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The aim of this paper is the development of a mathematical model to compute the optimal inventory mix to face stochastic demand at minimum cost in a two-level supply chain. The paper addresses a multi-product dynamic lot-sizing problem under stochastic demand subject to capacity and service level constraints. This model is executed to compare a Make To Order (MTO) strategy to a Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) partnership between the supplier and their customers. Both strategies provide the demand order to be produced. A schedule of production orders is determined over the planning horizon in order to minimize the inventory holding costs of the supply chain, taking into consideration that the supplier is also responsible of initiating the replenishment orders and deliveries of their customers according to the VMI partnership. The simulation model is illustrated empirically using a real case study: a paper manufacturing company that pursues to improve customer service level and supply chain inventory costs through a proper production planning of their paper machines and a suitable VMI order replenishment schedule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This research proposes a new formulation for the integrated lot-sizing and cutting-stock problem. • It is also presented analytical and numerical comparisons of the proposed model against the model from the literature. • A column generation approach and a relax-and-fix heuristic were applied to solve the proposed model. The integrated lot-sizing and cutting-stock problem has become a trend in the last decades for its applicability and advantage. Consequently, different approaches and formulations have been developed. One of them, which is widespread and related to the production and cutting process of paper, is the research subject of this paper. Fundamental considerations about the literature model are discussed and an alternative formulation is proposed, which consists of a simplified version that can provide better solutions. The upgrade modifications are proved analytically and an instance is analyzed to exemplify the discussed improvement. Moreover, computational tests are performed to compare both formulations. The novelty of the proposed formulation is the possibility of finding better solutions through the reduction of a constraint set, which guarantees the flexibility given by item and object inventories in meeting demand and it also enables a reduction in the total amount of produced paper. The proposed formulation has a significant impact on future research since the addressed model is the target of many scientific researches and practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum oxides are widely used as electrocatalysts due to their polymetallic oxidation state, abundant reactive sites and low production cost. However, the low electrical conductivity and easy agglomeration has limited their practical application. Here, MoO 3 nanowires encapsulated with ZIF-67 polyhedra were grown in situ on expanded graphite paper (EGP) by a simple hydrothermal synthesis method, and then the precursors were pyrolyzed to obtain self-supported Co-MoO x @N-doped carbon/EGP composites. Thanks to the three-dimensional porous structure and the synergistic effect of Co and multi-valance MoO x , the as-prepared Co-MoO x @N-doped carbon/EGP exhibits the excellent performances of OER (η 10 = 256 mV) and HER (η 10 = 138 mV), and a small Tafel slope and good durability. Furthermore, the assembled water splitting device achieved a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at a low voltage of 1.62 V and the excellent stability after 24 h continuous water splitting. [Display omitted] • Self-standing Co-MoO x @NC/EGP exhibits the excellent OER performance with the overpotential of 256 mV at 10 mA cm−2. • Three-dimensional structure and heterogeneous interface can expose more active sites and promote the transfer of electrons. • The assembled water splitting device only require a voltage of 1.62 V to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-quality materials contained in separately collected (SC) packaging waste generate environmental and economic burdens associated to both sorting operations of Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) and landfilling of non-recyclable materials. In this study, based on quantification of both impurities and recyclable fractions, the quality of SC municipal packaging waste streams was determined by compositional analysis of the waste entering a MRF throughout a year. Foreign materials (% w/w) found in the monitored SC glass, paper plus cardboard and lightweight packaging waste, were on average 5.0, 14.7 and 23.0, respectively, while landfilled materials (% w/w) after MRF sorting operations were on average 4.3, 10.3 and 22.0, respectively. A Life Cycle Assessment study was conducted to determine the environmental impact of SC packaging waste streams quality of three different scenarios: current situation (CS), better (BS) and ideal (IS) scenario with reduced presence and absence, respectively, of improper materials in the three examined SC packaging waste streams. Emission of 32.1 kg CO 2 eq/t waste was calculated for the current situation with a reduction by 66.1% and 98.0% in CO 2 eq emission for BS and IS scenario, respectively. Similar emission reductions were calculated for ozone depletion, ionizing radiations, particle matter formation, fossil fuel depletion and primary energy demand impact categories. The environmental life cycle costing study demonstrated that total savings of € 35.2 and € 66.6 for each ton of SC packaging waste stream entering the MRF could be obtained for BS and IS scenario, respectively. [Display omitted] • Impurities in packaging waste streams generate environmental and economic burdens. • 23.0% of impurities were found in separately collected lightweight packaging waste. • Plant sorting operations generate 32.1 kg CO 2 eq for each ton of packaging waste. • € 35.2/ton of sorted packaging waste could be saved by reducing impurities content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we present the development of an immunosensor for the direct, selective, and sensitive determination of symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) in urine, in view of the emerging role of this molecule as a biomarker for renal disease. SDMA is almost completely excreted by the kidneys, hence in renal dysfunction, the excretion is decreased, resulting in accumulation in plasma. Reference values for plasma or serum have already been established in small animal practice. Values < 15 μg/dL are considered normal, 15–19 μg/dL are values of concern, and at values > 20 μg/dL kidney disease is likely. The proposed electrochemical paper-based sensing platform uses anti-SDMA antibodies for targeted detection of SDMA. Quantification is related to a decrease in the signal of a redox indicator due to the formation of an immunocomplex that interferes with electron transfer. Square wave voltammetry measurements showed a linear correlation of the peak decline for 50 nM - 1 μM SDMA with a detection limit of 15 nM. The influence of common physiological interferences caused no significant peak reduction, indicating excellent selectivity. The proposed immunosensor was successfully applied for the quantification of SDMA in human urine of healthy individuals. Surveillance of SDMA concentration in urine could prove to be very valuable in the diagnosis or monitoring of renal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sound is omnipresent in the underwater environment and can be produced by natural (waves, weather, animals) and man-made (shipping, wind farms, oil and gas activities) sources. For marine animals, such as whales, fish and even invertebrates, the auditory senses are very important. To evaluate the soundscape and to manage the marine environment with respect to underwater noise monitoring is very important. For management the impact of noise some options are available. These options need further consideration to be implemented effectively. • This paper describes results of the JOMOPANS project and discusses possible actions to manage the impact of underwater noise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal papers and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) wastes are primary constituents of municipal solid waste (MSW) which necessitates effective disposal. Co-pyrolysis is an efficient transformation technology for the production of valuable gas and liquid fuels. Therefore, co-pyrolysis characteristics, kinetics, gas and liquid products of cellulose and PET mixtures were investigated in a two-stage reactor by multiple characterizations coupling with deep learning approach. The results indicated that there exhibited positive interaction for cellulose and PET co-pyrolysis in terms of mass difference (δ m) and mass loss rate difference (δ r) between experimental and calculated values. The thermal decomposition process and synergistic effects (δ m and δ r) were accurately predicted by deep learning approaches (R 2 =0.9823–0.9993) using temperature, catalyst, mixing ratio and heating rate variables. Feature importance revealed that the temperature, catalyst, heating rate and mixing ratio were in the descending order to affect the remaining mass from TG curves. And the temperature played a predominant role in synergistic effects. The Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO) method was more suitable for fitting the pyrolysis process to obtain activation energy (E a) with higher R 2 (0.94714–0.99640) compared with Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS) method. When the mixing ratio of cellulose and PET was 1:1, the E a was significantly reduced to 80.73 KJ/mol, and further reduced to 73.04 KJ/mol by introducing the catalyst, as compared to E a of individual cellulose (178.95 KJ/mol) and PET (198.34 KJ/mol). Co-pyrolysis of cellulose and PET led to a reduction of carbohydrates, furans, alcohols, ketones, and phenols, while the content of acids was remarkably increased which was consistent with the observation in FTIR that the absorption peak of C＝O became sharp and strong. The introduction of ZSM-11 resulted in an increase in aromatics and a decrease in acids content owing to aromatization and deoxygenation. This work is expected to offer beneficial guidance for the efficient disposal of MSW and the application of deep learning methods. [Display omitted] • The interactive pathway for catalytic co-pyrolysis of cellulose and PET was proposed. • The activation energy reached the lowest 73.04 KJ/mol when the mixing ratio was 1:1. • Optimized convolutional neural network predicted synergistic effects with R 2 > 0.99. • Feature importance for TG was temperature > catalyst > heating rate > mixing ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Grapheme oxide based ratiometric fluorescent paper sensor was developed for HClO visual determination. Highlights • Grapheme oxide based ratiometric fluorescence probe was developed for HClO detemination. • The detection limit of HOCl has been determined as 2.92 μM. • HOCl sensing by the nanoprobe is based on intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) mechanism. • Paper sensors were fabricated for the on-site and visual sensing of HOCl. Abstract In this paper, a simple and effective ratiometric fluorescent nanoprobe for visual detection of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) has been developed by loading silicon coated rhodamine B (RBDS) nanospheres on the surface of amino-modified graphene oxide (GO-NH 2) nanosheets. The fabricated nanoprobe exhibits dual-emissions peaked at 427 and 585 nm, under a single excitation wavelength of 365 nm. The blue fluorescence of GO-NH 2 can be selectively quenched by oxidation of HOCl, while the red fluorescence of RBDS remain unchanged, resulting in a distinguishable fluorescent color change from blue to pink under a UV lamp. Nanoprobes present high selective and sensitive for HOCl determination with a limit of detection (LOD) of 2.92 μM. Moreover, potable paper sensor has been prepared by coating the ratiometric fluorescent probe on filter paper, which provides a convenient and simple approach for HOCl visual detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Straw pulp in China, which is the world's largest producer of this material, suffers from water and energy shortages during its entire life cycle. However, limited systematic studies have focused on these issues, and decision makers need be provided with improvement methods for the environmental performance. Thus, an impact-oriented energy and carbon coupled water footprint analysis was conducted in this study based on ISO standards. Results showed that the impact of energy consumption and carbon emissions exceeded that of water footprint. Carcinogens, non-carcinogens, and freshwater ecotoxicity also played effective roles in improving the environmental performance. Optimizing key indirect processes, including chemicals production, steam preparation, electricity generation, wood pulping, and fertilizer recovery, dominated the reduction in environmental burdens. Direct freshwater consumption and wastewater disposal played additional effective roles in controlling water footprint. The water network was thus optimized by a water pinch analysis to decrease the freshwater consumption and pollutant emissions by maximum values of 91.5% and 99.7% after optimization, respectively. Meanwhile, carbon dioxide, methane, chromium, arsenic, mercury, titanium, copper, strontium, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, BOD 5 , and COD were the main pollutants. Overall, the environmental impact can be further reduced by diminishing coal power ratio in national energy structure, adopting recovered steam, and considering multistage regeneration water network to cope with different water use demands. • LCA-based energy and carbon coupled water footprint of straw pulp paper was applied. • Optimizing water network by water pinch method gained marked environmental benefit. • Electricity, steam, and chemicals exerted high impact among all inputs considered. • CO 2 , CH 4 , heavy metals, coal, and water were key contributors to footprint impact. • Improving national energy structure and adopting recovered steam were recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advancement in plastic and plastic based products in last two decades has imposed a serious threat to the environment. This has led to an increase in the demand for sustainable and biobased products. Paper and paper products are good alternatives to their plastic counterparts. A key element of paper industry is the raw material (wood, bamboo and nonwood agricultural residues such as bagasse, straws etc.) from which pulp is produced. The pulp is then utilized for production of paper. There are many pulping processes to prepare pulp of various qualities. For fine grade pulp, chemical pulping is used. The chemical pulp is produced by soda, kraft and sulphite pulping processes. However, for newsprint grade pulp, stone ground wood (SW), thermomechanical (TMP), chemi-thermomechanical (CTMP), chemi-mechanical (CMP) or refiner mechanical (RMP) corresponding pulping processes are employed. The method of pulp preparation (pulping process) consumes large amount of energy and chemicals. A new pulping process with electron irradiation using biowaste (bagasse) as a raw material is discussed in this work. Bagasse pulping process is found to reduce about 50% of energy consumption during pulping process. The process is referred to as 'ECTMP' (Energy Efficient Chemi-Thermo Mechanical Pulping). The paper produced from aforesaid method also reflected no loss of strength properties with respect of TMP reference pulps. Henceforth, preliminary calculation based on experimental results shows that the proposed bagasse ECTMP process explored the scope of energy savings of the order of 50%. • Energy efficient thermochemical process for biowaste conversion into paper was explored. • The effects of high energy electron irradiation pre-treatment were investigated. • Chemical pretreatment improved the strength properties of paper. • Specific energy consumption of bagasse pulping was significantly reduced. • The approach of pre-irradiation can be implemented for other raw materials also. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Pyrolysis and gasification of different paper-polystyrene mixtures investigated. • TGA results revealed delayed polystyrene decomposition in paper waste presence. • Synergistically doubled gas yield using co-pyrolysis and 15% using co-gasification. • Energy yield via syngas increased by 30% using CO 2 co-gasification of mixtures. Abstract Co-pyrolysis and CO 2 co-gasification of paper and polystyrene blends in different mixture ratios were studied at 1173 K using a laboratory scale tube reactor and thermogravimetric analysis. The chemical composition and yield of the syngas produced was analyzed by a micro gas chromatograph to understand the influence of mixture components. Co-pyrolysis positively impacted the syngas yield exhibiting a synergistic influence on cracking reactions leading to increased gaseous yield having almost double the amounts of hydrogen yield. Co-gasification using CO 2 increased the total gas yield with enhanced synergistic conversion. This effect provided a non-linear impact on the combustible gases in the gaseous yields when compared to the separate gasification of these feedstocks. The synergistic enhancement of co-pyrolysis conversion in paper-polystyrene led to lower char present for CO 2 to react during CO 2 co-gasification that lead to lower CO during the gasification of this blended char residue. The mixtures of paper with polystyrene provided increased product gas yields and enhanced conversion with an increase in polystyrene content. The results showed the effectiveness of producing high energy density syngas from co-gasification which can alleviate material handling issues present in segregation of waste, such as plastics and biomass providing uniform valuable product from diverse waste feedstocks with minimal need for classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide pulp and paper industry is recognized as a serious threat due to the discharge of various toxic contents present in its effluent to the surrounding environment. To combat this challenge, the role of oleaginous yeast to utilize the pulp and paper industry effluent for the integrated toxic contents removal and sustainable biodiesel production were undertaken. Oleaginous yeast Rhodosporidium kratochvilovae HIMPA1 was used as a model organism for its unique ability to utilize pulp and paper industry effluent as a culture medium and accumulate high quantity of triacylglycerol or neutral lipids as large size lipid droplets of 4.56 ± 0.24 μm within its cellular compartment. The maximum cell dry weight (13.87 g/L) with total lipid yield of 8.56 g/L was obtained after 144 h of cultivation. Data showed significant reduction in effluent toxic components i.e. color, 89%; lignin, 94.27%; phenol, 99.60%; biochemical oxygen demand, 77.36%; total dissolved solids, 84.59%; and chemical oxygen demand, 94.22%. Fatty acid methyl esters profile revealed high quantity of long chain monounsaturated fatty acids (45.43%) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (15.91%) that improves biodiesel quality under low temperature condition in terms of low cold filter plugging point along with good oxidative stability and cetane number as per American Society for Testing and Materials D6751-02 and European Committee for Standardization - EN14214 guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a stackable and integrable paper-based microbial fuel cell (MFC) for potentially powering on-chip paper-based devices. Four MFCs were prepared on a T-shaped filter paper which was eventually folded three times to connect these MFCs in series. Each MFC was fabricated by sandwiching multifunctional paper layers for two-chambered fuel cell configuration. One drop of bacteria-containing anolyte into the anodic inlet and another drop of potassium ferricyanide for cathodic reaction flowed through patterned fluidic pathways within the paper matrix, both vertically and horizontally, reaching each of the four MFCs and filling the reservoir of each device. Bacterial respiration then transferred electrons to the anode, which traveled across an external load to the cathode where they combined with protons. The MFC stack connected in series generated a high power density (1.2 μW/cm 2 ), which is two orders of magnitude higher than the previous report on the paper-based MFC stack. This work will represent the fusion of the art of origami and paper-based MFC technology, which could provide a paradigm shift for the architecture and design of paper-based batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a well-established and informative method of understanding the environmental impacts of consumer products across the entire value chain. However, companies committed to sustainability are interested in more methods that examine their products and activities' impacts. Methods that build on LCA strengths and illuminate other connected but less understood facets, related to social and economic impacts, would provide greater value to decision-makers. This study is a LCA that calculates the potential impacts associated with Bounty ® paper towels from two facilities with different production lines, an older one (Albany, Georgia) representing established technology and the other (Box Elder, Utah), a newer state-of-the-art platform. This is unique in that it includes use of Industrial Process Systems Assessment (IPSA), new electricity and pulp data, modeled in open source software, and is the basis for the development of new integrated sustainability metrics (published separately). The new metrics can guide supply chain and manufacturing enhancements, and product design related to environmental protection and resource sustainability. Results of the LCA indicate Box Elder had improvements on environmental impact scores related to air emission indicators, except for particulate matter. Albany had lower water use impacts. After normalization of the results, fossil fuel depletion is the most critical environmental indicator. Pulp production, electricity, and fuels for product production drive fossil fuel depletion. Climate change, land occupation, and particulate matter are also relevant. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by pulp, electricity, papermaking, and landfill methane from the disposed product, drive climate change impacts. Pulp provides significant offsets to balance climate change impacts due to sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Ninety-nine percent of land occupation is for the growth of the trees for pulp production. Papermaking, electricity, and pulp production cause the most potential particular matter formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has become the world largest paper and paperboard producer. However, pulp and paper industry has involved high resource consumption and severe pollution especially for water. This research has assessed the eco-efficiency of China's pulp and paper industry at the national level and provincial level. An overview regarding the cleaner production of China's pulp and paper industry was presented to reveal the measures for reducing environmental impact in the last two decades. Slacks-based measure was used to analyze the efficiency levels of 16 provinces' pulp and paper industries. To uncover the underlying causes of eco-efficiency performance, Malmquist–Luenberger index was calculated to discover the drivers of productivity growth of pulp and paper industries. Our results showed that the pollution treatment of China's pulp and paper industry has made progress in terms of water consumption and water pollution, although the absolute amount of pollution discharge is still large. Chemical oxygen demand emissions are still the first critical influencing factor of pulp and paper industry's inefficiency. Furthermore, efficiency progress was the dominating contribution of the industry's productivity growth between 2010 and 2013. The policies for adjusting the industrial structure of pulp and paper industry have resulted in the scale effects through eliminating backward production capacity and accelerating merger and acquisitions. Moreover, the productivity of pulp and paper industry was underestimated when the undesirable outputs were ignored. It indicates that the stricter environmental regulations have positive effects on paper companies to internalize environmental pressures in the production activities through environmental management. In the future, pulp and paper companies should further internalize the cost of pollution treatment through scale effects and technology improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though women increasingly make up the majority of medical-school and other science graduates, they remain a minority in academic biomedical settings, where they are less likely to hold leadership positions or be awarded research funding. A major factor is the career breaks that women disproportionately take to see to familial duties. They experience a related, but overlooked, hurdle upon their return: they are often too old to be eligible for 'early-career researcher' grants and 'career-development' awards, which are stepping stones to leadership positions in many institutions and which determine the demographics of their hierarchies for decades to come. Though age limits are imposed to protect young applicants from more experienced seniors, they have an unintended side effect of excluding returning workers, still disproportionately women, from the running. In this joint effort by the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, the Federation of European Microbiological Societies, the Infectious Disease Society of America, the International Society for Infectious Diseases and the Swiss Society for Infectious Diseases, we invited all European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases-affiliated medical societies and funding bodies to participate in a survey on current 'early-career' application restrictions and measures taken to provide protections for career breaks. The following simple consensus recommendations are geared to funding bodies, academic societies and other organizations for the fair handling of eligibility for early-career awards: 1. Apply a professional, not physiological, age limit to applicants. 2. State clearly in the award announcement that career breaks will be factored into applicants' evaluations such that: • Time absent is time extended : for every full-time equivalent of career break taken, the same full-time equivalent will be extended to the professional age limit. • Opportunity costs will also be taken into account : people who take career breaks risk additional opportunity costs, with work that they did before the career break often being forgotten or poorly documented, particularly in bibliometric accounting. Although there is no standardized metric to measure additional opportunity costs, organizations should (a) keep in mind their existence when judging applicants' submissions, and (b) note clearly in the award announcement that opportunity costs of career breaks are also taken into account. 3. State clearly that further considerations can be undertaken, using more individualized criteria that are specific to the applicant population and the award in question. The working group welcomes feedback so that these recommendations can be improved and updated as needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of anaerobic digestion is mounting worldwide because of its economic and environmental benefits. As a concern, the rate and extent of the anaerobic digestion of pulp and paper mill sludge was tested using the biochemical methane potential (BMP) with different food/microorganisms (F/M) ratio. The study was evaluated at five different F/M ratios (i.e. 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5). In addition to that reaction kinetics and the influence of biodegradability were also evaluated for the biomethane potential of substrates. The highest cumulative methane yield was obtained in F/M ratio 2.0 with 3.4 L followed by F/M ratio 1.5 and 2.5 with 3.3 L and 2.9 L, respectively. The maximum methane production rate 3.66 L CH 4 was perceived as per kinetics. The biomass activity may be affected due to the high substrate concentration during BMP test of lower F/M ratios. On the other hand, F/M ratio greater than 2.0, methane yield was decreased due to increased volatile fatty acid production reduces the reactor pH and inhibits methanogens activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The co-pyrolysis characteristics for hydrochar, paper sludge and their blends were investigated by TG–FTIR technique. The pyrolysis of paper sludge and hydrochar could be divided into three stages and one stage respectively. The model-fitting method was adopted to investigate the kinetic parameters of pyrolysis process, and the n- th order reaction model matched the pyrolysis process well. The activation energy was determined by the composition of the feedstocks and the stages of the pyrolysis. TG- FTIR indicated that CO 2 , H 2 O, CO, C H, C O, C O and C C groups were the main gases released from the pyrolysis process. There existed a coupling synergistic effect between these two feedstocks. The evolution of the gaseous products was consistent with the weight loss of the mixtures during co-pyrolysis. The co-pyrolysis effectiveness index was calculated. When the mass proportion of hydrochar was 90%, most desired products could be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a mathematical model has been developed for sustainable inventory, in which the effects of environmental factors on social factors, have been investigated. To this end, first, we revised Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) model by adding income from waste sales to this model. Next, considering the emission of sulfur oxides (SO x ), nitrogen oxides (NO x ) gases, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) indicators in waste water as a measure of water organic pollutants, we proposed a Green Economic Order Quantity (GEOQ) model. Then in order to examine interdependency between environmental aspects and social aspects, we introduced the sustainable model by adding environmental ergonomics in the terms of the effect of SO 2 emission on human health. Since the structure of the model consists of nonlinear objective function and linear constraints, the model could be solved based on an exact nonlinear constrained solution method. Finally, we examined the effectiveness of the proposed model demonstrated in a real case study of pulp and paper mill. Validation of the model was done by comparing the cost function of the proposed model with the pure economic model and the actual data. The results of study showed that proposed sustainable model plays a significant role in determining the order quantity and reduction of cost function, sulfur oxides (SO x ) and nitrogen oxides (NO x ) emissions, and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in waste water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrothermal treatment of sludge within the pulp and paper industry can have a wide range of possible reactor solid loads for different sludge types. The objectives of this work were to determine the effect of reactor temperature and solid load on the properties of sludge hydrochar and to simulate hydrothermal treatment of sludge within a pulp and paper mill. Laboratory experiments were first performed within reactor temperature and solid load ranges of 180–260 °C and 10–50%, respectively, and the effects of sludge treatment were determined by comparing parallel mill-scale simulations. Based on the results, both reactor temperature and solid load had a statistically significant effect on the solid, ash, carbon and energy yields of sludge hydrochar. Increasing solid load minimized carbon dissolution to the liquid phase and increased the solid and energy yield of the attained hydrochar. According to mill-scale simulations in a 9 m 3 batch reactor, treating primary sludge alone produced an energy surplus of 22–36 GJ through char incineration, decreasing to 12–22 GJ and 3.4–9.1 GJ for mixed and secondary sludge, respectively. Mixing primary and secondary sludge reduced the overall energy surplus by 2–8% compared with treating the sludge streams separately in two reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A chitosan modified filter paper separator is designed for aqueous zinc batteries. • Chitosan allows preferential adsorptions of ions in ZnSO 4 electrolytes. • Side reactions at Zn electrodes are inhibited, and uniform Zn deposition is realized. • Zn electrode presents 2900 h cycle life, and coulombic efficiency reaches 99.6%. • The Zn||MnO 2 battery achieves 98.4% capacity retention after 1000 cycles. The electrochemical performance of Zn metal anode in aqueous batteries is serious challenged by side reactions and dendrite growth. Separators are important cell components, which directly interact with electrolyte species and present potential solutions to regulate Zn anode performance. Herein, we modify the conventional filter paper separators by coating chitosan on the fibers. The hydroxyl, amino and ether groups on chitosan allow preferential adsorptions of proton, zinc ion and sulfate in ZnSO 4 aqueous electrolytes. Proton adsorption suppresses the proton activity, which inhibits corrosions and hydrogen evolution reactions at Zn electrode. The interactions of zinc ion and sulfate with chitosan regulate the ion transport manner and enlarge Zn2+ transference number, which ensures homogeneous Zn nucleation and growth. With the application of chitosan modified filter paper separators, the Zn electrode presents a long cycle life of 2900 h. A high coulombic efficiency of 99.6% is achieved. The chitosan modified separators also enhance the capacity retention of Zn||MnO 2 batteries from 52.8% to 98.4% over 1000 cycles. Our work presents an effective separator regulation approach for high-performance aqueous Zn batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a nanocomposite-based humidity sensor based on zinc oxide nanostructured powder (ZNP) nanoparticles that achieves a maximum enhancement in the humidity sensing performance at room temperature due to the introduction of different amounts of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) loading from 0.5 wt% to 2.0 wt%. The rGO/ZNP (rZNP) nanocomposite-based humidity sensor was fabricated by using cellulose filter paper as a substrate and clear paper glue as a binder through a facile brush printing method. FESEM, EDS, XRD, HRTEM, XPS, and Raman spectroscopy were employed to investigate the properties of the ZNP and rZNP nanocomposites. The presence of an rZNP nanocomposite with quasi-spherical ZNP nanoparticles that are securely attached and anchored with rGO sheets was confirmed through HRTEM micrographs. Raman spectroscopy analyses confirm and validate the formation of hybrid nanostructures with the presence of distinctive bands related to ZNP and rGO. The presence of oxygen vacancy defects and oxygen-related chemical bonds on the surface of the rZNP nanocomposite, which yields enhanced sensor performance, is revealed by XPS analysis. The rZNP nanocomposite-based humidity sensor with 1.0 wt% rGO loading (rZNP-1.0) had a maximum sensing response of 99.42% and exhibited the highest sensitivity towards humidity changes (172 or 29.2 MΩ/%RH), which was substantially better than the other tested samples. [Display omitted] • Low cost flexible humidity sensor was fabricated using a rGO/ZnO nanocomposite. • A rGO/ZnO nanocomposite layer was deposited on cellulose filter paper. • Cheap clear paper glue was used to bind rZNP on cellulose filter paper. • rZNP with 1.0 wt% rGO had a maximum sensing response of 99.42%. • rZNP-based humidity sensors exhibit excellent repeatability and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This is a case study of a small modular reactor supplying steam and electricity to a pulp and paper mill. • Resulting steam conditions in the mill are analyzed using steady-state and dynamic models. • Models of the paper mill were built in Aspen HYSYS and Dymola, a Modelica Ecosystem. • Integrated SMRs with pulp and paper mills is feasible but may present cost limitations. Small modular reactors (SMRs) are reactor designs producing less than 300 MWe and are generally planned for deployment as multimodule nuclear power plants. The possibility of factory-manufactured, flexibly sized plants expands the opportunities for nuclear power to different communities and industries, including manufacturing plants that currently utilize fossil fuels to produce both steam and electricity. This paper examines the feasibility of coupling a NuScale SMR with a midsize pulp and paper mill in the Southeastern United States. A steady-state mill model was developed in Aspen HYSYS, based on real data from the operation of the mill, and modified it to include the SMR while maintaining steam quality requirements and making as few changes as possible to existing equipment. Dynamic plant models were also developed Dymola to demonstrate possible plant conditions, using three configurations. Preliminary results suggest that, while SMR coupling is physically feasible, its economic feasibility is limited by the differences in steam and electricity demands. Because of limitations in the amount of steam the mill can take from the SMR, sizing the SMR for the plant's steam demand may result in an electricity deficit, or vice versa. Dynamic analyses show that the addition of a thermal storage system could reduce such deficits, but this entails its own challenges. Each plant must determine the best configuration and control scheme for itself, based on its electricity and heat needs, including the peak duration and intensity for both. Ultimately, an implementation of SMRs with manufacturing processes would benefit from partnering with a local utility to purchase excess electricity generated by the SMR. This will help manufacturing facilities meet their environmental and cost-savings goals, in addition to meeting the need for cost-effective baseload power across the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MoO 3 -based anodes for lithium storage have attracted more attentions due to the relatively high specific capacity of 1117 mAh g–1 and good chemical stability. Compound MoO 3 with other functional materials and construction of unique micromorphologies have been proved to be efficient strategies for improving the electrochemical performances of MoO 3 -based anodes. Herein, MoO 3 /TiO 2 composites were successfully biosynthesized with different micromorphologies. In the preparation processes, the hydrothermal and solvothermal treatments were carried out successively in the presence of cellulosic filter paper as the biotemplate, followed by calcination of the as-obtained composites in air, resulting in the final MoO 3 /TiO 2 composite materials. The two microstructures of the MoO 3 microfiber with entire TiO 2 nanoparticles coating and the MoO 3 microrod formed by stacking the microsheets with loosely TiO 2 nanoparticles covering were prepared under different pH values of the precursor. Compared with the bare MoO 3 materials, the corresponding MoO 3 /TiO 2 composites showed enhanced electrochemical performances as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. Especially the MoO 3 /TiO 2 composite with core-shell microfibrous structure derived from cellulosic filter paper presented relatively better test results for lithium storage, delivering an initial discharge capacity of 1297.6 mAh g−1 with the first Coulombic efficiency of 65.8%, and a reversible specific capacity of 403.6 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles. It is demonstrated that a well-defined TiO 2 coating layer can effectively inhibit the volume variations of MoO 3 matter in the lithiation/delithiation processes. Combined with the porous microfibrous structure that alleviates the stress, provides more reaction sites and reduces diffusion paths of lithium-ion, a promising MoO 3 -based anode material was achieved. This work provides a facile biotemplate-based strategy for the design and fabrication of metal oxide-based composites with adjustable microstructures for energy storage. [Display omitted] • Cellulosic filter paper derived MoO 3 /TiO 2 composites with variable micromorphologies were biosynthesized. • Microfibrous MoO 3 was coated by TiO 2 nanoparticles uniformly using the precursor with original pH value. • It showed enhanced reversible capacity, cycling stability and rate capability as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries. • The microstructural feature of biotemplate and the entire TiO 2 coating contribute to the improved lithium storage property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of routine methods are available for the detection of silver (I) (Ag+) ions, but most of them rely on expensive, sophisticated and desktop instruments. Herein, a low-cost, instrument-free and portable Ag+ biosensor was described by initially designing a new class of 3D origami microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) into each of which one piece of reagent-loaded nanoporous membrane was integrated. It combines analyte-triggered self-growing of silver nanoparticles to block the membrane's pores in situ for rapid yet efficient signal amplification with a handheld personal glucose meter for a portable and sensitive quantitative readout based on the biocatalytic reactions between the glucose oxidase and glucose. Its utility is well demonstrated with the specific detection of the analyte with a limit of detection as low as ∼58.1 pM (3σ), which makes this new biosensing method one of the most sensitive Ag+ assays in comparison with many other typical methods recently reported. Moreover, the satisfactory recovery of analyzing several types of real water examples, i.e., tap water, drinking water, pond water and soil water, additionally validates its feasibility for practical applications. • A new type of 3D paper-based device is designed for biosensing of picomolar Ag+. • It integrates nanoporous membranes with self-growing for signal amplification. • It only requires a personal glucose meter for a portable, quantitative readout. • This instrument-free biosensor offers new opportunities for point-of-care uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flame-retardant silane-grafted-graphene oxide (silane-GO) papers are fabricated via a green and versatile silane-assisted assembling strategy, and their use as early fire alarm sensors are investigated. Different silane molecules with alkoxy groups can react with GO in aqueous solution via hydrolysis and condensation reactions and thus assemble into the aligned silane-GO papers. The silane-GO papers exhibit good mechanical flexibility, strong acidic/alkaline tolerance, excellent flame resistance and improved thermal stability at low silane content in comparison with pure GO paper. Structure observation and analysis disclose that a compact nano-silica protective layer transformed from the grafted silane molecules during combustion is formed to inhibit the thermal degradation of GO sheet effectively. Furthermore, the insulating silane-GO paper can be thermally reduced into the conductive reduced GO network after encountering high-temperature or flame situation, thus providing ideal early fire alarm response, i.e. rapid flame detecting response time of ∼1.6 s and fire early warning response of ∼5 s when attach on the heat resistor. These results suggest that the silane-GO papers are promising for development of advanced materials as smart sensors in early fire alarm applications. A facile and green silane-assisted assembling technique was developed to fabricate flame-retardant graphene oxide papers, showing fast flame detection and ideal early warning response. Image 1 • A facile silane-assisted assembling strategy was developed to fabricate flame-retardant graphene oxide (silane-GO) papers. • Different silane molecules with alkoxy groups were assembled well onto the aligned silane-GO papers. • The silane-GO papers exhibited good mechanical flexibility, strong acidic/alkaline tolerance, and excellent thermal stability and flame resistance. • The related flame-retardant mechanisms were analyzed and discussed. • The silane-GO papers showed fast fire alarm response due to temperature-triggered sensitive resistance transition, showing promising for fire safety and prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Central lines are essential vascular access devices that can be associated with bloodstream infections. • This position paper overviews the techniques relevent to the insertion of these devices and procedures to maintain the catheter. • The paper also underscores the differences in management problems between high and middle to low income countries and between adults and children. • This paper also overviews the diagnosis and choice of antimicrobials in the treatment of central line-associated bloodstream infections. A panel of experts was convened by the International Society for Infectious Diseases (ISID) to overview recommendations on managing and preventing vascular catheter infections, specifically for the prevention and management of central line-associated bloodstream infections. These recommendations are intended to provide insight for healthcare professionals regarding the prevention of infection in the placement and maintenance of the catheter and diagnosis as well as treatment of catheter infection. Aspects of this area in pediatrics and in limited-resource situations and a discussion regarding the selection of empiric or targeted antimicrobial therapy are particular strengths of this position paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous detection of multiple tumor biomarkers in body fluids could facilitate early diagnosis of lung cancer, so as to provide scientific reference for clinical treatment. This paper depicted a multi-parameter paper-based electrochemical aptasensor for simultaneous detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) in a clinical sample with high sensitivity and specificity. The paper-based device was fabricated through wax printing and screen-printing, which enabled functions of sample filtration and sample auto injection. Amino functional graphene (NG)-Thionin (THI)- gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and Prussian blue (PB)- poly (3,4- ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)- AuNPs nanocomposites were synthesized respectively. They were used to modify the working electrodes not only for promoting the electron transfer rate, but also for immobilization of the CEA and NSE aptamers. A label-free electrochemical method was adopted, enabling a rapid simple point-of-care testing. Experimental results showed that the proposed multi-parameter aptasensor exhibited good linearity in ranges of 0.01–500 ng mL−1 for CEA (R2 = 0.989) and 0.05–500 ng mL−1 for NSE (R2 = 0.944), respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) was 2 pg mL−1 for CEA and 10 pg mL−1 for NSE. In addition, the device was evaluated using clinical serum samples and received a good correlation with large electrochemical luminescence (ECL) equipment, which would offer a new platform for early cancer diagnostics, especially in those resource-limit areas. • The aptasensor could enable simultaneous detection of two tumor markers in a single sample with high sensitivity. • The aptasensor had a fast response time as a label-free electrochemical detection method was adopted. • The aptasensor was fabricated by wax printing and screen-printing, which could be mass-produced easily with low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The aim of this work is to quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions savings potential in magazine paper production through the application of the innovative manufacturing strategies using advanced sheet structure design and fibre modifications. Methods The study applies Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to two different magazine paper products: supercalendered (SC) paper and light-weight coated (LWC) paper. A cradle-to-gate approach is used aiming to assess the environmental benefits gained through the implementation of new manufacturing strategies in both products. The functional unit of the system was defined as the production of one square meter of finished paper for printing magazines. Conventional and new production processes have been compared. Results and discussion The strategies applied to SC paper resulted in reduction of GHG emissions by 22.9%, with a total of 10.7 gCO 2 eq emissions saved per square meter of SC paper. In the case of LWC paper, GHG emissions are reduced by 20.3%, which are equal to a total of 19.7 gCO 2 eq saved per square meter of LWC paper. The influence of certain methodological approaches -functional unit, electricity mix and avoided impacts- in the final results is also discussed in the paper. Conclusions The manufacturing strategies implemented show a remarkable potential for reducing GHG emissions. Taking into account that the pulp and paper industry is a very energy-intensive sector and one of the main GHG emitters, the potential of the strategies for the improvement of the environmental performance of the papermaking processes is significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling of waste paper was investigated with the aim of boosting the use of recycled materials and reducing the impact of waste paper on environment. Commercially important cyanoethyl cellulose product from waste paper was synthesized successfully through a cycle of chemical treatments. Waste paper was functionalized to cyanoethyl cellulose in an alkaline heterogeneous reaction environment with acrylonitrile under different reaction conditions with respect to degree of substitution. The variables studied were: Sodium Hydroxide and acrylonitrile concentration, reaction time and temperature for alkalization and cyanoethylation. All the cyanoethyl cellulose products were assessed for solubility, degree of polymerization and degree of crystallinity. The optimum conditions for cyanoethyl cellulose synthesis comprised of 8.34 M/anhydro glucose unit aqueous sodium hydroxide concentration, 30 °C alkalization temperature, 60 min alkalization time, 70 M/anhydro glucose unit acrylonitrile concentration, 60 min reaction time for cyanoethylation and 50 °C cyanoethylation reaction temperature. The optimized cyanoethyl cellulose product was characterized with fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. This investigation helped to find the proper cleaner production approach towards sustainable environment management by synthesizing valuable cyanoethyl cellulose product and demonstrated that waste paper have the capacity to produce upgraded and high quality cyanoethyl cellulose for variety of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We estimate the orientation of wood fibers in porous networks like paper, paperboard or fiberboard by computing digital thermal conductivity experiments on micro-computed tomography ( μ CT) images with artificial isotropic thermal conductivity parameters. The accuracy of mechanical and thermal constitutive models for porous wood fiber based materials crucially depends on knowing the wood fiber orientation. Unfortunately, due to the high porosity, the micro-heterogeneity of wood fibers, the high carbon content of organic materials and the unknown additives present in industrial paper, μ CT-scans often exhibit low contrast and strong artifacts. Conventional image processing approaches encounter difficulties, as they rely upon convex fiber cross sections. We propose a solution by circumventing the segmentation of single wood fibers in μ CT images, by performing thermal conductivity simulations on binarized wood fiber structures, where an artificial isotropic thermal conductivity is associated to the fibers and the pore space is considered as isolating. The local and global temperature fluxes are assembled into a fiber orientation tensor. This method overcomes the limitations of the mentioned local image processing approaches, as individual fibers need not be resolved and convergence for increasing resolution is a consequence of abstract mathematical theory. We use our novel method to analyze large three-dimensional μ CT-scans and a synchrotron scan of a paperboard sample, serving as the starting point of an accurate micromechanical modeling of the effective anisotropic mechanical behavior of paper and paperboard. These results are crucial for calculating the mechanical strength of deep-drawn paperboard, which will be accomplished in a subsequent article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of transition metal-based materials to replace precious metal electrocatalysts in a facile and efficient approach is of great importance for water splitting. The NiS/MoS 2 complex grown in situ on carbon paper (NiS/MoS 2 /CP) by a one-step hydrothermal method was successfully constructed as an efficient electrocatalyst. The synergetic effects of the superhydrophilic/aerophobic surface, hierarchical nanostructure and strong mechanical adhesion to a highly conductive substrate give the NiS/MoS 2 /CP complex outstanding catalytic activity and durability. Specifically, it exhibits relatively low overpotentials of 119 mV (at a current density of 10 mA cm−2) and 314 mV (at a current density of 100 mA cm−2) for the hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction, respectively. In addition, the NiS/MoS 2 /CP complex can also be used as an electrolyzer that reaches a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at a cell voltage of 1.48 V without decay after 30 h of durability testing, making it an ideal electrocatalyst for water splitting towards practical application. [Display omitted] • The surface of carbon paper was transformed to be super-hydrophilic/aerophobic via calcination. • NiS/MoS 2 composite is grown in-situ on carbon paper by a facile one-step hydrothermal method. • The NiS/MoS 2 /CP complex exhibits high catalytic activity and excellent durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades, there is a growing search for analytical strategies to ensure clinical analysis without the need of laboratory set-up and skilled personnel. Indeed, user-friendly and low-cost devices are highly valued in the era of sustainability for their capability to be applied in low-resource contexts, such as developing countries. To address this issue, herein we report a 96-well paper-based and laboratory setup-free optical platform for the detection of butyrylcholinesterase enzyme (BChE) activity in human serum. We used chromatographic paper to realize a novel analytical tool exploiting its porous structure for reagentless synthesize Prussian Blue Nanoparticles (the sensing element), as well to load all the reagents required for the measurement. The principle of BChE activity detection relies on the reaction between the enzymatic product thiocholine and Prussian Blue, giving the Prussian White with subsequently Prussian Blue's fading, detected by a common office scanner supported by ImageJ software. Using this novel paper-based optical platform, BChE activity was linearly detected in the 2–15 U/mL range with a detection limit down to 0.8 U/mL. The accuracy was successfully demonstrated by recovery study with spiked serum and by comparing the data with the gold standard method. • 96-wells paper-based platform for BChE activity quantification in serum. • Colorimetric detection by following the Prussian Blue reduction by thiocholine. • The measurement requires only some µL of diluted human serum. • Color reading by using a common office scanner. • BChE activity is linearly detected up to 15 U/mL with LOD equal to 0.8 U/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work assesses six different agricultural residues with the aim of finding alternative raw materials for a soda semichemical pulping process: stems of bell and chili pepper ( Capsicum annuum ), broad bean ( Vicia faba ), asparagus ( Asparagus officinalis ), pea ( Pisum sativum ), and okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus ). Pulping yields higher than 60% (m/m) were obtained, except for pea stems (43%). The drainability of all the pulps, expressed as the Schopper-Riegler index (ºSR), had values of over 70 ºSR. The Kajaani analyses of the fibers showed acceptable fiber lengths in all cases (0.64–0.92 mm), but on average shorter than the lengths of pulps from a commercial fluting paper (Old corrugated Container, OCC), that was found to be 1.27 mm. Handsheets of paper were produced both with the pulps under study and with mixtures of these pulps with OCC pulp. Several properties were measured to assess the use of the new fibers in a paper for cardboard production. The property showing the greatest differences was the Gurley porosity, ranging from 25 mL/min (asparagus) to 1300 mL/min (broad bean). Of the six residues tested, the okra residue fiber showed better properties than the commercial paper fiber (Concora Medium Test indexes: 1.5 N m 2 /g and 1.1 N m 2 /g respectively, Burst Indexes: 2.3 kPa m 2 /g and 1.7 kPa m 2 /g, respectively), yielding similar mechanical properties to those of high quality fibers obtained from miscanthus ( Miscanthus giganteus ). Broad bean residue could also be a promising raw material, though its properties are not as good as okra’s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The simulation results successfully guided the preparation of the insulating paper. • Nano-SiO 2 enhances the interfacial binding and compatibility of composite fiber. • Nano-SiO 2 improved the mechanical and insulating properties of the insulating paper. • Nano-SiO 2 reduced the energy barrier of composite fiber and reduce polarization loss. Following the surge in power loads and continuous improvement in the voltage level, insulating papers' mechanical and electrical properties face new challenges. However, traditional inefficient "tentative" trial and error experiments are formidable to rapidly and efficiently prepare cellulose composite insulating paper because the direct scientific theory or simulation guidance is insufficient. To solve this problem, the nano-silica(nano-SiO 2)/polyimide(PI)/cellulose composite models were designed and their mechanical, and dielectric properties were predicted by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The preparation of corresponding nano-SiO 2 /PI/cellulose insulating paper was guided by the MD simulation results and their surface morphology, mechanical properties, and electrical properties were investigated. The experimental results are in good agreement with the MD simulation results and confirmed that P3 insulating paper possesses the best comprehensive performance, and its tensile strength, relative permittivity, dielectric loss, volume resistivity, and breakdown strength are 71.44 MPa, 2.39, 0.2%, 5.16 × 1015 Ω∙m, and 75.8 kV∙mm−1, respectively. This work proves the feasibility and effectiveness of using MD simulation to guide the development of new insulating papers, and compared with the existing traditional preparation methods, this method is expected to be applied to study various new materials in the future and promote the vigorous development of new materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past few years, point-of-care testing (POCT) technology has crossed the boundaries of laboratory determination and entered the stage of practical applications. Herein, the latest advances and principal issues in the design and fabrication of paper-based bipolar electrode electrochemiluminescence (BPE-ECL) sensors, which are widely used in the POCT field, are highlighted. After introducing the attractive physical and chemical properties of cellulose paper, various approaches aimed at enhancing the functions of the paper, and their underlying principles are described. The materials typically employed for fabricating paper-based BPE are also discussed in detail. Subsequently, the universal method of enhancing BPE-ECL signal and improving detection accuracy is put forward, and the ECL detector widely used is introduced. Furthermore, the application of paper-based BPE-ECL sensors in biomedical, food, environmental and other fields are displayed. Finally, future opportunities and the remaining challenges are analyzed. It is expected that more design concepts and working principles for paper-based BPE-ECL sensors will be developed in the near future, paving the way for the development and application of paper-based BPE-ECL sensors in the POCT field and providing certain guarantee for the development of human health. • Preparation and application prospect of paper-based BPE-ECL sensor are discussed. • Approaches to boost functionalization of paper and existing limitations are described. • Fabricating BPE from classical electrode materials are introduced exhaustively. • Strategies of enhancing ECL signal to improve device sensitivity are displayed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The chromogenic paper chip was facilely prepared by one-pot synthesis. • The "all-in-one" strategy fundamentally improves the stability and convenience. • Glucose level can be noninvasively detected with "sample in, result out" manner. • A smartphone App was developed for further improving the accuracy and ease of use. Noninvasive glucose detection for diabetes monitoring, in comparison with the conventional finger-prick test that causes inevitable pain, is on demand. Salivary glucose level that possesses a well-established correlation with blood glucose level can be a promising alternative for noninvasive detection, however, the sensitivity and user-friendliness remained to be improved. Herein, an "all-in-one" paper chip was fabricated by one-pot method for sensitive and user-friendly detection of salivary glucose level. Glucose oxidase (GOx) and the chromogenic reagent, luminol, were both in situ encapsulated in a metal–organic framework, ZIF-67, to form the GOx&luminol@ZIF-67@Paper (G&L@ZIF@Paper). Owing to the specificity of GOx and the peroxidase activity of ZIF-67, the paper chips are highly sensitive and specific for glucose with a linear range from 0.2 to 2 mM, and a limit of detection of 0.12 mM (S/N = 3). Moreover, ascribing to the protection and "all-in-one" structure by ZIF-67, the chip is highly stable that maintains the detection performance after storage at room temperature in air for 4 weeks, and this strategy also facilitates the one-pot detection without multiple steps of sampling and incubation. With the assistance of a smartphone application, the glucose level in saliva can be accurately detected with "sample-in-result-out" manner, and the results were highly consistent with those measured by commercial kit. This paper chip is a promising device for daily glucose monitoring, and the highly-integrated strategy provides an innovative resolution for the construction of colorimetric paper chips. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Preparation of micro-fibrillated cellulose fibers by a two-step refining process. • Valley beater and a ball mill refining process does not involve the use of chemicals. • Sustainable produced MFCs can be applied to paper-based flexible electronic devices. Cellulose micro/nano-materials are potential substrates for energy storage/ electronics applications. However, developing efficient/cost-effective technologies that can obtain these micro/nano-materials suited for flexible electronics continue to be a challenge. In this study, we report a simple process for extracting micro-fibrillated cellulose fibers from conventional bleached kraft pulp that are particularly applicable to flexible electronics applications. The process is made of two step refining: 1) refining in a Valley beater, and 2) further fibrillation in a ball mill. The Valley beater is to induce fibrillation of pulp fibers as a result of compression and shearing forces. Subsequently, the partially fibrillated cellulose fibers are further subjected to ball milling to obtain micro-fibrillated cellulose fibers (MFCs). These MFCs have a much higher specific surface area than the conventional pulp fibers due to fibrillation and reduction in fiber size, which leads to favorable properties to the as- prepared MFCs network, including high transparence, and high tensile strength. The MFCs paper exhibits excellent transparency of 82% at 550 nm (a significant increase of about 56% for the control), with exceptionally high tensile strength (35.16 MPa). Thanks to the high surface area of these MFCs, silver nanowires (AgNWs) can be well distributed into the MFCs network so that conductive paper with high conductivity was prepared. The MFCs/AgNWs composite paper was then assembled into the paper-based triboelectric nanogenerator (P-TENG) device, which shows excellent performance. The MFCs/AgNWs composite paper- based P-TENG system can also serve as self-powered sensors for monitoring human motions. This work provides a method for the production of micro- fibrillated cellulose fibers that can be applied for the production of flexible electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past, the animal glues were used in paper manufacturing and in restoration of artworks preserved in museums, libraries and archives. By ageing they went through deterioration creating distortions, tensions, cockling and discolouration in paper materials. Consequently, the removal of glue residues becomes an essential step in the restoration of ancient and artwork paper material. Current mechanical and chemical methods display serious drawbacks mainly related to aggressiveness towards material or toxicity for restorers. Bio-based methods for paper cleaning rely on the use of enzymes that require skilled operators, optimal application conditions and high costs, creating difficulties in mastering enzyme use so far. This paper describes a first attempt of biocleaning ancient paper from organic deposits using living bacteria. The non-pathogenic, non-spore-forming and non-cellulolytic original strain Ochrobactrum sp. TNS15 E was successfully applied -immobilised in an agar gel-on original paper specimens dating back to the 17th. After 4 h of contact with the bacterial pack, the cellulose fibres underlying glue were disclosed, highlighting the bacterial capacity of removing the glue layer without damaging the paper or leaving undesirable residues. Both colorimetry and SEM analyses proved the results. The procedure is simple, low-cost and safe for the artefact, the restorers and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nacre-like FG/Al energetic paper was designed and prepared. • A significantly enhanced energy and pressure output are obtained. • FG/Al energetic papers shown self-propagate combustion reaction at micro-scale. • The chemical reaction mechanism was distinctly elucidated. • FG/Al energetic paper displayed high flexibility and strain. Developing functional devices requires energetic materials with comprehensive performance including high energy density, excellent chemical reactivity and mechanical properties. Herein, an effective strategy inspired by nacre-like architecture was employed to construct new fluorographene (FG)/nano-aluminum (Al) energetic paper through a vacuum filtration induced self-assembly process. FG/Al energetic paper showed ultrahigh reactivity and high flexibility owing to combined effect of the nacre-like architecture and interfacial interaction. FG/Al energetic paper exhibited significantly enhanced energy output (3257.7 J/g) and self-propagate combustion reaction with high pressure output at micro-scale. Chemical reaction mechanism was distinctly elucidated based on reactive molecular dynamics simulations and the combustion products of FG/Al energetic paper. More interestingly, FG/Al energetic paper displayed high flexibility and strain (5.39%) reported for the first time. The bio-inspired route provides a promising approach to design advanced energetic materials for applications in transportation, aerospace, and military industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two series of “papers” that were made from natural fibers and synthetic fibers, respectively, were examined for use in paper-spray mass spectrometry and the results were compared to chromatography paper that is currently being used. In the former case, four types of papers were used, including gampi paper, tengujou paper, glassine paper and cicada paper, and the findings show that the limit of detection can be improved when gampi paper was used. This is because gampi paper is very tough and extremely thin (thickness, <20 μm), which permits sample molecules to be translated and evaporated nearly instantly. Since ionization occurs within a very short period, an abundance of ions is formed, leading to a dramatic improvement in the limit of detection. Meanwhile, a series of tough, thin synthetic fibers, including a microarray membrane (hollow and fibrous) and nanofibers, were also tested. The papers were prepared from polycarbonate, polylactic acid and poly- l -lactic acid (PLLA), respectively, by means of a co-axial electrospinning technique. The findings show that the limit of detection also can be improved, when a PLLA nanofiber was used. This is because this type of paper-like nanofiber is also very thin, tough and hydrophobic, which permits to ionization to occur within a very short period. Detailed information on methods for synthesizing these fibers and their use in the analysis of a real sample are also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Handy paper-like purifier with striking multifunctional water decontamination properties. • High loading of functional components onto bacterial cellulose via chemical bonds. • Superior adsorption capacities towards metal ions and organic dyes, and disinfection efficiency. • Simultaneous removal of multiple species from polluted water, and superior reusability. Contaminated water contains various types of pollutants, the removal of which requires two or more technologies. It is imperative but challenging to develop water purifier for simultaneous removal of multiple pollutants for the sake of easy operation, low cost, and etc. Previously reported multifunctional purifiers are normally nanoparticles which require caution during use. Here, we describe a design of paper-like multifunctional purifier, which has biomass-based structure by grafting polyethylenimine derived quaternary ammonium compounds onto three-dimensional bacterial cellulose substrate. Compared to similar materials reported previously, our product exhibited strikingly higher adsorption capacities towards various metal ions including Pb2+, Cu2+, and Cr6+, anionic organic dyes including congo red, methyl orange and methyl red, and excellent disinfection efficiency towards both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Remarkably, this purifier also demonstrated effective removal of the three contaminative species simultaneously from both simulated and local polluted water. With more virtues of superior reusability and extreme handy convenience, we hope our molecular design could inspire further efforts on the rational construction of multifunctional water purifier with easy operation. We reckon our material to have strong potential for the possible use in water treatment, especially in regions that are short of environmental infrastructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile route to rapidly assemble presynthesized MOF [NH 2 -MIL-101(Cr)] crystals onto polyimide (PI) fibers at ambient temperature was proposed in this article. Furthermore, PI@PDA@MOF fibers were used to fabricate the paper-based filters for high temperature dust removing by wet-forming process. Prior to this, dopamine was dip-coated onto the surface of inert PI fibers to active the fiber surface. Herein, MOF crystals were chemically induced using β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as surfactant assembly agents, which quickly self-assembled on the crystal surface and promoted robust chemical surface attachment onto the activated PI@PDA fibers. BET results manifested that the overall surface area of PI@PDA@MOF fibers exceeded 800 m2/g with assistance of "MOF-cloth". Filtration performance experimental results indicated that removal efficiency of composites reached as high as 93.05 ± 1.27% at a lower pressure drop of 57.5 Pa and a higher quality factor of 0.0464 Pa-1 for PM 0.3 under the high temperature of 260 °C. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) have attracted considerable interest as antimicrobial agents in a wide variety of applications. We report a simple synthetic route towards MgO NPs (average diameter 10 nm) possessing potent antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Detailed electron microscopy studies show how these particles induce oxidative stress, cell membrane leakage and cell death in bacteria at low NP concentrations, but remain non-toxic to eukaryotic cells. Applying a homogeneous dispersion of these nanoparticles on 18th century paper proved to be a highly effective means of preventing bacterial colonisation without altering the appearance of the paper samples, thus opening the doors to the use of these colourless, low-cost, and scalable nanoparticles for preventing biodeterioration in a range of paper-based objects and surfaces. • Nano-magnesium oxide particles (MgO NPs) of average size of around 10 nm have been synthesised using a simple one-pot synthesis. • The MgO NPs offer potent bactericidal activity but are non-toxic to mammalian cells at the same concentrations. • A combination of electron microscopy techniques shows how these nanoparticles produce oxidative stress, followed by cell membrane leakage and death. • The MgO NPs prevented bacterial colonisation of 18th century papers from the Archives of the Spanish Royal Botanic Garden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-based analytical devices (PADs) are very popular for point-of-care diagnostics, which provide a fast, cost-effective and possible multiplexed detection of a spectrum of molecules. They have been matching forward proudly to contribute to the modern analytical science and life science. Accompanying with their advantages and huge potentials, low detection sensitivity is continuing to challenge the application of PADs from bench to bedside. In order to improve the sensitivity and enhance the signal readout, variable signal amplification strategies have been investigated and applied for PADs. In this review, we have firstly classified formats of PADs according to the engineering design. Advances for improving sensitivity of PADs in recent five years are then summarised according to three popular types of signal amplification strategies (nanomaterial based, nucleic acid based, and engineering of PADs based). Pros and cons of each signal amplification approach have been discussed accordingly. Finally, the future perspectives of PADs are proposed. • Advances on signal amplification strategies to enhance sensitivity of paper based analytical devices (PADs) are outlined. • Three signal amplification strategies (nanomaterial, nucleic acid, and engineering of PADs based) are discussed. • The pros and cons of different signal amplification strategies are compared. • Future perspectives for signal amplification on PADs are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has become pandemic, reaching almost one million death worldwide. At present standard treatment for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not well defined because the evidence, either from randomized or observational studies, with conflicting results, has led to rapid changes in treatment guidelines. Our aim was to narratively summarize the available literature on the management of COVID-19 in order to combine current evidence and interpretation of the data by experts who are treating patients in the frontline setting. The panel conducted a detailed review of the literature and eventual press releases from randomized clinical trials for each possible available treatment. Inductive PubMed search waws performed for publications relevant to the topic, including all clinical trials conducted. The result was a flowchart with treatment indications for patients with COVID-19. After 6 months of a pandemic situation and before a possible second coronavirus wave descends on Europe, it is important to evaluate which drugs proved to be effective while also considering that results from many randomized clinical trials are still awaited. Indeed, among treatments for COVID-19, only glucocorticoids have resulted in an association with a significant decrease in mortality in published randomized controlled trials. New therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clostridioides difficile infection is an increasing presence worldwide. Prevention is multipronged, reflecting a complex and evolving epidemiology. Multiple guidelines exist regarding the prevention of C. difficile infection in healthcare settings; however, existing guidelines do not address C. difficile in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Nevertheless, the prevalence of C. difficile in LMIC likely parallels, if not exceeds, that of high-income countries, and LMIC may experience additional challenges in C. difficile diagnosis and control. A panel of experts was convened by the International Society for Infectious Diseases (ISID) to review the current state of C. difficile infections globally and make evidence-based recommendations for infection prevention that are broadly applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling and recovery of materials from used products is one of the major avenues to reduce material throughput. Ideally, all materials are anticipated for being reused by the economy an infinite number of times. In reality, recovery of secondary materials may be difficult because of high costs, or because of degraded quality compared with virgin materials. The search for potential reduction of throughput in material cycles should be based on a knowledge of the limits to repeated cycles. To gain understanding of recycling limits, we developed a method to estimate the actual reduction potential for each throughput in a material's multi-cycle life. First, we investigated the material flow system of paper in Taiwan, and developed a supply chain network of paper flows. Systematic elaboration of the flows revealed where paper can be recycled and where paper can be lost. Second, we estimated the reduction potential with a material input–output Markov chain model, which maps the distribution and loss of materials on the supply chain processes. The model estimated the quantities and the life pathways of recycled materials across continuous life-cycles. An indicator was used to quantify the total performance of the material across repeated life-cycles. This method offers an opportunity to examine practices that approach the limit of reduction. This case study shows that the use and separation of paper waste after discarding may need to be reformed to extend the life-cycles of the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Developing a superhydrophobic, kirigami, stretchable pencil-on-paper device platform. • Simultaneously detecting gas, temperature, electrophysiological signals, and providing treatments via thermal therapy and electrical stimulation. • The gas sensor exhibits a large response to NO 2 gas at elevated temperature from self-heating. • The integrated temperature sensor and electrodes accurately detect temperature and electrophysiological signals. • The thermal therapy and electrical stimulation deliver effective means to battle against inflammation/infection and treat chronic wounds. Wearable electronics with applications in healthcare, human–machine interfaces, and robotics often explore complex manufacturing procedures and are not disposable. Although the use of conductive pencil patterns on cellulose paper provides inexpensive, disposable sensors, they have limited stretchability and are easily affected by variations in the ambient environment. This work presents the combination of pencil-on-paper with the hydrophobic fumed SiO 2 (Hf-SiO 2) coating and stretchable kirigami structures from laser cutting to prepare a superhydrophobic, stretchable pencil-on-paper multifunctional sensing platform. The resulting sensor exhibits a large response to NO 2 gas at elevated temperature from self-heating, which is minimally affected by the variations in the ambient temperature and relative humidity, as well as mechanical deformations such as bending and stretching states. The integrated temperature sensor and electrodes with the sensing platform can accurately detect temperature and electrophysiological signals to alert for adverse thermal effects and cardiopulmonary diseases. The thermal therapy and electrical stimulation provided by the platform can also deliver effective means to battle against inflammation/infection and treat chronic wounds. The superhydrophobic pencil-on-paper multifunctional device platform provides a low-cost, disposable solution to disease diagnostic confirmation and early treatment for personal and population health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]