bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Structured Fibre on Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Phenolic Composites for Application to Friction Brakes
Authors: Ma Yunhai , Liu Yucheng , Mao Chunyu , Li Junwei , Yu Jiangtao , Tong Jin
Published: September 2018

Jute fibres were processed with different types of structures, and these fibres were applied to prepare friction composites through compression moulding. The Structured Jute fibres reinforced Friction composites (SJF) were heat-treated using a heat treatment tank, and the mechanical and tribological properties of the SJF were investigated with a friction-wear tester. The surface morphologies of friction composites were observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The experimental results showed that structured jute fibres could improve impact strength of SJF, but they had no obvious effect on their density and hardness. The friction-wear tests revealed the specimens to present a remarkable fade phenomenon when the test temperature was above 200°C. The presence of the structured jute fibres could decrease the wear rates (V) of SJF when the temperatures were in the range of 250 to 350°C, especially for specimens containing beaded jute fibres and specimens containing dumbbell-shaped jute fibres. They also increased the friction stability and decreased the wear rates of the friction composites. For all specimens, wear rates of the SJF increased with the test temperature. The results of this study could be useful in many applications, such as automobile brake system, clutches and friction gearings.
IFRS Adoption and Value Relevance of Accounting Information: Evidence from a Developing Country
Authors: Nijam Habeeb Mohamed , Jahfer Athambawa
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) adoption on value relevance of accounting information in Sri Lanka by comparing value relevance of accounting information in pre- and post-IFRS adoption periods. This study employs Ohlson (1995, Contemporary Accounting Research, 11(2), 661–687) price regression model to explain value relevance of accounting information. It explains market value per share (MVPS) using earning per share (EPS) and book value of equity per share (BVEPS). The pre-IFRS period is designated as 2010 through to 2011, and the post-IFRS period is designated as 2012 through to 2014. The sample comprises 188 firms and 935 firm-year observations which nearly constitute to all firms listed in Colombo Stock Exchange except those not having at least two annual reports before and after the year 2012 and those having extreme and incomplete data. It is found that both BVEPS and EPS significantly and positively explain MVPS during the periods followed by IFRS adoption although EPS was not a significant predictor of MVPS prior to IFRS adoption. Pooled regression with data of both regimes, however, maintains that BVEPS and EPS significantly and positively explain MVPS. Although the overall predictive power of value relevance model improved in the years that followed IFRS adoption, value relevance of BVEPS has declined in post-IFRS implementation. However, the decline in value relevance of BVEPS perhaps has been compensated by improved quality of earning thereby making EPS as a significant predictor of market value of equity in the post-IFRS periods. These findings were not rebutted or changed even at the exclusion of the transitional year of 2012 from the sample. This study contributes to the extant value relevance literature and IFRS studies by investigating the impact of IFRS adoption in a developing economy and for the first time in Sri Lanka.
Both the multiplicative and single-worst-injury International Classification of Diseases Injury Severity Score underperform in urban Indian hospitals
Authors: Sterner Mattias , Attergrim Jonatan , Claeson Alice , Kumar Vineet , Khajanchi Monty , Dharap Satish , Gerdin Martin
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Trauma accounts for 9% of all deaths worldwide, killing almost five million people annually. As India accounts for more than one million of these deaths, research on local trauma care is of great importance. A key aspect of such research is outcome comparisons between contexts. One tool to adjust these comparisons for trauma severity is the International Classification of Diseases Injury Severity Score. The aim was to assess two versions of this score in India.

Methods

The data used were from the project Towards Improved Trauma Care Outcomes in India. Published survival risk ratios were used to calculate multiplicative-International Classification of Diseases Injury Severity Score and single-worst-injury-International Classification of Diseases Injury Severity Score for the 200 most recent non-surviving patients and the surviving patients during the same period. Score performance was measured in discrimination and calibration.

Results

The 30-day prediction single-worst-injury-International Classification of Diseases Injury Severity Score discriminated best with an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 0.668 (95% CI 0.645–0.690) and a calibration slope of 0.830 (95% CI 0.708–0.940).

Conclusions

The single-worst-injury-International Classification of Diseases Injury Severity Score applied on 30-day mortality was the only score to calibrate on a satisfactory level. None of the scores had an acceptable discrimination. In interpreting these findings, we see that none of the tested scores can currently be implemented in the studied hospitals.
On autoignition mode under variable thermodynamic state of internal combustion engines
Authors: Pan Jiaying , Chen Lin , Wei Haiqiao , Feng Dengquan , Deng Sili , Shu Gequn
Published: September 2018

Autoignition modes under premixed combustion conditions are usually studied in constant-volume configurations. However, the autoignition events related to knocking combustion in spark-ignition engines do experience variable volumes in combustion chamber and ever-changing thermodynamic states caused by reciprocating piston motion and main flame front compression. Such combustion situations may lead to different autoignition modes from constant-volume scenarios. Using one-dimensional direct numerical simulations with detailed chemistry and transport of H2/air mixture, the autoignition modes during knocking combustion were studied under different engine combustion boundary conditions. It was the first to identify important influence of variable thermodynamic states on the development of autoignition modes through changing critical temperature gradients. Four autoignition modes—thermal explosion, supersonic deflagration, detonation, and subsonic deflagration—were observed, which, however, were quantitatively different from the constant-volume configurations in regime boundaries. Meanwhile, on comparison with intake temperature and equivalence ratio, intake pressure shows greater impact on detonation formation, characterized by a regime extension under high intake pressures. To classify the autoignition modes responsible for various knocking events with different intensities in a straightforward manner, a regime diagram was proposed based on the temperature gradients and the effective energy density used for universally quantifying various intake conditions. This diagram was found useful to determine the distributions of different autoignition modes (especially for detonation) and the potential approaches for achieving maximum thermal efficiency while suppressing engine knock. In addition, detonation mode was prevailing under high effective energy density conditions, and the underlying reasons were ascribed to the significant reduction of excitation time and pre-flame temperature increases by pressure wave.
Effect of EPDM Particles Size on its Thermo-Mechanical Regeneration
Authors: Macsiniuc Adrian , Rochette Annie , Rodrigue Denis
Published: September 2018

This work presents the effect of EPDM powder particles size on its thermomechanical regeneration process in a batch mixer. The recycled material was decomposed into six particle groups (125, 250, 355, 500, 710 and 1000 μm) to be treated separately under controlled temperature and rotor speed to determine the relation between specific surface area and bulk regeneration. In each case, EPDM crosslink density was measured using the polymer-solvent interaction described by Flory-Rehner's equation. The results showed that not only regeneration can be achieved (crosslink density reduction), but specific conditions also led to increased reticulation degree. Images of the particles before and after treatment were also analyzed and showed that aggregates presence may distort the sieving and treatment processes of the rubber particles.
Effect of Tetraethyl Orthosilicate on the Structural, Thermal, and Morphological Properties of a Cellulose Acetate Membrane
Authors: Kumari Archana , Choudhury Arup , Sarkhel Gautam
Published: September 2018

The present investigation deals with the preparation of a new organic–inorganic hybrid membrane based on cellulose acetate (CA)/tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) by the sol–gel and phase-inversion process. This paper also investigates the effect of TEOS content on the mechanical, thermal, and ultrafiltration (UF) performance of the newly prepared membranes. These newly prepared membranes were characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The ultrafiltration performance of the membranes was examined by water content (%), compaction, and pure water flux. Results showed that the addition of TEOS increased the thermal and mechanical properties. SEM results showed that the pore size decreased but the number of pores increased on the addition of TEOS. Moreover, the hydrophilicity and permeability increased with increase in TEOS content from 0 to 2 wt%. Thus, it can be concluded that these hybrid membranes may be suitable for use in the UF separation process.
Experimental Study on the Performance and Microstructure of Rubberized Lightweight Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Wang Guiming , Zhang Bin , Shui Zhonghe , Tang Daoyi , Kong Yun
Published: September 2018

It is of great significance to improve the flexibility of concrete for specific applications, such as a tunnel pavement or an airport runway. This paper presents the structural properties of the rubberized lightweight aggregate concrete at the macro- and micro-level. The relationship between mechanical properties and microstructure features was further explored. An experimental programme was developed to use crumb rubber and shale ceramsite to produce a flexible concrete. Much attention was paid to the influence of the crumb rubber dosage. The compressive strength and elastic modulus of the rubberized lightweight aggregate concrete were measured. Furthermore, the corresponding microstructure was evaluated by microhardness assessment and microscopic observation. Experimental results show that with the increase of crumb rubber dosage, the bonding interface between the rubber and cement paste, as well as between the shale ceramsite and cement paste, gradually became weakened or flexible. In addition, the width of the weak bonding interface became wider. As a result the flexibility of lightweight aggregate concrete can be effectively improved by correctly adjusting the crumb rubber dosage.
Inventory Analysis on the Effect of End-of-Life Passenger Vehicle Plastic Bumper Recycling in China
Authors: Hongshen Zhang , Ming Chen
Published: September 2018

Pollution caused by the automotive industry has become a global threat to the environment and human existence, drawing great attention from an increasing number of countries. In this paper, the material depletion, energy consumption, and environmental emissions of each bumper life cycle unit were analysed using the inventory analysis method to determine the effect of passenger vehicle plastic bumper recycling on the eco-environment of China. The analysis provides a relevant reference for the recycling of other automobile materials and establishes a good foundation for car-related environmental policies and the sustainable development of the Chinese automobile industry.
Effect of SBR Rubber Particle Size Distribution on Its Thermo-Mechano-Chemical Regeneration
Authors: Macsiniuc Adrian , Rochette Annie , Rodrigue Denis
Published: September 2018

Recycled Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) from ground tire rubber (GTR) was sieved into four granulometric fractions between 125 and 500 microns to determine the effect of particle size on its thermo-mechano-chemical regeneration in an internal batch mixer. Different temperatures (140-180°C) and rotor speeds (40-120 rpm) were imposed with and without the addition of a regeneration aid (aromatic oil). The results show that partial regeneration (lower crosslinking degree) is possible under specific thermo-mechanical conditions, but the addition of the aromatic oil has limited efficiency towards this regeneration.
Fatigue Life, Thermal Analysis and Morphology of Recycled Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate)/Commercial Fillers Hybrid Filled Natural Rubber Composites
Authors: Nabil H. , Ismail H.
Published: September 2018

The partial replacement of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (R-PET) powder by the commercial fillers namely carbon black (N550), halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) and silica in natural rubber composites were carried out. The fatigue life, thermogravimetric analysis, and morphology of natural rubber composites were investigated. Results indicated that the replacement of R-PET by commercial fillers increased the fatigue life of the composites where NR/R-PET/N550 composites showed superior fatigue life followed by NR/R-PET/HNTs and NR/R-PET/Silica composites. Replacement of R-PET with commercial fillers improved the thermal stability of the natural rubber composites where NR/R-PET/HNTs system exhibits higher decomposition temperature than those of NR/R-PET/N550 and NR/R-PET/HNTs composites respectively. SEM micrographs of the composites are in good agreement with the fatigue life observed whereby more roughness and matrix tearing lines indicating higher energy is required to cause a failure of the composites.
Polystyrene/Recycled Sbr Powder Compounds Produced in An Internal Batch Mixer
Authors: Macsiniuc Adrian , Rochette Annie , Brisson Josέe , Rodrigue Denis
Published: September 2018

The properties of recycled styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) powder with polystyrene (PS) have been studied as a function of compounding conditions in an internal batch mixer. In particular, the effect of temperature (160–220°C), rotor speed (30–120 rpm), homogenization time (3–9 min), components introduction order, surface treatment of SBR powder with a PS/tetrahydrofuran (THF) solution, and addition of a coupling agent (styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene, SEBS) were studied. The compounds were then compression moulded and samples were prepared to measure their hardness, tensile properties (modulus, strength and elongation at break) and impact strength. Morphological analysis via scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) on selected samples was also performed to determine the interfacial state between the components. From all the results obtained, an optimisation procedure is proposed allowing the best compound to be determined as a function of final application.
Evaluation of the Effect of Clay Nanoparticles on Mechanical Properties of Recycled Polyethylene
Authors: Avazverdi Ehsan , Vandalvand Mojtaba , Javadinia Seyed Amirhossein , Shakeri Alireza
Published: September 2018

Over recent years, industrial applications of polymer/nanoclay nanocomposites have increased, because of their improved properties such as HDT, gas barrier ability, dimensional stability, mechanical properties, optical transparency, and flame retardation. In this work, we studied the mechanical properties of organically modified nanoclay (montmorillonite) dispersions in recycled film blowing extrusion grade polyethylene (rPE) matrix at different nanoclay contents. Results showed that the mechanical properties of the composites depend strongly on the nature and concentrations of nanoclay. The experimental values of the composites were compared to those obtained by using mixing laws. We showed that the mechanical properties correctly accounted for the experimental results at low concentrations of nanoclay particle. At concentrations higher than a few percentages, these laws fail to interpret the experimental results and all experimental results must take into account some parameters such as the particle size, their distribution, and the formation of agglomerates. The Experimental results of recycled polyethylene showed chain entanglement and decreased chain mobility, leading to an increase of brittleness and decreasing plastic behavior.
Sodium Carbonate Catalyzed Aminolytic Degradation of PET
Authors: George Neena , Kurian Thomas
Published: September 2018

The catalytic activity of a low priced and non-toxic catalyst (sodium carbonate) was explored in an aminolytic degradation reaction of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle waste with hydrazine monohydrate (HMH). Reactions were carried out with different catalyst concentrations, PET-hydrazine monohydrate ratio, reaction time and reaction temperature so as to optimize the yield of the product. The product (terephthalic dihydrazide (TDH)) having potential commercial applications was characterized by CHN analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD). The surface morphology of the synthesized product and the PET waste flakes before and during the degradation was investigated with the help of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The process reported in this paper results in significantly higher yield (84%) of TDH in a shorter reaction time of 3 hours at a relatively lower temperature (65°C) as compared to the uncatalyzed PET-HMH aminolysis reaction.
The Need for Technical Improvement in the Plastics Recycling Industry in Middle-income Countries: The Peruvian Case
Authors: Torres F.G. , Cornejo Héctor
Published: September 2018

The collection costs of the recycling industry are higher in high-income countries than in middle-income countries. This is mainly due to the fact that in middle-income countries, recycling collection is handled by the informal sector, and these waste collectors do not adhere the prescribed health and safety conditions. In this paper, we use the Peruvian recycling industry as a case study of the recycling industry in a middle income country. The analysis of the structure of the recycling industry in Peru suggests that this industry faces a major challenge as the country continues its economic development. We show how variations in the technical, legal, and work regulations in Peru will modify the cost structure of plastics recycling operations. A forecast regarding the viability of the recycling industry in Peru in the coming years is made and based on this analysis. We propose that technification is needed for this industry to remain viable in middle-income countries. The analysis presented here can be easily extended to other middle income countries.
Repeated Mechanical Recycling of Polylactic Acid Filled with Chalk
Authors: Fazelinejad Samaneh , Åkesson Dan , Skrifvars Mikael
Published: September 2018

Polylactic acid (PLA) was compounded with 30 wt% chalk and 5 wt% of a bio-based plasticiser on a twin screw extruder. Mechanical recycling of the obtained compound was studied by multiple extrusions up to six cycles.

The degradation was monitored by mechanical and thermal tests. Tensile and flexural tests did not reveal any major degradation after six cycles of processing. Characterising the material with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) did not detect any significant change of the thermal properties. The material was also characterised by FTIR and, again, no significant change was detected.

The material was finally characterised by melt flow index and by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR). Both tests revealed that some degradation had occurred. The 1H-NMR clearly showed that the chain length had been reduced. Also, the MFI test showed that degradation had occurred. However, the study reveals that PLA filled with chalk can be recycled by repeated extrusion for up to 6 cycles, without severe degradation. This should be of relevance when considering the end-of-life treatment of polymer products made from PLA.
Incorporation of Devulcanised Rubber in Fresh Rubber Compounds: Impact of Filler Correction on Vulcanisate Properties
Authors: Joseph Anu Mary , Madhusoodanan K.N. , Alex Rosamma , George Benny
Published: September 2018

Carbon black filled natural rubber (NR) vulcanisate with known composition and properties were mechanically devulcanized by shearing in a laboratory two roll mill. The efficiency of devulcanisation was determined through crosslink density measurements. In order to simulate the end-of-life rubber products, mechanical devulcanisation of samples aged at standard laboratory conditions were also carried out.

The devulcanized rubber prepared from un-aged and aged samples were incorporated in fresh compounds at three different proportions viz. 85/15, 75/25 and 60/40. A comparative study of such blends, where the filler present in the devulcanized rubber is also considered active and corresponding reduction is made in the formulation and the other case where the filler present in the devulcanized rubber is rendered passive, showed that there is a chance to optimize the vulcanizate properties of the blends of virgin rubber and devulcanized rubber by adjusting the compounding strategies. A combination of simple mechanical devulcanisation and optimization of the amount of filler while blending the devulcanised rubber with fresh compounds can give promising results.
A Scoping Review on Intimate Partner Violence in Canada’s Immigrant Communities
Authors: Okeke-Ihejirika Philomina , Yohani Sophie , Muster Janine , Ndem Alphonse , Chambers Thane , Pow Virginia
Published: September 2018

Canada relies on newcomers for population growth, labor supply, and cultural diversity. Newcomers, in turn, see Canada as a haven of economic opportunities. However, the extent to which these mutual benefits can be realized depends on how well newcomers fare in Canada. Intimate partner violence (IPV) significantly undermines immigrants’ capacity to rebuild their lives in host societies. As in other Western democracies, recent immigrants and refugees to Canada are highly vulnerable to IPV; they arrive with limited support systems, wrestle with changing family dynamics, and may have to adapt to new gender roles. IPV often occurs in the private domain of the family and poses serious risks to women, children, families, and the broader society. Our scoping review of 30 articles on IPV within Canadian immigrant groups identifies crucial differences in perceptions and experiences of, responses to, and coping mechanisms among female survivors, and a tendency to place the blame for IPV on the cultural values and practices that immigrants bring to Canada. The majority of existing services and policies, our review shows, are not well suited to immigrant women’s needs and may undermine women’s capacity to find satisfying solutions. Our review is limited by a dearth of literature; it is based mainly on the experiences of South East Asian immigrant women in the Greater Toronto Area. Our findings suggest that future research should address women’s and men’s experiences of IPV, include nonheterosexual couples, extend to the broader immigrant population, and incorporate the voices of stakeholders other than survivors.
Insulation Characteristics of Sisal, Human Hair, Coir, Banana Fiber Composites at Cryogenic Temperatures
Authors: Michael D. Peter , Harish S. , Bensely A. , Lal D. Mohan
Published: September 2018

The integrity of the electrical insulation is of greatest importance in the reliability of high voltage equipment. For the development of high temperature superconductivity power equipments the cryogenic insulation technology need to be established. The present research work aimed to develop practical and reliable methods that can diagnose the degradation status of the electrical insulation. In the present work an analysis has been made to study the dielectric strengths of composite laminates for designing a good insulation system. The breakdown voltages of glass fiber reinforced plastic composite laminates, natural fiber composite laminates (coir, human hair, sisal, and banana) at room temperature (300 K) and liquid nitrogen temperature (77 K) has been examined. The experimental results show that the breakdown strength at room temperature for human hair, coir, sisal and banana were found to be 134.5 kV/cm, 52.92 kV/cm, 22.93 kV/cm, 20.31 kV/cm and 18.16 kV/cm respectively while the breakdown strength at cryogenic temperature for glass fiber reinforced plastic, human hair, coir, sisal and banana were found to be 177.86 kV/cm, 118.99 kV/cm, 120.84 kV/cm, 127.67 kV/cm and 102.29 kV/cm respectively. The results suggest that there exist a significant increase in the breakdown voltage at cryogenic temperatures. From the experimental results, it is concluded that dielectrics made of natural fiber composites can be considered as an insulation medium for cryogenic applications.
Rapid Synthesis of Acrylamide onto Xanthan Gum Based Hydrogels under Microwave Radiations for Enhanced Thermal and Chemical Modifications
Authors: Jindal Rajeev , Kaith Balbir Singh , Mittal Hemant
Published: September 2018

The main objective of this research work is to synthesize crosslinked hydrogel from xanthan gum and acrylamide under the influence of microwave radiations by graft polymerization technique in presence of potassium persulphate-N,N'-methylene-bis-acrylamide as initiator-crosslinker system. Different reaction parameters such as reaction time, pH, solvent and initiator concentration were optimized a function of percentage grafting. Monomer and cross-linker concentrations were optimized as a function of percentage swelling for getting the polymer with maximum water absorption capacity. The superabsorbent was characterized using different characterization techniques like, FTIR, TGA / DTA / TDG and X-ray diffraction. The candidate polymer was found to be thermally more stable than the xanthan gum.
Isocyanate Modification of Wood Fiber in Enhancing the Performance of its Composites with High Density Polyethylene
Authors: Arjmand Fereshteh , Barmar Mohammad , Barikani Mehdi
Published: September 2018

This study is focused on the modification of wood fiber by using a reactive diisocyanate (toluene diisocyanate, TDI) linker to couple wood fiber with cetyl alcohol and the investigation of its effects on mechanical properties of wood fiber–HDPE composites. The reaction of TDI with wood fiber and then cetyl alcohol resulted in the formation of new urethane bonds assessed by FTIR analysis. Therefore, TDI ended cetyl alcohol was used as a coupling agent in the preparation of wood fiber/ HDPE composite. The outcomes showed that the addition of such coupling agents resulted in greater reinforcement of composites, as indicated by the improvement in mechanical properties. Tensile strength of prepared composites increased by almost 64%, whereas 47% increase in flexural strength and 113% increase in impact properties was observed. However, the moisture absorption of the composites decreased by about 43%. All chemically treated composites showed lower moisture uptake than the untreated composites. This may be due to chemical treatment of wood fiber which reduces its hydrophilicity. These chemical treatments promote interfacial adhesion of fiber and HDPE matrix. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the improved morphology of the fractured surfaces of composites.
Migration and Chemical Consumption of Deltamethrin and Piperonyl Butoxide from Polyethylene in Aqueous Media
Authors: Nawaz Sohail , Alipour Nazanin , Hedenqvist Mikael S. , Gedde Ulf W.
Published: September 2018

Deltamethrin (DM), an important insecticide (synthetic pyrethroid) together with synergist piperonyl butoxide (PBO), is used for food storage and insect control purposes. It is often impregnated in polymers for controlled and effective release of insecticide. The migration and chemical consumption of DM and PBO from moulded polyethylene sheets was studied. The thermal behaviour of pristine DM and the prepared polyethylene compound was studied by differential scanning calorimetry. DM did not crystallize and remained in a liquid state after cooling to room temperature. Evaporation rates and activation energies of evaporation were determined by thermogravimetry for pristine DM, PBO, a solution of DM and PBO and for the PE compound. Evaporation from the DM/PBO solution was greater than that predicted from the evaporation rates of the individual compounds, which suggested that the DM/PBO solution obeyed non-ideal solution properties. The migration of DM and PBO from the polyethylene was studied in liquid water at 80 and 95 °C and in air of different relative humidities (60 and 80%) at 80 °C. Exposure to liquid water caused degradation and hydrolysis of the ester bond in DM, present in the prepared material, and generated species containing hydroxyl groups. Liquid chromatography and infrared spectroscopy showed a significant migration of the active species in liquid water, whereas the loss of DM and PBO in air at 80°C (60 and 80 %RH) was negligible over 30 days.
Development of Biocomposites from Cocoa Pod Husk and Polypropylene: Effect of Filler Content and 3-Aminopropyltriethoxylsilane
Authors: Chun Koay Seong , Husseinsyah Salmah , Osman Hakimah
Published: September 2018

Cocoa pod husk (CPH) is a waste material from cocoa industry. This work describes the development of biocomposites from polypropylene and cocoa pod husk. 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (3-APE) is used as coupling agent in filler treatment of CPH. The treated CPH with 3-APE had raised the stabilization torque of PP/CPH biocomposites. The results of tensile test and scanning electron microscope (SEM) indicated that 3-APE given coupling effect on PP/ CPH biocomposites. The presence of covalent bonds between CPH and 3-APE was confirmed by Fourier transmission infra-red (FTIR) analysis, while the improvement of thermal stability and crystallization were evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).
Solid Biopolymer Electrolytes Based Carboxymethyl Cellulose Doped with Ammonium Fluoride: Ionic Transport and Conduction Mechanism
Authors: Ramlli M.A. , Isa M.I.N.
Published: September 2018

A series of solid biopolymer electrolytes (SBEs) based carboxymethyl cellulose doped with different weight percentage of ammonium fluoride, NH4F were prepared by the solution cast technique. The ionic conductivity was investigated using electrical impedance spectroscopy in the frequency range of 5 0Hz – 1 MHz. The highest ionic conductivity of 2.68 × 10−7 Scm−1 (9 wt.% NH4F) was obtained at ambient temperature. The ionic mobility and diffusion coefficient of charge carriers were identified to influence the enhancement of ionic conductivity in SBE samples. The exponent s of SBE samples were determined using Joncher's Universal Power Law. The conduction mechanism of the most conductive SBE sample can be represented by quantum mechanical tunnelling model.
Treatment of a Cellulose Fiber Surface with a Suberin Monomer-Derived Polymer
Authors: Li Dongfang , Iversen Tommy , Ek Monica
Published: September 2018

The biorefinery concept requires the development of value-added products, such as materials from biomass, including bark. Suberin is the most abundant component in birch (Betula verrucosa) outer bark and acts as a barrier against the penetration of water and external attacks from microorganisms. The aliphatic domain of suberin is rich in hydroxy fatty acids, such as cis-9,10-epoxy-18-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid. In this study, it was isolated from the outer bark of birch and polymerized to prepare polyepoxy acid (PEA), which was used to impregnate filter papers. After complete drying, PEA-loaded filter papers were placed under UV to crosslink the epoxides through cationic polymerization with a diaryliodonium salt as the photo-initiator. The crosslinking was evaluated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The materials obtained after UV curing showed substantially increased hydrophobicity, decreased moisture absorption, increased tensile strength, and increased ductility. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) showed that the crosslinked PEA covered the surface of the cellulose fibers and filled the interstitial spaces.
Application of Starch in Modifying Acrylate Latex
Authors: Xu Tingting , Zhang Cuifeng , Bao Zhongbin , Chen Lijun
Published: September 2018

The acrylate latex was a kind of production of emulsion polymerization of acrylate or methyl acrylate and other vinyl ester monomers. Starch was a biomaterial which found multiple applications in various branches. Novel approach to acrylate latex manufacture implied usage of composites e.g. the acrylate latex was being doped with starch to improve its properties and create biofriendly, naturally degrading material, and diminishing negative effect of polymeric waste production. In this paper, two methods that acrylate latex modified with starch are reviewed and summarized. The aim of the review is that provides the reference for use of the starch in modifying the acrylate latex.
Studies on Electrical, Thermal and Corrosion Behaviour of Cashew Tree Gum Grafted Poly(Acrylamide)
Authors: Ramesan M.T. , Surya K.
Published: September 2018

The present work aimed to study the thermal transitions, electrical properties and corrosion behaviour of cashew tree gum (CTG), poly (acrylamide) (PAM) and cashew tree gum grafted poly (acrylamide) (CTG-g-PAM) copolymer. Various amounts of acrylamide monomer were grafted onto cashew gum using a radical polymerization method. The formation of graft copolymer was analysed by FTIR, UV, SEM, DSC and electrical conductivity measurements. The FTIR and UV spectrum infers the occurrence of strong intermolecular interaction between cashew gum and poly (acrylamide). SEM photographs revealed that the acrylamide unit was well inserted into the cashew gum segments. The DSC analysis showed a significant decrease in glass transition temperature with an increase in amount of acrylamide chains. CTG shows higher AC conductivity than PAM and the conductivity of graft copolymer increases with the concentration of acrylamide up to certain concentration of monomer and thereafter the value decreases. The dielectric properties such as dielectric constant and dielectric loss tangent values of PAM was lower than CTG and the dielectric values also shows a similar trend as AC conductivity. CTG, PAM and its graft copolymer with various amount of poly (acrylamide) have been investigated as a corrosion inhibition for mild steel in hydrochloric acid. The inhibition efficiency increased with increase in concentration of PAM in the graft copolymer. PAM was found to have the high inhibition efficiency than CTG, due to the difference in their molecular structures. The corrosion rate of all the samples enhanced with the raise in temperature whereas the inhibition efficiency deceases.
Preparation and Characterization of Polysaccharide Films from the Cyanobacteria Nostoc commune
Authors: Rodriguez Sol , Torres Fernando G. , López Daniel
Published: September 2018

Nostoc Commune bacteria release a variety of polysaccharides into the culture medium during cell growth. In this paper we report, for the first time, the use of these polysaccharides as a raw material for the preparation of biopolymeric films. The structural characterization of the films prepared was assessed by FTIR and 1H-NMR. XRD and thermal analysis tests showed that these films are amorphous and have a glass transition temperature of −25°C. Tensile tests showed that NCP films displayed a similar mechanical behavior in comparison with other natural biopolymer films. These results suggest that these NCP films can be used for the development of new biopolymeric materials with potential applications in the food and biomedical industries.
Prevalence and Epidemiology of Injuries Among Elite Cyclists in the Tour de France
Authors: Haeberle Heather S. , Navarro Sergio M. , Power Eric J. , Schickendantz Mark S. , Farrow Lutul D. , Ramkumar Prem N.
Published: September 2018

Background:

Cycling injuries are increasing, particularly among elite athletes during major events such as the Tour de France. Many athletes miss considerable time from sport and require surgical intervention. Little is known about the epidemiology of injuries to guide practice participation strategies, return-to-competition expectations, and injury prevention protocols.

Purpose:

To evaluate the injury epidemiology, operative incidence, and return-to-competition timeline among all elite cyclists participating in the 21-stage Tour de France race over a span of 8 years.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiological study.

Methods:

All injuries sustained during 1584 unique rides by cyclists participating in the Tour de France from 2010 to 2017 were evaluated. In the absence of an established Tour de France injury database, demographic, injury, surgical, and return-to-competition details from all athletes who withdrew because of a traumatic injury were retrospectively compiled using publicly available data, which were cross-referenced for validity. The inclusion criterion consisted of any cyclist who withdrew from the Tour de France because of an injury; cyclists who withdrew for noninjury reasons were excluded. Independent variables included injury demographics, missed days, and whether the injury required surgery. Injury prevalence, relative frequency distributions, and sample proportions were dependent metrics for this investigation.

Results:

Among the 1584 cycling entries evaluated over the 8-year study period, there were 259 cyclists (16%) who withdrew (17 cyclists/year). A total of 138 withdrawals were caused by acute trauma, 49% of which were fractures (n = 67), which represented the most common reason for withdrawal. A total of 29 (43%) cyclists with fractures underwent surgery. The most commonly fractured bones were the clavicle (n = 21), followed by the wrist (n = 6), hand (n = 5), femur (n = 5), humerus (n = 5), and ribs (n = 5). Cyclists who underwent operative fracture fixation had a longer time between the injury and their next race compared with those who did not undergo surgery (77 vs 44 days, respectively; P = .065).

Conclusion:

The most common injury leading to withdrawal from the Tour de France over the study period was acute fracture, comprising 49% of all injuries. Almost half of the cyclists with fractures underwent surgery. The clavicle was the most commonly fractured bone. For cyclists who underwent operative treatment of their fractures, return to competition was more than 1 month longer than for those who did not. A prospective database is warranted to catalog injuries among these elite cyclists.
Characterization of clays from the Foumban region (west Cameroon) and evaluation for refractory brick manufacture
Authors: Pountouenchi A. , Njoya D. , Njoya A. , Rabibisao D. , Mache J.R. , Yongue R.F. , Njopwouo D. , Fagel N. , Pilate P. , Van Parys L.
Published: September 2018

Three clayey materials named MY3, KK and KG originating from the Foumban region (west Cameroon) were analysed to determine their granulometry, plasticity, major-element chemistry and mineralogy. Dilatometric and ceramic behaviour were also investigated. Clays were shaped by uniaxial pressing in a steel mould. Shaped samples were heated at 1300, 1400 and 1500°C. The end products were characterized in terms of their density, porosity and compressive strength. Raw materials differ in terms of their mineralogical composition, grain-size distribution, Al2O3 content and the nature and abundance of impurities inducing specific thermal behaviour during dilatometric analysis and sintering tests. The final material properties may be related to the main features of the raw materials used.
Multicenter Phase II Study of Sequential Brentuximab Vedotin and Doxorubicin, Vinblastine, and Dacarbazine Chemotherapy for Older Patients With Untreated Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Evens Andrew M. , Advani Ranjana H. , Helenowski Irene B. , Fanale Michelle , Smith Sonali M. , Jovanovic Borko D. , Bociek Gregory R. , Klein Andreas K. , Winter Jane N. , Gordon Leo I. , Hamlin Paul A.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To improve the curability of older patients with newly diagnosed Hodgkin lymphoma.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a multicenter phase II study that administered brentuximab vedotin (Bv) sequentially before and after standard doxorubicin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (AVD) for untreated patients with Hodgkin lymphoma age 60 years or older. After two lead-in doses of single-agent Bv (1.8 mg/kg once every 3 weeks), patients received six cycles of AVD chemotherapy followed by four consolidative doses of Bv in responding patients.

Results

Patient characteristics included median age of 69 years (range, 60 to 88 years), 63% male, median Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 1, 81% stage III to IV disease, 60% International Prognostic Score 3 to 7, median Cumulative Illness Rating Scale-Geriatric comorbidity score of 7 (52% grade 3 to 4); and 12% had loss of instrumental activities of daily living at diagnosis. Thirty-seven (77%) of 48 patients completed six cycles of AVD, and 35 patients (73%) received at least one Bv consolidation. Overall response and complete remission rates after initial Bv lead-in dose were 18 (82%) of 22 and 8 (36%) of 22, respectively, and 40 (95%) of 42 and 34 (90%) of 42, respectively, after six cycles of AVD among 42 response-evaluable patients. Twenty (42%) of 48 patients experienced a grade 3 to 4 adverse event, most commonly neutropenia (44%), febrile neutropenia and pneumonia (8%), or diarrhea (6%); 33% had grade 2 peripheral neuropathy, which was reversible in a majority of patients. By intent-to-treat, the 2-year event-free survival, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates were 80%, 84%, and 93%, respectively. Furthermore, 2-year progression-free survival rates for patients with a Cumulative Illness Rating Scale-Geriatric comorbidity score of ≥ 10 versus < 10 were 45% versus 100%, respectively ( P < .001), and with baseline loss versus no loss of instrumental activities of daily living were 25% versus 94% ( P < .001), respectively, the latter persisting on multivariable analyses.

Conclusion

Altogether, sequential Bv-AVD was well tolerated and was associated with robust outcomes. Furthermore, geriatric-based measures were strongly associated with patient survival.
Computed tomography-derived assessments of regional muscle volume: Validating their use as predictors of whole body muscle volume in cancer patients
Authors: Halpenny Darragh F , Goncalves Marcus , Schwitzer Emily , Golia Pernicka Jennifer , Jackson Jasmyne , Gandelman Stephanie , Moskowitz Chaya S , Postow Michael , Mourtzakis Marina , Caan Bette , Jones Lee W , Plodkowski Andrew J
Published: September 2018

Objective:

Evaluate the accuracy of CT-derived regional skeletal muscle volume (SMV) measurements to predict whole body SMV in patients with melanoma.

Methods:

148 patients with advanced melanoma who underwent whole body positron emission tomography/CT were studied. Whole body SMV was measured on CT and used as the reference standard. CT-derived regional measures of SMV were obtained in the thorax, abdomen, pelvis, and lower limbs. Models were developed on a discovery cohort (n-98), using linear regression to model whole body SMV as a function of each regional measure, and clinical factors. Predictive performance of the derived models was evaluated in a validation cohort (n = 50) by estimating the explained variation (R  2) of each model.

Results:

In the discovery cohort, all regional SMV measurements were significantly associated with whole body SMV [β1 range: 0.673–1.153, all p < 0.001)]. The magnitude of association was greatest for pelvic regional measurements {β = 1.153, [95% confidence interval (0.989, 1.317)]}. Prediction algorithms incorporating clinical variables and regional SMVs were developed to estimate whole body SMV from regional assessments. Using the validation cohort to predict whole body SMV, the R  2 values for the pelvic, abdominal and thoracic regional measurements were 0.89, 0.86, 0.78.

Conclusion:

Regional measures of SMV are strong predictors of whole body SMV in patients with advanced melanoma.

Advances in knowledge:

The first study utilizing whole body imaging as a reference standard validating the use of regional SMVs in cancer patients, including validating the use of regional SMVs outside of traditionally assessed areas.
Aspectos de autonomia e heteronomia no exercício do controle social em um conselho municipal de saúde
Authors: Magalhães Fernanda Gabriela Gandra Pimenta , Xavier Wescley Silva
Published: September 2018

Os conselhos municipais de saúde são instâncias de participação cívica na gestão do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), criados a partir da Lei nº 8.142 de 28 de dezembro de 1990. Fixam-se assim os espaços para participação popular na agenda pública, especificamente na saúde, conferindo caráter diferenciado à gestão municipal, que se assume como controle social. Nesse contexto e mediante o papel e as responsabilidades atribuídas aos conselhos, este trabalho tem a proposta de analisar o exercício do controle social exercido pelo conselho municipal de saúde na cidade de Juiz de Fora. Para tanto, realizou-se uma revisão de literatura a fim de fundamentar esta pesquisa e auxiliar no tratamento de dados. Com relação aos procedimentos metodológicos, este estudo, de abordagem qualitativa, empregou como técnicas de coleta de dados a realização de entrevistas semiestruturadas, pesquisa documental e observação não-participante, sendo os dados estudados a partir da análise de conteúdo. As análises sugerem incompletude na autonomia do conselho, ao identificarmos traços de heteronomia.
WordCommentsAnalyzer: A windows software tool for qualitative research
Authors: Abdekhodaie Ehsan , Hatami Javad , Bahrami Ehsan Hadi , Kormi-Nouri Reza
Published: September 2018

There is a lack of free software that provides a professional and smooth experience in text editing and markup for qualitative data analysis. Word processing software like Microsoft Word provides a good editing experience, allowing the researcher to effortlessly add comments to text portions. However, organizing the keywords and categories in the comments can become a more difficult task when the amount of data increases. We present WordCommentsAnalyzer, a software tool that is written in C# using .NET Framework and OpenXml, which helps a qualitative researcher to organize codes when using Microsoft Word as the primary text markup software. WordCommentsAnalyzer provides an effective user interface to count codes, to organize codes in a code hierarchy, and to see various data extracts belonging to each code. It also offers basic visualization tools. We illustrate how to use this software by conducting a preliminary content analysis on Tweets with the #successfulaging hashtag. We also demonstrate that the software has satisfactory performance on a large dataset of Iranian journals abstracts. We hope this open-source software will facilitate qualitative data analysis by researchers who are interested in using Word for this purpose.