bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wind Energy Assessment of Michigan City, United States
Authors: Okorie Michael K. , Ozeh Uzumma O. , Wang Xiuling
Published: January 2019

There is a growing need for an environmentally friendly source of energy that can replace the conventional fossil fuel energy. This is because the effects of global warming is becoming very obvious, as evidenced by the severe flooding that occurred in the U.S. in 20171. Two notable solutions to this dilemma are wind and solar energy. Solar powered devices derive their energy from the sun, hence, the amount of energy is severely limited during the cold months of the year when solar intensity is typically low. Wind energy, on the other hand is most prevalent during this cold months when the wind speed is typically higher. The aim of this research is therefore to conduct a comprehensive assessment of wind energy potential in Michigan City, Indiana, United States. This information will allow homeowners and investors with interest in alternative energy to make critical decisions in this regard. The study was conducted using wind speed data collected over a five-year period from 2012 to 2016. In this work, we have also determined the best method for evaluating the Weibull parameters (shape and scale factors) for wind data analysis. The site average wind speed ranged from 4m/s to 9m/s with a peak in the winter months and minimum in the summer months. The wind speed with the maximum energy at the hub height varied between 5.84 m/s in August 2016 to 12.79 m/s in October 2012 with annual average speeds between 8.85 and 9.35 m/s and a five-year average of 9.13 m/s. The prevailing wind speed was within the range of 4–8m/s and strongest on the Southern part of the site especially in the South Southeastern direction. Consequently, siting a wind turbine on the Southern part of the City would generate more energy than on any other direction. Among the turbines analyzed, ITALTECH 250 will yield the maximize energy production with a capacity factor of 0.385 and average annual energy production of 840 MWh/yr. The results presented in this work proves the great potential for investments in wind energy in Michigan City.
River Turbines Controlled by Mechanical Speed Converters
Authors: Goudarzi Navid , Han Kyung Soo
Published: January 2019

River turbines, also known as zero-head or in-stream turbines, produce electrical power with the kinetic energy of flowing water. Lower investment requirements in their infrastructure, as no dam/head differentials is needed, make them a promising solution to the practice of reducing the power production from conventional resources, especially in remote/off-grid applications. In this work, a speed converter design is introduced to be used for harnessing the hydrokinetic power in a moving mass of water. In contrast to power converters, that convert a variable power to a constant power, a speed converter, converts a variable rotational speed into a constant speed. It has four major advantages: (1) the all-gear configuration facilitates scalability of the power rating, (2) the produced constant speed, a grid-quality constant frequency, with/without grid connection, can be generated, (3) it’s simple and durable design make it a more economic option. The results show these advantageous through lab-scale and real-environment experimental testing.
Research on a Multi-Fidelity Surrogate Model Based Model Updating Strategy
Authors: Wang Ping , Wang Qingmiao , Yang Xin , Zhan Zhenfei
Published: January 2019

In vehicle design modeling and simulation, surrogate model is commonly used to replace the high fidelity Finite Element (FE) model. A lot of simulation data from the high-fidelity FE model are utilized to construct an accurate surrogate model requires. However, computational time of FE model increases significantly with the growing complexities of vehicle engineering systems. In order to attain a surrogate model with satisfactory accuracy as well as acceptable computational time, this paper presents a model updated strategy based on multi-fidelity surrogate models. Based on a high-fidelity FE model and a low-fidelity FE model, an accurate multi-fidelity surrogate model is modeled. Firstly, the original full vehicle FE model is simplified to get a sub-model with acceptable accuracy, and it is able to capture the essential behaviors in the vehicle side impact simulations. Next, a primary response surface model (RSM) is built based on the simplified sub-model simulation data. Bayesian inference based bias term is modeled using the difference between the high-fidelity full vehicle FE model simulation data and the primary RSM running results. The bias is then incorporated to update the original RSM. This method can enhance the precision of surrogate model while saving computational time. A real-world side impact vehicle design case is utilized to demonstrate the validity of the proposed strategy.
Parametric Study and Improvement of Phase Separation in Intermediate Headers of Microchannel Condensers
Authors: Li Jun , Hrnjak Pega
Published: January 2019

Phase separation has been proven to be beneficial to air-cooled parallel flow microchannel condensers for air conditioning systems. The inlet to the condenser with phase separation is located at the middle of the condenser height. After the first pass, in the vertical second header of the condenser, vapor phase separates from liquid phase mainly due to gravitational effects. In ideal case vapor should go to the top exit and liquid to the bottom exit, resulting in increased heat transfer. Due to interaction between vapor and liquid, separation is not perfect, expressed through the separation efficiency.

This paper presents a parametric study of phase separation efficiency in the intermediate headers, with the target to improve separation efficiency. Header prototypes which have two exits are made with transparent PVC to simulate the real header and provide visual access. Using R-134a as a baseline, the measurement of separation efficiency and its general trend will be shown first. The results are compared to those of a mechanistic model based on flow regime and force balance analysis. Inlet mass flux in simulation is controlled at 87 kg·m−2·s−1 – 311 kg·m−2·s−1 and inlet quality at 0.05–0.25. The observed flow patterns in header are compared with the modeling results as well. Then, the header diameter is increased, which effectively improves the separation efficiency due to reduction of vapor velocity in header. Finally, R245fa and R32 are modeled in comparison with R-134a to discuss the effect of fluid properties on separation efficiency.
A Three-Dimensional Nested Reinforcing Mesh in Elastomers for Crashworthy Applications
Authors: Traina David J. , Ekstrom Thomas C. , Van Valkenburgh Owen F. , Wallis Jean-Paul R. , Schulman David S. , Mather Emily R. , Yasuda Nathan K. , Shih Frank J.
Published: January 2019

The advent of additive manufacturing allows for the design of complex 3D geometries that would otherwise be difficult to manufacture using traditional processes. Stereolithographic printing of geometrically reinforced structures gives promise for tunable energy-absorbing composite materials for impact applications. These materials may be suitable for applications in personal sport protection equipment such as knee-pads or helmets. The flexible nature of additive manufacturing can be easily scaled and modified to serve a variety of impact loading applications. In the present study, a three-dimensional nested array of ridged polymeric mesh with tiered high-temperature UV-cured polymer were embedded in a polyurethane matrix to form a new class of functional composite materials designed for multi-use low velocity impact events, and a single-use high velocity or high force impact event. The reinforcements were designed to absorb impact energy by the sequential bending, bucking, and failure of the layers of nested reinforcing members. The energy absorption capacity is further enhanced by the connective elastomer matrix which serves to retain the fractured mesh structure after initial breakage. The peak load is maintained at a relatively modest level while maximizing absorbed energy. Quasi-static loading tests were conducted to measure the peak load, total energy absorbing capability of the material. The energy absorption capability is measured using force-displacement plots and multiple interactions of material combination of reinforcement ring arrays. Tests with and without elastomer matrix, were conducted to understand peak load minimization and energy absorption character of the material.
Three-Dimensional Multiple-Relaxation-Time Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Vapor Condensation on Subcooled Wall
Authors: Zhao Wandong , Xu Ben , Zhang Ying
Published: January 2019

Oscillating flows and multiphase heat transfer processes frequently occur in many engineering and scientific applications and systems, as is the case in enhanced geothermal energy, CO2 sequestration and storage, and in evaporation in soil, to name a few. Nevertheless, modeling of such flows is a rather challenging task due to the complex interfacial dynamics among different phases and solid porous structures. Over the decades, several types of Lattice Boltzmann (LB) models for multiphase flows have been developed under different physical pictures, for example the color-gradient model, Single-Relaxation-Time (SRT) pseudopotential model, and the HSD model. In this study, a pseudopotential Multiple-Relaxation-Time (MRT) LBM simulation will be utilized to simulate incompressible oscillating flow and condensation in 2D porous media. Initially, the model will be used to optimize the porous structure in order to have the maximum condensation rate of water vapor. Subsequently, the effects of contacting angle, wettability, oscillating frequency and phase angle to the heat flux, the temperature field of porous media, and the condensation rate will be discussed. Moreover, a multiscale approach will be considered in order to couple the heat transfer in macroscale applications. It is expected that such an approach will provide a different perspective regarding the engineering applications involved with oscillating flow and multiphase heat transfer processes.
Development of a New Course on Microgrids and Distributed Energy Resources
Authors: Haghani Sasan
Published: January 2019

Microgrids are an essential element of smart grids and are identified as a key component for improving power reliability and quality, increasing system energy efficiency, and providing the possibility of grid-independence to individual end-user sites. Microgrids support a flexible and efficient electric grid by enabling the integration of growing deployments of distributed energy resources such as solar and wind power. According to a recent Navigant report, spending on microgrid enabling technologies will reach 112 billion dollars by 2026. While the development of microgrids and distributed energy technologies are underway, a recent Department of Energy jobs report indicates that the U.S. does not have enough skilled workers to fill 1.5 million new energy jobs by 2030. Furthermore, even the most experienced workers often lack the updated skills and training needed to successfully support the advanced systems, tools and devices that make up microgrids. Hence it is important to develop new courses that can equip our students with the necessary technical skills to enter the microgrids job market.

This paper presents the development of a new course on microgrids and distributed energy resources. This course is a follow up to a previously developed course on Smart Grids. The paper will discuss the course content, the pedagogical approach used to deliver the course, and some of the students’ projects and presentations.
Approximate Response of Beam-Type Resonant Biosensors
Authors: Hassanpour Pezhman A.
Published: January 2019

In this paper, the effect of absorption of antigens to the functionalized surface of a biosensor is modeled using a single degree-of-freedom mass-spring-damper system. The change in the mass of the system due to absorption is modeled with an exponential function. The governing equations of motion is derived considering the change in the mass of the system as well as the impact force due to absorption. It has been demonstrated that this equation is a linear second-order ordinary differential equation with time-varying coefficients. The solution of this differential equation is approximated by expanding the exponential function with a Taylor series and applying the method of multiple scales. The advantage of using the method of multiple scales to derive an approximate solution is in the insight it provides on the effect of each parameter on the response of the system. The free vibration response of the biosensor is derived using the approximate solution under different conditions, namely, with and without viscous damping, with and without considering the impact force, and for different binding rates.
Optimize Additive Manufacturing Post-Build Heat Treatment and Hot Iso-Static Pressing Process Using an Integrated Computational Materials Engineering Framework
Authors: Imanian Anahita , Leung Kelvin , Iyyer Nagaraja , Li Peipei , Warner Derek H.
Published: January 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM) technology is becoming more popular for the fabrication of 3D metal products as it offers rapid prototyping and large design freedom. However, part quality and fatigue performance of components fabricated by current AM technology are not comparable to that produced by traditional methods. Post-build processing techniques, such as heat treatment (HT) and Hot Iso-static Pressing (HIP), have been developed to improve microstructure and remove internal flaws that are detrimental to fatigue resistance. In order to simulate the HT and HIP process and optimize the post-build process, an integrated computational materials engineering (ICME) approach is utilized to link the process parameters with material’s structures, properties, and fatigue performance. The purpose of this study is two-fold. First, we simulate the HT/HIP process including the physics of heat transfer, and porosity evolution. Second, a state-of-the-art hybrid optimization approach, combining response surface method and genetic algorithm is utilized to optimize the post-build process parameters in order to minimize porosities.
Characteristics of a Non-Premixed Rotating Detonation Combustor Using Natural Gas-Hydrogen Blend at Elevated Air-Preheat Temperature and Backpressure
Authors: Roy Arnab , Ferguson Donald , Sidwell Todd , Strakey Peter
Published: January 2019

Operational characteristics of an air breathing Rotating Detonation Combustor (RDC) fueled by natural gas-hydrogen blends are discussed in this paper. Experiments were performed on a 152 mm diameter uncooled RDC with a combustor to inlet area ratio of 0.2 at elevated inlet temperature and combustor pressure while varying the fuel split between natural gas and hydrogen over a range of equivalence ratios. Experimental data from short-duration (∼6sec) tests are presented with an emphasis on identifying detonability limits and exploring detonation stability with the addition of natural gas. Although the nominal combustor used in this experiment was not specifically designed for natural gas-air mixtures, significant advances in understanding conditions necessary for sustaining a stable, continuous detonation wave in a natural gas-hydrogen blended fuel were achieved. Data from the experimental study suggests that at elevated combustor pressures (2–3bar), only a small amount of natural gas added to the hydrogen is needed to alter the detonation wave operational mode. Additional observations indicate that an increase in air inlet temperature (up to 204°C) at atmospheric conditions significantly affects RDC performance by increasing deflagration losses through an increase in the number of combustion (detonation/Deflagration) regions present in the combustor. At higher backpressure levels the RDC exhibited the ability to achieve stable detonation with increasing concentrations of natural gas (with natural gas / hydrogen-air blend). However, losses tend to increase at intermediate air preheat levels (∼120°C). It was observed that combustor pressure had a first order influence on RDC stability in the presence of natural gas. Combining the results from this limited experimental study with our theoretical understanding of detonation wave fundamentals provides a pathway for developing an advanced combustor capable of replacing conventional constant pressure combustors typical of most power generation processes with one that produces a pressure gain.
Influence of Pattern Geometry of Hybrid Surfaces on Dropwise Condensation Heat Transfer and Droplet Dynamics
Authors: Egab Karim , Oudah Saad K. , Alwazzan M. , Khan Jamil , Li Chen
Published: January 2019

The scope of combining two wettability regions is to impact the droplet dynamic behaviors, manipulate the droplets’ mobility and enhance condensation heat transfer. Hydrophobic-hydrophilic hybrid patterns can promote the heat transfer, droplet-renewal frequency and enhance the droplets’ removal during condensation. With regard of condensation on hybrid surfaces, the geometry of the patterns has a significant influence on droplets departure frequency and heat transfer performance. Therefore, different patterns geometries (circle, ellipse, and diamond) have been developed on horizontal copper tubes at atmospheric pressure. All the patterns have the same size, and the same identical gap as well between the adjacent patterns. Results show that the diamond hybrid surface has the best performance compared with ellipse, circles hybrid surfaces at the same pattern area with same neighbor gap between two patterns and complete dropwise However, the circle and ellipse hybrid surfaces outperform lower performance compared to complete dropwise surface. The heat transfer rate for the diamond hybrid surface is 15% higher than complete dropwise surface when the gap is 0.5mm. This study clearly demonstrated the effect of pattern’s geometry regarding maximum condensation heat transfer rate and droplet departure frequency.
Improving the Micropump Velocity for Orthogonal Electrode Pattern
Authors: Islam Nazmul , Guduru Rakesh , Cheng Chu-Wen
Published: January 2019

The current research work in this paper involves optimizing an orthogonal electrode multifunctional system to transport biofluid. Orthogonal electrode patterned microfluidic device is known to produce high microflow velocity when excited by AC signals. This paper specifically investigates the fluid flow criterion by determining the direction and velocity in the selected electrode pattern actuated with AC signals. During the initial process, experiments were conducted at 100μm spacing between the orthogonal electrodes. The exact setup was placed on a hydrophobic surface to observe the change in the velocity. This process was then repeated with 150μm spacing. Fluid with conductivity 2.36 mS/cm was tested at voltage levels ranging between 5V to 10V at 50 KHz to 1MHZ frequency levels with an increment of 100 KHz. The goal of this research work is to increase microflow velocities by varying the electrode separation distance, flow surface, voltage and frequency. Trivial investigation also done on the possibility of micromixing using this pattern.
The Solid-State Electrocaloric Refrigeration With Unimorph Beam and its Analytical Model
Authors: Sun Zhimin , Wang Qing-Ming , Slaughter William S.
Published: January 2019

Electrocaloric (EC) cooling technology, which has reversible temperature change of a polarizable material in an adiabatic condition with the application and/or removal of an electric field, exhibits some great advantages for efficient solid-state refrigeration. However, many challenges still exist in EC cooling technology. One of the main challenges is how to control the heat transfer direction. Some of the reported device types require movement of EC material by step motor or fluid media by pump back and forth between heat source and heat sink for controlling heat transfer direction. The other device designs utilize thermal diodes by adjusting their thermal conductivity to control heat transfer direction. Here we report a solid-state electrocaloric refrigeration using unimorph beam structure which has temperature change due to EC effect and bending behavior due to converse piezoelectric effect. The new device design can eliminate problems of fluid medium loss, friction, high thermal conductivity ratio requirement and external system assistance, etc., existed in the previously reported EC cooling device types. An analytical model is also derived by considering multi-physical phenomenon. The model shows that the temperature change is a combinatorial result from the couplings of thermal, electric and mechanical field in the device.
Advanced Recycled Materials for Economic Production of Fire Resistant Fabrics
Authors: Ahmed Tamseel Murtuza , Ali Zaara , Rahman Muhammad Mustafizur , Asmatulu Eylem
Published: January 2019

Fire protective clothing is crucial in many applications, in military/government (Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Law Enforcement) and industry (working with furnaces, casting, machining and welding). Fire resistant clothes provide protection to those who are at risk for exposure to fire hazards (intense heat and flames) and provide inert barrier between the skin and fire and shields the user from direct exposure to fire and irradiation. Flame retardant and chemical protective apparel consumption was 997 million m2 in 2015. This market size expected to grow more due to substantial increase in military and industrial demand. Advanced materials have long history in these areas to protect human life against the hazards. There are two main application techniques for producing fire resistant clothing: 1) Using fire retardant materials directly in the textile, and 2) Spray coating on the garments. Over the time these physically and chemically treated cloths begin to degrade and become less protective due to UV and moisture exposure, abrasion, wear, and laundry effects which will shorten the useful wear life of those cloths. The study compared the improved fire resistance of fabrics when treated with recycled graphene solution.
Two-Dimensional Heat Transfer Considerations for Thermoreflectance Measurements
Authors: Sarkar Dipta , Chakraborty Partha Pratim , Beck B. Terry , Leseman Zayd C.
Published: January 2019

In the Suspended ThermoReflectance (STR) technique a microcantilever is heated with a laser power at the free end of the microcantilever and as heat propagates through it, another laser is used to measure the temperature along the beam.[1] In this paper, the heat equation is solved for two-dimensional heat flow in the microcantilever to determine the material’s thermal conductivity and heat capacity. Two of the dimensions of the microcantilever, width and length, are significantly greater than the third dimension, the thickness, leading to the two-dimensional approximation. Two boundaries along the length of the structure and one boundary along the width are assumed to be under Dirichlet boundary conditions, while the other boundary has Neumann condition. The Neumann or flux condition has a Gaussian profile due to the nature of laser beam intensity. The heat equation is solved using under 3 different flux conditions: (1) Steady-state, (2) Transient, and (3) Periodic. A steady-state condition mimics the experimental condition when a continuous wave laser is used to heat the microcantilever’s tip. A transient condition is possible when quickly removing or adding the continuous wave laser’s flux from the microcantilever’s tip using a chopper. Finally, a periodic condition can be achieved when an electro-optic modulator is utilized experimentally. Closed form analytical expressions are evaluated against the finite element model and experimental results for microcantilever beams and micro-structures of Si that have lengths on the order of a mm, width on the order of 100 microns, and thicknesses of 1 micron or less.
Thermal Properties of a Concrete Aerogel Paste Composite
Authors: Kobus Chris J. , Schall J. David
Published: January 2019

This paper details the design of an experiment to indirectly measure the thermal conductivity, k, of prototype samples consisting of various mixtures of aerogel and concrete for the purpose of better insulative value and lighter weight. A “hot box” apparatus was designed based on ASTM C1363. It was constructed primarily out of 2” rigid extruded polystyrene insulation and designed to force the majority of the heat generated in the enclosure through the concrete composite test samples. Several samples with well documented k values were tested to calibrate the apparatus. After calibration, three prototype aerogel composite samples were tested. The results showed that the higher the ratio of aerogel to concrete yielded a lower thermal conductivity as would be expected. The sample with no aerogel yielded a k-value of 0.0936 Btu/hrft°F, whereas a sample with 1.5 parts of aerogel-to-concrete mix yielded a 0.0488 Btu/hrftoF k-value. The average uncertainty is ± 28.8%. This is a first step in determining the feasibility of this unique composite concrete mix into new and existing construction.
Multiphysics Modeling and Parametric Analysis of an Inductor for Heating Thin Sheet Materials
Authors: Mazursky Alex J. , Park Hee-Chang , Song Sung-Hyuk , Koo Jeong-Hoi
Published: January 2019

Over the past two decades, induction heating technology has begun to replace conventional heating methods in manufacturing due to its ability to rapidly and uniformly heat conductive materials. This advancement has made induction heating very attractive to a wide range of industries, including applications in which thin sheet geometries are used (sheet thickness < 10 mm). According to preliminary testing, conventional coil geometries cannot efficiently heat thin sheet samples. Thus, the primary goal of this study is to investigate a suitable coil design for thin sheet materials and to evaluate the effects of varying coil design parameters. To this end, this project has developed a 3D Multiphysics model that includes a longitudinal induction coil and a thin sheet workpiece. Using the model, a series of parametric studies have been performed to identify the best induction coil geometry for heating of thin sheets along with suitable excitation parameters for the coil and workpiece. It was found that uniform heating is produced when the space between coils is tight. Additionally, insignificant variance in temperature uniformity was found when vertically displacing the workpiece within the coil. Parametric studies resulted in finding a cross-section geometry that reduced temperature deviation to within 1.1% across the workpiece width. The model can be used as a design tool for developing a (full-scale) prototype induction heating system.
Feasibility Study of Effective Cooling Through Microchannel Heat Sink (MCHS) and Nanofluid Applications
Authors: Jennings Darryl , Smith Sonya
Published: January 2019

The goal of this research is to present an analytical model of nanostructures and study the effects of their geometry on the performance of micro channels. The pressure drop experienced by micro channels is of interest as it presents a limit on forced convection heat transfer. This work will demonstrate how the presence of nanostructures alleviates pressure drop and results in enhanced cooling capabilities. Multiple transient analyses were performed in ANSYS FLUENT to ascertain performance characteristics of microchannels without the presence of hydrophobic nanostructures. The results were compared to the analytical model developed in this study.
Immunological Responses to the Relapsing Fever Spirochete
Borrelia turicatae
in Infected Rhesus Macaques: Implications for Pathogenesis and Diagnosis
Authors: Embers Monica E. , Krishnavajhala Aparna , Armstrong Brittany A. , Curtis Michael W. , Pahar Bapi , Wilder Hannah K. , Allen Michael S. , Beare Paul A. , Hasenkampf Nicole R. , Lopez Job E.
Published: January 2019

The global public health impact of relapsing fever (RF) spirochetosis is significant, since the pathogens exist on five of seven continents. The hallmark sign of infection is episodic fever and the greatest threat is to the unborn.
Cystic Fibrosis-Associated Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Strain-Specific Adaptations and Responses to pH
Authors: Gallagher Tara , Phan Joann , Oliver Andrew , Chase Alexander B. , England Whitney E. , Wandro Stephen , Hendrickson Clark , Riedel Stefan F. , Whiteson Katrine
Published: January 2019

Understanding bacterial responses to physiological conditions is an important priority for combating opportunistic infections. The majority of CF patients succumb to inflammation and necrosis in the airways, arising from chronic infection due to ineffective mucociliary clearance. Steep pH gradients characterize the CF airways but are not often incorporated in standard microbiology culture conditions.
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
is a prevalent CF opportunistic pathogen also found in many disparate environments, yet this bacterium’s contribution to CF lung damage and its response to changing environmental factors remain largely understudied. Here, we show that pH impacts the physiology and antibiotic susceptibility of
S. maltophilia
, with implications for the development of relevant
in vitro
models and assessment of antibiotic sensitivity.
Global Analysis of Genes Essential for Francisella tularensis Schu S4 Growth
In Vitro
and for Fitness during Competitive Infection of Fischer 344 Rats
Authors: Ireland Philip M. , Bullifent Helen L. , Senior Nicola J. , Southern Stephanie J. , Yang Zheng Rong , Ireland Rachel E. , Nelson Michelle , Atkins Helen S. , Titball Richard W. , Scott Andrew E.
Published: January 2019

The intracellular bacterial pathogen
Francisella tularensis
causes a disease in humans characterized by the rapid onset of nonspecific symptoms such as swollen lymph glands, fever, and headaches.
F. tularensis
is one of the most infectious bacteria known and following pulmonary exposure can have a mortality rate exceeding 50% if left untreated. The low infectious dose of this organism and concerns surrounding its potential as a biological weapon have heightened the need for effective and safe therapies. To expand the repertoire of targets for therapeutic development, we initiated a genome-wide analysis. This study has identified genes that are important for
F. tularensis
under
in vitro
and
in vivo
conditions, providing candidates that can be evaluated for vaccine or antibacterial development.
A Core Genome Multilocus Sequence Typing Scheme for Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Neumann Bernd , Prior Karola , Bender Jennifer K. , Harmsen Dag , Klare Ingo , Fuchs Stephan , Bethe Astrid , Zühlke Daniela , Göhler André , Schwarz Stefan , Schaffer Kirsten , Riedel Katharina , Wieler Lothar H. , Werner Guido
Published: January 2019

Among enterococci,
Enterococcus faecalis
occurs ubiquitously, with the highest incidence of human and animal infections. The high genetic plasticity of
E. faecalis
complicates both molecular investigations and phylogenetic analyses.
Informal and formal care preferences and expected willingness of providing elderly care in Germany: protocol for a mixed-methods study
Authors: de Jong Lea , Plöthner Marika , Stahmeyer Jona Theodor , Eberhard Sveja , Zeidler Jan , Damm Kathrin
Published: January 2019

Introduction

In Germany, the number of elderly people in need of care is expected to increase from 2.4 million in 2015 to 3.2 million in 2030. The subsequent rise in demand for long-term care facilities is unlikely to be met by the current care structures and available staff. Additionally, many Germans still prefer to be cared for at home for as long as possible. In light of recent changes, such as increasing employment rates of women and growing geographical distances of family members, informal caregiving becomes more challenging in the future. The aim of this study is to explore preferences for informal and formal care services in the German general population, as well as the expected willingness of providing elderly care.

Methods and analysis

A mixed-methods approach will be used to explore care preferences and expected willingness of providing elderly care in the German general population. A systematic literature review will be performed to provide an overview of the current academic literature on the topic. Qualitative interviews will be conducted with informal caregivers, care consultants and people with no prior caregiving experiences. A labelled discrete choice experiment will be designed and conducted to quantitatively measure the preferences for informal and formal care in the German general population. People between 18 and 65 years of age will be recruited in cooperation with a (regional) statutory health insurance (AOK Lower Saxony). A mixed multinomial logit regression model and a latent class finite mixture model will be used to analyse the data and test for subgroup differences in care preferences.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Committee for Clinical Ethics of the Medical School in Hannover. Data will be treated confidential to ensure the participants' anonymity. The results will be discussed and disseminated to relevant stakeholders in the field.

Trial registration number

DRKS00012266.
Association between the concurrence of pre-existing chronic liver disease and worse prognosis in patients with an herb-Polygonum multiflorumthunb. induced liver injury: a case-control study from a specialised liver disease center in China
Authors: Jing Jing , Wang Rui-lin , Zhao Xin-yan , Zhu Yun , Niu Ming , Wang Li-fu , Song Xue-ai , He Ting-ting , Sun Yong-qiang , Xu Wen-tao , Yu Si-miao , Wang Li-ping , Guo Yu-ming , Bai Zhao-fang , Xiao Xiao-he , Wang Jia-bo
Published: January 2019

Objectives

The present study aimed to evaluate the association between the concurrence of pre-existing chronic liver diseases (CLD) and worse prognosis in patients with HILI.

Design

A case–control study.

Setting

Tertiary hospital specialising in liver diseases in China.

Participants

145 hospitalised HILI patients were assessed with respect to prognosis by comparing HILI with or without pre-existing CLD from February 2007 to January 2017. Twenty-five HILI cases with pre-existing alcoholic liver disease (ALD) or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and 200 ALD or NAFLD controls matched 1:8 for sex, age (±4 years old), body mass index (±2 kg/m2), the type of CLD, alcohol intake (±5 g/d) and the presence or absence of cirrhosis.

Primary outcome measures

Mortality and chronicity in HILI patients with or without pre-existing CLD, and matched CLD patients.

Results

Of the 193 714 hospitalised patients with liver diseases, 5703 patients met the diagnostic criteria for drug-induced liver injury (DILI), which was attributed toPolygonum multiflorumThunb. (PMT) in 145 patients. Among these HILI patients, 22.8% (33 of 145) had pre-existing CLD, including 17 (51.5%) with ALD, 8 (24.2%) with NAFLD, 5 (15.2%) with chronic viral hepatitis and 3 (9.1%) with autoimmune liver disease. Compared with HILI patients without CLD, HILI patients with pre-existing CLD showed higher mortality (0.9% vs 9.1%, p=0.037) and higher chronicity (12.5% vs 30.3%, p=0.016). Compared with matched ALD (136 patients) or NAFLD (64 patients) patients, HILI patients with pre-existing ALD showed higher chronicity (35.3% vs 11.8%, p=0.019). Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that concurrence of pre-existing CLD was an independent risk factor for both of chronicity and mortality (OR 3.966, 95% CI 1.501 to 10.477, p=0.005), especially the chronicity (OR 3.035, 95% CI 1.115 to 8.259, p=0.030).

Conclusions

Concurrence of pre-existing CLD could be an independent risk factor for worse prognosis, especially chronicity, in PMT-related HILI.
Finnish National Esophago-Gastric Cancer Cohort (FINEGO) for studying outcomes after oesophageal and gastric cancer surgery: a protocol for a retrospective, population-based, nationwide cohort study in Finland
Authors: Kauppila Joonas H , Ohtonen Pasi , Karttunen Tuomo J , Kokkola Arto , Laine Simo , Rantanen Tuomo , Ristimäki Ari , Räsänen Jari V , Saarnio Juha , Sihvo Eero , Toikkanen Vesa , Tyrväinen Tuula
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Surgery for oesophageal and gastric cancers is associated with high morbidity, mortality and poor quality of life postoperatively. The Finnish National Esophago-Gastric Cancer Cohort has been established with the aim of identifying factors that could contribute to improved outcomes in oesophago-gastric cancer.

Methods and analysis

All patients with oesophageal and gastric cancer diagnosed in Finland between 1987 and 2015 will be identified from the Finnish national registries. The Finnish Cancer Registry and Finnish Patient Registry will be used to identify patients that fulfil the inclusion criteria for the study: (1) diagnosis of oesophageal, gastro-oesophageal junction, or gastric cancer, (2) any surgical treatment for the diagnosed cancer and (3) age of 18 or over at the time of diagnosis. Clinical variables and complication information will be retrieved in extensive data collection from the medical records of the relevant Finnish hospitals and complete follow-up for vital status from Statistics Finland. Primary endpoint is overall all-cause mortality and secondary endpoints include complications, reoperations, medication use and sick leaves. Sub-studies will be implemented within the cohort to investigate specific populations undergoing oesophageal and gastric cancer surgery. The initial estimated sample size is 1800 patients with surgically treated oesophageal cancer and 7500 patients with surgically treated gastric cancer.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Ethical Committee in Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland and The National Institute for Health and Welfare, Finland. Study findings will be disseminated via presentations at conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Outcomes reported in randomised clinical trials of major depressive disorder treatments in adolescents: a systematic scoping review protocol
Authors: Monsour Andrea , Mew Emma J , Szatmari Peter , Patel Sagar , Saeed Leena , Offringa Martin , Butcher Nancy J
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental health condition in adolescents. Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for assessing the safety and efficacy of interventions in this population. Heterogeneity in the outcomes measured and reported between RCTs limits the ability to compare, contrast, and combine trial results in a clinically meaningful way. There is currently no core outcome set (COS) available for use in RCTs evaluating interventions in adolescents with MDD. We will conduct a systematic scoping review of outcomes reported in adolescent depression RCTs to assess the variability of trial outcomes and to inform the development of a COS for adolescent MDD.

Methods and analysis

We will apply methods based on the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methods manual. RCTs evaluating any treatment intervention for adolescent MDD published in the last 10 years will be located using an electronic bibliographic database search (MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials). Title and abstract screening, full-text screening, and data charting of eligible studies will be performed in duplicate. Outcomes identified will be mapped to an outcome-domain framework. Data analysis will include summary statistics of the characteristics of the included trials and outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

The results of this review will inform the development of a COS for adolescent MDD. The development and implementation of a COS for RCTs evaluating interventions in adolescents with MDD promise to help reduce variability in trial outcome selection, definition, measurement and reporting, ultimately facilitating evidence synthesis that will help to identify the best treatment practices for adolescents with MDD.
Community health worker-delivered counselling for common mental disorders among chronic disease patients in South Africa: a feasibility study
Authors: Myers Bronwyn , Petersen-Williams Petal , van der Westhuizen Claire , Lund Crick , Lombard Carl , Joska John A , Levitt Naomi S , Butler Christopher , Naledi Tracey , Milligan Peter , Stein Dan J , Sorsdahl Katherine
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To examine the feasibility and acceptability of integrating a ‘designated’ approach to community health worker (CHW)-delivered mental health counselling (where existing CHWs deliver counselling in addition to usual duties) and a ‘dedicated’ approach (where additional CHWs have the sole responsibility of delivering mental health counselling) into chronic disease care.

Design

A feasibility test of a designated and dedicated approach to CHW-delivered counselling and qualitative interviews of CHWs delivering the counselling.

Setting

Four primary healthcare clinics in the Western Cape, South Africa allocated to either a designated or dedicated approach and stratified by urban/rural status.

Participants

Forty chronic disease patients (20 with HIV, 20 with diabetes) reporting hazardous alcohol use or depression. Interviews with seven CHWs.

Intervention

Three sessions of structured mental health counselling.

Main outcome measures

We assessed feasibility by examining the proportion of patients who were willing to be screened, met inclusion criteria, provided consent, completed counselling and were retained in the study. Acceptability of these delivery approaches was assessed through qualitative interviews of CHWs.

Results

Regardless of approach, a fair proportion (67%) of eligible patients were willing to receive mental health counselling. Patients who screened positive for depression were more likely to be interested in counselling than those with hazardous alcohol only. Retention in counselling (85%) and the study (90%) was good and did not differ by approach. Both dedicated and designated CHWs viewed the counselling package as highly acceptable but requested additional training and support to facilitate implementation.

Conclusions

Dedicated and designated approaches to CHW-delivered mental health counselling were matched in terms of their feasibility and acceptability. A comparative efficacy trial of these approaches is justified, with some adjustments to the training and implementation protocols to provide further support to CHWs.
Study protocol for a quasi-experimental claims-based study evaluating 10-year results of the population-based integrated healthcare model ‘Gesundes Kinzigtal’ (Healthy Kinzigtal): the INTEGRAL study
Authors: Schubert Ingrid , Siegel Achim , Graf Erika , Farin-Glattacker Erik , Ihle Peter , Köster Ingrid , Stelzer Dominikus , Mehl Claudia , Schmitz Jutta , Dröge Patrik , Günster Christian , Klöss Andreas , Vach Werner , Geraedts Max
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Patients often experience interface problems when treated by different specialists and in different healthcare sectors. Integrated care concepts aim to reduce these problems. While most integrated healthcare models focus on individual diseases, the integrated care model ‘Gesundes Kinzigtal’ applies a population-based approach and addresses the full spectrum of morbidities for a population defined by area of residence—the Kinzigtal. A special feature of the model is the joint savings contract between the regional management company and the statutory health insurers. The INTEGRAL study aims at assessing the effectiveness of ‘Gesundes Kinzigtal’ under routine conditions in comparison to conventional care over a period of 10 years in order to understand the benefits but also the potential for (unintended) harms.

Methods and analysis

Database

Claims data from statutory health insurance funds 2005–2015. The evaluation consists of a quasi-experimental study, with Kinzigtal as intervention region, at least 10 further regions with a similar population and healthcare infrastructure as primary controls and an additional random sample of insurees from the federal state of Baden-Württemberg as secondary controls. Model-specific and ‘non-specific’ indicators adopted from the literature and enriched by focus group interviews will be used to evaluate the model’s effectiveness and potential unintended consequences by analysing healthcare utilisation in general. Temporal trends per indicator in the intervention region will be compared with those in each control region. The overall variation in trends for the indicators across all regions provides information about the potential to modify an indicator due to local differences in the healthcare system.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethic Commission of the Faculty of Medicine, Philipps-University Marburg (ek_mr_geraedts_131117). Results will be discussed in workshops, submitted for publication in peer-review journals and presented at conferences.

Trial registration number

DRKS00012804.
Evaluating the impact of a community-based social prescribing intervention on people with type 2 diabetes in North East England: mixed-methods study protocol
Authors: Moffatt Suzanne , Wildman John , Pollard Tessa M , Penn Linda , O’Brien Nicola , Pearce Mark S , Wildman Josephine M
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Social prescribing enables healthcare professionals to use voluntary and community sector resources to improve support for people with long-term conditions. It is widely promoted in the UK as a way to address complex health, psychological and social issues presented in primary care, yet there is insufficient evidence of effectiveness or value for money. This study aims to evaluate the impact and costs of a link-worker social prescribing intervention on the health and healthcare use of adults aged 40–74 with type 2 diabetes, living in a multi-ethnic area of high socioeconomic deprivation.

Methods and analysis

Mixed-methods approach combining (1) quantitative quasi-experimental methods to evaluate the effects of social prescribing on health and healthcare use and cost-effectiveness analysis and (2) qualitative ethnographic methods to observe how patients engage with social prescribing. Quantitative data comprise Secondary Uses Service data and Quality Outcomes Framework data. The primary outcome is glycated haemoglobin, and secondary outcomes are secondary care use, systolic blood pressure, weight/body mass index, cholesterol and smoking status; these data will be analysed longitudinally over 3 years using four different control conditions to estimate a range of treatment effects. The ranges where the intervention is cost-effective will be identified from the perspective of the healthcare provider. Qualitative data comprise participant observation and interviews with purposively sampled service users, and focus groups with link-workers (intervention providers). Analysis will involve identification of themes and synthesising and theorising the data. Finally, a coding matrix will identify convergence and divergence among all study components.

Ethics and dissemination

UK NHS Integrated Research Approval System Ethics approved the quantitative research (Reference no. 18/LO/0631). Durham University Research Ethics Committee approved the qualitative research. The authors will publish the findings in peer-reviewed journals and disseminate to practitioners, service users and commissioners via a number of channels including professional and patient networks, conferences and social media. Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed journals.