Integrated Hemicellulose Extraction and Papermaking Fiber Production from Agro-Waste Biomass.

The present study deals with the valorization of corn stalks in an integrated processing strategy targeting two products: extracted hemicelluloses (HC) and papermaking fibers. Preliminary trials were conducted to assess the individual or the combined effects of biomass treatment on the quality of the obtained hemicelluloses and papermaking fibers. Depending on the hot alkaline extraction (HAE) conditions, the extracted HC had a xylan content between 44-63%.

Volatilome fingerprint of red wines aged with chips or staves: Influence of the aging time and toasting degree.

The influence on aroma compounds chips or staves and toasting degree have been analyzed in red wines aged for two periods of time. Ethyl propanoate, ethyl butanoate, ethyl octanoate, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, isobutanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, 2-phenylethanol, E-2-hexenol, octanal, nonanal, decanal, γ-nonalactone, furfural, 5-methylfurfural, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol and cis-whiskey lactone were the compounds that contribute the most to the aroma series profile. By means of principal components analysis, esters were related to the aging time; cis-whiskey lactone with the type of wood pieces and octanal, 5-methyl furfural and cis-whiskey lactone with the toasting degree.

Depression, anxiety and panic disorders in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: correlations with tobacco use, disease severity and quality of life.

Background: The objective of this study is to assess anxiety, depression and panic disorders among patients diagnosed with COPD and to investigate their correlation with disease severity, quality of life as well as tobacco use.

Methods: An observational study was performed between January and September 2014 among 60 patients diagnosed with COPD. COPD staging according to GOLD criteria, while anxiety and depression were assessed using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and panic attacks were evaluated based on ICD 10 criteria.