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.

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.

The structural and biochemical impacts of monomerizing human acetylcholinesterase.

Serving a critical role in neurotransmission, human acetylcholinesterase (hAChE) is the target of organophosphate nerve agents. Hence, there is an active interest in studying the mechanism of inhibition and recovery of enzymatic activity, which could lead to better countermeasures against nerve agents. As hAChE is found in different oligomeric assemblies, certain approaches to studying it have been problematic.