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Novel-coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is currently a pandemic and public health emergency of international concern, as avowed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Ethiopia has become one of the affected countries as of March 15, 2020. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and practices among the Jimma University medical center (JUMC) visitors in Jimma town. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 247 sampled visitors, from 20-24 March 2020. Consecutive sampling was used to recruit the participants. The study tools were adapted from WHO resources. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the status of knowledge, perception, and practices. Logistic regression was executed to assess the predictors of dominant preventive practices. Of the 247 respondents, 205 (83.0%) knew the main clinical symptoms of COVID-19. 72.0% knew that older people who have chronic illnesses are at high risk of developing a severe form of COVID-19. About 95.1% knew that the COVID-19 virus spreads via respiratory droplets of infected people, while 77 (31.2%) of the respondents knew about the possibility of asymptomatic transmission. Only 15 (6.1%) knew that children and young adults had to involve preventive measures. Overall, 41.3% of the visitors had high knowledge. The majority, 170(68.8%), felt self-efficacious to controlling COVID-19. 207(83.3%) believed that COVID-19 is a stigmatized disease. Frequent hand washing (77.3%) and avoidance of shaking hands (53.8%) were the dominant practices. Knowledge status and self-efficacy (positively), older age, and unemployment (negatively) predicted hand washing and avoidance of handshaking. The status of knowledge and desirable practices were not sufficient enough to combat this rapidly spreading virus. COVID-19 risk communication and public education efforts should focus on building an appropriate level of knowledge while enhancing the adoption of recommended self-care practices with special emphasis on high-risk audience segments.

Breast milk is often used as an environmental bioindicator since it serves as an important medium to accumulate organochlorine pesticides. The main aim of this study is to determine the level of organochlorine pesticides in human breast milk collected from three districts of southwestern Ethiopia (Asendabo, Deneba, and Serbo) at three times points baselines (1st month), midline ( six months), and end line (12 months) and risk of infants’ exposure. A longitudinal study was conducted to assess pesticide residues in human breast milk samples and evaluate the risk-exposure of infants to these pesticides from consumption of mother’s milk in Ethiopia. Breast milk samples were collected from 168 mothers at three time points and pesticides were extracted using the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) method. The level of pesticide residues in human milk samples and exposure of infants to the pesticides was evaluated by calculating the estimated daily intake and compared with the provisional tolerable daily intake of the pesticides under study. The results indicated that, from the eight organochlorine pesticides analyzed in 447 breast milk samples at three sampling times, DDT and its metabolites were detected. p,p′-DDE and p,p′-DDT were detected in all (100%) of the breast milk samples while, p,p-DDD, and o,p-DDT were detected in 53.9%, and 42.7%, respectively. The mean concentration of total DDT at three time points(baseline, midline and endline) were 2.25, 1.68 and 1.32 µg/g milk fat, respectively. The mean concentration of total DDT from the three districts was 1.85 µg/g milk fat which is above the maximum residue limit (MRL = 0.02 µg/g milk fat set by FAO/WHO). The mean ratio of DDT/DDE for the three areas was calculated less than five (< 5) indicates historical DDT use in the study area. The estimated daily intake of infants at the first month of breastfeeding was 11.24 µg/kg-BW/day, above the provisional tolerable daily intake (PTDI) for total DDT set by FAO/WHO, which is 10 µg/kg body weight. An intake of OCPs is a big concern for infants' health in Ethiopia and countries with a similar condition, particularly at the first month of lactation. Strict regulations of the health-threatening pesticide by the regulatory body (Environment, Forest and Climate Change Commission) at the country and regional levels is advocated.

Breast cancer (BC) is becoming one of the most prevalent non-infectious disease in low and middle income countries. The steady rise of BC incidence may be related to the different risk factors. Among many, rampant presence of environmental pollutants might be one of the risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate exposure to organochlorine pesticides as a risk factor to breast cancer. A case-control study design was employed among breast cancer patients and non-breast cancer individuals (controls). Blood samples were collected from 100 study participants (50 cases and 50 controls) followed by serum separation, extraction and cleanup using standard analytical procdures. The findings revealed that ten organochlorine pesticides were detected in the serum of the study participants. From the detected organochlorine pesticides, heptachlor was observed at higher concentration for breast cancer patients (6.90±4.37 μg/L) and controls (9.15±3.84 μg/L). Mean serum level of p,p’-DDE, p,p’-DDT, heptachlor, gamma-chlordane, endosulfan, and dibutyl-chlorendate were significantly higher in the serum of breast cancer patients than the controls. From the studied pesticides, p,p’-DDT and gamma-chlordane are significant predictors for BC, while, others are equivocal. A unit increment of the concentration of p,p’-DDT (AOR; 2.03, 95% CI: 1.041–3.969) increased the odds of developing breast cancer by two, while for gamma-chlordane (AOR;3.12, 95% CI; 1.186–8.203) by three. Our study results suggesting that, organochlorines are a risk factors for breast cancer in Ethiopia. Decreasing exposure to such organochlorines might have a significant public health relevance in reducing non-communicable chronic illnesses. Besides, continues monitoring of persistent organic pollutants using body biomarkers is important for disease prevention and device mitigation measures.

The ban and restriction of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and major brominated flame retardants (BFRs), including hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), due to their confirmed detrimental effects on wildlife and humans have paved the way for the wide application of organophosphate esters (OPEs). OPEs have been extensively used as alternative flame retardants, plasticizer, and antifoaming agents in various industrial and consumer products, which leads to an increase in production, usage, and discharge in the environment. We compile recent information on the production/usage and physicochemical properties of OPEs and discussed and compared the available sample treatment and analysis techniques of OPEs, including extraction, clean-up, and instrumental analysis. The occurrence of OPEs in sediment, aquatic biota, surface, and drinking water is documented. Toxicity, human exposure, and ecological risks of OPEs were summarized; toxicological data of several OPEs shows different adverse health effects on aquatic organisms and humans. Much attention was given to document evidence regarding the bioaccumulation and biomagnification potential of OPEs in aquatic organisms. Finally, identified research gaps and avenues for future studies are forwarded. Graphical abstract

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0326862.].

Beef is a key component of human diet but also a favorable medium for microbial growth. However, research has largely overlooked major beef retailers and the specific roles of handlers, missing critical points for intervention. This study aims to address these gaps to support targeted microbial safety measures based on handlers' specific roles in beef processing. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Mizan-Aman, Southwest Ethiopia, from February 20 to April 20, 2024. The sample size was determined using a single population proportion formula, resulting in the inclusion of 372 participants, yielding a response rate of 360 (96.8%). Beef retailers were randomly selected, while beef handlers were chosen through systematic sampling technique. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire and observation checklist. Following a quality assessment, the data were analyzed using STATA 16, employing descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Bivariable analysis (p ≤ 0.25) was performed to identify variables for multivariable analysis. Statistical significance was assessed using adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Findings indicated that a significant proportion of beef handlers demonstrated inadequate knowledge (61%), negative attitudes (58%), and insufficient safety practices (55%). Among several factors associated with knowledge, attitude and practice of beef handlers, training in food safety was linked to good knowledge (AOR = 4.17, 95% CI: 1.15-15.12), while the role of a waiter was associated with both good knowledge (AOR = 4.5, 95% CI: 1.83-10.95), and more favorable attitudes (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.02-7.31). On the other hand, poor knowledge (AOR = 4.40, 95% CI: 2.44-7.94) and unfavorable attitudes (AOR = 4.84, 95% CI: 2.62-8.95) were significantly correlated with inadequate microbial safety practices. Many beef handlers lack sufficient knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding beef safety, regardless of their job roles. Improving microbial safety requires strategies such as formal education, training, health checks, and certification.

Water resources have been contaminated by pesticides due to the different activities of human beings. Different studies documented that advanced water treatment systems can eliminate pesticides while conventional and household treatment technologies are not well studied. The main aim of the present study is to determine the effect of conventional and household water treatment technologies on the removal of pesticide residue in drinking water. Water samples were collected from the Gibe River (intake point), from each treatment process, and from the distribution system. To determine the effect of the household water treatment process (solar disinfection and boiling), pesticides were spiked into distilled water and then passed through solar disinfection (SODIS) and boiling. The extraction of samples was conducted by following a low-density-based dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction procedure. The result of the study revealed that almost all studied pesticides except o´p-DDT were detected in water samples. Most pesticides that were detected in water samples from our study areas exceeded the maximum residue limits (MRLs), except for p,p’-DDE. The percent reduction of pesticide residue after post-chlorination by conventional water treatment ranges from 11.7% (from 70.83 μg/L to 62.54 μg/L) for p´p-DDD to 97.29% (5510.1μg/L to 149.5μg/L) for Dimethachlor, and the percent reduction of pesticide residue by SODIS and boiling ranges from 2.31% (o´p-DDT) to 54.45% (Cypermethrin) and 27.13% (γ-Chlordane) to 38.9% (p´p-DDE) respectively. This indicates that treatment technologies are important for the reduction of pesticides in water. Since studied pesticides are persistent and the resides were exceed MRL (have a health impact), monitoring of pesticides in treatment plant units is necessary and treatment technology improvement is important to allow further removal of pesticides.

Pesticides are essential in agriculture for protecting crops from pests, diseases, and weeds, but improper use can lead to health issues like neurological disorders and carcinogenic effects. Strengthening regulatory frameworks, promoting integrated pest management strategies, and raising farmer awareness can mitigate pesticide misuse. In Ethiopia, widespread pesticide use in vegetables raises concerns about consumer exposure to pesticide residues. This study determined the pesticide residue in vegetables in Southwest Ethiopia. The study was conducted in randomly selected districts of the Jimma zone. Samples of tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage, and onions were collected from vegetable farmers. The modified QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) methods were used for sample preparation and extraction. The analysis of pesticide residues was performed using gas chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer (GC-MS) and an ion trap analyzer with an automatic injection. The pesticide detection levels among types of vegetables and locations were analyzed using one-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Pesticide residues were detected in vegetables from Seka Chokorsa, Goma, and Dedo districts. Detected pesticides include Lindane, Aldrin, Chlorpyrifos, 4,4-DDE, Hexachlorobenzene, and Endosulfan II. The highest concentrations were found in the Dabo Gibe onion sample (Seka Chokorsa), the Waro Kolobo potato sample (Dedo), and the Ganji Dalacho cabbage sample (Goma). Lindane residues were found in onion and potato (Seka Chokorsa), exceeding the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) of 10-50 µg/kg. Chlorpyrifos residues were detected below MRLs across all districts, while 4,4-DDE residues were also detected in some vegetables, indicating historical use of banned pesticides. ANOVA results showed small variation between groups, and there was no statistically significant difference across the four groups (p-value = 0.305). The study highlights the need for stricter regulation, farmer education, and residue monitoring to ensure food safety.

Micro-nutrients are required in small amounts to maintain growth and cell functioning to complete the life cycle through reproductions. However, pregnant women in developing countries like Ethiopia are vulnerable to multiple micro-nutrient deficiencies. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing the serum level of metals and associated factors like dietary diversity, and health-related problems in pregnant women among small-scale farming in Kellem Wellega, western Ethiopia. A cross-sectional laboratory-based study was conducted from June to August 2021 on 417 pregnant women attending antenatal care at rural healthcare facilities. Data was collected by using per-tested structured questionnaires via face-to-face interviews. The data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 24.0, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between predictor and outcome variables. A statistically significant was considered at p value < 0.05 for all the analyses. Our study findings showed that 62.1, 80.9, and 71.9% of the participants were deficient in iron, zinc, and copper micro-nutrient levels, respectively. Pregnant women who could not have formal education were 3.24 (AOR = 3.24, 95% CI 1.33–7.91) and 3.98 (AOR = 3.98, 95% CI 1.2–13.15) times more likely to show zinc and copper deficiency than those who attended secondary school and above, respectively. Furthermore, pregnant women involved only in farming activities were 0.57 (AOR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.36–0.91) and 4.33 (AOR = 5.72, 95% CI 2.34–13.97) times more likely to be exposed to iron and zinc deficiency than those who were engaged in other activities. This study revealed that pregnant women with low income were 6.36 times more likely to be exposed to zinc micro-nutrient deficiencies than those with high-income participants (AOR = 6.36, 95% CI 1.47–27.61). Additionally, those participants who ate a varied diet between 1 and 4 items per day were 2.26 (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI 1.43–3.59) and 2.77 (AOR = 2.77, 95% CI 1.6–4.61) times more likely to suffer zinc and copper micro-nutrient insufficiency than those who consumed 5–10 items per day. Finally, pregnant women who developed diarrhea in the past three months were 1.82 (AOR = 2.77, 95% CI 1.14–2.92) and 2.52 (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI 1.3–4.91) times more likely to be exposed to iron and copper deficiency than those who never show the symptoms, respectively. This study identified low concentrations of zinc, iron, and copper in the blood serum of pregnant women of small-scale farmers.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257704.].[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257704.].