Understanding light-mediated inactivation of pathogens in surface waters
For many bacterial and viral pathogens in surface waters, direct or indirect damage by sunlight may be the primary cause of inactivation. The goal of our research is to quantify the rates of inactivation of indicator organisms and waterborne pathogens due to three different light-mediated mechanisms in surface waters. The surface waters of interest include natural waters, such as rivers and lakes, as well as engineered systems such as wastewater stabilization ponds and constructed wetlands. (Although the focus of the research is on freshwaters, similar mechanisms operate in saline waters as well.)
Initially, we will use controlled laboratory experiments to quantify inactivation by the three different mechanisms. The first mechanism is direct damage to cell components caused by absorption of ultraviolet (UV) light. The other two mechanisms are indirect, resulting in cell damage after photooxidation reactions that occur in the presence of oxygen, and are initiated either inside the cell (endogenous) or outside the cell (exogenous).
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Understanding light-mediated inactivation of pathogens in surface waters
Tertiary filtration of wastewater for agricultural reuse
UV disinfection of waterborne pathogens
Inactivation of Ascaris eggs by temperature, pH, and ammonia
Molecular methods for distinguishing human and animal fecal pollution
Modeling sludge accumulation in wastewater stabilization ponds
Removal of selenium from agricultural drainage in reduction ponds
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