bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
»Point-of-Care« D-Dimer Testing
Authors: Antović Jovan
Published: October 2010

»Point-of-Care« D-Dimer Testing

D-dimer testing is efficient in the exclusion of venous thromboembolism (VTE). D-dimer laboratory assays are predominantly performed in centralised laboratories in intra-hospital settings although most patients with suspected VTE are presented in primary care. On the other hand decreasing turnaround time for laboratory testing may significantly improve efficacy in emergency departments. Therefore an introduction of a rapid, easy to perform point of care (POC) assay for the identification of D-dimer may offer improvement in diagnostics flow of VTE both in primary care and emergency departments while it could also improve our diagnostic possibilities in some other severe clinical conditions (e.g. disseminated intra-vascular coagulation (DIC) and aortic aneurism (AA)) associated with increased D-dimer. Several POC D-dimer assays have been evaluated and majority of them have met the criteria for rapid and safe exclusion of VTE. In our hands three assays (Stratus, Pathfast and Cardiac) have the laboratory performance profile comparable with our routine D-dimer laboratory assay (Tinaqaunt).
Cardiovascular Biomarkers in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Đerić Mirjana , Čabarkapa Velibor
Published: October 2010

Cardiovascular Biomarkers in Chronic Kidney Disease

Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality are markedly increased in chronic renal failure patients. Although it cannot be regarded as a cardiovascular disease risk equivalent, kidney dysfunction is considered an independent predictor of increased cardiovascular risk that increases with deteriorating kidney function. The association is a very complex one, and the term cardiorenal syndrome is now widely used. Cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease patients usually manifests as ischemic heart disease (in the form of angina, acute coronary syndrome or sudden cardiac death), cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, and congestive heart failure. Vascular disease includes atherosclerosis and vascular calcifications, and cardiomyopathy comprises left ventricular hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis and left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. In addition to the well-established traditional risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus, the association is supported by synergistic action of non-traditional risk factors such as excessive calcium-phosphorus load, hyperparathyroidism, anemia, hemodynamic overload, malnutrition, inflammation, hyperhomocysteinemia, altered nitric oxide synthase and increased oxidative stress. This paper summarizes the current understanding of the significance of specific uremic retention solutes, natriuretic peptides, biochemical markers of disorders in calcium-phosphorus homeostasis, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and dyslipidemia.
Sensitive Cardiac Troponin Assays: Myth and Magic or a Practical Way Forward?
Authors: Gaze David
Published: October 2010

Sensitive Cardiac Troponin Assays: Myth and Magic or a Practical Way Forward?

Cardiac troponins (cTn) are considered to be the ‘gold standard’ biomarkers for the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) a pathological spectrum which includes cardiac ischemia, angina, myocardial infarction and ultimately cardiac failure. The growing evidence base for the diagnostic and prognostic use of cTn in ACS has resulted in a universal redefinition of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). A diagnosis of AMI includes the detection of an elevated cTn (or CK-MB) with at least one measurement within 24 hours of the cardiac episode being >upper 99th percentile of a reference population, in conjunction with evidence of myocardial ischemia. A number of high sensitivity immunoassays with claims of superior imprecision and a definable 99th percentile have been produced. Clinically, these have two important impacts. First, there is a drive to change the values into whole numbers by the application of a unit change which carries the scope for confusion. Secondly, the near-normal Gaussian distribution of sensitive cTn in healthy subjects will increase the frequency of cTn positivity in the non-ACS population. The problem is to decipher if such minor elevations in cTn are of clinical concern. What is certain is that AMI remains a clinical not a biochemical diagnosis and the interpretation of cTn concentrations should be made according to the clinical context.
The Esr Test: An Old Test With New Contents
Authors: Piva Elisa , Plebani Mario
Published: October 2010

The Esr Test: An Old Test With New Contents

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) remains one of the most widely used laboratory tests. Its clinical usefulness and interpretation are in the monitoring of inflammatory diseases, in particular rheumatoid arthritis, temporal arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica. At present, the reference method for measuring the ESR proposed by the International Committee for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH) utilizes EDTA-anticoagulated-undiluted blood to perform the test using the method described by Westergren in 1921. Current interest in the methodology focuses on the development of an automated closed system that allows the determination of the sedimentation rate with selected working methods, using a single sample for more than one haematological test, improving the bio-hazardous aspects of the testing procedures. As a consequence, standardization becomes necessary. ESR results should be reliable, despite the increased number of different methods and testing variables. Control materials and External Quality Assurance Schemes are now available, and should be used. In conclusion, innovative techniques may improve the appropriateness and usefulness of ESR in clinical practice, but in addition, they need to guarantee the traceability of results in comparison to the reference method in order to ensure comparability of results among different clinical laboratories.
Concepts for Lean Laboratory Organization
Authors: Halwachs-Baumann Gabriele
Published: October 2010

Concepts for Lean Laboratory Organization

In the last decades, hospital laboratories are beset on all sides by demands to lower the costs of laboratory procedures and at the same time to provide (i) more rapid and usable services, (ii) a broader spectrum of parameters, and (iii) process a higher frequency of specimens. These demands are voiced by patients, physicians, hospital administrators, and governmental agencies. Thus, laboratory management is required to decrease costs, increase efficiency, and promote customer satisfaction under the consideration of quality to be of primary importance. Beside the main task of a laboratory (i.e. the analysing of patient specimens, interpretation of results, expert advice for clinicians), quality management, education of technicians and medical staff, research and development, and development of economic strategies are important duties and responsibilities. A lean laboratory organisation is an important condition to cope these duties. Lean laboratory concepts have to include the preanalytical, analytical and postanalytical period. Strategic planning decisions have to be based primarily on information derived from the external environment and have to be long-term. Lean laboratory concepts always have a holistic view, including medical demands and economic aspects. An example will be shown of how lean laboratory concepts influence the organisation, efficacy and performance of a hospital laboratory.
Diagnosis of Thyroid Disease: Principles and Problems
Authors: Žarković Miloš
Published: October 2010

Diagnosis of Thyroid Disease: Principles and Problems

Conceptually, thyroid disorders can be classified into four groups, namely: 1. disorders of thyroid morphology, 2. disorders of thyroid function, 3. presence of thyroid autoimmunity, and 4. diagnosis and follow-up of thyroid carcinoma. Of course, these groups are non-exclusive, and often there is overlap between the groups. Ultrasound exam is a standard for the diagnosis of the disorders of thyroid morphology. To diagnose disorders of thyroid function TSH and thyroid hormones should be measured. Presence of thyroid autoimmunity is confirmed by measuring antibodies against thyroid-specific antigens. Thyroid peroxidase (TPO), thyroglobulin (Tg) and TSH receptors antibodies are used in the diagnosis, follow-up and prognosis of autoimmune thyroid disorders. The measurement of serum thyroglobulin has no role in the diagnosis of thyroid cancer, but it is used in the follow-up of patients treated for differentiated thyroid carcinoma of the follicular epithelium. Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) produces calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), but calcitonin is specific for MTC. In subjects with MTC, genetic testing should be done, and in positive cases family screening is necessary.
Automation, Lean, Six Sigma: Synergies for Improving Laboratory Efficiency
Authors: Villa Davide
Published: October 2010

Automation, Lean, Six Sigma: Synergies for Improving Laboratory Efficiency

The Pathology Services worldwide, surrounded by products are today requesting solutions. The approach aims towards the brain-to-brain cycle between caregivers and laboratory professionals. Despite budgets limited to 2-3% of total healthcare expenses, Laboratories are providing information for > 70% of medical actions. »Perianalytics« is becoming the focus; understanding information and sample flow in the whole journey and processes. Process analysis is the main component to understand and shape the best combination of components in designing a truly cost-effective Laboratory solution. Methodologies like Lean (or Toyota Production System) and Six Sigma have started recently to be adopted also in healthcare and in the Laboratory environment. Those techniques showed already successful implementations in healthcare, after their development in other sectors. Their tools are addressing the definition of »value«, »waste«, »flow« as key drivers to improve performances. The synergy among the methods allows decision makers to identify the degree of automation really necessary in their laboratory, with streamlined processes. The different platforms made available by industries, forin vitrodiagnostic testing, could become not cost-effective or efficient without a careful assessment of needs, pathways and value-related variables. Total laboratory automation or stand-alone islands for systems can be identified and chosen after process mapping and recommendations deployed with Lean and Six Sigma techniques. This article highlights some key concepts of Lean and their fit in laboratory organization, as methodologies to be implemented before selecting and adopting automated systems.
Medical Errors: Pre-Analytical Issue in Patient Safety
Authors: Plebani Mario , Piva Elisa
Published: October 2010

Medical Errors: Pre-Analytical Issue in Patient Safety

The last few decades have seen a significant decrease in the rates of analytical errors in clinical laboratories, while a growing body of evidence demonstrates that the pre- and post-analytical steps of the total testing process (TTP) are more error-prone than the analytical phase. In particular, most errors are identified in pre-pre-analytic steps outside the walls of the laboratory, and beyond its control. However, in a patient-centred approach to the delivery of health care services, there is the need to investigate, in the total testing process, any possible defect that may have a negative impact on the patient, irrespective of which step is involved and whether the error depends on a laboratory professional (e.g. calibration or testing error) or a non-laboratory operator (e.g. inappropriate test request, error in patient identification and/or blood collection). In the pre-analytic phase, the frequency of patient/specimens misidentification and the presence of possible causes of specimen rejection (haemolysis, clotting, insufficient volume, etc.) represent a valuable risk for patient safety. Preventing errors in the pre-analytical steps requires both technological developments (wristband, barcodes, pre-analytical workstations) and closer relationships with the clinical world to achieve an effective team-working cooperation. The most important lesson we have learned, therefore, is that laboratory errors and injuries to patients can be prevented by redesigning systems that render it difficult for all caregivers and in all steps of the total testing process to make mistakes.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Information Provided by a High Sensitivity Assay for Cardiac Troponin T
Authors: Jarausch Jochen
Published: October 2010

Diagnostic and Prognostic Information Provided by a High Sensitivity Assay for Cardiac Troponin T

Cardiac troponins (cTns) are the preferred biomarkers for the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, assessment of risk and prognosis, and for determination of antithrombotic and revascularization strategy in patients with acute coronary syndromes. The implementation of high sensitivity cTn assays into the clinical routine has increased the number of patients diagnosed with myocardial infarction. In addition, the number of patients with elevated cTn levels that cannot be explained by acute ischemic injury was increased, which is observed in patients with chronic heart disease and other nonischemic cardiac injury or in patients with impaired renal function. The new definition of myocardial infarction provides support for the interpretation of elevated cTn measured with high sensitivity cTn assays in patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome. This review will summarize clinical studies with the recently introduced high sensitivity cTnT assay (TnT hs) with reference to recent experience with high sensitivity cTn assays in general.
Progressive Automation - The Solution of Choice for Improving Lab Efficiency
Authors: Valid Jean-Michel
Published: October 2010

Progressive Automation - The Solution of Choice for Improving Lab Efficiency

Today's hospital laboratory faces increasing pressure to improve turnaround time (TAT), while being required to handle an increasing number of test requests. At the same time, it must operate ever tighter cost controls. Using LEAN process improvement techniques is an effective way of identifying how to delivering greater efficiency and quality. LEAN focuses on identifying those processes that add value and on eliminating the ‘waste’ - those unnecessary, non value adding steps that cause bottlenecks and delay the delivery of results. Greater use of LEAN analysis also confirms that one of the most effective ways of achieving greater overall efficiency is by automating laboratory processes. With Beckman Coulter's progressive automation solution, a laboratory is likely to see a return on its investment within 18 to 36 months. Beckman Coulter uses a LEAN scorecard to enable the laboratory to easily assess its current testing processes and identify specific areas where improvement is needed. By doing this in advance, a laboratory can expect the implementation of its progressive automation solution to go smoothly. In addition, the average laboratory can automate its pre-analytic testing, using a high speed automated sorter, in as little as two weeks.
Serum and Urinary Biomarkers Determination and Their Significance in Diagnosis of Kidney Diseases
Authors: Ležaić Višnja
Published: October 2010

Serum and Urinary Biomarkers Determination and Their Significance in Diagnosis of Kidney Diseases

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is becoming a major public health problem worldwide due to the epidemic increase of patients on renal replacement therapy and their high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The only effective approach to this problem is prevention and early detection of CKD. In addition, despite significant improvements in therapeutics, the mortality and morbidity associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) remain high. A major reason for this is the lack of early markers for AKI, and hence an unacceptable delay in initiating therapy. Therefore, there is a pressing need to develop biomarkers (proteins and other molecules in the blood or urine) for renal disease, which might assist in diagnosis and prognosis and might provide endpoints for clinical trials of drugs designed to slow the progression of renal insufficiency. Besides serum creatinine, promising novel biomarkers for AKI include a plasma panel (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin-NGAL and cystatin C) and a urine panel (NGAL, kidney injury molecule-1, interleukin-18, cystatin C, alpha 1-microglobulin, Fetuin-A, Gro-alpha, and meprin). For CKD, these include a similar plasma panel and a urine panel (NGAL, asymmetric dimethylarginine, and liver-type fatty acid-binding protein). Increased plasma and urinary TGF-β1 levels might contribute to the development of chronic tubulointerstitial disease, indicating the possible therapeutic implications. Furthermore, to differentiate lower urinary tract infection and pyelonephritis interleukin-6 and serum procalcitonin levels were introduced. It will be important in future studies to validate the sensitivity and specificity of these biomarker panels in clinical samples from large cohorts and in multiple clinical situations.
Importance of Hormones and Proteins Determination in the Material Obtained by Fine-Needle Aspiration
Authors: Trbojević Božo , Beleslin Biljana
Published: October 2010

Importance of Hormones and Proteins Determination in the Material Obtained by Fine-Needle Aspiration

More than a half century of experience with aspiration punch of nodal changes in the thyroid gland has confirmed this procedure as a golden standard in the examination of thyroid nodal disease. Although sensitivity, specificity, reliability and reproducibility are incontestably high, this procedure cannot give a simple answer on whether the change examined is benign or malignant. Numerous attempts to improve the procedure resulted in considerably advanced findings. Besides refining the cytopathologic examination techniques, confirmation or determination of hormones, proteins and other substances in the material obtained by fine-needle aspiration are actually the greatest contribution to improvement the of procedure's diagnostic value. These markers are actually followed, in most medical centers, in aspirates of thyroid nodal changes but also surrounding lymph nodes in order to evaluate with greater certainty the type, volume and spread; this is important to establish treatment procedures and to evaluate the residual disease after accomplishing the treatment.
Numerical analysis of influence of ship hull form modification on ship resistance and propulsion characteristics
Authors: Abramowski Tomasz , Żelazny Katarzyna , Szelangiewicz Tadeusz
Published: October 2010

Numerical analysis of influence of ship hull form modification on ship resistance and propulsion characteristics

After signing ship building contract shipyard's design office orders performance of ship resistance and propulsion model tests aimed at, apart from resistance measurements, also determination of ship speed, propeller rotational speed and propulsion engine power for the designed ship, as well as improvement of its hull form, if necessary. Range of ship hull modifications is practically very limited due to cost and time reasons. Hence numerical methods, mainly CFD ones are more and more often used for such tests. In this paper consisted of three parts, are presented results of numerical calculations of hull resistance, wake and efficiency of propeller operating in non-homogenous velocity field, performed for research on 18 hull versions of B573 ship designed and built by Szczecin Nowa Shipyard.
State equations in the mathematical model of dynamic behaviour of multihull floating unit
Authors: Królicka Agnieszka
Published: October 2010

State equations in the mathematical model of dynamic behaviour of multihull floating unit

This paper concerns dynamic behaviour of multihull floating unit of catamaran type exposed to excitations due to irregular sea waves. Dynamic analysis of multihull floating unit necessitates, in its initial stage, to determine physical model of the unit and next to assume an identified mathematical model. Correctly elaborated physical models should contain information on the basis of which a mathematical model could be built. Mathematical models describe mutual relations between crucial quantities which characterize a given system in time domain. The dynamic analysis of multihull unit was performed under assumption that the unit's model has been linear and exposed to action of irregular sea waves. Mathematical model of such dynamic system is represented by state equations. The formulated equations take into account encounter of head wave which generates symmetrical motions of the unit, i.e. surge, heave and pitch. For solving the equations the following three wave spectra were taken into consideration: - ISSC (International Ship Structures Congress) spectrum - Pierson-Moskowitz spectrum - Paszkiewicz spectrum.
Operational causes of fatigue failures within passages of gas turbine engines
Authors: Korczewski Zbigniew
Published: October 2010

Operational causes of fatigue failures within passages of gas turbine engines

In this paper a short presentation of fatigue wear process of structural elements of gas turbine engines has been given. The primary causes of fatigue crack formation within engine mechanical system and flow passages have been highlighted. Special attention was paid to low-cycle fatigue associated with unsteady heat-and-gas-flow processes developed in the passages. The selected damages have been demonstrated of gas flow paths of the engines operating in aviation, navy and power industry, along with origins of their formation and growth.
Dynamical control of dimensional quality of large steel structures in production enterprises of low - level technological support
Authors: Rutkowski Radosław
Published: October 2010

Dynamical control of dimensional quality of large steel structures in production enterprises of low - level technological support

In this paper problems of dimensional control in the building process of large steel structures are discussed. Results are presented of the research aimed at the improving of dimensional quality of prefabricated ship hull structures built in enterprises of medium - or low- level technological support. Problems of dimensional control in building process of large steel structures are highlighted. A solution is proposed of dynamical control of measurement operations as well as their optimization with taking into account current production process parameters. An example of calculations carried out in the frame of the presented solution is also attached.
Photoreduction of carbon dioxide with hydrogen using temperature programmed method
Authors: Kocemba Ireneusz , Nadajczyk Justyna , Góralski Jacek , Szynkowska M.
Published: October 2010

Photoreduction of carbon dioxide with hydrogen using temperature programmed method

The photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide with hydrogen was studied by Temperature-Programmed Surface Reaction (TPSR). This process was carried out in a flow reactor that was especially designed and constructed for this purpose. Titanium dioxide (TiO2, Degussa P-25) was used as supports for platinum, ruthenium and nickel catalysts. The experimental results indicated that the activity of photoreduction of CO2 changes as follows: Ru/TiO2 > Ni/TiO2 > = Pt/TiO2 > TiO2.
Mg(OTf)2 + ionic liquid - recyclable catalytic system in diels-alder reaction
Authors: Bittner Bożena , Milchert Eugeniusz , Janus Ewa
Published: October 2010

Mg(OTf)2 + ionic liquid - recyclable catalytic system in diels-alder reaction

A comparative study of Diels-Alder reaction between cyclopentadiene and dimethyl maleate in catalytic system is reported. The catalytic system was formed from ionic liquid which was made of N-hexylpyridinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide and magnesium trifluoromethanesulfonate. The yields, TONs, TOFs and endo:exo ratios were calculated. The optimal catalyst concentration was found in order to obtain the mixture of endo, exo isomers with the highest yields. Moreover recycling of the catalytic system consisting of Mg(OTf)2 (2 mol%) and ionic liquid was performed. The distillation was noticed to be a better product removal method than extraction by organic solvent, taking into consideration both the TON and TOF values.
Production of compound mineral fertilizers as a method of utilization of waste products in chemical company Alwernia S.A.
Authors: Malinowski Przemysław , Olech Mirosław , Sas Józef , Wantuch Wiesław , Biskupski Andrzej , Urbańczyk Leszek , Borowik Mieczysław , Kotowicz Jerzy
Published: October 2010

Production of compound mineral fertilizers as a method of utilization of waste products in chemical company Alwernia S.A.

The results of investigations on a possible utilization of waste products formed during the production of commercial and food inorganic salts are presented. Application of wastes in the production of compound fertilizers was suggested. The work covered a full research cycle starting from laboratory tests and ending on the production implementation. Fertilizer formulas were developed on the basis of laboratory tests. A possible production of fertilizers of suggested compositions was tested on a pilot plant scale. The compound fertilizer production with the use of waste raw materials was implemented in Chemical Company Alwernia S.A. It reduced the amount of wastes directed to industrial waste site.
Polyurethanes used in the endoprosthesis of joints
Authors: Domańska Agata , Boczkowska Anna , Izydorzak Marta , Jaegermann Zbigniew , Kurzydłowski Krzysztof
Published: October 2010

Polyurethanes used in the endoprosthesis of joints

The aim of the studies presented in this paper was the selection of the polyurethanes synthesized from different substrates in order to obtain i) ceramic - biodegradable polymer composite and ii) polyurethane resistant to abrasive wear. The polyurethanes were obtained from the crystalline prepolymers extended by water, because it may have a beneficial effect on the toxicity of the material. The properties of PUs were investigated using infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy. In all the tested polyurethanes the peak from the reactive -NCO groups was not observed, which indicates that all the substrates are fully reacted. Such polyurethanes are characterized by interesting properties with the perspective use as components of ceramic-polymer joints endoprosthesis. The designed endoprosthesis should fulfill at least three functions: load bearing function (ceramic core), fastening and stabilizing endoprosthesis to the bone (composite ceramics - biodegradable polymer) and tribologic function allowing mating with parts of the prosthesis (polyurethane layer resistant to abrasive wear).
Methane fermentation of poultry slaughterhouse waste
Authors: Wymysłowski Mateusz , Łuczak Małgorzata , Zawadzka Alicja , Imbierowicz Mirosław , Chacuk Andrzej
Published: October 2010

Methane fermentation of poultry slaughterhouse waste

One of the alternative methods for the treatment of animal by-products is their utilization in biological processes with a simultaneous production of energy-rich biogas. The results of the investigations of methane fermentation of animal waste are discussed in the study. The methane fermentation was carried out at 35°C. The substrates used in the experiments included poultry heads and muscle tissue. Furthermore, the fermentation residues subjected previously to hydrothermal processing were used as a substrate. The suspension of those substrates in the initial concentration range from 1 g TOC/dm3 to 11 g TOC/dm3 was used in the process. Additionally, the effect of the preliminary stage of hydrothermal substrate processing on methane fermentation efficiency was assessed. Poultry waste was subjected to thermohydrolysis at the temperature from 100°C to 300°C and pressure up to 9.0 MPa. The efficiency of the methane fermentation was estimated on the basis of biogas generated in the process. The biogas production was between 0.17 Ndm3/g TOC and 1.53 Ndm3/g TOC. In the case of poultry heads, a beneficial impact of hydrothermal processing at the temperatures from 100°C to 175°C was confirmed. For poultry meat the preliminary thermohydrolysis brought about a decrease of methane fraction in the biogas evolved. The preliminary hydrothermal processing made it possible to meet the requirements of legal regulations for the hygienization of by-products of animal origin. The obtained results allowed us to identify conditions under which the methane fermentation was carried out and which ensured a high level of methanization.
Removal of phenols from aqueous solutions with solvating extractants
Authors: Regel-Rosocka Magdalena , Wiśniewski Maciej
Published: October 2010

Removal of phenols from aqueous solutions with solvating extractants

The removal of selected phenols (phenol, 4-methoxyphenol, 4-fluorophenol, 4-nitrophenol, 4-methylphenol, 4-chlorophenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol) from aqueous streams by liquid-liquid extraction is studied. Butylene and propylene carbonate - are used as green extractants. They permit to remove almost 100% of the examined phenols from feed solutions of phenol concentration about 20 g/dm3. Additionally, stripping of phenols from loaded organic phases is carried out with NaOH. The results of extraction parameters for alkylene carbonates (extraction efficency and distribution ratio) are compared with commercial solvating extractant - Cyanex 923.
Removal of Zn(II) from chloride acidic solutions with hydrophobic quaternary salts
Authors: Nowak Łukasz , Regel-Rosocka Magdalena , Marszałkowska Barbara , Wiśniewski Maciej
Published: October 2010

Removal of Zn(II) from chloride acidic solutions with hydrophobic quaternary salts

The equilibrium of zinc(II) extraction from hydrochloric acid solutions with phosphonium and ammonium quaternary salts and their application as carriers in polymer inclusion membranes were studied. The most efficient was the extraction of zinc with the use of chlorides and bromide of ammonium and phosphonium salt (more than 90%). Quaternary ammonium and phosphonium chlorides and bromide are efficient extractants of zinc(II) from hydrochloric acid solutions. Two-fold molar excess of extractant over Zn(II) is necessary for efficient extraction (100%). Solvent extraction power of the extractants studied decreases with increasing hydrophobicity of the anion in the following sequence: QPCl > QPBr > QPBis > QACl > QABF4 > QPBF4 > QPPF6 > QPNtf2. A solution of 1 M H2 SO4 is chosen as the best stripping phase from the technological and economical point of view. Transport across polymeric inclusion membrane enables concentration of the stripping solution; however it takes a very long time.
Synthesis of carbon nanotubes via chemical vapor deposition by using rareearth metals as catalysts
Authors: Jędrzejewska Anna , Wnuk Karolina , Kaleńczuk Ryszard , Borowiak-Paleń Ewa
Published: October 2010

Synthesis of carbon nanotubes via chemical vapor deposition by using rareearth metals as catalysts

This work presents the results of the synthesis of carbon nanotubes using the CVD method. Fe: MgO catalyst was used, also in combination with rare earth elements (gadolinium (Gd), dysprosium (Dy)), which when used alone, are not efficient as catalysts in nanotube growth. Synthesis was performed both at reduced pressure (10-3 mbar) and atmospheric pressure, with constant parameters dependent on the process parameters.
Comparison of NaNbO3 and NaTaO3 as the photocatalysts in the reaction of hydrogen generation
Authors: Zielińska Beata , Kaleńczuk Ryszard
Published: October 2010

Comparison of NaNbO3 and NaTaO3 as the photocatalysts in the reaction of hydrogen generation

The photocatalytic production of hydrogen over several chemical compounds based on sodium niobates and tantalates has been investigated. The photocatalysts have been prepared by an impregnation method of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5 in the aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide and then the calcination at the temperature range of 450 - 800°C. In this report, we present the study showing that of the catalysts explored, the highest photocatalytic activity was shown in a sample obtained at the temperature of 450°C and containing NaTaO3 as a main phase.
Utilization of waste chloroorganic compounds
Authors: Myszkowski Jerzy , Milchert Eugeniusz , Bartkowiak Marcin , Pełech Robert
Published: October 2010

Utilization of waste chloroorganic compounds

Efficient methods of utilization of waste chloroorganic compounds coming from waste water and the waste streams formed e.g. in the production of vinyl chloride by dichloroethane method and in the production of propylene oxide by chlorohydrin method have been presented. First the separation of chloroorganic wastes by the adsorption methods has been described in the article. Three valuable methods of chlorocompounds utilization have been then discussed. The first one is isomerization of 1,1,2-trichloroethane to 1,1,1-trichloroethane as the valuable product with less toxicity than a substrate. The second method is ammonolysis of waste 1,2-dichloropropane and 1,2,3-trichloropropane. The third described method is chlorolysis. This method can be used for the utilization of all types of waste chloroorganics.
Epoxidation of 1,5,9-cyclododecatriene with H2O2 in the presence of tungstophosphoric acid (H3PW12O40)
Authors: Wołosiak Agnieszka , Lewandowski Grzegorz
Published: October 2010

Epoxidation of 1,5,9-cyclododecatriene with H2O2 in the presence of tungstophosphoric acid (H3PW12O40)

The influence of the technological parameters on the epoxidation of 1,5,9-cyclododecatriene (CDT) to 1,2-epoxy-5,9-cyclododecadiene (ECDD) by the phase-transfer catalysis method (PTC) in the presence of tungstophosphoric heteropolyacid (H3PW12O40) and hydrogen peroxide as the oxidizing agent has been presented. The phase-transfer catalyst was Aliquat® 336 (methyltrioctylammonium chloride). The epoxidation of CDT to ECDD in the PTC system proceed under the relatively mild condition: low temperature, lack of solvent, short reaction time.

The effect of: the mixing velocity, the molar ratio of CDT:H2O2 and H2O2:H3PW12O40, the nature of the solvent and its concentration, was studied. The most advantageous technological parameters were: the mixing rate 400 - 600 rpm, the molar ratio of CDT:H2O2 = 3:1 - 1.5:1, the molar ratio of H2O2:H3PW12O40 = 200:1 - 400:1, the temperature 40 - 50°C, solvent: dichloromethane or lack of the solvent, dichloromethane concentration: 10 - 50 vol%, reaction time 35 - 50 min. The application of the above-mentioned parameters allows to achieve the yield of 44 - 47% ECDD in relation to introduced CDT.
Preparation of carbon nanotubes using cvd CVD method
Authors: Pełech Iwona
Published: October 2010

Preparation of carbon nanotubes using cvd CVD method

In this work preparation and characteristic of modified nanocarbons is described. These materials were obtained using nanocrystalline iron as a catalyst and ethylene as a carbon source at 700°C. The influence of argon or hydrogen addition to reaction mixture was investigated. After ethylene decomposition samples were hydrogenated at 500°C. As a results iron carbide (Fe3C) in the carbon matrix in the form of multi walled carbon nanotubes was obtained. After a treatment under hydrogen atmosphere iron carbide decomposed to iron and carbon and small iron particles agglomerated into larger ones.
Thermal and thermo-catalytic degradation of polyolefins as a simple and efficient method of landfill clearing
Authors: Tomaszewska Karina , Kałużna-Czaplińska Joanna , Jóźwiak Wojciech
Published: October 2010

Thermal and thermo-catalytic degradation of polyolefins as a simple and efficient method of landfill clearing

Thermal degradation of the low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP) and the municipal waste plastics was investigated. The thermo-catalytic degradation of LDPE and PP was studied in the presence of the following catalysts: four different types of montmorillonite: K5, K10, K20, K30 and - for comparison - zeolites (natural - clinoptilolite, YNa+ and YH+). Thermal analyses TG-DTA-MS of polymers and polymer-catalyst mixtures were carried out in an argon flow atmosphere in isothermal and dynamic conditions. The following order was found: in lowering the reaction temperature for LDPE degradation YH+ > mK5 > mK20 = mK30 >mK10 > NZ > YNa+; for PP degradation: mK20 > mK5 = mK30 >mK10 > YH+ > NZ > YNa+. The activity tests were carried out in a stainless steel batch reactor under atmospheric pressure in a wide temperature range of up to 410°C, and using the atmosphere of argon flow. The liquid products were analysed by the GC-MS method. The hydrocarbons in the liquid products from thermal degradation of polymers were broadly distributed in the carbon fractions of C8 to C26 - for LDPE and C6 to C31 for PP.
Formation and disposal of wastes and determination of wastefulness indicators in sugar industry
Authors: Strzelczyk Maria , Steinhoff-Wrześniewska Aleksandra
Published: October 2010

Formation and disposal of wastes and determination of wastefulness indicators in sugar industry

The studies covered sugar industry. The analyses of wastes and wastefulness indicators in the sugar industry were performed in the paper. The results showed that processing of sugar beet generates the formation of huge quantities of side products and wastes. The values of indicators obtained in individual factories were very similar.
Removal of metal ions from aqueous solutions by micellar enhanced ultra-filtration (MEUF)
Authors: Staszak Katarzyna , Redutko Beata , Prochaska Krystyna
Published: October 2010

Removal of metal ions from aqueous solutions by micellar enhanced ultra-filtration (MEUF)

The results of preliminary research on the possibility of removing of chromium(III) and copper(II) ions from micellar solutions in MEUF were described. The effectiveness of metal ions removal in the classical UF and MEUF was compared. It was confirmed that in the classical UF the retention of metal ions is small, independent of the concentration of the feed solution. The cross-flow micellar enhanced ultrafiltration experiments showed the usefulness of this method for the separation of metal ions from micellar solutions. The retention of metal ions in MEUF process is almost total in the case of the solutions of low concentration. However, for more concentrated solutions the retention is much smaller.
Bis(3-methyl-1-propene) ether and 3-(3-methyl-1-propene)-3-methyl-1,2-epoxypropane ether synthesis during the epoxidation of 1-butene-3-ol with hydrogen peroxide over the TS-2 catalyst
Authors: Wróblewska Agnieszka , Wójtowicz Grzegorz
Published: October 2010

Bis(3-methyl-1-propene) ether and 3-(3-methyl-1-propene)-3-methyl-1,2-epoxypropane ether synthesis during the epoxidation of 1-butene-3-ol with hydrogen peroxide over the TS-2 catalyst

The influence of technological parameters on the transformation of 1-butene-3-ol (1B3O) to bis(3-methyl-1-propene) ether (2×1B3O ether) and 3-(3-methyl-1-propene)-3-methyl-1,2-epoxypropane ether (1B3Ox1,2EB3O ether) over the TS-2 catalyst was presented. The reaction was performed in a glass reactor at atmospheric pressure and in methanol medium (protic solvent). The optimum conditions of 2×1B3O ether and 1B3Ox1,2EB3O ether obtaining were established by the mathematical method of experiments design (rotatable-uniform design) and after the analyses of the layer drawings.
Biosorption lead(II) and nikel(II) from an aqueous solution by bacterial biomass
Authors: Wierzba Sławomir , Latała Adam
Published: October 2010

Biosorption lead(II) and nikel(II) from an aqueous solution by bacterial biomass

The optimum conditions for biosorption of Pb(II) and Ni(II) from aqueous solution were investigated, by using living and nonliving Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus pumilus isolated from wastewater treatment plant. It was found that the optimum pH for Pb(II) removal by living and nonliving cells was 6.0, while 7.0 for Ni(II) removal. At the optimal conditions, metal ion biosorption was increased as the initial metal concentration increased. The binding capacity by living cells is significantly higher than that of nonliving cells at tested conditions. The maximum biosorption capacities for lead and nickel by using Ps. fluo-rescens and B. pumilus were 77.6, 91.4 and 65.1, 73.9 mg/g, respectively. The results of bio-sorption time and desorption experiments suggested that Pb(II) and Ni(II) uptake by the living bacterial biomass might be enhanced by intracellular accumulation.
Efficacy of Some Plant Extracts Against Rhizoctonia Solani on Pea
Authors: Al-Askar Abdulaziz , Rashad Younes
Published: October 2010

Efficacy of Some Plant Extracts AgainstRhizoctonia Solanion Pea

Antifungal activity of ethanol-water extracts of four medicinal plants, cinnamon (Cinnamomum verumPresl.), anise (Pimpinella anisumL.), black seed (Nigella sativaL.) and clove (Syzygium aromaticumL. Merr. & Perry.) was investigated against pea (Pisum sativumL.) root-rot fungusRhizoctonia solani. In vitroantifungal activity test shown a high growth inhibition at concentration (4%) of each plant extract. The highest antifungal activity was recorded for clove extract which causes complete growth inhibition at concentration of 1%. Efficacy of clove extract on disease incidence ofRhizoctoniaroot-rot of pea was investigated in the greenhouse pot experiment. Clove extract at concentration 4% as well as the chemical fungicide recorded highly significant increase in the percentage of survived plants (40 and 48%, respectively) and highly significant decrease in disease incidence.
Gamma Radiation Sensitivity of Different Stages of Saw-Toothed Grain Beetle Oryzaephilus Surinamensis L. (Coleoptera: Silvanidae)
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Abbas , Shayesteh Nouraddin , Zolfagharieh Hamid , Babaei Mohammad , Zareshahi Hasan , Mostafavi Hossein , Fatollahi Hadi
Published: October 2010

Gamma Radiation Sensitivity of Different Stages of Saw-Toothed Grain BeetleOryzaephilus SurinamensisL. (Coleoptera: Silvanidae)

The effect of gamma irradiation on different developmental stages ofOryzaephilus surinamensisL., was investigated. Results showed that a required dose to prevent larval emergence from irradiated 1-2-days-old eggs was 60 Gray (Gy), and 350 Gy was required to prevent adult emergence from 15-days-old larvae. Also the required dose of radiation to prevent adult emergence from irradiated 5-days-old pupa was 700 Gy. The dose of 200 Gy caused 100% mortality of irradiated adults 28 days after treatment. In addition, the effect of gamma rays was studied on the developmental stage period of each irradiated stage till adult emergence. The results revealed that there was a dose-dependent increase of the developmental periods. The growth index of adults was significantly decreased with increasing dose of radiation administered to eggs, larvae and pupae. It is recommended that doses between 600 and 700 Gy should be used to control population growth ofO. surinamensiswhen targeting pupae and adults present in stored products.
Nematode Diversity in Banana Rhizosphere From West Bengal, India
Authors: Khan Matiyar , Hasan Mohammed
Published: October 2010

Nematode Diversity in Banana Rhizosphere From West Bengal, India

Survey on plant and soil nematodes associated with banana plantations in different banana growing districts of West Bengal (India), revealed that the occurrence of the most economically important genera of plant parasitic nematodes werePratylenchus, Meloidogyne, Helicotylenchus, Tylenchorhynchus, Hoplolaimus, Rotylenchulus, Hirschmanniella, Criconemoides.Altogether there were seventeen species of plant parasitic nematodes viz.Pratylenchus coffeae, P. brachyurus, P. similis, Meloidogyne incognita, M. javanica, Hoplolaimus indicus, Rotylenchulus reniformis, Helicotylenchus multicinctus, H. abunaamai, H. incisus, H. gratus, H. dihystera, Tylenchorhynchus nudus, T. mashhoodi, T. coffeae, Hirschmanniella mucronataandCriconemoidessp. Among the plant parasitic nematodes,P. coffeae, P. brachyurus, M. incognita, H. multicinctusandR. reniformiswere found as serious pests of banana in West Bengal. The occurrence of the most damaging species,Radopholus similisandHeterodera oryzicolawas not detected in West Bengal, althoughR. similisis reported to occur in Midnapore and Jalpaiguri. Distribution of plant parasitic nematodes associated with the rhizosphere of banana in important banana growing districts of West Bengal, was presented on the basis of information available in the state. Observation of the effects of some banana cultivars/types on the nematode fauna, showed that the cooking banana typeMusa(ABB) cv. Kanchakala andMusa(BBB) cv. Seed Banana supported a huge population ofM. incognitawhich induced severe root galling symptoms. The lesion nematode,P. coffeaewas found infesting all the cultivars/types. It maintained high population densities in the rhizosphere ofMusa(AA) cv. Matti andMusa(ABB) cvs. Kanchkala, Krishna Kanthali whereas the Seed Banana cultivar had a suppressive effect onP. coffeae.The rhizosphere of banana cultivar, Matti exhibited a high population ofH. multicinctus, R. reniformispopulation was recorded in extremely high levels in the rhizosphere of all cultivars/types. Free-living nematodes including rhabditids, dorylaimids, mononchids, were found in abundance in the banana rhizosphere.
Allelopathic Behaviour of Cyperus Rotundus L. On Both CHORCHORUS OLITORIUS (BROAD LEAVED WEED) AND ECHINOCHLOA CRUS-GALLI (GRASSY WEED) ASSOCIATED WITH SOYBEAN
Authors: El-Rokiek Kowthar , El-Din Samia , Sharara Faida
Published: October 2010

Allelopathic Behaviour ofCyperus RotundusL. On BothCHORCHORUS OLITORIUS(BROAD LEAVED WEED) ANDECHINOCHLOA CRUS-GALLI(GRASSY WEED) ASSOCIATED WITH SOYBEAN

Purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus) foliage and tubers were tested for allelopathic potential against the following weeds; juteChorchorus olitorius(broad leaved weed), and barnyard grassEchinochloa crus-galli(grassy weed) associated with soybean. In the greenhouse, during 2008 and 2009, foliage and tubers ofC. rotunduswere mixed with soil surface at 20, 40, 60 and 80 g/kg.C. rotundusnegatively affected those of jute and barnyard grass particularly at 80 g. Jute was more susceptible to allelopathy byC. rotundusthan barnyard grass. Inhibition in weed dry matter was higher with tuber than foliage residues. Tuber residues reduced the dry weight of jute and barnyard grass by 85.96% of the control and by 58.28% with 80 g, respectively. On the other hand, soybean growth and yield showed a high significant increase compared with unweeded pots. A high-performance liquid chromatography analysis showed thatC. rotundusfoliage contained the following phenolic acids: caffeic, ferulic, coumaric, benzoic, vanelic, chlorogenic and cinnamic. Tubers contained hydroxybenzoic, caffeic, ferulic, vanelic and chlorogenic.
Studies on Seasonal Abundance of Diamondback Moth Plutella Xylostella (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) On Cauliflower Crop
Authors: Ahmad Tufail , Ansari Mohd
Published: October 2010

Studies on Seasonal Abundance of Diamondback MothPlutella Xylostella(Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) On Cauliflower Crop

The studies on seasonal abundance of diamondback mothPlutella xylostellawere conducted in two years 2004-2005 and 2005-2006. Survey data of three localities of Aligarh district showed that initial infestation byP. xylostellaoccurred when the farmers started transplantation of cauliflower seedlings, the density ofP. xylostellaranged between 0.90 to 2.38 and 0.27 to 5.84 larvae and pupae/plant in I week of July, 2004 and 2005, respectively, and the rate of parasitization was quite low. Temperature and humidity recorded maximum and minimum i.e. 24.15° to 32.91°C and 68.60 to 91.30 percent, respectively. Population build up is usually observed in II to IV week of September.Cotesia plutellaewas found to be a dominant larval parasitoid while,Oomyzus sokolowskiiparasitized relatively few pupae ofP. xylostella.34.77°C significantly (p < 0.01) enhanced the population of DBM also on 8th September, 8th October, 2004 and 26th January, 2005. Rainfall negatively affected the DBM population in 2004-2005 and 2005-2006.