An investigation into waste handler's knowledge of management of isolation waste: A case study of Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, Gauteng, South Africa.

BACKGROUND: The proper management of isolation waste is of utmost importance in healthcare facilities to prevent the spread of infections and protect both healthcare workers and the general public. This study investigated waste handlers' knowledge of the management of isolation waste at Dr. George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Gauteng, South Africa. METHODS: A survey was conducted to assess waste handlers' understanding of waste types, colour codes, safety precautions, and awareness of internal policies related to isolation waste management. RESULTS: The study found that the majority of waste handlers demonstrated a good understanding of waste types generated in the isolation unit, including sharps waste, human tissue waste, infectious waste, and general waste. They also correctly identified examples of sharp waste, such as injections, blades, glass slides, and needles. Additionally, most respondents were aware of the colour code used for representing infectious waste as "yellow" and "red." The study revealed a statistically significant association between waste handlers' age and their knowledge of isolation waste, suggesting that age may influence their understanding of waste management practices. Furthermore, experience was found to be significantly associated with waste handlers' knowledge of the health-hazardous nature of isolation waste. While the majority of waste handlers recognized the importance of wearing protective clothing and correctly marking isolation waste, some respondents were not aware of the internal policy for waste handling such as guidelines and protocols specific to the segregation, packaging, labeling, and disposal of waste generated within the isolation units. CONCLUSION AND CONTRIBUTION: These findings highlight the importance of continuous training, targeted education, and policy dissemination to ensure effective waste management and adherence to safety protocols among waste handlers.

Comparative assessment of the remineralization characteristics of nano-hydroxyapatite extracted from fish scales and eggshells.

OBJECTIVES: Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is a common concern in dentistry that has the potential to restrict daily activities and harm a person's quality of life. In this study, the remineralization characteristics of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) extracted from waste eggshells and fish scales were comparatively assessed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The extraction methods used to obtain nHAp from both fish scales and eggshells are also described. The effect of the extraction process and bio-waste source on the physicochemical characteristics of the nHAp such as Ca/P ratio, functional groups, crystallinity and phase change, and surface morphology are presented in the study. The remineralization properties were evaluated using dentine models (n = 15). A field scanning electron microscope was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the dentine tubules occlusion. The percentage occluded area for all the specimens was evaluated statistically using a one-way analysis of variance (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The results showed that there were variations in the physicochemical characteristics of the nHAp extracted, including the crystallinity, particle size, and surface morphology, and buffering effects against citric acids. The EnHAp extracted from eggshells had higher crystallinity, superior buffering effects, and smaller particle size compared to the nHAp extracted from fish scales, making it a more favourable material for remineralization of teeth. The statistical evidence showed that there were statistically significant differences in the dentine occluding properties measured in the nHAp (p < 0.001). The highest mean % occluded area was measured with the EnHAp group. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study provide insights into the use of bio-waste materials for the development of sustainable and effective products for oral health care.

Mental Health Challenges during COVID-19 Pandemic: Experiences of Primary Healthcare Nurses in Durban, South Africa.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the mental health of individuals globally, and primary healthcare (PHC) nurses play a critical role in providing mental healthcare services. However, limited research has explored the experiences of PHC nurses in providing mental healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explored the experiences of PHC nurses in providing mental healthcare services during the pandemic in Durban, South Africa. The aim was to identify the challenges faced by healthcare providers and the potential for innovative approaches to improve access to care. A qualitative, exploratory design guided the study, and data were collected through in-depth interviews with twelve PHC nurses purposively selected. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Findings from interviews with PHC nurses reveal that the pandemic exacerbated existing challenges, including medication adherence issues, fear and uncertainty among patients, vaccine hesitancy, decreased clinic visits, and the mental and emotional toll on both patients and healthcare workers. PHC nurses adapted their services by increasing outreach efforts, prioritizing patient care, and utilizing technology and non-governmental organizations' (NGOs) support. Challenges included reduced patient visits, complexities in healthcare provision, and a lack of adequate support. Positive changes observed include increased mental health awareness among healthcare professionals and younger generations. Recommendations include implementing outreach and awareness campaigns, providing accurate information about COVID-19 and vaccinations, and promoting cultural sensitivity in mental healthcare provision.

Comparative Analysis of Abrasive Materials and Polishing System on the Surface Roughness of Heat-Polymerized Acrylic Resins.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this in vitro experiment was to see how the operator's manual skills, polishing equipment, and abrasive materials affected the surface roughness of denture base resins. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) specimens were created and polished by using two different polishing systems, namely hand and automatic polishing machines. Three operators hand-polished 30 of specimens with eggshell powder and pumice, while 10 were automatically polished (n = 5). A profilometer was used to determine the average surface roughness (Ra) after polishing. The Ra values for the specimens hand-polished were analyzed by using paired sample testing. The Ra values for all polished specimens were analyzed by using a one-way ANOVA. Differences between the two abrasive materials as well as the polishing system were determined by using the Bonferonni tests (p = 0.05). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: For the PMMA specimens hand-polished, there was a strong connection in the Ra values. There were also significant variations in the Ra values across the three operators (p < 0.001). The automated technique created a substantially smoother surface than the traditional technique (p = 0.001). The greatest Ra values (0.20 µm) were found in specimens polished traditionally by using pumice, whereas the lowest Ra values (0.04 µm) were found in specimens polished mechanically with eggshell powder. The automated polishing system was the most effective polishing method when the Ra values were connected to the level of smoothness.

An investigation in the remineralization and acid resistant characteristics of nanohydroxyapatite produced from eggshell waste via mechanochemistry.

OBJECTIVES: This study focuses on the properties of nanohydroxyapatite (nHAp) in terms of remineralization and acid resistance. The nHAp were produced from waste eggshells via the mechanochemistry process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The characterization was based on Fourier Transform Spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Field Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), and High-Resolution Electron Microscope to determine the surface morphology of the nHAp. The acid and remineralization properties were evaluated using bovine enamel and dentine models (n = 5) while the buffering properties against acids were studied using a pH meter. The biocompatibility of the produce nHAp was assessed in vitro against NIH 3T3. RESULTS: The XRD and FTIR results confirm that nHAp were successfully produced from eggshell waste after 5 h of milling. The HRTEM reveals a semi-sphere morphology with an average dimension of 9 to 20 nm. The buffering test suggests that nHAp were highly effective in neutralizing common dietary acids. Also, the nHAp exhibits outstanding remineralization and occluding properties. The cytotoxicity assay suggests that the nHAp had a low toxicity. CONCLUSION: The study concludes that using eggshell waste to produce nHAp will help in waste management and at the same time, provide valuable biomaterial for the treatment of tooth sensitivity.

Evaluating the Abrasivity of a Nanosized Eggshell-Titanium Dioxide on Tooth Enamel Using Atomic Force Microscopy.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate nanosized eggshell-titanium dioxide (EB@TiO2) abrasiveness in comparison with calcium carbonate and hydrated silica-containing toothpaste. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-five bovine tooth enamels were prepared, and specimens randomly assigned to a sample group of five (n = 7), namely, Colgate regular, Colgate pro-relief, Sensodyne rapid relief, Sensodyne repair, and EB@TiO2. Half of the enamel surface was brushed with each respective sample group, while the other half was covered with a tap. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The mean roughness value (Ra) of the brushed and covered halves were measured using an atomic force microscope (AFM). To assess the surface morphology and changes, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was performed. Using pair sample test and ANOVA, the Ra for the entire specimens were analyzed. A Bonferroni correction was used to identify the mean differences among the five groups (α=.05). RESULTS: The findings from this analysis show that all the tested toothpaste abraded the enamel significantly (p < 0.05). The abrasive value contained in toothpaste comprising calcium carbonate was lower than the silica toothpaste hydrated. CONCLUSION: Overall, Colgate regular had the lowest toothpaste abrasivity, followed by EB@TiO2, while Sensodyne rapid relief had the most enamel wear. The prominent feature of this study suggests that EB@TiO2 is suitable for oral use, as its abrasivity is comparable with calcium carbonate-containing toothpaste.

The Application of the Logistic Equation Model to Predict the Remineralization Characteristics of Desensitizing Paste.

OBJECTIVES: A mathematical model making using of the Verhulst logistic equation was developed to predict the remineralization behaviors of desensitizing paste. METHODS: The input parameter used for the model was obtained experimentally by brushing twenty-one simulated dentin specimens for seven days with three sample groups, namely, EB@TiO2, Colgate Pro-relief, and Sensodyne repair (n = 7). A field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and ImageJ software were used to observe and measure the % occluded ratio of the dentin surface. The model fittings for the three sample groups were carried out using the built-in MATLAB least-squares fitting routine fmincon in the optimization toolbox. RESULTS: The results suggest that the experimental parameter were in agreement with the model. It was found that the logistic equation model can make a future prediction of the remineralization pattern for EB@TiO2 and Colgate Pro-relief. It was, however, found that the trajectory for the Sensodyne repair was a bit complex, thus making the prediction difficult. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the salient feature of this study suggests that the logistic equation could be used to predict the remineralization behavior of desensitizing paste in the management of sensitive tooth.

Remineralization Potential of a Modified Eggshell-Titanium Composite-Scanning Electron Microscope Study.

OBJECTIVES: This article reports the remineralization potential of a modified eggshell-titanium dioxide (EB-TiO2) composite in the management of DH. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The prepared composite was further characterized using different techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and field scanning electron microscopy (FSEM) to establish the modification. Forty freshly extracted bovine anterior teeth were used to evaluate the dentin tubule remineralization potential of EB-TiO2. Each tooth was sectioned mesiodistally to obtain dentin blocks. The dentin blocks were subsequently agitated in 4% wt. citric acid for 2 minutes to simulate sensitive tooth. Each dentin block was randomly assigned to five groups, namely Group 1: untreated, Group 2: EB alone, Group 3: EB-TiO2 treated, and Group 4: Colgate Sensitive, and Group 5: Sensodyne treated (n = 8) that were then subjected to remineralization protocol. RESULTS: Both the XRD and FTIR images confirm the surface medication of EB-TiO2. The TEM revealed a nonhomogeneous structure with an average particle size of 65 nm. FSEM further was used to observe the remineralization capabilities of the samples. The FSEM image of the dentin specimens treated with EB-TiO2 shows complete remineralization of the dentin tubules, which remain intact postacidic exposure. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed that EB-TiO2 composite effectively remineralizes dentin tubules. More so, the composite could be a cheaper and more efficient therapy material in the management of DH.

In vitro evaluation of nanohydroxyapatite synthesized from eggshell waste in occluding dentin tubules.

OBJECTIVES: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is a notable painful condition with a negative impact on quality of life. This paper evaluates the occluding abilities of nanohydroxyapatite synthesized from the eggshell waste (EnHAp) in the treatment of DH. METHODS: EnHAp was synthesized following the wet chemical precipitation method. The purity and phase change were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) were used to observe the morphology of EnHAp. The occluding capabilities were evaluated in vitro using the bovine model. Twenty-five simulated dentin specimens were randomly assigned to five groups: Group 1, untreated; Group 2, eggshell powder alone; Group 3, calcined eggshell powder; Group 4, Colgate Sensitive treated, EnHAp; and Group 5, calcium dihydrogen phosphate (n = 5). The specimens were then subjected to remineralization protocol. The tubule occluding capabilities were observed using FESEM. Analysis of variance was used to analyze the occluding ratio values for all treated specimens. Post hoc test with Bonferroni correction was used to identify the mean differences among the five test groups (α = .05). RESULTS: The FTIR and XRD results confirm that synthesis of EnHAp occurred. HRTEM and FESEM revealed an irregular rod structure with a particle size of 65 nm. The occluding area ratios observed for the EnHAp specimens were significantly higher than other test groups (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The application of EnHAp resulted in an efficient occlusion of dentin tubule. This study suggests that EnHAp is an effective therapy to treat DH.

Corrigendum to "An In Situ Evaluation of the Protective Effect of Nano Eggshell/Titanium Dioxide against Erosive Acids".

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1155/2018/4216415.].

A novel application of nano eggshell/titanium dioxide composite on occluding dentine tubules: an in vitro study.

To synthesize Nano eggshell-titanium-dioxide (EB@TiO2) biocomposite and to evaluate its effectiveness in occluding opened dentine tubules. EB@TiO2 was synthesized and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). Sixteen simulated bovine dentine discs were prepared and randomly assigned into four groups according to the following treatment (n = 4): Group 1: No treatment; Group 2: eggshell powder; Group 3: EB@TiO2; Group 4: Sensodyne. These were then agitated in a solution of 1g powder and 40mL water for 3hours. Thereafter, each dentine discs from the respective groups were post-treated for 5 min with 2wt% citric acid to test their acid resistant characteristics. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used to observe the effectiveness of occluded dentine pre-and post-treatment. The cytotoxicity of the synthesized EB@TiO2 was tested using NIH 3T3 assay. ANOVA was used to evaluate the mean values of the occluded area ratio and the data of MTS assay. This was followed by a multi-comparison test with Bonferroni correction (α = .05). The XRD confirmed that EB@TiO2 was successfully modified through ball-milling. The TEM revealed the presence of both spherical and irregular particle shape powders. The SEM result showed that EB@TiO2 could effectively occlude open dentine tubules. Equally, the result demonstrated that EB@TiO2 exhibited the highest acid resistant stability post-treatment. NIH 3T3 assay identified that EB@TiO2 had little effect on the NIH 3T3 cell line even at the highest concentration of 100µg/ml. This study suggests that the application of EB@TiO2 effectively occluded dentine tubules and the occlusion showed a high acid resistant stability.

Evaluating the buffering and acid-resistant properties of eggshell-titanium dioxide composite against erosive acids.

OBJECTIVE:: This paper reports on the buffering and acid-resistant properties of a modified eggshell-titanium composite against citric acid attack. MATERIALS AND METHODS:: Eggshell-titanium EB-TiO2 was prepared by ball-milling eggshell powder and titanium dioxide. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize EB-TiO2. The buffering property against citric acid at pH values of 2, 4, and 5 was measured using a pH meter. Five brands of toothpaste (Colgate, Colgate Sensitive, Aquafresh, Oralwise, and Sensodyne) were used to assess the acid-resistant properties of EB-TiO2. Enamel models were simulated by dissolving each brand of toothpaste with eggshell (control) and EB-TiO2. The samples were exposed to citric acid of pH 2. The average slope (kPa/s) was measured using a pressure sensor. An analysis of variance was used to analyze the kPa/s values (α =.05). RESULTS:: The FTIR and XRD analyses suggest the surface modification of EB-TiO2. The TEM image revealed spherical-shaped particles in EB-TiO2. The pH test results showed that the buffering properties of eggshell and EB-TiO2 were comparable. Significant differences were observed in the acid resistance properties of the samples exposed to citric acids ( P < .05). The Colgate toothpaste infused with eggshell powder had the highest mean kPa/s values, whereas Sensodyne infused with EB-TiO2 had the lowest kPa/s values. CONCLUSION:: The salient features of this study indicate that modification of eggshell with titanium dioxide does not affect its carbonate buffering properties. Connecting the kPa/s values to acid-resistant properties, EB-TiO2 effectively reduces erosive attacks when added to toothpaste.

Evaluation of the Occluding Characteristics of Nanosized Eggshell/Titanium Dioxide with or without Saliva.

OBJECTIVES: The study reports on the effectiveness of a ball-milled nanosized titanium dioxide composite (EB@TiO2) for DH management in comparison with commercial desensitizing paste with and without saliva. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-nine dentine specimens were prepared from extracted bovine anterior teeth. Twenty-one of the specimens were brushed with three desensitizing toothpaste for 7 days, namely: Group 1; EB@TiO2, Group 2; Colgate Pro-relief; and Group 3; Sensodyne repair (n = 7). Twenty-four specimens were brushed with the toothpaste for 7 days and stored in artificial saliva (control) after brushing. Each specimen was subsequently posttreated in citric acid solution to test its stability in acidic condition. Field scanning electron microscope was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the dentine tubules occlusion. The biocompatibility of the composite was tested using BHK21 cell line. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: One-way analysis of variance was used to analyze the percentage occluded area ratio values for all specimens (α = 0.05). Independent t-test was further used to evaluate the occlusion differences with saliva and without saliva. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The number of dentine tubules decreased significantly after 7 days of brushing. Overall, the occlusion observe for EB@TiO2 were significantly better than for Colgate Pro-relief and Sensodyne repair (p < 0.05). BHK21 assay suggested that composite had no significant effect on the BHK21 cell line. This study demonstrated that the composite effectively occluded open dentine tubules within 7 days of brushing.

A novel application of nano eggshell/titanium dioxide composite on occluding dentine tubules: an in vitro study

Abstract To synthesize Nano eggshell-titanium-dioxide (EB@TiO2) biocomposite and to evaluate its effectiveness in occluding opened dentine tubules. EB@TiO2 was synthesized and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). Sixteen simulated bovine dentine discs were prepared and randomly assigned into four groups according to the following treatment (n = 4): Group 1: No treatment; Group 2: eggshell powder; Group 3: EB@TiO2; Group 4: Sensodyne. These were then agitated in a solution of 1g powder and 40mL water for 3hours. Thereafter, each dentine discs from the respective groups were post-treated for 5 min with 2wt% citric acid to test their acid resistant characteristics. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used to observe the effectiveness of occluded dentine pre-and post-treatment. The cytotoxicity of the synthesized EB@TiO2 was tested using NIH 3T3 assay. ANOVA was used to evaluate the mean values of the occluded area ratio and the data of MTS assay. This was followed by a multi-comparison test with Bonferroni correction (α = .05). The XRD confirmed that EB@TiO2 was successfully modified through ball-milling. The TEM revealed the presence of both spherical and irregular particle shape powders. The SEM result showed that EB@TiO2 could effectively occlude open dentine tubules. Equally, the result demonstrated that EB@TiO2 exhibited the highest acid resistant stability post-treatment. NIH 3T3 assay identified that EB@TiO2 had little effect on the NIH 3T3 cell line even at the highest concentration of 100µg/ml. This study suggests that the application of EB@TiO2 effectively occluded dentine tubules and the occlusion showed a high acid resistant stability.

The effect of colloidal silica and diamond suspensions on the surface roughness of automatically finished heat-polymerized acrylic resin.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: On an acrylic resin denture base, a smooth and highly polished surface is important to maintain oral health and prevent bacterial colonization. It is unclear how best to obtain such a surface. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to examine the effect of both colloidal silica and diamond suspension abrasives on the roughness values of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base material. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty PMMA specimens were fabricated and divided into 3 groups (n=10). Each was automatically polished using a diamond suspension, a colloidal silica suspension, and pumice. The mean roughness value (Ra) after polishing was recorded using a profilometer. An optical electron microscope was further used to evaluate the smoothness of the polished surface. ANOVA was used to analyze the roughness average (Ra) values for all polished specimens. A multicomparison test with Bonferroni correction was used to identify the mean differences among the 3 abrasive materials (α=.05). RESULTS: The Ra values measured for the colloidal silica suspension and pumice were statistically different (P<.001). Equally, statistical differences were observed between the diamond suspension and pumice abrasives (P<.05). No significant differences were found between the diamond and colloidal silica suspensions (P>.05). The PMMA specimens polished using pumice had the highest Ra values, whereas specimens polished using the colloidal silica suspension had the lowest Ra values. CONCLUSIONS: The colloidal silica produced the lowest Ra values and was the most effective polishing material for denture base resins.

An In Situ Evaluation of the Protective Effect of Nano Eggshell/Titanium Dioxide against Erosive Acids.

OBJECTIVES: Enamel erosion caused by high consumption of acidic drinks poses a significant public health concern. This study was aimed to determine the protective effect of eggshell-titanium dioxide composite (EB@TiO2) against erosive acids on tooth enamel. METHODS: Twenty prepared bovine tooth enamel specimens were randomly assigned to 5 sample groups (n=4): (1) unexposed tooth enamel; (2) exposed tooth enamel + HCI; (3) exposed tooth enamel + HCI + Colgate toothpaste; (4) exposed tooth enamel + HCI + Sensodyne toothpaste; and (5) exposed tooth enamel + HCI + EB@TiO2. The mean roughness value (R rms) of the exposed and unexposed tooth was measured with atomic force microscope (AFM). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy techniques were used to evaluate the surface morphology and changes. ANOVA was used to analyze the mean square roughness (R rms) values for all specimens. Bonferonni correction was used to identify the mean differences among the 5 groups (α=0.05). The R rms values measured for the unexposed and exposed specimens in HCI alone were statistically significant (P < 0.05). RESULTS: No significant differences were found for the unexposed and exposed specimens in HCI + toothpaste and EB@TiO2. The tooth enamel specimens exposed to HCI + Sensodyne had the highest R rms values, while specimens exposed to HCI + EB@TiO2 had the lowest R rms values. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms that the investigated toothpaste provides protection against acidic substances. The study results further suggests that EB@TiO2 could be used to provide enhanced protection for tooth enamel.