bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Narratives of Surviving and Restoration: “Here I Am a Total Llanera Woman”
Authors: Lugo Victoria , Gilligan Carol
Published: November 2018

This article is about survival and resistance in the context of armed conflicts, such as the one in Colombia. The story of Anna, a “Total Llanera woman” was constructed during the inquiry “Narratives of Surviving and Restoration” conducted in Manizales, Colombia. Working within a socioconstructionist framework and with narrative therapy assumptions, the inquiry was designed to comprehend the survival process of people affected by the armed conflict, through a narrative and action research process. The story of Anna was analyzed using the Listening Guide Method, which intended to offer a way of tuning into the polyphonic voice of another person. The voices identified were enduring, caring, fighting, and what’s not right. The article presents the analysis of each voice and also the movement, the tensions, the harmonies and the dissonances between the different voices.
Interoperability strategies for GASPI and MPI in large-scale scientific applications
Authors: Simmendinger Christian , Iakymchuk Roman , Cebamanos Luis , Akhmetova Dana , Bartsch Valeria , Rotaru Tiberiu , Rahn Mirko , Laure Erwin , Markidis Stefano
Published: November 2018

One of the main hurdles of partitioned global address space (PGAS) approaches is the dominance of message passing interface (MPI), which as a de facto standard appears in the code basis of many applications. To take advantage of the PGAS APIs like global address space programming interface (GASPI) without a major change in the code basis, interoperability between MPI and PGAS approaches needs to be ensured. In this article, we consider an interoperable GASPI/MPI implementation for the communication/performance crucial parts of the Ludwig and iPIC3D applications. To address the discovered performance limitations, we develop a novel strategy for significantly improved performance and interoperability between both APIs by leveraging GASPI shared windows and shared notifications. First results with a corresponding implementation in the MiniGhost proxy application and the Allreduce collective operation demonstrate the viability of this approach.
Even Old Dogs Can Teach New Tricks: Digital Advertising Assignments That Keep Pace With Industry Change
Authors: Lemon Ann , Doll-Myers Summer
Published: November 2018

Digital advertising now surpasses all other forms of advertising in media spend. The fast-paced evolution of new forms of advertising can be challenging for academics to adapt for classroom use, assignments, and projects. It is essential that advertising students graduate with appropriate knowledge of these new forms. The article outlines five assignments for advertising creative development that are easily adapted to help students create relevant, interesting digital content and grasp key concepts in industry standard new media.
Incidence of perianaesthetic complications experienced during feline bronchoscopy: a retrospective study
Authors: Tucker Philippa K , MacFarlane Paul
Published: November 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to report the incidence of anaesthetic complications associated with feline bronchoscopy.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of anaesthetic records and electronic case logs of feline bronchoscopies at two university hospitals (centres B and L) between January 2013 and December 2015. A two-tailed Fisher’s exact test was used for comparison of variables and outcomes between centres.

Results

Seventy-nine cases were included. Desaturation (SpO2 <90%) was the most frequently encountered complication, reported in 24 cats (30.3%); centre B reported significantly less desaturation than centre L (22.4% vs 52.4%; P = 0.014). The use of an endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask airway resulted in a lower incidence of desaturation (22.9% vs 22.2%) than the use of a tracheal catheter through which oxygen was insufflated (48.0%). The latter method was associated with an increased incidence of desaturation ( P = 0.034). Patients to which terbutaline was administered had a lower incidence of desaturation (27.5%) than those that did not receive it (35.7%), although this was not statistically significant ( P = 0.46). Airway management method and the use of terbutaline differed significantly between centres, as did the profile of complications. Pneumothorax was encountered in two cats (2.5%) and cardiac arrest resulting in the death in one of these cats (1.3%).

Conclusions and relevance

Desaturation is a frequently encountered complication during and after bronchoscopy. Airway management method and the use and timing of terbutaline warrant prospective evaluation for their role in decreasing the incidence of desaturation. Bronchoscopy is a high-risk procedure with frequent requirement for post-procedure oxygen supplementation. Pneumothorax and cardiac arrest are potential complications.
Approach to the Assessment and Management of Adult Patients With Atopic Dermatitis: A Consensus Document. Section I: Pathophysiology of Atopic Dermatitis and Implications for Systemic Therapy
Authors: Kirchhof Mark G. , Landells Ian , Lynde Chuck W. , Gooderham Melinda J. , Hong Chih-ho
Published: November 2018

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing, and remitting inflammatory skin disease whose onset typically occurs early in life. AD pathophysiology includes genetic, immune, and environmental factors contributing to chronic inflammation. A rapidly evolving understanding of the pathogenesis of AD has led to the development of several treatment options for AD in adults, including topicals, phototherapy, and systemic therapies. Here, we provide a concise summary of AD pathophysiology with a focus on implications for systemic therapy.
What does the term ‘quality physical education’ mean for health and physical education teachers in Australian Capital Territory schools?
Authors: Williams John , Pill Shane
Published: November 2018

This research investigated what the term Quality Physical Education (QPE) meant to Health and Physical Education (HPE) teachers in Australian Capital Territory (ACT) schools. A total of 14 HPE teachers who taught middle school or above, representing government and independent schools, took part in focus group interviews about their understanding of QPE and the factors that influenced their constructs. Figurational sociology and the concepts of interdependence, habitus, and involvement and detachment, were used to inform the research and interpret the findings. It was found that teachers’ accounts of QPE were largely informed by their individual and collective experiences and their personal ‘philosophies’ of physical education. With the exception of a recently introduced national curriculum for HPE, the teachers in this study did not use, or refer to, any evidence-based documents in forming their ideas about QPE. Further, they did not mention any recognised pedagogical approaches that they used in teaching QPE. The findings from this research are important, because ‘everyday’ or common-sense teacher understandings can negatively impact student learning and threaten the status and credibility of our profession.
Obesity, stigma and reflexive embodiment: Feeling the ‘weight’ of expectation
Authors: Williams Oli , Annandale Ellen
Published: November 2018

The dominant obesity discourse which emphasises individual moral responsibility and lifestyle modification encourages weight-based stigma. Existing research overwhelmingly demonstrates that obesity stigma is an ineffective means by which to reduce the incidence of obesity and that it promotes weight-gain. However, the sensate experiences associated with the subjective experience of obesity stigma as a reflexively embodied phenomenon have been largely unexamined. This article addresses this knowledge gap by providing a phenomenological account. Data are derived from 11 months of ethnographic participant observation and semi-structured interviews with three single-sex weight-loss groups in England. Group members were predominantly overweight/obese and of low-socio-economic status. The analysis triangulates these two data sources to investigate what/how obesity stigma made group members feel. We find that obesity stigma confused participant’s objective and subjective experiences of their bodies. This was primarily evident on occasions when group members felt heavier after engaging in behaviours associated with weight-gain but this ‘weight’ did not register on the weighing scales. We conceptualise this as the weight of expectation which is taken as illustrative of the perpetual uncertainty and morality that characterises weight-management. In addition, we show that respondents ascribed their sensate experiences of physiological responses to exercise with moral and social significance. These carnal cues provided a sense of certainty and played an important role in attempts to negotiate obesity stigma. These findings deepen the understanding of how and why obesity stigma is an inappropriate and ineffective means of promoting weight-loss.
Closets and institutions: Queer teacher exclusion in the Israeli high school system
Authors: Amoor Izat El
Published: November 2018

Drawing on an analysis of 12 in-person qualitative interviews with queer, male, Israeli high school teachers, and Israeli queer social and political news stories, this study explores the intersection of queer teachers’ professional and personal sexual identities. The study contends that this intersection is one characterized by exclusion, particularly attributable to institutional homophobia and queer politics situated within the Israeli national regional ground. Utilizing queer and educational discourses regarding teacher identity and institutional homophobia, this article documents and reports on queer teachers’ resistance in the educational system and the navigation of the coming-out process in socio-politically complex Israel.
Risk Factors Associated with the Outcome of Post-Traumatic Hydrocephalus
Authors: Sun S. , Zhou H. , Ding Z.-Z. , Shi H.
Published: November 2018

Background and Aim:

Post-traumatic hydrocephalus is a common complication that arises after head injury. However, risk factors associated with the outcome of post-traumatic hydrocephalus have seldom been addressed. Therefore, we performed this clinical study to analyze the risk factors affecting the outcome of post-traumatic hydrocephalus in patients with head injuries.

Methods:

A total of 116 post-traumatic hydrocephalus patients, admitted in our hospital between March 2012 and October 2017 were reviewed. The related factors assessed were age, gender, Glasgow Coma Score on admission, platelet count, plasma fibrinogen levels, D-dimer concentration, subarachnoid hemorrhage, subdural hygroma, cerebral hernia, cisterna ambiens, decompressive craniectomy, cranioplasty, ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation, intracranial infection, and duration of comatous state. The patient outcomes after 6 months of treatment were evaluated by the Glasgow Outcome Scale. Risk factors for the outcome of post-traumatic hydrocephalus were evaluated by applying logistic regression analysis.

Results:

Poor outcome was observed in 66.4% of the patients (77/116). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the disappearance of cisterna ambiens, the long duration of comatous state (>2 months), the high levels of plasma fibrinogen, and the ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation were related to adverse outcomes (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The disappearance of cisterna ambiens, the prolonged duration of comatous state (>2 months), the high plasma fibrinogen levels are the most important factors affecting the outcome of post-traumatic hydrocephalus, and the ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation is the most critical predictor of the outcome of post-traumatic hydrocephalus.
Ultrasonic spot welding of dissimilar 2024Al alloy and SiCp/2009Al composite
Authors: Patel VK , Bhole SD , Chen DL , Ni DR , Xiao BL , Ma ZY
Published: November 2018

Dissimilar welding of 2024Al alloy to SiC/2009Al composite was conducted via solid-state ultrasonic spot welding technique. Defect-free sound spot welds were successfully achieved. SiCp particles were observed to migrate from the composite side to 2024Al side along with the interfacial interlocking during the intense high-frequency rubbing, which increased with increasing welding energy. The microhardness across the ultrasonic spot welded similar and dissimilar joints remained nearly constant. The tensile lap shear failure load increased with increasing welding energy, and satisfied the requirements of AWS standard D17.2 for spot welding. In addition to room temperature tensile lap shear tests, all the similar and dissimilar joints were subjected to tensile tests at varying temperatures and their respective results were discussed.
Protecting and extending Froebelian principles in practice: Exploring the importance of learning through play
Authors: Hoskins Kate , Smedley Sue
Published: November 2018

The current early years emphasis on ensuring young children achieve ‘school readiness’ has contributed to a context of academic pressure in early years settings in England. The debated term ‘school readiness’ is vaguely expressed in England’s early years curriculum as ‘Children reaching a good level of development in the prime areas of literacy and mathematics’. Opportunities for play, self-directed and adult initiated, are impacted by the academic pressures created by the English government’s demands for young children to achieve school readiness, which can dominate and determine the activities on offer in early years settings. The possibility to enact Froebelian approaches to learning, through child-initiated play, are further marginalized by the current early years policy agenda. A key issue relates to Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills), who judge settings primarily in relation to the quality of the academic environment provided and successful academic and developmental outcomes achieved by all children. In our recent research project, we sought to understand how much capacity early years practitioners perceived they had to enact Froebelian principles in their daily practice and the importance they attached to Froebel’s notion of learning through play. We interviewed 33 early years practitioners in six settings, working with preschool children aged between 2 and 4 years, about their understanding of Froebel’s concept of learning through play; the space, physical and temporal, they had to encourage and enable play; and the challenges of supporting children to learn through play. We explored the participants’ theoretical understandings of Froebel’s work and ideas in their education and training pathways. Our data highlight that many practitioners followed Froebel’s approach, but did not overtly name and identify their practice as Froebelian.
The effect of comorbidity severity on pulmonary rehabilitation outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients
Authors: Naz Ilknur , Sahin Hulya , Varol Yelda , Kömürcüoğlu Berna
Published: November 2018

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not only associated with respiratory system involvement but also with systemic consequences leading to chronic comorbidities. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of comorbidity severity on pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) outcomes in COPD patients. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to compare the effectiveness of PR in COPD patients who completed an 8-week PR program. There were at least one comorbid in 120 of 211 patients and we divided them into the groups according to Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) scores (1 points, group 1 ( n = 54); 2 points, group 2 ( n = 41); 3 points, group 3 ( n = 25)). We compared 6-minute walk distance (MWD), dyspnea perception, pulmonary function tests, blood gases analysis, quality of life, anxiety, and depression scores which were recorded before and after PR between the groups. Before PR 6-MWD distance was significantly lower in group 2 ( p = 0.033). Improvements in 6-MWD, blood gas values, dyspnea perception, quality of life, and anxiety were determined in all groups after PR ( p < 0.05). When the gains after PR were compared, there were no significant differences between groups ( p > 0.05). COPD patients benefit from PR independent from their comorbidity severity. Comorbidity severity has no effect on PR gains. Therefore, patients with comorbidities should not be excluded from PR programs and encouraged to participate.

Clinical Trial Number:

NCT03319108.
Minimally Invasive Aortobiilliofemoral Endarterectomy for Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease Is a Compelling Alternative to Bypass
Authors: Theriot Jared M. , Feldman Zach M. , Korayem Adam H. , Chander Rajiv K. , Finlay David J.
Published: November 2018

Introduction:

Aortobifemoral bypass is a time-honored, durable surgery allowing restoration of lower extremity blood. However, the potential for significant complications exists, impacting mortality, morbidity, and quality of life. Minimally invasive aortobiiliofemoral endarterectomy offers an alternative to prosthetic bypass and its associated complications. Here, we present a case series using remote endarterectomy for aortoiliac occlusive disease.

Methods:

Nine patients with aortoiliac occlusive disease were treated at a single institution, by a single surgeon, with direct and remote endarterectomy combination. Standard femoral access approach was used. A limited longitudinal distal aorta arteriotomy into the right common iliac artery to the hypogastric bifurcation was made. Then, an open thromboendarterectomy was performed. Circumferential common femoral endarterectomies were performed bilaterally and the plaque transected, allowing manually controlled Vollmar ring passage proximally to the iliac bifurcation on the right and the aortic bifurcation on the left. Aortoiliac arteriotomy was closed, followed by the femoral arteriotomies. Morbidity, secondary interventions, recurrent stenosis (adjacent segment velocity ratios ≥2), ankle–brachial index (ABI), and patency rates were tracked postoperatively for 6 years. Kaplan-Meier life-table analysis was used to determine patency rates per the criteria of SVS and ISCS.

Results:

The average age was 59.1 years (54-87 years), and 88% were male. Comorbidities included hypertension (75%), former/current smokers (100%), and prior PAD surgical intervention (38%). Revascularization of 100% was achieved, with average ABI improving from 0.42 preoperatively to 0.92 postoperatively (0.91 at 8-month follow-up). Six-year patency rate was 100% without reintervention. Incidence of myocardial infarction, stroke, death, amputation, intestinal ischemia, sexual dysfunction, and aneurysmal degeneration was zero after 6 years of follow-up.

Conclusion:

Minimally invasive aortobiiliofemoral endarterectomy is a viable alternative to aortobifemoral bypass for the treatment of aortoiliac occlusive disease, allowing reestablishment of normal anatomic anatomy while avoiding the use of prosthetic material. Patency rates in this series was 100% at 6 years, with minimal postoperative complications or morbidity.
Pore Size and Air Permeability of Four Nonwoven Fabrics
Authors: Epps Helen H. , Leonas Karen K.
Published: November 2018

The relationship between pore size and air permeability in two spunlaced fabrics and two spunbonded/meltblown/spunbonded (SMS) fabrics were investigated. Minimum, maximum and mean flow pore sizes were determined using liquid porosimetry. The influence of fabric weight and thickness on air permeability and pore sizes was also evaluated. For the spunlaced fabrics, air permeability was most highly correlated with mean flow pore size, while there was a significant correlation between air permeability and maximum pore size for the SMS fabrics. Liquid porosimetry is a useful technique in assessing pore sizes of nonwoven fabrics and can also aid in understanding the mechanism of air permeability.
Single Process Production of 3D Nonwoven Shell Structures — Part 1: Web Forming System Design Using CFD Modeling
Authors: Gong R.H. , Fang C. , Porat I.
Published: November 2018

The paper describes the application of CFD modeling for designing a nonwoven air-laying system to produce 3D webs from staple fibers. The fibers are opened by an opening unit and carried by airflow to 3D porous moulds to form the web. The most critical parameter of the air duct is the divergent angle that in theory should be less than 7o to avoid airflow vortex. The airflow angle to the surface of a 3D mould is different at different points. To produce a 3D web with acceptable thickness uniformity, the airflow through the moulds must be regulated. This can be achieved by modifying the airflow resistance distribution through the 3D mould.
Studies on the Process of Ultrasonic Bonding of Nonwovens: Part 2: Experiments and Results
Authors: Mao Zhentao , Goswami Bhuvenesh C.
Published: November 2018

Bicomponent PET fibers and a spunbonded PET fabric were used for the experimental studies of the ultrasonic bonding process. There were five different bonding process settings and they were grouped as the speed and pressure groups. From calculations the highest heat generation rate was found to be in the middle of the bonding positions. The rate of temperature rise was also found to be the highest in the middle of the bonding positions. The calculated temperature results were found to be close to the experimental measurements. For the speed group settings the slower speed resulted in fabrics that were stiffer, and stronger, and the degree of bonding was also higher. The middle speed setting produced the fabrics with the highest elongation. For the pressure group settings the higher pressure resulted in making fabrics stiffer, and stronger, and the degree of bonding was also higher. But for elongation the middle speed setting resulted in the highest value. The SEM micrographs of the cross-section of fabrics made with different settings showed that the degrees of bonding of fabrics were correlated with temperature changes and the processing conditions.
Role of Fiber Finish in the Conversion of Fiber to Nonwovens Part 3: Finish Performance as a Mechanical Processing Aid in Needlepunching
Authors: Seyam Abdelfattah M. , Proffitt Thomas J. , Velmurugan Murali
Published: November 2018

This part of the study aims to investigate the role of fiber finish during processing on the needlepunching machine. Certain key response parameters like dynamic needling forces and needlepunched fabric properties are analyzed for any possible effect of finish level and its uniformity on these responses. The experiments were performed using polyester and polypropylene, two of the most commonly used fibers in needlepunched products, to investigate the difference response due to fiber type. While the results published in Part 2 of this study showed that finish uniformity fail to show any effect on carding processability, it was found to have a significant effect on needlepunching forces and needled fabric properties.
Transport Properties of Electrospun Nonwoven Membranes
Authors: Schreuder-Gibson Heidi L. , Gibson Phil , Hsieh You-Lo
Published: November 2018

Recently measured transport properties of electrospun materials have shown that the microporosity present in electrospun membranes enables exceptional breathability with accompanying wind resistance. Recently prepared elastomeric polyurethane nonwovens have been prepared with and without crosslinking after fiber formation. The effect of crosslinking on microstructure, wettability and liquid retention, as well as transport properties, has been studied.
A Comparison of Needlepunch Nonwoven Fabrics Made from Poly(trimethylene terephthalate) and Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Staple Fibers
Authors: Carson Ian G. , Centre Monnet
Published: November 2018

Following the recent commercial availability of this polymer, needlepunch nonwovens have been prepared from staple fiber made from poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) and an analogous conventional polyester. After carding and cross-lapping, the web was consolidated to about 90 g/m2 by several passes through a 1 metre wide pilot machine. The webs were characterised for fiber structure, stiffness, strength and recovery from both compression and extension, the latter after both a single and multiple elongations. The PTT fabrics are softer than those from PET as shown in e.g. drape and flexural rigidity, and show similar or higher tensile strengths. The fabrics are difficult to distinguish in either compressive or tensile recovery tests, perhaps because elongation causes unravelling of the entanglements, rather than being dependant on the elasticity of the fibers.
Device for Measuring Sliding Friction on Highloft Nonwovens
Authors: Michielsen Stephen
Published: November 2018

When measuring the sliding friction on highly compliant materials such as fabric batting and foam rubber, a substantial portion of the apparent friction is due to the deformation of the substrate. A new friction instrument consisting of a sled within a sled has been developed that eliminates the contribution of this deformation and provides the true sliding friction, as well as the force required to deform the substrate. The friction coefficient as measured using a conventional steel sled sliding on high loft polyester batts increased as the number of polyester batts increased. Using the new, guarded friction sled, the friction coefficient was independent of the number of supporting batts, thus separating the deformation forces from the sliding forces.
Influence of process Conditions on Melt Blown Web Structure. Part IV - Fiber Diameter
Authors: Bresee Randall R. , Qureshi Uzair A.
Published: November 2018

We are continuing an effort to quantitatively measure the influence of processing variables on the structure of polypropylene melt blown webs. In this paper, we report experimental measurements of the influence of die-to-collector distance, primary airflow rate, die temperature, collector speed and resin throughput rate on the diameter of fibers in fully-formed webs. This enabled us to quantitatively compare the influence of these processing variables on fiber diameter as well as to achieve greater understanding of the melt blowing process.
Polyether Based Thermoplastic Polyurethane Melt Blown Nonwovens
Authors: Zapletalova Terezie , Michielsen Stephen , Pourdeyhimi Behnam
Published: November 2018

A series of melt blown samples were produced from three hardness grades of ether based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPU). The fabrics were tested to investigate their structure-property relationship in a melt blown process. Solution viscosities of the web were only 20–26% of there original values indicating a large loss in polymer molecular weight during melt blowing. Fiber diameter distributions measured on melt blown samples were found comparable to those made with more conventional polymers. The fiber orientation distribution functions (ODF) suggest slight fiber orientation in machine direction. Tensile and elongation properties depended on die-to-collector distance (DCD), polymer hardness and fiber ODF. A strong relationship between the tensile strength and die-to-collector distance was identified and attributed to reduced interfiber adhesion in the web with increasing DCD. The reduction in adhesion was attributed to greater extents of solidification before reaching the forming belt for longer DCDs. This paper is the first in a series relating the influence of the melt blowing process parameters on the polymer properties and the nonwoven fabric properties for block thermoplastic elastomers.
Designing Nonwovens to Meet Pore Size Specifications
Authors: Simmonds Glen E. , Bomberger John D. , Bryner Michael A.
Published: November 2018

New nonwovens applications in areas such as filtration require a media designed to particular pore size specifications in the 3 to 20 micron range. The purpose of this work was to develop a basis by which to design and construct a fabric with given pore size specifications. While doing so we have provided a validation for two different mathematical models. We have also found that bicomponent spunbonded islands-in-the-sea nonwoven fabrics can be designed very precisely to achieve target pore diameters and porosity. Mathematical models can be used to develop fabric specifications in the standard manufacturing terms of basis weight and fiber diameter. Measured mean flow pore diameters for the test fabrics showed excellent correlation to targeted mean flow pore diameters for both models. The experimental fit to the Bryner model is the better of the two, but requires specification of fabric thickness in addition to basis weight and fiber diameter to achieve actual mean pore diameters that closely match target values. Experimental validation of the influence of fabric thickness on the mean flow pore diameter at constant basis weight and fiber diameter remains open for further investigation. In addition, achieving complete separation of the island and sea polymers along with unbundling of the island fibers remain areas for improvement.
Strength Optimization of Thermally Bonded Spunbond Nonwovens
Authors: Fedorova Nataliya , Verenich Svetlana , Pourdeyhimi Behnam
Published: November 2018

Recent research on all aspects of thermally point bonded nonwovens has led to considerable improvements in the understanding of material requirements for these nonwovens, the changes that occur during bonding and the resultant deterioration of the mechanical properties of the nonwoven materials. This paper addresses how one may use a bicomponent fiber technology to overcome the shortcomings of the thermal bonding and obtain high strength spunbond fabrics. In particular, we present the utility of islands-in-the-sea (I/S) bicomponent fibers for optimizing the strength of thermally bonded fabrics. To examine the role of various bonding temperatures on the fabric performance, pre-consolidated webs were formed and subsequently, thermally bonded. Thus, any influence introduced by potential variations in the structure was minimized. Point-bonded bicomponent samples made up of nylon-6 (N6) as the islands and low density polyethylene (PE) as the sea showed great promise with respect to their mechanical properties, suggesting that the use of bicomponent fibers can be beneficial for strength optimization of thermally bonded spunbond nonwovens.
Application of Nanofiber Technology to Nonwoven Thermal Insulation
Authors: Gibson Phillip W. , Lee Calvin , Ko Frank , Reneker Darrell
Published: November 2018

Nanofiber technology (fiber diameter less than 1 micrometer) is under development for future Army lightweight protective clothing systems. Nanofiber applications for ballistic and chemical/biological protection are being actively investigated, but the thermal properties of nanofibers and their potential protection against cold environments are relatively unknown. Previous studies have shown that radiative heat transfer in fibrous battings is minimized at fiber diameters between 5 and 10 micrometers. However, the radiative heat transfer mechanism of extremely small diameter fibers of less than 1 micrometer diameter is not well known. Previous studies were limited to glass fibers, which have a unique set of thermal radiation properties governed by the thermal emissivity properties of glass. We are investigating the thermal transfer properties of high loft nanofiber battings composed of carbon fiber and various polymeric fibers such as polyacrylonitrile, nylon, and polyurethane. Thermal insulation battings incorporating nanofibers could decrease the weight and bulk of current thermal protective clothing, and increase mobility for soldiers in the battlefield.
Characterization of Fibers Produced from Blends of Polybutylene and Polypropylene
Authors: Shambaugh Robert L. , Ortiz Diana L.
Published: November 2018

Blends of polybutylene (PB-1) and polypropylene were used to produce fibers at spinning speeds of 800–2100 m/min. Concentrations ranged from 0% PP to 100% PP. The stress-strain behavior of the resultant fibers was examined, and the fibers were analyzed for crystallinity via DSC (differential scanning calorimetry). Fibers produced from blends of PB-1/PP show mechanical properties that are in between the properties of the pure polymers. The tensile strength of 50% PB-1 fibers is comparable to the tensile strength of pure PP fibers. Fibers produced from blend compositions of 25 and 75% have higher tensile strengths than pure PP fibers, although these blend compositions have lower tensile strengths than pure PB fibers.
Antimicrobial Polymeric Materials; Cellulose and m-Aramid Composite Fibers
Authors: Lee Jaewoong , Broughton R. M. , Worley S. D. , Huang T. S.
Published: November 2018

Cellulose and m-aramid were dissolved in an ionic liquid, and dry-jet wet spinning was employed to prepare composite fibers which could be rendered antimicrobial through exposure to chlorine bleach. The small domains of the m-aramid allowed a much higher accessibility and degree of chlorination than has been reported even for 100% m-aramid fibers. The mechanical properties including denier, tenacity, and strain at break were evaluated. The chlorinated composite fiber inactivated both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The antimicrobial activity was retained after repeated washing and recharging.
Relative Performance of Lockstitch and Chainstitch at the Seat Seam of Military Trouser
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Arunangshu
Published: November 2018

An experimental investigation of the effect of two different type of stitches viz., lockstitch and chainstitch at the seat seam of trouser for military armed forces has been reported. Performance of chainstitched seam is found to be much better as regards lower value of force at low level of strain, higher value of force at break, strain at break and work of rapture. In general with the change in thread linear density, greater improvement in seam strength, seam strain at break and work up to fracture are obtained in case of chainstitched seam. On laundering, in general force at small strain and force at break increases, the change being more in case of lockstitched fabric. However, strain at break decrease marginally on laundering in case of both the stitches.
Warp Breaks Detection in Jacquard Weaving using MEMS: Effect of Weave on Break Signals
Authors: Lee Jin H. , Mohamed Seyam Abdelfattah , Hodge George , Oxenham William , Grant Edward
Published: November 2018

This paper reports a study to detect warp breaks in terms of weave structure using MEMS accelerometer based detection system. The system is briefly described. The output signals of MEMS sensors, which were mounted on harness cords of a Jacquard machine, at the moment of warp yarn break and after the break for a broad range of basic weaves were acquired during weaving. The weaves investigated are commonly used in Jacquard weaving to form patterns. The strength of the MEMS output acceleration signals was analyzed in time domain. The results show that the system is capable of detecting warp yarn breaks for the broad range of weaves studied.
Use of Ultrasonic Sensors for Characterization of Membrane Fouling and Cleaning
Authors: Kujundzic Elmira , Cobry Keith , Greenberg Alan R. , Hernandez Mark
Published: November 2018

The modern challenges for membrane separations in a wide range of processes require more sophisticated approaches for the detection and remediation of fouling, i.e., the association of solutes, particulate matter, and colloids on and/or within a membrane. Most commonly, fouling is assessed from inferred measurements of permeation rate and/or permeate quality. The use of acoustic techniques for direct observations of membrane fouling was introduced over 10 years ago. We summarize here, recent developments in ultrasonic reflectometry that use both time-domain and frequency-domain spectra for noninvasive, real-time assessments of fouling in a variety of module configurations and geometries. In addition, we describe recent developments and applications of scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) for post-mortem characterization of membranes with particular emphasis on biofouling.
Modeling Heat and Mass Transfer from Fabric-Covered Cylinders
Authors: Gibson Phillip
Published: November 2018

Fabric-covered cylinders are convenient analogs for clothing systems. The geometry is well defined and includes many of the effects that are important in garments. Fabric-covered cylinder models are used in conjunction with laboratory measurements of material properties to calculate heat and mass transfer properties of clothing under specific conditions of environmental wind speed, temperature, and relative humidity.
Tensile Behavior of Low Density Thermally Bonded Nonwoven Material
Authors: Hou Xiaonan , Acar Memiş , Silberschmidt Vadim V.
Published: November 2018

A discontinuous and non-uniform microstructure of a low-density thermally bonded nonwoven material displays in a complicated and unstable tensile behavior. This paper reports uniaxial tensile tests of a low density thermally bonded nonwoven to investigate the effect of the specimen size and shape factor, as well as the cyclic tensile loading conditions employed to investigate the deformational behavior and performance of the nonwoven at different loading stages. The experimental data are compared with results of microscopic image analysis and FE models.
Relationship between Yarn Properties and Process Parameters in False-Twist Textured Yarn
Authors: Yildirim Kenan , Altun Sule , Ulcay Yusuf
Published: November 2018

The properties of false-twist textured yarns in the aspects of crimp characteristic and tensile behavior depend mainly on the draw ratio and the D/Y ratio. This study comprises investigations of the effect of D/Y ratio and draw ratio on the crimp and tensile properties and percent crystallinity. While there was no noticeable change on the percent crystallinity by altering these parameters, tenacity increased and crimp contraction decreased with increasing draw ratio, and crimp stability decreased when the D/Y ratio increased. K/S value also decreased with increasing draw ratio.
Intumescent Biobased-Polylactide Films to Flame Retard Nonwovens
Authors: Reti Christelle , Casetta Mathilde , Duquesne Sophie , Delobel René , Soulestin Jérémie , Bourbigot Serge
Published: November 2018

The work focuses on the development of a new process to flame retard nonwovens, using films based on renewable resources. Films consist in intumescent formulations of polylactic acid (PLA), ammonium polyphosphate (APP) blended with lignin or starch and are coated on hemp or wool nonwovens. The objective of this study was to investigate the fire retardant and mechanical properties of textiles protected by FR PLA films for potential use in building applications. Horizontal and vertical flame spread tests as well as cone calorimetry tests show that flammability properties of nonwovens are significantly improved. Better mechanical properties are also obtained with coated nonwovens.
Characterization by Mercury Porosimetry of Nonwoven Fiber Media with Deformation
Authors: Rutledge Gregory C. , Lowery Joseph L. , Pai Chia-Ling
Published: November 2018

The porosity and pore diameter distribution are important characteristics of nonwoven fiber media. With the advent of electrospinning, the production of mats of nonwoven fibrous materials with fiber diameters in the 0.1–10 μm range has become more prevalent. The large compliance of these mats makes them susceptible to mechanical deformation under the pressures attained in a typical mercury porosimetry experiment. We report a theoretical analysis of the liquid volume measured during liquid intrusion porosimetry in the presence of deformation of such mats by one of two modes: buckling of the pores or elastic compression of the mat. For electrospun mats of poly(ε-caprolactone) with average fiber diameters ranging from 2.49 to 18.0 μm, we find that buckling is the more relevant mode of deformation, and that it can alter significantly the determination of pore diameter distributions measured by mercury porosimetry.
Effect of Fibre Properties on Flocculation and Fractionation of Cellulosic Fibres in Dry State
Authors: Larkomaa Jaakko , Niinimäki Jouko , Honkanen Markus , Hanif Muhammad , Saarenrinne Pentti
Published: November 2018

This paper investigates a fractionation method of cellulosic fibres in dry state. Although processing of cellulosic fibres in airstream has been utilised for decades in airlaid processes, no attempts to fractionate fibres in dry state have been reported. Our main goal is to determine how fibre properties and fibre consistency affect fibre flocculation and thus the behaviour of fibres in fractionation. Also evaluations of quality and capacity of fractionation operation are made. Pulp flocculation behaviour is measured with digital imaging and image recognition technique before and after the fractionation device. A doubleview, orthogonal imaging approach is applied obtaining statistics of three-dimensional shape, dimensions and coordinates of detected fibre flocs. Fraction and fibre properties are determined with Metso Fractionator and Metso Fiberlab. Results show that fibre behaviour in a given system strongly depends on the pulp properties. Flocculation was found to be strongly dependent on fibre consistency. Evaluation of fractionation operation was done with help of calculations of mass-reject rates and separation efficiencies. Calculations showed that highest separation efficiencies can be achieved with system when mass-reject rate is between 0.30 and 0.40.
Influence of Hydration State on Permeation Testing and Vapor Transport Properties of Protective Clothing Layers
Authors: Gibson Phillip W. , Schreuder-Gibson Heidi L.
Published: November 2018

Protective clothing systems composed of permselective polymer film laminates are an alternative to standard air-permeable garments based on activated carbon. These polymer layers are designed with high water vapor permeation rates and low permeation of chemical warfare agents. Polymer films that have a significant water vapor flux usually also have an affinity for water, and will hydrate and swell significantly at high humidity levels. The polymer film's increase in water content has the potential to affect the transport rate of chemical warfare agents in vapor and liquid form, and usually also has a large effect on the intrinsic water vapor permeability of the membrane.
Development of Textile Laminates for Improved Cut Resistance
Authors: Thilagavathi G. , Rajendrakumar K. , Kannaian T.
Published: November 2018

Fiber structures, yarn structures, and mechanical properties of fibers namely tensile modulus, tenacity, and elongation, are the key performance indicators of fabric cut resistance. p-aramid and UHDPE (Ultra High Density Polyethylene) based high performance fibers are most commonly used for protection against mechanical risks. Specially engineered composite yarns and fabrics enhance cut resistance. This paper discusses the influence of textile structure configuration on the performance of cut resistant textiles. A three tier laminate composite was made using knitted Kevlar fabric, (p-aramid) as the outer surface, polyurethane foam in the middle and a knitted nylon fabric as the skin contact layer. This specially engineered laminate showed a 20% increase in cut resistance when compared with the Kevlar fabric used for lamination. The combination of breathable PU foam and knitted fabric yielded high stretch with improved breathability and dexterity.
New Approach for Determining Tortuosity in Fibrous Porous Media
Authors: Vallabh Rahul , Banks-Lee Pamela , Seyam Abdel-Fattah
Published: November 2018

A method to determine tortuosity in a fibrous porous medium is proposed. A new approach for sample preparation and testing has been followed to establish a relationship between air permeability and fiberweb thickness which formed the basis for the determination of tortuosity in fibrous porous media. An empirical relationship between tortuosity and fiberweb structural properties including porosity, fiber diameter and fiberweb thickness has been proposed unlike the models in the literature which have expressed tortuosity as a function of porosity only. Transverse air flow through a fibrous porous media increasingly becomes less tortuous with increasing porosity, with the value of tortuosity approaching 1 at upper limits of porosity. Tortuosity also decreased with increase in fiber diameter whereas increase in fiberweb thickness resulted in the increase in tortuosity within the range of fiberweb thickness tested.
Applying Artificial Neural Networks to Total Hand Evaluation of Disposable Diapers
Authors: Yaman Necla , Şenol Fikri M , Gurkan Pelin
Published: November 2018

The objective hand measurement and also handle of the materials used for disposable diapers has been looked into, with consideration given the aspects of both dermatitis and comfort. In this work, we tried to predict the handle of disposable diapers by their physical properties using a back-propagation network and a stepwise regression. Handle properties of diapers were measured by universal test equipment and hand values of the fabrics were determined by a group of panelists consisting of some textile experts. The optimum construction of neural network was investigated through the change of layer and neuron number. The results showed that the back-propagation network could predict the hand values of disposable diapers with a meaningful difference. These disposable diapers were used to show that the results of neural network were in good agreement with subjective test results.
Preparation of Solid and Hollow Asphaltene Fibers by Single Step Electrospinning
Authors: Natarajan Anand , Mahavadi Sharath C. , Natarajan Tirupattur S. , Masliyah Jacob H. , Xu Zhenghe
Published: November 2018

Electrospinning has been used to produce micrometer size fibers, both solid and hollow from non-covalently associating small molecules of a low grade hydrocarbon reject of crude oil, asphaltene. Asphaltene defined as a solubility class of crude oil is by no means a polymer but relatively large organic molecule of molecular weight ranging from 500 to 1000 Dalton. The production of asphaltene fibers is feasible by electrospinning because of its unique molecular structure which allows molecular aggregation. Fibers with diameter ranging from 2–20 μm were successfully spun from an asphaltene in toluene solution. Adding 2% hydrogen peroxide enhances electrospinning, leading to formation of hollow fibers, whereas adding 2% water inhibits electrospinning. The structure and morphology of the electrospun fibers were investigated with optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy. The electrospun asphaltene fibers offer the potential for direct fabrication of membranes without use of multiple synthetic steps, complex electrospinning designs, or post processing surface treatments.
On the Pressure Behavior of Tubular Weft Knitted Fabrics Constructed from Textured Polyester Yarns
Authors: Maleki Homa , Aghajani Marzie , Sadeghi A.H. , Jeddi Ali Asghar Asgharian
Published: November 2018

This study attempts to investigate the pressure behavior of tubular knitted fabrics after a long period of time. For this purpose, two kinds of knitted fabric (plain and interlock) with various stitch lengths were chosen and the interfacial pressure and pressure reduction of fabrics after 48 hours were analyzed at different strain percents. The same tests were performed on the same specimens after repeated washing and repeated usage. Finally, the experimental pressure values were compared with the theoretical results obtained from Laplace's law. The results reveal that the stitch length and strain percent are important factors affecting the interfacial pressure and pressure reduction of both plain and interlock fabrics. As the results of statistical analysis, the repeated washing and repeated usage have significant effect on interfacial pressure and pressure reduction of both fabrics. The comparison between experimental pressure values and theoretical values calculated from Laplace's law shows a considerable difference in both plain and interlock fabrics.