bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Characterisation of Polyelectrolyte/Silver Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Cheng Deshan , Jahid Anwar , Cai Guangming , Wu Jihong , Wang Xin
Published: September 2018

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were deposited onto surface-hydrolysed PET film by an electrostatic self-assembly technique, so as to fabricate multilayer nanocomposite films. The self-assembly process was monitored by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. The surface morphology and chemical composition of the multilayer nanocomposite films were characterised by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results showed that the AgNPs were uniformly dispersed on the PET film, in the metallic silver state. The thermal stability of the multilayer nanocomposite films was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and it was found that the presence of AgNPs on the surface of PET enhanced the thermal stability of the PET film. The antibacterial performance of the multilayer nanocomposite films was investigated by staphylococcus aureus to monitor the number of the bacterial cells. The results suggested that the PET films after assembled 10-bilayer PDDA/AgNPs multilayer films exhibited good antibacterial performance.
Numerical and Experimental Analysis of the Tensile and Bending Behaviour of CFRP Cables
Authors: de Menezes Eduardo Antonio Wink , da Silva Laís Vasconcelos , Junior Carlos Alberto Cimini , Luz Felipe Ferreira , Amico Sandro Campos
Published: September 2018

Due to their high fatigue life, specific strength and specific stiffness in comparison with steel, carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) cables have attracted the infrastructure industry interest in recent years, primarily for use as structural tendons.

Particularly the oil and gas industry showed interest for application in offshore platform anchorage systems, because of their exceptional corrosion and creep/relaxation behaviour. In such applications, the cables need to be tensioned in service and to be bent around relatively small-diameter spools for transportation and maintenance. Therefore, their tensile and bending behaviour is a subject of great concern. The aim of this work was to perform a test program on 1 × 19 CFRP cables in two different situations: tensile loading and four-point bending loading. Finite element models were developed to simulate both conditions, including frictional contact between the cable wires. A simplified analytical model was also used to predict the cable behaviour in tension. Numerical predictions were compared to experimental data showing relatively good accuracy, unlike the verified analytical model. CFRP cables presented outstanding tensile behaviour, but bending over small radius spools could not reach the performance of steel wire ropes. Furthermore, simulation could only fairly predict bending below strains of μ1,000 μe for the external rods, beyond which the cable presented highly non-linear behaviour that could not be simulated by the numerical model.
Bond Characteristics of CFRP/Steel Interface End-anchored with G-shaped Clamps
Authors: Wang Yi , Zhou Chaoyang
Published: September 2018

In order to prevent the debonding failure of CFRP laminate/steel plate joints, this study attempted to use a G-shaped clamp anchorage system to eliminate the peeling stress at the end of joints which causes the debonding of interfaces. Bond characteristics of CFRP/steel interface with and without end anchorage were obtained by conducting double strap tensile tests, and the effectiveness of end anchorage was verified as well. By anchoring on the weak points, the bond strength of the composite plates can be increased. However, for completely preventing debonding of the composites, a more advanced anchorage system which could against the intensive shear stress still needs further investigation.
Experimental Analysis for the Effect of Impactor Geometry on Carbon Reinforced Composite Materials
Authors: Elaldi Faruk , Baykan Busra , Akto Can
Published: September 2018

For the last three decades, composites have become very preferable materials to be used in the automotive industry, structural parts of aircraft and military systems and spacecraft, due to their high strength and modulus. Composite materials are sometimes exposed to invisible or visible damage due to impact loading during their service life. In this study, the effect of impactor geometry with four different contact surfaces on woven carbon fibre-reinforced composite plates having three different thicknesses are investigated. In the first stage, composite plates were manufactured with the ply orientations of [45/-45/0/90/45/-45]2s, [45/-45/0/90/45/-45]3s, [45/-45/0/90/45/-45]4s based on conventional usage. In the second stage, carbon fibre-reinforced composite test panels were exposed to low velocity impact tests to obtain force-time, energy-time and force-displacement curves. Finally, semi and full penetration of composite panels and damage magnitude were determined. It was found that the impactor geometries with lower contact surfaces such as conical and ogive types were much more penetrative on composite plates than the other geometries, but they caused larger damage area in the vicinity of the impact point.
Reliability Design and Optimization Process on through Mold via using Ultrafast Laser
Authors: Hsu Hsiang-Chen , Wu Shih-Jeh , Lin Wen-Fei , Houng Boen
Published: September 2018

In this study, a through mold via (TMV) process using ultrafast Laser has been developed for the interconnection on 3D package-on-package (PoP) application. Epoxy molding compound (EMC) is a composite material consisted of epoxy resin, filler particles (fused silica) and other constituents. Among these chemical compositions, the size and spatial distribution of fillers on the EMC dominate the sidewall quality on drilled trench. However, random filler leakage on the sidewall leads to an irregular and uneven trench and these drop out fillers become a problem needed to be solved. Faster removal of debris can be achieved by controlling the laser drilling parameters. Parametric studies have been performed to determine the specification of trench and design rule of material. The optimal desmear process on TMV bottom PoP package developed in this study demonstrates the reliability improvement on follow-up sputtering or filling process.
Curing Residual Strain Monitoring of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite Using Notched Long-Period Fiber Grating
Authors: Ma Ke-Ping , Wu Chao-Wei , Fang Bo-Lan , Chiang Chia-Chin
Published: September 2018

Composite materials are widely used in the aerospace industry and structural engineering owing to their advantageous mechanical properties. The curing monitoring of composite material is important to ensure the quality of the curing process, especially for the characterization of residual strains after manufacturing. In this study, we present a notched long-period fiber grating (NLPFG) with a period of 650 μm and a diameter of 66 μm that can be used in the curing monitoring of composite materials. This NLPFG was embedded into the middle layers of composite materials in order to determine the curing residual stress exhibited by the materials. The experimental results showed that the residual stress was about 107 MPa and the axial residual strain was 1490 με. Therefore, the proposed NLPFG has potential as a strain sensor for composite materials.
The Effect of MBS Toughening for Mechanical Properties of Wood-Plastic Composites under Environmental Ageing
Authors: Chen Chin-Hsing , Chiang Chin-Lung , Chen Wei-Jen , Shen Ming-Yuan
Published: September 2018

Wood–plastic composites (WPCs) are a promising environmentally friendly material refers to composite that contain plant powders or fibers as reinforcement and plastic matrix. In this study, an epoxy resin and Methyl metharylate-Butadiene-Styrene Copolymer (MBS) were used as a compatibilizer and toughener and were filled into recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and recycled polyamide 6 (PA6) blends (PET/PA6) and filled with wood flour to prepare the WPCs. The mechanical properties of the WPCs, including the tensile, flexural, and impact properties, with different mixing ratio polymer blends of PET to PA6 (E60/A40, E50/A50, and E40/A60) were investigated under different environmental aging conditions.

The experimental results showed that different environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, markedly changed the mechanical properties of the WPCs with different mixing ratio polymer blends.

In addition, the mechanisms responsible for the interface of the WPCs were identified by studying the fracture surfaces with field emission scanning electron microscopy.
Characterization and Properties of Graphene Nanoplatelets/XNBR Nanocomposites
Authors: Kuan Chen-Feng , Chiang Chin-Lung , Lin Su-Hsia , Huang Wei-Guo , Hsieh Wen-Yen , Shen Ming-Yuan
Published: September 2018

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) are two-dimensional carbon structure materials with single or multilayers graphite plane which possesses attractive characteristics including high electrical conductivity, high modulus, high strength, high thermal conductivity and high specific surface area. In this study, the GNPs were modified by maleic anhydride (MA) and vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMOS), and then reinforced carboxy NBR (XNBR) to prepare GNPs/nitrile rubber (XNBR) nanocomposites. The modified GNPs were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy. The properties of GNPs/XNBR nanocomposite such as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), thermal conductivity and mechanical properties were investigated. The experimental results show that the successful modification of GNPs can improve the properties of the nanocomposites.
Nonlinear Dynamic Characteristics of PZT/Polymer Gripper
Authors: Xu Jia , Li Yi-Ran , Wang Hai-Bo , Zhu Zhi-Wen
Published: September 2018

A kind of PZT/polymer gripper is proposed in this paper and its nonlinear dynamic response in bounded noise is described. In this paper, a polymer piezoelectric material is applied in gripper to substitute the traditional PZT to improve the response range. Nonlinear differential items are introduced to interpret the hysteretic phenomena of the PZT/polymer piezoelectric composites material, and the nonlinear dynamic model of the PZT/polymer gripper in bounded noise is developed. The dynamic response of the system is obtained, and the bifurcation characteristics of the system are analyzed. The results of numerical simulation and experiments show that the stochastic noise intensity has important influence on the system's dynamical response, and the stochastic resonance phenomenon occurs with the stochastic noise intensity variety.
Enhancement Mechanism for Carbohydrate Polymer Green Lubricant
Authors: Shi Shih-Chen , Wu Jhen-Yu
Published: September 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate a mechanism for enhancing the tribological properties of a green polymer material using MoS2, which is a common material with good tribological qualities. In this study, MoS2 nanoparticles were added to the biopolymer hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, obtaining an evident enhancement of the tribological behavior. The suitable content of MoS2 can provide the best structure of the composite film and optimize the transfer layer, and further enhance the tribological properties. The addition of 5–10% MoS2 particles to the polymer can improve the surface roughness up to 60%, reduce the friction coefficient of the thin-film material by more than 40% and reduce the wear rate of the substrate by 65%. The mechanism by which MoS2 additives enhance the tribological properties of the biopolymer material lies in the reduction of the run-in time in the initial stage of wear by modifying the surface roughness. This effect accelerates the formation of a transfer layer of good quality and provides good tribological properties.
Design of Radar Absorbing Structures Utilizing Carbon-Based Polymer Composites
Authors: Kim Sang-Young , Kim Sung-Soo
Published: September 2018

Radar absorbing structure (RAS) is a composite laminate with a low reflection coefficient for the electromagnetic illumination in microwave frequency range, and thereby can be used in the stealth technology and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). In this study, microwave absorbing properties of a two-layer composite laminate (carbon black impregnated rubber sheet attached to the carbon fiber–epoxy composite panel) has been investigated. Complex permittivity and permeability of the composite materials were measured in C- and X-band frequencies (4–12 GHz) by reflection/transmission technique using a coaxial waveguide and network analyzer. Complex permittivity can be controlled with the amount of carbon black in the rubber composite. High values of dielectric constant and dielectric loss are observed in the carbon fiber composite. Optimization of microwave absorption is conducted for the two-layer RAS on the basis of transmission line theory. It is found that microwave absorption is strongly sensitive to carbon black content in the rubber composite and its layer thickness. For the rubber sheet containing 10% carbon black (with dielectric constant ≍5), the maximum microwave absorption (30 dB) is predicted at 10 GHz.
Residual Strength and Deformation Recovery of RC Beams Strengthened with FRPs Plates under the Sustained Load
Authors: Cho Dooyong , Jeong Hoseong , Han Kyoungbong
Published: September 2018

In this paper, in order to estimate efficacy, creep recovery, and residual strength of Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRPs) strengthened Reinforced Concrete (RC) beams, long-term flexural experiments and static flexural experiments were carried out. For the long-term experiments, the beams were strengthened with a Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) plate and a Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) plate respectively. The beams were placed under sustained loads for about 550 days. After the 550 days, all of the beams were unloaded for the measurement of deformation recovery. The deflection and strains of rebars and FRPs reinforcements were measures for about 60 days. As the result of long-terms experiment, the beams strengthened with CFRP plate showed a better performance in terms of deflection and strains of rebars. And the strengthened RC beams were very effective in terms of deflection control. Furthermore, the strengthened beams have shown immediate deformation recovery. Through the static flexural experiments, it was shown that the CFRP strengthened beam had high residual strength. It seems that the sustained loads did not affect bond and residual strength of the beams.
Hybrid Pu/Synthetic Talc/Organic Clay Ternary Nanocomposites: Thermal, Mechanical and Morphological Properties
Authors: Dias Guilherme , Prado Manoela , Ligabue Rosane , Poirier Mathilde , Le Roux Christophe , Micoud Pierre , Martin François , Einloft Sandra
Published: September 2018

Polyurethane (PU) nanocomposites filled with inorganic particles, aiming at the improvement of mechanical and thermal properties, are well known. Unlike previous work we describe here the combination of two fillers, synthetic talc (silico-metallic mineral particles-SSMMP) with distinct hydrothermal processes (SSMMP 7 h and 24 h) and organically-modified commercial clay (SPR), aiming towards development of new polyurethane ternary nanocomposites by in situ polymerisation. Fillers were added 3 wt.% of the mass of pristine polymer, with a ranging of weight proportions (75:25/25:75) of SSMMP and SPR. Results were compared to those for nanocomposites containing pure SSMMP and SPR fillers. Dispersion degrees and filler interactions with the polyurethane matrix were followed by FTIR, XRD, SEM, TEM and AFM techniques. Results showed that the fillers presented a good dispersion and were exfoliated/ well dispersed in the polyurethane matrix. Thermal and mechanical properties of nanocomposites were evaluated in comparison to the binary nanocomposites (PU/SSMMP 7 h, PU/SSMMP 24 h and PU/ SPR). All nanocomposites presented superior values of Young's modulus to that of pristine PU. Results evidenced that the blend of SSMMP and SPR fillers is an interesting strategy to improve thermal and mechanical properties of nanocomposites.
A Microlens Array with Different Focal Lengths Fabricated by Roll-To-Roll UV Lithography
Authors: Ye Huichun , Shen Lianguan , Li Mujun , Li Likai
Published: September 2018

A simple, highly efficient and low cost roll-to-roll (R2R) UV imprinting lithography facility was achieved for fabricating micro-structures. Firstly, a novel microlens array with focuses distributed on a curved surface was designed and analyzed by an optical software ZEMAX. Then an ultra-precision diamond machine was applied to generate the freeform microlens array features on the master mold, and a belt-type polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mold with a microlens array pattern was prepared from the machined master mold. The R2R process was employed to replicate the microlens arrays, followed by an evaluation of their profiles and optical properties. Our experiments demonstrate that the applied method is reliable and efficient for producing the polymeric microlens arrays.
Electrically Conductive Polyaniline/Silk Fibroin Composite for Ammonia and Acetaldehyde Sensing
Authors: Ahmad Sharique , Sultan Adil , Mohammad Faiz
Published: September 2018

In this study, camphorsulphonic acid-doped conducting polyaniline/silk fibroin (Pani/SF) composites were prepared by in-situ polymerisation. The Pani/SF composite fibres were characterised by using Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and digital photographs. Results indicated that the Pani was successfully coated on silk fibroin. The electrical properties of Pani/SF composite fibres were influenced by the extent of loading of aniline monomers. The as-prepared material was studied as a sensing material by observing the change in their electrical conductivity on exposure to ammonia and acetaldehyde, followed by ambient air at room temperature. It was found that the composite fibres showed good reversibility and conductivity decreased on exposure to higher concentration of ammonia and acetaldehyde vapours at room temperature.
Polypyrrole-Fe2O3 Nanocomposites with High Dielectric Constant: In Situ Chemical Polymerisation
Authors: Bashir T. , Shakoor A. , Ahmed E. , Niaz N. A. , Akhtar Muhammad Saeed , Raza Muhammad Rafi , Malik Mohammad Azad , Foot Peter J. S.
Published: September 2018

Novel nanocomposites of polypyrrole (PPy) dispersed with iron oxide (Fe2O3) particles have been synthesised by in situ chemical oxidative polymerisation of pyrrole in the presence of ammonium persulfate (APS) as an oxidising agent. The concentration of Fe2O3 was varied between 10-50wt% of PPy. The simultaneous polymerisation of pyrrole and oxide addition led to the complete synthesis of nanocomposites. A maximum dielectric constant of ∼28500 was observed at 20wt% of Fe2O3. The nanocomposites were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). XRD analysis confirmed the structure and crystallinity of the nanocomposites, and a strong interaction between PPy and Fe2O3 particles was observed by FTIR technique. SEM and TEM images showed that Fe2O3 particles had been coated with PPy by establishing a network during the polymerisation process. The values of dielectric constant were obtained from capacitance measurements. The value of dielectric constant for nanocomposites with 20wt% of Fe2O3 was observed to be almost 12 times that of the pure PPy matrix. The high value of dielectric constant indicated a high packing density of Fe2O3 particles in PPy matrix. These nanocomposites have potential applications in electronic or biomedical devices.
The Effect of Flocculent, Dispersants, and Binder on Wet–laid Process for Recycled Glass Fiber/PA6 Composite
Authors: Yeole Pritesh , Ning Haibin , Hassen Ahmed Arabi , Vaidya Uday K.
Published: September 2018

The papermaking industry has been using the wet-laid process to suspend paper pulp-derived fibers in water and drain the solution through a forming mesh. This process has recently been adopted to produce non-woven, wet-laid fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composite mats. The mats can be post-molded into different complex shapes using compression molding or related processes. The objective of this study was to produce composite panels from wet-laid mats and observe the effect of chemicals used during the process on the mechanical and thermal characteristics of the resulting composite. Two sets of mats were processed using recycled glass fiber with Polyamide 6 (PA6). Flocculent, dispersant and binder (poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH)) were added to one of the mats, and the second mat was processed without these chemicals. The addition of these chemicals enhanced the fiber distribution and reduced processing defects in the mats. This was reflected in the mechanical properties of the final product. It was noticed that the flocculent, dispersant and binder volatilized during the compression molding step. Hence, the additives were found not to affect the thermal properties of the consolidated part.
Synthesis and Properties of an N-Substituted Polypyrrole with Liquid Crystalline Moieties
Authors: Almasri Moayad , Foot Peter J. S. , Brown John W. , Clipson Jacqueline A.
Published: September 2018

The synthesis and characterisation of two pyrrole monomers substituted at the N-position with a liquid crystal group are reported. Polymerisation of one of these compounds produced a soluble liquid crystalline semiconducting polymer. The side-chain of the polymer had a flexible spacer of nine methylene units, terminated by a mesogenic cyanobiphenyl group. The new compounds were chemically characterised and were found by hot-stage polarised optical microscopy to exhibit liquid crystal mesophases. The polymer was lightly doped p-type by exposure to iodine vapour, and its electrical conductivity was measured. The polymer synthesis and doping/dedoping processes were also briefly studied by cyclic voltammetry.
Does the Leadership Style Impacts on Employee Outcomes? A Study of Indian Steel Industry
Authors: Kesari Bikrant , Verma Bhupendra Kumar
Published: September 2018

This study is first of its kind to investigate the influence of leadership style on employee trust, employee morale and employee emotion in the context of steel industry. This set of three employee outcomes is studied in a conceptual framework comprising of a seven-month study, with a sample of 272 workers of steel firms in Chhattisgarh state, the central part of India. SmartPLS 2.0 is used to perform confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling to analyse and validate the conceptual framework. The study makes a twofold contribution. First, it finds that transactional leadership style has a negative influence on employee outcomes. Second, it suggests that managers of steel firms use transformational leadership style to enhance employee outcomes. This study reveals that the outcome of a steel firm’s employee is aligned better with transformational leadership style, rather than the transactional leadership style.
How Content Valence and Online Impression Influence Goal Achievement in Social Media Environment?
Authors: Mishra Anubhav , Maheswarappa Satish S.
Published: September 2018

Globally, users are sharing content on social networking sites (SNS) to signal their preferences and to build a positive online reputation. Using the approach and avoidance motivation theory, we examine the relationship among online impression, guilt and valence of shared content on SNS. Two experiments were conducted to test the conceptual model. The findings indicate that people prefer sharing positive content over negative content. Also, negative content induces guilt and affects the online impression and motivations to achieve desired goals. Therefore, social media marketers can use distinct valence of content to help consumers to achieve their goals effectively, especially in the fields of health care and education. The results suggest that avoidance motivation is more effective than approach motivation for achieving the goal of a positive online image.
What to Say to Patrons About Buying Tickets Again? Modelling a Modern Relationship for Traditional Performing Arts
Authors: Chang Angela , Liu Matthew Tingchi
Published: September 2018

Understanding patrons’ repurchase intentions is a key area of focus for marketers, given its effect on survival and growth in competitive environments. Four types of relationships based on patron’s satisfaction, product preference, product involvement, induced emotions and repurchasing intention were modelled to illustrate how current consumption influenced the repurchase intentions of performing arts patrons. An empirical study on an East Asian traditional culture performance from 671 patrons was conducted by using structural equation modelling (SEM) techniques. The result indicated that patrons’ satisfaction was not the most direct determinant of their own repurchase intention, as initially theorized. Instead, patron preferences and involvement are the most proximal predictors of repurchase intent. Performing arts represent a leisure market sector that provides educational, entertainment and experiential services. Arts marketers can identify the factors that influence the patrons’ repurchase responses to improve their’ inherently experiential offerings. This study represents a sophisticated nature of the relationship with theatre patrons and offers theoretical and practical mediating attributes for arts marketing managers to consider in communication.
Bounded Rationality and Bounded Reliability: A Study of Nonfamily Managers’ Entrepreneurial Behavior in Family Firms
Authors: Kotlar Josip , Sieger Philipp
Published: September 2018

We use transaction cost economics to explain the individual-level entrepreneurial behavior of family and nonfamily managers in family firms. We argue that nonfamily managers exhibit lower entrepreneurial behavior than family managers, particularly after the founder’s departure from the business. Moreover, we identify an expanded set of factors through which family firms can facilitate nonfamily managers’ entrepreneurial behavior, including monitoring, incentives, distributive justice, access to the top management, and job control perceptions. We test these hypotheses in a sample of 296 family firm managers, contributing new insights on nonfamily managers and corporate entrepreneurship in family firms.
“Losing Your Land You Feel Like You’re Losing Your Identity, Like You’re Experiencing Slow Death”: An Interview With Chief Thomas Dardar—Houma Nation
Authors: Sullivan John , Rosenberg Beth
Published: September 2018

The Houma Nation was a major community hub for the Citizen Science Network seafood sampling conducted as part of the Gulf Coast Health Alliance: Health Risks Related to the Macondo Spill (GC-HARMS) research project. They also managed a clinical cohort to facilitate wellness checkups and collection of biological samples during the project. In this interview, Thomas Dardar, Principal Chief of the Houma Nation, outlines the historical and evolving changes—cultural as well as geophysical—that the Houma Nation must address in an uncharted era of climate-related impacts on weather patterns, sea levels, and sustainable land uses. He explores tribal efforts to cope with cumulative exposures, risks, and outcomes of industrial practices that have led to land loss and deterioration of natural marshlands. These changes challenge the perpetuation of traditional values based on multigenerational ties to their land base, and the bayous and estuarial waters they fish.
Studying the Human Health and Ecological Impacts of the Deep Water Horizon Oil Spill Disaster: Introduction to This Special Issue of New Solutions
Authors: Croisant Sharon , Sullivan John
Published: September 2018

Gulf Coast Health Alliance: Health Risks Related to the Macondo Spill (GC-HARMS) began in 2011 as a component project of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences’ (NIEHS) Deep Water Horizon (DWH) Research Consortia program. This Gulf-wide consortium created regional community-university research partnerships focused on addressing health impacts resulting from oil spill exposures. Findings from this trans-National Institutes of Health program have helped enhance and refine community disaster preparedness and reinforced local–regional disaster response networks. Focal points of individual projects included the following: effects of multiple stressors on individuals and vulnerable populations, exposure to contaminants associated with crude oil, and mental health impacts. This introduction to New Solutions Special Issue on the GC-HARMS response to the DWH disaster presents an overview of the project’s internal structure and relationship to the comprehensive NIEHS consortia response and lists articles and interviews featured currently with brief mention of additional articles slated for the next issue.
Prediction of long-term creep behaviour of Grade 91 steel at 873 K in the framework of microstructure-based creep damage mechanics approach
Authors: Christopher J , Choudhary BK
Published: September 2018

A detailed analysis has been performed for the prediction of long-term creep behaviour of tempered martensitic Grade 91 steel at 873 K using the microstructure-based creep damage mechanics approach. Necessary modifications have been made into the original kinetic creep law proposed by Dyson and McLean in order to account for the influence of microstructural damages arising from the coarsening of M23C6 and conversion of useful MX precipitates into deleterious Z-phase on creep behaviour of the steel. An exponential rate relationship has been introduced for the evolution of number density of MX precipitates with time. It has been shown that the developed model adequately predicts the experimental long-term creep strain–time as well as creep rate-time data. The role of Z-phase on long-term creep behaviour of Grade 91 steel has also been discussed.
Cribriform-Morular Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma With Poorly Differentiated Features: A Case Report With Immunohistochemical and Molecular Genetic Analysis
Authors: Corean Jessica , Furtado Larissa V. , Kadri Sabah , Segal Jeremy P. , Emerson Lyska L.
Published: September 2018

Cribriform-morular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (CMVPTC) is usually an inherited malignancy and may be a presenting indicator of familial adenomatous polyposis syndrome although it may occasionally be sporadic. Known CMVPTC mutations include adenomatous polyposis coli ( APC) and β-catenin ( CTNNB1) genes. Despite its malignant classification, CMVPTC is considered to be a well-differentiated thyroid tumor with a generally good behavior. In contrast, poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma is an aggressive tumor. We report a case of CMVPTC with poorly differentiated features in a young female without phenotypic features of familial adenomatous polyposis but with known germline alterations of the APC gene. High throughput sequencing showed germline chromosome 5q deletion encompassing the APC gene in all components with additional unique genetic alterations in the somatic components. A single nucleotide substitution (c.1548+1G>A, NM_000038.5) located one base pair downstream of exon 12 of the APC gene was identified in the CMVPTC component, and a pathogenic frameshift deletion in exon 14 of APC (c.3642del, p.Ser1214Argfs*51, NM_000038.5) was identified in the poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma component. No other cancer-associated genes were identified by our techniques. Our case represents a rare phenomenon of poorly differentiated features in association with CMVPTC. To our knowledge, ours is the only such report of poorly differentiated features arising in association with an inherited CMVPTC.
Importance-Weighted Density: A Shared Leadership Illustration of the Case for Moving Beyond Density and Decentralization in Particularistic Resource Networks
Authors: Lemoine G. James , Koseoglu Gamze , Ghahremani Hamed , Blum Terry C.
Published: September 2018

Social network analysis has been increasingly used by researchers to operationalize team processes and emergent states. Despite their advantages over aggregate measures, the most frequently used network measures such as density and centrality are agnostic to potentially meaningful elements reflecting the patterns of ties between team members. Specifically, intangible resources transmitted within team networks are often more particularistic, such that the value of the shared resource is dependent upon who gives it. We use shared leadership as an exemplar case for explaining this issue and proposing a solution in the form of a new network measure, importance-weighted density (IWD). Combining logic from the principles of density, decentralization, and eigenvector centralization, IWD provides a more detailed understanding of network tie patterns by taking into account the degree to which ties emerge from members who are themselves well connected. We test the measure’s validity in a series of Monte Carlo simulations and laboratory and field studies. We find that IWD has high convergent, discriminant, and criterion validities and discuss how this statistic might help to enhance the study of several other team constructs. We provide access to a downloadable tool for the calculation of IWD and other network statistics discussed within this article.
Use of fluorescence in situ hybridization to detect Felis catus papillomavirus type 2 in feline Bowenoid in situ carcinomas
Authors: Demos Lauren E , Munday John S , Lange Christian E , Bennett Mark D
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Papillomaviruses (PVs) are ubiquitous host- and site-specific viruses. PV infections in cats are associated with oral papillomas, viral plaques, Bowenoid in situ carcinomas (BISCs), squamous cell carcinomas and sarcoids; this association is primarily based on PCR detection of PV DNA within said lesions. PV DNA is frequently detectable on normal feline skin; thus, it is possible that some of the implicated DNA is commensal rather than associated with lesion formation. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to use fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to localize PV DNA within feline BISCs, to provide additional evidence that PV infection may influence the development of these neoplasms.

Methods

FISH probes targeting Felis catus papillomavirus type 2 (FcaPV2) DNA were used to localize FcaPV2 DNA within 42 BISCs from which FcaPV2 DNA had previously been amplified via PCR.

Results

Fifteen of 42 BISC lesions (35.7%) demonstrated intralesional FcaPV2 using FISH. Probe annealing was predominantly located within the nuclei of koilocytes found in the upper strata of the epidermis. Probes were typically scattered multifocally within the lesions; most commonly this was near the periphery of the BISCs.

Conclusions and relevance

These results confirm that a proportion of BISCs contain FcaPV2 DNA. These results further support a causative association between FcaPV2 and BISCs in cats.
Understanding the determinants of public trust in the health care system in China: an analysis of a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Zhao Dahai , Zhao Hongyu , Cleary Paul D
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Despite increasing research attention on public trust in health care systems, empirical evidence on this topic in the developing world is limited and inconclusive. This paper examines the level and determinants of public trust in the health care system in China.

Methods

We used data from a survey conducted with a sample of 5347 adults in all Chinese provincial areas between January and February 2016. Trust in the health care system was assessed with a question used by the 2011–2013 International Social Survey Programme (ISSP) to assess public trust in the health care systems of 29 industrialized countries and regions (‘In general, how much confidence do you have in the health care system in your country?’).

Results

Only 28% of respondents reported that they had a great deal or complete trust in China’s health care system. Respondents who reported to have more trust in other people in society, more trust in the local government and who were more satisfied with their most recent health care system experience and their health insurance were significantly more likely to trust the country’s health care system. Furthermore, respondents who reported a higher level of happiness, better health status and positive attitudes towards social equity were more likely to trust the health care system in China.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that low public trust in China’s health care system is a potential problem. Improving health care experiences may be the most practical and effective way of improving trust in the health care system in China.
Construals of self and group: How racial nominalism can promote adaptive intergroup outcomes for interdependent selves
Authors: Tawa John , Montoya Amanda K.
Published: September 2018

Previous research has found that interdependent self-construals are related to poorer intergroup outcomes. Here we examine interdependent self-construal specifically in relation to comfort in contexts in which people are a numeric minority (i.e., outgroup comfort), and also examine the moderating roles of racial nominalism and racial essentialism. Among a racially diverse sample ( N = 577), interdependent self-construals were related to more outgroup comfort. Two dimensions of racial nominalism—humanist and sociopolitical—were established with exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Humanist, sociopolitical, and essentialist beliefs about race were examined as moderators of the interdependent self-construal and outgroup comfort relationship. Among participants of color with higher sociopolitical beliefs, and unexpectedly among participants with higher essentialist beliefs, interdependent self-construal was more positively related to outgroup comfort. Findings are discussed in relation to theory on self- and group-level construals, and in relation to the role of multicultural education for fostering sociopolitical beliefs about race.
Primary Outcome of Laparoscopic Colorectal Resections in a Northern Finnish Hospital: A Single Center Study
Authors: Huhta H. , Vuolio S. , Typpö I. , Rahko A. , Suokanerva K. , Rintala J. M.
Published: September 2018

Background and Aims:

Over the past decades, laparoscopic colorectal surgery has become widely used for various indications. Large multicenter studies have demonstrated that laparoscopy has clear advantages over open surgery. Compared to open procedures, laparoscopy decreases perioperative blood loss, post-operative pain, and hospitalization time, but provides equivalent long-term oncological and surgical results. Most studies have been conducted in high-volume institutions with selected patients, which may have influenced the reported outcome of laparoscopy. Here, we investigated the primary outcome of all laparoscopic colorectal resections performed between 2005 and 2015 in a low-volume center.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study included bowel resections performed between 2005 and 2015 in the Lapland Central Hospital. Data were retrieved from electronic patient registries, and all operations that began as a laparoscopy were included. Patient records were investigated to determine the primary surgical outcome and possible complications within the first 30 days after surgery.

Results:

During 2005–2015, 385 laparoscopic colorectal resections were performed. Indications included benign (n = 166 patients, 43.1%) and malignant lesions (n = 219 cases, 56.9%). The median patient age was 68 years, and 50.4% were male. The median American Society of Anesthesiologist score was III, and 48.5% of patients had an American Society of Anesthesiologist class of III or IV. The median hospital stay after surgery was 6 days (interquartile range: 3.8). The conversion rate to open surgery rate was 13%. The total surgical complication rate was 24.2%, and re-operation was required in 11.2% of patients. A total of 26 patients had anastomotic leakage, of which 16 required re-operations. The 30-day mortality was 0.8%.

Conclusion:

Our results showed that laparoscopic colorectal surgery in a peripheral hospital resulted in primary outcome rates within the range of those reported in previous multicenter trials. Therefore, the routine use of laparoscopic colorectal resections with high-quality outcome is feasible in small and peripheral surgical units.
A New Modification of Fan Flap for Large Lower Lip Defects
Authors: Demirdover C. , Vayvada H. , Ozturk F. A. , Yazgan H. S. , Karaca C.
Published: September 2018

Background and Aims:

The reconstruction of the lower lip defects which may result from malignancy, trauma, and burn is necessary for mastication, oral competence, salivary retain, articulation, and aesthetic appearance of the face. While small (30% of the lower lip) and medium (30%–80% of the lower lip) size defects are reconstructed using primary repair and local flaps, reconstruction of the large defects including total and near-total of the lower lip is very challenging entity. We introduce a new modification of the fan flap named extended fan flap for reconstruction of the total and near-total lower lip defects.

Material and Methods:

The extended fan flap was used for 12 patients with defects involving more than 80% of the lower lip due to squamous cell carcinoma excision. Most of the patients were males (80.9%) with an average age of 66.8 years (range, 47–82 years).

Results:

No major complication is observed in the postoperative period. The functional and aesthetic results were satisfactory. The sphincter function for normal mastication, eating, and salivary retain was reestablished. No microstomy was seen and insertion of artificial dentition was possible for patients.

Conclusion:

We believe that the unilateral extended fan flap is a reliable and safe option with satisfactory functional and aesthetic results for total and near-total (more than 80%) lower lip defects.
Vibration control of a lead zirconate titanate structure considering controller–structure interactions
Authors: Dong Xingjian , Peng Zhike , Meng Guang
Published: September 2018

This study focuses on integrating an active vibration controller into the finite element model of a piezoelectric laminated plate with the controller–structure interactions considered. A finite element model of a piezoelectric laminated plate is formulated using the third-order shear deformation theory. A state-space model is set up by performing a system identification technique. The state-space model is then used to design an optimal vibration controller. Considering that the finite element model is more appropriate than state-space model for dynamic simulation, the state-space model-based controller is integrated into the finite element model to capture the controller–structure interactions. The results obtained by applying vibration controller in state-space model are also presented to make a comparison. It is numerically demonstrated that the controller–structure interactions occur and cause performance degradation in case that the state-space model-based controller works with the finite element model. There is no prior guarantee that a state-space model-based controller satisfying the control requirements still works well in closed loop with the finite element model. The results of this study can be used to evaluate the controller performance for the piezoelectric smart structures during the preliminary design stage.
Experimental evaluation of the response of sandwich panels in low-velocity impact
Authors: Mocian Oana Alexandra , Constantinescu Dan Mihai , Sandu Marin , Sorohan Ştefan
Published: September 2018

Sandwich panels with aluminum or glass fiber composite facesheets and polyurethane or polystyrene foam core were tested in impact by using an Instron Ceast 9340 impact tower at speeds from 1.5 to 4.5 m/s. The influence of the initial velocity of impact and kinetic energy is analyzed for all types of panels. Particularities of the impact response of the sandwich panels were observed and explained. The facesheet type influence on the damage and penetration of the panels during impact is discussed. If the absorbed energy of the panels is a priority, then the aluminum facesheets and the polystyrene foam core are a good combination. If minimum deformation is required, then composite facesheets and the more rigid polyurethane foam core are a strong option for the sandwich panel design.
Bayesian structural identification of a long suspension bridge considering temperature and traffic load effects
Authors: Jesus Andre , Brommer Peter , Westgate Robert , Koo Ki , Brownjohn James , Laory Irwanda
Published: September 2018

This article presents a probabilistic structural identification of the Tamar bridge using a detailed finite element model. Parameters of the bridge cables initial strain and bearings friction were identified. Effects of temperature and traffic were jointly considered as a driving excitation of the bridge’s displacement and natural frequency response. Structural identification is performed with a modular Bayesian framework, which uses multiple response Gaussian processes to emulate the model response surface and its inadequacy, that is, model discrepancy. In addition, the Metropolis–Hastings algorithm was used as an expansion for multiple parameter identification. The novelty of the approach stems from its ability to obtain unbiased parameter identifications and model discrepancy trends and correlations. Results demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method for complex civil infrastructure. A close agreement between identified parameters and test data was observed. Estimated discrepancy functions indicate that the model predicted the bridge mid-span displacements more accurately than its natural frequencies and that the adopted traffic model was less able to simulate the bridge behaviour during traffic congestion periods.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Advanced Graft Copolymers
Authors: Chauhan Ashish , Kaith Balbir
Published: September 2018

The paper deals with characterisation and evaluation of the transformations in waste biomass Hibiscus sabdariffa stem fibre on graft copolymerisation with ethyl acrylate (EA) and butyl acrylate (BA) monomer, using a ceric ammonium nitrate–nitric acid initiator system. Different reaction parameters, such as temperature, time, initiator concentration, monomer concentration, and pH, were optimised to obtain the maximum graft yield. The graft copolymers thus formed were characterised by FTIR, SEM, TGA, DTA, and XRD techniques. The swelling behaviour of graft copolymers in different solvents was studied and screened for dye uptake behaviour in 0.1% gentian violet dye. With increase in percentage grafting, the percentage crystallinity, crystallinity index, and moisture absorption were found to decrease, whereas the chemical resistance (against 1N HCl and 1N NaOH), thermal resistance, and solubility in organic solvents were found to increase.