Cleaning Practices Research Articles

Cultivating Food Safety Together: Insights About the Future of Produce Safety in the U.S. Controlled Environment Agriculture Sector

Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is a rapidly growing sector that presents unique challenges and opportunities in ensuring food safety. This manuscript highlights critical gaps and needs to promote food safety in CEA systems as identified by stakeholders (n=47) at the Strategizing to Advance Future Extension andResearch (S.A.F.E.R.) CEA conference held in April 2023 at The Ohio State University’s Ohio CEA Research Center. Feedback collected at the conference was analyzed using an emergent thematic analysis approach to determine key areas of focus. Research-based guidance is specific to the type of commodity, production system type, and size. Themes include the need for improved supply chain control, cleaning, and sanitization practices, pathogen preventive controls and mitigation methods and training and education. Discussions surrounding supply chain control underscored the significance of the need for approaches to mitigate foodborne pathogen contamination. Effective cleaning and sanitization practices are vital to maintaining a safe production environment, with considerations such as establishing standard operating procedures, accounting for hygienic equipment design, and managing the microbial communities within the system. Data analysis further highlights the need for risk assessments, validated pathogen detection methods, and evidence-based guidance in microbial reduction. In addition, training and education were identified as crucial in promoting a culture of food safety within CEA. The development of partnerships between industry, regulatory, and research institutions are needed to advance data-driven guidance and practices across the diverse range of CEA operations and deemed essential for addressing challenges and advancing food safety practices in CEA. Considering these factors, the CEA industry can enhance food safety practices, foster consumer trust, and support its long-term sustainability.

Emerging algal organic matter from simulated on-line chemical cleaning of ultrafiltration membranes treating algae-containing water

Massive reproduction of algae due to the eutrophication of water body poses a new challenge to the water ecosystem. Despite ultrafiltration (UF) acting as an effective method to treat algae-containing waters, on-line chemical cleaning is frequently utilized to sustain the permeability of UF membranes. However, little attention is currently paid on the side-effects of practical on-line chemical cleaning on aqueous environments. Therefore, this work evaluated the generation of algae organic matter triggered by diverse membrane cleaning reagents (i.e., HCl, NaOH, NaClO, SDS and CA), and their subsequent fate in terms of biodegradation and membrane retention. The results indicated that NaOH, HCl and NaClO caused serious damage and lysis of algal cells, leading to the significant release of dissolved organic matter (DOM), while CA and SDS induced negligible DOM release. The occurrence of DOM release was able to cause extra biofouling, thus deteriorating the UF permeability. Furthermore, DOM was characterized in terms of three molecular weight ranges, i.e., high molecular weight (HMW, > 3400 Da), medium molecular weight (MMW, 150–3400 Da), and low molecular weight (LMW, <150 Da). Protein-related substances in the range of HMW and MMW were primarily produced under HCl and NaOH exposures. In contrast, NaClO led to an obvious release of humic-like materials with MMW. During the next round of UF operation, roughly 17 % to 31 % of these released DOM could be removed by via the joint actions of suspended algae biodegradation and fouling layer retention. Nevertheless, roughly 69 % to 83 % of these produced DOM eventually entered into the UF permeate, resulting in the deterioration of permeate quality. Consequently, the detailed mechanisms of DOM generation and subsequent removal by UF were proposed, which re-examined the origins of emerging contaminants in aqueous environment and shed new light on the strategies to ameliorate current practice of on-line membrane chemical cleaning.

Antibiotic susceptibility pattern of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from fresh lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and food safety knowledge of vegetable vendors in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria

In recent years, the consumption of fresh products has increased due to the multiple contributions of nutrients and functional properties. This study aims to determine the susceptibility pattern of Staphylococcus aureus in fresh lettuce and assess the food safety practice of vegetable vendors in the Birnin Kebbi metropolis. A total of 28 fresh lettuce samples were collected from various locations (Tudun Wada, Rafin Atiku, Badariya, and Bayan Kara) in the Birnin Kebbi metropolis, chosen randomly from vegetable vendors. A structured questionnaire was utilized to assess food safety practices. S. aureus was isolated and identified using cultural and biochemical characteristics and antibiotic sensitivity was conducted by the Kirby-Baur disk diffusion method. Only 7.14% of the vegetable vendors reported using gloves while handling vegetables. 17.86% reported washing their hands properly after handling waste or garbage. Only 7.14% reported wearing an apron while working. 50% reported properly cleaning the vegetable storage area before storing new products. 14.29% reported washing vegetables after purchasing them from the market, while None of the respondents reported covering their products while selling them. Out of a total of 28 samples tested, 21(75%) were found to be positive for S. aureus. Antibiotic susceptibility pattern of S. aureus showed resistance in Ampicillin (100%), Amoxicillin (28.57%), Tetracycline (17.86%), Rifampicin (39.29%), Chloramphenicol (14.29%), Neomycin (53.57%), Methicillin (89.29%), Cefpodoxime (35.71%) respectively. Furthermore, none of the S. aureus were resistant to Gentamycin. The high occurrence of S. aureus found in fresh lettuce suggests contamination could have occurred before or after harvesting. It is recommended that cleaning and sanitation practices be introduced to enhance the safety and quality of this vegetable.

Upaya Peningkatan Pengetahuan Serta Penerapan Perilaku Hidup Bersih dan Sehat pada Ibu Balita Stunting

Stunting or stunted toddlers are a national health issue that jeopardizes a generation's survival. Infection is one of the risks that stunted toddlers frequently face. Promoting learning and adopting healthy and clean lifestyle practices (PHBS) are two ways to lower the risk of illness. This cross-sectional, analytical observational study was carried out in the Ngagel Rejo Community Health Center in Surabaya, East Java, in Indonesia. A questionnaire assessed mothers with stunted toddlers' knowledge and application of PHBS before and after education. Efforts to increase knowledge and implementation of PHBS are being made by educating mothers of stunted toddlers. Indicators of PENMAS activities’ success include the participation of mothers of stunted toddlers of at least 70%, increased knowledge, and implementation of PHBS of at least 20%. Knowledge and application of PHBS of mothers of stunted toddlers were assessed using a questionnaire before and after providing education. The achievement of PENMAS activities exceeded the success indicators, with PENMAS participants by 89.13% (above the target of 70%), a rise in PHBS application by 41.30%, a rise in PHBS knowledge by 31.23% (over the aim of 20%). Considering on these findings, it can be stated that this PENMAS activity might assist mothers of toddlers with stunting to raise their level of awareness and PHBS application, so that it is expected to prevent morbidity and mortality rates of stunting toddlers in the Ngagel Rejo Surabaya Puskesmas area.&#x0D; &#x0D;

Education on clean and healthy living behavior for elementary school students

Most types of diseases that often attack school-age children are generally related to Clean and Healthy Behavior Practices (PHBS), so it is important to instill PHBS values in schools. The practices of PHBS among SD Islam Serambi Depok students remained suboptimal and specific education about PHBS has never been carried out. The purpose of this community service was to increase students' knowledge about PHBS in schools by educating them on two main topics: 1) PHBS indicators in schools, and 2) advising and strengthening teachers regarding PHBS practices in schools. The education method was carried out by direct counseling in the classroom to 24 elementary school students in grades 4, 5, 6. The results of the program showed an increase in knowledge in the good knowledge category from 29.2% to 75%. After this education, it is suggested that schools continue to monitor PHBS activities and prepare facilities and infrastructure to support PHBS practices.

Hygiene management practices and adenosine triphosphate luminometry of feeding equipment in preweaning calves on dairy farms in Quebec, Canada

The objective of this study was to describe the cleaning practices currently used for preweaning calves on dairy farms in Quebec, Canada. In addition, contamination of feeding equipment for preweaning calves was described using ATP (expressed as relative light units, RLU), visual assessment, and bacteriological analysis. A questionnaire was administered on 50 commercial dairy farms in Quebec, Canada, regarding the self-reported cleaning protocol used for feeding equipment of preweaning calves. During the visit, a visual score was given to the feeding equipment available at the farm. Afterward, ATP luminometry measurements were obtained using Hygiene UltraSnap and MicroSnap swabs (Hygiene, Camarillo, CA), and the liquid rinsing technique for buckets, nipples, bottles, esophageal tube feeders (ET), the tube of automatic milk feeders (AMF), water samples, and milk replacer. An additional direct swabbing technique was performed on buckets and nipples. The fluid retrieved from the liquid rinsing technique was also used to determine the total bacterial count (TBC) and total coliform count. Based on the bacteriological analysis, optimal RLU cutoff values to determine contamination were obtained. The median (interquartile range) luminometer measurements using the UltraSnap and direct technique for buckets and nipples were 2,082 (348-7,410) and 3,462 (462-7,518) RLU, respectively; and, using the liquid technique for bottles, ET, AMF, water, and milk replacer were 43 (4-974), 15 (4-121), 301 (137-1,323), 190 (71-358), and 94 (38-218) RLU, respectively. Overall, for all equipment and both techniques used, higher RLU values were seen in UltraSnap samples compared with MicroSnap samples. Additionally, for buckets and nipples, higher RLU values were obtained for the direct swabbing method compared with the liquid sampling method for both swabs used. No differences in the level of contamination were seen between the different feeding equipment used within a farm. Overall, a higher correlation with bacteriological results was noticed for ATP luminometry compared with the visual score, with a high correlation for nipples and bottles using the UltraSnap and liquid technique. Based on the classification of "contaminated" (TBC ≥100,000 cfu/mL) or "not contaminated" (TBC <100,000 cfu/mL), optimal ATP luminometer cutoff values for buckets, nipples, bottles, AMF, water, and milk replacer were 798, 388, 469, 282, 1,432, and 93 RLU, respectively. No clear association was found between ATP measurements and the self-reported cleaning protocol. This study gave new insights into the current cleaning procedures and contamination of feeding equipment for preweaning calves on dairy farms in Quebec. In addition, ATP luminometry cutoff values could help benchmark farms regarding cleaning practices and provide customized advice, improving the overall hygiene management, and thus the health, of preweaning calves on dairy farms.

IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANING AND DISINFECTION PRACTICES ON INFECTION CONTROL OUTCOMES IN SAUDI ARABIAN HEALTHCARE SETTINGS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANING AND DISINFECTION PRACTICES ON INFECTION CONTROL OUTCOMES IN SAUDI ARABIAN HEALTHCARE SETTINGS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

General knowledge and practice of household dog owners regarding gastrointestinal parasites in Cebu, Philippines.

Canine gastrointestinal tract (GIT) parasites are of public health and veterinary concern and are harmful to both humans and animals. The risk of transmitting GIT parasites can be minimized depending on dog owners' knowledge and management practices. Therefore, this study aimed to assess dog owners' general knowledge and practices regarding GIT parasites. A structured questionnaire containing 10-point Likert statements was administered to 130 respondents in Cebu, Philippines, to obtain information about their profile (age, sex, civil status, and educational attainment) and data regarding their home environment, number of dogs and other pets owned, and their knowledge and practices regarding canine GIT parasites. These respondents had previously provided canine stool samples for fecalysis. Most respondents were female (65.4%), 18-24 years old (55.4%), single (71.5%), and educated to college level (49.2%). Housing styles were mostly gated (76.9%), and >50% had a garden. The majority owned 1-3 dogs (56.9%) and did not own any other pets (73.8%). All knew about canine GIT parasites. There was a significant association between GIT parasite positivity in dogs and the owner's sex (p = 0.005). Gastrointestinal parasite positivity was also associated with the owner's knowledge about the transmission of parasites from the mother's milk to her puppies (p = 0.001), canine intestinal parasites potentially causing weight loss, diarrhea, and vomiting (p = 0.001), and dogs potentially becoming infected with parasites from licking or sniffing the soil or grass where other animals have been (p = 0.005). Moreover, there was a significant association between GIT parasite positivity and the owner's practice of daily cleaning of the areas where the dog defecated (p = 0.001), deworming every 6-12 months (p = 0.001), and unfailingly following the vaccination and deworming schedule (p = 0.006). Finally, the summative knowledge and practice level of the owners were significantly associated with GIT parasite positivity (p = 0.001). This study highlights the need for continuous education of dog owners to maintain good knowledge and practices to prevent GIT parasite infection. Frequent deworming (once a month) of adult dogs is recommended.

Simulated transmission and decontamination of Listeria monocytogenes biofilms from plastic cutting boards

The presence and persistence of Listeria monocytogenes biofilms on food contact surfaces are often considered as a critical source of cross-contamination of foodstuffs and hence pose a major risk in food safety. This is particularly an issue in numerous countries where knowledge of appropriate food hygiene practices is limited. In this study, the biofilm formation of L. monocytogenes (ATCC 19115) on plastic cutting boards as well as their transmission rates to selected food samples were simulated and evaluated. The effectiveness of the typical household washing practice in biofilm removal from artificially-contaminated plastic cutting boards was also assessed. Crystal violet indicated that L. monocytogenes biofilms on plastic cutting boards mature within 24 h, during which biofilm adhesion was the greatest with 1.62 OD value. The transfer rates of L. monocytogenes from artificially-contaminated plastic cutting board to cabbage (79.27%), chicken fillet (69.88%) and bread (83.25%) during the cutting process were determined. With regards to washing treatment, scrubbing with a commercial dishwashing liquid was shown to be effective at reducing microbial concentrations by 3–6 log CFU/cm2, with virtually all biofilms removed after 5 s of washing. Tap water rinsing on cutting boards was less effective with a mere decrease of 1–2 log CFU/cm2. The findings have provided an insight on the risks associated with the cross-contamination of L. monocytogenes and likely other pathogenic microbes which should be a concern everywhere in the world. Therefore, promoting a better awareness of proper cleaning practices, including the sanitization of cutting boards during food preparations is necessary.

ADOPTION OF CLEAN MILK PRODUCTION PRACTICES BY THE DAIRY FARMERS

Clean milk production does not mean making the milk free from extraneous matters like dust, dirt, flies etc. by passing it through sieve or muslin cloth. It actually means the raw milk that has been produced in the udder of healthy dairy animals, handled under hygienic conditions and contains only allowed quantity of bacteria and chemical residues. Clean ilk can be defined as milk coming from healthy milch animal, possessing normal flavor, devoid of dirt and filth, containing permissible limit of bacteria and essentially free from adulterants, pathogens, various toxins, abnormal residues, pollutants and metabolites (Ogale, 1999). The present investigation was carried out in North Gujarat. Three districts of North Gujarat viz., Banaskantha, Sabarkantha and Mehsana were purposively selected for the study. From each selected district, three talukas and two villages from each selected taluka were randomly selected for the study. Thus, eighteen villages were selected from the nine selected talukas. For selection of the respondents from the villages, a village wise list of dairy farmers was prepared based on farmers having two animals of which one animal in milking stage. From each village, ten dairy farmers were randomly selected as respondents. Thus, total 180 respondents were selected for the study. Majority (85.00 %) of the dairy farmers had medium to high extent of adoption of clean milk production practices.

Does The Indonesian National Standard (SNI) for Products in SMES Influence Cleaner Production Practices? A Snapshot of Best Practices from Yogyakarta, Indonesia

This article investigates the extent to which the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) for products adopted and applied by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, can encourage them to effectively implement a quality management system (QMS) within their internal organizations, which eventually affects and benefits their process performance and clean production practices. Survey data collected from 44 respondents in 12 SMEs with SNI-certified products were processed and examined using descriptive analysis and regression analysis. The results showed that these could implement QMS effectively partly because it is a requirement for the SNI certification of the proposed product. The effectiveness of QMS implementation affects the achievement of process performance in that it can reduce the number of defective products, process costs, and process cycle times. According to the respondents, an effective QMS makes every activity and action taken in the production process more environmentally friendly and leads to cleaner production practices. These findings can help further research determine the model's feasibility to design and develop a better framework that promotes QMS and clean production practices, especially among SMEs in Indonesia.

Microbiological environmental contamination in the blood supply chain: An international survey by the bacterial subgroup of the ISBT Transfusion-Transmitted Infectious Diseases Working Party.

Blood transfusion centres ensure the quality and safety of transfusable blood components. However, septic transfusion reactions involving environmental contaminants occur. An international survey issued by the ISBT Transfusion-Transmitted Infectious Diseases Working Party (ISBT-TTID-WP) Bacterial Subgroup aimed to collect information regarding microbiological environmental monitoring from transfusion services. A Form survey (English and Spanish) with 35 questions was sent to ISBT-TTID-WP members. The survey had four sections: (1) respondent personal information, (2) cleaning/disinfection practices during blood component manufacturing, (3) cleaning/disinfection practices during blood component storage and (4) blood component storage bag integrity. Respondents completed the survey electronically, and data were comparatively analysed using Microsoft Excel. There were 49 responses from 20 countries. Five of 49 sites manufacture blood components in a cleanroom, and most use personal protective equipment, although the type varied between sites. Approximately 40% of sites perform environmental monitoring during blood component production, with seven sites providing details about frequency and methods. Most (~94%) centres have procedures for cleaning/disinfection of processing and storage facilities with varying responses regarding areas, frequency and methods. Inconsistency was reported regarding the orientation of platelet component incubation (portrait vs. landscape). Over 93% of sites assess storage bag integrity and report damage to manufacturers, and 49% of centres report septic transfusion reactions potentially linked to damaged storage containers. Data from this survey highlight the need for consensual guidelines for transfusion services regarding cleaning and disinfection practices. Environmental monitoring could be adopted to minimize the risk of blood component contamination for transfusion patient safety.

Effects of Temperature and Advanced Cleaning Practices on the Removal of Select Organic Chemicals from Structural Firefighter Gear

There are approximately 1.2 million firefighters in the United States. In addition to fighting fires, they also participate in various tasks including emergency rescues, providing emergency medical care, driving, operating and maintaining fire vehicles and other apparatuses and continued training. During the course of their duties, firefighters are often exposed to carcinogenic chemicals that may accumulate on their turnout clothing. To determine if these chemicals can be removed and to measure the efficacy of current cleaning protocols, a study was developed to assess these protocols which call for a maximum water temperature of 105°F and no solvents. The results showed that volatile and small semi-volatile chemicals such as dimethyl phthalate and chlorinated phenols had cleaning efficiencies of 85% or greater. However, for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), the cleaning efficiency was only 20% to 50%. To determine if it is possible to remove the more persistent PAHs, temperatures were increased to 125°F and 140°F, and a respective increase in cleaning efficiencies of the PAHs was seen. The protocols were then adapted to add a pre-soak cycle which, when combined with the increased temperatures, resulted in an increase of the PAH cleaning efficiency range from 50 to 80%, compound dependent. This work provides a starting point for discussions between the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other standards organization and manufacturers to determine if increased temperatures and chemical soaks would be detrimental to gear as they are currently not advised.

UV-C inactivation of microorganisms in droplets on food contact surfaces using UV-C light-emitting diode devices

The main objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of ultraviolet light (UV-C) emitting diodes for the decontamination of stainless steel food contact surfaces. Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 19115), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (ATCC 700720) were chosen as challenge microorganisms. Target microorganisms were subjected to UV-C dosages of 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 mJ cm−2 at an average fluence of 0.163 mW/cm2 using a near-collimated beam operating at 279 nm wavelength. Escherichia coli showed lower sensitivity to UV-C light compared to Salmonella Typhimurium and followed first-order kinetics. Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium were reduced by more than 3-log10 cycles at the maximum UV dosage of 12 mJ cm−2. In contrast, Listeria monocytogenes followed the Weibull model with an apparent shoulder in the initial doses. A maximum reduction of 4.4-log10 was achieved at the highest exposure level. This study showed that UV-C LED devices represent an excellent alternative for the inactivation of foodborne microorganisms in droplets. Results clearly demonstrate that UV-C LED devices can serve as an additional sanitation method to routine cleaning practices, which are commonly utilized in the food industry.

Fresh Produce Harvesting Equipment – A Review of Cleaning and Sanitizing Practices and Related Science

During produce harvesting operations, various types of tools, equipment, and containers have direct contact with crops. Best practices for harvesting equipment include routine cleaning and sanitation of food-contact surfaces and areas adjacent to food-contact surfaces. Studies investigating transfer of human pathogens to produce during harvesting operations have revealed numerous crop-contact points with the potential to serve as conduits for pathogen transfer, including harvesting machinery, knives, conveyors, cutting boards, harvest bins and cartons, and cleaning equipment. When these surfaces are contaminated with human pathogens, the pathogens can be transferred to crops during harvesting activities. Minimizing and controlling microbial hazards to prevent contamination of produce during harvesting operations in both indoor and outdoor settings presents challenges that require a transformative level of risk awareness and vigilance from all involved in management and operations. Although new technologies are being explored to improve equipment cleanability, prevention combined with robust cleaning and sanitizing methods remain the most critical maintenance aspects of harvesting equipment that is at low risk for contamination. As part of the produce industry’s continuous efforts to enhance the safety of harvested fresh produce crops, this review summarizes scientific findings that harvesting equipment operators can utilize to evaluate and further inform current cleaning and sanitation practices.

Decomposition and drivers of energy intensity in Ghana

Ghana's energy intensity trends point to a high energy use necessary to generate a unit of output. The country has also witnessed massive investment in energy infrastructure geared towards meeting its lower middle-income status and achieving universal access to energy. The logical question is: what is the contribution of the current economic and technical infrastructure level to the country's energy intensity? The current study addresses this question by employing the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index I (LMDI) to decompose energy intensity in Ghana from 2000 to 2020 to examine its trends and sources. The impact of economic-technical factors on aggregate energy intensity in Ghana is then investigated with the aid of the ARDL estimation technique to unearth potential asymmetric and symmetric effects. The decomposition analysis indicates an oscillating pattern in energy intensity in Ghana promoted by structural effect and labour productivity respectively. The results suggest that renewable energy, rural electrification, and digitisation have a direct and secondary long-run asymmetric effect on aggregate energy intensity with labour productivity and household consumption working as the transmission channels. The study recommends the need for government to pursue clean and eco-friendly practices in its economic development agenda for a meaningful reduction in energy intensity.

Cutting zone temperature reduction in by using novel nanofluid in SAE1144 machining

CNC Lathe is generally utilized for motor shaft machining. The cost of machining is high as it is machined in CNC machining as well as high cutting speed employed whereas heat generation is more. High cutting zone temperature causes thermal defects in the products. This research focused to create novel nanofluids with the use of waste cooking oil and Molybdenum disulfide Nanoparticles for cutting fluid for machining the SAE 1144 steel shaft. Two independent groups with Taguchi L16 experimental design were employed in this research. This investigation aims to make a shift from CNC-based machining to conventional machining practices without compromising the quality requirements by the reduction of cutting zone temperature with the use of a Novel nanofluid to provide cooling and lubrication at the cutting zone. This study investigates the effect of Molybdenum disulfide Nanoparticles’ concentration on waste cooking oil (Nanofluid) to reduce Cutting zone temperature while machining SAE1144 shaft. The observations were statistically validated. The base fluid is waste cooking oils from the largest sweets and savouries manufacturer as well as a widespread hotel network source. Green machining principles are compared with the findings. The results pass the statistical threshold for validity. That is the proposed clean machining practices reduced the average cutting zone temperature from 271.06 °C (dry/ green machining) to 194.94 °C. A low concentration of 0.1% gives better results at low as well as high cutting speeds. The cutting zone temperature is highly influenced by cutting speed.

Efficacy of two contact lens disinfecting solutions in reducing growth rate of bacteria and eradication of biofilms

Efficacy of two types of contact lens disinfecting (CLD) solutions, most frequently purchased from Jordanian pharmacies by contact lens wearers, was investigated for reducing growth rate of methicillin resistant and methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, Serratia marcesence, S. liquefacience and Acinetobacter spp., previously isolated from In-use disinfecting solutions in CL cases. Each species was cultured in a clean and dirty conditions (to mimic real situation) of two fresh CLD solutions separately: A and B whose active agents are: Polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride and Polyaminopropyl biguanide respectively. Log reduction of these bacteria have exceeded ISO 14729 acceptable criteria (3 log) and reached up to 5 log reduction. Dirty conditions have marked effect in reducing efficacy of CLD solution (A) to kill bacterial species under test. Biofilms produced by S. marcescens and S. liquefaciens were reduced by more than 50% after 24 hrs. using either CLD solutions, though it was less than that reduced after 4 hrs. Biofilm of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was the most affected by either CLD solutions after 4 hours. This study concluded that CL wearers should pay great consideration to cleaning and disinfection practices to decrease bacterial growth, reduce chances of biofilm formation.

Awareness Regarding Usage of Interdental Aids and their Role in Oral Hygiene among Medical Undergraduates in District Sheikhupura, Pakistan-A Questionnaire-Based Study

Aim: The contemplations and actions of medical undergraduates concerning their oral well-being mirror their perception of the significance of interdental cleaning aids in the maintenance of oral hygiene. The current study aimed to evaluate understanding and discernment of the practice of interdental aids as well as their role in the maintenance of oral hygiene among medical undergraduates in the district of Sheikhupura, Pakistan. Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional analysis was performed from June 2021 to December 2021 at Amna Inayat Medical College in the district of Sheikhupura, Pakistan on a total of 220 medical undergraduates who were enrolled by convenient sampling method. Data were assembled using a standardized questionnaire that was circulated amongst students of 1st Year MBBS to Final Year MBBS. Associations between awareness regarding interdental cleaning and oral hygiene practice among both genders and all the years of study were assessed through the Pearson Chi-Square test. Results: The study comprised 123 females and 97 males with an average age range of 18 - 25 years. Most of the students i.e. 47.3% knew that the interproximal tooth surface is the most difficult to clean and cannot be effectively cleansed with a toothbrush only. Significant differences were seen in gender regarding the cleaning of teeth (P ≤ 0.001), the challenging surface of the tooth to clean (P ≤ 0.01), reasons for bad breath (P ≤ 0.003), knowledge of gum disease (P ≤ 0.000) and information regarding interdental cleaning (P ≤ 0.000). Practical Implication: Imparting knowledge regarding the maintenance of oral hygiene is crucial due to the connection between the oral cavity and the rest of the body. In a developing country like Pakistan, awareness, and understanding of oral hygiene is not up to the mark even in the medical population. Hence, improvement in oral hygiene can be brought about by creating public awareness regarding interdental aids in addition to brushing alone. Conclusions: Outcomes of the existing research propose that the overall understanding and awareness amongst medical undergraduates related to interdental aids was satisfactory. Established on these conclusions, additional communal-focused oral health promotions are requisite to piloting the degree of the dwelling of medical undergraduates. Keywords: Awareness, Dental, Dentist, Interdental area, Gingivitis, Knowledge, Medical Undergraduates, Oral Health, Periodontitis, Plaque.

The impact of export VAT rebate reduction on firms' pollution emissions: Evidence from Chinese enterprises

This study investigates firm-level environmental responses to China's export value-added tax (VAT) rebate reduction policy launched in 2007 that aims to reduce exports in high-polluted and high-energy-consumption sectors. First, we combine firm-level export information from the Customs dataset and the list of policy-targeted products to identify firms affected by export VAT rebate reduction policy. Then, we employ a difference-in-differences strategy to examine changes in the affected and unaffected firms' sulfur dioxide and chemical oxygen demand emissions before and after policy implementation. Empirical analysis reveals that the export rebate reduction policy increases firms' pollution emission intensities and decreases their total outputs, leading to a negative but less significant effect on total pollution emissions. Tests to explore the mechanism reveal that firms' financial constraints become tighter if affected by the export VAT rebate reduction, as evidenced by reduced revenues, profits, and total factor productivity. This further translates into lowered purchases of environment-friendly technologies and a worse capacity to adopt clean production practices, which accounts for increased pollutant emission intensities following the export VAT rebate reduction policy.