bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Power Quality of the distribution networks and its impact on the Telecommunication Next Generation Access Network
Authors: R. Chiumeo  , F. Cucchietti  , G. Griffa  , L. Tenti
Published: May 2017

The paper deals with the Power Quality of the electrical distribution network and its impact on the new telecommunication networks. In particular, in the frame of the deployment of the Next Generation Access Network (NGAN) in the Fiber To The Cabinet (FTTCab) architecture, the impact of severe voltage dips and micro interruptions on the most important Information and Communications Technology (ICT) devices has been evaluated experimentally by Telecom Italia, defining in particular a sort of customized voltage dips immunity area for its telecommunications network equipment (TLC). On the base of these experimental results RSE has performed statistical analyses on voltage dips occurring outside this area which could be responsible in theory for the telecommunication devices reboot. The analyses are based on the data provided by the MV distribution network monitoring system QuEEN in the assumption that MV dips could be totally transferred to the LV network where the telecommunication cabinets are connected. A short analysis of voltage dips propagation from the medium voltage MV to the low voltage LV networks has been performed, on a few measurements sites at disposal in order to confirm this assumption.
Compensation of Discontinuous Conduction in Three Phase Voltage Source PWM Inverters
Authors: A. Futó  , I. Varjasi
Published: May 2017

Nowadays the increasing utilization of alternative energy sources demand power converters capable of delivering high quality energy to the low voltage grid. Good dead time compensation and linear operation are essential to keep low order harmonics at acceptable levels. High-current operating conditions are well handled by traditional methods, but low current behaviour and waveforms with multiple zero crossings within a switching period are problematic, especially at low load conditions at or below 10% load. Such conditions often occur in the battery chargers of electric cars. Power quality is also essential for sensorless drives, as the accuracy of the output voltage is very important especially at low rotational speeds. This paper describes the identified cases of discontinuous conduction during dead time. Based on the voltage and current waveforms of the three phase inverter, an improved dead time compensation method is shown for symmetric PWM controlled inverters. The compensator uses already available measurement data, and compensates the resulting error voltage at duty cycle level. The described method can be used for any type of three phase modulation. A similar approach can also be used for two phase modulations.
Matlab/Simulink Generated FPGA Based Real-time HIL Simulator and DSP Controller: A Case Study
Authors: Z. Süt˝ o  , T. Debreceni  , T. Kökényesi  , A. Futó  , I. Varjasi
Published: May 2017

The paper reports the development of a case study for creating a unified development environment for the process of code generation from Matlab/Simulink into both HDL and C languages of FPGA and DSP targets. The FPGA is used for the Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL) simulation of the high power, main circuit of a simple solar-based battery charger while the control functions belonging to this system are implemented in a DSP. The case study is planned to be a building block of the HIL simula tion of either such a sophisticated, cyber-physical system like a microgrid which connects various forms of energy produced by renewable sources.
Sustainability Dimensions of Rural Electrification Programs with Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: J. M. Mesquita  , J. M. S. Lafay  , D. Setti
Published: May 2017

This paper aims to identify the key characteristics that affect the sustainability of rural electrification programs with photovoltaic systems. This paper selected sixteen articles on rural electrification programs with Photovoltaic Systems deployed around the world. The programs were evaluated in terms of characteristics, that influences sustainability. The characteristics identified were organized into three primary groups called dimensions. It’s classified into: policy, quality systems and program management. The analysis of the characteristics of each dimension yielded a set of items (questions) that will be used to develop an evaluation method of fuzzy multicriteria sustainability of rural electrification programs with Photovoltaic Systems. The last step of this research will be the application of this method in the rural electrification program in East Timor.
Power Quality Issues in Brushless DC Adjustable Speed Drives
Authors: M. I. Buzdugan  , H. Bălan
Published: May 2017

The paper presents some power quality issues in brushless DC adjustable drives. It is focused on specific tests performed and results obtained for a residential air conditioning system ready to be put on the market (i.e. an air handling unit, a system that conserves a significant amount of energy while maintaining indoor comfort). In the introductory section, are presented the new smart power modules, based on fast-recovery MOSFET technology as a compact inverter solution, that drive centrifugal fans provided with brushless DC motors. In the second section, the operating principles of air handling units are shortly addressed, along with the detailed test setups and results obtained on harmonics and conducted electromagnetic interference measurements, according to electromagnetic compatibility standards for the air handling unit. The main conclusion of the paper is that power quality and electromagnetic compatibility issues should be a permanent concern since the early stage of design, in order to save the time and the money involved in applying final retrofitting measures.
An Adaptive Protection Scheme based on Fault Location for Smart Micro-Grids
Authors: R. Jafari  , M.S. Naderi  , G.B. Gharehpetain
Published: May 2017

The traditional distribution systems are radial and have unidirectional power flow. The overcurrent protection system of these networks is negatively affected by Distributed Generation (DG) units. The time and current coordination of protection devices of these systems is the most important concern in the case of high DGs penetration. Actually, DGs connection and disconnection change the short circuit level of feeders and disturb the coordination of protection devices. So, new protection schemes should be proposed which must not to be affected by DGs and should work properly in both islanded and grid connected operation modes of the micro-grid. In this paper, an adaptive protection scheme, based on fault location, is proposed for smart micro-grids. The functionality of each protection device is adaptively selected based on detected network topology and fault type. The proposed solution is simulated in the SimPower software. The results show the efficiency of the proposed protection scheme which cannot be affected by DGs.
Second-Order Sliding Mode Control for Variable Speed Wind Turbine Experiment System
Authors: A. Merabet  , M. A. Islam  , R. Beguenane  , H. Ibrahim
Published: May 2017

In this work, a second-order sliding mode control algorithm is proposed for variable speed laboratory size DC generator wind turbine experiment system in order to track a speed profile and operate the wind turbine at maximum power extraction. The turbine torque, which varies with the wind speed, is considered as an unknown disturbance and rejected by the sliding mode strategy. The sliding mode controller has been integrated into a multivariable control system to operate the experimental wind turbine. Experimental results show that the proposed control system can achieve favourable speed tracking performance and robust with regard to parameter variations and external turbine disturbance.
Simulation based study of Maximum Power Point Tracking and Frequency Regulation for Stand-alone Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: M. A. Islam  , A. Merabet  , R. Beguenane  , H. Ibrahim  , H. Ahmed
Published: May 2017

The main objective of this paper is to develop a simulation model of stand-alone solar photovoltaic (PV) system based on mathematical models. A maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm based on incremental conductance method is applied to extract the maximum power from solar PV energy conversion system. A DC/DC boost converter allows the MPPT to control the intermediate voltage. To regulate to voltage at load side a voltage source converter (VSC) based controller is applied to generate the pulse signal for three-phase inverter. The frequency regulation controller is developed based on conventional phase locked loop (PLL) system along with resistive dumping loads. A simulation model based on mathematical model Matlab®/Simulink®/SimPower® is constructed interface. Results using from simulation are stated to demonstrate the behaviour of stand alone solar PV energy conversion system.
Harmonic compensation using a single phase active filter
Authors: J. R. Mattar  , J. C. Strutz  , S. V. G. Oliveira  , R. Hausmann  , A. Péres
Published: May 2017

This work presents the implementation of a single phase parallel active filter for harmonic compensation. The idea is to optimize the processed power by the active single-phase filter restricting the compensation only to harmonic currents without processing the linear reactive one. It is made a comparison study of processed power by a conventional active power filter compensating the entirely reactive power and another compensating only the harmonic contents. It is presented the control methodology employed, the power circuit design and the results obtained through a 500VA experimental prototype.
Diagnosis of Static Eccentricity in 400 kW Induction Machine Based on the Analysis of Stator Currents
Authors: Saleh S. Hamad Elawgali
Published: May 2017

Current spectrums of a four pole-pair, 400 kW induction machine were calculated for the cases of full symmetry and static eccentricity. The calculations involve integration of 93 electrical plus four mechanical ordinary differential equations. Electrical equations account for variable inductances affected by slotting and eccentricities. The calculations were followed by Fourier analysis of the stator currents in steady state operation. Zooms of the current spectrums, around the 50 Hz fundamental harmonic as well as of the main slot harmonic zone, were included. The spectrums included in this paper are referred to both calculated and measured currents.
Piezoelectric Power Generator: a comparison of power generation between the resonant frequency and natural frequencies
Authors: G. G. Kuhn  , J. M. S. Lafay  , P. R. Novak  , D. Setti  , G. A. O. Guibes
Published: May 2017

The capture of energy from the environment, mostly vibrations using piezoelectric materials is of great interest, justified by the intensive use of low-power portable devices and wireless sensors, without the need to use an external power supply. This presentation is an analysis of the vibration energy in an embedded metal structure, with mass at the free end. The metallic structure is coupled to a piezoelectric plate type PZT-4. The dimensions of the piezoelectric plate are 10x10x0.5 mm. The material used is a brass metal structure and its dimensions are 70x10x0.3 mm. A cam-follower is used to excite the electrical generator with mechanical vibration in the range of 0-30 Hz. Results indicate that the system has a capability of low power generating a range of 200 to 300 mW. A circuit conditioner treats and stores the generated signal. Still, operational analysis on resonance frequency of the structure and natural frequencies of the system will be compared, presented and discussed.
Design of the automation of hybrid system of forced natural ventilation from buried pipes and of air conditioning for interior spaces in a tropical zone
Authors: C. Arias  , G. Osma  , G. Ordóñez
Published: May 2017

This paper shows the design of the automation of a hybrid system of the forced natural ventilation from buried pipes and of the air conditioning for interior spaces, according climate condition of the city Bucaramanga. Such design is based in a study about the thermal needs of an interior space in a building of the Industrial University of Santander. The design consists in the selection of protocol and the components and in the development of an interface for viewing of the performance of the system.
Economic and Sustainability Comparative Study of Wood Pellets Production in Portugal, Germany and Sweden
Authors: L.J.R. Nunes  , J.C.O. Matias  , J.P.S. Catalão
Published: May 2017

During the last decade wood pellets consumption grew rapidly. In this paper the development of the wood pellet production factors for markets in Germany, Sweden and Portugal are compared. Domestic market prices for pellet production factors as well as domestic market prices for pellets variation are analysed. The analysis are based on two model plants, representing the first common technologies for small scale production based on dry sawdust sources, and the second represents large scale production based on wet materials. The results show how differences in costs of raw materials, energy and labour affects wood pellets production. The economic sustainability for European pellet producers depends on their domestic markets as internationally traded pellets are priced lower than their production costs, being Portugal an exception due to lower labour and raw materials costs. Future pellet production will be based on wet raw materials such as logs and wet sawdust. These raw materials are also demanded by pulp and paper or fiberboard industries. The transition from smaller wood pellets plants using dry raw materials to larger plants using wet raw materials, can be expected to follow comparative advantages regarding raw materials, energy costs and economies of scale.
Energy Efficiency Evaluation of Materials Applied in Core of Three Phase Planar Actuator Through Reduced Model
Authors: Meto J. M.  , Sebastião, L.M  , Ferreira C.A  , Ando Junior, O. H.  , Spacek, A. D.  , Malfatti, C. F.  , Schaeffer, L.
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this work is evaluate properties of SMC Composites applied to construct cores of Three-phase Planar Actuator (T.P.A.) such as other eletromagnetic devices. The high magnetic permeability and electrical resistivity - characteristics of SMC - provides advantages when compared to conventional materials. It is possible to manufacture machines with low energy consumption and higher yield. Thus, this article presents performance parameters between different materials used in construcion of T.P.A obtained by simulation of its reduced model. By using the reduced model for R&D of T.P.A. minimizes costs related to manufacturing of prototypes with maintance the complete model's main eletromagnetic characteristics.The simulations was made based in 16 configurations changing materials and operation frequencies. With numerical results of: solid loss, linear and normal forces under the same current excitation. The best results was obtained with the combination: Somaloy, Aluminium and 30Hz.
Evaluation of basin and insulating materials in solar still prototype for solar distillation plant at Kamusuchiwo community, High Guajira
Authors: Ary Mauricio Burbano
Published: May 2017

Solar distillation is a technology suitable for producing distilled water in remote areas of civilization. Within the project of drinking water plant using solar distillation in Kamusuchiwo community, underlying this research that wants to determine the best combination of absorbent materials and insulators. There were assessed two types of insulators and two types of basin materials, this in order to improve the efficiency of the distillation and applying to the plant to will be constructed. The results were satisfactory, reveal that water production dependent of the basin and water temperatures until noon when the sun is at the zenith, then at the afternoon, water production depends of distiller's internal heat. The efficiency was considerable when you consider factors such as cloud cover and wind that decrease the production of water, these variables limit the optimal functioning of the distiller. The applied experimental design allowed us to determine that the best material to use in basin is aluminum and the best material insulating was sawdust, combination of these materials will be use in water solar plant.
Machine Learning Prediction of Global Photovoltaic Energy in Spain
Authors: Y. Gala  , A. Fernández  , J. Dorronsoro  , M. Garcia  , C. Rodríguez
Published: May 2017

The growing presence of solar energy in the electrical systems of many countries has made its accurate forecasting an important issue. In this work we will explore the application of Support Vector Regression (SVR), an advanced Machine Learning modelling tool, to forecast the daily photovoltaic generation of Spain. Given the very large geographical spread of photovoltaic installations, we will use as input features NWP forecasts of relevant meteorological variables for the entire Iberian Peninsula. The input dimension is thus very large but, while further work is needed, our results show SVR to be an effective tool to deal with the problem's underlying dimension, yield useful forecasts and further provide some insights on the relationship between NWP and actual solar energy production.
Implementación de las RDA en Chile: pasado, presente y futuro.
Authors: Quiroz Ubierna Angela
Published: May 2017

En el año 2010, al darse a conocer las nuevas reglas de catalogación “Recursos, Descripción y Acceso”, a través del lanzamiento del RDA Toolkit, en las bibliotecas chilenas, especialmente en la Biblioteca Nacional de Chile y en la Biblioteca del Congreso Nacional de Chile, un grupo de bibliotecarios decidió comenzar a estudiarlas, ya que sólo se habían publicado en idioma inglés. Por lo anterior se creó el “Grupo de Interés RDA Chile” (GIRCH), en el cual participaron bibliotecarios de distintas instituciones. Este grupo comenzó a funcionar en 2010 y se realizaron distintas capacitaciones, en primer lugar para dar a conocer las RDA y los modelos conceptuales relacionados: FRBR, FRAD y FRSAD, y además para comenzar la aplicación de estas nuevas normas a nivel nacional. Sin embargo, con el pasar de los años, el grupo GIRCH cesó sus funciones (año 2014), con lo que el tema de la aplicación de las RDA quedó estancado a nivel país y se empezó a trabajar de manera local en cada biblioteca interesada en aplicar este estándar. Cuando apareció el RDA Toolkit, algunas bibliotecas chilenas se suscribieron este recurso; no obstante, se siguió trabajando de manera aislada, sin estudiar las nuevas normas, ni la herramienta en conjunto, lo que llevó a un nivel diferente de uso y aplicación de las RDA en cada biblioteca que decidió implementarlas.No obstante lo anterior, en este documento se revisará la experiencia desarrollada por la Biblioteca del Congreso Nacional (BCN), la que a partir de agosto de 2012 generó un proyecto de implementación del modelo de catalogación RDA, tanto en los registros bibliográficos como en los de autoridad; así como el caso del Sistema de Bibliotecas de la Universidad de Concepción, que en el año 2014 decidieron también aplicar RDA en todos sus registros bibliográficos y en 2015 en sus registros de autoridad. Además, se darán a conocer otros casos en los que se ha decidido implementar las RDA de manera paulatina, de manera híbrida (mezcla de la RCAA2 y RDA). Finalmente, se darán a conocer las actividades que se están realizando hoy en día en relación a las RDA, como es el caso de las capacitaciones ofrecidas por la Biblioteca del Congreso Nacional de Chile a bibliotecarios de otras instituciones del país, además de la participación en IFLA sobre el tema de RDA y los proyectos a futuro relacionados con la continuación de las capacitaciones y el estudio del nuevo modelo FRBR-LRM y el formato Bibframe.
WURU CAVE: ITS FUNCTION AND TYPE OF UTILIZATION IN THE GUNUNGSEWU PREHISTORIC AREA
Authors: Alifah Alifah
Published: May 2017

Wuru cave which located in Jetis, Saptosari Gunung Kidul, is one of the horizontal caves that contain archaeological data. This cave have a relatively small room, elongated and curved, but in this cave has many ecofact, some of which indicate the presence of human treatments (burned and trimmed). In the quality of the bone ecofact most have begun to experience the process of fossilization. In addition there is also finded shells, pottery, hazelnut and coal.These findings show evidence that the Wuru cave has potential as a cave who ever used in the past. But what kind of use or functionality of this cave in the surrounding area of Gunung Sewu western part is still unknown. This paper seeks to uncover the environmental approach, the method used is the analysis of artifacts, ecofact, and ecology around the area of the cave.
TRACING SOME FRAGMENTS OF PANDAN INSCRIPTION IN THE LOCAL RESIDENCE (PANDANKRAJAN VILLAGE, KEMLAGI DISTRIC, MOJOKERTO REGENCY)
Authors: Nugroho Aang Pambudi
Published: May 2017

Not all inscriptions are recovered in a complete condition, several were found only in fragments. One of the inscriptions to have been recovered in a fragmentary condition is the 11 th century A.D. Paṇḍān inscription issued by King Airlangga. This inscription was found in the village of Pandankrajan, Kemlagi Sub-district, Mojokerto Regency. Although the recovery comprises only several fragments, it was of course, formerly complete. It is, therefore, important to analyze the remaining words and sentences that are still visible to try to understand the original meaning of the proclamation.
JAPANESE DEFENSE MODEL IN LUMAJANG AND JEMBER, EAST JAVA: TYPOLOGY AND DIRECTION TARGET
Authors: Chawari Muhammad
Published: May 2017

This paper is based on research conducted by Yogyakarta Archaeological Center in 2013 with the theme of the Japanese Defense Facilities In The World War II in Lumajang and Jember. The research is an effort to disclose the typology of Japanese defense facilities well astheir coverage in both locations. At both locations have been identified 43 objects from the era of Japanese occupation, consisted of bunker (40 objects), cave (2 objects), and water tank (1 object). Among them, 38 objects commanded the sea traffic, 4 objects commanded land routes, and 1 object is unknown.
THE CONTINUING TRADITION OF AUSTRONESIAN CULTURE AT LIMA PULUH KOTO, WEST SUMATERA
Authors: Rr. Triwurjani Rr. Triwurjani
Published: May 2017

Austronesian diaspora shows that around 60% of Austronesian-speaking people live in Indonesia. Among the locations with traces of Austronesian cultural remains is the information about the diaspora of Research reveals that the continuing megalithic tradition. The problem is: if megalithic culture was brought by migrants in which Austronesian period did the menhirs should be placed, the proto-historic or recent Austronesian; how is the dispersal pattern of the menhirs; and who were the bearers of the culture. Therefore we have to reveal the form and dispersal of the megalithic culture and Austronesian migration in Lima Puluh Koto Area. The aim of this research is revealing cultural history through the migrant's adaptation within the perspective of Austronesian diaspora. Thus information about the diaspora of the Austronesians and the ethnogenesis of Indoneisan nation can be recognized. Research reveals that the continuing megalithic tradition which is used the qualitative method and assumed base on archaeological remains at Lima Puluh Koto area is a distribution of menhirs, that forms clusters in accordance with nagari (state) at certain area, and they are dispersed up to the hilly area. Some of these menhirs have sacred function but there are also those with profane functions like marks of village, house yard, or street boundaries, as well as the marker of village or hamlet roads.
JEJAK AUSTRONESIA DI SITUS GUA GEDE, PULAU NUSA PENIDA, BALI
Authors: Hidayah Ati Rati
Published: May 2017

The spread of Austronesian-speaking people into Southeast Asia and the Pacific Island happened about 3.500- 4.000 years ago through some route. Nusa Penida Island located at the strategic place in the edge between of route western and eastern route, that interesting. The aims of this research tosee the traces of Gua Gede OCCUPY Pottery finding in Gua Gede Site indicated Austronesian was occupied Gua Gede by Austronesian Peoples. Methode of this research using pottery residu analysis and see the context of all findings.Based on pottery analysis, indicate that Austronesian People occupied at 3.051±25 BP. Based on residu analysis there is pemanfaatan plant.Based on pottery residu analysisthere is pemanfaatan plant and there is indikasi the change of subsitence form hunter gatherer become simple agriculture. Penyebaran penutur Austronesia ke wilayah Kepulauan Asia Tenggara dan Kepulauan Pasifik berkisar antara 3.500-4.000 tahun yang lalu melalui beberapa jalur. Pulau Nusa Penida terletak di wilayah yang strategis di ujung perbatasan jalur barat menuju ke timur atau sebaliknya, sehingga menarik untuk diteliti. Penelitian ini untuk melihat adanya jejak penghunian Situs Gua Gede oleh Penutur Austronesia. Metode penelitian menggunakan analisis residu gerabah dan konteks kuantitas temuan secara keseluruhan. Temuan gerabah di Situs Gua Gede mengindikasikan adanya penghunian penutur Austronesia di situs tersebut. Gua Gede dihuni oleh penutur Austronesia pada 3.051±25BP. Berdasarkan dari hasil analisis residu gerabah, telah dilakukan pemanfaatan tumbuhan dan terdapat indikasi perubahan subsistensi dari berburu dan mengumpulkan makanan menjadi bercocoktanam sederhana.
KUALITAS HIDUP PENDERITA KUSTA BERBASIS TEORI HEALTH BELIEF MODELS (HBM)
Authors: Maziyya Nur , Nursalam Nursalam , Mariyanti Herdina
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Leprosy was a chronic infectious disease that affects the quality of life of patients. Many factors could affect the quality of life of people with leprosy, but there was no specific research that analyzed factors related to quality of life of people with leprosy based on Health Belief Models theory (HBM). This study aimed to analyze factors that related to quality of life of people with leprosy based on Health Belief Model theory (HBM) in Public Health Center in North Surabaya. Methode: This study used descriptive analytic correlational with cross-sectional approach. Sample in this study were 30 patients with leprosy at public health center in North Surabaya. The independent variabels were individual perceived depend on HBM theory and dependent variabel was Quality of Life of Leprosy patients. Data were collected by interviews and using questionnaire. The instrument for collecting Quality of life using WHOQOL BREF and for collecting individual perception using a questionnaire derived from HBM theory. Data were analyzed used statistical Logistic Regression test (p<0,05). Result and Analysis: People with leprosy in public health care in region of North Surabaya 83.3% had good quality of life. There was correlation between quality of life with perceived susceptibility (p = 0.013) and perceived of seriousness (p = 0.004). There is was no correlation that found between quality of life with perceived benefit (p = 0.638) and perceived barriers (p = 0.334). Perceived susceptibility and perceived seriousness could be factors that affect quality of life of people with leprosy. Discussion: It needs to do a research about quality of life of patients with leprosy based on HBM theory using questionnaire that has been tested for validation to determine factors that affect quality of life of patient with leprosy.Keywords: Leprosy, quality of life, HBM, individual perceptions
THE EFFECT OF EXERCISE CONSULTATION PROGRAM ON EXERCISE BEHAVIORAL CHANGES IN PATIENTS OF TYPE 2 DM WITH OVERWEIGHT : TRANSTHEORETICAL MODEL APPROACH
Authors: Siregar Rinco , Harefa Karnirius , Hasibuan Eva Kartika
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this quasi- experimental study was to determine the effect of exercise consultation program based on Transtheoretical Model (TTM) approach on exercise behavioral change, blood glucose and body mass index (BMI)  in patients of T2DM with overweight. The two comparison groups, quasi-experimental study were purposively designed for pre-test/post-test procedures; 61 patients of T2DM allocated into the experimental (31 patients) and the control (30 patients) groups. While the experimental group received the exercise consultation for 12 weeks, the control group received routine care. Comparative assessments on differences in exercise behavioral changes, blood glucose and BMI were examined both within and between groups using Chi-Square test and t-test. After receiving exercise consultation program, 54.8 % of participants of the experimental group had progressed to the action stage of change of TTM, while the majority of the participants in the control group (43.3%) remained in the same stages of TTM, and only 3.3 % of the participants had progressed to the maintenance stage. This proportion of exercise behavior change between the groups was significantly statistical different (Chi-Square = 000, p <0.05). Blood glucose significantly decreased in the experimental group (p < .05), but there was no significant difference in the control group.No significant difference of mean scores of BMI of participants between the experimental group and the control group post-intervention of exercise consultation program (p > .05). In conclusion, the exercise consultation program could promote the exercise behaviors. This also improves health outcome on blood glucose among patients of T2DM who.Keywords: transtheoretical model; physical exercise; type 2 diabetes
Biochemical Measurement of Muscle Injury Created by Lumbar Surgery
Authors: Kumbhare Dinesh , Parkinson William , Dunlop Brett , Ryan Eamonn , Denkers Matthew , Shah Ashiq Ali , Bobba Raja , Adachi Jonathan
Published: May 2017

Purposes: 1. To determine whether lumbar disc surgery (LS) provides a sufficiently detectable rise in serum creatine kinase (CK) concentration to serve as a model to study biochemical measurement of muscle injury, and 2. To use the model to examine the consistency of the time course of CK concentration changes.

Method: The study used a repeated measures design. Six women and six men scheduled for LS were recruited. Blood samples were taken in the pre-operative waiting areas, immediately after surgery, at 6 hour intervals until discharge, and at 2, 4, and 6 to 7 days following surgery. Total serum CK was quantified using the Roche Modular to detect enzyme concentration.

Results: Following LS, mean Total CK increased from a baseline 50 U/L (SD = 53) to a peak 114 U/L (SD = 32) in women (P < 0.001) and from 183 U/L (SD = 69) to a peak 454 U/L (SD = 173) in men (P < 0.05). Baseline to peak changes in CK exceeded subjects’ own baseline fluctuations in all 6 women and all 6 men, and amounted to a mean 6 fold (SD = 4) increase in women and 16 fold (SD = 31) increase in men. While CK concentrations returned to baseline over the observation period in all subjects, time to peak ranged between 9 to 47 hours.

Conclusions: The LS model produced a consistently detectable CK response in both genders. Time to peak is variable indicating a need for multiple serial measures to capture this biochemical injury response.
Homocysteine (Hcy) Follow-Up Study
Authors: Blum Arnon , Hijazi Ihsan , Eizenberg Michal Mashiach , Blum Nava
Published: May 2017

Background: Hyperhomocysteinemia confers an increased risk of coronary artery disease, stroke, and deep vein thrombosis, and is a strong predictor of mortality among patients with ischemic heart disease.

Purpose: To determne the long term clinical outcome of patients with risk factors to atherosclerosis with high concentrations of homocysteine (Hcy).

Methods: 89 patients with one or more risk factors for atherosclerosis, whose plasma total Hcy concentrations were measured, were followed for 5 years. Patients were interviewed and underwent a clinical examination in the outpatient clinic. Their medical records were reviewed in the last 5 years including smoking habits, medications, other diseases (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia) and their management. SPSS was used to describe and explore possible relationships between Hcy concentration, other diseases, medications and the clinical long term outcome.

Results: All men with normal Hcy concentrations (10.76±1.71µmol/L) survived during the 5 years’ follow up, while 5 of the men with high Hcy concentrations (21.27±5.37µmol/L), died (17%) (P< 0.05). In women Hcy concentration did not affect survival. No association was found between diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension and Hcy. Long term treatment with Beta Blockers, ACE inhibitors, Calcium Channel blockers, and especially with Aspirin prevented death and changed the natural history of patients with high Hcy concentrations (P < 0.05).

Conclusions – Hyperhomocysteinemia may have an effect on survival in men.

Long term treatment with Beta Blockers, ACE inhibitors, Calcium Channel Blockers, and especially with Aspirin – prevented death and changed the natural history of patients with high Hcy concentrations.
Characteristics and conviction rates of injured alcohol-impaired drivers admitted to a tertiary care Canadian Trauma Centre
Authors: Goecke Michelle E. , Kirkpatrick Andrew W. , Laupland Kevin B. , Bicanic Marija , Findlay Christi
Published: May 2017

Purpose: Alcohol intoxication is an important factor in motor vehicle crash (MVC) related morbidity and mortality. Despite greater societal attention, medical admission after MVC results in avoidance of legal consequences. We sought to determine characteristics of, and consequences to, injured alcohol-impaired drivers (IAIDs).

Methods: All injured adults [Injury Severity Score (ISS) >12, age>18] entered in a Trauma Centre registry between April 1 1995 to March 31 2003 were reviewed. Legally intoxicated patients who had been drivers involved in a MVC and who had a blood alcohol content (BAC) ≥80 mg/dl were cross-referenced to municipal and federal databases to identify investigations, charges, and legal outcomes.

Results: Of BACs obtained from 1933 (41%) of 4727 patients; 39% (757) were legally intoxicated (BAC ≥80 mg/dl); 185 (24%) were IAIDs. The IAIDs were generally very intoxicated (mean BAC 190 mg/dl); seriously injured (median ISS 22); often in ICU (47%), and had 8% mortality. Charges were laid against 69 (37%) of IAIDs, only 58 (31%) suffered legal consequences; 27 (15%) of impaired driving, and 31 (17%) of other convictions. All IAIDs who caused a fatal injury to another were convicted. A lower severity of injury of the IAIDs, non-fatal injury to another, and occurrence in the more recent years of the study were independently associated with a conviction in multivariable analysis.

Conclusion: Despite increasing convictions over time and among most of those charged, the majority of injured drivers escape legal consequences. Increased BAC testing and reporting of this phenomenon could address this.
Comprehensive rehabilitation in chronic heart failure - Better psycho-emotional status related to quality of life, brain natriuretic peptide concentrations, and clinical severity of disease
Authors: Laederach-Hofmann Kurt , Roher-Gubeli Rebecca , Messerli Nadine , Meyer Katharina
Published: May 2017

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of a comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation program in chronic heart failure (CHF) on quality of life (QoL) in relation to emotional status and clinical severity of disease.

Patients and Methods: 25 patients with CHF were included in the 12-week comprehensive rehabilitation program. Initially, and at the end of the program, patients underwent graded cardio-pulmonary exercise testing, echocardiography, and determination of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentration. In addition, they were assessed using: The Minnesota Living with Health Failure Questionnaire [MLHFQ]) for disease Specific QoL, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS], and the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory [STAXI]).

Results: After 12 weeks of rehabilitation improvements in NYHA class, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and peak oxygen consumption were found, while mean BNP concentrations did not change. Disease specific QoL demonstrated improvements in physical component and the total score. Relative improvement of psycho-emotional scores correlated positively with relative improvement of disease specific QoL. In patients with LVEF ?30% at baseline, changes in BNP concentration were positively associated with both anxiety and state anger, and with the emotional component score of MLHFQ.

Conclusion: Improvements in disease-specific QoL were closely associated to improvements of psycho-emotional status and clinical severity of CHF.
Lack of association polymorphisms of the IL1RN, IL1A, and IL1B genes with knee osteoarthritis in Turkish patients
Authors: Sezgin Malek , Erdal M. Emin , Altintas Zuhal Mert , Ankarali Handan Camdeviren , Barlas I. Omer , Turkmen Ebru , Sahin Gunsah
Published: May 2017

Purpose: To examine whether polymorphisms of the interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL1RN), interleukin 1 alpha (IL1A) and interleukin 1 beta (IL1B) genes are markers of genetic susceptibility to knee osteoarthritis in Turkish patients.

Methods: One hundred and seven patients with knee osteoarthritis and 67 controls were studied. Three polymorphisms of IL1A, IL1B, and IL1RN genes were typed from genomic DNA. Allelic frequencies were compared between patients and control subjects.

Results: No significant differences were observed in genotype and allele frequencies of the IL1RN VNTR, IL1A+4845, IL1B+3953 genes polymorphisms between patients and controls. Furthermore, we did not detect any association genotypes of the polymorphisms with the clinical, radiological, and laboratory profiles of patients.

Conclusions: The present study suggest that the IL1RN VNTR, IL1A+4845, IL1B+3953 genes polymorphisms are not genetic markers of susceptibility to knee osteoarthritis in Turkish patients, and are unrelated to the clinical, radiological, and laboratory characteristics of knee osteoarthritis.
Periodontal care may improve systemic inflammation
Authors: Blum Arnon , Front Eran , Peleg Aviva
Published: May 2017

Background: Periodontitis is an infectious chronic insidious disease of the tooth supporting structures that causes a general inflammatory response. The aims of the study were to determine whether periodontitis is associated with markers of general inflammation high-sensitivity (hs) C-reactive protien (CRP) leading to cardiovascular disease, and whether proper management of the periodontal disease would improve inflammation and thus, may prevent cardiovascular disease in the future.

Methods: This was a prospective case-controlled pilot study. Nine patients (3 women, 6 men; 40±5 yr) took part. All had severe periodontitis, without systemic disorders, and were all treated conservativelly without surgical intervention. All had a 2nd visit after 3 months of treatment at the Outpatient Dental Clinic of the Hospital. Periodontal status and hs-CRP were evaluated on entry to the study and 3 months after treatment. Nine age and sex-matched healthy volunteers without periodontal disease served as the control group.

Results: Periodontal clinical parameters were improved after 3 months' treatment: probing depth (PD) (mean) at baseline was 4.3 and after 3 months’ treatment improved to 3.2 (P=0.001), clinical attachment level (CAL) (mean) was 4.6 and changed to 3.7 (P=0.01), bleeding on probing (BOP %) changed from 64% to 33% (P=0.001), and Plaque index (Pi) changed from 49% to 25% (P=0.001). hs-CRP level was different between the patients’group (pre treatment) and the healthy volunteers: 2.97±0.58 mg/L vs. 0.25±0.14 mg/L (P=0.00002). After completing 3 months' treatment, hs-CRP levels were decreased from 2.97±0.58 mg/L to 2.3±0.7 mg/L (P=0.009).

Conclusions: Periodontitis is an infectious condition that may be an insidious cause of chronic inflammation and may be a risk factor for future cardiovascular disease. Treating periodontitis improved inflammation, and might be used as an important prevention tool for cardiovascular disease.
The oral glucose tolerance test induces myocardial ischemia in healthy older adults
Authors: Madden Kenneth M. , Tedder Gale , Lockhart Chris
Published: May 2017

Purpose: Postprandial myocardial ischemia has been observed in frail older adults with postprandial hypotension and in patients with severe coronary artery disease, especially after high doses of carbohydrates. The impact of oral glucose on myocardial oxygen supply and demand in healthy older adults without postprandial hypotension or postprandial angina remains unexamined. We hypothesized that oral glucose would result in decreased myocardial oxygen supply relative to demand in a healthy older subject pool free of postprandial hypotension, reversible coronary risk factors and postprandial angina.

Methods: 19 older adults (mean age 71.9±1.1 yr) were screened for reversible coronary risk factors. Subjects were given a standardized oral glucose load (75 g) or a sham isovolumetric unsweetened drink during two separate sessions. Indirect measures of oxygen supply (Diastolic Pressure Time Index, DPTI) and demand (Rate Pressure Product, RPP; Systolic Pressure Time Index, SPTI) were obtained from aortic arterial blood pressure waveforms. The Subendocardial Viability Ratio (SEVR, DPTI/SPTI) and DPTI/RPP were also calculated.

Results: Oral glucose resulted in decreases in both SEVR (P=0.016) and DPTI/RPP (P=0.028) in the glucose session, indicating a decrease in the relative myocardial oxygen supply to demand. This was due solely to a decrease in myocardial oxygen supply while measures of myocardial oxygen demand did not change significantly.

Conclusions: Oral glucose decreases myocardial oxygen supply in older adults free of severe coronary artery disease and without postprandial hypotension. This represents a previously unrecognized complication of oral glucose tolerance tests in healthy older adults.
A time for transformative leadership in academic health sciences
Authors: Armstrong Paul W.
Published: May 2017

Academic medicine, in its broadest sense, has made major contributions to human health in the past quarter century. This has been achieved in large part because it has attracted an outstanding cadre of - largely altruistic – professionals. These pioneering efforts have served as the life-blood of the discipline. Their journeys of discovery, often complemented by collaboration with the pharmaceutical, biotechnological and device industry have yielded remarkable insights into the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease and been celebrated by a stunning array of Nobel laureates in medicine and related arenas of endeavour.1 The translation of discovery to the bedside, clinic and the community coupled, most recently, with insights into the gap between potential effectiveness and what ultimately occurs as part of health care delivery, have been monumental in scope. This progress has unquestionably been the province of the university based clinician scientist. Within Canada, the emergence of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, and the Canada Research Chairs has been pivotal in launching the careers of a new generation of clinician scientists. The excitement of discovery, gratification associated with direct patient care, and satisfaction of inspiring learning while engaging the next generation of emerging health professionals is rewarded by a career in academic medicine characterized by extraordinary challenge, fulfillment and meaning. As remarkable as these advances in quantity and quality of life have been (in large part attributable to health care research and its implementation) the promises of molecular medicine and abundant new technologies portend an exciting future whereby academic medicine can build upon its noble and traditional contributions to human health.
Coronary microvascular reperfusion injury and no-reflow in acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Kang Sheng , Yang Yuejin
Published: May 2017

Purpose: To review (1) the mechanisms of coronary microvascular reperfusion injury, particularly in the relationships between microvascular endothelium dysfunction, microstructure damage, microemboli and no-reflow phenomena; (2) the no-reflow presentation and management at ischemia-reperfusion to suggest future direction for no-reflow therapy in acute myocardial infarction.

Sources: Original articles and reviews published between 1997 and 2007 and focusing on the no-reflow phenomenon in MEDLINE and PubMed. The search terms used were “no-reflow”, “microvascular injury”, “acute myocardial infarction” and “reperfusion injury”. All papers identified were English-language, full text papers. In addition, the reference lists of identified relevant articles were also searched.

Conclusions: The no-reflow phenomenon is characterised by damage to microvascular function and microstructure at ischaemia-reperfusion. Microemboli contribute to no-reflow. Clinical myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE), scintigraphic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have shown evidence of microvascular damage, eg, perfusion defects are closely related to lack of contractile recovery and irreversible myocyte damage. Clinical agents and devices targeting microvascular injury (especially protection of endothelium and reduction of microemboli) after acute myocardial infarction may be key points to improve no-reflow.
Daily step goal of 10,000 steps: A literature review
Authors: Choi Bernard C. K. , Pak Anita W. P. , Choi Jerome C. L.
Published: May 2017

Background: This review looks at ways to increase physical activity, by walking and other sports and home activities, to reach the daily 10,000 steps goal. It also looks at a number of issues associated with achieving the daily step goal, such as considerations in walking, step counting and physical activity.

Methods: The review is based on MEDLINE (1982-2006) and Google searches using keywords “pedometer”, “daily step goal”, “physical activity”, “exercise”.

Results: Research has suggested a daily 10,000 step goal for maintaining a desirable level of physical activity for health. However, this is not normally achievable through routine daily activities. For many, there is a daily deficit of approximately 4000 steps (most from 3000 to 6000 steps), which must be gained from other more rigorous activities. This paper provides information based on the Compendium of Physical Activities, to help people to choose their physical activities to supplement their daily steps, through both sports activities and home activities. It thus helps people to better achieve the goals of Canada's Physical Activity Guide. There are issues to consider in counting steps. A pedometer is not an exact method to measure energy expenditure. Focusing on counting steps may lead to an obsessive attitude toward exercise. Excessive walking and physical activity may lead to certain health problems.

Discussion: Walking is a practical and fun way to change our sedentary life style and to improve the health of the nation. When there is a deficit in daily steps, both sports and home activities can be used to supplement the daily steps to reach the daily step goal. The user-friendly table provided in this paper helps people to identify the sports and home activities, and estimate the durations needed, to meet the daily step goal.