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Cohen A, Rasheduzzaman M, O'Connell B, Brown T, Taniuchi M, Krometis LA, Hubbard A, Scheuerman P, Edwards M, Darling A, Pennala B, Price S, Lytton B, Wettstone E, Pholwat S, Ward H, Hallinger DR, Simmons SO, Griffin SM, Kobylanski J, Egorov AI, Wade TJ. Drinking water sources, quality, and associated health outcomes in Appalachian Virginia: A risk characterization study in two counties. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 260:114390. [PMID: 38772087 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2024.114390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In the US, violations of drinking water regulations are highest in lower-income rural areas overall, and particularly in Central Appalachia. However, data on drinking water use, quality, and associated health outcomes in rural Appalachia are limited. We sought to assess public and private drinking water sources and associated risk factors for waterborne pathogen exposures for individuals living in rural regions of Appalachian Virginia. METHODS We administered surveys and collected tap water, bottled water, and saliva samples in lower-income households in two adjacent rural counties in southwest Virginia (bordering Kentucky and Tennessee). Water samples were tested for pH, temperature, conductivity, total coliforms, E. coli, free chlorine, nitrate, fluoride, heavy metals, and specific pathogen targets. Saliva samples were analyzed for antibody responses to potentially waterborne infections. We also shared water analysis results with households. RESULTS We enrolled 33 households (83 individuals), 82% (n = 27) with utility-supplied water and 18% with private wells (n = 3) or springs (n = 3). 58% (n = 19) reported household incomes of <$20,000/year. Total coliforms were detected in water samples from 33% (n = 11) of homes, E. coli in 12%, all with wells or springs (n = 4), and Aeromonas, Campylobacter, and Enterobacter in 9%, all spring water (n = 3). Diarrhea was reported for 10% of individuals (n = 8), but was not associated with E. coli detection. 34% (n = 15) of saliva samples had detectable antibody responses for Cryptosporidium spp., C. jejuni, and Hepatitis E. After controlling for covariates and clustering, individuals in households with septic systems and straight pipes had significantly higher likelihoods of antibody detection (risk ratios = 3.28, 95%CI = 1.01-10.65). CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to collect and analyze drinking water samples, saliva samples, and reported health outcome data from low-income households in Central Appalachia. Our findings indicate that utility-supplied water in this region was generally safe, and individuals in low-income households without utility-supplied water or sewerage have higher exposures to waterborne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alasdair Cohen
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Md Rasheduzzaman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Bethesda O'Connell
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Teresa Brown
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Virginia's College at Wise, Wise, VA, USA
| | - Mami Taniuchi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Leigh-Anne Krometis
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Alan Hubbard
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Phillip Scheuerman
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Sciences, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Marc Edwards
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Amanda Darling
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Blaine Pennala
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Sarah Price
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Breanna Lytton
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Erin Wettstone
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Suporn Pholwat
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | - Daniel R Hallinger
- Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Steven O Simmons
- Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Shannon M Griffin
- Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jason Kobylanski
- Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Andrey I Egorov
- Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Timothy J Wade
- Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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2
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Rosenblum JS, Liethen A, Miller-Robbie L. Prioritization and Risk Ranking of Regulated and Unregulated Chemicals in US Drinking Water. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:6878-6889. [PMID: 38564650 PMCID: PMC11044589 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Drinking water constituents were compared using more than six million measurements (USEPA data) to prioritize and risk-rank regulated and unregulated chemicals and classes of chemicals. Hazard indexes were utilized for hazard- and risk-based chemicals, along with observed (nondetects = 0) and censored (nondetects = method detection limit/2) data methods. Chemicals (n = 139) were risk-ranked based on population exposed, resulting in the highest rankings for inorganic compounds (IOCs) and disinfection byproducts (DBPs), followed by semivolatile organic compounds (SOCs), nonvolatile organic compounds (NVOCs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for observed data. The top 50 risk-ranked chemicals included 15 that were unregulated, with at least one chemical from each chemical class (chromium-6 [#1, IOC], chlorate and NDMA [#11 and 12, DBP], 1,4-dioxane [#25, SOC], PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS [#42, 44, and 49, NVOC], and 1,2,3-trichloropropane [#48, VOC]). These results suggest that numerous unregulated chemicals are of higher exposure risk or hazard in US drinking water than many regulated chemicals. These methods could be applied following each Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) data collection phase and compared to retrospective data that highlight what chemicals potentially pose the highest exposure risk or hazard among US drinking water, which could inform regulators, utilities, and researchers alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S. Rosenblum
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
Department, Colorado School of Mines Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Alexander Liethen
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
Department, Colorado School of Mines Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Leslie Miller-Robbie
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
Department, Colorado School of Mines Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
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3
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Khanal NB, Elbakidze L. Peril in the Pipeline: Unraveling the threads of PFAS contamination in U.S. drinking water systems. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299789. [PMID: 38574164 PMCID: PMC10994316 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
We examined the spatial distribution of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in the US drinking water and explored the relationship between PFAS contamination, public water systems (PWS) characteristics, and socioeconomic attributes of the affected communities. Using data from the EPA's third Unregulated Contaminant Rule, the Census Bureau, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we identified spatial contamination hot spots and found that PFAS contamination was correlated with PWSs size, non-surface raw water intake sources, population, and housing density. We also found that non-white communities had less PFAS in drinking water. Lastly, we observed that PFAS contamination varied depending on regional industrial composition. The results showed that drinking water PFAS contamination was an externality of not only some industrial activities but also household consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabin B. Khanal
- Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources & Design, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States of America
| | - Levan Elbakidze
- Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources & Design, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States of America
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4
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Mueller R, Salvatore D, Brown P, Cordner A. Quantifying Disparities in Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Levels in Drinking Water from Overburdened Communities in New Jersey, 2019-2021. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:47011. [PMID: 38656167 PMCID: PMC11041625 DOI: 10.1289/ehp12787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Policymakers have become increasingly concerned regarding the widespread exposure and toxicity of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). While concerns exist about unequal distribution of PFAS contamination in drinking water, research is lacking. OBJECTIVES We assess the scope of PFAS contamination in drinking water in New Jersey (NJ), the first US state to develop regulatory levels for PFAS in drinking water. We test for inequities in PFAS concentrations by community sociodemographic characteristics. METHODS We use PFAS testing data for community water systems (CWS) (n = 491 ) from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) from 2019 to 2021 and demographic data at the block group level from the US Census to estimate the demographics of the NJ population served by CWS. We use difference in means tests to determine whether CWSs serving "overburdened communities" (OBCs) have a statistically significant difference in likelihood of PFAS detections. OBCs are defined by the NJDEP to be census block groups in which: a) at least 35% of the households qualify as low-income, b) at least 40% of the residents identify as people of color, or c) at least 40% of the households have limited English proficiency. We calculate statewide summary statistics to approximate the relative proportions of sociodemographic groups that are served by CWSs with PFAS detections. RESULTS We find that 63% of all CWSs tested by NJDEP from 2019 to 2021 had PFAS detections in public drinking water, collectively serving 84% of NJ's population receiving water from CWSs. Additionally, CWSs serving OBCs had a statistically significant higher likelihood of PFAS detection and a higher likelihood of exposure above state MCLs. We also find that a larger proportion of people of color lived in CWS service areas with PFAS detections compared to the non-Hispanic white population. DISCUSSION These findings quantitatively identify disparities in PFAS contamination of drinking water by CWS service area and highlight the extent of PFAS drinking water contamination and the importance of PFAS remediation efforts for protecting environmental health and justice. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP12787.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Mueller
- Department of Economics, Whitman College, Walla Walla, Washington, USA
| | | | - Phil Brown
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alissa Cordner
- Department of Sociology, Whitman College, Walla Walla, Washington, USA
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5
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Tesoriero AJ, Wherry SA, Dupuy DI, Johnson TD. Predicting Redox Conditions in Groundwater at a National Scale Using Random Forest Classification. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:5079-5092. [PMID: 38451152 PMCID: PMC10956438 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c07576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Redox conditions in groundwater may markedly affect the fate and transport of nutrients, volatile organic compounds, and trace metals, with significant implications for human health. While many local assessments of redox conditions have been made, the spatial variability of redox reaction rates makes the determination of redox conditions at regional or national scales problematic. In this study, redox conditions in groundwater were predicted for the contiguous United States using random forest classification by relating measured water quality data from over 30,000 wells to natural and anthropogenic factors. The model correctly predicted the oxic/suboxic classification for 78 and 79% of the samples in the out-of-bag and hold-out data sets, respectively. Variables describing geology, hydrology, soil properties, and hydrologic position were among the most important factors affecting the likelihood of oxic conditions in groundwater. Important model variables tended to relate to aquifer recharge, groundwater travel time, or prevalence of electron donors, which are key drivers of redox conditions in groundwater. Partial dependence plots suggested that the likelihood of oxic conditions in groundwater decreased sharply as streams were approached and gradually as the depth below the water table increased. The probability of oxic groundwater increased as base flow index values increased, likely due to the prevalence of well-drained soils and geologic materials in high base flow index areas. The likelihood of oxic conditions increased as topographic wetness index (TWI) values decreased. High topographic wetness index values occur in areas with a propensity for standing water and overland flow, conditions that limit the delivery of dissolved oxygen to groundwater by recharge; higher TWI values also tend to occur in discharge areas, which may contain groundwater with long travel times. A second model was developed to predict the probability of elevated manganese (Mn) concentrations in groundwater (i.e., ≥50 μg/L). The Mn model relied on many of the same variables as the oxic/suboxic model and may be used to identify areas where Mn-reducing conditions occur and where there is an increased risk to domestic water supplies due to high Mn concentrations. Model predictions of redox conditions in groundwater produced in this study may help identify regions of the country with elevated groundwater vulnerability and stream vulnerability to groundwater-derived contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J. Tesoriero
- U.S.
Geological Survey, 601 SW Second Avenue, Suite 1950, Portland, Oregon 97204, United States
| | - Susan A. Wherry
- U.S.
Geological Survey, 601 SW Second Avenue, Suite 1950, Portland, Oregon 97204, United States
| | - Danielle I. Dupuy
- U.S.
Geological Survey, 6000
J Street, Placer Hall, Sacramento, California 95819, United States
| | - Tyler D. Johnson
- U.S.
Geological Survey, 4165
Spruance Road, Suite 200, San Diego, California 92101, United States
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6
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Cradock A, Barrett J, Nink E, Wilking C. An economic evaluation of strategies to ensure safer drinking water in the homes of families with young children in select United States locations. Prev Med Rep 2024; 38:102588. [PMID: 38283965 PMCID: PMC10818245 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the United States, safe, accessible drinking water is not equitable due to source water contamination, unreliable water treatment, or hazardous plumbing infrastructure. Drinking water free of lead, nitrates, and arsenic is vital for infant and young children's health. Methods Researchers conducted a study combining single-case study review methods and economic evaluation for 6 US policies or programs. Researchers used case-study findings, activity-based costing, publicly available US population data, and existing literature to create 5-year cost projections (2020-2024) for strategies to address lead, nitrates, or arsenic in drinking water from private wells or community water systems for families with low incomes and young children aged 0-5y. Researchers estimated the number of households reached and the costs by activity and payer of implementing each policy or program using case-specific geographic location and eligibility criteria. Results The total number of households reached varied from 295 to 135,000 depending on water source, population of focus, and geographic location. Focused strategies reached higher proportions of families with low incomes and young children. Community water system and state-wide strategies had the broadest reach. The total annual program cost per household that received information about their water quality ranged from $75 to $2,780. Of this cost, the portion paid by the household varied from $0.12 to $1,590, not including mitigation. Conclusions These findings can inform local decisions about policies and programs in communities seeking to increase awareness and access to safer drinking water, particularly in homes of families with low incomes and young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.L. Cradock
- Prevention Research Center on Nutrition and Physical Activity, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, 7th Floor, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - J.L. Barrett
- Prevention Research Center on Nutrition and Physical Activity, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, 7th Floor, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - E. Nink
- ICF International, 1902 Reston Metro Plaza, Reston, VA 20190, United States
| | - C. Wilking
- Independent Legal Consultant, PO BOX 503, Cummaquid, MA 02637, United States
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7
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Gibson JM, Desclos A, Harrington J, McElmurry SP, Mulhern R. Effect of Community Water Service on Lead in Drinking Water in an Environmental Justice Community. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:1441-1451. [PMID: 38190439 PMCID: PMC10809781 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c01341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Multiple recent studies have found elevated lead (Pb) concentrations in tap water in U.S. homes relying on unregulated private wells. The main Pb source is dissolution from household plumbing, fixtures, and well components. Here, we leverage a natural experiment and citizen science approach to evaluate how extending community water service to an environmental justice community relying on private wells affects Pb in household water. We analyzed Pb in 260 first-draw kitchen tap water samples collected by individual homeowners over a 5-month period in residences that did and did not connect to the community system. Before the community water system was extended, 25% of homes had Pb > 15 μg/L (the U.S. regulatory action level for community water systems) in first-draw water samples. Pb was significantly correlated with nickel (ρ = 0.61), zinc (ρ = 0.50), and copper (ρ = 0.40), suggesting that corrosion of brass fittings and fixtures is the main Pb source. Among homes that connected to the community system, Pb decreased rapidly and was sustained at levels well below 15 μg/L over the study period. Overall, connecting to the municipal water supply was associated with a 92.5% decrease in first-draw tap water Pb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline MacDonald Gibson
- Department
of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, 915 Partners Way, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - April Desclos
- University
of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - James Harrington
- RTI
International, Research
Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | | | - Riley Mulhern
- Brown
and Caldwell, Denver, Colorado 80401, United States
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8
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Hash KM, Schreurs BG, Tolley SM, Fiske A. Health Disparities in Appalachian and Other Rural Communities. Int J Aging Hum Dev 2024; 98:56-68. [PMID: 37170557 DOI: 10.1177/00914150231171856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Rural areas are home to a larger proportion of older adults and populations who age within these locales and suffer disproportionately from health, mental health, and economic disparities compared to their urban counterparts. This article will explore the disparities faced by persons that reside in rural communities across the lifespan. It will briefly discuss what is meant by rural. As a rural region at specific risk, the issues confronting those aging in Appalachia will be examined. Finally, best practices and future directions to combat health disparities among rural residents and elders will be discussed. This includes the Appalachian Gerontology Experiences: Advancing Diversity in Aging Research training program which recruits and trains minority and first-generation undergraduate students in aging and health disparity research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina M Hash
- School of Social Work, Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Bernard G Schreurs
- Department of Neuroscience, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Sheridan M Tolley
- Research Apprenticeship Program, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Amy Fiske
- Department of Psychology, Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
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9
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Slotnick MJ, Leung CW. Water Insecurity Indicators Are Associated with Lower Diet and Beverage Quality in a National Survey of Lower-Income United States Adults. J Nutr 2023; 153:3308-3316. [PMID: 37619920 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tap water distrust and avoidance, indicators of water insecurity, are prevalent in marginalized United States populations. As future environmental challenges stress water resources, further understanding of the scope of water insecurity and its impact on diet quality is needed, particularly in vulnerable United States populations. OBJECTIVES To evaluate associations between 3 potential indicators of water insecurity-1) perception of tap water safety for drinking, 2) perception of tap water safety for cooking, and 3) tap water avoidance-and dietary quality and beverage intake in lower-income United States adults. METHODS A cross-sectional, web-based survey was fielded to 1798 lower-income (<250% federal poverty guidelines) United States adults. Participants answered questions detailing tap water safety perceptions and avoidance, beverage intake, dietary intake (30-d prime diet quality score), and sociodemographic covariates. Sociodemographic differences in drinking water insecurity measures were evaluated using chi-square and Fisher-Freeman-Halton tests. Associations between water insecurity measures and dietary outcomes were assessed using generalized linear models adjusted for sociodemographic covariates, and effect modification by sociodemographic covariates was assessed. RESULTS Over half of the adults surveyed experienced some aspect of water insecurity. Measures of water security differed significantly by sociodemographic covariates (Ps < 0.05), with higher percentages of women and gender-nonconforming persons, minoritized racial and ethnic groups, lower-income groups, and food-insecure adults reporting indicators of water insecurity. Presence of any water insecurity was associated with lower diet quality (β = -1.07; 95% CI: -2.11, -0.03; P = 0.04), lower tap water intake (relative difference [RD] = 0.35; 95% CI: 1.28, 2.12; P < 0.0001), higher bottled water intake (RD = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.28, 2.12; P = 0.0001), and higher sugar-sweetened beverages intake frequency (frequency ratio = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.27; P = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Water insecurity indicators are associated with poorer diet quality and beverage intake in a population of United States adults with lower-incomes. Addressing the intersection of water insecurity, food security, environmental impacts, and nutrition may help to improve the well-being and resiliency of vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Slotnick
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, The University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
| | - Cindy W Leung
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
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10
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Van de Walle A, Kim M, Alam MK, Wang X, Wu D, Dash SR, Rabaey K, Kim J. Greywater reuse as a key enabler for improving urban wastewater management. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ECOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 16:100277. [PMID: 37206314 PMCID: PMC10188637 DOI: 10.1016/j.ese.2023.100277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable water management is essential to guaranteeing access to safe water and addressing the challenges posed by climate change, urbanization, and population growth. In a typical household, greywater, which includes everything but toilet waste, constitutes 50-80% of daily wastewater generation and is characterized by low organic strength and high volume. This can be an issue for large urban wastewater treatment plants designed for high-strength operations. Segregation of greywater at the source for decentralized wastewater treatment is therefore necessary for its proper management using separate treatment strategies. Greywater reuse may thus lead to increased resilience and adaptability of local water systems, reduction in transport costs, and achievement of fit-for-purpose reuse. After covering greywater characteristics, we present an overview of existing and upcoming technologies for greywater treatment. Biological treatment technologies, such as nature-based technologies, biofilm technologies, and membrane bioreactors (MBR), conjugate with physicochemical treatment methods, such as membrane filtration, sorption and ion exchange technologies, and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, may be able to produce treated water within the allowable parameters for reuse. We also provide a novel way to tackle challenges like the demographic variance of greywater quality, lack of a legal framework for greywater management, monitoring and control systems, and the consumer perspective on greywater reuse. Finally, benefits, such as the potential water and energy savings and sustainable future of greywater reuse in an urban context, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjen Van de Walle
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Minseok Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Program of Environmental and Polymeric Engineering, Inha University, 22212, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Md Kawser Alam
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Program of Environmental and Polymeric Engineering, Inha University, 22212, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Di Wu
- Center for Environmental and Energy Research, Ghent University Global Campus, 119-5, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Smruti Ranjan Dash
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Program of Environmental and Polymeric Engineering, Inha University, 22212, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Korneel Rabaey
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Corresponding author.
| | - Jeonghwan Kim
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Program of Environmental and Polymeric Engineering, Inha University, 22212, Incheon, Republic of Korea
- Corresponding author.
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11
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Lee D, Gibson JM, Brown J, Habtewold J, Murphy HM. Burden of disease from contaminated drinking water in countries with high access to safely managed water: A systematic review. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 242:120244. [PMID: 37390656 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
The vast majority of residents of high-income countries (≥90%) reportedly have high access to safely managed drinking water. Owing perhaps to the widely held perception of near universal access to high-quality water services in these countries, the burden of waterborne disease in these contexts is understudied. This systematic review aimed to: identify population-scale estimates of waterborne disease in countries with high access to safely managed drinking water, compare methods to quantify disease burden, and identify gaps in available burden estimates. We conducted a systematic review of population-scale disease burden estimates attributed to drinking water in countries where ≥90% of the population has access to safely managed drinking water per official United Nations monitoring. We identified 24 studies reporting estimates for disease burden attributable to microbial contaminants. Across these studies, the median burden of gastrointestinal illness risks attributed to drinking water was ∼2,720 annual cases per 100,000 population. Beyond exposure to infectious agents, we identified 10 studies reporting disease burden-predominantly, cancer risks-associated with chemical contaminants. Across these studies, the median excess cancer cases attributable to drinking water was 1.2 annual cancer cases per 100,000 population. These median estimates slightly exceed WHO-recommended normative targets for disease burden attributable to drinking water and these results highlight that there remains important preventable disease burden in these contexts, particularly among marginalized populations. However, the available literature was scant and limited in geographic scope, disease outcomes, range of microbial and chemical contaminants, and inclusion of subpopulations (rural, low-income communities; Indigenous or Aboriginal peoples; and populations marginalized due to discrimination by race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status) that could most benefit from water infrastructure investments. Studies quantifying drinking water-associated disease burden in countries with reportedly high access to safe drinking water, focusing on specific subpopulations lacking access to safe water supplies and promoting environmental justice, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie Lee
- Water, Health and Applied Microbiology (WHAM) Lab, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Jacqueline MacDonald Gibson
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Joe Brown
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Jemaneh Habtewold
- Water, Health and Applied Microbiology (WHAM) Lab, Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, United States
| | - Heather M Murphy
- Water, Health and Applied Microbiology (WHAM) Lab, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Water, Health and Applied Microbiology (WHAM) Lab, Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, United States.
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12
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He F, Zhu M, Fan J, Ma E, Zhai S, Zhao H. Automated Drone-Delivery Solar-Driven Onsite Wastewater Smart Monitoring and Treatment System. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302935. [PMID: 37357989 PMCID: PMC10460888 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Treating potential polluted water sources is urgent and challenging, especially for natural water sources. Numerous research groups focus on either smart water monitoring or new adsorbent. However, either aspect alone is insufficient for complex nature water source treatment. Here, integrating the state-of-art machine learning technique, a sustainable silk-based bioadsorbent, and wireless Internet of Things, an integrated automated drone-delivery solar driven onsite water monitoring & treatment system (WMTS) for the contaminated nature water sources is developed. In short, the embedded sensors and microprogrammed control unit capture and upload the real-time monitoring data to the cloud server for data analysis and optimized treatment strategy. Meanwhile, a grid map system based on the satellite remote sensing images directs the minimum number of WMTS units to cover the entire polluted region. Finally, unmanned aerial vehicles provide autonomous dispatch, operation, and maintenance, especially in hard-to-reach sites. Overall, this work offers a general, sustainable, energy-efficient, and closed-loop solution toward efficiently alerting and on-site treating nature water source contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengjie He
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of NevadaLas VegasNV89154USA
| | - Ming Zhu
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringEngineeringUniversity of NevadaLas VegasNV89154USA
| | - Jiawei Fan
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringEngineeringUniversity of NevadaLas VegasNV89154USA
| | - Edwin Ma
- Ed W. Clark High SchoolLas VegasNV89102USA
| | - Shengjie Zhai
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringEngineeringUniversity of NevadaLas VegasNV89154USA
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of NevadaLas VegasNV89154USA
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13
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Lynch VD, Shaman J. Waterborne Infectious Diseases Associated with Exposure to Tropical Cyclonic Storms, United States, 1996-2018. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1548-1558. [PMID: 37486189 PMCID: PMC10370842 DOI: 10.3201/eid2908.221906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In the United States, tropical cyclones cause destructive flooding that can lead to adverse health outcomes. Storm-driven flooding contaminates environmental, recreational, and drinking water sources, but few studies have examined effects on specific infections over time. We used 23 years of exposure and case data to assess the effects of tropical cyclones on 6 waterborne diseases in a conditional quasi-Poisson model. We separately defined storm exposure for windspeed, rainfall, and proximity to the storm track. Exposure to storm-related rainfall was associated with a 48% (95% CI 27%-69%) increase in Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infections 1 week after storms and a 42% (95% CI 22%-62%) in increase Legionnaires' disease 2 weeks after storms. Cryptosporidiosis cases increased 52% (95% CI 42%-62%) during storm weeks but declined over ensuing weeks. Cyclones are a risk to public health that will likely become more serious with climate change and aging water infrastructure systems.
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14
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Farsad A, Niimi K, Ersan MS, Gonzalez-Rodriguez JR, Hristovski KD, Westerhoff P. Mechanistic Study of Arsenate Adsorption onto Different Amorphous Grades of Titanium (Hydr)Oxides Impregnated into a Point-of-Use Activated Carbon Block. ACS ES&T ENGINEERING 2023; 3:989-1000. [PMID: 37546364 PMCID: PMC10399556 DOI: 10.1021/acsestengg.3c00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Millions of households still rely on drinking water from private wells or municipal systems with arsenic levels approaching or exceeding regulatory limits. Arsenic is a potent carcinogen, and there is no safe level of it in drinking water. Point-of-use (POU) treatment systems are a promising option to mitigate arsenic exposure. However, the most commonly used POU technology, an activated carbon block filter, is ineffective at removing arsenic. Our study aimed to explore the potential of impregnating carbon blocks with amorphous titanium (hydr)oxide (THO) to improve arsenic removal without introducing titanium (Ti) into the treated water. Four synthesis methods achieved 8-16 wt.% Ti loading within the carbon block with 58-97% amorphous THO content. The THO-modified carbon block could adsorb both oxidation states of arsenic (arsenate and arsenite) in batch or column tests. Modified carbon block with higher Ti and amorphous content always led to better arsenate removal, achieving arsenic loadings up to 31 mg As/mg Ti after 70,000 bed volumes in continuous flow tests. Impregnating carbon block with amorphous THO consistently outperformed impregnation using crystalline TiO2. The best-performing system (TTIP-EtOH carbon block) was an amorphous THO derived using titanium isopropoxide, ethanol, and acetic acid via sol-gel technique, aged at 80° for 18 hours and dried overnight at 60°. Comparable pore size distribution and surface area of the impregnated carbon blocks suggested that chemical properties play a more crucial role than physical and textural properties in removing arsenate via amorphous Ti-impregnated carbon block. Freundlich isotherms indicated energetically favorable adsorption for amorphous chemically synthesized adsorbents. The mass transport coefficients for the amorphous TTIP-EtOH carbon block were fitted using a pore surface diffusion model, resulting in Dsurface = 3.1×10-12 cm2/s and Dpore = 3.2×10-6 cm2/s. Impregnating the carbon block with THO enabled effective arsenic removal from water without adversely affecting the pressure drop across the unit or the carbon block's ability to remove polar organic chemical pollutants efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Farsad
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), USA
| | - Ken Niimi
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), USA
| | - Mahmut S Ersan
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), USA
| | - Jose Ricardo Gonzalez-Rodriguez
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), USA
- Environmental Protection Research Center, School of Chemistry, Instituto Tecnologico de Costa Rica, Cartago, Costa Rica
| | | | - Paul Westerhoff
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), USA
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15
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Oladoja NA, Ogunniyi JA, TobechukwuAnthony E, Kumar S, Hofmann S. Sustainable Bifunctional ZnO Composites For Synchronous Adsorption And Reduction Of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:80545-80558. [PMID: 37301815 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28169-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In decentralized systems, adsorption-based strategies offer inherent advantages for the treatment of drinking water contaminated with oxoanion. However, these strategies only involve phase transfer and not the transformation to an innocuous state. The requirement for an after-treatment procedure to manage the hazardous adsorbent further complicates the process. Here we formulate green bifunctional ZnO composites for the simultaneous adsorption and photoreduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). Three non-metal-ZnO composites based on raw charcoal- ZnO, modified charcoal- ZnO charcoal, and chicken feather- ZnO were prepared from the combination of ZnO with non-metal precursors. The composites were characterized and both the adsorption and photocatalyst features were studied, separately, in synthetic feedwater and groundwater contaminated with Cr(VI). The adsorption efficiency of the composites for Cr(VI) at different initial concentrations, under solar illumination without hole scavenger, and in the dark without hole scavenger, were appreciable (between 48 and 71%), and initial concentration dependent. The photoreduction efficiencies (PE%) of all the composites were > 70%, irrespective of the initial Cr(VI) concentration. The occurrence of the transformation of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) during the photoredox reaction was established. Whereas the initial solution pH value, organic load, and ionic strength had no influence on the PE (%) of all the composites, CO32- and NO3- had negative impacts. The PE (%) values of the different ZnO-composites obtained for both the synthetic feedwater and groundwater systems were comparable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurudeen Abiola Oladoja
- Hydrochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemical Sciences, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Nigeria.
| | - Joseph Adebusola Ogunniyi
- Hydrochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemical Sciences, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Nigeria
| | - Eric TobechukwuAnthony
- Hydrochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemical Sciences, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Nigeria
| | - Sumit Kumar
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stephan Hofmann
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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16
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Sohns A. Differential exposure to drinking water contaminants in North Carolina: Evidence from structural topic modeling and water quality data. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 336:117600. [PMID: 36967693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
To better understand water security of communities in North Carolina, this research uses structural topic modeling (STM) and geographic mapping to identify the main topics and pollutant categories being researched and the areas exposed to drinking water contaminants. The textual data derived from the journal article abstracts that examined water pollution in North Carolina is from 1964 to present. The STM analysis of textual data is paired with socio-demographic data from the 2015-2019 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates and water pollution data from North Carolina state agencies. The STM findings show that the most discussed topics relate to runoff management, wastewater from concentrated agricultural feeding operations, emerging contaminants, land development, and health impacts as a result of water contamination. The article discusses how the topics especially threaten groundwater resources used by community water systems and private wells. Those communities served by private wells are predominantly low-income and minority populations. As a result, threats to groundwater supplies exacerbate existing issues of environmental justice in North Carolina, especially in the Coastal Plains Region. The STM findings revealed that several key threats to safe drinking water are less covered by academic literature, such as poultry concentrated agricultural feeding operations and climate impacts, which may increase disparities in water access in North Carolina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Sohns
- The Roux Institute, Northeastern University 100 Fore St. Portland, ME USA 04101.
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17
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Liddie JM, Schaider LA, Sunderland EM. Sociodemographic Factors Are Associated with the Abundance of PFAS Sources and Detection in U.S. Community Water Systems. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:7902-7912. [PMID: 37184106 PMCID: PMC10233791 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c07255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Drinking water contaminated by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is a widespread public health concern, and exposure-response relationships are known to vary across sociodemographic groups. However, research on disparities in drinking water PFAS exposures and the siting of PFAS sources in marginalized communities is limited. Here, we use monitoring data from 7873 U.S. community water systems (CWS) in 18 states to show that PFAS detection is positively associated with the number of PFAS sources and proportions of people of color who are served by these water systems. Each additional industrial facility, military fire training area, and airport in a CWS watershed was associated with a 10-108% increase in perfluorooctanoic acid and a 20-34% increase in perfluorooctane sulfonic acid in drinking water. Waste sector sources were also significantly associated with drinking water PFAS concentrations. CWS watersheds with PFAS sources served higher proportions of Hispanic/Latino and non-Hispanic Black residents compared to those without PFAS sources. CWS serving higher proportions of Hispanic/Latino and non-Hispanic Black residents had significantly increased odds of detecting several PFAS. This likely reflects disparities in the siting of PFAS contamination sources. Results of this work suggest that addressing environmental justice concerns should be a component of risk mitigation planning for areas affected by drinking water PFAS contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahred M. Liddie
- Department
of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan
School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | | | - Elsie M. Sunderland
- Department
of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan
School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Harvard
John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
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18
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Nath P, Mahtaba KR, Ray A. Fluorescence-Based Portable Assays for Detection of Biological and Chemical Analytes. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23115053. [PMID: 37299780 DOI: 10.3390/s23115053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescence-based detection techniques are part of an ever-expanding field and are widely used in biomedical and environmental research as a biosensing tool. These techniques have high sensitivity, selectivity, and a short response time, making them a valuable tool for developing bio-chemical assays. The endpoint of these assays is defined by changes in fluorescence signal, in terms of its intensity, lifetime, and/or shift in spectrum, which is monitored using readout devices such as microscopes, fluorometers, and cytometers. However, these devices are often bulky, expensive, and require supervision to operate, which makes them inaccessible in resource-limited settings. To address these issues, significant effort has been directed towards integrating fluorescence-based assays into miniature platforms based on papers, hydrogels, and microfluidic devices, and to couple these assays with portable readout devices like smartphones and wearable optical sensors, thereby enabling point-of-care detection of bio-chemical analytes. This review highlights some of the recently developed portable fluorescence-based assays by discussing the design of fluorescent sensor molecules, their sensing strategy, and the fabrication of point-of-care devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peuli Nath
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA
| | - Kazi Ridita Mahtaba
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA
| | - Aniruddha Ray
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA
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19
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Levi J, Guo S, Kavadiya S, Luo Y, Lee CS, Jacobs HP, Holman Z, Wong MS, Garcia-Segura S, Zhou C, Rittmann BE, Westerhoff P. Comparing methods to deposit Pd-In catalysts on hydrogen-permeable hollow-fiber membranes for nitrate reduction. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 235:119877. [PMID: 36989800 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Catalytic hydrogenation of nitrate in water has been studied primarily using nanoparticle slurries with constant hydrogen-gas (H2) bubbling. Such slurry reactors are impractical in full-scale water treatment applications because 1) unattached catalysts are difficult to be recycled/reused and 2) gas bubbling is inefficient for delivering H2. Membrane Catalyst-film Reactors (MCfR) resolve these limitations by depositing nanocatalysts on the exterior of gas-permeable hollow-fiber membranes that deliver H2 directly to the catalyst-film. The goal of this study was to compare the technical feasibility and benefits of various methods for attaching bimetallic palladium/indium (Pd/In) nanocatalysts for nitrate reduction in water, and subsequently select the most effective method. Four Pd/In deposition methods were evaluated for effectiveness in achieving durable nanocatalyst immobilization on the membranes and repeatable nitrate-reduction activity: (1) In-Situ MCfR-H2, (2) In-Situ Flask-Synthesis, (3) Ex-Situ Aerosol Impaction-Driven Assembly, and (4) Ex-Situ Electrostatic. Although all four deposition methods achieved catalyst-films that reduced nitrate in solution (≥ 1.1 min-1gPd-1), three deposition methods resulted in significant palladium loss (>29%) and an accompanying decline in nitrate reactivity over time. In contrast, the In-Situ MCfR-H2 deposition method had negligible Pd loss and remained active for nitrate reduction over multiple operational cycles. Therefore, In-Situ MCfR-H2 emerged as the superior deposition method and can be utilized to optimize catalyst attachment, nitrate-reduction, and N2 selectivity in future studies with more complex water matrices, longer treatment cycles, and larger reactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Levi
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States; Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Sujin Guo
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Shalinee Kavadiya
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Yihao Luo
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States; Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Chung-Seop Lee
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Hunter P Jacobs
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Zachary Holman
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Michael S Wong
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Sergi Garcia-Segura
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Chen Zhou
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Bruce E Rittmann
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States; Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Paul Westerhoff
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment (NEWT), School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States.
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20
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Egge M, Ajibade I. Water struggles and contested use: A capabilities assessment of household water security in marginalized communities. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 341:118047. [PMID: 37141720 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we apply a capabilities approach to analyze a water consolidation project and water security outcomes following a severe drought in East Porterville, California. By combining hydro-social theory with the capabilities approach, we provide a holistic approach to household water security that is historically situated, considers residents' needs, and accounts for areas of life beyond hydration and domestic use. In addition, we offer a critical analysis of water system consolidation, a process of combining water systems physically and/or managerially as a solution to water insecurity in small towns. Drawing on interviews with residents, local experts, and government officials as well as archival research and participant observation, we find that the water consolidation project has mixed results for the East Porterville community, with beneficial, limiting, and contested effects on residents' social, cultural, and economic life. Although residents now have a consistent source of water in their homes, they find themselves limited in their ability to use water for drinking and cultural and economic purposes. Water negotiations and contestations also affected property values, independence, and livability. Through this empirical application of the capabilities approach, we demonstrate the need to expand the concept of water security and consolidation outcomes through needs-based perspectives. Furthermore, we show how the coupling of capabilities approach with a hydro-social framework provides descriptive, analytical, and explanatory tools for understanding and addressing household water security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Egge
- Department of Geography, Portland State University, USA
| | - Idowu Ajibade
- Department of Geography, Portland State University, USA.
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21
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Wilking C, Nink E, Cradock AL. How WIC Can Help Enhance Water Security for At-Risk Populations. J Acad Nutr Diet 2023; 123:725-728. [PMID: 36471509 PMCID: PMC10588562 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2022.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cara Wilking
- Independent legal consultant, Cummaquid, Massachussets.
| | | | - Angie L Cradock
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachussets
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22
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Reid E, Igou T, Zhao Y, Crittenden J, Huang CH, Westerhoff P, Rittmann B, Drewes JE, Chen Y. The Minus Approach Can Redefine the Standard of Practice of Drinking Water Treatment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:7150-7161. [PMID: 37074125 PMCID: PMC10173460 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c09389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Chlorine-based disinfection for drinking water treatment (DWT) was one of the 20th century's great public health achievements, as it substantially reduced the risk of acute microbial waterborne disease. However, today's chlorinated drinking water is not unambiguously safe; trace levels of regulated and unregulated disinfection byproducts (DBPs), and other known, unknown, and emerging contaminants (KUECs), present chronic risks that make them essential removal targets. Because conventional chemical-based DWT processes do little to remove DBPs or KUECs, alternative approaches are needed to minimize risks by removing DBP precursors and KUECs that are ubiquitous in water supplies. We present the "Minus Approach" as a toolbox of practices and technologies to mitigate KUECs and DBPs without compromising microbiological safety. The Minus Approach reduces problem-causing chemical addition treatment (i.e., the conventional "Plus Approach") by producing biologically stable water containing pathogens at levels having negligible human health risk and substantially lower concentrations of KUECs and DBPs. Aside from ozonation, the Minus Approach avoids primary chemical-based coagulants, disinfectants, and advanced oxidation processes. The Minus Approach focuses on bank filtration, biofiltration, adsorption, and membranes to biologically and physically remove DBP precursors, KUECs, and pathogens; consequently, water purveyors can use ultraviolet light at key locations in conjunction with smaller dosages of secondary chemical disinfectants to minimize microbial regrowth in distribution systems. We describe how the Minus Approach contrasts with the conventional Plus Approach, integrates with artificial intelligence, and can ultimately improve the sustainability performance of water treatment. Finally, we consider barriers to adoption of the Minus Approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Reid
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Thomas Igou
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Yangying Zhao
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - John Crittenden
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
- Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Ching-Hua Huang
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Paul Westerhoff
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and The Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Bruce Rittmann
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and The Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Jörg E Drewes
- Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Yongsheng Chen
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
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23
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Smith E, Krometis LAH, Czuba JA, Kolivras K. Land cover and community water system characteristics as predictors of Safe Drinking Water Act violations in Central Appalachia, USA. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159726. [PMID: 36302432 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Upstream anthropogenic land cover can degrade source drinking water quality and thereby inhibit the ability of a community water system to provide safe drinking water. This study aimed to predict differences in Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) compliance between water systems based on upstream land cover in Central Appalachia and to examine whether national trends correlating violations with system size and source type were relevant for this region. Multiple generalized linear mixed models assessed relationships between SDWA violations and the distance weighted land cover proportions associated with the water system's contributing source watershed, as well as county economic status, system size, and water source. Results indicate that rates of monitoring and reporting violations were significantly higher for smaller water systems in more economically distressed counties. Interestingly, increases in surface mining landuse and high density development decreased monitoring and reporting violations, which may reflect impacts of associated economic development. Increases in low intensity development increased the likelihood of health-based violations. To protect public health, community managers should consider source water protection and/or upgrading drinking water system treatment capacity prior to developing previously undeveloped areas and further motivate compliance with monitoring and reporting requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Smith
- Capital Planning, San Jose Water District, 1265 South Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128, USA.
| | - Leigh-Anne H Krometis
- Biological Systems Engineering, 155 Ag Quad Lane, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0303, USA.
| | - Jonathan A Czuba
- Biological Systems Engineering, 155 Ag Quad Lane, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0303, USA.
| | - Korine Kolivras
- Geography, 238 Wallace Hall, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
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Young HA, Kolivras KN, Krometis LAH, Marcillo CE, Gohlke JM. Examining the association between safe drinking water act violations and adverse birth outcomes in Virginia. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 218:114977. [PMID: 36463994 PMCID: PMC9901941 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In 1974, the United States established the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to protect consumers from potential exposure to drinking water contaminants associated with health risks. Each contaminant is assigned a health-based standard meant to reflect the maximum level at which an adverse human health outcome is unlikely; measurements beyond that level have greater potential to result in adverse health outcomes. Although there is extensive research on human health implications following water contaminant exposure, few studies have specifically examined associations between fetal health and municipal drinking water violations. Therefore, the objective of this study is to assess whether SDWA drinking water violations are associated with fetal health outcomes, including preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW), and term-low birth weight (tLBW), in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Singleton births (n = 665,984) occurring between 2007 and 2015 in Virginia were geocoded and assigned to a corresponding estimated water service area. Health-based (HB) and monitoring and reporting (MR) violations for 12 contaminants were acquired from the US EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System, with exposure defined at the approximate service area level to limit exposure misclassification. A logistic regression model for each birth outcome assessed potential relationships with SDWA violations. When examining the association between individual MR violations and birth outcomes, Nitrate-Nitrite (OR = 1.10; 95% CI = 1.02, 1.18, P = 0.01) was positively associated with PTB and the total coliform rule was negatively associated with tLBW (OR = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.87, 1.00, P = 0.04). These findings indicate that a lack of regular monitoring and reporting by water providers (resulting in monitoring and reporting violations) may be concealing health-based violations as these health concerns cannot be revealed without testing, suggesting a need for additional technical, managerial, and financial support to enable often-underfunded water systems to adhere to monitoring and reporting requirements meant to protect public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly A Young
- Department of Geography, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, United States.
| | | | - Leigh-Anne H Krometis
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, United States
| | - Cristina E Marcillo
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, United States
| | - Julia M Gohlke
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, United States
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Nguyen KTN, François B, Balasubramanian H, Dufour A, Brown C. Prediction of water quality extremes with composite quantile regression neural network. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:284. [PMID: 36625976 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10870-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Water quality extremes, which water quality models often struggle to predict, are a grave concern to water supply facilities. Most existing water quality models use mean error functions to maximize the predictability of water quality mean value. This paper describes a composite quantile regression neural network (CQRNN) model, which simultaneously estimates non-crossing regression quantiles by minimizing the composite quantile regression error function. This method can improve the prediction of extremes. This paper evaluates the performance of CQRNN for predicting extreme values of turbidity and total organic carbon (TOC) and compares with quantile regression (QR), linear regression (LR), and k-nearest neighbors (KNN) in an application to the Hetch Hetchy Regional Water System, which is the primary water supply for San Francisco, CA. CQRNN is superior to QR, LR, and KNN for predicting the mean trend and extremes of turbidity and TOC, especially for the non-Gaussian turbidity data. The performance of CQRNN is the most stable relative to other methods over different training sample sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khanh Thi Nhu Nguyen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 130 Natural Resources Road, Amherst, MA, 01003-9303, USA.
| | - Baptiste François
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 130 Natural Resources Road, Amherst, MA, 01003-9303, USA
| | - Hari Balasubramanian
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 160 Governors Drive, Amherst, MA, 01003-2210, USA
| | - Alexis Dufour
- Climate Risk and Resilience, WSP, 1600 Boulevard René-Lévesque West, 11th Floor, Québec, H3H 1P9, Montréal, Canada
| | - Casey Brown
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 130 Natural Resources Road, Amherst, MA, 01003-9303, USA
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Park S, Onufrak SJ, Cradock AL, Patel A, Hecht C, Blanck HM. Perceptions of Water Safety and Tap Water Taste and Their Associations With Beverage Intake Among U.S. Adults. Am J Health Promot 2023:8901171221150093. [PMID: 36609168 DOI: 10.1177/08901171221150093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Examine differences in perceptions of tap water (TW) and bottled water (BW) safety and TW taste and their associations with plain water (PW) and sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake. DESIGN Quantitative, cross-sectional study. SETTING United States. SUBJECTS 4,041 U.S. adults (≥18 years) in the 2018 SummerStyles survey data. MEASURES Outcomes were intake of TW, BW, PW (tap and bottled water), and SSB. Exposures were perceptions of TW and BW safety and TW taste (disagree, neutral, or agree). Covariates included sociodemographics. ANALYSIS We used chi-square analysis to examine sociodemographic differences in perceptions and multivariable logistic regressions to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AOR) for consuming TW ≤ 1 cup/day, BW > 1 cup/day, PW ≤ 3 cups/day, and SSB ≥ 1 time/day by water perceptions. RESULTS One in 7 (15.1%) of adults did not think their home TW was safe to drink, 39.0% thought BW was safer than TW, and 25.9% did not think their local TW tasted good. Adults who did not think local TW was safe to drink had higher odds of drinking TW ≤ 1 cup/day (AOR = 3.12) and BW >1 cup/day (AOR = 2.69). Adults who thought BW was safer than TW had higher odds of drinking TW ≤1 cup/day (AOR = 2.38), BW > 1 cup/day (AOR = 5.80), and SSB ≥ 1 time/day (AOR = 1.39). Adults who did not think TW tasted good had higher odds of drinking TW ≤ 1 cup/day (AOR = 4.39) and BW > 1 cup/day (AOR = 2.91). CONCLUSIONS Negative perceptions of TW safety and taste and a belief BW is safer than TW were common and associated with low TW intake. Perceiving BW is safer than TW increased the likelihood of daily SSB intake. These findings can guide programs and services to support water quality to improve perceptions of TW safety and taste, which might increase TW intake and decrease SSB intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohyun Park
- Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity (DNPAO), National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP), 1242Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Stephen J Onufrak
- Division of Diabetes Translation, NCCDPHP, 1242(CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Heidi M Blanck
- Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity (DNPAO), National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP), 1242Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
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27
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Bradley PM, Romanok KM, Smalling KL, Focazio MJ, Evans N, Fitzpatrick SC, Givens CE, Gordon SE, Gray JL, Green EM, Griffin DW, Hladik ML, Kanagy LK, Lisle JT, Loftin KA, Blaine McCleskey R, Medlock-Kakaley EK, Navas-Acien A, Roth DA, South P, Weis CP. Bottled water contaminant exposures and potential human effects. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 171:107701. [PMID: 36542998 PMCID: PMC10123854 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bottled water (BW) consumption in the United States and globally has increased amidst heightened concern about environmental contaminant exposures and health risks in drinking water supplies, despite a paucity of directly comparable, environmentally-relevant contaminant exposure data for BW. This study provides insight into exposures and cumulative risks to human health from inorganic/organic/microbial contaminants in BW. METHODS BW from 30 total domestic US (23) and imported (7) sources, including purified tapwater (7) and spring water (23), were analyzed for 3 field parameters, 53 inorganics, 465 organics, 14 microbial metrics, and in vitro estrogen receptor (ER) bioactivity. Health-benchmark-weighted cumulative hazard indices and ratios of organic-contaminant in vitro exposure-activity cutoffs were assessed for detected regulated and unregulated inorganic and organic contaminants. RESULTS 48 inorganics and 45 organics were detected in sampled BW. No enforceable chemical quality standards were exceeded, but several inorganic and organic contaminants with maximum contaminant level goal(s) (MCLG) of zero (no known safe level of exposure to vulnerable sub-populations) were detected. Among these, arsenic, lead, and uranium were detected in 67 %, 17 %, and 57 % of BW, respectively, almost exclusively in spring-sourced samples not treated by advanced filtration. Organic MCLG exceedances included frequent detections of disinfection byproducts (DBP) in tapwater-sourced BW and sporadic detections of DBP and volatile organic chemicals in BW sourced from tapwater and springs. Precautionary health-based screening levels were exceeded frequently and attributed primarily to DBP in tapwater-sourced BW and co-occurring inorganic and organic contaminants in spring-sourced BW. CONCLUSION The results indicate that simultaneous exposures to multiple drinking-water contaminants of potential human-health concern are common in BW. Improved understandings of human exposures based on more environmentally realistic and directly comparable point-of-use exposure characterizations, like this BW study, are essential to public health because drinking water is a biological necessity and, consequently, a high-vulnerability vector for human contaminant exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nicola Evans
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Emily M Green
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | - John T Lisle
- U.S. Geological Survey, Saint Petersburg, Florida, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul South
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Christopher P Weis
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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28
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Lawal A, Tijani MN, Snow D, D'Alessio M. Quality and hydrochemical assessment of groundwater in geological transition zones: a case study from N.E. Nigeria. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:10643-10663. [PMID: 36085221 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22762-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable management of groundwater resources in geological transition zones (GTZ) is essential due to their complex geology, increasing population, industrialization, and climate change. Groundwater quality monitoring and assessment represent a viable panacea to this problem. Therefore, there is a great need to investigate groundwater resources in terms of their chemistry and pollution to ascertain their quality and implement robust pollution abatement strategies. This study focused on the characterization of groundwater in a typical geological transition zone in northeastern Nigeria. Eighty-seven (87) groundwater samples were collected from dug wells and boreholes during the 2017 dry season. pH, conductivity, and total dissolved solids (TDS) were measured in situ using a multiparameter probe, while major cations and anions were measured using atomic absorption spectrometry and ion chromatography, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, principal component analysis (PCA), water quality index, and standard hydrochemical plots. TDS ranged between 95 and 1154 mg L-1 in basement terrains and between 49 and 1105 in sedimentary areas. pH ranged between 6.8 and 7.7 mg L-1 in basement terrains and between 5.0 and 6.5 in sedimentary areas, suggesting a moderately acidic to alkaline low mineralized groundwater. Calcium (2.6-128.0 mg L-1) was the dominant cation in the basement areas, suggesting silicate weathering/dissolution, while sodium (1.9-106.0 mg L-1) dominated the sedimentary zones due to base exchange reactions. The PCA analysis suggests that mineral dissolution (mostly silicate weathering) controls the hydrochemistry of the basement aquifers, while ion exchange and albite weathering, with some influence of anthropogenic factor, control the sedimentary aquifers. The water quality index revealed that the basement setting was predominated by poor to unsuitable groundwater, while the sedimentary terrain was characterized by potable groundwater. The dominant hydrochemical facie in the basement areas was Ca2+-(Mg2+)-HCO3- characteristic of recharge meteoric water. The Na+- (K+)-HCO3- facie characterized the sedimentary zones, indicative of cation exchange reactions, while the mixed water facie typifies the geological contact zones. The shallow nature of the basement groundwaters makes them more susceptible to geogenic and anthropogenic pollution compared to the sandstone aquifers. However, the basement aquifers have better irrigation indices (Kelly ratio and soluble sodium percent) as compared to the sandstone aquifers, which exhibit poor Kelly ratios (< 1) and soluble sodium percent (> 50) ratings. Results from the study clearly highlight the poor-unsuitable groundwater quality in parts of the studied GTZ and can be very instrumental to the policymakers in implementing sustainable water treatment strategies and cleaner production technologies in GTZ to forestall the incidence of water-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullateef Lawal
- Department of Applied Geology, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi State, Bauchi, Nigeria.
| | - Moshood N Tijani
- Department of Geology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Daniel Snow
- Nebraska Water Center, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Matteo D'Alessio
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
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Crowley R, Mathew S, Hilden D. Environmental Health: A Position Paper From the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 2022; 175:1591-1593. [PMID: 36279541 DOI: 10.7326/m22-1864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental health refers to the health effects associated with environmental factors, such as air pollution, water contamination, and climate change. Environmental hazards are associated with poor outcomes in common diseases, including diabetes and heart disease. In this position paper, the American College of Physicians (ACP) seeks to inform physicians about environmental health and offers policymakers recommendations to reduce the adverse health consequences of climate change, improve air and water quality, reduce exposure to toxic substances, and address environmental injustice. ACP affirms that all communities, including people of color, people with low income, and marginalized populations, deserve to live in a healthy environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Crowley
- American College of Physicians, Washington, DC (R.C.)
| | - Suja Mathew
- Atlantic Health System, Morristown, New Jersey (S.M.)
| | - David Hilden
- Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota (D.H.)
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30
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Su Z, Liu T, Men Y, Li S, Graham N, Yu W. Understanding point-of-use tap water quality: From instrument measurement to intelligent analysis using sample filtration. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 225:119205. [PMID: 36215843 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.119205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In most cases, point-of-use tap water quality is not routinely monitored due to widely-dispersed sampling sites and the costly tests. Although previous studies have revealed the variation of drinking water quality during distribution in municipal networks, the influence of aging pipes in buildings on quality is still unknown and this makes it difficult for water utilities to conduct regular maintenance. Herein, we have undertaken a survey of tap water samples across 8 districts in Beijing (China) to evaluate the potential effects of pipe age on point-of-use water quality, including turbidity, organic matter characteristics, and bacterial community. By grouping the collected samples according to the pipe age and source water respectively, the results suggested that bacterial diversity is significantly influenced by the pipe age. However, bacterial community structure is clearly influenced by the source water. Similarly, aging pipes in buildings are also responsible for the deterioration of the final water quality, and their effects have been closely linked to selected water quality parameters by evaluating the relevant factors. Moreover, the interrelationships between physico-chemical parameters and bacteria abundance were identified. For example, pH, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ and K+ showed a positive relationship with Bacillus abundance. In addition, an intelligent analysis method for understanding pipe age, organic matter concentration, and hardness (i.e., Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentration), based on image analysis of filtered membranes has been developed. The accuracy of prediction was encouraging, but can be improved with the collection of more data from tap water samples. We expect that this method can be exploited by the public to monitor their tap water and provide a feasible and cost-effective approach for water suppliers to locate aging/deteriorating pipes which need to be replaced or maintained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyang Su
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Ting Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yujie Men
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - Shuo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Nigel Graham
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Wenzheng Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China.
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31
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Atrashkevich A, Fajardo AS, Westerhoff P, Walker WS, Sánchez-Sánchez CM, Garcia-Segura S. Overcoming barriers for nitrate electrochemical reduction: By-passing water hardness. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 225:119118. [PMID: 36155008 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.119118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Water matrix composition impacts water treatment performance. However, matrix composition impacts have rarely been studied for electrochemical water treatment processes, and the correlation between the composition and the treatment efficiency is lacking. This work evaluated the electrochemical reduction of nitrate (ERN) using different complex water matrices: groundwater, brackish water, and reverse osmosis (RO) concentrate/brine. The ERN was conducted using a tin (Sn) cathode because of the high selectivity towards nitrogen evolution reported for Sn electrocatalysts. The co-existence of calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), and carbonate (CO32-) ions in water caused a 4-fold decrease in the nitrate conversion into innocuous nitrogen gas due to inorganic scaling formation on the cathode surface. XRF and XRD analysis of fouled catalyst surfaces detected brucite (Mg(OH)2), calcite (CaCO3), and dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2) mineral scales formed on the cathode surface. Surface scaling created a physical barrier on the electrode that decreased the ERN efficiency. Identifying these main sources of ERN inhibition was key to devising potential fouling mitigation strategies. For this reason, the chemical softening pre-treatment of a real brackish water was conducted and this significantly increased nitrate conversion and faradaic efficiency during subsequent ERN treatment, leading to a lower electric energy consumption per order. Understanding the ionic foulant composition responsible for influencing electrochemically-driven technologies are the first steps that must be taken to move towards niche applications such as decentralized ERN. Thus, we propose either direct ERN implementation in regions facing high nitrate levels in soft waters, or a hybrid softening/nitrate removal system for those regions where high nitrate and high-water hardness appear simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aksana Atrashkevich
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-3005, USA
| | - Ana S Fajardo
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-3005, USA; Laboratoire Interfaces et Systèmes Electrochimiques (LISE), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 4 Place Jussieu, Paris 75005, France.
| | - Paul Westerhoff
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-3005, USA
| | - W Shane Walker
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-3005, USA; Civil Engineering, Center for Inland Desalination Systems, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Carlos M Sánchez-Sánchez
- Laboratoire Interfaces et Systèmes Electrochimiques (LISE), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 4 Place Jussieu, Paris 75005, France
| | - Sergi Garcia-Segura
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-3005, USA.
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Bradley PM, Romanok KM, Smalling KL, Focazio MJ, Charboneau R, George CM, Navas-Acien A, O’Leary M, Red Cloud R, Zacher T, Breitmeyer SE, Cardon MC, Cuny CK, Ducheneaux G, Enright K, Evans N, Gray JL, Harvey DE, Hladik ML, Kanagy LK, Loftin KA, McCleskey RB, Medlock-Kakaley EK, Meppelink SM, Valder JF, Weis CP. Tapwater Exposures, Effects Potential, and Residential Risk Management in Northern Plains Nations. ACS ES&T WATER 2022; 2:1772-1788. [PMID: 36277121 PMCID: PMC9578051 DOI: 10.1021/acsestwater.2c00293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
In the United States (US), private-supply tapwater (TW) is rarely monitored. This data gap undermines individual/community risk-management decision-making, leading to an increased probability of unrecognized contaminant exposures in rural and remote locations that rely on private wells. We assessed point-of-use (POU) TW in three northern plains Tribal Nations, where ongoing TW arsenic (As) interventions include expansion of small community water systems and POU adsorptive-media treatment for Strong Heart Water Study participants. Samples from 34 private-well and 22 public-supply sites were analyzed for 476 organics, 34 inorganics, and 3 in vitro bioactivities. 63 organics and 30 inorganics were detected. Arsenic, uranium (U), and lead (Pb) were detected in 54%, 43%, and 20% of samples, respectively. Concentrations equivalent to public-supply maximum contaminant level(s) (MCL) were exceeded only in untreated private-well samples (As 47%, U 3%). Precautionary health-based screening levels were exceeded frequently, due to inorganics in private supplies and chlorine-based disinfection byproducts in public supplies. The results indicate that simultaneous exposures to co-occurring TW contaminants are common, warranting consideration of expanded source, point-of-entry, or POU treatment(s). This study illustrates the importance of increased monitoring of private-well TW, employing a broad, environmentally informative analytical scope, to reduce the risks of unrecognized contaminant exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M. Bradley
- U.S.
Geological Survey, Columbia, South Carolina 29210, United States
| | | | - Kelly L. Smalling
- U.S.
Geological Survey, Lawrenceville, New Jersey 08648, United States
| | | | - Robert Charboneau
- Spirit
Lake Tribe Office of Environmental Health, Fort Totten, North Dakota 58335, United States
| | - Christine Marie George
- Johns
Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Ana Navas-Acien
- Columbia
University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Marcia O’Leary
- Missouri
Breaks Industries Research Inc., Eagle Butte, South Dakota 57625, United States
| | - Reno Red Cloud
- Oglala
Sioux Tribe Natural Resources Regulatory Agency, Pine Ridge, South Dakota 57770, United States
| | - Tracy Zacher
- Missouri
Breaks Industries Research Inc., Eagle Butte, South Dakota 57625, United States
| | | | - Mary C. Cardon
- U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Christa K. Cuny
- Missouri
Breaks Industries Research Inc., Eagle Butte, South Dakota 57625, United States
| | - Guthrie Ducheneaux
- Missouri
Breaks Industries Research Inc., Eagle Butte, South Dakota 57625, United States
| | - Kendra Enright
- Missouri
Breaks Industries Research Inc., Eagle Butte, South Dakota 57625, United States
| | - Nicola Evans
- U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - James L. Gray
- U.S.
Geological Survey, Lakewood, Colorado 80228-3742, United States
| | - David E. Harvey
- Indian Health Service/HHS, Rockville, Maryland 20857, United States
| | | | - Leslie K. Kanagy
- U.S.
Geological Survey, Lakewood, Colorado 80228-3742, United States
| | - Keith A. Loftin
- U.S.
Geological Survey, Lawrence, Kansas 66049, United States
| | | | | | | | - Joshua F. Valder
- U.S. Geological
Survey, Rapid City, South Dakota 57702, United States
| | - Christopher P. Weis
- National Institute of Environmental Health
Sciences/NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, United
States
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Ventre S, Desai G, Roberson R, Kordas K. Toxic metal exposures from infant diets: Risk prevention strategies for caregivers and health care professionals. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2022; 52:101276. [PMID: 36266220 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2022.101276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Concerns are growing regarding the presence of toxic elements such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb) in the ingredients and prepared foods for infants and young children. There are few clear, evidence-based, guidelines on the maximum tolerable limits of toxicants in foods and little understanding of toxicant exposure or adverse health effects attributable to dietary exposure. Caregivers are faced with the burden of making decisions about which foods to select, how often to feed them to their children, and what foods to limit. This article reviews the current literature and existing recommendations on dietary exposure to toxic elements in children under 2 years of age, and their health effects in early childhood-focusing on growth, neurodevelopment, and immune function. The article also outlines best practices for healthcare providers to address the concerns of toxic element exposure through the diet in young children. Several foods consistently appear in the literature as potential sources of toxic element exposure. Contaminated drinking and cooking water, including water used to prepare infant formula, could also be a major exposure source. In the absence of stronger evidence on effects of dietary modification, exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age, followed by a diverse diet are some strategies to reduce dietary toxic element exposure while ensuring an adequate and balanced nutrient intake. Healthcare providers can support families by sharing information and encouraging blood Pb testing, the only element for which such testing is currently recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Ventre
- Department of Pediatrics, University at Buffalo, USA; New York State Children's Environmental Health Center, USA.
| | - Gauri Desai
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, USA
| | | | - Katarzyna Kordas
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, USA
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Scanlon BR, Fakhreddine S, Reedy RC, Yang Q, Malito JG. Drivers of Spatiotemporal Variability in Drinking Water Quality in the United States. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:12965-12974. [PMID: 36044676 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c08697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 10% of community water systems in the United States experience a health-based violation of drinking water quality; however, recently allocated funds for improving United States water infrastructure ($50 billion) provide an opportunity to address these issues. The objective of this study was to examine environmental, operational, and sociodemographic drivers of spatiotemporal variability in drinking water quality violations using geospatial analysis and data analytics. Random forest modeling was used to evaluate drivers of these violations, including environmental (e.g., landcover, climate, geology), operational (e.g., water source, system size), and sociodemographic (social vulnerability, rurality) drivers. Results of random forest modeling show that drivers of violations vary by violation type. For example, arsenic and radionuclide violations are found mostly in the Southwest and Southcentral United States related to semiarid climate, whereas disinfection byproduct rule violations are found primarily in Southcentral United States related to system operations. Health-based violations are found primarily in small systems in rural and suburban settings. Understanding the drivers of water quality violations can help develop optimal approaches for addressing these issues to increase compliance in community water systems, particularly small systems in rural areas across the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget R Scanlon
- Bureau of Economic Geology, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78758, United States
| | - Sarah Fakhreddine
- Bureau of Economic Geology, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78758, United States
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, United States
| | - Robert C Reedy
- Bureau of Economic Geology, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78758, United States
| | - Qian Yang
- Bureau of Economic Geology, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78758, United States
| | - John G Malito
- Bureau of Economic Geology, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78758, United States
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Victory KR, Wilson AM, Cabrera NL, Larson D, Reynolds KA, Latura J, Beamer PI. Risk perceptions of drinking bottled vs. tap water in a low-income community on the US-Mexico Border. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1712. [PMID: 36085148 PMCID: PMC9463786 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14109-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Previous studies have shown that low-income Latinos generally drink bottled water over tap water and might be at increased risks for cavities from unfluoridated bottled water. In order to better design interventions, it is important to understand the risk perceptions of this unique high-risk yet historically marginalized group.
Methods
We interviewed low-income Latino households (n = 90) from Nogales, Arizona who primarily drink bottled water and asked them to evaluate potential health risks of drinking tap water compared to 16 other voluntary activities. Unpaired t-tests were used to determine if statistically significant (α = 0.05) differences occurred in perceived risk by drinking-water source and differences among demographic groups in their level of (dis)agreement with statements regarding tap or bottled water safety. To assess significant differences (α = 0.05) in perceived risks and voluntariness to engage in a number of activities, including drinking local tap water and drinking water in different geographic regions, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Scheffe’s post-hoc test (a conservative post-hoc test) with adjustment for the number of pairwise comparisons was used.
Results
Participants viewed bottled water to be significantly safer to consume than tap water (p < 0.001). On a Likert scale from 1 (low risk) to 5 (high risk), “drinking tap water in Nogales, Arizona” received an average score of 4.7, which was significantly higher than the average perceived risk of drinking San Francisco, California tap water (µ = 3.4, p < 0.001), and as risky as drinking and driving (µ = 4.8, p = 1.00) and drinking Nogales, Sonora, Mexico tap water (µ = 4.8, p = 1.00). Ninety-eight percent of participants feared that drinking local tap water could result in illness, 79% did not drink their water because of fear of microbial and chemical contamination and 73% would drink their water if they knew it was safe regardless of taste.
Conclusions
These results suggest that fear of illness from tap-water consumption is an important contributing factor to increased bottled water use. Future efforts should focus on the development of educational and outreach efforts to assess the safety and risks associated with tap-water consumption.
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Schwetschenau SE, Schubert A, Smith RJ, Guikema S, Love NG, McElmurry SP. Improved Decision-Making: A Sociotechnical Utility-Based Framework for Drinking Water Investment. ACS ES&T ENGINEERING 2022; 2:1475-1490. [PMID: 35991121 PMCID: PMC9380853 DOI: 10.1021/acsestengg.2c00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
To achieve the goals of the Safe Drinking Water Act, state and local water authorities need to make decisions about where to direct limited funding for infrastructure improvements and currently do so in the absence of adequate evaluative metrics. We developed a framework grounded in utility theory that compares trade-offs explicitly and broadens the factors considered in prioritizing resource allocations. Relevant existing indices were reviewed to identify data applicable to drinking water decision-making. A utility-theory-based decision analysis framework was developed and applied to evaluate how different objectives affect funding decisions for lead service line replacement (LSLR) programs in Pennsylvania and Michigan, United States. The decision framework incorporates drinking water quality characteristics with community and environmental quality attributes. We compare additive and multiplicative model structures, different weights, and spatial scales. Our decision framework showed that the inclusion of additional data beyond what is usually considered in LSLR decisions could change the top 10 counties or public water systems prioritized. Further, the counties or water systems in the top 10 were influenced by the model structure and weights. Prioritization changed based on which data were included, and has implications for the use of evaluative metrics beyond traditional water system data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E. Schwetschenau
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48202, United States
| | - Alyssa Schubert
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Richard J. Smith
- School
of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48202, United States
| | - Seth Guikema
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Industrial & Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Nancy G. Love
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Shawn P. McElmurry
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48202, United States
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Carvalho OQ, Marks R, Nguyen HKK, Vitale-Sullivan ME, Martinez SC, Árnadóttir L, Stoerzinger KA. Role of Electronic Structure on Nitrate Reduction to Ammonium: A Periodic Journey. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:14809-14818. [PMID: 35926171 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c05673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Electrocatalysis is a promising approach to convert waste nitrate to ammonia and help close the nitrogen cycle. This renewably powered ammonia production process sources hydrogen from water (as opposed to methane in the thermal Haber-Bosch process) but requires a delicate balance between a catalyst's activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR), influencing the Faradaic efficiency (FE) and selectivity to ammonia/ammonium over other nitrogen-containing products. We measure ammonium FEs ranging from 3.6 ± 6.6% (on Ag) to 93.7 ± 0.9% (on Co) across a range of transition metals (TMs; Ti, Fe, Co, Ni, Ni0.68Cu0.32, Cu, and Ag) in buffered neutral media. To better understand these competing reaction kinetics, we develop a microkinetic model that captures the voltage-dependent nitrate rate order and illustrates its origin as competitive adsorption between nitrate and hydrogen adatoms (H*). NO3RR FE can be described via competition for electrons with the HER, decreasing sharply for TMs with a high work function and a correspondingly high HER activity (e.g., Ni). Ammonium selectivity nominally increases as the TM d-band center energy (Ed) approaches and overcomes the Fermi level (EF), but is exceptionally high for Co compared to materials with similar Ed. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate Co maximizes ammonium selectivity via (1) strong nitrite binding enabling subsequent reduction and (2) promotion of nitric oxide dissociation, leading to selective reduction of the nitrogen adatom (N*) to ammonium.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Quinn Carvalho
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States.,The Advanced Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, California 94705, United States
| | - Rylee Marks
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Hoan K K Nguyen
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Molly E Vitale-Sullivan
- School of Mechanical, Industrial, and Manufacturing Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Selena C Martinez
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Líney Árnadóttir
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Kelsey A Stoerzinger
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States.,Physical and Computational Sciences Directorate, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, 902 Battelle Blvd., Richland, Washington 99354, United States
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Ding KJ, Hornberger G, Hill E, McDonald YJ. Where you drink water: An assessment of the Tennessee, USA public water supply. WATER 2022; 14:2562. [PMID: 37476080 PMCID: PMC10358732 DOI: 10.3390/w14162562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring drinking water quality is essential to protect people's health and wellbeing. In the United States, the Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) database records the occurrence of a drinking water violation regulation in public water systems. A notable shortcoming of SDWIS is the lack of the contaminant concentration level about the allowable maximum contaminant threshold. In this study, we take advantage of both the SDWIS violation database and the contaminants sampling database at the state level to examine the drinking water quality of all kinds of drinking water systems in detail. We obtained sampling data (i.e., the concentration level of contaminants) of public water systems (PWSs) in Tennessee and explored the statistical distribution of contaminant concentration data in relation to the enforceable maximum regulatory contaminant level). We use both SDWIS violation records and actual concentrations of contaminants from the sampling data to study the factors that influence the drinking water quality of PWSs. We find that different types of violations were more frequent in (1) specific geological regions, (2) counties with PWSs that serve a larger population (10,000 to 100,000 people), and (3) places with abundant surface water, such as near a lake or major river. Additionally, the distribution of measured concentrations for many contaminants was not smooth but was punctuated by discontinuities at selected levels, such as at 50% of the maximum contaminant level. Such anomalies in the sampling data do not indicate violations, but more investigation is needed to determine the reasons behind the punctuated changes.
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Wilking C, Nink E, Cradock AL. Drinking Water and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Current Policy and Opportunities for Improvement. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2022; 28:218-221. [PMID: 34939606 PMCID: PMC10635565 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cara Wilking
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (Ms Nink and Dr Cradock). Dr Wilking is an independent legal consultant, Barnstable, Massachusetts
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Li F, Zhang P, Gong A, Zhang X, Zhang W, Li K. Cu particles confined in three-dimensional open porous carbon foam monolith as highly efficient electrode for electroreduction of nitrate with significant alleviation of nitrite. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.120721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Mizelle E, Larson K, Doherty C. Understanding Farmworker Fluid Intake Using Intersectionality Theory. New Solut 2022; 32:19-29. [PMID: 35229666 DOI: 10.1177/10482911221078964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, Latino farmworkers are disproportionately at risk for death from heat-related illnesses. To elicit Latino farmworker perceptions on their fluid intake and heat stress, a qualitative descriptive, community-informed research study was conducted in eastern North Carolina. A total of 28 Mexican farmworkers participated in one of 4 focus groups. Using content analysis and guided by Intersectionality theory, themes and subthemes were identified. The first theme was Absence of Protection, represented by 2 subthemes: (1a) Intense Climate Considerations; and (1b) Workplace Exploitation. The second theme, Freedom to Drink, included 2 subthemes: (2a) Distance and Distaste; and (2b) Culture of Farm Work. Farmworkers perceived extreme outdoor temperatures as the greatest workplace barrier to staying hydrated and reported water accessibility and quality issues. Farmworker fluid intake was influenced by interlocking social categories and power systems. Policy recommendations that prevent farmworker heat-related illness and promote hydration are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Mizelle
- Department of Baccalaureate Education, College of Nursing, 3627East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Kim Larson
- Department of Nursing Science, College of Nursing, 3627East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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Ravalli F, Yu Y, Bostick BC, Chillrud SN, Schilling K, Basu A, Navas-Acien A, Nigra AE. Sociodemographic inequalities in uranium and other metals in community water systems across the USA, 2006-11: a cross-sectional study. Lancet Planet Health 2022; 6:e320-e330. [PMID: 35397220 PMCID: PMC9037820 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(22)00043-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently sets maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for ten metals or metalloids in public drinking water systems. Our objective was to estimate metal concentrations in community water systems (CWSs) across the USA, to establish if sociodemographic or regional inequalities in the metal concentrations exist, and to identify patterns of concentrations for these metals as a mixture. METHODS We evaluated routine compliance monitoring records for antimony, arsenic, barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, mercury, selenium, thallium, and uranium, collected from 2006-11 (2000-11 for uranium; timeframe based on compliance monitoring requirements) by the US EPA in support of their second and third Six-Year Reviews for CWSs. Arsenic, barium, chromium, selenium, and uranium (detectable in >10% records) were included in the main analyses (subgroup and metal mixture analyses; arsenic data reported previously). We compared the mean, 75th percentile, and 95th percentile contaminant concentrations and the percentage of CWSs with concentrations exceeding the MCL across subgroups (region, sociodemographic county-cluster, size of population served, source water type, and CWSs exclusively serving correctional facilities). We evaluated patterns in CWS metal concentration estimate profiles via hierarchical cluster analysis. We created an online interactive map and dashboard of estimated CWS metal concentrations for use in future analyses. FINDINGS Average metal concentrations were available for a total of 37 915 CWSs across the USA. The total number of monitoring records available was approximately 297 000 for arsenic, 165 000 for barium, 167 000 for chromium, 165 000 for selenium, and 128 000 for uranium. The percentage of analysed CWSs with average concentrations exceeding the MCL was 2·6% for arsenic (MCL=10 μg/L; nationwide mean 1·77 μg/L; n=36 798 CWSs), 2·1% for uranium (MCL=30 μg/L; nationwide mean 4·37 μg/L; n=14 503 CWSs), and less than 0·1% for the other metals. The number of records with detections was highest for uranium (63·1%). 75th and 95th percentile concentrations for uranium, chromium, barium, and selenium were highest for CWSs serving Semi-Urban, Hispanic communities, CWSs reliant on groundwater, and CWSs in the Central Midwest. Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed two distinct clusters: an arsenic-uranium-selenium cluster and a barium-chromium cluster. INTERPRETATIONS Uranium is an under-recognised contaminant in CWSs. Metal concentrations (including uranium) are elevated in CWSs serving Semi-Urban, Hispanic communities independent of location or region, highlighting environmental justice concerns. FUNDING US National Institutes of Health Office of the Director, US National Institutes for Environmental Health Sciences, and US National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Ravalli
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yuanzhi Yu
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Benjamin C Bostick
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY, USA
| | - Steven N Chillrud
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY, USA
| | - Kathrin Schilling
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA; Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY, USA
| | - Anirban Basu
- Department of Earth Sciences, Royal Halloway, University of London, Surrey, UK
| | - Ana Navas-Acien
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anne E Nigra
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA.
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Hill EL, Ma L. Drinking water, fracking, and infant health. JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS 2022; 82:102595. [PMID: 35172241 PMCID: PMC8986614 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2022.102595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study assesses the health risks associated with drinking water contamination using variation in the timing and location of shale gas development (SGD). Our novel dataset, linking health and drinking water outcomes to shale gas activity through water sources, enables us to provide new estimates of the causal effects of water pollution on health and to isolate drinking water as a specific mechanism of exposure for SGD. We find consistent and robust evidence that drilling shale gas wells negatively impacts both drinking water quality and infant health. These results indicate large social costs of water pollution and provide impetus for re-visiting the regulation of public drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine L Hill
- Department of Public Health Sciences & Department of Economics, University of Rochester Medical Center, 265 Crittenden Blvd., Box 420644, Rochester, NY 14642, United States.
| | - Lala Ma
- Department of Economics, Gatton College of Business and Economics, University of Kentucky, Business & Economics Building, Lexington, KY 40506, United States
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Importance and vulnerability of lakes and reservoirs supporting drinking water in China. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2022.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Marcos-Hernández M, Antonio Cerrón-Calle G, Ge Y, Garcia-Segura S, Sánchez-Sánchez CM, Fajardo AS, Villagrán D. Effect of surface functionalization of Fe3O4 nano-enabled electrodes on the electrochemical reduction of nitrate. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2021.119771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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O'Shay S, Day AM, Islam K, McElmurry SP, Seeger MW. Boil Water Advisories as Risk Communication: Consistency between CDC Guidelines and Local News Media Articles. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 37:152-162. [PMID: 33016137 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2020.1827540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The Safe Drinking Water Act Public Notification Rule requires that customers of public water systems (PWS) be informed of problems that may pose a risk to public health. Boil water advisories (BWA) are a form of communication intended to mitigate potential health risks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed guidance for BWAs. We examined how local US news media incorporate the CDC's guidelines when reporting on BWAs. A content analysis of 1040 local news media articles shows these reports did not consistently incorporate CDC guidelines. Overall, 89% of the articles communicated enough information for readers to determine if they were included in the impacted area. Articles that included at least some of the CDC's instructions for boiling water were likely (p < .001) to include other risk information, such as the functions for which water should be boiled (e.g., drinking, brushing teeth) and that bottled water could be used as an alternative source. However, this information was included in only 47% of the articles evaluated. Results suggest public notifications often do not serve the public need for clear risk communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney O'Shay
- Department of Languages, Philosophy, and Communication Studies, Utah State University
| | - Ashleigh M Day
- Department of Communication, University of Texas at Tyler
| | | | - Shawn P McElmurry
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Wayne State University
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Park S, Onufrak S, Cradock AL, Hecht C, Patel A, Chevinsky JR, Blanck HM. Factors Related to Water Filter Use for Drinking Tap Water at Home and Its Association with Consuming Plain Water and Sugar-Sweetened Beverages among U.S. Adults. Am J Health Promot 2022; 36:813-822. [PMID: 35081754 DOI: 10.1177/08901171211073304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine factors associated with water filter use (WFU) for drinking tap water at home and its association with consuming plain water and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). DESIGN Quantitative, cross-sectional study. SETTING The 2018 SummerStyles survey data. SUBJECTS U.S. adults (≥18 years; N=4,042). MEASURES Outcomes were intake of plain water (tap/bottled water) and SSBs. Exposure was WFU (yes, no, not drinking tap water at home). Covariates included sociodemographics, weight status, Census regions, and home ownership status. ANALYSIS We used multivariable logistic regressions to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for consuming tap water, bottled water, or total plain water >3 cups/day (vs. ≤3 cups) and SSBs ≥1 time/day (vs. <1 time) by WFU. RESULTS Overall, 36% of adults reported using a filter for drinking tap water at home; 14% did not drink tap water at home. Hispanics had significantly higher odds of using a water filter (AOR=1.50, 95%CI=1.14-1.98) vs. non-Hispanic White. Factors significantly associated with lower odds of WFU were lower education (AOR=0.69, 95%CI=0.55-0.86 for ≤high school; AOR=0.78, 95%CI=0.64-0.95 for some college, vs. college graduate), not being married (AOR=0.81, 95%CI=0.66-0.98, vs. married/domestic partnership) and lower household income (AOR=0.68, 95%CI=0.68-0.90 for <$35,000, vs. ≥$100,000). Using a water filter was associated with higher odds of drinking >3 cups/day of tap water (AOR=1.33, 95%CI=1.13-1.56) and lower odds of SSBs ≥1 time/day (AOR=0.76, 95%CI=0.62-0.92). Not drinking tap water at home was associated with higher odds of drinking >3 cups/day bottled water (AOR=3.46, 95%CI=2.70-4.44). CONCLUSIONS WFU was associated with higher tap water intake and lower SSB intake among U.S. adults. WFU was higher among Hispanics, but lower among those with lower education and income and not married adults. While WFU was associated with healthful beverage habits, additional considerations for WFU may include source water quality, oral health, cost, and proper use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohyun Park
- Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity1242Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Stephen Onufrak
- Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity1242Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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Chen J, Pu H, Hersam MC, Westerhoff P. Molecular Engineering of 2D Nanomaterial Field-Effect Transistor Sensors: Fundamentals and Translation across the Innovation Spectrum. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2106975. [PMID: 34921575 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202106975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Over the last decade, 2D layered nanomaterials have attracted significant attention across the scientific community due to their rich and exotic properties. Various nanoelectronic devices based on these 2D nanomaterials have been explored and demonstrated, including those for environmental applications. Here, the fundamental attributes of 2D layered nanomaterials for field-effect transistor (FET) sensors and tunneling FET (TFET) sensors, which provide versatile detection of water contaminants such as heavy-metal ions, bacteria, nutrients, and organic pollutants, are discussed. The major challenges and opportunities are also outlined for designing and fabricating 2D nanomaterial FET/TFET sensors with superior performance. Translation of these FET/TFET sensors from fundamental research to applied technology is illustrated through a case study on graphene-based real-time FET water sensors. A second case study centers on large-scale sensor networks for water-quality monitoring to enable intelligent drinking water and river-water systems. Overall, 2D nanomaterial FET sensors have significant potential for enabling a human-centered intelligent water system that can likely be applied to other precarious water supplies around the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhong Chen
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division, Physical Sciences and Engineering Directorate, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, 60439, USA
| | - Haihui Pu
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division, Physical Sciences and Engineering Directorate, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, 60439, USA
| | - Mark C Hersam
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Paul Westerhoff
- School of Sustainable Engineering and The Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
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Approximating Community Water System Service Areas to Explore the Demographics of SDWA Compliance in Virginia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413254. [PMID: 34948863 PMCID: PMC8706897 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Although the United States Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) theoretically ensures drinking water quality, recent studies have questioned the reliability and equity associated with community water system (CWS) service. This study aimed to identify SDWA violation differences (i.e., monitoring and reporting (MR) and health-based (HB)) between Virginia CWSs given associated service demographics, rurality, and system characteristics. A novel geospatial methodology delineated CWS service areas at the zip code scale to connect 2000 US Census demographics with 2006–2016 SDWA violations, with significant associations determined via negative binomial regression. The proportion of Black Americans within a service area was positively associated with the likelihood of HB violations. This effort supports the need for further investigation of racial and socioeconomic disparities in access to safe drinking water within the United States in particular and offers a geospatial strategy to explore demographics in other settings where data on infrastructure extents are limited. Further interdisciplinary efforts at multiple scales are necessary to identify the entwined causes for differential risks in adverse drinking water quality exposures and would be substantially strengthened by the mapping of official CWS service boundaries.
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Comparison of potential drinking water source contamination across one hundred U.S. cities. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7254. [PMID: 34903744 PMCID: PMC8669013 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27509-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Drinking water supplies of cities are exposed to potential contamination arising from land use and other anthropogenic activities in local and distal source watersheds. Because water quality sampling surveys are often piecemeal, regionally inconsistent, and incomplete with respect to unregulated contaminants, the United States lacks a detailed comparison of potential source water contamination across all of its large cities. Here we combine national-scale geospatial datasets with hydrologic simulations to compute two metrics representing potential contamination of water supplies from point and nonpoint sources for over a hundred U.S. cities. We reveal enormous diversity in anthropogenic activities across watersheds with corresponding disparities in the potential contamination of drinking water supplies to cities. Approximately 5% of large cities rely on water that is composed primarily of runoff from non-pristine lands (e.g., agriculture, residential, industrial), while four-fifths of all large cities that withdraw surface water are exposed to treated wastewater in their supplies.
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