bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Flexibility for an Institutional Building with Integrated Solar System: Case Study Analysis
Authors: Amara Fatima , Dermardiros Vasken , Athienitis Andreas K.
Published: October 2019

Buildings with renewable energy systems and sizeable energy storage capacity can provide significant energy flexibility. Defining appropriate load management strategies requires estimating this flexibility accurately. However, this is no easy task, since the energy flexibility depends on the building structure, heating/cooling system, meteorological conditions, occupant activities, demand response strategy, among other factors. This paper focuses on the thermal storage flexibility of a building component: a concrete floor with an embedded radiant hydronic system. An approach based on a combined adaptive Auto Regressive model with exogenous inputs (ARX) is used to quantify the thermal energy available in the concrete slab. The model describes the relationship between: (a) the geothermal pump system and weather variables and (b) the temperatures of the indoor air and the concrete surface slab. These temperatures are then used to assess the state of charge (SOC) of the slab. The SOC indicator is critical to reducing heating energy use during peak periods. Results show that the proposed model can accurately quantify the energy flexibility of the building through performance indicators. Finally, tests using real data confirm the validity of the model as a tool to estimate energy flexibility.
POLYSOL – Thermal and electrical performance assessment of a cost-effective polygeneration system
Authors: Soares J , Shahzamanian B , Varga S , Palmero-Marrero A , Oliveira A C
Published: October 2019

Buildings are responsible for a large portion of the energy consumption and harmful emissions to the environment. To change this situation, the European Performance of Buildings Directive requires new buildings to be nearly Zero Energy Buildings. To achieve this goal, energy saving measures combined with large use of renewables on-site must be applied. In this paper, a reliable and cost-effective polygeneration system for an existing test building, able to provide electricity, cooling and heating needs is presented, modelled and assessed. The system relies on solar energy as the primary source (PV and solar thermal collectors). Building heat and cooling demand is achieved with a variable geometry ejector heat pump. To reduce the mismatches between generation and consumption, it includes different types of storage (electrical and thermal). For the test building energy needs assessment, the electricity consumption of all test building consumers was measured. Thermal energy demand evaluation required the development of a dynamic numerical model using TRNSYS software. The building thermal performance was validated using experimental data. The numerical model also includes the solar field, thermal energy storage, ejector cycle subjected to know meteorological conditions and operation control. To model and simulate yearly electricity production PVSyst commercial software was applied. Regarding the thermal energy, it was found that on a yearly basis the energy supplied by the thermal collectors about six times the demand. Nevertheless, on the hourly and daily levels, there are thermal energy shortages, due to the lack of solar radiation or mismatch between production and demand. Regarding the electric energy consumption, the potential electric energy production is about 1.6 times the demand. Like for the thermal energy, on the hourly and daily levels, there are energy deficits mostly in winter, for which an electrical energy storage unit will be used. Additionally, the highest peak occurs in summer because of low solar radiation at the end of the day and high demand due to the high cooling load of the test room.
Simulation and control of shading systems for glazed facades
Authors: Chaudhary G , Goia F , Grynning S
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a simulation study on the use of shading devices in highly glazed facades in the context of zero emission buildings (ZEB) located in a Nordic climatic context. Shading devices have the task to control different uses of solar energy (solar gain for passive solar heating and daylighting) and to avoid cooling load, and to find the best strategy (i.e. to optimize the overall performance) for controlling shading devices is not trivial.

Different control strategies for the activation of the shading devices (venetian blinds) are simulated, and their performance calculated in this study through a dynamic whole-building simulation tool (EnergyPlus). The results of the simulation studies show that it is possible to achieve very high performance and balanced use of solar energy (for passive solar heating, daylighting), without occurring in too high cooling load, even in the case of fully glazed facades. The optimal strategy for shading activation is not straightforward, and different strategies should be recommended during the year to assure an overall optimal performance.
Characterization of methyl ester compound of Carica papaya seed oil through Transesterification using CaO Catalyst from Strombus canarium shells
Authors: Sarianto M , Rado  , Kusuma G F , Asriza R O , Fabiani V A , Kafillah M
Published: October 2019

Biodiesel is an alternative fuel that is included in renewable energy. Various problems of the source of raw materials for making biodiesel create an opportunity to find alternative sources of raw materials from plant oils, one of which is papaya seeds. Extraction of papaya seeds into oil is carried out by socletation and distillation methods. GCMS analysis showed that papaya seed oil contained oleic acid. Biodiesel transesterification has been carried out using CaO catalyst from the Strombus canarium shells. The reaction was carried out at the papaya seed oil to methanol molar ratio of 1: 6, presence catalyst 5% wt relative to oil and temperature reaction of 65 °C for 2 h. GC/MS analysis result showed that the content of methyl esters is 50.35% with the highest abundance is 10-Octadecenoic acid and the smallest abundance is 9-Octadecenoic acid.
Biodiesel Production From Waste Cooking Oil Using Catalyst CaO Derived From Strombus canarium shells
Authors: Fabiani V A , Asriza R O , Fabian A R , Kafillah M
Published: October 2019

In this article, we address the optimal biodiesel production through transesterification reaction using waste cooking oil, methanol and presence of calcium oxide (CaO) as a solid base catalyst. CaO catalyst was activated from calcined Strombus canarium shells, collected at Bangka Belitung Islands Province, Indonesia. X-Ray Diffraction and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) were applied to characterize the prepared catalyst. The transesterification process will produce methyl ester (biodiesel) yield of 83.5% was obtained in the optimum condition at the waste cooking oil to methanol molar ratio of 1:12, presence catalyst 3.0% wt relative to oil and temperature reaction of 65 oC for 4 h. The GC-MS analysis assured to identify the chemical composition of the synthesized biodiesel which contained methyl myristate and methyl palmitoleate as the dominant esters. As such, the uses of Strombus canarium shells as a catalyst source and waste cooking oil as a feedstock for biodiesel production.
Combustion of Purified Biogas after Carbon Dioxide Absorption Using Sodium Hydroxide
Authors: Pertiwiningrum A , La’aliya I , Windiaka B U , Yusiati L M , Harto AW
Published: October 2019

Biogas is an alternative clean energy that can replace the utilization of LPG, fossil fuel for cooking. But many reports said that biogas is mixture composition which carbon dioxide composition must be removed. This study aims to investigate the combustion performance of purified biogas after sodium hydroxide absorption. Carbon dioxide removal has been conducted by absorption method. There are 4 type concentration of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) that used in this study 5, 15, 25 and 35. After carbon dioxide absorption using 5, 15, 25, 35% methane content of biogas increased. The increase in methane affected on the increase in calorific value. Purified biogas after absorption using 5, 15, 25 and 35% of sodium hydroxide increased 187.91, 225.42, 227.91, and 243.82 kJ respectively.
From Kongsi to Sakan: Tracking the Transformation of Chinese Influence in the Worker Organization and Tin Production on Bangka Island
Authors: Ibrahim I , Pratama S , Rendy R , Sujadmi S , Saputra P P
Published: October 2019

The history of Chinese ethnic migration to Bangka Island is inseparable from the history of economic expansion based on production from tin mining. Initially, the Chinese were brought ascoolieto work in tin mines and then had a major influence on tin management in this area to date. This paper traces the transformation of Chinese influence in tin mining so that this paper will be focused on the organization and production process. This paper is obtained from the results of qualitative research that has an explorative pattern. This study found that the transformation of Chinese influence in tin mining occurred in at least two forms, namely transformation in worker organization, and transformation in the production process. In worker organizations, it was found that Chinese involvement in workers was organized bytikoin akongsiform, in the form of a partnership. When the reforms began and open mining began to flourish, the ethnic Chinese were transformed into tin owners and traders, no longer ascoolie. Transformation also occurs in the form of the use ofSa Kantechnology in the production process that is used even more varied in the post-reform period of 1998. This study observed that the technology used since the early has contributed to the damage to the environment, although the rate of damage it is manual compared to newer and more masive technologies since the last of two decades.
Acute Oral Toxicity Test of Nicotiana tabacum L. Bio-Oil Against Female Winstar Rats
Authors: Andjani H N , Sentosa Y , Yati K , Fauzantoro A , Gozan M , Yoo Y J
Published: October 2019

Tobacco plants are notably known for its pesticidal properties, particularly due to its nicotine content. In this study, Nicotiana tabacum L. bio-oil was obtained using pyrolysis technique. The safety of the bio-oil to be used as bioinsecticide was analyzed through acute oral toxicity test by administering 5000 mg bio-oil/kg body weight of female winstar rats that were analogous to humans. It was concluded that the bio-oil was not toxic due to absence of mortality and no significant change in the body weight and behavior of the rats.
Mapping of Temporary Disturbance and Testing Partial Discharge To Minimize Disturbance and Improving System Reliabilitity In Lampur Feeder
Authors: Siregar E M , Budianto T H , Kurniawan R , Puriza M Y
Published: October 2019

Of the total disturbances that occur in Lampur feeder, most of disturbance are caused by temporary disturbance whose source of disturbance is unknown/not found. Only relying on sense of sight to find the source of disturbance results in a disturbance occurring repeatedly without a solution to resolve the disturbance and inefficient in the process of finding the location of the disturbance. With middle voltage air feeder inspection management, the location of the source of the disturbance can be found. Disturbance point search process with inspection management consists of mapping medium voltage air feeder using distribution software and detailed search in the field with ultrasonic tools. The results of this inspection management can reduce temporarily disturbance and also reduce energy not sale (ENS) on Lampur feeder.
Essential oil processing of pepper process with aluminium condenser
Authors: Setiawan Y , Prayitnoadi R P , Saputra E
Published: October 2019

There are many ways to produce essential oils from pepper, one of which is the distillation system. This paper aims to determine the results of essential oils of pepper through a process of distillation of water and steam produced from 500 grams of pepper seeds using a time variation of 4 hours, 6 hours and 8 hours using water and steam distillation, but heating using an electric stove and condenser coil made of aluminium. The results of the most volatile oil volume at 6 hours were obtained 11.8 ml with a specific gravity of 0.87, the refractive index of 1.48 and solubility in 95% ethanol with an essential oil content of 2.36%. This innovation provides an interdisciplinary approach to study the environmental systems and find solutions to resolve the problems associated with it for sustainability
Reliability of cylindrical tank exposed to fire
Authors: Delosevic M , Sremac S , Tepić G
Published: October 2019

The paper presents a methodology for assessment the reliability of tank due to typical accidents. The aim of the research is to identify fracture lines and shapes of fragments generated by tank explosions. Accident scenarios and their probabilities are defined with Event Tree Analysis (ETA). Static structural analysis of the tank is realized by the software package ANSYS 15. The probabilistic mass method (PMM) was used to assessment the shape of the fragments. The assessment of the reliability of the tank affected by the fire was carried out according to Fault Tree Analysis (FTA). Verification of the results obtained was made according to available accidents. It has been found that the construction of the tank and especially the type of end caps affects the fragmentation pattern, i.e. the shape of fragments created by explosion. The results of the research are practically usable during the design of the tank because they provide information that is not contained in EN 13445-3.
Macro-roughness height determination of teeth surfaces obtained by gear generating method
Authors: Babichev D T , Babichev D A , Yu Lebedev S
Published: October 2019

The article describes three types of gear teeth surfaces: smooth (envelope), striped (with combs) and scaled (with pyramids and combs connecting the pyramids). The method for combs and pyramids height (above an envelope) determination based on “velocity and acceleration of penetration” conceptions is introduced. Acceleration of penetration allows determining an actual workpiece surface deviation from a theoretical envelope without generating surface knowing. The computer simulations have been carried out, and the correlations between combs and pyramids height and gear machining parameters are exposed.
Delamination assessment of composite curved angles using simplified FEA models build-up by 2-D layered shell elements
Authors: Baba M N
Published: October 2019

As widely known, an accurate analysis of the stress state across the thickness of a composite laminate requires the calculation of the interlaminar through-the-thickness stresses as well as the shear stress components at the layers’ interfaces. These so-called out-of-plane stresses are the key parameters when defining the delamination strength of curved composite laminates, particularly when their radius of curvature and the thickness of the composite are of the same size order. Since the use of layered solid elements is far from a reasonable approach in practical design applications, based on the finite element analysis results obtained through the use of conventional layered shell elements, the purpose of this paper is to propose a simplified post processing approach that enable to predict the interlaminar stress components originated across the thickness of symmetrically balanced curved composite laminates under the combined action of axial forces, shear forces and bending moments applied in curvature plane. A benchmark analysis to provide a critical comparison between a reference finite element model constructed based on 3-D layered solid elements and a simplified model build-up by 2-D layered shell elements is also considered.
The application of the ballistic pendulum for the bullets velocity measurements
Authors: Milutinovic J M , Hristov N P , Jerković D D , Marković S Z , Živković A B
Published: October 2019

The accurate values of the initial velocity of bullets are significant for the quality and precision of small arms. The application of the simple measurement methods, during the tests of the weapon and ammunition, enables the determination of the velocity values from the group of shoots. The accuracy of bullet trajectory, appropriate trajectory correction parameters and terminal ballistics parameters are depended of the quality of initial conditions as initial velocity. The ballistic pendulum, as simple and old-design device, enhanced with optoelectronic encoder sensor and computer acquisition system, can be one of the good start-up device platform for measurement of velocity and observation of the terminal ballistics effects. The function principle of the considered device is based on the energy conservation. Initial data are mass of bullet, mass and dimension of pendulum, and result is velocity, according to the values of time and angle of pendulum. The output signals of measured angle in time are captured, and as required values for calculation the velocity on the microprocessor platform, for each shoot in the test group. The microprocessor platform saves measured and calculated values in memory and generates statistic report of results. The presented method can improve weapon and ammunition tests, by decreasing the time of measurement acquisition and increasing the quality and speed of results without errors. The method and system is simple and low-cost, and enables the design of small arms ammunition database of testing results.
Trends of using polymer composite materials in additive manufacturing
Authors: Regassa Y , Lemu H G , Sirabizuh B
Published: October 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM) technology is nowadays one of the advanced manufacturing technologies used to convert three dimensional product data to physical objects without any special tooling. The emergence of the technology has made production of complex geometries having consumer demands for more customized products and services. Though the underlying technology was initially intended for rapid prototyping, the technology has recently getting wider attention in diverse industrial sectors using different material types commonly polymers, metals, ceramics, and other compatible researched materials as input. Because the technology processes the input materials with no or very low wastes, the use of polymer composite materials leads to a no waste manufacturing system. This article aims to review and analyse the opportunity and existing challenges for AM technology in processing polymer composites and provide an insight on the state-of -the art applications. The paper provides an overview of the materials and processes currently available for this novel production technology to fill the industrial needs for engineering application. In addition, closely reviewing published research works in the area, the existing research gaps are identified for possible future research in the field.
Transaction applications of enterprise information system
Authors: Prajová V , Homokyová M , Horvátová M
Published: October 2019

The huge amount of data currently available to enterprises needs to be exploited to their advantage, as the lack of information can decide the future of the enterprise in the near future. On enterprises development in recent years has been greatly influenced by the rapid development of technologies for processing and organizing them. These technologies share the role of an information integrator to support decision-making at all levels of the manufacturing enterprise. Enterprise resource planning is a key transactional application of enterprise information systems. Its main features include the ability to automate and integrate key business processes, functions and data across the enterprise.
Indicators of tax reliability of innovative activity
Authors: Aristarkhova M K , Zueva O K , Zueva M S
Published: October 2019

Corporate tax management – the organizing subsystem of the enterprise promoting creation of conditions for formation and the direction of stable financial flows in the state budget.

Management of this subsystem is based by means of formation of the indicators reflecting technologies of performance of the functions assigned to it, values of indicators of corporate tax management characterize internal work of the enterprise for lawful optimization of tax payments. At the same time quite often there is a need of assessment of tax opportunities of the enterprise which would predetermine its ability to implementation of tax payments during the concrete period of time.
Fatigue behaviour of friction stir welded AA-2024 aluminium alloy sheets
Authors: Vuherer T , Kramberger J , Milčić D , Milčić M , Glodež S
Published: October 2019

The presented paper deals with the mechanical and fatigue properties of the alloyed aluminium alloy AA-2024 welded by the Friction Stir Welded (FSW) process. Using the optimized tool and welding procedure, 6 mm thick plates made of about quoted material were connected. In the first part of the paper, the influence of welding speed on the microstructure and mechanical properties of treated FSW welded joints is studied. In the continuation, the fatigue behaviour of treated welded joints is analysed based on the experimental testing on a servo-hydraulic fatigue testing machine at room-temperature under the stress ratio R=0.1 The experimental results have shown that the welding parameters have a significant influence on the mechanical and fatigue properties of AA-2024 welded sheets.
Parameter optimisation and failure load prediction of resistance spot welding of aluminium alloy 57547
Authors: Duric A , Klobčar D , Milčić D , Marković B
Published: October 2019

This paper will also present single objective optimization and Failure load prediction of Resistance spot welding of Aluminium alloy 57547. The experimental studies were conducted under varying welding currents I, electrode forces F, welding times T, pred preheating currents IA. The settings of welding parameters were determined by using the Taguchi experimental design of L9 Orthogonal array method. For optimization and prediction will be used analysis of Signal-to-Noise (S/N) ratio and Response surface modelling RSM.
Non-woven composites intensification properties for air filters by plasma pre-treatment
Authors: Neznakomova M P , Klotz M-L , Gospodinova D N
Published: October 2019

The nonwovens use in the automotive industry has increased significantly. Nonwovens for air filters can be changed in a desired direction to have specific properties. The use of non-woven textiles in the automotive industry has the following advantages: it reduces the weight of the vehicle, increases comfort and provides improved insulation, fire retardancy and resistance to water, fuels, extreme temperatures and abrasion. The electrospinning process is one of the nanofibres, two-layer and multilayer composites with their participation obtaining methods. The low frequency plasma surface modification of needle-punched polyethilenthereftalat (PET) nonwoven fibres is good possibility to intensification the process and the rate of increase of the mass of nanolayer regarding to its’ hydrophobicity. The plasma physicochemical treatment type allows adhesion change and change of electro physical properties at the expense of new active centres formation that do not exist in the native fibre. In this study, different gases (Ar, O2 and air) and electrical conditions were employed. The surface changes of PET fibres were investigated by cation exchange capacity (CEC) determination and its influence on the mass nanofibres increase rate. Observation revealed the plasma treatment significantly change surface wettability of PET fibres. The effect of caused change on the electrospinning process is analysed.
Assessment of dynamic properties of a carriage using multibody simulation considering rigid and flexible tracks
Authors: Dižo J , Blatnický M
Published: October 2019

Recently, we cannot imagine investigation and analysing mechanical properties of railway vehicles without using state-of-art tools. They are implemented in whole process of design, analysing, verification, testing and optimising of railway vehicles. Such an approach saves time for development, production costs and finds application across whole spectrum of produced types of railway vehicles. In order that the approach based on simulation computations can reliably simulate the reality, a virtual model of a railway vehicle has to take into account as many factors as important. When we investigate behaviour of a railway vehicle in terms of dynamics, we used the multibody approach for creating its computational model. The goal of this article is evaluation of output quantities of a passenger car from the dynamics point of view. The main objective is assessment of selected values for rigid and flexible models of a track. There are evaluated quantities, which belong to main assessed outputs for investigation of dynamic properties of a passenger car. There are values of vertical forces in the wheel/rail contact as the indicator of dynamic load of a railway track as well as the bodies of a railway vehicle.
Features of tank car testing for dangerous cargoes transportation
Authors: Kelrykh M , Fomin O , Gerlici J , Prokopenko P , Kravchenko K , Lack T
Published: October 2019

The experience of the operation of rail transport shows that a significant part of emergency situations with significant negative environmental consequences are related to tank cars carrying liquid goods of a wide range, including liquefied gas, petroleum products, concentrated acids, toxic and explosive products of chemical origin. The article presents the peculiarities and result of carrying out of the corresponding tests. In order to address the question of the possibility of further safe operation of tank cars in the over-term period, their technical diagnostics and control tests are carried out. In this case, the control of the technical condition includes visual inspection of the tank wagon, measurements of the thickness of the metal at the control points of the boiler and the frame of the car, conducting of the magnetopowder, ultrasonic and acoustic emission control of the bearing metal constructions. Control tests include static vertical load tests, test for a low cyclic load by boiler pressure, typical, resource shock tests, and possible emergencies testing.
Price impact on acoustic comfort of a washing machine
Authors: Zvolensky P , Lestinsky L , Dungel J
Published: October 2019

The article is focused on price impact on acoustic comfort of a washing machine. In the article is comparison of various washing machines price maximum rpm and acoustic power. Next article is focused on experiments how unbalance in a washing machine tub affect maximum rpm and how maximum rpm affect overall noise of various washing machines.
Synthesis of cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) by combustion with different concentrations of glycine
Authors: Kaufmann Junior C G , Zampiva R Y S , Alves A K , Bergmann C P , Giorgini L
Published: October 2019

Among the wide range of applications of Cobalt Ferrite (CoFe2O4), its usage for the manufacturing of modern electronic devices such as solar panels, capacitors and batteries has been studied' lately. Hence, solar-powered vehicles, which strongly rely their performance on energy efficient electronics, is a sector that could particularly benefit from enhanced applications of such material. In this work, the synthesis of Cobalt Ferrite was studied by means of Solution Combustion Synthesis (SCS) using iron nitrate nonahydrate and cobalt nitrate hexahydrate as precursors, and glycine as fuel. The nitrates were dissolved in distilled water and placed under stirring and heating for 5 minutes; when the temperature reached 60°C, glycine was added; after complete homogenization, the solution was placed in an electric oven (400°C) until complete combustion (approximately 15 minutes). Three syntheses were carried out using different concentrations of fuel: lean, stoichiometric and rich. The product crystallite size and composition were investigated in order to determine the influence of the fuel concentration on the structure of the produced cobalt ferrite.
Piezoelectric PVDF sensor as a reliable device for strain/load monitoring of engineering structures
Authors: Fotouhi S , Akrami R , Ferreira-Green K , Naser G A M , Fotouhi M , Fragassa C
Published: October 2019

This study investigates the potential of PVDF (polyvinyldiene fluoride) piezoelectric polymer material as a strain/load sensor for engineering structures. The PVDF sensor can be made in any shape/size and are flexible. In addition, the PVDF sensor is passive and offers the advantage of requiring no power to function. PVDF sensors were bonded to an aluminum specimen representative of an engineering structure and the voltage output of the PVDF sensors was found to vary linearly with the applied tensile load. This paper evaluates the possibility to make develop cheap, reliable and efficient sensors for structural health monitoring of engineering structures.
Tokamak upgrade gears up for first plasma
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: October 2019

A £45m upgrade to the UK’s Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak (MAST) is nearing completion, with scientists hopeful that the first plasma will be injected into the tokamak by the end of the year.
Gender gap in science exams disappears for longer tests
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: October 2019

Females can sustain their performance for longer than males during maths and science exams, which can reduce the gender gap in results if tests are long enough.
To boldly go
Authors: Randall Ian
Published: October 2019

Journalist Peter Ward's new book The Consequential Frontier: Challenging the Privatization of Space looks at 'the potential for tyranny in space', from the early days of the space race to the present and beyond.
Technicians sue Brookhaven over carcinogenic cleanser use
Authors: Gwynne Peter
Published: October 2019

Two technicians are suing Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) and two manufacturers of cleaning products, saying that the substances damaged their health.
The Changing Epidemiology of Candidemia in the United States: Injection Drug Use as an Increasingly Common Risk Factor—Active Surveillance in Selected Sites, United States, 2014–2017
Authors: Zhang Alexia Y , Shrum Sarah , Williams Sabrina , Petnic Sarah , Nadle Joelle , Johnston Helen , Barter Devra , Vonbank Brittany , Bonner Lindsay , Hollick Rosemary , Marceaux Kaytlynn , Harrison Lee , Schaffner William , Tesini Brenda L , Farley Monica M , Pierce Rebecca A , Phipps Erin , Mody Rajal K , Chiller Tom M , Jackson Brendan R , Vallabhaneni Snigdha
Published: October 2019

Background

Injection drug use (IDU) is a known, but infrequent risk factor on candidemia; however, the opioid epidemic and increases in IDU may be changing the epidemiology of candidemia.

Methods

Active population-based surveillance for candidemia was conducted in selected US counties. Cases of candidemia were categorized as IDU cases if IDU was indicated in the medical records in the 12 months prior to the date of initial culture.

Results

During 2017, 1191 candidemia cases were identified in patients aged >12 years (incidence: 6.9 per 100 000 population); 128 (10.7%) had IDU history, and this proportion was especially high (34.6%) in patients with candidemia aged 19–44. Patients with candidemia and IDU history were younger than those without (median age, 35 vs 63 years; P < .001). Candidemia cases involving recent IDU were less likely to have typical risk factors including malignancy (7.0% vs 29.4%; relative risk [RR], 0.2 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .1–.5]), abdominal surgery (3.9% vs 17.5%; RR, 0.2 [95% CI, .09–.5]), and total parenteral nutrition (3.9% vs 22.5%; RR, 0.2 [95% CI, .07–.4]). Candidemia cases with IDU occurred more commonly in smokers (68.8% vs 18.5%; RR, 3.7 [95% CI, 3.1–4.4]), those with hepatitis C (54.7% vs 6.4%; RR, 8.5 [95% CI, 6.5–11.3]), and in people who were homeless (13.3% vs 0.8%; RR, 15.7 [95% CI, 7.1–34.5]).

Conclusions

Clinicians should consider injection drug use as a risk factor in patients with candidemia who lack typical candidemia risk factors, especially in those with who are 19–44 years of age and have community-associated candidemia.
Early Vaccination With Bacille Calmette-Guérin-Denmark or BCG-Japan Versus BCG-Russia to Healthy Newborns in Guinea-Bissau: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Schaltz-Buchholzer Frederik , Bjerregaard-Andersen Morten , Øland Christian Bjerregård , Golding Christian , Stjernholm Elise Brenno , Monteiro Ivan , Aaby Peter , Benn Christine Stabell
Published: October 2019

Background

Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination remains a cornerstone against tuberculosis. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that BCG-Denmark lowers all-cause mortality, but a recent RCT found no effect of BCG-Russia. Observational studies indicate that the genetically divergent BCG strains have different effects.

Methods

This was a parallel-group, open-label RCT conducted at the National Hospital in Guinea-Bissau. Healthy neonates were randomized 1:1 to BCG-Denmark (2851 randomized, 2840 analyzed) vs BCG-Russia (2845 randomized, 2837 analyzed). We hypothesized that BCG-Denmark would reduce morbidity (primary outcome) and mortality while inducing more BCG reactions and purified protein derivative (PPD) responses (secondary outcomes). Halfway through the trial, production of BCG-Denmark was halted, and the trial continued comparing BCG-Japan (3191 neonates randomized, 3184 analyzed) with BCG-Russia (3170 randomized, 3160 analyzed). Mortality and morbidity data were collected by telephone, at home visits, and at the National Hospital and assessed in Cox models providing 6-week mortality rate ratios (MRRs) and hospitalization incidence rate ratios (IRRs).

Results

By age 6 weeks, there were 140 and 130 admissions among neonates vaccinated with BCG-Denmark and BCG-Russia, respectively (IRR, 1.08 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .84–1.37]). For BCG-Japan, there were 185 admissions vs 161 admissions for BCG-Russia (IRR, 1.15 [95% CI, .93–1.43]). The 6-week mortality did not differ: BCG-Denmark/BCG-Russia (MRR, 1.15 [95% CI, .74–1.80]); BCG-Japan/BCG-Russia (MRR, 0.71 [95% CI, .43–1.19]). BCG-Denmark and BCG-Japan induced more BCG scars and PPD reactions than BCG-Russia.

Conclusions

BCG strains did not affect morbidity. BCG-Denmark and BCG-Japan were more immunogenic than BCG-Russia by the measures traditionally viewed as surrogates for successful immunization. The implications of strain differences for tuberculosis protection and overall health warrant further study.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT02447536.
Effect of alirocumab on cardiovascular outcomes after acute coronary syndromes according to age: an ODYSSEY OUTCOMES trial analysis
Authors: Sinnaeve Peter R , Schwartz Gregory G , Wojdyla Daniel M , Alings Marco , Bhatt Deepak L , Bittner Vera A , Chiang Chern-En , Correa Flores Roger M , Diaz Rafael , Dorobantu Maria , Goodman Shaun G , Jukema J Wouter , Kim Yong-Un , Pordy Robert , Roe Matthew T , Sy Rody G , Szarek Michael , White Harvey D , Zeiher Andreas M , Steg Ph Gabriel ,   for the ODYSSEY OUTCOMES Investigators
Published: October 2019

Aims

Lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduces cardiovascular risk irrespective of age, but the evidence is less strong for older patients.

Methods and results

This prespecified analysis from ODYSSEY OUTCOMES compared the effect of alirocumab vs. placebo in 18 924 patients with recent acute coronary syndrome (ACS) according to age. We examined the effect of assigned treatment on occurrence of the primary study outcome, a composite of coronary heart disease death, myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke, or unstable angina requiring hospitalization [major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE)] and all-cause death. Relative risk reductions were consistent for patients ≥65 vs. <65 years for MACE [hazard ratio (HR) 0.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–0.91 vs. 0.89, 0.80–1.00; P  interaction = 0.19] and all-cause death [HR 0.77, 0.62–0.95 vs. 0.94, 0.77–1.15; P  interaction = 0.46], and consistent for MACE when dichotomizing at age 75 years (HR 0.85, 0.64–1.13 in ≥75 vs. 0.85, 0.78–0.93 in <75, P  interaction = 0.19). When considering age as a continuous variable in regression models, advancing age increased risk of MACE, as well as the absolute reduction in MACE with alirocumab, with numbers-needed-to-treat for MACE at 3 years of 43 (25–186) at age 45 years, 26 (15–97) at age 75 years, and 12 (6–81) for those at age 85 years. Although adverse events were more frequent in older patients, there were no differences between alirocumab and placebo.

Conclusion

In patients with recent ACS, alirocumab improves outcomes irrespective of age. Increasing absolute benefit but not harm with advancing age suggests that LDL-C lowering is an important preventive intervention for older patients after ACS.
Extended latissimus dorsi chimeric thoracoplasty with a vascular supercharge for Aspergillus empyema
Authors: Shimomura Masanori , Sowa Yoshihiro , Yamochi Ryo , Inoue Masayoshi
Published: October 2019

The latissimus dorsi and serratus anterior muscles are available for reconstruction coverage of thoracic defects. We performed extended latissimus dorsi-serratus anterior chimeric thoraco-myoplasty with a vascular supercharge to maintain sufficient blood supply to the flaps because of a deficiency in the distal blood flow to the flap revealed by an intravenous injection of indocyanine green and simultaneous endobronchial embolization for refractory Aspergillus empyema.
Informing Lexicographic Choices Through Corpus and Perceptual Data
Authors: Nelson Kyra
Published: October 2019

Lexicographers make many choices when compiling dictionary entries. Data-driven approaches can better inform such decisions. This paper proposes integration of two such sources, corpus data and perceptual survey data. A survey was distributed to 100 native speakers of English. Participants were asked to provide a definition and example sentence for 18 polysemous English words. After providing definitions, participants were presented with five definitions and asked to rank them by importance. Patterns in the rankings were analyzed to see what factors predicted higher ratings. Frequency was found to predict rankings, while concreteness was also shown to be moderate a predictor and have a potentially strong effect on certain words. Part of speech was not found to be a significant predictor of rank. Results suggest that crowdsourcing may be useful for certain linguistic tasks and that both corpus and perceptual data can be useful in making lexicographic choices.
Growth Rate of Plasmodium falciparum: Analysis of Parasite Growth Data from Malaria Volunteer Infection Studies
Authors: Wockner Leesa F , Hoffmann Isabell , Webb Lachlan , Mordmüller Benjamin , Murphy Sean C , Kublin James G , O’Rourke Peter , McCarthy James S , Marquart Louise
Published: October 2019

Background

Growth rate of malaria parasites in the blood of infected subjects is an important measure of efficacy of drugs and vaccines.

Methods

We used log-linear and sine-wave models to estimate the parasite growth rate of the 3D7 strain of Plasmodium falciparum using data from 177 subjects from 14 induced blood stage malaria (IBSM) studies conducted at QIMR Berghofer. We estimated parasite multiplication rate per 48 hour (PMR48), PMR per life-cycle (PMRLC), and parasite life-cycle duration. We compared these parameters to those from studies conducted elsewhere with infections induced by IBSM (n=66), sporozoites via mosquito bite (n=336) or injection (n=51).

Results

The parasite growth rate of 3D7 in QIMR Berghofer studies was 0.75/day (95% CI: 0.73–0.77/day), PMR48 was 31.9 (95% CI: 28.7–35.4), PMRLC was 16.4 (95% CI: 15.1–17.8) and parasite life-cycle was 38.8 hour (95% CI: 38.3–39.2 hour). These parameters were similar to estimates from IBSM studies elsewhere (0.71/day, 95% CI: 0.67–0.75/day; PMR48 26.6, 95% CI: 22.2–31.8), but significantly higher (P < 0.001) than in sporozoite studies (0.47/day, 95% CI: 0.43–0.50/day; PMR48 8.6, 95% CI: 7.3–10.1).

Conclusion

Parasite growth rates were similar across different IBSM studies and higher than infections induced by sporozoite.
Development and Validation of an Analytical Method for Quantitation of Monobutylphthalate, a Metabolite of Di-n-Butylphthalate, in Rat Plasma, Amniotic Fluid, Fetuses and Pups by UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Silinski Melanie A Rehder , Fernando Reshan A , Robinson Veronica G , Waidyanatha Suramya
Published: October 2019

Phthalates have been used for decades as softening agents in the production of plastics, but in recent years have been extensively investigated for their potential hazards to human health and the environment. Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), with widespread exposure occurring through a variety of consumer products such as cosmetics and pesticides, is a suspected carcinogen and an endocrine system disruptor in both humans and laboratory animals. Its predominant metabolite is the monoester, monobutyl phthalate (MBP), which can serve as a marker of exposure. To support toxicological studies of DBP in pregnant and lactating rats and their offspring, a novel ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for quantitation of MBP in rat plasma, amniotic fluid, fetuses and whole pup samples. Plasma samples were extracted using a simple protein precipitation with acetonitrile. Extraction and delipidation of pup homogenate was performed using acetonitrile and then submerging the vials in liquid nitrogen. Extracts were analyzed by UPLC-MS/MS in the negative ion mode. The method was successfully validated over the concentration ranges 25–5,000 ng/mL in female Sprague Dawley (SD) rat plasma and 50–5,000 ng/g in SD pup homogenate. Matrix calibration curves were linear (r ≥ 0.99), and the percent relative error (%RE) values were ≤ ±15% for standards at all levels. Absolute recoveries were > 92% in both matrices. The limits of detection (LODs) were 6.9 ng/mL in plasma and 9.4 ng/g in pup homogenate. Acceptable intra- and interday accuracy and precision were demonstrated by mean %RE ≤ ±7.5 and relative standard deviation (%RSD) ≤ 10.1%. Extract stability was demonstrated for ~6 days at various temperatures and freeze–thaw stability was demonstrated after 3 cycles over 3 days. Secondary matrix evaluation was performed for MBP in amniotic fluid and pooled fetus homogenate (mean %RE ≤ ±11.5 and %RSD ≤ 13.7). These data demonstrate that this simple method is suitable for determination of MBP in plasma, amniotic fluid, fetus and pup samples from toxicological studies of DBP.
Demography of the salt marsh harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris halicoetes) and associated rodents in tidal and managed wetlands
Authors: Smith Katherine R , Barthman-Thompson Laureen M , Estrella Sarah K , Riley Melissa K , Trombley Sadie N , Rose Candice A , Kelt Douglas A
Published: October 2019

Suisun Marsh (Solano County, California) is the largest contiguous marsh remaining on the West Coast of the United States, and makes up approximately 10% of the wetlands remaining in the San Francisco Estuary. Suisun Marsh has been safeguarded from development through the operation of over 100 privately owned waterfowl hunting clubs, which manage for diked waterfowl habitat. However, this management—and the subsequent loss of tidal influence—has been considered harmful for some species, including the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse (SMHM; Reithrodontomys raviventris). To determine the value of tidal wetlands relative to those managed for waterfowl, we performed periodic surveys for rodents in managed and tidal wetlands over 5 years, and used capture-mark-recapture analyses to estimate demographic parameters and abundance for the three most common rodents—the northern SMHM (R. r. halicoetes), the western harvest mouse (a sympatric native species; R. megalotis, WHM), and the house mouse (a sympatric invasive species; Mus musculus). Wetland type had no effect on detection, temporary emigration, or survival for any of these species. However, fecundity and population growth for all three species were affected by an interaction of season and wetland type, although none of these parameters was consistently superior in either habitat type. Estimated abundance of SMHM and Mus was similar in both wetland types, whereas WHM were more abundant in managed wetlands. Salt marsh harvest mice also showed no affinity for any microhabitat characteristics associated with tidal wetlands. Managed wetlands in Suisun Marsh support SMHM and Mus equally, and abundances of WHM were greater than in tidal wetlands, suggesting managed wetlands may be superior in terms of supporting native rodents. As climate change and sea level rise are predicted to threaten coastal marshes, these results suggest the recovery strategy for SMHM could incorporate managed wetlands.
Multilevel regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress responses in plants: where old roads and new paths meet
Authors: Afrin Taiaba , Diwan Danish , Sahawneh Katrina , Pajerowska-Mukhtar Karolina
Published: October 2019

The sessile lifestyle of plants requires them to cope with a multitude of stresses in situ. In response to diverse environmental and intracellular cues, plant cells respond by massive reprogramming of transcription and translation of stress response regulators, many of which rely on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) processing. This increased protein synthesis could exceed the capacity of precise protein quality control, leading to the accumulation of unfolded and/or misfolded proteins that triggers the unfolded protein response (UPR). Such cellular stress responses are multilayered and executed in different cellular compartments. Here, we will discuss the three main branches of UPR signaling in diverse eukaryotic systems, and describe various levels of ER stress response regulation that encompass transcriptional gene regulation by master transcription factors, post-transcriptional activities including cytoplasmic splicing, translational control, and multiple post-translational events such as peptide modifications and cleavage. In addition, we will discuss the roles of plant ER stress sensors in abiotic and biotic stress responses and speculate on the future prospects of engineering these signaling events for heightened stress tolerance.
Acute and Chronic Carbon Monoxide Toxicity from Tobacco Smoking
Authors: Dorey Alyrene , Scheerlinck Pieter , Nguyen Hoanvu , Albertson Timothy
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced from incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons and is a by-product of tobacco smoking. Chronic cigarette smokers often have carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) concentrations as high as 10%. We report a case of severely elevated COHb and polycythemia because of tobacco smoking and provide a review of the literature regarding elevated COHb in smokers. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed and Google Scholar was performed looking for articles on tobacco smoking and CO, COHb, CO poisoning, cigarettes, pipes, cigars and water pipes/hookah smokers. Result: COHb levels in frequent cigarette smokers generally range from 4.2% presmoking to 8.6% postsmoking. A heavy cigarette smoker presented twice with symptoms of CO toxicity and was found to have levels 21.8 to 24.2%. Cigar smokers have been found to have COHb ranging as high as 13.0 to 38.6% in case reports. Waterpipe or “hookah” smokers generally have COHb levels 10.1% +/−2.5% and case reports, and series of even higher levels associated with CO toxicity symptoms are common. Waterpipe smokers have been found to have COHb levels as high as 39.2% after smoking. Conclusions: Many active duty military and military veterans are tobacco smokers and these patients and their health care providers should be aware of the adverse effects of CO toxicity from tobacco smoking. Patients may have symptoms such as headaches, syncope, and ataxia in the setting of acute CO toxicity; however, the chronic effects of CO may not be completely understood. Future work could explore chronic CO toxicity and its effects on strength and exercise tolerance in military personnel and provide education to service members, veterans, and health care providers.