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Kroz godinu dana obavljena je studija stanja okoliša u Pješčanoj uvali, naselju u blizini Pule u južnoj Istri. Pješčana uvala ima problem sa otpadnim vodama zbog naglog rasta i razvoja naselja koje je doveo do diskutabilnih zahvata u gradnji poput spajanja odvoda kišnice i kanalizacije u određenim kućama. Tokom jakih kiša je pritom moguće da se prihvatni kapacitet sustava odvodnje prepuni te da dođe do izljeva mješavine otpadnih i oborinskih voda u uvalu. Stoga su istraženi hidrografski i mikrobiološki parametri uvale. Od hidrografskih parametara istraženi su temperatura, salinitet, pH i saturacija vode kisikom. Od mikrobioloških parametara istražene su koncentracije fekalnih indikatora vrste Escherichia coli, fekalnih streptokoka i ukupnih koliforma te morsku autohtonu mikrobiološku zajednicu gdje su izmjerene koncentracije autotrofnih cijanobakterija i heterotrofnih prokariota i nanoflagelata. Istraživanja su pokazala sezonske oscilacije u sanitarnom stanju uvale. Moguće je pretpostaviti da je uzrok neuravnoteženi kišni režim na području i neadekvatna infrastruktura za prihvat i odvod oborinskih voda. Najviše povišene koncentracije fekalnih indikatora su registrirane za jesensko uzorkovanje, kada su oborine u južnoj Istri najobilnije. Osim za jesen također je za zimu i ljeto bila barem jedna postaja sa povišenim koncentracijama. Plaže za kupanje imale su najniže vrijednosti FI što znači da kupači nisu pri opasnosti. Morska mikrobiološka zajednica imala je povećanu heterotrofnu komponentu, koja je imala raspored u uvali poput fekalnih indikatora. Zaključak je da su se heterotrofi hranili organskom tvari koja je ušla u uvalu s fekalnim indikatorima. Međutim, autotrofna komponenta je pak pokazivala snižene koncentracije, vrlo vjerojatno jer autotrofnim organizmima smetaju promjene hidrografskih uvjeta uzrokovane unosom mješavine voda. Over the course of a year, a study of the state of the environment was carried out in Pješčana uvala, a settlement near Pula in southern Istria. Pješčana uvala has a problem with wastewater due to the rapid growth and development of the settlement, which has led to debatable interventions in construction, such as the connection of rainwater drains and sewage in certain houses. During heavy rains, it is possible for the reception capacity of the drainage system to overflow and for a mixture of waste and rainwater to flow into the bay. Therefore, the hydrographic and microbiological parameters of the bay were investigated. Of the hydrographic parameters, temperature, salinity, pH and water saturation with oxygen were investigated. Among the microbiological parameters, the concentrations of fecal indicators of Escherichia coli, fecal streptococci and total coliforms and marine autochthonous microbiological indicators were investigated, where the concentrations of autotrophic cyanobacteria and heterotrophic prokaryotes and nanoflagellates were measured. Research has shown seasonal oscillations in the sanitary condition of the bay. It is possible to assume that the cause is an unbalanced rain regime in the area and inadequate infrastructure for receiving and draining rainwater. The highest concentrations of fecal indicators were registered for autumn sampling, when the precipitation in southern Istria is the most abundant. Except for autumn, there was also at least one station with elevated concentrations for winter and summer. The bathing beaches had the lowest FI values, which means that bathers are not at risk. The marine microbiological community had an increased heterotrophic component, which was distributed in the bay like faecal indicators. It can be concluded that heterotrophs fed on organic matter that entered the value with fecal indicators. However, the autotrophic component showed reduced concentrations, most likely because autotrophic organisms interfere with the changes in hydrographic conditions caused by the intake of the water mixture.

Surface water sources play an important role in human and biological activities and the socio-economic development of the region. Therefore, the assessment of water quality and determination of the causes of water pollution in Sao river is essential for good management of the surface water environment. The study was conducted from July to December 2020. Water samples were collected at the time of low tide to evaluate the water quality indicators of temperature, pH, conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids (TSS), ammonium (N-NH4+), orthophosphate (P-PO43-) and coliform. The source of pollution was determined by direct interviews with households living near Sao river. The results showed that surface water quality in Sao river had signs of organic pollution and microbiological pollution due to BOD, TSS, N-NH4+, P-PO43-, coliform exceeded the allowable limits of National Technical regulation on surface water quality (QCVN 08-MT:2015/BTNMT, column A1). The results of the interview revealed that 70% of respondents said that water was seriously polluted and the main sources of pollution were domestic solid waste and domestic wastewater. Therefore, to improve surface water quality in Sao river, solid waste and wastewater management is urgently required. It is necessary to promote the monitoring and management of water quality with the participation of local authorities and communities.

The object of research is the quality of sources of centralized water supply according to epidemiological indications and the technology of their disinfection at different stages of water treatment using the example of the «Zhytomyrvodokanal» utility company (UC) (Ukraine). The object of research is evaluated and it is found that studying the bacteriological state of water bodies that are sources of centralized water supply is currently one of the most important tasks. Especially, given the significant impact of human activities on surface waters and the insufficient pace of modernization of water treatment equipment. It is determined that widespread disinfection methods using ultraviolet and chemicals (chlorination and ozonation) have their strengths and weaknesses. The paper presents the results of analyzes of water from sources of centralized water supply at different stages of water treatment accordi"ng to microbiological indicators during 2019: total microbial number (TMN) and total number of coliphages. The unsatisfactory condition of water bodies has been established; it is a source of water supply in the city. It is proved that the existing technology of disinfecting water from centralized water sources, which is carried out in two stages using soluble chlorine and sodium hypochlorite, is effective in neutralizing bacteria of the Escherichia coli group. As a research result, the dependence of the concentration of microorganisms in water sources of centralized water supply on weather conditions is revealed (in total, microbial pollution is observed from May to October). A moderate level of water pollution (ranging from 1.1 to 7.5 units) has been proven by the epidemiological criterion in the «Denyshi» and «Vidsychne» reservoirs (Zhytomyr Region, Ukraine). It has been established that the epidemiological criterion is an acceptable level in clean water tanks. It can be argued that the water in the tanks is suitable for drinking water use by the local population. Thus, the research results show that the technology of water disinfection (involves the introduction of two stages of water treatment) used at the «Zhytomyrvodokanal» UC is effective. Accordingly, this technology may be interesting for other settlements, in the absence of significant funds for the modernization of equipment and in the face of climate change, accompanied by an annual increase in temperature and an increase in the number of microorganisms in water sources., Объектом исследования является качество источников централизованного водоснабжения по эпидемиологическим показаниям и технологии их обеззараживания на разных стадиях водоподготовки на примере коммунального предприятия (КП) «Житомирводоканал» (Украина). В работе осуществлена оценка объекта исследования и установлено, что изучение бактериологического состояния водных объектов, являющихся источниками централизованного водоснабжения, в настоящее время является одной из важнейших задач. Особенно, учитывая значительное влияние хозяйственной деятельности человека на поверхностные воды и недостаточные темпы модернизации оборудования для водоподготовки. Определено, что широко распространенные методы дезинфекции с использованием ультрафиолета и химических веществ (хлорирование и озонирование) имеют свои сильные стороны и недостатки. В работе приведены результаты анализов воды (в течение 2019 г.) из источников централизованного водоснабжения на разных стадиях водоподготовки по микробиологическим показателям: общее микробное число (ОМЧ) и общее количество колифагов. Установлено неудовлетворительное состояние водоемов, которые являются источником водоснабжения в городе. Доказано, что существующая технология обеззараживания воды из источников централизованного водоснабжения, которая осуществляется в два этапа с использованием растворимого хлора и гипохлорита натрия, является эффективной в обезвреживании бактерий группы кишечной палочки. В результате исследований выявлена зависимость концентрации микроорганизмов в водных источниках централизованного водоснабжения от погодных условий (всего микробное загрязнение наблюдается с мая по октябрь месяц). Доказан умеренный уровень загрязнения воды (в пределах от 1,1 ед. до 7,5 ед.) по эпидемиологическому критерию в водохранилищах «Деныши» и «Отсечное» (Житомирская область, Украина). Установлено, что в резервуарах чистой воды эпидемиологический критерий имеет допустимый уровень. Можно утверждать, что вода в резервуарах пригодна для питьевого водопользования местным населением. Таким образом, результаты исследования показывают, что технология обеззараживания воды (предусматривает введение двух стадий обработки воды), которая используется на КП «Житомирводоканал», является эффективной. Соответственно, эта технология может быть интересной и для других населенных пунктов, при отсутствии значительных средств на модернизацию оборудования и в условиях изменений климата, сопровождающегося ежегодным повышением температуры и ростом количества микроорганизмов в водных источниках., Об’єктом дослідження є якість джерел централізованого водопостачання за епідеміологічними показниками та технологія їх знезараження на різних стадіях водопідготовки на прикладі комунального підприємства (КП) «Житомирводоканал» (Україна). У роботі здійснено оцінку об’єкта дослідження та встановлено, що вивчення бактеріологічного стану водних об’єктів, що є джерелами централізованого водопостачання, наразі є одним з найважливіших завдань. Особливо з огляду на значний вплив господарської діяльності людини на поверхневі води та недостатні темпи модернізації обладнання для водопідготовки. Визначено, що широко поширені методи дезінфекції з використанням ультрафіолету та хімічних речовин (хлорування та озонування) мають свої сильні сторони та недоліки. У роботі наведено результати аналізів води з джерел централізованого водопостачання на різних стадіях водопідготовки за мікробіологічними показникам протягом 2019 року: загальне мікробне число (ЗМЧ) та загальна кількість коліфагів. Встановлено незадовільний стан водойм, що є джерелом водопостачання у місті. Доведено, що існуюча технологія знезараження води з джерел централізованого водопостачання, яка здійснюється у два етапи з використанням розчинного хлору та гіпохлориту натрію, є ефективною у знешкодженні бактерій групи кишкової палички. У результаті досліджень виявлено залежність концентрації мікроорганізмів у водних джерелах централізованого водопостачання від погодних умов (найбільше мікробне забруднення спостерігається з травня по жовтень місяць). Доведено помірний рівень забруднення води (в межах від 1,1 од. до 7,5 од.) за епідеміологічним критерієм у водосховищах «Дениші» та «Відсічне» (Житомирська область, Україна). Встановлено, що у резервуарах чистої води епідеміологічний критерій має допустимий рівень. Можна стверджувати, що вода у резервуарах є придатною для питного водокористування місцевим населенням. Таким чином, результати дослідження доводять, що технологія знезараження води (передбачає запровадження двох стадій обробки води), що використовується на КП «Житомирводоканал», є ефективною. Відповідно, ця технологія може бути цікавою і для інших населених пунктів, при відсутності значних коштів на модернізацію обладнання та в умовах змін клімату, що супроводжується щорічним підвищенням температури та зростанням кількості мікроорганізмів у водних джерелах.

Uvod: Tveganja za mikrobiološko onesnaženje svežega sadja in zelenjave se pojavljajo v vseh fazah njegove pridelave, od polja/sadovnjaka do mize potrošnika. Pri zagotavljanju varnega sadja in zelenjave so odgovorni vsi deležniki, od polja do mize, vključno s potrošnikom. Namen: Namen naloge je spremljati ravnanje zaposlenih pri ravnanju s sadjem in zelenjavo ter potrošnikov pri izbiranju in nakupu le-tega v dveh poslovalnicah izbrane trgovske verige. Želeli smo ugotoviti mikrobiološko onesnaženje izbranega svežega sadja in zelenjave na prodajnih policah ob odprtju trgovine in potem ob koncu delovnega časa. Metode dela: Vzorčenje in opazovanje smo v vsaki poslovalnici izvedli trikrat v poletnem obdobju. Ravnanje s sadjem in zelenjavo v trgovini smo opazovali pri 12 zaposlenih in skupno pri 120 potrošnikih, polovica je bilo žensk, polovica moških. Vsakokrat smo ob odprtju trgovine in pred zaprtjem iz istih prodajnih polic odvzeli po tri kose konvencionalno pridelanega sadja jabolk, breskev in grozdja ter zelenjave paprike, paradižnika in solate ter na njihovi površini z metodo štetja kolonij na trdnih gojiščih ugotavljali skupno število aerobnih mezofilnih in psihrotrofnih mikroorganizmov, število bakterij družine Enterobacteriaceae z bakterijo E. coli, Staphylococous spp., Micrococcus spp, Bacillus spp. in gliv. Rezultati: Skupno je 41,4 % potrošnikov, več je bilo žensk, med nakupovanjem sadja in zelenjave uporabljalo rokavice. Kar 95,3 % opazovanih potrošnikov je med nakupovanjem sadje in zelenjavo prebiralo in stiskalo. Med zaposlenimi je le eden uporabljal zaščitne rokavice. Polnjenje polic s sadjem in zelenjavo s tehniko stresanja je izvajal en zaposleni. Ostali so posamične kose na police polagali ročno. V času našega opazovanja so zaposleni 100-odstotno skrbeli za izločanje poškodovanega sadja in zelenjave. Salmonella je bila prisotna na površini šestih (8,3 %) vzorcev, vrste Listeria monocytogenes nismo ugotovili. Bakterijo E. coli v koncentraciji nad 102 CFU/100 cm2 smo potrdili pri petih (6,9 %) vzorcih, stafilokoke in bakterije rodu Bacillus v 94,4 % in plesni pri 98,6 % odvzetih vzorcih sadja in zelenjave. Povprečno skupno število aerobnih mezofilnih mikroorganizmov je bilo 6,25 log CFU/100 cm2 površine, najmanj na jabolku in največ na solati. Ugotovili smo statistično značilno višje število vseh skupin mikroorganizmov v večernih glede na jutranje vzorce sadja in zelenjave (p < 0,001). Razprava in zaključek: Pri potrošnikih smo opazili slabo ozaveščenost glede ustreznega ravnanja s sadjem in zelenjavo. Zaposleni so dosledno skrbeli za izločanje poškodovanega sadja in zelenjave. V večini so uporabljali pravilno tehniko polnjenja polic. Število vseh skupin mikroorganizmov je bilo v večini vzorcev višje od njihovega števila v jutranjih vzorcih. Ker smo prisotnost mikroorganizmov ugotavljali le na površini, ne moremo natančno opredeliti, ali so odvzeti vzorci skladni z zakonodajo. Introduction: Risks of microbiological contamination of fresh fruit and vegetables occur at all stages of its production, from the field/orchard to the consumer's table. All the participants from the field to the table, including the consumer, are responsible for ensuring safe fruit and vegetables. Purpose: Monitor the behaviour of employees in the handling of fruit and vegetables and consumers in the selection and purchase of it in two branches of the selected retail chain. We wanted to determine the microbiological contamination of selected fresh fruits and vegetables on the shelves at the opening of the store and then at the end of business hours. Methods: Sampling and observations were performed at each branch three times during the summer period. The handling of fruit and vegetables in the store was observed in 12 employees and a total of 120 consumers, half were women and half were men. At the opening of the store and before closing, we collected three pieces of conventionally grown apple, peach and grape fruit, vegetables peppers, tomatoes and lettuce from the same shelves and determined the total number of aerobic mesophilic microorganisms and psychrotrophs on their surface by counting colonies on solid media, number of bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae with E. coli, Staphylococous spp., Micrococcus spp., Bacillus spp. and fungi. Results: In total, 41.4% of consumers, more women, used gloves when shopping for fruit and vegetables. As many as 95.3% of the observed consumers picked up and squeezed fruit and vegetables while shopping. Among the employees, only one wore protective gloves. Filling the shelves with fruit and vegetables with the shaking out technique was performed by one employee. The rest of the individual produce was placed on the shelves by hand. At the time of our monitoring, employees took 100% care of removing damaged fruits and vegetables. Salmonella was present on the surface of 6 (8.3%) samples, Listeria monocytogenes was not detected. E. coli at a concentration above 102 CFU / 100 cm2 was confirmed in 5 (6.9%) samples, Staphylococci and bacteria of the genus Bacillus in 94.4% and mould in 98.6% of samples taken from fruit and vegetables. The average total number of aerobic mesophilic microorganisms was 6.25 log CFU / 100cm2 area, the least on apple and the most on lettuce. We found a statistically significant higher number of all groups of microorganisms in the evening compared to the morning samples of produce (p

The aim of this study was to evaluate the contamination of surface waters in the urban periphery of Puerto Maldonado (Peruvian Amazon), using biological, physicochemical, and microbiological analyses. The water samples were collected in six water bodies (two rivers, three streams and one lake). The physicochemical parameters of each study site did not exceed the limits of the Peruvian Environmental Quality Standard (ECA), except for dissolved oxygen in rivers near urban areas. Pollution of water resources is related to raw sewage and rainwater runoff. Thus, the highest points of faecal contamination were in rivers near urban areas, exceeding the threshold established by the ECA for the conservation of the aquatic environment (CFU ml-1 >2000). In the Madre de Dios River, the concentration of faecal coliforms exceeded the maximum allowed by the ECA by 75 fold, indicating that the Tambopata and Madre de Dios rivers of Puerto Maldonado are heavily contaminated., El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la contaminación de aguas superficiales en la periferia urbana de Puerto Maldonado (amazonia peruana), utilizando análisis biológicos, fisicoquímicos y microbiológicos. Las muestras de agua se colectaron en seis cuerpos de agua (dos ríos, tres quebradas y un lago). Los parámetros fisicoquímicos de cada sitio de estudio no superaron los límites del Estándar de Calidad Ambiental peruano (ECA), excepto el oxígeno disuelto en ríos cercanos a zonas urbanas. La contaminación de los recursos hídricos está relacionada con los vertidos de aguas residuales y la escorrentía de aguas pluviales. Así, los mayores puntos de contaminación fecal fueron en los ríos cercanos a las zonas urbanas, superando el límite establecido por el ECA para la conservación del medio acuático (UFC ml-1 >2000). En el río Madre de Dios, la concentración de coliformes fecales superó en 75 veces al máximo permitido por el ECA, indicando que los ríos Tambopata y Madre de Dios de Puerto Maldonado están fuertemente contaminados.

Although drinking water is readily available in Benin, a public health problem arises in terms of its quality. The district of Ahomadégbé in the commune of Lalo is characterized by several artesian wells. Unfortunately, anthropogenic factors negatively affect the drinking water quality in this area. This research aims to analyze the microbiological quality of drinking water in the Ahomadégbé district and to reassess household water treatment methods practiced by the local population. To achieve these goals thirty-five water samples were taken at water collection points, at selected points along the water transportation system and from water storage facilities, and microbiological parameters were measured. The qualitative aspect of the research allowed to approach key interlocutors for in-depth discussions on endogenous techniques for treating water at home. The analysis of results permitted to note the high degree of microbiological pollution of drinking water in this district, particularly during the water transportation and storage stages where microbiological pollution is above the standards approved by the World Health Organization. Local residents are familiar with several household water treatment methods. However, they remain less effective due to their inappropriate application. In addition to improving the quality of the drinking water resource itself, it is important to set up interventions relating to water treatment methods in local households.

In many suburban municipalities of developing countries, the household drinking water comes mainly from groundwater including, wells, streams and springs. These sources are vulnerable because poor hygienic conditions and sanitation prevail causing persistence and recurrent waterborne diseases. In this research, a survey study on water resource use and an epidemiological survey of waterborne diseases were conducted among users of water points and medical institutions in suburban communes of Selembao and Kimbanseke (Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo). In addition, physicochemical (temperature, pH, O2, electrical conductivity, and soluble ions: Na+, K+, PO43−, SO42−, NO3−, NO2−) and bacteriological (FIB: faecal indicator bacteria) analyses of water from 21 wells and springs were performed according to the seasonal variations. FIB included Escherichia coli (E. coli), Enterococcus and Total Coliforms. The survey results indicate that more than 75% of the patients admitted to local medical institutions between 2016 and 2019 are affected by waterborne diseases, including typhoid fever, amoebic dysentery, diarrhoea, gastroenteritis disorders and cholera. Except for NO3− in some sites, the water physicochemical parameter values are within WHO permissible limits for drinking/domestic water quality. On the contrary, the results revealed high FIB levels in water from unmanaged wells and springs during rainy and dry seasons. The microbiological pollution was significantly higher in the rainy season compared to the dry season. Interestingly, no FIB contamination was observed in water samples from managed/developed wells. The results from this study will guide local government decisions on improving water quality to prevent recurrent waterborne diseases.

The critical aspects of the impact of microbiological contamination on ventilation and air conditioning systems, the microclimate of the premises, and human health are analyzed. The quantitative and qualitative composition of the microflora of premises depends on their functional purpose, design features, operating conditions, climate, and other factors, among which the method of ventilation is essential. The moisturizers in air conditioning system are hazardous, which provide bacteria and fungi with water necessary for their life and reproduction. In addition, contaminants accumulated in ventilation systems operate as a substrate for feeding microorganisms. Multi-story administrative, public and residential buildings, industrial buildings, and other places of mass concentration are areas of increased aerobiological risk of infection. In case of improper operation, air conditioning and ventilation systems can be sources of microorganisms in any room. Transmission of infectious aerosol over long distances occurs in rooms with poor ventilation, and a key factor for the outbreak of infection is the direction of airflows. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations and international agencies to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2 indoors recommend limiting the operation of exhaust ventilation and recirculation systems. However, there is still insufficient data to clarify the role of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in spreading infection. Risk assessment and decision-making on the choice of air conditioning systems should be dynamic and based on the scale of the pandemic and the verification of the characteristics of HVAC systems and their effectiveness., Проаналізовано ключові аспекти впливу мікробіологічного забруднення на системи вентиляції і кондиціонування повітря, мікроклімат приміщень та здоров’я людей. Кількісний і якісний склад мікрофлори приміщень залежить від їхнього функціонального призначення, конструктивних особливостей, умов експлуатації, клімату та інших факторів, серед яких суттєве значення має спосіб вентиляції. Особливу небезпеку становлять зволожувачі систем кондиціонування повітря, які мають достатньо води для життєдіяльності і розмноження бактерій і грибків. Крім того, в системах вентиляції накопичуються забруднювачі, що служать субстратом для живлення мікроорганізмів. Багатоповерхові адміністративно-громадські та житлові будівлі, промислові споруди та інші місця масового скупчення людей – це зони підвищеної аеробіологічної небезпеки поширення інфекцій. Системи кондиціонування повітря й вентиляції при неправильній експлуатації можуть стати джерелами поширення мікроорганізмів у будь-яких приміщеннях. Передача інфекційного аерозолю на великі відстані відбувається у людних приміщеннях з поганою вентиляцією. Ключовим фактором для спалаху інфекції є напрямок повітряного потоку. В умовах пандемії COVID-19 організації та міжнародні установи щодо контролю за розповсюдженням SARS-CoV-2 у приміщеннях рекомендують обмежувати рециркуляцію відпрацьованого повітря, хоча наразі ще недостатньо даних для однозначного з’ясування ролі систем опалення, вентиляції та кондиціонування повітря у поширенні інфекції. Оцінка ризику та рішення щодо вибору систем кондиціонування повітря повинні бути динамічними та базуватися на масштабах розвитку пандемії, а також на верифікації характеристик систем та їхньої ефективності.

The goal of this work was to evaluate microbiological and chemical parameters of well water in Vilnius city and district. During the Master’s Thesis in 2015-2017, water quality from 30 wells in Vilnius city and the district was analyzed according these parameters: Escherichia coli (E. coli), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), pH, sulfates, ammonium, total iron, nitrites, nitrates and chlorides. Microbiological water pollution was examined during spring, summer, autumn and winter. Determination of E. coli amount in the water, was done according LST EN ISO 9308-1:2014/A1:2017 and E. faecalis amount in the water, was done according LST EN ISO 7899-2:2001 standards. Water samples, for the chemical pollution evaluation, were taken once, during spring season. Chemical indicators of water were measured by the express method. In total, 30 water samples from wells were taken to evaluate microbiological and chemical water pollution. Well water quality, from one year period, did not meet permissible quality limit values by E. coli- 63% and by E. faecalis- 17% in all tested wells. After examining water microbiological pollution during different seasons, established, that during spring season microbiological pollution exceeds permissible quality limits by microbiological values of 53%, in the summer- 70%, autumn- 57%, winter- 43%. During a one year period, permissible quality limits of microbiological water pollution were exceeded in 56% of all examined well water. After examining chemical water quality from shaft wells, determined, that, by pH value, water quality did not meet quality requirements in 43% of all tested wells, by sulfates- 10%, by ammonium- 7%, by total iron- 7%, by nitrites- 10% and by nitrates- 10%. Chloride concentration in all wells did not exceed the permissible quality limit value.

Large amounts of sewage sludge are generated in urban wastewater treatment plants and used as fertilizer in agriculture due to its characteristics. They can contain contaminants such as heavy metals and pathogenic microorganisms. The objective of this research work is to study, in real conditions, the evolution of microbial concentration in agricultural soils fertilized by biologically treated sewage sludge. The sludge (6.25 tons Ha&minus, 1) was applied in two agricultural soils with different textures and crops. A microbiological (total coliforms, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Salmonella sp. and total mesophylls) and physical-chemical characterization of the sludge, soils and irrigation water were carried out. The evolution of these parameters during sowing, growth and harvesting of crops was studied. Initially, sewage sludge had a higher concentration of microorganisms than soils. Irrigation water also contained microorganisms, fewer than sewage sludge amendment but not negligible. After amendment, there were no differences in the microbiological evolution in the two types of soil. In general, bacterial concentrations after crop harvest were lower than bacterial concentrations detected before sewage sludge amendment. Consequently, the application of sludge from water treatment processes did not worsen the microbiological quality of agricultural soil in this study at real conditions.

Biomonitoring predstavlja neophodnu komponentu tradicionalnih tehnika monitoringa, sa ciljem da se uspostavi veza izmeŤu spoljašnjih koncentracija zagaŤivaţa, koncentracija zagaŤivaţa u tkivima bioindikatora i ranih štetnih efekata po ispitivane organizme. Ribe su korisni bioindikatori i ţesto se primenjuju u ekogenotoksikološkim ispitivanjima. U ovoj studiji, procena stanja kvaliteta površinske vode vršena je na reci Savi na lokalitetu Duboko i na reci Dunav na lokalitetu Višnjica tokom 2014. godine, kako bi se procenio uticaj razliţitih sezona na variranje parametara kvaliteta i odgovor biomarkera deverike, krupatice i crnooke deverike. Procena kvaliteta vode vršena je merenjem fiziţko-hemijskih i mikrobioloških parametara fekalnog i organskog zagaŤenja. Procena genotoksiţnog potencijala vršena je primenom alkalnog komet testa za kvantifikaciju DNK oštešenja u šelijama krvi, jetre i škrga riba, kao biomarkera izlaganja. Histopatološke promene u jetri i škrgama prašene su kao biomarker efekta. Paralelno, prašene su koncentracije metala i metaloida u jetri, škrgama, gonadama i mišišu, primenom metode ICP-OES. Na lokalitetu Višnjica zabeleţen je viši nivo fekalnog i organskog zagaŤenja. Na lokalitetu Duboko zabeleţene su više koncentracije ispitivanih elemenata u sva ţetiri tkiva, u poreŤenju sa lokalitetom Višnjica. Na oba lokaliteta škrge su akumulirale najviše koncentracije metala i metaloida, a mišiš najniţe. Na oba lokaliteta, krv je bila tkivo sa najvišim nivoom DNK oštešenja, dok je jetra tokom vešine meseci imala najniţe DNK oštešenje. Na lokalitetu Višnjica zabeleţene su više vrednosti DNK oštešenja krvi, na lokalitetu Duboko više vrednosti DNK oštešenja škrga, dok je nivo DNK oštešenja u šelijama jetre na oba lokaliteta bio pribliţno jednak. Na lokalitetu Duboko pri najvešim vrednostima histopatološkog indeksa škrga zabeleţeno je blago do umereno oštešenje, a na lokalitetu Višnjica umereno do teško oštešenje škrga. Na oba lokaliteta, jetra je bila organ sa vešim obimom histopatoloških promena u odnosu na škrge. Sveukupno, škrge kao prvi organ u direktnom kontaktu sa zagaŤivaţima iz vode pokazale su vešu akumulaciju ispitivanih elemenata i viši nivo DNK oštešenja, dok je jetra kao glavni organ za procesuiranje zagaŤivaţa iz vode i hrane pokazala viši nivo histopatoloških promena. Odabrane vrste pokazale su se kao pogodni bioindikatori za in situ ispitivanja efekata zagaŤenja. Biomonitoring represents an essential part of traditional monitoring techniques with the aim to establish relationship between external concentrations of pollutants, concentrations of pollutants in the tissues of bioindicators and early adverse effects in examined organisms. Fish are useful bioindicators often used in ecogenotoxicological studies. In this study, assessment of the surface water quality was performed on the Sava River locality Duboko and on the Danube River locality Višnjica during 2014 in order to examine the impact of different seasons on the variation of the quality parameters and biomarker response in common bream, white bream and white-eye bream. Assessment of the water quality was performed based on the physico-chemical parameters and microbiological parameters of fecal and organic pollution. Genotoxic potential was assessed by using the alkaline comet assay in order to quantify DNA damage level, in blood, liver and gill cells, as a biomarker of exposure. Histopathological analyses of liver and gill tissue were monitored as a biomarker of effect. Additionally, concentrations of metals and metalloids in liver, gills, gonads and muscle were performed by the ICP-OES method. The higher level of fecal and organic pollution was present on the locality Višnjica. The higher concentrations of examined elements in all four tissues were present in fish from the locality Duboko, in comparison to the locality Višnjica. At both sites gills accumulated the highest concentrations of metals and metalloids, while muscle accumulated the lowest concentrations. Blood was the tissue with the highest level of DNA damage, while liver had the lowest level of DNA damage during most of the months at both sites. Higher DNA damage level in blood cells was observed at the locality Višnjica, in gill cells at the locality Duboko, while the level of DNA damage in liver was approximately the same at both localities. Based on the highest level of histopathological index of gills at the locality Duboko gills were slightly to moderately damaged, while at the locality Višnjica gills were moderately to heavily damaged. At both localities liver had higher level of histopathological alterations in comparison to gills. Overall, gills as the first organ in direct contact with contaminants form water showed higher level of examined elements and DNA damage, while the liver as the main organ for processing contaminants from water and food showed higher level of histopathological alterations. Examined fish species proved to be useful bioindicators for in situ assessment of the pollution effects.

Current study examines the relationship of twin deficit with stock market for Pakistan from 1992 to 2012.The results of ADF test shows that variables are not integrate at same order; hence, ARDL approach is used to examine the long run relationship among variables. The result of bound test rejects the null hypothesis of no Cointegration among variables and long run model shows positive relationship of twin deficit for Pakistan. In short run the results remain same and disequilibrium in short run is adjusted rapidly back towards long run. The positive and significant relation of twin deficit with stock market for Pakistan is due to high development expenditures, increasing debt level, and incoming of foreign aid and assistance. Government must adopt solid tactic to cut down its expenditures and utilized scare resources to reduce twin deficit, as stock market of Pakistan is highly volatile.

The paper proposed herewith aims to give an overview on the pollution along the Danube River. Water quality in Danube River basin (DRB) is under a great pressure due to the diverse range of the human activities including large urban center, industrial, agriculture, transport and mining activities. The most important aspects of the water pollution are: organic, nutrient and microbial pollution, , hazardous substances, and hydro-morphological alteration. Analysis of the pressures on the Danube River showed that a large part of the Danube River is subject to multiple pressures and there are important risks for not reaching good ecological status and good chemical status of the water in the foreseeable future. In 2009, the evaluation based on the results of the Trans National Monitoring Network showed for the length of water bodies from the Danube River basin that 22% achieved good ecological status or ecological potential and 45% river water bodies achieved good chemical status. Another important issue is related to the policy of water pollution.

This study represents the first investigation of microbiological groundwater pollution as a function of aquifer type and season for the Apulia region of southern Italy. Two hundred and seven wells were randomly selected from those monitored by the Regional Agency for Environmental Protection for emergency use. Both compulsory (Escherichia coli, Total Coliform, and Enterococci) and optional (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella spp., Heterotrophic Plate Count at 37 and 22 °C) microbiological parameters were assessed regularly at these wells. Groundwater from only 18 of the 207 (8.7 %) wells was potable; these all draw from karst-fissured aquifers. The remaining 189 wells draw from karst-fissured (66.1 %) or porous (33.9 %) aquifers. Of these, 82 (43.4 %) tested negative for Salmonella spp. and P. aeruginosa, while 107 (56.6 %) tested positive for P. aeruginosa (75.7 %), Salmonella spp. (10.3 %), or for both Salmonella spp. and P. aeruginosa (14 %). A logistic regression model shows that the probability of potable groundwater depends on both season and aquifer type. Typically, water samples were more likely to be potable in autumn-winter than in spring-summer periods (odds ratio, OR = 2.1; 95 % confidence interval, 95 % CI = 1.6-2.7) and from karst-fissured rather than porous aquifers (OR = 5.8; 95 % CI = 4.4-7.8). Optional parameters only showed a seasonal pattern (OR = 2.6; 95 % CI = 1.7-3.9). Clearly, further investigation of groundwater microbiological aspects should be carried out to identify the risks of fecal contamination and to establish appropriate protection methods, which take into account the hydrogeological and climatic characteristics of this region.

The effects of five towns on river water pollution were examined along the Łyna River (southern watershed of the Baltic Sea, northern Poland). The relationships among the spatially derived indicators of urbanization, environmental variables, and physico-chemical and microbiological data (heterotrophic plate count at 22 and 37 °C, and fecal coli) obtained from longitudinal river profiling have been examined with the use of multivariate analyses such as principal component analysis with factor analysis (PCA/FA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). We recognized the river channel as an environmental path that links serial urban areas into an "urban river continuum." An overall increasing trend in nutrients and indicator bacteria from suburban headwaters to urbanized sections of the river was detected despite a significant decrease in those between the towns. We concluded that the role of a multicity is equally as important as a single urban area in predicting the impacts of man-made pollutants on river water quality.

“Pretreatment of Biogas Production Byproducts”. The aim of the research is to determine the optimal method of hydrogen sulphide attraction at the biogas production station and elaborate a solution for digestate treatment from microbiological pollution. Out of nine researched regents the best one to attract hydrogen sulphide in the biogas reactor is Fe2O3·3H2O, Fe(OH)3, AlCl3. From the point of view of the environmental safety the safest are Fe2O3·3H2O, Fe(OH)3, from the point of view of costs the cheapest are Fe2O3·3H2O and AlCl3. It is suggested to use Fe2O3·3H2O as a regent for the attraction of hydrogen sulphide. The recommended optimal conditions for liquid digestate pasteurization at the biogas production station are: thermal treatment at 70 ºC, time of treatment 60 minutes or thermal treatment at 80 ºC, time of treatment 30 minutes.

Resumen En Guatemala el 90% de las fuentes de abastecimiento del agua urbana son rurales (70% superficiales). Se eligieron tres ríos de la cuenca alta del Sis Icán (Chitá, Ixconá-Sis y Sacobá), vertiente del Pacífico, para evaluar la calidad del agua para consumo humano. En las tres microcuencas hay actividades agropecuarias y poblaciones urba nas y rurales. Se tomaron muestras en dos puntos de cada río, cabecera y desembocadura, en 2012. Las variables medidas fueron: NO3 -, NO2=, SO4 =, Fe, Cl, Mn, dureza, coliformes totales y coliformes fecales. Se usó como índice de contaminación el promedio de los cocientes entre el valor observado y su respectivo límite máximo permitido. En los tres ríos existen aportes estadísticamente significativos de contaminantes químicos y coliformes totales y fecales. Aunque los contaminantes químicos no comprometen la calidad del agua para su consumo; los microbiológicos son una amenaza. AbstractIn Guatemala 90 % of urban water has a rural origin and 70% of the sources are superficial. We selected three rivers of the upper basin of Sis Icán (Chita, and Sacobá Ixconá-Sis; Pacific coast) to asses drinking water. The watersheds have agriculture and livestock farms, as well as urban and rural populations. Water quality was assessed in the origin and end of each river, in 2012. The variables measured were: NO3, NO2 =, SO4 =, Fe, Cl, Mn, hardness, total coliforms and fecal coli-forms. We applied the water pollution index, which is the average of the ratios between observed parameters and regulated standard val ues. We found statistically significant inputs for chemical and microbiological contaminants (total and fecal coliforms). The level of chemical contaminants does not compromise the quality of water for human consumption, but the biological contamination does.

U radu su prikazani biološki i kemijski rizici koji ugrožavaju zdravlje ljudi nakon konzumacije riba, rakova, školjkaša i njihovih proizvoda, sirovih, mariniranih ili nedovoljno toplinski obrađenih. Virusi, bakterije i njihovi toksini kao rizični čimbenici koji predstavljaju faktor onečišćenja proizvoda ribe i školjkaša imaju negativan utjecaj u prehrambenom lancu ljudi i predstavljaju zoonotski potencijal te uzrokuju bolesti koje se prenose konzumiranjem morskih proizvoda. Kao važnije uzročnike možemo istaknuti viruse (Norovirus i Hepatitis A), bakterije (rodovi Escherichia, Salmonella, Klebsiella, Edwardsiella, Yersinia, Proteus, Aerobacter, Citrobacter, Serratia, Providencia, Shigella), parazite, uzročnike zoonoza (Opisthorchis felineus, Heterophyes heterophyes, Metagonimus yokogawai, Diphylobothrium latum, Anisakis spp.), biotoksine koji uzrokuju intoksikaciju u ljudi povezani su s konzumacijom školjkaša. Kada je riječ o kemijskim rizicima, zbog zaštite zdravlja potrošača normativnim propisima su navedene maksimalno dopuštene koncentracije metala u namirnicama. Kao najbitnije istkanuli smo arsen, živu, kadmij i olovo koji u morskoj sredini potječu od antropogenih izvora kao što su industrijski otpad te poljoprivredni otpad., The paper presents the biological and chemical risks that threaten human health after consumption of raw, marinated or insufficiently heat-treated fish, crustaceans, shellfish and the products thereof. Viruses, bacteria and their toxins as risk factors representing the contamination factor of fish and shellfish products have a negative impact in the human food chain, carry zoonotic potential and cause diseases transmitted by consumption of marine products. We can indicate as significant pathogens viruses (Norovirus and Hepatitis A), bacteria (genera Escherichia, Salmonella, Klebsiella, Edwardsiella, Yersinia, Proteus, Aerobacter, Citrobacter, Serratia, Providencia, Shigella), parasites, zoonotic agents (Opisthorchis felineus, Heterophyes heterophyes, Metagonimus yokogawai, Diphyllobothrium latum, Anisakis spp.), while biotoxins that cause intoxication in humans are associated with the consumption of shellfish. When it comes to chemical risks, in order to protect the health of consumers, normative regulations specify the maximum permissible concentrations of metals in foods, the most important being arsenic, mercury, cadmium and lead which in the marine environment originate from anthropogenic sources such as industrial and agricultural waste., In der vorliegenden Arbeit wurden biologische und chemische Risiken dargestellt, die die Gesundheit der Menschen nach Verzehr von Fischen, Krebsen, Krebstieren und deren Erzeugnissen gefährden, die roh, mariniert oder nicht ausreichend wärmebehandelt wurden. Viren, Bakterien und deren Toxine üben als Risikofaktoren, die einen Faktor der Verseuchung von Fischen und Krebstieren darstellen, einen negativen Einfluss in der Nahrungskette der Menschen aus, stellen zoonotisches Potential dar und verursachen Krankheiten, die durch Verzehr von Meeresprodukten übertragen werden. Als wichtigere Verursacher können wir Viren (Norovirus und Hepatitis A), Bakterien (Gattungen Escherichia, Salmonella, Klebsiella, Edwardsiella, Yersinia, Proteus, Aerobacter, Citrobacter, Serratia, Providencia, Shigella), Parasiten, Verursacher von Zoonosen (Opisthorchis felineus, Heterophyes heterophyes, Metagonimus yokogawai, Diphylobothrium latum, Anisakis spp.), Biotoxine hervorheben, die eine Vergiftung bei Menschen verursachen und mit dem Verzehr von Krebstieren zusammenhängen. Wenn es von chemischen Risiken die Rede ist, sind höchstzulässige Konzentrationen von Metallen in Lebensmitteln durch normative Vorschriften zwecks Gesundheitsschutzes der Verbraucher angegeben worden. Als wesentlichste Metalle haben wir Arsen, Quecksilber, Cadmium und Blei hervorgehoben, die im Meeresumfeld aus anthropogenen Quellen wie Industrieabfall und landwirtschaftlicher Abfall stammen., Nella tesi sono rappresentati i rischi biologici e chimici che minacciano la salute delle persone dopo la consumazione di pesce, granchi, molluschi e i loro prodotti, crudi, marinati oppure non sufficientemente cotti. I virus, i batteri e le loro tossine come agenti di rischio che rappresentano i prodotti di pesce e molluschi contaminati hanno un’influenza negativa nella catena alimentare delle persone e rappresentano un potenziale zootonico e causano malattie che vengono trasmesse consumando i prodotti di mare. Uno dei fattori più importati sono i virus (Norovirus e Epatite A), i batteri (ceppi Escherichia, Salmonella, Klebsiella, Edwardsiella, Yersinia, Proteus, Aerobacter, Citrobacter, Serratia, Providencia, Shigella), i parassiti, gli agenti di zoonosi (Opisthorchis felineus, Heterophyes heterophyes, Metagonimus yokogawai, Diphylobothrium latum, Anisakis spp.), le biotossine che causano intossicazioni nelle persone sono collegati con la consumazione di molluschi. Quando si tratta di rischi chimici, per la tutela della salute dei consumatori sono elencate con delle disposizioni normative le concentrazioni massime dei metalli consentiti negli alimenti. Come più importanti, abbiamo messo in evidenza l’arsenio, il mercurio, il cadmio e il piombo, i quali, nel mare, provengono da fonti antropogeniche come i rifiuti industriali e agricoli., En este trabajo fueron mostrados los riesgos biológicos y químicos que ponen en peligro la salud de los humanos luego de consumar el pescado, los crustáceos, los moluscos y sus productos crudos, marinados o sin suficiente tratamiento térmico. Viruses, bacterias y sus toxinas son factores de riesgo o sea factores de contaminación de los productos de pescado y moluscos y como tales tienen una influencia negativa en la cadena trófica de los humanos, representan un potencial zoonótico y causan enfermedades transmitidas por la consumación de productos marinos. Se destacan como agentes causales los viruses (Norovirus y VHA), las bacterias (géneros de Escherichia, Salmonela, Klebisiella, Edwardsiella, Yersinia, Proteus, Enterobacter, Citrobacter, Serratia, Providencia, Shigella), los parásitos, los agentes causales de zoonosis (Opisthorchis felineus, Heterophyes heterophyes, Metagonimus yokogawai, Diphylobothrium latum, Anisakis spp.) y los biotoxinas que causan intoxicación de humanos en correlación con la consumación de los moluscos. En cuanto a los riesgos químicos, fueron determinadas las concentraciones máximas permisibles de metales pesados en los alimentos para proteger la salud de los consumidores. Como relevantes destacamos arsénico, mercurio, cadmio y plomo que provienen de fuentes antropogénicas en el medio marino, por ejemplo como los desechos industriales y los residuos agrícolas.

El estuario de Bahía Blanca en Argentina se encuentra bajo el efecto de la contaminación microbiológica a partir del vertido de desagües cloacales sin tratamiento previo y los patógenos asociados. En este estuario existen colonias reproductivas de Gaviota Cangrejera (Larus atlanticus) y Gaviota Cocinera (Larus dominicanus) y los adultos alimentan a sus crías con presas obtenidas en sitios contaminados con desagües cloacales y en basurales a cielo abierto donde pueden estar expuestas a patógenos de origen humano y animal. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el rol de la Gaviota Cangrejera y de la Gaviota Cocinera como portadores de patógenos zoonóticos de origen fecal. A partir de las muestras de material fecal se recuperaron Salmonella enterica var. Typhimurium, Salmonella enterica var. Gallinarum, Escherichia coli, Shigella dysenteriae, Enterobacter cloacae y Klebsiella pneumoniae. La prevalencia y diversidad de patógenos varió entre las dos especies de gaviotas, y la Gaviota Cangrejera fue positiva para una mayor variedad de patógenos que la Gaviota Cocinera. Escherichia coli fue la bacteria más prevalente en pichones y adultos de ambas especies, seguida por Salmonella spp. en pichones de Gaviota Cangrejera, y Enterobacter cloacae y Shigella dysenteriae en adultos de Gaviota Cangrejera. Se propone el uso de estas especies de gaviotas como centinelas de contaminación microbiológica en el estuario de Bahía Blanca. The Estuary of Bahía Blanca in Argentina is under the effect of chronic microbiological pollution with untreated municipal raw sewage and the pathogens associated with it. In this estuary, there are breeding colonies of Olrog´s Gull (Larus atlanticus) and Kelp Gull (Larus dominicanus), where parents feed chicks and themselves on prey and food items foraged at or near sewage outfalls and refuse tips where they can be exposed to pathogens of human and animal origin. The objective of this study was to assess the role of Olrog´s Gull and Kelp Gull as carriers of zoonotic pathogens of fecal origin. The presence of fecal bacteria was assessed using standard bacteriological methods. Bacterial recovery from fecal samples of both species was positive for Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella gallinarum, Escherichia coli, Shigella dysenteriae, Enterobacter cloacae, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The prevalence and diversity of pathogens found varied between gull species and age categories, and Olrog´s Gull tested positive for a wider range of pathogens than Kelp Gull. Escherichia coli was the most prevalent bacteria in chicks and adults of both gull species, followed by Salmonella spp. in Olrog´s Gull chicks, and Enterobacter cloacae and Shigella dysenteriae in Olrog´s Gull adults. This is the first report of enteric pathogens in Olrog´s Gull and provides evidence that these and Kelp Gull act as carriers of human-specific and zoonotic pathogens in the study area. Fil: la Sala, Luciano Francisco. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia; Argentina. Centro de Estudios Cuantitativos en Sanidad Animal; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Petracci, Pablo F.. Programa de Conservación de la Gaviota Cangrejera en el Estuario de Bahía Blanca; Argentina Fil: Randazzo, Viviana. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia; Argentina Fil: Fernandez Miyakawa, Mariano E.. Instituto Nacional de Tecnologia Agropecuaria. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias. Centro de Investigación de Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronomicas. Instituto de Patobiologia; Argentina