Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

Objective 1: Develop and evaluate new textiles and materials systems and processes

Development of new textiles and material systems has been focused in the areas of antibacterial and detoxifying properties, modeling, analysis and modification of heat transfer properties, and conceptualization of infrared camouflage properties.

With the demonstrated antibacterial power and chemical detoxifying ability of halamine chemistry on woven textiles, CA further developed halamine polypropylene and polyethylene fibers, nonwovens, and nanofibrous membranes for chemical and biological protective clothing. In addition to the funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the research on nanofibrous membranes was supported by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA).

In addition to the halamine technologies, CA has also developed another new technology: light-induced generation of reactive oxygen species from selected colorants. The concept-proofing studies have drawn attention from researchers, and a news release on this research was provided by a leading material science journal, the Journal of Materials Chemistry, in 2011.

NY worked on the development of self-decontaminating textile materials by using TiO2, MgO, and metal organic framework (MOF) in fibers. The photo-oxidation mechanism with energy in the ultra-violet region results in strong oxidation by TiO2. In contrast, MgO functions through surface destructive adsorption, and thus does not require exposure to UV radiation for self-decontamination. MgO was effective in the decomposition of organophosphates. The use of nano-channeled and porous fibers developed by co-continuous nanofiber fabrication increased the self-decontamination performance of the fibrous membranes. Metal organic frameworks (MOF) enmeshed in nanofibrous membranes were found to adsorb methyl parathion. Placing polyoxametalate with the MOF cage is being investigated as self-decontaminating materials for incorporation into fibers engineered to increase chemical and biological protection.

Fibrous materials as multi-phase media consist mainly of fiber and moistured air. Therefore, the heat transfer process in such materials is very complex, either in single heat conduction where multiple components of fiber, moisture, and air and intricate interfacial phenomena between them are involved, or much more so in a combined process including heat conduction, convection, and radiation. CA developed a theoretical model dealing with the multi-layer unsteady-state heat conduction to assess the effect due to local convection during the testing. Accordingly an unsteady-state apparatus has been devised that can simultaneously measure two thermophysical properties (the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity), by which the volumetric capacity can then be calculated.

OK developed an apparel design with the use of a special evaporation assistance device, which has the potential to significantly improve the textile systems moisture evaporation performance. The results showed that using these special devices can significantly reduce evaporative thermal resistance from completely vapor impermeable (Ret>900 kpa"m2/W) to a much more comfortable level (Ret<35 kpa"m2/W).

OK initiated producing nanofibers with selected individual and combined phase change materials (PCMs) using a base fabric, a polyester fabric, conductive yarn, and the selected PCMs. Combined PCMs using an electrospinner have the potential of widening the temperature range of the fabric to increase serviceability. Using a single needle electrospinner, 15 cm × 15 cm fabric samples of thermal plastic polyurethane (TPU) plus PCMs onto a 100% polyester conductive fabric were created. Additional samples were created using a method that uses a multi-coaxial electrospinner; all samples were subjected to characterization through SEM, TEM, and air permeability.

Infrared camouflage without resorting to existing and often burdensome technologies is clearly attractive. CA proposed a primary prototype to achieve the infrared camouflage by facilitating the latent heat transfer while controlling the sensible heat transfer of the human body. The influences of related key parameters, including the porosity and the thickness for each layer are briefly discussed using the model. The results show that a satisfactory infrared camouflage may be accomplished using all the layers proposed under specified structural conditions.

Objective 2: To design and evaluate garment systems and processes

During this five-year period, the needs of workers in three types of hazardous occupations have been investigated - fire fighters/first responders, healthcare workers, and agricultural workers engaged in pesticide application. In addition, studies were conducted on the use of smart textiles in garments. A disposable coverall prototype for agricultural workers was developed and tested. Garments currently on the market as well as prototypes have been evaluated for safety and consumer acceptance. Methodology studies were conducted to develop new ways of testing fit and sizing systems for functional clothing, and universal design and collaborative design concepts were applied to functional apparel design.

First Responder PPE
User needs analysis: Firefighter focus group meetings - Four states, IA, MO, NY, and HI collaborated to conduct focus group meetings to collect data on needs and issues related to firefighter gear. A total of 12 focus groups were conducted in five different states, utilizing 101 career and volunteer firefighters from 11 different fire departments, both male and female. Information was collected regarding the fit, function, and design of current firefighter turnout gear. Focus group data were analyzed and the following common issues were identified: weight and breathability of coats and pants, poor fit of pants resulting in restricted mobility (e.g. crotch and waist), and pocket size and location. Firefighters also commented that their gloves and boots negatively impact their ability to accomplish certain tasks and movements. Problems in the fit and function of the gear were also investigated as case studies through in-depth interviews, scans, and videotapes of three career firefighters. A nine page interview addressing comfort, protection, mobility, function, donning, and education was conducted with each firefighter, and videotape data were collected on the donning of five different turnout suits by each firefighter. Results highlight firefighter concerns about the weight of the gear and overheating when wearing it for most calls (for which they felt over-protected), issues with the attachment of (and movement issues related to) equipment to pockets and hung off the Personal Protective Equipment, and the incidence of compression burns. Donning issues were suit specific and included problems with visibility of fasteners such as zippers, issues with overlaps that were not wide enough to grasp and fasten easily, and overall close fit. Fourteen specific recommendations on suit design were generated. Focus group meetings will continue based on this research methodology to gather more data on glove and boot function.

User needs analysis: Firefighter (wearer) acceptability survey - IA administered a wearer acceptability survey, including the acceptability level of firefighters gear fit and mobility, to 87 firefighters recruited from the Winter Fire School. Results showed that firefighters felt their gear was uncomfortable due to misfit, and that the gear limited their mobility during firefighting duties. In particular, mobility restriction was found to be a more important element than the pants size, and crotch and knee areas played an important role in the level of their satisfaction with pants fit.

Protocol development: Analysis of firefighter gear design - A test of the fit and function of five different designs of firefighter gear was conducted in collaboration and with support from Globe Manufacturing. The fit of the gear was assessed in several range-of-motion and active positions (3 active poses, 2 range-of-motion poses, and a standing pose), developed from the literature and from interview data. Fit assessment was made from scan images and showed a relationship between design features and the fit of the gear. Analysis of the stress folds showed variations among the different uniform models, both in scale and location. Analysis of range of movement showed more variation among the firefighters than between different models of the suits.

NY also tested the firefighter gear function of the five designs by measuring energy expenditure, oxygen consumption, heart rate, skin temperature, galvanic skin responses, and acceleration data of firefighters wearing the gear while engaged in active tasks, including walking on a treadmill and climbing a ladder, swinging a tool and crawling. For IA, 10 participants walked for 30 minutes on a treadmill in a hot environment (40ºC) while wearing a) shorts and a t-shirt and b) their own firefighter gear to determine the physiological impact of firefighter gear. The exercise intensity was designed to elicit 70 to 80% of their age-predicted maximum heart rate. IA evaluated these responses in an environmental chamber, NY in ambient indoor conditions. Results from NY and IA studies did not show significant differences between the different gear designs in physiological responses.

Analysis of population - MO completed a body scan study of 100 firefighters (12 female, 88 male). It was found that the male participant group was taller and heavier than the average male when compared to the entire SizeUSA sample. Additional body scanning needs to be conducted on a larger and more diverse part of the firefighter population to determine if a different sizing system would be useful or necessary.

Proof of concept: Development of smart clothing for firefighters - OK modified a firefighter coat and gloves to integrate wireless sensors and transmitters to monitor a firefighters vital signs and location. In collaboration with electrical engineers, a code was developed to transmit, analyze, and compare data to baseline values, transmitting wirelessly from a base back to the firefighter to signal life threatening conditions. Using thermal manikin (Walter) testing, a mathematical model was developed to estimate a firefighters body temperature from microclimate (MC) data measured by the wireless sensor network. For the experiment, the range of core temperatures within the safe limits of human physiology was chosen, 36°C to 39°C, and tests were performed at 0.5°C intervals. The optimum placement of sensors for predicting elevated core temperature was determined.

Wear test of smart clothing for firefighters - OK conducted wear trials of the uniform modified to incorporate wireless sensors in a controlled environment. Six male subjects tested the uniform in an environmental chamber set at the relative humidity of 50±3%, with an ambient temperature increasing from 30±3ºC to 37±3ºC as subjects walked on a treadmill using an interval training protocol alternating walking and sprinting. Results showed that sensor location and MC temperature significantly affect the core temperature estimation. The core temperatures were regressed to the MC temperature at the chest, and the ambient temperature and ambient relative humidity were measured by wireless sensors. The following equation was obtained: TCore = 35.758 + 0.122 *TChest - 0.05*TAmb -0.015*HAmb R2=.550

Glove testing - OK conducted a comfort and dexterity study of the smart glove for firefighters using both standard and nonstandard testing methods. The new glove design, with and without embedded electronics, was compared to a commercially available firefighter glove. The analysis showed the smart glove has merit, although some improvements are necessary.

Test of a modified ballistic vest for 1st responders to provide thermal comfort - Previous studies at OK introduced the concept of spacer insertion into the ballistic garment in order to create ventilation and lower the thermal insulation of the body armor. Furthermore, as it is known from the literature, stand-off body armor decreases the risk of back face trauma injuries. An experiment that combined both concepts was designed and conducted to explore if a stand-off outer tactical vest (OTV) can provide adequate space between the human body and OTV in order for natural air circulation to occur and provide sufficient cooling to the wearer. The dry thermal (Rct) intrinsic thermal (Rcl) evaporative (Ret) and intrinsic evaporative (Recl) measurements were obtained for two prototype designs with different configurations of spacers under three different wind velocities. Analysis revealed that combining the standoff vest and spacer reduced the thermal insulation of the vest significantly and as expected all thermal resistance variables were reduced with higher wind speed. The prototype with an even distribution of stand-off around the torso performed significantly better than the other prototype that had stand-off space only at the back of the torso.

Disposable Coverall for Agricultural Workers
Product development and testing - A data-collection questionnaire and focus group methodology was developed and administered by NY, MN, HI, and IA. The results of this data collection were collaboratively analyzed and applied by the member states using a combination of video conferencing and in-person design meetings. An improved design of disposable protective coveralls for agricultural workers was developed based on this analysis in a collaborative effort by these members; from data from user interviews and questionnaires; from analysis of photographs of workers in the field; and from discussions with manufacturers to review materials, cost considerations, and production constraints. The prototype coverall maximizes movement without sacrificing comfort or protection and minimizes the overall silhouette to reduce the incidence of tears from catching on equipment or orchard tree branches. Design modifications in the prototype include pleated sections at the shoulders, buttocks, and knees. NY and MO collaborated to develop a sizing system for the new coverall design based on data from the SizeUSA anthropometric survey. Sets of the coveralls were produced for fit testing and field testing. A field test methodology was developed to test the prototype against two commercial coverall styles: the current most popular disposable coverall design and a coverall with a provision of stretch panels for movement. A pilot fit test was conducted of the three styles of coverall with pesticide applicators using the 3D body scanner. Participants were scanned wearing the three coverall styles in five different positions common to the process of pesticide application.

Wear testing of disposable coveralls - NY, CA, HI, and CO participated in the coverall wear testing study. Forty-five participants tested the prototype coverall and two commercial coveralls in field conditions. A log of activities performed and coverall performance was collected. Questionnaires on fit and function perception were administered. All coveralls were examined for abrasions, tears, and cuts. Selected participants participated in focus group discussions of the coveralls after the field tests. Data analysis is underway.

Testing and technology transfer of this coverall design will continue. In order to facilitate technology transfer, industry sources will be contacted to explore issues related to manufacturing potential and limitations.

Protective Clothing for Healthcare Workers Hospital apparel redesign The hospital apparel redesign project was initiated by CO in partnership with Poudre Valley Health System, Fort Collins-Loveland. Funding was secured from Colorado State Universitys Infectious Disease Super Cluster to support the project. Survey questionnaires were administered to patients and healthcare providers, in order to assess end-user needs. The survey data identified functional, expressive, and aesthetic attributes toward hospital patient apparel, and these attributes offered the researchers design considerations and prototype evaluation criteria for the hospital apparel redesign project. CA expanded healthcare user acceptance studies to include other textile products such as warm-up jackets in addition to operating room gowns and drapes. The purpose of the immobile patient gown project was to explore the self-reported needs and concerns of the family caregivers of stroke survivors soon after discharge to the home settings and to create a training video for family caregivers on dressing immobile persons. In-depth, semi-structured, open-ended interviews were used to explore the problems of caregivers of stroke survivors. Forty participants were recruited from Chinese-American communities. Verbatim interview transcripts were coded and analyzed. Among other concerns, participants expressed a need for guidance for daily activities, such as dressing.

Smart Clothing Research and Product Development
MN has worked on several smart clothing and e-textile projects, with support from the National Science Foundation, 3M, and the University of Minnesota. These projects focused on measuring and characterizing the noise and error experienced by a garment-integrated sensor due to movement of the garment over the body surface.

The error introduced into a sensor signal by the movement of a worn garment can render the signal useless for activity-recognition, medical monitoring, or device-interface applications. However, means of reducing garment movement are often directly at odds with wearer comfort. MN has developed a method and protocol for measuring the 3D movement of garments relative to the body surface, which allows this movement to be quantified and characterized in detail. Data have been collected measuring the movement of a skin-tight bodysuit over the body surface, and a set of 25 custom-designed denim trousers fabricated for the experimental evaluation of impact of fit and textile properties on movement of garments over the body surface. These datasets have been captured using an optical motion-capture system. In addition, error in an actual sensor (bend sensor located at the knee) has also been assessed and measured across a size grade.

Collaboration with Virginia Tech e-textile laboratory applies the outcomes of laboratory experiments measuring error in the development of a set of loosely-fitted, sensor-enabled medical and therapeutic monitoring garments that perform simultaneous activity recognition and monitoring. This project has implications for garment-integrated sensing in many personal protective technology applications.

Methodology Development for Fit and Size Assessment
Use of scan data for anthropometric analysis - 3D body scan data can be used to measure non-traditional body measurements to quantify complex body angles, to define measurement relationships that define body shapes in a sophisticated multi-dimensional manner, and to capture changes in body surface measurements in active positions. Studies were conducted of both upper and lower body measurements in active positions from scan data. In another study, principal component analysis and clustering of selected measurements taken from 3D scans were used to categorize lower body shapes, capturing both silhouette and profile data using a range of body depth, breadth, circumference, and arc measurements. Work will continue on data capture and data analysis of measurements in active positions and on investigations of the use of this information in design and in fit analysis.

Use of scan data for fit assessment - Scan data is a powerful source of data for fit and sizing analysis of garments. To develop the potential of this analysis method, NY did a study of garments with misfit that were scanned on study participants. The fit of the garments was assessed on the participants, and then 3D images of the garments were also assessed by a set of independent fit experts to judge misfit and amount of change needed. A comparison of the scan analysis and the actual alterations made in the clothing to achieve good fit shows that the scanner is an effective tool for the analysis of overall ease values and misfit visible in stress folds in the garments. This analysis is less effective for identifying small variations in ease values and for aesthetic issues such as the balance of woven garments and the fit of set-in sleeves at the armscye. Another test was conducted by MN to compare expert analysis of scan data and subject self-fit assessment. Results showed agreement between the expert and participant judgment of fit, especially in the smaller and larger sizes.

IA compared the results of the 3D visual fit analysis (objective fit assessment) of 10 male firefighters with the results of their wearer acceptability survey (subjective fit assessment) comprising a total of 25 questions related to fit acceptability and mobility acceptability. Scanned images of the firefighters in two positions, standing and stepping, both in form-fitted clothing and wearing turnout pants, were merged to estimate the ease between the pants and the body. Cross-sectional profiles at the knee, thigh, and crotch levels were taken for data analysis and compared with the survey results. Results showed that decreased pants ease amounts resulted in increased dissatisfaction with pants fit. Appropriate ease at the crotch level was especially important to improve gear fit and mobility. Results provided fundamental information to develop firefighter gear with high wearer acceptability in ergonomic terms by quantifying subjective data such as wear acceptability into numerical data associated with ergonomic pattern designs.

Development of methodology for testing sizing systems - NY tested the effectiveness of different sizing systems, comparing four sizes of women's jackets with small differences in bust and waist ease values, and different drop (bust to hip proportion) values. Participants were assigned a garment in the size of best fit from each system. Fit judges then ranked the jackets from best fit to worst fit. There was some variation in judges rankings, but overall this method was successful, and forms the basis for testing of sizing systems.

Virtual fit for development of sizing systems for PPE - NY developed a test of the usefulness of virtual fit programs for collection of fit data. Methods have been developed for creation of a virtual model from a 3D scan that can be used in conjunction with the Optitex program for 3D design. This program has functions to control fabric parameters, which affect the visualization of the fit and drape of the garment. Four fabrics, a plain weave cotton, a denim, a light worsted wool, a heavier wool, and a 100% polyester woven material were used to create both virtual models of garments using these materials and then actual garments to compare the results. The virtual system was judged to be not appropriate for the analysis of the fit of protective clothing such as firefighter gear, as these systems cannot address the fit of multi-layer ensembles, and the fabric parameters are not optimized for thicker, stiffer fabrics. In addition, the effectiveness of 3D simulation software (Optitex) was tested in a classroom setting in CO. This study showed positive effects of 3D simulation technology on teaching spatial visualization skills to students and industry practitioners and determined that the technology is an economical and effective tool to produce one layer prototypes without going through the traditional product development process. Work will continue on assessing the potential of this new technology for fit assessment of protective clothing.

Application of design methodologies: Universal Design and Collaborative Designn  CO evaluated the design paradigms called Universal Design and Collaborative Design in functional apparel design projects. The seven principles of Universal Design, which has as its motto Design for All, were examined and its practicality and applicability were evaluated in the context of apparel design. Collaborative Design is a user-centered paradigm that invites end-users into the product development process. The effectiveness of this original concept was tested with a performance apparel item (i.e., a sports nursing bra). These new concepts for product development will provide practical guidance for uniform designs such as firefighters turnout gear with direct input from end-users.

Objective 3: Establish a communication and education system for personal protective technology.

Information on Protective Clothing for Pesticide Applicators
ASTM and ISO performance specifications standards that were based on laboratory data for approximately 130 fabrics tested at UMES and exposure study data obtained from the European Crop Protection Association were developed. MD interacted with members from ASTM as well as ISO Experts from other countries to resolve issues and revise the draft standards as part of the ballot process. ASTM F2669 - 09, the Standard Performance Specification for Protective Clothing Worn by Operators Applying Pesticides, was approved as an ASTM International Standard in 2009. ISO 27065:2011, the Protective Clothing -- Performance Requirements for Protective Clothing Worn by Operators Applying Liquid Pesticides was approved on April 15, 2011. ASTM Work Item #WK34503, Practice for Conformity Assessment of Protective Clothing Worn by Operators Applying Pesticides, was initiated. The draft was developed and circulated to task group members. The proposed standard is currently being balloted. Once approved, it has the potential of being used to implement performance-based requirements for PPE.

MD and NY conducted a wear study to determine the performance of garments with a water repellent finish. University of Maryland Extension Specialist and Cornell Extension Specialist worked with individuals who participated in the wear study. The used garments were tested at UMES. The results provided information that was used to revise the care instructions in the performance specification standard. UMES worked with Safe Use Initiative (SUI) to evaluate the performance of garments with repellent finish used in Portugal, Greece and Poland. A questionnaire developed jointly with SUI and the rapid test developed to determine performance was used for the study. Tests were conducted to compare the results of pesticide penetration through used garments, and a rapid test method was developed to allow users to determine the performance of used garments. The rapid test method has the potential for use as an end of life indicator for PPE with repellent finish. MD also developed a database with PPE requirements on 1,848 pesticide labels. The database includes the following information: active ingredient, EPA registration number, pesticide type, garment, respirator, glove, and other accessories requirements. MD worked with the EPA Health Effects Group to validate and analyze the data.-. A manuscript has been submitted for review so that it can be used by pesticide applicator trainers as part of their training. In addition, the information on gloves will be used for the glove study that is part of the next five-year project.

NY continues to address user needs, collect user input, and provide user training and education for educators and workers through certification trainings, exhibits, seminars, workshops, and telephone responses. Expanding audiences include Amish farmers who are interested in low-tech ways to reduce pesticide exposures, orchard and vineyard staff concerned about thermal comfort during the performance of winter tasks, and groups interested in learning at a distance through online resources. The intention is to strengthen partnerships with other educators and agencies to more efficiently develop and disseminate existing and in-process educational materials.

Public Online System for Protective Clothing Communities End-user needs assessments, focus groups, ongoing communication, and extensive pilot testing have directly involved PPE clients in the development of online resources. An interactive website, Firefighters - Suit Up!, was developed to increase awareness about how design features relate to fit, function, comfort, and safety. Users can drag-and-drop illustrations of pants, jackets, coveralls, and helmets onto a model to dress the firefighter. The site invites users to compare their choices to those of others and to provide feedback to the website developers. A second website, Pesticide Handlers  Suit Up!, is nearing completion. It will help workers understand PPE statements on pesticide labels and provide information about materials, garment design, donning/doffing procedures, and maintenance. Like the firefighter website, garment illustrations are moved onto a model as the user explores different PPE options and creates different PPE systems based on PPE label statements. The aim is that pesticide handlers will use this website to study for their pesticide applicator certification, to answer PPE questions that arise on the job, and to achieve a safer working environment. It also may be useful to researchers and educators. The goal is to further test and update this website so that it is fully functional in 2013.

Other Outreach Activities Other activities include collaboration between MN and NY (Cornell) to obtain funds through the NSF Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers program. The project, entitled Smart Clothing, Smart Girls: Engineering via Apparel Design, was recommended for funding. Pilot workshops are currently underway. In addition, a Spring 2011 undergraduate course project at MN addressed mobility and fit in the design of disposable coveralls in conjunction with 3M. As a result, 3M hired an undergraduate intern for summer 2011 to re-design garment patterns and conduct an analysis of their existing sizing system. That intern was subsequently hired full-time as the divisions first apparel designer. MNs outreach efforts also included collaboration with the Washington Technology Magnet High School in St. Paul, MN, conducting a one-day field-trip workshop for their summer camp to introduce middle-school girls to wearable technology through hands-on activities. The NC 170 website hosted by UMES continues to provide information on the NC-170 project. OUTCOMES:
- User data on the needs of firefighter turnout gear will inform future work about effective design for firefighters.
- An improved design for a disposable coverall for pesticide applicators has been developed and tested, and discussions will be underway soon for the manufacture of this coverall.
- Protocols have been developed for assessment of the fit of garments using 3D scan images for comparison of sizing systems using actual fit data, for assessing the fit of functional apparel in active positions, and for the use of virtual fit data in fit assessment.
- Protocols have been developed for assessing the movement of a garment in 3D relative to the body surface.
- Movement data has been collected from a skintight bodysuit and 25 controlled trouser designs to quantify the effects of fit and fabrication on the movement of garments over the body.
- A method for categorizing body shapes in the population has been developed.
- User data on the needs of firefighters have been collected in preparation of further work on glove and boot design for firefighters.
- New prototypes of hospital patient apparel and smart firefighter jackets and gloves were developed and evaluated with users.
- Ballistic protective systems appropriate for first responders have been evaluated with and without evaporation assistance through the analysis of textile layering systems.
- Based on the results of proof of concept smart firefighter coat and glove testing, a project is in development with a manufacturer to develop a smart firefighter helmet. Additionally, the development of streamlined electronics will make it possible to develop more acceptable, comfortable, and reliable wireless alert systems.
- Database with PPE information on labels.
- Online interactive modules for training.

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Lee, S. and Obendorf, S. K., Statistical Modeling of Water Vapor Transport through Woven Fabrics, Textile Research Journal 82:211-219 (2012).

Lin, S., (2010). Exploratory analysis of Chinese-American family caregivers' needs and instructional video on dressing stroke survivors. International Journal of Consumer Studies,34(5), 581-586.

Liu, N., Sun, G., and Zhu, J., Photo-induced self-cleaning functions on 2-anthraquinone carboxylic acid treated cotton fabrics, Journal of Materials Chemistry, 2011, 21, 1538315390

Morris, K., Park, J., and Sarkar, A. (2011). Collaborative apparel product development: Developing a nursing sports bra. Proceedings of the International Textile and Apparel Association, 68.

Na, H. and Ashdown, S.P. (2008). Comparison of 3-D body scan data to quantify upper body postural variation in older and younger women, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 26 (4), 292-307.

Nam, J., Branson, D.H., Ashdown, S.P., Cao, H., and Carnrite, E. (2011, June). Analysis of cross sectional ease values for fit analysis from 3D body scan data taken in working position. International Journal of Human Ecology, 12(1). 87-99.

Obendorf, S.K., Improving Personal Protection through Novel Materials, AATCC Review, 2010, 10, (4): 44-50.

Park, J., Kim, D., and Sohn, M. (2011). 3D simulation as an effective instructional tool for enhancing spatial visualization skills in apparel design. International Journal of Technology and Design Education , 21(4), 505-517.

Park, J., Morris, K., and Stannard, C. (2011). Universal design: Theory and empirical applications in apparel design. Proceedings of the International Textile and Apparel Association, 68.

Peksoz, S., Cao, H., Park, H., An, S.K. and Branson, D. Core temperature prediction modeling using a sweating manikin (Full paper). Eighth International Meeting for Manikins and Modeling (8I3M), August 2010.

Peksoz, S., Cao, H., Park, H., An, S.K., and Branson, D., (2010). Core temperature prediction modeling using a sweating manikin (Full paper). Eighth International Meeting for Manikins and Modeling (8I3M).

Petrova, A. and Ashdown, S.P. (2008). 3-D body scan data analysis: Body size and shape dependence of ease values for pants fit., Clothing and Textiles Research Journal 26(3), 227-252. Fei, X., Sun, G., Oxidative degradation of organophosphorous pesticides by N-halamine fabrics, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research. 2009, V 48, 5604-5609

Rucker, M. and Pan, N. (2009). Evaluation of the Air Permeability, Total Heat Loss, and Radiant Protective Performance of Five Protective Clothing Systems. Report submitted to CAL FIRE.

Rucker, M., (2010). Whats important to doctors and nurses: an attitude survey. American Reusable Textile Association Conference, July 22-23, Quebec City, Quebec

Rucker, M., (2010). Prediction of medical waste from selected hospital statistics. Sustainable Textiles and Medical Protection Conference, June 1-2, Davis, CA

Rucker, M., Brasch, J., and Haise, C., (2011). Textile products and prevention of hospital acquired infections, Journal of Medical Marketing, V 11, 156-164.

Shaw, A. (2008). Field evaluation of protective clothing worn by pesticide applicators in hot climates, International Pest Control, 50(3), 152-155.

Shaw, A., (2010). Global Perspective on Protective Clothing for Pesticide Operators Outlooks on Pest Management, pages 257-260.

Song, H.K. and Ashdown, S. P., (2010). An Exploratory Study of the Validity of Visual Fit Assessment from Three-Dimensional Scans, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal 28(4), pp. 263-278.

Song, H.K., and Ashdown, S.P., (2011). Categorization of Lower Body Shapes Based on Multiple View Analysis, Textile Research Journal 81, (9), pp 914-931.

Tan, K., Obendorf, S.K., Fabrication and evaluation of electrospun nanofibrous antimicrobial nylon 6 membranes, Journal of Membrane Science, 2007, 305:287-298.

Tan, K., Obendorf, S.K., Development of an antimicrobial microporous polyurethane membrane, Journal of Membrane Science, 2007, 289:199209.

Tian, M. Zhu S., Pan, N., Measuring the Thermophysical Properties of Porous Fibrous Materials with a New Unsteady-state Method, Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, 2011, 107, 395-405.

Tian, M. W., Zhu, S. K., and Pan, N., Simulation of Efficiency of Liquid Cooling Garments, Advanced Materials Research, 331, 636-639.

Wang, D., Xu, W. L., and Sun, G., Radical Graft Polymerization of An Allyl Monomer onto Hydrophilic Polymers and Their Antibacterial Nanofiber Membranes, ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, 2011, Vol. 3, 2838-2844.

Wang, D. Liu, N., Xu, WL, Sun, G., Layer-by-layer Structured Nanofiber Membranes with Photo-induced Self-Cleaning Functions, Journal of Physical Chemistry, C, 2011, 115, 68256832

Woo, D. J. Hansen, N,. Joo, Y. L. and Obendorf, S.K., Photcatalytic Self-Detoxification by Coaxially Electrospun Nanofiber Containing TiO2 Nanoparticles, Textile Research Journal (in press).

Xue, C., Wang, D., Xiang, B., Chiou, B-S., Sun, G., Controlled and high throughput fabrication of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) nanofibers via melt extrusion of immiscible blends, Materials Chemistry and Physics. 2011, V 124, 48-51

Yin, X., Chen, Q., Pan, N. Feasibility of Perspiration Based Infrared Camouflage, Applied Thermal Engineering, 2011, 36, 32-38.

Zong, Y., and Lee, Y. A., (2011). An exploratory study of integrative approach between 3D body scanning technology and motion capture system in the apparel industry. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education, 4 (2), 91-101.