Assessing the dynamics of pollutants in the environment is a very complex challenge, primarily because of the large number of variables involved. Thus, in addition to processes that depend on the physicochemical properties of the pollutant and the main characteristics of the contaminated environment, there are less obvious phenomena that also influence the dynamics of pollutants, such as colloid-mediated transport. The objective of this work is to elucidate the main characteristics of this process and its influence on the transport of pollutants through the soil, taking glyphosate as an example. Although this pollutant is strongly retained by soil components, its presence in groundwater is quite frequent, often due to this facilitated transport by colloids. challenge involved Thus colloidmediated colloid mediated example components frequent colloids

ABSTRACT Introduction/framework/objectives Over the last few years, most countries have developed standards relating to reducing the number of places where smoking continues to be possible, particularly in the workplace. This review was intended to summarize the most recent publications on the topic. Methodology This is a Bibliographic Review, initiated through a search carried out in April 2023 in the databases “CINALH plus with full text, Medline with full text, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Methodology Register, Nursing and Allied Health Collection: comprehensive, MedicLatina and RCAAP”. Content Passive Smoking is defined as "second-hand" smoke that encompasses a complex mixture of pollutants, remaining in the dust on local surfaces where it was smoked, consisting of the original tobacco products and the components originating in the direct consumer's breath, eventually reacting to other agents gifts. These can remain on inert surfaces, sometimes for months and transmission can occur by simple touch. Some researchers estimate that there are around 4000 chemical agents in this context, of which 250 are toxic and 50 are even carcinogenic. Tobacco is one of the preventable causes of death worldwide and a modifiable risk factor, through mechanisms that include DNA damage, inflammation and oxidative stress. It involves health costs and reduced labor productivity, due to associated pathologies, namely cardiovascular, respiratory, oncological, obstetric and infectious diseases. Discussion and Conclusions Over the last few decades, there has been a global decrease in passive smoke, due to the introduction of increasingly restrictive standards in relation to places where smoking is still permitted, in society in general and, obviously, in the workplace as well. The selected articles did not highlight the following detail much but, by creating areas where smoking is permitted in the company, these should minimize the exposure of all workers, smokers and, above all, non-smokers. It would be desirable for countries/institutions where standards are less restrictive and/or enforced to change, so that all workers have a safe working environment. Furthermore, it would be interesting to understand what opinion Portuguese workers have regarding this topic, how standards are complied with in their workplaces and what are the most effective techniques to achieve greater success in this context.

RESUMO Introdução/enquadramento/objetivos Ao longo dos últimos anos a generalidade dos países foi desenvolvendo normas relativas à diminuição dos locais onde continua a ser possível fumar, nomeadamente em contexto laboral. Pretendeu-se com esta revisão resumir o que de mais recente se publicou sobre o tema. Metodologia Trata-se de uma Revisão Bibliográfica, iniciada através de uma pesquisa realizada em abril de 2023 nas bases de dados “CINALH plus with full text, Medline with full text, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Methodology Register, Nursing and Allied Health Collection: comprehensive, MedicLatina e RCAAP”. Conteúdo O Tabagismo Passivo é definido como fumo de "segunda mão" que engloba uma mistura complexa de poluentes, permanecendo na poeira das superfícies locais onde se fumou, constituída pelos produtos tabágicos originais e os componentes originários pela respiração do consumidor direto, eventualmente reagindo a outros agentes presentes. Estes podem permanecer nas superfícies inertes, por vezes, por meses e a transmissão pode ocorrer pelo simples toque. Alguns investigadores estimam que existam neste contexto cerca de 4000 agentes químicos, dos quais 250 são tóxicos e 50 são inclusivamente carcinogénicos. O tabaco é uma das causas preveníveis de morte mundialmente e fator de risco modificável, por mecanismos que abarcam o dano de DNA, inflamação e stress oxidativo. Ele implica custos de saúde e de diminuição da produtividade laboral, em função das patologias associadas, nomeadamente cardiovascular, respiratória, oncológica, obstétrica e infeciosa. Discussão e Conclusões Ao longo das últimas décadas verificou-se, globalmente, uma diminuição ao Tabagismo Passivo, devido à introdução de normas cada vez mais restritivas em relação aos locais onde ainda é permitido fumar, na sociedade em geral e, obviamente, em contexto de trabalho também. Os artigos selecionados não realçaram muito o seguinte detalhe mas, criando-se áreas onde é permitido fumar na empresa, estas devem minimizar a exposição de todos os trabalhadores, tabagistas e, sobretudo, não fumadores. Seria desejável que os países/instituições onde as normas são menos restritivas e/ou cumpridas, tal se alterasse, de forma a todos os trabalhadores terem um ambiente laboral seguro. Para além disso, seria interessante perceber qual a opinião que os trabalhadores portugueses têm em relação a este tema, de que forma as normas são cumpridas nos seus locais de trabalho e quais as técnicas mais eficazes para obter mais sucesso neste contexto.

Resumen En Cuba, la falta de equipos de medición, el alto costo de las estaciones de contaminación atmosférica y las limitantes para acceder a nuevas tecnologías, dificultan el monitoreo continuo de la calidad del aire. Por tales motivos, la presente investigación tuvo como objetivo, caracterizar contaminantes criterio empleando el modelo System for Integrated modeLling of Atmospheric coMposition. Se obtuvo una serie diaria de concentraciones estimadas de contaminantes criterio en La Habana durante el año 2021. Se realizó una caracterización del comportamiento de los contaminantes analizando las concentraciones medias diarias y medias mensuales. Se realizó una revisión de los días en que las concentraciones sobrepasaban los valores de las concentraciones máximas admisibles establecidas en la Norma Cubana. Además, se compararon estos resultados con los Valores Guías de Calidad del Aire recomendados por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. De forma general, los valores diarios estimados de las concentraciones de los contaminantes se correspondieron con los patrones de distribución espacial y temporal característicos observados en estudios precedentes en la ciudad con monitoreo automático y activo. Se reafirma así la utilidad de la herramienta de las salidas del modelo System for Integrated modeLling of Atmospheric coMposition para brindar información de calidad del aire en La Habana.

Abstract In Cuba, the lack of measurement equipment, the high cost of air pollution stations and the limitations to access new technologies make continuous monitoring of air quality difficult. For these reasons, the objective of this research was to characterize criterion pollutants using the System for Integrated modeling of Atmospheric coMposition model. A daily series of estimated concentrations of criteria pollutants was obtained in Havana during the year 2021. A characterization of the behavior of the pollutants was carried out by analyzing the average daily and average monthly concentrations. A review was carried out of the days in which concentrations exceeded the values of the maximum admissible concentrations established in the Cuban Standard. In addition, these results were compared with the Air Quality Guide Values recommended by the World Health Organization. In general, the estimated daily values of pollutant concentrations corresponded to the characteristic spatial and temporal distribution patterns observed in previous studies in the city with automatic and active monitoring. Thus, the usefulness of the tool of the outputs of the System for Integrated modelLing of Atmospheric coMposition model to provide air quality information in Havana is reaffirmed.

Abstract: Environmental pollution from transportation has been a fundamental challenge for humanity throughout history, with conventional fuels contributing significantly to environmental degradation. This project seeks to suppress pollution and reduce noise generated by motorcycle taxis, whether for personal and/or private use. The main objective of the research work was to implement an electrolyzer in the combustion system of a motorcycle taxi to suppress environmental pollution and reduce noise. Methods included vehicle preparation, electrolyzer installation, battery adjustment, hydrogen generation, emissions measurement, safety, and data collection. As a result, the electrolyzer was implemented in the single-cylinder motorcycle taxi; The noise limit allowed at work in Peru is 85 dB, which is equivalent to 100 % noise at most; When using gasoline, a value of 76.4 dB was obtained, equivalent to 89.88 % noise, and when using hydrogen, a value of 71.7 dB was obtained, equivalent to 84.35 % noise, therefore, the total noise reduction was 4.70 dB (5.53 %) than established. The discussion highlighted that hydrogen is a clean fuel, with zero emissions and only emitting water vapor instead of polluting gases (5). The conclusion highlights the critical importance of the research, supported by the total reduction of 5.53 % of noise with this new technology and in turn external sources support that using hydrogen produced a smoother and quieter combustion; Regarding the useful life of the engine, due to the cleaner and more efficient combustion, the accumulation of waste was reduced, which benefits reducing the wear of internal components and the need for costly maintenance.

Resumen: La contaminación ambiental derivada del transporte ha sido un desafío fundamental para la humanidad a lo largo de la historia, con los combustibles convencionales contribuyendo significativamente a la degradación ambiental. Este proyecto busca suprimir la contaminación y reducir el ruido generada por mototaxis, ya sean de uso personal y/o privado. El trabajo de investigación tuvo como objetivo principal implementar un electrolizador en el sistema de combustión de un mototaxi para suprimir la contaminación ambiental y reducir el ruido. Los métodos incluyeron la preparación del vehículo, instalación del electrolizador, ajuste de la batería, generación de hidrógeno, medición de emisiones, seguridad y recolección de datos. Como resultado, se logró implementar el electrolizador en el mototaxi monocilíndrico; el límite de ruido permitido en el trabajo en el Perú es de 85 dB, que equivalen el 100 % de ruido como máximo; al utilizar gasolina se obtuvo un valor de 76.4 dB equivalentes a 89.88 % de ruido y al usar hidrógeno se obtuvo un valor de 71.7 dB siendo el 84.35 % de ruido, por lo tanto, la reducción total de ruido fue de 4.70 dB (5.53%) de lo establecido. La discusión destacó que el hidrógeno es un combustible limpio, con nulas emisiones y solo emitiendo vapor de agua en vez de gases contaminantes (5). La conclusión subraya la importancia crítica de la investigación, respaldada por la reducción total del 5.53 % de ruido con esta nueva tecnología y a su vez fuentes externas apoyan, que el utilizar hidrógeno produjo una combustión más suave y silenciosa. En cuanto a la vida útil del motor, la combustión más limpia y eficiente reduce la acumulación de residuos, lo que disminuye el desgaste de los componentes internos y la necesidad de mantenimientos costosos.

Abstract Introduction. Air quality is a matter of interest for public health due to its rapid deterioration in low- and middle-income countries and the effects of polluted air on the health of populations. Objective. To explore the air quality conditions in which digital platform delivery workers carry out their work, evaluating the localities of Kennedy and Usaquén in Bogotá, 2021. Materials and methods. We developed a mixed parallel convergent study based on four sources of information: 1) Ethnographic observation in five commercial locations of the two localities; 2) Monitoring of PM10 and PM2.5 in 56 delivery routes using a low-cost sensor; 3) Daily logs of the routes to support the device data interpretation, and 4) A semi-structured interview applied to the drivers to explore their danger perception during the routes. Results. We identified elements causing environmental injustice among digital platform delivery workers between the two study locations. The routes made by the delivery drivers in the locality of Kennedy registered higher concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5, compared to the values observed in Usaquén. The sources of air pollution identified by the delivery drivers through ethnographic observation and the router logbook showed the worst parameters in Kennedy. Conclusions. We evidenced that air quality, urban equipment, road infrastructure, mobile sources, and geospatial location are elements that mark the presence of environmental injustice for the digital platform delivery drivers in the studied localities. To reduce this inequity, it is necessary for digital delivery platforms and the district government to implement strategies that reduce the exposure and emission of air pollutants to protect the health of digital platform delivery workers.

Resumen Introducción. La calidad del aire es un asunto de interés para la salud pública por su rápido deterioro en los países de bajos y medianos ingresos, y los efectos del aire contaminado en la salud de las poblaciones. Objetivo. Explorar las condiciones de la calidad del aire en las que los repartidores de plataformas digitales desarrollaron su trabajo en las localidades de Kennedy y Usaquén de Bogotá durante el 2021. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio mixto, paralelo y convergente, basado en cuatro fuentes de información: 1) observación etnográfica en cinco ubicaciones comerciales de las dos localidades; 2) monitoreo de PM10 y PM2.5 en 56 rutas de reparto, empleando un equipo de bajo costo; 3) bitácoras diarias de los recorridos que apoyaron la interpretación de los datos del equipo, y 4) entrevista semiestructurada con el rutero para explorar sus percepciones frente a los peligros durante los recorridos. Resultados. Se identificaron diferencias en las condiciones de trabajo, las percepciones y las exposiciones a material particulado de los repartidores entre las dos localidades de estudio que constituyeron fuentes de injusticia ambiental. Los recorridos que realizaron los repartidores en la localidad de Kennedy registraron mayores concentraciones de PM10 y PM2.5. Las fuentes de contaminación atmosférica identificadas por los repartidores mostraron los peores parámetros en Kennedy. Conclusiones. Se evidenció que la calidad del aire, el equipamiento urbano, la infraestructura vial, las fuentes móviles y la ubicación geoespacial son elementos que marcan la presencia de injusticia ambiental para los repartidores. Para disminuir esta inequidad, es necesario que las plataformas de reparto digital y el gobierno distrital implementen estrategias que reduzcan la exposición y la emisión de contaminantes del aire con el fin de proteger la salud de los repartidores de plataformas.

Resumen En la literatura se ha aportado evidencia que establece que el cumplimiento de las regulaciones medioambientales propicia la adopción e implementación de actividades de eco-innovación en las empresas manufactureras, ya que a través de este tipo de actividades no sólo se reducen los costos asociados a las descargas de contaminantes, sino también se incrementa el nivel del rendimiento sustentable de las empresas. Sin embargo, poco se sabe de la relación existente entre las regulaciones medioambientales, la eco-innovación y el rendimiento sustentable, ya que son pocos los estudios publicados en la literatura que se han orientado en su análisis, por lo cual este estudio tiene como objetivo llenar este vacío existente, y generar nuevo conocimiento de la relación entre estos tres constructos a través de una extensa revisión de la literatura. Asimismo, se distribuyó un cuestionario a una muestra de 460 empresas manufactureras de México, analizando los datos mediante el análisis factorial confirmatorio y los modelos de ecuaciones estructurales basados en la covarianza. Los resultados obtenidos sugieren que las regulaciones medioambientales tienen efectos positivos en la eco-innovación, y la eco-innovación tiene efectos positivos en el rendimiento sustentable de las empresas manufactureras de la industria automotriz. Bajo este contexto, los resultados obtenidos permitieron concluir que el cumplimiento de las regulaciones medioambientales establecidas por la administración pública, por parte de las empresas manufactureras de la industria automotriz, mejoran tanto las actividades de eco-innovación como el rendimiento sustentable de las organizaciones.

Abstract In the literature, evidence has been provided that establishes that compliance with environmental regulations promotes the adoption and implementation of eco-innovation activities in manufacturing firms, since through this type of activities not only are the costs associated with the discharges of pollutants, but also increases the level of sustainable performance of companies. However, little is known about the relationship between environmental regulations, eco-innovation, and sustainable performance, since there are few studies published in the literature that have focused on their analysis, so this study aims to fill this existing gap, and generate new knowledge of the relationship between these three constructs through an extensive review of the literature. Likewise, a questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 460 manufacturing firms in Mexico, analyzing the data through confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation models based on covariance. The results obtained suggest that environmental regulations have positive effects on eco-innovation, and eco-innovation has positive effects on sustainable performance of manufacturing firms in the automotive industry. In this context, the results obtained allowed us to conclude that compliance with environmental regulations established by the public administration, by manufacturing firms in the automotive industry, improve both eco-innovation activities and sustainable performance of organizations.

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) represent a promising technology to generate bio-electricity and synchronously reduce wastewater pollutants. The presence of exoelectrogens in wastewater is critical for bio-electricity and pollutant reduction, but the performance of exoelectrogens at different pH levels remains unknown. This study aims to bridge this gap by offering an integrated approach to understanding the performance of exoelectrogens under varying substrate pH, particularly in bio-electricity generation and pollutant reduction in sugarbeet processing wastewater (SBWW). Three pH levels (ranging from acidic to alkaline) were studied and MFC's electricity output was measured. Later, current density, power density, and coulombic efficiency (CE) were calculated. Both pre- and post-experiment substrate samples were analysed with inductively coupled plasma (ICP). Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene analysis, DNA amplification, sequencing library preparation, and bioinformatics workflows on post-experiment samples of the substrate and anode samples were conducted. A diverse community of microorganisms was identified, especially Alphaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, and Deltaproteobacteria (Geobacter). Bacteroidetes and Desulfovibrio were the major exoelectrogens responsible for electricity generation. Among the three pH levels tested, the most alkaline pH level (9.5±0.1) outperformed the others, achieving a 54% higher power density, 21% greater current density, and a 40% higher CE compared to the acidic pH level (6.5±0.1). Around 50-99% of pollutants were removed from the SBWW. The study revealed that Gammaproteobacteria thrive and perform better in alkaline environment.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Nowadays the pollutants produced in water exceed the capabilities of its decontamination mechanisms. It is necessary to evaluate the wastewater belonging to the Central Refinería Ecuador (Sugar Refinery Ecuador). Objective: To evaluate the quality of the wastewater from the Central Refinería Ecuador (Sugar Refinery Ecuador) for its possible use in agricultural irrigation. Materials and Methods: The quality of the wastewater was evaluated through physical, chemical and microbiological tests. Results and Discussion: The main physical, chemical and microbiological results evaluated at two points in time were: temperature 46.6 and 43.6 ºC, electrical conductivity 2 359 and 1 366 µS cm-1, sedimentable solids 8 and 3.50 mL L-1. pH 5.8 and 6.3 pH units, total phosphorus 5 and 3.75 mg L-1, total nitrogen 4.20 and 6.45 mg L-1, chemical oxygen demand 1 832 and 1 742 mg L-1, biochemical oxygen demand 1 671 and 1 451 mg L-1, fats and oils 296.90 and 30.90 mg L-1; cadmium 0.06 and 0.16 mg L-1, total chromium 0.10 and 0.20 mg L-1, copper 1.19 and 1.80 mg L-1, lead 0.43 and 0.55 mg L-1, zinc 1.37 and 2.33 mg L-1, total coliforms 8 800 000 and 160 000 mg L-1 and fecal coliforms 8 800 000 and 1 070 000 mg L-1. Conclusions: The effluent does not comply with the discharge requirements of NC 27, (2012) and is classified of poor quality to be used for sugarcane irrigation according to NC 855, (2011).

RESUMEN Introducción: Hoy en día los contaminantes producidos en el agua superan las capacidades de sus mecanismos de descontaminación. Siendo necesario evaluar las aguas residuales pertenecientes al Central Refinería Ecuador. Objetivo: Evaluar la calidad del agua residual del Central Refinería Ecuador, para su posible aprovechamiento en riego agrícola. Materiales y Métodos: La calidad del agua residual se evaluó mediante ensayos físicos, químicos y microbiológicos. Resultados y Discusión: Los principales resultados físico, químicos y microbiológicos evaluados en dos momentos fueron: temperatura 46,6 y 43,6 ºC, conductividad eléctrica 2 359 y 1 366 µS cm-1, sólidos sedimentables 8 y 3,50 mL L-1. pH 5,80 y 6,30 unidades de pH, fósforo total 5 y 3,75 mg L-1, nitrógeno total 4,20 y 6,45 mg L-1, demanda química de oxígeno 1 832 y 1 742 mg L-1, demanda bioquímica de oxígeno 1 671 y 1 451 mg L-1, grasas y aceites 296,9 y 30,9 mg L-1; cadmio 0,06 y 0,16 mg L-1, cromo total 0,10 y 0,20 mg L-1, cobre 1,19 y 1,80 mg L-1, plomo 0,43 y 0,55 mg L-1, zinc 1,37 y 2,33 mg L-1, coliformes totales 8 800 000 y 1 60 000 mg L-1 y coliformes fecales 8 800 000 y 1 070 000 mg L-1. Conclusiones: El efluente no cumple con los requisitos de vertimiento de la NC 27, (2012)y es clasificada de mala calidad para ser aprovechada en el riego de la caña de azúcar según NC 855, (2011).

ABSTRACT The prevailing synoptic conditions in one place are directly linked to the implementation values of contaminants in the atmosphere. Its study allows to determine the presence of phenomena that favor to a greater or lesser extent the accumulation of polluting substances. Taking this into account, the present investigation aimed to determine the behavior of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen and ozone dioxide in two locations in Havana under the influence of different types of synoptic situations. The data comes from automatic monitoring stations and correspond to time concentrations of the pollutants criteria. From these the daily average concentrations were calculated in µg/m3 and grouped according to the type of synoptic situation that predominated. The sampling period was from November 2015 to October 2016. To determine the relationship with the TSS, the Kruskal-Wallis H test was performed and to study this relationship in greater detail the Dunn test. The maximum average concentration values were obtained when the localities were under the weak influence of the subtropical anti -cyclone of the North Atlantic and the migratory continental anticyclones.

RESUMEN Las condiciones sinópticas imperantes en un lugar están directamente vinculadas con los valores de inmisión de contaminantes en la atmósfera. Su estudio permite determinar la presencia de fenómenos que favorecen en mayor o menor grado la acumulación de sustancias contaminantes. Teniendo esto en cuenta, la presente investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar el comportamiento de las inmisiones de Dióxido de Azufre, Dióxido de Nitrógeno y Ozono en dos localidades de La Habana bajo la influencia de diferentes tipos de situaciones sinópticas. Los datos provienen de estaciones de monitoreo automático y corresponden a concentraciones horarias de los contaminantes criterio. A partir de estas se calcularon las concentraciones medias diarias en µg/m3 y se agruparon según el tipo de situación sinóptica que predominaba. El período de muestreo fue desde noviembre del 2015 hasta octubre del 2016. Para determinar la relación con los TSS se realizó la prueba H de Kruskal-Wallis y para estudiar esta relación en mayor detalle la prueba de Dunn. Los máximos valores medios de concentración se obtuvieron cuando las localidades estuvieron bajo la débil influencia del Anticiclón Subtropical del Atlántico Norte y los anticiclones continentales migratorios.

ABSTRACT The influence of the meteorological variables and the types of synoptic situations (TSS) in low dispersion conditions on the concentrations of atmospheric pollutants (SO2, NO2, O3, PM10 and PM2.5) in the Campus of the Higher Institute of Sciences Applied (InSTEC) of Havana University and in the town of San Miguel del Padrón (SMP) is evaluated during the period from 2015 to 2017 through the measurements made in the automatic air quality monitoring stations. The synoptic situation that contributed predominantly to the occurrence of low dispersion conditions was TSS VIII (Migratory Continental Anticyclone) and the second place was TSS I (Atlantic Anticyclone). The hourly samples that were above the maximum admissible concentration (CMA) according to NC 1020:2014 were 59 and 31 times for PM10 and PM2.5 respectively, in the SMP locality. On the other hand, in InSTEC, PM10 exceeded the daily CMA on 21 occasions. In the case of PM2.5, the CMA was exceeded 17 times. The only event classified as an extreme episode of high concentrations (SMOG) took place at the SMP air quality monitoring station on March 15, 2016. The other gaseous pollutants exceeded their respective CMA on a few occasions for hourly and daily samples and coincided in time with those that occurred for particulate matter. These synoptic situations that produce low dispersion can also cause harmful effects on human health.

RESUMEN Se evalúa la influencia de la variables meteorológicas y los tipos de situaciones sinópticas (TSS) en condiciones de poca dispersión sobre las concentraciones de los contaminantes atmosféricos (SO2, NO2, O3, PM10 y PM2.5 ) en el Campus del Instituto Superior de Ciencias Aplicadas (InSTEC) de la Universidad de La Habana y en la localidad de San Miguel del Padrón (SMP) durante el periodo de 2015 al 2017 a través de las mediciones realizadas en las estaciones automáticas de monitoreo de la calidad del aire. La situación sinóptica que contribuyo de forma predominante a la ocurrencia de condiciones de poca dispersión fue la TSS VIII (Anticiclón Continental Migratorio) y el segundo lugar la TSS I (Anticiclón del Atlántico). Las muestras horarias que estuvieron por encima de la concentración máxima admisible (CMA) según la NC 1020:2014 fueron 59 y 31 veces para el PM10 y PM2,5 respectivamente, en la localidad de SMP. Por otro lado, en el InSTEC, el PM10 sobrepaso la CMA diaria en 21 ocasiones. Para el caso del PM2,5 fueron sobrepasadas la CMA en 17 veces. El único evento catalogado como episodio extremo de altas concentraciones (SMOG) se desarrolló en la estación de monitoreo de la calidad del aire de SMP durante el día 15 de marzo de 2016. Los demás contaminantes gaseosos sobrepasaron sus respectivas CMA en pocas ocasiones para muestras horarias y diarias y coincidieron en tiempo con las ocurridas para el material particulado. Estas situaciones sinópticas que producen poca dispersión también pueden provocar efectos nocivos sobre la salud humana.

ABSTRACT Marine pollution caused by microplastics (MPs) in the ocean has been very high research in recent years, and their effects over different marine organisms such as zooplankton have been recognized. The crescent literature requires review and harmonization of the methodologies to unify criteria of comparison. Literature on microplastic ingestion in marine organisms is just beginning to be published, so it is of great importance to establish unified techniques for the extraction methodologies of microplastics ingested by zooplankton to determine the abundance and characteristics of MPs. Databases were used to find specific techniques for digestion of organic material from marine organisms, and four specific techniques were chosen for zooplankton degradation. Samples collected at one station in the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, Colombia were done. The chosen techniques were evaluated in four aspects: 1) The efficiency of digestions was evaluated on zooplankton samples, 2) The efficiency of digestion different duration and temperature conditions was assessed, 3) Evaluate the effect physics of digestions on microplastics, 4) Quantifying MPs from the ingestion rate. Fifty individuals were chosen from the sample to evaluate each technique. The most abundant groups corresponding to the families Paracalanidae, Corycaedae and Oncaeidae, and the phylum Chaetognatha were used. The best technique obtained was Md Amin et al (2020) with our modifications, this technique uses HNO3 65 % at 80 °C of temperature during one hour, in bottles of 2 mL lid with heat resistant. The organic matter was totally degraded, not changes on the physic integrity of MPs were observed, and the ingestion rates were similarly reported for other authors in these organisms.

RESUMEN Existe un incremento de publicaciones por conocer la problemática de la contaminación marina por microplásticos (MPs), donde ya se reconocen algunos de los efectos que pueden tener en el zooplancton. Este aumento de publicaciones requiere que se revisen las metodologías para unificar criterios de comparación, por lo que es de gran importancia unificar técnicas para las metodologías de extracción de los microplásticos ingeridos por el zooplancton para determinar la abundancia y las características de los MPs. A partir de una búsqueda en bases de datos, se escogieron cuatro técnicas específicas para la degradación de la materia orgánica representada por el zooplancton. Las técnicas fueron evaluadas en cuatro aspectos: 1) Eficiencia de la degradación de la materia orgánica, 2) Duración y condiciones de temperatura para el procesamiento, 3) Efecto físico de la digestión sobre los microplásticos, 4) cuantificar los MPs a partir de la tasa de ingestión. Se emplearon cincuenta individuos para cada uno de los grupos más abundantes correspondientes a las familias Paracalanidae, Corycaeidae y Oncaeidae, y al filo Chaetognatha. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que la mejor técnica fue la de Md Amin et al (2020) con modificaciones, en la que no se observaron alteraciones en la integridad de los MPs y la tasa de ingestión fue similar a la que se reporta para estos organismos.

Resumen El plástico se ha vuelto muy popular en los últimos años gracias a su durabilidad y propiedades. A pesar de sus múltiples ventajas, la humanidad ha desarrollado cierta dependencia hacia este material, lo que ha propiciado un incremento en su uso y, a su vez, en la generación de desechos ante el escaso hábito de reúso. Uno de los polímeros plásticos más usados es el poliestireno (PS), ya que este se usa en una amplia gama de aplicaciones gracias a su bajo costo y fácil producción. Sin embargo, pasado el tiempo de vida útil de este plástico, es considerado como desecho. El PS al estar expuesto a condiciones atmosféricas como la radiación UV, se fragmenta dando como resultado la creación de microplásticos (MP), mismos que son pequeñas partículas que no sobrepasan los 5 mm, lo que representa una amenaza al medio ambiente pues, al degradarse, las propiedades decaen, se genera un cambio dimensional y, además, pueden ser fácilmente transportadas no solo al medio ambiente, sino también a los organismos. Este artículo de revisión se enfoca en evidenciar las principales rutas que siguen los MP al interaccionar con los seres humanos y los efectos potenciales de los PS-MP en el citoesqueleto, así como en resaltar la necesidad de más estudios al respecto.

Abstract Plastic has become very popular in recent years due to its durability and properties. Despite its many advantages, humanity has developed a certain dependence on this material, which represents an increase in its use and in turn, in waste. One of the most widely used plastic polymers is the polystyrene (PS), as is used in a wide range of applications due to its low cost and easy production, although after the useful life of the plastic, it is considered as waste. When plastic is exposure to atmospheric conditions such as UV radiation, it degrades and fragments giving rise to microplastics (MPs), which are defined as small particles that do not exceed 5 mm, representing a threat to the environment because when they degrade the properties decay, a dimensional change is generated and they can also be easily transported not only to the environment but also to organisms. This review article focuses on highlighting the main pathways that MPs follow when interacting with humans and the potential effects of PS-MPs on the cytoskeleton, as well as highlighting the need for more studies in this regard.

Abstract: The air pollutant in a specific region is mainly responsible for the respiration-related health problem. But the effect of these pollutants is also creating cognitive related issues and hence degrades the attention level of the students. As a result, their educational performance and learning ability reduce to a great extent. This study is to reveal the effect of the air pollutant on the educational outcomes of a student by measuring their attentiveness in the class using the Internet of Everything (IoE). As the effect of ambient air quality is different from region to region. This investigation is performed upon 33 schools of the Odisha region in India. An IoE-SVM Based approach is employed to evaluate the attentiveness of the student in different regions. The result shows that the PM10 and NO2 are mostly affecting the student’s attentiveness and hence cognitive response. The result shows that a 1% increase in PM10, NO2, and SO2 levels would decrease the test score by 0.049%, 0.14%, and 0.18% respectively.

Pesticide residues and heavy metal content of cassava, yam, cocoyam, potato, water yam and carrot were evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and atomic absorption spectroscopy. The detected pesticide residues in the samples were 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, glyphosate, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), dichlorobiphenyl, aldrin, endosulfan, profenofos, g-chlordane, carbofuran, biphenyl, heptachlor, lindane and t-Nonachlor. The concentration of HCB ranged between 0.0799 ± 0.06 mg/kg and 0.1596 ± 0.00 mg/kg, which was greater than the permitted maximum limit of 0.5 mg/kg established by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The concentration of aldrin and profenofos detected was lower than the predetermined maximum allowed limits. Endosulfan concentrations in cocoyam (0.2500 mg/kg) and potato (0.3265 mg/kg) were higher than the limits allowed by the Canadian Department of Industrial Research. The heavy metals detected in these samples include cobalt, nickel, lead, manganese, chromium, arsenic and mercury in at least one of the samples evaluated. There was not much difference between the concentration of cobalt in yam (0.036 mg/kg) and the maximum allowed concentration (0.043 mg/kg). Lead was detected in potatoes and carrots but was below detectable concentration in cassava, yam, cocoyam and water yam. Similarly, cocoyam was found to have a significant mercury content (0.658 mg/kg), but mercury content was below detectable concentrations in cassava, yam and water yam. SIGNIFICANCE: Heavy metal pollutants and pesticide residues can impair human health, and their presence in food can cause various illnesses and health issues. It is important to prevent exposure to these contaminants and ensure that food is safe by identifying and monitoring them. Farmers may provide consumers with more assurance that their products are safe by identifying and monitoring pesticide residues and heavy metal contamination in these food crops. Overall, it is crucial to find and monitor pesticide residues and heavy metal contamination in food to safeguard customer confidence, ensure legal compliance and preserve human health.

Resumen En el presente artículo aborda la modelación de las concentraciones de Dióxido de Azufre (SO2) emitidas por dos industrias ubicadas en la ciudad Santiago de Cali. Estas industrias emplean distintos tipos de combustible en sus calderas: la caldera 1 utiliza Fuel Oil y la caldera 2 utiliza Diésel. Con el objetivo de evaluar y comparar el comportamiento de las concentraciones de SO2, se propone la sustitución de estos combustibles por Gas natural. Mediante el uso de Aermod View se realizó la modelación de la dispersión de este contaminante y se obtuvo que para un tiempo de exposición de una hora la concentración máxima SO2 proveniente de las calderas con Fuel Oil y Diésel fue de 1440.32 µg/m3. Para un tiempo de exposición de 24 horas se alcanzó una concentración de SO2 de 178.56 µg/m3. Estos niveles, exceden los límites establecidos en la resolución 2254 de 2017, donde el valor máximo permisible para una hora es 100 µg/m3 y para 24 horas es 50 µg/m3. En contraste al usar Gas natural como combustible se observa que las concentraciones son considerablemente más bajas. Para un tiempo de exposición de una hora la máxima concentración es de 0.74 µg/m3 y para un tiempo de exposición de 24 horas, de 0.04 µg/m3. Estos resultados cumplen con la normatividad vigente. Se puede concluir que el Gas natural se presenta como una alternativa más favorable, generando concentraciones significativamente menores de SO2. Este cambio en el tipo de combustible no solo favorecerá el cumplimiento de las normativas ambientales, sino que también contribuirá de manera efectiva a la reducción de la concentración de SO2 en el aire.

Abstract This article deals with modeling sulfur dioxide (SO2) concentrations emitted by two industries in Santiago de Cali. These industries use different fuel types in their boilers: Boiler 1 uses Fuel Oil, and Boiler 2 uses Diesel. To evaluate and compare the behavior of SO2 concentrations, the substitution of these fuels by natural gas is proposed. Using Aermod View, this pollutant's dispersion was modeled and obtained that the maximum SO2 concentration from the boilers with Fuel Oil and Diesel was 1440.32 µg/m3 for an exposure time of one hour. For a 24-hour exposure time, the SO2 concentration reached 178.56 µg/m3. These levels exceed the limits established in resolution 2254 of 2017, where the maximum permissible value for one hour is 100 µg/m3, and for 24 hours is 50 µg/m3. In contrast, when using Natural Gas as fuel, it is observed that the concentrations are considerably lower. The maximum concentration is 0.74 µg/m3 for a one-hour exposure time, and for a 24-hour exposure time, 0.04 µg/m3. These results comply with current regulations. It can be concluded that natural gas is a more favorable alternative, generating significantly lower SO2 concentrations. This change in the fuel type will favor compliance with environmental regulations and effectively contribute to reducing SO2 concentration in the air.