Water-based Products Research Articles

A Burkholderia contaminans outbreak in an intensive care unit associated with contaminated bath solution: Control and microbiological findings

The Burkholderia cepacia complex comprises a group of bacteria with a growing threat as a contaminant of nonsterile solutions. We describe an outbreak of a Burkholderia cepaciacomplex involving patients at intensive care unit related to a no-rinse bathing solution (NRBS). We carried out patients, environmental and laboratory investigation performing analyses of cases, pulsed-field-gel electrophoresis and whole genome sequence (WGS) of isolates. We investigated 32 cases and 16 isolates that were identified as Burkholderia contaminans, belonging to 2 different clones. One clone (new ST2175) was identified in 6 sequences (4 from patients and 2 from bath cart samples) and for the remaining 10 isolates (7 isolates from patients and 3 from NRBS) we identified the ST762. The investigation demonstrated that NRBS was the source of the outbreak caused by ST762 clone of Bcontaminans. Early suspicion of a common source, rapid implementation of control measures, and laboratory support are vital in an outbreak investigation. We also highlight the role of WGS which was very important to conclude our investigation regarding environmental samples and bacterial typing. We highlight the need to regulate water-based products and the role of WGS for investigate environmental samples.

Adsorption of natural dye phycocyanin by means of Laponite®: Synthesis and characterization of the hybrid obtained

This work addresses the use of Laponite® clay in various applications, focusing on its adsorption capacity and improvement of properties in water-based products. It describes the synthesis of Laponite® hybrids with the pigmented cyanobacterium phycocyanin (PC) to evaluate the adsorption capacity of the dye. This research addresses the importance of Laponite® clay in improving rheological properties of water-based products due to its ability to interact with components in aqueous solutions. Laponite® can be effectively dispersed in water, enhancing the dispersion of other elements in solution and preventing aggregation of solids. The structure and properties of synthetic Laponite® are described, highlighting its use in the textile industry as an additive for pigments and the formation of gels. Experimentally, Laponite® is used to adsorb phycocyanin, a cyanobacterial pigment, with the aim of achieving maximum adsorption. A design of experiments with different experimental conditions, including pH, addition of silane and surfactant, is used. A detailed analysis of the characterization of the resulting hybrids is presented, including colour, total solar reflectance (TSR), thermal analysis (TGA), EDS, FTIR and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The results show successful adsorption of the pigment in all experiments, with adsorption percentages above 97%. The colour of the hybrids is evaluated and the total solar reflectance is analyzed, highlighting their importance in applications such as coatings and printed textiles. Infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction are used to study the structural properties of the hybrids. For future work, it is intended to be able to apply the hybrids obtained on an industrial scale in the colouring of textiles and plastic polymers.

True-solution-scale utilization of natural chlorophyll a in aqueous media through cooperative aggregation with phycocyanin

The challenge of applying chlorophyll(Chl) in aqueous media has been a significant obstacle to the diversified development of Chl a-related industries. This study presents the first report on the true-solution-scale utilization of Chl in aqueous media through the construction of chlorophyll a-phycocyanin (Chls-PC) composite nanoparticles. This study determined the optimal conditions for Chls-PC preparation: a composite ratio of 1:25, a solvent ratio of 1:4, and a stirring time of 1 h. Fluorescence spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope, and confocal microscopy confirmed Chl a and PC aggregation. Surface hydrophobicity and contact angle measurements showed that Chls-PC water solubility was similar to PC and much higher than Chl. Infrared spectroscopy, quantum chemical calculations, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and molecular dynamics simulations elucidated the water solubilization mechanism of Chls-PC both experimentally and theoretically. This research provides theoretical guidance for the development and production of water-based products using Chl as a raw material.

Coconut: Expanding avenues in processing and an exposition on non-conventional value-added products.

Coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) is a treasured tree of the tropics, with every part put to use. The edible portions are loaded with diverse nutrients and nutraceutical ingredients. While the unique mineral profile of the liquid endosperm, the low-glycemic inflorescence sap (neera) and the medium-chain triglyceride fraction of coconut oil are better recognized, other fractions such as the haustorium remain underexplored. Overall, it is evident that, globally, the present status of coconut value addition is conventional, limited to a handful of products, and novel products hold a promising scope. A massive fraction of global coconut production goes for culinary and religious purposes. In the article, value-added products from coconut are classified into conventional and non-conventional products, with the latter in focus. Based on the part from which it is collected, all products have been categorized as haustorium-based, inflorescence-based, kernel-based and water-based products. For each non-conventional product introduced, its production approach and unique application range are highlighted. Given its health-promoting capabilities, characteristic sensorial attributes, wide application range and technological advancements, coconuts are increasingly being recognized around the world, even in regions that do not cultivate them; this applies to non-food products as well. In the context of value-added products from coconuts, this decade has witnessed a surge in research and commercial interest considering the inclusion of coconut as an ingredient in several food and nutraceutical products. The future will certainly consider regulatory protocols and standards, better documentation of the health impact of coconut-based diets, and the sustainability of coconut production, processing and consumption. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

A benchmarking methodology for top-of-rail products: Carry distance and retentivity

Top-of-rail (TOR) products are used in railways to reduce wear and noise by providing an intermediate friction level and a positive creep curve. In addition to these general requirements, retentivity and carry distance are important for their effectiveness on the track. This study aims to determine these track performance parameters for three commercial TOR products. A contact simulator and portable tribometer were used to simulate track conditions. The results show that carry distance is the most limiting performance parameter of TOR products, especially for water-based products. TOR lubricants, on the other hand, caused a more significant drop in friction after application. A predictive model simulating product redistribution along the track was introduced for the best-performing product.

Development of a Carotenoid-Rich Microalgae Colorant by Microencapsulation

Dunaliella salina has been recognized as an excellent biomass source of carotenoid, which can be used as a natural orange coloring agent for food products. The most eco-friendly approach for extracting carotenoid is through supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, as it yields highly concentrated extracts while preventing pigment thermal degradation. However, there are limitations when a lipophilic extract is considered a food ingredient, in particular very difficult handling and low solubility in water-based products. The aim of this study was to develop a hydrosoluble form of a natural carotenoid-rich extract recovered from algae biomass within a biorefinery concept to be incorporated in aqueous-based food products. A two-step process was developed, starting with the emulsification of the supercritical extract into a mixture of maltodextrin and gum arabic, using soy lecithin as an emulsifier. The emulsification was followed by a spray-drying step. The impact of process variables on the encapsulation yield, efficiency, emulsion properties, and particle characteristics was studied. The resulting particles exhibited an intense orange color and good water dispersibility, facilitating uniform yellow coloring when incorporated into an aqueous-based product. Overall, spray-drying emulsions containing carotenoids derived from Dunaliella salina prove to be a promising strategy for the global market demand for natural colorants.

Fluoride Determination in Milk, Soy, and Water-Based Products Using Ion-Selective Electrode and Direct Measurement Technique: Single-Laboratory Validation, First Action 2022.05.

The AOAC Stakeholder Panel on Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals issued a call for methods for the determination of fluoride in infant formula. Standard Method Performance Requirement (SMPR®) 2014.016 was approved. A single-laboratory validation (SLV) of a fluoride ion-selective electrode (F-ISE) method was completed. Five powder samples were reconstituted, and hydrochloric acid was added to dissolve and release any bound fluoride. Samples included infant and adult nutritional products made from milk, whey, or soy, containing intact, partially hydrolyzed, or hydrolyzed proteins. Sodium citrate buffer was added to complex any interfering ions and adjust pH and ionic strength. Samples were analyzed in duplicate over 6 days using F-ISE. Results were calculated based on one of two least-squares (log fit) standard curves (0.02 to 0.1 µg/100 g or 0.1 to 2.0 µg/100 g). The LOQ for the method was determined to be 3.3 µg/100 g, which was far below the minimum analytical value of 30 µg/100 g required in the SMPR. The fluoride concentrations ranged from approximately 3 to 14 µg/100 g reconstituted powder and the intermediate precision, RSDr, ranged from 0.7 to 12.4%. Although all of these results are out of scope for the SMPR due to their low fluoride, it should be noted that the RSDr for formulas with fluoride concentrations ranging from approximately 9 to 14 µg/100 g ranged from 0.7 to 4.3%, and the RSDr for the two formulas with fluoride concentrations at or below the theoretical detection limit of the method were only approximately10 and 12.4%. Recoveries ranged from 94 to 98% for samples spiked at three levels with NIST-traceable standard solutions, meeting the SMPR. The F-ISE method meets the SMPR and was adopted as a First Action Official MethodSM. The fluoride ion-selective electrode method presented here is affordable and easy to run. The addition of acid to the samples dissolves any minerals which may bind the fluoride.

Bio Water Based Liquid Penetrants and Magnetics: a safer and cost-efficient solution for today

The objective of this paper is to present a study on the contribution of the superficial methods (Liquid Penetrants and Magnetic Testing (MT) liquids) in the NDT industry to the European Union and International targets of achieving climate neutrality. Bio water based liquid penetrants and MT liquids are available since some years in the NDT industry and are already widely used by medium and large companies worldwide, but their use has been limited in the past due to: higher costs, lower sustainability awareness, practical application process. (Please see previous contributions here: https://www.ndt.it/uk/documents.asp for technical papers presented on water-based liquid penetrants and MT liquids). Recently, the combination of higher oil and solvents prices internationally and an increased environmental consciousness by most Companies worldwide have turned the situation, so nowadays more and more Companies use safer Bio water-based products in their everyday work to achieve better operator and environment safety and lower overall costs. This paper will present effectively the advantages for the operator, the environment, and the Companies’ global costs of using Bio water based liquid penetrants and MT liquids in their NDT quality control process, through: a) A review of the updated applicable International Standards; b) An analysis of the safety and costs advantages of using Bio water based liquid penetrants and MT liquids compared to VOCs-containing alternatives; c) Real Companies case studies in the NDT industry; d) Examples of indications using Bio water based penetrants and MT liquids on metal pieces and on artificial defects as described in the International Standards.

1219. Outbreak Investigation of Burkholderia cepacia Linked to Contaminated Ultrasound Gel

Abstract Background This presentation will highlight how a multiuse hospital product was determined to be contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia (BCC) in the summer of 2021. The investigation began when there was a cluster of inpatients at one campus with blood cultures growing BCC. A multidisciplinary team was quickly assembled to investigate these cases. Swift action by the system team identified the source of the contamination, removed the product from use, and implemented evidence-based guidelines for safe ultrasound gel use. Methods The investigation began with thorough chart reviews. An epi curve was created to visually display the outbreak. A literature review was conducted to review previous outbreaks of BCC. It was determined that all the patients had undergone ultrasound procedures. The team immediately focused on multiuse bottles of ultrasound gel. Results Initial case investigation revealed a cluster of 9 patients growing BCC. The specimen source was primarily blood, but 2 patients had cultures from other sources. Ultrasound was the only commonality found. 37 opened and unopened product samples of 9 different water-based products were sent to the lab for testing. BCC was identified in 8 samples of non-sterile ultrasound gel. Immediate action was taken to rapidly recall the product system wide. Supply Chain quickly purchased and distributed a replacement product at all campuses. The manufacturer was contacted, the Department of Health was notified, and Infection Prevention alerted neighboring health care systems. Conclusion Risk assessments were done to assess the use of ultrasound gel and the cleaning of transducers within the health care system. System wide education commenced for the proper use of ultrasound gel and equipment to prevent patient infections. A total of 11 patients were identified with BCC during the outbreak. Whole genome sequencing linked 10 of the patient isolates to a national outbreak associated with contaminated ultrasound gel. This investigation emphasizes both the need for rapid mobilization in the event of an outbreak to prevent additional morbidity and mortality and the importance of assessing appropriate use of non-sterile ultrasound gel and equipment within healthcare facilities. Disclosures Brett Gilbert, D.O., F.A.C.O.I., Pfizer: speaker bureau.

Sporopollenin Microcapsule: Sunscreen Delivery System with Photoprotective Properties.

In recent years, the demand for high-quality solar products that combine high efficacy with environmentally friendly characteristics has increased. Among the coral-safe sunscreens, ethylhexyl triazone (Uvinul® T150) is an effective organic UVB filter, photostable and practically insoluble in water, therefore difficult to be formulated in water-based products. Oil-free sunscreens are considered ideal for most skin types, as they are not comedogenic and do not leave the skin feeling greasy. Recent studies reported that pollen grains might represent innovative drug delivery systems for their ability to encapsulate and release active ingredients in a controlled manner. Before being used, the pollen grains must be treated to remove cellular material and biomolecules, which could cause allergic reactions in predisposed subjects; the obtained hollow structures possess uniform diameter and a rigid wall with openings that allow them to be filled with bioactive substances. In the present work, pollen from Lycopodium clavatum has been investigated both as a delivery system for ethylhexyl triazone and as an active ingredient by evaluating its photoprotective capacity. The goal is to obtain environmentally friendly solar aqueous formulations that take advantage of both sunscreen and sporopollenin microcapsules’ UV protection with a relatively low cost, as these pollen grains are widely available.

Developing three-component ginger-cinnamon-cardamom composite essential oil nanoemulsion as natural food preservatives.

Plant-based functional lipid ingredients, such as essential oils, with antioxidant and antibacterial activities, have gained substantial attention in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical formulations due to the increasing disquiet about the risks of artificial preservatives. However, similar to other lipid-based bioactives, their application in water-based products is challenging owing to their low water solubility and high chemical instability, especially during exposure to light, heat, moisture, and oxygen. Hence, the incorporation of essential oils into water-dispersible nanoemulsion systems can effectively address these issues. Moreover, combining various essential oils can synergistically enhance their chemical and biological properties. Consequently, the objective of this study was to develop different composite nanoemulsion systems using ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom essential oils, which were considered individually and in binary and ternary combinations. Empirical models to predict the response characteristics based on the proportions of oil phase components were also derived. The numerical multi-goal optimisation analysis suggested that 10% ginger, 68% cinnamon, and 22% cardamom essential oil is the ideal oil phase combination to achieve nanoemulsions with the smallest average particle size and size distribution and the highest zeta potential and antioxidant and antibacterial activity.

EFFECT OF THE TYPE AND CONCENTRATION OF MIXTURE SURFACTANT AND PROTEIN ON THE STABILITY OF NUTMEG OIL NANOEMULSION

The application of essential oil is limited due to its low solubility, especially in water-based products. Using a nanoemulsion as a carrier is one way to overcome this disadvantage. Nanoemulsion is composed of the water phase, oil phase, surfactant, and cosurfactant. The use of a mixture of surfactants can affect the stability of the nanoemulsion. The aim of this research, therefore, is to find out the effect of the type and concentration of the mixture of surfactant and protein on the stability of nutmeg oil nanoemulsion. A Randomized Block Design (RBD) Factorial with 2 variables, which included the type (gelatin-span 60, gelatin-tween 80, span 60-tween 80) and concentration (20, 25, and 30 percent) of mixed surfactants and protein counts from the total oil was used with 1:1 comparison. The result showed there was a span of 60-tween 80 produced a nanoemulsion with the finest stability considering its creaming index value of 0%, the small droplet size of 95.88 nm, zeta potential value higher than -30 mV, and good uniformity less than 0.1 in polydispersity index. Gelatin-span 60 failed to produce an emulsion with nano-size due to its 2300.55 nm droplet size, zeta potential value less than 30 mV, and its uniformity in polydispersity index of more than 0.1.

A mass-balance-based emission inventory of non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) for solvent use in China

Abstract. Non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) are important precursors of ozone (O3) and secondary organic aerosol (SOA), which play key roles in tropospheric chemistry. A huge amount of NMVOC emissions from solvent use are complicated by a wide spectrum of sources and species. This work presents a long-term NMVOC emission inventory of solvent use during 2000–2017 in China. Based on a mass (material) balance method, NMVOC emissions were estimated for six categories, including coatings, adhesives, inks, pesticides, cleaners, and personal care products. The results show that NMVOC emissions from solvent use in China increased rapidly from 2000 to 2014 then kept stable after 2014. The total emission increased from 1.6 Tg (1.2–2.2 Tg at 95 % confidence interval) in 2000 to 10.6 Tg (7.7–14.9 Tg) in 2017. The substantial growth is driven by the large demand for solvent products in both industrial and residential activities. However, increasing treatment facilities in the solvent-related factories in China restrained the continued growth of solvent NMVOC emissions in recent years. Rapidly developing and heavily industrialized provinces such as Jiangsu, Shandong, and Guangdong contributed significantly to the solvent use emissions. Oxygenated VOCs, alkanes, and aromatics were the main components, accounting for 42 %, 28 %, and 21 % of total NMVOC emissions in 2017, respectively. Our results and previous inventories are generally comparable within the estimation uncertainties (−27 %–52 %). However, there exist significant differences in the estimates of sub-categories. Personal care products were a significant and quickly rising source of NMVOCs, which were probably underestimated in previous inventories. Emissions from solvent use were growing faster compared with transportation and combustion emissions, which were relatively better controlled in China. Environmentally friendly products can reduce the NMVOC emissions from solvent use. Supposing all solvent-based products were substituted with water-based products, it would result in 37 %, 41 %, and 38 % reduction of emissions, ozone formation potential (OFP), and secondary organic aerosol formation potential (SOAP), respectively. These results indicate there is still large potential for NMVOC reduction by reducing the utilization of solvent-based products and implementation of end-of-pipe controls across industrial sectors.

Determination of Value-Added and Contributing Organization in the Development of Coconut Water-Based Agro Industry

Agroindustry is one of alternatives to elevate the income, both community and country. Therefore, agrarian countries strives to develop the prospective agroindustry by utilizing their own natural resources. Indonesia is one of the world’s top coconut producers and one of its national largest producers are located in Indragiri Hilir, Riau Province. Not only coconut flesh processing, coconut water-based industry is widely found in Indragiri Hilir. The coconut water can be processed into high value-added products, such as nata de coco, candy, soy sauce and syrup. To evaluate its value-added of processed coconut water-based products, analysis of value-added is required to be performed. Moreover, to support the development of coconut water-based agro industry, the presence of supporting organization is also a critical point that should be taken into account. This study was aimed to determine the value-added of coconut water-based products and the contributing institution related to the development of coconut water-based agro industry. Determination of contributing organization was conducted descriptively using the AHP method through questionnaire distribution, interview and literature study. Seven respondents, consisting of academician, extension officer and staff from the local plantation office, were used in this study. Analysis of value-added was performed using Hayami method. The results of this study revealed that the coconut water-based product contributing the highest value-added was candy with IDR 69,980.8/kg. Other products showed relatively low value-added, such as syrup (IDR 23,674.2/kg), soy sauce (IDR 5,220.2/kg) and nata de coco (IDR 960.52/kg), respectively. Type of organization contributing the highest expectation weight (47.8%) resulted from the village-owned enterprise (BumDes).

Encapsulation of curcumin in CD-MOFs: promoting its incorporation into water-based products and consumption.

Curcumin has received considerable interest in functional food areas due to its variety of biological effects. However, its utilization is often limited by its insolubility and instability in aqueous solutions. Herein, curcumin was encapsulated in γ-cyclodextrin metal-organic frameworks (CD-MOFs) to achieve immediate release and rapid dissolution in water just by gentle stirring due to the dissociation of CD-MOFs. The released curcumin exhibited remarkably enhanced stability compared to its free form in aqueous solutions due to the inclusion effects of cyclodextrins. Besides, the impacts of temperature, light and gastrointestinal pH on the chemical stability of curcumin released from basic and neutral CD-MOFs were compared. The molar ratios of curcumin : γ-CD in basic CD-MOFs and neutral CD-MOFs were 1 : 1.7 and 1 : 9.8, respectively. Neutral CD-MOFs were more effective in retarding thermal and gastrointestinal degradation of curcumin because all curcumin molecules can form inclusion complexes with cyclodextrin. Basic CD-MOFs were more conducive to prolonging the half-life time of curcumin during photodegradation since its alkalinity darkened the color of curcumin solution causing lower light transmittance. Moreover, CD-MOFs exhibited higher loading and stability of curcumin due to their unique host-guest structure, than their pure cyclodextrin inclusion complex. Curcumin-loaded CD-MOFs having a fast-dissolving ability accompanied by the improved amorphous form stability of curcumin hold great potential as functional additives in instant food.

Measurements and analysis of non-methane VOC (NMVOC) emissions from major domestic aerosol sprays at “source”

Non-Methane Volatile Organic Compounds (NMVOCs) from domestic aerosol sprays are emerging pollutants and have substantial negative effects on human health and the environment. This study, for the first time, carried out quantification of the NMVOC emissions from off-the-shelf domestic aerosol sprays, at “source” in the UK. These aerosol sprays contain harmful organic compounds as propellants and products. The results showed that the cosmetic category (i.e. body sprays) have higher concentrations of NMVOCs with 93.7 wt% per can compared to households (i.e. air fresheners) with 62 wt%. Also, water-based products showed less NMVOCs in all analyses compared to solvent-based formulations. Direct replacement of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) propellants from conventional products with ‘clean air’ (i.e. nitrogen) showed the potential emission reduction of 50%. Hair spray products, however, have the highest ozone forming potential with about 105.1 g of Ozone per litre of the product compared to other domestic aerosol sprays. The level of global warming contribution of the selected aerosol sprays in the UK was measured to be 129.8 ktCO2e in 2018 and globally, this can be projected to be 3154.6 ktCO2e in 2020. Furthermore, NMVOC emissions contribution from the domestic aerosol sprays in the UK was measured as 61.2 kt in 2018 based on annual consumption of 520 million cans. Globally this can equate to 1437.6 kt based on the projected usage of 17.5 billion cans. Therefore, it is vital to expedite replacing LPG propellant with nitrogen in a drive for a ‘near-zero’ emission in aerosol industry. The results presented in this study can also be used to steer policy makers to the potentially brewing danger from an otherwise passive emission source.

Screening Method for the Quality Evaluation of Cannabidiols in Water-based Products Using Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry.

A sensitive, useful and preliminary screening method was proposed to quantitate the containable cannabinoids most commonly included in mineral water and gummi candy products, specifically cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THCA), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for quality evaluations. Based on the electrospray positive ion mode, the limit of detection and the limit of quantification values were 0.2 to 0.5 ng/mL and 0.8 and 2.0 ng/mL. Samples (0.5 g) were diluted by water/methanol (50/50), to which stable isotope internal standards were added; the recovery results appeared in range from 91.3 to 101.2%. This method was applied to evaluate CBD products (6 kinds) from the Japanese market. Our survey found obvious discrepancies between the labeling and the results were overserved in products. In addition, CBN, THCA, CBG, and CBDA were not detected in full-spectrum products that contained various cannabinoids that naturally occur in the cannabis plant. Thus, it is necessary to be able to verify the accurate concentration and impurity in various CBD products from the Japanese market as quickly as possible.

Research on Universal Design of Water-based Strength Training Fitness Products

The existing strength training fitness products have the problems of single-use group and function. First of all, this paper takes the universal design as the research criterion, finds out the design pain point of the product to realize the strength training generalization, and proposes to use water as the medium to solve the problems of different groups when carrying out strength training because the products can not meet the different training intensity, universal safety, and training parts. Then, the products can be generalized to different groups and their diversified training needs. Finally, the design scheme is analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively, and compared with the best strength training universal products on the market, so as to verify that water as the medium is feasible for effectively realizing the product generalization in different groups and diversified training needs.

Effect of molecular weight of polcarboxylate surfactant on properties of concentrated aqueous titanium dioxide dispersions

Universal colorants used for point-of-sale tinting or dealer tinting system usually have titanium dioxide dispersion as one of the essential colorants to adjust “chroma” of the shade. It is imperative that this colorant exhibits optimum performance in water-based and solvent-based products. The paper focuses on the effect of varying molecular weight of polycarboxylate-based surfactants on the properties of the aqueous dispersion.

1253. Healthcare-Associated Transmission of Burkholderia cepacia Complex Associated With Extrinsically Contaminated Nasal Spray

Background Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) species can contaminate medical devices and water-based products, resulting in outbreaks of healthcare-associated infections. In March 2018, we investigated a cluster of 20 patients with a sinus culture positive for Bcc seen at two affiliated ENT clinics in Oregon over a 2-month period, based on reporting by a laboratorian in a central laboratory external to the clinics.MethodsWe conducted an epidemiologic investigation to identify potential causes for an apparent outbreak of Bcc, including review of health records and microbiologic reports, site visits, staff interviews, and cultures of common equipment and products.Results20 patients (9 were female; age range 10 to 72 years, median age 54.5 years) had new positive Bcc cultures from the sinus. The absence of cystic fibrosis, immunosuppression or sinonasal polyposis in all patients, scant growth of Bcc in most cases with isolation of another organism in some, and the use of Bcc-directed antibiotics in a minority of patients suggested the presence of a contamination source. All patients had received lidocaine/phenylephrine (L/P) via multidose nasal spray atomizers prior to endoscopically-directed sinus cultures. Site visits revealed improper medication dispensing and storage practices (e.g., no expiration date for L/P stock, storage of L/P-containing atomizers at room temperature), and inadequate instrument reprocessing and environmental cleaning. Cultures of L/P in 2/2 in-use atomizers and 1/1 opened stock bottle, as well as swabs of 3/3 spray mechanisms, grew Bcc. Cultures of L/P from the unopened, refrigerated stock bottle, a flexible endoscope and a rigid endoscope did not yield Bcc. No negative clinical sequelae in these patients were reported.ConclusionContaminated multidose L/P nasal spray with Bcc resulted in nosocomial transmission at these clinics. This investigation highlights the important role of laboratorians in detecting Bcc contamination events that lead to colonization, and suboptimal reporting by clinicians in the outpatient setting. It also raises the question of how often such contamination events go undetected. Injection safety training needs to be broadened to “medication administration safety” training as one and only principles could have prevented this incident.Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.