRC. It focuses on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and public health responses to this global health challenge. Methodology: The research synthesizes data regarding MPX outbreaks in the DRC, drawing from academic journals, public health reports, and case studies through a narrative review approach. Results: The recent outbreak in the DRC has identified approximately 12,569 suspected MPX cases, resulting in 581 fatalities, which corresponds to a case fatality rate (CFR) of 4.6%. These cases have been documented across 156 health sectors in 22 out of 26 provinces, representing the highest case count recorded to date. The epidemic has also encroached upon previously unaffected regions. Hospitalization rates have varied between 4% and 10%, with a significant percentage of cases attributed to sexual transmission. Analysis of demographic and geographic data revealed distinct patterns in viral spread. Clinical outcomes have varied, with an average CFR close to 10%, influenced by factors such as timely diagnosis and access to healthcare services. Rural areas have accounted for over 70% of the cases, highlighting the necessity for targeted public health interventions. Control measures have focused on community awareness campaigns and immunization programs, reaching approximately 50% of the at‐risk population; however, challenges related to resource limitations and political instability have impeded effective response strategies. Conclusion: The ongoing MPX outbreak in the DRC poses a substantial public health challenge. While progress has been made in managing the epidemic, it remains imperative to address resource deficiencies and enhance public health systems. Strengthening international collaboration, expanding healthcare access, and improving surveillance capabilities are critical to mitigating the risk of future outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper was assessment of bacterial contamination of fish from aquaculture sources and its public health implications in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state, Nigeria using appropriate standard procedures. .Colony enumeration of bacteria isolates from fish harvested in Abakaliki revealed a high Bacteria count of 6.5 x 10- 4cfu/g, and lowest of 1.9 x 10-4cfu/g, while 4.09 x 104 is the average mean. The isolates were identified and characterized using standard microbiological procedures. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent bacterium (26%), Vibro cholera (22%), Shigella (13%) while the least Salmonella has (9%). The Gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) were highly susceptible to ciprofloxacin (100 %) and ofloxacin (100 %) but highly resistant to ampicillin (100 %). Gram negative pathogens (Escherichia coli,Vibro cholera and Shigella species) were highly susceptible to perofloxacin (100 %) and Ofloxacin (100 %). It also showed high resistance to amoxicillin (100 %), chloramphenicol (100 %), gentamicin (100 %), nitrofurantoin (100 %). The high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in this study is a serious concern as the resistance patterns of E. coli, S. aureus, Salmonella species, Vibro cholerae and Shigella can have implications on human health, thereby suggesting that fish processors and vendors should improve handling hygiene and consumers should also handle fish properly in order to minimize possible health hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: As countries adapted their disaster responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic, South Africa responded with an alert‐level risk approach based on epidemiological principles that impacted all societal levels. We explored the everyday experiences of people in Cape Town whose basic needs were met and who could report on the realities of the COVID‐19 pandemic control. Gaining insight into their perspectives contributes to knowledge that can inform policies and practices for managing future public health crises. Methods: Community‐Based Participatory Research principles guided the design and a series of facilitated dialogues with 18 research participants. The thematic analysis was deepened through two colloquiums with members of an overarching research consortium and a participant reflection workshop. Findings: The pandemic impacted individuals, their interpersonal relationships, workplaces and communities, leading to societal processes such as stigma, virtue signalling and the subversion of mandates. The public health response had mixed reactions, with useful information about preventive measures being diluted by COVID‐19 denialism and fake news. Health and other authorities were frequently perceived as out of touch with, and unresponsive to, the everyday realities of local communities. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates the connectedness of people and the need to maintain and re‐establish severed connections. A holistic approach to health care and promotion from social determinants of health and a community‐engaged perspective may significantly increase the outcomes of public health responses. Participant and Public Contribution: People with everyday experience of the COVID‐19 pandemic—including community members, healthcare workers, case managers, carers and researchers—collaborated on the study design, interview schedule, data interpretation, analysis and refinement of this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper was assessment of bacterial contamination of fish from aquaculture sources and its public health implications in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state, Nigeria using appropriate standard procedures. .Colony enumeration of bacteria isolates from fish harvested in Abakaliki revealed a high Bacteria count of 6.5 x 10-4cfu/g, and lowest of 1.9 x 10-4cfu/g, while 4.09 x 104 is the average mean. The isolates were identified and characterized using standard microbiological procedures. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent bacterium (26%), Vibro cholera (22%), Shigella (13%) while the least Salmonella has (9%). The Gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) were highly susceptible to ciprofloxacin (100 %) and ofloxacin (100 %) but highly resistant to ampicillin (100 %). Gram negative pathogens (Escherichia coli,Vibro cholera and Shigella species) were highly susceptible to perofloxacin (100 %) and Ofloxacin (100 %). It also showed high resistance to amoxicillin (100 %), chloramphenicol (100 %), gentamicin (100 %), nitrofurantoin (100 %). The high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in this study is a serious concern as the resistance patterns of E. coli, S. aureus, Salmonella species, Vibro cholerae and Shigella can have implications on human health, thereby suggesting that fish processors and vendors should improve handling hygiene and consumers should also handle fish properly in order to minimize possible health hazards.

Abstract The Nipah virus, a highly pathogenic zoonotic pathogen, has once again surfaced in the state of Kerala, India, with recent cases reported in 2023. This article delves into the epidemiological details of these cases, shedding light on the two fatalities that occurred in September 2023 and August 2023 as well as the suspected cases that have undergone testing. Nipah virus, known for its severe neurological and respiratory disease manifestations, remains a formidable health threat due to the lack of specific treatments or vaccines. The government’s response to these recent cases, including mass testing and quarantine measures, is discussed, drawing lessons from past outbreaks in the region. Kerala has experienced multiple Nipah virus outbreaks since 2018, prompting a closer examination of environmental factors, such as deforestation and urbanization, which increase the risk of zoonotic transmission. This article underscores the global implications of Nipah virus resurgence in Kerala and emphasizes the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of emerging infectious diseases. The lessons learned from Kerala’s experience with Nipah virus outbreaks provide valuable insights for public health professionals and policymakers worldwide.

The Nipah virus, a highly pathogenic zoonotic pathogen, has once again surfaced in the state of Kerala, India, with recent cases reported in 2023. This article delves into the epidemiological details of these cases, shedding light on the two fatalities that occurred in September 2023 and August 2023 as well as the suspected cases that have undergone testing. Nipah virus, known for its severe neurological and respiratory disease manifestations, remains a formidable health threat due to the lack of specific treatments or vaccines. The government's response to these recent cases, including mass testing and quarantine measures, is discussed, drawing lessons from past outbreaks in the region. Kerala has experienced multiple Nipah virus outbreaks since 2018, prompting a closer examination of environmental factors, such as deforestation and urbanization, which increase the risk of zoonotic transmission. This article underscores the global implications of Nipah virus resurgence in Kerala and emphasizes the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of emerging infectious diseases. The lessons learned from Kerala's experience with Nipah virus outbreaks provide valuable insights for public health professionals and policymakers worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiota (GM) comprises microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Lifestyle choices like smoking lead to gut dysbiosis. This review assessed the effect of cigarette smoke (CS) on gut microbial dysbiosis (GMD) in active smokers compared to non-smokers, as well as the resulting public health implications. A comprehensive search was conducted using the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Medline, and PubMed. The search result was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool was used to evaluate the recruited studies. There were 468 articles found, with 17 of them qualifying for full-text screening. Five of these studies were included in the review. Smoke harmed gut microbe proportions; smokers had more Bacteroidetes and less Firmicutes than non-smokers, affecting their Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (Fir/Bac) ratio. This has significant public health implications. Organisms enriched in the smokers such as Bacteroidales eggerthii (B. eggerthii) , Bacteroidales bacterium (B. bacterium) pH 8 , Ruminococcus bromii (R. bromii) , and Ruminococcus albus (R. albus) were found to be positively correlated with inflammatory biomarkers. Other organisms, such as Eubacterium eligens (E. eligens), Eubacterium ramulus (E. ramulus), Eubacterium rectale (E. rectale), Eubacterium ventriosum (E. ventriosum) , Roseburia hominis (R. hominis), Ruminococcus torques (R. torques), and Roseburia inulinivorans (R. inulinivorans), were negatively correlated with inflammatory markers and were more in non-smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food poisoning is a major public health concern. This study employs a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarise and parameterise microbial densities and isolates in ready-to-eat-foods in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A random effect meta-analysis model is used to compare the microbial density of these foods across the various locations and occurrence rate of the commonly isolated microbes. Whereas meta-analysis results for total heterotrophic bacteria range from 3.65–6.58 Log CFU/g with a p = 0.01 measure of heterogeneity, I2 =61% and overall effect being insignificantly different (p = 0.73), total fungi range from 3.10–4.03 Log CFU/g with a p = 0.92 measure of heterogeneity, I2 =0% and overall effect being significantly different (p = 0.0001). The measure of heterogeneity for the microbial diversity is p = 0.22, I2 =24% and overall effect is insignificant (p = 0.51). 22 microbial genera are isolated and Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Aspergillus species depict the highest occurrence rate of 90.48 - 100%, 82.08–88.57% and 57.14- 100% respectively. The availability of these microbial diversities suggests a possible risk of food-borne diseases, hence, the need [i] to enlighten the preparers, vendors and consumers of ready-to-eat foods on the health threats posed by microorganisms found in the foods, [ii] for surveillance of ready-to-eat foods in the study area by appropriate regulatory agencies, and [iii] for vendors to improve on their storage and packaging materials as well as make provision for sources of heat in show glasses in order to retain the freshness of cooked food over prolonged periods.

Abstract Background Cardiovascular system involvement in coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has gained great interest in the scientific community. Main body Several studies reported increased morbidity and mortality among COVID-19 patients who had comorbidities, especially cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). COVID-19 may be associated with cardiovascular complications as arrhythmia, myocarditis, and thromboembolic events. We aimed to illustrate the interactions of COVID-19 disease and the cardiovascular system and the consequences on clinical decision as well as public health. Conclusions COVID-19 has negative consequences on the cardiovascular system. A high index of suspicion should be present to avoid poor prognosis of those presenting with unusual presentation.

Background: Cardiovascular system involvement in coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has gained great interest in the scientific community. Main body: Several studies reported increased morbidity and mortality among COVID-19 patients who had comorbidities, especially cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). COVID-19 may be associated with cardiovascular complications as arrhythmia, myocarditis, and thromboembolic events. We aimed to illustrate the interactions of COVID-19 disease and the cardiovascular system and the consequences on clinical decision as well as public health. Conclusions: COVID-19 has negative consequences on the cardiovascular system. A high index of suspicion should be present to avoid poor prognosis of those presenting with unusual presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The decline in the number of new HIV infections among adults has slowed down, gradually becoming the biggest obstacle to achieving the 2030 target of ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Thus, a political declaration to ensure that 90% of people at high risk of HIV infection can access comprehensive prevention services was proposed by the United Nations General Assembly. Therefore, obtaining an accurate estimated size of high-risk populations is required as a prior condition to plan and implement HIV prevention services. The network scale-up method (NSUM) was recommended by the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS and the World Health Organization to estimate the sizes of populations at high risk of HIV infection; however, we found that the NSUM also revealed underlying population characteristics of female sex workers in addition to being used to estimate the population size. Such information on underlying population characteristics is very useful in improving the planning and implementation of HIV prevention services. This is especially relevant for people who inject drugs, where in addition to stigma and discrimination, criminalization further hinders access to HIV prevention services., Objective: We aimed to conduct a further exploration of the public health implications of the NSUM by using it to estimate the population size, popularity ratio, and information transmission rate among people who inject drugs., Methods: A stratified 2-stage cluster survey of the general population and a respondent-driven sampling survey of people who inject drugs were conducted in the urban district of Taiyuan, China, in 2021., Results: The estimated size of the population of people who inject drugs in Taiyuan was 1241.9 (95% CI 1009.2-1474.9), corresponding to 4.4×10-2% (95% CI 3.6×10-2% to 5.2×10-2%) of the adult population aged 15-64 years. The estimated popularity ratio of people who inject drugs was 53.6% (95% CI 47.2%-60.1%), and the estimated information transmission rate was 87.9% (95% CI 86.5%-89.3%)., Conclusions: In addition to being used to estimate the size of the population of people who inject drugs, the NSUM revealed that they have smaller-sized personal social networks while concealing their drug use, and these underlying population characteristics are extremely useful for planning appropriate service delivery approaches with the fewest barriers for people who inject drugs to access HIV prevention services. Therefore, more cost-effectiveness brings new public health implications for the NSUM, which makes it even more promising for its application., (© Liwei Jing, Hongmei Yu, Qing Lu. Originally published in JMIR Public Health and Surveillance (https://publichealth.jmir.org).)

Distracted driving, specifically texting and driving, has become a nationwide public health problem in the U.S. with negative, and potentially fatal consequences. In an effort to combat the growing problem, non-profit organizations, corporations, and the federal government have all stepped in to try to increase public awareness and persuade drivers to cease texting while driving. These efforts have not had the desired impact as texting and driving has continued to increase in recent years. This research investigates the potential that the messages used to curb texting and driving behavior might not be properly constructed. Specifically, we test the potential for message sponsor and self-relevance of the message to influence message outcomes. Our results suggest that messages sponsored by a combination of company and government that are self-relevant to viewers will have different outcomes than other messages. We identify practical and theoretical implications as well as future research directions.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) H5N1 was first officially reported in Africa in 2006; thereafter this virus has spread rapidly from Nigeria to 11 other African countries. This study was aimed at utilizing data from confirmed laboratory reports to carry out a qualitative evaluation of the factors responsible for HPAI H5N1 persistence in Africa and the public health implications; and to suggest appropriate control measures. Relevant publications were sought from data banks and repositories of FAO, OIE, WHO, and Google scholars. Substantiated data on HPAI H5N1 outbreaks in poultry in Africa and in humans across the world were mined. HPAI H5N1 affects poultry and human populations, with Egypt having highest human cases (346) globally. Nigeria had a reinfection from 2014 to 2015, with outbreaks in Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Niger, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso throughout 2016 unabated. The persistence of this virus in Africa is attributed to the survivability of HPAIV, ability to evolve other subtypes through genetic reassortment, poor biosecurity compliance at the live bird markets and poultry farms, husbandry methods and multispecies livestock farming, poultry vaccinations, and continuous shedding of HPAIV, transboundary transmission of HPAIV through poultry trades; and transcontinental migratory birds. There is, therefore, the need for African nations to realistically reassess their status, through regular surveillance and be transparent with HPAI H5N1 outbreak data. Also, it is important to have an understanding of HPAIV migration dynamics which will be helpful in epidemiological modeling, disease prevention, control and eradication measures.

There is much confusion and misinformation about the diagnosis of Lyme disease, as well as its treatment. This review explains why one cannot make a correct diagnosis of Lyme disease based on symptoms alone. It also provides evidence to support the validity of two-tier testing for the laboratory diagnosis of Lyme disease. The public health consequences of failing to consider these issues are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The research purpose was to analyze data concerning chemical incidents in Poland collected in 1999–2009 in terms of health hazards. Material and Methods: The data was obtained, using multimodal information technology (IT) system, from chemical incidents reports prepared by rescuers at the scene. The final analysis covered sudden events associated with uncontrolled release of hazardous chemical substances or mixtures, which may potentially lead to human exposure. Releases of unidentified substances where emergency services took action to protect human health or environment were also included. Results: The number of analyzed chemical incidents in 1999–2009 was 2930 with more than 200 different substances released. The substances were classified into 13 groups of substances and mixtures posing analogous risks. Most common releases were connected with non-flammable corrosive liquids, including: hydrochloric acid (199 cases), sulfuric(VI) acid (131 cases), sodium and potassium hydroxides (69 cases), ammonia solution (52 cases) and butyric acid (32 cases). The next group were gases hazardous only due to physico-chemical properties, including: extremely flammable propane-butane (249 cases) and methane (79 cases). There was no statistically significant trend associated with the total number of incidents. Only with the number of incidents with flammable corrosive, toxic and/or harmful liquids, the regression analysis revealed a statistically significant downward trend. The number of victims reported was 1997, including 1092 children and 18 fatalities. Conclusions: The number of people injured, number of incidents and the high 9th place of Poland in terms of the number of Seveso establishments, and 4 times higher number of hazardous industrial establishments not covered by the Seveso Directive justify the need for systematic analysis of hazards and their proper identification. It is advisable enhance health risk assessment, both qualitative and quantitative, by slight modification of the data collection system so as to enable the determination of released chemical concentration and exposed populations. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2017;30(1):95–110

Cockroaches and houseflies pose significant public health threat owning to their ability to mechanically transmit human intestinal parasites and other disease-causing microorganisms. This study aims at assessing the vectoral capacity of cockroaches and houseflies in the transmission of human intestinal parasites. Intestinal parasite external surface contamination of 130 cockroaches and 150 houseflies caught within dwelling places in Ilishan-Remo town, Ogun State, Nigeria was determined. Cockroaches (six parasite species) were more contaminated than houseflies (four parasite species). The most prevalent parasites were Trichuris trichiura (74.0%) and hookworm (63.0%) in houseflies and cockroaches respectively. There were significant differences in the prevalence of hookworm, T. trichiura and Taenia spp. isolated from cockroaches and houseflies (P

This comprehensive review explores the intricate landscape of the neonatal skin microbiome, shedding light on its dynamic composition, developmental nuances, and influential factors. The neonatal period represents a critical window during which microbial colonization significantly impacts local skin health and the foundational development of the immune system. Factors such as mode of delivery and gestational age underscore the vulnerability of neonates to disruptions in microbial establishment. Key findings emphasize the broader systemic implications of the neonatal skin microbiome, extending beyond immediate health outcomes to influence susceptibility to infections, allergies, and immune-related disorders. This review advocates for a paradigm shift in neonatal care, proposing strategies to preserve and promote a healthy skin microbiome for long-term health benefits. The implications of this research extend to public health, where interventions targeting the neonatal skin microbiome could potentially mitigate diseases originating in early life. As we navigate the intersection of research and practical applications, bridging the gap between knowledge and implementation becomes imperative for translating these findings into evidence-based practices and improving neonatal well-being on a broader scale., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Jain et al.)

Dairy farms are major sources for zoonotic Staphylococcus aureus pathogens and their antibiotic resistance genes. This study was conducted to assess critical sources and factors related to dissemination of S. aureus and its resistance genes within dairy farms in Egypt. In addition, workers' knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) was evaluated. A total of 102 pooled samples were collected from 3 medium-scale dairy farms in Egypt. S. aureus was detected in 72.5% of the examined samples: lactating cows (72.9%), workers (81.5%), barns environment (88.9%), milking equipment (40%), and bulk tank milk (100%). Cows (udder milk and nostril), workers (hand skin and nostril), barns, open-sides parlor, and lack of acid rinse were associated with S. aureus contamination of milking equipment (P= 0.004 - 0.04). Methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA, mecA+), vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA, vanA+) and methicillin-vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (MVRSA, mecA+-vanA+) represented 27.5%, 5% and 12.5% of S. aureus isolates, respectively. This is the first report of MVRSA in dairy farms in Egypt. For workers KAPs, 48.7% didn't know milk-borne zoonoses, while their high risk practices included consumption of raw milk (52.2%), lack of hand wash (48.7%), and willing to work with sore throat (82.6%). This study highlights the critical sources of S. aureus pathogens and their antibiotic resistance genes in dairy farms. This will help in reforming biosecurity plans in dairy farms; an urgent demand for consumers safety in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The Law on Tobacco Control and the Law on Advertisement prohibit the advertising of any tobacco product in Vietnam. Tobacco promotion and marketing are alsostrictly prohibited. However, the violation of tobacco adverting and promotion is still common in Vietnam. Objectives. This article aims at describing the exposure to tobacco advertising and promotion among the population aged 15+ years in Vietnam based on the data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2015 from the view of the community, identifying any possible associations between the exposure to tobacco advertising and promotion and other individual factors, and discussing its possible public health implications. Method. A cross-sectional study with the nationwide scale. Secondary data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2015 was explored and analyzed. Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regressions were applied in the data analysis. Results. The most common type of adults’ exposure to tobacco advertising and promotion was points of sale (8.6%); 9.8% adults exposure to one source of tobacco advertising and 4.0% of them exposed to one source of tobacco promotion. Around 13.3% of Vietnamese adults were exposed to tobacco advertisement, while 2.0% were exposed to tobacco promotion, 5.3% were exposed to both tobacco advertising and promotion, and 16.6% were exposed to tobacco advertising or promotion. Gender, educational level, age, occupation, marital status, socioeconomic status, location (urban, rural), and current smoking status were associated with the exposure to tobacco advertising, tobacco promotion, tobacco advertising and promotion, and tobacco advertising or promotion. Conclusion and Recommendation. Although there are comprehensive bans on tobacco advertising and promotion in Vietnam, adults aged 15+ years still reported their exposure to tobacco advertising and promotion. There should be a strict enforcement of the ban on tobacco advertising and promotion in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The research purpose was to analyze data concerning chemical incidents in Poland collected in 1999-2009 in terms of health hazards.Material and Methods: The data was obtained, using multimodal information technology (IT) system, from chemical incidents reports prepared by rescuers at the scene. The final analysis covered sudden events associated with uncontrolled release of hazardous chemical substances or mixtures, which may potentially lead to human exposure. Releases of unidentified substances where emergency services took action to protect human health or environment were also included.Results: The number of analyzed chemical incidents in 1999-2009 was 2930 with more than 200 different substances released. The substances were classified into 13 groups of substances and mixtures posing analogous risks. Most common releases were connected with non-flammable corrosive liquids, including: hydrochloric acid (199 cases), sulfuric(VI) acid (131 cases), sodium and potassium hydroxides (69 cases), ammonia solution (52 cases) and butyric acid (32 cases). The next group were gases hazardous only due to physico-chemical properties, including: extremely flammable propane-butane (249 cases) and methane (79 cases). There was no statistically significant trend associated with the total number of incidents. Only with the number of incidents with flammable corrosive, toxic and/or harmful liquids, the regression analysis revealed a statistically significant downward trend. The number of victims reported was 1997, including 1092 children and 18 fatalities.Conclusions: The number of people injured, number of incidents and the high 9th place of Poland in terms of the number of Seveso establishments, and 4 times higher number of hazardous industrial establishments not covered by the Seveso Directive justify the need for systematic analysis of hazards and their proper identification. It is advisable enhance health risk assessment, both qualitative and quantitative, by slight modification of the data collection system so as to enable the determination of released chemical concentration and exposed populations. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2017;30(1):95-110. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality water should be colourless, tasteless, odourless and free from faecal contamination. This study investigates the level of contamination of commercially vended packaged water and their public health implications. Published baseline information and data were used in the study. Using different isolation techniques, coliform bacteria of up to 100% and faecal contamination of up to 40% were reported. The consumption of contaminated commercially packaged water by the public has led to different disease conditions and death of millions of people all over the world. This calls for strict adherence to good management practices (GMP) by producers of packaged water, improved monitoring and enforcement of guidelines of production by regulatory bodies according to World Health Organization (WHO) standards, increased public awareness and sensitivity to the presence and dangers of consuming such water and creating easy, always potent reporting channels through which disease cases and suspected contaminated water manufacturers could be reported to the authority so as to prevent infection from consumption of such packaged water, diseases and deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, I firstly situate the current rise of interest in epigenetics in the broader history of attempts to go “beyond the gene” in twentieth-century biology. In the second part, after a summary of the main differences between epigenetic and genetic mutations, I consider what kind of implications thesui generisfeatures of epigenetic mutations may have for the social sciences. I focus in particular on two sites of investigation: (a) the blurring of the boundaries between natural and social inequalities in theories of justice and their possible implications for public policy and public health and (b) a deepening of the notion that the constitution of the body is deeply dependent on its material and socially shaped surroundings (“embodied constructivism”). In conclusion, I advance some cautionary reflections on some of the (known and unprecedented) problems that the circulation of epigenetics in wider society may present. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Antioxidant nutrients found in popularly consumed vegetables, including red beans, are thought to prevent diabetic complications. In this study, we assessed the frequency and contributing factors of intake of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, and we determined their impact on the prevention of diabetes-related cataract extraction. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, run in Congo among 244 people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. An intake of ≥three servings of vegetables rich in antioxidants/day, intake of red beans, consumption of fruit, and cataract extraction were considered as dependent variables. Results: No patient reported a fruit intake. Intake of red beans was reported by 64 patients (26.2%), while 77 patients (31.6%) reported ≥three servings of vegetables rich in antioxidants. High socioeconomic status (OR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.1-12.5; P = 0.030) and moderate alcohol intake (OR = 4; 95% CI: 1.1-17.4; P = 0.049) were the independent determinants of eating ≥three servings of vegetables rich in antioxidants. Red beans intake (OR = 0.282; 95% CI: 0.115-0.687; P < 0.01) and eating ≥three servings of vegetables rich in antioxidants (OR = 0.256; 95% CI: 0.097-0.671; P = 0.006) were identified as independent and protective factors against the presence of cataracts (9.8% n = 24), whereas type 2 diabetes mellitus duration ≥3 years was the independent risk factor for cataract extraction (OR = 6.3; 95% CI: 2.1-19.2; P < 0.001 in the model with red beans intake and OR = 7.1; 95% CI: 2.3-22.2; P < 0.001 in the model with ≥three servings of vegetables rich in antioxidants). Conclusion: Red beans intake and adequate quantity of intake of vegetables rich in antioxidants were found to be associated with reduced risk of cataract in these Congolese with type 2 dia betes mellitus. Education on nutrition and health promotion programs are needed to encourage people to eat vegetables and fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the prevention of shaken baby syndrome is questioned by some professionals, there is no doubt that prevention is the ideal goal. Education about the dangers of shaking babies is paramount, especially in light of the fact that messages have historically been distributed that shaking is an acceptable practice. Such messages have included instructions regarding apnea as well as infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation. While it can he argued that the amount of shaking advised in these instances does not correlate with the amount of shaking needed to cause SBS, the important prevention message is that babies and children should never he shaken for any reason. This dictum, along with information about the specific injuries caused by shaking should he provided to everyone, from youngsters to senior citizens. Common approaches to educating the public are discussed and evaluation of these efforts will also he reviewed. Other programs in schools, hospital maternity units and through child care licensing are also being implemented. The responsibility for SBS prevention belongs to every professional who works with children and families and to each individual who cares for a baby or young child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Wholegrain foods are important sources of nutrients and phytoprotective substances that are in short supply in our diet. Encouraging the public to increase consumption of wholegrain foods imparts a positive health message and could contribute towards the achievement of reduced fat and increased fibre intakes. More recent research suggests that the health benefits of wholegrain foods are derived from more than just the fibre. Wholefoods, such as fruit and vegetables and wholegrains, deliver ‘packages’ of constituents that may work synergistically to promote health. Wholegrain foods, particularly cereals, have been shown to be protective against coronary heart disease, certain cancers and diabetes. At least one daily serving of wholegrain food is associated with reduced risk of disease and there may be further benefits with increasing intake. A greater consumption of wholegrain foods has important public health implications, and would be an attractive and prudent food-based dietary strategy, targeted at the whole population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microsporidia are composed of a highly diverse group of single-celled, obligate intracellular fungi that colonize an extremely wide range of other eukaryotes, among which Enterocytozoon bieneusi is the most common species responsible for human microsporidiasis. Genotyping of E. bieneusi based on sequence analysis of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) has recognized ~500 genotypes in humans and a great variety of other mammals and birds. Those genotypes vary in genetic or hereditary characteristics and form 11 genetic groups in phylogenetic analysis of the ITS nucleotide sequences. Some of genotypes in Group 1 (e.g., D, EbpC, and type IV) and Group 2 (e.g., BEB4, BEB6, I, and J) have broad host and geographic ranges, constituting a major risk for zoonotic or cross-species transmission. By contrast, host specificity seems common in Group 3 to Group 11 whose members appear well adapted to specific hosts and thus would have minimal or unknown effects on public health. Multilocus sequence typing using the ITS, three microsatellites MS1, MS3, and MS7, and one minisatellite MS4, and population genetic analysis of Group 1 isolates reveal the occurrence of clonality, potential host adaptation, and population differentiation of E. bieneusi in various hosts. Nonetheless, it is still highly desirable to explore novel genetic markers with enough polymorphisms, to type complex or unstructured E. bieneusi populations of various host species and geographic origins, notably those belonging to Group 2 to Group 11. Additional population genetic and comparative genomic data are needed to elucidate the actual extent of host specificity in E. bieneusi and its potential impacts on zoonotic or interspecies transmission of microsporidiasis. • Nearly 500 E. bieneusi genotypes were validated and they form 11 phylogenetic groups. • Groups 1 and 2 have zoonotic potential, while Groups 3 to 11 are commonly host specific. • Seven subgroups showing varying degree of host specificity were ascertained in Group 1. • Implications of host specificity for zoonotic transmission of E. bieneusi were interpreted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With advanced perinatal care and technology, survival among infants born very preterm (<32 weeks gestation) has improved dramatically over the last several decades. However, adverse medical and neurodevelopmental outcomes for those born very preterm remains high, particularly at the lowest gestational ages. Public health plays a critical role in providing data to assess population-based risks associated with very preterm birth, addressing disparities, and identifying opportunities for prevention, including improving the health of reproductive-age women, before, during, and after pregnancy., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)