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This study was aimed to investigate the response of two types of ornamental herbaceous plants (Wedelia trilobata and Jacobaea maritima 'Cirrus') to different agricultural environments and the application of potassium silicates to the living walls system LWS (Felt layer system) under the climate conditions of Baghdad city. Each experiment involved the cultivation of a different plant species, and the study duration was from September 15, 2021, to August 1, 2022. A Strip-Plot Design experiment was conducted using two factors: factor M with four levels of substrates (50% peatmoss and perlite (M1), 50% Vermicompost and perlite (M2), 50% Water hyacinth compost and perlite (M3), 50% wheat straw compost and perlite (M4)) and factor S with three levels of foliar spray of potassium silicate (0, 1.5, and 3 ml Lֿ-1) S1, S2 and S3 respectively. The results differed according to the different substrates, and the study indicators were superior using potassium silicate concentrations compared to the comparison treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oceans/brine offers a massive supply of lithium sources that can support the renewable energy storage system. However, the current lithium extraction processes from seawater are complicated for scalable production. Here, a high‐performance solar‐driven, direct lithium‐extraction felt (DEF) is developed. DEF consists of a reasonable addition of Li1.6Mn1.6O4 particles on polypropylene/polyethylene core‐sheath fibers, which are dark‐colored and can float on top of bodies of water. Compared with the conventional method, DEF shows improved Li‐ion adsorption rate and capacity by solar‐driven. Meanwhile, the fibers' hydrophilicity promotes spontaneous upward transport of water/ions, avoiding concentration polarization. Even for the test using simulated seawater (≈100 kg) with low Li‐ion concentration outdoors, DEF demonstrates high efficiency under natural sunlight. DEF shows good salt‐rejection performance in outdoor real‐time evaporation experiments to ensure working stability. In addition, this method saves the steps of liquid storage, liquid transportation, and pump drive. This work provides an easy, highly efficient, and low‐cost strategy to extract lithium directly from seawater/brine with the assistance of solar energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Felt, one of the primary handicrafts of the Turks, stands as a significant cultural relic for the enduringly nomadic Kyrgyz populace. The art of felting to be up-to-date and popular in today's Kyrgyz society with its variety of uses by adapting to the dynamics of the modern age. Therefore, it is important to examine the evolution of felt in Kyrgyz culture from the past to the present and explore the areas where the tradition of felting is sustained in the modern era. Felt is one of the oldest handcrafts in Kyrgyz culture, and it plays a crucial role in preserving tradition, sustaining culture, and promoting cultural diversity and sustainability. Moreover, embroidery on felt items conveys information about Kyrgyz history, philosophy, lifestyle, mentality, and values. In this context, the present research endeavors to shed light on the role of felt in Kyrgyzstan's cultural economy and tourism, tracking its evolution from the past to the present day. In other words, it examines the significance of felt within Kyrgyz culture, the transformation of felt-based items, and their impact on contemporary Kyrgyz culture, economy, and tourism. To effectively investigate these aspects, printed sources related to the study were reviewed. Then, the data obtained through field research were analyzed in order to show the current appearance of felt. The findings underscore that the tradition of felting serves diverse practical functions in Kyrgyz society, thus explaining the continued usage of felt to this day. Furthermore, it was observed that the evolution and transformation of the felting tradition have made substantial contributions to the nation's cultural economy and tourism sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article explores the use of agricultural unused sheep wool and petroleum byproducts spilled on the soil to improve the structure of road surfaces. Tiles obtained by saturating a filler made from animal hair, such as sheep's wool, with oil pollutants can be used as a road surface. Since not all types of sheep wool are used, attention is paid to unused types of wool and methods of processing them. Furthermore, the proposed work contributes to the resolution of an environmental problem. Tiles saturated with oil pollutants are laid on geogrids prepared for the road surface. The geometric dimensions of the geogrid are selected depending on the climatic conditions of the region and the condition of the road surface. The proposed method of laying road surfaces improves the quality of roads and reduces construction costs. Moreover, an increase in the service life of the road is achieved through the use of tiles impregnated with residual oil, which does not absorb moisture and does not allow it to penetrate into the road pavement. This results in the prevention of cracking in the road during the winter season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of wearable devices has promoted new ways of integrating these devices, one of which is through the development of smart textiles. Smart textiles must possess the mechanical and electrical properties necessary for their functionality. This study explores the impact of polymer-felt microstructure variations on their morphology, electrical, and mechanical properties. The application of thermal treatment, along with an electric field, leads to a substantial structural reorganization of the molecular chains within pristine felt. This results in a system of nanofibrils coated with MWCNT-PEDOT, characterized by highly ordered counterions that facilitate the flow of charge carriers. Both temperature and an electric field induce reversible microstructural changes in pristine felt and irreversible changes in coated felt samples. Furthermore, electropolymerization of PEDOT significantly enhances electrical conductivity, with PEDOT:BTFMSI-coated fabric exhibiting the highest conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although mulching is a widely used agronomic practice, its effects on the rhizosphere remain poorly understood. Here, we employed amplicon and transcriptomic sequencing to investigate variations in a grapevine rhizosphere system under mulch treatment (rice straw + felt + plastic film). Analyzing 16S and intergenic spacer (ITS) rRNA sequences indicated that the Shannon and Simpson indices of the bacterial and fungal communities increased markedly under mulch treatment. The bacterial and fungal compositions varied significantly between the control and mulch treatments. Mulching enriched for potentially beneficial microbes that confer disease resistance to plants or participate in nitrogen metabolism (Kaistobacter, Ammoniphilus, Lysobacter, Ammoniphilus, Alicyclobacillus, Aquicella, Nitrospira, Chaetomium, and Microascus), whereas more potentially pathogenic microbes (Fusarium and Gibberella) were detected in the control. Moreover, certain bacteria and fungi exhibited different correlations with the root transcriptome functions of the MEBlue module. The complexity of the bacterial and fungal co-occurrence networks increased with higher node numbers, positive and negative links after mulching. Following mulching, the rhizosphere showed elevated pH, organic matter, and catalase activities, and decreased sucrase and cellulase and β-glucosidase activities. Our results provide comprehensive data showing how a grapevine rhizosphere system responded to mulching treatment and shed important insight into mulching practices for fruit trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocomposites are a strong alternative to synthetic fiber-reinforced compo)sites due to their environmentally friendly nature, ease of availability, cost)effectiveness, and non-toxicity. Felt biocomposites are generally favored for their better sound and temperature absorption capabilities rather than load)bearing materials due to their comparatively weak mechanical properties. However, their mechanical performance is greatly improved when they are fabricated as plates using traditional techniques like compression molding. This study focuses on the mechanical characterization and comparison of different types of hot-pressed felt biocomposite plates with a 50% by weight natural fiber content. Four unique biocomposite felts were produced and subjected to tensile, compressive, shear, instrumented Charpy v-notched impact, and drop weight impact tests. All felt kinds are reinforced with short hemp fibers and four distinct polymers are used as matrix materials, namely, polypropylene, recycled polypropylene, polylactic acid, and low)melt polyester fiber. Static and impact tests performed on those materials revealed that each type of natural fiber felt biocomposite has its unique features, and their characterized static and impact behaviors vary signifi)cantly from one to another. Therefore, each can be an appropriate material choice in an engineering design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Namda or felt sheets and articles made of felt have a historic association with Tonk in Rajasthan (India). Felting has been practiced here for generations, providing a livelihood for the craftsmen who make hand-made felt and those who develop products from the felt sheets, including floor coverings, mats, and decorative pieces for both domestic and export markets. Felt's design, finishing, and quality are the key criteria impacting the value of the urban product and the end market. The Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute (CSWRI) in Avikanagar conducted skill development training for rural women with a focus on making handicraft products from felt sheets. The objective was to promote traditional craft as well as empower women through enhancement of their self-reliance, with opportunities for further progression for high-performing trainees. The Indian Institute of Crafts & Design (IICD) in Jaipur collaborated with CSWRI for design intervention and skill enhancement targeting for the urban market. Just as these women were inching toward fully sustainable livelihoods, however, the sudden outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the demand and supply of handicraft products and seriously impacted their ability to work. This paper discusses the collaborative efforts put into building sustainable livelihoods around handicrafts and considers how the Covid-19 pandemic has impaired that work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Welcoming pupils with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in primary school aims not only to develop their academic skills, but also to facilitate their participation in social life within the dass group and the school. The role of the outsourced teaching unit (UEE) is precisely to contribute to producing this favorable context. In many studies, the use of digital resources has shown its effectiveness in facilitating learning. However, the degree of inclusive operationality of a digital working environment has not yet been tested. The experimental project carried out thus focuses on the role that a digital device used in a cooperative approach can play in the learning of academic skills and the weaving of social ties. The reception of pupils with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to primary school aims not only developing their academic skills, but also to facilitate their participation in social life within the class group and school. The role of the out of class teaching unit (UEE) is precisely to contribute to create this favorable context. In many studies, the use of digital tools has shown its effectiveness at facilitating learning. However, the degree of inclusive operationality of a digital working environment has not yet been evaluated. The experimental project is thus interested in the role that a digital device used in a cooperative approach can play in the learning of school skills and the building of social ties. In particular, it will be necessaiy to report the feelings of pupils ASD with low verbal and that of neurotypical pupils when they are brought to work in cooperation, through a digital working environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For providing security to the people, who survive in country borders, mine and chemical industries, wearable devices with sensors can be used to follow their activities through sensors. The main element of that security device is the antenna. Based on the construction, utility, and performance, miniaturized MicroStrip Patch (MSP) antennas are mainly preferred. In this paper, the compact MSP antenna design, using various flexible multilayer substrate materials with Electromagnetic Band Gap (EBG) structures, has been proposed to resonate at 2.45 GHz in ISM band. The simulated and the measured parameters have been analyzed and an improvement in gain up to 6 dB has been achieved compared to the existing technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Next-generation laminated wood composites were produced using waste poplar (Populus deltoides) veneer and polyvinyl acetate adhesive. Four experimental groups and one control group were created. Ten-layer laminated wood veneer samples were reinforced with natural rubber (Group A), linoleum (Group B), felt (Group C), and elastomeric sponge (Group D); these materials were used in the fifth adhesive layer (middle layer). The sound absorption coefficients of the control and experimental groups were tested via the impedance tube method, according to ASTM standard E1050 (2006). Attention was paid to the acoustic behavior at low frequencies (63 Hz to 250 Hz), mid frequencies (250 Hz to 2000 Hz), and high frequencies (2000 Hz to 6300 Hz). It was determined that the sound absorption coefficient of the experimental groups considerably increased. It can be suggested that the experimental groups be used as sound absorbing acoustic panels and the control group as sound reflective acoustic panels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of high strain rate on the dynamic mechanical properties of shear thickening fluid (STF) impregnated felt of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) was investigated by split‐hopkinson pressure bar. UHMWPE felts are randomly oriented nonwoven fabric that holds each other due to inter‐fiber coupling either by thermal calendaring or mechanical entanglement. Its lower areal density and highly porous structure can be utilized in lightweight ballistic resistance material. The junction points inside its porous structure make it easier to hold abundant STF. Shear thickening fluid was prepared by dispersing 100 nm dry silica powder into polypropylene glycol at 67.5 wt% concentration using probe ultrasonicator at 25°C. Rheological characterization of prepared STF was conducted using MCR702 advanced Anton Paar rheometer. It was done by performing a steady shear rate and thixotropy tests for shear thickening and structural regeneration behavior. In‐house fabricated split‐hopkinson pressure bar setup was used to evaluate dynamic compressive behavior at different strain rates by changing triggering pressure. It was found that STF impregnated felt shows a higher amplitude of strain rate augmentation and energy absorption than a neat felt. The impact energy absorption increases with increasing strain rate. However, the peak stress shows an opposite trend with an increased strain rate in STF impregnated felt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel carbon foam composites derived from various pitch precursors have been fabricated and characterized. This paper specifically focuses on developing an effective process for fabricating the carbon foam composites from Polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based carbon felt as a reinforcement and various readily available pitch matrix such as petroleum pitch, coal tar pitch, and mesophase pitch. The paper endeavors to develop the carbon foam composites and to carry out detailed morphological, thermal, and mechanical characterization. Traditional carbon foams have been known to offer poor mechanical performance, and hence, in this paper, the pitch-based carbon foams were innovatively reinforced with the PAN-based carbon fiber felt. Carbon foam composites were subjected to partial oxidation, and their morphological and mechanical response after the heat treatment was studied thoroughly. Thermal gravimetric analysis and thermal mechanical analysis techniques reveal an appreciable thermo-physical and thermo-mechanical response at elevated temperatures. Also, it was found out that the factors such as volatile content and quinoline insoluble fraction affect the morphology as well as the physical robustness on the composite foams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Felt is considered as the oldest known textile surface of the cultural heritage that is passed down from generation to generation. Among the handicrafts that are being consumed, felting is tried to be carried to today with different and contemporary interpretations. In this study, original designs have been realized by inspiring from the lights created by electrically charged particles that enter the world atmosphere in the North and South Globes. This natural phenomenon, known as the northern lights, is considered as a theme. The raw material used in the design is 100% wool fiber dyed in yellow, light green, dark green, purple and dark blue colors. Auxiliary materials are purified water, white soap, felt needles, 100% silk fabric and American service. Wet and dry felt methods were preferred for felt production. The dimensions of the felts are A4 (297 * 210 mm) and they are re-shaped as garment accessories. As a result, the transfer of culture was carried out by introducing felt-making handicrafts, which are among the forgotten handicrafts, to young kits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the development of modern wearable mobile devices, the need of antenna with smaller size and internally flexible to fit becomes necessary. Miniaturization of Micro Strip Patch (MSP) antenna increases its employability for communication in different aspects. The use of flexible material for the fabrication of MSP antenna still improves its use for Wireless Body Area Networks (WBAN) which includes devices for monitoring systems in military, surveillance and medical applications. The devices designed specifically in Industrial Scientific Medical (ISM) band are used for communication in these applications. Defected Ground Structure (DGS) is adopted as an emerging technique for improving the various parameters of microwave circuits, that is, narrow bandwidth, cross-polarization, low gain, and so forth. In this paper, the design of compact micro strip patch antenna using different flexible substrate materials with DGS is proposed to resonate the antenna at 2.45GHz ISM band which can be used as biomedical sensors. Felt and Teflon with dielectric constant 1.36 and 2.1respectively are chosen as flexible substrate material among various flexible materials like cotton, rubber, paper, jeans etc. Using CST studio suite software, the designed antenna is simulated and the fabricated antenna is tested with Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). The performance parameters like return loss, gain, directivity and Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) of the antenna are analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Bismuth electrodes are particularly interesting owing to their high hydrogen evolution overpotential and electrocatalytic activity. In this work, a novel porous bismuth electrode was prepared via an electrochemical deposition of bismuth on a porous graphite felt of high specific surface area, employing bismuth(III) oxide as reactant and a flow electrochemical cell as reactor. A solubility up to 1 mol L−1 of bismuth was obtained in basic medium using a suitable complexing agent. We solved the problems linked to the heterogeneous potential distribution in the 3D porous structure and to the formation of dendritic excrescences that led to mechanically fragile material by using a suitable flow electrochemical cell, a periodically changing current with short on-pulses and long off-pulses and by limiting the electrodeposition of Bi on the external surfaces of the felt due to diffusion. A Bi-modified electrode with high specific surface area and low bulk density was achieved using this method. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • A solubility up to 1 mol L−1 of bismuth was obtained in basic medium using Bis-Tris. • Electrodeposition of bismuth on graphite felt with homogeneous coating of fibers. • The formation of dendrites that led to mechanically fragile material was limited. • The material has a high surface area and a low bulk density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, I invoke various matterings of felt in order to generate a practice of writing that engenders bodily difference that is affective, moving, and wooly. In attending to 'how to write as felt,' as a touching encounter, I consider how human and nonhuman matter composes (Haraway in Staying with the trouble: making Kin in the Chthulucene, Duke University Press, Durham, 2016). This co-mingling that felt performs enacts what Alaimo (Bodily natures: science, environment, and the material self, Indiana University Press, Bloomington, 2010; Exposed: Environmental politics and pleasures in posthuman times, University of Minnesota Press, Minneapolis, 2016) calls transcorporeality. Connecting felt with theories of touch and transcorporeality becomes a way to open up and re-configure different bodily imaginaries, both human and nonhuman, that are radically immanent and intensive; as an assemblage of forces and flows that open bodies to helices and trans connections (Springgay and Truman in Body Soc 23(4):27-58, 2017b). My contribution to this collection on 'humanity in a posthuman age' is experimental and performative. Felt is activated not as a metaphor but rather poses questions about what writing does at the interstices between research and creation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In industrial and architectural applications, noise can be controlled using sound-absorbing materials. Natural materials are now gaining importance in the noise control engineering as they have advantages like low cost, eco-friendly, easy to produce, etc. Jute is one of such natural materials, which can be used as a sound-absorbing material. Micro-perforated panels along with three different types of jute felts are used in a multilayer sound absorber configuration to improve its sound absorption. The sound absorption performance of these multilayer sound absorbers is evaluated by using the transfer matrix method and experimental method. Dependence of sound absorption performance on the placement of micro-perforated panels in a multilayer sound absorber is also studied. It is observed that the sound absorption performance depends on the position of micro-perforated panels in a multilayer sound absorber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafine glass wool felt has excellent performance in heat insulation, sound absorption and filtration as well as A-level fire-retardant property, while high-temperature treatment has a great influence on its performance. In this paper, ultrafine glass wool felt is prepared by centrifugation and subsequently is heated in the temperature rang of 100—550 °C. The microstructure, mechanical properties and thermal conductivity are characterized by metallurgical microscopy, universal materials tester and Netch thermal conductivity analyzer. The results show that, with the treatment temperature increasing, the diameter of the fiber and the mass loss increase while the pore diameter decreases, especially at 400 °C or higher temperature. The tensile strength decreases gradually, also obviously above 300 °C. The thermal conductivity increases gradually, which rises gently below 400 °C but accelerates greatly after that. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we have developed an analytical model of a multilayer porous material based on the transfer matrix method to predict the absorption behavior at plane wave incidence. The aim of this study is to modify/tune the sound absorption coefficient of a felt to obtain an improved absorbing performance in the mid frequency range without increasing its weight. To achieve this target, the developed model has been used to find the best combination of each layer type and thickness. The analytical results were validated by test results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conversion of soluble cerium redox species in the zinc-cerium redox flow battery and other electrochemical processes can be carried out at planar and porous platinised titanium electrodes. The active area, current density, mass transfer coefficient and linear electrolyte flow velocity through these structures have a direct influence on the reaction yield and the relationship between cell potential and operational current density during charge and discharge of a flow battery. A quantitative and practical characterization of the reaction environment at these electrodes is required. The volumetric mass transfer coefficient, k m A e has been calculated for diverse electrode structures from limiting current measurements for Ce(IV) ion reduction in a laboratory, rectangular channel flow cell. This factor can be used to predict fractional conversion and required electrode dimensions. Platinised titanium felt shows superior k m A e values compared to other materials and is a practical, high performance electrode for the Ce(III)/Ce(IV) ion redox reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Development of technology for manufacture of the felt bag with clasp. Methodology. When the development of technology of felted bags designing theoretical and empirical methods were used. Mental modeling and method of analysis and synthesis were used for reproducing of design chain and identify its sequential hierarchical structure. In the implementation of applied aspect of research were used experiment, measurement and material modeling. Results. Phased technology design felted bag with clasp. Scientific novelty. Is to develop a comprehensive approach to the design process of the bags felt taking into account the physic-mechanical properties and the possibility of expanding the range of exclusive accessories. First introduced in the scientific use the material presented in the author's master-classes and video tutorials. Practical significance. Is the formulation of concrete confection-engineering-technological recommendations, taking into account the peculiarities of material and equipment of wet felting in the manufacture of bags with clasp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most important feature that adds different identity into a society and distinguishes this society from others is "its traditions". Turks also have formed unique traditions throughout history. In this formation, the transition from nomadic life into sedentary life became effective. Wearing apparels used by covering for the protection from natural conditions at the beginning has reflected regional and national characters by being influenced by social, economic, cultural and religious values in time. Traditional handicrafts in Turkish culture are always in development and change depending upon vital necessities differentiating in the society. In this context, felt art also arouse from needs initially, it was shaped according to the needs of society, and it was used in many areas of the life. The felt taking part in apparel culture of Turks throughout history has been used also for the manufacture of goods which are status indicators in the society as well as the fulfilment of vital necessities. The felt caps commonly used especially in the previous periods became significant objects reflecting the people's position in the society. In the historical process, also felt art has reached until today by undergoing a change and transformation together with the society. Nowadays, the felt commonly used for apparel in the previous periods tries to obtain again its functionality that it has lost in time by means of the production and design of new goods. Felt finds new areas for itself in apparel culture by taking different forms with the effect of fashion. This study will be on the place of felt in Turkish apparel culture and its transitions in historical process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a 3D carbon composite electrode matrix, consisting of reduced graphene oxide (RGO), carbon nanotubes, and carbon fiber felt. In this matrix, the edges of the RGO sheets are bounded to cup-stacked carbon nanotubes (CSCNTs) while the micrometer scale basal planes of the RGO sheets are suspended between the fibers. The presence of free-standing RGO sheets in which π orbitals of the basal planes do not interact with the electrode surface offers advantageous conditions to explore demanding bioelectrochemical reactions, such as the FADH 2 /FAD redox transition often claimed in the literature as originated from a direct electron communication between micro/nano carbon based electrodes and glucose oxidase (GOx). At least, three important questions rise from this system: (i) how the junction between the carbon nanostructures and the carbon microfibers affects the monitored electron transfer? (ii) are the monitored Faradaic peaks originated from native or denaturated GOx? (iii) is GOx still active for glucose sensing after suffering conformational changes due to the adsorption process on the surface of the electrode? It is intended here to contribute with the investigation of these questions. According to our results, the electronic interactions between CSCNTs and RGO sheets seem to modulate the performance of the aforementioned reaction, as improved kinetic parameters were observed on the 3D composite matrix rather than the obtained with 3D electrodes modified with CSCNTs or RGO sheets themselves. However, spectroscopic experiments suggested that GOx suffers significant conformational changes when adsorbed on the surface of the carbon nanostructures, leading to the denaturation of the protein. Even though the electrochemical experiments indicate that the denaturation of the enzyme does not seem to completely release the FAD moiety, the operational capability of the resulting glucose biosensor was greatly compromised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scale up of bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) requires highly conductive, biocompatible and stable electrodes. Here we present pyrolytic carbon-coated stainless steel felt (C-SS felt) as a high-performance and scalable anode. The electrode is created by generating a carbon layer on stainless steel felt (SS felt) via a multi-step deposition process involving α- d -glucose impregnation, caramelization, and pyrolysis. Physicochemical characterizations of the surface elucidate that a thin (20 ± 5 μm) and homogenous layer of polycrystalline graphitic carbon was obtained on SS felt surface after modification. The carbon coating significantly increases the biocompatibility, enabling robust electroactive biofilm formation. The C-SS felt electrodes reach current densities ( j max ) of 3.65 ± 0.14 mA/cm 2 within 7 days of operation, which is 11 times higher than plain SS felt electrodes (0.30 ± 0.04 mA/cm 2 ). The excellent biocompatibility, high specific surface area, high conductivity, good mechanical strength, and low cost make C-SS felt a promising electrode for BESs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this review article, we describe several topics, including the sandwich technique, the transatrial re-endocardialization technique, the limited apical left ventriculotomy approach and device closure. The sandwich technique was introduced for the closure of muscular ventricular septal defects (VSD) by sandwiching the septum between two felt patches placed in the left and right ventricle. This technique requires neither the transection of muscular trabeculae nor ventriculotomy. Although the sandwich technique has resulted in the improvement of surgical outcomes, cases of postoperative cardiac dysfunction have been reported. Multiple smaller VSDs have been closed with transatrial re-endocardialization. Septal dysfunction may be avoided through this technique, in which the septal trabeculae are approximated in two layers of superficial, endocardial running sutures. Recently, a number of reports have recommended a limited apical left ventriculotomy approach. With this technique, a much shorter incision of around 1 cm at the apex of the left ventricle may be sufficient for achieving the complete closure of apical muscular VSDs. The transcatheter or perventricular device closure of muscular VSDs has increasingly been performed with good results. Although favorable early and mid-term results of device closure have been reported, this method is not always safer or less invasive than surgical closure. Long-term evaluations should be performed to determine whether the right and left ventricular functions are affected by treatment with relatively large devices in the heart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Direct membrane filtration is a candidate technology with great potential for treating and reusing domestic graywater. However, membrane performance and fouling remain as a main problem in direct membrane filtration processes. In this work pre-filtration by using common materials was evaluated as a potential alternative to deal with fouling, increase contaminants removal and improve performance of direct membrane filtration of graywater. Pre-filtration by itself reached removals of total solids and total COD greater than 30% for powder detergent graywater, but was less effective on liquid detergent graywater. Pre-filtration improved microfiltration and ultrafiltration performance; it was denoted by flux increase and reduction of fouling rate. In addition, pre-filtration is cost-effective, is easy to conduct, and there is no sludge generation. Therefore, pre-filtration is recommended as a pre-treatment process for micro- and ultrafiltration systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The purpose of the study is to develop a simple and effective method of the analysis of the impact the gap between the rollers and the value of the distance from the vertical axis of the rollers rotation to the edge of the knife blade have on linear force of felt cutting by using regression equations. The research has been conducted by means of the experimental setup for longitudinal cutting machine using a knife with a double-sided sharpening. The mathematical experiment has been conducted by utilizing the plan of the second order allowing to efficiently solve the task of assessment of the impact of the researched factors on linear force of cutting. The results of regression equation determining the total value of both longitudinal cutting losses and magnitude losses due to material friction have been got. These results help to determine the linear force of cutting as one of the physical and mechanical properties of felt, and to consider its importance in the design of drives in machines for a material longitudinal cutting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The morphological features of the SSSFFs were inspected and RVE was established. [•] The elastic and plastic constitute behaviors were derived by micromechanics. [•] The elastic and plastic relations were unified by statistical theory. [•] The constitutive model showed good agreements with experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypyrrole/manganese dioxide nanocomposite was deposited on graphite felt (GF) via electrodeposition to fabricate polypyrrole/manganese dioxide/graphite felt (PYMG), which can be used as novel free-standing electrode for supercapacitors. The microstructure and morphology of the as-prepared samples were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cyclic voltammogram (CV), chronopotentiometry (CP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques were employed to investigate the electrochemical performance of the composites. The PYMG electrode displayed specific capacitance as high as 596.3 Fg-1 at the current density of 0.5 Ag-1, which is much higher than that of polypyrrole/manganese dioxide (PPy/) composite reported previously. The high specific capacitance of PYMG may be attributed to the fact that the porous GF is a good conductive matrix for the dispersion of PPy/ composite and it can facilitate easy access of electrolytes to the electrode, which results in enhancement of the electrochemical performance of the composite. Furthermore, the PYMG composite exhibited enhanced specific capacitance compared to /GF (MGF) and PPy/GF, which may be ascribed to the synergistic effect of PPy and . Polypyrrole/MnO2/graphite felt (PYMG) composite which can be used as a novel free-standing electrode for supercapacitors was successfully fabricated via electrodeposition. The PYMG composite exhibits excellent electrochemical performance, indicating that the porous graphite felt (GF) is a good conductive matrix for the dispersion of PPy/MnO2 composite and it can facilitate easy access of electrolytes to the electrode, which results in enhancement of the capacitive performance of the composite. Moreover, the PYMG composite displays enhanced specific capacitance compared to MnO2/GF and PPy/GF, which may be ascribed to the synergistic effect of PPy and MnO2. All the results imply that PYMG electrode can serve as a promising electrode for supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The flexural properties of pyrocarbon-based carbon/carbon (C/C) composites reinforced by in situ grown carbon nanotubes are reported. The effect of nanotube growth position (on carbon fibers or in the spaces between them) was investigated. A method of reinforcing and toughening C/C composites is proposed and the corresponding mechanisms are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work, the electrochemical activation of graphite felt electrode for vanadium redox flow battery (VRB) was studied. Graphite felt (GF) electrode was oxidized at a range of electrochemical oxidation degrees in H2SO4 solution. The electrochemical performance of the treaded GF was discussed, and the law of the surface properties of GF which changed along with the electrochemical oxidation degree was proposed. The structure, composition, surface tension and electrochemical properties of the oxidized GF (OGF) were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), contact angle measurements, cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The GF oxidized at 560–840mAhg−1 exhibited the best activity toward VO2+/VO2 + redox reaction, according with the highest COH content (ca. 34%) on its surface. The mechanisms of VO2+/VO2 + redox reaction on OGF were also discussed. VRB single cell with pristine GF and OGF as the electrode were test at various charge–discharge current densities, respectively. The columbic efficiency (CE), voltage efficiency (VE) and energy efficiency (EE) of the cell using OGF electrode are much higher than the cell using pristine GF, suggested that the electro-oxidation method is a promising technology for the activation of GF electrode. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This article explores the relationship between continuity and change in Central Asian domestic felt textile production. In order to set this in the context of a pastoralist perspective, the paper draws on regional practices such as oral poetry and movement through landscape, as well as human–environment relations in order to reveal the dynamic and creative improvisatory process through which local textile production can be understood. In so doing, it examines whether Euro-American anthropology's rejection of a ‘static’ notion of ‘tradition’ for one of hybridity (reflecting a critique of its own nostalgia), has inadvertently moved us away from a focus on the historical narratives of those we study, which is often at odds with their own concerns. The author argues that for ‘moving people’, it is the dynamics of orality, human–environment relations and the practice (rather than the evidence) of material culture that elucidates our understanding of the relationship between continuity and change. The power of felt is thus reflected in the apparently ephemeral, non-enduring, aspects of these practices, which are what makes them endure, continuously bringing the past into being for new cultural futures. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Langstroth hives fitted with a modified lid with an entrance lined with soft felt or steel or plastic pollen traps or hives fitted with plastic pollen traps and sugar-fed significantly increased the pollen count on the bodies of exiting honey bees. In terms of utilising the research findings in contract pollination service where costs can determine profitability, the recommendation is for a trial in a commercial orchard (e.g. almond, apple, avocado, plum) of sugar-fed single hives fitted with plastic pollen traps. Despite the bees' destruction of the felts lining the modified lid entrances, the soft felt liner might be a worthwhile inclusion into any field trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A flow sensor for trace analysis of lead, using cyclam-modified graphite felt as working electrode is reported here. The detection is performed in two steps: the preconcentration of Pb2+ ions by complexation with immobilized cyclam and the analysis by linear sweep stripping voltammetry. Cyclam ligands are covalently immobilized onto the graphite felt by chemical reactions on amino acid linkers, previously attached to the electrode by an electrochemical process. A surface concentration of about 12% is estimated by cyclic voltammetry analyses, using redox probes. The factors, affecting the performances of the flow sensor are reported, such as the flow rate and the volume of the analyzed solution used during the preconcentration step. A calibration curve typical of an equilibrium process is obtained for lead ions with a limit of detection able to reach 2.5×10−8 molL−1, showing the ability of the cyclam-modified electrode to complex Pb2+ ions. The flow sensor shows a good selectivity toward lead in the presence of Cu2+ and Zn2+ ions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Felt making is known the oldest textile surface all around the world. There is no definite evidence about felt making and usage but its first usage on paper at Homer "Ilyada". After 1071 Malazgirt Victory, nomadic Turkish tribes came from Central Asia to Anatolia with their culture. Because of widely using fields of felt, it is in the daily life from past to present. Nowadays there are a lot of souvenirs and touristic things to make felt. At the same time Turkish, European or American artists prefer to use felt for their art works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electricity generation, electrochemical and microbial characteristics of five microbial fuel cells (MFCs) with different three-dimensional electrodes (graphite and carbon felt, 2mm and 5mm graphite granules and graphite wool) was examined in relation to the applied loading rate and the external resistance. The graphite felt electrode yielded the highest maximum power output amounting up to 386Wm−3 total anode compartment (TAC). However, based on the continuous current generation, limited differences between the materials were registered. Doubling the loading rate to 3.3gCODL−1 TACd−1 resulted only in an increased current generation when the external resistance was low (10.5–25Ω) or during polarization. Conversely, lowering the external resistance resulted in a steady increase of both the kinetic capacities of the biocatalyst and the continuous current generation from 77 (50Ω) up to 253 (10.5Ω)Am−3 TAC. Operating a MFC at an external resistance close to its internal resistance, allows to increase the current generation from enhanced loading rates while maximizing the power generation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The polyethylene non-woven felt, Dyneema Fraglight, has excellent capabilities to stop bomb fragments. According to the manufacturer, a felt with an areal density of 1.2kg/m2 stops a 17-grain projectile at 450m/s. The research presented in this paper aims at improving our understanding of how non-woven felts work. Static tensile tests were performed at different strain rates and temperatures. The static tensile tests showed that there is an important size effect: the strength of the specimens decreases when increasing the size of the specimen, for lengths of 5cm or less. This effect is expected since the felt is made by mixing, combing and needle punching of 5-cm-long fibers. The tests also showed that the felt is anisotropic and that at a temperature of 100°C it loses a significant part of both its strength and strain to failure. Tensile tests at medium (1s−1) and high strain rates (1000s−1) did not show any evidence of strain rate dependence. Out-of-plane punching tests, designed to help with the modeling, were also performed and the results are presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Subjective age is related to health and to life satisfaction, and adaptation to stressful life events is associated with self-efficacy beliefs and coping. The present study on cancer survivors addressed two objectives: the relationship between felt age and perceived disability and satisfaction with recovery, and the feeding back of felt age on general self-efficacy beliefs and coping strategies. Data were collected one and six months after surgery. Individuals with younger age identities reported lower levels of perceived disability and avoidance-oriented coping and higher levels of satisfaction with recovery, self-efficacy and meaning-focused coping than individuals with older age identities. Individuals with decreased or stable felt age indicated increased meaning-focused coping or avoidance-oriented coping, respectively. Explanations for these associations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We have developed a method of electrodeposition of nickel on a graphite felt of high specific surface area. We have solved the problems linked to the heterogeneous potential distribution in the 3D porous structure by using low concentrations of nickel salts and high applied current densities. This will result in being limited by the diffusion of ions to the electrode on the area of highest potential. The obtained nickel foams present interesting properties such as high surface areas and low densities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Porous graphite felts have been used as electrode materials for all-vanadium redox flow batteries due to their wide operating potential range, stability as both an anode and a cathode, and availability in high surface area. In this paper, the carbon felt was modified by pyrolysis of Ir reduced from H2IrCl6. ac impedance and steady-state polarization measurements showed that the Ir-modified materials have improved activity and lowered overpotential of the desired V(IV)/V(V) redox process. Ir-modification of carbon felt enhanced the electro-conductivity of electrode materials. The Ir-material, when coated on the graphite felt electrode surface, lowered the cell internal resistance. A test cell was assembled with the Ir-modified carbon felt as the activation layer of the positive electrode, the unmodified raw felt as the activation layer of the negative electrode. At an operating current density of 20mAcm−2, a voltage efficiency of 87.5% was achieved. The resistance of the cell using Ir-modified felt decreased 25% compared to the cell using non-modified felt. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study explored the association between one partner's attachment style and the other partner's relationship experiences (N = 305 couples). It was hypothesized that individuals would be more satisfied in their relationship when their partners were more secure (lower in attachment avoidance and anxiety), and that this association would be mediated by perceived caregiving. Results indicated that men were less satisfied when their female partners were higher in attachment anxiety, whereas women were less satisfied when their male partners were higher in avoidance. Structural equation modeling revealed that these links were partially mediated by perceived caregiving; individuals who were involved with insecure partners were less satisfied in part because they perceived their partners to be less effective caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the unscheduled termination of Geoffrey Chaucer "Cook's Tale" that has long confused critics and readers. It says that many critics, who are puzzled over the sudden end, explore the ending by means of an imagined base-test. It asserts that the problem with the "Cook's Tale" is that it does not feel complete and it lacks the markers of conclusion so common to Chaucer's other tales.

A series of composite materials of a new type — foam organoplastics — was obtained from foamed polyimide binders reinforced with Arimid T polyimide felt, and commercially available aromatic monomers were used. Use ofDPO (3,3′,4,4′-diphenyloxidetetracarboxyic acid) dianhydride in the H-complex allows obtaining a melt of lower viscosity (300 Pa-sec), and the viscosity almost does not change at 95°C for 20 min. The viscosity of melts of the H-complexes based on BZP (3,3′, 4,4′-benzophenonetetracarboxylic acid) tends to increase rapidly to the level of 105 Pa·sec, probably due to further “crosslinking” of the H-complex in the conditions of the melt. Replacing the carcinogenic 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane (DADPM) diamine by commercially available 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether (DADPE) does not significantly alter the rheological behavior of the H-complex melt at 95°C and does not decrease the mechanical characteristics of the foam composites. The mechanical characteristics (bending strength, compressive and shear moduli) of the foam composites based on H-complexes with DPO dianhydride are 1.5 times higher than for the same foam composites using BZP dianhydride. The foam composites based on DPO do not undergo brittle failure but simply bend in bending tests, which can be used to obtain new elastic foam materials. The effect ofnanoparticles on the properties of the foam composites was established. It is expedient to use montmorillonite nanoparticles, which increases the modulus of elasticity and rigidity of the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present Note describes work related to the measurement of the coefficient of reflection in automotive felt materials, by using a mixed ultrasonic/audio range technique. Powerful 162 kHz ultrasonic waves are amplitude modulated in the audio range. By applying appropriate procedures borrowed from underwater nonlinear ultrasonic methods (the so-called parametric antennae), one produces low frequency (i.e. in the 5–30 kHz range) acoustical waves which are generated in the pulse echo mode by short bursts. The coefficient of reflection of various felt materials are measured, and the results are compared to the standard ‘fluid-equivalent’ model which describes the propagation of acoustic waves in poroelastic air-saturated materials. To cite this article: M. Saeid et al., C. R. Mecanique 332 (2004). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary. Experimental testing of piano hammers, which consist of a wood core covered with several layers of compressed wool felt demonstrates, that all hammers have the hysteretic type of the force-compression characteristics. It is shown, that different mathematical hysteretic models can describe the dynamic behavior of the hammer felt. In addition to the four-parameter nonlinear hysteretic felt model, another new three-parameter hysteretic model is presented. Both models are based on the assumption that the hammer felt made of wool is a microstructured material possessing history-dependent properties. The equivalence of these models is proved for all realistic values of hammer velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]