bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Learning of 7th Year Medical Students at Internal Medical – Evaluation by Logbooks
Authors: Chu Tzong-Shinn , Chang Shan-Chwen , Hsieh Bor-Shen
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to understand the learning of internal medicine of 7th year medical students through records of the “Learning Passport”. Materials and Methods: Between June 2005 and June 2006, data from the learning passport (a type of logbook) of 207 7th year medical students at the Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) were collected. Results: Among the 19 symptoms/signs listed in the logbook, a large number of students did not learn well on low back pain, skin rash, oedema, oliguria and anxiety/depression; only a few students rated themselves as knowledgeable about anxiety/depression, malaise, skin rash, headache and anorexia. Among the 16 diseases listed, a large number of students did not learn well on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stroke, hypertension, coronary artery disease and cirrhosis; only a few students rated themselves as knowledgeable about shock, respiratory failure, consciousness disturbance, sepsis and renal failure. Among the 21 physical examination skills listed, a large number of students did not learn well on the male genitalia, eyes, cognitive status, mental state and the digital rectal examination; only a few students rated themselves as fully competent about cognitive status, mental state, eyes, neurology examination and ENT examination. Among the 11 laboratory skills and image interpretation skills listed, a large number of students did not learn well on blood smear, Gram’s stain and specimen sampling; only a few students rated themselves as fully competent about the interpretation of brain computed tomographic (CT) scan, blood smear and Gram’s stain. Among the 12 procedures and therapeutic skills listed, a large number of students did not learn well on observation of lumbar puncture, basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and aseptic procedure; only a few students rated themselves as fully competent about basic CPR and transfusion management. Conclusions: The weak points of intern training conducted by the Department of Internal Medicine, NTUH were revealed by analysis obtained from their logbooks. Thus, we need to strengthen the learning of the interns in these specific parts and assess their performance based on the use of portfolios. Key words: Clinical skills, Evaluation, Interns
Does Team Learning Motivate Students’ Engagement in an Evidence-based Medicine Course?
Authors: Tai Bee Choo , Koh Woon Puay
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Small group-based instructional methods such as team learning have been shown to produce positive educational outcomes. To motivate students’ learning in an evidencebased medicine course, we explore team learning as a teaching strategy, and describe students’ engagement and preference for this mode of learning. Materials and Methods: An adaptation of team learning was implemented in September 2007 for all Year 2 Medical undergraduates attending the Principles in Evidence-Based Medicine course at the National University of Singapore. First, each student attempted a multiple-choice question individually. Next, the student discussed the same question with his/her team and provided a group response. Individual and group answers were recorded using keypads and Turning Point software. Students’ engagement and preference for team learning were measured using a self-reported Likert Scale instrument. The pattern of engagement in team learning was compared with conventional tutorial involving the same cohort of students using χ2 trend test. Results: A total of 224 (88%) and 215 (84%) students responded to the surveys on team learning and conventional tutorial respectively. Overall, students reported a higher level of engagement with team learning than conventional tutorial. However, regardless of the mode of instruction, the students were equally likely to pay attention in class. Sixty-nine per cent of students found team learning more enjoyable than conventional tutorial, with 73% preferring this mode of learning. There was a tendency for the percentage of correct responses to improve after group discussion. Conclusions: Team learning is the preferred mode of learning by Year 2 students attending the evidence-based medicine course. It promoted a high level of students’ engagement and interaction in class. Key words: Group interaction, Individual accountability, Students’ engagement
Effects of a 12-week Exercise Training Programme on Aerobic Fitness, Body Composition, Blood Lipids and C-Reactive Protein in Adolescents with Obesity
Authors: Wong Patricia CH , Chia Michael YH , Tsou Ian YY , Wansaicheong Gervais KL , Tan Benedict , Wang John CK , Tan John , Kim Chung Gon , Boh Gerald , Lim Darren
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Developing effective exercise programmes for the paediatric population is a strategy for decreasing obesity and is expected to help in eventually limiting obesity-associated long-term health and societal impact. In this study, the effects of a 12-week twice weekly additional exercise training, which comprised a combination of circuit-based resistance training and aerobic exercises, in additional to typical physical education sessions, on aerobic fitness, body composition and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and lipids were analysed in 13- to 14-year-old obese boys contrasted with a control group.

Materials and Methods: Both the exercise group (EG, n = 12) and control group (CG, n = 12) participated in the typical 2 sessions of 40-minute physical education (PE) per week in schools, but only EG participated in additional 2 sessions per week of 45 to 60 minutes per session of exercise training, which comprised a combination of circuit-based resistance training and aerobic exercises maintained at 65% to 85% maximum heart rate (HRmax = 220 - age). Body composition was measured using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Fasting serum CRP and blood lipids were analysed pre- and post-exercise programme. Aerobic fitness was measured by an objective laboratory submaximal exercise test, PWC170 (Predicted Work Capacity at HR 170 bpm).
Results: Exercise training significantly improved lean muscle mass, body mass index, fitness, resting HR, systolic blood pressure and triglycerides in EG. Serum CRP concentrations were elevated at baseline in both groups, but training did not result in a change in CRP levels. In the CG, body weight increased significantly at the end of the 12-week period.

Conclusion: This study supports the value of an additional exercise training programme, beyond the typical twice weekly physical education classes, to produce physiological benefits in the management of obesity in adolescents, including prevention of weight gain.

Key words: Aerobic fitness, Body composition, C-reactive protein, Exercise training, Obese adolescents
Triple Endobuttton Technique in Acromioclavicular Joint Reduction and Reconstruction
Authors: Lim Yeow Wai
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation is a common injury often affecting young athletes. Cyclist, ice hockey players, weight lifters, rugby players and martial exponents are the most common athletes sustaining these injuries. Majority of these athletes sustain high-grade injuries requiring surgical management to allow them to return to their sports.

Methods: The author describes a new technique to reduce and maintain reduction of the coraco-clavicular interval, using 3 low profile metallic buttons technique. The fixation device comprises 3 endobuttons (Acufex, Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA) and 2 #5 FibrewireTM suture. Two endobuttons will sit on the clavicle and the third will be flipped at the undersurface of the coracoid. The proposed advantages include a non-rigid fixation of the AC joint which maintains reduction yet allowing for normal movement at the joint. The “snow shoe” hold on cortical bone means that the implant should withstand cyclic loading without cutting out from the bone. The theoretical strength of the fixation is also superior than the original strength of the coraco-clavicular ligaments. The relatively low profile means that there is no need for removal of implant.
Results: The author has utilised this fixation technique on 5 patients. All the patients had strong intraoperative fixation. Immediate, 2 weeks and 6 months postoperative radiographs demonstrated excellent reduction of the coracoclavicular interval and the AC joint.
Conclusion: The short-term follow-up with this technique proves to be a safe and effective way for providing fixation for the ACJ.

Key words: Acromio-clavicular ligament, Coraco-clavicular ligament, Coraco-clavicular interval, Endobutton
Risk Factor Profile and Treatment Patterns of Patients with Atherothrombosis in Singapore: Insight from the REACH Registry
Authors: Yeo Tiong Cheng , Chan Yiong Huak , Low Lip Ping , Venketasubramanian N , Lim Su Chi , Tay Jam Chin , Tan Ru San , Eng Peter , Lingamanaicker Jayaram
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Atherothrombosis is the leading cause of cardiovascular mortality. The Reduction of Atherothrombosis for Continued Health (REACH) Registry provided information on atherosclerosis risk factors and treatment. Singapore was one of the 44 participating countries in the REACH Registry. The objective of this study was to determine the atherosclerosis risk factor profile and treatment patterns in Singapore patients enrolled in the REACH Registry.

Materials and Methods: The REACH Registry is an international prospective observational registry of subjects with or at risk for atherothrombosis. Patients aged 45 years or older with established vascular disease [coronary artery disease (CAD), cerebrovascular disease (CVD), peripheral arterial disease (PAD)] or 3 or more atherosclerosis risk factors were recruited between 2003 and 2004.
Results: A total of 881 patients (64.4% male) were recruited in Singapore by 63 physicians. The mean age was 64 ± 9.8 years (range, 45 to 95). Seven hundred and one (79.6%) patients were symptomatic (CAD 430, CVD 321, PAD 72) while 180 (20.4%) patients had ≥3 risk factors. Approximately 13% of symptomatic patients had symptomatic polyvascular disease. There was a high proportion of diabetes mellitus (57%), hypertension (80.6%) and hypercholesterolemia (80.1%). A substantial proportion of symptomatic patients were current smokers (14.1%). Approximately half of the patients were either overweight or obese [abdominal obesity, 54.3%; body mass index (BMI) 23-27.5, 45.9%; BMI ≥27.5, 23.3%]. Patients were undertreated with antiplatelet agents (71.9% overall; range, 23.9% for ≥3 risk factors to 84.7% for PAD) and statins (76.2% overall; range, 73.6% for PAD to 82.1% for CAD). Risk factors remained suboptimally controlled with a significant proportion of patients with elevated blood pressure (59.4% for ≥3 risk factors and 48.6% for symptomatic patients), elevated cholesterol (40% for ≥3 risk factors and 24.4% for symptomatic patients) and elevated blood glucose (45% for ≥3 risk factors and 19.8% for symptomatic patients).
Conclusion: Established atherosclerosis risk factors are common in Singapore patients in the REACH Registry; and obesity is a major problem. Most of these risk factors remained suboptimally controlled.

Key words: Obesity, Undertreatment, Vascular disease
3rd College of Paediatrics and Child Health Lecture – The Past, the Present and the Shape of Things to Come…
Authors: Loke Kah Yin , Lin Jeremy BY , Mabel Deurenberg-Yap
Published: February 2023

The growth trends of Singapore children spanning 5 decades are reviewed, based on 8 anthropometric studies from 1957 till 2002. The heights of pre-school children and school age children appear to have optimised according to their genetic potential, but the weights and body mass indices of children still appear to be increasing from 6 to 18 years for both sexes, probably as a consequence of increasing affluence. This trend is reflected in the increasing obesity prevalence in school children over the past 30 years, and the concomitant increased morbidity associated with the metabolic syndrome, necessitates further research into the causes of obesity. Barker’s hypothesis first suggested that changes in the intra-uterine environment can cause fetal adaptations which persist into adulthood, and are responsible for many chronic diseases of adult life. More recently, intense research in the field of epigenetics suggests that the environment can also influence the phenotype through gene expression, through modification of DNA methylation and histones which, in turn, influences gene expression. The challenge for the future is to determine if there are clear epigenetic changes, which are responsible for the increased prevalence of childhood and adolescent obesity, and whether these changes are transmitted through generations. Unravelling these epigenetic mechanisms may be the key to the prevention of obesity and the metabolic syndrome.

Key words: Body mass index, Epigenetics, Height, Weight
Immunogenicity, Reactogenicity and Safety of a Diphtheria-Tetanus-Acellular Pertussis-Inactivated Polio and Haemophilus Influenzae Type b Combination Vaccine in a Placebo-controlled Rotavirus Vaccine Study
Authors: Phua Kong Boo , Quak Seng Hock , Lim Fong Seng , Goh Paul , Teoh Yee Leong , Datta Sanjoy Kumar , Han Htay Htay , Bock Hans Ludwig
Published: February 2023

Introduction: In recent years, acellular pertussis combination vaccines have facilitated compliance with and coverage of the national immunisation programme in Singapore. This phase-II study (Rota-007) evaluated the immunogenicity, reactogenicity and safety of a DTPaIPV/Hib combined vaccine when co-administered with a rotavirus vaccine. Materials and Methods: A total of 2464 children aged 3 months were vaccinated with DTPa-IPV/Hib together with a randomised 1:3 ratio of either placebo (n = 653) or 1 of 3 different formulations of a rotavirus vaccine. Blood samples were collected for immunogenicity analysis 1 month after the third DTPa-IPV/Hib vaccine dose in a subset of subjects (n = 640). Local and general reactogenicity and unsolicited adverse events were recorded during the follow-up after each vaccination. Results: Serological analysis showed >95% response for all antigens in the co-administered DTPa-IPV/Hib vaccine, with no difference between the rotavirus vaccine and placebo groups. No differences in adverse events and reactogenicity were reported in the rotavirus vaccine and placebo groups. Only 0.2% of the subjects reported Grade 3 adverse events. Three subjects (from the vaccine groups) died during the study, which were assessed by the investigators as unrelated to vaccination. No deaths were reported in the placebo group. Conclusion: The combined DTPaIPV/Hib vaccine is safe, well tolerated and highly immunogenic when given alone or coadministered with the rotavirus vaccine for infants in Singapore. Key words: Paediatric, Vaccination
Magnesium, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, and Selenium Levels in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis. Can Magnesium Play a Key Role in Osteoporosis?
Authors: Odabasi Ersin , Turan Mustafa , Aydin Ahmet , Akay Cemal , Kutlu Mustafa
Published: February 2023

Introduction: There has been a resurgence of interest in studies concerning the role of elements in the development and maintenance of the skeleton. The aim of the study was to assess the plasma and red blood concentrations of some elements in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

Materials and Methods: Seventy-seven postmenopausal women with osteoporosis aged 61 years (median interquartile range, 7.5; range, 46 to 74) and 61 age- and BMI-matched healthy postmenopausal women aged 60 years (median interquartile range, 8.0; range, 44 to 76) were included in the study. Element concentrations in plasma and red blood cells including magnesium (Mg), zinc, copper, manganese, and selenium were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in both postmenopausal women with osteoporosis and healthy postmenopausal women.
Results: Only statistically significant difference between the osteoporotic (51.51 [15.40] μg/mL) and healthy subjects (54.54 [15.42] μg/mL) was observed in red blood cell (RBC) magnesium concentration (Z = -2.07, P = 0.039). However, no significant difference was found between patient and control groups, both in plasma and in red blood concentrations, for zinc, copper, manganese, and selenium.
Conclusion: Mg levels in red blood cells are significantly lower in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. It is concluded that Mg transport mechanism(s) into the cell could be affected in patients with osteoporosis.

Key words: Copper, Magnesium, Manganese, Osteoporosis, Selenium, Zinc
Improving Door-to-balloon Times in Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Acute ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction: The Value of an Audit-driven Quality Initiative
Authors: Charles Rabind A , Wee Shiou Liang , Kwok Bernard WK , Tan Caren , Lim Swee Han , Anantharaman Venkataraman , Hemanthakumari Wasantha , Chua Terrance SJ
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The study was designed to reduce door-to-balloon times in primary percutaneous coronary intervention for patients presenting to the Emergency Department with acute STelevation myocardial infarction, using an audit as a quality initiative.

Materials and Methods: A multidisciplinary workgroup performed a pilot study over 3 months, then implemented various process and work-flow strategies to improve overall door-to-balloon times.

Results and Conclusion: We developed a guideline-based, institution-specific written protocol for triaging and managing patients who present to the Emergency Department with symptoms suggestive of STEMI, resulting in shortened median door-to-balloon times from 130.5 to 109.5 minutes (P <0.001).

Key words: Angioplasty, Quality indicators, ST elevation myocardial infarction
Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Hypopnoea Syndrome in Singapore Children
Authors: Tang Jenny PL
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Obesity affects about 10% to 15% of our school-going population in Singapore and is a risk factor for development of obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS). This article reviews the prevalence, aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, complications and treatment of obese children with OSAHS with particular reference to children in Singapore.

Methods: Review of articles or conference papers reporting data with regards to OSAHS in Singapore children.

Results: Prevalence of OSAHS was high in obese children in Singapore and was more common in males with no racial predisposition. Hypersomnolence as a presenting symptom was uncommon. Cognitive function, behaviour, attention and processing speed was affected and improved after intervention. Abnormalities of glucose metabolism were also found with the respiratory disturbance index (RDI) as an independent predictor of insulin resistance. Tonsillectomy and or adenoidectomy was efficacious as treatment and risk of complications was low. No significant increase in weight occurred post intervention in those enrolled in concurrent weight management programmes.

Conclusions: Prevalence of OSAHS is high in obese Singapore children and many are ‘asymptomatic’. A low threshold for evaluation is necessary for early diagnosis and intervention for prevention of morbidity. Tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy is safe and efficacious and remains the first-line treatment in most obese patients.

Key words: Complications, Diagnosis, Prevalence, Treatment
Pathways to Specialist Care in an Insomnia Clinic at a Psychiatric Hospital: A Comparative Analysis of Two Periods
Authors: Mahendran Rathi , Chan Yiong Huak
Published: February 2023

Introduction: In this study, the pathways patients followed to treatment in an Insomnia Clinic in a psychiatric hospital were compared over 2 periods. The time interval to specialist referrals and patient clinical presentations were also studied. The aim was to better understand referrers’ knowledge, needs and accessibility to services.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of cases seen between 2002 and 2005 was compared with an earlier review of cases referred between 1997 and 2000. The information gathered from medical records was similar for the 2 periods.

Results: There were no significant differences in the socio-demographic profiles of patients in the 2 periods. Primary Insomnia was diagnosed in 48.2% of the first period cohort and in 47.5% of the second period cohort. However, among the remaining patients there was a shift from more depressive disorders in the first period to neurosis in the second period. Significantly, there was no difference in alcohol or substance abuse or dependence between the 2 periods. More than three-quarters of the patients had received treatment prior to the referral and for 51.8% in both periods, the providers were family physicians. Treatment was mainly pharmacotherapy with an increase in the use of Sleep Hygiene measures in the second period.

Conclusion: There is a need for continuing medical education on insomnia as well as a need to highlight the risks of untreated insomnia and assessment for other psychiatric disorders in this common complaint.

Key words: Insomnia Clinic, Pathways to care, Psychiatric hospital, Specialist care,
Evidence-based Medicine (EBM) for Undergraduate Medical Students
Authors: Taheri Hajar , Mirmohamadsadeghi Maede , Adibi Iman , Ashorion Vahid , Sadeghizade Atefe , Adibi Peiman
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Teaching evidence-based medicine (EBM) to practitioners and residents will improve their performance. There is insufficient evidence regarding the teaching of EBM in undergraduate medical education. We aimed to determine whether an EBM workshop would improve undergraduate medical student’s ability to form clinical questions and search databases, as well as their attitudes towards EBM.

Material and Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study on fifth- and sixth-year medical students of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. In a 4day workshop, students learned and practised how to form clinical questions, perform literature searches and carry out critical appraisals. We assessed the student’s ability to form a clinical question and their performance in searching and identifying the best clinical literature to answer the question, before and after the workshop. Students’ attitudes were assessed using the Likert scale 15-item questionnaire on the last day of the workshop. Wilcoxon signed ranks test was performed to compare pre- and post-tests.

Results: The workshop increased students’ scores in developing clinical questions (P = 0.004, mean rank = 14) and search skills (P <0.001, mean rank = 12.50). It also improved students’ attitudes towards EBM [mean = 3.76, (standared deviation = 0.7)]. The course allowed students (79.2%) to appreciate the need for EBM education for medical students. The students also commented that the course showed them the importance of EBM knowledge in effective clinical performance.

Conclusions: EBM workshop for undergraduate medical students increased their ability to form clinical questions and carry out appropriate literature searches. It also improved their attitudes towards learning and applying EBM.

Key words: Attitudes, Clinical performance, Evidence-Based medicine, Knowledge, Workshop
Introducing a New Medical School System into Japan
Authors: Tokuda Yasuharu , Hinohara Shigeaki , Fukui Tsuguya
Published: February 2023

Entering into medical schools is the most difficult yet most prestigious among all of the undergraduate university departments. Most of the medical students in Japan come from the Mathematics/Physicochemical Science track, while a few are from the Humanities/Social Science track. However, to meet the needs of the Japanese society, medical students need to learn core competencies, such as professionalism, humanism, and ethics. Issues with regard to these competencies among medical students have recently become a widespread serious concern to medical educators and the general public in Japan. In this article, we suggest that the introduction of a new medical school system, by reforming the admission criteria, can be an effective measure for meeting the current needs of the Japanese society.

Key words: Admission criteria, Core competencies, Medical students
История становления системы международного контроля за наркотиками
Authors: Эркабоев Азизбек
Published: February 2023

В данной статье комплексно рассматривается история становления системы международного контроля за наркотиками, заложившая основу конвенционному механизму регулирования оборота наркотических средств, психотропных веществ и прекурсоров. Автор статьи проводит анализ доводов и мнений ученых, описывающих этапы принятия международных нормативных актов, направленных на обеспечение контроля за наркотиками. При этом важным условием эффективной системы международного контроля за наркотиками является постоянное совершенствование нормативно-правовой базы и проведение анализа складывающейся наркоситуации для реализации соответствующих мер на глобальном уровне. В условиях современного развития наркоситуации в Центральной Азии, возникает необходимость анализа универсальных международных конвенций, изучение новых международных договоров, действующих в сфере борьбы с транснациональной организованной преступностью и наркобизнесом для принятия адекватных мер противодействия незаконному обороту наркотиков.
Шахматчиларнинг умумий тайёргарлик давридаги жисмоний тайёргарлиги
Authors: Норбоев Набижон
Published: February 2023

Мақолада шахматчиларнинг тайёргарлик ва мусобақалар даврида жисмоний тайёргарлиги муаммоларини ўрганиш натижалари келтирилган, мусобақаларда қатнашиш вақтида тананинг функционал ҳолатига таъсир қилиш воситаси сифатида ҳаракат фаолиятига бўлган талаб ва ўйиндан кейинги тикланиш жараёнлари қонуниятларини аниқлаш зарурати муҳокама қилинади. Шахматчи организмининг функционал ҳолатини жисмоний ҳаракатлар орқали ошириш даражасининг ижобий динамикаси, шунингдек, тайёргарлик ва мусобақа даврларида чидамлилик ва координацион жисмоний сифатлари ривожланиши аниқланади. Муаллиф томонидан спортчилар организмининг тикланиш қонуниятларини ҳисобга олинган ва Термиз давлат университети шахматчиларининг машғулотлари тизимига киритилган жисмоний тайёргарлик методикаси юқори натижаларга эришишга хизмат қилади. Ҳозирги вақтда Термиз давлат универститети шахматчилари шахмат бўйича талаба ёшлар ўртасида шахсий ва жамоавий баҳсларда бир неча бор вилоят ва республика чемпионлигини қўлга киритишган.
A CONTRIBUIÇÃO DA ANÁLISE DO CICLO DE VIDA (ACV) PARA A MINIMIZAÇÃO DOS IMPACTOS AMBIENTAIS DE PROCESSOS PRODUTIVOS: UMA ABORDAGEM TEÓRICA
Authors: Dalmora Gabriela , Luzzi Karine , Hemkemeier Marcelo
Published: February 2023

Devido à crescente preocupação com a questão ambiental, algumas técnicas vêm sendo desenvolvidas com o intuito de avaliar os aspectos e impactos ambientais associados aos produtos. Dentre estas técnicas, nota-se um destaque para a Avaliação de Ciclo de Vida (ACV), que abrange todas as etapas do ciclo de vida do produto, desde a retirada da matéria-prima na natureza até a disposição do produto final. Com isso, estametodologia apresenta um grande potencial de aplicação na indústria para acompanhamento do ciclo de vida do produto. Contudo, a aplicação desta metodologia na indústria é recente, e ainda está em processo de aperfeiçoamento. Desta forma, este estudo tem como objetivo discutir a aplicação e utilização da ACV no ambiente industrial. Para isso foi realizada uma pesquisa básica, de caráter exploratório, onde foi discorrido sobre alguns conceitos relacionado a ACV, as etapas para sua aplicação na indústria e os benefícios elimitações da ACV no setor industrial. Percebeu-se no estudo que, apesar da complexidade que a aplicação da ACV possa ter no setor industrial, está é uma boa opção para o acompanhamento das questões ambientais relacionadas aos produtos, e pode contribuir para o desenvolvimento sustentável.
PNNPlus Saturation Logging Technology And Its Application
Authors: Zhou Chao , Li Bing , Chen Chunyu , Huang Yingjian , Yi Shenghao
Published: February 2023

As oilfield enters middle and late stages of exploitation, the dynamic monitoring of oil saturation has become an essential part for grasping the distribution of remaining oil and improving the crude oil recovery. PNNPlus is a new saturation logging technology that adds two activated gamma probes on the basis of thermal neutron lifetime logging using neutron probes to assist in determining the water content of the reservoir, but its adaptability for residual oil saturation monitoring in low-porosity and low-permeability formation is unclear. Therefore, this paper researches and analyzes the adaptability of PNNPlus saturation logging technology by taking the Longdong Oilfield in the Ordos Basin as the research object. It is shown that: the PNNPlus logging technology is suitable for evaluating the remaining oil saturation of the mediumlow porosity reservoir in the Longdong Oilfield as the PNNPlus logging results are consistent with the oil saturation of completed wells and the interpretation conclusions can accurately evaluate the remaining oil saturation; The water saturation of the formation calculated by the oxygen content in the formation as detected by PNNPlus logging tool and the macro-capture cross-section Sigma, combined with the oil saturation, completion logging data, and geological data, can accurately identify and divide water-flooded layers; The formation porosity obtained from PNNPlus logging deviates from that obtained from completion logging by 0. 5%, but matches well with the oil saturation of the oil layer and water layer obtained from completion logging.
Uncovering the Historical Process and Micro Mechanism of China’s Indigenous Innovation in the High-Tech Industry: A Comment on Li Yin’s China’s Drive for the Technology Frontier:Indigenous Innovation in the High-Tech Industry
Authors: Chen Junting
Published: February 2023

China’s Drive for the Technology Frontier: Indigenous Innovation in the High-Tech Industry, a new book by Prof. Li Yin of Fudan University, has employed the framework of “social conditions of innovative enterprise” to investigate the historical process of China’s telecommunication equipment and semiconductor industry, arriving at the conclusion that strategic control, organizational integration and financial commitment contributes to firms’ indigenous innovation. From the perspective of innovative enterprise, this book dives into innovative firms and uncovers the micro mechanism of innovation processes, which is helpful for readers to understand the drive of China’s indigenous innovation and valuable for policy makers, and those scholars interested in innovation or catch-up studies.
The Mechanism of Stabilizing Economic Growth of Public Prevention System
Authors: Zou Tieding , Xu Tangyan
Published: February 2023

The Outline of the “Healthy China 2030” Plan proposes to build a big healthy society by perfecting health service system and continuous improving residents’ physical health, and it advocates to promote health human capital to the same importance to education human capital. Based on the panel data of 271 prefecture level cities in China from 2007 to 2020, this paper constructs a fixed effect model to empirically analyze the mechanism of the public prevention system to reduce macroeconomic fluctuations and promote economic growth. The research shows that there are three channels for the public prevention system to stabilize economic growth: 1) Financial input for construction directly expands aggregate demand and promotes economic growth. 2) Improved overall public health facilitates the accumulation of human capital and promote intensive economic growth. 3) Stabilized social order and economic expectations reduces macroeconomic fluctuations and therefore drives economic development. The heterogeneity test shows that due to the regional differences in policy attention, education investment and environmental protection, the role of public prevention system in promoting economic growth in the central and northeast regions is significantly weaker than it is in the western and eastern regions.
Research on Development Index and Early Warning of Doctoral Education in Chinese Universities —Based on 32 World Class Universities
Authors: Lou Zhi
Published: February 2023

Taking 32 world-class universities in China as samples, based on the three core elements, i. e. , development scale, development condition and social contribution, the development index of doctoral education in Chinese universities is compiled on the basis of 14 indicators, including the number of doctoral students in universities. The results show the development situation of doctoral education in Chinese universities: the development degree of doctoral education is closely related to the scale of doctoral students; the overall condition for the development of doctoral education is not high; the gradient phenomenon of the social contribution index of doctoral education is obvious; some universities are unevenly developed in terms of development scale, development condition and social contribution, and there are different degrees of early warning. Finally, corresponding research suggestions are put forward. The establishment of the development index of doctoral education in Chinese universities aims to simplify the evaluation process, achieve dynamic monitoring, and promote the high-quality development of doctoral education in China.
Design of a Shielded Room against EMP Signal as per MIL-STD 461
Authors: Pathala Venkata Sai Charishma , Jayasree Pappu V. Y.
Published: February 2023

Electromagnetic shielding is the best technique to protect equipment from the Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) signal. This paper explains how effectively the equipment will be protected within a shielded room against EMP signals. The shielded room is designed with different points of entry used to provide electrical connections to the Equipment Under Test (EUT) in a honeycomb structure for ventilation to protect the equipment from the EMP signal. The shielded room with four points of entry and honeycomb structures is designed, analyzed theoretically, and simulated in the CST Studio. The points of entry (PoE) and the honeycomb structure are designed based on MIL-STD-461 E/F/G (by following this standard the maximum frequency of EMP signal is 100MHz). It is observed that by increasing the size of the PoE the shielding effectiveness value decreases by 20dB for perfect electrical conductor (PEC) material of 2mm thickness. It is concluded that the equipment will be more protected when it is placed nearer to the front wall or in the middle of the shielded room. The performance of the shielded room will not be affected with honeycomb structures which will provide 220dB Shielding Effectiveness (SE).
Cooley-Tukey FFT Algorithm based on GDFT for Phasor Estimation by PMU under Power Quality Disturbances
Authors: Abbaci Mohamed , Ould Zmirli Mohamed
Published: February 2023

Due to the high penetration of renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic panels and wind turbines, in addition to the use of different electric power supplies in the power grid, there are major disturbances in the forms of electric waves. These variations and disturbances must be monitored and controlled for the efficient management of transmission and distribution of electrical energy, safety, and electrical protection systems. Nowadays, Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) technology is an essential tool to develop the supervision, protection, and control of the electrical power grid. PMUs measure the amplitude and angle of current and voltage waveforms on a Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) time scale and speedily measure the fundamental frequencies and their rates of change using fast and accurate estimation algorithms. This paper presents a phasor estimation using a Modified Cooley-Tukey Fast Fourier Transform algorithm based on the Generalized Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) used in PMUs, using simulations in MATLAB. This algorithm was utilized to accelerate and simplify the computation of DFTs. To validate the performance under waveform disturbances, several tests with different waveforms and disturbances were simulated and interpreted according to the standard and compared with DFT.
Transient Analysis of the Fuzzy Logic-based Speed Control of a Three-phase BLDC Motor
Authors: Raja S. , Rathinakumar M.
Published: February 2023

The energy-efficient motor is a vital requirement for modern industrial, automobile, and home appliance drives. Among the special machines, the Brushless DC Motors (BLDCMs) are more attractive to the application engineer because they offer high power-to-weight ratio, compact construction, do not require consistent maintenance, and have an efficiency margin of 85–90%. This study uses FPGA to create fuzzy logic-based speed control for a three-phase BLDCM with transient time domain characteristics. The fuzzy logic-based controller algorithm is implemented using the FPGA Xilinx Spartan board, which receives the actual speed from a position sensor located inside the BLDCM. It calculates the ratio of the duty cycle of the Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) pulse. It is triggered by the driver system of the BLDCM drive to attain the reference speed. The performance characteristics of a BLDC motor drive such as steady-state error, peak overshoot, speed drop under loaded conditions, and restoration time after loaded conditions were analyzed using MATLAB/Simulink 2014. The hardware configuration setup is validated by the suggested system's simulation response.
A Real-Time Analytic Face Thermal Recognition System Integrated with Email Notification
Authors: Singh Ranjit Singh Sarban , Anand T. Joseph Sahaya , Anas Siti Aisyah , Acharya Biswaranjan
Published: February 2023

COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The disease has spread worldwide, leading to an ongoing pandemic. The most common symptom of COVID-19 is fever which can be detected using various manual screening techniques that have the risk of exposing the personnel. Since the virus has globally spread, a reliable system to detect COVID-19-infected people, especially before entering any premises and buildings, is in high demand. The most common symptom that can be detected is fever, even though people with fever might not have COVID-19. Thus, a real-time analytic face thermal recognition system integrated with email notification that has the capability to scan the person’s temperature and simultaneously analyze the measured temperature with the recorded/stored information/data is presented in this paper. The proposed system is also able to send an email notification to the relevant authorities during the real-time analytical process. Besides that, this information is also recorded in the system database for continuous monitoring of the respective person’s health status. The development of the proposed system is integrated with a Thermal Module AMG8833, Pi camera, and Raspberry Pi Zero Wireless. The proposed system has been tested and the captured results successfully accomplished the development objectives.
Space Syntax for Evaluating Attractivity and Visit Frequency
Authors: Tedjari Abdelmalek Farouk , Abbaoui Messaoud
Published: February 2023

The current study uses the Space Syntax innovative method for determining the causes of the attractivity and visit frequency gap between two open public spaces of downtown Setif (Algeria): Sahat El Istiklal square and Masjid Ibn Badis square. A design drawn from a map coming from the National Institute of Cartography and Teledetection (Algeria) is chosen for the configurative analysis carried out by Space Syntax through the DepthMap software. Visibility Graph Analysis (VGA) superimposed with the pedestrian real flow permits the visual integration of the analysis of each square. The analysis revealed relevant gaps in the syntactic measure values obtained for each square emphasizing their positive aspects and specific problems. Space Syntax allows the extension of the initial discussion about public squares in urban environments and to work out causality relationships between spatial configuration and human behavior.
Assessment of the Flexural Strength of No-Fines Recycled Aggregate Concrete Prisms
Authors: Rahu Ahsan Ali , Memon Bashir Ahmed , Oad Mahboob , Dahri Shakeel Ahmed , Memon Abdul Raqeeb , Bhutto Amjad Hussain
Published: February 2023

This study investigated experimentally the flexural strength of no-fines recycled aggregate concrete, produced using 20-70% replacement of conventional coarse aggregates with coarse aggregates from demolished waste. Six prisms in each dosage with a 1:4 mix and 0.5 water-binder ratios were prepared. A batch of prisms with conventional aggregates was also cast to compare them with the proposed concrete. An equal number of samples were cured for 7 and 28 days and tested under a gradually increasing central point load to examine failure load, central deflection, and flexural strength. The comparison of results showed an increasing trend in deflection with an increase in the dosage of recycled aggregates. The 7-day cured samples had approximately 2.6 times the deflection of conventional concrete. However, the deflection at all replacement levels remained less than that allowed by ACI-318. The results showed a decreasing trend in flexural strength with an increase in the dosage of recycled aggregates. The 40% replacement sample had a less than 20% strength reduction and is recommended as the optimum level of replacement of conventional aggregates for the production of no-fines recycled aggregate concrete.
A Novel Algorithm for Optimal Harmonic Load Flow including Harmonic Compensation
Authors: Godbole Prachi , George Sincy
Published: February 2023

Load flow analysis is widely used for finding voltage at various parts of a large, interconnected power system. The exponential increase in the use of power electronic devices and the noticeable percentage of integration of renewable energy sources in modern power systems result in the occurrence of non-sinusoidal voltages at various parts of the power system. By reformation of the Newton-Raphson load flow method, a few harmonic load flow algorithms have been developed for modern transmission systems. However, for larger transmission systems, complexity and heavy computational burden are often encountered in the load flow solution process due to the increased size of the Jacobean matrix that further increases with multiple non-linear load buses and compensation requirements. This leads to convergence problems and increased execution time. In this paper, an optimal harmonic load flow algorithm is proposed, that employs a modified PSO technique to select control variables and the harmonic load flow method to find solutions for load flow analysis with a reduced size of the Jacobean matrix. The formulated method uses a simple technique to take into account nonlinear loads and results in faster convergence. The novelty of the algorithm is that an optimal load flow solution with the desired amount of reactive and harmonic compensation currents is obtained. The algorithm can help in getting load flow solutions in future power systems with distorted voltage and currents with compensation. The performance of the proposed algorithm is tested on a modified IEEE 30-bus system with multiple non-linear load buses and is validated with the Simulink model of the system.
Evaluation of Confining Pressure Models for Circular Concrete-Filled Steel Tube Short Columns under Concentric Loading
Authors: Le Hoang An
Published: February 2023

It is well known that the confinement effect provided by the steel tube significantly increases the strength and ductility of circular Concrete Filled Steel Tube (CFST) columns under concentric loading. The lateral pressure is an important factor to calculate the strength enhancement of CFST columns. To reliably predict the ultimate strength of circular CFST columns, many models have been developed for predicting the lateral pressure due to the confinement effect. This paper aims to evaluate some of these confining pressure models. The values of the compressive strength of confined concrete and lateral confining pressure of circular CFST short columns were calculated using these existing models and were compared with those obtained from previous test results. In addition, a comparison between the ultimate loads predicted by these models and by Eurocode 4 (EC4) was carried out. Based on the comparison results, some suitable models for circular CFST short columns with the use of normal-strength, high-strength, and ultra-high-strength concrete were indicated.
An Adaptive Sliding Mode Controller for a PAM-based Actuator
Authors: Dao Quy-Thinh , Dinh Vuong Van , Vu Chien Tuan , Pham Thuyet Quang , Duong Duc Minh
Published: February 2023

The Pneumatic Artificial Muscle (PAM) is a promising actuator for developing the human-robot interaction system. However, modeling and controlling PAM-based actuators are a significant difficulty due to the inherent uncertainty and hysteresis of PAM. Besides, the control approach of a PAM-based system also deals with unknown disturbances that always exist in any system. This study developed a sliding mode controller that employs an adaptive law to deal with issues and improve control performance. Furthermore, the stability of the proposed controller is proven based on the Lyapunov stability criterion. Finally, through a series of tests, the effectiveness of the proposed control approach is verified.
Design and Implementation of a Second Order Continuous-Time ΣΔ Modulator for ECG Signal Acquisition
Authors: Kavitha M. , Akhila S. , Kannan Anand
Published: February 2023

The recent developments in biosignal acquisition devices for continuous supervision of cardiovascular signs of high-risk patients require a high-precision and low-power Analog Front End (AFE) circuit. The proposed design adopts Continuous-Time (CT) Sigma-Delta Modulator (ΣΔM) architecture to achieve high resolution and SIgnal-to-Noise And Distortion ratio (SINAD) requirements. The proposed modulator is a second-order CT-ΣΔM with Cascade of Integrators Feed-Forward (CIFF) architecture that consists of a CT loop filter, a single-bit quantizer, and a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC). The use of single-bit quantization in the design reduces circuit complexity and power consumption. To use the designed ΣΔM for measuring ECG signals, a bandwidth (Bw) of 150 Hz is considered with a sampling frequency (fs) of 153.6kHz to achieve an oversampling ratio of 512. The design is simulated in a standard Cadence Virtuoso EDA tool at 180nm CMOS technology, operating at 1.8V supply voltage at the block level. The simulation results for the designed modulator show that SINAD is 104.5dB, the Effective Number Of Bits (ENOB) is 17.06bits, with power consumption of 24µW, and achieves Schreier’s Figure-Of-Merit (FOM) equal to 172.45dB.
The Impact of Operational Scenarios and Concrete Aging Factor on the Freeboard Height of an Irrigation Canal
Authors: Kazem Masoud , Nazari-Sharabian Mohammad , Afzalimehr Hossein , Darban Nader , Karakouzian Moses
Published: February 2023

The prediction of operational freeboard in irrigation canals is a complicated issue, particularly when the cumulative effects of time-dependent factors, such as maloperation and concrete aging, are considered. While most classic approaches consider a fixed freeboard due to uniform flow as a fundamental assumption. Τhis study proposes a flowchart considering the effects of nonuniform flow to determine the adequacy of the freeboard of irrigation canals under different conditions, including time-dependent and operational scenarios. The results of this method indicated that the freeboard values obtained by classical methods may not be sufficiently reliable in providing the appropriate level of performance in the operating conditions of agricultural canals. Regarding the case study of this paper, an irrigation canal in Kurdistan-Iran, the results showed that the formation of the M1 profile is the most critical scenario and the initial freeboard must be extended by 20cm at a distance of about 2.3Km at the end of the canal towards upstream.