bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuromodulation: A new frontier?
Authors: Tuccitto G. , Maccatrozzo L , Mangano M. , Checchin P. , Anselmo G.
Published: November 2018

It is often impossible to identify the precise cause of urethrocystalgia at radiological and functional confirmation of diagnosis and therapy is therefore frequently symptomatic without resolving the underlying cause. Neuromodulation by stimulating the sacral nerves of the vertebral foramina has recently been introduced into clinical practice. At present only a few specialised centres have implemented this therapy as second choice in treating lower urinary tract dysfunction secondary to detrusorial hyper- or hypoactivity and pelvic pain. The authors review literature on the subject and report on the multi-centre experience of Brescia, Padua and Treviso in treating urethrocystalgias. A method has been used that is by now standardised with regard to temporary percutaneous stimulation techniques and final implant. Ways of correctly identifying predictive factors which would indicate suitability for application of the method are, however, still unclear. It is to be hoped that studies involving larger numbers of cases may provide the answers, so that specialists can apply the technique more correctly.
Classic Kaposi's sarcoma on the glans penis only: Case report
Authors: Gastaldi E. , Benvenuti S. , Mennini B. , Iacoviello M. , Caviglione M. , Rucci E. , Anselmi L , Traverso G.B.
Published: November 2018

The Authors report a case of Kaposi's sarcoma presenting on the glans penis only in a non-HIV positive patient, who had not been treated with immuno-suppressive drugs. In our experience and according to a review of specific literature, choice treatment would seem to be a radiotherapeutic approach followed by partial penectomy in the event of recurrence.
Impact of Physician–Pharmacist Covisits at a Primary Care Clinic in Patients With Uncontrolled Diabetes
Authors: Peterson Jasmine , Hinds April , Garza Aida , Barner Jamie , Hill Lucas , Nguyen Michelle , Lai Phillip , Gums Tyler
Published: November 2018

Purpose:

A popular method for enhancing medication management within a patient-centered medical home (PCMH) is the physician–pharmacist collaborative management (PPCM) model. To improve efficiency of health-care delivery within 4 federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), the PPCM model was implemented through coordinated physician–pharmacist covisits.

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of physician–pharmacist covisits on clinical outcomes among patients with uncontrolled diabetes.

Methodology:

This was a retrospective multicenter cohort study including adults (≥18 years old) with uncontrolled type 1 or type 2 diabetes (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c] ≥ 8 %) who had at least one covisit between January 1, 2013, and October 1, 2016. The primary clinical metric was mean change in HbA1c from baseline to follow-up. Secondary outcomes included adherence to select American Diabetes Association (ADA) Standards of Medical Care.

Results:

A total of 106 patients were included in this analysis. Patients who were managed in the PPCM model experienced a significant decrease in mean change in HbA1c from baseline to follow-up (−1.75 [2.63], P < .001). There was no significant difference in the proportion of patients receiving recommended vaccinations or cardiovascular (CV) risk reduction medications.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that physician–pharmacist covisits may improve glucose control in patients with uncontrolled diabetes.
Stereo vision–based non-contact dynamic measurement method for vehicle braking time sequence
Authors: Zhang Libin , Wu Dao , Shan Hongying , Zhang Lele
Published: November 2018

The braking stability of semi-trailer train is directly related to the safety of driving. The braking time sequence of vehicle in braking process directly determines the braking stability of the vehicle. To overcome the limitations of the existing technology, this paper proposes a novel non-contact vehicle braking time sequence measurement method. The proposed method is based on binocular stereo vision that has high precision, high efficiency and low cost. First, the binocular stereo vision measurement principle is introduced, the camera is calibrated by three-dimensional target and the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm is used to optimize the calibration parameters. Then, a series of image processing techniques are used to extract the wheel marker and perform three-dimensional coordinate reconstruction. Finally, the universality and the applicability of the proposed method are verified by conducting repetitive experiments and accuracy experiments for the same vehicle and different types of vehicles according to the designed experimental process and the established evaluation index. The experimental results show that the method proposed in this paper can achieve fast detection, with high accuracy and good repeatability. Moreover, the method can be extended to various types of vehicles.
Death attitudes and truth disclosure: A survey of family caregivers of elders with terminal cancer in China
Authors: Tang Yong
Published: November 2018

Background:

Although family caregivers play an important role in end-of-life care decisions, few studies have examined the communication between family caregivers and patients at the end of life.

Objective:

The objective was to describe family caregivers’ attitudes toward death, hospice, and truth disclosure.

Research design:

A quantitative method was used, and a closed-ended survey of 140 family caregivers was conducted in China. The subjects included 140 primary family caregivers of elders with terminal cancer enrolled at a hospice center from April to August 2017.

Participants:

140 primary family caregivers of elders with terminal cancer participated the study.

Research Context:

A high proportion of cancer patients continue to receive inadequate information about their illness. Family caregivers’ inhibitions about disclosing information to cancer patients have not yet been the objects of research in China.

Ethical considerations:

This study was reported to and approved by the Regional Ethics Committee in Shenzhen, China.

Findings:

A questionnaire survey collected information on family caregivers’ background information, emotional state, personal needs, death attitudes, and truth-disclosure opinions. The results revealed that family caregivers’ death attitudes and truth-disclosure opinions played an important role in the process of caring for elders with terminal cancer.

Discussion:

By adopting a quantitative method, the author revealed not only the general patterns of family caregivers’ attitudes toward cancer diagnosis disclosure but also the reasons for their actions and the practices of family disclosure.

Conclusion:

The findings suggested that ineffective communication concerning end-of-life issues resulted from family caregivers’ lack of discussion and difficulty in hearing the news. Future studies should examine strategies for optimal communication between family caregivers and patients, especially with regard to breaking the bad news. Professional training in breaking bad news is important and is associated with self-reported truth-disclosure practices among family caregivers.
Digital platforms under fire: What Australia can learn from recent developments in Europe
Authors: Esayas Samson , Svantesson Dan
Published: November 2018

There is a clear trend of a hardening attitude towards digital platforms. In Australia this trend is exemplified by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s current inquiry specifically into digital platforms. Further, it can also be seen in court decisions. Having discussed one such court decision, we give a brief overview of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s digital platforms inquiry. We then seek to bring attention to a selection of particularly relevant European developments that may usefully inform how Australia proceeds in this arena and that may be considered in the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s final report due to be provided to the Treasurer on 3 June 2019.
Systematic Review of Real-World Studies Evaluating Characteristics Associated With or Programs Designed to Facilitate Outpatient Management of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Weeda Erin R. , Butt Sofia
Published: November 2018

Select patients with acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can be managed as outpatients. We sought to conduct a systematic review of real-world studies describing either (1) the clinical characteristics associated with outpatient DVT treatment in all-comers or (2) emergency department (ED) programs designed to facilitate outpatient DVT treatment. MEDLINE and SCOPUS were searched (January 1, 2012, to May 1, 2018) to identify citations meeting the aforementioned criteria. Twenty-one real-world studies were included. The proportion of all-comer patients with DVT managed as outpatients was ≤50% in 11 of 15 studies. With the exception of younger age, no characteristics were consistently associated with outpatient treatment across the 13 studies reporting these characteristics. We identified 8 studies describing ED programs aimed at facilitating DVT outpatient treatment, all of which provided education and included measures to encourage early outpatient follow-up after ED discharge. In conclusion, the proportion of patients with DVT managed as outpatients across real-world studies was low. Several ED programs aimed at facilitating this treatment have been described. It is possible that programs similar to these will increase the proportion of patients with DVT that can be safely managed as outpatients.
What Might a Feminist Relational New Materialist and Affirmative Critique Generate in/With Early Childhood Research?
Authors: Otterstad Ann Merete
Published: November 2018

Feminist new material theories and affirmative critique is the returning point in this article. In early childhood education and research, critique and critical perspectives are given an important emphasis and might be taken for granted. Critic, criticism, critical perspectives, negation, opposite tactics, interpretation, explanation, reflection, and judgments have in education, according to Bunz, Kaiser, and Thiele, continued as analytical “tools” since Kant. Searching for complicity and rhizomatic entanglements with/in pedagogical and philosophical thinking practice might open for critical distinctions beyond subject/object, mind/body, knower/known, theory/practice, and nature/culture beyond Kant. The complicity and coemergence of any knowledge or critical assessment with what is known and with whoever knows is always already of perspectival, situated, and entangling nature. The interest of this article is complex and multifaceted. I want to elaborate on the politics of critique as well as experiment with matters of methodology. To critically address critique, I use seven previously copublished articles1 as data material. Being affectively attracted to intra-actions of what all matter offers—ways of looking and cutting together-apart—I wonder what an articleassemblage might generate inventively and relationally, also as critique. Resisting an idea of (re)presenting a summary of the articles, my wish is in line with feminist materialist diffractionists (Barad, Haraway)—experimenting with what the concept symbiogenesis might offer together with critical affirmative thinking. Sympoiesis is making-with, and according to Haraway—nothing is making itself, which invites to think of evolution as coevolution opening for intra-entangling and becoming-with potentiality and change.
Approach to the Assessment and Management of Adult Patients With Atopic Dermatitis: A Consensus Document. Section III: Evaluation of Atopic Dermatitis Patients for Comorbidities
Authors: Hong Chih-ho , Sussman Gordon , Turchin Irina , Wiseman Marni , Gooderham Melinda J.
Published: November 2018

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is often associated with other atopic diseases, including asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopy-associated eye disorders, and eosinophilic esophagitis. Depression and anxiety are also comorbidities to AD that significantly affect quality of life and should be screened for in patients with AD. Links to other comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and malignancy are considered inconclusive, but patient counselling and screening may be appropriate in some patients. This article highlights practical recommendations for the recognition and management of atopic and nonatopic comorbidities commonly associated with AD.
Postoperative care via smartphone following carpal tunnel release
Authors: Tofte Josef N , Anthony Christopher A , Polgreen Philip M , Buckwalter Joseph A , Caldwell Lindsey S , Fowler Timothy P , Ebinger Thomas , Hanley Jessica M , Dowdle Spencer B , Holte Andrew J , Arpey Nicholas C , Lawler Ericka A
Published: November 2018

Introduction

This study explores a novel smartphone application for postoperative care following carpal tunnel release (CTR). We hypothesized that a software-based ‘virtual visit’ for CTR could be safe, effective and convenient for the patient.

Methods

Our group developed the software application utilized in this study. Interactive steps with video instructions enabled patients to complete dressing and suture removal, capture a wound photo, answer a question about median nerve symptoms and capture a video of finger range of motion. Adult patients undergoing endoscopic or open CTR were enrolled. Prior to their scheduled postoperative visit, patients received and completed the module using their smartphone. Agreement between findings of the virtual visit and the corresponding in-person clinical visit was assessed using kappa values.

Results

Twenty-two patients were contacted regarding study enrolment and 17 patients were enrolled (ages 23–63, mean 48.2, 6M, 11F). Of 16 patients who participated, all completed dressing removal. Ten of 16 patients removed their sutures successfully. Fourteen patients captured a clinically adequate wound photo and 15 patients answered a question about median nerve symptoms. Fourteen patients captured a range of motion video. Software assessments of surgical wounds, nerve symptoms and physical exams agreed strongly with clinical assessments.

Discussion

Most patients were able to respond to a question about their symptoms, provide clinical assessment of their wound via a photo and record a video of their range of motion. Suture removal was the most difficult task. More investigation is needed to determine which patients can reliably remove their sutures.
Relations of civil liberties and women’s health satisfaction around the globe: The explanatory power of autonomy
Authors: Weinstein Netta , Legate Nicole , Al-Khouja Maya , Șengül Șule
Published: November 2018

Research on how sociopolitical factors differentially affect the health and well-being of individuals is nascent and mechanisms responsible have not yet been identified. This work examined how the civil liberties afforded across 79 countries differentially affect the health satisfaction of men and women and tested one potential reason for this link: autonomy satisfaction, the experience of being choiceful, and free to express oneself. Women reported lower health satisfaction in countries that were lower in civil liberties, a relation mediated by autonomy. Implications for women and other marginalized groups most affected by a society’s restrictive policies and norms are discussed.
The urban domination of the planet: A Rancièrian critique
Authors: Grange Kristina , Gunder Michael
Published: November 2018

A competitive urbanisation discourse is dominating the world. So much so that, following Lefevbre’s later work, Brenner and Schmid, among others, have recently re-invigorated the term ‘planetary urbanisation’ to promote a new epistemology of the urban. This is an epistemology which re-conceptualises the world as constituted by an extended urban fabric that lacks global exteriority – all the world is now to be perceived as a part of a global condensed, extended or differential urbanisation. But this also begs the question: what of the other non-urban-dwelling population who inhabit the 97% of the landmass that currently is not developed as urban land? The article begins by considering contemporary debates about planetary urbanisation. Having introduced arguments of equality developed by the philosophy of Rancière, it then considers planetary urbanisation from the perspective of equity. The article argues that we currently are witnessing an urban domination of the planet that not only fails in recognising the non-urban outside, but perhaps more importantly, increasingly is creating ‘geographies of despair’. It concludes by arguing for planning theories that take rubrics other than just that of the urban as their starting point, in order to contribute to opening up both urban and non-urban places as potential stages where disruptive politics, including those pertinent to planning, may be both played out and appropriately understood.
Cluster analysis identifying patients with COPD at high risk of 2-year all-cause mortality
Authors: Rodrigues Antenor , Camillo Carlos Augusto , Furlanetto Karina Couto , Paes Thais , Morita Andrea Akemi , Spositon Thamyres , Donaria Leila , Ribeiro Marcos , Probst Vanessa Suziane , Hernandes Nidia Aparecida , Pitta Fabio
Published: November 2018

The objective of the article is to identify clusters of patients with COPD according to factors known to be associated with mortality and to verify whether clusters’ assignment is associated with 2-year mortality. Patients ( n = 141) were evaluated by bioelectrical impedance, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), one-repetition maximum test of the quadriceps femoris (1RMQF) and BODE index (body mass index; airflow obstruction (spirometry); dyspnea (modified Medical Research Council scale); and exercise capacity (6-minute walk test (6MWT) distance). Vital status was retrospectively checked 2 years after the assessments, and time to death was quantified for those deceased in this period. K-means analysis identified two clusters. Patients in cluster one (CL I, n = 69) presented an impaired clinical status in comparison to cluster two (CL II, n = 72). Receiver operating characteristics curves identified the cutoffs discriminating patients composing CL I: forced expiratory volume in the first second <44%pred; 6MWT <479 m; 1RMQF <19 kg; and maximum inspiratory pressures <73 cmH2O (area under the curve range 0.750–0.857). During the follow-up, 19 (13%) patients deceased, 15 in CL I (22%) and 4 in CL II (0.06%) ( p = 0.005). CL I was associated with a higher risk of 2-year mortality (hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 4.3 (1.40–12.9), p = 0.01). A cluster of patients with COPD highly associated with 2-year mortality was statistically identified, and cutoffs to identify these subjects were provided.
An Analysis of Fabric ‘Hand’ and ‘Feel’
Authors: Dent R.W.
Published: November 2018

A comprehensive analysis of fabric “hand” or “feel” can be obtained by a full evaluation using the “Kawabata” or “Fast” systems. However, for quick, cheap ranking of only the main factors of hand, the ring and slot methods can be used. In a ring test the fabric is pulled through a ring and the maximum force is taken as a measure of the fabric hand. In the slot test, the fabric is pushed through a slot and the complete force deflection curve is measured. An analysis of the mechanics of this test is given in this paper and shows that (because of the simpler test configuration) the initial slope gives a measure of the fabric flexural rigidity or stiffness while the ratio of the maximum load to the initial slope gives a measure of the fabric friction or smoothness. Thus in a single test we can measure “hand”, “stiffness” and “smoothness” directly. By parallel measurements of the fabric shear and compression, we can assess the fabric “drape” and “softness”.
Multipass Beta Filtration Testing for the 21st Century
Authors: Eleftherakis John G. , Khalil Abraham
Published: November 2018

The current ISO 4572 Multipass Filter Test Procedure has not been substantially revised since its approval as an ISO document in 1981. However, proposed revisions will likely be adopted shortly which will have far-reaching impact in liquid multipass filter testing and for virtually all industrial applications. These revisions include the adoption of a new test dust to replace the discontinued AC Fine Test Dust (ACFTD), a revised particle counter calibration procedure using National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) traceable calibration fluid, a new on-line particle counter, sample delivery and dilution system validation procedure, and a new reporting format. These changes result in a new definition for assessing and rating filter performance.

This paper discusses these changes in detail and the resulting impact on the filtration industry. For example, the most significant revision pertains to use of a revised ISO 4402 standard for calibration of liquid particle counters. Until now, particle counter calibration fluid containing ACFTD was used to calibrate particle counters. This test dust is no longer manufactured due, in part, to the inability of the manufacturer to produce a consistent particle distribution of ACFTD from one batch to another. This inconsistency in the test dust, and also in much of the calibration fluid containing the test dust, created a great challenge for labs to correlate particle count results and filter test data.

The revised ISO 4402 calibration standard will require the use of a new NIST Standard Reference Material (SRM) calibration fluid using a new test dust called ISO Medium dust, which has virtually replaced ACFTD. This new test dust and the calibration fluid containing it is much more consistent and reliable, allowing for better correlation of results.

The analysis conducted by NIST to certify the calibration fluid as a SRM found what before was defined as a 2 micron particle was actually a 4.6 micron particle and what was defined as a 15 micron particle was actually a 13.6 micron particle. This finding will redefine liquid filter performance information based on particle counts to the effect that, in general, fine filters will appear less efficient than previously reported and coarse filters will appear more efficient.

While other revisions to ISO 4572 will have less impact, they are presented. Filter test engineers, filter users and manufacturers, and filter sales personnel will benefit by educating themselves now on the impact of these revisions in order to best serve the filtration industry and filter users.
Effects of Water on Processing and Properties of Thermally Bonded Cotton/Cellulose Acetate Nonwovens
Authors: Gao Xiao , Duckett K.E. , Bhat G. , Rong Haoming
Published: November 2018

Environmentally friendly nonwoven fabrics can be formed through thermal bonding of cotton and cellulose acetate fiber blends at reduced bonding temperature with the aid of a plasticizer. Water has been introduced as an external plasticizer to lower the softening temperature of cellulose acetate fibers and to enhance the tensile strength of cotton/cellulose acetate web. It has been found that water can significantly increase the tensile strength of cotton/cellulose acetate thermally-bonded webs at reasonable bonding temperatures. In addition, water can enhance web bonding to essentially the same degree as an acetone treatment does. The mechanisms of water effect are considered and optimal processing conditions are proposed.
Microstructural Analysis of Fiber Segments in Nonwoven Fabrics Using SEM and Image Processing
Authors: Ghassemieh E. , Versteeg H.K. , Acar M.
Published: November 2018

In this paper image analyzing methods are established and presented to study the microstructural changes of the nonwovens made by hydroentanglement process. Fast Fourier transform is used to obtain the orientation distribution of the fibers. The distribution of the length of the straight segments of the fibers is evaluated by application of Hough Transform. The microstructural changes are correlated with the tested mechanical properties of the nonwoven fabrics.
Role of Fiber Morphology in Thermal Bonding
Authors: Chand Subhash , Bhat Gajanan S. , Spruiell Joseph E. , Malkan Sanjiv
Published: November 2018

The role of fiber morphology in a thermal point bonding operation was investigated. Primary objectives were to understand the changes taking place in fiber structure due to applied heat and pressure, and the role of fiber morphology in determining optimum process conditions and properties of the webs. To study fibers with varying morphology, i.e., from partially drawn as in spunbonding to fully drawn as in staple fiber nonwovens, fibers with a wide range of crystallinity and orientation were spun and characterized, from two polypropylene resins. Thermally bonded carded webs were produced, using these fibers, and characterized in order to understand thermal bonding behavior of fibers with different morphology. The fibers with different morphology differed significantly in their bonding behavior. The fibers with higher molecular orientation and crystallinity tended to form a weak and brittle bond due to lack of polymer flow and fibrillation of the fibers in the bonded regions. In general, fibers with lower molecular orientation and lower crystallinity yielded stronger and tougher webs. Fibers with relatively less developed morphology also exhibited lower optimum bonding temperature. Morphological changes in fibers were observed during the thermal bonding process, in bonded as well as unbonded regions of the web. As a final step to see how the observations from staple-fiber study translate to one of the relevant processes during scale-up, spunbond studies were also conducted in a similar way.
Fiberglass Vs. Synthetic Air Filtration Media
Authors: Vaughn Edward , Ramachandran Gayetri
Published: November 2018

This paper deals with ASHRAE filters used in air filtration applications and summarizes, on the basis of current research work, some of the reasons for the disagreement that exists among filter manufacturers concerning the properties and performance of various types of air filter media in general, glass and synthetic media in particular. Attention is also drawn to some important items that need to be incorporated in test methods and to some factors that could be affecting filter performance
Modification of Air Filter Media with Nylon-6 Nanofibers
Authors: Li Lei , Frey Margaret W. , Green Thomas B.
Published: November 2018

Nylon-6 fibers with average diameters below 500 nm were electrospun onto conventional air filter media at varying weight coverage levels using a multi-nozzle bank. The initial filtration efficiency of the air filter media was improved significantly with increasing coverage level and decreasing size of nylon-6 fibers. Nylon-6 fibers were very durable on the air filter media at the coverage level of 0.1 g/m2 due to the good adhesion with the air filter fibers. The production efficiency of the coated air filter media could be increased by using more nozzle banks for electrospinning without affecting the initial filtration efficiency of the air filter media significantly.
A Mathematical Modeling Framework for Analysis of Functional Clothing
Authors: Man Xiaolin , Swan Colby C.
Published: November 2018

In the analysis and design of functional clothing systems, it is helpful to quantify the effects of a system on a wearer's physical performance capabilities. Toward this end, a clothing modeling framework for quantifying the mechanical interactions between a given clothing system design and a specific wearer performing defined physical tasks is proposed. The modeling framework consists of three interacting modules: (1) a macroscale fabric mechanics/dynamics model; (2) a collision detection and contact correction module; and (3) a human motion module. In the proposed framework, the macroscopic fabric model is based on a rigorous large deformation continuum-degenerated shell theory representation. Material models that capture the stress-strain behavior of different clothing fabrics are used in the continuum shell framework. The collision and contact module enforces the impenetrability constraint between the fabric and human body and computes the associated contact forces between the two. The human body is represented in the current framework as an assemblage of overlapping ellipsoids that undergo rigid body motions consistent with human motions while performing actions such as walking, running, or jumping. The transient rigid body motions of each ellipsoidal body segment in time are determined using motion capture technology. The integrated modeling framework is then exercised to quantify the resistance that the clothing exerts on the wearer during the specific activities under consideration. Current results from the framework are presented and its intended applications are discussed along with some of the key challenges remaining in clothing system modeling.
Spunlaced Cotton and Cotton Blend Cosmetic Pads and Bed Sheets: Study of Fiber Entanglement
Authors: Parikh Dharnidhar V. , Randall R. Bresee , Muenstermann U. , Watzl Alfred , Crook LeGrand , Gillespie Don
Published: November 2018

Nonwoven webs containing five different blends of bleached cotton with Lyocell rayon, bicomponent core/sheath polyester/polyethylene, or cotton comber noil were prepared by either light needlepunching, or light needlepunching followed by spunlacing (hydroentanglement). We optically acquired fiber bundle size measurements to learn about the pre-needling process, the hydroentangling process and the influence of fiber blend composition on fiber entanglement. Fiber entanglement measurements were compared to basis weight uniformity measurements. One of the bed sheet developments utilized a combination of bonding technologies (spunlacing and thermal bonding) that used low energy. Results from this work indicate that spunlacing produced high quality cosmetic pads and economical short-life bed sheeting.
Simulation of C-CP Fiber-Based Air Filtration
Authors: Cox Christopher L. , Brown Philip J. , Larzelere John C.
Published: November 2018

The overall goal of this project is to develop High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter media, using conventional fiber spinning techniques, with lower pressure drop than current media through the use of shaped fibers. Capillary-channeled polymer (C-CP) fibers are gaining interest for use in a range of separations applications. This paper focuses on modeling air filtration where the filter consists of C-CP fibers. A variety of numerical tools are being used in this effort, including a finite element flow solver and Brownian dynamics simulation. Aspects of these techniques in relation to the problem at hand will be described, and simulation results including comparisons to round-fiber filters will be presented. The primary result presented here is the significant difference in predicted pressure drop between a prototype C-CP filter and a round-fiber filter with equal total cross-sectional area.
Effects of Fiber Denier, Fiber Cross-Sectional Shape and Fabric Density on Acoustical Behavior of Vertically Lapped Nonwoven Fabrics
Authors: Tascan Mevlut , Vaughn Edward A.
Published: November 2018

Acoustical insulation and absorption properties of nonwoven fabrics depend on fiber geometry and fiber arrangement within the fabric structure. The different structures of the fibers result in different total surface areas of nonwoven fabrics. Nonwoven fabrics such as vertically lapped fabrics are ideal materials for use as acoustical insulation products, because they have high total surface. Vertically lapped nonwoven technology consists of carding, perpendicular layering of the carded webs, and through-air bonding using synthetic binder fibers. The surface area of the fabric is directly related to the denier and cross-sectional shape of the fibers in the fabric. Smaller deniers yield more fibers per unit weight of the material, higher total fiber surface area, and greater possibilities for a sound wave to interact with the fibers in the fabric structure.

The research in the literature uses two methods for measuring acoustical properties of fabric materials: the impedance tube and reverberation room method. Small test samples are in the impedance tube method and sound absorption coefficient is determined at each frequency. Large reverberation rooms and large test samples are used for the reverberation room method. A direct comparative acoustical properties measurement device that was designed and fabricated at Clemson University School of Materials Science & Engineering was used to measure acoustical insulation in this research. This paper provides a description of the measurement devices and acoustical measurement data for vertically lapped nonwoven fabrics made from three different polyester fiber shape and two denier levels.
Oriented Fiber Filter Media
Authors: Bharadwaj R. , Patel A. , Chokdeepanich S. , Chase G.G.
Published: November 2018

Coalescing filters are widely used throughout industry and improved performance will reduce droplet emissions and operating costs. Experimental observations show orientation of micro fibers in filter media effect the permeability and the separation efficiency of the filter media. In this work two methods are used to align the fibers to alter the filter structure. The results show that axially aligned fiber media improve quality factor on the order of 20% and cutting media on an angle from a thick layered media can improve performance by about 40%. The results also show the improved performance is not monotonically correlated to the average fiber angle of the medium.
Neural Network for Predicting Thermal Conductivity of Knit Materials
Authors: Fayala Faten , Alibi Hamza , Benltoufa Sofien , Jemni Abdelmajid
Published: November 2018

The major aim of comfort research is to find the comfort temperature for an individual or group. This subjective property can be evaluated by means of thermal conductivity as a physical characteristic of fabric. This phenomenon depends on many fabric parameters and it is difficult to study the effect of ones without changing the others. In addition, the non-linear relationship of fabric parameters and thermal conductivity handicap mathematical modelling. So a neural network approach was used to predict the thermal conductivity of knitting structure as a function of porosity, air permeability, weight and fiber conductivity. Data on thermal conductivity are measured by experiments carried out on jersey knitted structure.
Yarn Strength Modelling Using Fuzzy Expert System
Authors: Majumdar Abhijit , Ghosh Anindya
Published: November 2018

Yarn strength modelling and prediction has remained as the cynosure of research for the textile engineers although the investigation in this domain was first reported around one century ago. Several mathematical, statistical and empirical models have been developed in the past only to yield limited success in terms of prediction accuracy and general applicability. In recent years, soft computing tools like artificial neural networks and neural-fuzzy models have been developed, which have shown remarkable prediction accuracy. However, artificial neural network and neural-fuzzy models are trained using enormous amount of noise free input-output data, which are difficult to collect from the spinning industries. In contrast, fuzzy logic based models could be developed by using the experience of the spinner only and it gives good understanding about the roles played by various inputs on the outputs. This paper deals with the modelling of ring spun cotton yarn strength using a simple fuzzy expert system. The prediction accuracy of the model was found to be very encouraging.
An Investigation of the Radiative Heat Transfer through Nonwoven Fibrous Materials
Authors: Qashou Imad , Tafreshi Hooman Vahedi , Pourdeyhimi Behnam
Published: November 2018

In this study, the surface-to-surface radiation model of the Fluent CFD code is used to investigate the response of a fibrous material to the radiative heat transfer. The unsteady state heat transfer equation is solved for the temperature and heat flux in and around the fibers that constitute a nonwoven fibrous material. For a fixed fiber diameter, it was shown that the higher the fabric's Solid Volume Fraction (SVF), the slower is the material's average temperature rise. Our simulation results also indicate that for a fixed SVF, fiber diameter has a negligible influence on the unsteady transfer of heat through the media. Of particular interest in this paper is the effect of material's thickness on the heat penetration. It is shown that the transient heat transfer exponentially decreases by increasing the material's thickness for fixed SVFs and fiber diameters. The above finding is also in agreement with our experimental study.
Controlling Liquid Release by Compressing Electrospun Nanowebs
Authors: Kornev K.G. , Ren X. , Dzenis Y.
Published: November 2018

Electrospun nanowebs with pores ranging from nanometers to micrometers, constitute new materials with enhanced absorbency and ability to retain liquids in pores for a long period of time. These materials can be used as nanofluidic probes collecting minute amount of liquids. However, extraction of liquids from nanofibrous materials presents a problem: menisci in the interfiber pores create very high suction pressure which holds the liquid inside the material. This problem can be resolved if the probe is completely filled with the liquid: menisci at the probe edges become flat to establish a pressure equilibrium with the atmosphere. Therefore, one can take advantage of the nanoweb softness and extract liquid by mechanically deforming the nanowebs. We show that the liquid-saturated nanowebs follow the Voigt-type rheology upon loading. We theoretically explain this behavior and derive the relations between the Voigt phenomenological parameters, nanoweb permeability and compression modulus. We show that the limiting deformations follow the Hooke's law which assumes linear relation between the extracted volume of liquid and the applied load. Because of this predictable behavior, the nanoweb probes can be engineered to release minute liquid doses upon compression. The developed experimental methodology can be used for characterization of nanostructured materials which otherwise impossible to analyze by using the existing instruments.
Microwave Radiations for Heat-Setting of Polyester Fibers
Authors: Bhat Narendra Vinayak , Kale Manik J. , Ajit V. Gore
Published: November 2018

The use of radio and microwave frequency is gaining importance for industrial applications such as heating, drying, and other processing. The most important advantage of using microwave is that it is non-contact or localized heating and the heat is produced within the material. This can be much more effective than indirect heating where the heat propagation is by heat conduction through the material. We have been investigating the influence of microwave radiation on different fibers for the last few years. In the present investigation we used microwave frequency of 2450 MHz to investigate its effect on polyester fibers. The polyester fibers were heat set in air as well as a liquid, which acted as a lossy substances. The liquid was chosen on the basis of earlier experiments, which showed the maximum effect. A comparative study was also carried out using conventional heating in silicone oil.

Using the method of X-ray Diffraction (XRD) we calculated the changes in % crystallinity and orientation. It was found that as the time of treatment under microwave radiation increased from 15 sec. to 120 sec. the order factor was found to increase from 0.32 to 0.71. The crystalline orientation as determined from the azimuthal scan was also found to increase. Such structural changes can be highly beneficial for the processing of fabric in industry. The microwave radiation process is fast, reliable and energy saving.
Evaluation of Multiple (3-Cycle) Decontamination Processing for Filtering Facepiece Respirators
Authors: Bergman Michael S. , Viscusi Dennis J. , Heimbuch Brian K. , Wander Joseph D. , Sambol Anthony R. , Shaffer Ronald E.
Published: November 2018

Disposable N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are widely used by healthcare workers to reduce exposures to infectious biological aerosols. There is currently major concern among public health officials about a possible shortage of N95 FFRs during an influenza pandemic. Decontamination and reuse of FFRs is a possible strategy for extending FFR supplies in an emergency; however, the NIOSH respirator certification process does not currently include provisions for decontamination and reuse. Recent studies have investigated the laboratory performance (filter aerosol penetration and filter airflow resistance) and physical integrity of FFRs following one-cycle (1X) processing of various decontamination treatments. The studies found that a single application of some methods did not adversely affect laboratory performance. In the event that healthcare facilities experience dramatic shortages of FFR supplies, multiple decontamination processing may become necessary. This study investigates three-cycle (3X) processing of eight different methods: ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma, hydrogen peroxide vapor, microwave-oven-generated steam, bleach, liquid hydrogen peroxide, and moist heat incubation (pasteurization). A four-hour 3X submersion of FFR in deionized water was performed for comparison (control). Following 3X treatment by each decontamination and control method, FFRs were evaluated for changes in physical appearance, odor, and laboratory filtration performance. Only the hydrogen peroxide gas plasma treatment resulted in mean penetration levels > 5% for four of the six FFR models; FFRs treated by the seven other methods and the control samples had expected levels of filter aerosol penetration (< 5%) and filter airflow resistance. Physical damage varied by treatment method. Further research is still needed before any specific decontamination methods can be recommended.
Biodegradability Study on Cotton and Polyester Fabrics
Authors: Li Lili , Frey Margaret , Browning Kristie J
Published: November 2018

The purpose of this study was to measure and compare the biodegradability of fabrics in laboratory and large scale composting environments. Cotton jersey fabrics with three levels of finishing treatments (scoured and bleached, softener added and resin added) and a polyester jersey fabric were tested. Under controlled laboratory conditions, the carbon dioxide produced was monitored and integrated to determine the biodegradation rate by ASTM D 5988–03 method in natural soil, and the weight losses were measured after biodegradation in enzyme solutions. The same set of fabrics was buried in the Cornell University Composting Facility for 3 months. The weight losses and the fabric morphology after biodegradation were used to assess and compare the biodegradability with the results obtained under laboratory conditions. The polyester fabric showed a slight initial degradation, but the fabric remained intact under both laboratory conditions and the compost environment. The cotton fabric with softener had an accelerated degradation rate, while the cotton fabric with resin showed a relatively slow degradation rate. All cotton samples were more significantly degraded in the compost environment than under the laboratory conditions and confirmed to be ‘compostable’.
Variation of Surface Charge along the Surface of Wool Fibers Assessed by High-Resolution Force Spectroscopy
Authors: Zimmerman Bonnie , Chow James , Abbott Albert G. , Ellison Michael S. , Kennedy Marian S. , Dean Delphine
Published: November 2018

In this study, we have mapped the surface charge of wool fibers using chemically specific high-resolution force spectroscopy in order to better understand the dispersion of amino acids in relation to fiber morphology. The inter-surface forces between standard atomic force microscopy (AFM) probe tips (tip radius ∼ 50 nm) functionalized with COOH and NH3 terminated alkanethiol self assembling monolayers and the wool surface were used to estimate the surface charge per unit area using linear Poisson-Boltzmann-based electrostatic double layer theory. The positional measurement of nano-scale surface charge showed a correlation between the surface charge and fiber morphology, indicated that basic amino acids are located near the scale edges.
Preparation and Properties of Viscose Rayon/O-carboxymethyl Chitosan Antibacterial Fibers
Authors: Di Youbo , Long Guoqiang , Zhang Huiqin , Li Qingshan
Published: November 2018

Antimicrobial viscose rayon/O-carboxymethyl chitosan fibers (VCMFs) were manufactured by spinning the mixture of O-carboxymethyl chitosan (O-CMCS) xanthate and cellulose xanthate via the viscose process. The structure, morphology and mechanical properties were investigated by infrared, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope and tensile test. The results show that the blend fibers of cellulose and O-CMCS were satisfactorily prepared and the two polymers were mixed homogeneously. VCMFs display striation along the fiber similar to those of viscose rayon fibers, and their mechanical properties are close to that of viscose rayon. With O-CMCS blended, VCMFs showed good moisture absorption and antibacterial activity against E.coli.
Investigating the Effect of False Twist Texturing Process on the Color Coordinates Variation of Spun-dyed Polyester Filament Yarns
Authors: Tehran Mohammad Amani , Azimi Bahareh , Mojtahedi Mohammad Reza Mohades
Published: November 2018

In this study, color coordinates variation of spun-dyed polyester filament yarns subjected to the false twist texturing process was investigated. Furthermore, the effect of different processing parameters including D/Y ratio, twist, heater temperature, texturing speed, overfeed, the draw ratio and intermingling process on the color coordinates variation of textured yarns was studied. Finally, the magnitude of color variation was analyzed by studying the structure, crimp and tensile properties of the yarns. The results show that the nature of texturing and intermingling process had a significant effect on the color variation of yarns but different processing parameters had no significant effect. The level of these variations can be expressed by observing the fiber geometry change along the texturing process.
Characterization of Electrospun Novel Poly(ester-ether) Copolymers: 1,4-Dioxan-2-one and D,L-3-Methyl-1,4-dioxan-2-one
Authors: Wolfe Patricia S. , Lochee Yemanlall , Jhurry Dhanjay , Bhaw-Luximon Archana , Bowlin Gary L.
Published: November 2018

Introduction: Because tissue engineering scaffolds serve as a temporary environment until new tissue can be formed, their mechanical performance, thermal properties, and biocompatibility are critical for maintaining their functionality. The goal of this study was to electrospin scaffolds from copolymers containing varying amounts of 1,4-Dioxan-2-one (DX) and D,L-3-Methyl-1,4-dioxan-2-one (DL-3-MeDX), and characterize their mechanical and thermal properties. Methods and Results: Image tool analysis of scanning electron micrographs revealed the presence of DL-3-MeDX causes the fiber diameter of the scaffold to decrease as compared to polydioxanone (PDO). Uniaxial tensile testing revealed increasing amounts of DL-3-MeDX in the copolymer decreases scaffold peak stress, strain at break and toughness. Modulated differential scanning calorimetry was used for thermal analysis of the scaffolds and showed that increasing amounts of DL-3-MeDX causes a decrease in the melting as well as crystallization temperatures. Conclusion: Based on the results of the mechanical and thermal properties of these copolymer scaffolds, it is evident that these constructs could be functional in a variety of biomedical engineering applications.