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A mini-review is presented on handmade papers regarding their origin from papyrus to modern paper mill start-ups in the USA. The overview succinctly covers the process of making handmade papers, value addition, and product design. The scientific investigations on obtaining HMP from innovative raw materials such as coffee beans, agro-waste, seaweeds, hyacinth flowers, and others are detailed. The role of handmade paper in conservation along with the environmental and economic benefits of recycled handmade paper are contained within. The mini-review concludes with a promising future for handmade papers that would encourage sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of bamboo virgin pulp addition to the recycled pulp in enhancing the recycled paper's mechanical properties was evaluated. Malaysian bamboo virgin pulp used in this research were Bambusa vulgaris (Aur bamboo), Gigantochloa levis (Beting bamboo), and Gigantochloa scortechinii (Semantan bamboo). The addition of 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 wt% of bamboo virgin pulp improved the burst index, folding endurance, tearing index, and tensile index of the recycled paper from 2.27 to 3.17 kPa.m2/g, 7 to 15 double folds, 5.98 to 8.27 mN.m2/g, and 24.86 to 32.40 Nm/g, respectively. These were equivalent to the increment percentage for burst index, folding endurance, tearing index, and tensile index at the range of 6.61 to 39.65%, 28.57 to 114.29%, 15.72 to 38.59%, and 10.50 to 33.87%, respectively. The application of bamboo virgin pulp is very promising in improving the recycled paper's mechanical properties and this could be further extended in enhancing the other properties such as physical and optical paper properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this work was to explore the prospects of producing pulp and paper from leftover lignocellulosic fibers. In this study discarded Cocos nucifera fibers were collected from an abandoned site and were washed thoroughly. FTIR analysis, chemical composition and fiber morphology studies were conducted. FTIR showed the presence of holocellulose and lignin in the fibers. Chemical analysis showed the holocellulose content as 37.8 wt%. Fiber length, fiber diameter, lumen diameter and cell wall thickness were observed using microscope and derived fiber indices that determine the possibility of producing paper were evaluated. The derived indices such as Runkel index, slenderness ratio, co-efficient of rigidity, flexibility coefficient, Luce’s shape factor and Solids factor of the fibers were evaluated as 67.9%, 44.11, 58.83%, 0.199, 0.49 and 278.53x10³ respectively. All these indices are in good agreement with fibers recommended and used for pulp and paper production. High lignin content present in the fibers is a limitation and it can be removed through appropriate delignification techniques. Thus the study showed that discarded fibers can be used for producing pulp, paper and allied products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to profile the shoppers' propensity to reuse shopping bags and the type of shopping bags they reuse on the basis of demographics. The study used an observation method to record the consumers' shopping habits and a short questionnaire to record the participants' demographics. A binary regression analysis and a multinomial regression analysis were used to analyse data. The results indicated that the mature aged, women, and low income shoppers were more likely to practice reuse of plastic shopping bags than their respective counterparts. There were no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of young aged shoppers compared to mature aged shoppers and low income shoppers compared to high income shoppers using cotton bags than plastic bags. There were also no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of young aged shoppers compared to mature aged shoppers and male shoppers compared to female shoppers using paper bags than plastic bags. However, the results indicated a statically significant result in how males compared to females differed in their using of cotton bags than plastic bags and a statistically significant result in how low income shoppers compared to high income shoppers differed in their use of paper bags than plastic bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prophylaxis with emicizumab, a bispecific monoclonal antibody that mimics FVIII function, has shown encouraging results in clinical trials in terms of efficacy and safety. However, current experience is limited, and many areas of concern to clinicians have yet to be reviewed. This paper reviews the experience of hemophilia A patients treated with emicizumab based on the results of clinical trials and real-life studies. The authors place special emphasis on issues such as the management of these patients in situations of hemorrhage and/or surgical interventions, joint health or laboratory monitoring. Treatment with emicizumab has been shown to improve joint health and reduce bleeding, of particular interest to patients with inhibitors and high bleeding rates. However, there are still concerns about its administration in neonates and previously untreated patients due to limited reported experience. Laboratory monitoring is not strictly necessary due to the stable pharmacokinetics emicizumab has been shown to exhibit, however, tests that globally assess hemostasis may be useful especially in cases of bleeding or surgery. The authors are also of the opinion that prophylaxis before minor surgery is not necessary and that major surgeries can be safely performed with additional prophylactic coagulation factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Ethiopia, the dairy cows' major feed resources are natural pasture and crop residues, both of which are nutritionally low and do not even satisfy the maintenance requirement. Consequently, dairy productivity per head is low in the country. This paper reviews the existing knowledge of negative energy balance (NEB) and summarizes its implication on production and reproduction parameters, as well as the monitoring tools as a means of intervention in minimizing the effect on dairy cows. The presence of NEB in late gestation and early lactation of dairy cows could contribute to both short and long-term negative effects on production and reproduction ability. Lower body condition, reduced milk production, a change in the milk fat to protein ratio, an increasing incidence of health problems, a late time to become estrus, delayed ovarian cycle, and a lower conception rate are the common implications. Through the knowledge created so far, it can be concluded that NEB is almost a common phenomenon in transitional high milking dairy animals, but there is a possibility to shorten its persistence through strategic supplementation using the NEB monitoring tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report explores the history of Puerto Rico's relationship with the United States military and the resistance against militarization. Since the U.S. invasion in 1898, Puerto Rico has experienced the progressive takeover of land for military purposes, resulting in environmental damage and health repercussions. The resistance against militarism has taken various forms, including civil disobedience, marches, and armed struggle. The report showcases a collection of political propaganda, such as posters and pasquines, which were used to spread anti-militarist messages and mobilize people. These materials provide insight into the themes, styles, and campaigns of leftist propaganda between 1960 and 2000, highlighting the power imbalance between the armed forces and the common people. The report includes images and descriptions of selected propaganda pieces, demonstrating the diversity of styles and messages. [Extracted from the article]

"Decolonizing Geography: An Introduction" by Sarah A. Radcliffe explores the decolonization of Anglophone geographical curricula. The book emphasizes the importance of approaching fieldwork with humility, respecting local knowledge, and avoiding the imposition of Western paradigms. It calls for action to avoid blinders, respect counternarratives, question official histories, acknowledge privilege, employ collaborative research, and entertain alternative epistemologies. The book also highlights the significance of indigenous environmental knowledge in physical geography and addresses the lack of diversity in the discipline. Overall, "Decolonizing Geography" offers a comprehensive exploration of decolonial approaches in geography and provides practical examples and suggestions for further research. [Extracted from the article]

"Settler Colonial City: Racism and Inequity in Postwar Minneapolis" by David Hugill examines the history of racism, inequity, and settler-colonial structures in Minneapolis, particularly focusing on the post-World War II era. The book explores the impact of urban change, racialized policing, and American imperialism on marginalized communities, with a particular emphasis on Indigenous peoples. Hugill highlights the structural barriers faced by marginalized groups and the need to dismantle white supremacist and settler-colonial structures. While the book primarily focuses on the violent aspects of settler-colonial urban policy, it also touches on the need to examine more subtle elements such as access to education, healthcare, and legal services. Overall, the book provides a critical perspective on the history of Minneapolis and challenges the perception of the city as progressive and inclusive. [Extracted from the article]

Banana stem is a known alternative to wood for the production of pulp and paper. During the production of paper, it is extremely important to save costs and time while at the same time enhancing quality of produced paper. In the present study, paper was developed from banana stem fiber by optimizing its density. Response surface methodology (RSM) using Box-Behnken design (BBD) was used to determine optimum blending parameters of the developed papers. The influence of banana stem fiber amount (250-1000 g), water amount (1-2liters) and blending time (5-10 min) on paper density was ana)lyzed using software Stat-Ease 360, Version 13. The optimum conditions of banana stem fiber amount, water amount and blending time to achieve a density of 675.75 g/m3 were determined as 461.83 g, 1.31liters, and 8.53 min, respectively. ANOVA results revealed that the quadratic model best fits the density response, with blending time and banana stem fiber amount as the most significant model terms. Linear effects were more predominant than quadratic and interaction effects. The developed density model was in close agreement with experimental findings with an R² value of 0.9748. Developed paper had cellulosic contents, with volatiles as high as 82.11%wb and 2.11% wb ash composition. Future works on thermal properties of paper are encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for particleboard has been increasing over the years. Currently, most particleboards are produced from wood which may not be sustainable in the long term. Therefore, there is need of exploring alternative materials such as making particleboards from waste materials. This study investigated the mechanical properties of particleboard consisting of waste leather shavings and waste papers blended together by unsaturated polyester. A single-layered particleboards were manufactured using compression method. Different resin contents (60%, 70%, 80%, and 90%) and leather/paper ratios (100:0, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25) were used to determine the effects on the mechanical properties (internal bond, bending strength, compression, and impact strength) of fabricated boards. From the results of this study, it was found that leather shavings and waste papers can be used as alternative raw materials for particleboard production and that mechanical properties were depended on the resin content and the blend ratio. Also, mechanical properties were reduced with resin content increment, except for impact strength, and improved by high paper blend ratio. It could be concluded that the produced particle panels could be used for indoor application or interior equipping. Additionally, it is recommended that further studies can be done on morphological analysis to establish the bonding between the particles and matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strength properties of paper are of great significance in terms of its mechanical performance and are attributed to cellulosic fibers. When filler is used in papermaking, the cost and strength properties get reduced but optical properties are improved. So far, modification of fillers using chitosan (CH) is not explored in such a way that all aspects of wet-end of papermaking get covered. The novelty lies in showing the effect of CH as filler modifier at various doses on different fillers and the wet-end application of modified fillers at different doses along with other additives used in papermaking. The impact of addition of modified fillers on end paper properties is also analyzed. Here, CH was applied to modify fillers characteristics so that the ash in paper can be increased without compromising the strength properties. Three different doses (0.25%, 0.50% and 1.00%) of CH were added to the fillers. The addition of modified fillers to bleached mixed hardwood (BMHW) pulp increased the filler retention in paper while the reduction in strength properties was found to be less and in some properties even an increase was observed. The particle size distributions of fillers were found to be affected after modification of fillers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the study of the chemical composition of cow dung and the paper-making from cow dung. With the insight into such data, we considered the effect of cooking temperatures and the potassium hydroxide concentration on paper performance. The relationship between cow dung fiber, such as morphology, chemical composition, crystallization, and chemical state structure, and paper performance were studied. Meanwhile, the mechanical performance of cow dung paper and the degradation of cow dung paper in soil were investigated in this work as well. At 100°C, the residue from cooking cow dung decreased and stabilized. Fiber yield in cow dung peaked at 10% KOH concentration. The lignin-hemicellulose C=O bonds were completely broken making the material softer and looser. At 42 °SR Schopper - Riegler’s Degree (SR) pulping, the polymerization was 1126, and the average fiber length and width were 1245 μm and 18.3 μm. Cow dung paper had the best mechanical performance at 42 °SR of 2.48 KPam² /g burst index, 4.83 mNm² /g tear index, and 26.72 Nm/g tensile index, respectively. This work demonstrates that cellulose fiber, extracted from cow dung, is suitable for paper applications and provides new insight into cow dung recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pineapple leaf fibers (PALF) were biopulped using Trametes versicolor, and the resulting biopulp was bleached with xylanase-enzymatic treatments. The biopulping was extensively described using determinations of fiber morphology, color, chemical composition, extractive content, and thermal stability using the structural characteristics determined by XRD and paper properties. The results showed that the chemical and enzymatic treatments shortened the fiber, almost to 50%, and the Kappa index decreased from 27 to 13. Cellulose and holocellulose contents increased from 65% to 74% and from 86% to 91%, respectively, but extractives, lignin (from 12% to 4%), pentosans (from 25% to 14%) and the crystallinity decreased from 58% to 67% in both chemical bleaching and further xylanase-enzymatic processing. Xylanase)enzymatic processing allowed us to obtain whiter (increased lightness color and decreased redness and yellowness tonality) and heavier paper, even though it presented decreased mechanical properties (decreased stress resistance, rupture length, tear resistance and index longitudinal tearing). The xylanase-enzymatic treatment with the best pulping and paper proper)ties is when the biopulp is treated with a xylanase enzyme concentration of 0.04% (w/w). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is estimated that more than 500 species of insects have been introduced to the Galápagos Islands via human activities. One of these insect invaders is the yellow paper wasp, Polistes versicolor (Olivier) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae), a social wasp native to continental South America. In Galápagos, these wasps are voracious predators of insect larvae, compete with native species for insect prey or for floral resources and are a human nuisance. Wasp suppression methods currently in use are inefficient and attract non-target species, calling for the development of species-specific attractants that can be used in baits to lure and kill wasps. To evaluate the potential for using wasp semiochemicals in baits, we determined the biochemical composition of the head, thorax, Dufour's and venom glands of P. versicolor foragers via gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Male and female wasps were tested for behavioral responses to body segment extracts from both sexes. Female body extracts consistently elicited more behavioral responses in both male and female wasps than male extracts. Females reacted to female head, thorax and abdomen (the Dufour's and venom glands are located in the abdomen) extracts, whereas males reacted significantly to female head and thorax extracts. One male body extract, the head, elicited two significant behaviors: female wasps groomed more often, and males touched the filter paper more often compared to the blank control. Head extracts consistently changed the behavior of female and male wasps and, together with female thorax extracts, have potential as species-specific lures for yellow paper wasps. Heads were mainly composed of hydrocarbon lipids and oleamide, a ligand for odorant-binding proteins. The thorax consisted of fatty aldehydes, long-chain alkanes and fatty amide lipids. Field trials of blends of these compounds in high wasp density areas of Galápagos are the next step to confirm if any of these compounds are attractive to P. versicolor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo leaves are a resource of cellulose fibers that can be further developed into value-added products. In this research, cellulose nanofibers were obtained from Tinwa bamboo leaves, and then chemically modified with (i) hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS) and (ii) perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane (POTS). The modified nanofibers were then used as a hydrophobic biopolymer coating on paper, as an alternative to commonly used fossil-based coatings. Hydrophobicity in terms of surface and bulk properties of the coated paperboards was investigated. The results showed that the hydrophobic coatings obtained provided a high contact angle up to 141° and a decrease of water penetration speed during immersion up to 94% when using ultrasonic technique. The coated paperboards exhibited color difference values compared with an uncoated paperboard in the range of 0.4 to <2 which is hardly distinguishable from the human eye. These results suggest that a biopolymer obtained from modified bamboo leaves does in fact provide a suitable replacement for hydrophobic coating on paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deterioration of fiber properties during recycling processes, especially the loss of tensile strength, raises concerns that paper products made from recycled fibers might not satisfy quality requirements. The purpose of this paper is to estimate the deterioration of tensile strength and the damage in paper sheets made of recycled fibers using the theory of damage mechanics and machine learning methods. Experiments were carried out to recycle wood fibers and nonwood fibers four times, and the physicochemical properties of the handsheets made from these fibers were measured after each recycling. Water retention value and relative bonded area were selected as the features to estimate and predict tensile strength during recycling because they had strong correlations with tensile strength. This paper proposed a damage index to quantitatively express the severity of the damage in paper sheets based on the experimental investigation and the theory of damage mechanics. Thus, the deterioration of tensile strength could be estimated and predicted. To determine the damage index, a curve fitting model based on the hyperbolic theory of pulp properties was developed. The proposed quantitative expression of the damage index is: D = (Ds - h)²/a2 - (Dh - k)²/b2, where the coefficients were determined through the curve fitting model. This paper also developed a long short-term memory recurrent neural network model to determine the damage index according to the sequence of recycling. Both models were trained with the experimental data of water retention value and relative bonded area. The estimation and prediction by the curve fitting model were more accurate than those of the neural network model. The root mean square errors by the curve fitting model were 0.0278 for estimation, 0.1667 for prediction; and by the neural network model were 0.2445 for estimation, 0.2206 for prediction, respectively. After the damage index was determined, the deterioration of tensile strength then could be calculated as T = T0 (1-D). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since its launch, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the China-led economic and cultural development strategy, captured impressive media and scholarly attention and critiques. CHINA'S ASIAN DREAM: Empire Building along the New Silk RoadGEOCULTURAL POWER: China's Quest to Revive the Silk Roads for the Twenty-First Century: By Tom Miller. Miller connects the China's "Go-West" policy with the rise of infrastructure financing as a key component of the international donor community where China is taking the lead. [Extracted from the article]

"Big Bend National Park: Mexico, the United States, and a Borderland Ecosystem" by Michael Welsh is a historical exploration of Big Bend National Park, situated on the border between Mexico and the United States. The book examines the unique landscape of the park, shaped by the Rio Grande river, and the challenges posed by its borderland ecosystem. Welsh discusses the efforts of conservationists, politicians, and scientists in establishing the park and highlights the potential for binational cooperation and collaboration. The book also addresses the tensions between preservation and development in national parks and the need to navigate the changing cultural and political landscape. While the book lacks an examination of the park's future in the face of climate change and public policy, it offers valuable insights for students and scholars interested in national identity, border relations, and environmental protectionism. [Extracted from the article]

The aim of this study was to investigate the properties of concrete with waste paper ash (WPA) as cement replacing material. The chemical composition of WPA was reported, and Portland cement was partially replaced with 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% of WPA to explore its effect on both fresh and hardened properties of C—25 concrete. The result of this study indicated that the chemical compositions of WPA were not classified as Pozzolanic material. Setting times of blended cement paste with WPA were lengthened and its consistency was also increased. The cement paste with replacement up to 10% showed a normal consistency within the standard range. The workability of concrete was tested immediately after preparing the concrete mix, whereas the compressive strength was tested after 7 and 28 days of curing. The results indicated that the workability of concrete containing WPA decreases as the WPA content increases. This study also revealed that there is a significant improvement in the compressive strength of concrete. Replacement of ordinary Portland cement by WPA up to 10% results in better compressive strength than that of the control mix. An improvement of 5.6% & 1.2% was observed, respectively, when compared with the 28-day compressive strength of the control mix. But the compressive strength decreases as the WPA replacement increases over 10%. Maximum compressive strength of 37.89 MPa was obtained for concrete containing 5% of WPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At a time when the world is critical of the Brazilian government and the loss of Amazonian rainforest, Brian J. Godfrey casts his 40-year gaze on Rio de Janeiro. Geographer Godfrey deftly uses various scales of analysis - global, hemispheric, national, regional, metropolitan, and neighborhood - to point out how memory can be used to reinvent places both in Rio and elsewhere. Godfrey's real nugget is chapter 3's examination of Little Africa in Rio. [Extracted from the article]

Creativity is an important skill for engineers but many students face a lack of experience in idea generation, often compounded by low-self efficacy towards creativity. Providing students with online training modules has been suggested as one solution. However, the literature demonstrates using a computer can influence performance and self-efficacy in a different manner to using pen-and-paper. There is a current lack of research on whether computers may influence self-efficacy during idea generation tasks. Two experiments involving computer-based and pen-and-paper groups were designed. Groups were provided with templates that guided them through the process of applying an idea generation technique and were given sixteen minutes to generate ideas to solve a presented problem. Results revealed that students' performance was similar and using a computer does not negatively influence self-efficacy. This shows that students can engage in idea generation learning tasks using computer-based modes without negatively influencing performance or self-efficacy, suggesting an avenue for educators to engage students with building creativity skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Near Woods: A Year in an Allegheny Forest" by Kevin Patrick is a book that explores the natural and cultural phenomena of White's Woods, a 500-acre stand of mixed hardwood forest near Indiana, Pennsylvania. The author, who has lived in the area for three decades, highlights the beauty and richness of this local sylvan gem, emphasizing the importance of appreciating and exploring the forests in our own backyards. The book combines geomorphological, natural historical, and physical and cultural geographic background to provide a comprehensive understanding of the area. Through vivid prose and stunning photography, Patrick invites readers to stop, listen, and interpret the wonders of nature. [Extracted from the article]

Commercial Chinese ink was employed to disperse pristine vapor-grown carbon nanofibers (VGCNFs) in aqueous suspensions via horizontal ball milling. The obtained suspension was used to fabricate conductive paper-based composites through filtration-deposition onto filter paper. It was found that the carbon black particles from the Chinese ink helped separate VGCNFs and acted as connection points between the VGCNFs, while the glue reinforced the conduction network. Thus, the VGCNF-ink/paper ternary composite showed sufficiently low sheet resistance. With merely 2.5 mg·cm−2 VGCNFs, the sheet resistance could be reduced to 4.5 Ω·sq−1. As a proof of concept, these paper-based composites were directly used as electrodes of solid-state symmetric electronic double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) and the substrate for the electrodeposition of MnO2 to achieve higher electrochemical performances. The EDLCs fabricated with 2.5 mg·cm−2 VGCNFs showed a specific capacitance of 224 mF·cm−2 at a current density of 1 mA·cm−2, which was retained by 86.4% after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles. Moreover, thanks to the high electrical conductivity and the porous structure, the MnO2 decorated paper-based composites exhibited dramatically enhanced specific capacitance. It is believed that our finding offers an idea to directly utilize commercial Chinese ink for the fabrication of electrode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Wayfaring Strangers: The Musical Voyage from Scotland and Ulster to Appalachia" is a book by Fiona Ritchie and Doug Orr that explores the cultural pathways of traditional Scottish and Irish folk music as it traveled to Appalachia. The book examines the influences of Welsh, English, German, Dutch, French, African American, and Cherokee cultures on these songs. It is structured into three main sections and includes photographs, maps, and sidebars covering various topics related to folk music. The authors also exchange letters discussing their perspectives on Old and New World music. The book sheds light on the history of American folk music and its connection to immigrant experiences. It includes a contextual timeline, resource centers, a discography, and a bibliography for further exploration. Scholars and music enthusiasts will find this book to be a valuable resource. [Extracted from the article]

Despite the advancement of technologies and tools used to design and display building elements in construction, design communication on construction sites still heavily relies on 2-dimensional drawings. Paper-based floor plans often reference other paper drawings to deliver design intent to construction site crews. This complicated process sometimes results in the poor transfer of design intent between the designers and construction crews, which can cause quality, safety, and productivity issues in construction sites. How can the process of access to information in 2D drawings be improved to reduce the need to reference different sheets? This study responds to this question by implementing an AR workflow that provides more straightforward access from paper-based floor plans to digital design information without the need to refer to other sheets. In this paper, the current process of viewing and accessing information using 2D drawings was investigated. Then an AR workflow was created to facilitate access to the design information. Finally a case study was used to test the AR workflow against the conventional method of using 2D drawings, considering variables such as time, error, and user preference. The results showed that the AR workflow is more favorable and could improve time and reduce errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I The Digital City i is not about the separation of digital and physical environments, nor is it about the digital permeation of physical environments, but rather about how digital media can be used to build and reinforce a physical sense of place. Halegoua puts digital media front and center as the latest communications technology to shape the urban landscape. I The Digital City i finds a home within research questions regarding smart city development, media and communications technology, and cultural geographies. [Extracted from the article]

DEEP TIME RECKONING: How Future Thinking Can Help Earth Now: By VINCENT Ialenti. The overall goal of Ialenti, however, was to use the example of Onkalo to prompt us to modify our behavior so that we have a better understanding of how to survive into a future that makes getting there possible. We, too, were concerned about future generations, but the Onkalo Safety Case workers have been considering all possible circumstances that could endanger future inhabitants up to 1200 centuries from now. [Extracted from the article]

INTIMATE GEOPOLITICS: Love, Territory, and the Future on India's Northern Threshold: By SARA SMITH. In a vivid ethnographic study of the Ladakh region in northern India, Smith provides an intricate examination of how community tensions are shaped by ethnic identities, family planning, and majoritarian politics - and one incendiary moment on a public street. Though I Intimate Geopolitics i is overtly a study of Ladakhi territorial politics as related to family dynamics, the commentary on sectarianism is relevant beyond the confines of the distant province. [Extracted from the article]

Ruminants would suffer from gastric distension (bloat) when feeding on alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.; Alf), while tannins can relieve this problem. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of Alf mixed with paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) leaves (PML) or condensed tannins (CT) extracted from PML on in vitro fermentation performance. Seven experimental treatments based on the mass ratios of Alf and PML were set up: Alf, PML, 3A1P (Alf:PML = 3:1), 1A1P (Alf:PML = 1:1), 1A3P (Alf:PML = 1:3), A1P (Alf with 1% CT extracted from PML), A2P (Alf with 2% CT extracted from PML), and a blank. The results after fermentation were as follows. (1) The degradable dry matter (DDM) and degradable organic matter (DOM) contents increased simultaneously with the increase in the proportion of PML (p <.05). However, the DDM and DOM contents decreased with the increase in PML CT concentration. Moreover, mixing PML with ALF improved (p <.05) the concentrations of acetic (except in 3A1P, p >.05), propionic, and butyric acids compared to Alf alone. Adding CT improved the concentrations of propionic and butyric acids over the Alf treatment (p <.05). (2) The 1A1P, 1A3P, and PML treatments showed the maximum rate of gas production during fermentation when compared with the other treatments (p <.05). The asymptotic gas volumes of the treatments with added CT were less than the Alf treatment (p <.05). It can be concluded that a mixture of Alf and PML after in vitro fermentation for 96 h could improve the DDM and DOM contents, reduce gas production, and produce more short-chain fatty acids. Adding paper mulberry leaves to Alfalfa could improve the degradable dry matter and degradable organic matter. Adding paper mulberry leaves to Alfalfa could reduce gas production, and produce more short-chain fatty acids than Alfalfa. Adding condensed tannin extracted from paper mulberry leaves to Alfalfa could reduce gas production and the maximum rate of substrate digestion, thereby preventing bloat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ANIMAL TRAFFIC: Lively Capital in the Global Exotic Pet Trade: By Rosemary-Claire Collard. First is the erasure of social relations that occurs in the commodity fetishism explained by traditional Marxian analyses, and second is Collard's assertion of the erasure of the animals' socio-ecological relations in their (former) biotic communities. These traits are what provide "use value" for humans, and Collard explains that for the commodity transformation to happen, exotic animals "are subject to a double fetishism" (p. 18). [Extracted from the article]

Up to 90% of the human genome is transcribed into Long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that longer than 200 nucleotides but do not code for proteins. LncRNAs play a vital role in a broad range of biological process, it's dysregulations and mutations are linked to the development and progression of various complex human diseases. Given the dramatic changes and growing scientific outputs in lncRNAs field, using a quantitative measurement to analyze and characterize the existing studies has become imperative.Bibliometric analysis is a widely used tool to assess the academic influence of a publication or a country in a specific field. However, a bibliometric analysis of the top 100 most-cited papers in lncRNAs area has not been conducted. Thus, we executed a bibliometric study to identify the authors, journals, countries and institutions that contributed most to the top 100 lncRNAs list, characterize the key words and focus of top 100 most-cited papers, and detect the factors related to their successful citation. This study provides a comprehensive list of the most influential papers on lncRNAs research and demonstrates the important advances in this field, which might be benefit to researchers in their paper publication and scientific cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a bid to develop a cheaper alternative material for particleboard, fiber/particulate reinforced cement-paper composites were produced. The paper-cement matrix had 12 wt. % of cement and the matrix was reinforced with 10 wt. % fixed amount of coconut shell powder and varied amount of palm kernel fiber (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 wt. %). Two separate groups of samples were produced; one containing untreated fiber (UPKF), in varied proportions of 0–2.5 wt. % and the second containing alkaline-treated fiber (TPKF), in varied proportion of 0–2.5 wt. % fiber. Samples produced were cured for 28 and 49 days and examined for physical, mechanical, and thermal properties as well as microstructural features. The result obtained revealed improvement in properties of samples as fiber proportion increased. Comparison of the properties obtained indicates that alkaline-treated samples gave a better performance than the untreated counterparts, which was reflected in the sum of property ratio for each mix. The value for TPKF samples was higher than the value for UPKF samples. Also, samples cured for 49 days had better performance than the ones cured for 28 days for both UPKF and TPKF. Evaluation of the three experimental variables, fiber addition, alkaline treatment, and curing length proved that curing was more effective in enhancing the properties of the composites developed, especially the mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A paper-based electrode is a very attractive component for a disposable, nontoxic, and flexible biosensor. In particular, wearable biosensors, which have recently been attracting interest, not only require these characteristics of paper-based electrodes but must also be able to detect various ions and biomolecules in biological fluids. In this paper, we demonstrate the detection ability of paper-based metal electrodes for wearable biosensors as part of a wireless potentiometric measurement system, focusing on the detection of pH and sodium ions. The paper-based metal electrodes were obtained by simply coating a silicone-rubber-coated paper sheet with a Au (/Cr) thin film by sputtering then modifying it with different functional membranes such as an oxide membrane (Ta2O5) and a fluoropolysilicone (FPS)-based Na+-sensitive membrane, corresponding to the targeted ions. Satisfactory and stable detection sensitivities of the modified paper-based Au electrodes were obtained over several weeks even when they were bent to a radius of curvature in the range of 6.5 to 25 mm, assuming use in a flexible body patch biosensor. Moreover, the Na+ concentration in a sweat sample was evaluated using the paper-based Au electrode with the FPS-based Na+-sensitive membrane in a wireless and real-time manner while the electrode was bent. Thus, owing to their complex mesh structure, flexible paper sheets should be suitable for use as potentiometric electrodes for wearable wireless biosensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to overcome the shortcomings of traditional agricultural cultivator opener, this paper combines digital drawing technology and digitisation to analyse the structure of cultivator opener, improves the structure of traditional cultivator opener, establishes a mathematical model of the transmission mechanism, and determines the relationship between various parameters. Furthermore, this paper differentiates the ideal motion trajectory, calculates the length of each rod through the iterative trajectory coordinates, optimises and improves the structure of the entire cultivator opener, and combines the simulation method to draw the structure. In order to verify the improvement effect of the cultivator opener, this paper uses the quadratic orthogonal rotation regression test to improve the structure of the cultivator opener designed and improved in this paper. From the experimental research, it can be seen that the cultivator opener designed in this paper can improve the uniformity of seeding depth, reduce soil disturbance, and enhance the compactness of the seedbed soil, which provides a reference for the design of the cultivator opener. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-performance air filters composed of a hybrid structure of nanofiber/microfiber were fabricated using wet paper processing. Two types of nanofibers (NF) with average diameters of 180 and 234 nm were mixed with a suspension of microfibers (11.5 and 11.7 µm) in various mixing fractions. Then, the suspension was filtered to fabricate hybridized fiber sheets with a known nanofiber/microfiber composition. The effects of NF diameter and mixing fraction on the performance of the hybrid filters were experimentally investigated. With increasing NF fraction, both the particle collection efficiency and the pressure drop increased. The quality factor (Qf) was used to evaluate the performance of the prepared filters. As predicted by the single fiber filtration theory, the experimentally obtained Qf was almost independent of the mixing fraction of the NF. The collection efficiency and pressure drop of the hybrid filters could be controlled by the NF fraction at the same Qf. Moreover, the inhomogeneity factor of fiber packing (δ) did not significantly affect Qf over the δ range from 3 to 23 for our filters. This implies that the lower particle capturing efficiency due to heterogeneous packing could be compensated by a decrease in the pressure drop, resulting in the same Qf value. Therefore, Qf for particles smaller than 100 nm, which are in the diffusion-controlled regime, can be increased by reducing the NF diameter. Copyright © 2019 American Association for Aerosol Research [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rollins reveals neuroscientists' promises to be more branding than substance, a defensive crouch aimed at heading off controversy rather than tackling the immensely complicated interactions between the biological and the social. This conviction has solidified into what Rollins deems the "violent brain model" - an assumption that the brain is locus of violence and criminality. Part I unpacks the research program, specifically the research assumptions and conventions by which neuroscientists squeeze the complexity of crime and violence into the violent brain model. [Extracted from the article]

This paper proposed phytoliths as promising for identifying and distinguishing sources of fibre in Chinese handmade papers. For an initial methodological exploration, two types of Raw Xuan (unprocessed Xuan paper) and the two plant materials used in making them—namely rice straw and bark from blue sandalwood (Pteroceltis tatarinowii Maxim.)—were collected. The dry ashing method was used to extract phytoliths from Raw Xuan and its plant materials. The results can be summarized as follows. First, phytoliths characteristic of rice (Oryza sativa) were abundant in both rice straw and Raw Xuan. By looking for rice phytoliths, it is possible to tell whether or not rice straw fibre is used in a particular paper. Second, hair cell phytoliths were observed in considerable quantities in blue sandalwood bark, but absent in the examined papers. Heat experiments showed that phytoliths in blue sandalwood were resistant to long-term heat and they would unlikely be eliminated when exposed to the heat in papermaking (with heat source barely above 200°C). It is hypothesised that they dissolved while cooked in an alkaline pH (limewater). Further studies are necessary to understand whether phytoliths in blue sandalwood—while cooked in limewater—undergo morphological changes and, if yes, how. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out in an attempt to evaluate the impact of Broussonetia papyrifera as a roughage substitute at different levels on carcase traits, growth performance, meat quality and immune performance in Hu ram lambs. Sixty Hu rams (5 months of age, 26.70 ± 2.14 kg body weight) were randomly divided into four groups. The treatments comprised B. papyrifera supplementation at levels of 0% (G0), 30% (G30), 60% (G60) and 100% (G100) of roughage feed. The results suggested that diet supplemented with B. papyrifera (G100 group) caused a higher average weight gain (AWG) and average daily gain (ADG) than those of G0 group. The highest carcase weight was observed in the G60 group. The chemical and physical properties of the longissimus dorsi muscle of Hu rams showed no significant differences (p>.05). For fatty acid, the G60 group had significantly lower content of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), higher contents of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and higher PUFA/SFA ratio than other groups (p<.05). In terms of the immune response, G60 and G100 groups significantly showed a significant rise in the immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) (p<.05). This study indicated multiple beneficial effects of the inclusion of B. papyrifera (60% of the roughage feed) on the growth performance, carcase traits, meat quality and immune response in Hu rams. It could be used as a high-quality unconventional feedstuff for rams. The addition of Broussonetia papyrifera to the diet resulted in a significant improvement in the average weight gain (AWG) and average daily gain (ADG) of Hu rams. Adding appropriate proportion of B. papyrifera in diets positively modulates fatty acid percentage in the longissimus dorsi muscle, and also increases immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) in blood. Broussonetia papyrifera could be used as a high-quality unconventional feedstuff for rams and has a positive effect on their growth performance, meat quality and immune performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dassieu and colleagues conducted a qualitative study examining the impact of the opioid epidemic on 22 individuals living with chronic pain, who, in 2019, were taking opioids for pain, had taken them in the past, or had never used them. Public coverage of the opioid epidemic could provide a more balanced portrayal of opioid use in people with chronic pain and make an effort to destigmatize the legitimate use of opioids for chronic pain.[7] In the span of a few years, the landscape has begun to change for the better for most people taking opioids for chronic pain. The backlash[[8], [10]] that occurred in response to the 2016 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain and the 2017 Canadian "Guideline for Opioid Therapy and Chronic Non-Cancer Pain"[2] has resulted in a sober second look at the damage done to people taking opioids for chronic pain. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: Children's perspectives in the context of health service delivery have historically been seen as unimportant. They have been viewed as unintelligent, unable to effectively share or tell of their experiences or fully participate in their care, potentially resulting in a sense of dehumanisation. Method: The present paper illustrates children's experiences when undergoing medical procedures, using application of the eight dimensions of humanised care theoretical framework. Results: Findings from six published papers were reflectively interrogated to identify implicit findings related to the dimensions of humanised care. These implicit findings show ways of caring for childrenwhichcan lead to enhanced human sensitivity in care or conversely where the dimensions of being human are obscured to greater or lesser degrees and can result in forms of dehumanisation. Conclusions: Inadvertent dehumanising features of practice can be mediated by encouraging the inclusion of children's own lifeworld perspective and make room for their voices in both care and research. In this way the present well documented power imbalance could be addressed. Adding the value of the theoretical framework highlights areas of need for young children to be cared for as human beings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carprofen (CAR) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used to treat various musculoskeletal diseases and infections in food animals. While CAR residues in food animal tissues caused by veterinary medicine abuse are a potential danger to human health. In this study, a high-affinity monoclonal antibody (mAb) against CAR was prepared, and then an immunochromatographic strip for rapidly screening CAR in bovine muscle was developed to help enforce regulatory compliance. The visual detection limit (cut-off value) by the naked eye of the fabricated test strip was 12.5 ng g−1. Scanning by the strip reader, the IC50 of the test strip was calculated as 1.743 ng g−1, and the limit of detection (LOD, IC10) was 0.283 ng g−1. The proposed method provided an efficient tool for monitoring CAR in bovine muscle. Meantime, our work suggested great potential for the analysis of CAR residues in other food matrixes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following deliberation by the Bart Rispens Research Award Committee, it is our pleasure to announce that the winner of the Bart Rispens Research Award for 2023, representing the best paper published in I Avian Pathology i in the years 2021 and 2022, is B Cameron Ellington b for the paper " B Characterization of Md5-BAC-REV-LTR virus as Marek's disease vaccine in commercial meat type chickens: protection and immunosuppression b " (Ellington I et al. i , [1]). Characterization of Md5-BAC-REV-LTR virus as Marek's disease vaccine in commercial meat-type chickens: protection and immunosuppression. The topic of the 2023 winning paper is especially relevant given Bart Rispens' development of the Marek's disease vaccine strain CVI-988 (or "Rispen(s) vaccine"). [Extracted from the article]

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life in Europe and globally. The pandemic affects both individuals and the broader society across many domains, including physical and psychological health, the economy and general welfare. The measures taken to counteract the pandemic have significantly altered daily life and, along with the threat of contracting the coronavirus and uncertainties surrounding future developments, created a complex system of stressors with a negative impact on public mental health. This paper aims to outline the ESTSS strategy to address mental health issues related to COVID-19 and focuses on (1) trauma-informed policies, (2) capacity building, (3) collaborative research and (4) knowledge-exchange. To facilitate implementation of a trauma-informed approach and appropriate measures, ESTSS has developed a toolkit of recommendations on mental health and psychosocial assistance to be provided during the different phases of crisis and its aftermath. To promote capacity building, ESTSS offers a certification programme based on a curriculum in psychotraumatology and corresponding on-line training to the European community of mental health professionals. To assure evidence-based approaches and methods tailored to current circumstances, ESTSS has initiated a pan-European research project with international cooperation aimed at studying the mental health consequences of the pandemic, with a focus on psychological trauma and other stress-related reactions. To foster knowledge-exchange, the European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT), the official journal of ESTSS, is publishing a special issue on COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing fascination of sport in society and the increasing availability of sport-related data, there are great opportunities to carry out sports analytics research. In this article, we discuss some of the issues that are relevant to publishing in the field of sports analytics. Potential publication outlets are identified, some summary statistics are given, and some experiences and opinions are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal predictive rule is the conditional response function Graph HT ht . Start with a set of I n i training samples, and divide them into I K i evenly sized and non-overlapping folds Graph HT ht . We have access to a stream independent and identically distributed samples Graph HT ht with Graph HT ht and Graph HT ht . [Extracted from the article]

This study investigates the ability of cellulose filter paper coated with silver nanoparticles to removeEscherichia colifrom drinking water. The cellulose filter paper was coated with silver nanoparticles by a chemical reduction method using two different ratios of sodium borohydride and silver nitrate. In consideration of drinking-water quality standards and non-carcinogenic health risks, the optimum sodium borohydride:silver nitrate ratio for coating the cellulose filter paper was determined by comparing the silver in the effluent afterE. coliremoval. For both ratios, 100%E. coliremoval was realised. In terms of the silver in the effluent, only the first two lowest concentrations for both ratios of sodium borohydride and silver nitrate were compliant with the drinking-water quality standards, demonstrating hazard quotients (HQs) between 0.084 and 0.484. On the basis of the highest level ofE. coliremoval with the lowest HQ value, the optimum sodium borohydride:silver nitrate ratio for coating the cellulose filter paper as an antibacterial water filter was 2:1 molar ratio (0.002 M:0.001 M). Silver nanoparticle-coated cellulose filter paper was found to be an inexpensive and easy-to-use emergency antibacterial water filter to generate clean drinking water. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]