Influence of ventilation type in volatile organic compounds exposure: poultry case

Agricultural workers especially poultry farmers are at increased risk of occupational respiratory diseases. Epidemiological studies showed increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms and adverse changes in pulmonary function parameters in poultry workers. In poultry production volatile organic compounds (VOCs) presence can be due to some compounds produced by molds that are volatile and are released directly into the air. These are known as microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs). Because these compounds often have strong and/or unpleasant odors, they can be the source of odors associated with molds. MVOC's are products of the microorganisms primary and secondary metabolism and are composed of low molecular weight alcohols, aldehydes, amines, ketones, terpenes, aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons, and sulfur-based compounds, all of which are variations of carbon-based molecules.

Highly efficient and reusable CNT supported iron(II) catalyst for microwave assisted alcohol oxidation

The highly efficient eco-friendly synthesis of ketones (yields over 99%) from secondary alcohols is achieved by combination of [FeCl2{eta(3)-HC(pz)(3)}] (pz = pyrazol-1-yl) supported on functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes and microwave irradiation, in a solvent-free medium. The carbon homoscorpionate iron(II) complex is the first one of this class to be used as catalyst for the oxidation of alcohols.