ANALYTICAL TIMES Summer 2009 · 2014-12-08 · ANALYTICAL TIMES Summer 2009 Drywall Emitting Strange OdorsDrywall Emitting S CHINESE By-Product Analysis COMBUSTIBLE The Importance

ANALYTICALTIMES Summer 2009

Drywall Emitting Strange OdorsDrywall Emitting S

CHINESE

By-Product AnalysisBy-Product AnalysisCOMBUSTIBLE

The Importance ofhe Importance of

POLLEN ID

...and Much More!

Monitoring Enterovirusin

gnWATER

WOOD ROTDetecting

Summer 2009

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Lighthouse 6-ChannelParticle Counter 3016IAQErgonomically designed and lightweight,the Lighthouse HANDHELD 3016 IAQ isthe newest, most advanced handheldparticle counter on the market, featuringMass Concentration Mode thatapproximates density in µg / m3.Offering 6 channels of simultaneousparticle counting,

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Human fecal waste contamination of water sources, wells, and ground water supplies leads to enterovirusinfections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, enteroviruses cause an estimated10-15 million or more illnesses a year in the United States. Infections are typically transmitted in humansvia the fecal-oral route but can also occur through contact with respiratory secretions and saliva. Mostenterovirus infections lead to mild upper respiratory symptoms or flu-like symptoms but more severediseases such as viral meningitis and myocarditis (infection of the heart) can occur. Enteroviruses are agroup of small RNA viruses. RNA viruses are classified into several subgroups of viruses that include:coxsackie viruses, echoviruses, poliovirus, enterovirus 70 & 71 and other enteroviruses.The Environmental ProtectionAgency (EPA) has been monitoring enteroviruses in water sources for manyyears. The researchers found that enteroviruses were present in 10% of private wells but in some areas thecontamination reached 38%. Enterovirus contamination in water sources is caused chiefly by impropermanagement of the sewage disposal. For example, poorly designed septic systems, open sewage ponds, theuse of inadequately treated sewage on farming land as fertilizer, leaky sewer lines, and sewer overflow bystorm water have all resulted in contamination.The EPA has developed sampling and testing methods for enteroviruses in water. The traditional methodsrequire large sample volumes (100 liters of water or more) and animal cell culture facilities to carry out thetesting. These tests are costly, slow, and labor intensive. Recently, smaller scale sampling and rapid PCRmethods have been developed for detecting enteroviruses in water sources. EMSL has developed anRNA-based PCR method for the detection of enterovirus in water samples.EMSL's enterovirus test is a direct RNA-based real-time PCR method.Aone liter water sample is collectedand shipped to the lab. The water samples are filtered through treated filters to capture the viruses thenconcentrated into a solution. Viral RNAis isolated and directly used for real-time PCR analysis. Since thereis no virus culture involved, the direct RNA-based real-time PCR is rapid, safe, and cost effective. Theenterovirus RNA-based PCR test can be used for monitoring enterovirus contamination from variouswater sources including private wells and ponds.For enterovirus testing, please contact EMSL Analytical, Inc.

Monitoring Enterovirus in Waterby RNA-based PCR

As public awareness has increased, the issue of vapor intrusion in buildings hasbecome a significant environmental concern for building occupants, regula-tors and industry leaders. According to the EPA, the potential health issuesvary and are dependent upon the types of chemicals and concentrations ofthe chemicals as well as the length of the exposure and the overall healthof those that are exposed.

On the lower end of the spectrum, these exposures can range from minorirritations like headaches or nausea to more significant problems like chronicdisease or, in some extreme cases, even cancer.

In general, vapor intrusion is defined as a gaseous substance emanating from petroleum products orchemicals which seep through cracks in foundations or sewer lines. When left unchecked, thesevapors can concentrate to a point that the risks become more significant. Additionally, many expertsalso believe that that radon sampling should also be conducted at this time as the data can be utilizedto evaluate the movement of soil gas through building foundations.

When investigating vapor intrusion cases Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are commonly requestedand include an array of compounds. Common sampling procedures include utilizing devices such as6-liter Summa™ canisters. This method allows for rapid laboratory analysis at a reasonable cost andwith excellent turnaround times.

Vapor Intrusion: A Hidden Danger

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As if the battered real estate market hasn’t been difficult enough onproperty owners, reports of drywall causing unpleasant odors and damageto building materials have surfaced. The problematic drywall, importedbetween 2004 and 2006, appears to be related to the presence of irondisulfide (FeS2 pyrite). Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbonyl sulfide, sulfurdioxide (SO2), and carbon disulfide (CS2) are also suspected as potentialculprits.

There are also reports of Chinese drywall that was kept on barges at sea formonths awaiting permission for importationinto the USA. This drywall appears to have ahigher than typical density and also a higherpropensity to off-gas sulfur compounds.

Drywall is usually made of gypsum(hydrated calcium sulfate). Therefore, sulfuris one of the main components inherently inthe material. Both odorous and non-odorousdrywall has sulfur in the elemental composi-tion and the odor is not explained, therefore,by an analysis of the total sulfur content.

“The IAQ issues related to these problemsare still unclear,” reported Eugenia Mirica

Ph.D., Senior MaterialsScientist at EMSLAnalytical, Inc. “TheEPA is investigating theseverity of the problem.However, it is well knownthat exposure to sulfurcompounds can create irritationand breathing disorders,” Dr. Miricacontinued.

Analysis of the drywall can be performed by checking for the presence oftotal iron by X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) or VOC analysis using an environ-mental chamber study by TO-15 approach. Copper corrosion testing canalso be performed to identify and confirm the presence of substandarddrywall. Sulfur odors are also produced when certain anaerobic bacteriautilize iron and other molecules for growth. Therefore, endotoxin analysisfor gram negative bacterial contamination and anaerobic Plate Count maybe recommended.

For more information about drywall or other special testing needs pleasecontact EMSLAnalytical at (800)220-3675 or [email protected].

Indoor air quality as a scientific discipline is evolving as our knowledgeof the subject increases. We know that sample results for fungi andfungal spores are highly variable even under the most controlledsampling conditions. Given the complexity of interpreting your results,can you really rely on a lab doing this for you?Here are some reasons not to:1. Laboratory results by themselves should not be used alone to form thebasis of your data interpretation. Visual inspection of the site, sitelocation and nearby land use, understanding the site history, identifyingindoor micro-climates, and interviews with affected occupants shouldplay a major role in your result interpretation.2. Fungal counts have spatial, geographic, local land use, seasonal anddiurnal variability just to name a few. This variability can be orders ofmagnitude different in samples that are taken a few minutes apart. Aninterpretation of your samples that is based on subjective, un-validated

internal criteriadeveloped by alaboratory is agreat way to makeincorrect conclusions.3. We know that differentsampling devices result indifferent collection efficienciesthat depend on the spore size. This variation is significant when compar-ing sampling devices. These collection efficiency differences are nottaken into account by labs offering this type of data interpretation! Whatare you really getting?The sole purpose of a laboratory is to provide you with independent,objective, and scientifically defensible data. Labs that offer you “statisti-cal data interpretation”, a score, or tell you whether your samples haveelevated mold levels are jeopardizing your reputation and exposing youto professional liability. No one can afford that kind of service. ThinkEMSL, an independent testing laboratory that you can rely on!

Chinese Drywall Emitting Strange Odors andCausing Corrosion on Copper-bearing Materials

Should You Trust a Laboratory toInterpret Your Mold Results? a

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A new test to determine the presence of human fecal or sewagecontamination was introduced by EMSL Analytical today. This newmethod, developed at EMSL, was based upon research conducted forthe EPA for total Bacteroides. Performing additional research onother published methods, EMSL modified the test to develop amethod that is specific for fecal and sewage contamination fromhuman sources.This new test has many advantages over the traditional totalcoliforms, fecal coliforms, fecal streptococcus, Enterococcus, and E.coli tests, including the following:1. While Bacteroides is specific for fecal contamination, humanBacteroides is specific for fecal contamination from human sources.2. Coliforms, E. coli, fecal streptococcus and Enterococcus comefrom animal and human sources, limiting the usefulness of the test.3. Coliforms, E.coli, fecal streptococcus and Enterococcus can growin water, soil, sediments and on vegetation in uncontaminatedenvironments. (E. coli for example is found in clean environments inthe tropics).4. Since Bacteroides outnumber coliforms by 10,000:1 and outnum-ber E. coli by 10,000:1, the chances of finding it are greatly enhancedover the traditional methods.5. Traditional culture based tests rely on the presence of the livebacteria. Unfortunately these groups of organisms often will not beviable or will die once outside of the gastrointestinal tract. Thismeans that a negative result does not guarantee the absence of fecalcontamination. The new Bacteroides tests overcome this limitationsince PCR techniques are utilized. The laboratory can detect live,nonviable, or viable but not culturable organisms.6. Using Total Bacteroides and Human Bacteroides, it is nowpossible to estimate the amount of fecal contamination from humanand non-human sources.This test can be performed in most matrices and results can beobtained in a matter of hours, not days. To learn more about this newanalytical method please contact Diane Miskowski at 800.220.3675x1218 or [email protected].


Proper methodology, techniques and instrumentationare crucial for accurate results.

The California wildfire tribulations are well-chronicled and have beena problem for a number of years. It has been determined that amongthe obvious toxic chemical problems that are prevalent due toresidual affects of the fires, particulatematter is also of significant concern as the‘breathing in’ of the particulate matter hasbeen demonstrated to have negativehealth effects.

In an effort to increase awareness, EMSLAnalytical has taken the industry lead byushering in new analytical methods &techniques as California wildfires havebeen on a continual increase over the lastseveral years. EMSL’s LA Testinglaboratory facility in South Pasadena,California recently implemented Combustible By-Product analysis tobetter assist the local community. The analysis is also available inEMSL’s corporate laboratory in Westmont, NJ. While there are anumber of laboratories currently providing optical identification,there is an extremely limited number that are able to provide furtheranalyses.

Combustion By-Product Analysis at EMSL Analytical, Inc.includes:

• Black Carbon/Soot – Sub-micron particles formed throughuncontrolled combustion of fossil fuels, biofuel and biomass.In addition, it is emitted from manmade or naturally occurringsoot. This analysis is performed using a Transmission ElectronMicroscope (TEM) and/or Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)for particle morphology coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray(EDX) for elemental composition.

• Carbonized Material – characterized as char, ash, graphite,coke and coal. This analysis is performed using polarizedlight microscopy (PLM) or epi-reflected microscopy (RLM).

• Carbon Black (Furnace, Lamp, Acetylene Black) – Amanufactured spherical, carbon material with sizes below1 micron. Typical uses include paint pigmentation, copiertoner and automobile tires. Analysis for carbon black requiresthe use of TEM with EXD.

Additional analysis is necessary when attempting to determine the"source" or "point of origin" of carbonized material. In the case ofsuspected arson, testing for accelerants can also be performed byFourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR), GasChromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) and High PerformanceLiquid Chromatography (HPLC).

Again, it is important to differentiate between laboratories, especiallywhen the analysis is for Carbon Black and Soot, as the analysis ofnano-particles with PLM alone is often inconclusive and typicallyfound to be legally indefensible. Inexpensive testing by PLM is limitedat best and should not be the only instrument utilized for the analysisof wildfire residue but rather as the beginning phase of an extensiveprocess.

Combustible By-ProductAnalysis - Providing anInvaluable Service

Another DNATechnique forHuman BacteroidesFurther RevolutionizesSewage Contamination Testing

Aor eroidesolutionizesamination

Testing



Two common humanintestinal parasites,

Giardia sp. andCryptosporidium sp., are

ingested from contaminateddrinking, swimming and surface

waters. Each causes severesymptoms that include watery diarrhea,

nausea, loss of appetite and severe weight loss. Symptoms can lastdays, weeks and sometime months.

The initial infection generally occurs when contaminated drinking wateror food prepared with contaminated drinking water is ingested. Subse-quent infections are then spread by the infected person to others. Themost common occurrence of human to human infection has beendocumented in child care centers. Other groups that often come incontact with these protozoan parasites include hikers and those who areimmunocompromised. Hikers have come to know Giardia infections as“beaver fever’, as beavers are believed to be the main reservoir for theprotozoan. Recent research suggests that muskrats may be even morecommon reservoirs for this protozoan. Among immunocompromisedgroups, those with HIV are particularly at risk with a high mortality rateupon infection.

In high risk domestic settings, such as day care centers, the prevalence ofGiardia sp. can range as high as 90%. In the general population Giardiasp. ranges from an infection rate of 1-7%. Cryptosporidium sp. has aprevalence rate in industrial countries of 1-3%.

The Giardia and Cryptosporidium cysts are passed from a variety ofanimal hosts into waters that eventually find their wayinto the reservoirs of water for human consumption.This type of disease transmission, with an animal as theintermediary host, is known as Zoonotic. Giardia cystshave been recovered from 97% of surface waters (lakes,ponds, rivers and streams). Cryptosporidium sp. arepresent from 67-97% of surface waters tested.

The most well known outbreaks in human populations,in this country, occurred in Milwaukee, Wis. (403,000,1993) and Carrolton, Ga. (13,000, 1987). Cryptospo-ridium was identified as the protozoan responsible forthe sickness at both locations. Much discussion hasoccurred as to which type of animal host was responsiblefor the contamination. The most current theory is thatdairy cattle were the main contributing factor.

The responsibility for clean drinking water is the task ofwater treatment plants and regulatory agencies such asthe EPA. In the case of the Milwaukee outbreak, the water treatmentplant that the outbreak was traced to, had been posting high turbiditylevels. The sand filters used in the filtering of the water were unable tohandle a large amount of snow melt runoff that had recently occurred.The result was 403,000 people sickened and 58 fatalities.

Since the Milwaukee incident, the EPA has put into place regulations forthe testing, identification and enumeration of Giardia sp. and Cryptospo-ridium sp. for large water treatment plants. The program has beendesignated Method 1623: Cryptosporidium and Giardia in Water byFiltration/IMS/FA.

A recently reported danger of ingestion of the Cryptosporidium sp.

parasite is from swimming pools. CDC reported in June 2008 that duringthe years 2003-2004, 55.6% of gastrointestinal outbreaks fromswimming pools and water parks involved Cryptosporidium sp.

The reasons for this development appear to be

1. small size (4-5 um),2. low infectivity dose (132 cysts),3. high tolerance to chlorine.

As chlorine is the main ingredient indisinfecting swimming and drinking water,this recent information suggests thatpreventing infections by Cryptosporidiumsp. may be much more difficult thanpreviously thought.

How can we limit ingestion of these parasitic cysts? Transmission comesin multiple forms, so prevention is proving to be challenging. Large scalemonitoring can be facilitated by federal and state government agencies.This would come in the form of regulation for all water treatment plants.EPA has taken the lead in this area and is continuing to analyze researchand information from health departments and the CDC to maximize theremoval of harmful bacteria, viruses and protozoans from our drinkingwater.

A sizable problem exists for public swimming pools and water parks, asstandard chlorination does not appear to be effective in killing theCryptosporidium sp. cysts. Increased filtration may be beneficial, butthere is no prevention for swimmers when they swallow water or aresprayed with a mist containing cysts. This may be an area that needs

federal and state regulation for the testing of publicswimming pools and water parks for Cryptospo-ridium sp. Actions, such as those taken by the State ofUtah after outbreaks at pools in 2007 could provevery useful. The State of Utah embarked on amassive educational campaign in 2008 directed at thepublic. The campaign concentrated on keepingindividuals away from public swimming areas whenthe individual had diarrhea. Rules also prevented thechanging of diapers at poolside and encouragedeveryone to wash their hands with soap and waterbefore entering public pools.

New testing regulations, disinfecting regimes andimproved filtration also appeared to make a signifi-cant difference in the number of people infected.

For backpackers or anyone camping and usinguntreated water, CDC recommends four solutions.

Iodine tablets are available as a chemical disinfectant, but in some casesCryptosporidium sp., as well as other protozoan parasites are not killed bythis method. Bottled water from a manufacturer that uses 0.1 um filtersshould provide safe drinking water. Backpack filters are also available,but the filtration should be at the 0.1 um level to keep out bacteria andprotozoans. Viruses are smaller than 0.1 um, so an Iodine treatmentwould be needed, as well, to inactivate them.

The only method, currently available, that kills bacteria, viruses andprotozoans is the oldest one known – boiling. Water should be boiled atleast 1 minute ( 3 minutes at higher elevations) to provide potable water.

Giardia sp. & Cryptosporidium sp.

Intestinal parasites


The Importance of PollenIdentificationPollen are extremely small reproductive structures released into theair from trees and seed plants. They are carried by wind or insects topollinate other plants of the same type for reproductive purposes. Whenpresent in the air they can land on our mucosal surfaces: eyes, nose, andthroat. On these surfaces, in susceptible people, pollen allergens willstimulate immunoglobin E (Ig) antibody production. Repeated exposure tothe same allergen can lead to clinical allergies. According to the NationalInstitute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), pollen allergies areone of the most common chronic diseases in the United States. Millions ofpeople suffer from airborne pollen allergies with symptoms that includesneezing, coughing, eye irritation, itching, runny noses, puffy eyes, stuffynose, and sore throat. Severe allergic symptoms include asthma attacks,chronic sinusitis, headaches, fatigue and impaired sleep. The AmericanAcademy of Allergy and Immunology estimates that pollen allergies arecommon in 30% to 80% of people with asthma.Pollen allergies are seasonal in nature; people experience symptoms onlywhen the pollen, to which they are allergic, is present in the air. Trees andplants have predictable pollination periods depending on their geographiclocation. Trees are responsible for spring allergies as they pollinate mainlyfrom January to April depending upon the climate. Common trees causingallergies are oak, olive, elm, birch, ash, hickory, poplar, sycamore, maple,cypress and walnut. Summer allergies are typically caused by grass pollen.Weeds are the main cause of late summer and early fall allergies and theyare recognized as the most prolific producers of allergic pollen; ragweed isthe main culprit. Other allergic weeds are sagebrush, redroot pigweed,lamb's quarters, tumbleweed, and English plantain. Of the people who areallergic to pollen, 75 percent are allergic toragweed. Generally, people with allergies toone type of pollen develop allergies to othertypes of pollen as well. Cross reactivityamong unrelated allergies should also beconsidered. Immune response to sometree/plant pollen can be amplified if theaffected person eats certain fruits orvegetables.Pollen allergy symptoms are similar to thoseof the common cold. If the cold symptomspersist a week or more and if the medicalhistory of the patient indicates a seasonalpattern then the possibility of pollen allergiesexists. Confirmation can be carried out by allergists or immunologists using

skin and blood tests. No cure for pollen allergies has beenfound. Symptoms are relieved with general approachessuch as avoidance of allergic pollen, medication andimmunotherapy. Injection treatments, commonly calledallergy shots, can also be effective. Pollen is a pervasive

allergen, making it very difficult to avoid exposure. Theymay be avoided to some degree by relocating to parts of the

country where the offending plants does not grow, remainingindoors when pollen counts are high outdoors, and vacationing

where pollen exposure is minimal; such as the seashore.Medication is one option to relieve symptoms. Antihistamines, nasalsteroids and decongestants are common medicines used for this purpose. Ifthis relief proves to be inadequate then immunotherapy is the best choice toreduce allergic response to specific allergens. The American Academy ofAllergy Asthma and Immunology reported that immunotherapy is effectivein reducing or eliminating seasonal allergy symptoms in up to 90% ofpatients. In this treatment, the pollen types responsible for the allergies aredetected by skin test using pollen commonly found in the area: a dilutedextract of different pollen is injected under the patient’s skin. The offendingallergens are used in the allergy shot concoction and the patient is repeat-edly exposed to them over a long period of time.Pollen identification is important in biomedical research for accuratediagnosis and cure of pollen allergies. Quality of patient treatment can beincreased with the careful identification of allergic pollen for conductingskin tests and treatment with immunotherapy. Allergen extracts used inallergy shots can be standardized on the basis of the knowledge of thepollen found in the area and cross reactivity among allergens of differentpollen. All over the world, allergists, government agencies, researchinstitutes, physicians, and commercial research companies are engaged inresearch on pollen allergies and in finding a cure.Pollen can be transported to the indoor environment via human clothing,hair, pets, soft toys, open windows, and cracks or openings in the building’sstructure. Internal sources include flowering house plants or attachedgreenhouses. Once inside the living space, they are circulated throughoutthe building via the HVAC system and duct work. Indoor pollen concentra-tions can be easily detected by a wide variety of sampling devices. Gravityslides, rotary samplers, suction type machines and other devices can beused for this purpose. The common air sampling devices used are Rotorods,Zefon Air-O-Cell™, Micro-5™, Burkhard and CyclexD™. These samplesare examined by experts in the laboratory using light microscopy toquantify and identified the different pollen present.EMSL test M169 provides analysis of air and bulk samples for pollenidentification and enumeration using optical microscopy.

Due to client demand FTIR services are now available at LA Testing. FTIR is atechnique used primarily for the analysis of organic compounds as well todetermine the chemical structure of inorganic compounds. Since chemical bondsabsorb infrared energy at specific wavelengths, the basic structure of compoundscan be determined by the spectral locations of their infrared absorptions.

When analyzing a sample utilizing infrared spectroscopy, infrared (IR) radiationis passed through the sample. Aportion of that radiation is absorbed by the sampleand the remaining portion passes through the sample or is ‘transmitted’.

Aresulting molecular fingerprint is created by molecular absorption and transmis-sion or ‘spectrum’. The subsequent spectrum characterizes the transmission andthe molecular absorption thus creating a molecular fingerprint.

What exactly can FTIR provide?• Materials inspection • Product comparison• Quality control • Presence of contaminants• Analysis of unknown substances

The supplemental chemical analysis capability ofinfrared spectroscopy (IR) combined with existingmicroscopy techniques is a noteworthy enhance-ment for the interpretation of information acquiredby either of the two techniques.

“LA Testing continues its strategic growth bymethodically distributing its extensive experiencethroughout our network. Our experience incompositing spectroscopic analysis by FourierTransform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) withmicroscopic examination is unsurpassed through-out the environmental industry,” reported BenSublasky, National Director of Client Services forEMSLAnalytical and LA Testing.

For more information on FTIR Services at LATesting contact Dr. Jerry Drapala at (800)303-0047.

LA Testing Expands Materials Testing Laboratory inPasadena with Addition of FTIR Capabilities




Wood rot fungi carry out an important process in nature by decomposing fallen trees and forest litterthereby recycling nutrients. However, they can have a detrimental effect on our buildings if theydecompose and degrade the converted wood timbers used for construction material. Almost 95% of theresidential houses in the U.S. are constructed with wood; from the framing down to the hard wood floors.If suitable conditions exist for mold growth in a building, such as due to water intrusion or moisturecondensation, then wood rot fungi can join the fray and actually cause structural damage to the building.

Wood is subject to attack by a variety of fungi that can be divided into two main groups: brown-rot andwhite-rot fungi. There are other so-called “staining fungi”, such as Cladosporium spp. and Aureobasidiumspp, which can cause discoloration on wood but not structural damage. Brown-rot fungi, such as Serpulalacrymans, generally attack wood through enzymatic degradation of the cellulose and hemi-cellulose,causing the wood to shrink and split into cube-shaped pieces. The rotted wood will crumble to a brown

powder if pressed. Brown-rot fungi do not metabolize the lignin component ofwood. White-rot fungi, such as Donkioporia expansa, attack the material

by degrading the cellulose, hemi-cellulose, and lignin causing a stringyor fibrous appearance to the wood.

Ecology and occurrence of wood-rot fungi

Wood-rot fungi will begin to decay wood with a moisture content of 20%, though the optimum moisturecontent ranges from 30% to 80%. A temperature of 20ºC to 30ºC provides the most favorableconditions for growth. The brown-rot fungus, Serpula lacrymans, prefers a lower temperature foroptimal growth, thus restricting its geographical distribution to northern parts of the United States,whereas another important brown-rot fungus, Meruliporia incrassata, proliferates mainly in the South.

Certain fungi have been associated with specific building material or areas of the building due to thelocalized environmental conditions that exist there. For example, floor construction material is usually

attacked by Serpula lacrymans, whereas Gloeophyllum trabeum typically damages roofing material.

Identification of wood-rot fungi

Fast and accurate identification of wood-rot fungi is important for the preservation of the structure as well asfor insurance or liability reasons. Wood-rot fungi can be identified using the following methods:

1. Phenotypic identification: Identification based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics forBasidiomycetes; requires a mycologist with expertise in these types of fungi. A difficult method due to a lack of fruiting

structures and can take weeks to months for the fungus to grow enough in culture for proper identification.2. SDS-PAGE: An acronym for sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis which is used to produce unique banding patternsfor proteins produced by the fungus.3. Immunoassay: Antibodies are raised against fungal extracts that are then used in Western and ELISA assays.4. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry: An acronym for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation-time of flight mass spectrometry which canproduce a “fingerprint” of biomolecules in the mass range of 2 kD-20 kD. This fingerprint is then matched against reference fingerprints foridentification.5. Real-time PCR: This is probably the best method available for the identification of wood-rot fungi. This PCR method use specific DNAsequencesthat are unique to the fungus of interest for detection.

At EMSL, a PCR method using a single probe is being developed to identify 70 species involved in indoor and outdoor wood damage.These include the most detrimental species such as the dry-rot fungi Serpula lacrymans, Serpula himantioides, and Meruliporia incrassata;wet-rot fungi Coniophora puteana, Antrodia vaillantii; and oak rot, Donkioporia expansa.

Development of a Single Probe PCRMethod to Detect 70 Wood-rot Fungi

Advantages Of This PCR Method1. Single probe: tremendously cost-effective.

2. Comprehensive list of species included.

3. Multiple species (5-10 in groups) can be detected in a single PCR.

Thus the presence of many species can be screened simultaneously

gle PCR.



Identification Of Wood-Rot Fungi By Real-Time PCR

Table 1. Common indoor brown-rot fungi with associated PCR primers.CODE SPECIES PCR PRIMERS1B. S. lacrymans (Serpula lacrymans) SlacR2B. S. himantioides (Serpula himantioides) ShimR3B. M. incrassata (Meruliporia incrassata) MincF4B. P. placenta (Postia placenta) PplaF5B. C. puteana (Coniophora puteana) CputF6B. C. marmorata (Coniophora marmorata) CmarF7B. C. arida (Coniophora arida) CariF8B. C. olivacea (Coniophora olivacea) ColiF9B. A. vaillantii (Antrodia vaillantii) AvaiF10B. A. sinuosa (Antrodia sinuosa) AsinF11B. A. serialis (Antrodia serialis) AserF12B. A. xantha (Antrodia xantha) AxanF13B. A. malicola (Antrodia malicola) AmalF14B. T. panuoides (Tapinella panuoides) TpanF15B. G. sepiarium (Gloeophyllum sepiarium) GsepF16B. G. abietinum (Gloeophyllum abietinum) GabiF17B. G. trabeum (Gloeophyllum trabeum) GtraF18B. L. pinastri (Leucogyrophana pinastri) LpinF19B. L. mollusca (Leucogyrophana mollusca) LmolF20B. F. rosea (Fomitopsis rosea) FrosF21B. F. pinicola (Fomitopsis pinicola) FpinF22B. O. rennyi (Oligoporus rennyi) OrenF23B. D. stillatus (Dacrymyces stillatus) DstiF24B. N. lepideus (Neolentinus lepideus) NlepF

Table 2. Common indoor white-rot fungi with associated PCR primers.CODE SPECIES PCR PRIMERS1W. D. expansa (Donkioporia expansa) DexpF2W. A. cervicolor (Asterostroma cervicolor) AcerR3W. A. laxum (Asterostroma laxum) AlaxR4W. T. farinacea (Trechispora farinacea) TfarR5W. P. pini (Phellinus pini) PpinF6W. D. lindbladii (Diplomitoporus lindbladii) DlinF7W. R. bicolor (Resinicium bicolor) RbicF8W. C. leave (Cylindrobasidium leave) CleaF9W. H. praetermissum (Hyphoderma praetermissum) HpraF10W. P. cornucopiae (Pleurotus cornucopiae) PcorR11W. P.ostreatus (Pleurotus ostreatus) PostR12W. P. pulmonarius (Pleurotus pulmonarius) PpulR13W. P. cervinus (Pluteus cervinus) PcerF14W. T. hirsuta (Trametes hirsute) ThirF15W. T. ochracea (Trametes ochracea) TochF16W. T. versicolor (Trametes versicolor) TverF17W. B. adusta (Bjerkandera adusta) BaduF18W. G. frondosa (Grifola frondosa) GfroF19W. H. annosum (Heterobasidium annosum) HannF20W. H. aluraria (Hyphodontia alutaria) HaluF21W. H. breviseta (Hyphodontia breviseta) HbreF22W. H. floccosa (Hyphodontia floccose) HfloF23W. H. nespori (Hyphodontia nespori) HnesF24W. S. commune (Schizophyllum commune) ScomF25W. S. paradoxa (Schizopora paradoxa) SparF26W. S. rugosum (Stereum rugosum) SrugF27W. T. abietinum (Trichaptum abietinum) TabiF28W. V. bombycina (Volvariella bombycina) VbomF

SPECIES INDOOR/OUTDOOR OUTDOOR(PCR PRIMERS) (PCR PRIMERS)

1. TRANSPORT AND STORAGEConiophora puteana CputFFomitopsis pinicola FpinFGloeophyllum trabeum GtraFPaxillus panuoides TpanFPhlebiopsis gigantea PgigFStereum sanguinolentum SsanFTrichaptum abietinum TabiFPhanerochaete chrysosporium PchrF2. STRUCTURAL TIMBERS

(sleepers, poles, posts, fences, bridges, and garden furniture)Antrodia vaillantii AvaiFHeterobasidium annosum HannFLeucogyrophana pinastri LpinFOligoporus placenta OplaFPhanerochaete sordariaPhlebiopsis gigantea PgigFSerpula himantioides ShimFSistotrema brinkmanii SbriFTrametes versicolor TverFTrichaptum abietinum TabiF3. MINE TIMBERAntrodia vaillantii AvaiFConiophora puteana CputFGloeophyllum sepiarium GsepFHeterobasidium annosum HannFLentinus lepideus NlepFLeucogyrophana pinastri LpinFOligoporus placenta OplaFPaxillus panuoides TpanFSchizophyllum commune ScomFSerpula lacrymans SlacFTrametes versicolor TverF

SPECIES INDOOR/OUTDOOR OUTDOOR(PCR PRIMERS) (PCR PRIMERS)

4. COOLING TOWERDonkioporia expansa DexpFPhysisporinus vitreus5. DOCKS, STAKES, BOATS (above water)Antrodia xantha AxanFDaedalea quercina DqueFGloeophyllum sepiarium GsepFLaetiporus sulphureus LsulFLentinus lepideus NlepFPhlebiopsis gigantea PgigFSchizophyllum commune ScomFXylobolus frustulatus XfruR6. UTILITY POLESAntrodia carbonicaAntrodia serialis AserFAntrodia vaillantii AvaiFBjerkandera adusta BaduFCeriporiopsis pannocincta CpanFDiplomitoporus linbladii DlinFFomitopsis cajanderi FcajFGloeophyllum sepiarium GsepFHyphoderma pratermissum HpraFHyphoderma puberum HpubFIrpex lacteus IlacFPhanerochaete sordida PsorFPhlebia brevispora PbreFPhlebia radiate PradRPhlebia rufa PrufFPhlebia subserialis PsubFPostia placenta PplaFSistotrema brinkmanii SbriFTrametes versicolor TverFTrichaptum abietinum TabiFTrichaptum biforme TbifFXylobolus frustulatus XfruRTverF

Table 3. Common brown and white-rot fungi found in outdoorlocations with associated PCR primers.

EMSL Analytical Times www.emsl.com10 1


Formaldehyde Pump and Tube Sampling UsingBuck Libra L-4 Pump with universal low-flow adapterLow-Flow Sampling (<1 lpm)

1) Review the NIOSH Method:http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/nmam/pdfs/2016.pdf

The OSHA Technical Manual is helpful too:http://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otm/otm_ii/otm_ii_1.html

2) Review the operating instructions for the Buck pump, inyour kit

3) Charge and check out the pumps the day before sampling toensure that it is in good working order after shipment.Formaldehyde media is shipped cold and should be kept thatway except while sampling. Put the cooler and ice pack in thefreezer so it is ready to ship back.

4) DO NOT alter the charging apparatus – you could damagethe pump battery.

5) Assemble the equipment as shown:

6) Assemble the sample train. Thetubing attaches to the pump inlet, thelow-flow adaptor attaches to the tubing,the clear tube shield is unscrewed toaccess the tube fitting. The sorbent tubewill be inserted into soft rubber tubefitting.

7) Immediately before sampling,break off the ends of the flame-sealed tube so as to provide anopening approximately half theinternal diameter of the tube. Weareye protection when breaking ends.Do not use the charging inlet or theexhaust outlet of the pump to breakthe ends of the tube;

8) Insert the tube into the blackrubber fitting on the low-flowadapter as shown, with the arrowpointing toward the tubing. The sorbent is close to one end of thetube, this is the end that should go toward the sampling pump. Thetube shall be held or attached in an approximately vertical positionwith the inlet either up or down during sampling;

9) Turn the pump on. The LEDshould light and you should heara motor sound – if it soundsreally “revvy” or “frantic” youmay have kinked the sample lineor forgotten to break the ends offof the sorbent tube, see step# 7.

10) Insert the open end of the tube into the tubing connected to thetop fitting of the rotameter;

FORMALDEHYDE LABORATORY PR IC ING

TEST 1 DAY 2 DAYS 3 DAYS 5 DAYS

FORMALDEHYDE NIOSH 2016/NIOSH 3500 $198 $165 $132 $66

FORMALDEHYDE (DIFFUSIVE SAMPLER OR BADGE) NIOSH 2016M $198 $165 $132 $66

FORMALDEHYDE (DRY-BULK)** HPLC $275

FORMALDEHYDE (WET-BULK)** HPLC $385

FORMALDEHYDE (BULK-HIGH TEMP TREATMENT)** HPLC $385

SAMPLING INSTRUCTIONS

If it is not, carefully use asmall screwdriver to adjustthe flow using the screw onthe low-flow adapterFIRST;

…and read the flow rate. Itshould be between 0.05 and0.5 Liters per minute (lpm),the OPTIMAL flow rate is0.3 lpm.

Formaldehyde

EMSL Analytical Timeswww.emsl.com


11

A

LA Testing Expands MaterialsTesting with the Additionof a Scanning ElectronMicroscope (SEM)LA Testing is proud to announce that SEM services are now available.A Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) is an imaging technique thatuses a beam of high energy and finely focused electrons produced byan electron gun that scans the sample in a raster pattern.

The primary or ‘incident beam’ of electrons interacts with the surfaceof the sample. The interaction then produces a secondary beam ofelectrons that carry information about the surface morphology. Theelectrons in the secondary beam are collected by a special detector,converted to a voltage signal, amplified, and used to produce an imageon a cathode-ray tube (CRT).

Some practical SEM applications include:• Metallurgical Studies• Failure Analysis• Contaminant Analysis• Deposits and Wear Debris Analysis• Particle Sizing and Distribution• Elemental Identification(when used with EDX detector)

• Char Characterization(residential and wildfires investigations)

• Paint Characterization• Specialized Forensic Analysis

There are many advantageous to utilizing the SEM including anincreased depth of field which allows for a greater amount of sampleto remain in focus. Also the ability to create rapid and high resolutionimages showing morphological characteristics that can be morereadily analyzed at higher magnifications.

For more information onSEM Services visitwww.LATesting.com orcall (800)303-0047 and ask forDr. Jerry Drapala or Derrick Tanner

If it is not, carefully use asmall screwdriver to adjustthe flow using the screwon the low-flow adapterFIRST;

Only use the adjustmentarrows on the front of thepump after you have tried

this. The pump flow is adjusted by holding down the “SET” buttonand pressing the up or down arrow.

11) Place the pump in the area,or on the person being sampled,and write down the time youstarted sampling. For a personalsample, place the open end ofthe tube as close as feasible tothe worker’s breathing zone.When taking area samples, notethe position of the samplinginlet on your notes. Don’t let itdrop onto the ground or intoliquids.

12) Periodically check to ensure that the pump is running. Asample whose pump dies unattended is a sample that is collected invain!

13) When the sample period isfinished, stop the pump bypressing the On/Off switch.

14) Write down the time.

15) Take the tube out of thelow-flow adapter and place thered plastic caps on both ends,label the tube using a folderlabel or piece of tape on the endcap ONLY;

16) Fill out the chain of custody. Indicate the compounds desired(formaldehyde), flow rate, sampling time in minutes, regular orexpedited turnaround, etc. Put the tubes back into the cooler withthe ice pack for shipment. If not shipping immediately, put thetubes, cooler, and ice pack in the freezer until you are ready to shipit overnight to EMSL.

17) Send the pumps and tubes back to EMSL for LaboratoryAnalysis: EMSL Analytical, Inc.

107 Haddon AvenueWestmont, NJ 08108

EMSL Analytical Times - A Publication by EMSL Analytical, Inc. www.emsl.com


East Coast888.958.8170 or 800.220.3675

West Coast866.798.1089 or 888.455.3675

Visitwww.EMSL.com

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107 Haddon Ave., Westmont, NJ 08108

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