Final Disinfection Research Articles

Fate of emerging contaminants in an advanced SBR wastewater treatment and reuse facility incorporating UF, RO, and UV processes

A critical factor for widescale water reuse adoption is the capability of advanced wastewater treatment facilities to consistently produce high-quality water by efficiently removing various pollutants, including emerging contaminants (ECs). This study monitored the fate of seventeen ECs (which included pesticides, antibiotics and other pharmaceutically active compounds) over six months in an advanced wastewater reuse facility situated in the United Arab Emirates. The facility integrates a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) based sewage treatment plant (STP) with a water recycling facility featuring ultrafiltration (UF), reverse osmosis (RO), and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection. ECs were detected and quantified at the influent and effluents of the various treatment stages, using an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS). The STP exhibited variable removal efficiencies, achieving >90 % removal for compounds like caffeine and acetaminophen, while others, such as carbamazepine and thiabendazole, displayed poor removal (<10 %). UF treatment broadly resulted in limited removal, with ECs in permeate typically persisting in the 1–10 ng/L range. Subsequently, after undergoing RO treatment, eight ECs were still detected in the RO permeate, albeit at <1 ng/L, except for imidacloprid (2.5 ng/L). Conversely, the final UV disinfection step led to concentration increases of certain ECs, namely imidacloprid, thiabendazole, sulfamethoxazole, sulfamethazine and caffeine. Overall, the total EC concentration levels decreased considerably from 2300 ng/L in the STP influent to 5.2 ng/L in the RO permeate. However, a subsequent increase to 27.5 ng/L was observed after UV disinfection. While the study underscores the effectiveness of advanced treatment processes, notably RO, in reducing EC concentrations, it also demonstrates the importance of continuous EC monitoring in such facilities as many compounds persist post treatment. Additionally, the potential for processes like UV disinfection to increase certain EC concentrations highlights the need to optimize treatment trains to minimize EC concentration rebound.

Assessment of contaminants of emerging concern and antibiotic resistance genes in the Mapocho River (Chile): A comprehensive study on water quality and municipal wastewater impact

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the persistence and elimination of Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) in municipal wastewater treatment plants (MWWTPs) and their presence in the Mapocho River within the metropolitan area of Santiago, Chile. The use of advanced analytical techniques, based on liquid chromatography coupled to both low and high-resolution mass spectrometry, allowed a comprehensive overview on the presence of CECs in samples. Additionally, a preliminary assessment of the microbiological aspects aimed to determine the presence of indicator microorganisms of fecal contamination, such as Escherichia coli and total coliforms was conducted. Furthermore, a qualitative assessment of Antibiotic Resistant Genes (ARGs) was performed. No CECs were detected upstream to the MWWTPs. However, the results from various wastewater samples (influent, secondary, and tertiary effluents) revealed significant diversity, with 73 CECs detected alongside prevalent ARGs including sulI, sulfII, qnrB, and blaTEM. The presence of CECs and ARGs downstream of the MWWTP in the Mapocho River was mainly attributed to effluent discharge. On the other hand, typical values for a healthy river and a MWWTP with a final disinfection stage were found in terms of fecal contamination. Consequently, the imperative for developing tertiary or quaternary treatments capable of degrading CECs and ARGs to minimize environmental impact is underscored. These findings hold public health significance, offering insights into potential risks and influencing future legislative measures in Chile.

Assuring reclaimed water quality using a multi-barrier treatment train according to the new EU non-potable water reuse regulation

In this study, we evaluated the ability of various pilot-scale treatment train combinations to meet the microbial requirements of the new European non-potable water reuse regulation 2020/741. The study utilized non-disinfected secondary effluent from the wastewater treatment plant in Schweinfurt, Germany, as feedwater for two pilot-scale treatment trains. The first, a reference treatment train (Train A), consisted of filtration and UV disinfection as specified for reclaimed water class A in the EU regulation. The second, an advanced treatment train (Train B), included ceramic ultrafiltration (UF), ozonation, biological activated carbon filtration (BAC), and final UV disinfection. Based on a Monte Carlo simulation for Train A, the EU requirements for pathogen removal were not met when an average UV dose of 400-600 J m−2 was applied. This shortcoming was likely due to a moderate transmittance range (50–65 %), resulting in decreased UV fluence. These findings suggest that operational conditions for disinfection should be more clearly specified to ensure consistent pathogen inactivation both during validation and regular operation. In contrast, treatment train B successfully met the requirements of the EU regulations by reducing pathogens to below the detection limit. The UF membrane demonstrated a positive effect on the overall log reduction values (LRVs) throughout the water reclamation system. It also enhanced the efficiency of downstream processes, such as ozonation and UV disinfection, by lowering total suspended solids and turbidity. However, even without the UF membrane, treatment train B was still able to meet the pathogenic EU requirements for non-potable reuse applications. Furthermore, the study observed that the inclusion of biologically activated carbon (BAC) filtration requires a final disinfection step (e.g., UV disinfection) to prevent the potential occurrence of heterotrophic bacteria that proliferate in the BAC filter. For process validation it is recommended to use at least two different virus surrogates (MS2 and PhiX174), rather than just one or total coliphage as required in the EU regulation.

Chitosan nanoparticles, Rose Bengal-chitosan activated photodynamic therapy as final irrigant on pushout bond strength, smear layer removal efficacy and antibacterial effectiveness against E.faecalis

AimImpact of final root canal disinfectants diode laser (DL), Rose Bengal photosensitizer (RBP), Chitosan Nanoparticles (CNPs), and CNPs modified RBP on Enterococcus faecalis (E.faecalis) survival rate, smear layer (SL) removal efficacy and push out bond strength (PBS) of resin sealer to the radicular dentin. Material and methodSingle rooted seventy-five human mandibular premolar teeth were sectioned at a level of cementoenamel (CEJ) and root canal treatment was performed using a ProTaper rotary instrument. To assess the antibacterial efficiency E.faecalis inoculation was performed using a pour plate method. The samples were arbitrarily allocated into five groups based on the final disinfectant received (n = 15) Group-1 (NaOCl+17 % EDTA), Group-2 (NaOCl+DL), Group-3 (NaOCl+CNPs), Group-4 (NaOCl+RBP activated by DL) and Group-5 (NaOCl+CNPs-RBP activated by DL). SEM analysis for SL removal was performed on five specimens from each group. Root canal obturation and sectioning were performed at cervical, middle, and apical levels. PBS and failure mode were analyzed using a universal testing machine (UTM) and stereomicroscope respectively. The data was subjected to analysis using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc test. ResultGroup 1 (NaOCl+17 % EDTA) (0.36 ± 0.01 CFU/mL) unveiled the maximum survival rate of tested bacteria. However, Group 5 (NaOCl+CNPs-RBP activated by DL) (0.11 ± 0.01 CFU/mL) displayed minimum survival of E.faecalis. The highest SL removal (1.44 ± 0.11) and bond integrity scores (12.23 ± 0.24 MPa) were recorded in the coronal section of Group 5 (NaOCl+ CNPs-RBP activated by DL) treated roots. However, the lowest removal of SL (3.15 ± 1.09) and PBS (7.24 ± 0.09 MPa) were recorded in Group 4 (NaOCl+RBP activated by DL) treated canals. CONCLUSIONCNPs-RBP activated by DL as the final irrigant provided satisfactory antibacterial activity, SL removal, and bond strength outcomes compared to other tested groups.

Effects of Disinfectants on Bacterium Paenibacillus larvae in Laboratory Conditions.

American foulbrood is an infectious disease of the honeybee brood that causes multiple types of damage to beekeeping. The causative agent of the disease is the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae, which forms resistant infective spores and is viable for decades. After the eradication measures have been implemented, in cases of clinically visible disease, it is necessary to conduct effective final disinfections of equipment and tools. This study aimed to determine the effect of ten commercially available and commonly used disinfectants on certified strains of P. larvae under laboratory conditions, as well as to compare the obtained results among individual genotypes of P. larvae. Selected products were tested by determining the zone of inhibition using an agar diffusion test, a suspension test for viable bacteria, a surface disinfectant test, and a sporicidal effect in the suspension test. Incidin OxyFoam S and Sekusept Aktiv are both effective against all examined genotypes of P. larvae. Despadac and Despadac Secure have a bactericidal effect, but their sporocidal effect is not as satisfactory as that of Genox. Genoll does not exhibit a sporicidal effect, and Ecocide S at 1%, Bee protect H forte, and Bee protect F did not exhibit a satisfactory sporocidal effect. Additionally, EM® PROBIOTIC FOR BEES did not exhibit any bactericidal effect. The effective application of control measures and proper application of final disinfection can reduce the reoccurrence of visible clinical signs of disease, whereas methods of early diagnosis can significantly reduce the incidence of the disease.

Final Irrigant Temoporfin, Femtosecond Laser, and Chitosan Nanoparticles on Extrusion Bond Strength of Glass Fiber Post, Microhardness, and Modulus of Elasticity of Canal Dentin

Final root canal disinfectants Temoporfin, Femtosecond (FS) laser, and Chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) on marten hardness (MH), modulus of elasticity (EIT), and push-out bond strength (PBS) of glass fiber reinforced post (GFRP) to the root dentin. Sixty caries-free single-rooted human premolars were decoronated and a root canal was performed followed by post space. The specimens were then arbitrarily allocated into groups according to the final disinfectant used. Group 1: 17% EDTA, Group 2: Temoporfin, Group 3: FS laser and Group 4: Chitosan NPs. Evaluation of mechanical properties (MH and EIT) was performed on five samples from each group. Ten samples from each group were bonded with GFRP and sectioned. A universal testing machine and stereomicroscope were used to analyze the PBS and failure mode. Means and standard deviations (SD) of MH, EiT, and PBS were assessed using ANOVA and post hoc Tukey. The highest values of MH and EiT were revealed by 5.25% NaOCl+Chitosan NP samples. The lowest scores of MH and EiT were presented by samples irrigated with 5.25% NaOCl+17% EDTA. The coronal section of samples treated with 5.25% NaOCl+Chitosan NPs showed the highest EBS. Chitosan NPs and FS laser have proved to be valuable alternatives to EDTA as both improved PBS without deteriorating the MH and EiT.

IMPROVEMENT OF TECHNOLOGICAL STAGES IN BEEKEEPING WITH DISINFECTION MEASURES

Disinfection is a very important technological measure, which is carried out to combat infectious diseases of bees and prevent contamination of beekeeping products with harmful microorganisms. The disinfection procedure is very complex, and its effectiveness depends on a large number of factors: the spectrum of the disinfectant, the method of application, the concentration of the disinfectant, the exposure time, and the properties of the environment to be disinfected. Active components of disinfectants usually affect the metabolism of microorganisms. For disinfection in beekeeping, we can use iodine preparations, bases, acids, quaternary ammonium compounds, oxidizers (hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid). Effective chemical disinfectants are a warm solution of sodium hydroxide, oxidizers, so these disinfectants are most often used in beekeeping. However, the negative properties of these disinfectants should also be considered. There is no perfect disinfectant. Because of the toxicity and other harmful effects of disinfectants, and often their ineffectiveness, physical methods of disinfection should be implemented whenever possible. The article presents the results of studies of such disinfectants as Septox, PHMG – HC and Crystal-700 in concentrations of 0.25%, 0.5%, 1.5%, as well as a comparative description of their effectiveness during “in vitro” disinfection on test objects (glass, veneer, wax) contaminated with spores of Paenibacillus larvae subsp. larvae and Ascosphaera apis. Test controls were: No. 1 – sterile physiological solution; No. 2 – Desvax (4% formaldehyde solution with 0.05% DMSO), a drug approved for disinfection of bee inventory in Ukraine (Deklaratsiinyi patent 61387A, 2003, Rudenko, 2012). The test objects were immersed in the test solutions and kept for 3, 9, 18 hours. To determine the intestinal toxicity, the test substances were fed to bees and the time and number of dead individuals were monitored. According to the results of the sanitary and hygienic assessment of individual indicators of chemical disinfectants, the best disinfecting properties were demonstrated by 1.5% solutions of polyhexamethyleneguanidine hydrochloride, sodium hypochlorite and Crystal-700, which are environmentally safe, non-toxic, non-volatile, non-aggressive towards metals, plastics, wood, convenient to use. They can be recommended for long-term antiseptic protection, preventive, forced, current and final disinfection for bacterial, fungal and viral infections.

ANALYSIS OF APPLYING SURFACE WATER TREATMENT TECHNOLOGY WHEN USING CHLORINE DIOXIDE AT WATER SUPPLY PLANTS

The results of the conducted research made it possible to establish that in EU countries chlorine dioxide (CD) is more often used for secondary or final disinfection of drinking water. By-products of this process are chlorites and chlorates, which are subject to control in the drinking water of all EU countries. Aldehydes and carboxylic acids can also be formed in drinking water, which leads to a decrease in the microbiological stability of tap water. Ozonation and filtration using a carbon filter are used in the final stage of drinking water purification, which contributes to a significant reduction in the dose of CD and water contamination with toxic chlorites. In the case of pre-oxidation of water with sodium hypochlorite, the largest amount of chlorites and chlorates is formed, while in the case of using potassium permanganate for the same purpose, the need for CD and the amount of chlorites and chlorates in drinking water reduced. Chlorination of natural water that has undergone CD pre-oxidation leads to complete oxidation of the chlorites that have formed, increases the effectiveness of disinfection, and provides a bacteriostatic effect in the distribution network. During 2021-2022, when using CD for the treatment of drinking water at the Dniprovska WTP in Kyiv it was established that the process of treating natural water with CD is accompanied by the formation of its by-products, mainly toxic chlorites, the levels of which depend on the applied doses of CD and are the lowest in winter, while the largest ones are observed in summer and do not always reach regulatory values (0,2 mg/l) and range up to 0,7 mg/l, which corresponds to the WHO recommended standard for this substance in drinking water. Italian scientists focus their attention on the fact that during the first years of using CD at each water supply station, optimal conditions must be ensured for the safe and effective use of this reagent. Therefore, CD is becoming widespread in the EU countries and Ukraine for the treatment of tap drinking water; it is an alternative method of water effective disinfection at water supply stations with traditional surface water purification technology. Using such a method for treating surface water requires a preliminary pilot experiment and should be carried out along with an analysis of the feasibility of using the methods for preliminary and/or final purification of drinking water from organic substances and additional disinfection. Today, based on experimental and natural studies, it is relevant to expand knowledge about the properties of CD in the case of its use in drinking water supply for the treatment of surface water with a high content of organic substances.

Сравнительная оценка токсичности и вирулицидных свойств дезинфектантов, применяемых при работе с вирусом SARS-CoV-2 в изолированных вирусологических лабораториях

The choice of disinfectants and their combinations for the final disinfection of the premises of «infectious» areas of laboratories of biosafety level 3–4, in which work is carried out with viruses with epidemic potential, is important for reducing the toxic effect of these disinfectants on personnel while maintaining 100?% disinfection efficiency. Purpose of the study: to study the toxicity of disinfectants of different groups for cell culture, to select a toxicity neutralizer, to study the virucidal activity of these disinfectants and their combinations against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Materials and methods: experimental studies were carried out using the reference strain of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, namely the hCoV-19/Australia/VIC01/2020 (AUS) strain (Wuhan variant), obtained from the State Collection of Causative Agents of Viral Infectious Diseases and Rickettsial Diseases, functioning on the basis of the Federal Budgetary Institution State Scientific Center for Virology and Biotechnology «Vector» of Rospotrebnadzor. The residual infectious activity of the virus was determined by titrating samples in cell culture. To conduct the research, we used a Vero E6 cell culture obtained from the Collection of Cell Cultures of the Federal Budgetary Institution of Scientific Research Center for Virology and Biochemistry «Vector» of Rospotrebnadzor in the form of a 2-day monolayer with a confluency of 95–100?%. Results. As a result of the studies, experimental data were obtained on the dynamics of the virucidal activity of different groups of disinfectants and their combinations against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The degree of toxicity of disinfectants for Vero E6 cell culture is shown. Optimal combinations of disinfectants and a 40?% aqueous solution of formaldehyde (hereinafter referred to as formalin) have been selected, increasing its disinfection efficiency at an initial concentration halved, which can be used for final disinfection treatment of the premises of isolated virology laboratories conducting work with the SARS-CoV- coronavirus. Conclusion. The results obtained indicate that when using selected combinations of disinfectants to carry out final disinfection with formaldehyde vapors formed during the evaporation of formaldehyde as a result of its heating, a twofold decrease in the initial concentration of formalin is possible, leading to a decrease in its toxic effect on personnel, while maintaining 100?% efficiency disinfection. Keywords: disinfection, disinfectants, formaldehyde, SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, disinfection efficiency, cytotoxicity.

Effect of photodynamic therapy on the healing of periapical lesions after root canal retreatment: 1-year follow up randomized clinical trial

BackgroundThe aim of this randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) after traditional activated final irrigation protocol (ultrasonically activated irrigation, UAI) on periapical lesion healing after single–visit root canal retreatment. MethodsWe included 36 patients with asymptomatic chronic apical periodontitis with periapical lesions larger than 5 mm and teeth sensitive to percussion and palpation, who had previous root canal treatment. All patients who signed informed consent underwent cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to determine and calculate the preoperative volume of the periapical lesion. Patients were randomly distributed into two groups according to the final disinfection protocol: Group 1; UAI (NaOCl, EDTA, and NaOCl), Group 2; UAI + PDT. All patients underwent single-visit root canal retreatment using rotary instrumentation and standardized irrigation (3 %NaOCl) by the same endodontist. The root canals were filled with epoxy resin-based sealer and single-cone gutta-percha, followed by control radiography. After one year, a new CBCT scan of the teeth was performed to calculate the reduction in the initial periapical lesion as a measure of periapical healing. For the statistical analysis, the chi-square test variants, Fisher's exact test and the Fisher-Freeman-Halton test were used at the level of significance set at 5 %. ResultsThere were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, sex, preoperative and postoperative lesion volume (p > 0.05), and reduction of periapical lesion volume (median, 86.98 % for UAI and 79.72 % for UAI+PDT) (p = 0.970). Additional use of PDT after UAI did not contribute to the healing of periapical lesions. ConclusionThe UAI and UAI+PDT protocols had equal effects on healing of periapical lesion.

Enhancing Disinfection Efficiency of Wastewater Treatment Plant Effluent: The Role of ZnO Nanoparticles in Ultrasonic and UV-C Processes

Ultrasonic (US) and UV-C disinfection technologies have been successfully used in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) for disinfection purposes. The US technology is typically used as a pre-treatment step to break down larger particles and make them more susceptible to disinfection. The UV-C technology is commonly used as a final disinfection step in many WWTPs. The study aimed to assess the potential of using Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Nanoparticles (NPs) to improve the effectiveness of UV-C and US disinfection methods in treating wastewater effluent, offering a more comprehensive solution to wastewater treatment. In this experimental study, a Laboratory US Bath (40[Formula: see text]kHz) and a UV-C lamp (16[Formula: see text]W) were used. In order to investigate the effectiveness of ZnO NPs in the reduction of microbial load, 5[Formula: see text]mg/L of ZnO NPs was added to the effluent samples. Then, samples were examined for Total Coliform (TC) and Fecal Coliform (FC) reduction by the standard MPN/100[Formula: see text]mL test. The Chick‘s law was used to calculate the efficiency of microbial load. The relationship between variables was determined by regression analysis using Excel and SPSS-ver 21 software. In this study, the samples were examined in three groups: Samples that were only exposed to sonication or received UV-C radiation with Turbidity of 18 NTU (Group A) and Turbidity of 5 NTU (Group B), and Samples that received 5 mg/L of ZnO NPs (Group C). By increasing the time from 0.5 min to 10 min in the presence of UV-C, the amount of microbial population decreased, and 2 min was considered the optimal time. The maximum removal efficiencies by US for TC were 74.07,77.7, 85.1% (40∘C) and 92.5,100, and 100% (60∘C) in group A (in 30 min sonication), 85.7, 85.7, 100% (40∘C), respectively, and were 100% in other groups (B and C), respectively. The maximum removal efficiencies by US for FC were 76.4%, 88.2%, and 100% (40∘C) and 88.2%, 100%, and 100% (60∘C) in group A (in 30 min sonication), respectively, and were 100% in other groups (B and C). In this study, an important increase in the disinfection ability of ZnO NPs has been observed in the presence of US and UV-C. So, the ZnO NPs/UV-C and ZnO NPs/US processes are valuable alternatives to conventional disinfection processes by over 90% improvement of disinfection efficiency.

The fate of bacteria in urban wastewater-irrigated peach tree: a seasonal evaluation from soil to canopy

Irrigation with wastewater can be a solution to preserve and mitigate freshwater demand, in particular during drought periods. Unfortunately, wastewater, although being treated at different levels, could be a carrier of human pathogens (e.g., E. coli) and potentially contaminate crops for human consumptions.This study investigated the seasonal microbiological concentrations, on soil, shoot and fruit tissues of potted peach trees, following two irrigation treatments: freshwater (FW) and secondary urban wastewater without the final disinfection treatment (SW).E. coli was only detected in SW irrigated soil, whereas total coliforms (TC) and total bacteria counts (TBC) were similar in both treatments throughout the season. Endophytic E. coli, Salmonella spp. and TC were not detected in shoot and fruit, but a higher presence of total bacteria (TBC) was observed in SW-irrigated tree compared to FW-irrigated tree. In particular, SW shoots had a higher load compared to fruits, thus showing a potential effect of leaf transpiration, that promoted the transfer of water-borne bacteria from soil to the epigeal part (shoot). The adoption of low-quality SW (even above the microbiological limits of the European Regulation 2020/741 for wastewater re-use in agriculture), when a drip irrigation method is applied, could be a valid alternative to save fresh water without compromising fruit safety.

Bacteriophages limitedly contribute to the antimicrobial resistome of microbial communities in wastewater treatment plants.

Bacteriophages are known as players in the transmission of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) by horizontal gene transfer. In this study, we characterized the bacteriophage community and the associated ARGs to estimate the potential for phages to spread ARGs in aquatic ecosystems analyzing the intra- and extracellular DNA isolated from two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) by shotgun metagenomics. We compared the phage antimicrobial resistome with the bacterial resistome and investigated the effect of the final disinfection treatment on the phage community and its resistome. Phage community was mainly composed by Siphoviridae and other members of the order Caudovirales. The final disinfection only marginally affected the composition of the phage community, and it was not possible to measure its effect on the antimicrobial resistome. Indeed, only three phage metagenome-assembled genomes (pMAGs) annotated as Siphoviridae, Padoviridae, and Myoviridae were positive for putative ARGs. Among the detected ARGs, i.e., dfrB6, rpoB mutants, and EF-Tu mutants, the first one was not annotated in the bacterial MAGs. Overall, these results demonstrate that bacteriophages limitedly contribute to the whole antimicrobial resistome. However, in order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the antimicrobial resistome within a microbial community, the role of bacteriophages needs to be investigated. IMPORTANCE WWTPs are considered hotspots for the spread of ARGs by horizontal gene transfer. In this study, we evaluated the phage composition and the associated antimicrobial resistome by shotgun metagenomics of samples collected before and after the final disinfection treatment. Only a few bacteriophages carried ARGs. However, since one of the detected genes was not found in the bacterial metagenome-assembled genomes, it is necessary to investigate the phage community in order to gain a comprehensive overview of the antimicrobial resistome. This investigation could help assess the potential threats to human health.

The adhesive strength of fiber post-to-canal dentin with Aniline green, Fotoenticine activated by PDT, green tea, and ozone as a final irrigant

The effect of novel final disinfection protocols Malachite green (MG), Fotoenticine® (FTC), Green tea extract (GTE), and Ozonated water (OW) on the bond strength of prefabricated glass fiber posts (PGFP) adhered to canal dentin. The canals of fifty premolars with closed apices were cleansed and obturated. The specimens were randomly assigned to one of five groups based on the final irrigant used, with the control group receiving NaOCl+EDTA and the experimental groups receiving MG, FTC, OW, and GTE. The GFP was cemented with a self-etching, dual-cure paste; the bond strength was estimated with a universal testing machine; and failure analysis was conducted with a stereomicroscope. The highest PBS was observed in the coronal third of Group 4 (using ozonated water as the final irrigant), whereas the lowest bond integrity was observed in the apical section of Group 2 (1.02-0.54MPa) using Malachite green as the final irrigant. Group 1, Group 4, and Group 5 exhibited no significant difference in the bond integrity of GFP to dentin when compared to Group 2 (p>0.05). In addition, comparable bond score values were obtained for Groups 2 and 3 (p>0.05). The results of this study suggest that OW and GTE may be effective final disinfectants for root canals, as they increase the bond strength of resin-luting cement.

IMPLEMENTATION OF PREVENTIVE MEASURES USING A MECHATRONIC SYSTEM IN SILKWORM FARMS TO ENHANCE SILK WEIGHT

Preventive measures play a crucial role in ensuring the health and productivity of silkworms in silk farming. In this study, we focus on the implementation of preventive works using a mechatronic system to increase the weight of silk. Disinfection is recognized as a vital tool in combating silkworm diseases by neutralizing pathogenic microbes. The disinfection process targets worm houses and areas where disease transmission is more prevalent during warm feeding. By eliminating potential sources of infection, final disinfection is carried out at the end of the current worm feeding season, particularly in locations with a higher incidence of infectious diseases among silkworms. The integration of a mechatronic system in the preventive measures demonstrates its effectiveness in promoting healthier silk production.

Use of final irrigants MTAD, Salvedora Perscia, Malachite green, and Ti-sapphire laser on push-out bond strength of Zirconia post

AIM: Evaluation of the push-out bond strength (PBS) of zirconia post-bonded to radicular dentin after using different final irrigants (MTAD, Malachite green (MG), Ti-sapphire laser and Salvadora persica (S.persica). MATERIAL AND METHOD: Forty human permanent single-rooted were decoronated above the cement-enamel junction. An experienced endodontist performed all the root canal instrumentation using ProTaper universal rotary files. Canals were irrigated using 5.25% NaOCl solution followed by EDTA as a final sterilant. Obturation with gutta-percha using AH Plus sealer was performed. Post-space preparation was completed using Gates Glidden and specimens were randomly assigned to four groups based on the final disinfectant received (n=10). Group 1: 5.25% NaOCl + MTAD, group 2: 5.25% NaOCl + MG, group 3: 5.25% NaOCl +Ti-sapphire laser, and group 4: 5.25% NaOCl + S. persica. The chemically polymerized resin was used to lute zirconia posts. PBS and failure mode analysis were performed using a universal testing machine and stereomicroscope at 40X magnification. Data were compared between the two groups with 95% CI using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with the Tukey post hoc test. p=0.05. RESULTS: Group4(5.25% NaOCl+ S.persica) specimens demonstrated the maximum (8.94±0.14 MPa) bond strength. Conversely, the apical third of Group 2 (5.25% NaOCl+ MG) (2.87±0.15 MPa) samples revealed the minimum bond strength scores. Intergroup comparison exposed that Group 1 (1.3% NaOCl+ MTAD), Group 3 (5.25% NaOCl+Ti-sapphire laser), and Group 4 (5.25% NaOCl+ S. persica) at all three-thirds unveiled no significant difference in PBS (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Ti-sapphire laser and Salvedora Persica possess the potential to be used as a final root canal irrigant to improve the push-out bond strength of zirconia post-to-root dentin.

Adjunctive use of Er, Cr: YSGG laser, Potassium titanyl Phosphate laser, and photosensitizer on extrusion bond strength of radicular dentin to bioceramic sealers.

To assess the impact of adjunctive final root canal disinfection regime curcumin photosensitizer (CP) activated by Photodynamic therapy (PDT), Er, Cr: YSGG laser (ECL), and Potassium titanyl Phosphate (KTP) laser on the bond integrity of two endodontic Bioceramic (BC) sealers. Decoration of eighty human single-rooted teeth was performed up to a cementoenamel junction. After instrumentation, all samples were irrigated with 2.25% NaOCl solution followed by 17% EDTA. The specimens were divided arbitrarily into 8 groups (n=10) based on the adjunctive final irrigation method used. Group 1 and 5 (Control): No adjunctive regime, cleaned using 2.25% NaOCl+17% EDTA, group 2 and group 6: CP activated by PDT, Group 3 and Group 7 using ECL, Group 4 and Group 8: KTP laser. Following disinfection samples in groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 were obturated using Sankin apatite root canal sealer (SARS). Specimens in groups 5, 6, 7, and 8 were obturated using Pro-root endo sealer (PRES). Sectioning of samples was performed. The sectioned specimens were subjected to a compressive loading exerted via a steel plunger moving at a 0.5mm/min crosshead speed till debonding. Means and standard deviations (SD) of EBS of BC sealer with the root canal dentin were assessed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post Hoc Tukey multiple comparison tests. The level of significance was measured at p=0.05. The coronal section of samples in group 5 (Na-E-PRES) exhibited the highest bond value. The lowest PBS was displayed by the middle third of specimens in group 6. Group 1 (Na-E-SARS), group 3 (Na-E-ECL-SARS), group 5 (Na-E-PRES), and group 7 (Na-E-ECL-PRES) exhibited comparable bond values (p>0.05). Whereas, group 2 (Na-E-PDT-SARS) and group 4 (Na-E-PTPL-SARS), group 6 (Na-E-PDT-PRES), and group 8 (Na-E-PTPL-PRES) were found to be comparable (p>0.05). Adjunctive use of Er, Cr: YSGG laser displayed better extrusion bond strength with BC root canal sealer compared to CP activated by PDT and KTP laser. Bond strength is influenced by the type of irrigation.

Control of Pre-formed Halogenated Disinfection Byproducts with Reuse Biofiltration.

Disinfection byproduct (DBP) pre-formation is a major issue when prechlorination is used before or during advanced treatment of impacted drinking water sources. Control strategies for pre-formed DBPs before final disinfection, especially for currently nonregulated although highly toxic DBP species, are not yet established. This study evaluated the biodegradation potential of pre-formed DBPs, including haloacetonitriles (HANs), haloacetamides (HAMs), and haloacetaldehydes (HALs), during biofiltration with sand, anthracite, and biological activated carbon of three wastewater effluents under potable reuse conditions. Up to 90%+ removal of di- and trihalogenated HANs, HAMs, and HALs was observed, and removal was associated with active heterotrophic biomass and removal of biodegradable organic carbon. Unlike the microbial dehalogenation pathway of haloacetic acids (HAAs), removal of HANs and HAMs appeared to result from a biologically mediated hydrolysis pathway (i.e., HANs to HAMs and HAAs) that may be prone to inhibition. After prechlorination, biofiltration effectively controlled pre-formed DBP concentrations (e.g., from 271 μg/L to as low as 22 μg/L in total) and DBP-associated calculated toxicity (e.g., 96%+ reduction). Abiotic residual adsorption capacity in biological activated carbon media was important for controlling trihalomethanes. Overall, the toxicity-driving DBP species exhibited high biodegradation potential and biofiltration showed significant promise as a pre-formed DBP control technology.

High-Speed Dental Instruments: An Investigation of Protein-Contaminated Dental Handpieces with the Bicinchoninic Acid Assay in Dental Offices in Styria, Austria.

Due to permanent contact with bodily secretions such as blood and saliva, the dental workplace poses a high risk of infection for patients as well as for personnel. High-speed dental instruments are still considered one of the major hygienic risks, as the high-speed rotation of the attachments leads to the retraction of infectious material from patients' oral cavities. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which dental handpieces are contaminated after use. Spray-water samples were taken from different handpieces used in seven dental offices and protein concentrations were measured photometrically. In the first part of the study, samples were collected from each handpiece before and after the treatment of the patients. Additionally, the changes in protein concentration after consecutive treatments in which the same high-speed dental instrument was used were investigated. The results demonstrated measurable protein concentrations in 91.2% of a total of 398 samples, and 96.4% of the spray-water samples taken after treatment showed a discrepancy from the initial measured protein concentration. In 68.4% an increase in protein concentration was observed, whereas in 27.9% a decrease was measured. In conclusion, the internal contamination of high-speed dental instruments frequently occurs in daily usage and consequently may lead to the transmission of infectious agents by flushing the contaminated water out of the spray water tubes. Moreover, it must be pointed out that internal cleansing of handpieces is insufficient and that a final mechanical disinfection is indispensable.

On the work of the Tselinograd city disinfection station (1968)

The article notes that after the beginning of the process of developing virgin lands in Kazakhstan in the 1950s, the health authorities faced the question of creating a disinfection station in the city of Tselinograd. The problem in those years was acute, since sewage treatment plants were under construction in the virgin land city and often sewage water was pumped without treatment and discharged into the Taldy-Kul storage lake, located 12 km from the city. The high population density led to an annual increase in the number of infections. The ongoing and final disinfection measures carried out by the health authorities undoubtedly gave certain positive results. However, in infectious diseases hospitals, the regime of chamber disinfection was constantly violated, there were not enough staff, which together lowered the quality of the complex of special measures aimed at destroying pathogens of infectious diseases. The authors of the article came to the conclusion that the measures carried out by the health authorities could not meet the needs of the local and visiting population, and the insufficient organization of the sanitary service was one of the reasons for the high incidence of various infections among the population.