bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrochus farsicus sp.n. from Iran and notes on other Palearctic species of the genus (Coleoptera: Hydrophiloidea: Hydrochidae)
Authors: HIDALGO-GALIANA AMPARO , JÄCH MANFRED A. , RIBERA IGNACIO
Published: November 2018

The family Hydrochidae (or subfamily Hydrochinae for some authors) includes one recognised genus (Hydrochus Leach) with more than 200 species and a worldwide distribution (Hansen, 1999; Short & Hebauer, 2006). The West Mediterranean is among the most diverse areas for the genus in the Palearctic Region, with 12 species known from Spain and Morocco, including several endemic species described recently (Hansen, 2004). On the contrary, in the East Mediterranean and the Middle East few species are known so far, although some undescribed species from Turkey are deposited in the Naturhistorisches Museum Wien (NMW). No species of Hydrochus has ever been recorded from Iran (Hansen, 2004). Other groups of aquatic Coleoptera (e.g. Dytiscidae, Nilsson, 2004 or Hydraenidae, Jäch, 2004) display a more balanced distribution of species, and include a high number of Turkish or Iranian endemics. The situation in Hydrochus may be due to lack of knowledge, as the undescribed specimens in the NMW and some recent works (Incekara et al., 2004; Mart et al., 2009) may suggest, but it may be that in Turkey and the Middle East the genus Hydrochus is generally less speciose than in the West Mediterranean.
Taxonomy of the sand bubbler crabs Scopimera globosa De Haan, 1835, and S. tuberculata Stimpson, 1858 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Dotillidae) in East Asia, with description of a new species from the Ryukyus, Japan
Authors: WONG KINGSLEY J. H. , CHAN BENNY K. K. , SHIH HSI-TE
Published: November 2018

Sand bubbler crabs of the genus Scopimera are common on sandy shores in East Asia yet the taxonomy of the species remains unclear. Scopimera globosa De Haan, 1835, the type species, was described from Japanese specimens and also occurs in Korea and China. Scopimera tuberculata Stimpson, 1858, described from Japan, has been regarded a junior synonym of S. globosa, but the types had long been lost. Some workers have considered the two taxa distinct and S. tuberculata has been recorded from South China. In the present study, we confirm using male gonopod morphology and molecular analysis, that the early records of S. tuberculata from Hong Kong and S. globosa from Taiwan are in fact S. intermedia Balss, 1934. The present study regards S. tuberculata as a subjective junior synonym to S. globosa. A new species, Scopimera ryukyuensis sp. nov. from the Ryukyus, is identified and described herein. The new species is close to S. globosa but can be separated by carapace characters. The mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene revealed basepair (bp) difference between the new species and other Scopimera spp. to be at the interspecific level, at least 28 bp (4.3%).
New species of the ant-mimicking genus Myrmarachne MacLeay, 1839 (Araneae: Salticidae) from Sarawak, Borneo
Authors: YAMASAKI TAKESHI , HASHIMOTO YOSHIAKI , ENDO TOMOJI , HYODO FUJIO , ITIOKA TAKAO , MELENG PAULUS
Published: November 2018

The genus Myrmarachne MacLeay, 1839 (Araneae: Salticidae) is one of the most diversified salticid groups in Southeast Asia, with 23 species previously recorded from Borneo. Based on the collections accumulated from 2004 to 2014 in the Lambir Hills National Park, we herein describe six new species: M. amabilis sp. nov., M. hashimotoi sp. nov., M. lagarosoma sp. nov., M. leptosoma sp. nov., M. salaputium sp. nov. and M. tintinnabulum sp. nov. In addition, we describe the female of M. endoi Yamasaki & Ahmad, 2013 for the first time. The male-female combination in M. amabilis sp. nov., M. tintinnabulum sp. nov. and M. endoi were confirmed by DNA barcoding.
Structural architecture of wearable materials based on tri-component elastic-conductive composite yarn: toward a Joule heating application
Authors: Wang Yong , Gordon Stuart , Yu Weidong , Wang Fumei
Published: November 2018

Highly stretchable and conductive yarns have attracted considerable interest as the building blocks for the next generation of wearable textiles. A method for producing tri-component elastic-conductive composite yarns (t-ECCYs) was reported previously. The objectives of this research were to investigate the thermal response and stability of a single t-ECCY, in fabric form, under different voltages and strain loads. The investigation showed that the yarn responded rapidly in terms of thermal response and showed a uniform surface temperature distribution under various applied voltages and strain deformations conditions. The stability of the yarn was also confirmed by alternating voltage on–off cycles. The performances of the yarn both in static and dynamic modes demonstrated its potentials in applying specific but uniform heat to garments. The results indicated that the t-ECCY-decorated knit fabrics were not only suitable for functions such as displaying and local heating, but also possessed good cyclic stability with little degradation in their functional properties after 50 cyclic, expand–release strain tests. The straightforward fabrication and excellent multifunctional features of the yarn represent a significant step forward in the further design and development of topologically complex, stretchable and wearable heating electronics.
Women’s Participation in the Jordanian Military and Police: An Exploration of Perceptions and Aspirations
Authors: Maffey Katherine R. , Smith David G.
Published: November 2018

Cross-national research contends that women’s military participation has been associated with military function and organization, social structure, culture, and political factors. This exploratory study of Jordanian women suggests that these factors and their subcategories simultaneously help and hinder them. Using Segal’s updated model for women’s participation in the military, we explore how the meaning of Jordanian military women’s experiences compare in a cross-national theoretical framework. We review Segal’s updated model variables and compare it to interview data based on a grounded theory approach. Using semistructured interviews with a nonrandom sample of women who served in the Jordanian military or police, we place their experiences in a cross-national context and provide exploratory qualitative analysis of how these women navigated social and cultural norms. Our results showed that participants perceived their positive experiences and ability to achieve aspirations as enablers to their success, which they considered unlikely in the civilian workforce.
What do monolingual and bilingual children with and without SLI produce when phonology is too complex?
Authors: de Almeida Laetitia , Ferré Sandrine , Barthez Marie-Anne , dos Santos Christophe
Published: November 2018

In this study, the authors compare the production of internal codas and branching onsets in four groups of children learning French: monolingual typically-developing children ( n = 12), bilingual typically-developing children ( n = 61), monolingual children with Specific Language Impairment ( n = 17) and bilingual children with Specific Language Impairment ( n = 20). Their elicited productions were collected using a nonword repetition task (LITMUS-NWR-French), containing 71 nonwords with different syllable types. Except for typically-developing monolingual children, all children performed significantly better on branching onsets than on internal codas. Moreover, the repair strategies used in erroneous productions also indicate that children had more difficulties with internal codas: all the cases of metathesis affecting a target internal coda resulted in the production of a branching onset whereas the contrary was not observed. The differences in the rates of target-like production and the patterns of metathesis of these two structures suggest that internal codas are more difficult than branching onsets for children learning French.
Infants Perceive Three-Dimensional Subjective Contours
Authors: Kavšek Michael , Braun Stephanie
Published: November 2018

The addition of crossed horizontal disparity enhances the clarity of illusory contours compared to pictorial illusory contours and illusory contours with uncrossed horizontal disparity. Two infant-controlled habituation–dishabituation experiments explored the presence of this effect in infants 5 months of age. Experiment 1 examined whether infants are able to distinguish between a Kanizsa figure with crossed horizontal disparity and a Kanizsa figure with uncrossed horizontal disparity. Experiment 2 tested infants for their ability to differentiate between a Kanizsa figure with crossed horizontal disparity and a two-dimensional Kanizsa figure. The results provided evidence that the participants perceived the two- and the three-dimensional illusory Kanizsa contour, the illusory effect in which was strengthened by the addition of crossed horizontal disparity.
Soft endocavernous prostheses and glandulopexy
Authors: Austoni E. , Mantovani F. , Colombo F. , Fenice O. , Patelli E.
Published: November 2018

Subrini's new prosthetic devices are two soft silicone cylinders, with good patient tolerance over time, that are easily insertable surgically and that make full use of the patient's remaining erectile ability (complementary erection). They have a dual function: reducing cavernosal volume and providing prosthetic support. Patients who retain even minimal erectile function make eligible candidates for this type of implant. Between 1991-1994 we performed surgery to insert such devices in 224 pts. aged 28 to 73 years. A sub-coronal access for exposure was used in ali cases. Operating time was 30 minutes and hospital stay 3 days on average. 33 patients had Peyronie's disease, 36 required only locai anaesthesia. 162 patients could be followed long-term (129 with uncomplicated erectile deficit; 33 with I.P.P.). Aesthetic and functional results were generally satisfactory, as ali patients were able to resumé full sexual activity. Post-implant glans displacement and its asymmetrical insertion over the cavernosal apices (ptosis - glandular asymmetry) were corrected by glandulopexy (partial glans mobilization on the corpora cavernosa and its symmetrical repositioning).
External continent diversion. Technical aspects and development principles
Authors: Reggiani A. , Mannini D.
Published: November 2018

The Authors briefly review the evolution of urinary diversion techniques. The introduction of the ileal conduit (Bricker) was the most important step to construction of continent pouches, both external and orthotopic, which share most surgical principles (intestinal detubularization, adequate capacity of the pouch, anti-reflux system for the ureters). External pouches present, as-an additional surgical challenge, the technical problems related to the construction of the continent valve at the stoma site: it is therefore not surprising that they are being performed with decreasing frequency. On the other hand there is increasing interest in the construction of an orthotopic neobladder also in the female patient, where such reconstructive surgery has traditionally been impaired by the anatomo-functional features of the female urethra. The Authors maintain that the following points should be considered with great attention: a) functional border between urethra and bladder neck; b) oncologic border between transitional and stratified epithelium; c) positioning of the pouch within the pelvis; d) trophic condition of the pelvic wall musculature.
Use of “closed” urinary drainage systems in septic patients in intensive care
Authors: Zerega G. , Pacini D. , Cerana M.
Published: November 2018

The so-called “open” and “closed” urinary drainage systems in patients in intensive care are compared in order to evaluate the cost/benefit ratio in preventing urinary infections. 523 patients were studied; 120 were catheterised with the “open” system, 403 with the “closed” system. The “squared X” test was used for statistical comparisons, with Yates’ continuity correction. In the “open” system group, 70% of patients became infected, a statistically significant result (p<0.05). The higher cost of the “closed” drainage system would seem to be compensated by the fact that the catheter remains in situ for 10-14 days, unless there are complications, while infections are fewer and there is a saving on specific drugs and hospitalisation times.
BTA test in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with bladder cancer
Authors: Bertoldin R. , D'INCà G. , Faccioli F. , Camuffo C. , Guatelli S. , Bassani R. , Guazzieri S.
Published: November 2018

There are several diagnostic procedures that can identify patients with recurrent or primary transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder. Cystoscopy is the best tool and the golden standard against which the other tools have to be compared. In our experience the BTA test has proved more accurate than urinary cytology, above all in diagnosing low-grade, low-stage TCC of the bladder.
Painful bladder syndromes in the female: Suggestion of an algorithm
Authors: Bastianello P. , Andretta E. , Artuso G. , Benzone S. , Gasparella V. , Seren P. , Signorelli G.
Published: November 2018

The problems of diagnosis and therapy in patients with irritation and dysfunction of the lower urinary tract (sometimes encompassing the genitals with resulting emotive involvement), as well as the existence of “idiopathic urethrocystalgias” of unknown origin (apart from the known inflammatory, neoplastic, neurological, gynecological and other pathologies) have led the authors to produce an algorithm aimed at simplifying the diagnostic routine and at summing up the whole subject in an orderly fashion.
A pragmatic investigation into the emotions of pride, shame, guilt, humiliation, and embarrassment: Lived experience and the challenge to established theory
Authors: Gibson Matthew
Published: November 2018

This article investigates what it means to experience the ‘self-conscious emotions’ of pride, shame, guilt, humiliation, and embarrassment and assesses the findings against established theories. Study 1 collected qualitative data on real-world experiences of the emotions as experienced by social workers in England ( N = 21) and identifies and defines the components that constituted the experiences. Study 2 used vignettes to quantitatively test these concepts in a sample with a similar sociocultural context ( N = 124). The findings identify specific concepts for each emotion term with the exception of shame, which could not be distinguished from humiliation or embarrassment. This article provides the first systematic analysis of all of these emotions within one study and has been the first to define the ‘relation-conscious emotions’ of acceptance and rejection as distinct emotions. In defining what it means to experience these emotions, these findings challenge established theories.
Analysis of yarn fiber volume fraction in textile composites using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray micro-computed tomography
Authors: Yu Xiu-Wei , Wang Hao , Wang Zhong-Wei
Published: November 2018

Variation of yarn fiber volume fraction, induced by the compression between adjacent yarns during the manufacturing process of textile composites, is difficult to be determined by using a single imaging method. A method combining scanning electron microscopy and micro-computed tomography is proposed to quantify the variation of yarn fiber volume fraction of textile composites, which is decomposed into systematic trend and stochastic deviation. The method takes the advantages of high resolution of scanning electron microscopy and wide 3D view of micro-computed tomography. Average fiber cross-sectional areas are acquired by analyzing hundreds of fiber cross-sectional areas in scanning electron microscopic images. Yarn cross-sectional area is determined by fitting ellipse to the labeled yarn cross-section in slices of micro-computed tomography images. The results of E-glass/epoxy and carbon/epoxy specimens show that their systematic trends of yarn fiber volume fraction combined with standard deviations of stochastic deviation, relative to the respective global means, fluctuate between [−11.4%, 15.3%] and [−12.9%, 10.7%], respectively. Yarn FVF varies in specimen obviously and needs to be considered in mechanical property prediction.
Public Health Implications of Google Searches for Sunscreen, Sunburn, Skin Cancer, and Melanoma in the United States
Authors: Hopkins Zachary H. , Secrest Aaron M.
Published: November 2018

Purpose:

Google Trends (GT) offers insights into public interests and behaviors and holds potential for guiding public health campaigns. We evaluated trends in US searches for sunscreen, sunburn, skin cancer, and melanoma and their relationships with melanoma outcomes.

Design:

Google Trends was queried for US search volumes from 2004 to 2017. Time-matched search term data were correlated with melanoma outcomes data from Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results Program and United States Cancer Statistics databases (2004-2014 and 2010-2014, respectively).

Setting:

Users of the Google search engine in the United States.

Participants:

Google search engine users in the United States. This represents approximately 65% of the population.

Measures:

Search volumes, melanoma outcomes.

Analysis:

Pearson correlations between search term volumes, time, and national melanoma outcomes. Spearman correlations between state-level search data and melanoma outcomes.

Results:

The terms “sunscreen,” “sunburn,” “skin cancer,” and “melanoma” were all highly correlated ( P < .001), with sunscreen and sunburn having the greatest correlation ( r = 0.95). Sunscreen/sunburn searches have increased over time, but skin cancer/melanoma searches have decreased ( P < .05). Nationally, sunscreen, sunburn, and skin cancer were significantly correlated with melanoma incidence. At the state level, only sunscreen and melanoma searches were significantly correlated with melanoma incidence.

Conclusions:

We conclude that online skin cancer prevention campaigns should focus on the search terms “sunburn” and “sunscreen,” given the decreasing online searches for skin cancer and melanoma. This is reinforced by the finding that sunscreen searches are higher in areas with higher melanoma incidence.
Subalpine forest dynamics reconstructed throughout the last 700 years in the Central Pyrenees by means of tree rings and pollen
Authors: Garcés-Pastor Sandra , Gutiérrez-Merino Emilia , Martínez-Sancho Elisabet , Dorado-Liñán Isabel , Julio Camarero J , Cañellas-Boltà Núria , Vegas-Vilarrúbia Teresa
Published: November 2018

Understanding how climate has modulated forest growth and composition in the past is necessary to predict the influence of the ongoing climate warming on the dynamics of mountain forests. We studied the past dynamics of subalpine Pyrenean forests during the last 700 years by assessing the relationships between sedimentary pollen and tree-ring records, and their link with climatic drivers. We compared the pollen record and the montane pollen ratio, an integrative index obtained from sedimentary pollen that allows inferring past altitudinal variations in the montane–subalpine ecotone, with tree-ring width from mountain pine ( Pinus uncinata) subalpine forests located in Central Pyrenees. To assess climate–growth associations, we related the dendrochronological data with instrumental meteorological records (1901–2010) and temperature reconstructions from the Pyrenees and Northern Hemisphere. Few robust associations were found between arboreal pollen taxa and tree-ring width series of the surrounding forests. However, significant correlations were found between the montane pollen ratio and tree-ring width series from nearby forests (located less than 10 km apart). This relationship could be potentially useful to infer long-term forest growth changes at decadal to centennial scales using the montane pollen ratio. On the contrary, our results show that tree radial growth has mainly been constrained by low temperatures although the growth sensitivity to climate has considerably varied over the last 700 years. Similar results were obtained for the last century as growth variability of these high-elevation forests is still driven by low temperatures, but a relaxation of this constrain in recent decades has been detected.
Inequality, financialisation and stagnation
Authors: Akyüz Yılmaz
Published: November 2018

The failure of exceptional monetary measures pursued in response to the financial crisis in advanced economies to achieve a strong recovery has created a widespread concern that these economies suffer from a chronic demand gap and face the prospect of stagnation. This article reviews and discusses the alternative views on the causes of the slowdown in accumulation and growth and the policies implemented and proposed to deal with it. It is argued that growing inequality, notably the secular decline in the share of wages, and financialisation are the main factors. Neither spending booms driven by financial bubbles, nor exporting unemployment through trade provides sustainable solutions. It is necessary to rebalance capital and labour, restrain finance and assign a greater role to the public sector in aggregate demand management and income and wealth distribution. However, the dominant neoliberal ideology rules out such socially progressive and economically effective solutions. Consequently, stagnation is likely to remain the new normal in the years to come with governments attempting to reignite growth by creating credit and asset bubbles and/or trying to export unemployment through beggar-thy-neighbour macroeconomic, labour market, trade and exchange rate policies, thereby generating financial and economic instability and tensions in international economic relations with significant repercussions for emerging and developing economies.
Study on a magnetorheological elastomer-base device for offshore platform vibration control
Authors: Leng Dingxin , Xiao Haiyan , Sun Lei , Liu Guijie , Wang Xiaojie , Sun Lingyu
Published: November 2018

Wave loading is one of the leading factors contributing to fatigue damage of offshore platforms. Vibrations in marine platforms due to nonlinear hydrodynamic forces can reduce platform productivity, endanger safety, and affect serviceability. This article presents numerical evaluation of a magnetorheological elastomer device for wave-induced vibration reduction of offshore platform. Random wave loadings are estimated by wave spectrum analysis and Morison’s equations. By altering field-induced stiffness of magnetorheological elastomers and non-resonance control strategy, the wave-induced vibration of offshore platform is effectively reduced, and the magnetorheological elastomer device presents strong control robustness under various wave loadings. This work indicates that magnetorheological elastomer-base device may open a new insight for vibration mitigation of ocean structures.
‘It isn’t “help,” it’s work’: Legal regulation of domestic work in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahim Mia Mahmudur , Islam Sk Samidul
Published: November 2018

Although many households in Bangladesh employ domestic workers, these workers remain outside any legal regulation framework. By evaluating the country’s legal context, this article reveals that existing legal provisions for domestic work are extremely limited and insufficiently safeguard workers’ rights. A new regulation is necessary; this article details the essentials of such legislation. The proposed legislation involves a stakeholder initiative to transform the existing manipulative dependency relationship to a more equitable relationship between the domestic workers and their employers.
Improving Properties and Processing Performance of Melt-Spun Fibers
Authors: Gregory Dale R.
Published: November 2018

The properties, yields, and efficiencies achieved in the overall fiber-making process are often governed by the orientation level and by variations in denier and orientation introduced in the extrusion/melt spinning part of that process. Essential to optimization and improved control of these processes is an understanding of the underlying physical phenomena and control of the appropriate variables. This paper builds on 30 years experience and demonstrates what variables need improved control — and why.
Modeling of the Hydroentanglement Process
Authors: Xiang Ping , Kuznetsov Andrey V. , Seyam Abdelfattah Mohamed
Published: November 2018

Mechanical performance of hydroentangled nonwovens is determined by the degree of the fiber entanglement, which depends on parameters of the fibers, fiberweb, forming surface, water jet and the process speed. This paper develops a computational fluid dynamics model of the hydroentanglement process. Extensive comparison with experimental data showed that the degree of fiber entanglement is linearly related to flow vorticity in the fiberweb, which is induced by impinging water jets. The fiberweb is modeled as a porous material of uniform porosity and the actual geometry of forming wires is accounted for in the model. Simulation results are compared with experimental data for a Perfojet ® sleeve and four woven forming surfaces. Additionally, the model is used to predict the effect of fiberweb thickness on the degree of fiber entanglement for different forming surfaces.
Feasibility of Electrospinning the Globular Proteins Hemoglobin and Myoglobin
Authors: Barnes Catherine P. , Smith Matthew J. , Bowlin Gary L. , Sell Scott A. , Tang Teresa , Matthews Jamil A. , Simpson David G. , Nimtz Jared C.
Published: November 2018

Various concentrations of the globular protein hemoglobin were successfully electrospun to create micro-fibrous mats of varying physical and mechanical characteristics. The electrospinning parameters are reported. One concentration of myoglobin was electrospun into a mat for comparison to the hemoglobin mats. Scanning electron microscopy revealed ribbon-like morphologies for the hemoglobin and myoglobin structures. Mean fiber width and thickness for each mat electrospun from a different hemoglobin concentration increased from 2.68 ± 0.83 to 3.55 ± 1.49 μm and from 0.49 ± 0.08 to 0.99 ± 0.41 μm, respectively, for increasing hemoglobin solution concentrations (from 150 to 225 mg/mL). For calculations of surface area to volume ratio for the four different electrospun hemoglobin concentrations, there was a negative correlation (r = −0.84) with concentration; the surface area to volume ratio ranged between 0.50 ± 0.16 and 1.53 ± 0.24 m2/cm3. Also, there appears to be a positive correlation between electrospun hemoglobin concentration and porosity, which increased with increasing concentration from 69.5 to 83.3 %. Following cross-linking with glutaraldehyde, the mechanical properties of two constructs were evaluated via uniaxial tensile testing to demonstrate handling capability. Results indicated that increased cross-linking time produced stiffer structures, as peak stress and modulus increased while strain at break decreased when the mats were cross-linked for 30 minutes with glutaraldehyde versus the 20 minute cross-linking time.
Novel Microporous Films and Their Composites
Authors: Wu P.C. , Jones Greg , Shelle Chrisy , Woelfli Bert
Published: November 2018

Cost-effective microporous films and composites can be made by using polyolefinic material and inorganic fillers. These microporous films and their composites can be designed and manufactured at high speed using commercial equipment for disposable hygiene articles, protective health care garments, building construction and many other industrial applications where air and moisture breathability is needed. The theory, formulations and methods of making these cost-effective polyolefinic-calcium carbonate compositions are discussed. Special engineering fibers and their fabrics can be combined with these novel microporous films to achieve a variety of properties for practical applications. However, one should keep intellectual property considerations in mind when contemplating the manufacture of microporous film products, their companies and their applications.
Novel Cellulose/SPI Blend bio-fibers Prepared via Direct Dissolving Approach
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Li Faxue , Yu Jian Yong
Published: November 2018

We have successfully prepared the biodegradable and biocompatible blend fibers from cellulose and soy protein isolate (SPI) in NaOH/thiourea/urea aqueous solvent by coagulating with 10 wt % H2SO4/12.5 wt %Na2SO4 aqueous solution. The rheological behavior and the spinnability of the prepared complex solution were analyzed by the rheometer in detail. The structure analysis of the prepared blend fibers indicated that there were strong interaction and good miscibility between cellulose and soy protein isolate. The values of tensile strength and elongation at break for the blend bio-fibers with 10 wt % of SPI reached 1.86 cN/dtex and 10.3%, respectively. It provides promising application in biomedical fields of cellulose/SPI blend fibers as the functional materials while keeping its mechanical characteristics. The morphology of the blend fibers reveals a certain level of phase segregation, that is, the blend fibers displays a smooth, fibrillar nature with homogeneous blends properties but some micro voids in cross-section. Biodegradable cellulose/SPI blend fibers with good mechanical properties and compatibility combine the beneficial characteristics of the individual components and may be useful for biomedical applications, especially for the tissue engineering scaffold.
Preparation and Properties of Bacterial Cellulose/Alginate Blend Bio-Fibers
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Luo Jin
Published: November 2018

LiOH/urea/thiourea aqueous systems have been successfully applied to the dissolution of bacterial cellulose (BC) and alginate (AL) to prepare blend fibers. Morphology, compatibility and mechanical properties of the blend fibers were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and tensile tests. The analyses indicated a good miscibility between alginate and bacterial cellulose, because of the strong interaction from the intermolecular hydrogen bonds. The mechanical properties of BC/AL blend fibers were significantly improved by introducing bacterial cellulose.
Development of Models to Predict Tensile Strength of Cotton Woven Fabrics
Authors: Malik Zulfiqar Ali , Malik Mumtaz Hasan , Hussain Tanveer , Arain Farooq Ahmed
Published: November 2018

Tensile strength has been accepted as one of the most important performance attributes of woven textiles. In this work, multiple linear regression models are developed by using empirical data for the prediction of woven fabric tensile strength manufactured from cotton yarns. Tensile strength of warp & weft yarns, warp & weft fabric density, and weave design were used as input parameters to determine warp- and weft-way tensile strength of the woven fabrics. The developed models are able to predict the fabric strength with very good accuracy. Warp yarn strength and ends per 25 mm are found to be the most dominant factors influencing fabric strength in warp direction while weft yarn strength and picks per 25 mm are most vital in weft direction.
An Intelligent Model to Predict Breaking Strength of Rotor Spun Yarns Using Gene Expression Programming
Authors: Moghassem Abdolrasool , Fallahpour Alireza , Shanbeh Mohsen
Published: November 2018

Exploring relationships between characteristics of a yarn and influencing factors is momentous subject to optimize the selection of the variables. Different modelling methodologies have been used to predict spun yarn properties. Developing a prediction approach with higher degree of precision is a subject that has received attention by the researchers. In the last decade, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) has been developed successfully for textile nonlinear processes. In spite of the precision, ANN is a black box and does not indicate inter-relationship between input and output parameters. Hence, Gene Expression Programming (GEP) is presented here as an intelligent algorithm to predict breaking strength of rotor spun yarns based on draw frame parameters as one of the most important stages in spinning line. Forty eight samples were produced and different models were evaluated. Prediction performance of the GEP was compared with that of ANN using Mean Square Error (MSE) and correlation coefficient (R2-Value) parameters on test data. The results showed a better capability of the GEP model in comparison to the ANN model. The R2-value and MSE were 97% and 0.071 respectively which means desirable predictive power of GEP algorithm. Finally, an equation was extracted to predict breaking strength of the yarns with a high degree of accuracy using GEP algorithm.
Development of Antibacterial Polyester Fabric by Growth of ZnO Nanorods
Authors: Ashraf Munir , Dumont Frédéric , Campagne Christine , Champagne Philippe , Perwuelz Anne , Leriche Anne , Chihib Nour-Eddine
Published: November 2018

ZnO nanorods were grown on polyester fabric by hydrothermal process. The seeding of fabric to grow ZnO nanorods was necessary because they did not grow without seeding. An air plasma treatment was carried out on polyester fabric to generate polar groups which could attach ZnO seeds. ZnO nanorods were grown on these seeds. The generation of polar groups was confirmed by XPS analysis. The morphology of nanorods was characterized with SEM and TEM. The quantity of ZnO deposited on fabric in the form of nanorods was estimated to be 5.6 % w/w by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Two Gram negative bacteria; Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and a Gram positive; Staphyloccocus aureus were used for antibacterial activity evaluation by qualitative method. E. coli and S. aureus were used for quantitative assessment by using NF ISO 20743:2009 Transfer Method. It was noted that the functionalized fabric prevented the growth of bacteria not only on and below the fabric but also in the immediate proximities for all three bacteria. It was also observed that the fabric was more effective against Gram positive as compared to Gram negative bacteria. Moreover, it was shown that UV pre-activation of functionalized fabric enhanced the antibacterial activity.
Correlation Analysis between a Modified Ring Method and the FAST System
Authors: Carrera-Gallissà Enric , Capdevila Xavier , Valldeperas Josep
Published: November 2018

The original ring method and some of its modified versions were examined with a view to developing a straightforward, universal alternative for use by the textile industry. For this purpose, a total of 42 specimens of commercial woven fabrics differing in composition, weave type and aerial weight were studied by using the FAST method and a modified version of the ring method developed by the authors. Correlation between the results of the two methods was found to depend largely on (a) fabric formability, (b) bending rigidity, and (c) maximum extraction force and the time needed to reach it. Regression equations relating the main variables of the two methods via canonical correlations were developed. The proposed modified version of the ring method allows the easy, inexpensive determination of fabric formability, which was previously possible with the FAST method only.
Detection of Fabric Structure Irregularities Using Air Permeability Measurements
Authors: Havlová Marie
Published: November 2018

In this paper we demonstrate the possibility of using the close relationship between structure and air permeability of a woven fabric for the detection of the non-uniformity (or defects) in the structure of the fabric. Air permeability of fabrics is a principal property of the structure of a textile material. A very small change in the structure of the fabric at a given location causes a change in the permeability at that location. First we measure the air permeability at defined locations of the fabric. The method allows us to detect areas with an extreme value of permeability – the locations “suspected” of extreme unevenness of fabric's structure. Second, we explore the structure of the fabric in these areas of extreme values of the permeability and attempt to determine the causes of the irregularities in the fabric's structure. To quantify and describe the degree of these irregularities we applied methods of image analysis and statistical processing on acquired data. For our experiment, woven fabrics in the plain weave made from 100% staple yarn polyester were used. Results of our research confirm that significantly greater permeability variations occur in the weft direction of the fabric. Subsequent analysis of the structure of the fabric shows the bimodal nature or the data corresponding to the measurement of width of inter-yarn pore in the place of the maximal value of permeability. The observed higher value of permeability can be attributed to the irregularity of warp yarns at a given location of fabric. Initial permeability measurements enabled us to detect locations of its extreme values. Further close examination of these “suspected” locations of the fabric by a detailed analysis of the structure lead to the determination of the causes of the related irregularities.
Analyzing the Effect of Yarn and Knitting Parameters on Ultraviolet Radiation Protection by Taguchi Experimental Design
Authors: Mal Prithwiraj , Majumdar Abhijit , Ghosh Anindya , Banerjee Debamalya
Published: November 2018

The ultraviolet protection factors (UPF) of single jersey and 1×1 rib knitted fabrics have been investigated using Taguchi experimental design. The effects of loop length, knitting speed or carriage speed, yarn input tension and yarn fineness have been studied in the presence of two unavoidable and uncontrolled noise parameters. The results show that the yarn count and loop length have significant impact on the UPF for both single jersey and 1×1 knitted fabrics. A ranking of the four controlled parameters and the percentage contribution of each of these parameters have also been determined. The optimum parameters that correspond to the highest S/N ratio of UPF have also been evaluated.
Screen-printed Military Textiles for Wearable Energy Storage
Authors: Zopf Stephanie Flores , Manser Michael
Published: November 2018

Textile-based supercapacitors incorporated into military uniforms enable the autonomy of wearable, physiological sensors that can be safer and more comfortable for the Warfighter. Previously, researchers have incorporated supercapacitor electrode components into common textiles such as cotton and polyester, but not in military-relevant textiles that have different fabric characteristics. In order to understand how current uniforms could be transformed into energy storage, a baseline for incorporating aforesaid components onto military textiles is needed. This paper describes how screen printing was used to assess the feasibility of the technique to incorporate electrode ink comprised of activated carbon and an acrylic binder onto military relevant textiles. Sheet resistance was used as a metric to evaluate the quality of screen prints, while electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry were used to investigate the behavior of the most promising screen printed textile electrode using ionic liquid electrolyte (1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetracyanoborate) and graphene foil as current collectors. It was found that the electrode ink favored military textiles that had a tighter weave and were partially composed of nylon. Screen printed spandex woven textiles were found to have the highest conductivity, attaining areal and gravimetric capacitances of 20 mF/cm2 and 4.21 F/gcarbon, respectively.
Modeling Exposures of a Nylon-Cotton Fabric to High Radiant Heat Flux
Authors: Godfrey Thomas , Auerbach Margaret , Proulx Gary , Yip Pearl , Grady Michael
Published: November 2018

American soldiers and marines involved in the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan have suffered increased incidence of burn injury, often as a direct result of exposure to improvised explosive devices. In this work, a one dimensional numerical pyrolysis model for transient heat conduction, incorporating material transformations described by chemical kinetics, is used to investigate the response of the standard 230 g/m2 Army Combat Uniform (ACU) fabric to high radiant heat fluxes in short duration thermal protection tests and long duration cone calorimeter tests. Thermal protection tests are performed using a Thermal Barrier Test Apparatus–an automated device, incorporating a closed-loop controlled IR radiant heat source, automated water cooled shutter, a fabric sample holder, an adjustable stage with a water cooled Schmidt-Boelter heat flux gauge and a PC based data acquisition system. Cone calorimeter tests are performed on fabric specimens at an exposure heat flux of 25 kW/m2. In thermal protection tests involving exposures of 90 kW/m2 for five seconds and 77 kW/m2 for four seconds, modeling indicated that desorption and evaporation of moisture content has an important effect, but melting of the nylon component and material decomposition had insignificant effects on the heat flux transmitted through the fabric back face. Modeling results for cone testing exhibited good agreement for time to ignition and duration of flaming combustion.
Effect of Surface Biopolymeric Treatment on Sisal Fiber Properties and Fiber-Cement Bond
Authors: Lima Paulo R. L. , Santos Heni Mirna , Camilloto Geany Peruch , Cruz Renato Souza
Published: November 2018

Sisal fiber, available in various semi-arid regions around the world, is the most studied natural fiber for the reinforcement of polymeric and cement-based composites. However, to improve the fiber–matrix interaction and to reduce the hydrophilicity of the fiber, it is necessary to establish surface treatments that employ sustainable materials, unlike conventional surface treatments. In this work, sisal fibers were coated separately with cellulose acetate, hydrophobic starch, and cassava starch biopolymers in order to verify the possibility of reducing the water absorption capacity of the fiber by the use of a biodegradable resin. A combination of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and water absorption and tensile tests was used to investigate the effects of the surface treatments on the sisal fiber properties. Pullout tests of sisal fibers with embedded lengths of 20 mm and 40 mm were performed to determine the influence of the treatments on the bond stress with cement mortar. Composites with 4 vol % short fiber were produced and tested for flexion. The study results indicated that all treatments reduced the mechanical properties of the fiber; however, the layer of the cellulose acetate biopolymer film formed on the fiber surface was effective in reducing the fiber hydrophilicity. Experimental tests on the composites revealed that the cellulose acetate treatment reduced the bond stress and, to a lesser degree, the flexural toughness of the composite, despite the increase in flexural strength.
Applications of On-Line Monitoring of dynamic Forces Experienced by Needles during Formation of Needled Fabrics
Authors: Seyam Abdelfattah M.
Published: November 2018

The significance of a recently developed system that measures dynamic forces experienced by individual needles during formation of needlepunched fabrics is demonstrated. The system design, coupled with a new signal analysis technique allows measurement of peak penetration and stripping forces as well as the penetration and stripping energies due to needle/fiberweb interaction. Systematic experimental investigations were conducted to determine the critical locations in the needle board where needles experience the highest forces, and correlate needle force parameters to fabric performance.

The research results, supported by statistical analysis, show there is a strong relationship between needle penetration energy and fabric properties. Additionally, the needling density significantly impacts the location of maximum penetration forces.
Information, communications, rights and freedoms: Observations on the sovereignty of the state and its citizens
Authors: Thomas Pradip Ninan
Published: November 2018

This article explores the contested nature of sovereignty as it applies to the state and its citizens from the perspectives of information and communication. While the freedom of expression, right to information and communication rights have typically enhanced the sovereignty of citizens, in the recent past, the state has expanded its rights to mass surveillance, thereby infringing the freedom and rights of its citizens to expression, information and communication. Based on theory and examples of practice, it argues that the exercise of popular sovereignty through mass movements and collective actions contribute to the strengthening of the sovereignty of individuals and to limiting the extent of the state’s sovereign power.
Effect of extrinsic factors and structural components on sport functionality of artificial turf surfaces
Authors: Gallardo Leonor , García-Unanue Jorge , Haxaire Pascal , Villacañas Víctor , Colino Enrique , Sánchez-Sánchez Javier
Published: November 2018

The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of environmental factors on the mechanical behaviour of artificial turf football pitches and evaluate the effect of induced wear on the mechanical properties of the surface. A series of laboratory tests were conducted on 31 samples of artificial turf. The tests were done by a Fédération Internationale de Football Association–accredited test institute. In wet conditions, the shock absorption and linear friction slide were significantly higher than in dry conditions, whereas the angle ball rebound was significantly lower. Regarding the wear effect, a significant increment of the vertical rebound and rotational resistance was produced. The shock absorption and vertical deformation significantly decreased. The mechanical properties deteriorated 5.90% less in the samples that had installed an elastic layer compared to those that did not. The shock absorption was significantly lower at 40°C compared to the shock absorption at −5°C and 23°C. These findings highlight the importance of installing an elastic layer in artificial turf football pitches, to increase their useful life and, therefore, to assure the security of the users for a longer time.
Spiritual Formation and Soul Care in the Department of Christian Formation and Ministry at Wheaton College
Authors: McRay Barrett W. , Barwegen Laura , Haase Daniel T. , Karianjahi Muhia , Larson Mimi L. , Ribbe Rob , Schwanda Tom , Setran David P. , Wilhoit James C.
Published: November 2018

This article examines a model of formation within higher education that is committed to educationally based spiritual formation, desiring to see students formed as people who love God and neighbor, devoting their lives to redemptive labor in the world. Deeply influenced by the evolving relationship between the department, the institution, and the broader evangelical culture, the Christian Formation and Ministry department of Wheaton College seeks to equip students with the theological and theoretical foundation, the personal maturity of character and faith, and the practical ministry skills necessary to lead and participate in the formational and caring mission of the church in the world. Wheaton College’s unique approach to teaching spiritual formation and soul care in both their undergraduate and graduate programs is examined through a historical context of the department, a liberal arts and learning-centered approach to education that includes biblical foundations, philosophical framework, pedagogy, and teaching curriculum and assessment.