Environmental & Analytical Toxicology

Drug overdoses and therapeutic misadventures, whether intentional or accidental, are common reasons for presentations to pediatric emergency departments. Timely administration of antidotes is often a critical component of treatment for these patients and can frequently be life-saving. Due to the challenges of conducting randomized controlled trials in clinical toxicology, there is often a lack of information regarding the efficacy and optimal use of antidotes, making it essential to continuously review the literature for new data and evidence. This paper reviews the current evidence and indications for several newer antidotes and treatments for selected common pediatric poisonings, as well as ongoing data regarding the use of a well-known and widely used antidote.

Marine pollution poses a significant threat to oceanic ecosystems, with toxic substances causing widespread harm to marine life and habitats. This study examines the various sources and types of pollutants, including heavy metals, plastics, and chemical contaminants, and their detrimental effects on marine biodiversity and ecological processes. The accumulation of toxins in marine food webs and the resultant bioaccumulation and biomagnification pose serious risks to both marine organisms and human health. Additionally, the degradation of crucial habitats such as coral reefs and coastal regions further exacerbates the environmental impact. Mitigating the effects of oceanic toxicology requires comprehensive pollution control measures, sustainable practices, and international collaboration. This paper aims to highlight the urgent need for addressing marine pollution to safeguard the health of ocean ecosystems and ensure the longevity of marine biodiversity.

Soil ecosystems are increasingly threatened by the simultaneous presence of microplastics and insecticides, two pervasive pollutants with far-reaching environmental consequences. This study investigates the combined effects of these contaminants on soil health, focusing on their impact on soil organisms, nutrient cycling, and overall soil quality. Microplastics, originating from plastic debris and synthetic fibers, persist in soils, where they physically disrupt soil structure and function. Insecticides, widely used in agriculture to control pests, introduce toxic compounds that can harm non-target soil organisms. The interaction between microplastics and insecticides may exacerbate their individual impacts, leading to altered microbial communities, reduced soil fertility, and impaired ecosystem services. Understanding the synergistic effects of these pollutants is crucial for developing effective soil management and pollution mitigation strategies. This research highlights the need for integrated approaches to reduce microplastic and insecticide contamination, ensuring the sustainability of soil ecosystems essential for agriculture and biodiversity.

The utilization of engineered nanomaterials in the construction sector represents an emerging risk, with limited data available on the subject. This paper examines the potential hazards associated with nano-enabled construction products and the measures taken by safety coordinators to address these risks. Initially, a summary of safety data sheets (SDSs) for these products and publications on potential nano-exposure was analyzed. Additionally, a survey was emailed to a representative sample of safety coordinators in Nakuru. Key findings revealed that nearly none of the SDSs included nano-specific information, and activities involving nanomaterials in powder form or for spraying posed the highest risks. The survey indicated that while awareness of nano-enabled construction products is widespread, the actual use of nanomaterials remains very limited. These results highlight the need for improved safety information and protocols to manage the risks associated with nanomaterials in the construction industry.