bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geometric Modeling of a Propeller Turbine Runner Using ANSYS BladeGen, Meshing Using ANSYS TurboGrid and Fluid Dynamic Simulation Using ANSYS Fluent
Authors: Djodikusumo Indra , Diasta I. Nengah , Sanjaya Awaluddin Iwan
Published: June 2016

This paper aims to demonstrate how to model, mesh and simulate a hydraulic propeller turbine runner based on the geometrical specification of the runner blade. Modeling process is divided into preparation and implementation phase. Preparation phase illustrates how to develop stream surfaces and passages, how to create and transform meanline and how to create an rtzt file. The profile in rtzt file has a certain fix thickness which has to be altered later. Implementation phase describes operations necessary in creating a propeller runner model in ANSYS BladeGen which consist of importing rtzt file, modifying the trailing edge properties and altering profile thickness distribution to that of 4 digits NACA airfoil standard. Grid is generated in ANSYS TurboGrid utilizing ATM Optimized topology. CFD simulation is done using the ANSYS Fluent with pressure inlet and pressure outlet boundary conditions and k-ε turbulence model. Hydraulic efficiency of the runner is calculated utilizing Turbo Topology module in ANSYS Fluent. The authors will share the advantages that may be obtained by using ANSYS BladeGen compared with the use of general CAD Systems.
Development of a Methodology for Assessing the Energy Efficiency Performance on Turning Processes
Authors: Raharno Sri , Martawirya Yatna Yuwana , Wijaya Jeffry Aditya Cipta
Published: June 2016

This paper aimed to develop a methodology for assessing environmental friendliness of turning processes from energy consumption’s perspective. This methodology was limited on the process level study, which turning process was chosen as the assessed process. Recently, the green manufacturing has become a very important matter due to environmental impacts caused by manufacturing processes. Reducing the amounts of input energy or increasing efficiencies of production equipment’s can help to achieve the green manufacturing level, but it does not indicate the level of energy consumption. Therefore, a methodology is needed to determine how green a manufacturing process on energy consumption’s perspective. In this case, an energy indicator can be used to evaluate the energy usage performance. Based on the experimental data from several different machines, regression lines is constructed (using data envelopment analysis) as the efficiency reference values. According to the position of the energy efficiency from the assessed process to the efficiency reference values, it will determine whether the process has a high or low efficiency (as the assessment result). This methodology has tried to indicate the level of energy consumption, by comparing the result from energy indicator with the reference value. Energy indicator for material removing processes is commonly used to predict the total energy consumption for energy assessment without comparing the result to the reference value.
Affordable and Reliable Avionics Architecture Design for Advanced Regional Turboprop Aircraft
Authors: Indriyanto Toto , Hartalita Hedi
Published: June 2016

Integrated avionics architectures offer advantages such as higher flexibility, reliability, simplicity, future upgradeability and weight saving over previous federated designs. Successful implementations of integrated modular avionics (IMA) are onboard Boeing B777, B787, Airbus A380 and A350. These applications often result in development and maintenance cost not suitable for regional and general aviation aircraft. One popular approach to overcome this problem is by using integrated flight deck (IFD) supplied by avionics manufacturers such as Garmin or Honeywell. These manufacturers often optimize IFDs for applications in developed countries. For example, with the development and widespread use of satellite-based global positioning system (GPS) in the US, Canada and Europe, some terrestrial navigation equipment (e.g. ADF and DME) are no longer included in the standard IFD packages offered for commercial aviation. However, many areas in the rest of the world still use and rely largely on the availability of the ADF, DME, etc. Aircraft flying in these areas need to comply with the local requirements for terrestrial navigation systems already deployed. In this paper a study on the implementation of additional avionics equipment on Garmin G1000 for advanced regional turboprop aircraft is presented. G1000 is an integrated avionics system that integrates many electronic components including navigation, communication, course, attitude, display, etc. It has been widely used in all kinds of civil aviation aircraft. In order to conform to local and modern requirements, ADF receiver, DME transceiver, traffic alerting system and weather radar need to be integrated. Preliminary reliability analysis using fault tree method is performed for the designs to ascertain their safety as set out in the requirements for advanced regional turboprop aircraft.
Study of Active Compounds from Red Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. Rubra) Extract as a Green Corrosion Inhibitor for API 5L Grade X60 Steel in NaCl 3.5% Environment
Authors: Rustandi Andi , Barrinaya M. Akbar
Published: June 2016

Red cabbage extract has been investigated in this work whether it would perform as a green corrosion inhibitor for API 5L grade X60 steel in 3.5% NaCl environment. Based on the FTIR and LC-MS analysis the active compounds of corrosion inibitor were hydroxyl, carbonyl and cyanidin. The Tafel polarization test results showed that red cabbage extract performed as a mixed corrosion inhibitor and the Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy test results showed that the impedance, polarization resistance and capacitive resistance of steel surface increased with the addition of red cabbage corrosion inhibitor. Based on evaluation of the testing results red extract red cabbage performed significant corrosion inhibition effect. The inhibitor efficiency increases with increased corrosion inhibitor concentration and the optimum inhibitor percent efficiency achieved 81%. The adsorption mechanism of red cabbage corrosion inhibitor can be considered as a Langmuir Isotherm
Influence of CME-Diesel Blends on the Performance of a Light Duty Common Rail Direct Inject Engine
Authors: Mercado Jose Gabriel E. , Quiros Edwin N.
Published: June 2016

Coconut Methyl Ester (CME) is the main feedstock used for biodiesel in the Philippines, As of this year only 2% of CME is mandated to be blended in locally distributed fuel, but by 2016 the target is to increase the mandated biofuel blend to 5%. Given the mixed results about the effect of biofuels blends in engine perfomance by various studies it is imperative to further assess the impact of the target biodiesel blends. The effect CME Biodiesel blends in the performance of a light duty automotive common rail direct injection engine is determined in this study. Total of six fuel blends – B0 (Neat Diesel), B2 (2%CME, 98%B0), B5 (5% CME, 95%B0), B10 (10%CME, 90%B0), B15 (15%CME, 85%B0) and B20 (20%CME, 80% B0) were tested for performance at 100% load with varying speeds from 800 RPM to 2400 RPM at an interval of 400 RPM. At this typical engine speed range, no significant differences for biodiesel blends versus neat diesel were observed for torque.
Behavior of Tubular-Hat Structure Subjected to Low Velocity Impact Three-Point Bending
Authors: Ly Hung Anh , Le Hoai Nam
Published: June 2016

Crashworthiness is one of the most important criteria in vehicle market. A good crashworthiness avoids being injury for the passenger. There are many accidents happen every day, the most dangerous collision is in horizontal. It can make the passenger injured or died easily, because the distance from body frame to passenger in cabin is very narrow. Therefore, this study is conducted to explore the behavior of top – hat and double - hat structures subjected to three – point impact bending by using analytical and numerical methods. The length of flange is not effected to bending resistance with the same perimeter of top-hat structure. The mean force of double – hat section is higher than the top – hat so that the capability to absorb energy of double – hat structure is better.
Light Monorail Body Carriage Design
Authors: Subarmono  , Wibisono Muhammad Arif , Pujawira Tengku Iqbal
Published: June 2016

One of many solutions that can be applied to solve the transportation problems in Yogyakarta is by adding another mass transportation system which is eco friendly, ergonomic, and does not cause congestion and accident in the highway. There are several kinds of mass transportation that can be developed in Yogyakarta, such as monorail, tram, even commmuter line. But considered from the various advantages and disadvantages, the monorail is an additional mode of transport that is most suitable for Yogyakarta, because its railways are not become one with the road like a tram that may caused another negative impact.
The main orientation of this design is to make a monorail body carriage. In designing this monorail body carriage, the conditions of design follows the model and carriage capacity that applied by urbanout with the operating condition data including the size of the carriages, passenger capacity, speed of the train, and the wheel base distance. Aluminum alloy 6061 material is used in the design of the carriage frame. And then the forces working on the carriage is calculated. The magnitude of the forces working on the carriage must be able to be endured by the frame. Data from the design then simulated with static load simulation using Autodesk Inventor 2012 software.
From the analysis results will be seen whether the design of the carriage frame structure has been made safe. The size of the carriage is 8800mm x 2350mm x 3100mm for the front and rear car and 6700mm x 2350mm x 3100mm for the middle car. The results showed that the structure of the carriage from urbanout model with frame made of aluminum alloy 6061 is strong enough and suitable for use in light monorail vehicle. With the smallest safety factor by 4.56.
Effects of the Laser Head Distance and Cutting Speed of the Laser Cutting Machine in the Polymethyl Methacrylate Cutting Process
Authors: Delfian Prihadianto Braam , Nugroho Gesang
Published: June 2016

Laser cutting is a process used as an alternative of conventional machinery that works by directing the output of the laser power on the would be-cut material. Material exposed to the laser light is then melted, burned, and evaporated by the gas. Thus, this laser cutting process produces high-quality edge surface. The research aimed to determine the effects of the laser head distance and cutting speed to obtain minimum width of gap and the laser cutting process with the 3 mm-thick polymethyl methacrylate. This experiment used a 60 Watt-powered laser cutting machine to take the specimen in the form of a 30 mm-long horizontal line. The laser head distance ranged from 6 to 10 mm and cutting speed varied from 4 to 8 mm/s. A stereo zoom microscope with 30 times magnification was used to measure the gap. The research resulted in 0.582 to 0.931 mm as the value of the width gap in the cutting of 3 mm thick 60 Watts-powered polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). The laser head distance and cutting speed contributed to the gap width of the product. The increased cutting speed and gap distance resulted in the smaller gap width.
Error of Assembly Microcontroller Arduino Mega and ATmega in the Control of Temperature for Heating and Cooling System
Authors: Indriani Anizar , Hendra  , Witanto Y.
Published: June 2016

Microcontroller Arduino Mega and ATmega is a computer chip that needed and developed to control system or process. Microcontroller Arduino Mega and ATmega can be used to temperature control systems [1][2][3], the room lighting control, security control, the hazard warning [4], scheduling, monitoring water flow and dams actuator door and etc. Most studies on the microcontroller is focused on the functional capability of a microcontroller to read or measure the object. In addition to aspects of good function, microcontroller must have a high sensitivity in order to avoid delay or in-accuracies in the sensor reading measured object such as temperature. Microcontrollers has some advantages and disadvantages of the process accuracy depends on the processor and the ability microcontroller. In this paper focuses on the measurement errors that occur on microcontroller Arduino Mega and ATmega 8535 with a temperature sensor LM 35 and hygrometer digitizes dt05 for the application process cooling and heating sea water controls. The volume of sea water is measured is 3 to 35 litters with a temperature set point 28°C of lower temperatures above 25°C and 31°C. The results show that the maximum error obtained by using microcontroller Arduino Mega is 1,32°C or 13,2 mV and ATmega 8535 is 0,2°C or 2 mV. Also the microcontroller Arduino Mega is more suitable for control temperature measurement in the process of heating and cooling sea water.
Characterization of Commercial Automotive Brake Pad Materials
Authors: Surojo Eko , Raharjo Wijang Wisnu , Jamasri  , Utama Aditya
Published: June 2016

In automotive parts market, there are two classes of commercial brake pad that are original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket (Non-OEM spare part). In manufacturing of commercial brake pad materials, the difference of ingredient or concentration used is important because of differences in characteristics and cost. It is well known that the OEM brake pads are more expensive than the Non-OEM brake pads. In this study, the OEM and the Non-OEM of passenger car brake pad were evaluated in order to obtain a comparison of friction characteristics, composition, and microstructure between them. The OEM and the Non-OEM brake pad were purchased, cut out to form specimen, and then evaluated to obtain material characteristics. Specimens were subjected to friction testing using pin on disc machine and microstructure examinations. The results show that the OEM brake pad material has lower and more stable in coefficient of friction than the Non-OEM brake pad material. The OEM brake pad material also has more wear resistance than the Non-OEM brake pad material. Examinations using SEM/EDS show that the OEM brake pad material contains metallic fillers that are Cu and Fe, on the other hand, the Non-OEM brake pad material does not contain metallic filler. The Non-OEM brake pad material uses asbestos as reinforcement.
Design and Fabrication of Multi-Layered Microfilter by Electropolishing Technique
Authors: Setyawan Martin Andre , Sriani Tutik , Prihandana Gunawan Setia
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we present electropolishing method to fabricate a thin-structural layer of microfilter which is used for filtering blood in hemodialysis system. The electropolishing method removes material based on electrolysis process, in which material removal is done through electrical current which trigger material removal by chemical reactions. The preliminary experiment shows that the SS 316L structural layer was able to be fabricated in less than 7 minutes, under machining parameter of 7 V of DC voltage, 2 cm gap between tool electrode and workpiece, and utilizing 15% of NaCl in pure water. This promising result has indicated that electropolishing could further be used as a method to make thin-structural layer of microfilter for hemodialysis system.
Effect of Shot Peening Pressure Variation on Surface Characteristic of SS-316L Dynamic Compression Plate (DCP)
Authors: Saputra Yoga Rendra , Prihandoko Panji , Sunardi  , Sriani Tutik , Prihandana Gunawan Setia
Published: June 2016

Dynamic Compression Plate (DCP) is a plate made of biomaterials like stainless steel 316L (SS-316L) or titanium, which is used for joining fractured/broken bones for fast recovery. Due to its excellent properties on corrosion, toughness, and hardness; SS-316L is widely used for medical application. Despite its excellent properties, the surface of SS-316L commonly degraded after machining. Therefore, the surface of SS-316L needs to be treated before further use. Shot peening is one of the methods to increase the surface hardness and roughness of material. This research aims to investigate the effect of shot peening to the surface of DCP made of SS-316L from its microstructures, surface roughness, and hardness. In this research, the DCP is designed for joining arms, which are upper-arm (humerus) and forearm (radius and ulna). First we machined the DCP to have holes and bend the plate to match the user bone structure. The DCP is 105 mm × 12 mm × 4 mm in dimension and has 6 holes, 5 mm diameter each, with holes aligned to the plate. After machining, the surface is modified by shot peening using following properties: steel ball (0.4 mm in diameter and hardness 250 HV), 100 mm nozzle-to-plate distance, and shot for 10 minutes. Our parameters are variations in pressure, ranging from 4 to 6 bar. The microstructure of the treated surface was analyzed after shot peening. The result shows that the shot peening treatment of SS-316L has increases its surface hardness and roughness with significant change on its microstructure, which makes a better surface characteristics for DCP.
Effect of Time Variation on Shot Peening Process to the Surface Properties of SS-316L Osteosynthesis Plate
Authors: Prihandoko Panji , Saputra Y.R. , Sriani Tutik , Sunardi  , Prihandana Gunawan Setia
Published: June 2016

Shot-peening is one of the surface modification methods to increase material hardness and smoothen its surface at the same time. SS-316L, one type of biocompatible material, is commonly used in medical field particularly for joining fractured bones. However, the surface-crack-prone characteristic of SS-316L has limited its application to be used for such application. In this research, steel balls with diameter 0.4 mm is subjected to the surface of SS-316L Osteosynthesis Plate with variation of time; 9, 10, 11 and 12 minutes holding at constant pressure of 6 bar. The nozzle-to-plate distance is fixed at 100 mm. The impact of the shot balls is a deformed surface and produces a flat-like structure on osteosynthesis plate shot in 12 minutes time. The result shows that shot peening of SS 316L gives its best microstructure after 12 minutes of treatment.
3D Reconstruction and Stress Analysis of the Free End Second Premolar Root Form Dental Implant
Authors: Wicaksono Satrio , Ferdian Peter Lukito , Dirgantara Tatacipta , Mahyuddin Andi Isra , Mihradi Sandro , Subrata Gantini
Published: June 2016

Stress distributions that occur in the free end second premolar tooth and its root form dental implant replacement were evaluated using finite element method. In the modelling process, 3D reconstructions were performed. Instead of doing it manually, the 3D reconstruction in this paper was done using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanning process. The 3D reconstruction method used in this paper, is considerably faster than the traditional manual 3D reconstruction method. In order to mimic the actual biting force, static load of 200 N was modelled in the vertical direction parallel to the long axis of the tooth which is placed on bite contact at second premolars and dental implant crown. The stress result on root form dental implant is generally higher than the stress on the natural free end second premolar tooth. The stress concentration locations on root form dental implant were also found and will be used in the future to improve the design of root form dental implant.
Fabrication of Hydroxyapatite Disc as Filtration Membrane in Waste Water Treatment System
Authors: Hariyanto Satriawan Dini , Sriani Tutik , Prihandana Gunawan Setia
Published: June 2016

Due to the increase of industrial activities both at local and national level, the quality of water in Indonesia is significantly degraded by time. Heavy metal wastes from industrial activities have become serious contaminants in the water. The contamination dangers human’s health since most people living near the river-bank still use the water to fulfill their daily needs. In this paper, we present the fabrication of Hydroxyapatite (HA) disc as a filtration medium in waste water treatment system. HA is one of biomaterial which can be derived from animal’s bone and is capable to absorb dangerous heavy-metal contaminants such as lead (Pb) in the water. Our produced HA was made by extracting cortical bovine bones into cortical bone HA powder. The cortical bovine bones were processed using physical method by heating the bones at 900oC to gained powder then followed by forming green bodies and sintering at 1000oC and 1400oC. Those powders were then pressed into a disc form and will be used as filtration media in HA modular purifier. SEM/EDX results show the disk surface has interconnected micropores and Ca/P ratio value on sintered HA disc at 1000oC and 1400oC are 2.20 and 1.85, respectively.
A Preliminary Study: Influence of Alkali Treatment on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Agel Leaf Fiber (Corypha gebanga)
Authors: Hestiawan Hendri , Jamasri  , Kusmono
Published: June 2016

The aim of this research is to investigate the alkali treatment influence on tensile strength physical and mechanical properties of agel leaf fibers (ALF). The presence of surface impurities and the large amount of hydroxyl groups make plant fibers less attractive for polymeric materials reinforcement. ALF were subjected to alkali treatments with 2 and 4% NaOH solutions for different soaking times of 1, 12, and 24 hours at room temperature. The tensile test of single fiber was done according to ASTM D3379-75 standard. The chemical changes and the fiber surface after alkali treatment were investigated by using Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Tensile tests showed the alkali treatment of ALF results in different tensile strength compared to untreated ALF. The highest tensile strength (1464 MPa) is found for ALF immersed in 4% NaOH for 1 hour. FTIR showed that the hemicellulose and lignin components in the ALF are removed by NaOH treatment. SEM observation of the treated ALF showed the removal of impurities and the increase of roughness on the ALF surface with alkalization. These results show that alkali treatment can increase the tensile strength of ALF.
Effect of Fiber Size on Mechanical and Water Absorption Properties of Recycled Polypropylene/Empty Fruit Bunches (rPP/EFB) Bio-Composites
Authors: Saputra Ozi Adi , Rinawati Ludfiaastu , Setia Rini Kartika , Saputra Dheo Adha , Pramono Edi
Published: June 2016

The influence of fiber size on mechanical and water absorption properties of recycled Polypropylene/Palm Empty Fruit Bunch (namely, rPP/EFB) bio-composites has been conducted study. rPP/EFB bio-composite was a compounding of recycled polypropylene (rPP) and palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) with different sizes, i.e. particle size (150 mesh sieve escaped, referred as p-EFB) and short fiber (s-EFB). Manufacturing of the bio-composites was prepared by the solution method in boiling xylene via reactively process using benzoyl peroxide as an initiator. The addition of coupling agent, such as maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MAH) was improve the chemical interaction between the rPP and EFB which evidenced by the shift of the wave number of raw materials on infra-red spectra of rPP/EFB bio-composite. Mechanical properties test showed that s-EFB was increase the tensile strength value up to 95% compare to rPP, higher than the p-EFB which is 56% compare to rPP. However, the elongation percentage of the bio-composites contain s-EFB was lower than the bio-composites contain p-EFB. Water absorption analysis also performed in this study to determine the biodegradability of bio-composites. In this study, fiber size gives a considerable influence on the mechanical properties of rPP/EFB bio-composites, however not significant on water absorption properties.
Modeling, Design, Fabrication, and Characterization of Ultra-High Bandwidth 3-D Glass Photonic Substrates
Authors: Chou Bruce , Vis William , Furuya Ryuta , Sundaram Venky , Tummala Rao
Published: June 2016

This article presents the modeling, design, fabrication, and characterization of ultra-low loss 3-D optical waveguides integrated on a glass photonic substrate. A novel, single-step process was developed using moving-mask lithography to fabricate a single-mode optical waveguide with a built-in turning mirror capable of achieving 40° or 45° turns for vertical grating couplers or photodetectors, respectively. Planar alignment of the waveguide to fiber interfaces enable passive alignment of the fibers, contributing to system cost reduction. An optical path with 0.81 dB loss from fiber to die was obtained from optical modeling, while the fabrication of single-mode waveguides with built-in total internal reflecting mirrors at <0.2 μm uniformity and <1° angular control was demonstrated.
Motivation for studying medicine: assessing the similarities between UK and Ghanaian medical students
Authors: Clayton Benjamin
Published: June 2016

Countries around the world experience challenges in ensuring equal distribution of health workers. For countries faced with this problem, there are many benefits to international co-operation. Before this can occur, however, there needs to be an understanding of the homogeneity of medical students between countries. This paper assesses the similarities in motivation to study medicine between medical students from the United Kingdom (UK) and Ghana. A survey previously performed on fourth-year Ghanaian students was reproduced with medical students in the UK. Students were asked to record their motivation for studying medicine, opinions on future career [general practice (GP) for UK students and a rural position for Ghanaian students] and basic demographics. The results were compared between the two cohorts using Fisher’s exact test. Of medical students, 302 from Ghana and 78 from UK completed the survey. Of students, 63.5 and 75.0% were classified as intrinsically motivated in Ghana and the UK, respectively. Apart from parental education status, student demographics were broadly similar. Within the UK cohort, 30.1% of students considered it likely that they would work in GP in their future careers. Medical students are similarly motivated between the two countries. This suggests that greater co-operation may be possible when tackling difficulties in human resources for health. This is especially relevant for the UK, as the level of students predicting a career in GP in this study remains well below the national target.
Being a victim of medical error in Brazil: an (un)real dilemma
Authors: Mendonça Vitor Silva , Custódio Eda Marconi
Published: June 2016

Medical error stems from inadequate professional conduct that is capable of producing harm to life or exacerbating the health of another, whether through act or omission. This situation has become increasingly common in Brazil and worldwide. In this study, the aim was to understand what being the victim of medical error is like and to investigate the circumstances imposed on this condition of victims in Brazil. A semi-structured interview was conducted with twelve people who had gone through situations of medical error in their lives, creating a space for narratives of their experiences and deep reflection on the phenomenon. The concept of medical error has a negative connotation, often being associated with the incompetence of a medical professional. Medical error in Brazil is demonstrated by low-quality professional performance and represents the current reality of the country because of the common lack of respect and consideration for patients. Victims often remark on their loss of identity, as their social functions have been interrupted and they do not expect to regain such. It was found, however, little assumption of error in the involved doctors’ discourses and attitudes, which felt a need to judge the medical conduct in an attempt to assert their rights. Medical error in Brazil presents a punitive character and is little discussed in medical and scientific circles. The stigma of medical error is closely connected to the value and cultural judgments of the country, making it difficult to accept, both by victims and professionals.
Mood changes after indoor tanning among college women: associations with psychiatric/addictive symptoms
Authors: Heckman Carolyn , Darlow Susan , Cohen-Filipic Jessye , Kloss Jacqueline
Published: June 2016

Indoor tanning (IT) has been linked with psychiatric and addictive symptoms, and frequent tanning may indicate tanning dependence (addiction). The current study evaluated the effects of an IT episode on mood states and the association of these effects with psychiatric and addictive symptoms among young adult female indoor tanners. One-hundred thirty-nine female university students aged 18-25 years who had indoor tanned completed an online survey including the Positive and Negative Affects Scales and a standardized psychiatric interview (the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview) via telephone. Psychiatric and addictive symptoms were relatively common among these young adult female indoor tanners. Overall, participants reported significant decreases in both negative (upset, scared, irritable, nervous, jittery, afraid) and positive (feeling interested) mood states after their most recent tanning episode. Multivariable linear regression analyses showed that more frequent indoor tanning in the past month and symptoms of illicit drug use disorders were associated with decreases in negative mood, and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder were associated with a decrease in feeling interested. In summary, indoor tanners report relatively high rates of psychiatric and substance use symptoms, including symptoms of tanning dependence, and indoor tanning appears to alter mood. Women with certain substance use and psychiatric characteristics may be more vulnerable to such mood changes after tanning indoors. Further research is needed to clarify the relationships among these variables.
Red cell distribution width and chronic heart failure: prognostic role beyond echocardiographic parameters
Authors: Vizzardi Enrico , Sciatti Edoardo , Bonadei Ivano , Pezzali Natalia L. , Lombardi Carlo M. , Metra Marco
Published: June 2016

Aim. Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a measure of anisocytosis. Higher values are robustly associated to adverse outcome in several conditions, including chronic heart failure (HF). The present study aimed to compared its prognostic role with that of echocardiographic parameters in this kind of patients.Â Methods. 232 stable and optimally treated chronic HF patients were enrolled. We excluded subjects suffering from valvular diseases or atrial fibrillation. They underwent blood sampling and echocardiographic examination. The primary endpoint of the study was cardiovascular death and/or HF hospitalization in the first year after enrolment.Â Results. 49 patients reached the primary endpoint. RDW best cut-off at ROC curve was 14.45%. Univariate analysis associated mitral regurgitation grade, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), posterior wall thickness (PWT), LV mass index, and RDW>14.45% to the primary endpoint. Multivariate regression analysis showed that LVEF, PWT, and RDW>14.45% predict the primary endpoint. Area under ROC curve was 0.808 for LVEF, 0.762 for NYHA class, and 0.761 for RDW.Â Conclusion. In chronic HF patients RDW is a better predictor of adverse outcome than several echocardiographic parameters associated to outcome itself (LV mass index, mitral regurgitation grade), predicts prognosis even adjusting for those parameters, age and NYHA class, and is associated to several echocardiographic measurements. In conclusion, RDW can expand our tool bag in order to better follow-up these patients.
Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation in patiens with heart failure and chronic pulmonary disease
Authors: Temporelli Pier Luigi
Published: June 2016

The epidemiology of chronic heart failure (CHF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are well known. Each of these conditions has an important impact on quality of life and functional status and on healthcare consumption. Through shared risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms CHF and COPD coexist more frequently than expected from the respective populations observed by the pulmonologist or cardiologist. This has important prognostic and therapeutic implications. Several registry-based studies and post-hoc analyses of large randomized controlled trials evaluating COPD as a comorbidity in CHF outpatients have highlighted the negative prognostic impact of the comorbidity in terms of constraint in use of recommended treatments. Among them, the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation may play a significant role. Even in these patients, in fact, a rehabilitative approach focused on physical training programs can positively impact functional autonomy, exercise tolerance and quality of life.RiassuntoAttraverso i fattori di rischio condivisi e simili meccanismi fisiopatologici scompenso cardiaco cronico (SCC) e malattia ostruttiva cronica polmonare (BPCO) coesistono piÃ¹ frequentemente di quanto previsto dalle rispettive popolazioni osservate rispettivamente dallo pneumologo o dal cardiologo. CiÃ² ha importanti implicazioni prognostiche e terapeutiche. Diversi studi basati su registri e analisi post-hoc di ampi studi randomizzati controllati che hanno valutato la BPCO come comorbiditÃ  in pazienti con SCC hanno messo in evidenza l'impatto prognostico negativo della comorbilitÃ  in termini soprattutto di limitazioni allâ€™utilizzo di trattamenti raccomandati. Tra questi un ruolo non trascurabile spetta alla riabilitazione. Anche in questi pazienti infatti un approccio riabilitativo incentrato su programmi di training fisico puÃ² impattare favorevolmente sulla autonomia funzionale, sulla tolleranza allo sforzo e sulla qualitÃ  della vita.
Incidental finding of bronchial diverticula in a non-smoker population: evaluation on thin-section CT
Authors: Ciccarese Federica , Garzillo Giorgio , Chiesa Anna Maria , Poerio Antonio , Baroncini Serena , Bacchi Reggiano Maria Letizia , Sverzellati Nicola , Zompatori Maurizio
Published: June 2016

Bronchial diverticula have been described as a common radiological finding in smoker patients with COPD, but the specificity of this sign should be further investigated. Thus, the aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of diverticula in a cohort of non-smoker subjects. Between February and July 2012, 2438 patients were admitted to our Radiology Unit to undergo a chest CT. Among them, we enrolled 121 non-smoking patients (78/121-64.5% females, 43/121-35.5% males), of different age (57.0Â±20.7 years-range: 12-88), without any respiratory symptoms, submitted to chest CT for several reasons (oncologic evaluation: 59/121-48.8%; follow up of lung nodules: 27/121-22.3%; screening in connectivitis: 12/121-9.9%; others: 23/121-19.0%). We considered thin-section CT scan on axial, coronal and sagittal plans to evaluate prevalence, numbers and level of bronchial diverticula. Diverticula were found in 41/121-33.9% patients, with a slight major prevalence in males (p=0.048), but no significant difference on age. In 31/41-75.6% the number was <3, whereof 17/31-54.8% with just one diverticulum assessed. Regarding the level, in 30/41-73.2% they were subcarinal, but they were also detected in mainstem (2/41-4.9%) and lobar bronchi (with the right upper lobe bronchus most frequently involved- 12/41-29.3%). Bronchial diverticula can be observed in non-smokers, as well as in smoker patients with COPD. However, their prevalence seems to be lower than in smokers and they tend to be isolated and subcarinal. The age of patients does not influence their finding. More studies should be proposed to better define a cut-off between smokers and healthy subjects.
Delayed functional improvement after near-fatal bleeding complication following endobronchial valve therapy for emphysema
Authors: Baldi Sergio , Coni Francesco , Limerutti Giorgio , Baccega Massimo , Ruffini Enrico , Solidoro Paolo
Published: June 2016

Endoscopic treatment of emphysema is supported by different methods, including valves, coils and sealants. The mechanism is mainly related to volume reduction of targeted area. Endobronchial valves (EBV) appear the most studied method. In a multicentre randomised study, placement of unidirectional endobronchial valves resulted in a statistically significant functional improvement in the treated cohort compared to the control. Adverse events, occurring post procedure, included COPD exacerbations, haemoptysis, pneumothorax and pneumonia. In our centre we treated 30 patients, between January 2009 and February 2012, with variable improvement of lung function and only mild postoperative complications. The case we report here appears very interesting for the unusual near-fatal complication (massive alveolar haemorrage) followed by delayed strong functional improvement (FEV1 +23%; RV -18%; 6MWD:+33%) six months after the valve placement. This improvement could be attributable to the EBV procedure, but an alternative explanation is that the lung volume reduction may have been enhanced by the complication itself, as an effect of alveolar collapse.
Cholesterol: until which age 'the lower the better'?
Authors: Marchionni NiccolÃ² , Orso Francesco
Published: June 2016

In the elderly and particularly in the very elderly the prognostic role of hypercholesterolemia is uncertain and there are conflicting data from the literature. In some studies, the relation between high levels of cholesterol and cardiovascular events, strongly demonstrated for younger subjects, has been confirmed also in the elderly, conversely in other studies a relation between low cholesterol levels and higher mortality risk has been described, particularly in the very elderly. Furthermore, uncertainties regarding hypercholesterolemia treatment have been raised both in secondary and particularly in the primary prevention setting, because elderly subjects and particularly the very elderly have been excluded from randomized clinical trials. In this article the prognostic role of hypercholerlemia and its reduction in the elderly patients both in primary and secondary prevention settings are assessed. Â RiassuntoNella popolazione anziana e soprattutto in quella molto anziana il ruolo prognostico dellâ€™ipercolesterolemia non Ã¨ cosÃ¬ chiaro e i dati della letteratura sono contraddittori. Se infatti in alcuni studi Ã¨ stata confermata lâ€™associazione con eventi cardiovascolari, ampiamente descritta per soggetti piÃ¹ giovani, altri studi hanno messo in evidenza, soprattutto per i soggetti piÃ¹ anziani, unâ€™associazione fra bassi livelli di colesterolo e mortalitÃ . Vi sono anche incertezze relative allâ€™effetto prognostico del trattamento dellâ€™ipercolesterolemia sia in prevenzione secondaria che, soprattutto in prevenzione primaria poichÃ© pazienti anziani e molto anziani sono stati frequentemente esclusi dai trial clinici. In questo articolo vengono quindi discusse le evidenze sul ruolo prognostico dellâ€™ipercolesterolemia e sullâ€™effetto prognostico della sua riduzione sia in ambito di prevenzione primaria che secondaria nel paziente anziano e molto anziano.
Non Activated Protein C Supplementation in Septic Pediatric Hematological Patients
Authors: Perillo Teresa , Muggeo Paola , Arcamone Giampaolo , De Leonardis Francesco , Santoro Nicola
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the study was to examine safety and efficacy of non-activated Protein C (PC) supplementation in our cohort of septic pediatric hematological patients. We conducted a retrospective study of 22 septic patients receiving human plasma-derived PC concentrate from 2008 to 2015 at our Pediatric Oncology Center (Bari, Italy). The Surviving sepsis campaign definitions for sepsis, severe sepsis and septic shock were used to define the patients’ septic status. For each patient, we calculated Lansky performance status scale (LPSS) and a risk score defined the Hematologic risk score (HRS) that we created in 2007. Patients were defined as High risk for severe sepsis/septic shock in case of HRS>3. HRS10% PC concentration decrease within 12 hours from the first evaluation. All patients received 80 U/kg/day PC, intravenously, every twenty-four hours. No drug-related adverse event was observed. The observed sepsis-related mortality rate in our cohort was 9%. PC supplementation in our cohort appeared to be safe, and, probably due to prompt PC administration, we observed an overall mortality that was much lower than expected mortality in cancer severe septic patients.
Current Research, Part F, Frontier Geoscience Program, Cordilleran and Offshore Basins, British Columbia
Authors:   Geological Survey of Canada
Published: June 2016

Cretaceous rocks of central Graham Island are composed of Hauterivian to Coniacian mudstone, sandstone, and conglomerates of the Longarm, Haida, Skidegate, and Honna formations. Post-Late Cretaceous compression is recorded as gentle to close, northwest-trending
folds which locally overturn bedding. From regional distribution of Cretaceous strata, large-scale northwest-trending extensional faults are inferred. The predominant structures in outcrop are small-scale strike-slip Tertiary faults, which reflect the latest period of deformation in the
area.
Correlation of optic neuritis and retinal nerve fibre thickness using optical coherence tomography in a cohort of multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Roos Izanne , Budhoo Rajeshree , Visser Linda , Bhigjee Ahmed I.
Published: June 2016

Background: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a fast, non-invasive imaging technology that produces 3D, high-resolution images of the retina. Direct visualisation of the retina allows a unique opportunity to study the effects of multiple sclerosis (MS)-associated neurodegeneration on retinal ganglion cells as well as effects of retrobulbar demyelination on axonal and retinal architecture through measurement of retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness and total macular volume (TMV). These findings are clinically important as axonal loss is irreversible and correlates with disability.Aim: To determine the role and usefulness of OCT in a local cohort of MS patients.Setting: Neurology Clinic, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.Methods: Nineteen patients with MS currently being treated with interferon β-1b underwent OCT examination of both eyes. RNFL thickness and macular volume were measured and correlated with clinical disease characteristics, history of optic neuritis and level of disability.Results: Mean RNFL thickness was 77.3 μm with no significant difference in mean RNFL in eyes with a history of optic neuritis (ON) and those without (p = 0.4). Eyes with a history of ON did, however, have significantly thinner RNFL compared with the contralateral eye (p = 0.04). Despite a strong correlation between TMV and RNFL (p = 0.001), a subset of patients with normal RNFL had TMV that was less than 1% of what was expected. There was no correlation between RNFL and disability scores.Conclusion: OCT enables a direct axonal ‘optical biopsy’, for monitoring disease progression and treatment response in MS. RNFL thinning occurs independently of a history of optic neuritis and may represent a chronic optic neuropathy in patients with MS.Keywords: Multiple sclerosis; optical coherence tomography
Evolving locally appropriate models of care for Indian sickle cell disease
Authors: Serjeant Graham R.
Published: June 2016

The sickle cell gene in India represents a separate occurrence of the HbS mutations from those in Africa. Sickle cell disease in India occurs against different genetic and environmental backgrounds from those seen in African patients and there is evidence of clinical differences between the populations. Knowledge of the clinical features of African disease was drawn from the Jamaican Cohort Study, based on prospective follow up of all cases of sickle cell disease detected by the screening of 100,000 consecutive newborns in Kingston, Jamaica, and supplemented by observations from the Cooperative Study of Sickle Cell Disease in the US. Defining the principal causes of early morbidity in African sickle cell disease led to successful interventions including pneumococcal prophylaxis, parental education in the early diagnosis of acute splenic sequestration, and the early detection by trans-cranial Doppler of cerebral vessel stenosis predictive of stroke but their success depended on early diagnosis, ideally at birth. Although reducing mortality among patients with African forms of SS disease, the question remains whether these interventions are appropriate or justified in Indian patients. This dilemma is approached by comparing the available data in African and Indian forms of SS disease seeking to highlight the similarities and differences and to identify the deficiencies in knowledge of Indian disease. These deficiencies could be most readily addressed by cohort studies based on newborn screening and since much of the morbidity of African disease occurs in the first five years of life, these need not be a daunting prospect for Indian health care personnel. Newborn screening programmes for sickle cell disease are already underway in India and appropriate protocols and therapeutic trials could quickly answer many of these questions. Without this knowledge, Indian physicians may continue to use possibly unnecessary and expensive models of care.
Lifestyle related factors & impact of metabolic syndrome on quality of life, level of functioning & self-esteem in patients with bipolar disorder & schizophrenia
Authors: Malhotra Nidhi , Kulhara Parmanand , Chakrabarti Subho , Grover Sandeep
Published: June 2016

Background & objectives:

Though studies have reported high prevalence rates of metabolic syndrome among patients with bipolar disorder (BPAD) and schizophrenia, there is lack of data on the impact of the same on the patients’ life. This study was aimed to assess the lifestyle related factors associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and to study the impact of MetS on functioning and quality of life (QOL) in patients with BPAD and schizophrenia.

Methods:

A total of 102 patients with BPAD and 72 patients with schizophrenia attending the output unit of a tertiary care hospital in north India were evaluated for MetS. These patients were assessed on Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile scale II (HPLP II), World Health Organization QOL -Bref Version (WHOQOL-Bref), Impact of Weight on Quality of Life- Lite version (IWOQOL -Lite), Body weight, Image and Self-esteem Evaluation questionnaire (BWISE), Obesity-related Problem scale (OP scale) and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale.

Results:

MetS was associated with lower scores on domains of health responsibility and nutrition habit domain on HPLP-II scale in both groups, and additionally on physical activity and stress management domain in BPAD group. On WHOQOL-Bref, MetS was associated with lower scores on the domains of physical and psychological health in both groups. On IWQOL–Lite, scores on personal distress and self esteem domains were higher in those with obesity in both groups and also on physical activity domain in schizophrenia group. Those with MetS had lower level of functioning as measured by GAF in schizophrenia group. Fulfillment of higher number of criteria of MetS correlated with poorer quality of life and higher problems in both groups.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Many modifiable lifestyle factors increase the risk of MetS. MetS was found to be associated with poorer QOL in patients with BPAD and schizophrenia; in addition, obesity led to poor self-esteem and excessive personal distress.