bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suitability of Collection Tubes with Separator Gels for Collecting and Storing Blood Samples for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM)
Authors: Karppi Jouni , Åkerman Kari K. , Parviainen Markku
Published: October 2004

In this study, we present significant changes occurring in serum drug concentrations while using blood collection tubes that contain a barrier gel. This report also contains results with antidepressant drugs, which have not been studied before with human samples. The drug concentrations were measured either with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA). The results show that gel tubes are suitable for blood collection for antiepileptic, antibiotic, asthma and cardioactive drug measurements, since only slight adsorption was seen (0–5%). However, the studied tubes are not suitable for blood collection of antidepressants nor benzodiazepines, because the adsorption can be 5–30%. The adsorption was even higher (up to 40%) when samples were stored for 24 h after centrifugation in gel tubes. When the centrifugation step was performed after storage the effect of the barrier gel was lower (only 0–13%). Antidepressant drug measurements performed from patient specimens collected in the studied gel tubes and stored for 3 h showed <10% adsorption of the studied drugs. After 24 h storage time, concentrations of all analysed drugs decreased even more: adsorbed amount of drugs were about 5–20%. The studied gel tubes are proposed to be satisfactory for blood collection for antidepressant drug measurements if separation step is performed within 3 h after blood clotting. With the spiked samples the adsorption to barrier gel was higher, so it seems that adsorption is faster when drugs are not highly bound to serum proteins.
Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies in inflammatory bowel disease: new evidence
Authors: Tola Marco Di , Sabbatella Luigi , Anania Maria Cristina , Viscido Angelo , Caprilli Renzo , Pica Roberta , Paoluzi Paolo , Picarelli Antonio
Published: October 2004

Anti-tissue transglutaminase, previously held to be identical to anti-endomysial antibodies in celiac sprue, has been reported in inflammatory bowel disease patients. To investigate these data further, we evaluated serum and intestinal anti-tissue transglutaminase in inflammatory bowel disease patients, with respect to the Crohn’s disease activity index and the integrated disease activity index. Study population comprised: 49 patients with Crohn’s disease and 29 patients with ulcerative colitis; 45 patients with celiac sprue and 85 autoimmune patients as disease controls; and 58 volunteers as healthy controls. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) anti-recombinant human tissue transglutaminase and anti-endomysial antibody detection in sera and fecal supernatants were performed. Adsorption of positive sera with recombinant human tissue transglutaminase were also performed. Marked increased anti-tissue transglutaminase concentrations were found in celiac sprue, while low-positive values were also found in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Anti-endomysial antibodies were detectable only in celiac sprue. Antigen adsorption resulted in a significant reduction of the anti-tissue transglutaminase either in celiac sprue or inflammatory bowel disease sera. A significant correlation between anti-tissue transglutaminase and Crohn’s disease activity index or integrated disease activity index scores was found. Anti-tissue transglutaminase was also detectable in fecal supernatants from inflammatory bowel disease patients. Data highlight that both circulating and intestinal anti-tissue transglutaminases are detectable in inflammatory bowel disease, and that they are related to disease activity. These features underline that, in addition to anti-tissue transglutaminase, an anti-endomysial antibody test is necessary in the diagnostic work-up of celiac sprue, especially in patients with known inflammatory bowel disease.
Characteristics of prolinase against various iminodipeptides in erythrocyte lysates from a normal human and a patient with prolidase deficiency
Authors: Wang Weifang , Liu Gang , Yamashita Koichi , Manabe Masanobu , Kodama Hiroyuki
Published: October 2004

The effect of various amino acids and MnCl

The kinetics of prolinase activity in the erythrocytes from both the normal individual and the prolidase-deficient patient were also studied. Their K
Immune system-mediated endothelial damage is associated with NO and antioxidant system disorders
Authors: Djordjević Vidosava B. , Stanković Tatjana , Ćosić Vladan , Zvezdanović Lilika , Kamenov Borisav , Tasić-Dimov Desanka , Stojanović Ivana
Published: October 2004

Two distinct systems of different origin are involved in the pathogenesis of both infectious and immunological vasculitis syndrome: nitric oxide (NO) from endothelial cells and granulocyte NADPH oxidase. In this study, in 31 children with immune system dysfunction, NO, NO synthase (NOS) and antioxidant enzyme activities [catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)], as well as immunological parameters, were investigated. On the basis of the clinical findings, all children were divided into three groups: group I, 8 children clinically showing macular skin manifestations; group II, 11 children with maculo-papulous changes; and group III, 12 children with clinical findings of papulous changes. Plasma NO values in groups II and III were significantly elevated (79.14 ± 30.13 and 65.32 ± 6.70 µmol/l), compared to the control group (41.24 ± 3.65 µmol/l), while group I showed statistically lower values (32.38 ± 3.37 µmol/l). In children with the highest level of NO (group II) NOS activity was two-fold higher (1.77 ± 0.59 nmol/ml/min; p < 0.01) than in controls (0.98 ± 0.23 nmol/ml/min). Catalase activity showed a significant increase and SOD activity a significant decrease in all experimental groups, while GPx was not significantly changed. The results show that immune system dysfunction manifested as vasculitis is associated with significant disturbances in the NO system and free radicals scavengers.
Bone marrow microvascular density and angiogenic growth factors in multiple myeloma
Authors: Alexandrakis Michael G. , Passam Freda J. , Ganotakis Emmanuel , Dafnis Evgenios , Dambaki Constantina , Konsolas John , Kyriakou Despina S. , Stathopoulos Efstathios
Published: October 2004

There is evidence that angiogenesis plays an important role in the progression of multiple myeloma (MM). Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) are cytokines that potently stimulate angiogenesis. We evaluated the microvascular density (MVD) of bone marrow biopsies (after immunostaining with anti-CD34 antibodies) and serum levels of HGF and TNF-α in 43 patients with newly diagnosed MM. Twenty-four of these patients reached a plateau phase after treatment and were reevaluated for MVD, HGF and TNF-α. MVD values and serum levels of HGF and TNF-α were elevated in newly diagnosed MM patients in comparison with healthy controls. Pre-treatment MVD, HGF and TNF-α increased with advancing stage of MM disease. In patients reaching the plateau phase, a significant reduction in MVD, HGF and TNF-α levels occurred. A positive correlation was noted between pre-treatment MVD and serum levels of TNF-α and lactic dehydrogenase but not with HGF. However, HGF strongly correlated with β
The insulin-like growth factor system in the circulation of patients with viral infections
Authors: Baričević Ivona , Nedić Olgica , Anna Nikolić Judith , Nedeljković Jasminka
Published: October 2004

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system was examined in the circulation of patients with viral infections (herpes simplex virus, HSV; cytomegalovirus, CMV; rotavirus, RV and adenovirus, AV). The serum concentrations of IGF-I, IGF-II and cortisol were measured by radioimmunoassay, while IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) were characterised by ligand-affinity blotting. Although both IGF-I and IGF-II concentrations were significantly lower in patients with viral infections (p < 0.05) than in healthy persons, the IGF-II/IGF-I ratio was increased (p < 0.05). No correlation between the concentration of IGF-I and IGF-II and the intensity of the antibody response to infection was observed. Ligand-affinity blotting demonstrated decreased amounts of IGFBP-3 (patients with HSV, CMV, AV and some patients with RV), increased IGFBP-2 (some patients with HSV and RV) and IGFBP-1 (patients with RV). Serum cortisol was significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in patients infected with HSV, CMV and RV. The alterations observed can be interpreted as induction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and suppression of the growth hormone (GH)/IGF axis under the influence of viral infection.
Age- and sex-related reference values for serum insulin concentration and its biological determinants in a French healthy population. The STANISLAS cohort
Authors: Francois Aurélie , Maumus Sandy , Vincent-Viry Monique , Guéguen René , Siest Gérard , Visvikis Sophie
Published: October 2004

Insulin is involved in coronary heart disease through diabetes and metabolic syndrome. A great deal is known about insulin and its correlates, as well as factors related to changes in insulin. However, few studies consider the broad variety of correlates simultaneously. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to characterize the main factors of biological variation affecting serum insulin concentration and to establish reference limits of insulinemia in a presumably healthy French population. Insulin was measured using a microparticular enzymatic immunoassay. A total of 646 subjects aged 11–58 years from the STANISLAS cohort and divided into four groups of 162 males, 157 females, 163 boys and 164 girls, were included in the statistical analyses. In the whole population, serum insulin concentration varied from 0.80 to 54.60 µU/ml. Significant factors affecting insulin were age, gender, body mass index and glucose, in addition to alanine aminotransferase and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in men, triglycerides and oral contraceptive use in women, and alkaline phosphatase in girls.

In summary, we presented biological correlates of insulin in both healthy French male and female adults and children/adolescents and determined reference limits for insulin for each group. These results will contribute to a better interpretation of insulin data in further studies and laboratory investigations.
Screening of antinuclear antibodies: comparison between enzyme immunoassay based on nuclear homogenates, purified or recombinant antigens and immunofluorescence assay
Authors: Bernardini Sergio , Infantino Maria , Bellincampi Lorenza , Nuccetelli Marzia , Afeltra Antonella , Iori Roberta , Biroccio Antonino , Urbani Andrea , Federici Giorgio
Published: October 2004

Current clinical practice considers antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing as a screening test; this has a major impact on laboratory work with a growing volume of analyses that need to be performed rapidly, to maintain good specificity and sensitivity. Ongoing discussions have been raised in order to identify the best technology to use in ANA screening, taking into account both clinical and economical implications. The aim of our study was to compare three different enzyme immunoassays (EIA) with immunofluorescence (IF) assay in order to identify which test is better for use as a screening test. The study was performed on 473 sera and the three different EIA tests were based on nuclear homogenates from HeLa cells, purified antigens from HEp-2 cells and recombinant antigens, respectively. The concordance between EIA-ANA and IF-ANA techniques, determined by the κ statistic, was acceptable, but not complete, and discrepancies between both EIA-positive/IF-negative samples and IF-positive/EIA-negative were found. Both methods show interesting diagnostic abilities, however, the IF-ANA assay seems to be the first choice test in a well-standardized immunofluorescence laboratory with experienced microscopists, whereas the EIA test might be useful especially in large-scale ANA screening.
Analytical and diagnostic accuracy of the EliA™ automated enzyme fluoroimmunoassay for antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody detection
Authors: Villalta Danilo , Tonutti Elio , Tampoia Marilina , Bizzaro Nicola , Papisch Wolfgang , Tozzoli Renato , Stella Sergio
Published: October 2004

Anti-proteinase 3 antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (PR3-ANCA) and anti-myeloperoxidase antibodies (MPO-ANCA) are considered important serological markers for several forms of idiopathic systemic vasculitis. The aim of the study was to verify the analytical and clinical performance of a new automated enzyme fluoroimmunoassay, the EliA system, for PR3-ANCA and MPO-ANCA detection.

For this purpose the sera of 52 consecutive well-defined patients with a clinical diagnosis of Wegener’s granulomatosis (WG) (n = 29) or microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) (n = 23), and 70 controls suffering from connective tissue disease (25 systemic lupus erythematosus, 25 Sjögren’s syndrome and 20 rheumatoid arthritis) were tested for PR3-ANCA and MPO-ANCA with the EliA assay (Pharmacia Diagnostics, Freiburg, Germany). For comparison purposes, the same sera were also tested by indirect immunofluorescence, another direct immunometric assay (Varelisa, Pharmacia Diagnostics) and a capture PR3-ANCA (Wieslab AB, Lund, Sweden) method.

Both the EliA PR3-ANCA and MPO-ANCA assays showed between- and within-assay precision of < 10%. The dilution test gave straight lines (r

There was a high positive correlation between the EliA and Varelisa methods for quantitative detection of MPO-ANCA levels (r

In conclusion, the EliA MPO-ANCA and PR3-ANCA methods provide good diagnostic accuracy and excellent analytical accuracy, which, in association with the practicality of the automated EliA system, make this method a useful tool for the diagnosis of ANCA-associated vasculitides.
Analytical performance and clinical results of a fully automated MEIA system for brain natriuretic peptide assay: comparison with a point of care testing method
Authors: Storti Simona , Prontera Concetta , Emdin Michele , Passino Claudio , Prati Paola , Fontani Giuliana , Giannelli Isabella , Zyw Luc , Vittorini Simona , Zucchelli Giancarlo , Clerico Aldo
Published: October 2004

The aim of this study was to evaluate the analytical performance of a recently available immunoassay for brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), based on microparticle enzyme immunoassay (MEIA, AxSYM System, Abbott Laboratories), whose analytical characteristics and clinical results were compared with those of a point of care testing (POCT) method (TRIAGE system, Biosite Diagnostics). The within-run and total imprecision of the MEIA system were 18.4% and 19.8% at 21 ng/l, 8.0% and 14.8% at 183 ng/l, and 5.7% and 14.0% at 319 ng/l, respectively. The detection limit of the MEIA system was tested by repeatedly measuring (n = 20) the 0 calibrator in four different runs; a mean +3 SD value of 5.6 ± 4.8 ng/l (range 1.8–12.6 ng/l) was obtained. A close linear relationship (MEIA = –22.5 + 1.71 POCT method, R = 0.950, n = 296) was found (BNP concentration: 5–5500 ng/l), with a significant bias (mean difference: 164.8 ng/l, p < 0.0001). Mean BNP concentration measured in 94 reference subjects (57 women and 37 men; mean age 43.5 ± 14.0 years) was higher with MEIA than POCT, (25.9 ± 32.7 ng/l vs. 11.7 ± 8.9 ng/l, p < 0.0001). The same trend was observed also in 202 cardiac patients (620.6 ± 1082.2 ng/l vs. 386.1 ± 594.5 ng/l, p < 0.0001). Our data suggest that MEIA and POCT have quite similar analytical performance but different clinical results. Then, different reference values, as well as cut-off values, should be taken into account for the clinical use of these two immunoassays.
Estimation of the Relative Proportions of Cellulose I alpha and I beta in Wood by Carbon-13 NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Newman Roger H.
Published: October 2004

Relative proportions of cellulose in the Iα and Iβ molecular packing forms were estimated through a
relationship between molecular packing and the center of gravity of a 13C NMR signal assigned to C-4
of cellulose. An alternative method, based on generation of linear combinations of spectra of 2 samples
of wood, was too time-consuming for routine use but provided data for calibration purposes. NMR
spectra of algal, tunicate, bacterial and commercial fibrous-powder cellulose were also used for
calibration purposes. Mass fractions of the Iα form were estimated as 0.51 for Pinus radiata wood and
0.25 for Castanea sativa wood. The difference is too small to have an important effect on moduli of
elasticity.
The Relationship Between Pit Membrane Ultrastructure and Chemical Impregnability of Wood
Authors: Singh Adya , Dawson Bernard , Franich Robert , Cowan Faye , Warnes Jeremy
Published: October 2004

The woods of Alder and Eucalypt were examined by light microscopy before and after a chemical
treatment by the Indurite process to increase the hardness of the wood. The pattern of wood cell
impregnation for Alder differed significantly from Eucalypt in some respects. In Alder wood all cell
types eg. vessels, fibres and rays, were impregnated in similar proportions. In comparison, in Eucalypt
wood the impregnation material was largely confined to ray cells and the lumina of vessels; other cell
types were either not impregnated or impregnated in very small numbers.

Transmission electron microscopy of Alder and Eucalypt woods suggests that ultrastructural differences
in the texture and porosity of pit membranes may be the main reason for the observed differences
between these wood species with regard to their impregnability by the impregnation material used.
The Influence of the Geometrical Distribution of Cell-Wall Tissues on the Transverse Anisotropic Dimensional Changes of Softwood
Authors: Kifetew Girma
Published: October 2004

The influence of the geometrical distribution of cell-wall tissues on the transverse anisotropic
dimensional changes of softwood has been studied using two isotropic models. A finite element model
has been used to calculate the thermal expansion of two aluminium plates without and with holes in
the two perpendicular directions. Moisture expansion measurements in the two perpendicular
directions were conducted using a polyamide (PA6) plate containing several holes. No differences
were found in either the thermal expansion of the aluminium plates or the moisture expansion of the
PA6 plate between the two perpendicular directions. Thus, the investigation suggests that the
geometrical distribution of cell-wall tissues has no effect on the transverse anisotropic shrinkage of
softwood.
Weathering of Radial and Tangential Wood Surfaces of Pine and Spruce
Authors: Sandberg Dick
Published: October 2004

The development of cracks and changes in appearance have been investigated on radial and tangential
surfaces of pine (Pinus silvestris L.) and spruce (Picea abies Karst.) which have been exposed outdoors
for 33 months. The degradation of the surfaces has also been studied at the micro-level.

Untreated samples, samples impregnated with a CCA-agent and samples surface treated with linseed
oil have been tested.

The annual ring orientation is the most important factor for crack development on weathering. The type
of wood, impregnation treatment and surface treatment with linseed oil have only a marginal effect on
the crack development. No relation has been found between the density of the samples and the crack
development.

After 33 months of outdoor exposure, tangential surfaces of pine have 13 times more total crack length
per unit area than the corresponding radial surfaces. In spruce, the total crack length on the tangential
surfaces is 6 times greater than on the radial surfaces. Tangential surfaces of both pine and spruce have
a greater number of cracks per unit area and wider cracks than the corresponding radial surfaces.
Tangential and radial surfaces show the same colour change in the surface as a result of weathering.
On the micro-level, tangential surfaces have more and deeper cracks than radial surfaces. The cracks
on the tangential surfaces occur frequently in both earlywood and latewood. On radial surfaces, cracks
occur primarily at the annual ring borders, but to a certain extent also in the earlywood.

The radial cell wall of the earlywood has a large number of pits which are degraded at an early stage.
Decomposition of the cell wall takes place on both radial and tangential surfaces. Cracks arise which
follow the S2 fibril orientation in the cell-wall. Delamination in the middle lamella is especially
noticeable in the latewood on tangential surfaces. No differences have been observed regarding linseed
oil treatment, impregnation or type of wood.
Cooperation of Fungal Laccase and Glucose 1-Oxidase in Transformation of Björkman Lignin and Some Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Leonowicz Andrzej , Rogalski Jerzy , Jaszek Magdalena , Luterek Jolanta , Wojtas-Wasilewska Maria , Malarczyk Elzbieta , Ginalska Grazyna , Fink-Boots Monika , Cho Nam-Seok
Published: October 2004

A screening of wood-rotting basidiomycete fungi was conducted for glucose 1-oxidase (GOD) and laccase (LAC) production as well as for ligninolytic activity measured by a Rhemazol reaction. The results showed that genera rich in GOD are lignin degraders as well as effective producers of extracellular LAC. The fungi poor in GOD neither showed LAC, nor ligninolytic activity. The Björkman lignin and 3 phenolic compounds, hydroquinone and syringic and vanillic acids, were tested on the sequential activity of LAC and GOD. In the presence of LAC, quinoid intermediates formed from Björkman lignin and phenolic compounds were observed. The addition of GOD caused a diminution of the quinone level. During incubation of Björkman lignin with LAC and GOD depolymerization occurred, and in the experiments omitting GOD the quantities of low molecular products were markedly lower. Consequently, the consecutive ping-pong activity of LAC and GOD reduced the polymerization and improved the efficiency of depolymerization processes.
The Lipophilic Extractives of an Interglacial Fossil Picea abies from Zeifen (Germany)
Authors: Staccioli Giuseppe , Sturaro Alberto , Parvoli Giorgio , Menchi Gloria , Matteoli Ugo
Published: October 2004

A fossil Picea abies from Zeifen (Germany), 100,000 years old and still presenting good physical and
anatomical properties, is analysed with respect to its lipophilic content. Comparisons are made with a
recent Picea abies, with a subfossil larch and with Taxodioxylon gypsaceum fossils ranging from 1.7
to 20 million years ago. Due to the relatively small age and the low degree of degradation, terpenes
having structures intermediate between the original compounds and the final terpanes are looked for.
Lipophilic components obtained from the fossil Picea abies by extraction with dichloromethane include
linear alkanes, fatty acids, high MWs alcohols and terpenoids such as sesquiterpanes, diterpanes and
diterpenoids. Some of extractive components result unchanged after the process of ageing while others
correspond to substances derived by a process of hydrolysis of original extractives occurring in recent
Picea abies. Diterpanes (norabietatriene, norpimarane, retene and α-phyllocladane) correspond to those
present in most fossils of conifers, even if a trend to the formation of demethylated compounds is
observed. Diterpenoids, on the contrary, are present exclusively as the dehydroabietic acid structure, the
form preceding or responsible of those of most diterpanes, while different structures are not found.
Since intermediate compounds with structures different from the abietic one are absent they might be
looked for in younger fossils. The presence of a large amount of terpanes places this fossil rather closer
to Taxodioxylon gypsaceum samples than to the subfossil larch.
Modified Lignin and Delignification with a CAD-Deficient Loblolly Pine
Authors: MacKay John , Presnell Tim , Jameel Hasan , Taneda Hidetaka , O'Malley David , Sederoff Ronald
Published: October 2004

Lignin composition and lignin removal were investigated in loblolly pines (Pinus taeda L.) deficient in
the monolignol biosynthesis enzyme, cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD). The CAD-deficient pines
were homozygous for the cad-n1 allele, a mutant form of the gene encoding CAD. We show that lignin
from CAD-deficient seedlings is more easily removed by mild alkali at room temperature. The nature
of the phenolics recovered from this treatment link the increased lignin solubility to a build up of
aromatic aldehyde lignin subunits. We carried out a retrospective genetic analysis to identify a 12
year-old CAD-deficient tree from which we isolated Milled Wood Lignin (MWL) and obtained wood
chips for pulping studies. The UV absorption spectra of MWL and the effect of sodium borohydride
reduction of MWL showed that the CAD-deficient tree had substantially higher incorporation of
aldehyde subunits. The CAD-deficient wood was delignified more extensively than the wild type in
soda pulping but not in kraft conditions. More extensive lignin removal, both in mild alkali treatment
and in soda pulping, indicate that suppression of CAD in softwood trees may hold promise to produce
woods well suited for “milder” pulping conditions that consume less chemicals and generate less waste.
Polyhydric Alcohol Pulping at Atmospheric Pressure: An Effective Method for Organosolv Pulping of Softwoods
Authors: Uraki Yasumitsu , Sano Yoshihiro
Published: October 2004

Polyhydric alcohol pulping was developed to separate components of low-quality softwoods that are
produced by thinning and improvement cutting as well as to establish a self-supporting pulping system.
Propylene glycol (PG) was superior to ethylene glycol (EG) as solvent for polyhydric alcohol pulping
at atmospheric pressure. PG pulping of fir, larch and cedar, with sulfuric acid as a catalyst, gave
satisfactory pulps with few rejects and a very low level of residual lignin as compared with EG pulping.
The PG pulps were readily bleached to approximately Kappa number 1 and 80% brightness by one
treatment with sodium chlorite. The yield of bleached pulp from fir was 44.7% based on chips. The
bleached pulps had very high α-cellulose content and crystallinity, and their mechanical properties were
similar to those of kraft pulp. Therefore, polyhydric alcohol pulping appears to be promising for pulping
of softwoods by an organosolv method.
Oxygen Delignification of High-Yield Kraft Pulp. Part I: Structural Properties of Residual Lignins
Authors: Moe Størker T. , Ragauskas Arthur J.
Published: October 2004

The chemistry of oxygen delignification of high-yield kraft pulp was studied by analysis of residual
lignin extracted from kraft and kraft-oxygen pulps using the acid hydrolysis/dioxane extraction method.
For reference pulps cooked to kappa numbers between 20 and 25, the content of free phenolic groups
decreased to about 50% the original value upon oxygen delignification, while the content of carboxylic
acid groups increased by 50–100%. For lignins isolated from high-yield kraft pulp and oxygen
delignified high-yield kraft pulp, it was shown that high-yield kraft pulping with polysulfide (PS) and
anthraquinone (AQ) gives a residual lignin which is chemically different from that of kraft pulps cooked
to lower kappa numbers. Lignin extracted from oxygen delignified high-yield PS/AQ kraft pulp was
more similar to lignins extracted from kraft pulps cooked to lower kappa numbers.
Surface Properties of Mechanical Pulps Prepared under Various Sulfonation Conditions and Preheating Time
Authors: Börås Linda , Gatenholm Paul
Published: October 2004

In this study, the mechanical pulps were prepared under different preheating time and sulfonation
conditions. The pulping conditions chosen yield a gradient of pulps ranging from thermomechanical
pulp (TMP) through chemithermomechnical pulp (CTMP) with a low degree of sulfonation to CTMP
with a high degree of sulfonation. The increase of the sodium sulfite charge resulted in a gradient of
sulfur content which was shown to be related to the introduction of strong acidic groups as well as to
the decrease of the carbohydrate content at the surface revealed by Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical
Analysis (ESCA). These results together with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) investigations
confirm that the plane of rupture in the fiber has been transferred to a more lignin-rich area of the
middle lamella. Despite the lower carbohydrate content at the surface, the water wettability of fibers
was increased as revealed by dynamic contact angle. This is explained by the polar contribution of
sulfonated lignin to the surface energy of the fibers. Inverse Gas Chromatography (IGC) analysis
confirmed the differences in the surface properties of the pulps.
Volatile Organic Chemicals Emissions from OSB as a Function of Processing Parameters
Authors: Barry A.O. , Corneau D.
Published: October 2004

The effects of the oriented strand board (OSB) furnish drying temperature and moisture content on
VOC emissions were evaluated and compared to those of the OSB pressing time and temperature and
resin content. Results clearly showed the important role played by the drying temperature on the strand
emissions. A decrease of emissions is observed when the furnish at a given original moisture content
had been exposed to increasingly high temperatures. Also, the combined effect of moisture content and
heating temperatures showed an increase of the detected TVOC as moisture content and the temperature
increased. At a very high temperature however, the furnish at low moisture content started to degrade,
and an increase in the emission level could be observed. The results showed that emissions from
oriented strand board (OSB) panels were more sensitive to resin content and pressing time. The
Box-Behnken statistical linear model used to treat the data revealed that a linear fitting better correlates
our results. The correlation between the internal bond (IB) and the panel's emissions indicated a
decrease in emissions as the quality of the board (IB) increases in agreement with better resin curing.
The acquisition of more data will certainly be helpful to support this preliminary study.
The Significance of Accelerated Laboratory Testing Methods Determining the Natural Durability of Wood
Authors: Acker J. Van , Militz H. , Stevens M.
Published: October 2004

Under laboratory conditions basidiomycete and soft rot tests were carried out on more than 20 hardwood species and 3 softwood species together with reference species to evaluate their natural durability according to the European standard EN 350 part 1. The basidiomycetes tests were carried out using Gloeophyllum trabeum, Coniophora puteana, Poria placenta and Coriolus versicolor, all fungal strains in malt agar tests and in agreement with the EN 113. Such tests did not provide a solid basis to classify all wood species according to known durability classes (EN 350, part 2). There was only a distinct differentiation noted between those species belonging to the group with a durability classified 1 to 3 and those classified 4 to 5. Conclusively, only limited additional information on durability of tropical hardwoods was gained from brown rot tests. Despite both types of laboratory tests on soft rot, prescribed in ENV 807 (vermiculite and soil) which show the essential differences to the basidiomycete test results, it has not been possible to classify the durability subdivisions in a more substantial way. Adding to these tests the durability classification, based upon a field stake test (EN 252) and a greenhouse accelerated stake test, was also carried out. Using this last method, results can be gathered more rapidly and consequently confirm the efficiency of lab tests. Generally it is perceived that lab tests and accelerated tests are important tools in the prediction of the natural durability of wood. To further improve the predictability value, durability testing would be enhanced when using a hazard class orientation. Therefore the function of the conclusive end product can be identified in a more obvious way.
Fixation of Chromium in Wood from Trivalent Chromium Salt Solutions
Authors: Jorge F. C. , Santos T. M. , Jesus J. Pedrosa de , Banks W.B.
Published: October 2004

The aim of this study was to fix chromium chemically in wood from trivalent chromium solutions. Chromium(III) nitrate, chloride and sulphate salts were applied, both in aqueous and in methanolic solutions. To improve chromium fixation metallic zinc was used as a strong reductant to generate labile Cr(II) species from Cr(III), and base was added (NaOH for water and NaMeO for methanol). Aqueous solution reaction conditions were always acidic in spite of base addition, leading to unacceptable levels of wood degradation (e. g., weight loss), although relatively high chromium levels were attained in some cases. Methanolic solutions did not lead to wood degradation, and there was fixation of high levels of chromium. Although the addition of NaMeO seemed to improve chromium fixation, a chromium precipitate always formed, usually after a long reaction time (> 4h). Therefore the following experimental conditions for chromium fixation are suggested: alcoholic solution of Cr(III) chloride or nitrate, addition of metallic zinc, at reflux. To avoid using large amounts of zinc, Cr(III)-solutions can also be reduced electrochemically.
Spatial Distribution of Metal Ions in Spruce Wood by Synchrotron Radiation Microbeam X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis
Authors: Berglund Annica , Brelid Harald , Rindby Anders , Engström Per
Published: October 2004

The possibility of using synchrotron radiation microbeam X-ray fluorescence (μ -XRF) for the determination of the morphological distribution of inorganic elements in wood has been investigated. A number of samples were analyzed and some of the results are presented in this paper. The new application of the method showed good results and it was concluded that the technique is useful for specific in situ metal ion analysis of wood. One of its special advantages is that it is a non-destructive method, which may allow analysis of the same sample before and after a chemical treatment. This study shows the natural distribution of a selection of metal ions in wood. Some differences in the distribution and amount of certain metals could also be observed in a sample that had been subjected to treatment with an EDTA-solution.
Chemical Composition of Lipophilic Extractives from Eucalyptus globulus Labill. Wood
Authors: Gutiérrez A. , Río J.C. del , González-Vila F.J. , Martín F.
Published: October 2004

The composition of lipophilic extractives in the chloroform soluble fraction of the acetone extract from Eucalyptus globulus wood has been examined. The lipid extract was fractionated by solid-phase extraction on aminopropyl-phase cartridges into four different fractions of increasing polarity. The total lipid extract and the resulting fractions were analyzed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, using high temperature capillary columns. The main compounds identified included sterols, sterol esters, fatty acids, steroid ketones, hydrocarbons and triglycerides. Minor compounds such as fatty alcohols, mono- and diglycerides, waxes and tocopherols were also identified among the lipids from E. globulus wood.
Antifungal Compounds in the Ethyl Acetate Soluble Fraction of the Extractives of Taiwania (Taiwania cryptomerioides Hayata) Heartwood
Authors: Chang Shang-Tzen , Wang Sheng-Yang , Wu Chi-Lin , Su Yu-Chang , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung
Published: October 2004

This study was to isolate and identify the antifungal compounds in the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanol extractives of Taiwania (Taiwania cryptomerioides Hayata) heartwood and to examine their antifungal activity. Five compounds were obtained by open column chromatography and HPLC and based upon the results from Mass, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR analyses. Their structures were identified, namely ferruginol, helioxanthin, savinin, taiwanin C, and hinokiol. According to the results of antifungal test, the order of antifungal index of these compounds for Coriolus versicolor (L. ex Fr.) Quel. was ferruginol > taiwanin C > savinin > hinokiol. For Laetiporus sulphureus (B. ex Fr.) Bond. it was taiwanin C > savinin > ferruginol > hinokiol.
Efficacy of Pinosylvins against White-Rot and Brown-Rot Fungi
Authors: Celimene Catherine C. , Micales Jessie A. , Ferge Leslie , Young Raymond A.
Published: October 2004

Three stilbenes, pinosylvin (PS), pinosylvin monomethyl ether (PSM) and pinosylvin dimethyl ether (PSD), were extracted from white spruce (Picea glauca), jack pine (Pinus banksiana), and red pine (Pinus resinosa) pine cones, and their structures were confirmed by spectroscopic and chromatographic (HPLC, GC/MS, NMR and FTIR) analysis. PS, PSM, PSD or a 1:1:1 mixture of these stilbenes at concentrations of 0.1 % and 1.0 % were examined for their fungal inhibitory activity by two bioassay methods. Growth of white-rot fungi (Trametes versicolor and Phanerochaete chrysosporium), and brown-rot fungi (Neolentinus lepideus, Gloeophyllum trabeum and Postia placenta) on agar media in the presence of each of the stilbenes or a 1:1:1 mixture inhibited growth of white-rot fungi, but slightly stimulated growth of brown-rot fungi. Soil-block assays, conditions more representative of those found in nature, did not correlate with those from the screening on agar media. PS, PSM, PSD or a 1:1:1 mixture of the three compounds at concentrations of 0.1 % and 1.0 % did not impart any significant decay resistance to white-rot fungi inoculated on a hardwood (Red maple). However under the same conditions, decay resistance was observed against brown-rot fungi on a softwood (Southern yellow pine). It appears that stilbenes at least partially contribute to wood decay resistance against brown-rot fungi.
Lignin-Polyphenol Interaction in Azobe (Lophira alata) Heartwood. A Study on Milled Wood Lignin (MWL) and Klason Residues
Authors: Lange Werner , Faix Oskar
Published: October 2004

Findings about anomalous high Klason residues of azobe (Lophira alata) heartwood prompted a search for methods of determination of non lignin-type polyphenols in lignin preparations. A four step procedure was performed: (1) ethylation of milled wood lignins (MWLs) from azobe and beech heartwood, (2) permanganate oxidation, (3) methylation, and (4) GC analysis of the oxidation products. Besides the well known degradation products of hemipinic, iso-hemipinic, and meta-hemipinic acid type, methyl-3,4-diethoxy-benzoate (compound I) has also been detected among the oxidation products. The oxidation of beech MWL gave rise only to 0.4 mol % of I but azobe MWL yielded the remarkably high amount of 10.7 mol % of I. As lignins do not contain two adjacent aromatic hydroxyl groups, we concluded that I is of polyflavonoid origin. Hence the extraordinarily high Klason residues of azobe heartwood can be rationalized with large amounts of acid insoluble polyphenols which are an integral part of the azobe cell wall and which is also closely associated to MWLs. Ethylation followed by KMnO4 oxidation is an effective tool to detect polyflavonoids in lignins.
Determination of Phenolic Hydroxyl Groups in Lignin by Combined Use of 1H NMR and UV Spectroscopy
Authors: Tiainen Eija , Drakenberg Torbjörn , Tamminen Tarja , Kataja Kirsi , Hase Anneli
Published: October 2004

Two independent spectroscopic methods are presented and compared for the quantitation of the phenolic hydroxyl groups in lignins. The combined information is used to further elucidate the character of the lignin samples examined. The UV method is based on the difference of the spectroscopic properties of the ionised and the nonionised phenol. The method using 1H NMR spectroscopy is based on the exchange of phenolic protons in D2O. The difference in integrated proton intensities in the sample dissolved in DMSO and the sample with additional 20% D2O is proportional to the phenolic protons. The method based on UV spectroscopy uses differences in the maxima close to 300 nm and 350 nm of the sample dissolved in alkali and the neutral sample. The results using the two independent methods are in agreement for milled wood lignin, for kraft lignin and for model compounds carrying one aromatic hydroxyl group. For modified lignins and for model compounds with more than one aromatic hydroxyl group, the UV method gives too low values for phenolic hydroxyl groups. The combined results obtained by the two methods however provide information of the total amount of the phenolic groups and of the nature of the phenolic structure formed by the lignin refining.
The Effective Diffusion Coefficient and Mass Transfer Coefficient of Nordic Softwoods as Calculated from Direct Drying Experiments
Authors: Hukka Antti
Published: October 2004

The effective diffusion coefficient and mass transfer coefficient of Scot's pine and Norway spruce heartwood are calculated from the measured development of the internal moisture profiles of sawn timber during drying. Measurement is made using the oven-dry method. Calculation of both coefficients is based on using an existing timber drying simulation model to iteratively optimise the parameter values for the diffusion and mass transfer coefficients of prescribed functional form. The results show that the procedure employed is a feasible method to obtain numerical values for the internal and external transfer coefficients as functions of wood moisture content and temperature. The resulting diffusion coefficient and mass transfer coefficient are applicable in the whole moisture range between green and dry states in temperatures 20–80°C thus covering the whole process of medium-temperature wood drying.
Sorption Behaviour and Dimensional Changes of Wood-Coating Composites
Authors: Meijer Mari de , Militz Holger
Published: October 2004

The moisture related properties of wood-coating composites have been studied to evaluate the influence of coating penetration on the protection of wood against moisture. Pine sapwood samples were vacuum-impregnated with 7 pigmented and unpigmented coatings, both water and solvent borne. The retention and void filling of the coating have been determined. After drying, the samples were exposed to relative humidities between 33 and 98 % and to liquid water and equilibrium moisture content and dimensional changes were measured. The rate of swelling and moisture sorption has been measured, the latter was also used to calculate diffusion coefficients. The sorption isotherms were analysed by the Hailwood-Horrobin equation. In order to obtain additional information on the hygroscopicity of coatings, similar measurement were made on free coating films.

The void filling of wood with coating material has the strongest impact on the uptake of liquid water. A limited reduction was observed for the equilibrium moisture content, the diffusion coefficient during adsorption and the rate of dimensional change. No influence on the equilibrium swelling have been found but the shrinkage during desorption was however often slightly increased for the wood-coating composites.

The limited impact of the penetrated coating on moisture related properties can to a large extent be explained by the low void filling after drying (20–60%) and the relatively high moisture sorption and swelling of the coating film itself. In general, it can be concluded that the moisture protection of penetrated coating material is low in comparison to coating applied as a film on the surface of wood.
Production of Polygalacturonase and Increase of Longitudinal Gas Permeability in Southern Pine by Brown-Rot and White-Rot Fungi
Authors: Green Frederick , Clausen Carol A.
Published: October 2004

Hydrolysis of bordered and pinoid pits may be a key event during colonization of wood by decay fungi. Although pits are numerous, studies of pectin-hydrolyzing enzymes in wood decay fungi are scarce, probably because of the relatively low content (less than 4 %) of pectin in wood and because of the primary focus on understanding the degradation of lignified components. Endopolygalacturonase (endo- PG) activity was estimated by cup-plate assay and viscosity reduction of pectin from liquid cultures of fifteen brown-rot and eight white-rot basidiomycetous fungi using sodium polypectate as the carbon source. Oxalic acid was estimated in liquid culture and related to mycelial weight of each fungus. Changes in longitudinal gas permeability of southern pine cores exposed to selected decay fungi in liquid culture were measured to determine the extent of hydrolysis of bordered pits. Twelve of fifteen brown-rot and six of eight white-rot fungi tested were positive for at least one of the polygalacturonase test methods. Accumulation of oxalic acid was detected in thirteen of fifteen brown-rot isolates and none of the white-rot fungi tested. Gas permeability of pine cores increased approximately fourfold among brown-rot fungi tested and eighteenfold among white-rot fungi tested. Scanning electron microscopy revealed bordered pit membrane hydrolysis in cores colonized by white-rot fungi, but only torus damage, weakening and tearing of the pit membranes, was observed in cores exposed to brown-rot fungi. We conclude that both brown- and white-rot decay fungi have the enzymatic capacity to hydrolyze pectin, damage bordered pit membranes, and increase wood permeability during colonization and incipient decay.
Components of Steamed and Non-Steamed Japanese Larch (Larix leptolepis (Sieb. et Zucc.) Gord.) Heartwood Affecting the Feeding Behavior of the Subterranean Termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)
Authors: Ohmura Wakako , Doi Shuichi , Aoyama Masakazu , Ohara Seiji
Published: October 2004

The attraction of steamed Japanese larch (Larix leptolepis (Sieb. et Zucc.) Gord.) heartwood to the subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki was investigated. Hot-water extracts of the steamed and the non-steamed larch woods were sequentially extracted with n-hexane, diethyl ether, and ethyl acetate. Furthermore, the residual water-soluble fraction of the steamed wood was fractionated by column chromatography using an Amberlite XAD-2 resin. Feeding-preference and feeding-deterrence of the termite were assessed in the two-choice feeding tests using paper discs permeated with each fraction. The diethyl ether extracts of the non-steamed larch wood showed the feeding-deterrence activity. Taxifolin, the main component of these extracts, was found to be the major feeding-deterrence constituent. In the case of the steamed larch wood, taxifolin was not detected in any fractions, and the residual water-soluble fraction showed the feeding-preference activity. Furthermore, it was found that the feeding-preference constituents were contained in the coloring substances adsorbed by the Amberlite XAD-2 resin. From these results, the degradation of taxifolin and the formation of coloring substances during the steam treatment were to be considered as important factors of the attraction of steamed larch wood to the termite.
What Factors Control Dimerization of Coniferyl Alcohol?
Authors: Houtman Carl J.
Published: October 2004

Data suggest that the dimerization of coniferyl alcohol is not under thermodynamic control. In this study, molecular dynamics calculations were used to estimate the effect of the solvent environment. In water, the coniferyl alcohol radicals were forced to associate by the formation of a solvent cage. In glycerol, the solvent cage effect appeared to be absent. These results suggest that in water, the product distribution of the dimers will be modified by interactions with the solvent. The computed results are consistent with experimental observations of coniferyl alcohol reactions in various solvents.