bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review paper on materials used for manufacturing of alloy wheels
Authors: Naim A , Kumar R , Bhatia S
Published: June 2021

In this review paper we have done a detailed study on the different types of material that we can use for the manufacturing of alloy wheels in order to meet the need of the market. During this project we studied the fatigue analysis of aluminium, magnesium, and titanium alloy wheels on the basis of their deformation under load, maximum shear stress of materials, and equivalent stress of the materials. Also we studied the different methods of production of alloy wheels.
Comparison of a decade’s data between LST and NDVI data for agricultural drought analysis in Rayalaseema region, AP, India
Authors: Damarla Gayathry , Kavuri Naga Chaitanya
Published: June 2021

Drought is an extreme weather condition that disturbs agricultural production by raising the temperatures and altering precipitation patterns. As agriculture in India heavily depends on monsoon, any changes in these patterns will severely affects its agricultural economy. Rayalaseema is one of such regions which was hit by sever draught conditions in past few decades. The region depends on the traditional agricultural economy; thus, not only production but also the life of the common man is influenced by the impact of drought on agriculture. The purpose of this study is to investigate vegetation stress in the Rayalaseema region with the help of normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) values and land surface temperature (LST) for the years 2011 and 2019. To measure both NDVI and LST, satellite data is used. A clear interdependency between LST and NDVI was observed and it was found to be a negative correlation between them. The correlation values for 2011 and 2019 between LST and NDVI were found to be -0.44577, -0.80447 respectively. The influence of rain fall data was also discussed in the study to explain the increase in NDVI values during the last quarter of 2019.
Effect of parametric study on microstructure during FSW process
Authors: Kandir Kupsingh , Mohanty Pragyan Paramita , Swain Manish Kumar
Published: June 2021

The work focuses on the improvement of strength-weldability combination in Friction Stir Welding (FSW) joint of 7075 and 6061 Aluminium Alloys. Although Al-6061 and Al-7075 both are heat treatable but they are having somewhat different mechanical properties. The 7075-T6 has more tensile strength and hardness than that of 6061-T6.The lower hardness of 6061-T6 allow it to weld easily whereas 7075 prone to cracking during welding. Owing with the result that FSW could play significant role in order to improve the weldability, microstructure of cross section as well as the mechanical properties of joint was characterized. The welds were considered by using three rotational speed and three feed. It was revealed that the tensile strength of the joint (153.13 MPa) became very less in comparison to the base metal and it has been decreased again when the speed decreases from 700rpm and 15mm/sec to 2000rpm and 25mm/min.The findings such as tensile strength as well as the fracture revealed that mechanical properties and the microstructure of welding are not desirable for any structural application.
Global system for mobile communication (GSM) monitoring in industries using arduino uno
Authors: Yadav Sandeep , Raghuvanshi Rituraj , Soni Gaurav , Bangali Lokesh , Bundela Shishank Singh
Published: June 2021

The scope of our project is to notify the owner of the premises, the fire department and authority immediately after the detecting any fire and gas leakage by sensor. The notification is sent through Short Message Services (SMS). The issue we are trying to solve here is associated with the emergencies which can occur in any industry or large factories in this case fire. This can also help us to reduce the response time taken by the first responders. As soon as the sensors detect fire or smoke buzzer will go off and SMS will be sent to all the authorities. The path to the development of the automation system at home and in industry is almost the same these days. This paper will help us to understand the measures which we can take to create a fail safe system for fire or gas detection in large areas at low cost. Everyone wants to be safe as much as possible. The easy connection simple to understand will help every user to use the wireless system for security using the sensors-Gas, smoke, and temperature detector at industries.
An overview to micro-wire-electrical discharge machining
Authors: Porwal Rajesh K , Vinod K , Chauhan Premanand S , Shukla Rajendra K
Published: June 2021

Hard to cut metals are widely machined with the help of Wire EDM process which overcomes major challenges in the conventional machining processes. For generation of micro-features and complex three dimensional structures Wire EDM is considered above other unconventional machining process like abrasive jet, laser, plasma and electron beam machining. Wire EDM provides better dimensional accuracy, machining rate and surface finish, with flexibility to alter process parameters. Importance and utilization of micro or nano parts in aerospace, medical, missiles & ballistics and automobile requires machining process like μ-WEDM to obtain desired features and intricate geometries. This study approaches and enlightens the work areas where micro level features have been generated using Wire EDM by different researchers, using diverse experimentation, modeling and optimization approaches for Wire-EDM. Finally, conclusion and future scope at the completion of the chapter binds up the present study.
Investigation of cold-formed steel open channel element under gravity loads
Authors: Kiran Ch Uday , Kishore I Siva
Published: June 2021

The specimen study consists of short, thin-walled columns made of cold-formed steel with an open top-hat cross-section. The walls in the specimens analyzed are made up of thin sheet component. Profiles were analyzed to classify the critical forces and post-critical stability paths. The ends of the column profile are considered to be supported. The numerical investigation was undertaken using the finite element method. The research includes an investigation of the post-critical stage of the profile on the different gravity loads of different thicknesses, depending on the eigenvalues of the profiles. The numerical simulation of the profiles is done using the ABAQUS® software. Based on a comparison of the outcomes of the profiles, an optimal profile is recommended for further analysis.
Morphological parameters of nanoparticles used in nano lubrication - a review
Authors: Singh Anoop Pratap , Tripathi Ajay , Shukla Matsyendra Nath , Suhane Amit
Published: June 2021

Nanotechnology provides a lot of progress in all areas of engineering and technology. Similarly, in the field of lubrication, nano particles play vital role. It has been intensively evaluated in the last many years. Nano particles capable of improving the performance of lubricating oil. This review summarizes the morphological parameters of nanoparticles in the field of oil lubrication. Researchers studies various shapes, sizes and compositions of nanoparticles. This review is able to provide information about the morphological parameters of nanoparticles for better understanding of nano lubrication.
Experimental study on performance and emission character of C. I. engine fuelled with plastic oil (PO) along with diesel fuel blending
Authors: Kawade Ganesh H , Brajendra Tripathi , Suman Gothwal
Published: June 2021

In this experimental investigation evaluate the sound effects of plastic fuel in a single cylinder four stroke diesel engine. Plastic oil fuel produced from desecrate plastic with the help pyrolysis technique which most suitable for conversion. Also chemical and physical properties are tested for various blends as per the ASTM standard. Selected diesel engine tested with plastic oil and diesel fuel blend. Blending endowment selected for the testing of engine such as PO25, PO50, PO75 and PO100 for a load 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of load of engine. In each experiment test, load on engine is increased and recorded the specific fuel consumption, mechanical efficiency, brake thermal efficiency. Also simultaneously measure the tail pipe emission of engine such as Carbon Monoxide, UBHC emission and Oxides of Nitrogen emission etc. obtained results are compared with standard performance characteristics of diesel engine. Finally these investigations prove the PO oil and its blending with diesel fuel are suitable for selected engine. Up to PO75 may use as a source of alternative fuel for CI engine without any major modification.
Opportunities and mitigation strategies for biomaterials: to combat the challenges of COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Paul Shreyasi , Paul Shubhadip
Published: June 2021

In the last several months, “CoronavirusDisease 2019” (COVID-19) has intensified to a global pandemic at an abnormal rate. This pandemic of COVID-19 has disclosed major flaws in our abilities to attenuate spreading of contagious viral disease providing treatment for patients, leading to crisis in public health. Various Clinical views are discussed, considering the mitigation tactics and scope for novel biomaterials involved in treatment strategies, diagnostics and surface coatings for deactivation of virus. Call for multidisciplinary approaches in disease detection and management by biomaterials community are expected to play a vital role to combat the challenges of present and future outbreaks.
Effect of coir fibres on strength, thickness and cost of PMGSY roads
Authors: Mittal Ayush
Published: June 2021

The present study discusses about the effect of adding coir fibres in poor soil in various percentages (i.e. 0.15%, 0.30%, 0.60%, 0.90%, 1.20% and 1.5%) on the strength, thickness and cost of low volume rural roads under PMGSY. Soil sample comes under clay of high compressibility (CH) category and contains substantial amount of finer particles. Laboratory California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and compaction tests are performed for various reinforcement conditions. Upto 0.90% fibre reinforcement, improvement in CBR and dry density is reported and beyond that it decreases. The thickness of pavement is determined as per design catalogues provided in IRC:SP:72-2015. Maximum cost reduction of 21% and 19% in pavement construction corresponding to traffic category T-6 and T-9, respectively, is reported when reinforced with 0.90% coir fibres.
Sustainable use of polypropylene fibers and palm oil fuel ash in the production of geopolymer concrete
Authors: Adapala Bala Gopal , Kumar Jagarapu Durga Chaitanya , Jeelani Syed Hamim , Sarath Chandra Kumar B. , Eluru Arunakanthi
Published: June 2021

Geopolymer concrete is an innovative advance in the world, in this concrete cement is fully substituted with pozzolanic materials like fly ash and GGBS. In this present study fly ash is replaced with POFA (Palm oil fuel ash) up to 25% (0%,5%,10%,15%,20%,25%), 10% of stone dust is replaced with sand. In addition to the above materials, 0.2% of polypropylene fibers were added to the volume of concrete. 2.5 ratio of sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide solutions are added as Alkali activators for 10M molarity. Initially, the specimens are oven cured 80° C for about 24hrs and after that leave for ambient curing. All the specimens stood tested after 7 and 28 days of ambient curing. The prepared POFA based geopolymer was tested for all types of mechanical properties, like compressive strength, split tensile strength, bending strength and load deflection curve. All these properties are compared with the nominal concrete.
RCC chimney for 800Mw thermal power plant
Authors: Krishna Tulasi Sai , Chowdary CH Mallika
Published: June 2021

A Chimney is an industrial structure used to ventilate hot flue gases from the furnace to the outside living atmosphere.The Chimneys are typically vertical, or as near as possible to vertical, to ensure that the gases flow smoothly. As a result of the procedure of chimney is ability to handle Dead load, Wind load, Earthquake load and Temperature load. In this research, achimney is starting from basic calculations to analytical calculations. A Chimney analysis for the thermal power plant, the location wastaken as Vijayawada, (AP). Where as the basic wind speed and seismic zone were considered only in that particular location. Analysis was about how to calculate the height, calculating area and volumeif the thermal plant generates 800MW power. Analysis was calculated by using Indian code IS 4998-2015.in manual and software. STAAD Pro and ANSYS are the softwares used for the validation.
Review of structural health monitoring attributes optimization with multiple regression and teaching learning based optimization
Authors: Khaira Ashish , Dwivedi Ravi K. , Jain Sanjay
Published: June 2021

It was observed in reviewed literature that researchers preferred Weibull analysis for analyzing failure, as it is a generalized uncertainty failure model, based on variable failure rate in structural health monitoring (SHM). Apart from this, in real-life situations, it is difficult to get all the required data for the standard objective function, therefore, some researchers used some pre-existed values in place of unavailable ones, but it usually leads to error. To reduce this error, this research work reviewed Multiple Regression and Teaching Learning Based Optimization (TLBO). This review suggested combining Multiple Regression and Teaching Learning Based Optimization (TLBO) for successful structural health monitoring (SHM).
Effect of ball powder ratio on microstructure and compressive behaviour of porous Ti-4wt %Al alloy
Authors: Singh Pradeep , Agarwal P. , Shakya J.P. , Mondal D.P.
Published: June 2021

Ti and Al powders were milled in the weight proportion 24:1 using horizontal planetary ball mill. The ratio of ball to powder amounts (BPR) was varied (10, 15, and 20) in the milling process. Powder mixture milled with different BPRs were characterized by the XRD and FESEM to probe the evolution of phase and particles shape and size. Further, these mixtures were used to make porous cylindrical samples through space holder method. The used space holder amount was 60 v%. Compression test of the samples were performed on Universal Testing Machine. It was analysed that crystallite size, shape and size of the powder particles considerably affected by the used ball to powder ratio.XRD confirms that phase formation is invariant with the BPR. The observed relative density is about 10% higher than the used space holder content. Porous sample synthesized by the powder milled with 15 BPR has higher plastic collapse stress and energy absorption capacity as compared to the samples made of the powder milled with 10 and 20 BPRs.
Harmonic analysis of annular sector sandwich plate using FEM
Authors: Kumar M , Narwariya M , Sharma A K
Published: June 2021

In present study, vibration and harmonic behaviors of annular sector sandwich plate of two orthotropic composite materials are analyzed using FEM technique. Sandwich plate made of two face sheet and one core sheet in middle has been modelled using an ANSYS APDL FEM tool. A suitable finite element model is developed and proposed based on first order shear deformation theory. The model has been discretized using appropriate elements i.e. 8-node solid 185 for core sheet and SOLSH190 for face sheet from the ANSYS element library. Effect of varying face sheet thickness is demonstrated on vibration as well as harmonic behaviors of sandwich plate and related findings are discussed briefly. Effect of sector angle has also been demonstrated. The authenticity of the proposed methodology has been verified by comparing the simulation results with available literature. It can be observed that the results obtained are in good propinquity and presently proposed model shows the results with adequate accuracy.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of friction-stir welded interstitial-free steel using WC tool
Authors: Sinha Mrinmoy , Kumar Atul , Tripathi Ajay , Chourasiya Surendra Kumar
Published: June 2021

In the present work, interstitial-free steel plates were joined using friction-stir welding. The weld integrity was found to be in excellent condition. This work emphasises the evolution of microstructure and the enhancement of mechanical properties by friction-stir welding. The microstructural characterisation using optical image microscopy revealed the refinement of grains in the nugget zone. Vicker’s hardness test stopped to a maximum of ~91 VHN in the nugget zone compared to ~40 VHN in the base material. The tensile test of the welded sample concluded that the samples fractured in the region away from the nugget zone and towards the base material. The results are conclusive that friction-stir welding is an excellent approach for joining interstitial-free steel components for automotive applications.
Optimization of wear and frictional parameters using IWO and PSO algorithms
Authors: Reddy Vajarala Venkata , Mandava Ravi Kumar , Kumar Deepak , Pachore Vijay , Kumar Vikas , Rama Koteswara Rao V.
Published: June 2021

In the mechanical industries the tribological studies namely, wear rate (WR) and coefficient of friction (COF) are playing a significant role. Therefore, identifying the optimal parameters of wear and coefficient friction is a challenging task. To overcome this difficulty, in the present research work, the authors are using various non-traditional algorithms such as Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithms. The non-linear equation has been developed for T6-heat treated Al 7075/SiC/FA MMC’s using response surface methodology. The three independent factors such as sliding velocity (SV), applying load (AL), and sliding distance (SD) are used to optimize the WR and COF. Finally, the performances of the established algorithms are verified in terms of their capability to develop the optimum solution.
Creep behaviour analysis of brass bar on variable temperature
Authors: Danish Iqbal Md , Chauhan Premanand S , Sharma Avadesh K , Pandit Prem Prakash
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the behaviour of Creep of Brass bar at different temperatures i.e. 300°C, 500°C and 600°C. It is necessary to perceive the behaviour of creep of Brass bar at different temperature conditions because this copper and its alloy are used in several high temperature applications. Results indicate that temperature has significant effect on the rate of deformation and life of component.
An Android-based COVID Case Monitoring Application Using a Geographic Information System to Educate the Public to be More Aware of COVID-19 Spreads
Authors: Febriansyah M C , Raiz M E , Zulfikar R , Agustia R D
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study is to monitor the spread of Covid-19 cases. The monitoring process takes advantage of geolocation to detect the level of the spread of Covid in an area. Geographical information system utilization is used for mapping areas that have Covid cases. To notify users of the use of geolocation sensors, it is used to notify system users within a certain radius that the area entered is in an active zone for the spread of Covid-19. To carry out the tracing and tracking process, each Covid-19 patient will be reported to the system by recording their telephone number. Therefore, the patient’s movement will be detected whether he complies with the protocol by isolating independently or violating the protocol by exiting the quarantine area. Geolocation sensors and telephone number recording will involve a smartphone device so that the system built will be mobile-based. The software development method used the waterfall method, which consists of requirements, design, implementation, verification, and maintenance. This study is a product design prototype application for monitoring mobile phone-based covid cases using a geographic information system approach.
Designing a Web-based Online Attendance Information System Application
Authors: Iffan M , Dewantara M I , Ferdiansyah D , Alexander A J
Published: June 2021

During the current pandemic, many people are working at home or studying online and sometimes have difficulty making absences. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to design a web-based online attendance information system application. The method used in this design was an online questionnaire and interviews to obtain relevant information regarding the attendance list of people who work at home and learn online. The results of this study are an online absence web with several features such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) location of the person who did the absences online, the face of the absent person, and other features. The conclusion obtained in this study is that the existence of web-based online absences can make it easier for people who work at home and learn online to do absences because it is easy and can be done anywhere as long as they have internet access. The benefit of designing a web-based online attendance information system application is the accuracy in providing information to offices and educational institutions. This aims to tackle fraud or falsification of attendance. Online attendance is very much needed and can make it easier for workers and students to do attendance and make it easier for admins to monitor attendance.
Comparison of Physical and Numerical Model on Dam Break Flood Wave Propagation in Horizontal Channel
Authors: Pratiwi V , Kusuma M S B , Kardhana D , Farid M
Published: June 2021

This paper presents experimental results and the development of a numerical model for simulating dam break flood wave propagation. Floods caused by dam breaks have special flow characteristics due to potential energy caused by upstream and downstream elevation differences, and very high flow rates, from the collapse of the dam wall. The physical model is built on a horizontal channel, with 10 meters length and 1-meter width. The reservoirs used are upstream and downstream. Channels used are made of steel materials with negligible friction. The building used is made from wood with a volume of 10x10x40 cm. Flood wave propagation is modelled as a flash flood due to the mass movement of water in large quantities with the sudden opening of water gates. As the initial conditions, the door will be closed. On the upstream of the door, given the initial conditions of water level. Physical models result is used as calibration of numerical models. The developed numeric model is open foam that produces 3D modeling. The result of the physical model and numerical model show the highest flow velocity and good agreement of the pattern of flow velocity profiles during the first 3 seconds. The comparison of the Numerical model and Physical Model indicates whether the numerical model is feasible for use in dam-break modeling. For better results, it is necessary to develop a further model. Solutions to this physical and numerical model can be part of the mitigation effort in case the disaster phenomenon occurs.
Line Learning Software to Improve Learning Interest
Authors: Juanda  , Wessels I E , Amelia L , Irmayanti
Published: June 2021

The internet’s role has become crucial. Even when the current Covid-19 is occurring, internet use cannot be avoided. One of the most effective internet services during this pandemic is in education, wherewith the internet can make interactions between teachers and students remotely. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to design online learning applications in Indonesia. This research used the Waterfall method. This method explains the needs of application software in the process of maintaining this application. This application acts as a platform that can help teachers and students. This application provides the teaching staff the freedom to give the material that all students can access freely. This study’s result is an online learning application created as efficiently and effectively as possible for use by teaching staff and their students.
The Analysis Chemical Composition and Microstructure of Bolt Anchor Bushing in Cessna Caravan Type 208B
Authors: Suroso Indreswari
Published: June 2021

Bolt Anchor Bushing is a component contained in an aircraft in the form of a cylindrical iron tube in which there is rubber. Bolt Anchor bushing functions as a bearing between moving and immovable components. This is done so that aircraft components can carry out their functions properly and safely. Bolt Anchor Bushing must be sturdy and strong for the shaft elements and the machine to work properly. If the Bolt Anchor bushing does not work properly, it will affect how the component system works. The methods in this research were observation, interviews, quotes with journals, and testing of chemical composition and microstructure. The results of characteristics Bolt Anchor bushing include medium carbon steel with 0.42% Carbon and 93.98% Fe mixture of Nickel 1.91% Ni. Bolt Anchor Bushing has the characteristics of being resilient and corrosion resistant. The results of the microstructure on the outer, middle and inner surface of the bolt anchor bushing consist of ferrite and pearlite phases. The colour of ferrite phase is light and the dark is colour of pearlite phase. The ferrite phase is stable at low temperatures, solubility is limited and can be with Fe3C or cementite. The pearlite phase is in ferrite and Fe3C. In this study, the bushing consisted of Fe-Ni. It has the properties of high hardness, ductility, corrosion resistance and high temperature resistance.
Quantifying uncertainties in climate data: measurement limitations of naturally ventilated thermometer screens
Authors: Harrison R Giles , Burt Stephen D
Published: June 2021

Climate science depends on accurate air temperature measurement. To achieve this, well ventilated thermometers protected from direct sunlight and precipitation are needed, commonly through using louvred enclosures known as screens or shields. Maintaining good natural ventilation is critical for accurate measurements. Ventilation effects on air temperature uncertainties are quantified here using an aspirated thermometer as a reference, for air temperatures spanning −2.8 °C to 35.5 °C. Of 81462 5 min mean temperature values obtained, 50% were within ±0.07 °C of the reference and only 2% lay beyond −0.66 °C to 0.47 °C, where negative values represent the naturally ventilated screen thermometer underestimating air temperature. Larger absolute differences arose from a combination of radiation exchange and time response effects, which are separated here. Firstly, using 20s data, the exponential time response of the naturally ventilated thermometer is shown to vary with wind speed u as u
−0.5, and exceeds the conventional 1 min averaging time for wind speeds up to 5 ms−1 (at 2 m height), increasing to at least 15 min when calm. Secondly, radiation exchange effects (both by day and by night) dominated at low wind speeds (<1 ms−1 at 2 m height). Insufficient time response damps recording of temperature extremes, potentially also influencing climatological means. A new method to reduce the uncertainties is presented. This reduces negative skew in the temperature bias from −1.05 to −0.26, and, for almost 90% of the data, also reduces the spread.
Silica Exposure Estimates in Artificial Stone Benchtop Fabrication and Adverse Respiratory Outcomes
Authors: Glass Deborah C , Dimitriadis Christina , Hansen Jessy , Hoy Ryan F , Hore-Lacy Fiona , Sim Malcolm R
Published: June 2021

Silicosis is being increasingly reported among young stonemasons in the artificial stone (AS) benchtop fabrication and installation industry. Respiratory health screening, which included a job and exposure history, a chest X-ray (CXR), a respiratory health questionnaire, and gas transfer testing, were offered to stonemasons in Victoria, Australia. Workers typically reported a variety of tasks, including cleaning and labouring, which made exposure assessment complex. We estimated the relative respirable crystalline silica exposure intensity of each job from the proportion of time using AS and the proportion of time doing dry work (work without water suppression). The relative average intensity of exposure for up to five jobs was calculated. Cumulative exposure was calculated as the sum of the duration multiplied by intensity for each job. Installers and factory machinists (other than computer numeric control operators) were the most likely to report dry work with AS, and so had a greater average intensity of exposure. Exposure intensity and cumulative exposure were associated with increased odds of an ILO (International Labour Organisation) CXR profusion major category of ≥1 and with dyspnoea. Exposure duration was also associated with ILO profusion category. In multivariate analyses of health outcomes, only job type was associated with the ILO profusion category. For both most recent and longest-duration job types, when compared to the lowest exposure group, factory machinists were more likely to have an ILO category ≥1. This suggests that intensity of exposure estimated from the proportion of time dry cutting and proportion of time working on AS can predict the risk of adverse respiratory outcomes for workers in this industry.
Olfactory Information Storage Engages Subcortical and Cortical Brain Regions That Support Valence Determination
Authors: Strauch Christina , Hoang Thu-Huong , Angenstein Frank , Manahan-Vaughan Denise
Published: June 2021

The olfactory bulb (OB) delivers sensory information to the piriform cortex (PC) and other components of the olfactory system. OB-PC synapses have been reported to express short-lasting forms of synaptic plasticity, whereas long-term potentiation (LTP) of the anterior PC (aPC) occurs predominantly by activating inputs from the prefrontal cortex. This suggests that brain regions outside the olfactory system may contribute to olfactory information processing and storage. Here, we compared functional magnetic resonance imaging BOLD responses triggered during 20 or 100 Hz stimulation of the OB. We detected BOLD signal increases in the anterior olfactory nucleus (AON), PC and entorhinal cortex, nucleus accumbens, dorsal striatum, ventral diagonal band of Broca, prelimbic–infralimbic cortex (PrL-IL), dorsal medial prefrontal cortex, and basolateral amygdala. Significantly stronger BOLD responses occurred in the PrL-IL, PC, and AON during 100 Hz compared with 20 Hz OB stimulation. LTP in the aPC was concomitantly induced by 100 Hz stimulation. Furthermore, 100 Hz stimulation triggered significant nuclear immediate early gene expression in aPC, AON, and PrL-IL. The involvement of the PrL-IL in this process is consistent with its putative involvement in modulating behavioral responses to odor experience. Furthermore, these results indicate that OB-mediated information storage by the aPC is embedded in a connectome that supports valence evaluation.
GAD65Cre Drives Reporter Expression in Multiple Taste Cell Types
Authors: Larson Eric D , Vandenbeuch Aurelie , Anderson Catherine B , Kinnamon Sue C
Published: June 2021

In taste buds, Type I cells represent the majority of cells (50–60%) and primarily have a glial-like function in taste buds. However, recent studies suggest that they have additional sensory and signaling functions including amiloride-sensitive salt transduction, oxytocin modulation of taste, and substance P mediated GABA release. Nonetheless, the overall function of Type I cells in transduction and signaling remains unclear, primarily because of the lack of a reliable reporter for this cell type. GAD65 expression is specific to Type I taste cells and GAD65 has been used as a Cre driver to study Type I cells in salt taste transduction. To test the specificity of transgene-driven expression, we crossed GAD65Cre mice with floxed tdTomato and Channelrhodopsin (ChR2) lines and examined the progeny with immunochemistry, chorda tympani recording, and calcium imaging. We report that while many tdTomato+ taste cells express NTPDase2, a specific marker of Type I cells, we see some expression of tdTomato in both Gustducin and SNAP25-positive taste cells. We also see ChR2 in cells just outside the fungiform taste buds. Chorda tympani recordings in the GAD65Cre/ChR2 mice show large responses to blue light. Furthermore, several isolated tdTomato-positive taste cells responded to KCl depolarization with increases in intracellular calcium, indicating the presence of voltage-gated calcium channels. Taken together, these data suggest that GAD65Cre mice drive expression in multiple taste cell types and thus cannot be considered a reliable reporter of Type I cell function.
Case-ascertainment of acute myocardial infarction hospitalizations in cancer patients: a cohort study using English linked electronic health data
Authors: Coles Briana , Teece Lucy , Weston Clive , de Belder Mark A , Oliver-Williams Clare , Welch Catherine A , Rutherford Mark J , Lambert Paul C , Bidulka Patrick , Paley Lizz , Nitsch Dorothea , Deanfield John , Peake Mick D , Adlam David , Sweeting Michael J
Published: June 2021

Aims

To assess the recording and accuracy of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) hospital admissions between two electronic health record databases within an English cancer population over time and understand the factors that affect case-ascertainment.

Methods and results

We identified 112 502 hospital admissions for AMI in England 2010–2017 from the Myocardial Ischaemia National Audit Project (MINAP) disease registry and hospital episode statistics (HES) for 95 509 patients with a previous cancer diagnosis up to 15 years prior to admission. Cancer diagnoses were identified from the National Cancer Registration Dataset (NCRD). We calculated the percentage of AMI admissions captured by each source and examined patient characteristics associated with source of ascertainment. Survival analysis assessed whether differences in survival between case-ascertainment sources could be explained by patient characteristics. A total of 57 265 (50.9%) AMI admissions in patients with a prior diagnosis of cancer were captured in both MINAP and HES. Patients captured in both sources were younger, more likely to have ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and had better prognosis, with lower mortality rates up to 9 years after AMI admission compared with patients captured in only one source. The percentage of admissions captured in both data sources improved over time. Cancer characteristics (site, stage, and grade) had little effect on how AMI was captured.

Conclusion

MINAP and HES define different populations of patients with AMI. However, cancer characteristics do not substantially impact on case-ascertainment. These findings support a strategy of using multiple linked data sources for observational cardio-oncological research into AMI.
Early invasive coronary angiography and acute ischaemic heart failure outcomes
Authors: Kosyakovsky Leah B , Austin Peter C , Ross Heather J , Wang Xuesong , Abdel-Qadir Husam , Goodman Shaun G , Farkouh Michael E , Croxford Ruth , Lawler Patrick R , Spertus John A , Lee Douglas S
Published: June 2021

Aims 

While myocardial ischaemia plays a major role in the pathogenesis of heart failure (HF), the indications for coronary angiography during acute HF are not established. We determined the association of early coronary angiography during acute HF hospitalization with 2-year mortality, cardiovascular death, HF readmissions, and coronary revascularization.

Methods and results 

In a two-stage sampling process, we identified acute HF patients who presented to 70 emergency departments in Ontario (April 2010 to March 2013) and determined whether they underwent early coronary angiography within 14 days after presentation using administrative databases. After clinical record review, we defined a cohort with acute ischaemic HF as patients with at least one factor suggesting underlying ischaemic heart disease, including previous myocardial infarction, troponin elevation, or angina on presentation. We oversampled patients undergoing angiography. We used inverse-probability-of-treatment weighting (IPTW) to adjust for baseline differences. Of 7239 patients with acute HF, 2994 met inclusion criteria [median age 75 (interquartile range 65–83) years; 40.9% women]. Early angiography was performed in 1567 patients (52.3%) and was associated with lower all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 0.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61–0.90, P = 0.002], cardiovascular death (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.56–0.93, P = 0.012), and HF readmissions (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.71–0.99, P = 0.042) after IPTW. Those undergoing early angiography experienced higher rates of percutaneous coronary intervention (HR 2.58, 95% CI 1.73–3.86, P < 0.001) and coronary artery bypass grafting (HR 2.94, 95% CI 1.75–4.93, P < 0.001) within 2 years.

Conclusions 

Early coronary angiography was associated with lower all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, HF readmissions, and higher rates of coronary revascularization in acute HF patients with possible ischaemia.
Identity of Applicants for Priority Rights and the EPO’s CRISPR-Cas/Broad Institute Decision T 0844/18 ‒ Scope of the EPO’s ‘Formal Review’ to Establish Identity of the Holder of the Priority Right
Authors: Haedicke Maximilian
Published: June 2021

The Technical Board of Appeal 3.3.08 (hereinafter ‘the Board’) has handed down the much-awaited written decision regarding the denial of the CRISPR/Cas9 patent EP2771468. The Board did not acknowledge the patentee’s claim to priority from a provisional US application naming more applicants than the subsequent Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application from which the European patent was derived. The Board considered the priority claim invalid because there was no identity between the applicants of the prior and subsequent application. This article does not second-guess the ‘all applicants’ approach as confirmed by the Board, but considers the consequences of the decision for the claiming of priority by the ‘same applicants’.
How do Polish pharmacy staff evaluate own qualifications, competences, relevance, motivation, effectiveness in health promotion?
Authors: Raczkiewicz Dorota , Sarecka-Hujar Beata , Pawełczak-Barszczowska Adrianna , Bojar Iwona
Published: June 2021

Health promotion programmes are complex and need to engage all health care specialists, including pharmacists. Pharmacies are considered as a potentially ideal place for health promotion and education. To evaluate own qualifications, competences, relevance, motivation and effectiveness of Polish pharmacy staff with regard to health-related information provided to patients, which contributes to health promotion. 308 pharmacy staff from Lublin (Poland) were surveyed with a questionnaire prepared by the researchers and piloted previously. It consisted of 5 domains: qualifications, competences, relevance, motivation, and effectiveness of health promotion. Items in each domain were scored by respondents in 1 − 10 scale where 1 is ‘very low’ and 10 is ‘very high’. Pharmacy staff rated the relevance of health promotion the highest, while the lowest—own competences and effectiveness in health promotion. Female pharmacy staff assessed the relevance of health promotion significantly higher than males (7.1 vs. 6.1, p = 0.005). Higher self-assessments of qualifications, competences, relevance, motivation and effectiveness in health promotion were provided by: the youngest pharmacy staff, those with a short period of employment, and pharmacy staff working in pharmacies employing up to 3 persons. Qualification and competences in health promotion were assessed higher by pharmacy technicians and masters of pharmacy with post-graduate studies or professional specialization, or Ph.D. than by masters of pharmacy. Relevance and effectiveness in health promotion were evaluated higher by pharmacy staff in pharmacies serving more than 100 customers daily. There is a need to improve qualifications, competences, relevance, motivation and effectiveness in health promotion conducted by Polish pharmacy staff.
The Swedish Health Promoting Healthcare network and the built environment
Authors: Miedema Elke , Lindahl Göran , Elf Marie
Published: June 2021

The Health Promoting Hospitals (HPH) networks, founded by the World Health Organisation, support the introduction of health promotion in healthcare. This development involves the creation of a health promoting built environment. However, few studies have explored the HPH in relation to the built environments, and it is unclear how HPH-networks incorporate the built environment in their work. The study therefore examined the Swedish HPH-Network in relation to the built environment. The mixed-method study included data from (i) key online material from the Swedish network, (ii) a survey with open-ended questions of representatives of the networks’ workgroups and (iii) semi-structured interviews with the built environment workgroup. The study showed that the built environment is unevenly and incoherently incorporated in the network. Moreover, there is more attention for healing and healthy rather than health-promotive strategies, indicating a knowledge gap. Descriptions of the health promoting built environment are diverse, and address design features, design strategies or indicate places for health promotion interventions. The descriptions of the built environment are combined with various HPH goals and population groups. To utilize the built environment as a resource for HPHs, the networks should consider incorporating the built environment in documents and action plans at all organizational levels.
Is the quality-of-life improvement after transcatheter aortic valve implantation equivalent to that achieved by surgical aortic valve replacement?
Authors: Monteagudo-Vela Maria , Panoulas Vasileios , Kourliouros Antonios , Krasopoulos George
Published: June 2021

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was ‘is the quality-of-life (QoL) improvement after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) equivalent to that achieved by surgical aortic valve replacement (sAVR)?’ Literature search revealed 189 papers with reference to QoL after TAVI, of which 7 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers were tabulated. QoL plays a crucial role in the decision-making process for procedures such as TAVI and sAVR. Current evidence included and analysed in this review have shown a clear improvement in QoL after both TAVI and sAVR. TAVI offers a rapid improvement of QoL, evident within the first 30 days. There is no difference in QoL at 2- and 5-year follow-up between TAVI and sAVR. There are currently paucity of data on long-term QoL and the potential impact of structural valve degeneration following TAVI.
Accelerating the Evolution of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2: A Risk of Combining Dexamethasone and Tocilizumab for Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Koeckerling David , Barker Joseph
Published: June 2021

Emerging data from open-label randomized trials without placebo controls suggest potential mortality benefits for combining corticosteroids with the interleukin 6 receptor antagonist tocilizumab in severe coronavirus disease 2019. Conversely, dual immunomodulation may weaken antiviral responses and delay viral clearance, allowing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to expand its population and accrue genetic diversity within individual hosts. Generating a pool of hosts with genetically diverse viral populations while introducing new selective pressures in the form of vaccination-induced immunity could accelerate the process of antigenic drift in SARS-CoV-2. However, clinical trials to date have largely disregarded viral outcomes, and data on viral kinetics in response to immunomodulation are scarce. Coadministration of antiviral agents with immunomodulation could serve as a potential strategy to aid viral clearance and reduce the risk of genetic diversification.
Thirteen-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine–Induced Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Responses in Serum Associated With Serotype-Specific IgG in the Lung
Authors: Mitsi Elena , McLenaghan Daniella , Wolf Asia-Sophia , Jones Scott , Collins Andrea M , Hyder-Wright Angela D , Goldblatt David , Heyderman Robert S , Gordon Stephen B , Ferreira Daniela M
Published: June 2021

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) efficacy is lower for noninvasive pneumonia than invasive disease. In this study, participants were immunized with 13-valent PCV (PCV13) or hepatitis A vaccine (control). Bronchoalveolar lavage samples were taken between 2 and 6 months and serum at 4 and 7 weeks postvaccination. In the lung, anti-capsular immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels were higher in the PCV13 group compared to controls for all serotypes, except 3 and 6B. Systemically, IgG levels were elevated in the PCV13 group at 4 weeks for all serotypes, except serotype 3. IgG in bronchoalveolar lavage and serum positively correlated for nearly all serotypes. PCV13 shows poor immunogenicity to serotype 3, implying lack of protective efficacy.

Clinical Trials Registration. ISRCTN 45340436.
Intramuscular and subcutaneous administration of antiretroviral drugs, compared with oral, enhances delivery to lymphoid tissues in BALB/c mice
Authors: Dyavar Shetty Ravi , Kumar Sushil , Gautam Nagsen , Podany Anthony T , Winchester Lee C , Weinhold Jonathan A , Mykris Timothy M , Nallasamy Palanisamy , Alnouti Yazen , Fletcher Courtney V
Published: June 2021

Background

Multiple tissue reservoirs are established soon after HIV infection, and some tissues may also be pharmacological sanctuaries. Parenteral administration of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for treatment and prevention of HIV infection is an active area of drug development. The influence of route of administration on ARV tissue pharmacokinetics is not known.

Objectives

To investigate ARV pharmacokinetics in lymphatic and select non-lymphatic tissues (e.g. brain and testes) after intramuscular and subcutaneous administration compared with oral in BALB/c mice.

Methods

Tissue concentrations of cobicistat, efavirenz, elvitegravir, maraviroc, rilpivirine, tenofovir alafenamide and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate were determined. The tissue penetration ratio (TPR) was the primary measure for comparison; a change in TPR arises from factors affecting tissue distribution controlling for changes in systemic bioavailability.

Results

Intramuscular and subcutaneous delivery increased TPRs in the lymph node and spleen for 27 of 28 (96%) drug administration events. Decreased TPRs, however, were found in some tissues such as the brain and testes.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate a change in route of drug administration from oral to intramuscular or subcutaneous can change tissue uptake. This has implications for HIV pharmacotherapy. For example, HIV persists in lymphoid tissues despite long-term oral ARV therapy, and low ARV concentrations have been found in lymphoid tissues. The improved ARV lymphatic tissue bioavailability with intramuscular and subcutaneous administration allows future studies to investigate these routes of drug administration as a therapeutic manoeuvre to limit viral persistence and eliminate viral sanctuaries in the lymphatic tissues, which is a prerequisite for eradication of HIV.