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This work presents the results of a transdisciplinary analysis performed on Harward's Almanac (Dublin, 1666), an extremely rare volume currently housed in the National Library of Ireland. The uniqueness and historical value of the Almanac is related to the presence of nineteen handwritten poems, entered by an anonymous scribe. These record textually important English clandestine satire circulating anonymously in Dublin in the late seventeenth and early eighteenth century. Following a comprehensive historical assessment, it appeared evident that the current order of leaves was incorrect. To reconstruct the correct order of the leaves, and hence the likely sequence in which the manuscript poems were inscribed, this study employed a codicological/paleographic analysis complemented by analytical (X-ray fluorescence, XRF) and statistical (Self Organizing Map, SOM) investigation. Specifically, point XRF analysis was carried out for each handwritten page of the Almanac, allowing identification of ink elemental compositions (iron-based ink) and successfully supporting the validity of historical hypotheses on the poems' order of inscription. The statistical organization of XRF data by SOMs allowed easy bi-dimensional visualization of the data set (54 points) and identification of ink similarities, once more validating the historical assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-fibre ancient-books with cultural significance should be protected from moisture and pollution. In this work, a strategy of surface in-situ protection (building composite coating) was adopted to achieve good hydrophobicity, moisture-proofness and ink-contamination resistance at the surface of archaistic paper. By pre-ring opening of epoxy-based poly(vinyl silsesquioxane) (POSS) and spray of POSS/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) mixed solution, in-situ construction of POSS/PVDF composite coating at the surface of ancient paper was achieved. Compared to water-absorbing ancient paper, POSS/PVDF co-modified ancient paper shows strong humidity resistance. The surface of co-modified ancient paper (epoxy-group pre-ring opening for 45 min) displays high hydrophobicity (water contact angle of ~142.6°), ascribed to greatly improved surface roughness of paper fibres as well as complete coverage of high-content Si/F elements on fibre surface. POSS-modified and neat ancient-paper materials show surface water contact angles of ~113.9° and 0°, respectively. Robust ink-resistance of POSS/PVDF co-modified ancient-paper surface is realized. The innovation in this work lies in perfect synergy of cage-shaped POSS and threadlike PVDF in coating. This work might open a way for surface nondestructive-protection to ancient-books for damp-proof, hydrophobic and anti-fouling characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of paper-based flexible electronic devices can reduce the use of traditional petroleum-based polymer substrates, thereby reducing environmental pollution. However, paper substrates tend to absorb moisture, which would degrade the performance of electronic devices. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) films were proposed as coatings for the paper substrate to improve the hydrophobic performance of the paper, thereby enhancing the stability of paper-based device. Hydrophobic PTFE films were deposited on both sides of the paper substrate using electron beam evaporation, which block the paper substrate from absorbing moisture. The zinc oxide (ZnO) film was sputtered onto the paper substrate and fabricated into ultraviolet photodetectors (UVPD). Numerical simulations show that the introduction of PTFE films can greatly reduce the stress from 3.21 × 109 N m−2 to 3.50 × 107 N m−2 in the ZnO epitaxial layer on the paper substrate. The stability and detectivity of the UVPD with PTFE coatings are greatly improved compared to that without PTFE coatings, providing a promising avenue for fabricating stable, superior, and sustainable paper-based electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a simple and low-cost colorimetric method based on Fe(III) chloride and potassium hexacyanoferrate(III) for determination of acetaminophen, ascorbic acid and phenylephrine, which can be used in small laboratories using restricted materials and resources. A paper based sensor using the reagent was introduced. Significance of different variables in determination of drugs were studied by Placket-Burman design and optimal values for concentration of hydrochloric acid, Fe(III) chloride and potassium hexacyano ferrate(III), 0.01 M, 0.004 M and 0.004 M, respectively were obtained. Without using any sophisticated instrument and only by image analysis the concentration of acetaminophen, ascorbic acid and phenylephrine was determined in pharmaceutical samples. In this way we were able to determine by analyzing the final color of the reactions. The linear range in ppm for all the analytes was obtained as 0.00–50.00 and limit of detection of 2.52, 2.48 and 2.48 were obtained for acetaminophen, ascorbic acid and phenylephrine, respectively. Percent relative standard deviation (RSD %) and percent relative error (RE %) of the proposed method for analysis of real samples of acetaminophen tablet were 4.77 and 7.64, ascorbic acid tablet, 4.73 and 1.41, and phenylephrine syrup, 2.44 and − 1.61, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applied various scientific analyses to one fragment of paper and three pigments excavated from earthenware found in the Hoeamsa Temple site at Yangju, Korea, which is believed to have been built in the early twelfth century. Radiocarbon dating of the paper fragment suggests a manufacture date between 1460 and 1646 (at a 95% confidence interval). It was estimated to have been used during the early and middle period of the Joseon dynasty (1391–1776), when the Hoeamsa Temple site was rebuilt. In addition, by staining the fiber of the paper fragment with Graff "C" stain, the paper's raw material was identified as paper mulberry through dislocation, cross-marking, and transparent membrane, which are characteristics of the bast fiber. Efforts were made to identify their material properties and manufacturing techniques of the three types of pigments. Color difference analysis was performed by distributing the pigments in large areas to reveal characteristic differences according to the color difference of the pigment. We found that green-type pigments are malachite and atacamite, red-type pigments are hematite based on the element Fe, and white-type pigments are quartz and muscovite based on the elements Si and Al. In addition, as the size distribution of the three types of pigments is wide and has a multi-peak distribution curve, it was concluded that the pigments were used without purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applied various scientific analyses to one fragment of paper and three pigments excavated from earthenware found in the Hoeamsa Temple site at Yangju, Korea, which is believed to have been built in the early twelfth century. Radiocarbon dating of the paper fragment suggests a manufacture date between 1460 and 1646 (at a 95% confidence interval). It was estimated to have been used during the early and middle period of the Joseon dynasty (1391–1776), when the Hoeamsa Temple site was rebuilt. In addition, by staining the fiber of the paper fragment with Graff "C" stain, the paper's raw material was identified as paper mulberry through dislocation, cross-marking, and transparent membrane, which are characteristics of the bast fiber. Efforts were made to identify their material properties and manufacturing techniques of the three types of pigments. Color difference analysis was performed by distributing the pigments in large areas to reveal characteristic differences according to the color difference of the pigment. We found that green-type pigments are malachite and atacamite, red-type pigments are hematite based on the element Fe, and white-type pigments are quartz and muscovite based on the elements Si and Al. In addition, as the size distribution of the three types of pigments is wide and has a multi-peak distribution curve, it was concluded that the pigments were used without purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of bipolar and driving electrodes materials and also the electrolyte conductivity on the required potential for the beginning of the water electrolysis in the paper-based closed cell bipolar electrochemistry is investigated. The importance of the electrode material is studied by placement of various carbon paste mixtures as an electrode on the paper. Carbon paste mixtures are prepared with different carbon allotropes and various binders such as paraffin and ionic liquids. The effect of hydrophobicity, conductivity, and presence of common additives such as gold nanoparticle is discussed in detail. The role of electrolyte conductivity on the needed ∆E for water electrolysis initialization is investigated. It has been proved that even in the absence of ionic current in the closed bipolar setups, electrolyte conductivity can be effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applied various scientific analyses to one fragment of paper and three pigments excavated from earthenware found in the Hoeamsa Temple site at Yangju, Korea, which is believed to have been built in the early twelfth century. Radiocarbon dating of the paper fragment suggests a manufacture date between 1460 and 1646 (at a 95% confidence interval). It was estimated to have been used during the early and middle period of the Joseon dynasty (1391–1776), when the Hoeamsa Temple site was rebuilt. In addition, by staining the fiber of the paper fragment with Graff "C" stain, the paper's raw material was identified as paper mulberry through dislocation, cross-marking, and transparent membrane, which are characteristics of the bast fiber. Efforts were made to identify their material properties and manufacturing techniques of the three types of pigments. Color difference analysis was performed by distributing the pigments in large areas to reveal characteristic differences according to the color difference of the pigment. We found that green-type pigments are malachite and atacamite, red-type pigments are hematite based on the element Fe, and white-type pigments are quartz and muscovite based on the elements Si and Al. In addition, as the size distribution of the three types of pigments is wide and has a multi-peak distribution curve, it was concluded that the pigments were used without purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presently synthesis of edible oil for resin formation and using scrap paper as reinforcement for composite fabrication is still not carried out. In this work, acrylate epoxidized mustard oil (AEMO) was used after blending with a crosslinker N-Vinyl-2-Pyrrolidone (NVP) to fabricate scrap paper reinforced green composites. Mustard oil (MO), Epoxidized mustard oil (EMO) and acrylate epoxidized mustard oil (AEMO) were characterized using iodine value, oxirane content, acid value, FTIR, NMR and viscosity properties. The composites were fabricated using 50:50 ratio of AEMO: NVP and paper loading of 15%, 30% and 60% along with the neat sample. With an increase in paper loading, there was a significant improvement in mechanical properties giving 158.9, 150, 233, 566.66 and 140% improvement in tensile, young's, flexural strength, flexural moduli and impact strength at 60% loading. The elongation at break showed a value of 20% due to the stiff nature of composite. Biodegradability testing proved an increase in weight loss of composite with time, recording the highest weight loss of 7% for 60% composite sample. Dimensional stability showed excellent result for the neat and lower loaded composite samples. Thermogravimetric and differential scanning colorimetry analysis indicated improvement in thermal stability with higher loading %. Morphological analysis confirmed excellent interfacial adhesion and bonding with higher paper loading %. Dynamic mechanical analysis demonstrated a significant rise in storage modulus (E') and loss modulus (E'') and decline in tan δ with broadening of the peak for maximum loading. Chemical resistance was poor for the highest loaded samples with respect to acids and bases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substance (PFAS) concentrations have been detected in agricultural soils in Southwest Germany. Discharges of PFAS-contaminated paper sludge and compost are suspected to be the cause of the contamination. Perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCAs) have been detected also in groundwater, drinking water, and plants in this area. Recently, previously unknown compounds have been identified by high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Major contaminants were polyfluorinated dialkylated phosphate esters (diPAPs) and N-ethyl perfluorooctane sulfonamide ethanol–based phosphate diester (diSAmPAP). In this study, HRMS screening for PFAS was applied to 14 soil samples from the contaminated area and 14 impregnated paper samples which were from a similar period than the contamination. The paper samples were characterized by diPAPs (from 4:2/6:2 to 12:2/12:2), fluorotelomer mercapto alkyl phosphates (FTMAPs; 6:2/6:2 to 10:2/10:2), and diSAmPAP. In soil samples, diPAPs and their transformation products (TPs) were the major contaminants, but also FTMAPs, diSAmPAP, and their TPs occurred. The distribution patterns of the carbon chain lengths of the precursor PFAS in soil samples were shown to resemble those in paper samples. This supports the hypothesis that paper sludge is a major source of contamination. The presence of major degradation products like PFCAs, FTSAs, or PFOS and their distribution of carbon chain lengths indicate the activity of biotic or abiotic degradation processes and selective leaching processes from the upper soil horizons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) make up a significant proportion of the global burden of disease in vulnerable groups and tend to substantially impair the quality of life of those affected, making timely detection of UTIs a priority for public health. However, economic and societal barriers drastically reduce accessibility of traditional lab-based testing methods for critical patient groups in low-resource areas, negatively affecting their overall healthcare outcomes. As a result, cellulose-based materials such as paper and thread have garnered significant interest among researchers as substrates for so-called frugal analytical devices which leverage the material's portability and adaptability for facile and reproducible diagnoses of UTIs. Although the field may be only in its infancy, strategies aimed at commercial penetration can appreciably increase access to more healthcare options for at-risk people. In this review, we catalogue recent advances in devices that use cellulose-based materials as the primary housing or medium for UTI detection and chart out trends in the field. We also explore different modalities employed for detection, with particular emphasis on their ability to be ported onto discreet casings such as sanitary products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cleaning of particles from smooth and rough paper surfaces using a high-speed CO2 snow jet was investigated. The measurements included characterization of the jet properties, determination of the cleaning efficiency, and evaluation of any possible adverse effects. The method was compared with nitrogen jet cleaning and dry cleaning by commercial materials. The results showed that the CO2 snow jet is able to effectively remove particles from the paper surface and did not cause any observable degradation. The CO2 snow jet cleaning compared with the mechanical dry cleaning showed similar effectiveness without any adverse effects on the paper surface. It was proved that the CO2 snow technique is a suitable method for cleaning common types of paper materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron gall Inks corrosion causes paper degradation (browning, embrittlement) and treatments were developed to tackle this issue. They often include resizing with gelatin to reinforce the paper and its cellulosic fibers (of diameter approx. 10 µm). This work aimed at measuring the distribution of ink components at the scale of individual paper fibers so as to give a better understanding of the impact of gelatin (re-)sizing on iron gall ink corrosion. For this purpose, scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) was used at the Canadian light source synchrotron (CLS, Saskatoon). This technique combines nano-scale mapping (resolution of 30 nm) and near edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) analysis. Fe L-edge measurements enabled to map iron distribution and to locate iron(II) and iron(III) rich areas. N K-edge measurement made it possible to map gelatin distribution. C K-edge measurements allowed mapping and discrimination of cellulose, gallic acid, iron gall ink precipitate and gelatin. Three fibers were studied: an inked fiber with no size, a sized fiber that was afterwards inked and an inked fiber sprayed with gelatin. Analysis of gelatin and ink ingredients distribution indicated a lower amount of iron inside the treated cellulosic fiber, which may explain the beneficial effect of gelatin on iron gall ink corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A paper-based membrane coated by graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is prepared via a dip-coating method and used as a separator for sodium metal batteries with merits of low cost and environment-friendliness. Introduction of g-C3N4 effectively improves the ionic conductivity and the structural stability of the separator. Compared with traditional polyethylene separators and Al2O3-coated separators, the g-C3N4-coated separators show better electrolyte wettability, thermal stability, and electrochemical stability. Therefore, Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 battery using the g-C3N4-coated separator exhibits better cycling stability and higher rate capability. These results prove that the g-C3N4-coated paper-based separator is expected to become the next generation of low-cost and high-safety separator in sodium metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hemp plant Cannabis sativa Linn, referring to industrial hemp, is a high-yielding annual industrial crop grown providing fibers from hemp stalk and oil from hemp seeds. Although hemp is a niche crop, hemp production is currently undergoing a renaissance. More than 30 countries grow hemp, with China being the largest hemp producing and exporting country. Europe and Canada are also important actors in the global hemp market. Traditionally, hemp as a fiber plant has been used for the production of apparels, fabrics, papers, cordages and building materials. The hurds, as waste by-product of fiber production, were used for bedding of animals, the seeds for human nutrition, e.g., as flour, and the oil for a wide range of purposes, from cooking to cosmetics. Hemp has also been an important crop throughout human history for medicine. Other more recent applications include materials for insulation and furniture, automotive composites for interior applications and motor vehicle parts, bioplastics, jewelry and fashion sectors, animal feed, animal bedding, and energy and fuel production. Foods containing hemp seed and oil are currently marketed worldwide for both animal and human nutrition. They also find applications in beverages and in neutraceutical products. Hemp oil is also used for cosmetics and personal care items, paints, printing inks, detergents and solvents. It is estimated that the global market for hemp consists of more than 25,000 products. Currently, the construction and insulation sector, paper and textile industries, and food and nutrition domains are the main markets while the cosmetics and automotive sector are growing markets. Innovative applications, e.g., in the medical and therapeutic domains, cosmeceuticals, phytoremediation, acoustic domain, wastewater treatment, biofuels, biopesticides and biotechnology, open new challenges. Hemp is also the object of numerous fundamental studies. This review presents and discusses the traditional and new uses of industrial hemp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops and motivates a unification theory of metaphysical explanation, or as I will call it, Metaphysical Unificationism. The theory's main inspiration is the unification account of scientific explanation, according to which explanatoriness is a holistic feature of theories that derive a large number of explananda from a meager set of explanantia, using a small number of argument patterns. In developing Metaphysical Unificationism, I will point out that it has a number of interesting (and to my mind, attractive) consequences. The view offers a novel conception of metaphysical explanation that doesn't rely on the notion of a "determinative" or "explanatory" relation; it allows us to draw a principled distinction between metaphysical and scientific explanations; it implies that naturalness and fundamentality are distinct but intimately related notions; and perhaps most importantly, it re-establishes the unduly neglected link between explanation and understanding in the metaphysical realm. A number of objections can be raised against the view, but I will argue that none of these is conclusive. The upshot is that Metaphysical Unificationism provides a powerful and hitherto overlooked alternative to extant theories of metaphysical explanation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we analyse actual causation in terms of production. The latter concept is made precise by a strengthened Ramsey Test semantics of conditionals: A ≫ C iff, after suspending judgement about A and C, C is believed in the course of assuming A. This test allows us to (epistemically) verify or falsify that an event brings about another event. Complementing the concept of production by a weak condition of difference-making gives rise to a full-fledged analysis of causation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A procedure for the rapid simultaneous determination of anthraquinone and bisphenol A in paper and cardboard is proposed based on a combination of extraction with subcritical methanol and subsequent analysis of the extracts by HPLC‒tandem mass spectrometry. The achieved limits of detection are 25 and 250 µg/kg for anthraquinone and bisphenol A, respectively, and fully meet present-day safety requirements for pulp and paper products. The total duration of the analysis, including sample preparation, is not more than 45 min. The sensitivity of anthraquinone determination is 1‒2 orders of magnitude higher than that of the known procedures, including those with the preconcentration of analytes. The results obtained were successfully used to study paper and cardboard samples, in most of which unacceptably high levels of the anthraquinone concentration were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-based packaging materials are generally assembled using adhesives formulated with oil-based polymers. These adhesives make the recyclability of the materials more complex and may be the source of material contamination by mineral oil. In view of developing an adhesive-free process, the potential of ultrasonic compression was investigated in this study. 100% lignocellulosic papers were assembled using an ultrasonic welder dedicated to thermoplastic polymers. For papers containing lignin, the measured peeling strengths were equivalent to those achieved by hot-melt gluing, provided that the water content of papers was well adjusted. At the interface between bonded papers, the fiber network was dense and rather continuous. SEM examinations, 3D X-ray microtomography images, and temperature measurements suggested that the development of adhesion originated to a large extent from a thermoplastic welding mechanism: wood fiber polymers passed their glass transition temperatures, creeped and formed a matrix that coated fibers. Thus, ultrasonic welding appears as an efficient adhesive-free technique for assembling papers that are used in a broad range of packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The porous, cellulosic fiber networks in commercial paper are generally regarded as continuum materials when the sheet is large compared to the size of fiber agglomerates (flocs). In this manuscript we reveal that even when the average macroscopic tensile response of copy paper specimens is well described by orthotropic anisotropy, the local deformation characteristics inside a specimen and among different specimens are not uniform as predicted by continuum theories. Using a non-contact, high resolution full-field strain measurements, we present specimen orientation specific strain maps and deformation fields. The characteristic length scales of strain hot spots are obtained using thresholding and lineal path correlation and are compared to the characteristic size of flocs. We quantify the spatial distribution and extent of nonaffine (non-continuum) deformations during tensile loading of a commercial paper, and show how they are critical features of deformation and tearing mechanisms in paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on industrial paper obtained from special purpose heat-resistant and fire-resistant fibers by the method of fiber swelling is presented. Results of a study of the effect of fiber cutting length on the mechanical properties the paper are presented. Corresponding dependencies are established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quantitative non-destructive express method of determining fillers —kaolin and chalk— in paper was created using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FT-IR) spectroscopy in the mid-IR and far-IR region (3800–245 cm−1) combined with partial least squares (PLS) data analysis. Altogether, 30 two-component (cellulose pulp + kaolin and cellulose pulp + chalk) reference paper samples with known different filler concentrations and one reference paper sample without any fillers were prepared for calibration and validation. The reference values of filler concentrations in the prepared papers were determined by gravimetric analysis via dry ashing (for establishing accurate concentrations of fillers in paper) and ATR-FT-IR microspectroscopy (for evaluating homogeneity of the papers). Two-component (cellulose pulp + kaolin or cellulose pulp + chalk) PLS models were created with papers of different cellulose types and containing different amounts of fillers. The best model had root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEP) for determining the kaolin or chalk content in the two-component papers of 2.0 and 2.1 g/100 g, respectively. The performance indices were 90.4% and 92.9%, respectively. As a demonstration of practical applicability of the method, different papers from books, journals, etc. were analysed. It was concluded that the developed quantitative method is suitable for non-destructive express analysis of kaolin or chalk in paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Risk Assessment Committee of the European Chemical Agency released a scientific opinion alerting that the risk associated with dermal occupational exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) via thermal paper might not be adequately controlled because the estimated exposure was around twice the Derived No Effect Level (DNEL) and the European Commission will effectively restrict BPA in thermal paper as soon as 2020. Bisphenol S (BPS) is currently being used as a BPA surrogate and is already widespread in thermal paper receipts. Based on publically available information in the scientific literature, we assessed the risk associated with dermal BPS exposure via thermal paper for the general and occupational populations to compare with BPA situation. We developed two exposure scenarios; one based on the total excreted BPS and another on exposure estimations by transferring BPS from the thermal paper matrix to skin. Both scenarios yielded similar exposures for the general population (0.016–0.013 µg/kg bw/day), but the exposure estimated for the workers in the second scenario (0.96 µg/kg bw/day) was around 17-fold higher than that estimated for the workers in the first scenario. The systemic DNELs for the general and workers populations were 0.45 and 0.91 µg BPS/kg bw/day, respectively, which were 4.6- and 19-fold higher than the respective dermal DNELs. Risk Characterisation Ratio (RCR) (estimated exposure through urinary excretion compared with the systemic DNEL) in the first and most reliable scenario suggested that the risk was adequately controlled. In the second scenario, however, the RCR suggests that the risk might not be adequately controlled for both the general population and workers. This work raises the necessity of generate more toxicodynamic and toxicokinetic information, specially using dermal exposures, to properly assess the risk associated to dermal BPS exposure because the situation might presumably get worse after 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an approach for answering fill-in-the-blank multiple choice questions from the Visual Madlibs dataset. Instead of generic and commonly used representations trained on the ImageNet classification task, our approach employs a combination of networks trained for specialized tasks such as scene recognition, person activity classification, and attribute prediction. We also present a method for localizing phrases from candidate answers in order to provide spatial support for feature extraction. We map each of these features, together with candidate answers, to a joint embedding space through normalized canonical correlation analysis (nCCA). Finally, we solve an optimization problem to learn to combine scores from nCCA models trained on multiple cues to select the best answer. Extensive experimental results show a significant improvement over the previous state of the art and confirm that answering questions from a wide range of types benefits from examining a variety of image cues and carefully choosing the spatial support for feature extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information is provided on the properties of technical-purpose papers based on heat-resistant superhigh modulus (SHM) para-aramid fibres containing heterocyclic rings. Various methods of producing such papers are reviewed. The properties of samples of the heat-resistant papers are listed. The results of study and comparison of chemical resistance of the obtained papers are adduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat and moisture treatments were shown to affect restoration of the capillary-porous structure of paper folders that was lost during drying. Thermodynamic functions of cellulose water of hydration were calculated for hydrothermal treatment over broad ranges of time and temperature. The effects of saturated vapor with high state parameters on paper strength were demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid method for analyzing lignin in paper using IR reflectance spectra from its surface was developed. IR absorption and reflectance spectra of model paper samples prepared from cellulose fibers obtained from deciduous and coniferous woods with various lignin contents were analyzed. The intensity of the lignin absorption band at 1510 cm after Kubelka-Munk transformation of the paper reflectance spectra and chemical data on the fiber lignin content were well correlated. The analytical relationship between the lignin content in the paper fibers and the intensity of the lignin absorption band was used to estimate the lignin concentration in samples of Russian stamping paper from the 19th century using their IR reflectance spectra. The cellulose structure parameter estimated from the paper reflectance spectra showed that sheets containing lignin (5-16%) consisted entirely of wood fibers and were supplemented with kaolin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a continuing demand for bio-sustainable and readily recyclable polymers for hot food packaging and hot beverage containers. An important candidate for these applications is poly(lactic acid), PLA, which possesses insufficient heat deflection temperature (HDT) performance, short of being fully crystallized. In order to address this issue, correlations were established for the observed enhancement in HDT with PLA resin after annealing with both thermal properties and the crystallinity of PLA (Ingeo™ 4032D) and extrusion melt blends thereof. The kinetic parameters of crystallization (reaction order, n and rate constant, k (s)) were obtained after fitting the Avrami equation. The reaction order for all of the systems had an n of approximately 3. Models derived from the Avrami equation with n ~ 3 are consistent with systems that undergo heterogeneous nucleation and subsequent spherulitic crystal growth. The addition of paper and talc did not change the model but did change the rate of crystallization. An increased quantity of cellulosic filler led to an increased rate of crystallization. The smaller particle sized fillers offered the greatest improvement in the rate of crystallization. However, the smaller-sized inorganic fillers did not appear to further improve HDT above that of the annealed blends of PLA/paper. The melting temperature for the PLA and all of the blends thereof formed containing paper from different sources of talc had identical melting temperatures ( T ). The variations in the HDTs of the composites were not found to be mirrored in the T . Annealing typically raised the crystallinity from approximately 10-15 to 30-40%. In situ determinations of enhanced moduli via annealing were performed using solid torsion bar dynamic mechanical spectroscopy, the results of which support the findings obtained via DSC. The annealed PLA/paper blends were found to be superior overall to the PLA/talc blends and are, importantly, sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Switching between metabolically active and dormant states provides bacteria with protection from environmental stresses and allows rapid growth under favorable conditions. This rapid growth can be detrimental to the environment, e.g., pathogens in recreational lakes, or to industrial processes, e.g., fermentation, making it useful to quickly determine when the ratio of dormant to metabolically active bacteria changes. While a rapid increase in metabolically active bacteria can cause complications, a high number of dormant bacteria can also be problematic, since they can be more virulent and antibiotic-resistant. To determine the metabolic state of Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium, we developed two paper-based colorimetric assays. The color changes were based on oxidoreductases reducing tetrazolium salts to formazans, and alkaline phosphatases cleaving phosphates from nitrophenyl phosphate salt. Specifically, we added iodophenyl-nitrophenyl-phenyl tetrazolium salt (INT) and methylphenazinium methyl sulfate to metabolically active bacteria on paper and INT and para-nitrophenyl phosphate salt to dormant bacteria on paper. The color changed in less than 60 min and was generally visible at 10 CFU and quantifiable at 10 CFU. The color changes occurred in both bacteria, since oxidoreductases and alkaline phosphatases are common bacterial enzymes. On one hand, this feature makes the assays suitable to a wide range of applications, on the other, it requires specific capture, if only one type of bacterium is of interest. We captured Salmonella or E. coli with immobilized P22 or T4 bacteriophages on the paper, before detecting them at levels of 10 or 10 CFU, respectively. Determining the ratio of the metabolic state of bacteria or a specific bacterium at low cost and in a short time, makes this methodology useful in environmental, industrial and health care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the bulk pore structure of bioactive paper impregnated with an enzyme, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), retained with a cationic polyacrylamide (CPAM) with synchrotron small-angle x-ray scattering and examine the translational dynamics of water in the porous material using H pulsed field gradient NMR. The aim of this study is to understand the perturbation of enzyme kinetics from the bulk behavior through the localization of the enzyme within the pore structure. We interpret the small-angle x-ray scattering data where the range of length scales examined in the scattering experiment corresponds to the packing of the unitary crystallites, or microfibrils, and aggregates of these cellulosic microfibrils. Pulsed field gradient NMR measurement of HO diffusion in the pores between these aggregates indicates that some of these pores are strongly connected allowing convective mass transport, while others exhibit strongly restricted diffusion. Diffusion is also strongly anisotropic. We conclude that the CPAM retention polymer and the protein coat interior surfaces inside the pores of a particular size and that there is no major modification of the pore structure of paper by the CPAM or the ALP. The transport properties of this porous matrix are discussed in terms of the mechanisms by which sorption of ALP may perturb enzyme kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to compare symbolic numerical magnitudes correlates with children's concurrent and future mathematics achievement. We developed and evaluated a quick timed paper-and-pencil measure that can easily be used, for example in large-scale research, in which children have to cross out the numerically larger of two Arabic one- and two-digit numbers (SYMP Test). We investigated performance on this test in 1,588 primary school children (Grades 1-6) and examined in each grade its associations with mathematics achievement. The SYMP Test had satisfactory test-retest reliability. The SYMP Test showed significant and stable correlations with mathematics achievement for both one-digit and two-digit comparison, across all grades. This replicates the previously observed association between symbolic numerical magnitude processing and mathematics achievement, but extends it by showing that the association is observed in all grades in primary education and occurs for single- as well as multi-digit processing. Children with mathematical learning difficulties performed significantly lower on one-digit comparison and two-digit comparison in all grades. This all suggests satisfactory construct and criterion-related validity of the SYMP Test, which can be used in research, when performing large-scale (intervention) studies, and by practitioners, as screening measure to identify children at risk for mathematical difficulties or dyscalculia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Properties of cellulose extracted from Valoniopsis pachynema, which is a commercially unexploited green seaweed found in Indian waters was evaluated for its microcrystalline properties and paper forming abilities. The crude cellulose obtained from the seaweed was found to have a high crystallinity (95%) equivalent to commercially available microcrystalline cellulose samples (e.g., HiCel™ with 91% crystallinity). When the seaweed cellulose pulp was processed to prepare paper, it was observed that the chemical and strength properties (particularly high tear) of the paper sheet are similar to the paper sheets prepared from non-wood pulps such as soft wood and bamboo, and the qualities were inferior to the ones prepared from wood pulps. Hence, this seaweed pulp can be utilized for making paper by partially blending with other pulps. Due to the presence of good quality cellulose, this seaweed can be exploited as a new source of cellulose having practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We don't know much about the smells of the past. Yet, odours play an important role in our daily lives: they affect us emotionally, psychologically and physically, and influence the way we engage with history. Can this lead us to consider certain smells as cultural heritage? And if so, what would be the processes for the identification, protection and conservation of those heritage smells? In order to answer these questions, the connection between olfaction and heritage was approached in three ways: (1) through theoretical analysis of the concept and role of olfaction in heritage guidelines, leading to identification of places and practices where smell is fundamental to their identity, (2) through exploration of the evidence for use of smells in heritage as a tool to communicate with audiences; and (3) through experimental evaluation of the techniques and methods for analysing and archiving the smells, therefore enabling their documentation and preservation. We present this through the framework of Significance Assessment-Chemical Analysis-Sensory Analysis-Archiving. The smell of historic paper was chosen as the case study, based on its well-recognized cultural significance and available research. Odour characterization was achieved by collecting visitor descriptions of a historic book extract through a survey, and by conducting a sensory evaluation at a historic library. These were combined with the chemical information on the VOCs sampled from both a historic book and a historic library, to create the Historic Book Odour Wheel, a novel documentation tool representing the first step towards documenting and archiving historic smells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terahertz imaging has the potential to identify and decipher portions of ancient manuscripts, which may be unreadable at infrared and visible wavelengths. We use a scanning confocal terahertz microscope to scan a medieval parchment with music notes and pentagrams written with different inks. The microscope is based on a continuous-wave solid-state source at 0.3 THz, emitting in the free space with a horn antenna, and a high numerical-aperture ellipsoidal reflector. We present terahertz images with diffraction-limited lateral resolution of approximately 0.5 mm, where the different inks all give similar high contrast. Symbols written on the 'verso' side of the parchment, barely glimpsed in the near-infrared photograph, leave a clear imprint in the terahertz images. Artifacts due to imperfect flatness of the parchment are also briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phenomenological kinetic equation is obtained for the change in color difference and brightness of banknote paper during aging. A solution is obtained for the kinetic equation. The coefficients of the kinetic function are determined from experimental data. Kinetic functions are constructed for three samples of the banknote paper. By analysis of the coefficients of the kinetic function it is possible to compare the paper according to its resistance towards the aging process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a cost-effective way to deposit the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on paper egg trays was developed, which proved suitable for prolonged storage of table eggs for house-hold use without deterioration of egg quality. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized based on chemical reduction approach and mixed with gelatin-chitosan mixer used as a colloidal stabilizer as well as fixing agent. AgNPs-doped paper egg trays were characterized by TEM, SEM, FTIR, EDX and XRD. AgNPs containing egg trays were tested for its bactericidal effect against commonly found bacteria on egg shells, E. coli, S. aureus, Streptococcus spp and Salmonella spp. Storing of eggs in the AgNPs-deposited paper egg trays improved the shelf-life of the eggs by more than 14 days compared to controls (eggs stored in conventional trays). In conclusion, the developed paper trays possessed strong antimicrobial activity and it could be an effective storage material for eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungi produce pigments and acids, generating particular local conditions which modify the physicochemical properties of materials. The aims of this work are (i) to investigate bioadhesion, foxing production and biofilm formation by Scopulariopsis sp. and Fusarium sp. isolated from document collections under laboratory conditions; (ii) to verify attack on cellulose fibres and (iii) to study the possibility of reducing fungal growth using natural products. Biofilm formation and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production by fungi were demonstrated in laboratory assays and by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations. The biocidal activity of two essential oils of Origanum vulgare L. and Thymus vulgaris L. was evaluated using the microatmosphere method. SEM observations showed that these strains were able to attach to paper and form biofilms, causing damage on them, which demonstrates the biodeterioration ability of these microorganisms. Scopulariopsis sp. and Fusarium sp. isolated from paper books showed the formation of fox-like reddish-brown colour spots, attack to the paper structure and pigment production on aged paper samples. The strains tested produced a decrease in the pH of one unit. This would substantiate the effect of the strains in paper biodeterioration. The microatmosphere method showed that volatile compounds of the essential oils have antifungal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this work we explore the chemical effects of particulate matter on paper. We exposed paper made of pure cellulose to the environment in different locations in central London, outdoors (in sheltered conditions) and indoors, for a period of up to 6 months. We monitored particulate matter (PM) deposition by counting the particles deposited every month with a scanning electron microscope. We analysed elemental composition of the deposited particles using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. After accelerated degradation of the exposed samples, we determined the degree of polymerisation using viscometry. Results: We observed higher deposition rates and higher metal concentration outdoors than indoors. Elemental analysis of the deposited particles revealed the presence of some transition metals (Fe, Cu, Cr) that can contribute to the degradation of cellulose fibres through the Fenton reaction. By comparing the degree of polymerisation of protected, unprotected and unexposed samples we could determine the relative contribution of PM deposition on the increase of the degradation rate. We found that the surface concentration of iron correlates with the reduction in the degree of polymerisation of the exposed paper. Conclusions: The results suggest that the presence of Fenton metals in PM has a significant effect on the acceleration of the degradation of cellulose. However, we estimate that this will unlikely occur at the levels of area coverage by PM that are typically avoided in indoor heritage through preventive maintenance and cleaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium methyl siliconate (PMS) was investigated as a simple physicochemical modification in aged paper using silane coupling technique. The PMS-based solution was shown to favor penetration in the cellulose fibers on the paper with suitable uptakes being achieved at low concentrations. The studies of the physicochemical properties of the treated paper (mechanical strength and alkalinity) demonstrated that, besides the required deacidification feature and high level of alkali reserves, the immersion treatment by PMS allowed the enhancement of the mechanical intensities of paper arising from the interaction between Si-OH generated in hydrolysis of PMS and C-OH of cellulose on the paper. Adding ethanol into PMS solution could significantly improve mechanical properties of the aged paper treated by the formula apart from modifying the flatness of the paper. Optimized treatment process was achieved by altering the ratio of ethanol to water in PMS-based solutions. Contact angle measurements indicated the occurrence of hydrophobic character of the papers in immersion treatment with PMS-based solutions. The easy availability of the materials and simplicity of the method rendered it convenient for treatment for aged paper documents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano-structured graphene oxide (GO) freestanding paper was synthesized by an arc recharge technique in flowing of oxygen for the first time. This technique offers new ways on how e.g. layers structure nanomaterials could be produced. The morphology and structural properties of the as-synthesized GO were examined by means of X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectra, scanning electrom microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and selective area electron diffraction techniques. The structural and morphological characterizations revealed that the synthesized GO were well-defined nanosheets with a thickness of 6 nm. The optical band gap was calculated from the absorption spectrum, and was found to be 3.32 eV. Furthermore, we aim to use GO paper to develop new electromagnetic interference shielding sheets that have a high shielding effectiveness (SE) (over 30 dB) at frequencies in the 1-12 GHz range. The complex permittivity and total shielding effectiveness of as synthesized GO freestanding paper are measured at frequencies from 1 to 12 GHz. Finally, to enhance the performances of the electromagnetic shields effectiveness, five-layered GO sheets were made. Furthermore, the highest SE for the light-weight freestanding GO paper was 50 dB at 1 GHz, indicating commercial use for many industrial or military shielding applications as an attractive candidate for the new type of microwave shielding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper approaches the problem of testimony from a new direction. Rather than focusing on the epistemic grounds for testimony, it considers the problem from the perspective of an individual who must choose whom to trust from a population of many would-be testifiers. A computer simulation is presented which illustrates that in many plausible situations, those who trust without attempting to judge the reliability of testifiers outperform those who attempt to seek out the more reliable members of the community. In so doing, it presents a novel defense for the credulist position that argues one should trust testimony without considering the underlying reliability of the testifier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solid-state powerful supercapacitor (SC) is fabricated with a substrate of Xerox paper. Its current collector based on a foldable electronic circuit is developed by simply pencil drawing. Thin graphite sheets on paper provide effective channels for electron transmission with a low resistance of 95 Ω sq. The conductive organic material of polypyrrole coated on thin graphite sheets acts as the electrode material of the device. The as-fabricated SC exhibits a high specific capacitance of 52.9 F cm at a scan rate of 1 mV s. An energy storage unit fabricated by three full-charged series SCs can drive a commercial light-emitting diode robustly. This work demonstrated a simple, versatile and cost-effective method for paper-based devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid and non-destructive method for analyzing the structure of cellulose fibers using IR reflectance spectroscopy from a paper surface was developed and verified for correctness. IR absorption and reflectance spectra of standard paper samples of known composition (sheets made of four fibers of different origin without additives and with additives of kaolin and chalk) were analyzed. Good correlations between these two spectral methods were found for the studied samples. Calibration curves were useful for assessing the structure of cellulose samples from XVIth century historical paper. Data on the degree of cellulose ordering that were obtained from the paper reflectance spectra indicated that the studied sheets consisted mainly of flax fibers with added cotton. This agreed fully with the historical fact that the studied samples were rag papers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To model advanced 3-D forming strategies for paper materials, the effects of environmental conditions on the mechanical behavior must be quantitatively and qualitatively understood. A tensile test method has been created, verified, and implemented to test paper at various moisture content and temperature levels. Testing results for one type of paper for moisture contents from 6.9 to 13.8 percent and temperatures from 23 to 168 degrees Celsius are presented and discussed. Coupled moisture and temperature effects have been discovered for maximum stress. Uncoupled effects have been discovered for elastic modulus, tangent modulus, hardening modulus, strain at break, tensile energy absorption (TEA), and approximate plastic strain. A hyperbolic tangent function is also utilized which captures the entire one-dimensional stress-strain response of paper. The effects of moisture and temperature on the three coefficients in the hyperbolic tangent function may be assumed to be uncoupled, which may simplify the development of moisture- and temperature-dependent constitutive models. All parameters were affected by both moisture and temperature with the exception of TEA, which was found to only be significantly dependent on temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an analytical support, paper, being low cost, highly abundant, of high porosity, disposable or biodegradable, and easy to use, store, transport, and print, has excellent chemical compatibility with many applications. Since the first microfluidic paper-based analytical device (μ-PAD or lab-on-paper) was proposed, the paper-based assay has never attracted as much attention as it does now. There has recently been rapidly increasing interest in using sensitive luminescence methods, for example chemiluminescence (CL) and electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL), as the detection strategy for lab-on-paper devices. Because of their intrinsic characteristics, CL and ECL provide outstanding performance while retaining the simplicity, low cost, multifunctionality, versatility, flexibility, and disposability of μ-PADs. The objective of this review is to cover the development of lab-on-paper-based devices using CL and ECL detection, including fabrication of paper devices, construction of sensing interfaces, signal amplification strategies, external instruments used, and applications. We believe that lab-on-paper devices with CL and ECL detection methods will meet the diverse requirements of point-of-care diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the filling process of cellulose-based paper with natural clay nanotubes and their mixtures with hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) that is commonly used as glue and consolidant for degraded paper. A comprehensive characterization of the materials was carried out through morphology, wettability, thermal degradation, and tensile properties. The treatment with halloysite nanotubes generated a decrease of the paper mechanical performance and did not alter the thermal properties. The co-presence of HPC and nanoparticles generated a more uniform nanotubes distribution in the paper fibrous structure and a significant enhancement of both the mechanical properties and the surface hydrophobicity with respect to the HPC treatment. This work proposes the use of halloysite/HPC mixture in a new protocol for paper consolidation and represents a starting point to develop, with a biocompatible approach, smart composite material in which the nanotube cavity is filled with active species for paper protection or active response to external stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For any C-cofinite vertex operator superalgebra V, the tensor product and the P( z)-tensor product of any two admissible V -modules of finite length are proved to exist, which are shown to be isomorphic, and their constructions are given explicitly in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a comparison of the mechanical and barrier properties of papers coated with microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) by two different coating processes: (i) bar coating and (ii) size press. Due to the high water content of MFC, water-treated papers were taken as references to highlight the effects of MFC on the properties of papers. Structural, mechanical and barrier properties of the ensued materials were performed respectively with SEM, tensile and stiffness testers, and air and oxygen permeability equipments. The properties of the water-treated papers were considerably damaged compared to those of the base paper that underlined the negative impact of both coating processes on the papers structure. With MFC, the air barrier and the bending stiffness were considerably improved (+90 and +50 % respectively), especially when the bar coating was used, i.e. with 7 g m of MFC. Size press was indeed not able to considerably improve papers properties as the MFC coat weight barely reached 4 g m resulting from ten successive MFC layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floridi's chapter on relevant information bridges the analysis of 'being informed' with the analysis of knowledge as 'relevant information that is accounted for' by analysing subjective or epistemic relevance in terms of the questions that an agent might ask in certain circumstances. In this paper, I scrutinise this analysis, identify a number of problems with it, and finally propose an improvement. By way of epilogue, I offer some more general remarks on the relation between (bounded) rationality, the need to ask the right questions, and the ability to ask the right questions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Citation counting can be used to evaluate the impact an article has made on its discipline. This study characterizes the most cited articles related to clinical pediatric neurosurgery as of July 2013. Methods: A list of search terms was computed using Thomson Reuters Web of Science® (WOS) to capture the 100 most cited articles in the overall literature and the top 50 articles from 2002 to 2012 related to clinical pediatric neurosurgery from non-dedicated pediatric neurosurgical journals. The following information was recorded for each article: number of authors, country of origin, citation count adjusted for number of years in print, topic, and level of evidence. Results: The 100 most cited articles appeared in 44 journals. Publication dates ranged from 1986 to 2008; two were class 1 evidence, nine class 2, 26 class 3, and 52 class 4. Citations ranged from 90 to 321 (mean = 131); average time-adjusted citation count was 10. The 50 most cited articles from 2002 to 2012 appeared in 31 journals; four were class 2 evidence, 15 class 3, and 21 class 4. Citations ranged from 68 to 245 (mean = 103); average time-adjusted citation count was 13. Conclusion: Overall, papers from non-pediatric neurosurgical journals had higher citation counts and improved level of evidence grades compared to articles from pediatric neurosurgical periodicals. An original paper related to clinical pediatric neurosurgery in a non-pediatric neurosurgical journal having a total citation count of 100–150 or more and an average citation count of 10–15 per year or more can be considered a high-impact publication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]