bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Fibre Treatment on the Characteristics of Buriti and Ramie Polyester Composites
Authors: Lavoratti Alessandra , Romanzini Daiane , Amico Sandro C. , Zattera Ademir J.
Published: September 2018

Natural fibres have recently attracted interest due to their beneficial characteristics such as low cost and biodegradability. This work aims to characterise in natura, washed and alkali-treated buriti and ramie fibres and to evaluate the influence of the chemical treatments in the mechanical and dynamic mechanical performances of their composites produced by resin transfer moulding (RTM). Fibres were cut to 45 mm in length, washed in distilled water and treated with 2, 5 and 10 wt.% sodium hydroxide solutions. The chemical composition of the washed fibres was not altered. The 2 wt.% NaOH solution increased the flexural strength of polyester/ramie composites by 70%, and improved the impact performance of the alkali-treated polyester/buriti composites. The polyester/ramie composites exhibited superior dynamic mechanical properties and better adhesion at the fibre/matrix interface, and the morphology of buriti limited the fibre wettability during the RTM processing.
Cellulose Nanofibers-Graphene Nanoplatelets Hybrids Nanofillers as High-Performance Multifunctional Reinforcements in Epoxy Composites
Authors: Nuruddin Md. , Hosur Mahesh , Gupta Raju , Hosur Gaurav , Tcherbi-Narteh Alfred , Jeelani Shaik
Published: September 2018

The objective of this study was to fabricate epoxy polymer composites modified with cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) binary filler materials. Individual (0.2 wt.% GNPs or 2 wt.% CNFs) and binary nanofillers (mixture of 0.5 wt.% CNFs and 0.1% GNPs) were incorporated into an epoxy matrix system to investigate the synergistic effect of nanofillers on composites properties. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and three point bend tests were carried out to investigate the viscoelastic and flexural properties of neat epoxy and nanofiller-reinforced nanocomposites. Incorporation of binary nanofillers resulted in better flexure strength, modulus and storage modulus although there was no significance change in glass transition temperature (Tg). FTIR analysis was carried out to study the probable reaction mechanism of epoxy polymer with binary nanofillers. SEM images of the fracture surface of the samples revealed rougher failure surfaces for nanophased samples.
UV Effects on the Tensile and Creep Behaviour of HDPE
Authors: Becerra A.F.C. , d'Almeida J.R.M.
Published: September 2018

The tensile and creep behaviour of a high-density polyethylene grade used to manufacture pipes were evaluated as a function of the time of exposure to UV radiation. The effect of the creep stress level was also analysed. A threshold radiation dose was determined, above which UV radiation causes loss of the macroscopic mechanical behaviour for this particular HDPE grade. Below the threshold value, macromolecular modifications were also taking place, but the deleterious effect of UV radiation was masked by the development of a more rigid structure. Scanning electron microscopy, melt flow index and thermogravimetric analysis were used to support the results of the mechanical analysis.
Synthesis and Characterisation of Novel Thiophene Based Azomethine Polymers and Study of Their Liquid Crystalline, Electrochemical and Optoelectronic Properties
Authors: Al-Janabi Omer Yasin , Foot Peter J.S. , Al-Tikrity Emaad Taha , Spearman Peter
Published: September 2018

This work reports the synthesis, structural characterisation, liquid crystallinity, luminescence and electroluminescence of novel thiophene azomethine polymers. The polymers under study were prepared via oxidative polymerisation of four novel monomers at room temperature using iron (III) chloride. The chemical structures of the prepared monomers and polymers were confirmed by infrared and 1H and 13CNMR spectroscopy. Molecular masses were determined for monomers and polymers by gas/liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/LC-MS) and by gel-permeation (size exclusion) chromatography (SEC), respectively. Thermal stability studies of the prepared materials were achieved by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and the onset of weight loss To and the endset Tmax were calculated from the thermograms. Liquid crystalline mesophases and phase changes of the monomers and polymers were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarised optical microscopy (POM), and the glass transition temperatures Tg of the polymers were determined from the DSC curves. The electrochemical band gaps, HOMO and LUMO energy levels were measured by cyclic voltammetry. UV-visible absorption-emission spectra (liquid and solid films) of the polymers were obtained at room temperature with different solvents. Optical band gaps were calculated from the absorption edges, and were in good agreement with those estimated from cyclic voltammetry. Mixing the polymers with lanthanide salts such as EuCl3 and YbCl3 gave modified fluorescence, and the light emitted was much more intense than that from the pure polymers. Polymer based light-emitting diodes (PLEDs) were fabricated by spin coating, and their current-voltage characteristics were measured. In preliminary work, the polymer devices were found to produce electroluminescent spectra similar to the PL spectra of the corresponding samples. Molecular modelling studies were performed both on polymer segments and monomer molecules; the absorption spectra of the prepared polymers, HOMO and LUMO energy levels were calculated with ZINDO using AMI geometry optimisation.
Studies on Processing Rheological and Mechanical Properties of Poly(lactic acid)/Sesbania Gum/Nano-silica Composites
Authors: Zhang Qing
Published: September 2018

Processing rheological properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/sesbania gum (SG)/nano-silica composites were investigated with a torque rheometer, and mechanical properties were researched by a universal testing machine and a cantilever-beam impact testing machine. Effects of SG content, nano-silica content, the types of plasticisers, the plasticiser content and the rotor speed of a torque rheometer on the properties of composites were discussed. The results indicated that polyethylene glycol (PEG)20000 exhibited the best plasticising effect on the composites, and at the same time, did not increase energy consumption of the systems compared with other four plasticisers. As for the aspect of processing rheological properties, the optimum formulation for PLA/SG/ nano-SiO2/PEG20000 composites was: 100 parts of PLA, 8 parts of SG, 2 parts of nano-SiO2, and 5–10 parts of PEG20000. Comparing with unmodified PLA, the comprehensive mechanical properties of the composites improved greatly, based on the results of the tensile, impact and bending tests.
Experimental Studies of Stiffness Degradation and Dissipated Energy in Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composite under Fatigue Loading
Authors: Cadavid M. Ospina , Al-Khudairi O. , Hadavinia H. , Goodwin D. , Liaghat G.H.
Published: September 2018

In this work, tensile and compressive properties and fatigue performances of laminated glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite under constant amplitude sinusoidal load control at frequency of 5 Hz and at room temperature were investigated for three different types of loading: tension-tension at R=0.1 and 0.5, reverse loading tension-compression at R=-1 and compression-compression at R=2 and 10 in the fibre and normal-to-fibre directions. From these series of tests, the corresponding S-N diagrams were obtained. The dynamic stiffness during fatigue loading showed classical degradation of the GFRP laminates. It was observed that the dynamic modulus decreased with time, and the hysteresis loop area changed with some distortion according to the loading conditions. Finally hysteresis loops throughout fatigue testing were examined, and the variation of energy dissipated per cycle throughout the specimen lifetime was quantified. It was demonstrated that the dissipated energy during the fatigue lifetime is dependent on R-ratio and fibre orientation. However, in majority of the cases, the energy dissipated per cycle near the end of the fatigue lifetime increases as a result of an increase in the area captured by hysteresis loops.
Halloysite with Iron Oxide Inclusions as a Soft Ferromagnetic Filler for Polymer Composites
Authors: Frackowiak Stanislaw , Ludwiczak Joanna , Leluk Karol , Kozlowski Marek
Published: September 2018

Natural mineral fillers for polymer composites have frequently been investigated as cheap and easily obtainable alternatives to carbon nanotubes or synthetic short fibres. In this paper we have investigated a natural product from a deposit located in Poland and containing halloysite clay and ferromagnetic particles as main components. In order to assess the homogeneity and possible application fields of polyethylene-based composites prepared from these materials, the composites were evaluated by studying their melt rheology, mechanical properties, wetting, magnetic properties and surface morphology.
Studies on Crystallization and Melting Behaviors of UHMWPE/ MWNTs Nanocomposites with Reduced Chain Entanglements
Authors: Xu Guoyong , Zhu Qingren
Published: September 2018

The nonisothermal crystallization and melting behavior of UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene)/ MWNTs (multi-walled carbon nanotubes) nanocomposites with reduced chain entanglements was studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique. The Ozawa approach failed to describe the crystallization behavior of nanocomposites, whereas the modified Avrami analysis could explain the behavior of UHMWPE/ MWNTs nanocomposite to some extent. A novel kinetic model by Liu et al. was able to satisfactorily describe the crystallization behavior of UHMWPE/MWNTs nanocomposites. The Dobreva and Kissinger methods failed to calculate the nucleation activity and activation energy, respectively, for the UHMWPE/MWNTs systems. Also the Vyazovkin model-free kinetic method was applied to nonisothermal crystallization to evaluate the dependence of the effective activation energy on conversion and temperature.
Application of a Palm Oil-Based Alkyd for the Improvement of Polyaniline Properties
Authors: Ramli Mariam Fadzlina , Gan Seng Neon , Lim Wen Huei , Phang Sook Wai
Published: September 2018

This study attempts to produce polyaniline (PAni)/Alkyd films with short curing time, good adhesion on fluoride-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass and having high conductivity that can be apply in solar cell panel. Both palm stearin-based alkyd resins and PAni were synthesized via chemical reactions. Chemical structures of the palm oil-based alkyd and PAni were investigated by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), and Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectrometers. Palm oil-based alkyds having three different acid number (AN) (5.66, 14.74, and 17.60 mg KOH/g) were blended with PAni at ratio of 1:0.5, 1:0.75, 1:1 for the preparation of PAni/Alkyd films via UV curing method. UV-vis spectrometer confirmed the chemical structure of PAni/Alkyd films. The adhesion of Pani/Alkyd films were tested following ASTM D3359 and conductivity study of PAni/Alkyd films was carried out using four point probe method. Best result was observed for PAni/ Alkyd at a ratio 1:0.5 with the palm oil-based alkyd having AN value of 5.56 mg KOH/g. The shortest curing time was 10 minutes, with strong adhesion of PAni/Alkyd films on FTO glass and conductivity of 2.56102 S/cm. By comparison the conductivity of the pure PAni was 1.31×103 S/cm.
Morphology, Conductivity and Microwave Absorption Behavior of Polyaniline Nanocomposites after Chemical Treatment
Authors: Mokhtar Nurrafiqah , Chye Desmond Ang Teck , Phang Sook Wai
Published: September 2018

In this study, the hexanoic acid (HA) doped Polyaniline (PAni) nanocomposites which comprise aniline (Ani) as a monomer, titanium dioxide (TiO2) as a dielectric material and fullerene (C60) as a carbonaceous material with and without treated with different types of sulfonic groups: dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (AOT), sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonicate (DBSA) and camphorsulfonic acid (CSA) were synthesized through the template-free method. The fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) characterization of PAni nanocomposites validated the functional groups, conducting behavior, existing of an inorganic material and thermal stability of PAni nanocomposites, respectively. Besides, an increment of electrical conductivities of the PAni nanocomposites from 3.655 × 10−2 S/cm (without chemical treatment) to 5.433 × 10−2 – 1.708 × 10−1 S/cm (after chemical treatment) was obtained by the four-point probe method. This increment can be explained by the formation of nanorods/nanotubes via field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Based on the data obtained from the microwave vector network analyzer (MVNA), the PAni/HA/TiO2/C60 nanocomposites (treated with CSA) revealed a narrow and sharp reflection loss (RL) peak with high absorption (−61.3 dB) due to its highest conductivity, dielectric permittivity and heterogeneity which eventually enhanced the microwave absorption properties, while those without chemical treatment showed a broad RL peak with poor absorption (−37.2 dB). Based on the researchers’ knowledge, the PAni/HA/TiO2/C60 nanocomposites with a chemical treatment that shows a good absorption is the first being reported here.
Compression Moulding of Thermoplastic Nanocomposites Filled with MWCNT
Authors: Quadrini Fabrizio , Bellisario Denise , Santo Loredana , Stan Felicia , Catalin Fetecau
Published: September 2018

Multi-walled carbon-nanotubes (MWCNTs) were melt-mixed with three different thermoplastic matrices (polypropylene, PP, polycarbonate, PC, and thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU) to produce nanocomposites with three different filler contents (1, 3, and 5 wt.%). Initial nanocomposite blends (in the shape of pellets) were tested under differential scanning calorimetry to evaluate the effect of the melt mixing stage. Nanocomposite samples were produced by compression moulding in a laboratory-scale system, and were tested with quasi-static (bending, indentation), and dynamic mechanical tests as well as with friction tests. The results showed the effect of the filler content on the mechanical and functional properties of the nanocomposites. Compression moulding appeared to be a valuable solution to manufacture thermoplastic nanocomposites when injection moulding leads to loss of performance. MWCNT-filled thermoplastics could be used also for structural and functional uses despite, the present predominance of electrical applications.
Processing and Mechanical Properties of Ultra-high Molecular Weight Polyethylene Reinforced by Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Kang Xueqin , Yao Chi , Qiao Lei , Ge Gaofeng , Feng Peizhong
Published: September 2018

The present study was designed to investigate the mechanical performance of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) reinforced by silver nanoparticles. The Ag/UHMWPE nanocomposites were prepared by a plate vulcanizing machine and tested with a contact angle micrometer, UMT friction tester, electronic universal testing machine and MicroXAM three-dimensional profilometer to characterise the wettability, ball indentation hardness, creep resistance, compression properties, and friction and wear performance. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was employed to describe the morphology of the Ag/UHMWPE nanocomposites surfaces following the friction and wear tests. These results demonstrate that the compressive yield strength, ball indentation hardness and creep resistance increased with an increase in the content of silver nanoparticles. The contact angle of the Ag/UHMWPE nanocomposites with bovine calf serum decreases with an increase in the content of silver nanoparticles and this change increases the wettability of the Ag/UHMWPE nanocomposites. Therefore, the friction coefficient decreases, but the wear mechanism changes from scratch and furrow to fatigue flakes when the mass fraction of silver nanoparticles exceeds 0.3%. The composite with a silver nanoparticles mass fraction of 0.3% exhibits a low friction coefficient and good wear resistance.
Synthesis, Characterization and Electrical Properties of Polypyrrole/ Zirconia Nanocomposite and its Application as Ethene Gas Sensor
Authors: Sultan Adil , Ahmad Sharique , Mohammad Faiz
Published: September 2018

In this communication, we report the synthesis of polypyrrole (PPy) and polypyrrole/zirconia (PPy/ZrO2) nanocomposites by an in-situ chemical polymerisation method and their application as sensor for detection of ethene gas for the first time. The as-prepared PPy and PPy/ZrO2 nanocomposites were characterised by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The nanocomposite containing 20 wt.% of ZrO2 was found to possess higher DC (direct current) electrical conductivity than PPy and the other PPy/ZrO2 nanocomposites. Sensing response was calculated on the basis of change in DC electrical conductivity. The most conductive nanocomposite was found to be highly sensitive and reversible to ethene gas. This study indicates an effective approach to possible future sensing technology for the detection of ethene gas.
Direct and Flexural Shear Strength of Composite Beam with Perforbond Rib
Authors: Cho Dooyong , Choi Jinwoong , Jeong Hoseong
Published: September 2018

When Perfobond Rib shear connectors are used as flexural materials in structures such as bridges, they show flexural shear behavior due to external force, rather than direct shear behavior. The aim of this study is thus to analyze the difference between both behaviors. First, we prepared a specimen to analyze direct shear behavior using Perfobond Rib shear connectors, analyzed the characteristics of behavior with a push-out test and proposed a formula of shear resistance assessment. Proposed formula shows a relatively good fit with less than 10% error. A flexural shear test was then conducted based on the result of the direct shear test. Based on the static flexural test it analyzed the flexural behavior and the flexural shear stress it calculated. Direct shear stress and EN 1994-1-1 to lead and be calculated, it compared the flexural shear stress and it analyzed in about the shear resistance stress which it follows in load direction. Finally, we compared both test results, and the comparison showed that the flexural shear stress is approximately 6% stronger than the direct shear stress.
Combined Temperature and Moisture Effect on the Monotonic and Fatigue Strengths of Sandwich Beams with Glass-Polypropylene Faces and Aluminum Foam Cores
Authors: Jen Yi-Ming , Chang Chia-Wei
Published: September 2018

Recently, the sandwich structures with thermoplastic faces and metal foam cores have been received much attention in the automobile, aerospace and naval industries. Since the material properties of the polymer-based faces and adhesive films employed in the sandwich structures are sensitive to the temperature and humidity, the knowledge of the environmental effect on the mechanical properties are important to the design and application of such structures. Therefore, the hygrothermal effect on the static and fatigue bending strengths of the sandwich beams with glass-polypropylene faces and aluminum foam cores were experimentally analyzed in the present study. The monotonic and cyclic four-point bending tests were conducted under four environmental conditions, i.e., 25°C/45% RH, 25°C/75% RH, 50°C/45% RH, and 50°C/75% RH, to evaluate the influence of combined temperature and humidity on the strengths against the static and cyclic flexural loads. Experimental results show that the humidity has tiny effect on the static and fatigue strengths when the specimens were tested at fixed temperature. However, the temperature plays an important role in the environmental effect because the monotonic and fatigue strengths of the studied sandwich specimens decrease significantly when the ambient temperature rises from 25 to 50°C. Furthermore, under four considered environmental conditions, two crack systems, the core shear ones and the face/core interfacial ones, were observed both in the monotonic and cyclic tests. The development of interfacial cracks strongly depends on the environmental variables. Accordingly the interfacial cracks play an important role in the static and fatigue strengths of the studied sandwich structures.
Mechanical Property of Multiwall Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Yang Chao-Kai , Lee Yu-Roung , Hsieh Tsung-Han , Chen Tao-Hsing , Cheng Tsung-Chieh
Published: September 2018

This study investigates the multiwalled carbon nanotube as potential mechanical reinforcement in epoxy polymer. It is found that, by adding various concentrations of nanotube, both flow stress and fracture strain increased. Furthermore, the presences of the multiwalled carbon nanotubes are found to nucleate crystallization in the epoxy. This crystal growth is thought to enhance the strength of composite. The fracture surface analysis of the composite reinforced by carbon nanotube is used the scanning electron microscopy.
Removal of Methyl Orange from Aqueous Solution by Adsorption onto a Hydrogel Composite
Authors: Tang Yaoji , Yang Rui , Ma Dong , Zhou Bin , Zhu Linhui , Yang Jing
Published: September 2018

Poly(acrylic acid- co-2-acrylamide-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid)/kaolin hydrogel composite was synthesised using acrylic acid (AA), 2-acrylamide-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid (AMPS) and kaolin (KL) as main materials. The composite was characterised and used to remove methyl orange (MO) from aqueous solutions. Effect of adsorption conditions, including initial concentration of MO, contact time, pH values and ionic strength, on the adsorption capacities was studied. Maximal adsorption capacity was 506 mg/g as the initial concentration of MO was 1000 mg/L. It showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous, and the isotherms and kinetics were in good agreement with the Freundlich isotherm model and pseudo-second-order equation, respectively.
Global Sensitivity Analysis for the Elastic Properties of Unidirectional Carbon Fibre Reinforced Composites Based on Metamodels
Authors: Zhu Chao , Zhu Ping , Lu Jiahai
Published: September 2018

A fast and effective numerical method to predict mechanical properties of carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites, even elastic properties, is complicated due to the mismatch of mechanical properties among the constituents. Furthermore, it is not possible to completely characterise the influence of multiple parameters including mechanical and structural parameters on the bulk properties of CFRP by experiments. In this study, a three-phase finite-element model consisting of matrix, carbon fibre and interface was developed to predict the elastic mechanical behaviour of unidirectional CFRP. The elastic properties in terms of two Young's moduli, two Poisson's ratios and a shear modulus were calculated by means of a homogenisation method. High-accuracy Kriging surrogate models were constructed to fast-calculate the elastic responses for a large number of samples. Combining Kriging and high-dimensional model representation (HDMR) methods, a global sensitivity analysis was performed to study how the microscopic parameters influence the elastic responses to get a deeper understanding of elastic property-structure relationship. Eleven parameters, including mechanical and geometry properties of constituent phases, were chosen as inputs. Independent and cooperative effects of input parameters on the elastic properties of the studied composites were surveyed via first- and second-order sensitivity indices, respectively. An importance ranking of these parameters for each elastic response was derived directly by these indices. The procedure proposed in this work could serve as a theoretical guide for further design optimisation of CFRP.
Comparative Analysis on the Epoxidation of Soybean Oil using Formic and Acetic Acids
Authors: Meadows Shatori , Hosur Mahesh , Celikbag Yusuf , Jeelani Shaik
Published: September 2018

The objective of this study was to make a comparative analysis of the effect of formic and acetic acids as oxygen carriers on the epoxidation of soybean oil used with hydrogen peroxide as the oxygen donor. Comparative analysis between the use of formic acid (FA) and acetic acid (AA) was studied to obtain the most effective oxygen carrier that yielded high oxirane oxygen contents (OOC). The epoxidation reaction was carried out using a stoichiometric ratio of 1:0.5:1, 1:0.5:0.5, and 1:0.5:2 of soybean oil: formic/acetic acid: hydrogen peroxide. The synthesis was performed at three reaction times (2, 4 and 6 h) at a constant temperature of 50°C. Samples prepared using FA and AA were characterized using ASTM D1652-11 and confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The result of this study proved FA to be an effective oxygen carrier compared to that of AA based on the high OOC and percent yield achieved. The optimum epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) sample using FA was obtained at a reaction time of 6 h using 2 moles of H2O2, yielding an OOC of 7.45 at a relative conversion to oxirane of 98%. Samples of FA were further characterized to prove the optimum parameters that gave the highest OOC using rheology and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Rheology data revealed an increase in the viscosity that implied an increase in the degree of epoxidation. GPC indicated an increase in the molecular weight at low reaction times, then a decrease resulting in a change in the structure of the triglyceride and consequently an increase in the extent of epoxidation.
Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Maple Reinforced LLDPE Produced by Rotational Moulding: Effect of Fibre Content and Surface Treatment
Authors: Hanana Fatima Ezzahra , Chimeni Dέsirέ Yomeni , Rodrigue Denis
Published: September 2018

In this study, wood-plastic composites (WPC) were produced by rotomoulding, to study the effect of fibre content and surface treatment on their properties. Maple wood fibre, with or without surface treatment with maleated polyethylene (MAPE), was used to improve the mechanical properties of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). From the composites produced, a complete morphological and mechanical characterisation was performed. The results showed that MAPE surface treatment improved the fibre-matrix interface quality and the mechanical properties (56% increase in tensile modulus and 60% increase in flexural modulus over the neat matrix with 19% in impact strength with respect to untreated fibres) at 30% wt.
Flame Retardant Properties of Cyclotriphosphazene Derivatives for ABS
Authors: Shin Young Jae , Shin Min Jae , Shin Jae Sup
Published: September 2018

Three cyclotriphosphazene derivatives were used as flame retardants for ABS resin in this study. These compounds were synthesized by the reaction of hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene with 2,2'-dihydroxybiphenyl, 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene and 9,10-dihydroxyphenanthrene respectively. The activities of these compounds as flame retardants for ABS were characterized by UL94 and LOI tests. The 9,10-dihydroxyphenanthrene derivatives showed the best flame-retardant activity. The effects of these compounds to the physical properties of ABS were also measured. The synergistic effect of antimony (V) oxide or novolac to these flame retardant compounds were discussed.
Direct and Moderating Influence of Perceived Fit, Risk and Parent Brand Trust on Brand Extension Success of a Personal Care Brand in India
Authors: Tripathi Vibhuti , Rastogi Pooja , Kumar Suresh
Published: September 2018

The shifting market dynamics and harsh rivalry of the worldwide economy have augmented the role of brands to an incomparable level. Brand extension has emerged as a popular strategy in the marketing area. While it brings brands closer to success, it is also imperative and important to understand how consumers evaluate and presume similar or dissimilar extensions and what is the substantial influence of risk and subsistence of parent brand on extension success? Identifying and analysing such relationships could be helpful and important for personal care brands in India to gain an edge over competitors. Data were collected from 500 consumers who were proverbial with the brand extensions of Dettol in similar or dissimilar product categories. Regression analysis showed that though perceived fit and risk directly influence the success of brand extension, nevertheless on incorporating parent brand conviction as a moderator the relationships between perceived fit and brand extension success and risk and brand extension success are strengthened. Limitations and future scope have also been mentioned.
Trade Liberalization and Import Intensity in the Mongolian Manufacturing
Authors: Davaakhuu Oyunbadam , Sharma Kishor , Bandara Yapa M. W. Y.
Published: September 2018

This article presents an empirical analysis of the consequences of trade liberalization on import intensity in Mongolia, a ‘least-developed landlocked country’ with weak institutions and severe infrastructure bottlenecks. The theoretical framework employed in modelling is based on industrial organization and international trade literature. Our results suggest that foreign investment stimulates import intensity possibly due to the prevalence of intra-firm trade between subsidies, while the protection of domestic market and state ownership reduces import intensity. There is no statistically significant evidence to suggest that import intensity is lower in unskilled labour-intensive industries. These findings have significant policy implications for further liberalization in order to improve Mongolia’s trade competitiveness.
Spontaneous orbital subcutaneous emphysema mimicking lacrimal duct obstruction after sneezing: A case report
Authors: Chan Hung-Yen , Lio Chon-Fu , Yu Chang-Ching , Peng Nan-Jing , Chan Hung-Pin
Published: September 2018

Introduction:

Orbital subcutaneous emphysema after trauma has been carefully reported, but its development in the absence of trauma is rare.

Case presentation:

We report on a 70-year-old patient who developed unilateral orbital subcutaneous emphysema, mimicking lacrimal duct occlusion, after this man sneezed, and presented with right crepitant eyelid swelling and progressive ptosis. Orbital subcutaneous emphysema develops when air can get into the periorbital soft tissue, which presents as a result of facial bone trauma, iatrogenic procedures, and gas-forming infectious microorganisms, as seen in many published articles. It is very uncommon to see this kind of case report after sneezing; however, in our case, spontaneous orbital subcutaneous emphysema occurred after sneezing that resolved slowly after a few weeks without surgical intervention. Our patient denied any painful sensation over the right orbital area, including no visual problems with the right eye but right eyeball limited movements. It can be stressful to patients due to its symptoms but is not a true emergency.

Conclusion:

In this article, we should bring awareness to physicians of the possibility of a spontaneously orbital subcutaneous emphysema with complications after sneezing, yielding relevant information for patients to be informed about avoid excessive nose blowing or occluding the nose, creating controlled symptoms.
Neuroendocrine Tumor Arising in a Tailgut Cyst: A Rare Presacral Tumor
Authors: Iwata Eiichiro , Orosz Zsolt , Teh James , Reynolds Jeremy , Whitwell Duncan , Tanaka Yasuhito , Athanasou Nicholas A.
Published: September 2018

A tailgut cyst (retrorectal cystic hamartoma) is an uncommon lesion that develops in the presacral (retrorectal) space. Malignant change in a tailgut cyst is extremely rare and presents as a soft tissue (presacral) or bone (sacral) neoplasm. We report a case of tailgut cyst in which a neuroendocrine tumor developed in a 25-year-old female. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans revealed a sacrococcygeal malformation with absent left S4 and S5 and a partly cystic lesion within the right presacral space. Histologically, the lesion contained cystic and solid elements. The cysts were lined by columnar and stratified squamous epithelial cells with underlying patchy smooth muscle. The solid element was a partly necrotic neuroendocrine tumor composed mainly of ribbons of tumor cells, which showed mitotic activity and expressed cytokeratin, chromogranin, and synaptophysin. Histologically, tailgut cysts are lined by epithelium and contain scattered smooth muscle bundles in the cyst wall. Although rare, the possibility of tailgut cyst with neuroendocrine tumor should be included in the differential diagnosis of an enlarging presacral tumor.
Endometriosis With Cystic Degeneration: A Rare Disease of Males
Authors: Al-Obaidy Khaleel I. , Idrees Muhammad T.
Published: September 2018

Endometriosis in men is extremely rare with only a few cases reported in the English literature. Different theories have been proposed as to its origin. In this article, we describe the clinicopathologic features of 2 cases of endometriosis occurring in male patients. The patients’ ages were 50 and 43 years, and sizes were 2 and 5.2 cm, respectively. No significant chemical or hormonal exposure was identified. Both patients presented with a testicular mass. Grossly, both lesions were cystic and contained hemorrhagic fluid. Microscopic examination revealed cysts and occasional glands lined by low columnar to cuboidal epithelium, surrounded by spindle cell stroma with abundant hemosiderin-laden macrophages reminiscent of endometrium. One case was predominantly intratesticular, with a minute focus of endometrial-type glands and spindled stroma within the tunica vaginalis. Focal chronic inflammation and epithelial denudation were present in both cases. The surrounding testicular and epididymal structures adjacent to the cystic mass were unremarkable. In summary, endometriosis is an extremely rare lesion in men. The presence of these lesions in both cases along the route of the Müllerian duct supports the theory that these lesions arise from embryonic remnants. Awareness of this entity is crucial for general pathologists to avoid wrong diagnosis and unnecessary management.
Retrospective evaluation of a rechallenge protocol in patients experiencing hypersensitivity reactions with prior chemotherapy in a tertiary hospital
Authors: Wu Hiu-Lok
Published: September 2018

When encountering a hypersensitivity reaction to chemotherapy, a dilemma arises whether to continue the current regimen. In our institution, a standardized protocol has been developed. This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of our rechallenge protocol in rechallenging patients with previous hypersensitivity reactions of grades 1 to 2 to paclitaxel, docetaxel, carboplatin and oxaliplatin. The protocol consisted of intensification of premedication and lengthening of infusion time. A retrospective review of electronic medical records was conducted. Patients who attempted rechallenge with paclitaxel, docetaxel, carboplatin and oxaliplatin under the protocol during the time period from August 2014 to December 2015 were included. Forty-six rechallenge cases were included (12 paclitaxel, 15 docetaxel, 5 carboplatin and 15 oxaliplatin cases). The first rechallenge cycle was completed successfully in 43/46 patients (93.5%) and 42/46 patients (91.3%) were hypersensitivity reaction-free throughout the treatment course under the rechallenge protocol. A total of 133/137 cycles (97.1%) were completed successfully under the protocol. Among patients who continued chemotherapy until disease progression or treatment completion, a median of three additional cycles (range: 1 to 9 cycles) were administered under the protocol. The four cases of recurrent hypersensitivity reactions responded well to infusion interruption and symptomatic treatment and all four patients were discharged uneventfully. Further rechallenge was not performed. Our study demonstrated that a combined strategy of intensification of premedication and lengthening of infusion duration is effective and probably safe in rechallenging patients with previous grades 1 to 2 hypersensitivity reaction to paclitaxel, docetaxel, carboplatin and oxaliplatin.
Penetrating the evidence of EGFR and ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors for non-small cell lung cancer brain metastases
Authors: Thomas Christan M , Lee Chung-Shien
Published: September 2018

The brain is a common metastatic site in lung cancer. Approximately one-third of patients will develop brain metastases during the course of their disease. Median overall survival has been reported between 3 and 14.8 months in patients with brain metastases compared to other metastatic sites. In addition, the lifetime incidence of brain metastases is increasing due to prolonged survival seen in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients due to new systemic therapies and improved neuro-imaging techniques. Several targeted therapies—such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting epidermal growth factor receptors and anaplastic lymphoma kinase—are active in NSCLC and have data to suggested possible effectiveness against brain metastases in these patients.
Variability of carboplatin dose calculation methods in Spain
Authors: Cuesta-Grueso Cristina , Burgos-San José Amparo , Cajaraville-Ordoñana Gerardo , Poquet-Jornet Jaime E. , Mangues-Bafalluy Irene , Díaz-Carrasco María S.
Published: September 2018

Objective

To describe and analyze the variability in carboplatin dosing strategies in Spanish hospitals.

Methods

We designed a questionnaire consisting of 19 multiple-choice items structured in two sections (hospital characteristics and carboplatin dosing data). The questionnaire was sent by e-mail to all the oncology pharmacists included in the register of the Spanish Oncology Pharmacy Group (GEDEFO), and we analyzed the completed questionnaires.

Results

Response rate was 33.5% from a total of 185 pharmacy services invited to take part in the survey. All hospitals used the Calvert formula to calculate carboplatin dose with glomerular filtration rate estimated by a formula, most commonly the Cockcroft-Gault equation (80.7%). Carboplatin doses were capped in most hospitals (91.9%): 54.8% capped creatinine clearance at 125 mL/min, 11.3% capped serum creatinine, and 19.3% capped both creatinine clearance and serum creatinine. Serum creatinine cut-off values ranged from 0.36 mg/dL to 1 mg/dL. The most commonly used body weight was actual body weight for underweight, normal weight, and overweight patients. The use of adjusted ideal body weight increased in obese and especially in morbidly obese patients.

Conclusion

The results from this survey show the variability that exists in carboplatin dose calculation methods among Spanish hospitals and the need to continue investigating to find the optimum dose calculation method and unify criteria to avoid differences between sites that can affect effectiveness and toxicity of carboplatin-containing treatments.
Influence of needle gauge and venepuncture difficulty on thromboelastography in healthy cats
Authors: Shin Duree , Nam Aryung , Song Kun Ho , Seo Kyoung Won
Published: September 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two differently sized butterfly catheter needles and the effect of venepuncture difficulty on thromboelastography (TEG) results in healthy cats.

Methods

Twenty-four healthy cats were included. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein by syringe aspiration via direct venepuncture with 21 G and 22 G butterfly needles. The venepuncture difficulty score was classified into four categories. The first 1.5 ml blood drawn from each subject was discarded before collecting a sample for TEG analysis. TEG analyses were performed on citrated whole blood samples from 17 clinically healthy cats, using assays with kaolin as activators. Among the TEG parameters, reaction time (R), clot formation time (κ), alpha angle (α), maximum amplitude (MA) and global clot strength (G) were recorded from each tracing.

Results

Seven cats were excluded from the study; results were obtained for the remaining 17 cats. There were no statistically significant differences between the use of two different needles for R ( P = 0.72), κ ( P = 0.74), α ( P = 0.99), MA ( P = 0.08) and G ( P = 0.09). Samples with difficulty scores ⩾1 were not significantly different from samples with difficulty scores of 0 for R ( P = 0.24), κ ( P = 0.65), α ( P = 0.65), MA ( P = 0.72) and G ( P = 0.77).

Conclusions and relevance

The results of TEG in clinically healthy cats do not differ significantly when using two different gauge needles. There was no significant difference in the TEG results according to venepuncture difficulty scoring.
New forms of mobilization, new people mobilized? Evidence from the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems
Authors: Magalhães Pedro C , Aldrich John H , Gibson Rachel K
Published: September 2018

Mobilization efforts by parties and candidates during election campaigns tend to reach those who are more likely to vote in the first place. This is thought to be particularly consequential for turnout among the young. Harder and less cost-effective to reach, young adults are less mobilized and vote less often, creating a vicious circle of demobilization. However, new forms of political communication—including online and text messaging—have created expectations this circle might be broken. Is this happening? We examine data from Module 4 of the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems surveys, looking at the prevalence of different types of party contacts in 38 countries, the profile of voters who are reached, and the effects of these efforts on turnout. New forms of party contacting do matter for turnout and partially reduce the age gap in contacting, but still fail to compensate for the much larger differentials that persist in traditional forms of contacting.
Effects of CSR, responsible gambling, and negative social impacts on perceived benefits and quality of life in gaming communities
Authors: Kim Jungsun (Sunny) , Lee Choong-Ki
Published: September 2018

This study investigated (1) the positive effects of a company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) and responsible gambling (RG) strategies on residents’ perceived benefits and their quality of life (QOL); (2) the effects of residents’ perceived negative social impacts from casino development on their perceived benefits and QOL; and (3) whether these relationships are invariant across two gaming communities. We collected data from 458 residents of two gaming communities in the Gangwon Province of South Korea. The findings showed that economic CSR had the strongest positive impact on residents’ perceived benefits, followed by philanthropic CSR and supplementary RG. These factors also had significant indirect effects on residents’ QOL via perceived benefits. The negative social impacts factor was found to negatively influence residents’ perceived benefits and QOL. These relationships were statistically invariant across the two gaming communities. The current study offers a legitimacy and stakeholder theory-driven approach to examine CSR, gaming communities’ perceived negative social impacts and benefits from casino development, and QOL.
Equality bodies
Authors: Kádár Tamás
Published: September 2018

The Treaty of Amsterdam and the subsequent adoption in 2000 of the so-called Race Directive was a genuine paradigm shift in European equal treatment legislation and practice. One of the major developments resulting from this Treaty change and new Directive was the introduction of a requirement for all European Union (EU) Member States to set up bodies for the promotion of equal treatment, first on the ground of race and ethnic origin, later extended to the ground of gender. This article analyses the emergence of these bodies – equality bodies – in EU Member States and candidate countries and the role they play in promoting equality and the implementation and monitoring of EU equal treatment legislation. It argues that equality bodies have a significant potential to contribute to more equal societies and they have proved to be effective agents of change. They do so, among others, by contributing to relevant case law in front of the Court of Justice of the EU leading to the further development and clarification of EU and national equal treatment legislation. The article also looks at the challenges experienced by equality bodies in different European countries as factors that influence and might limit their potential and contribution. To conclude, the article examines the necessary conditions for equality bodies to effectively contribute to the implementation of EU legislation and the achievement of substantive equality and it assesses whether current standards for equality bodies can guarantee these conditions.
Engaging ethnomethodology for social work
Authors: de Montigny Gerald
Published: September 2018

How does one go about doing or engaging in ethnomethodological study of local occasions? Would such study be of value for social workers, hence would it help them to understand the everyday accomplishment of practice as social work? Harold Garfinkel, the founder of ethnomethodology, argued that the task is to start with and to be in the midst of ordinary and everyday activities. A beginning in ordinary, mundane, and everyday activities is also to be surrounded by taken-for-granted understandings, frameworks, and facts or facticities. The focus on “facticities” of everyday things directs us to attend to utterly ordinary and mundane interactions, and here there is deep congruence with social work interests and practices.

Findings

This paper turns to Garfinkel’s oeuvre to set out in readily understandable language the orientation and tools needed for social workers to do ethnomethodological studies. A focal question is: Just how might social workers in the midst of practice actually go about engaging in EM?

Application

By taking up tools from ethnomethodology, social workers can better understand and explicate the essential reflexivity of their everyday practice. As a result, EM provides a pathway for both understanding and teaching effective social work through a reflective and reflexive turn.
Effects of Reprocessing on Additives in ABS Plastics, Detected by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Bai X. , Stein B.K. , Smith K. , Isaac D.H.
Published: September 2018

Acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) plastic is a widely used engineering thermoplastic. ABS is also an interesting material for recycling. In the present study, two pieces of ABS plastic from waste computer equipment were reprocessed. A torque rheometer was used to simulate reprocessing. To identify the additives used in the recycled ABS plastics and understand the effect of reprocessing on the recycled plastics from several aspects, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was used to analyse the extracts from recycled ABS plastics before and after reprocessing. The effects of reprocessing temperature and reprocessing cycle on some additives, mainly antioxidants and lubricants, were investigated. Plastic processing led to additive loss because of volatilisation, decomposition, or conversion, particularly at high temperatures and during multiple processing cycles.