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Research utilizing the sub-micron three-dimensional spatial resolution of nuclear emulsion detectors has been expanding in various fields, triggered by the development of automated emulsion scanning technology. This paper describes a new production system capable of supplying several thousand square meters of nuclear emulsion film per year. The development and introduction of improved emulsion gel, knife coating, and drying equipment have enabled the mass production of double-side coated nuclear emulsion films with thick emulsion layers suitable for full-area scanning and analysis. This system has played an essential role in numerous nuclear emulsion experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexographic printing has received tremendous attention in the printing field due to the advantages of short preparation processes and high printing efficiency. Its printing quality heavily depends on the preparation of the printing plate. However, plate clarity and plate softness are contradictory. This paper reports the development of a clear and soft self-plasticizing modified polyvinyl alcohol (m-PVA) coating that can be UV-cured at room temperature. Glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) was used to prepare unsaturated m-PVA (m-PVA-GMA) in an aqueous system. Meanwhile, the effects of acidic and alkaline environments on the grafted products have been further investigated, suggesting that they differ from those obtained via the dimethyl sulfoxide system. The structural comparison has demonstrated that the reactivity of GMA and m-PVA is higher in alkaline aqueous than in acidic conditions. When the unsaturation degree increases, the crystallization of PVA chain segments will be effectively destroyed. The photographic film, which can be directly photo-crosslinked, was prepared by m-PVA-GMA and washed away the uncrosslinked portion with water. The glass transition temperature (31.4 °C) of the photographic m-PVA-GMA film prepared under alkaline conditions is close to room temperature, and the crosslink density is as high as 3.01 × 103 mol m−3. More importantly, the elongation at break after water washing and the elastic recovery are 110.8 ± 5.3 % and 99 %, respectively. In addition, irradiating selected areas and then removing the non-irradiated portions with water could produce patterns. The m-PVA-GMA film prepared under alkaline conditions has outstanding development accuracy, much higher than the commercially available product nyloprint®. This direct UV-curable film with water-soluble and water-developable properties enables it to be a promising candidate in the fine flexographic printing industry, such as photoresists, electronic devices, and sensors. • Glycidyl methacrylate was grafted onto self-plasticized polyvinyl alcohol molecular chain. • After washing, the elastic recovery rate of the photosensitive film can be up to 99 %. • The modified UV curing film has clearer images than the commercial product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Monitoring the food safety by using the intelligent packages in markets can improve the public health. • A colorimetric sensor array was developed using pH indicators immobilized on triacetyl cellulose (TAC) membrane to monitor the chicken meat freshness in referigrator. • Color change due to chicken meat spoilage was sharp and could be read even by untrained people. A new transparent colorimetric sensor array is presented for naked eye monitoring of the chicken meat freshness. This sensor array consists of four sensors fabricated by using pH indicators, immobilized on triacetyl cellulose (TAC) membrane. The sensor array represented obvious color change when it was exposed to the volatile organic compounds emitted from the chicken meat after 20 h keeping at room temperature or after four days of storage in the refrigerator. Therefore, it could easily identify spoiled meat from the fresh one assisted by chemometrics data analysis. Also, the color change of sensors due to the spoilage was sharp enough that could be read even by untrained people, providing naked eye monitoring the chicken meat freshness. The TAC polymer represented high physical stability for industrial scale-up. In addition, the immobilized indicators represented good stability against color change in humid condition. This offered the potential for continuous monitoring of the meat spoilage as smart labeling in the markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The article describes a principle, design and test results of a device for simultaneous capture of electron beam current ejected through an anode and optical image of a cathode surface. The device was tested on "ASTRA-M" pulsed electron accelerator (TPU, Russia) with the following parameters: 300 kV, 0.6 kA and beam current duration of 150 ns (FWHM). Light emission points have been registered for several individual emitters of the tested cathode. CMOS optical sensor of the device provides PC compatibility and detection of disturbances in the cathode or vacuum diode operation for single pulses and in burst mode. The efficiency of electron beam current ejection can be also estimated during vacuum diode adjustment. Detailed cathode images captured by photographic film include both frontal and angle (circular) projections of the cathode surface and can be used to study processes in the accelerating gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel optical chemical sensor was constructed for measurement the concentration of Hg 2+ ion in solutions by covalent immobilization of thiazole yellow dye on a triacetyl cellulose film via epichlorohydrin as a linker. The chemical interaction between the Hg 2+ ion and immobilized thiazole yellow molecules was studied by UV–vis spectrophotometry at 420 nm. The effect of influencing parameters on immobilization of the dye molecules on the surface of the film and also for improving the sensitivity of the constructed optode was studied. The optode showed a dynamic range from 1 × 10 −7 to 3.2 × 10 −5 M with respect to concentration of Hg 2+ ion at pH 9 and its limit of detection was found to be: 1 × 10 −8 M. The fabricated optical chemical sensor has good analytical performance such as good selectivity and sensitivity, adequate short term and long term stability and a good reproducibility and repeatability. The response of the fabricated sensor to Hg 2+ ion is completely reversible and it can be regenerated easily at pH 5 buffer solution in about 2 min. Its response time is 12 min. The constructed optode was successfully applied for determination of Hg 2+ ion in real samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur cycling is ubiquitous in sedimentary environments, where it plays a major role in mediating carbon remineralization and impacts both local and global redox budgets. Microbial sulfur cycling is dominated by metabolic activity that either produces (e.g., sulfate reduction, disproportionation) or consumes (sulfide oxidation) hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S). As such, improved constraints on the production, distribution, and consumption of H 2 S in the natural environment will increase our understanding of microbial sulfur cycling. These different microbial sulfur metabolisms are additionally associated with particular stable isotopic fractionations. Coupling measurements of the isotopic composition of the sulfide with its distribution can provide additional information about environmental conditions and microbial ecology. Here we investigate the kinetics of sulfide capture on photographic films as a way to document the spatial distribution of sulfide in complex natural environments as well as for in situ capture of H 2 S for subsequent stable isotopic analysis. Laboratory experiments and timed field deployments demonstrate the ability to infer ambient sulfide abundances from the yield of sulfide on the films. This captured sulfide preserves the isotopic composition of the ambient sulfide, offset to slightly lower δ 34 S values by ~ 1.2 ± 0.5‰ associated with the diffusion of sulfide into the film and subsequent reaction with silver to form Ag 2 S precipitates. The resulting data enable the exploration of cm-scale lateral heterogeneity that complement most geochemical profiles using traditional techniques in natural environments. Because these films can easily be deployed over a large spatial area, they are also ideal for real-time assessment of the spatial and temporal dynamics of a site during initial reconnaissance and for integration over long timescales to capture ephemeral processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insight is provided in this study for the effect of the TiO 2 film densification/compactness on polyethylene (PE-TiO 2 ) by sputtering TiO 2 at two very different energy levels. Uniform, adhesive low energy films were prepared by direct current magnetron sputtering (DCMS) and compared with films sputtered at high energy levels by high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HIPIMS). Nano-particulate TiO 2 films sputtered by HPIMS presented sizes of ∼10.2 nm compared to films sputtered by DCMS with TiO 2 sizes of ∼16.5 nm as determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The E. coli inactivation kinetics was three times faster for the samples sputtered by HIPIMS compared to their DCMS counterparts. This is an unexpected finding since the DCMS presenting larger TiO 2 sized nanoparticles released a higher amount of Ti-ions compared to the HIPIMS samples as monitored by inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry (ICP-MS). The Ti-ions released do not seem to react through an oligodynamic effect but diffuse through the less compact TiO 2 sputtered by DCMS. The faster bacterial inactivation kinetics observed by the HIPIMS sputtered samples can be understood in terms of the complete of Ti 4+ /Ti 3+ redox conversion during bacterial inactivation detected by X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) compared to the smaller Ti 4+ /Ti 3+ effect observed in the DCMS-samples. A higher optical density was detected for the HIPIMS sputtered samples by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). Evidence is presented for the shift in surface potential and local pH during bacterial inactivation under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. A reaction mechanism is suggested based on the findings described in this study. The sputtered films present the potential to hinder biofilm formation on flexible thin polymers/textiles widely used in hospitals and health facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustained release drug delivery systems remain a major clinical need for small molecule therapeutics in oncology. Here, mechanisms of small molecule interactions with silk protein films were studied with cationic oncology drugs, vincristine and doxorubicin, with a focus on hydrophobicity (non-ionic surfactant) and charge (pH and ionic strength). Interactions were primarily driven by charge interactions between the positively charged drugs and the negatively charged groups within the silk films. Exploiting chemical modifications of silk further modulated the drug interactions in a controlled fashion. Increasing anionic side groups via carboxylate- and sulfonate-modifications of tyrosine side chains in the silk protein using diazonium coupling chemistry, increased drug binding and altered drug release. The effects of silk film protein crystallinity, beta sheet content, on drug binding and release were also explored. Lower crystallinity supported more rapid drug binding when compared to higher crystalline silk films. The drug release kinetics were governed by the protonation state of vincristine and doxorubicin and were tunable based on silk crystallinity and chemistry. These studies depict an approach to characterize small molecule–silk protein interactions and methods to tune drug binding and release kinetics from this protein delivery matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic chitosan microparticles (MC) are successfully functionalized by grafting two pyrimidine derivatives (bearing either trione or trithione groups for MC-PYO and MC-PYS, respectively). The sorbents are characterized using SEM, TEM, BET, TGA, FTIR, titration, and elemental analysis. The study focuses on the comparison of the differential effects of functionalized groups on the sorption of silver. FTIR analysis shows the contributions of N-based, carbonyl, hydroxyl for silver binding onto MC-PYO, completed by sulfur contribution in the case of MC-PYS. Maximum sorption capacities at pH 6 reach 1.9 and 2.3 mmol Ag g−1 for MC-PYO and MC-PYS, respectively. The Langmuir and the Sips equations fit sorption isotherms. The reactive groups affect the thermodynamic characteristics: endothermic for MC-PYS against exothermic for MC-PYO. The affinity of S-based soft ligand in MC-PYS for soft metals makes the sorbent selective for Ag(I). On the opposite hand, for MC-PYO the O-based functional groups readily bind hard metals (HSAB principle), meaning less selective for silver recovery (from multi-component solutions). QSAR method (quantitative structure-activity relationships) allows correlating preferentially sorption properties with the covalent index. Nitric acid solutions (0.3 M) are highly efficient for total desorption of silver from metal-loaded sorbents, but soft enough to maintain remarkable sorption and desorption performances for at least five cycles. The sorbents are successfully applied to Ag(I) recovery from acidic leachate of waste photographic films: metal removal is enhanced at pH 5.2; MC-PYS is more efficient and selective than MC-PYO at pH 2.2. [Display omitted] • Sulfur-based functionalization of magnetic chitosan particles improves Ag sorption. • Sorption capacity at pH 6 reaches 2.3 mmol Ag g−1 (equilibrium within 60 min). • Complete metal desorption with 0.3 M HNO 3 and stable performance for 5 reuses. • S-based derivative more Ag selective than O-based against competitor metal cations. • Ag sorption is endothermic with S-based sorbent contrary to O-based sorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Silver bromide is widely used in photographic film which is prepared by the emulsion method using gelatin, and it is also known that the gelation assists the formation of AgBr with various shapes and sizes. In order to investigate the photocatalytic activity as one of the applications of AgBr, the preparation of shape-controlled AgBr was carried out. It is found that the emulsion method controlled by varying the concentration of gelatin and Br/Ag molar ratios was effective to improve AgBr photocatalytic activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] EA/POSS hybrid films were prepared via thiol-ene photopolymerization. [•] An double effect of OMP-POSS on the thermal stability of hybrid films. [•] Reduction of the flammability of EA/POSS nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The development of new medical devices possess a number of challenges, including designing, constructing, and assaying prototypes. In the case of new brachytherapy seeds, this is also true. In this paper, a methodology for rapid dosimetric characterization of 125I brachytherapy seeds during the early stages of their development is introduced. The characterization methodology is based on the joint use of radiochromic and personal monitoring photographic films in order to determine the planar anisotropy due to the radiation field produced by the seed under development, by means of isodose curves. To evaluate and validate the process, isodose curves were obtained with both types of films after irradiation with a commercial 125I brachytherapy seed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper we describe an approach to measure small glossy objects by illuminated film based on Phase Measuring Deflectometry (PMD) system. In this setup, the standard sinusoidal fringe patterns are produced by the photographic film frame (135-film), which is illuminated from behind using LED and diffuser, instead of the well-known LCD monitor plane or digital projector. This setup can avoid the influence of electronic noise and screen refreshing, and fulfill the test of small objects in low cost. Moreover the system is easily calibrated with its vertical setup. With the experiments of measuring a plastic contactless smartcard and a metal plate, it is proven that the setup can reach sub-micrometer accuracy with respect to the data of the Wyko white light interferometer. This setup will be promising in the small scale measurement field. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Thin liquid sheets occur in several practical applications. In curtain coating, a thin liquid sheet is formed and falls freely over a considerable height before it impinges onto a moving substrate. Precision curtain coating was developed for multi layer photographic films but its use has expanded to many different applications. One of the important limits of this process is the stability of the liquid curtain, which may define the minimal thickness that can be coated at a given web speed. The condition at which a low viscosity Newtonian liquid curtain breaks was first derived based on a simple balance between inertial and capillary forces. There is a critical flow rate below which the curtain becomes unstable. For viscoelastic liquids, the normal stress related to the stretching of polymer molecules as the liquid accelerates down the curtain changes the force balance. Here, the critical condition at which a viscoelastic liquid curtain breaks was determined as a function of the rheological properties of the liquid. The results show that high extensional viscosity liquids create more stable curtains. Liquid additives could be used to push the limits of curtain flow rates to smaller values and consequently to widen the operability window of the process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two central avenues for audience involvement in entertainment are identification and transportation. This study conceptually and empirically differentiated between these processes by manipulating information about the hero of a film and about the plot in order to affect the ways viewers respond to the film and character. The valence of information about the hero affected the level of identification (but not the level of transportation), and the time of deeds affected the level of transportation (but not the level of identification). These results provide evidence that identification and transportation are distinct processes and an analysis of how each of them relates to enjoyment supports this conclusion. Results are discussed in terms of their theoretical and methodological contribution to the study of audience involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The paradox of sad-film enjoyment deals with the question of why people are able to feel entertained when watching a sad film that ends unhappily. Previous studies explored the fact that viewers, especially women and those with high empathy readiness, enjoy such films by appraising their sadness positively. This article integrates those meta-appraisals (by developing a state version of Oliver''s Sad-Film Scale) with multiple appraisal processes on different situational references (media content reference, production reference, ego reference) that enable an explanation of the paradox of sad-film enjoyment. Against this background, a between-subject experiment involving 125 students was conducted to test the constitution of sadness and enjoyment in three versions of a sad-ending film. The results indicate significant differences between the three versions with respect to sadness, situational references, meta-appraisals, and enjoyment as meta-emotion. A film version that temporarily enables a “cognitive-switch” from the protagonist''s perspective to the viewer''s perspective is more successful in transforming sadness into enjoyment than are film versions that evoke only the protagonist''s perspective. This study delivers deeper insights in processes of transforming “negative” emotions to “positive” emotions during film exposure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cellulose acetate is a very good film-forming polymer with major applications in cigarette filters, photographic films, cosmetics and pharmaceutics formulations and membrane separation processes. Nevertheless, its rigidity and relative hydrophobic character can be limiting drawbacks for some applications. In this work, new cellulose acetate materials with highly flexible and hydrophilic grafts were obtained with different hydrophilic/hydrophobic balances. Cellulose acetate was grafted with methyl diethylene glycol methacrylate (MDEGMA) from brominated macroinitiators by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) in two steps. The first step consisted of introducing ATRP initiator groups on cellulose acetate by reacting hydroxyl side groups with 2-bromoisobutyryl bromide. A preliminary study was then carried out to determine the experimental conditions for the controlled ATRP of MDEGMA homopolymerization in a solvent (cyclopentanone) compatible with cellulose acetate grafting. In these conditions, the MDEGMA homopolymerization followed Hanns Fischer’s kinetics model accounting for the radical persistent effect. The ATRP grafting was then investigated for two cellulose acetate macroinitiators differing in the number of their ATRP initiator groups. Two families of graft copolymers with nano-structured architectures were obtained. The first family corresponded to copolymers with a high number of short grafts. The copolymers of the second family had almost the same graft weight fractions but a small number of long grafts. The morphology of the graft copolymers was then investigated by synchrotron X-ray scattering. The most informative results showed that the phase segregation depended upon the number and length of the poly(MDEGMA) grafts. The copolymer with 44 wt.% of long grafts showed a segregated morphology of nano-domains with sharp interfaces and a radius of gyration of 11.5nm (from Guinier’s law). These cellulose acetate copolymers eventually led to strong films with potential applications in membrane separations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In many X-ray clinics, the traditional photographic film has been replaced by an imaging plate (IP). The IP is re-usable and the purpose of this study was to test if image deterioration occurred after successive uses of the IP. The emphasis is placed on the efficiency of image formation and on image uniformity. In a cross-sectional study, 21 clinically used IPs were exposed with a standardized phantom imaging protocol. These IPs were in clinical use between one month and two years and the IPs were exposed between 191 and 3787 times. After digitizing, the mean pixel value (MPV) in a predefined image area was determined. The relation between MPV and IP uses was assessed. In a second experiment, image uniformity of 30 other clinically used IPs was visually inspected for artifacts on a diagnostic monitor. These IPs were in clinical use between one week and two years and exposed between 76 and 5373 times. The first experiment showed that no significant deterioration of the MPV with increasing usage count of the IP was present (p =0.15). The second experiment showed the appearance of clinically relevant artifacts on the IP before 3000 uses. It was concluded that the efficiency of the image formation process does not significantly deteriorate after successive use of IPs and is therefore not expected to limit their life span. Mechanical handling in the digitizer of the used system seems to set a limit to IP durability. Uniformity should therefore be checked regularly in clinical quality control. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Lead (Pb) contamination in the black paper that recovers intraoral films (BKP) has been investigated. BKP samples were collected from the Radiology Clinics of the Dental School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil. For sake of comparison, four different methods were used. The results revealed the presence of high lead levels, well above the maximum limit allowed by the legislation. Pb contamination levels achieved after the following treatments: paper digestion in nitric acid, microwave treatment, DIN38414-54 method and TCLP method were 997μgg−1, 189μgg−1, 20.8μgg−1, and 54.0μgg−1, respectively. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) were employed for lead determination according to the protocols of the applied methods. Lead contamination in used BKP was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (SEM-EDS). All the SEM imaging was carried out in the secondary electron mode (SE) and backscattered-electron mode (QBSD) following punctual X-ray fluorescence spectra. Soil contamination derived from this product revealed the urgent need of addressing this problem. These elevated Pb levels, show that a preliminary treatment of BKP is mandatory before it is disposed into the common trash. The high lead content of this material makes its direct dumping into the environment unwise. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A screening method for parallel Am3+ ligand libraries is presented. The method makes use of α-radiation in combination with a photographic film to detect the complexed Am3+. After screening and development of the film spots of varying intensities are obtained. The intensities of the spots correspond with the amount of complexed Am3+. This allows a fast discrimination between the Am3+ complexation efficiencies of ligands from large libraries. Depending on the exposure time of the film, activities as small as 5Bq 241Am can be detected. Using internal standards a semi-quantitative assessment can be performed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Gelatinous solidified layers of the photographic film were used for the immobilization of analytical reagents for detection and determination of reductants and primary aromatic amines. It was shown, that the films with immobilized iron(III)-Dipy or iron(III)-Phen complexes as test films for reductants and films with immobilized aldehydes (vanillin, p-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde) as the test films for primary aromatic amines can be used. The improving of reagents immobilization in the presence of sodium dodecylsulfate micelles was obtained. Metrological characteristics of visual detection and photometric determination using test films were evaluated on the basis of statistical approach and investigation of detection probability distribution in the concentration range of unreliable reaction. The suggested test films for the determination of ascorbic acid, analgin (dipyrone), novocaine and streptocide in drugs were examined successfully. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A microbeam array was formed with a multi-slit collimator (MSC) for research on radiation therapy (MRT). Kodak EDR2 film was used to measure the dose distribution of the microbeam array. The calibration curve of optical density of the film with respect to a dose was established using a standard Farmer chamber and 60Co gamma-ray source. The peak dose of 3.6Gy/s at the maximum was derived from the film dosimetry using the calibration curve. The uncertainty was estimated to be 5% which was mainly attributed to the uncertainty of the calibration. It was found that the ionization chamber used for monitoring the dose during the MRT experiments gave lower dose by about 30% than the dose derived from the film dosimetry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: As an image recording medium for transmission positron microscopes, imaging plates are quite useful and powerful. Imaging plates are also quite sensitive and the photon-stimulated luminescence (PSL) is linearly proportional to the positron intensity in six digits (106). No bulky or expensive equipment is necessary to accommodate in vacuum. Imaging plates can be set under bright lights, this is different from the photographic films. Darkness is only required during exposure and transfer to a reader. Slow Positron Facility at KEK, Japan was used to study the effect of “mono-chromatic” positron beam. Specimens were set just in front of an imaging plate. After a certain time of exposure, the imaging plates were processed by a reader. Used imaging plates can be used repeatedly after erased by ultra-violet lights. Images through samples can be obtained. Similar experiments using non-monochromatic (white) positrons and electrons have been performed at Teikyo University of Science and Technology (TUST) and Research Reactor Institute, Kyoto Univ. (RRI). Sealed 22Na positron source can be conveniently used for non-destructive tests. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate the use of Raman spectroscopy for the quantitative and qualitative analysis of an active ingredient in hot-melt extruded film formulations. Clotrimazole and ketoprofen were used as the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in the subject formulations. Films were prepared with contents varying from 1 to 20% of the respective API. Raman spectroscopy was used to quantify these APIs, both off-line and on-line. The spectral data were also used to ascertain the physical status of these APIs in the formulations. For off-line analysis, the films were cut into small rectangles, and the amount of the API was measured using a fiber optic probe equipped with a non-contact optic (NCO). For on-line analysis, real-time measurements were accomplished by fixing the probe over the extruded film for continuous data collection. Raman spectroscopy can be a convenient alternative to HPLC and other techniques currently employed for the quantification of the API in these formulations. Because Raman is also sensitive to changes in crystallinity, employment of the technique provided additional information to deduce the crystalline status of the API. The results reported in this paper suggest the suitability of Raman for PAT applications because of the on-line capability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ultrafine Pt nanoparticles were facilely prepared in zirconia nanofilms, and possessed unexpected high thermal stability due to spatial confinement, morphological change, and lattice matching in addition to the strong bonding interaction between the surface atoms of the nanoparticle and the surrounding oxygen atoms of the ZrO2 matrix. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Oxygen-containing glow discharges have been proposed for the removal of redeposited hydrocarbon films in fusion experiments. After the 2004/2005 experimental campaign a 49h He/O2 glow discharge experiment was performed in ASDEX Upgrade. A total of 25g of carbon was removed as CO and CO2. In order to probe erosion in various locations in the vessel 48 well defined laboratory-deposited a-C:H film samples were distributed poloidally and toroidally. In principle, the films were successfully removed on all types of surfaces directly facing the discharge. Additionally, two sets of tungsten-coated tiles were removed from the vessel, one prior to and one after the cleaning discharge. Analysis of films on the tiles revealed that they consisted mainly of boron with only little carbon and deuterium. Neither erosion of these films nor any further reduction of their carbon and deuterium content due to the glow discharge could be detected. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Quantitative measurement of the activity of photoactive films is an area of importance. The establishment of tests for standardisation of performance is important for efficient research but also a major milestone in achieving technology acceptance. In this paper, we compare three different techniques across a range of film samples from various sources. Furthermore, we demonstrate the potential of the dye-based approach as a quick and simple test. A series of photoactive film samples are compared for measured activity against each test. The test is shown to be capable of reproducible and quantitative activity results. The test has potential for use “in the field” for verification of in-use product activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Five different polypropylene resins were selected to develop microporous membranes through melt extrusion and stretching (cast film process). The effect of the polymer melt elongation properties on the row-nucleated lamellar crystallization was investigated. The arrangement and orientation of the crystalline and amorphous phases were examined by WAXD (wide angle X-ray diffraction) and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) methods. The extrusion and cooling parameters were adjusted properly to obtain uniform precursor films with appropriate morphology. Annealing, cold and hot stretching were consequently employed to generate and enlarge the pores. It was found that molecular weight was the most important material factor that controlled the membrane structure. The role of annealing and stretching parameters was also investigated. The permeability to water vapor (under atmospheric condition) and nitrogen (under pressure) was measured. It was observed that the permeability increased with increasing pressure and went through a transition from Knudsen diffusion to Poiseuille flow. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: CdSe is homogeneously deposited into nanoporous TiO2 films and used in liquid junction photoelectrochemical solar cells. The effect of the deposition parameters on the cell are studied, in particular differences between ion-by-ion and cluster deposition mechanisms. CdSe deposition on a Cd-rich CdS film that was deposited first into the TiO2 film, or selenization of the Cd-rich CdS layer with selenosulphate solution improves the cell parameters. Photocurrent spectral response measurements indicate photocurrent losses due to poor collection efficiencies, as shown by the strong spectral dependence on illumination intensity. Cell efficiencies up to 2.8% under solar conditions have been obtained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The optical Freedericksz transition in a homeotropic nematic liquid crystal cell is modeled using a solver which combines direct solution of Maxwell’s equations with a relaxation algorithm for the liquid crystal director. We find that even in the equal elastic constant case the continuous optical Freedericksz transition can be driven first order. For films in which the optical retardation of the extraordinary wave is sufficiently large, a whole set of discontinuous jumps in transmission coefficient can occur. These jumps correspond to the existence of optical resonances in the liquid crystal film. Our results agree in the short wavelength limit with paraxial approximation calculations, and provide a strong test of the FDTD method for anisotropic materials such as liquid crystals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mott-Schottky analyses and photoelectrochemical measurements were used to explore the effects of film formation potentials, time, and chloride ions on the electronic properties of the passive film on X70 pipeline steel in 0.5 M NaHCO3. Mott-Schottky analyses showed that with increasing film formation potentials, the capacitance and donor density of the passive film decrease, and the flat band potential and thickness of the space charge layer increases. The addition of chloride ions increases the capacitance and donor density of the film and results in a more negative flat band potential and a thinner space charge layer. Photoelectrochemical measurements imply that photo-generated carriers with a low mobility exist in the passive film and the photocurrents of the film increase when the film formation potential becomes more positive. The bandgap energy, Eg, of the passive film decreases with increasing film formation potentials. The extension of film formation time increases the photocurrents and leads to a decrease in the bandgap energy of the passive film. The effect of film formation time on the photocurrents of the film formed at 0.6 VSCE was less remarkable than that formed at 0.2 VSCE. The existence of chloride ions in 0.5 M NaHCO3 decreases the photocurrents and increases the bandgap energy of the passive film. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present article includes the theoretical interpretation, description and verification of the suggested method for measurement of granularity of colour photographic films. The corresponding designed and realized device is based on the uniform low-speed rotation of the suitable enlarged light-permeable photographic copy of measured structural granularity and on the microphotometric scanning of its optical image. The obtained electrical analog signal is amplified and converted to the digital form and then electrically processed by a special electronical system. It is a modern digital rotational microphotometrical granulometer of the module conception with optical separation of control signals and with originally designed rotating mechanical sample stage and electronical processing system which is useful for the laboratory practice. Its resulting outputs consist of random optical transmittance or optical density data of a sample under measurement, their mean value and dispersion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When conducting experiments on the electric explosion of titanium foil in water, a "strange" radiation was detected, leaving dotted traces on the film. The velocity of the carriers of this radiation was estimated as 20–40 m/s, and their energy, estimated by the Coulomb drag mechanism, turned out to be equal to 700 MeV. Subsequently, it was found that similar traces are formed at various types of high-current arc discharges, both of artificial and natural origin. Many solutions have been proposed to explain the nature of "strange" radiation, but none of them describes the details of the process of formation of dotted traces. We believe that these traces on the film could appear due to the action of charged micron-sized clusters. The possibility of the existence of clusters in the form of a nucleus from a certain number of similarly charged ions enclosed in a spherical shell of water molecules is shown. The force of the Coulomb repulsion of ions is compensated by the compression force of the shell polarized by the inhomogeneous electric field created by the nuclear charge. As the cluster approaches the surface of the film, a cluster with a small charge separates from it. It is accelerated in the electric field of a "large" cluster to energy of about 1 GeV. Having received a recoil momentum, a large cluster moves away from the film, braking in an inhomogeneous electric field, and then "falls" onto it again, and the process is repeated. • During electric discharges in media, dotted traces appear on photographic films. • The existence of charged clusters – micro-sized ball lightning is possible. • These clusters emit charges in the direction of the film and are repelled from the film. • Charged clusters are formed during the flow of strong currents through materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photographic and cinematographic films of cellulose triacetate safeguarded in historical and cultural institutions are often contaminated by fungi when stored in inadequate conditions of humidity and temperature. The presence of fungi affects the image contained in the films, accelerates the process of biodeterioration and represents a risk to the health of people working with contaminated materials. In addition, another common physicochemical degradation affecting cellulose triacetate films causing deacetylation of polymer chain is called "vinegar syndrome". Considering the dose interval established for the disinfection of cultural heritage materials, in this work the effects of irradiation with gamma rays and electron beam on photographic and cinematographic films of cellulose triacetate were evaluated. Additionally, the thermal stability behavior of the films and the feasibility of crosslinking of CTA films were investigated. Film samples were selected and characterized by FTIR-ATR spectroscopy. Irradiated samples by gamma rays and electron beam with radiation absorbed doses between 6 kGy and 200 kGy were examined by FEGSEM microscopy, UV–Vis spectrophotometry and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results showed that disinfection by gamma and electron beam irradiation, in the dose range of 6 kGy–10 kGy, does not change or modification of main properties of the constitutive materials of photographic and cinematographic films. The applied dose of 50 kGy, both gamma rays and electron beam, indicated a crosslinking effect on the films and can be considered a possibility for the treatment of films affected by the "vinegar syndrome". • Disinfection of photographic and cinematographic films with ionizing radiation. • Crosslinking in CTA films were achieved from gamma and electron beam irradiation. • Ionizing radiation as alternative to treat deteriorated photographic and cinematographic films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Radioluminescence using Al2O3:C and Al2O3:C,Mg films and a scientific camera. • Real time two-dimensional dosimetry has potential for patient and treatment QA. • The system has good uniformity, dose-rate response, and high spatial resolution. The Investigations of this article focus on the response of Al 2 O 3 :C and Al 2 O 3 :C,Mg radioluminescence films for medical dosimetry in various MV photon beams. A dosimetry system was configured using a scientific camera, attached to the head of the linear accelerator (LINAC), facing the beam's isocenter, where the films were placed. By using the appropriate filter and lens it is possible to measure real time two-dimensional dose-rate distributions. The key findings are that Al 2 O 3 :C,Mg films present a clear advantage compared to Al 2 O 3 :C ones, with no interference from afterglow, better film uniformity, high spatial resolution and suitability for small field beam dosimetry, while giving overall good dose-rate response in Flattening Filter (FF) and Flattening Filter Free (FFF) modes. The results show that our system can be used for planar real time dose rate assessment in medical photon dosimetry with manageable correction factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Non-invasive and micro-destructive combined analytical approach. • Materials investigation of a mixed-media contemporary artwork. • Interaction between PVC copolymer and bronze paint. • Formation of dark green colored copper chlorides detected by micro-FTIR. Conservation of contemporary art requires deep knowledge of techniques and materials used, in order to assess their decay rate and identify the proper way to preserve art objects; scientific investigations are thus fundamental for conservation purposes. This paper presents a multi-analytical approach based on the use of both non-invasive and micro-destructive techniques for the study of a contemporary artwork from the Italian artist Paola Levi-Montalcini. Object of this work is Nel Deserto , made in 1966 using several different modern materials. The mixed-media nature of the artwork required a complete characterization of the materials, preliminary to the challenging conservation intervention. Before the intervention, Nel Deserto was in fact showing severe signs of degradation, which prevented it from being exposed to the public. The analytical approach was based on the preliminary use of portable microscopy and XRF, followed by micro-FTIR on diamond cell and low-pressure SEM-EDS and allowed achieving fundamental information on the materials while not harming visibly the artwork. The interaction between a transparent film (made of a poly(vinyl chloride) copolymer) and a bronze-based paint, triggered untypical degradation phenomena. The loss of hydrochloric acid from the chlorine containing polymer led in fact to the formation of dark green colored copper halides, which irremediably altered the artwork. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Achromatic spherical microlens array is fabricated successfully on gelatin film by combining the highly efficient techniques of one-step gray-tone photolithography and novel enzyme etched silver-halide-sensitized gelatin. The microlens array has spherically continuous surface relief profile, 100% fill factor and high energy efficiency, and is ready for UV–vis–NIR broadband applications. The gray-tone mask design, reflection-type projection photolithography setup, enzyme etching processing, and the characterization of fabricated 11×11 gelatin microlens array, are presented in this paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sulfur cycling is ubiquitous in marine sedimentary environments and is influenced by microbial and abiotic processes that alter both the abundance and isotopic composition of sulfur species that can ultimately be captured as sedimentary minerals. Microbial metabolisms that generate sulfur isotopic (δ34S) signatures in hydrogen sulfide have a spatial distribution that varies on the micron scale, yet porewater hydrogen sulfide is most often measured in bulk samples representing much larger volumes. This mismatch of scales can lead to erroneous or non-unique interpretations of biogeochemical processes and environmental conditions. Recently, an in-situ film-based technique was described that captures dissolved sulfide (H 2 S) in porewaters and which can be subsectioned to reconstruct the δ34S H2S profiles on the sub-cm scale within sediments. Here, we investigate the use of a Cameca 7f-GEO secondary ion mass spectrometer (SIMS) to analyze the δ34S H2S captured from porewaters on these films on even smaller spatial scales and particularly in films with low sulfide abundance that could not otherwise be processed with bulk extraction techniques. We present a best-practice method for film analysis that minimizes analytical artifacts from varying sulfide abundance and interactions with silver halide nanocrystals imbedded in the organic-based film amalgam. This method was tested on several films from field deployments, including examples with heterogeneities on small (~100 μm) scales, steep isotopic gradients, and very low sulfide abundance across the sediment-water interface. The results demonstrate that analysis using SIMS can accurately measure δ34S of in-situ sulfide captured by film with high precision (1σ ~ 0.3‰) in both spot and image modes and that the film itself can accurately record δ34S variability down to 25 μm spatial resolution, below which physical limitations of the film can create artifacts. • Secondary ion mass spectrometry used to analyze δ34S H2S captured on films. • Best-practice SIMS methods determined to minimize artifacts from film material. • Film preserves heterogeneities in δ34S H2S on small (<100 μm) scales. • SIMS enables analysis at low sulfide abundance and across sharp redox gradients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Newly screen printed silver selective electrode based on Alizarin Red S (ARS) was developed. • Various experimental parameters were studied and optimized. • Developed sensor can be used as indicator electrode in precipitation titrations. • The proposed sensor could be used successfully for the silver ion determination in the X-ray photographic film. Innovative screen-printed electrode (SPE) based on Alizarin Red S (ARS) for Ag (I) ion determination was developed. The ionophore content was varied and optimized which indicated that the ink incorporating 30 mg of Alizarin Red S reflects the best experimental performance exhibiting monovalent Nernstian slope value of 59.95 mV decade−1 over a considerable spacious concentration range from 5.0 × 10−7 to 1.0 × 10−2 mol L −1 with a lower detection limit value of 5.0 × 10−7 mol L −1. Additionally, the developed sensor stable for more than 112 days without any significant drift in potential exhibited a fast response time (7 s). The interaction between Ag (I) ions and ARS ionophore at the electrode surface was investigated and elucidated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and FTIR spectra measurement. The proposed sensor achieved constant potentiometric response in pH range of 4–8 and thermally stable to 50 ͦ C. The developed sensor indicates discriminating capability toward Ag (I) ions with regard to most common transition metal ions. The new developed sensor used for determination of Ag (I) ion in x-ray photographic film and can be applied as indicator electrode in precipitation titrations. Furthermore, the method was validated according to IUPAC recommendation parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]