bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phased-resolved partial discharge patterns of 10 kV stator coils under different experimental conditions
Authors: Kang Ailiang , Tian Muqin , Lin Lingyan , Song Jiancheng , Li Wei , Li Lu
Published: September 2020

The most five common types of partial discharge (PD) activities involving 10 kV motors, namely internal discharge, slot discharge, corona discharge, surface tracking and bar-to-bar discharge, were researched in this paper. PD was induced on some 10 kV coils with modern epoxy-mica insulation system through off-line experiment under different conditions. The phased-resolved partial discharge (PRPD) patterns of different types of PDs were recorded to characterize different PDs. This research can provide a reference in off-line fault diagnosis and be useful for the PD online monitoring of high voltage motors.
Reverse logistics network design considering customer convenience and low carbon emissions
Authors: Wang Bin , Hao Hao , Li Hehuang
Published: September 2020

Reverse logistics planning has to consider operating cost, environmental cost and customer service convenience. Muti-objective programming is applied to establish reverse logistics network planning model. The objective function is to minimize the operating costs of reverse logistics enterprises, minimize carbon dioxide emissions and maximize customer convenience. Decision variables include whether the nodes in reverse logistics network are set up or not, and the volume of logistics transportation between nodes in each stage. Constraints include meeting customer needs, flow balance among logistics nodes in each stage, capacity limitation of facilities, etc. The application of this research model can effectively improve the efficiency and sustainable competitiveness of reverse logistics enterprises.
Design and realization of metering production plan management system
Authors: Zhao Xingwang , Wang Rui , Wang Yijie , Wang Liang
Published: September 2020

The metrology verification center is currently developing towards intelligent, unmanned and highly reliable. For the problem of inaccurate demand reporting of electric power company, metrology verification center heavy manual planning and low efficiency, the metrology production plan management system is developed. Firstly, metrology equipment demand forecast model is constructed by integrating all kinds of metrology equipment installation history data and policy factors. It realizes the accurate prediction of the demand for metrology equipment of electric power company and supported the metrology verification center to arrange verification production and purchase new meters. Secondly, during the production planning process, intelligent auxiliary method is used. Applying demand forecast results, through analysis and quantification of many factors that affect the preparation of plans, generates arrival plans, verification plans and distribution plans that cover the metrology verification center all production business processes. It improves planning efficiency, shortens the planning cycle and achieves overall control of production rhythm.
A rapid measurement method and device for processing quality of screw conveyor in agriculture
Authors: Niu Kang , Yang Qizhi , Xing Qing , Pang Zaixi , Lv Chengxu , Zhou Liming , Xiong Shi , Li Jia
Published: September 2020

To improve the possessing quality of screw conveyor in agriculture, a rapid measurement method for possessing quality of the agricultural screw conveyor is proposed, and a rapid measurement device is developed. Measurement for processing quality of three main parameters is achieved, which are the shaft axial run-out, the screw blade axial run-out, and the screw blade pitch. The screw conveyor commonly used in the grain combine harvester was measured by the developed device. The test results show that: for the shaft axial run-out, the relative error is 1.47%, and the absolute error is 0.019 mm; for the screw blade axial run-out, the relative error is 2.31%, and the absolute error is 0.038 mm; for the screw blade pitch, the relative error is 1.89%, and the absolute error is 0.066 mm. It has a positive influence on the improvement of processing quality of agricultural screw conveyor.
A framework to quantify the inter-annual variation in near-surface air temperature due to change in precipitation in snow-free regions
Authors: Yin Dongqin , Roderick Michael L
Published: September 2020

A negative correlation between near-surface air temperature (T
a) and precipitation (P) has long been recognized over many land regions, but a predictive quantitative relationship has not yet been established. In this study, we examine inter-annual variations in T
a with P and investigate how the T
a-P relationship varies with aridity in regions without snow coverage. The wetness index is used as a measure of aridity (defined as the ratio of mean annual P to E
o, with E
o the net radiation expressed as an equivalent depth of water), with wetness index more (less) than 1.0 used to define the wet (dry) regions. Results show that variations in T
a are independent of P in wet environments, while in dry environments the variations in T
a with P increase with aridity. We use that relationship to establish a quantitative framework to a priori predict the T
a-P relation based on aridity. The results highlight the importance of inter-annual variations in P in changing T
a in dry environments, since it has similar magnitude with the decadal global warming signals over land.
Optimal feedback control in first-passage resetting
Authors: Lunz Davin
Published: September 2020

We study a diffusion process on a finite interval under the influence of a controllable drift where the particle resets to the left-hand side upon reaching the right-hand side. Assigning a pay-off for being nearer the right-hand side, but a penalty for reaching it, induces an inherent trade-off. We seek the drift feedback that maximises the long-term reward. By reducing the problem to a constrained variational problem we deduce that, for a wide class of problems, the optimal feedback law is remarkably straightforward: below a threshold state exert maximum drift; beyond the threshold exert minimum drift.
A thermodynamic uncertainty relation for a system with memory
Authors: Di Terlizzi Ivan , Baiesi Marco
Published: September 2020

We introduce an example of thermodynamic uncertainty relation (TUR) for systems modeled by a generalised Langevin dynamics with memory, determining the motion of a micro-bead driven in a complex fluid. Contrary to TURs typically discussed in the previous years, our observables and the entropy production rate are one-time variables. The bound to the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of such state-dependent observables can only in some cases be mapped to the entropy production rate. For example, this is true for steady states and for a subclass of Markovian systems. In fact, the presence of memory in the system complicates the thermodynamic interpretation of the uncertainty relation.
Analysis of NATM tunneling method using CYCLONE modeling and simulation tools
Authors: Nataadiningrat B B , Prabowo A W , Rasmawan I M A B , Putri A T , Abduh M , Wirahadikusumah R D
Published: September 2020

The NATM or New Austrian Tunneling Method became a popular method for tunneling in Indonesia recently, since at least two strategic and huge construction projects utilized it. It is considered as a new method introduced to the Indonesian construction industry and therefore it is interesting to be studied and anticipated for the implementation. This paper discusses modeling the operation of the NATM and then simulation of the model for finding the productivity, effectiveness, and problems that may come in the implementation. The CYCLONE modeling and three simulation tools, i.e., WebCYCLONE, COST, and Symphony.Net, were utilized for this purpose. Data used for durations of tasks associated with the method were gathered from previous work in the field of different projects and literature. The results of this analysis then compared to other similar analyses but for a different project. A comparison of those two analyses was used to identify the most important tasks that will determine the performance of the method with a safety-first requirement in mind. The sensitivity analysis identified secondary resources such as a concrete wet sprayer; the shotcrete team and the formwork team are considered sensitive to improve the performance of the NATM.
The use of Sabang mountain rocks and substitution of LDPE in the AC-WC mixture with dry method
Authors: Siswadi A , Saleh S M , Darma Y
Published: September 2020

The aggregate used in the flexible pavement in the city of Sabang must be brought from Aceh Besar Regency. This can affect the high operational cost and the insufficient use of local materials. In anticipation of this, the local mountain rocks used are variated with coconut shell ash as a filler and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic use as asphalt substitution. The method used in this study refers to the 2018 specification of Bina Marga (fourth revision of 2010 version). The research results showed that asphalt concrete wearing course (AC-WC), which filler varied with coconut shells (0% and 25% of the weight), meet all predefined parameters. In terms of AC-WC varied with coconut shell and LDPE, the best combination found in this result was 25% of coconut shell ash and 3% of LDPE. AC-WC varied with this best combination has a stability of 1,780.99 kg, the flow of 2.97 mm, VIM of 4.79%, VMA of 16.51%, and VFA of 70.97%.
Use of bamboo fiber on the relationship between compressive strength and split tensile strength of high strength concrete
Authors: Yusra A , Triwulan T , Safriani M , Ikhsan M
Published: September 2020

This study was to determine the influence of fiber bamboo on the split tensile strength of concrete and to know the relationship between compressive and tensile strength. In the concrete mixture, fibre bamboo is added with a percentage of 0%, 0.5%, 1% and 1.5% of cement. Concrete strength of the design is 60 MPa with w/cvalue of 0.25. The coarse aggregate used had a maximum diameter of 12 mm, while the plasticizer used was 2% of cement. Testing was carried out at 28 days. For 0% fiber bamboo, the obtained strength was 62.47 MPa and a split tensile strength was 4.15 MPa. For 0.5% fiber, the obtained strength was 59.83 MPa and a split tensile strength was 5.12 MPa. For 1% fiber, the obtained strength value was 59.07 MPa and a split tensile strength was 5.91 MPa. For 1.5% fiber, the obtained strength value was 54.92 MPa and a split tensile strength was 6.48 MPa. Using fiber bamboo of the test shows a decrease in compressive strength, where the use of 0.5% fiber bamboo in concrete was the most optimal value. The use of the highest-fiber bamboo content of 1.5% achieved the optimum value of split tensile strength of 6.48 MPa.
Slope stability analysis in The Babahrot-Blangkejeren road section sta. 13 + 885
Authors: Kurniawan  , Yunus Y , Saleh SM
Published: September 2020

The Babahrot - Blangkejeren road section located in Aceh Barat Daya Regency is one of the roads in Aceh Province that often experience landslides because of its location, especially on the Singgah Mata Mountain track, which is in hilly areas. Landslides often occur at STA 13 + 885 at the foot of Singgah Mata Mount. Access to this lane is used for economic, educational, and social activities from Gayo Lues Regency to Blang Pidie, Aceh Barat Daya Regency. The impact of landslides is the disconnection of Gayo Lues community access to Southwest Aceh and vice versa. Therefore, it is necessary to do a slope reinforcement study at the top of the road construction. The analysis used to find the safety factor (FK) was Bishop Slicing Method. For comparison, the safety factor was also analyzed by using an application program (Plaxis). The results of the analysis of slope stability in the initial conditions using manual methods (Bishop Slicing Method) and using the application program (Plaxis) show that the average safety factor against landslides is smaller than 1. Thus, it can be said that, in the existing conditions, the slope is unstable. So, it is necessary to do slope reinforcement to prevent landslides. Based on the results obtained after the improvements to the slope angle and the use of reinforcement slopes with cantilever retaining walls, the value of the safety factor for landslides increased from 0.810 to 1.620.
The reliability of fire protection system case study of Aceh Besar district regency office
Authors: Anwar F , Aulia T B , Afifuddin M
Published: September 2020

The Regency Office is a building where the central government is administered in an administrative area at the district level. According to the Pd-T-11-2005-C regulation on building fire safety inspections, in order to ensure the safety and comfort of the building, the value of building safety system reliability (VBSSR) should not be less than 80%. This study aims to evaluate the value of the reliability of the office building safety system and propose recommendations on the reliability conditions of the Building of Aceh Besar District Regency Office. This study uses qualitative methods through observation. Evaluation of the reliability of building safety systems and recommendations on building reliability conditions is carried out based on technical guidelines of the Pd-T-11-2005-C regulations. The objects of the observations are the completeness of the site, rescue devices, active protection systems, and passive protection systems. For data analysis, the researcher used the scoring analysis (weighting). The results showed that the reliability value of the safety system of the Building of Aceh Besar District Regency Office was 74.97%, and the reliability was at a sufficient level.
Analysis of flexural capacity in hybrid high strength reinforced concrete beams with additive, fine aggregate, and coarse aggregate substitutions
Authors: Hastuti D , Aulia T B , Muttaqin M
Published: September 2020

High-strength concrete is formed with a low water-cement ratio value, so it requires large amounts of cement, aggregate, and additives (silica fume) and admixture superplasticizer. Therefore it is necessary to do further research on the use of additional substitute materials. This study aims to analyze the flexural capacity of high-strength hybrid concrete beams using materials from Charcoal combustion fly ash, palm, pozzolanic sand, and hematite nanomaterials as additives and aggregate substitutions. In this study, 7 beams measuring 15 x 30 x 220 cm were tested for each additive variation and aggregate substitution of one specimen and one normal beam specimen. The test object is designed to experience flexural failure. The results showed that all beams failed flexibly as planned. The highest flexural capacity in reinforced concrete beams with additive variation of Charcoal fly ash and substitution of palm shell fine aggregate (BBMTHBB - KCS) is 257.707 KN or 14.217% higher than reinforced concrete beams without additive and substitution variations (BBMTH Normal) with a value of flexural capacity of 225.628 KN. It can be concluded that additive variation and aggregate substitution can increase the value of flexural and deflection capacity but are unable to add ductility values to high-strength hybrid concrete.
Optimization of water distribution for channel irrigation networks Krueng Baro Kiri scheme (Aceh-Indonesia)
Authors: Yanita I , Azmeri A , Fatimah E
Published: September 2020

The standard area of Krueng Baro irrigation scheme is 11.950 Ha, divided into Baro Kanan irrigation (8,920 Ha) and Baro Kiri irrigation (3.030 Ha). This irrigation focuses on increasing the productivity of food crops in Pidie District. Previous research reported that the distribution efficiency of the Baro Kiri primarychannel (74,1%) was smaller than the Baro Kanan (86,8%). The decreasing efficiency level of the channel results in a large number of unirrigated paddy fields that which in turn decrease the rice productivity. This study aimed to determine the optimum area of the rice fields that can be irrigated and examine the amount of discharge distributed to each channel by minimizing water loss. The method used was the optimization linear program. The optimization had the objective function of minimizing water loss. The land area was a decision variable, while the water loss in each channel and the water availability in each weir were the constraint function. The optimization results created an area of 2.810 Ha out of 3.030 Ha total area of rice fields in Krueng Baro Kiri by minimizing water loss in each channel based on the efficiency value of each channel. The rice field terrace that had highly reduced from the standard area in the Krueng Baro Kiri were the ones in the channel section of R4 and R5, 10 Ha of the standard rice field area. This occurred because these two channel sections (R4 and R5) had the smallest efficiency value of 47,26%, and 58,03%, respectively.
Effects of Gondorukem addition on AC-WC pavement containing reclaimed asphalt pavement
Authors: Putri EE , Kurniati T , Yosritzal Y , Putra A D E
Published: September 2020

Increasing the level of the road due to overlay, by adding additional layers continuously, will thicken the pavement layer and utilize the virgin materials. The dredged asphalt pavement materials can be reused, for example for new pavements, commonly called Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP). However, adding RAP on the new pavement result in a decrease in the physical properties of the pavement. Gondorukem is a sap that was chosen as an asphalt concrete additive ingredient that can absorb heat. The use of Gondorukem as additive was expected to increase the stability of the asphalt pavement. In this study, the Marshall characteristics of the mixture of asphalt concrete - wearing course (AC-WC) containing RAP and Gondorukem additives were tested. Asphalt concrete containing 35% of RAP and Gondorukem which content varied of 0%, 3%, 5%, 7%, and 10% was tested. The obtained stability value increased by 28.48%. The optimum Gondorukem addition into the asphalt was 3.2%; the optimum bitumen content was 6.45%.
Predicting of land logistics travel demand in Aceh Province Indonesia
Authors: Isya M , Fadhly N
Published: September 2020

In the process of planning a transportation system, it is important to predict transportation demand in the next few years. Predicting transportation demands for a wide area requires large resources including funding. Transport demand is usually done for the scope of the study area, such as formulating documents for the national transportation system, regional transportation system, local transportation system, and another similar one. One method of forecasting transportation demand is through transportation modeling. This paper is an analysis of land logistic transportation demand in Aceh Province Indonesia. Modeling is done based on data from the Origin-Destination survey of the movement of logistics in 2011, which has been calibrated to 2018. Finally, the prediction of the logistic movement is determined for land transportation mode in Aceh Province.
Slope stability analysis using Bishop and Finite Element Methods
Authors: Sungkar M , Munirwansyah M , Munirwan R P , Safrina D
Published: September 2020

Analysis of slope stability in this study aims to determine the safety factor (SF) of the landslide for the existing and the reinforcement condition. The study case was in STA 84+910 of national road Meulaboh-Geumpang, West Aceh Regency in Aceh Province. The condition of the Meulaboh-Geumpang road often causes landslides due to the topography of the area and is also triggered by rainfall. The analysis of safety factor for the existing condition was calculated by using the Bishop method that assumes a circular failure surface and the calculation was also validated by the finite element method using 2D Plaxis version 8.6 software. However, computation requires iterative procedures because of the nonlinear relationship for the safety factors. The result obtained from calculations using the Bishop method for the existing condition is 1.08, while by using Plaxis software, the result is 1.10, which means the slopes are in unstable conditions and need to be reinforced to prevent landslides. Alternative reinforcement was conducted by using sheet pile and calculations performed using 2D Plaxis version 8.6 software. Variations in the placement of sheet piles are at the upper and middle of the slope. The results obtained from the calculation of the safety factor after reinforcement are 1.57 (with a 12m sheet pile depth at the upper slope) and 1.48 (with a 10m sheet pile depth in the middle of the slope).
Coconut fiber strength test as a potential to prevent landslides on badlands
Authors: Suhendra M , Yunita H , Saleh S M
Published: September 2020

Landslide is one of the natural disasters that often occur on natural slopes. Landslides and erosion of slopes mostly happen during the rainy season, resulting in a decrease in soil shear strength. One method of reinforcing slopes is to use coconut fibers which have the features of fibers. Coconut fiber is not only relatively more economical but also can last a long time as a substitute for geosynthetics and even as a place for vegetation growth. The purpose of this study was to determine the tensile strength value of coconut fiber and to identify the shear strength of barren slopes and bush slopes on Takengon-Bintang-Blangkejeren Road, Bur Retak Area, Kampung Mendale, Central Aceh. The tensile strength testing of coconut fiber was carried out by taking into account the diameter size and the number of fibers. The tensile stress testing of coconut coir fibers was done by clamping both sides, with the diameter and the number of fibers varied. The results showed that the tensile strength (tr, MPa) of coconut coir fibers decreased with the increase in diameter and the number of the fibers. In the application, coconut coir fibers placed on a barren slope in one square meter area has the potential to produce additional shear strength.
Oversights in road planning leading to unsafe road features: a safety auditor’s perspective
Authors: Darma Y , Karim M R , Abdullah S
Published: September 2020

Road safety auditors are required to identify safety deficiencies that may lead to potential hazard on a road project. The available audit tools may only provide the prompt lists that should be followed. Auditors often become a design checker rather than an auditor. They may overlook the critical safety issues. The common oversights during road design have been identified. The experience in auditing a total of 24 road projects from 1998 to 2008 was referred and summarised. As a result, lack of or poor provision for vulnerable road users is the most common oversight done during the road designs.
Water management for hydrological restoration and fire prevention in tropical peatland
Authors: Sutikno S , Rinaldi R , Saputra E , Kusairi M , Saharjo B H , Putra E I
Published: September 2020

Water management is an important aspect of hydrological restoration and fire prevention in tropical peatland because the availability of water is not well distributed in the dry and rainy seasons. The degraded peatlands with massive canalization are very vulnerable against peat fire especially in the dry season. A pilot project for water management was conducted at Tanjung Leban, Bengkalis Regency, Riau Province with the purpose not only for hydrological restoration but also for fire prevention. In 2013, 2014, and 2015, the big peat fires occurred at Tanjung Leban and many peatland areas in Riau which caused a haze disaster. Peatland restoration and peat fire prevention efforts have been continuously undertaken by Peatland Restoration Agency and stakeholders at Tanjung Leban and many peatland areas in Riau. The rewetting, revegetation, and revitalization of livelihood were the integrated approaches that were carried out to support the peatland restoration. The aim of this research is to monitor the hydrological condition as the impact of rewetting activities using canal blocking at Tanjung Leban. Forty dip wells in four transects and an automatic rainfall record equipment were set up in the research area to monitor the groundwater level (GWL) and the rainfall event as the impact of rewetting activities. The result shows that the rewetting activity using canal blocking has a significant impact on the rewetting effort so that the risk of peat fire can be minimized. The historical evidence shows that the peatland restoration has been improving after the peatland areas were kept in always wet conditions.
Spatio-temporal shoreline changes analysis based on Landsat satellite images in Lahewa Beach of North Nias due to tectonics 2005
Authors: Fauzia A , Syamsidik S , Syahreza S
Published: September 2020

The issue of accretion and erosion is one of the most comprehensive challenges in coastal morphology area. North Nias Regency is one part of Nias Island, located in the Megathrust Zone, which unfolds on Indo-Australian and Eurasian Plate subduction zones having a potential to interfere with the coastal region. Therefore, in order to detect the morphological shoreline changes, a time-efficient method of remote sensing is required. The purpose of this research is to detect the horizontal deformation of shoreline in the coastal area of North Nias Regency. This study uses Landsat 5 (TM), Landsat 7 (ETM +) and Landsat 8 (OLI) data. Also, the satellite imagery is utilized which consists of multitemporal data of pre-seismic (2000, 2003, and 2006), co-seismic (2005 and 2006), and post-seismic (2006, 2011, 2018). Furthermore, mapping and DSAS (Digital Shoreline Analysis System) methods are used. Mapping is done by digitizing the shoreline changes that occur by using the Landsat tools. On the other hand, the DSAS analysis is used to calculate and classify the area of erosion and accretion along the coast. The transect is given various colors to distinguish the shoreline alteration differences. The results show that maximum (accretion) and minimum (erosion) EPR values earned in every period in respective order are: pre-seismic with 43.540 m/yr and-80.810 m/yr, co-seismic with 600.840 m/yr and -10.590 m/yr, and post-seismic with 3.420 m/yr and -47.020 m/yr.
Hospital fire safety improvement effort (study case Rumah Sakit Ibu dan Anak, Banda Aceh)
Authors: Wahyuni I , Ismail N , Izziah I
Published: September 2020

Rumah Sakit Ibu dan Anak (RSIA) Aceh Province is a public service agency that equipped well and also becomes a reference hospital. As a reference hospital, RSIA has many patients with a severe and critical condition which are difficult to be evacuated in a fire case. Therefore, the building of RSIA should have good fire safety to minimize risk for patients, hospital personnel, and equipment. The objective of this research is to appraise the safety building of RSIA with Fire Risk Index method. The appraisal was done for 23 hospital rooms by scoring 17 index parameters. Each parameter score then multiplied with respective weight and sum up to get a Fire Risk Index. Moreover, this research also assessed the hospital fire management with deep interview approach for several key persons. Next, the knowledge of hospital personnel and patients were also revealed with the questionnaire survey. The result found that RSIA has an intermediate level of building fire safety with an average index of 3.2. For fire management, it can be concluded that there is a system of fire management already available which is managed and commanded by Health and Safety unit. In addition, the equipment related to fire protection has been maintained regularly with support from the Disaster Mitigation Agency of Banda Aceh municipality. Related to the knowledge of hospital personnel, it revealed that some items need to be improved such as emergency code, the use of fire extinguisher, and emergency signal. For patients, the knowledge of using electrical equipment which has the potential to create fire should be improved. Lastly, patients also need to be informed about fire mitigation and evacuation.
Mechanical and wear behaviour of Friction stir processed surface composite through Self-Assembled Monolayer Technique
Authors: Butola Ravi , Singari Ranganath M , Murtaza Qasim
Published: September 2020

In the present research study, Friction stir processing (FSP) has been utilized to prepare nano surface composites, AA7075 based matrix was reinforced with B4C nanoparticles (size <30 nm). The aim of this study is to form a thin layer of B4C over the surface of AA7075 based matrix material through Self-Assembled Monolayer (SAM) technique followed by Friction stir processing. The major advantage of SAM is to minimize the quantity of B4C nanoparticles used in the preparation of nano surface composites. Additionally, this research also investigates the effect of tool rotation speed of Friction stir processing on mechanical and wear properties of processed nano surface composite. The results observed a uniform dispersion of nanoparticles in the processed nano surface composite and an improved value of microhardness with maximum value was found to be 185 Hv of the sample processed at 1200 rpm, compared to base metal. For the constant load, as FSP tool rotation speed increases, wear resistance increases from 1000 to 1200 rpm and decreases slightly for 1400 rpm. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) micrograph, tensile test and Field Emission Scanning-Electron Microscope (FESEM) fractography image used to study microstructure and the mechanical properties of processed nano surface composite. The x-ray Diffraction (XRD) showed the presence of B4C nanoparticles. Processed nano surface composites can be used for aircraft and automobile industry applications.
Perspectives on testing fundamental physics with highly charged ions in Penning traps
Authors: Blaum K , Eliseev S , Sturm S
Published: September 2020

In Penning traps electromagnetic forces are used to confine charged particles under well-controlled conditions for virtually unlimited time. Sensitive detection methods have been developed to allow observation of single stored ions. Various cooling methods can be employed to reduce the energy of the trapped particle to nearly at rest. In this review we summarize how highly charged ions (HCIs) offer unique possibilities for precision measurements in Penning traps. Precision atomic and nuclear masses as well as magnetic moments of bound electrons allow among others to determine fundamental constants like the mass of the electron or to perform stringent tests of fundamental interactions like bound-state quantum electrodynamics. Recent results and future perspectives in high-precision Penning-trap spectroscopy with HCIs will be discussed.
Formulation and evaluation of anti-MRSA nanoemulsion loaded with Achyrocline satureioides: a new sustainable strategy for the bovine mastitis
Authors: Machado Gabriela Tasso Pinheiro , Veleirinho Maria Beatriz , Honorato Luciana Aparecida , Kuhnen Shirley
Published: September 2020

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) causes mastitis in dairy cattle with serious economic and public health significance. This study developed nanoemulsions of Linum usitatissimun oil loaded with Achyrocline satureioides (macela) extract and investigated their in vitro antimicrobial activity against MRSA. Macela-nanoemulsions (NE-ML) were prepared using high-pressure homogenization (HPH) with different proportions of flaxseed oil, Tween 80 and crude extract. Four majoritarian flavonoids were identified in the macela extract: 3-O methylquercetin, achyrobichalcone, quercetin and luteolin (187.3 ± 0.1, 155.4 ± 11.6, 76.3 ± 0.1 and 30.4 ± 0.0 μg ml−1, respectively). NE-ML nanoemulsions were successfully obtained by the HPH method and showed a milky aspect with yellowish color. The mean particle size was around 200 nm with monodisperse distribution (PdI < 0.2), remaining stable for 160 days at room temperature. When analyzed on a LUMiSizer high-end dispersion analyzer, low values were found (≤0.5), indicating high stability index, mainly for NE-ML1:5 (0.2). The encapsulation efficiency of macela-nanoemulsions was greater than 94%, considering the four chemical compounds from extract. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against planktonic bacteria, inhibition of biofilm formation (MBIC), and eradication of MRSA biofilms (MBEC) were determined through in vitro tests on microplates. The MIC of NE-ML against planktonic MRSA showed values ranging from 1.2 to 10% (v/v), while blank-nanoemulsions (NE-B, without macela extract) showed values ranging from 6 to 50% (v/v). MBIC and MBEC of NE-ML were 25 and 80% (v/v), respectively. MBIC showed a mass reduction greater than 64%, and MBEC showed a mass reduction greater than 73%. Macela-nanoemulsions (NE-ML), mainly NE-ML1:5, showed high antimicrobial activity and appeared to represent a new alternative of sustainable antimicrobial product for the control of MRSA. Since this innovative nanoemulsion can impact animal health, future research should include in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate intramammary therapy and control of MRSA infections in organic and agroecological milk production systems.
Cellular and Transcriptional Adaptation of Bovine Granulosa Cells Under Ethanol-Induced Stress In Vitro
Authors: Sohel Md Mahmodul Hasan , Salman Mostafa Abdulkareem , Ayvaz Abdurrahman
Published: September 2020

Aims

Granulosa cells (GCs) are the major cellular component in a follicular microenvironment and play an indispensable role in ovarian function. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of ethanol exposure on the cellular and transcriptional changes of ovarian GCs.

Methods

For this purpose, bovine GCs were exposed to different concentrations of ethanol (0, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000) to mimic the effects of alcohol in in vitro. Subsequently, 100 and 1000 mM concentrations were discarded from further experiments, as 100 mM was not different from 50 mM, and 1000 mM was supertoxic to the cells.

Results

The results showed that there was a gradual loss of cell viability with the increase of the ethanol concentration, i.e. lowest viability was observed at the highest concentration (1000 mM), which is further supported by cell proliferation assay. Mitochondrial activity decreased significantly at higher concentrations. The expression of NRF2 decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in ethanol-exposed cells compared with the cells in the control group at the 6-h time point, whereas the expression was increased in 500 mM concentration at the 24-h time point. The expression of antioxidant genes, downstream to Nrf2-pathway activation, showed that overall expression pattern similar to NRF2.

Conclusion

The result of this study prompted us to postulate that ethanol exposure decreases the ability of GCs to handle stress by downregulating the expression of genes involved in Nrf2-pathway.
Evaluation of Genetic Damage in Persons Occupationally Exposed to Antineoplastic Drugs in Serbian Hospitals
Authors: Pajic Jelena , Rovcanin Branislav , Rakic Boban
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Although useful in the treatment of malignant cells, antineoplastic drugs (ANPDs) as chemical genotoxic agents, can interfere with normal cell physiology causing genetic damage and unfavourable health effects, especially in occupationally exposed persons. The Cytokinesis-block Micronucleus (CBMN) Cytome assay has been widely used in human biomonitoring studies as a reliable biomarker of chemical genotoxic exposure.

Objectives

Our comprehensive research was conducted in order to evaluate micronuclei as a marker for preventive medical screening purposes for persons occupationally exposed to ANPDs.

Methods

Using the CBMN Cytome test, peripheral blood lymphocytes of 201 control and 222 exposed subjects were screened for genetic damage.

Results

Age and gender influenced micronucleus (MN) frequency, but smoking habit did not. The mean micronuclei frequencies and other parameters of the CBMN Cytome test [numbers of binuclear lymphocytes with one (MN1) or two (MN2) micronuclei] were significantly higher in the group of exposed persons. Positive correlation between duration of occupational exposure and MN frequency was revealed.

Conclusions

The results of our study performed on a large sample confirmed the capacity of the CBMN Cytome assay to serve as a reliable biomarker of long-term ANPD exposure.
DoubleRecViz: a web-based tool for visualizing transcript–gene–species tree reconciliation
Authors: Kuitche Esaie , Qi Yanchun , Tahiri Nadia , Parmer Jack , Ouangraoua Aïda
Published: September 2020

Motivation

A phylogenetic tree reconciliation is a mapping of one phylogenetic tree onto another which represents the co-evolution of two sets of taxa (e.g. parasite–host co-evolution, gene–species co-evolution). The reconciliation framework was extended to allow modeling the co-evolution of three sets of taxa such as transcript–gene–species co-evolutions. Several web-based tools have been developed for the display and manipulation of phylogenetic trees and co-phylogenetic trees involving two trees, but there currently exists no tool for visualizing the joint reconciliation between three phylogenetic trees.

Results

Here, we present DoubleRecViz, a web-based tool for visualizing double reconciliations between phylogenetic trees at three levels: transcript, gene and species. DoubleRecViz extends the RecPhyloXML model—developed for gene–species tree reconciliation—to represent joint transcript–gene and gene–species tree reconciliations. It is implemented using the Dash library, which is a toolbox that provides dynamic visualization functionalities for web data visualization in Python.

Availability and implementation

DoubleRecViz is available through a web server at https://doublerecviz.cobius.usherbrooke.ca. The source code and information about installation procedures are also available at https://github.com/UdeS-CoBIUS/DoubleRecViz.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is Associated With Elevated Serum Immunoglobulin (Ig) A and Antiphospholipid IgA Antibodies
Authors: Hasan Ali Omar , Bomze David , Risch Lorenz , Brugger Silvio D , Paprotny Matthias , Weber Myriam , Thiel Sarah , Kern Lukas , Albrich Werner C , Kohler Philipp , Kahlert Christian R , Vernazza Pietro , Bühler Philipp K , Schüpbach Reto A , Gómez-Mejia Alejandro , Popa Alexandra M , Bergthaler Andreas , Penninger Josef M , Flatz Lukas
Published: September 2020

Background

Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) frequently entails complications that bear similarities to autoimmune diseases. To date, there are little data on possible immunoglobulin (Ig) A–mediated autoimmune responses. Here, we aim to determine whether COVID-19 is associated with a vigorous total IgA response and whether IgA antibodies are associated with complications of severe illness. Since thrombotic events are frequent in severe COVID-19 and resemble hypercoagulation of antiphospholipid syndrome, our approach focused on antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL).

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, clinical data and aPL from 64 patients with COVID-19 were compared from 3 independent tertiary hospitals (1 in Liechtenstein, 2 in Switzerland). Samples were collected from 9 April to 1 May 2020.

Results

Clinical records of 64 patients with COVID-19 were reviewed and divided into a cohort with mild illness (mCOVID; 41%), a discovery cohort with severe illness (sdCOVID; 22%) and a confirmation cohort with severe illness (scCOVID; 38%). Total IgA, IgG, and aPL were measured with clinical diagnostic kits. Severe illness was significantly associated with increased total IgA (sdCOVID, P = .01; scCOVID, P < .001), but not total IgG. Among aPL, both cohorts with severe illness significantly correlated with elevated anticardiolipin IgA (sdCOVID and scCOVID, P < .001), anticardiolipin IgM (sdCOVID, P = .003; scCOVID, P< .001), and anti–beta 2 glycoprotein-1 IgA (sdCOVID and scCOVID, P< .001). Systemic lupus erythematosus was excluded from all patients as a potential confounder.

Conclusions

Higher total IgA and IgA-aPL were consistently associated with severe illness. These novel data strongly suggest that a vigorous antiviral IgA response, possibly triggered in the bronchial mucosa, induces systemic autoimmunity.
‘Defying Gravity’: Prose Epic and Heroic Style in Lucrezia Marinella’s 1602Vita di Maria Vergine
Authors: Brazeau Bryan
Published: September 2020

This article examines Lucrezia Marinella’s literary-theoretical declaration at the beginning of the 1602 Vita di Maria Vergine by contextualizing her claims within contemporary debates on whether epic, particularly Christian epic, can be written in a style of high prose. It demonstrates that although Marinella seems to rely more heavily on Aristotle’s Rhetoric, her choices in writing this epic in a high prose style were greatly influenced by the Poetics and contemporary discussions surrounding the text (along with a misunderstanding of the text itself). The essay also contains (as an appendix) the first English-language translation of Marinella’s literary theoretical preface, ‘To the Readers’.
Prognostic validation of partition values for quantitative parameters to grade functional tricuspid regurgitation severity by conventional echocardiography
Authors: Muraru Denisa , Previtero Marco , Ochoa-Jimenez Roberto C , Guta Andrada C , Figliozzi Stefano , Gregori Dario , Bottigliengo Daniele , Parati Gianfranco , Badano Luigi P
Published: September 2020

Aims

Quantitative echocardiography parameters are seldom used to grade tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity due to relative paucity of validation studies and lack of prognostic data. To assess the relationship between TR severity and the composite endpoint of death and hospitalization for congestive heart failure (CHF); and to identify the threshold values of vena contracta width (VCavg), effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA), regurgitant volume (RegVol), and regurgitant fraction (RegFr) to define low, intermediate, and high-risk TR based on patients’ outcome data.

Methods and results

A cohort of 296 patients with at least mild TR underwent 2D, 3D, and Doppler echocardiography. We built statistical models (adjusted for age, NYHA class, left ventricular ejection fraction, and pulmonary artery systolic pressure) for VCavg, EROA, RegVol, and RegFr to study their relationships with the hazard of outcome. The tertiles of the derived hazard values defined the threshold values of the quantitative parameters for TR severity grading. During 47-month follow-up, 32 deaths and 72 CHF occurred. Event-free rate was 14%, 48%, and 93% in patients with severe, moderate, and mild TR, respectively. Severe TR was graded as VCavg > 6 mm, EROA > 0.30 cm2, RegVol > 30 mL, and RegF > 45%.

Conclusion

This outcome study demonstrates the prognostic value of quantitative parameters of TR severity and provides prognostically meaningful threshold values to grade TR severity in low, intermediate, and high risk.
Anomalous aortic origin of coronary arteries: is the unroofing procedure always appropriate?
Authors: Mostefa Kara Meriem , Fournier Emmanuelle , Cohen Sarah , Hascoet Sebastien , Van Aerschot Isabelle , Roussin Regine , El Zoghbi Joy , Belli Emre
Published: September 2020

OBJECTIVES

Anomalous aortic origin of the coronary artery (AAOCA) with an interarterial ± an intramural course is a rare anomaly that carries a high risk of ischaemic events and even sudden death. The unroofing of the intramural course has been adopted as the gold standard surgical treatment. However, some anatomical forms need alternative techniques.

METHODS

We reviewed the surgical cohort with AAOCA managed at our institution between 2005 and 2019 and analysed the anatomical and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients underwent surgical interventions. The median age was 14 years (10–26 years). Twenty-eight patients (72%) had right AAOCA, and 11 (28%) had left AAOCA. Thirty-one (80%) patients presented with symptoms. The symptoms were chest pain in 22 patients (56%), syncope in 5 patients (13%), cardiac arrest during exercise in 2 patients (5%), dyspnoea in 6 patients (15%) and dizziness in 13 patients (33%). An ischaemic test was performed in 32 patients: Only 4 patients (10%) had positive results from the ischaemic test. All patients had computed tomography angiography scans to confirm the precise anatomical features of the anomaly. Repair techniques included 30 unroofing procedures (77%) with an associated translocation of the pulmonary artery for 11 patients in our early experience. In 6 patients the unroofing procedure was not feasible because of the absence of an intramural distinct segment or was judged intraoperatively not appropriate. A reimplantation of the anomalous coronary artery was performed in 2 patients (5%); 3 patients had coronary artery bypass grafting procedures (7%); and 3 (8%) had an isolated translocation of the pulmonary artery. There were no early or late deaths. All patients were free of symptoms. Computed tomography angiography scans performed in 31 cases showed a patent, non-restrictive coronary artery ostium. Seventeen patients underwent postoperative ischaemia testing and showed no evidence of ischaemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical correction in AAOCA is mandatory both for symptomatic and for asymptomatic patients with evidence of myocardial ischaemia under stress or with a restricted coronary artery segment. Surgical unroofing remains the gold standard but is not appropriate for all forms: alternative techniques should be considered. Surgical results are promising.
Patterns of online health information seeking after visiting a physician: perceptions of adolescents from high schools in central Belgrade, Serbia
Authors: Gazibara Tatjana , Cakic Milica , Cakic Jelena , Grgurevic Anita , Pekmezovic Tatjana
Published: September 2020

Background

Browsing webpages that offer health information allows visitors to remain anonymous, particularly when researching sensitive topics. Uncertainty about confidentiality may be a barrier for adolescents to discuss their health in-person with a physician and seek further health information on the Internet after seeing a physician.

Objective

To explore factors contributing to perceived online health information seeking after visiting a physician in a sample of high school students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2016 to January 2017. The study included 702 high school students. Socio-demographic and behavioral questionnaire as well as the electronic health (e-health) literacy scale (eHEALS) were used to collect data. Students described their perceptions of what they commonly do after visiting a physician, which was not connected to a particular clinic at any point in time.

Results

A total of 347 students (49.4%) perceived that they search for online health information after visiting a physician. Attending humanities-languages school program, lower education level of parents, being older at first Internet use, stronger influence of online health information on students’ behaviour, better e-health literacy, use of smartphones, YouTube, social networks and heath forums were associated with perceived online health information seeking after visiting a physician.

Conclusion

One-half of high school students in this study perceived that they search for online health information after having visited a physician. Our results suggest that many adolescents might seek additional information about health.