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Wood JP, Silvestri E, Pirhalla M, Serre SD, Calfee MW, McConkey K, Boe T, Monge M, Aslett D, Abdel-Hady A. Fate and transport of viable Bacillus anthracis simulant spores in ambient air during a large outdoor decontamination field exercise. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2024; 74:464-477. [PMID: 38775962 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2024.2359122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
The Wide Area Demonstration (WAD) was a field exercise conducted under the U.S. EPA's Analysis of Coastal Operational Resiliency program, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Coast Guard. The purpose of the WAD was to operationalize at field scale aspects of remediation activities that would occur following an outdoor release of Bacillus anthracis spores, including sampling and analysis, decontamination, data management, and waste management. The WAD was conducted in May 2022 at Fort Walker (formerly known as Fort A.P. Hill) and utilized Bacillus atrophaeus as a benign simulant for B. anthracis. B. atrophaeus spores were inoculated onto the study area at the beginning of the study, and air samples were collected daily during each of the different phases of the WAD using Dry Filter Units (DFUs). Ten DFU air samplers were placed at the perimeter of the study area to collect bioaerosols onto two parallel 47-mm diameter polyester felt filters, which were then subsequently analyzed in a microbiological laboratory for the quantification of B. atrophaeus. The study demonstrated the use of DFUs as a rugged and robust bioaerosol collection device. The results indicated that the highest B. atrophaeus spore air concentrations (up to ~ 5 colony forming units/m3) occurred at the beginning of the demonstration (e.g. during inoculation and characterization sampling phases) and generally downwind from the test site, suggesting transport of the spores was occurring from the study area. Very few B. atrophaeus spores were detected in the air after several weeks and following decontamination of exterior surfaces, thus providing an indication of the site decontamination procedures' effectiveness. No B. atrophaeus spores were detected in any of the blank or background samples.Implications: Following an incident involving a release of Bacillus anthracis spores or other biological threat agent into the outdoor environment, understanding the factors that may affect the bioagent's fate and transport can help predict viable contaminant spread via the ambient air. This paper provides scientific data for the first time on ambient air concentrations of bacterial spores over time and location during different phases of a field test in which Bacillus atrophaeus (surrogate for B. anthracis) spores were released outdoors as part of a full-scale study on sampling and decontamination in an urban environment. This study advances the knowledge related to the fate and transport of bacterial spores (such as those causing anthrax disease) as an aerosol in the outdoor environment over the course of three weeks in a mock urban environment and has exposure and health risk implications. The highest spore air concentrations occurred at the beginning of the study (e.g. during inoculation of surfaces and characterization sampling), and in the downwind direction, but diminished over time; few B. atrophaeus spores were detected in the air after several weeks and following decontamination. Therefore, in an actual incident, potential reaerosolization of the microorganism and subsequent transport in the air during surface sampling and remediation efforts should be considered for determining exclusion zone locations and estimating potential risk to neighboring communities. The data also provide evidence suggesting that the large-scale decontamination of outdoor surfaces may reduce air concentrations of the bioagent, which is important since exposure of B. anthracis via inhalation is a primary concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Wood
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Erin Silvestri
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Michael Pirhalla
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Shannon D Serre
- Office of Emergency Management, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - M Worth Calfee
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Katrina McConkey
- Office of Emergency Management, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Timothy Boe
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Mariela Monge
- Homeland Security Research Department, Jacobs Technology, Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Denise Aslett
- Homeland Security Research Department, Jacobs Technology, Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Ahmed Abdel-Hady
- Homeland Security Research Department, Jacobs Technology, Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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2
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Richter WR, Weston BL, Sunderman MM, Willenberg Z, Ratliff K, Wood JP. Neutralization of ricin toxin on building interior surfaces using liquid decontaminants. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302967. [PMID: 38722908 PMCID: PMC11081333 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Ricin is a highly toxic protein, capable of inhibiting protein synthesis within cells, and is produced from the beans of the Ricinus communis (castor bean) plant. Numerous recent incidents involving ricin have occurred, many in the form of mailed letters resulting in both building and mail sorting facility contamination. The goal of this study was to assess the decontamination efficacy of several commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) cleaners and decontaminants (solutions of sodium hypochlorite [bleach], quaternary ammonium, sodium percarbonate, peracetic acid, and hydrogen peroxide) against a crude preparation of ricin toxin. The ricin was inoculated onto four common building materials (pine wood, drywall joint tape, countertop laminate, and industrial carpet), and the decontaminants were applied to the test coupons using a handheld sprayer. Decontamination efficacy was quantified using an in-vitro cytotoxicity assay to measure the quantity of bioactive ricin toxin extracted from test coupons as compared to the corresponding positive controls (not sprayed with decontaminant). Results showed that decontamination efficacy varied by decontaminant and substrate material, and that efficacy generally improved as the number of spray applications or contact time increased. The solutions of 0.45% peracetic acid and the 20,000-parts per million (ppm) sodium hypochlorite provided the overall best decontamination efficacy. The 0.45% peracetic acid solution achieved 97.8 to 99.8% reduction with a 30-min contact time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bailey L. Weston
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | | | - Zach Willenberg
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Katherine Ratliff
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States of America
| | - Joseph P. Wood
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States of America
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3
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Wood JP. Review of techniques for the in-situ sterilization of soil contaminated with Bacillus anthracis spores or other pathogens. Res Microbiol 2024; 175:104175. [PMID: 38141796 PMCID: PMC11192063 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2023.104175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
This review summarizes the literature on efficacy of techniques to sterilize soil. Soil may need to be sterilized if contaminated with pathogens such as Bacillus anthracis. Sterilizing soil in-situ minimizes spread of the bio-contaminant. Soil is difficult to sterilize, with efficacy generally diminishing with depth. Methyl bromide, formaldehyde, and glutaraldehyde are the only soil treatment options that have been demonstrated at full-scale to effectively inactivate Bacillus spores. Soil sterilization modalities with high efficacy at bench-scale include wet and dry heat, metam sodium, chlorine dioxide gas, and activated sodium persulfate. Simple oxidants such as chlorine bleach are ineffective in sterilizing soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Wood
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Homeland Security Research Program, 109 T.W. Alexander Dr., P.O. Box 12055, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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4
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Aslett LD, Calfee MW, Monge M, Abdel-Hady A, Chamberlain T, Baartmans R, Touati A. Evaluation of sponge wipe surface sampling for collection of potential surrogates for non-spore-forming bioterrorism agents. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae097. [PMID: 38609348 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
AIM Evaluate the efficacy of sponge wipe sampling at recovering potential bacterial surrogates for Category A and B non-spore-forming bacterial bioterrorism agents from hard, nonporous surfaces. METHODS A literature survey identified seven nonpathogenic bacteria as potential surrogates for selected Category A and B non-spore-forming bacterial agents. Small (2 × 4 cm) and large (35.6 × 35.6 cm) coupons made from either stainless steel, plastic, or glass, were inoculated and utilized to assess persistence and surface sampling efficiency, respectively. Three commercially available premoistened sponge wipes (3M™, Sani-Stick®, and Solar-Cult®) were evaluated. RESULTS Mean recoveries from persistence testing indicated that three microorganisms (Yersinia ruckeri, Escherichia coli, and Serratia marcescens) demonstrated sufficient persistence across all tested material types. Sampling of large inoculated (≥107 CFU per sample) coupons resulted in mean recoveries ranging from 6.6 to 3.4 Log10 CFU per sample. Mean recoveries for the Solar-Cult®, 3M™ sponge wipes, and Sani-Sticks® across all test organisms and all material types were ≥5.7, ≥3.7, and ≥3.4 Log10 CFU per sample, respectively. Mean recoveries for glass, stainless steel, and ABS plastic across all test organisms and all sponge types were ≥3.8, ≥3.7, and ≥3.4 Log10 CFU per sample, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Recovery results suggest that sponge wipe sampling can effectively be used to recover non-spore-forming bacterial cells from hard, nonporous surfaces such as stainless steel, ABS plastic, and glass.
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Affiliation(s)
- L D Aslett
- Jacobs Technology, Inc., 600 William Northern Blvd, Tullahoma, TN 37388, United States
| | - M W Calfee
- Office of Research and Development, US EPA, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, United States
| | - M Monge
- CSS, Inc., 10301 Democracy Lane, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22030, United States
| | - A Abdel-Hady
- Jacobs Technology, Inc., 600 William Northern Blvd, Tullahoma, TN 37388, United States
| | - T Chamberlain
- Jacobs Technology, Inc., 600 William Northern Blvd, Tullahoma, TN 37388, United States
| | - R Baartmans
- Intellectechs, Inc., 195 S. Rosemont Road, Suite 103, VA Beach, VA 23452, United States
| | - A Touati
- Jacobs Technology, Inc., 600 William Northern Blvd, Tullahoma, TN 37388, United States
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Lemieux P, Touati A, Sawyer J, Aslett D, Serre S, Pourdeyhimi B, Grondin P, McArthur T, Abdel-Hady A, Monge M. Use of semi-permeable bag materials to facilitate on-site treatment of biological agent-contaminated waste. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 178:292-300. [PMID: 38422682 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Clean up following the wide-area release of a persistent biological agent has the potential to generate significant waste. Waste containing residual levels of biological contaminants may require off-site shipment under the U.S. Department of Transportation's (US DOT) solid waste regulations for Category A infectious agents, which has packaging and size limitations that do not accommodate large quantities. Treating the waste on-site to inactivate the bio-contaminants could alleviate the need for Category A shipping and open the possibility for categorizing the waste as conventional solid waste with similar shipping requirements as municipal garbage. To collect and package waste for on-site treatment, a semi-permeable nonwoven-based fabric was developed. The fabric was designed to contain residual bio-contaminants while providing sufficient permeability for penetration by a gaseous decontamination agent. The nonwoven fabric was tested in two bench-scale experiments. First, decontamination efficacy and gas permeability were evaluated by placing test coupons inoculated with spores of a Bacillus anthracis surrogate inside the nonwoven material. After chlorine dioxide fumigation, the coupons were analyzed for spore viability and results showed a ≥6 Log reduction on all test materials except glass. Second, filters cut from the nonwoven material were tested in parallel with commercially available cellulose acetate filters having a known pore size (0.45 μm) and results demonstrate that the two materials have similar permeability characteristics. Overall, results suggest that the nonwoven material could be used to package waste at the point of generation and then moved to a nearby staging area where it could be fumigated to inactivate bio-contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Lemieux
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States.
| | | | - Jonathan Sawyer
- Jacobs Technology Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Denise Aslett
- Jacobs Technology Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Shannon Serre
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Behnam Pourdeyhimi
- The Nonwovens Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Pierre Grondin
- The Nonwovens Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Timothy McArthur
- Science Systems and Applications, Inc., Lanham, MD, United States
| | - Ahmed Abdel-Hady
- Jacobs Technology Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Mariela Monge
- Consolidated Safety Services, Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
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6
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Boening-Ulman KM, Mikelonis AM, Heckman JL, Calfee MW, Ratliff K, Youn S, Smith JS, Mitchell CE, Hunt WF, Winston RJ. The potential to manage releases of Bacillus anthracis using bioretention and a high flow media filter: Results of simulated runoff testing with tracer spores Bacillus globigii. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 354:120286. [PMID: 38354613 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The threat of bioterrorism has spurred research on the decontamination and containment of different agents. Anthrax [causative agent Bacillus anthracis (Ba)] is a disease that can lead to severe infections within human and animals, particularly when inhaled. This research investigated the use of spore-contaminated simulated runoff events into stormwater control measures (SCMs), which are designed to retain and improve the quality of runoff and may have the potential to filter and contain the spores. In this study, the effectiveness of a bioretention cell (BRC) and high flow media filter (HFMF) in Huron, Ohio, were evaluated for removal of Bacillus globigii (Bg) spores (a harmless cognate of Ba). Three 4-8 mm simulated runoff events were created for each SCM using a fire hydrant and Bg spores were injected into the runoff upstream of the SCM inlets. The BRC significantly (p < 0.001) outperformed the HFMF in reducing Bg concentrations and loads, with an average load reduction of 1.9 log (∼99% reduction) compared to 0.4 (∼60% reduction), respectively. A probable critical design factor leading to these differences was the infiltration rate of the media and subsequent retention time within the filters, which was supported by similar disparities in suspended solids reductions. Differences in spore removal may also have been due to particle size distribution of the HFMF, which was more gravelly than the bioretention cell. At 3 and 6 months after the-simulated runoff tests, soil samples taken from both SCMs, yielding detectable Bg spores within the top 15 cm of media, with increased spore concentrations where ponding occurred for longer durations during the tests. This suggests that forebays and areas near inlets may be hotspots for spore cleanup in a real-world bioterrorism incident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Boening-Ulman
- Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, 590 Woody Hayes Dr., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Anne M Mikelonis
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, 109 T.W. Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - J Lee Heckman
- APTIM Government Solutions, 1600 Gest St., U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Test and Evaluation Facility, Cincinnati, OH, 45204, USA
| | - M Worth Calfee
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, 109 T.W. Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Katherine Ratliff
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, 109 T.W. Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Sungmin Youn
- Department of Civil Engineering, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25755, USA
| | - Joseph S Smith
- Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, 590 Woody Hayes Dr., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Caleb E Mitchell
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, North Carolina State University, 3100 Faucette Dr., Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - William F Hunt
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, North Carolina State University, 3100 Faucette Dr., Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Ryan J Winston
- Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, 590 Woody Hayes Dr., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA; Department of Civil, Environmental and Geodetic Engineering, The Ohio State University, 2070 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
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7
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Verguet N, Mondange L, Nolent F, Depeille A, Garnier A, Neulat-Ripoll F, Gorgé O, Tournier JN. Assessment of calcium hypochlorite for Bacillus anthracis spore surface's decontamination. Res Microbiol 2023; 174:104053. [PMID: 36925026 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2023.104053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Contamination with microorganisms occurs in laboratories but is also of high concern in the context of bioterrorism. Decontamination is a cornerstone that promotes good laboratory practices and occupational health and safety. Among the most resistant structures formed by microorganisms are spores, produced notably by Clostridium and Bacillus species. Here, we compared six products containing four different molecules (hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, sodium and calcium hypochlorite) on B. anthracis Sterne spores. We first selected the most efficient product based on its activity against spore suspensions using French and European standards. Four products showed sporicidal activity, of which only two did so in a time frame consistent with good laboratory practices. Then, we tested one of these two products under laboratory conditions on fully virulent B. anthracis spores, during common use and after contamination through a spill of a highly concentrated spore suspension. We, thus, robustly validated a decontaminant based on calcium hypochlorite not only on its ability to kill spores but also on its effectiveness under laboratory conditions. At the end, we were able to assure a complete disinfection in 1 min after spillover and in 2 min for common use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Verguet
- Bacteriology Unit, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; CNR-LE Charbon, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France.
| | - Lou Mondange
- Bacteriology Unit, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; Yersinia Unit, Institut Pasteur, 75015 Paris, France.
| | - Flora Nolent
- Bacteriology Unit, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France.
| | - Anne Depeille
- Bacteriology Unit, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; CNR-LE Charbon, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France.
| | - Annabelle Garnier
- Immunopathology Unit, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France.
| | - Fabienne Neulat-Ripoll
- Bacteriology Unit, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France.
| | - Olivier Gorgé
- Bacteriology Unit, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; CNR-LE Charbon, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France.
| | - Jean-Nicolas Tournier
- CNR-LE Charbon, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; École du Val-de-Grâce, 75015 Paris, France.
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8
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Shang H, Zhao W, Zhang X, Wang Z. The potential of biomass-derived bio-liquid to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 from waste and its production-based life cycle assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 869:161833. [PMID: 36716876 PMCID: PMC9883070 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant increase in medical and infected domestic waste, greatly increasing risk of human infected with SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, it is critical to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 from solid waste to humans. Current commercial disinfectants present a high carbon footprint issue. Hence, we prepared a renewable wheat straw-based bio-liquid that can damage SARS-CoV-2 RNA and protein. The wet thermochemical extraction (WTE) bio-liquid, with total organic carbon concentration exceeding 1892 mg/L, could effectively damage the virus. However, dry thermochemical extraction (DTE) samples were not efficient due to their low content of effective compounds. The life cycle assessment showed that WTE bio-liquid production implies lower energy and environmental negative impacts than DTE. Moreover, the process by-product, char, can simultaneously reduce 3.1 million tonnes of global CO2 emissions while used as coal substitute. Yield of bio-liquid extremely exceed commercial disinfectant with just 1 % wheat straw utilisation, which meet the demand of processing solid waste. Further, their costs are significantly lower than commercial disinfectants, which are suitable for developing countries. Therefore, the antiviral bio-liquid produced from agricultural straw can be a new way to meet the needs of preventing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and resume the sustainable development of society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Shang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Wang Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xiaokai Zhang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, 215009, China.
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9
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Wei R, Tong H, Zhang J, Sun B, You S. Flow electrochemical inactivation of waterborne bacterial endospores. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 445:130505. [PMID: 36463735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Waterborne pathogens have the risk of spreading waterborne diseases and even pandemics. Some Gram-positive bacteria can form endospores, the hardiest known life form that can withstand heat, radiation, and chemicals. Electrochemical inactivation may offer a promising solution, but is hindered by low inactivation efficiencies resulting from limitation of electrode/endospores interaction in terms of electrochemical reaction selectivity and mass transfer. Herein, these issues were addressed through modifying selectivity of active species formation using electroactive ceramic membrane with high oxygen evolution potential, improving mass transfer property by flow-through operation. In this way, inactivation (6.0-log) of Bacillus atrophaeus endospores was achieved. Theoretical and experimental results demonstrated synergistic inactivation to occur through fragmentation of coat via interfacial electron transfer and electro-produced transient radicals (•OH primarily, •Cl and Cl2•- secondarily), thereby increasing cell permeability to facilitate penetration of electro-produced persistent active chlorine for subsequent rupture of intracellular structures. Numbering-up electrode module strategy was proposed to scale up the system, achieving average 5.3-log inactivation of pathogenic Bacillus anthracis endospores for 30 days. This study demonstrates a proof-of-concept manner for effective inactivation of waterborne bacterial endospores, which may provide an appealing strategy for wide-range applications like water disinfection, bio-safety control and defense against biological warfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Hailong Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150069, PR China
| | - Jinna Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Baiming Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150069, PR China
| | - Shijie You
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China.
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Oudejans L, Richter W, Sunderman M, Calfee MW, Mickelsen RL, Hofacre K, Keyes P, Lee SD. Passenger vehicle interior decontamination by low concentration hydrogen peroxide vapor following a wide area biological contamination incident. J Appl Microbiol 2023; 134:lxad039. [PMID: 36822624 PMCID: PMC10257935 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To assess low concentration hydrogen peroxide (LCHP) (H2O2) vapor dispersed with a home humidifier for its ability to decontaminate vehicle interiors contaminated with Bacillus anthracis surrogate Bacillus atrophaeus spores. METHODS AND RESULTS Efficacy of a vaporized 3% H2O2 solution was evaluated for liquid volumes, on/off vehicle heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operations, and temperatures that ranged from 5 to 27°C. Survival of the spores was assessed by quantification of remaining viable spores with efficacy quantified in terms of mean log10 reduction. Decontamination efficacy after the 6-day dwell time increased when the 3% H2O2 liquid volume was doubled, increasing from 4-of-10 to 10-of-10 nondetects (zero colonies counted using standard dilution and filter plating) inside the vehicle cabin. Recirculating cabin air through the HVAC system during decontamination decreased efficacy to 6-of-10 non-detects. While no 6-log10 reduction in viable spores was observed on the cabin filter with the cabin filter kept in place, a 6-log10 reduction was achieved after its removal and placement in the cabin during treatment. CONCLUSIONS Results from this study allow for informed decisions on the use of LCHP vapor as an effective decontamination approach for vehicle interiors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Oudejans
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | | | | | - M. Worth Calfee
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - R. Leroy Mickelsen
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Land and Emergency Management, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Consequence Management Advisory Division, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Kent Hofacre
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH 43201, USA
| | - Patrick Keyes
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH 43201, USA
| | - Sang Don Lee
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
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11
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Ratliff K, Abdel-Hady A, Monge M, Mikelonis A, Touati A. Impact of filter material and holding time on spore sampling efficiency in water. Lett Appl Microbiol 2023; 76:ovad005. [PMID: 36705271 PMCID: PMC10599418 DOI: 10.1093/lambio/ovad005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Bacillus anthracis and other environmentally persistent pathogens pose a significant threat to human and environmental health. If contamination is spread over a wide area (e.g. resulting from a bioterrorism or biowarfare incident), readily deployable and scalable sample collection methods will be necessary for rapidly developing and implementing effective remediation strategies. A recent surge in environmental (eDNA) sampling technologies could prove useful for quantifying the extent and levels of contamination from biological agents in environmental and drinking water. In this study, three commonly used membrane filtration materials (cellulose acetate, cellulose nitrate, and nylon) were evaluated for spore filtration efficiency, yielding recoveries from 17%-68% to 25%-117% for high and low titer samples, respectively, where cellulose nitrate filters generated the highest recoveries. A holding time test revealed no statistically significant differences between spore recoveries when analyzed at the specified timepoints, suggesting that eDNA filter sampling techniques can yield and maintain a relatively high recovery of spores for an extended period of time between filtration and analysis without a detrimental impact on spore recoveries. The results shown here indicate that emerging eDNA technologies could be leveraged for sampling following a wide-area contamination incident and for other microbiological water sampling applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Ratliff
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Developmen, Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | | | - Mariela Monge
- Consolidated Safety Services, Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Anne Mikelonis
- Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Office of Research and Developmen, Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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12
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Romero-Rodríguez A, Ruiz-Villafán B, Martínez-de la Peña CF, Sánchez S. Targeting the Impossible: A Review of New Strategies against Endospores. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020248. [PMID: 36830159 PMCID: PMC9951900 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Endospore-forming bacteria are ubiquitous, and their endospores can be present in food, in domestic animals, and on contaminated surfaces. Many spore-forming bacteria have been used in biotechnological applications, while others are human pathogens responsible for a wide range of critical clinical infections. Due to their resistant properties, it is challenging to eliminate spores and avoid the reactivation of latent spores that may lead to active infections. Furthermore, endospores play an essential role in the survival, transmission, and pathogenesis of some harmful strains that put human and animal health at risk. Thus, different methods have been applied for their eradication. Nevertheless, natural products are still a significant source for discovering and developing new antibiotics. Moreover, targeting the spore for clinical pathogens such as Clostridioides difficile is essential to disease prevention and therapeutics. These strategies could directly aim at the structural components of the spore or their germination process. This work summarizes the current advances in upcoming strategies and the development of natural products against endospores. This review also intends to highlight future perspectives in research and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Romero-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
- Correspondence:
| | - Beatriz Ruiz-Villafán
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Claudia Fabiola Martínez-de la Peña
- Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Microbiológicas, Instituto de Ciencias, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla 72592, Mexico
| | - Sergio Sánchez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
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13
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Richter WR, Sunderman MM, Fulton ML, Willenberg Z, Serre S, Oudejans L, Wood J, Calfee MW. Decontamination efficacy of common liquid disinfectants against non-spore-forming biological agents in soil matrices. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 133:3659-3668. [PMID: 36056613 PMCID: PMC9748868 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The purpose of this study was to evaluate decontamination efficacy, within three soil types, against Yersinia pestis, Burkholderia pseudomallei, and the Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis virus (VEEV). METHODS AND RESULTS One of three liquid disinfectants (dilute bleach, Virkon-S or Klozur One) was added to three soil types (sand, loam, or clay) and allowed contact for four pre-spike durations: 0, 15, 30 and 60 min. Y. pestis, B. pseudomallei, or VEEV was then spiked into the soil (10 microliters or approx. 1 × 107 CFU or PFU into 1 g soil) and decontamination efficacy assessed at post-spike contact times of 10 or 60 min at ambient environmental conditions. Across all soil types, sandy soil resulted in the least quenching to all three disinfectants tested as shown by sustained decontamination efficacy across all pre-spike and post-spike timepoints. Clay and loam soil types exhibited quenching effects on the hypochlorite and peroxygen based disinfectants (dilute bleach and Virkon S) and in general resulted in decreased efficacy with increased pre-spike contact time. The sodium persulfate (Klozur One) performance was the most consistent across all soil types and pre-spike contact times, resulting in greater efficacy with increased post-spike time. CONCLUSIONS Liquid disinfectants can provide high levels of decontamination in soil for both viral and non-spore-forming bacterial select agents. Hypochlorite and peroxygen based disinfectants used in soils containing higher organic content (loam or clay) may require extended contact times or re-application of liquid disinfectant, in as little as 15 min of application, to achieve a 6-log reduction. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY These results provide information for the performance of three disinfectants in soil against non-spore-forming select agents. These data may aid response decision makers following a biological contamination incident by informing the selection of disinfectant as well as the re-application time to achieve effective site remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Shannon Serre
- US Environmental Protection Agency, TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lukas Oudejans
- US Environmental Protection Agency, TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joseph Wood
- US Environmental Protection Agency, TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael W. Calfee
- US Environmental Protection Agency, TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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14
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Richter W, Sunderman M, Willenberg Z, Calfee M, Serre S, Wood JP. Effectiveness of formaldehyde in various soil types as a wide area decontamination approach for Bacillus anthracis spores. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277941. [PMID: 36399484 PMCID: PMC9674150 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the decontamination efficacy of liquid formaldehyde solutions for three soil types (sand, loam, and clay) against spores of Bacillus anthracis (B.a.) and Bacillus atrophaeus. Approximately 1 x 108 colony forming units were inoculated into each sample. Through a series of six bench-scale experiments, two concentrations and two volumes of liquid formaldehyde solution were then added to the soil samples and allowed to remain in contact for either 24 or 48 hours. Decontamination efficacy was assessed at either 22° or 10°C with or without lids atop the sample jars. Complete inactivation (no spores recovered from the soil samples, typically providing > 7 log reduction) of B.a. occurred in all soil types in five of the six tests, while complete inactivation of B. atrophaeus was achieved in all soil types for three of the six tests. The results demonstrated a higher probability of complete inactivation of spores for samples that were covered, samples that received the higher volume of formaldehyde, and those contaminated with B.a. Overall, the use of liquid formaldehyde solution (2.5-5%) was highly effective in inactivating entire spore populations (typically > 107 CFU) for both B.a. and B. atrophaeus in the soil matrices studied. Covering the soil after application would allow for less formaldehyde solution to be used without impacting the overall efficacy of the process. The data from this study may aid in the selection of appropriate decontamination parameters when using liquid formaldehyde for soil remediation. The data may also aid in the decision to use B. atrophaeus as a surrogate for B.a. when performing further decontamination studies using liquid formalin solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Richter
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | | | | | - Michael Calfee
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States of America
| | - Shannon Serre
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States of America
| | - Joseph P. Wood
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States of America,* E-mail:
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15
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Zhao P, Chan PT, Zhang N, Li Y. An Advanced Tape-Stripping Approach for High-Efficiency Sampling on Non-Absorbent Surfaces. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12571. [PMID: 36231872 PMCID: PMC9564726 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Surface sampling is a frequent task in laboratory work and field studies. Simple methods usually have low efficiency in collecting target substances from surfaces. This study developed an advanced tape-stripping approach for efficient sampling on non-absorbent surfaces. A film-forming solution, prepared using polyvinyl alcohol, is applied to the target surface, where it covers and engulfs the surface deposits and then solidifies into an elastic membrane as it is exposed to air. The deposits are collected by stripping off the membrane and re-dissolving it in water. This new approach exhibited an efficiency of 100% in collecting uniform-size microspheres from glass surfaces and extremely high efficiencies (>96.6%) in detecting selected target DNA materials from glass and stainless steel surfaces. In comparison, the common swab-rinse method exhibited an efficiency of 72.6% under similar measuring conditions. The viability of S. aureus during sampling using the new approach decreased as the ethanol concentration in the applied solution increased. Using a solution with a mass ratio of ethanol of 17.6% balanced the effects of multiplication and degradation of the S. aureus on glass surfaces during sampling. Overall, the proposed approach exhibits high efficiency in collecting living and abiotic matter from non-absorbent surfaces, complementing existing sampling methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengcheng Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Pak-To Chan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Built Environment and Energy Efficient Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Yuguo Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
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16
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Nguyen MCT, Nguyen HQ, Jang H, Noh S, Sohn Y, Yee K, Jung H, Kim J. Effective inactivation of Bacillus atrophaeus spores and Escherichia coli on disposable face masks using ultraviolet laser irradiation. J Anal Sci Technol 2022; 13:23. [PMID: 35789562 PMCID: PMC9243834 DOI: 10.1186/s40543-022-00332-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the widespread emergence of COVID-19, face masks have become a common tool for reducing transmission risk between people, increasing the need for sterilization methods against mask-contaminated microorganisms. In this study, we measured the efficacy of ultraviolet (UV) laser irradiation (266 nm) as a sterilization technique against Bacillus atrophaeus spores and Escherichia coli on three different types of face mask. The UV laser source demonstrated high penetration of inner mask layers, inactivating microorganisms in a short time while maintaining the particle filtration efficiency of the masks. This study demonstrates that UV laser irradiation is an efficient sterilization method for removing pathogens from face masks.
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17
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Inactivation of Bacillus subtilis by Curcumin-Mediated Photodynamic Technology through Inducing Oxidative Stress Response. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10040802. [PMID: 35456852 PMCID: PMC9026882 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10040802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic sterilization technology (PDT) is widely used in disease therapy, but its application in the food industry is still at the research stage because of the limitations of food-grade photosensitizers. Curcumin exhibits photosensitivity and is widely used as a food additive for its natural color. This study aimed to determine the effect of curcumin-mediated photodynamic technology (Cur-PDT) on Bacillus subtilis and to elucidate the anti-bacterial mechanism involved. First, the effects of curcumin concentration, duration of light irradiation, light intensity, and incubation time on the inactivation of B. subtilis were analyzed. It was found that Cur-PDT inactivated 100% planktonic cells with 50 μmol/L curcumin in 15 min (120 W). Then, the cell morphology, oxidation state and the expression of membrane structure- and DNA damage-related genes of B. subtilis vegetative cells were investigated under different treatment conditions. The membrane permeability of cells was enhanced and the cell membrane structure was damaged upon treatment with Cur-PDT, which were exacerbated with increases of treatment time and curcumin concentration. Meanwhile, the production of reactive oxygen species increased and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes SOD, GPX, and CAT decreased inside the cells. Furthermore, the Cur-PDT treatment significantly downregulated the mRNA of the membrane protein TasA and upregulated the DNA damage recognition protein UvrA and repair protein RecA of B. subtilis. These results suggested that curcumin-mediated PDT could effectively inactivate B. subtilis by inducing cell redox state imbalance, damaging DNA, and disrupting membrane structures.
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18
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Chinchkar AV, Singh A, Singh SV, Acharya AM, Kamble MG. Potential sanitizers and disinfectants for fresh fruits and vegetables: A comprehensive review. J FOOD PROCESS PRES 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.16495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ajay V. Chinchkar
- Department of Food Science and Technology National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management Kundli, Sonipat Haryana‐131028 India
| | - Anurag Singh
- Department of Food Science and Technology National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management Kundli, Sonipat Haryana‐131028 India
| | - Sukh Veer Singh
- Department of Food Science and Technology National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management Kundli, Sonipat Haryana‐131028 India
| | | | - Meenatai G. Kamble
- Department of Food Science and Technology National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management Kundli, Sonipat Haryana‐131028 India
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19
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Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Paeniclostridium sordellii in Hospital Settings. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 11:antibiotics11010038. [PMID: 35052916 PMCID: PMC8772839 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11010038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of clostridia strains in a hospital environment in Algeria and to evaluate their antimicrobial susceptibility to antibiotics and biocides. (2) Methods: Five hundred surface samples were collected from surfaces in the intensive care unit and surgical wards in the University Hospital of Tlemcen, Algeria. Bacterial identification was carried out using MALDI-TOF-MS, and then the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of various antimicrobial agents were determined by the E-test method. P. sordellii toxins were searched by enzymatic and PCR assays. Seven products intended for daily disinfection in the hospitals were tested against Clostridium spp. spore collections. (3) Results: Among 100 isolates, 90 P. sordellii were identified, and all strains were devoid of lethal and hemorrhagic toxin genes. Beta-lactam, linezolid, vancomycin, tigecycline, rifampicin, and chloramphenicol all proved effective against isolated strains. Among all strains tested, the spores of P. sordellii exhibited remarkable resistance to the tested biocides compared to other Clostridium species. The (chlorine-based 0.6%, 30 min), (glutaraldehyde solution 2.5%, 30 min), and (hydrogen peroxide/peracetic acid 3%, 15 min) products achieved the required reduction in spores. (4) Conclusions: Our hospital’s current cleaning and disinfection methods need to be optimized to effectively remove spores from caregivers’ hands, equipment, and surfaces.
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20
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Nguyen MCT, Nguyen HQ, Jang H, Noh S, Lee SY, Jang KS, Lee J, Sohn Y, Yee K, Jung H, Kim J. Sterilization effects of UV laser irradiation on Bacillus atrophaeus spore viability, structure, and proteins. Analyst 2021; 146:7682-7692. [PMID: 34812439 DOI: 10.1039/d1an01717a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Bacillus spores are highly resistant to toxic chemicals and extreme environments. Because some Bacillus species threaten public health, spore inactivation techniques have been intensively investigated. We exposed Bacillus atrophaeus spores to a 266 nm Nd:YVO4 laser at a laser power of 1 W and various numbers of scans. As a result, the UV laser reduced the viability of Bacillus atrophaeus spores. Although the outer coat of spores remained intact after UV laser irradiation of 720 scans, damage inside the spores was observed. Spore proteins were identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry during the course of UV laser irradiation. Photochemical and photothermal processes are believed to be involved in the UV laser sterilization of Bacillus spores. Our findings suggest that a UV laser is capable of sterilizing Bacillus atrophaeus spores.
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Affiliation(s)
- My-Chi Thi Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Huu-Quang Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hanbyeol Jang
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Sojung Noh
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Yeon Lee
- Department of Physics and Institute of Quantum Systems, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Soon Jang
- Biomedical Omics Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaebeom Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.,Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngku Sohn
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.,Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kiju Yee
- Department of Physics and Institute of Quantum Systems, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Heesoo Jung
- Chem-Bio Technology Center, Agency for Defense Development (ADD), Yuseong P.O. Box 35, Daejeon, 34186, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jeongkwon Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.,Graduate School of New Drug Discovery and Development, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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21
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Choi YW, Sunderman MM, McCauley MW, Richter WR, Willenberg ZJ, Wood J, Serre S, Mickelsen L, Willison S, Rupert R, Muñiz-Ortiz JG, Casey S, Calfee MW. Decontamination of Bacillus Spores with Formaldehyde Vapor under Varied Environmental Conditions. APPLIED BIOSAFETY 2021; 26:139-53. [PMID: 32982605 PMCID: PMC7511015 DOI: 10.1089/apb.21.926975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction This study investigated formaldehyde decontamination efficacy against dried Bacillus spores on porous and non-porous test surfaces, under various environmental conditions. This knowledge will help responders determine effective formaldehyde exposure parameters to decontaminate affected spaces following a biological agent release. Methods Prescribed masses of paraformaldehyde or formalin were sublimated or evaporated, respectively, to generate formaldehyde vapor within a bench-scale test chamber. Adsorbent cartridges were used to measure formaldehyde vapor concentrations in the chamber at pre-determined times. A validated method was used to extract the cartridges and analyze for formaldehyde via liquid chromatography. Spores of Bacillus globigii, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Bacillus anthracis were inoculated and dried onto porous bare pine wood and non-porous painted concrete material coupons. A series of tests was conducted where temperature, relative humidity, and formaldehyde concentration were varied, to determine treatment efficacy outside of conditions where this decontaminant is well-characterized (laboratory temperature and humidity and 12 mg/L theoretical formaldehyde vapor concentration) to predict decontamination efficacy in applications that may arise following a biological incident. Results Low temperature trials (approximately 10°C) resulted in decreased formaldehyde air concentrations throughout the 48-hour time-course when compared with formaldehyde concentrations collected in the ambient temperature trials (approximately 22°C). Generally, decontamination efficacy on wood was lower for all three spore types compared with painted concrete. Also, higher recoveries resulted from painted concrete compared to wood, consistent with historical data on these materials. The highest decontamination efficacies were observed on the spores subjected to the longest exposures (48 hours) on both materials, with efficacies that gradually decreased with shorter exposures. Adsorption or absorption of the formaldehyde vapor may have been a factor, especially during the low temperature trials, resulting in less available formaldehyde in the air when measured. Conclusion Environmental conditions affect formaldehyde concentrations in the air and thereby affect decontamination efficacy. Efficacy is also impacted by the material with which the contaminants are in contact.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Joseph Wood
- US Environmental Protection Agency, TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Shannon Serre
- US Environmental Protection Agency, TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Leroy Mickelsen
- US Environmental Protection Agency, TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Rich Rupert
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 3, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Sara Casey
- United Kingdom, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, CBRN Recovery Team, Stafford, England
| | - M Worth Calfee
- US Environmental Protection Agency, TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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22
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Wood J, Touati A, Abdel-Hady A, Aslett D, Delafield F, Calfee W, Silvestri E, Serre S, Mickelsen L, Tomlinson C, Mikelonis A. Decontamination of soil contaminated at the surface with Bacillus anthracis spores using dry thermal treatment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 280:111684. [PMID: 33303252 PMCID: PMC7899236 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In the event of a large, aerosol release of Bacillus anthracis spores in a major metropolitan area, soils and other outdoor materials may become contaminated with the biological agent. A study was conducted to assess the in-situ remediation of soil using a dry thermal treatment approach to inactivate a B. anthracis spore surrogate inoculated into soil samples. The study was conducted in two phases, using loam, clay and sand-based soils, as well as biological indicators and spore-inoculated stainless-steel coupons. Initial experiments were performed in an environmental test chamber with temperatures controlled between 80 and 110 °C, with and without added humidity, and with contact times ranging from 4 h to 7 weeks. Tests were then scaled up to assess the thermal inactivation of spores in small soil columns, in which a heating plate set to 141 °C was applied to the soil surface. These column tests were conducted to assess time requirements to inactivate spores as a function of soil depth and soil type. Results from the initial phase of testing showed that increasing the temperature and relative humidity reduced the time requirements to achieve samples in which no surrogate spores were detected. For the test at 80 °C with no added humidity, 49 days were required to achieve soil samples with no spores detected in clay and loam. At 110 °C, 24 h were required to achieve samples in which no spores were detected. In the column tests, no spores were detected at the 2.5 cm depth at four days and at the 5.1 cm depth at 21 days, for two of the three soils. The experiments described in the study demonstrate the feasibility of using dry thermal techniques to decontaminate soils that have been surficially contaminated with B. anthracis spores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Wood
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | | | | | - Denise Aslett
- Jacobs Technology, Inc, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Worth Calfee
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Erin Silvestri
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Shannon Serre
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Emergency Management, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Leroy Mickelsen
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Emergency Management, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Christine Tomlinson
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Emergency Management, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Anne Mikelonis
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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23
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Francés-Monerris A, Hognon C, Douki T, Monari A. Photoinduced DNA Lesions in Dormant Bacteria: The Peculiar Route Leading to Spore Photoproducts Characterized by Multiscale Molecular Dynamics*. Chemistry 2020; 26:14236-14241. [PMID: 32597544 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202002484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Some bacterial species enter a dormant state in the form of spores to resist to unfavorable external conditions. Spores are resistant to a wide series of stress agents, including UV radiation, and can last for tens to hundreds of years. Due to the suspension of biological functions, such as DNA repair, they accumulate DNA damage upon exposure to UV radiation. Differently from active organisms, the most common DNA photoproducts in spores are not cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, but rather the so-called spore photoproducts. This noncanonical photochemistry results from the dry state of DNA and its binding to small, acid-soluble proteins that drastically modify the structure and photoreactivity of the nucleic acid. Herein, multiscale molecular dynamics simulations, including extended classical molecular dynamics and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics based dynamics, are used to elucidate the coupling of electronic and structural factors that lead to this photochemical outcome. In particular, the well-described impact of the peculiar DNA environment found in spores on the favored formation of the spore photoproduct, given the small free energy barrier found for this path, is rationalized. Meanwhile, the specific organization of spore DNA precludes the photochemical path that leads to cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Francés-Monerris
- Université de Lorraine and CNRS, LPCT UMR 7019, 54000, Nancy, France
- Departament de Química Física, Universitat de València, 46100, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Cécilia Hognon
- Université de Lorraine and CNRS, LPCT UMR 7019, 54000, Nancy, France
- Université de Lorraine and CNRS, CRAN UMR 7039, 54000, Nancy, France
| | - Thierry Douki
- SyMMES, CEA, CNRS, IRIG, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Antonio Monari
- Université de Lorraine and CNRS, LPCT UMR 7019, 54000, Nancy, France
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24
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Wood JP, Archer J, Calfee MW, Serre S, Mickelsen L, Mikelonis A, Oudejans L, Hu M, Hurst S, Rastogi VK. Inactivation of Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus atrophaeus spores on different surfaces with ultraviolet light produced with a low-pressure mercury vapor lamp or light emitting diodes. J Appl Microbiol 2020; 131:2257-2269. [PMID: 32692423 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To obtain quantitative efficacy data of two ultraviolet light (UVC) technologies for surface inactivation of Bacillus anthracis Ames and Bacillus atrophaeus spores. METHODS AND RESULTS Spores were deposited onto test coupons and controls of four different materials, via liquid suspension or aerosol deposition. The test coupons were then exposed to UVC light from either a low-pressure mercury vapor lamp or a system comprised of light emitting diodes, with a range of dosages. Positive controls were held at ambient conditions and not exposed to UVC light. Following exposure to UVC, spores were recovered from the coupons and efficacy was quantified in terms of log10 reduction (LR) in the number of viable spores compared to that from positive controls. CONCLUSIONS Decontamination efficacy varied by material and UVC dosage (efficacy up to 5·7 LR was demonstrated). There was no statistical difference in efficacy between the two species or between inoculation methods. Efficacy improved for the LED lamp at lower relative humidity, but this effect was not observed with the mercury vapor lamp. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This study will be useful in determining whether UVC could be used for the inactivation of B. anthracis spores on different surface types.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Wood
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - J Archer
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - M W Calfee
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - S Serre
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Land and Emergency Management, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - L Mickelsen
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Land and Emergency Management, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - A Mikelonis
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - L Oudejans
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - M Hu
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.,Oak Ridge Associated Universities, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - S Hurst
- Excet Inc., Springfield, VA, USA
| | - V K Rastogi
- U.S. Army Chemical Biological Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
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25
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Choi YW, Sunderman MM, McCauley MW, Richter WR, Willenberg ZJ, Wood J, Serre S, Mickelsen L, Willison S, Rupert R, Ortiz JGM, Casey S, Calfee MW. Decontamination of Bacillus Spores with Formaldehyde Vapor Under Varied Environmental Conditions. APPLIED BIOSAFETY 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/1535676020926975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: This effort investigated formaldehyde vapor characteristics under various environmental conditions by the analyses of air samples collected over a time-course. This knowledge will help responders achieve desired formaldehyde exposure parameters for decontamination of affected spaces after a biological contamination incident. Methods: Prescribed masses of paraformaldehyde and formalin were sublimated or evaporated, respectively, to generate formaldehyde vapor. Adsorbent cartridges were used to collect air samples from the test chamber at predetermined times. A validated method was used to extract the cartridges and analyze for formaldehyde via liquid chromatography. In addition, material demand for the formaldehyde was evaluated by inclusion of arrays of Plexiglas panels in the test chamber to determine the effect of varied surface areas within the test chamber. Temperature was controlled with a circulating water bath connected to a radiator and fan inside the chamber. Relative humidity was controlled with humidity fixed-point salt solutions and water vapor generated from evaporated water. Results: Low temperature trials (approximately 10°C) resulted in decreased formaldehyde air concentrations throughout the 48-hour time-course when compared with formaldehyde concentrations in the ambient temperature trials (approximately 22°C). The addition of clear Plexiglas panels to increase the surface area of the test chamber interior resulted in appreciable decreases of formaldehyde air concentration when compared to an empty test chamber. Conclusion: This work has shown that environmental variables and surface-to-volume ratios in the decontaminated space may affect the availability of formaldehyde in the air and, therefore, may affect decontamination effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Joseph Wood
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Shannon Serre
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Leroy Mickelsen
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Rich Rupert
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 3, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Sara Casey
- Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, CBRN Recovery Team, Stafford, UK
| | - M. Worth Calfee
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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26
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Wood JP, Wendling M, Richter W, Rogers J. The use of ozone gas for the inactivation of Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus subtilis spores on building materials. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233291. [PMID: 32437373 PMCID: PMC7241793 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A study was conducted to assess the efficacy of ozone gas in inactivating spores of both Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus subtilis inoculated onto six building materials (glass, wood, carpet, laminate, galvanized metal, and wallboard paper). Testing conditions consisted of ozone gas concentrations ranging from 7,000-12,000 parts per million (ppm), contact times from 4 to 12 h, and two relative humidity (RH) levels of 75 and 85%. Results showed that increasing the ozone concentration, contact time, and RH generally increased decontamination efficacy. The materials in which the highest decontamination efficacy was achieved for B. anthracis spores were wallboard paper, carpet, and wood with ≥ 6 log10 reduction (LR) occurring with 9,800 ppm ozone, 85% RH, for 6 h. The laminate and galvanized metal materials were generally more difficult to decontaminate, requiring 12,000 ppm ozone, 85% RH, and 9-12 h contact time to achieve ≥6 LR of B. anthracis. Lastly, overall, there were no significant differences in decontamination efficacy between the two species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P. Wood
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Homeland Security Research Program, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Morgan Wendling
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - William Richter
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - James Rogers
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
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27
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Taylor W, Camilleri E, Craft DL, Korza G, Granados MR, Peterson J, Szczpaniak R, Weller SK, Moeller R, Douki T, Mok WWK, Setlow P. DNA Damage Kills Bacterial Spores and Cells Exposed to 222-Nanometer UV Radiation. Appl Environ Microbiol 2020; 86:AEM.03039-19. [PMID: 32033948 PMCID: PMC7117916 DOI: 10.1128/aem.03039-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined the microbicidal activity of 222-nm UV radiation (UV222), which is potentially a safer alternative to the 254-nm UV radiation (UV254) that is often used for surface decontamination. Spores and/or growing and stationary-phase cells of Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Clostridioides difficile and a herpesvirus were all killed or inactivated by UV222 and at lower fluences than with UV254B. subtilis spores and cells lacking the major DNA repair protein RecA were more sensitive to UV222, as were spores lacking their DNA-protective proteins, the α/β-type small, acid-soluble spore proteins. The spore cores' large amount of Ca2+-dipicolinic acid (∼25% of the core dry weight) also protected B. subtilis and C. difficile spores against UV222, while spores' proteinaceous coat may have given some slight protection against UV222 Survivors among B. subtilis spores treated with UV222 acquired a large number of mutations, and this radiation generated known mutagenic photoproducts in spore and cell DNA, primarily cyclobutane-type pyrimidine dimers in growing cells and an α-thyminyl-thymine adduct termed the spore photoproduct (SP) in spores. Notably, the loss of a key SP repair protein markedly decreased spore UV222 resistance. UV222-treated B. subtilis spores germinated relatively normally, and the generation of colonies from these germinated spores was not salt sensitive. The latter two findings suggest that UV222 does not kill spores by general protein damage, and thus, the new results are consistent with the notion that DNA damage is responsible for the killing of spores and cells by UV222IMPORTANCE Spores of a variety of bacteria are resistant to common decontamination agents, and many of them are major causes of food spoilage and some serious human diseases, including anthrax caused by spores of Bacillus anthracis Consequently, there is an ongoing need for efficient methods for spore eradication, in particular methods that have minimal deleterious effects on people or the environment. UV radiation at 254 nm (UV254) is sporicidal and commonly used for surface decontamination but can cause deleterious effects in humans. Recent work, however, suggests that 222-nm UV (UV222) may be less harmful to people than UV254 yet may still kill bacteria and at lower fluences than UV254 The present work has identified the damage by UV222 that leads to the killing of growing cells and spores of some bacteria, many of which are human pathogens, and UV222 also inactivates a herpesvirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willie Taylor
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Emily Camilleri
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - D Levi Craft
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - George Korza
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Maria Rocha Granados
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jaliyah Peterson
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Renata Szczpaniak
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sandra K Weller
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ralf Moeller
- Space Microbiology Research Group, Radiation Biology Department, Institute for Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thierry Douki
- Universite Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, INAC-SYMMBEST, Grenoble, France
| | - Wendy W K Mok
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Peter Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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28
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Wood JP, Richter W, Sunderman M, Calfee MW, Serre S, Mickelsen L. Evaluating the Environmental Persistence and Inactivation of MS2 Bacteriophage and the Presumed Ebola Virus Surrogate Phi6 Using Low Concentration Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:3581-3590. [PMID: 32073830 PMCID: PMC7371032 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b06034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Ebola virus (EBOV) disease outbreaks, as well as the ability of EBOV to persist in the environment under certain conditions, highlight the need to develop effective decontamination techniques against the virus. We evaluated the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide vapor (HPV) to inactivate MS2 and Phi6 bacteriophages, the latter a recommended surrogate for EBOV. The phages were inoculated onto six material types with and without the presence of whole human blood. The inoculated materials were then exposed to either a high or low concentration of HPV for various elapsed times. The phages were also recovered from positive controls at these same elapsed times, to assess environmental persistence and decontamination efficacy. Low concentration hydrogen peroxide vapor (LCHP; 25 ppm) was effective against both phages on all materials without the presence of blood at 2 h. LCHP was ineffective against the phages in the presence of blood, on all materials, even with a 3-day contact time. Higher concentrations of HPV (>400 ppm) with contact times of 24-32 h achieved approximately 2-6 log reduction of the phages in the presence of blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P. Wood
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Homeland Security Research Center, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - William Richter
- Battelle Memorial Institute, 505 King Avenue, Columbus OH, 43201
| | | | - M. Worth Calfee
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Homeland Security Research Center, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - Shannon Serre
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Land and Emergency Management, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Consequence Management Advisory Division, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - Leroy Mickelsen
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Land and Emergency Management, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Consequence Management Advisory Division, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
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29
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Beswick A, Bailey C, Crook B, Crouch D, Farrant J, Frost G, Stagg S. Performance Testing of a Venturi-Based Backpack Spray Decontamination System. APPLIED BIOSAFETY 2020; 25:28-40. [PMID: 36033381 PMCID: PMC9134619 DOI: 10.1177/1535676019898299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The performance of 2 disinfectant chemicals, peracetic acid (PAA) and hypochlorous acid (HOCl), was evaluated using a Venturi-nozzle-based light decontamination system (LDS) for delivery. The atomization equipment combined low-pressure air and disinfectant via a handheld lance, producing a fine, dense aerosol. A range of microorganisms, including Bacillus cereus and Bacillus anthracis (Vollum) spores, were used as test challenges to evaluate chemicals and equipment. Methods The tests undertaken included assessments over fixed and variable exposure times, use of multiple surface materials, and a live agent challenge. Results Over a fixed-time exposure of 60 minutes, aerosolized PAA gave 7- to 8-log reductions of all test challenges, but HOCl was less effective. Material tests showed extensive kill on most surfaces using PAA (≥6-log kill), but HOCl showed more variation (4- to 6-log). Testing using B. anthracis showed measurable PAA induced spore kill inside 5 minutes and >6-log kill at 5 minutes or over. HOCl was less effective. Discussion The results demonstrate the importance of testing decontamination systems against a range of relevant microbiological challenges. Disinfectant efficacy may vary depending on product choice, types of challenge microorganisms, and their position in a treated area. The most effective disinfectants demonstrate biocidal efficacy despite these factors. Conclusion The data confirmed PAA as an effective disinfectant capable of rapidly killing a range of microorganisms, including spores. HOCl was less effective. The LDS system successfully delivered PAA and HOCl over a wide area and could be suitable for a range of frontline biosecurity applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Beswick
- Health and Safety Executive, Buxton, Derbyshire, UK
| | | | - Brian Crook
- Health and Safety Executive, Buxton, Derbyshire, UK
| | - David Crouch
- 3M™ United Kingdom PLC, Skelmersdale, Lancashire, UK
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