Search

Developing environmentally friendly barrier coatings as an alternative to petroleum-based polymer packaging is a challenge. Cellulose nanofibres (CNF) films have exhibited great potential as water and gas barrier layers. Recycled paper was multi-layer coated with three commercial CNF (mechanical (M-CNF), TEMPO (T-CNF) and carboxymethylated (C-CNF)) using two metering systems (wound rod and blade micrometer) and two drying methods (tension-free contact drying and air drying). The coatability and rheological behaviour of the CNF suspensions were analysed. The gas, water and grease barrier properties of the CNF coated papers were determined and compared with the results of paper coated with cationic starch. The three CNF suspensions and the starch suspension were successfully coated using both metering systems. In the multi-layer coating, air drying yielded higher coat weights than contact drying, and the difference was more noticeable in M-CNF and T-CNF coated samples. A lack of uniformity observed in CNF coatings increased with the number of coating layers. M-CNF coated samples had a whitish surface with a uniform appearance, but coating was insufficiently compact to provide barrier properties. T-CNF coating exhibited a cracked surface and consequently provided no barrier properties. Drying stresses caused breakage of T-CNF coating, which could be explained by the drop in apparent viscosity at much lower rheological shear stresses in the T-CNF suspension. C-CNF showed successful coatability and provided barrier properties to paper with both metering systems and drying methods. Air permeance decreased considerably and the water wettability of the paper decreased by 60% compared to the reference paper, even with a single coating layer (about 1 g·m−2). In addition, a greaseproof paper (grease resistance >1800 s and kit no >10) was obtained with multi-layer C-CNF coating. Although water vapour permeability at 90 % RH and 20 °C decreased slightly with a single layer of CN

A novel Coumarin-based 1,2-pyrazole, HCPyTSC is synthesised and characterized. The chemosensor has been shown to have efficient colourimetric and fluorescence sensing capabilities for the quick and selective detection of fluoride and copper ions. At 376 and 430 nm, the HCPyTSC exhibits selective sensing for Cu2+ and F− ions. By examining the natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis and the potential energy curve (PES) of the ground state for the function of the C–H bond, it has been determined from the theoretical study at hand that the deprotonation was taken from the ‘CH’ proton of the pyrazole ring. For F− and Cu2+, the HCPyTSC detection limits were 4.62 nM and 15.36 nM, respectively. Similarly, the binding constants (Kb) for F− and Cu2+ ions in acetonitrile medium were found to be 2.06 × 105 M−1 and 1.88 × 105 M−1. Chemosensor HCPyTSC with and without F− and Cu2+ ions have an emission and absorption response that can imitate a variety of logic gates, including the AND, XOR, and OR gates. Additionally, a paper-based sensor strip with the HCPyTSC was created for use in practical, flexible F− sensing applications. The paper-based sensor was more effective in detecting F− than other anions. The effectiveness of HCPyTSC for the selective detection of F− in living cells as well as its cell permeability were examined using live-cell imaging in T24 cells.

Soil organic matter (SOM) plays a central role for both the C cycle and soil functions. Plants provide the input and heterotrophic (micro)organisms are essential for the turnover. Microbial metabolism links matter and energy fluxes and generates the highest energy turnover dynamics in SOM because the organisms need both energy and matter for maintenance and growth. In this perspectives paper, we evaluate the knowledge on thermodynamic approaches potentially applicable to study the turnover of organic matter in the soil system. Thermodynamics is essential for understanding organic matter turnover in soil as turnover and storage are controlled by the energy supply to, and consumption by, microbes. Instead of just comparing the heat of combustion of compounds without considering microbial anabolism, we need to apply conventional thermodynamic state variables that can be either estimated using established thermodynamic equations, or measured empirically in soil. In particular, we can follow and quantify overall changes of enthalpies by calorimetry. Here, we suggest to apply a thermodynamic concept with the related experimental approaches of calo(respiro)metry and turnover mass balances including biomass formation. This enables us to better interpret and understand the highly variable carbon use efficiency (CUE) in a multi-substrate system such as soil and to relate this to energy use efficiency (EUE). Combining the experimental measurements of the thermodynamic state variables with mass turnover data allow prediction of whether compounds can be metabolized with energy delivery to microorganisms, or be thermodynamically stabilized under the respective redox and electron acceptor conditions. Energy balancing shows how much energy is actually used and retained in the soil, how much is emitted as heat, and how much may be stabilized due to endergonic turnover reactions. Thermodynamic stabilization should therefore be considered as basic stabilization process for organic com

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory tract infections in adults, particularly older adults and those with underlying medical conditions. Vaccination has emerged as a potential key strategy to prevent RSV-related morbidity and mortality. This Neumoexperts Prevention (NEP) Group scientific paper aims to provide an evidence-based positioning and RSV vaccination recommendations for adult patients. We review the current literature on RSV burden and vaccine development and availability, emphasising the importance of vaccination in the adult population. According to our interpretation of the data, RSV vaccines should be part of the adult immunisation programme, and an age-based strategy should be preferred over targeting high-risk groups. The effectiveness and efficiency of this practice will depend on the duration of protection and the need for annual or more spaced doses. Our recommendations should help healthcare professionals formulate guidelines and implement effective vaccination programmes for adult patients at risk of RSV infection now that specific vaccines are available.

Since the 1960's, Portugal has been affected by profound land use/land cover changes, which have boosted fuel continuity and fire-proneness nationwide. Within this context, the assets of pulp paper companies are exposed to large wildfires, which may cause severe economic losses. Wildfire simulations can help to scenarize and anticipate fire spread, contributing to efficiently allocate resources to protect values at risk. To test this framework, we assessed wildfire hazard in a 115,000 ha landscape, including 3,720 ha owned by two companies, with the aim of identifying the management units most exposed to large wildfires and the ones most at risk. We used Minimum Travel Time algorithm to estimate Burn Probability (BP), Fire Size (FS) and Conditional Flame Length (CFL). Wildfire hazard and exposure were assessed at the landscape-level; risk was estimated in production eucalypt plantations, by combining the annual BP with potential economic losses, based on management costs, loss of revenue and salvage wood. Our results showed that eucalypt plantations not managed by the companies represent a major threat to their patrimony. Industrial plantations with ages between 6 and 9 years have proven the most exposed. Very large wildfires (≥5,000 ha) can potentially spread in 53 % of the landscape, affecting 75 % of young eucalypt (<5 years) area. The 90 percentile of the risk ranges from 213 to 429 €ha year (9.6 % of production eucalypt area). This work resulted in a flexible methodology, replicable in Mediterranean regions with similar landcover. The information produced can provide additional guidance for wildfire prevention and risk management.

A significant amount of European basic and clinical neuroscience research includes the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and low intensity transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), mainly transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Two recent changes in the EU regulations, the introduction of the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) (2017/745) and the Annex XVI have caused significant problems and confusions in the brain stimulation field. The negative consequences of the MDR for non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) have been largely overlooked and until today, have not been consequently addressed by National Competent Authorities, local ethical committees, politicians and by the scientific communities. In addition, a rushed bureaucratic decision led to seemingly wrong classification of NIBS products without an intended medical purpose into the same risk group III as invasive stimulators. Overregulation is detrimental for any research and for future developments, therefore researchers, clinicians, industry, patient representatives and an ethicist were invited to contribute to this document with the aim of starting a constructive dialogue and enacting positive changes in the regulatory environment.

A significant amount of European basic and clinical neuroscience research includes the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and low intensity transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), mainly transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Two recent changes in the EU regulations, the introduction of the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) (2017/745) and the Annex XVI have caused significant problems and confusions in the brain stimulation field. The negative consequences of the MDR for non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) have been largely overlooked and until today, have not been consequently addressed by National Competent Authorities, local ethical committees, politicians and by the scientific communities. In addition, a rushed bureaucratic decision led to seemingly wrong classification of NIBS products without an intended medical purpose into the same risk group III as invasive stimulators. Overregulation is detrimental for any research and for future developments, therefore researchers, clinicians, industry, patient representatives and an ethicist were invited to contribute to this document with the aim of starting a constructive dialogue and enacting positive changes in the regulatory environment. [Abstract copyright: Copyright © 2024 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.]

A significant amount of European basic and clinical neuroscience research includes the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and low intensity transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), mainly transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Two recent changes in the EU regulations, the introduction of the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) (2017/745) and the Annex XVI have caused significant problems and confusions in the brain stimulation field. The negative consequences of the MDR for non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) have been largely overlooked and until today, have not been consequently addressed by National Competent Authorities, local ethical committees, politicians and by the scientific communities. In addition, a rushed bureaucratic decision led to seemingly wrong classification of NIBS products without an intended medical purpose into the same risk group III as invasive stimulators. Overregulation is detrimental for any research and for future developments, therefore researchers, clinicians, industry, patient representatives and an ethicist were invited to contribute to this document with the aim of starting a constructive dialogue and enacting positive changes in the regulatory environment. [Abstract copyright: Copyright © 2024 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.]

The need to increase the recovery rates of recyclables from households, reducing at the same time the collection costs, has favored the spreading of commingled collection systems. This study presents a thorough analysis of the quality of a secondary source of recovered paper of a Spanish newsprint mill, imported from the United Kingdom, where these systems are widely practiced. The results show that the quality of recovered paper from commingled systems is very far from the quality obtained with selective systems: the unusable material content vary from 1% to 29% (11.9% on average) compared to less than 1%. Larger materials recovery facilities (MRF), less oversaturated and with advanced sorting techniques, have demonstrated to be able to render better qualities, the unusable material content varying from 0.3% to 16.6% (8.1% on average). However, the quality is still far from contamination levels typically found with selective systems, especially in terms of non-paper components. This fact limits significantly the use of this recovered paper for graphic paper production where the major potential for an extended use of recovered paper in papermaking lies. Furthermore, there is a discussion on the cost efficiency of these systems and how the legislation and private or public initiatives are affecting the spreading of these systems, especially in the United States and the United Kingdom., Comunidad de Madrid, TRUE, pub

Biofouling causes important economic losses in the paper industry. To prevent or mitigate the effects of biofilms is necessary to implement microbiological control programmes based on monitoring programs which requires the evaluation of the biofilm growth kinetic taking into account the ability of microorganisms viability. The monitoring techniques must be rapid to minimise both costs and use of chemicals. This paper presents the study of the growth kinetics of two bacterial strains known for their high capacity to produce biofilms in paper mills. After the validation of flow cytometry as a technique for microbial growth monitoring, the development of segregated kinetic models based on cell physiological states data was carried out. The developed models can be used to design microbial control programs., TRUE, pub

According to current environmental legislation concerned with water scarcity, paper industry is being forced to adopt a zero liquid effluent policy. In consequence, reverse osmosis (RO) systems are being assessed as the final step of effluent treatment trains aiming to recover final wastewater and reuse it as process water. One of the most important drawbacks of these treatments is the production of a retentated stream, which is usually highly loaded with biorecalcitrant organic matter and inorganics; and this effluent must meet current legislation stringent constraints before being ultimately disposed. The treatment of biorefractory RO retentate from a paper mill by several promising advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) – conventional Fenton, photo-Fenton and photocatalysis – was optimized considering the effect and interaction of reaction parameters; particularly using response surface methodology (RSM) when appropriate (Fenton processes). The economical cost of these treatments was also comparatively assessed. Photo-Fenton process was able to totally remove the COD of the retentate, and resulted even operatively cheaper at high COD removal levels than conventional Fenton, which achieved an 80% reduction of the COD at best. In addition, although these optimal results were produced at pH = 2.8, it was also tested that Fenton processes are able to achieve good COD reduction efficiencies (>60%) without adjusting the initial pH value, provided the natural pH of this wastewater was close to neutral. Finally, although TiO2-photocatalysis showed the least efficient and most expensive figures, it improved the biodegradability of the retentate, so its combination with a final biological step almost achieved the total removal of the COD., Unión Europea. FP7, Comunidad de Madrid, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, TRUE, pub

Agro-wastes valorization focusses on production of high value-added products, such as cellulose nanofibers (CNF), and contributes to reduce the environmental impact of these residues. CNF have been used successfully as papermaking additives and some previsions maintain that this sector will become the most important, demanding CNF at a reasonable cost. Furthermore, the optimization of the production process of CNF from agricultural residues would contribute to the goals of a circular economy, the development of rural areas and the costs reduction by producing CNF of the minimum quality fit-for-use in recycled paper. In this study, CNF was produced from two agricultural residues; corn (C-CNF) and rape (R-CNF) stalk pulps, pretreated with bleaching, refining and TEMPO-mediated oxidation. Coagulant and cationic polyacrylamide (dual system) and chitosan were the retention systems. Results show the difficulty of predicting the effect of CNF based on their properties, as fibrillation degree or anionic charge, on the improvement of mechanical properties of recycled paper. That is proved by the low differences in tensile index (TI) improvement (similar to 15% by adding 0.5% C-CNF combined with dual system), obtained with CNF with very different properties. The expensive TEMPO pretreatment could be avoid by applying bleaching pretreatment to the corn pulp, increasing the TI up to 15% without affecting drainage and decoupling the simultaneous deterioration of drainage with TI improvement (drainage time decreased nearly 50% and 20% adding bleached R-CNF and C-CNF, respectively, combined with chitosan). Similar improvements on TI can be achieved by replacing the dual retention system by chitosan without addition of CNF, but the combination of CNF and chitosan allows achieving the highest TI values., Economy and Competitiveness Ministry of Spain (MINECO), Depto. de Ingeniería Química y de Materiales, Fac. de Ciencias Químicas, TRUE, pub

The closure of water circuits within pulp and paper mills has resulted in a higher contamination load of the final mill effluent, which must consequently be further treated in many cases to meet the standards imposed by the legislation in force. Different treatment strategies based on advanced oxidation processes (ozonation and TiO2-photocatalysis), and their combination with biological treatment (MBR), are herein assessed for effluents of a recycled paper mill and a kraft pulp mill. Ozone treatment achieved the highest efficiency of all. The consumption of 2.4 g O3 L−1 resulted in about a 60% COD reduction treating the effluent from the kraft pulp mill at an initial pH = 7; although it only reached about a 35% COD removal for the effluent of the recycled paper mill. Otherwise, photocatalysis achieved about a 20–30% reduction of the COD for both type of effluents. In addition, the effluent from the recycled paper mill showed a higher biodegradability, so combinations of these AOPs with biological treatment were tested. As a result, photocatalysis did not report any significant COD reduction improvement whether being performed as pre- or post-treatment of the biological process; whereas the use of ozonation as post-biological treatment enhanced COD removal a further 10%, summing up a total 90% reduction of the COD for the combined treatment, as well as it also supposed an increase of the presence of volatile fatty acids, which might ultimately enable the resultant wastewater to be recirculated back to further biological treatment., Unión Europea. FP7, Comunidad de Madrid, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, TRUE, pub

In the present work, lignocellulosic micro/nanofibers (LCMNF) were produced from pine sawdust. For that, pine sawdust was submitted to alkali treatment and subsequent bleaching stages, tailoring its chemical composition with the purpose of obtaining effective LCMNF. The obtained LCMNF were characterized and incorporated to recycled cardboard boxes with the purpose of producing recycled paper. The obtained results showed that it was possible to obtain LCMNF with the same reinforcing potential than those cellulose nanofibers (CNF) prepared by oxidative or other chemical methods In fact, the obtained papers increased the breaking length of recycled cardboard from 3338 m to 5347 m, being a value significantly higher than the requirements to produce paper bags. Overall, the studied strategies could allow a significant reduction of paper basis weight, with the consequent material saving and, thus, contribution to the environment., Economy and Competitiveness Ministry of Spain (MINECO), Community of Madrid (Spain), Depto. de Ingeniería Química y de Materiales, Fac. de Ciencias Químicas, TRUE, pub

Nanogenerators and self-powered nanosensors have shown the potential to power low-consumption electronics and human-machine interfaces, but their practical implementation requires reliable, environmentally friendly and scalable processes for manufacturing and processing. Furthermore, the emerging flexible and wearable electronics technology demands direct fabrication onto innovative substrates such as paper and plastics typically incompatible with high process temperatures. This article presents a plasma synthesis approach for the fabrication of piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) and self-powered sensors on paper substrates. Polycrystalline ZnO nanocolumnar thin films are deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition on common paper supports using a microwave electron cyclotron resonance reactor working at room temperature yielding high growth rates and low structural and interfacial stresses. Applying Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation, we elucidate the basic shadowing mechanism behind the characteristic microstructure and porosity of the ZnO thin films, relating them to an enhanced piezoelectric response to periodic and random inputs. The piezoelectric devices are assembled by embedding the ZnO films in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and using Au thin layers as electrodes in two different configurations, namely laterally and vertically contacted devices. We present the response of the laterally connected devices as a force sensor for low-frequency events with different answers to the applied force depending on the impedance circuit, i.e. load values range, a behaviour that is theoretically analyzed. The characterization of the vertical devices in cantilever-like mode reaches instantaneous power densities of 80 nW/cm2 with a mean power output of 20 nW/cm2. Besides, we analyze their actual-scenario performance by activation with a fan and handwriting. Overall, this work demonstrates the advantages of implementing plasma deposition for piezoelectric films to d

Nanogenerators and self-powered nanosensors have shown the potential to power low-consumption electronics and human-machine interfaces, but their practical implementation requires reliable, environmentally friendly and scalable processes for manufacturing and processing. Furthermore, the emerging flexible and wearable electronics technology demands direct fabrication onto innovative substrates such as paper and plastics typically incompatible with high process temperatures. This article presents a plasma synthesis approach for the fabrication of piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) and self-powered sensors on paper substrates. Polycrystalline ZnO nanocolumnar thin films are deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition on common paper supports using a microwave electron cyclotron resonance reactor working at room temperature yielding high growth rates and low structural and interfacial stresses. Applying Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation, we elucidate the basic shadowing mechanism behind the characteristic microstructure and porosity of the ZnO thin films, relating them to an enhanced piezoelectric response to periodic and random inputs. The piezoelectric devices are assembled by embedding the ZnO films in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and using Au thin layers as electrodes in two different configurations, namely laterally and vertically contacted devices. We present the response of the laterally connected devices as a force sensor for low-frequency events with different answers to the applied force depending on the impedance circuit, i.e. load values range, a behaviour that is theoretically analyzed. The characterization of the vertical devices in cantilever-like mode reaches instantaneous power densities of 80 nW/cm2 with a mean power output of 20 nW/cm2. Besides, we analyze their actual-scenario performance by activation with a fan and handwriting. Overall, this work demonstrates the advantages of implementing plasma deposition for piezoelectric films to d

Nanogenerators and self-powered nanosensors have shown the potential to power low-consumption electronics and human-machine interfaces, but their practical implementation requires reliable, environmentally friendly and scalable processes for manufacturing and processing. Furthermore, the emerging flexible and wearable electronics technology demands direct fabrication onto innovative substrates such as paper and plastics typically incompatible with high process temperatures. This article presents a plasma synthesis approach for the fabrication of piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) and self-powered sensors on paper substrates. Polycrystalline ZnO nanocolumnar thin films are deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition on common paper supports using a microwave electron cyclotron resonance reactor working at room temperature yielding high growth rates and low structural and interfacial stresses. Applying Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation, we elucidate the basic shadowing mechanism behind the characteristic microstructure and porosity of the ZnO thin films, relating them to an enhanced piezoelectric response to periodic and random inputs. The piezoelectric devices are assembled by embedding the ZnO films in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and using Au thin layers as electrodes in two different configurations, namely laterally and vertically contacted devices. We present the response of the laterally connected devices as a force sensor for low-frequency events with different answers to the applied force depending on the impedance circuit, i.e. load values range, a behaviour that is theoretically analyzed. The characterization of the vertical devices in cantilever-like mode reaches instantaneous power densities of 80 nW/cm2 with a mean power output of 20 nW/cm2. Besides, we analyze their actual-scenario performance by activation with a fan and handwriting. Overall, this work demonstrates the advantages of implementing plasma deposition for piezoelectric films to d

Inherent hydrophilicity and poor water resistance prevent using lignocellulosic materials as green plastic al- ternatives to fossil fuel-based plastics. Here, we report a facile metal-ion-modification (MIM) route, swelling with aqueous metal ion solutions, and drying to convert conventional hydrophilic paper and wood pulp into biode- gradable hydrophobic paper and tableware without the addition of hydrophobic sizing chemicals/materials. Metal ions such as Fe3+ and Zr4+ can coordinate with pulp fibers' polar groups (i.e., OH, C-O, and COOH) that induce self-assembly of their surface fibrillated "hairy" cellulose nanofibrils to form a more compact structure with fewer available OH groups for water sorption. This decreases the surface energy of pulp fibers and increases their hydrophobicity and water resistance. Only similar to 3 mg of metal ions is needed to induce the wettability tran- sition in 1 g of kraft pulp, resulting in hydrophobic paper and tableware with water contact angles (WCAs) of 120-140 degrees. The coordinated Fe3+ and Zr4+ are stable, with negligible metal leaching during use, allowing the hydrophobic paper and tableware to be used for food packaging. This MIM technique can be integrated into the existing paper-making process for the scalable production of hydrophobic papers and tableware, providing an alternative route for developing sustainable and biodegradable plastic counterparts.

Nanogenerators and self-powered nanosensors have shown the potential to power low-consumption electronics and human-machine interfaces, but their practical implementation requires reliable, environmentally friendly and scalable processes for manufacturing and processing. Furthermore, the emerging flexible and wearable electronics technology demands direct fabrication onto innovative substrates such as paper and plastics typically incompatible with high process temperatures. This article presents a plasma synthesis approach for the fabrication of piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) and self-powered sensors on paper substrates. Polycrystalline ZnO nanocolumnar thin films are deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition on common paper supports using a microwave electron cyclotron resonance reactor working at room temperature yielding high growth rates and low structural and interfacial stresses. Applying Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation, we elucidate the basic shadowing mechanism behind the characteristic microstructure and porosity of the ZnO thin films, relating them to an enhanced piezoelectric response to periodic and random inputs. The piezoelectric devices are assembled by embedding the ZnO films in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and using Au thin layers as electrodes in two different configurations, namely laterally and vertically contacted devices. We present the response of the laterally connected devices as a force sensor for low-frequency events with different answers to the applied force depending on the impedance circuit, i.e. load values range, a behaviour that is theoretically analyzed. The characterization of the vertical devices in cantilever-like mode reaches instantaneous power densities of 80 nW/cm with a mean power output of 20 nW/cm. Besides, we analyze their actual-scenario performance by activation with a fan and handwriting. Overall, this work demonstrates the advantages of implementing plasma deposition for piezoelectric films to dev

Reinforced films were fabricated by impregnating paper in ethyl cellulose solutions. After solvent evaporation, the infused ethyl cellulose acted as binder of the paper microfibres and occupied the pores and cavities, thus improving the mechanical and barrier properties. To prepare active films, avocado by-products from guacamole industrial production were extracted in ethyl acetate. Then, the extract (optimized to be rich in phenolic compounds and flavonoids and mainly composed by lipids) was incorporated to the paper reinforced with the highest content of ethyl cellulose. In general, the addition of the avocado by-products extract decreased the water uptake and permeability, improved the wettability, and increased the biodegradability in seawater and the antioxidant capacity. In addition, these films acted as barriers and retainers for Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus. The potentiality of these materials for food packaging was demonstrated by low overall migrations and a similar food preservation to common low-density polyethylene.

Traceability between published scientific breakthroughs and their implementation is essential, especially in the case of open-source scientific software which implements bleeding-edge science in its code. However, aligning the link between GitHub repositories and academic papers can prove difficult, and the current practice of establishing and maintaining such links remains unknown. This paper investigates the role of academic paper references contained in these repositories. We conduct a large-scale study of 20 thousand GitHub repositories that make references to academic papers. We use a mixed-methods approach to identify public access, traceability and evolutionary aspects of the links. Although referencing a paper is not typical, we find that a vast majority of referenced academic papers are public access. These repositories tend to be affiliated with academic communities. More than half of the papers do not link back to any repository. We find that academic papers from top-tier SE venues are not likely to reference a repository, but when they do, they usually link to a GitHub software repository. In a network of arXiv papers and referenced repositories, we find that the most referenced papers are (i) highly-cited in academia and (ii) are referenced by repositories written in different programming languages.

The present work shows the suitability of using recovered cardboard boxes for the development of high-performance papers through the use of cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na). CNF were prepared by enzymatic hydrolysis using bleached kraft hardwood pulp, while a commercial grade of CMC-Na was used. Both were added in bulk together with polyethylenimine (PEI) as wet-end additive to improve pulp drainability. The combination of 3 wt% CNF and 7.5 wt% CMC-Na double the breaking length of paper. In addition, the use of 0.4 wt% of PEI significantly decreased the Schopper-Riegler degree, while mechanical properties remained almost at the same level. It was found that it is possible to recover and even increase the properties of recycled papers, with the added advantage that no structural damages were caused on the fibres, increasing the life span and recyclability of paper products., Economy and Competitiveness Ministry of Spain (MINECO), Depto. de Ingeniería Química y de Materiales, Fac. de Ciencias Químicas, TRUE, pub

This special issue contains the revised and extended versions of three papers presented in the 4th Workshop on Advances in Model-Based Testing (A-MOST 2008). In addition to an executive summary of these three papers, this preface briefly reviews the papers published in the four editions of the A-MOST workshop. We hope that the reader will find this special issue interesting and informative., Sección Deptal. de Sistemas Informáticos y Computación, Fac. de Ciencias Matemáticas, TRUE, pub

Recently, a technology was developed in Japan to accelerate the carbonation of alkaline construction sludge and reduce its alkalinity. Alkaline construction sludge is treated in advance using a paper sludge ash-based stabilizer (PSAS) so that it becomes granular and well aerated. Subsequently, CO2 gas is injected from the bottom to the top of the treated sludge layer in the underground pit. This technology can reduce the pH of alkaline sludge within short periods; however, the completion period of pH neutralization has often been predicted empirically. This may be due to the combined effects of density, water content, particle size, PSAS amount in the sludge, and CO2 concentration in the accelerated carbonation on the pH neutralization process. However, there have been few studies on how these factors affect the pH neutralization and CO2 capture of PSAS-treated alkaline sludges subjected to accelerated carbonation. Therefore, in this study, the effects of several accelerated carbonation factors on neutralization and CO2 capture from alkaline sludge were experimentally investigated. PSAS-treated alkaline sludges with different densities, water contents, particle sizes, and amounts of PSAS were cured in incubators with controlled CO2 concentrations. Based on the pH measurements, the pH neutralization completion period (tN) was evaluated for each alkaline sludge sample. The test results revealed that tN increased with increasing dry density and particle size and decreasing CO2 concentration. The results also suggest that tN increases with increasing amounts of PSAS. However, the water content had a more significant effect on tN than the PSAS amount. There may be an optimum water content for pH neutralization if conditions other than the water content are the same. From the results of the carbonate content evaluation, the amounts of CO2 captured in each specimen (mCO2) and mCO2 at tN were determined for each alkaline sludge sample. The results revealed that the density

Paper crumb (PC) is a type of paper sludge residue from the wastepaper recycling industry. It is a by-product from the various fiber purification stages that is particularly composed of short cellulose fibers, lignin, organic compounds and inorganic filler residues. Despite representing a reject material for the paper recycling sector, this feedstock can be turned into a bioresource to enable cross-sector industrial symbiosis in the form of a more sustainable concrete, hence an opportunity for novel Net Zero supply chains. This study sought to valorise the PC by the sequential anaerobic digestion to produce methane (CH4) from the organic compounds, followed by utilization of the digestate as a water replacement in concrete. The 21-day digestion of PC yielded 163 ml CH4 per gram volatile solids and the resulting digestate improved concrete compressive strength up to 50% water replacement grade, meeting the requirements structural grade (C32/40) applications with substitution grades up to 50% and 25% with and without the addition of plasticiser respectively. In a minor capacity, the digestate reduced workability of the concrete mix, however we demonstrate his issue can be resolved by the addition of plasticiser or increased concrete to water ratios. The admixture addition is important to facilitate pumpability on site and ensure satisfactory compaction. This study highlights the potential of anaerobic digestion digestate as a concrete supplement (additive), which would improve the sustainability of both the construction and the paper sector.

It is unusual, and can be difficult, for scientists to reflect in their publications on any limitations their research had. This is a consequence of the extreme pressure that scientists are under to ‘publish or perish’. The inevitable consequence is that much published research is not as good as it could, and should, be, leading to the current ‘reproducibility crisis’. Approaches to address this crisis are required. Our suggestion is to include a ‘Limitations’ section in all scientific papers. Evidence is provided showing that such a section must be mandatory. Adding a ‘Limitations’ section to scientific papers would greatly increase honesty, openness and transparency, to the considerable benefit of both the scientific community and society in general. This suggestion is applicable to all scientific disciplines. Finally, we apologise if our suggestion has already been made by others.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a chronic non-communicable disease (NCD) and the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Substantial reductions in the CVD prevalence have been achieved in recent years by the attenuation of risk factors (particularly hypertension and dyslipidaemias) in primary and secondary prevention. Despite the remarkable success of lipid lowering treatments, and of statins in particular, in reducing the risk of CVD, there is still an unmet clinical need for the attainment of guideline lipid-targets in even 2/3 of patients. Bempedoic acid, the first in-class inhibitor of ATP-citrate lyase presents a new approach to lipid-lowering therapy. By reducing the endogenous production of cholesterol, upstream of the rate-limiting enzyme HMG-CoA-reductase, i.e., the target of statins, bempedoic acid reduces circulating plasma concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and major adverse CVD events (MACE). Bempedoic acid has the potential to contribute to the reduction of CVD risk not only as monotherapy, but even further as part of a lipid-lowering combination therapy with ezetimibe, reducing LDL-C cholesterol up to 40%. This position paper of the International Lipid Expert Panel (ILEP) summarises the recent evidence around the efficacy and safety of bempedoic acid and presents practical recommendations for its use, which complement the 'lower-is-better-for-longer' approach to lipid management, which is applied across international guidelines for the management of CVD risk. Practical evidence-based guidance is provided relating to the use of bempedoic acid in atherosclerotic CVD, familial hypercholesterolaemia, and statin intolerance. Although there are still no sufficient data avilable for the role of bempedoic acid in the primary prevention of CVD, its favourable effects on plasma glucose and inflammatory markers makes this drug a rational choice in the patient-centred care of specific groups of primary prevention.

Paper analysis is often undertaken as part of a holistic forensic document examination. It can provide information that can assist in detecting document fraud, in linking documents to a potential source or between cases, and in addressing other questions relevant to an investigation. This subject is discussed with particular attention to its relevance to the routine forensic science laboratory.

BACKGROUND: The aim for 95% maternal health care coverage and zero-unmet need for family planning in Pacific Island countries by 2030 could be achieved by strengthening the midwifery workforce. To enable health services to provide accessible, locally acceptable, and high-quality care, the midwifery workforce must be regulated and educated to global standards and supported to practice in enabling environments. In 2019, around 64,000 live births occurred in Pacific Island countries, yet information regarding the state the midwifery workforce and midwifery education is limited. AIM: Using data from recent reports and country case studies, this paper provides an overview of the current midwifery education situation in Pacific Island countries and discusses strategic directions for strengthening quality midwifery education and therefore quality midwifery care provision in Pacific Island countries. DISCUSSION: Six Pacific Island countries have midwifery curricula, all post-nursing programs, although few offer midwifery education programs on a regular annual basis. Current programs do not meet ICM Global Standards for Midwifery Education. Critical areas for strengthening include making underpinning philosophical frameworks, the vision for midwifery education, and program intended learning outcomes explicit in curricula documents and ensuring integration of these in program implementation. Fortunately, five of six midwifery education programs are under processes of renewal and strengthening against global, regional, and national standards. CONCLUSION: Strengthening the midwifery workforce in the Pacific to meet maternal and newborn health targets can be achieved through supporting the existing midwifery education programs to meet global standards. Strengthened midwifery education programs in Pacific Island countries offer an opportunity to meet each country's maternal and newborn health targets.

[Abstract] It was discovered that Fig. 7B and the supplementary file was not included in the original online version of the above article. The Publisher decided to ‘resupply’ (update) the XML and online PDF of the article for the missing supplementary material. The missing Fig. 7B is provided below and it is cited in the Section 4.1.2 “From monastic foundation to modern times: Terracing develops and the textual archive begins”. Unfortunately the discovery of the errors was too late to correct the printed issue. The authors would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

A pre-treatment of graphene with bleach is considered one of the possible purification methods after liquid-phase exfoliation. However, the effect of this treatment on the mechanical reinforcement strategy for polymer film is yet to be investigated to date. In this full work, the influence of the C/O ratio, ID/IG, and volume of graphene after combination with cellulose tissue on the resulting stiffness of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite film has been extensively studied. It is noticed that the incorporation of 30 ml graphene that had been pre-treated for 3 h into PVA had produced the best increment in elastic modulus (1.6 GPa against 0.4 GPa) while a shorter pre-treatment duration of graphene (1 h) would require more graphene volume (40 ml) to match the previous stiffness improvement level. By using the collected experimental data (90 samples), we further modeled the effect of tissue and PVA mass, C/O ratio, ID/IG, and graphene volume on modulus using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

[EN] Nowadays, miniaturization and portability are crucial characteristics that need to be considered for the development of water monitoring systems. In particular, the use of handheld technology, including microfluidics, is exponentially expanding due to its versatility, reduction of reagents and minimization of waste, fast analysis times and portability. Here, a hybrid handheld miniaturized polymer platform with a paper-based microfluidic device was developed for the simultaneous detection of nitrite and nitrate in real samples from both, fresh and seawaters. The platform contains an ionogel-based colorimetric sensor for nitrite detection and a paper-based microfluidic device for the in situ conversion of nitrate to nitrite. The platform was fully characterized in terms of its viability as a portable, cheap and quick pollutant detector at the point of need. The calibration was carried out by multivariate analysis of the color of the sensing areas obtained from a taken picture of the device. The limits of detection and quantification, for nitrite were 0.47 and 0.68mgL-1, while for nitrate were 2.3 and 3.4mgL-1, found to be within the limits allowed by the environmental authorities, for these two pollutants. Finally, the platform was validated with real water samples, demonstrating its potential to monitor nitrite and nitrate concentrations on-site as a first surveillance step before performing extensive analysis.

[EN] Low cost and user-friendly paper microfluidic devices, combined with DNA-based biosensors with binding capacities for specific molecules, have been proposed for the developing of novel platforms that ease and speed-up the process of cell secretion monitoring. In this work, we present the first cellulose microfluidic paper-based analytical device for the single-step detection of cell secreted Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor through a self-reporting Structure Switching Signaling Aptamer. A three-part Structure Switching Signaling Aptamer was designed with an aptameric sequence specific for VEGF, which provides a quantifiable fluorescent signal through the displacement of a quencher upon VEGF recognition. The VEGF biosensor was integrated in cellulose paper, enabling the homogenous distribution of the sensor in the paper substrate and the detection of as low as 0.34ng of VEGF in 30min through fluorescence intensity analysis. As a proof-of-concept, the biosensor was incorporated in a microfluidic paper-based analytical device format containing a VEGF detection zone and a control zone, which was applied for the detection of cell secreted VEGF in the supernatant of mesenchymal stem cells culture plates, demonstrating its potential use in cell biology research.

[EN] Low cost and user-friendly paper microfluidic devices, combined with DNA-based biosensors with binding capacities for specific molecules, have been proposed for the developing of novel platforms that ease and speed-up the process of cell secretion monitoring. In this work, we present the first cellulose microfluidic paper-based analytical device for the single-step detection of cell secreted Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor through a self-reporting Structure Switching Signaling Aptamer. A three-part Structure Switching Signaling Aptamer was designed with an aptameric sequence specific for VEGF, which provides a quantifiable fluorescent signal through the displacement of a quencher upon VEGF recognition. The VEGF biosensor was integrated in cellulose paper, enabling the homogenous distribution of the sensor in the paper substrate and the detection of as low as 0.34ng of VEGF in 30min through fluorescence intensity analysis. As a proof-of-concept, the biosensor was incorporated in a microfluidic paper-based analytical device format containing a VEGF detection zone and a control zone, which was applied for the detection of cell secreted VEGF in the supernatant of mesenchymal stem cells culture plates, demonstrating its potential use in cell biology research.

[EN] Nowadays, miniaturization and portability are crucial characteristics that need to be considered for the development of water monitoring systems. In particular, the use of handheld technology, including microfluidics, is exponentially expanding due to its versatility, reduction of reagents and minimization of waste, fast analysis times and portability. Here, a hybrid handheld miniaturized polymer platform with a paper-based microfluidic device was developed for the simultaneous detection of nitrite and nitrate in real samples from both, fresh and seawaters. The platform contains an ionogel-based colorimetric sensor for nitrite detection and a paper-based microfluidic device for the in situ conversion of nitrate to nitrite. The platform was fully characterized in terms of its viability as a portable, cheap and quick pollutant detector at the point of need. The calibration was carried out by multivariate analysis of the color of the sensing areas obtained from a taken picture of the device. The limits of detection and quantification, for nitrite were 0.47 and 0.68mgL-1, while for nitrate were 2.3 and 3.4mgL-1, found to be within the limits allowed by the environmental authorities, for these two pollutants. Finally, the platform was validated with real water samples, demonstrating its potential to monitor nitrite and nitrate concentrations on-site as a first surveillance step before performing extensive analysis.

Integrating supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) in cement-based construction materials is a key strategy for reducing environmental burdens and the greenhouse gas emissions related to cement production. Supplies of commonly applied SCMs such as fly ash and blast furnace slag are becoming limited, and therefore the search for alternative SCMs is of high significance. The present research investigates the viability of four paper mill ashes collected at different stages from the same incineration process as SCMs at different cement substitution rates (5–30 wt%). The ashes were first classified depending on their mineralogical and chemical composition, and their contribution to strength development of the prepared mortars is examined. Furthermore, the effects of the ashes on the hydration kinetics and the fresh and hardened properties of the prepared mortars were studied. The obtained results showed that a high level of SCM replacement accelerates the early hydration reactions and decreases the setting time. In addition, the incorporation of paper mill ashes increased the bound water depending on the ash type and resulted in strength development of the mortars at low replacement per- centages (5–10 wt%). This study shows that the ashes belonging to type C medium acid based on bio ash classification could be incorporated as SCMs at a maximum level of 10 wt%, while those corresponding to type C low acid could be used up to 20–30 wt%.

Fine paper mills produce a variety of paper grades to satisfy demand for a large number of sheeted products. Huge reels of different paper grades are produced on a cyclical basis on paper machines. These reels are then cut into rolls of smaller size which are then either sold as such, or sheeted into finished products in converting plants. A huge number of roll sizes would be required to cut all finished products without trim loss and they cannot all be inventoried. An assortment of rolls is inventoried with the implication that the sheeting operations may yield trim loss. The selection of the assortment of roll sizes to stock and the assignment of these roll sizes to finished products have a significant impact on performances. This paper presents a model to decide the parent roll assortment and assignments to finished products based on these products demand processes, desired service levels, trim loss and inventory holding costs. Risk pooling economies made by assigning several finished products to a given roll size is a fundamental aspect of the problem. The overall model is a binary non-linear program. Two solution methods are developed: a branch and price algorithm based on column generation and a fast pricing heuristic, and a marginal cost heuristic. The two methods are tested on real data and also on randomly generated problem instances. The approach proposed was implemented by a large pulp and paper company.

In this paper, we address the problem of defining the production campaigns on a paper machine. Each campaign is of a fixed duration (cycle time) and produces batches (lot sizes) of all or a set of the products. This paper presents a real case study discussing a specific lot sizing problem where a predetermined production sequence must be maintained. We propose a new approach where we compute first the cycle time by assuming constant demand, and then lot sizes are determined for each product within each cycle in order to satisfy demand. Finally, studying the context of a Canadian paper maker, we evaluate the impact of planning production under a cycling manner.

[EN] Low cost and user-friendly paper microfluidic devices, combined with DNA-based biosensors with binding capacities for specific molecules, have been proposed for the developing of novel platforms that ease and speed-up the process of cell secretion monitoring. In this work, we present the first cellulose microfluidic paper-based analytical device for the single-step detection of cell secreted Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor through a self-reporting Structure Switching Signaling Aptamer. A three-part Structure Switching Signaling Aptamer was designed with an aptameric sequence specific for VEGF, which provides a quantifiable fluorescent signal through the displacement of a quencher upon VEGF recognition. The VEGF biosensor was integrated in cellulose paper, enabling the homogenous distribution of the sensor in the paper substrate and the detection of as low as 0.34ng of VEGF in 30min through fluorescence intensity analysis. As a proof-of-concept, the biosensor was incorporated in a microfluidic paper-based analytical device format containing a VEGF detection zone and a control zone, which was applied for the detection of cell secreted VEGF in the supernatant of mesenchymal stem cells culture plates, demonstrating its potential use in cell biology research.