bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tool Wear When Cutting Wood Fiber–Plastic Composite Materials
Authors: Saloni Daniel , Buehlmann Urs , Lemaster Richard L.
Published: October 2013

Wood fiber–plastic composite materials, a relatively new material, are finding applications mainly in the US residential and commercial construction markets. Thus, the volume of material produced and used is steadily increasing while the range of applications keeps expanding. So far, attention has been paid mainly to primary production processes of wood fiber–plastic materials, while secondary manufacturing processes have attracted less attention. However, with the broadening applications of such materials and their increasing use, secondary manufacturing processes for wood fiber–plastic materials are gaining importance.

This study investigated the performance of five commercially available wood fiber–plastic composite materials and solid wood (eastern white pine) with respect to tool wear and resulting material surface roughness. Large performance differences between different wood fiber–plastic composite materials and between solid wood and wood fiber–plastic composite materials with respect to tool wear were found. Solid wood did wear the exchangeable tungsten carbide knives with a standard cobalt binder and ultrafine carbide grain knives used for the tests 12 to 42 times less than the wood fiber–plastic composite materials. However, some wood fiber–plastic materials were found to have a smoother surface than solid wood after 38.2 m of cutting. As this research showed, different wood fiber–plastic composite formulations behave differently when subjected to secondary manufacturing processes, and more research is needed to better understand the underlying causes for those observations.
An Evaluation of the Effects of Log Length on Timber Values in Thinning
Authors: Pilkerton Stephen J. , Kellogg Loren D.
Published: October 2013

This research investigated an economic component of harvesting operations not previously studied for steep-slope thinning harvests in Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) stands in the Pacific Northwest. Of interest was the influence of allowable log lengths and the effect on revenues with a bucking-to-value strategy. Resulting log lengths influence revenues and logging costs important to forest managers, logging contractors, and mill managers. Here, a reduced set of log lengths was evaluated that approaches computer-generated optimal values and creates the potential for development of a bucking decision tool having the form of a bucking pattern cutting card. The reduced set of five log lengths (two mill-length logs and three woods-length logs resulting from combinations of the mill-length logs) was also compared with the full set of allowable lengths for value recovery and fiber utilization. Resulting values were 96 and 98 percent of full-set optimal values for 45- and 65-year-old stands, respectively. Value recovery exceeds that with current unaided bucking practices. The resulting bucking patterns can be easily incorporated into a cutting card based on length to merchantable top. This approach reduces the number of logs handled, increases mill-preferred long logs, decreases pattern count, and increases recovered value. Potential value gains of $4.09 to $8.80 per 100 cubic feet for the two stands are discussed with respect to mill constraints. Use of a combinatorial heuristic is suggested for matching produced logs to mill purchase orders. The board foot–to–cubic foot ratios used for the cubic foot–based analysis are also discussed.
Partially Hydrolyzing Southern Hardwoods: Possibilities for Biofuels and Wood Composite Manufacturing
Authors: McConnell T. Eric , Shi Sheldon Q.
Published: October 2013

Conversion of lignocellulosic materials, including wood, to fuel is currently cost prohibitive due to the expenses involved and the lack of value addition, even though small-diameter hardwoods are readily available. Alternative processes therefore need to be investigated. Partially hydrolyzing wood may offer an opportunity to add value to the conversion process by producing a modified woody by-product that can be used as a wood composite raw material. Experiments were conducted on the effects of a partial hydrolysis on the mass loss, specific modulus, and surface free energy of modified southern hardwoods, and this article reports the changes in holocellulose content of water-saturated yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.), and red oak (Quercus spp.) heated at 150°C for 30 minutes in three solutions: 1 percent sulfuric acid, deionized water, and 1 percent sodium hydroxide. The treated woods were compared with untreated controls. The previously tested wood samples were ground to a size 20 mesh, and holocellulose content was analyzed gravimetrically. Properties of the modified wood were then regressed on holocellulose content following partial hydrolysis. All three treatments significantly reduced the holocellulose content in each species, with the greatest reduction obtained in the acid treatment, followed by the alkaline solution treatment and the deionized water treatment, respectively. The changes in holocellulose explained a majority of the variation in mass loss due to treatment and specific modulus, whereas surface free energy was poorly explained by changes in the wood structure. Implications for wood composites manufacturing are discussed.
Bending Performance of Composite Wood I-Joist/Oriented Strand Board Panel Assemblies
Authors: Davids William G. , Rancourt Derek G. , Dagher Habib J.
Published: October 2013

This study examined the bending performance of composite I-joist/oriented strand board (OSB) structural roof panels. The 1.22-m-wide panels were fabricated from commercially available I-joists with OSB sheathing bonded to the top and bottom I-joist flanges. To provide baseline bending performance, two sets of 10 bare I-joists were tested to failure in four-point quasistatic bending. The first consisted of 4.72-m-span, 241-mm-deep joists, and the second set consisted of 7.16-m-span, 356-mm-deep joists. Two sets of 10 I-joist/OSB panels fabricated with identical I-joists of the same spans were tested in four-point bending. Results of the bend tests showed strength gains of 59 to 124 percent and stiffness gains of 79 to 115 percent on a per-joist basis for the I-joist/OSB panels. While the bare I-joists primarily exhibited bending failures, the panels predominantly failed in shear. These strength and stiffness gains and the shift in failure mode indicate that the bonded OSB sheathing significantly improved panel bending strength. A transformed section analysis predicted panel stiffness reasonably well and indicated that shear failure was the most likely panel failure mode. Finally, four specimens were tested under sustained loading equal to 55 percent of the 5 percent parametric lower tolerance limit. Two of the specimens tested under sustained loading failed in creep rupture. Results of this study indicate that the roof panels show promise for practical application as long-span, pre-insulated structural members. However, creep deformation and creep rupture need further study, as does the durability of the I-joist–OSB bond line.
Linear Regression Models to Predict Special Post Production from Logs of Deresinated Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis Mill.) Trees
Authors: Gallis Christos , Spyroglou Gavriil , Papajannopoulos Antonios
Published: October 2013

The goal of this study was to develop model equations to predict the production of special posts from aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis Mill.) deresinated trees. Resin tapping causes some changes in the wood structure around the applied tapped area as a result of the resination of wood cells. Local communities have started to use timber from deresinated aleppo pine trees to produce small-sized posts for agriculture and green house use. The experimental sample consisted of 120 logs from the Sithonia peninsula forest in northern Greece. The logs were processed in a local sawmill to produce posts of four different sizes for agriculture use. The final product was 2-m-long posts measuring 4 by 4, 5 by 5, 6 by 6, and 8 by 8 cm.

Posts measuring 4 by 4, 5 by 5, and 6 by 6 cm were to be used for field tomato cultivation and 8 by 8-cm posts were for use in vineyards.

Linear regression model equations were developed for each post product. The models predicted the number of posts produced in relation to the diameter at the middle of the log and its utilized volume. On the basis of 120 logs processed, it was possible to draw secure associations using this model. Statistical analysis showed that the mean diameter effect was the most pronounced in all models.
A Test of High Intensity Ultrasound for the Phytosanitation of Wood
Authors: Taylor Adam , Perchermeier Anita , Young Timothy , Zivanovic Lana
Published: October 2013

The potential for high intensity ultrasound for the phytosanitation of wood products was tested using decay (rot) and mold fungi and termites. The treatment was not effective in killing these organisms in wood.
Effects of Heat Treatment on the Mechanical Properties of Loblolly Pine, Sweetgum, and Red Oak
Authors: Adewopo Julius B. , Patterson David W.
Published: October 2013

Heat treatment has been assessed as an eco-friendly means to reduce wood's dimensional instability and biodeterioration under varying ambient conditions. However, irreversible losses in mechanical properties have been reported to occur when wood is subjected to elevated temperatures as a result of the autocatalytic breakdown of the cell-wall constituents. The reduced strength of heat-treated wood is a disincentive for its extensive use in structural applications where high-strength quality is important. Thus, improved durability must be balanced with the preservation of the mechanical properties of heat-treated wood. The strength properties of heat-treated loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and water oak (Quercus nigra) were assessed to quantify the effects of varying temperature levels, up to 204°C, and duration, up to 8 hours, on flexural strengths, compression strengths, shear strength, and hardness. Two-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) and 1-factor ANOVA (where there is temperature–duration interaction) of results coupled with Tukey's pairwise comparison (α = 0.05) indicated effects ranging from indicative differences in modulus of elasticity to significant increment and decrement in other strength parameters. Generally, strength properties for the three species were optimally preserved, or peaked and dominantly improved in specimens treated at 149°C for 8 hours. This study provides a knowledge base for process optimization in heat treatment industries and for the use of heat-treated wood in structural applications.
The Chinese Treated Wood Market: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Cao Xiaozhi (Jeff) , Morrell Jeffrey J. , Hansen Eric N.
Published: October 2013

The Chinese market represents good opportunities for those interested in exporting building materials, including wood products. One growing building material sector is preservative-treated wood. Fewer than 70 treatment facilities operated in China in 2002 compared with more than 600 currently operating. Sizable quantities of treated product are also imported. China's status as a net wood importer creates sizable opportunities for importers seeking to expand into this market. This article reviews the current status of the treating industry in China, identifies issues related to quality control and the implementation of standards, and outlines critical needs for the continued growth and success of the industry.
Predicting Internal White Oak (Quercus alba) Log Defect Features Using Surface Defect Indicator Measurements
Authors: Thomas Ralph E.
Published: October 2013

As hardwood trees grow and develop, surface defects such as limb stubs and wounds are overgrown and encapsulated into the tree. Evidence of these defects can remain on the tree's surface for decades and in many instances for the life of the tree. The location and severity of internal defects dictate the quality and value of products that can be obtained from logs. Thus, log surface defect indicators such as log diameter at defect and surface indicator width, length, and rise provide a viable means of estimating the location and severity of internal defects. Evaluation of white oak (Quercus alba) log defects revealed that good correlations exist between external indicators and internal features for most severe defect types. Weaker correlations were observed with less severe defect types, such as bark distortions and adventitious knots.
Resistance of Selected Wood-Based Materials to Fungal and Termite Attack in Non–Soil Contact Exposures
Authors: Morrell Jeffrey J.
Published: October 2013

The resistance of three naturally durable heartwood species and a stranded giant bamboo product to fungal and termite (Coptotermes formosanus) attack was evaluated at a test site located near Hilo, Hawaii. Merbau (Intsia bijuga or I. palembanica) and ipe (Tabebuia spp.) were both exceptionally resistant to fungal and termite attack, while western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) heartwood was slightly less resistant to degradation. The presence of heartwood on western juniper samples had no noticeable effect on the performance of adjacent sapwood. The bamboo decking proved to the least durable of the materials and experienced substantial termite and fungal attack over the 32-month test period.
The Prolonged Effect of Plasma Treatment upon Dielectric Properties of Wood-Based Composites
Authors: Svrzic Srdjan , Todorovic Petar
Published: October 2013

A more profitable application of wood-based composites would certainly include the possibility of their use as a dielectric material in the form of electrical insulation. The profitability and the price difference between materials normally used for these insulating purposes and those based on wood would easily justify the interest to study the dielectric properties of such composites. There is another reason why an extension in use of these composites might become important. It originates from the general shortage of high-quality wood. Thus, the related properties of hardboard and medium-density fiberboard were investigated as well as plywood and particleboard. The modifications included treatments by direct current plasma glow discharge, vacuum, conditioning of samples at room temperature for prolonged periods of time, and their combinations.

A relationship was discovered between the applied treatment procedures and the investigated dielectric parameters. The comparison between the treatment effects indicates those most convenient for the purpose of production of electrical insulating and also assists in differentiating which treatment processes lead to improved properties of the investigated wood-based composites.
Wood Properties of Young Acacia mangium Trees Planted in Indonesia
Authors: Makino Kazuko , Ishiguri Futoshi , Wahyudi Imam , Takashima Yuya , Iizuka Kazuya , Yokota Shinso , Yoshizawa Nobuo
Published: October 2013

This study evaluated the wood properties of 5- and 7-year-old Acacia mangium trees planted in West Java, Indonesia. A plot (20 by 20 m) was selected in each stand. The stem diameter and stress-wave velocity (SWV) were measured for all trees (n = 24 and 18 for 5- and 7-y-old trees, respectively) in the plots. Core samples were taken from all trees in each plot using an increment borer to measure the basic density (BD) and compressive strength parallel to the grain (CS). The mean ± standard deviation stem diameter was 13.1 ± 3.0 and 21.9 ± 3.8 cm in 5- and 7-year-old trees, respectively. There was no significant correlation between stem diameter and SWV. The mean BD and CS for 5-year-old trees were 0.42 ± 0.02 g cm−3 and 30.0 ± 4.4 MPa, respectively, and for 7-year-old trees were 0.45 ± 0.02 g cm−3 and 32.8 ± 3.6 MPa, respectively. There was a positive correlation between BD and CS in 5- and 7-year-old trees (r = 0.790 and 0.583, respectively). The radial variation patterns for BD and CS were similar in 5- and 7-year-old trees: BD and CS gradually increased to about 6 cm from the pith, after which it was almost constant toward the bark. The results suggest that xylem maturation depends on the growth diameter in A. mangium.
Modeling the Effect of Nail Corrosion on the Lateral Strength of Joints
Authors: Zelinka Samuel L. , Rammer Douglas R.
Published: October 2013

This article describes a theoretical method of linking fastener corrosion in wood connections to potential reduction in lateral shear strength. It builds upon published quantitative data of corrosion rates of metals in contact with treated wood for several different wood preservatives. These corrosion rates are then combined with yield theory equations to calculate a loss in lateral capacity as a function of time. The calculations are straightforward and can be performed in a spreadsheet or simple computer program. They can accommodate time-dependent and moisture-dependent corrosion rates. The latter of these capabilities can easily be recognized as important, inasmuch as corrosion rates of fasteners are recognized as being dependent on moisture content of the wood in which they are embedded. The calculation method is dependent on corrosion rate, and the method is therefore limited by the lack of agreement in corrosion rates presented in the literature. Within these limitations, the article examines how different corrosion rates and changes in corrosion rates affect the mechanical properties and service life of nailed wood joints.
Protocol Comparison: Laboratory versus Natural Weathering Tests for Performance Evaluation of Coatings on Preservative-Treated Wood
Authors: Nejad Mojgan , Ung Tony , Cooper Paul
Published: October 2013

Fourteen stains were tested in the laboratory to compare water uptake and leaching reduction of wood treated with chromated copper arsenate, alkaline copper quat, and copper azole. Based on results of a 2-week test, eight stains were selected to be evaluated over 3 months of accelerated weathering and five stains over 3 years of natural exposure in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. These comparisons were made in order to find a quick and reliable method for replacing natural exposure tests.

Comparison of different weathering techniques showed significant correlations between leaching and water uptake results from laboratory tests and natural weathering. The cumulative percentage of inorganic elements leached from coated samples was highly correlated with the cumulative percentage leached during 3 years of natural weathering. Also, the average moisture content of treated-coated samples after 1 and 3 days of water immersion showed a relatively strong positive correlation with the average moisture content of treated-coated wood samples during wet periods of natural weathering (moisture content above 20%, average of 17 reading times). Thus, this quick laboratory test is a reliable short-term test for evaluating the ability of coatings to reduce leaching and water uptake when applied on preservative-treated wood.
Effect of Pinus radiata Bark Polyphenols on Phenol Liquefaction of Cellulose in the Presence of p-Toluene Sulfonic Acid Catalyst
Authors: Mun Sung Phil , Jang Jeong Phil , Kim Moon G.
Published: October 2013

The influence of Pinus radiata bark polyphenol components in the phenol liquefaction of P. radiata bark was investigated using p-toluene sulfonic acid (PTSA) and sulfuric acid (SA) as acid catalysts. A series of the phenol liquefaction reactions were carried out using mixtures of pure cellulose with increasing amounts of hot-water extract (HWE) of P. radiata bark—the polyphenol-rich component of bark. The yields of liquefied product reactions and combined phenol amounts in them were determined, and the liquefaction residues were also analyzed for determination of acid-soluble and insoluble polyphenols and residual cellulose fractions.

The yield of cellulose liquefaction decreased linearly with increasing amounts of HWE with the effect being more pronounced for SA than for PTSA. The combined phenol amount increased with liquefaction yield increases for both SA and PTSA catalysts, but at liquefaction yield levels above 83 percent, more phenol was combined for SA catalyst than for PTSA catalyst. The liquefaction residues contained lower cellulose and higher polyphenol components for SA catalyst than for PTSA catalyst at the same liquefaction time. The results indicate that the bark polyphenol components can significantly interfere in the acid-catalyzed bark phenol liquefaction reactions by their excessive condensation with cellulose and/or phenol, especially in the presence of SA catalyst.
Financial Assessment of Logging Residue Collection in the Southeast United States
Authors: Smidt Mathew F. , Zhang Yaoqi , Zheng Bin
Published: October 2013

Logging residue and nonmerchantable stems are an important component of present and future bioenergy resources. Integrated harvesting systems that chip or grind logging residues and nonmerchantable stems with the harvest of roundwood may be the most feasible technology and most likely to produce material at a competitive cost. We conducted simulated harvests on a wide range of southeastern US pine forests using a sample of Forest Inventory Analysis (FIA) inventory plots and Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) to model silvicultural treatments and intensities of pine management. In the simulation break-even marginal costs for biomass were typically present when residue volume exceeded 100 m3 ha−1 or ratios of roundwood to biomass were less than 4:1. Increased roundwood harvesting productivity also increased the rate at which residue arrived at the landing for processing, which improved chipper utilization and lowered costs. In integrated systems some roundwood that meets pulpwood specifications may be merchandized as biomass because of the cost savings available from increasing chipper utilization. Cost savings from merchandizing all pulpwood as biomass could support stumpage payments that may be equivalent to pulpwood stumpage in areas with low pulpwood prices and low pulpwood demand.
Carbon Emission Reduction Impacts from Alternative Biofuels*
Authors: Lippke Bruce , Puettmann Maureen E. , Johnson Leonard , Gustafson Richard , Venditti Richard , Steele Philip , Katers John F. , Taylor Adam , Volk Timothy A. , Oneil Elaine , Skog Kenneth , Budsberg Erik , Daystar Jesse , Caputo Jesse
Published: October 2013

The heightened interest in biofuels addresses the national objectives of reducing carbon emissions as well as reducing dependence on foreign fossil fuels. Using life-cycle analysis to evaluate alternative uses of wood including both products and fuels reveals a hierarchy of carbon and energy impacts characterized by their efficiency in reducing carbon emissions and/or in displacing fossil energy imports. Life-cycle comparisons are developed for biofuel feedstocks (mill and forest residuals, thinnings, and short rotation woody crops) with bioprocessing (pyrolysis, gasification, and fermentation) to produce liquid fuels and for using the feedstock for pellets and heat for drying solid wood products, all of which displace fossil fuels and fossil fuel–intensive products. Fossil carbon emissions from lignocellulosic biofuels are substantially lower than emissions from conventional gasoline. While using wood to displace fossil fuel–intensive materials (such as for steel floor joists) is much more effective in reducing carbon emissions than using biofuels to directly displace fossil fuels, displacing transportation fuels with ethanol provides the opportunity to also reduce dependence on imported energy. The complex nature of wood uses and how wood fuels and products interact in their environments, as well as the methods needed to understand these impacts and summarize the relative benefits of different alternatives, are discussed herein. Policies designed to increase biofuel use by subsidies or mandates may increase prices enough to divert biomass feedstock away from producing products, such as for composite panels, resulting in increased emissions from fossil fuel–intensive substitutes. Policies that fail to consider life-cycle implications are discussed, identifying their unintended consequences.
Analysis on the Dynamic Relationship between the Research and Development Capacity, Net Exports, and Profits of China's Furniture Industry
Authors: Cheng Baodong , Tian Yuan , Hao Kai , Wan Lu
Published: October 2013

China's furniture industry has grown rapidly over the past 10 years, which makes China an important furniture exporter in the world. This article focuses on the evolution of research and development (R&D) capacity, net exports of China's furniture industry, and their relationship; analyzes the impact of changes in external factors on R&D capacity, net exports, and profits; and makes predictions for R&D capacity, net exports, and profits. A dynamic model of R&D capacity, net exports, and profits for China's furniture industry is established based on the data from 1993 to 2008; ordinary least squares methods are used for model estimation. The positive correlation between R&D capacity and net exports in regression results illustrates that R&D capacity is conducive to enhancing the competitiveness of Chinese furniture enterprises and likely contributes to export growth as well. If the world economic environment changed radically, exports would decline under the influence of external factors, and then profits would also fall. At present, however, companies are often interested in expanding their exports by increasing R&D investment and, in turn, enhancing their competitiveness. If the world economy grows in a stable manner, China's furniture industry development of R&D capacity and net exports should conform with Virasa and Tang's model (J. High Technol. Manag. Res. 9(2):195–205, 1998). If a sharp fluctuation in the international market occurs, however, the development of China's furniture industry most likely will be unstable.
Detection of Metabolic Gas Emitted by Termites Using Semiconductor Gas Sensors
Authors: Yanase Yoshiyuki , Fujii Yoshihisa , Okumura Shogo , Yoshimura Tsuyoshi
Published: October 2013

The feasibility of using three types of semiconductor gas sensors to detect the metabolic gas generated by termites was investigated. Odor, methane, and hydrogen sensors made of a tin oxide semiconductor were tested. A polypropylene container was prepared with three sensors in the lid to investigate the relationship between the number of termites and food material on gas concentration over time. Worker and soldier termites (Coptotermes formosanus), collected from a laboratory colony, were put into the container with and without food material (wood specimen). The variation in the electrical resistance of the sensors during the detection of gas components was monitored, and the detected voltage was converted into gas concentration.

The hydrogen concentration increased with an increase in the number of termites and was not influenced by gases released from the wood specimen. Similar findings were obtained for the odor sensor, even though it detected odor components from both termites and the wood specimen. The methane sensor did not detect any significant increase in gas concentration. The results showed that the hydrogen emission depended on the feeding activity of worker termites, whereas soldier termites that were supplied with food material by worker termites made a small contribution to hydrogen emission.

These findings suggest that because of the high selectivity and sensitivity of the hydrogen sensor, its performance is better than that of the odor and methane sensors for the detection of termite attacks.
Physical Properties and Consumer Reaction to Use of Compressed Wood Bricks in Southeast Alaska
Authors: Brackley Allen M. , Gorman Robert , Petersen Karen
Published: October 2013

In late 2008, a group of business people and entrepreneurs in southeast Alaska became aware of a compressed wood brick product that could be used as an alternative fuel in existing wood-burning stoves and heating equipment. The product differed from many others on the market in that it contained no additive to promote binding and burn characteristics. In 2009, local materials in the form of sawmill residuals and chipped material from land clearing were collected, dried, and shipped to a producer in the northeast United States. A set of returned samples was sent to the University of Alaska Fairbanks Forest Products Laboratory for evaluation of physical properties. Survey methods were used to determine characteristics of wood-burning equipment and conditions at the time of test burns and to assess consumer reactions to the product as an alternative to cordwood. The price that people were willing to pay for such a product was also evaluated. Few differences were detected between bricks made from material available in southeast Alaska and those from outside the region. In addition, the duration of burn was significantly greater for consumers using modern wood-burning stoves approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Consumers expressed a high degree of satisfaction with the product, but their reported fuel of choice was still traditional cordwood. Twenty-nine percent of surveyed consumers were willing to pay a price of $200 a ton for the brick product.
Effects of Wheat Protein as a Biological Binder in the Manufacture of Particleboards Using a Mixture of Canola, Hemp, Bagasse, and Commercial Wood
Authors: Nikvash Neda , Kharazipour Alireza , Euring Markus
Published: October 2013

This article deals with the feasibility of the use of wheat protein glue to produce general purpose particleboards from bagasse, canola, and hemp chips and of decreasing the formaldehyde emission by using a bioproduct adhesive. Three series of panels were produced using wood chips in the surface layers and a mixture of annual plants with industrial wood in the middle layers. Particleboards were manufactured using various annual plants. Wheat protein was used in combination with urea-formaldehyde (UF) resin in the surface layers. Pure UF was only used in the middle layer. Panels were tested for some physical and mechanical properties. In addition, the formaldehyde emission according to the perforator method and the bottle method was determined. The data were compared with the respective properties specified by the Deutsches Institut für Normung EN 312-2 standard for commercial wood-based particleboard. The results showed that all mechanical properties greatly exceeded the standard requirements for wood particleboards. An increase of more than 50 percent canola particles in the core negatively affected the internal bond (IB) strength. All of the particleboards produced from hemp and bagasse had modulus of rupture and IB strength higher than required. With those containing up to 50 percent annual plant particles in the middle layer, thickness swelling values met the standard requirement. It was found that applying wheat protein as a bonding agent reduced the formaldehyde emission in comparison to when pure UF resin was applied. This study demonstrated that consistent, high-performance agricultural fiber composite panels with desirable environmental attributes can be successfully developed.
Cradle-to-Gate Life-Cycle Inventory and Impact Assessment of Wood Fuel Pellet Manufacturing from Hardwood Flooring Residues in the Southeastern United States*
Authors: Reed Daniel , Bergman Richard , Kim Jae-Woo , Taylor Adam , Harper David , Jones David , Knowles Chris , Puettmann Maureen E.
Published: October 2013

In this article, we present cradle-to-gate life-cycle inventory (LCI) data for wood fuel pellets manufactured in the Southeast United States. We surveyed commercial pellet manufacturers in 2010, collecting annual production data for 2009. Weighted-average inputs to, and emissions from, the pelletization process were determined. The pellet making unit process was combined with existing LCI data from hardwood flooring residues production, and a life-cycle impact assessment was conducted using the Tool for the Reduction and Assessment of Chemical and Other Environmental Impacts (TRACI) model. The potential bioenergy and embodied nonrenewable energy in 907 kg (1 ton, the functional unit of this study) of wood fuel pellets was also calculated. The pelletization of wood requires significant amounts of electrical energy (145 kWh/Mg), but the net bioenergy balance is positive. Wood pellets require 5.8 GJ of fossil energy to produce 17.3 GJ of bioenergy (a net balance of 10.4 GJ/Mg). However, if environmental burdens are allocated to the pellet raw material (flooring residues) by value, then the embodied fossil energy is reduced to 2.3 GJ. The pelletization unit process data collected here could be used in an assessment of the environmental impacts of pellet fuel, or when pellets are a pretreatment step in wood-based biorefinery processes.
Woody Biomass Substitution for Thermal Energy at Softwood Lumber Mills in the US Inland Northwest*
Authors: Puettmann Maureen E. , Lippke Bruce
Published: October 2013

Using life-cycle inventory production data, the net global warming potential (GWP) of a typical inland Northwest softwood lumber mill was evaluated for a variety of fuel types used as boiler inputs and for electricity generation. Results focused on reductions in carbon emissions in terms of GWP relative to natural gas as the fossil alternative. Woody feedstocks included mill residues, forest residuals, and wood pellets. In all fuel-substitution scenarios, increasing the use of biomass for heat generation decreased GWP. Using woody biofuels for electricity production is somewhat less effective in lowering carbon emissions than when used for heat energy. Heat generation at the mill under the current practice of using about half self-generated mill residues and half natural gas resulted in a 35 percent reduction in GWP over 100 percent natural gas. The greatest reduction in GWP (66%) was from increased use of forest residuals for heat energy, eliminating the use of fossil fuels as a direct heating fuel at the mill. We summarize the results by documenting that greater use of woody biomass for heat energy will reduce carbon emissions over fossil-based fuels.
Life-Cycle Assessment of Bioethanol from Pine Residues via Indirect Biomass Gasification to Mixed Alcohols*
Authors: Daystar Jesse , Reeb Carter , Venditti Richard , Gonzalez Ronalds , Puettmann Maureen E.
Published: October 2013

The goal of this study was to estimate the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and fossil energy requirements from the production and use (cradle-to-grave) of bioethanol produced from the indirect gasification thermochemical conversion of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) residues. Additional impact categories (acidification and eutrophication) were also analyzed. Of the life-cycle stages, the thermochemical fuel production and biomass growth stages resulted in the greatest environmental impact for the bioethanol product life cycle. The GHG emissions from fuel transportation and process chemicals used in the thermochemical conversion process were minor (less than 1 percent of conversion emissions). The net GHG emissions over the bioethanol life cycle, cradle-to-grave, was 74 percent less than gasoline of an equal energy content, meeting the 60 percent minimum reduction requirement of the Renewable Fuels Standard to qualify as an advanced (second generation) biofuel. Also, bioethanol had a 72 percent lower acidification impact and a 59 percent lower eutrophication impact relative to gasoline. The fossil fuel usage for bioethanol was 96 percent less than gasoline, mainly because crude oil is used as the primary feedstock for gasoline production. The total GHG emissions for the bioethanol life cycle analyzed in this study were determined to be similar to the comparable scenario from the Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation model. A sensitivity analysis determined that mass allocation of forest establishment burdens to the residues was not significant for GHG emissions but had significant effects on the acidification and eutrophication impact categories.
Substantial Bark Use as Insulation Material
Authors: Kain Günther , Barbu Marius-Catalin , Teischinger Alfred , Musso Maurizio , Petutschnigg Alexander
Published: October 2013

In this study, bark-based insulation boards were made out of pine (Pinus sylvestris) bark. Their properties seem to be promising with regard to thermal conductivity, heat storage capacity, and mechanical characteristics. The influences of panel density, resin content, and particle size on the relevant board properties were studied, showing that it is possible to produce comparatively light (<500 kg/m3) bark boards for thermal insulation. In particular, the panels' heat storage capacity is superior to commonly known insulation materials. For this reason bark-based insulation panels could probably be used efficiently for civil engineering purposes and insulation applications in general.
Accuracy of Automated Assessment of Sweep in Standing Hybrid Poplar Trees Using Terrestrial Laser Scanning
Authors: Barnett Jennifer , Murphy Glen
Published: October 2013

Sweep, in interaction with sawing method, can negatively affect volume and value recovery from logs. Quantitatively assessing sweep in standing trees to determine its impact on product yields, volume recovery, and value recovery can be challenging and time-consuming. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) provides an opportunity to measure three-dimensional sweep in standing trees.

A total of 98 trees from three hybrid poplar stands (one 12-y-old stand and two 7-y-old stands) in eastern Oregon were TLS scanned over bark and automatically assessed for sweep to a maximum height of 17 m. The trees from the three stands were then felled, transported to a mill, and scanned after debarking using an industrial scanning system. Trees from one of the stands were scanned four times: twice using TLS in the forest from two scan points, and then mill scanned once over bark and rescanned using the mill scanner after the bark was removed.

The average root mean squared differences (RMSD) between over bark TLS measurements and under bark mill scan measurements were similar to the average RMSDs between over bark and under bark mill scan measurements. Differences were noted between stands. The average RMSD was higher in the 12-year-old stand than in the two 7-year-old stands.
Gaining Competitive Advantage in the New Normal
Authors: PANWAR RAJAT , VLOSKY RICHARD , HANSEN ERIC
Published: October 2013

The financial crisis that started in mid-2008 has led to a subsequent economic recession. Although officially declared over, global financial degradation may result in a “double-dip” recession with no substantive relief in the near future. Consequently, fundamental shifts within global forestry and the forest industry sectors have taken place with disruptions, dislocations, and uncertainties felt through the entire chain from the forest to markets. This is the worst downturn for forest products markets since the first oil crisis in the 1970s. Manifestations have included decreased demand, fluctuating prices and changed exchange rates, increased competition, overcapacity, low profitability, wood supply problems, and competition for raw materials exacerbated by the emerging bio-based energy sector. Although the ability of the forest sector as a whole to experience strong growth during the recession and when recovery begins is doubtful, there are many actions that individual companies can take to create competitive opportunities during the crisis and solidify position when markets strengthen. This article presents specific actions that can be taken to create or maintain competitive advantage across the forest sector supply chain in this time of crisis.
The Faroe Islands’ Security Policy in a Process of Devolution
Authors: Jákupsstovu Beinta í , Berg Regin
Published: October 2013

Since the late 1990s there has been a remarkable change in the institutional context of safety and security policies for the Faroes. The end of the Cold War led to a reduction in the strategic importance of, and military presence in, the islands. However, today Faroese sea and air space is increasingly exposed to heavy civilian traffic due to expected oil production as well as new sailing routes from the High North. The Faroese government is in a process, nearly completed, of taking over the full responsibility for societal security policy, a field it used to share with the Danish state authorities. In April 2002, the Faroese authorities took over the responsibility for SAR in Faroese sea territory and established a MRCC Center in Tórshavn. A new civic security law was passed by Løgtingið (the parliament) in May 2012. This article discusses micro-states’ options in the international arena; provides a brief overview of the history of Faroese security policy; and discusses the present and future challenges involved in assuring protection and rescue services for the Faroese region of the North Atlantic.
Counseling for IUDs and Implants: Are Health Educators And Clinicians on the Same Page?
Authors: Thompson Kirsten M.J. , Gelt Marsha , Speidel J. Joseph , Harper Cynthia C.
Published: October 2013

Context

Low knowledge of long‐acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) and restrictive counseling practices have been documented among contraceptive care clinicians. However, little is known about health educators’ counseling on LARC, how their practices compare with clinicians’ and their specific training needs.

Methods

A survey conducted in 2011–2012 assessed knowledge and practices related to LARC counseling and provision among 410 staff at 40 Planned Parenthood clinics. Clinicians’ and health educators’ knowledge and practices were compared via chi‐square tests; use of evidence‐based criteria was assessed in multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Results

At least half of both types of staff routinely discussed LARC with clients, and nearly all considered the methods safe. Health educators considered a smaller proportion of clients candidates for LARC than did clinicians (57% vs. 77%), and they were less likely to consider IUDs for teenagers (79% vs. 96%), nulliparous women (82% vs. 98%) and unmarried clients (90% vs. 99%). In a multivariable model, health educators were less likely than clinicians to counsel clients using the least restrictive evidence‐based criteria (odds ratio, 0.1). Sixty‐four percent of health educators and 40% of clinicians desired additional LARC training.

Conclusion

Even in clinics that specialize in reproductive health care, health educators are less likely than clinicians to apply current evidence‐based criteria in counseling about LARC. To provide evidence‐based contraceptive counseling, health educators need training on LARC eligibility and indications.
Institutional innovation and investment in Taiwan: the micro-foundations of the developmental state
Authors: Haggard Stephan , Zheng Yu
Published: October 2013

Rapid growth in the East Asian newly industrializing countries depended on institutional innovation. Authoritarian governments like Taiwan faced a dilemma: how to assure investors in a policymaking environment that made commitments difficult to sustain? In contrast to both the early developmental state literature and the new literature on authoritarian institutions, this article shows that “small” institutions have had an effect on both the credibility of commitments and the composition of the firms that the Taiwanese state sought to assure. In the 1950–1960s, insulated decision-making bodies with strong participation by foreigners and export-processing zones signaled government intent to both foreign and domestic firms. In the 1970–1980s, democratic decision-making structures were more decentralized and state interventions shifted in a more market-oriented direction. Even so, the Taiwanese government continued to use institutions such as the Hsinchu Science Park to extend assurances to domestic investors engaged in risky high-technology ventures.
MurD enzymes: some recent developments
Authors: Šink Roman , Barreteau Hélène , Patin Delphine , Mengin-Lecreulx Dominique , Gobec Stanislav , Blanot Didier
Published: October 2013

The synthesis of the peptide stem of bacterial peptidoglycan involves four enzymes, the Mur ligases (MurC, D, E and F). Among them, MurD is responsible for the ATP-dependent addition ofd-glutamic acid to UDP-MurNAc-l-Ala, a reaction which involves acyl-phosphate and tetrahedral intermediates. Like most enzymes of peptidoglycan biosynthesis, MurD constitutes an attractive target for the design and synthesis of new antibacterial agents.Escherichia coliMurD has been the first Mur ligase for which the tridimensional (3D) structure was solved. Thereafter, several co-crystal structures with different ligands or inhibitors were released. In the present review, we will deal with work performed on substrate specificity, reaction mechanism and 3D structure ofE. coliMurD. Then, a part of the review will be devoted to recent work on MurD orthologs from species other thanE. coliand to cellular organization of Mur ligases andin vivoregulation of the MurD activity. Finally, we will review the different classes of MurD inhibitors that have been designed and assayed to date with the hope of obtaining new antibacterial compounds.
Effects of density and substrate type on recruitment and growth of Pyropia torta (Rhodophyta) gametophytes
Authors: Conitz Jan M. , Fagen Robert , Stekoll Michael S.
Published: October 2013

Does density affect recruitment and growth in the annual, blade phase of Pyropia sp., does self-thinning occur, and does substrate affect recruitment? These questions were investigated in laboratory-cultured Pyropia torta, a naturally occurring species in Alaska with mariculture potential. Three density levels were produced from conchospores. Measurements were made, initially at settlement and germination and, subsequently, at approximately 3-week intervals, in 12 randomly selected cultures from each density level. Settled spores, germlings, or growing blades were counted microscopically and standardized to unit area. Blade surface area was measured microscopically using image analysis software. Three density levels were still distinct at germination, but the high and medium levels were not significantly different. The germination rate of conchospores was highest at the medium density level, suggesting facilitation at moderate densities but inhibition at higher densities. Significant self-thinning occurred at each density level but differed among levels, while overall blade growth was about 10-fold greater at low density than at the other two levels. In a separate experiment, counts of attached spores per unit area on artificial substrate materials were greatest on materials with interstitial spaces large enough to trap spores until they become firmly attached.
Pregnane X receptor (PXR) – a contributor to the diabetes epidemic?
Authors: Hukkanen Janne , Hakkola Jukka , Rysä Jaana
Published: October 2013

Pregnane X receptor (PXR), a ligand-activated nuclear receptor, was originally identified as a regulator of drug and bile acid metabolism. Studies in experimental animals and humans within the last decade have revealed PXR as a regulator of energy metabolism repressing gluconeogenesis and hepatic lipid oxidation. The most recent in vivo studies demonstrate that PXR activation has a detrimental role in the regulation of glucose metabolism. The prevalence of many PXR agonists in low concentrations in our environments as well as the PXR-activating properties of numerous commonly used medications and herbal remedies may have unanticipated health effects. It could be speculated that, due to its dual role as a xenosensor and a regulator of energy metabolism, PXR, in concert with a mixture of PXR agonists in the environment, contributes to the present-day type 2 diabetes epidemic. With this hypothesis in mind, we review the current literature on PXR as a regulator of glucose and hepatic lipid metabolism and the association of exposure to PXR agonists with diabetes susceptibility.