Level Of Microbial Contamination Research Articles

EXPERIMENTAL SEARCH AN UNDERLYING BASIS OF PRINCIPLES FOR MICROBIOLOGICAL QUANTITATIVE ASSESSMENT OF PRESERVATIVE SOLUTIONS

Introduction. Microbiological control of preservative solutions and assessment of the state of anatomical preparations are topical issues, the solution of which requires adaptation of methods for quantitative determination of the level of microbial contamination to the special conditions of equilibrium systems containing biological preparations. The aim of the study is screening, experimental testing and adaptation of microbiological methods for quantitative assessment of the level of microbial contamination for monitoring the microbiological purity of preservative solutions using the Melnikov–Razvedenkov solution as an example. Material and methods. The object of the study was the Melnikov–Razvedenkov preservative solution modified by the Scientific Research Center for Biomedical Technologies of the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. The study used methods for quantitative assessment of the level of microbial contamination on agar nutrient media. Results. As a result of screening, experimental testing and comparative analysis of methods for quantitative assessment of the level of microbial contamination, the most promising methodological approaches were identified and adapted for microbiological monitoring of modified Melnikov-Razvedenkov solution. Conclusions. The microbiological study of the modified Melnikov-Razvedenkov preservative solution showed the feasibility of using the membrane vacuum filtration method with membrane filters made of a mixture of cellulose acetate and nitrate with a nominal pore diameter of 0.45 μm. For sterilization of the test solution, the use of a vacuum filtration through membrane filters with a nominal pore diameter of 0.22 μm is promising.

Analysis of microbial contamination in different types of meat in the Kostanay region

Background and Aim. Meat is a favourable environment for the growth and viability of pathogenic microorganisms. Bacteria in meat cause spoilage and increase the risk of foodborne toxic infections of various origins during consumption. The importance of monitoring and analysing microbial contamination is increasing due to increased requirements for food safety and public health protection. The aim of the study was to analyse the overall level of microbial contamination of different types of meat sampled from retail outlets in the Kostanay region.Materials and Methods. A total of 30 meat samples, including pork, beef, and horse meat, were collected for analysis. To assess microbial contamination of the meat, the number of mesophilic aerobic and facultatively anaerobic microorganisms (QMAFAnM) and their species composition were determined.Results. It was found that 96% of the meat sold at the retail level had elevated QMAFAnM, with coliforms isolated in 30% of the samples. Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were not detected in the meat tested. Pork meat had the highest microbial contamination compared to beef and horse meat samples.Conclusion. Exceeding the permitted levels of QMAFAnM and the presence of coliform bacteria indicate potential health risks for consumers and more effective measures are required to ensure food safety.

Microbiological Evaluation of Local and Imported Raw Beef Meat at Retail Sites in Oman with Emphasis on Spoilage and Pathogenic Psychrotrophic Bacteria.

Determining the microbial quality and safety of meat is crucial because of its high potential to harbor pathogens. To address the critical knowledge gap and shed light on potential contamination risk in the meat supply chain, this study aimed to assess the underexplored microbial quality and safety of marketed beef meat in Oman. Thirty-three beef meat samples from six hypermarkets were analyzed for Aerobic Plate Count (APC), Psychrotrophic Bacteria Count (PBC), and coliform and Escherichia coli counts. Prevalences were 93% and 94% (means: 2.8 ± 1.1 and 2.6 ± 0.8 log CFU/g, respectively) for coliform, and 80% and 83% (means: 1.8 ± 1.4 and 1.7 ± 0.9 log CFU/g, respectively) for E. coli in imported and local samples, respectively. The mean counts of APC (6.3 ± 0.1 log CFU/g) and PBC (6.2 ± 0.2 log CFU/g) were statistically similar but different from those of coliform and E. coli. Bacterial identification using VITEK 2 compact revealed spoilage bacteria (Pseudomonas luteola, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Shewanella putrefaciens) and pathogenic bacteria (Acinetobacter bumannii complex, Aerococcus viridans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Oligella ureolytica), which demonstrates a potential for both spoilage and pathogen-related risks. It is concluded that the APC counts of all samples exceeded acceptable standards set by the G.C.C. Standardization Organization (GSO), which was established to protect food safety and public health in Oman and other Gulf countries. This suggests an increased risk of spoilage and pathogen contamination. This study provides one of the earliest reports of microbial contamination levels in meat, serving as an eye-opener for policymakers and stakeholders. It highlights a need for stricter hygiene protocols and improved meat handling and processing practices to enhance meat safety and protect public health in Oman and the Gulf region.

Microbial Contamination Level of Tamarind Sauce Prepared in Several Seafood Restaurants

Microbial Contamination Level of Tamarind Sauce Prepared in Several Seafood Restaurants

Assessment the effectiveness of disinfection of household wastewater using a UV complex under experimental conditions

Introduction. One of the most effective and economically justified methods of inactivation water treatment is disinfection using UV irradiation. UV disinfection is characterized by the absence of an aftereffect, which is an undeniable advantage for wastewater treatment, since adverse environmental effects on the wastewater receiving water body are excluded. The main technological parameter that ensures proper disinfection is the UV dose. The purpose of the study is the confirmation of the effectiveness of using the technology of UV disinfection of water with a dose of at least 30 mJ/cm2 in relation to sanitary-indicative and pathogenic microorganisms that are present in the wastewater of the Moscow metropolis. Materials and methods. UV disinfection units DUV-1-87-N were used to conduct the experiment, providing a UV dose of at least 30 mJ/cm2 for water disinfection and an open UV irradiator SVETOLIT 50 for air disinfection manufactured by company LIT. Results. The use of a UV dose of at least 30 mJ/cm2 for disinfection of water with a high degree of contamination of microorganisms ensures the level of contamination of microorganisms to meet the requirements of sanitary legislation in force on the territory of the Russian Federation for disinfected wastewater allowed discharging into surface waters. Limitations. The limitations of the study are related to the equipment used for applying UV irradiation, water turbidity, and the sensitivity of microorganisms of different taxonomic groups to UV irradiation. Conclusion. The results of the conducted experimental study can serve a justification for the UV radiation dose of 30 mJ/cm2 used for effective disinfection of viral and bacterial contamination of water with high levels of microbial contamination up to the standard permissible level of microbial contamination (in accordance with SanPiN 1.2.3685-21) of treated wastewater suitable for discharge into surface waters.

Assessment of Microbial Contamination and Bacterial Characterization in Ready-to-Eat Fruits from Port Harcourt Markets, Nigeria

Food safety is critical in preventing foodborne illnesses, particularly in regions where regulatory oversight may be inconsistent. This study aimed to assess the microbial contamination and characterize bacteria found in whole and sliced ready-to-eat (RTE) fruits sold in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The study area of this research was in Port Harcourt, the capital and largest city in Rivers State, Nigeria. The study employed a simple random sampling technique, and the methodology involved collecting 30 samples of apples, cucumbers, oranges, pawpaws, and watermelons from six markets: Fruit Garden Market, Mile 1 Market, Mile 3 Market, Oil Mill Market, Rumuokoro Market, and Town Market. Samples were analyzed using standard microbiological techniques, including total heterotrophic bacterial count (THBC) and total coliform count (TCC). Serial dilutions and culturing were performed, and the isolates were identified through morphological and biochemical tests. Results indicated that coliforms such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp and Enterobacter spp were isolated, and the THBC varied significantly among the markets, with the highest contamination observed in Mile 3 Market (9.50 × 10⁴ CFU/ml) and the lowest in Town Market (7.27 × 10⁴ CFU/ml). TCC results showed the highest coliform contamination in Rumuokoro Market (5.16 × 10³ CFU/ml), likely influenced by proximity to unsanitary water sources. Watermelon had the highest contamination levels for both THBC and TCC, while cucumber showed the lowest. Variations in contamination levels were attributed to environmental factors, inadequate handling practices, and hygiene standards. The study concluded that RTE fruits sold in Port Harcourt pose significant health risks due to microbial contamination levels exceeding recommended safety thresholds. It emphasized the importance of stringent hygiene practices among vendors and better regulatory measures to prevent outbreaks. Recommendations include improved food safety training for vendors, stricter sanitation practices during handling and transportation, and regular monitoring by health authorities to ensure compliance with safety standards. Therefore, the study highlights health risks in consuming ready-to-eat fruits, supporting food safety improvements to reduce foodborne illnesses in Port Harcourt.

Microbial Contamination and Sterilization Methods in an Air Circulation-Type Geothermal Ventilation System

A simulated system was created to evaluate an air circulation-type geothermal ventilation system, focusing on measuring microbial contamination levels on the surface of the heat exchange unit. Additionally, this study examined sterilization methods using UV lamps on the surface of the heat exchanger. The fungal concentration on the surface of the heat exchanger showed a tendency to increase over time. Although direct comparison is challenging due to the varying concentrations of outdoor air fungi at different measurement times, the surface fungal concentration was highest at a minimum airflow rate of 150 m3/h compared to other conditions. However, since the adhesion of contaminants from outdoor air to the surface of the heat exchanger is influenced not only by airflow but also by outdoor temperature and relative humidity conditions, future research needs to consider these factors. According to the ATP measurement results, microbial contamination was evaluated as “slightly dirty” after 24 h and “dirty” after 48 h of operating the experimental apparatus. Therefore, it is advisable to clean the internal surfaces of the geothermal ventilation system every 1–2 days. The results of the sterilization experiments using UV lamps indicated that irradiation for approximately 30 min inactivated 94.5%-to-96.1% of microorganisms derived from outdoor air. However, since the sterilization dose varies depending on the type of microorganism, it is necessary to determine the optimal irradiation time based on the target microorganisms and the UV lamp’s irradiation intensity.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Disinfectants in Reducing Contamination of Bacterial and Viral Murine Pathogens on Gloved Hands.

Disinfectant application to gloved hands before handling SPF mice is standard practice to minimize transmission of pathogens and microbial contamination between cages. The risk of contamination with murine pathogens on gloves as well as the efficacy of disinfectant application for this step is largely unknown. This study aimed to determine if murine norovirus (MNV), Helicobacter spp., and Rodentibacter spp. are detectable on gloved hands and, if they are, to evaluate how effective the application of a hydrogen peroxide-based disinfectant (Rescue) or 70% ethanol is in reducing the transfer of these pathogens while handling multiple cages of mice. Mice with natural infections of these pathogens were handled without the application of any disinfectant and the gloves were swabbed for PCR testing. All pathogens were detected via PCR with Helicobacter spp. the most frequently transferred in 83% of the cages handled. The mice were then divided into 4 treatment groups based on the product applied to gloves before handling: Rescue, 70% ethanol, sterile water, and no product. Mice in each cage were briefly handled, and the gloves were swabbed with ATP swabs after each cage and swabs for PCR testing after handling 4 and 9 cages, consecutively. All pathogens were detected via PCR in all treatment groups, and neither Rescue nor 70% ethanol was superior to water or no product in reducing contamination. Rescue and 70% ethanol were effective in maintaining lower levels of organic microbial contamination than water and no product for consecutive handling of up to 3 and 4 cages of mice, respectively. This study indicates that exposure to MNV, Helicobacter spp., and Rodentibacter spp. from handling mice is a risk and the application of Rescue or 70% ethanol is not completely effective in eliminating transfer of these pathogens.

Effective technology of disinfecting ozonation of hatching chicken eggs

Relevance. The positive aspects of disinfecting ozonation of hatching eggs allow us to expect successful application of the method not only in large but also in small-scale farms, as well as for experimental and industrial purposes in laboratories and bio-enterprises related to the technological process based on the incubation of a small number of eggs. This determines the importance of expanding the range of ozonizers due to numerous portable devices. There are no clear recommendations for these devices and this causes the need to search for the most effective and harmless modes for the embryo, and schemes of disinfecting ozonation.Methods. The study used fertilized chicken eggs “Hysex Brown” and a portable ozonizer “OZON-OviV”. Ozone concentration 2.0 mg / l. Eggs were treated in a specially made chamber. Technology-1: twice for 30 minutes before incubation and on the 3rd day of incubation. Technology-2: three times for 30 minutes before incubation, on days 3 and 5. The range of studies included: assessment of total microbial contamination (densitometry); identification of microorganisms (MALDI-TOF-spectrometry); biological control of incubation (fertility, hatchability, mortality, developmental abnormalities); assessment of the adequacy of the internal organs (MicroCT); embryo morphometry (weight, length, chest circumference) and calculation of development proportionality indices; histological assessment of the liver.Results. The total ozone concentration during treatment by two methods was 240 mg/l and 360 mg/l, respectively. The disinfecting efficiency of ozonation has been proven, providing a decrease in the level of total microbial contamination by 30% and 40% with double and triple treatment. A tendency to maintain a low total microbial contamination, compared to intact eggs, up to 14 days of incubation has been revealed. The dynamics of the microbial landscape indicate the bacteriostatic effect of ozone in the concentrations used on a wide range of microorganisms. Microtomographic and histological methods confirmed the harmlessness of the technologies used. Along with the more pronounced antibacterial effect of technology-2, the presence of a stimulating effect on the body of the developing embryo was revealed, which determines the preference for its choice.

Unveiling the dynamics of intraoperative contamination in total hip arthroplasty: the discrepancy between particulate and microbial contamination in surgical site infection risk

BackgroundSurgical site infection (SSI) is a major problem following total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study investigated the impact of a standard intraoperative routine where the surgical team wears full-body exhaust suits (space suits) within a laminar airflow (LAF)-ventilated operating room (OR) on environmental contamination. Our primary objective was to identify potential modifiable intraoperative factors that could be better controlled to minimize SSI risk.MethodsWe implemented an approach involving simultaneous and continuous air sampling throughout actual primary cementless THA procedures. This method concurrently monitored both airborne particle and microbial contamination levels from the time the patient entered the OR for surgery until extubation.ResultsAirborne particulate and microbial contamination significantly increased during the first and second patient repositionings (postural changes) when the surgical team was not wearing space suits. However, their concentration exhibited inconsistent changes during the core surgical procedures, between incision and suturing, when the surgeons wore space suits. The microbial biosensor detected zero median microbes from draping to suturing. In contrast, the particle counter indicated a significant level of airborne particles during head resection and cup press-fitting, suggesting these procedures might generate more non-viable particles.ConclusionsThis study identified a significant portion of airborne particles during the core surgical procedures as non-viable, suggesting that monitoring solely for particle counts might not suffice to estimate SSI risk. Our findings strongly support the use of space suits for surgeons to minimize intraoperative microbial contamination within LAF-ventilated ORs. Therefore, minimizing unnecessary traffic and movement of unsterile personnel is crucial. Additionally, since our data suggest increased contamination during patient repositioning, effectively controlling contamination during the first postural change plays a key role in maintaining low microbial contamination levels throughout the surgery. The use of sterile gowns during this initial maneuver might further reduce SSIs. Further research is warranted to investigate the impact of sterile attire on SSIs.

Enhancing infection control in dialysis at a resource limited public healthcare institute: A cross-sectional study on microbiological quality assessment of dialysis water and dialysate

PurposeTo evaluate the microbiological quality of dialysis water and dialysate samples from hemodialysis units at a tertiary care government hospital and to assess the use of culture, endotoxin and periodicity of testing these assays to guide the actions of monitoring the quality of hemodialysis fluids, implement preventive and corrective actions, and improve the safety and outcomes of the dialysis process. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at a 250-bedded super-specialty government hospital with a 24/7 hemodialysis unit equipped with 40 dialysis machines. Dialysis water and dialysate samples were collected monthly and analysed for microbial contamination and endotoxin levels as per AAMI guidelines. Bacterial cultures were done using Reasoner's Agar plates, and endotoxin analysis was performed using gel clot assay. Interpretation of results was based on predefined thresholds. ResultsAmong the 740 samples processed for microbial culture 19.6 % and 80.4% were unacceptable and acceptable respectively.Among the acceptable samples 10.5 % were at action level. At the end of 2 days of incubation, 15.2%dialysis water samples and 5.1%dialysate samples had unacceptable levels of bacterial colonies and at 5days additional 10.6 % dialysis water samples and 7.7%dialysate samples were unacceptable. 21.5 % of the samples tested for endotoxin had unacceptable levels. ConclusionsRegular monitoring of water quality in government healthcare hemodialysis units is crucial for quality of care, timely preventive and corrective actions for mitigating adverse outcomes. Processing cultures for 5–7 days is essential for detecting all contaminated specimens. While there might be a link between endotoxin levels and bacterial contamination, both endotoxin testing and bacterial culture independently are vital for evaluating water quality in dialysis settings. A comprehensive approach integrating various testing methods is necessary to uphold patient safety and enable necessary improvements.

Status of microbial contamination in edible ice in Dak Lak province in 2022-2023

A study conducted in 2022 and 2023 assessed the microbial contamination levels in edible ice. The findings indicated that 67.6% of samples exceeded permissible contamination limits, with 63.0% of samples contaminated in 2022 and 70.7% in 2023. The prevalent microbial indicators detected included total coliforms (55.9%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (10.3%), Escherichia coli (19.1%), Streptococci feacal (intestinal enterococci) (33.8%), and sulfite-reducing anaerobic bacterial spores (30.9%). Notably, 14.7% of samples showed contamination with two microbial indicators, 17.6% with three indicators, and 10.3% with four indicators, emphasizing the need for enhanced food safety and quality control measures. Additionally, the study revealed seasonal variations in microbial contamination rates, with higher rates observed during the dry season (72.7%) compared to the rainy season (62.9%). These findings suggest that more stringent control measures are necessary, particularly during the dry season, to mitigate the risk of microbial contamination.

SPATIAL MICROBIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF WATER SOURCES IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN SOKOTO METROPOLIS

This study aimed to assess the water quality in public secondary schools within Sokoto Metropolis, Nigeria, with a focus on evaluating microbial contamination levels and identifying spatial disparities in water facilities. Comprehensive assessment checklist based on WHO and UNICEF standards was used to evaluate the availability and adequacy of water facilities. Water samples were collected from 13 public secondary schools using a stratified and proportionate sampling techniques, ensuring representation across different water sources, including boreholes, pipe-borne water, and dug wells. The samples were then transported to the Sokoto State Water Board laboratory for microbial testing. The analysis specifically targeted the presence of indicator bacteria, including Escherichia coli (E. coli), total coliforms, and fecal streptococcus, to assess the microbial quality of the water sources. The findings revealed significant spatial disparities in the distribution of schools and highlighted areas with inadequate water facilities. Microbial analysis indicated varying levels of contamination across the different water sources, with dug wells having the highest E. coli count, averaging 11.33 CFU/100ml. The total average E. coli count across all water sources was 6.08 CFU/100ml, which exceeds the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) Maximum Permissible Limit (MPL) of 0 CFU/100ml, indicating a concerning level of contamination. These results suggest a substantial risk to public health, particularly for students and staff relying on these water sources. The study emphasises the urgent need for interventions such as reconstruction and rehabilitation of water infrastructure and regular water quality testing to ensure safe drinking water is provided in public secondary schools in...

Assessment of Microbial Contamination and Hygiene Practices of Okra Powders in Public Markets of Yamoussoukro

Background: Okra is one of the most consumed fruit vegetables by Ivorians either fresh or powdered. However, due to a lack of supervision, okra powders are sold under conditions that often leave something to be desired. Objectives: This study aims to assess the level of microbial contamination of okra powders sold in public markets, with a view to preventing any potential health risks for consumers. Methodology: The experimental method is based on a survey within the markets of the city of Yamoussoukro in order to describe the conditions of sale. Samples of okra powders sold in these markets were analyzed. Acquired Results: The survey showed that, most marketers sell their product beyond 10 days. Additionally, okra powders are sold in plastic containers, uncovered. In addition, the analyzes reveal the absence of Salmonella spp. but the presence of yeasts, molds, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli whose loads varying from 3.5. 103a ± 0.16.103 to 4.8.103a ± 0.49.103 CFU/g, 1.5.104b ± 0.28.104 to 3.2.103a ± 0.32.103 CFU/g and 3.3.103a ± 0.17.103 to 8.103a ± 0.91.103 CFU/g. However, all the okra powders analyzed present an unsatisfactory microbiological quality. Conclusion and Outlook: To avoid any health risk for consumers, traders must be supervised, organized and made aware of good hygiene practices.

Analysis Of Microbial and Chemistry Contamination Thai Tea Drink in Junior High School

Thai Tea drink is the current favorite drink of the current millennial generation. Thai Tea beverage products are usually sold in places that are easily accessible to consumers, such as on the side of the highway. This thing makes Thai Tea beverage products have potential to become a medium for foreign object to enter the body if they are not processed properly. This study aims to determine the safety of Thai Tea beverage products that are sold around junior high schools in Central Bogor District. This study used seven samples taken from 7 junior high schools in seven different sub-districts and used a purposive sampling method. Product analysis was carried out twice, including testing the microbial contamination levels of Total Plate Number, Coliforms, Escherichia coli, heavy metal lead chemical contamination and sucrose content in Thai Tea drinks. Research is also supported by field observations and interviews. The research showed that all samples of Thai Tea drinks contained TPC microbial contamination that exceeded the standard, twelve repetition were contaminated with coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli, all repetition were not detected by heavy metal lead contamination and the sucrose content of all repetition did not exceed the maximum daily sugar intake limit.

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria contaminating leafy vegetables in Saudi Arabia’s eastern region

BackgroundFood-associated antibiotic-resistant bacteria can cause infections that may critically impact human health. The objectives of this study were to determine the microbial contamination level of green leafy vegetables and their antibiotic resistance pattern.MethodsSixty-three samples of leafy vegetables were collected from Dammam Central Fruit and Vegetables Market from January to June 2023. The vegetables included lettuce (Lactuca sativa), parsley (Petroselinum crispum), and watercress (Nasturtium officinale). Samples were tested by standard microbiological techniques for identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing.ResultEight types of bacteria belonging to six different genera were detected. Enterobacteriaceae family was represented by four genera: Klebsiella, Proteus, Morganella, and Enterobacter. The other two genera were Pseudomonas and Aeromonas. Enterobacter cloacae was the most abundant organism, followed by Pseudomonas putida and Aeromonas sobria. On the other hand, Morganella morganii, Aeromonas hydrophila, and Proteus mirabilis were the least abundant. The three vegetable types had different levels of bacterial contamination. All isolated organisms were sensitive to penicillin, cephalosporin, aminoglycoside, and fluoroquinolone. However, Klebsiella oxytoca, M. morganii, and K. pneumonia showed resistance to ampicillin. A. hydrophila, Morganella morganii, and E. cloacae showed resistance to amoxicillin. M. morganii and E. cloacae were found to be resistant to cefalotin. Moreover, A. hydrophila, M. morganii, and E. cloacae were resistant to cefoxitin. Again, A. hydrophila was found to be resistant to imipenem. Only M. morganii was resistant to Ciprofloxacin. Two isolates, P. mirabilis and M. morganii were resistant to tigecycline. Another two, M. morganii and P. mirabilis were resistant to Nitrofurantoin. Only M. morganii was found to be resistant to trimethoprim.ConclusionThis study aligns with the broad consensus in the literature about the significance of bacterial contamination in vegetables and the public health implications. The unique focus on antibiotic resistance patterns adds an essential dimension to the existing body of knowledge.

Comparative analysis of nutritional quality and microbial contamination in camel milk: Evaluating safety and public health risks between camel milk obtained from street vendors and farms in Saudi Arabia.

To evaluate the nutritional quality and microbial contamination of raw camel milk sourced from street vendors and compare it with milk obtained from farms, with a particular emphasis on pathogenic organisms. Twenty samples were systematically collected from street vendors and farms between July 2022 and February 2023 and analyzed at King Fahad Medical Research Centre and the Pharmacy College, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The microbial analysis employed culture-dependent techniques for colony-forming unit analysis and isolation of microbial colonies from milk samples. Microbial identification utilized advanced methods, including VITEK-MS equipment and the MALDI-TOF technique. The chemical composition was analysed through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The findings revealed significant differences in microbial loads, with milk sourced from street vendors exhibiting considerably higher microbial counts than farm-sourced milk, including pathogenic species like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The results indicated that camel milk from street vendors possessed a higher level of microbial contamination, suggesting potential health risks associated with its purchase and consumption from these sources. This study highlights the urgent need for stringent food safety practices in handling, selling, and distributing camel milk to reduce microbial risks to safe levels, thereby mitigating potential health hazards.

Effects of using mobile devices compared to reading books while defecating

This research paper investigates the comparative effects of using mobile devices versus reading books while defecating like the pre-technology period, with a specific focus on the microbial contamination associated with each activity. The study includes experiments conducted to analyse microbial surfacing on toilet seats and mobile devices, as well as books, to understand the hygiene implications of these common bathroom practices. In recent years, the integration of mobile devices into daily routines has extended to their use in the bathroom, a trend that has raised concerns about potential health risks and hygiene practices. Previous studies have primarily focused on the psychological and physical effects of prolonged bathroom usage; however, there is a paucity of research examining the microbial aspects of this behaviour. Our study addresses this gap by employing microbial surfacing techniques to quantify the levels of bacteria and other microorganisms present on toilet seats, mobile devices, and books used during defecation. Results indicate that mobile devices exhibit significantly higher levels of microbial contamination compared to books, which can be attributed to their frequent handling and surface material properties. Additionally, the findings suggest that individuals who use mobile devices in the bathroom may be at a higher risk of transferring harmful microbes to their hands, faces, and other surfaces, thereby increasing the potential for infection and illness. This paper discusses the implications of these findings for public health and personal hygiene practices and recommends strategies to mitigate the risks associated with bathroom device usage. By shedding light on the hygienic consequences of using mobile devices versus reading books while defecating, this research contributes to a broader understanding of how modern technology impacts health and daily life.

Analysis of the microbial contamination in available cosmetic products from Samaru Market, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the level of microbial contamination of cosmetic goods found in Samaru Market, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Ten samples of two distinct cosmetics: face powder (labeled as FP) and kohl (labeled as K); were obtained from merchants at Samaru Market. The samples were cultivated on nutrient agar and mannitol salt for the purposes of viable cell count, isolation, and microscopic identification. To further characterize the isolates from the agar, gram staining technique and biochemical tests (catalase, urease, indole, Voges-Proskauer, citrate utilization, and methyl red test) were employed. With the exception of samples K1 and FP2, every sample had total viable bacteria. The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards of less than 103 cfu/ml of bacteria load for non-eye areas were exceeded by all samples except K2 and FP1. Sample FP5 had the highest count of 3.6 x 104cfu/ml, while sample K2 had the lowest count of 1.2 x102 cfu/ml. Microscopy, revealed the isolates on mannitol salt agar as rounded, elevated, flat, small, yellowish and pinkish with short rods. The nutrient agar colonies appeared to be short rod-like, mucoid, uneven, rough, and whitish in color. The biochemical characterization of the isolates was positive for catalase, citrate, Voges Proskauer, and motility test. In conclusion, some of the face powder and kohl samples in the study are dangerous to use since Bacillus spp. were isolated with a bacterial count that was greater than the acceptable limit.

Comparative Evaluation of Disinfection Protocols for Dental Impressions in Prosthodontics.

In prosthodontics, dental impressions are essential for creating precise dental restorations. However, these impressions are susceptible to microbial contamination, which can pose a risk of infection to patients. Consequently, effective disinfection methods are crucial to prevent postoperative infections. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of various disinfection techniques for dental impressions used in prosthodontics. A total of 148 poured dental impressions were randomized into three disinfection groups: immersed in 0.5% sodium hypochlorite, 2% glutaraldehyde, or 0.2% chlorhexidine solution. The bacterial contamination was evaluated by direct colony-forming unit (CFU) counting, while the dimensional accuracy and surface detail duplication of each resin sample were determined as physical properties. Data were analyzed using SPSSversion 23.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Either analysis of variance (ANOVA) with the option for post-hoc or non-parametric tests was used to investigate and compare the efficacy of the better disinfection protocols where the p-value was considered significant if less than 0.05. Glutaraldehyde showed the lowest mean CFU count (2.5 log10 CFUs), followed by sodium hypochlorite (3.2 log10 CFUs) and chlorhexidine (3.5 log10 CFUs). All disinfection protocols were able to significantly reduce microbial contamination when compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The results of the physical property assessment demonstrated acceptable dimensional accuracy in all tested protocols, with slight differences recorded between them regarding the reproduction of surface detail. More specifically, the mean dimensional deviation was in the range between 0.02 and 0.04 mm, while scores for surface detail reproduction ranged from 2 to 4. The ANOVA results revealed significant differences in microbial contamination levels (F(2, 145) = 5.72, p = 0.007) and dimensional accuracy (F(2, 145) = 3.45, p = 0.032) between the various disinfection protocols. This study enlightens the effective sterilization protocol to be adopted in prosthodontics for dental impressions. Glutaraldehyde was most effective in microbial reduction, while sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine were equally effective. Therefore, clinicians must be vigilant in assessing the type of microbial flora that can be encountered during prosthodontic procedures while choosing disinfection protocols for patient safety and quality of impressions.