bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Physisporinus vitreus on wood properties of Norway spruce. Part 2: Aspects of microtensile strength and chemical changes
Authors: Lehringer Christian , Saake Bodo , Živković Vjekoslav , Richter Klaus , Militz Holger
Published: May 2011

The biotechnological application of the white rot fungusPhysisporinus vitreusnamed “bioincising” is currently being investigated for permeability improvement of Norway spruce (Picea abies(L.) Karst.) wood. During short-term (<9 weeks) incubation, fungal activity induces degradation of pit membranes and a simultaneous alteration of the tracheid cell wall structure. In Part 1 of this article series, the occurrence of selective delignification and simultaneous degradation was shown by UV-microspectrophotometry (UMSP). Moreover, significant reduction of Brinell hardness was recorded after 7 and 9 weeks incubation. For a better understanding of the chemical alterations in the wood constituents and the corresponding changes of mechanical properties due to fungal activity, we applied microtensile tests on thin strips that were prepared from the surface of incubated Norway spruce wood. Indications for the occurrence of selective delignification and simultaneous degradation were evident. Determination of lignin content and carbohydrate analysis by borate anion exchange chromatography confirmed the results. The present study verifies the findings from Part 1 of this article series and from previously conducted microscopic investigations. Now, the degradation characteristics ofP. vitreusare established and the bioincising process can be further optimized with higher reliability.
Oxygen plasma-treated enzymatic hydrolysis lignin as a natural binder for manufacturing biocomposites
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyan , Tang Lijuan , Zheng Fei , Xue Gi , Du Guanben , Zhang Weidong , Lv Chenglong , Yong Qiang , Zhang Rong , Tang Bijun , Liu Xueyuan
Published: May 2011

This paper describes the investigation of the oxygen plasma treatment of enzymatic hydrolysis lignin (EHL) that was obtained from the lignocellulosic ethanol production pro- cesses. The application of EHL as a natural binder for biocomposite product manufacturing was in focus. To understand the effects of oxygen plasma treatment, the chemical changes on the surface of EHL were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS), and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. Adding EHL into the cotton-stalk fiberboards has a beneficial effect on physical and mechanical properties. Moreover, adding oxygen plasma-treated EHL produced a 69.2% increase of internal bond strength (IB), a 78.2% increase of modulus of rupture (MOR), and a 49.8% reduction of thickness swelling (TS). The bonding improvement was probably due to the generation of more oxygen-related functional groups and free radicals on the surface of EHL after the oxygen plasma treatment.
Dissolution of dissolving pulp in alkaline solvents after steam explosion pretreatments
Authors: Kihlman Martin , Wallberg Ola , Stigsson Lars , Germgård Ulf
Published: May 2011

In this project different aqueous based solvent systems were investigated for the dissolution of steam exploded (STEX) dissolving pulps prior to a coagulation step for preparation of textile fibers. The pulp samples studied could, to a large degree, be dissolved in a NaOH/urea/thiourea system, but there are always residuals, irrespective of the conditions. The dissolution process appeared to be kinetically controlled, as prolonged retention time decreased the amount of residuals. A pre-cooled NaOH/urea/thiourea system, and a retention time of 60 h generated the lowest amount (6%) of residuals of the STEX pretreated dissolving pulp studied. Some fundamental results are described and a model for dissolution of dissolving pulp fibers is proposed.
The Impact of Nursing Surveillance on Failure to Rescue
Authors: Shever Leah L.
Published: May 2011

Greater amounts of nursing surveillance is thought to decrease failure to rescue but studies to date have used nurse staffing levels as a proxy for nursing surveillance. The purpose of this nursing effectiveness study was to examine the unique treatment effect of nursing surveillance on failure to rescue. Data were abstracted from 9 electronic clinical data repositories including the nursing documentation system that used theNursing Interventions Classification(NIC) to record nursing care. Nursing surveillance was quantified as “high use” when the subjects received it an average of 12 times per day or more. Propensity scores were used to match subjects who had received high-dose nursing surveillance with subjects who received low-dose nursing surveillance (average of less than 12 times a day). The results indicate that when nursing surveillance is performed an average of 12 times a day or greater, there is a significant (p= .0058) decrease in the odds of experiencing failure to rescue (odds ratio [OR] = 0.52) compared to when surveillance was delivered an average of less than 12 times a day. Additional unique variables included in this study are robust levels of nurse staffing based on hourly data, medical treatments, pharmaceutical treatments, and nursing treatments. The use of propensity scores helped determine the unique contribution of nursing surveillance on failure to rescue in this observational study.
Factors Associated With Falls During Hospitalization in an Older Adult Population
Authors: Titler Marita G. , Shever Leah L. , Kanak Mary F. , Picone Debra M. , Qin Rui
Published: May 2011

Background: Falls of hospitalized older adults are of concern for patients, family members, third-party payers, and caregivers. Falls are the most common safety incident among hospitalized patients with fall rates from 2.9–13 per 1,000 patient days. Little effectiveness research has been conducted on nursing interventions and other variables associated with falls of older adults during hospitalization. Purpose: The purpose of this exploratory outcomes effectiveness study was to examine variables associated with falls during hospitalization of older adults. Method: An effectiveness research model composed of patient characteristics, clinical conditions, nursing unit characteristics, medical, pharmacy, and nursing interventions was tested using generalized estimating equations (GEE) analysis. The sample consisted of 10,187 hospitalizations of 7,851 patients, aged 60 or older, admitted for acute care services over a 4-year period. Those included in the sample either had received theNursing Interventions Classification(NIC) intervention of Fall Prevention (defined as “instituting special precautions with patient at risk for injury from falling” [Dochterman & Bulechek, 2004, p. 363]) or were at risk for falling as defined by a fall risk assessment scale. Data were obtained retrospectively from 9 clinical and administrative data repositories from 1 tertiary care hospital. Discussion: Variables that were positively associated with falls, after controlling for other variables in the model, included several medical and nursing treatments; several types of medications including antidepressants, benzodiazepines, antipsychotic, and psychotropic agents; and several types of nursing treatments including restraints and neurologic monitoring (at low use rates of <2 times a day). Variables inversely associated with falls included registered nurse (RN) skill mix, pressure ulcer care, pain management, and tube care. Conclusions: The study demonstrates the importance of conducting interdisciplinary effectiveness research that includes nursing care. Most of the variables associated with falls were interventions (medical, pharmacy, and nursing). Dose of nursing treatments and RN skill mix were also associated with falls.
Measuring Resource Utilization in Patient-Oriented Comparative Effectiveness Research
Authors: Smaldone Arlene , Tsimicalis Argerie , Stone Patricia W.
Published: May 2011

In the United States, rising health care costs have led to discussion about bending the cost curve. To understand the true burden of disease and its treatment, costs of care, including those incurred by patients and their families, must be comprehensively assessed using psychometrically sound instruments. The Resource Utilization Questionnaire (RUQ) is a 21-item self-report questionnaire first developed to measure the costs incurred by families of infants who had required intensive care during the newborn period. The purpose of this article is to describe the conceptualization of resource utilization and costs and other methodological issues in conducting economic analyses, the process of adapting the RUQ for use in children and families with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), and the psychometric evaluation to establish content and criterion validity of the instrument. The finalized modified RUQ for T1DM (mRUQ-T1DM) contained 25 items reflecting direct (5 items) and nondirect (3 items) health care, patient/family time (8 items), and patient/family productivity (9 items) costs using a 3-month recall. The mRUQ-T1DM validly measures cost incurred by children and families with T1DM and is easily completed by parents. Furthermore, the mRUQ-T1DM may be adapted for use in other populations using a similar process.
An Investigation on Asphaltene Precipitation Potential for Light and Heavy Oils, During Natural Depletion
Authors: Hajizadeh Alireza , Ravari Reza Rostami , Amani Mahmood , Shedid Shedid A.
Published: May 2011

Asphaltene and wax deposition during production of many Iranian reservoirs has become a serious problem. In order to investigate the asphaltene precipitation behavior of various Iranian light and heavy oils and to predict their best method of prevention and/or curing the problem a comprehensive research study was launched. This article describes the precipitation potential of various reservoir oils, (8 samples, light and heavy) during their deposition. Three-phase equilibrium calculation of NGHIEM et al., is used. In the method pure asphaltene in the oil is considered as solid. The heavy part of the oil is split as precipitating and non-precipitating. The results of the study, which compares the onset and quantity of asphaltene precipitation of the oil samples revealed; a) the precipitation potential in the light oils depends strongly on the nature of asphaltene molecules in the oil which varies from one to another. b) Light oils behave in a more complicated fashion than heavy oils. c) The volatile oils were more unstable and the ratio of precipitation to the heavy fraction of the oil is highest. The paper describes the foregoing in detail.
A New Approach to Well Test Analysis
Authors: El-Khatib N. A. F.
Published: May 2011

Interference tests are used to estimate reservoir properties such as transmissibility and storage coefficient. The conventional method of analysis which uses a plot of pressure vs. time on a semi-log graph is only applicable at relatively large times to allow for a logarithmic approximation to the Ei-function in the line source solution. At short times the type curve matching technique may be used but this procedure does not allow a fast systematic analysis using regression analysis subroutines via computer.

In this paper the line source solution of the diffusivity equation is differentiated and rearranged in such a way that a straight line relationship between the variables is obtained. This may be achieved by plotting log (t ∂p/∂t) vs. 1/t. The slope and intercept of the resulting straight line are used to estimate the transmissibility (kH/μ) and the storage coefficient (Cϕh) respectively.

The extension of the method to two-rate test analysis and pressure build-up analysis is also outlined.

The use of the method is illustrated by examples and the results are compared with those obtained from type curve matching and semi-log plots. It is concluded that this method is of particular significance for the analysis of interference tests with short duration and/or large distance between wells.
Application of General Material Balance on Gas Condensate Reservoirs GIIP Estimation
Authors: Siddiqui Fahd , Waqas Ghulam M. , Khan M. Noman
Published: May 2011

Volatile oil and gas condensate reservoirs were uncommon before 1930s. Since then they have been discovered with increasing frequency. This is attributed to the increasing drilling depths. Recently there has been a growing interest in these near critical fluids reservoirs. Large number of discoveries made it imperative to implement the relevant methods to deal with such reservoirs.

Usual industrial practice in Pakistan is to use the P/Z plot to estimate the GIIP (Gas initially in place). This is the simplest method and does not require the set of PVT properties below the saturation pressure. However the P/Z method is limited in its application to only volumetric depletion type, dry gas, reservoirs. The general material balance equation gives reliable GIIP estimates, since it accounts for all drive mechanisms. Usually general material balance methods are not preferred in gas condensates, because these require standard PVT properties below the saturation pressure. These properties may be computed using Walsh-Towler algorithm, Whitson-Torp (K-value flash) method or Cubic Equation of State (EOS).

This paper demonstrates the application of Walsh-Towler algorithm and K-value flash method (Whitson-Torp method) to calculate the standard PVT properties below the saturation pressure for a gas condensate reservoir. Then the application of Havlena-Odeh and Cole plot methods is exhibited to estimate the GIIP. The results are then compared with that of P/Z plot and an 11% over-prediction by P/Z plot was observed.
Introduction of New Process Technology into the Wastewater Treatment Sector
Authors: Parker Denny S.
Published: May 2011

Innovative wastewater treatment technologies are developed to respond to changing regulatory requirements, increase efficiency, and enhance sustainability or to reduce capital or operating costs. Drawing from experience of five successful new process introductions from both the inventor/developer's and adopter's viewpoints coupled with the application of marketing analysis tools (an S curve), the phases of new technology market penetration can be identified along with the influence of market drivers, marketing, patents and early adopters. The analysis is used to identify measures that have increased the capture of benefits from new technology introduction. These have included funding by the government for research and demonstrations, transparency of information, and the provision of independent technology evaluations. To reduce the barriers and speed the introduction of new technology, and thereby harvest the full benefits from it, our industry must develop mechanisms for sharing risks and any consequences of failure more broadly than just amongst the early adopters. WEF and WERF will continue to have the central role in providing reliable information networks and independent technology evaluations.
Anaerobic Transformations of Organic Matter in Collection Systems
Authors: Rudelle Elise , Vollertsen Jes , Hvitved‐Jacobsen Thorkild , Nielsen Asbjørn Haaning
Published: May 2011

Anaerobic transformations of wastewater organic matter in the bulk water phase of collection system networks were investigated in laboratory‐scale experiments. The wastewater was collected from three locations, which provided samples with different characteristics, ranging from young to mature. Hydrolysis, fermentation, and sulfate reduction were identified as the most important anaerobic processes. Significant quantities of readily biodegradable substrate were produced by hydrolysis of complex organic substrates. The readily biodegradable substrate was further fermented into volatile fatty acids (VFA). The rate of fermentation was found to be limited by the hydrolysis process. The readily biodegradable substrate generated was almost entirely composed of VFA, primarily acetic and propionic acids. A production of sulfide was observed in all experiments, demonstrating that part of the readily biodegradable substrate was consumed by sulfate respiration. The sulfide production was most pronounced in mature wastewater that had previously undergone extended anaerobic transport.
Mesophilic Anaerobic Digestion with High‐Temperature Microwave Pretreatment and Importance of Inoculum Acclimation
Authors: Toreci Isil , Droste Ronald L. , Kennedy Kevin J.
Published: May 2011

Thickened waste activated sludge (TWAS) was pretreated with microwave irradiation to temperatures higher than the boiling point (between 110 and 175°C) using different microwave intensities. Biochemical methane potential (BMP) assays demonstrated that, although mesophilic anaerobic digestion (MAD) inoculum used was acclimated for 4 months with microwave pretreated TWAS (to 175°C), acute methanogenic inhibition was observed. Additionally, the microwave conditions applied increased the soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD)‐to‐total COD (tCOD) ratio; however, no significant enhancement in the rate or extent of TWAS stabilization was observed for the microwave‐pretreated samples. Microwave pretreatment to between 110 and 175°C at lower microwave intensity with a better acclimated MAD inoculum (acclimatized for an additional 3 months) resulted in minimal methanogenic inhibition (improved acclimation) and improved the rate and extent of TWAS biodegradation, as determined by volatile solids removal and biogas production (microwave applied at lower microwave intensity). The TWAS pretreated to 175°C produced 31 ± 6% more biogas than the control (raw TWAS) by the 18th day of the BMP test, whereas the highest improvement observed from the first set of BMP experiments was 13 ± 1%.
Batch Operation of Biofilter ‐ Free‐water Surface Wetland Series for Enhancing Nitritation and Anammox
Authors: Tao Wendong , Wen Jianfeng , Huchzermeier Matthew
Published: May 2011

This study compared two series of ecologically engineered treatment systems for nitrogen removal by enhancing nitritation and anammox. Each treatment series had two biofilters followed by one free‐water surface (FWS) wetland. The first series included biofilters packed with marble chips and demonstrated a development process in nitrogen removal through the first 26 cycles of weekly batch operation. The series then stabilized at an average ammonium removal rate of 19.2 g N/m3·d and total nitrogen removal rate of 10.6 g N/m3·d during the latest 22 cycles. The second series, which consisted of biofilters packed with pea pebbles, experienced decreasing nitrogen removal rates. Anammox and heterotrophic denitrification accounted for 77% and 23%, respectively, of the total nitrogen removal in the marble biofilters. Nitrogen removal rates in the FWS wetlands increased significantly with ammonium loading rates increasing up to approximately 30 g N/m3·d. Ammonium and total nitrogen removal followed zero‐order reaction kinetics. The marble biofilter‐wetland series reached an ammonium removal rate of 30.3 g N/m3·d and total nitrogen removal rate of 23.0 g N/m3·d through the latest 22 cycles of batch operation at the average ammonium loading rate of 56.4 g N/m3·d.
Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor Technology: Process Applications, Design, and Performance
Authors: McQuarrie James P. , Boltz Joshua P.
Published: May 2011

The moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) can operate as a 2‐ (anoxic) or 3‐(aerobic) phase system with buoyant free‐moving plastic biofilm carriers. These systems can be used for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment, aquaculture, potable water denitrification, and, in roughing, secondary, tertiary, and sidestream applications. The system includes a submerged biofilm reactor and liquid‐solids separation unit. The MBBR process benefits include the following: (1) capacity to meet treatment objectives similar to activated sludge systems with respect to carbon‐oxidation and nitrogen removal, but requires a smaller tank volume than a clarifier‐coupled activated sludge system; (2) biomass retention is clarifier‐independent and solids loading to the liquid‐solids separation unit is reduced significantly when compared with activated sludge systems; (3) the MBBR is a continuous‐flow process that does not require a special operational cycle for biofilm thickness, LF, control (e.g., biologically active filter backwashing); and (4) liquid‐solids separation can be achieved with a variety of processes, including conventional and compact high‐rate processes. Information related to system design is fragmented and poorly documented. This paper seeks to address this issue by summarizing state‐of‐the art MBBR design procedures and providing the reader with an overview of some commercially available systems and their components.
Enhanced Arsenic Sorption by Hydrated Iron (III) Oxide‐Coated Materials—Mechanism and Performances
Authors: Jovanović Branislava M. , Vukašinović‐Pešić Vesna L. , Rajaković Ljubinka V.
Published: May 2011

Mechanism and performances of arsenic(III) [As(III)] and arsenic(V) [As(V)] sorption onto hydrated iron(III) oxide (HFO)‐coated materials were investigated at neutral pH where arsenic occurs in both molecular and ionic forms. Arsenic sorption by HFO‐coated materials was proven to be a multistage process consisting of both macropore and intraparticle diffusion. Higher mass‐transfer velocities were obtained for As(III), which is attributed to the beneficial features of HFO. Equilibrium studies revealed the spontaneous and favorable nature of the arsenic sorption process. The maximum sorption capacity and the Gibbs free energy values indicated that HFO‐coated materials exhibit more affinity towards As(III). The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models revealed both the chemical and physical nature of the sorption process, while the Dubinin‐Radushkevich model indicated that physical sorption is a more dominant process with HFO‐coated materials.
Addressing Reverse Osmosis Fouling within Water Reclamation—A Side‐By‐Side Comparison of Low‐Pressure Membrane Pretreatments
Authors: Kent Fraser C. , Farahbakhsh Khosrow
Published: May 2011

A tertiary membrane filtration (TMF) pilot operating on secondary effluent and a membrane bioreactor (MBR) were setup in a side‐by‐side study as pretreatments for two identical reverse osmosis pilot systems. The water quality of the permeate from both low‐pressure membrane pretreatment systems and the fouling rate of the reverse osmosis systems were compared to assess the capabilities of the two low‐pressure membrane pretreatments to prevent organic fouling of the reverse osmosis systems. Both pretreatment pilots were setup using typical operating conditions (i.e., solids retention time and mixed‐liquor suspended solids). A consistent difference in water quality and reverse osmosis performance was demonstrated during the 12‐month study. The MBR permeate consistently had significantly lower total organic carbon (TOC) and chemical oxygen demand concentrations, but higher color and specific UV absorbance compared with the permeate from the TMF pretreatment. The pretreatment with the MBR gave an average reverse osmosis fouling rate over the entire study (0.27 Lmh/bar·month) that was less than half of the value found for the reverse osmosis with TMF pretreatment (0.60 Lmh/bar·month). A correlation of reverse osmosis feed TOC concentration with average reverse osmosis fouling rate also was established, independent of the pretreatment method used. Results from a cleaning analysis, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and fourier transformed infrared reflectometry confirmed that the foulants were primarily organic in nature. It is concluded that, for this type of application and setup, MBR systems present an advantage over tertiary membrane polishing of secondary effluent for reverse osmosis pretreatment.
Characterization of Nocardia farcinica, a Filamentous Bacterium Isolated from Foaming Activated Sludge Samples
Authors: Naidoo Dashika , Kumari Sheena , Bux Faizal
Published: May 2011

The identification and characterization of filamentous bacteria and their association with specific plant operating conditions and influent characteristics has been hampered because of morphological variations and differences between process configurations. A study was conducted to isolate and characterize the predominant filamentous bacteria observed in a foaming activated sludge treatment plant. The predominant foam‐forming filament was isolated and characterized using microscopic, biochemical and molecular techniques. The phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene confirmed that it was Nocardia farcinica, a typical filamentous foam‐foaming pathogenic bacterium which is not widely reported outside of South Africa. The bacterium used a variety of substrates for its growth and showed greater affinity to larger and slowly biodegradable compounds. The N. farcinica grew well at temperatures ranging from 12 to 30 °C in R2A medium and with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 8.0 and an NaCl concentration of 1 to 5%. This range of conditions shows that N. farcinica can withstand extreme conditions, which results in its proliferation in foaming samples.
Antifungal activity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons against Ligninolytic fungi
Authors: Memic Mustafa , Selovic Alisa , Sulejmanovic Jasmina
Published: May 2011

Environmental contamination by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has
caused increasing concern because of their known, or suspected, carcinogenic
and mutagenic effects. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons occurring in the
environment are usually the result of the incomplete combustion of carbon
containing materials. The main sources of severe PAHs contamination in soil
come from fossil fuels, i.e. production or use of fossil fuels or their
products, such as coal tar and creosote. Creosote is used as a wood
preservation for railway ties, bridge timbers, pilling and large-sized
lumber. It consists mainly of PAHs, phenol and cresol compounds that cause
harmful health effects. Research on biodegradation has shown that a special
group of microorganisms, the white-rot fungi and brown-rot fungi, has a
remarkable potential to degrade PAHs. This paper presents a study of the
antifungal activity of 12 selected PAHs against two ligninolytic fungi
Hypoxylon fragiforme (white rot) and Coniophora puteana (brown rot). The
antifungal activity of PAHs was determined by the disc-diffusion method by
measuring the diameter of the zone of inhibition. The results showed that the
antifungal activity of the tested PAHs (concentration of 2.5 mmol/L) depends
on the their properties such as molar mass, solubility in water, values of
log Kow, ionization potential and Henry?s Law constant as well as number of
aromatic rings, molecule topology or pattern of ring linkage. Among the 12
investigated PAHs, benzo(k) fluoranthene with five rings, and pyrene with
four cyclic condensed benzene rings showed the highest antifungal activity.
Synthesis of azo pyridone dyes
Authors: Mijin Dusan , Uscumlic Gordana , Valentic Natasa , Marinkovic Aleksandar
Published: May 2011

Over 50% of all colorants which are used nowdays are azo dyes and pigments,
and among them arylazo pyridone dyes (and pigments) have became of interest
in last several decades due to the high molar extinction coefficient, and the
medium to high light and wet fastness properties. They find application
generally as disperse dyes. The importance of disperse dyes increased in the
1970s and 1980s due to the use of polyester and nylon as the main synthetic
fibers. Also, disperse dyes were used rapidly since 1970 in inks for the
heat-transfer printing of polyester. The main synthetic route for the
preparation of azo dyes is coupling reaction between an aromatic diazo
compound and a coupling component. Of all dyes manufactured, about 60% are
produced by this reaction. Arylazo pyridone dyes can be prepared from
pyridone moiety as a coupling component, where substituent can be on
nitrogen, and diazonim salts which can be derived from different substituted
anilines or other heterocyclic derivatives. In addition, arylazo dyes
containing pyridone ring can be prepared from arylazo diketones or arylazo
ketoesters (obtained by coupling ?-diketones or ?-ketoesters with diazonim
salts) by condensation with cyanoacetamide. Disazo dyes can be prepared by
tetrazotizing a dianiline and coupling it with a pyridone or by diazotizing
aniline and coupling it with a dipyridone. Trisazo dyes can be also prepared
by diazotizing of aniline and coupling it with a tripyridone or by
hexazotizing a trianiline and coupling it with a pyridone. The main goal of
this paper is to give a brief review on the synthesis of arylazo pyridone
dyes due to the lack of such reviews. In addition, some properties of arylazo
pyridone dyes as light fastness and azo-hydrazon tautomerism are disccused.
Comparative analysis of oxidative synthesis of N-alkyl, N,N-dialkyl and N-cykloalkyl-O-isobutyl thioncarbamate
Authors: Sovrlic Milica , Milosavljevic Milutin , Marinkovic Aleksandar , Djukanovic Jasmina , Brkovic Danijela , Konstantinovic Sandra
Published: May 2011

A optimized synthesis of N-alkyl, N,N-dialkyl- and N-cycloalkyl-O-isobutyl
thioncarbamates by aminolysis of sodium isobutylxanthogenic acid (NaiBXAc)
and primary, secondary and cycloalkyl amines was developed at laboratory
scale and applied at semi-industrial level. Studies on dependence of
N-n-propyl-O-isopropylthiocarbamate yield and purity with respect to reaction
parameters: reaction time and molar ratio of n-propylamine and NaiBXAc, were
performed. In such way, optimal reaction conditions for synthesis of N-alkyl,
N,N-dialkyl- and N-cycloalkyl-O-isobutyl thioncarbamates, by aminolysis of
NaiBXAc, were established. Also, comparative results of thioncarbamates
synthesis starting from potassium isobutyl xanthate (KiBX) and corresponding
amines in presence of different oxidants: hydrogen peroxide, sodium
hypochlorite and new oxidative agent potassium peroxodisulfate were
evaluated. Synthesized compounds have been fully characterized by FTIR, 1H
and 13C NMR and MS data, elemental analysis and purity have been determined
by gas chromatographic method (GC). According to our knowledge, ten
synthesized thioncarbamates are for the first time characterized. Synthesized
compounds could be used as selective reagents for flotation of copper and
zinc ores. The presented methods offer several benefits, namely, high product
yields and purity, simple operation, mild reaction conditions without use of
hazardous organic solvents, while some of them could be implemented on
industrial scale production.
Analytical tool for risk assessment of landscape and urban planning: Spatial development impact assessment
Authors: Rehak David , Senovsky Michail , Balog Karol , Dvorak Jiri
Published: May 2011

This article covers the issue of preventive protection of population, technical infrastructure, and the environment against adverse impacts of careless spatial development. In the first section, we describe the relationship between sustainable development and spatial development. This discussion is followed by a review of the current state of spatial development security, primarily at a national level in the Czech Republic. The remainder of the paper features our original contribution which is a tool for risk assessment in landscape and urban planning, the Spatial Development Impact Assessment (SDIA) tool. We briefly review the most significant semi-quantitative methods of risk analysis that were used as a starting point in implementing the tool, and we discuss several of SDIA’s salient features, namely, the assessment process algorithm, the catalogue of hazard and asset groups, and the spatial development impact matrix.
Major Symptom Score Utility Index for Patients with Acute Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Revicki Dennis A. , Margolis Mary Kay , Thompson Christine L. , Meltzer Eli O. , Sandor David W. , Shaw James W.
Published: May 2011

Background

Evaluation of acute rhinosinusitis treatment effectiveness is based on patient-reported relief of symptoms. This study was designed to develop a multiattribute utility scoring algorithm for the Major Symptom Score (MSS) and secondarily to evaluate the psychometric characteristics (i.e., validity and responsiveness) of the MSS Utility Index (MSSUI).

Methods

Adult patients with acute rhinosinusitis were recruited for this longitudinal observational study through primary care and specialist physician offices. One hundred ninety patients participated in a preference elicitation exercise for MSS health states. Resulting preference data were used to generate a utility scoring algorithm for the MSS. Participants completed the MSS and 20-Question Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-20) at baseline and completed the MSS twice daily for 15 days via daily diary. On days 7 and 15, participants completed the MSS, SNOT-20, and Overall Treatment Effect scale and were evaluated by physicians via the Physician Global Improvement Scale (PGIS).

Results

At baseline, the mean ± SD. MSSUI score was 0.51 ± 0.17 and was negatively correlated with SNOT-20 scores (r = -0.58; p < 0.001). Days 2–8 average MSSUI scores were negatively correlated with day 7 SNOT-20 (r = -0.46; p < 0.001) and PGIS (r = -0.22; p < 0.001) scores; whereas days 9-15 average MSSUI scores were inversely related to day 15 SNOT-20 (r = -0.40; p < 0.001) and PGIS (r = -0.32, p < 0.001) scores. Mean MSSUI scores improved from baseline with effect sizes at days 7 and 15 of 0.82 and 1.20, respectively.

Conclusion

The MSSUI represents an acceptable and psychometrically sound patient-reported end point for clinical trials comparing treatments for acute rhinosinusitis.
Increased Expression of a Disintegrin and Metalloprotease 8 in Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Park Il-Ho , Choi Seong Woong , Choi Hyuk , Kim Tae Hoon , Lee Seung Hoon , Lee Sang Hag , Lee Heung-Man
Published: May 2011

Background

A disintegrin and metalloproteases (ADAMs) constitute a family of cell surface proteins containing disintegrin and metalloprotease domain, which associate features of adhesion molecules and proteases. ADAM8 is a member of the ADAM family and has recently been implicated to have a role in allergic lung inflammation. Therefore, our aims were to determine the expression of ADAM8 mRNA and protein and to localize ADAM8 protein in the nasal mucosa of patients with allergic rhinitis and control subjects.

Methods

Inferior turbinate mucosa samples were obtained from 20 patients with allergic rhinitis and 20 matched healthy normal controls. ADAM8 mRNA was extracted from the inferior turbinate mucosa, and then reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction was performed. Western blot testing was used to analyze differences in the level of ADAM8 protein expression between patients with allergic rhinitis and normal controls, and the ADAM8 protein was localized with immunohistochemical staining.

Results

The level of expression of ADAM8 mRNA and protein in the nasal mucosa was significantly increased in patients with allergic rhinitis compared with normal controls. ADAM8 protein was expressed in the epithelium, infiltrating inflammatory cells, and submucosal glands.

Conclusion

ADAM8 is expressed in human nasal mucosa and is increased in patients with allergic rhinitis. These results suggest a possible contribution for ADAM8 in chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa in patients with allergic rhinitis.
Objective Usefulness of Thin Silastic Septal Splints after Septal Surgery
Authors: Jung Yong Gi , Hong Ji Won , Eun Young-Gyu , Kim Myung-Gu
Published: May 2011

Background

Silastic splints have been used as effective tools for septal support, avoiding adhesion, and mucosal healing after septal surgery. Furthermore, although many surgeons insert septal splints, no well-designed trials exist to support their use. A randomized double-blinded controlled trial was performed.

Methods

We recruited 40 subjects who had undergone septoplasty only without sinus surgery or turbinoplasty. A silastic septal splint was inserted in one side of the nasal cavity at the end of each septoplasty, with the other side serving as a control. The splint side and control side were randomly selected. Nasal discomfort score (10-point scale) and mucosal status (grades 1–4) were surveyed in a blinded setting on postoperative days 7 and 14.

Results

Forty of 83 subjects fulfilled the enrollment criteria. On the 7th postoperative day there was no significant difference in nasal discomfort between the splint and control sides (6.2 ± 1.28 and 5.7 ± 1.27, respectively; p = 0.116), but the mucosal status was better on the splint side than on the control side (1.5 ± 0.51 and 2.5 ± 0.85; p < 0.001). At 14 days postoperatively, the symptom score (2.7 ± 1.06 versus 3.8 ± 1.25; p < 0.001) and mucosal status (1.5 ± 0.55 versus 1.9 ± 0.68; p = 0.013) were significantly better on the splint side compared with the control side.

Conclusion

Insertion of a silastic septal splint after septal surgery should be accepted as a routine procedure.
Mucocele Rate after Endoscopic Skull Base Reconstruction Using Vascularized Pedicled Flaps
Authors: Bleier Benjamin S. , Wang Eric W. , Vandergrift W. Alex , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: May 2011

Background

Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak is a significant risk after endoscopic skull base surgery. Recently, novel reconstructive techniques using vascularized pedicled mucosal flaps have been applied to decrease this potential risk. Complete mucosal extirpation in the wound bed is not always feasible and the impact of insetting the flap over intact underlying mucosa is not clear. The purpose of this study was to determine the rate of mucocele formation after nasoseptal flap reconstruction without mucosal stripping.

Methods

This is an Institutional Review Board–approved, retrospective study consisting of 28 patients undergoing skull base reconstruction using a pedicled nasoseptal flap between 2008 and 2010 at a tertiary care hospital. In all cases the sinus or skull base mucosa surrounding the defect was left intact. Patients were followed postoperatively by endoscopy and/or imaging for evidence of mucocele formation in the reconstructive bed.

Results

The total rate of mucocele formation was 3.6% (1 of 28, noted on postoperative day 46). The mean follow-up time was 243 ± 174 days (range, 46–585 days). Eleven patients were followed for over 1 year. All flaps remained viable and well vascularized.

Conclusion

The pedicled nasoseptal flap is an effective means of reconstruction after endoscopic skull base surgery. Avoidance of extensive stripping of the surrounding mucosa does not result in a significant rate of postoperative mucocele formation in the short term. Long-term follow-up is still indicated.
Endoscopic Surgery for Acquired Choanal Atresia after Radiotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Xiang , Huang Xiaoming , Sun Wei , Zeng Liang , Han Ping
Published: May 2011

Background

This study was designed to investigate the role of endoscopic surgery for acquired choanal atresia after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Methods

Twenty-two patients with bilateral or unilateral acquired choanal atresia received transnasal endoscopic surgery with the aid of a powered microdebrider to open atresia choana and received endoscopic sinus surgery simultaneously if they had sinusitis. Merocel epistaxis packing was used to pack the nasal airway for 3 days postoperatively. All of the patients underwent endoscopy regularly for follow-up.

Results

Sixteen patients with acquired bilateral choanal atresia and 6 with unilateral choanal atresia were included in this study. The median age was 46 years old (range, 33–65 years). Twenty-one patients had sinusitis. Sixteen patients with bilateral choanal atresia and 4 patients with unilateral atresia had bilateral sinusitis. One patient with unilateral atresia had ipsilateral sinusitis. The mean follow-up period was 35 months (range, 12–72 months) after surgery. Twenty patients were symptom-free after a single operation; nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, and xerostomia improved significantly for these patients. Two patients had unilateral restenosis that required revision surgery, and both were subsequently free from further restenosis. No complications occurred.

Conclusion

Acquired posterior choanal atresia after radiotherapy can be successfully treated with transnasal endoscopic resection assisted by a powered instrument without stenting.
The Nose as a Target Organ in the Diagnosis of Severe Aspirin-exacerbated Respiratory Disease
Authors: González-Pérez Ruperto , Poza-Guedes Paloma , Vives-Conesa Ramón
Published: May 2011

Background

The nasal provocation test (NPT) with lysine aspirin is a useful tool in the diagnosis of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), previously reffered to as Samter's disease. The aim of the present study focuses on methodological interventions to show the usefulness of the NPT with lysine aspirin in differentiating AERD patients from aspirin-tolerant asthma (ATA) patients to improve the diagnostic efficacy and minimize the risk for adverse reactions compared with the gold standard.

Methods

Thirty AERD patients comprised the active study group while the control group consisted of 25 ATA patients. A combination of objective nasal aerodynamic response (i.e., nasal inspiratory flow and nasal inspiratory resistance) was evaluated by active anterior rhinomanometry and the subjective clinical nasal and extranasal symptoms (including forced expiratory volume) were monitored throughout the challenge.

Results

Fifty-five NPTs were successfully completed: sensitivity, 87%; specificity, 100%; positive predictive value, 100%; negative predictive value, 86%; global efficacy, 92.72%. No severe adverse reactions were recorded.

Conclusion

The present NPT with lysine aspirin proved to be a safe, efficient, and a timesaving method in the diagnosis of patients with AERD, even in those with severe rhinitis–rhinosinusitis and/or recurrent nasal polyposis.
A Controlled Laboratory and Clinical Evaluation of a Three-dimensional Endoscope for Endonasal Sinus and Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Shah Rupali N. , Leight W. Derek , Patel Mihir R. , Surowitz Joshua B. , Wong Yu-Tung , Wheless Stephen A. , Germanwala Anand V. , Zanation Adam M.
Published: May 2011

Background

One criticism of current video systems for endoscopic surgery is that two-dimensional (2D) images lack depth perception and may impair surgical dissection. To objectively measure the efficacy of 3D endoscopy, we designed a training model with specific tasks to show potential differences between 2D and 3D endoscopy. Its clinical value was then evaluated during endoscopic sinus and skull base surgical cases.

Methods

Fifteen subjects were grouped according to endoscopic experience: novices and nonnovices. A training model was constructed to include five tasks: incision manipulation; ring transfer; nerve hook; distance estimation, visual only; and distance estimation, visual and tactile. Each participant was assessed with both a standard 2D endoscope and a 3D endoscope. The clinical value of a 3D endoscope (Visionsense, Ltd., Petach Tikva, Israel) was then examined in four endoscopic sinus cases and four skull base cases.

Results

Of the subjects, six (40%) were novices. Overall, the errors committed during any one task were not significantly different between systems. Novices trended toward more success during the nerve hook task using the 3D system. With size cueing versus visualization alone, distance estimation was significantly more accurate. Novices tended to prefer the 3D system and experienced surgeons disliked the initial learning curve. Advantages were particularly noticed during skull base surgery; subjectively improved depth perception was beneficial during vascular dissection.

Conclusion

Three-dimensional endoscopy may improve depth perception and performance for novices. The 3D endoscope is a safe and feasible tool for endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery; it is promising for improving microneurosurgical dissection precision transnasally.
Effect of Dexamethasone on Wound Healing of the Septal Mucosa in the Rat
Authors: Khalmuratova Roza , Kim Dae Woo , Jeon Sea-Yuong
Published: May 2011

Background

Postoperative treatment after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) aims to modulate the wound healing process. Systemic or topically applied corticosteroids have been reported to be beneficial for improving nasal wound healing after FESS. However, few studies have investigated the effects of postoperative systemic steroids on nasal wound healing with regard to histological changes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of systemic dexamethasone on nasal wound healing after mechanical injury in the rat.

Methods

A unilateral wound in the nasal cavity was induced using the brushing technique in 4-week-old, Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 70). Dexamethasone (0.15 mg/kg daily for 7 days) and normal saline were administered i.p. to the experimental and control groups (n = 35 for each) after the injury. The rats (n = 7 for each) were killed on days 2, 5,14, 28, and 42 after the injury. Histological changes in the nasal mucosa were examined and compared using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome staining.

Results

The experimental group showed less subepithelial edema formation and epithelial disarray at the early phase of the wound healing period. There were statistically significant differences in the subepithelial thickness and epithelial thickness indices between the experimental and control groups (p < 0.05). Ciliary and goblet cell indices were lower in the experimental group, which means that ciliary and goblet cell regeneration may be delayed by dexamethasone (p < 0.05). There were no differences in the subepithelial fibrosis index between the two groups. Adhesion formation between the nasal septum and turbinate were found only in the control group.

Conclusion

Systemic dexamethasone after mucosal injury may lessen subepithelial edema, goblet cell hyperplasia, and adhesion formation; however, it may cause delayed mucosal ciliary regeneration.
Transdifferentiation of Clara Cell 10-kDa Protein Secreting Cells in Experimental Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Cui Yong-Hua , Wang Yuan-Yuan , Liu Zheng
Published: May 2011

Background

The reasons for the down-regulated Clara cell 10-kDa protein (CC10) expression in allergic rhinitis (AR) are unclear and the airway remodeling in AR has received little attention. This study explores epithelium remodeling and the change of CC10 secreting cells in AR by using a murine model.

Methods

AR murine models were established by ovalbumin sensitization and challenge. In some mice, dexamethasone was given before each challenge. Histological changes of nasal mucosa were examined by means of hematoxylin and eosin and periodic acid-Schiff staining. CC10 and trefoil factor family (TFF) 1 expression were evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

Results

In AR mice, both in turbinate and in septal mucosa, total cell number and the number of basal cells did not change; however, the number of dome-shaped cells decreased and the number of ciliated and goblet cells increased in turbinate mucosa, and the number of ciliated cells decreased and the number of goblet cells increased in septal mucosa. In turbinate mucosa, the number of CC10+ cells (mainly dome-shaped cells) decreased whereas the number of TFF1+ cells (mainly ciliated cells) increased. In septal mucosa, the number of CC10+ and TFF1+ cells (mainly ciliated cells) decreased simultaneously. Intermediate phenotypic goblet cells could express CC10 and TFF1. CC10 and TFF1 could be localized in the same cells. Dexamethasone reversed the changes of epithelium significantly.

Conclusion

Allergen exposure leads to a possible transdifferentiation of CC10 secreting cells into TFF1 secreting cells and/or goblet cells in upper airways. Nasal turbinate and septal epithelium display different patterns of transdifferentiation.