Significant Reduction In Bacterial Counts Research Articles

Comparing the Antibacterial Efficacy of Nanosilver vs Traditional Fluoride Varnishes in Caries Prevention

ABSTRACT Background: Dental caries remains a prevalent chronic condition affecting individuals worldwide, particularly children. Traditional fluoride varnishes have long been employed in caries prevention due to their ability to enhance enamel remineralization and reduce demineralization. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 120 participants aged 6–12 years with a high risk of dental caries. The participants were divided into two groups: one receiving nanosilver varnish and the other receiving traditional fluoride varnish. Each varnish was applied bi-weekly for six months. Salivary samples were collected at baseline, three months, and six months to measure bacterial counts, focusing on Streptococcus mutans. The data were analyzed using ANOVA to assess differences between the groups over time. Results: At baseline, both groups exhibited similar levels of Streptococcus mutans (P > 0.05). After three months, the nanosilver group showed a significant reduction in bacterial counts (mean reduction of 45%, P < 0.01), compared to a 30% reduction in the fluoride varnish group (P < 0.05). At six months, the nanosilver group maintained a 55% reduction, whereas the fluoride group showed a 40% reduction. The difference between the groups at six months was statistically significant (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Nanosilver varnish demonstrated superior antibacterial efficacy compared to traditional fluoride varnish in reducing Streptococcus mutans levels over six months. These findings suggest that nanosilver could serve as a valuable alternative or adjunct to fluoride varnish in caries prevention strategies.

Wash-In Silver Nanoparticle Laundry Additive Was Not Effective in Reducing Bacterial Load on Wrestling Apparel.

The best practice for cleaning wrestling mats is using a residual disinfectant with continued antibacterial action. Recently available wash-in silver additives claim to confer a residual effect to fabric. To test the efficacy of laundering with a wash-in silver additive in reducing athletes' exposure to potentially infectious microbes on apparel. A 4-part controlled laboratory study/parallel group comparison study. (1) To test whether fabrics in athletic clothing would be affected differently, we applied bacteria to control fabrics washed in detergent alone and test counterparts washed in detergent plus wash-in silver additive. Bacteria were applied to fabrics, extracted, plated, incubated, and counted. (2) To see if wash-in silver affected various bacteria differently, we washed cotton t-shirts with detergent alone or with detergent plus wash-in silver. We applied 4 bacterial species commonly found in the wrestling environment. Bacteria were extracted, plated, incubated, and counted. (3) To see if wash-in silver was effective in reducing bacterial contamination during practice, 32 collegiate wrestlers paired off with one wearing a test silver-treated t-shirt and their partner wearing a control shirt. Wrestler rotations exposed shirts to 2, 4, or 8 wrestlers. Identical swatches of fabric were cut from the t-shirts. Bacteria were extracted, plated, incubated, and counted. (4) We simulated prolonged/repeated bacterial exposure as occurs during tournaments by applying bacteria directly to silver-treated and untreated singlet material repeatedly over time. Test samples were taken at regular intervals to see if bacterial growth was inhibited by the presence of the silver nanoparticles. Bacteria were extracted, plated, incubated, and counted. Laboratory and practice. Collegiate Division III wrestling team. Wash-in silver would be considered effective if a statistically significant reduction in bacterial count was observed at 95% confidence. Wash-in silver reduced bacterial growth at low levels of contamination but did not significantly reduce bacterial growth at levels seen during contact sport competitions. This was true for all bacterial species and all fabrics tested. The environmental and potential health risks in using a wash-in silver nanoparticle laundry additive in the wash cycle for clothing worn by wrestlers outweigh any potential infection control benefits to these athletes. We do not currently recommend adopting wash-in silver treatment as part of the laundering regimen for wrestling programs until further testing of alternate methods of silver impregnation into sports fabrics has been investigated.

Improving the Quality and Safety of Fish Products with Edible Coatings Incorporating Piscicolin CM22 from a Psychrotolerant Carnobacterium maltaromaticum Strain.

The consumption of raw or smoked fish entails significant microbiological risks, including contamination by pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause severe foodborne illnesses. This study explores the preservative use of piscicolin CM22, a novel bacteriocin derived from the psychrotolerant strain Carnobacterium maltaromaticum CM22, in two types of edible coatings (EC): chitosan-based and fish gelatin-based. An initial in vitro characterization of the technological and antimicrobial properties of these ECs with and without bacteriocin was conducted. The efficacy of the edible coatings was subsequently evaluated through shelf life and challenge tests against L. monocytogenes in raw and smoked fish products. The results demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity, with the chitosan-based coating containing piscicolin CM22 being the most effective in reducing microbial counts and maintaining pH and color stability. Furthermore, in the challenge test studies, both ECs effectively controlled L. monocytogenes, showing significant reductions in bacterial counts compared to the controls in fresh tuna, salmon, and smoked salmon. The ECs containing piscicolin CM22 reduced Listeria counts by up to 4 log CFU/g in raw and smoked fish samples, with effective control in smoked salmon for up to 15 days at refrigeration temperature. While further research is required to fully assess their preservation potential, these findings strongly indicate that piscicolin CM22-functionalized edible coatings hold significant potential for improving the quality and safety of fish products.

To Compare and Evaluate Rotary and Manual Techniques in Biomechanical Preparation of Primary Molars to Know Their Effects in Terms of Cleaning and Shaping Efficacy.

The introduction of the rotary file system for children was a revolution in the field of pediatric endodontics. These files are cost-effective and help in consistent obturations with shorter instrumentation time. The present randomized controlled trial (RCT) was planned for a comparative evaluation of rotary and manual techniques in biomechanical preparation of primary molars to determine their effect in terms of cleaning and shaping efficacy, working time, quality of obturation, and postoperative pain. A randomized clinical trial study was conducted in 75 children aged 5-9 years requiring pulpectomy. Each tooth was randomly assigned to one of the three treatment groups: Kedo-S files, rotary K-Flex files, and hand instruments group. It was observed that Kedo-S files and rotary K-Flex files were more effective in cleaning and shaping of root canals compared to hand H/K files. The postbacterial count for hand files was higher compared to rotary files. Shorter working time was seen with rotary files (3.88-5.04 minutes) compared to hand files (15.68 minutes). Rotary files showed a reduced number of voids, with Kedo-S files in 92% of cases and rotary K-Flex files in 80% of cases. Apical seal and extent of fill were maximum with rotary files, having a grade C rating in 92% of cases. Kedo-S files and rotary K-Flex files showed a significant reduction in postoperative pain compared to hand files. The present study showed a significant reduction in bacterial count, working time, quality of obturation, and postoperative pain with rotary files. Moudgalya MS, Tyagi P, Tiwari S, et al. To Compare and Evaluate Rotary and Manual Techniques in Biomechanical Preparation of Primary Molars to Know Their Effects in Terms of Cleaning and Shaping Efficacy. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):864-870.

A promising approach utilising photothermal energy to disinfect the root canal system: An invitro investigation.

This study aimed to assess root canal disinfection through various irrigation protocols, including a novel photothermal system called 'LEAP'. Mandibular premolars were infected with Enterococcus faecalis and divided into five groups for different treatments: Group 1: standard needle irrigation; Group 2: passive ultrasonic irrigation; Group 3: GentleWave; Group 4: LEAP; and Group 5: Group 1 + Group 4. Microbial counts were measured before (S1) and after disinfection (S2) using colony-forming units (CFU) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Results revealed a significant reduction in bacterial counts for all groups (p < 0.05). While the percentage of dead bacteria near the canal wall (0-50 μm) did not differ significantly, at 50-150 μm, LEAP and SNI + LEAP exhibited significantly higher bacterial reduction than other groups (p < 0.05). The findings indicate that LEAP is comparable to existing irrigation devices in the main root canal and notably superior in tubular disinfection.

Clinical and microbial evaluation of mouthwash containing Achyranthes aspera and Trachyspermum ammi: A randomized controlled non-inferiority trial

ObjectivesAchyranthes aspera (Apamarga) and Trachyspermum ammi (Ajwain) have been used in many clinical conditions, and it displays valuable properties as an alternative to Chlorhexidine (CHX) in the management of gingivitis. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effect of Achyranthes aspera and Trachyspermum ammi (AA + TA) based herbal mouthwash, 0.2 % CHX, and placebo mouthwash on gingival health, plaque control and antibacterial activity against specific periodontal pathogens (Porphyromonas gingivalis and Tannerella forsythia) using quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR). MethodsThis was a randomized controlled non-inferiority trial involving 108 children with plaque-induced gingivitis who were randomly assigned to three groups of 36 children each: Group A, AA + TA mouthwash; Group B, CHX mouthwash; and Group C, placebo mouthwash. Gingival index and plaque index were recorded at baseline, 7th and 21st day. RT-PCR was employed to determine the bacterial counts of each plaque sample at baseline and after 21 days. ResultsAll three groups exhibited a gradual and significant reduction in both gingival and plaque scores from baseline to days 7 and 21. However, the placebo group did not demonstrate a significant difference in scores between days 7 and 21. Furthermore, a significant reduction in bacterial counts of P. gingivalis and T. forsythia was observed in the groups receiving CHX and AA + TA mouthwash after 21 days of intervention compared to the placebo group. ConclusionAA + TA mouthwash demonstrated non-inferiority in anti-gingivitis and anti-plaque properties compared to CHX, suggesting its potential suitability as an alternative to CHX when used in conjunction with mechanical plaque control measures.

Design and synthesis of unique indole-benzosulfonamide oleanolic acid derivatives as potent antibacterial agents against MRSA

The rapid emergence of antibiotic resistance and the scarcity of novel antibacterial agents have necessitated an urgent pursuit for the discovery and development of novel antibacterial agents against multidrug-resistant bacteria. This study involved the design and synthesis of series of novel indole-benzosulfonamide oleanolic acid (OA) derivatives, in which the indole and benzosulfonamide pharmacophores were introduced into the OA skeleton semisynthetically. These target OA derivatives show antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus strains in vitro and in vivo. Among them, derivative c17 was the most promising antibacterial agent while compared with the positive control of norfloxacin, especially against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in vitro. In addition, derivative c17 also showed remarkable efficacy against MRSA-infected murine skin model, leading to a significant reduction of bacterial counts during this in vivo study. Furthermore, some preliminary studies indicated that derivative c17 could effectively inhibit and eradicate the biofilm formation, disrupt the integrity of the bacterial cell membrane. Moreover, derivative c17 showed low hemolytic activity and low toxicity to mammalian cells of NIH 3T3 and HEK 293T. These aforementioned findings strongly support the potential of novel indole-benzosulfonamide OA derivatives as anti-MRSA agents.

Antimicrobial efficacy of two commercially available herbal products with and without ultrasonic activation in primary endodontic infections: A randomized clinical trial.

Effective irrigation is crucial for successful endodontic treatment. Traditional irrigants like sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) have been widely used, but there is a growing interest in exploring natural alternatives for their potential antimicrobial properties. The study aims to compare the antimicrobial efficacy of Neem, Bitter Gourd, and NaOCl, with and without ultrasonic activation in managing primary endodontic infections. Ninety patients were randomly assigned six groups (n = 15) Group 1: NaOCl, Group 2: NaOCl with passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), Group 3: Neem juice, Group 4: Neem juice with PUI, Group 5: Bitter gourd juice, and Group 6: Bitter gourd juice with PUI. Bacteriological samples were collected before (S1) and after (S2) shaping, plated on brain heart infusion agar, and colony counting was done after 24 h. Shapiro-Wilk test, one-way ANOVA, post hoc Tukey analysis, and paired t-test. All the groups demonstrated a significant reduction in bacterial count. Groups with PUI (2, 4, 6) demonstrated higher mean bacterial reduction than their counterparts without PUI (1, 3, 5). Neem and Bitter gourd juices, particularly when used with PUI, demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy comparable to NaOCl with PUI.

The effect of nano silver fluoride, self-assembling peptide and sodium fluoride varnish on salivary cariogenic bacteria: a randomized controlled clinical trial

ObjectivesTo compare the antibacterial effect of Nanosilver Fluoride varnish (NSF) varnish, P11-4 and Sodium Fluoride (NaF) varnish against salivary Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Lactobacilli.Methods66 patients aged 10–24 years old were randomly assigned to receive single application of NSF, P11-4 or NaF varnish. Baseline unstimulated saliva samples were collected before the agents were applied and S.mutans and Lactobacilli colony forming units (CFU) were counted. After one, three and six months, microbiological samples were re-assessed. Groups were compared at each time point and changes across time were assessed. Multivariable linear regression compared the effect of P11-4 and NSF to NaF on salivary S. mutans and Lactobacilli log count at various follow up periods.ResultsThere was a significant difference in salivary S. mutans log count after 1 month between P11-4 (B= -1.29, p = 0.049) and NaF but not at other time points nor between NSF and NaF at any time point. The significant reduction in bacterial counts lasted up to one month in all groups, to three months after using P11-4 and NaF and returned to baseline values after six months.ConclusionIn general, the antimicrobial effect of P11-4 and NSF on salivary S. mutans and Lactobacilli was not significantly different from NaF varnish. P11-4 induced greater reduction more quickly than the two other agents and NSF antibacterial effect was lost after one month.Clinical relevanceNSF varnish and P11-4 have antimicrobial activity that does not significantly differ from NaF by 3 months. P11-4 has the greatest antibacterial effect after one month with sustained effect till 3 months. The antibacterial effect of NSF lasts for one month. NaF remains effective till 3 months.Trial RegistrationThis trial was prospectively registered on the clinicaltrials.gov registry with ID: NCT04929509 on 18/6/2021.

Valorization of sesame seed coat waste: phenolic composition, antibacterial efficacy, and nanoemulsion encapsulation for food preservation.

The study highlighted the potential of sesame seed coat (SSC), typically discarded during sesame paste processing, as a valuable resource for valorization through extracting bioactive compounds. It examined the phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of SSC, and evaluated its antibacterial properties against foodborne pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Salmonella Typhimurium. Additionally, SSC underwent nanoemulsion coating, analyzed using dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy, to enhance its application as a natural preservative. The research specifically focused on incorporating SSC nanoemulsion into milk to determine its effectiveness as a preservative. SSC demonstrated considerable antioxidant activity and phenolic content, with catechin identified as the predominant polyphenol. GC-MS analysis revealed seven major compounds, led by oleic acid. Notably, SSC effectively inhibited L. monocytogenes in broth at 100 mg/ml. The application of SSC and its nanoemulsion resulted in changes to bacterial morphology and a significant reduction in bacterial counts in milk, highlighting its potential as an effective natural antibacterial agent. The findings of this study highlight the potential use of SSC as a valuable by-product in the food industry, with significant implications for food preservation.

Antimicrobial Efficacy of Simvastatin and Double Antibiotic Paste as Intracanal Medicaments: A Randomised Clinical Study

Abstract Introduction: Root canal debridement, irrigation and a microorganism-free environment are key factors in the success of root canal treatment. Intracanal medicaments are used to enhance root canal disinfection. Simvastatin is derived from lovastatin and is a semisynthetic medication. This study compares and evaluates the effect of simvastatin and double antibiotic paste (DAP) as an intracanal medicament in single-rooted teeth with apical periodontitis using colony-forming units (CFUs)/ml. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight patients with single-rooted teeth diagnosed with apical periodontitis were selected. Under aseptic conditions, patency was gained, sterile saline solution was deposited in the canal and the first sample (S1) was collected. Cleaning and shaping were then carried out following an appropriate technique depending on the configuration of the canal. After irrigation and biomechanical preparation, teeth were randomly assigned to two different groups, and the test intracanal medicament was applied to the root canals. Coronal openings were sealed with temporary restorative cement. The second sample (S2) was collected after 7 days. The samples obtained were checked for a reduction in the bacterial load. They were incubated aerobically for 48 h, and the CFUs were calculated. The Mann–Whitney U and Wilcoxon’s signed-rank tests were used to analyse the results statistically. Results: A significant reduction in bacterial count was present after administration of the intracanal medicament. On intergroup comparison, there was no statistically significant difference in bacterial decrease between the two groups. Comparatively, the mean reduction in the bacterial count was higher in the DAP group. Conclusion: It can be concluded that DAP and simvastatin were effective in the reduction of the bacterial count in single-rooted teeth diagnosed with apical periodontitis. However, DAP demonstrated a better performance in the reduction of bacterial counts.

Application of coliphage as biocontrol agent in combination with gamma irradiation to eliminate multi-drug-resistant E. coli in minimally processed vegetables

Biofilm formation is a rising concern in the food industry. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is one of the most important food-borne pathogens that can survive in food and food-related environments and eventually produce biofilms. This study suggested that both coliphages used were successful in preventing the creation of new biofilms as well as removing existing ones. Confocal laser scanning microscopy verified these findings. According to the findings, neither coliphage survived at 37 °C, but both remained stable at 4 °C and − 20 °C for extended periods of time. The study revealed that both coliphages demonstrated a greater degree of gamma irradiation resistance when compared to E. coli. The study’s results indicate that the implementation of a dual method, which incorporates gamma irradiation (1.5 kGy) and coliphage treatment, on various kinds of vegetables that were infected with E. coli, resulted in a significant reduction in bacterial count (surpassing 99.99%) following a 24-h incubation period. Combining gamma irradiation and the coliphage approach was significantly effective at lowering polysaccharide concentrations and proteins in the biofilm matrix. The results revealed that the pairing of gamma irradiation and coliphages acted in conjunction to cause disruptions in the matrix of biofilm, thereby promoting cell removal compared with either of the individual treatments. Ca+ ions strengthen the weak virion interaction with the relevant bacterial host cell receptors during the adsorption process. In conclusion, use of coliphage in combination with gamma irradiation treatment can be applied to improve fresh produce’s microbial safety and enhance its storability in supermarkets.Graphical

In vivo efficacy of pyochelin-mediated delivery of zingerone in Pseudomonas aeruginosa-induced peritonitis.

Aim: The efficacy of a pyochelin-zingerone conjugate (PZC) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa in vivo in a mouse model of peritonitis, as well as mode of action in vitro, were investigated. Methods & results: Intraperitoneal administration of PZC (220mg kg-1 b.wt.) resulted in a significant reduction in bacterial count in liver tissue by 2 log10 on the 4th day post infection. This was supported by reduced levels of inflammatory markers, liver function, inflammatory cytokines and improved histopathology. PZC showed its ability to disrupt the cellular membrane, increase permeability of the membrane and leakage of intracellular contents of P. aeruginosa, resulting in its death. Conclusion: The present study reports the hepatoprotective potential of PZC in an experimental model of P. aeruginosa-induced peritonitis.

Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of different combinations of calcium hydroxide against Enterococcus faecalis

BackgroundThe study aims to compare the synergistic antibacterial efficacy of different combinations of calcium hydroxide as an intracanal medicament against E. faecalis.Material and methodsThe current study included four hundred extracted human permanent mandibular premolar teeth. After complete chemo-mechanical preparation, the middle third of the root was sectioned using a rotary diamond disc and a total of 400 samples were obtained. The specimens were inoculated with E. faecalis for 21 days. After that, specimens were divided into five groups (n = 80) based on materials used for the disinfection of samples: Group I, calcium hydroxide alone; Group II, calcium hydroxide + 2% chlorhexidine gel; Group III, calcium hydroxide + 2% chitosan gel; Group IV, calcium hydroxide + 0.02% silver nanoparticle gel; Group V, calcium hydroxide + Bioactive glass S53P4. Dentin shavings from the apical third were obtained from the inner third of dentin were obtained using gates glidden no.1 to the apical depth, followed by no.2, 3, 4 and 5 analyzed for E. faecalis using the culture method. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for data analysis, followed by post-hoc Tukey's test for multiple comparisons of means to check the difference in bacterial inhibition between the groups.ResultsANOVA results revealed a significant reduction of bacterial counts in all the groups compared (p < 0.001). Intergroup comparison showed maximum bacterial reduction (p < 0.001) with calcium hydroxide + bioactive glass S53P4 compared with other groups.ConclusionSynergistic effect of calcium hydroxide showed better bacterial reduction compared to calcium hydroxide alone. Among the combinations evaluated, calcium hydroxide with bioactive glass, found to be most effective compared to other groups.

Evaluation of bacteriophage cocktail as biopreservatives against Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium in chicken meat

Salmonellosis is one of the most encountered foodborne illnesses worldwide caused by non typhoidal Salmonella enterica. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is one of the common serovars responsible for human and animal salmonellosis. As poultry meat acts as an important mode for transmission of human salmonellosis, bacteriophages-based decontamination of chicken meat was the objective of the study. Two bacteriophages were isolated against Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium and named as vB_StyS-PF79 and vB_StyS-RH55, respectively. The electron microscopy studies revealed that the phages belonged to the siphoviruses. The phages were found to be host specific and tolerated a wide range of temperature, and pH. Both the phages were observed to be sensitive to the chemical meat disinfectants viz. 2% lactic acid and 0.15% peracetic acid. Latent period of the phages vB_StyS-PF79 and vB_StyA-RH55 were found to be 20 and 10 min, and their burst size revealed ∼540 and 75 phages/cell, respectively. The phage, vB_StyS-PF79 alone could able to reduce bacterial count on day 1 in refrigerated poultry meat artificially spiked with S. Typhimurium. The phage cocktails yielded significant reduction in bacterial count on day 1 and 2 in artificially spiked poultry meat samples stored at 4 °C. Thus, the study concluded that the two isolated phages can be used as biocontrol agents against non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium of poultry origin, effectively.

The preventive/therapeutic effect of CO2 laser and MI Paste Plus® on intact and demineralized enamel against Streptococcus mutans (In Vitro Study)

BackgroundTo evaluate the preventive and therapeutic effects of CO2 laser and MI paste plus on intact and demineralized enamel surfaces and their impact on bacterial adhesion. Methods: 160 enamel slabs were prepared and randomly allocated into two main groups; sound and demineralized enamel (n = 80 per group), in which specimens were immersed in a demineralizing solution (50 mM acetic acid, pH 4.5) for 72 h at 37 °C. Each group was further divided into four subgroups (n = 20); the control (un treated surfaces), surfaces treated by CO2 laser, MI paste plus (Recaldent™, GC corporation/Germany), and those received a combination of CO2 and MI paste plus. Streptococcus Mutans biofilm was isolated, quantified, and then applied on treated enamel surfaces and incubated anaerobically for 24 h and then quantified by colony-forming unit (CFU). Meanwhile, surface changes were assessed by Vickers microhardness and Scanning Electron Microscope combined with Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Results: The combined use of CO2 laser followed by MI paste plus significantly (p < 0.000) enhanced surface microhardness of sound and demineralized enamel with a significant reduction in bacterial counts. However, each technique alone was beneficial as they exhibited higher microhardness with lower bacterial viability in comparison to the control. The treatment of demineralized enamel surfaces with MI paste significantly reduced the number of bacterial colonies with the presence of dispersed mineral deposits over the surface. ConclusionsThe combined use of CO2 laser and MI paste plus was effective as a preventive and/or therapeutic measures in enhancing surface properties of enamel and reducing the bacterial viability.

The Antimicrobial Activity of Curcumin and Xanthohumol on Bacterial Biofilms Developed over Dental Implant Surfaces.

In search for natural products with antimicrobial properties for use in the prevention and treatment of peri-implantitis, the purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of curcumin and xanthohumol, using an in vitro multi-species dynamic biofilm model including Streptococcus oralis, Actinomyces naeslundii, Veillonella parvula, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. The antimicrobial activities of curcumin (5 mM) and xanthohumol (100 μM) extracts, and the respective controls, were evaluated with 72-h biofilms formed over dental implants by their submersion for 60 seconds. The evaluation was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). For the data analysis, comparisons were tested applying ANOVA tests with post-hoc Bonferroni corrections to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of both extracts. With qPCR, statistically significant reductions in bacterial counts were observed for curcumin and xanthohumol, when compared to the negative control. The results with CLSM and SEM were consistent with those reported with qPCR. It was concluded that both curcumin and xanthohumol have demonstrated antimicrobial activity against the six bacterial species included in the dynamic in vitro biofilm model used.

Effects of Calcium Hydroxide Paste in Different Vehicles on Bacterial Reduction during Treatment of Teeth with Apical Periodontitis

IntroductionThis clinical study evaluated the antibacterial effects of calcium hydroxide associated with different vehicles during the treatment of infected teeth with apical periodontitis. MethodsBacteriologic samples were taken from 90 necrotic root canals of teeth with apical periodontitis before (S1) and after preparation with a rotary nickel-titanium instrument system and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite irrigation (S2). The teeth were distributed in 3 groups according to the intracanal medication used, which consisted of a calcium hydroxide paste in glycerin, camphorated paramonochlorophenol/glycerin (CHPG), or 2% chlorhexidine for 1 week, and then another sample was taken (S3). The frequency of bacteria-positive cases and the reduction of bacterial counts were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. ResultsSubstantial intracanal bacterial reduction was observed after preparation in the 3 groups (P < .001). After calcium hydroxide paste in glycerin medication, the number of bacteria-positive cases decreased from 20/29 (69%) to 17/29 (59%); however, the mean bacterial counts increased 8.4% from S2 to S3. Medication with CHPG reduced the number of bacteria-positive cases from 17/29 (59%) to 15/29 (52%), with a significant mean S2–S3 reduction of 71% (P < .05). In the chlorhexidine group, the number of bacteria-positive cases decreased from 21/30 (70%) to 17/30 (57%) after medication, with a mean S2–S3 reduction of 55%, which, however, was not statistically significant (P > .05). Intergroup comparisons showed no significant differences (P > .05). ConclusionComparison between the 3 calcium hydroxide pastes showed no significant differences in antibacterial effectiveness in the main root canal. However, only the CHPG paste showed a significant reduction in bacterial counts when postpreparation and postmedication samples were compared.

Decontamination of chicken meat using dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma technology: The effect on microbial quality, physicochemical properties, topographical structure, and sensory attributes

This study explored the decontamination efficiency of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) cold plasma using different gases and exposure times at low voltage (20 kV) in chicken breast fillets. Samples were treated by exposure to either oxygen or argon (for 3 and 5 min each), besides the control group, followed by examination for their microbial quality, physicochemical properties, topographical structure, and sensory attributes. Furthermore, the electrical characteristic of the plasma generation system was measured. All plasma-treated samples revealed a significant reduction in bacterial counts, shear force, and pH values, with no significant changes in thiobarbituric acid, total volatile base nitrogen, and cooking loss%. Sensory attributes significantly improved in all plasma-treated samples, except the appearance and color of oxygen-treated samples. This is the first study that demonstrated the impact of DBD plasma on the topographical structure of chicken meat which revealed the greatest destructive effect in muscle fibers and connective tissue in argon-treated samples, with subsequent improving the tenderness versus minimal destructive changes in oxygen-treated samples. Accordingly, DBD plasma treatment, especially with argon gas at 20 kV, for 3 min, is a prospective decontamination method that could be applied safely at poultry processing plants, without any adverse effects on chicken meat quality.

GC/MS Profiling and Ex Vivo Antibacterial Activity of Salvadora persica (Siwak) against Enterococcus faecalis as Intracanal Medicament

Introduction Salvadora persica L. (S. persica, Siwak) has been used for many centuries as oral hygiene tools, particularly in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of S. persica petroleum ether extract (SPE) as an intracanal bactericidal for endodontic treatment against Enterococcus faecalis. Calcium hydroxide Ca(OH)2 gold standard intracanal medicament was used for comparison. Methods The gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis was carried out to identify the components of SPE. First, the consistency of SPE was accomplished according to ANSI/ADA specification no 57. Forty-five single-rooted mandibular premolars were infected with that of E. faecalis suspension. Colony-forming units (CFU) were counted before the medicaments' application (CFU-1) and after seven days of their applications (CFU-2). Group I: SPE, Group II: positive control Ca(OH)2, and Group III: saline solution negative control. The microdilution method was applied to determine minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) of SPE. Results Thirty-two compounds were identified (89.09%), with main components of benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) (33.32%) and steroids (34%). CFU before and after using SPE and Ca(OH)2 recorded a statistically significant reduction in bacterial count (P=0.006) and (P=0.01), respectively. There was an insignificant difference between CFU after using SPE and Ca(OH)2 (P=0.210). On the contrary, comparing both medicaments with the negative control saline group resulted in significant differences, (P=0.001) and (P=0.007), respectively. Moreover, the equality of minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of SPE is recorded. Conclusion This finding could be referred to the high content of bactericidal BITC in synergism with other antimicrobial components, representing 70.71% of SPE. Thus, SPE is a good candidate as an intracanal medicament, which warrants further investigation.