bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of high-energy ball milling and nanoadditives on the kinetics of heterogeneous reaction in Ni-Al system
Authors: Nazaretyan Kh T , Kirakosyan H V , Aydinyan S V , Zakaryan M K , Abovyan L S , Kulak M , Khina B
Published: May 2021

Kinetic studies were performed utilizing high-speed temperature scanner in the Ni-Al system including those with and without mechanical activation (MA) of different duration in a planetary ball mill, with and without using carbon nanoadditives (NA). The temperature profiles were taken and treated at different heating rates from 100 up to 2600 °C/min considering the influence of activation duration and the role of nanoadditive on the characteristic points of thermograms. Kissinger method allowed to evaluate activation energy (Ea) for non-activated, activated (1, 2, 3, 5 min), nanoadditive (1 wt.%) containing and nanoadditive (1 wt.%) containing mechanoactivated (1, 3, 5 min) mixtures. The beneficial influence of NA on the interaction between Ni and Al in the non-activated and moderately mechanoactivated mixtures was demonstrated. The influence of MA and NA on the microstructure features and phase formation sequence at various heating rates were revealed. For all the mixtures under study, T* characteristic temperatures (the temperature, where the maximum exothermic effect was observed) were found to increase with increasing heating rates. It was unravelled that mechanical treatment leads to significant changes in the reaction kinetics and phase formation laws. Particularly, in an activated mixture, the formation of Ni3Al is followed by NiAl intermetallic, in contrast to non-activated mixture, where the reaction proceeds only with the NiAl formation. The both MA in 1 min and addition of 1 wt.% NA decreased the activation energy of the Ni-Al reaction, exhibiting commensurate impact on the effective activation energy value of the Ni-Al system. However, > 3 min MA in the presence of 1 wt.% NA have prohibitive effect on the reaction in the Ni-Al system.
Effect of laser remelting of plasma sprayed coating of Cr-Ni-Re
Authors: Śliwński P , Węglowski M S , Dworak J , Dymek S , Kalemba-Rec I , Wrona A , Kustra K , Lis M
Published: May 2021

Atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) consists in injecting a powder feedstock material in a plasma jet to melt and accelerate the injected particles and spray them onto a substrate. However, this mechanism of coating formation induces the presence of pores and micro-cracks. In order to eliminate those defects, laser remleting may be used to improve the properties and performances of plasma sprayed coatings. In the present paper, the Ni-Cr-Re coatings fabricated by plasma spraying on stainless steel substrate were remelted by CO2 laser, and the effects of laser remelting were studied. The structure and chemical composition of plasma sprayed and laser remelted coatings were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS). The results show that the laser remelted coating becomes much denser and, moreover, the chemical composition of the coatings becomes homogeneous.
Chemical Bonded PA66-PTFE-Oil Composites as Novel Tribologically Effective Materials: Part 2
Authors: Nguyen Thanh-Duong , Kamga Lionel Simo , Gedan-Smolka Michaela , Sauer Bernd , Emrich Stefan , Kopnarski Michael , Voit Brigitte
Published: May 2021

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) exhibits excellent non-stick properties and a very low coefficient of friction under tribological stress, but it is incompatible with almost all other polymers. In the first part of this study we presented the generation of the novel tribological material based on unsaturated oil, radiation-modified PTFE (MP1100) and Polyamide 66 (PA66). To get a better understanding of the chemical properties and chemical composition of the compounds, the PA66-MP1100-oil-cb (chemical bonded) compounds were examined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). In this part, the mechanical properties of the compounds are compared with plain PA66 and PA66-MP1100-cb. The tribological investigation was carried out using the Block-on-Ring tribometer. It was found that the mechanical properties of PA66-MP1100-oil-cb with 20 wt.% MP1100-oil-cb only show slight differences compared to PA66, but the tribological properties of the compounds have been significantly improved through chemical coupling between the three components. Finally, the amount of the compound that was deposited on the surface of the steel disc counterpart was analyzed after the tribological testing.
The effect of laser beam transmission on the thermoplastic composite joint formation
Authors: Jankus Simonas Mindaugas , Bendikiené Regita
Published: May 2021

The goal of this work was to analyse the influence of laser welding process parameters using different plastic transparency. To achieve this task the elemental composition of plastic PPAGF40 with 20 % and 30 % transparency parts were examined using EDS analysis and cross-sections were evaluated by using optical microscope. Burst pressure was performed to evaluate the strenght of welded joints produced with different laser welding process parameters. Studies showed that welded joints with 20 % of transparency possessed burn spots on the surface of samples. Cross-section analysis revealed tendency, that plastics with 30 % transparency led to higher temperatures in welding seam using the same process parameters used for 20 % transparency, which caused pores to form inside joint. Laser power of 390 W, scan-speed 1000/800 mm/s and 3000 N of clamping force used for 20 % transparency plastic parts are not suitable for 30 % transparency plastic parts. Welding process optimization achieved by using 1400/1200 mm/s scan-speed and 2700-3000N clamping force, which showed improved burst pressure values from 7.2 to 7.9 bar. Reduced welding cycle-time achieved from 2.2 to 2.3 s with 30 % transparency of polymer PPAG40 material.
Construction schedule planning for railway station facilities
Authors: Velichkin V Z , Petrochenko M V , Zavodnova E B , Gorodishenina A Yu
Published: May 2021

The article discusses the improvement of the network modeling technique for solving problems in the design of the organization of work for the construction of station buildings and structures necessary for servicing passengers intended for operation on railway transport in the presence of various technological processes. The network model in the design of the organization of work on the construction of rather complex structures and in the presence of various technological processes becomes very cumbersome and poorly visible in terms of taking into account the interconnection of processes and the coordination of their movement along the work fronts. In addition, on such a network model it is rather difficult to consider the options for applying various methods and technologies of work organization. An example of the formation and calculation of a matrix-network model for the construction of a station complex is given, including 14 technological processes, showing the relevance of the chosen method.
Rig for testing active safety system for two-wheelers
Authors: Melnikov A S , Piatrenka M L , Yushkevich A U
Published: May 2021

The paper deals with the measuring equipment used to conduct two-wheeler braking system testing. When in motion, two-wheelers are initially less stable than cars, which necessitates creating more advanced active safety systems (ASS) that take into account the characteristics of their motion. Active safety systems available today operate on the basis of control algorithms that use kinematic parameters as sources of information, which requires performing approximate estimation of the relative slip in the contact patch between the wheel and the road. This leads to more complex control algorithms and increased cost of the entire system. To improve the safety of two-wheelers, an active safety system operating on the basis of control algorithms which use primary information about road conditions as sources of information must be developed. The primary information includes a number of forces, brake power, the magnitude of lateral forces, normal reactions in the contact patch between the wheel and the road. When creating and testing new anti-lock braking systems and their improved control algorithms, rig and road tests must be performed where testing conditions closely represent the real modes of operation of the active safety systems being developed. To conduct the rig tests under conditions close to real-world scenarios, a specialized rig for two-wheelers must be developed and created.
Evaluation of the compatibility of the power traction supply system in the field of implementing the train traffic interval regulation with a use of a “virtual coupling” technology
Authors: Olentsevich V A , Astashkov N P , Akhmetshin A R , Suslov K V , Shtayger M G , Karlina A I
Published: May 2021

This article will propose the practical use of the interval control technology that will reduce the interval of passing trains and will increase the capacity of railway lines. In general, the effectiveness of implementing the train traffic interval regulation with a use of a “virtual coupling” technology is presented in the works of many authors; however, the issues of the use of the existing infrastructure of the traction power supply system are not considered in the works. Comparing the “virtual coupling” technology with connected trains driving consists of the capacity reserve and train schedules evaluation. The use of modern software tools for mathematical modeling will allow you to solve not only the tasks set, but also to evaluate the compatibility of the currently used traction power supply system. According to the results of authors meant below, it can be seen that the temperature in the contact system and the suction line, the load limiting factor and the energy losses of the traction network trains movement in the “virtual coupling” are lower than those during the movement of the united train. When using trains with a virtual coupling, the voltage in the contact network is significantly higher than when using connected trains. Based on the above, it can be concluded that the virtual coupling trains use on the section under consideration is more appropriate than the use of the connected trains.
Microstructure evolution and densification of sintered porous 2024 aluminum alloy compressed in a semi-solid state
Authors: Wu Min , Liu Jian , Liu Yunzhong , Luo Xia , Wang Bin , Du Canyi
Published: May 2021

The semi-solid powder forming (SSPF) as a promising technology has a complicated process, but the formation mechanism of that remains unclear. The study of semi-solid compression of porous materials is an effective method to investigate the SSPF. Based on analyzing the influence of deformation strain, temperature, strain rate and initial relative density on microstructure evolution and relative density development of sintered porous 2024 aluminum alloy during semi-solid compression, the deformation mechanism and densification mechanism of semi-solid porous materials were proposed. The results show that main deformation mechanisms of porous materials during semi-solid compression are breakup of the solid skeleton or powders, and flowing of liquid with powders or fragments. Breakup mechanism is dominant at center area, whereas flowing mechanism dominates at the margin. With increasing strain and temperature and decreasing strain rate, breakup mechanism becomes primary. The densification mechanisms of porous materials during semi-solid compression are rearrangement of powders or fragments and filling of liquid, resulting from collapse of the solid skeleton or powders and flowing of liquid. The emergence of pores and densification occur simultaneously during semi-solid compression of porous materials.
The likelihood-ratio test for multi-edge network models
Authors: Casiraghi Giona
Published: May 2021

The complexity underlying real-world systems implies that standard statistical hypothesis testing methods may not be adequate for these peculiar applications. Specifically, we show that the likelihood-ratio (LR) test’s null-distribution needs to be modified to accommodate the complexity found in multi-edge network data. When working with independent observations, thep-values of LR tests are approximated using aχ2distribution. However, such an approximation should not be used when dealing with multi-edge network data. This type of data is characterized by multiple correlations and competitions that make the standard approximation unsuitable. We provide a solution to the problem by providing a better approximation of the LR test null-distribution through a beta distribution. Finally, we empirically show that even for a small multi-edge network, the standardχ2approximation provides erroneous results, while the proposed beta approximation yields the correctp-value estimation.
Learning from survey propagation: a neural network for MAX-E-3-SAT
Authors: Marino Raffaele
Published: May 2021

Many natural optimization problems are NP-hard, which implies that they are probably hard to solve exactly in the worst-case. However, it suffices to get reasonably good solutions for all (or even most) instances in practice. This paper presents a new algorithm for computing approximate solutions in Θ(N) for the maximum exact 3-satisfiability (MAX-E-3-SAT) problem by using supervised learning methodology. This methodology allows us to create a learning algorithm able to fix Boolean variables by using local information obtained by the Survey Propagation algorithm. By performing an accurate analysis, on random conjunctive normal form instances of the MAX-E-3-SAT with several Boolean variables, we show that this new algorithm, avoiding any decimation strategy, can build assignments better than a random one, even if the convergence of the messages is not found. Although this algorithm is not competitive with state-of-the-art maximum satisfiability solvers, it can solve substantially larger and more complicated problems than it ever saw during training.
Pulse compression favorable frequency modulated thermal wave imaging for non-destructive testing and evaluation: an analytical study
Authors: Rani Anju , Mulaveesala Ravibabu
Published: May 2021

InfraRed Thermography (IRT) is one of the non-destructive testing and evaluation (NDT&E) approach widely used for testing and evaluation of wide verity of materials such as metals, semiconductors and composites. Among the widely used Thermal NDT&E (TNDT&E) approaches for better depth resolution and sensitivity for detection of defects located at different depths inside the test specimen recently proposed correlation based approach gained importance due to its enhanced defect detection capabilities. The present paper introduces a novel one-dimensional analytical solution for the frequency modulated excitation scheme under adiabatic boundary conditions for detection of flat bottom holes as defects in a mild steel sample. The performance of the Pulse Thermography (PT), Lock-in Thermography (LT) and Frequency Modulated Thermal Wave Imaging (FMTWI) methods are highlighted their defect detection capabilities have been compared by adopting the recently introduced correlation based post-processing approach. Finally, the proposed analytical method has been validated with the results obtained from the commercially available finite element based software.
Existing seasonal flexibility in US manufacturing energy use
Authors: Lydon John J , Ciez Rebecca E
Published: May 2021

Renewable electricity will likely play a substantial role in a decarbonized energy system, and there are well-known seasonal patterns to renewable electricity output. We can manage these seasonal fluctuations by overbuilding our electricity generation capacity, implementing seasonal storage, or managing our energy demands seasonally. If industrial processes are more integrated with the broader energy system, they could play a role in managing these seasonal patterns, as they do not directly serve life-sustaining energy demands, and their products may be stored and sold at a later date. Here, we combine GDP, manufacturing, and energy consumption data to look at how existing manufacturing facilities operate, focusing on the utilization of their operating capacity and how utilization correlates with state-level energy consumption. Of the 12 states with the largest manufacturing energy demand, we find that they use an average of 75%–81% of operating capacity between 2014–2018. In most of these states, there is a positive relationship between energy consumption and capacity utilization, and decreasing 10% of manufacturing capacity utilization could translate into energy savings that are relatively large when compared to electricity sales for the same time period, implying that seasonal ramping of industrial production could play a substantial role in adjusting to seasonal energy trends.
Panpsychism and the Depsychologization of Consciousness
Authors: Frankish Keith
Published: May 2021

The problem of consciousness arises when we depsychologize consciousness—that is, conceptualize it in terms of phenomenal feel rather than psychological function. Panpsychism offers an elegant solution to the problem, which takes depsychologization seriously. In doing so, however, it also illustrates the perils of depsychologization. Nagasawa highlights one dead end for panpsychism, and I shall argue that there are more. Panpsychism consigns consciousness to a metaphysical limbo where it is beyond the reach of science and lacks ethical and personal significance. The moral is that we should retrace our steps and question the depsychologized conception itself.
Hardware acceleration of genomics data analysis: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Robinson Tony , Harkin Jim , Shukla Priyank
Published: May 2021

The significant decline in the cost of genome sequencing has dramatically changed the typical bioinformatics pipeline for analysing sequencing data. Where traditionally, the computational challenge of sequencing is now secondary to genomic data analysis. Short read alignment (SRA) is a ubiquitous process within every modern bioinformatics pipeline in the field of genomics and is often regarded as the principal computational bottleneck. Many hardware and software approaches have been provided to solve the challenge of acceleration. However, previous attempts to increase throughput using many-core processing strategies have enjoyed limited success, mainly due to a dependence on global memory for each computational block. The limited scalability and high energy costs of many-core SRA implementations pose a significant constraint in maintaining acceleration. The Networks-On-Chip (NoC) hardware interconnect mechanism has advanced the scalability of many-core computing systems and, more recently, has demonstrated potential in SRA implementations by integrating multiple computational blocks such as pre-alignment filtering and sequence alignment efficiently, while minimizing memory latency and global memory access. This article provides a state of the art review on current hardware acceleration strategies for genomic data analysis, and it establishes the challenges and opportunities of utilizing NoCs as a critical building block in next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies for advancing the speed of analysis.
Role of corpus callosum in sleep spindle synchronization and coupling with slow waves
Authors: Bernardi Giulio , Avvenuti Giulia , Cataldi Jacinthe , Lattanzi Simona , Ricciardi Emiliano , Polonara Gabriele , Silvestrini Mauro , Siclari Francesca , Fabri Mara , Bellesi Michele
Published: May 2021

Sleep spindles of non-REM sleep are transient, waxing-and-waning 10–16 Hz EEG oscillations, whose cortical synchronization depends on the engagement of thalamo-cortical loops. However, previous studies in animal models lacking the corpus callosum due to agenesis or total callosotomy and in humans with agenesis of the corpus callosum suggested that cortico-cortical connections may also have a relevant role in cortical (inter-hemispheric) spindle synchronization. Yet, most of these works did not provide direct quantitative analyses to support their observations. By studying a rare sample of callosotomized, split-brain patients, we recently demonstrated that the total resection of the corpus callosum is associated with a significant reduction in the inter-hemispheric propagation of non-REM slow waves. Interestingly, sleep spindles are often temporally and spatially grouped around slow waves (0.5–4 Hz), and this coordination is thought to have an important role in sleep-dependent learning and memory consolidation. Given these premises, here we set out to investigate whether total callosotomy may affect the generation and spreading of sleep spindles, as well as their coupling with sleep slow waves. To this aim, we analysed overnight high-density EEG recordings (256 electrodes) collected in five patients who underwent total callosotomy due to drug-resistant epilepsy (age 40–53, two females), three non-callosotomized neurological patients (age 44–66, two females), and in a sample of 24 healthy adult control subjects (age 20–47, 13 females). Individual sleep spindles were automatically detected using a validated algorithm and their properties and topographic distributions were computed. All analyses were performed with and without a regression-based adjustment accounting for inter-subject age differences. The comparison between callosotomized patients and healthy subjects did not reveal systematic variations in spindle density, amplitude or frequency. However, callosotomized patients were characterized by a reduced spindle duration, which could represent the result of a faster desynchronization of spindle activity across cortical areas of the two hemispheres. In contrast with our previous findings regarding sleep slow waves, we failed to detect in callosotomized patients any clear, systematic change in the inter-hemispheric synchronization of sleep spindles. In line with this, callosotomized patients were characterized by a reduced extension of the spatial association between temporally coupled spindles and slow waves. Our findings are consistent with a dependence of spindles on thalamo-cortical rather than cortico-cortical connections in humans, but also revealed that, despite their temporal association, slow waves and spindles are independently regulated in terms of topographic expression.
Joint IARC/NCI International Cancer Seminar Series Report: expert consensus on future directions for ovarian carcinoma research
Authors: Virani Shama , Baiocchi Glauco , Bowtell David , Cabasag Citadel J , Cho Kathleen R , Fortner Renée T , Fujiwara Keiichi , Kim Jae-Weon , Köbel Martin , Kurtz Jean-Emmanuel , Levine Douglas A , Menon Usha , Norquist Barbara M , Pharoah Paul D P , Sood Anil K , Tworoger Shelley T , Wentzensen Nicolas , Chanock Stephen J , Brennan Paul , Trabert Britton
Published: May 2021

Recently, ovarian cancer research has evolved considerably because of the emerging recognition that rather than a single disease, ovarian carcinomas comprise several different histotypes that vary by etiologic origin, risk factors, molecular profiles, therapeutic approaches and clinical outcome. Despite significant progress in our understanding of the etiologic heterogeneity of ovarian cancer, as well as important clinical advances, it remains the eighth most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide and the most fatal gynecologic cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer and the United States National Cancer Institute jointly convened an expert panel on ovarian carcinoma to develop consensus research priorities based on evolving scientific discoveries. Expertise ranged from etiology, prevention, early detection, pathology, model systems, molecular characterization and treatment/clinical management. This report summarizes the current state of knowledge and highlights expert consensus on future directions to continue advancing etiologic, epidemiologic and prognostic research on ovarian carcinoma.
Serial Intervals and Case Isolation Delays for Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ali Sheikh Taslim , Yeung Amy , Shan Songwei , Wang Lin , Gao Huizhi , Du Zhanwei , Xu Xiao-Ke , Wu Peng , Lau Eric H Y , Cowling Benjamin J
Published: May 2021

Background

Estimates of the serial interval distribution contribute to our understanding of the transmission dynamics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Here, we aimed to summarize the existing evidence on serial interval distributions and delays in case isolation for COVID-19.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the published literature and preprints in PubMed on 2 epidemiological parameters, namely, serial intervals and delay intervals relating to isolation of cases for COVID-19 from 1 January 2020 to 22 October 2020 following predefined eligibility criteria. We assessed the variation in these parameter estimates using correlation and regression analysis.

Results

Of 103 unique studies on serial intervals of COVID-19, 56 were included, providing 129 estimates. Of 451 unique studies on isolation delays, 18 were included, providing 74 estimates. Serial interval estimates from 56 included studies varied from 1.0 to 9.9 days, while case isolation delays from 18 included studies varied from 1.0 to 12.5 days, which were associated with spatial, methodological, and temporal factors. In mainland China, the pooled mean serial interval was 6.2 days (range, 5.1–7.8) before the epidemic peak and reduced to 4.9 days (range, 1.9–6.5) after the epidemic peak. Similarly, the pooled mean isolation delay related intervals were 6.0 days (range, 2.9–12.5) and 2.4 days (range, 2.0–2.7) before and after the epidemic peak, respectively. There was a positive association between serial interval and case isolation delay.

Conclusions

Temporal factors, such as different control measures and case isolation in particular, led to shorter serial interval estimates over time. Correcting transmissibility estimates for these time-varying distributions could aid mitigation efforts.
Community Mortality Due to Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Argentina: Population-based Surveillance Study
Authors: Caballero Mauricio T , Bianchi Alejandra M , Grigaites Sebastian Diaz , De la Iglesia Niveyro Paola X , Nuño Alejandra , Valle Sandra , Afarian Gabriela , Esperante Sebastian A , Ferretti Adrian J P , Jares Baglivo Sofia , De Luca Julian , Alvarez-Paggi Damian , Diamanti Adriana , Bassat Quique , Polack Fernando P ,   RSV mortality network, Zea Cristian M , Caporal Paula , Rakislova Natalia , Varo Rosauro , Hurtado Juan Carlos , Dabbah Marcelo Isaac , Carballo Ana María , Madrid Lorena , Ares Patricia , Hernandez Gabriela , Basanta Lucas
Published: May 2021

Background

Many deaths in infants from low-middle income countries (LMICs) occur at home or upon arrival to health facilities. Although acute lower respiratory tract illness plays an important role in community mortality, the accuracy of mortality rates due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains unknown.

Methods

An active surveillance study among children aged under 5 years old (U5) was performed in Buenos Aires, Argentina, between January and December 2019, to define the burden and role of RSV in childhood community mortality.

Results

A total of 63 families of children U5 participated in the study. Based on a combined approach of tissue sampling, verbal autopsies, and expert’s analysis, RSV infection was found in the causal chain of 11 from 12 cases with positive molecular biology results in respiratory samples. The estimated mortality rate due to RSV among infants was 0.27 deaths/1000 live births. The mean age of RSV-related household deaths was 2.8 months of age (standard deviation [SD] 1.7), and 8/12 were male infants (66.7%). Dying at home from RSV was associated with Streptococcus pneumoniae and/or Moraxella catarrhalis lung coinfection (75%), living in slums and settlement (odds ratio [OR], 17.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3–219.2), and other underlying comorbidities (OR, 14.87; 95% CI, 1.3–164.6).

Conclusions

Infant community mortality rates due to RSV are higher than those reported in industrialized countries and similar to those reported in hospital-based studies in the same catchment population.
Ustekinumab in Paediatric Patients with Moderately to Severely Active Crohn’s Disease: Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Efficacy Results from UniStar, a Phase 1 Study
Authors: Rosh Joel R , Turner Dan , Griffiths Anne , Cohen Stanley A , Jacobstein Douglas , Adedokun Omoniyi J , Padgett Lakshmi , Terry Natalie A , O’Brien Christopher , Hyams Jeffrey S
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

The objective was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, safety/tolerability, and efficacy of ustekinumab in children with moderately to severely active Crohn’s disease.

Methods

In this Phase 1, multicentre, 16-week, double-blind, induction dose-ranging study [NCT02968108], patients aged 2-<18 years [body weight ≥10 kg] were randomised [1:1] to one of two weight range-based intravenous induction doses: 130 mg vs 390 mg in patients ≥40kg and 3 mg/kg vs 9 mg/kg in patients <40kg. At Week 8, all patients received a single subcutaneous ustekinumab maintenance dose of 90 mg in patients ≥40kg or 2 mg/kg in patients <40kg.

Results

A total of 44 patients were randomised and treated with ustekinumab [n = 23 lower dose; n = 21 higher dose]; median [interquartile range] age was 13.0 [12–16] years. Pharmacokinetics were similar to those in adults with Crohn’s disease. However, serum ustekinumab concentrations were lower among those with body weight <40 kg compared with patients ≥40 kg and the reference Phase 3 adult population. Through Week 16, 73% of patients reported ≥1 adverse event [82.6% lower vs 62% higher dose]; two discontinued due to adverse events [one in each group]. Serious adverse events occurred in 16% [26% lower, 5% higher dose], with Crohn’s disease exacerbation being the most frequent. At Week 16, 22%/29% [lower/higher dose] achieved clinical remission [Paediatric Crohn’s Disease Activity Index ≤10].

Conclusions

The pharmacokinetics/safety profiles were generally consistent with those observed in adults with Crohn’s disease. These results suggest a different dosing regimen may be required for patients <40 kg from that employed in this study; additional pharmacokinetic analyses may be needed in this population.
May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Australia
Authors: Carnagarin Revathy , Yang Jun , Critchley Sue , Picone Dean , Tan Isabella , Marques Francine Z , Cowley Diane , Fernando Mario , Beaney Thomas , Trengrove Naomi , Omelczuk Salima , Poulter Neil R , Brockman Derrin , Schlaich Markus P
Published: May 2021

May Measurement Month (MMM) is an annual global blood pressure (BP) screening campaign aimed at obtaining standardized BP measurements and other relevant health information from members of the community to increase awareness of elevated BP and the associated risks. Adults (≥18 years) were recruited through opportunistic sampling across the various Australian states during May 2019. Three BP readings were recorded in a standardized manner for each participant, and data on lifestyle factors and comorbidities were collected. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥140 mmHg, or a diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg (according to the MMM protocol) or taking antihypertensive medication. Multiple imputation was used to estimate participants’ mean BP where three readings were not available. Of the 2877 participants, 901 (31.3%) had hypertension of whom 455 (50.5%) were aware of their condition, and 366 (40.6%) were on antihypertensive medication. Of those taking antihypertensive medication, 54.3% were controlled to <140/90 mmHg with the remaining 45.7% of participants inadequately treated. Approximately 74% of treated patients were on a single antihypertensive medication. The MMM campaign provides an important platform for standardized compilation of BP data and creation of BP awareness in Australia and other nations worldwide. Data from the 2019 MMM campaign highlight that BP control rates in Australia remain unacceptably low.
May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Hungary
Authors: Nemcsik János , Páll Dénes , Nemes-Nagy Zsuzsanna , Bacskai Mária , Kovács Tibor , Benczúr Béla , Kiss Attila , Ábrahám György , Barna István , Beaney Thomas , Clarke Jonathan , Poulter Neil R , Járai Zoltán
Published: May 2021

Cardiovascular diseases are not only the leading causes of mortality in Hungary but also the mortality rate is twice as high as the European Union average, so screening programmes identifying subjects with elevated blood pressure (BP) are of utmost importance. May Measurement Month (MMM) is an annual global initiative that began in 2017 aimed at raising awareness of high BP. Hungary joined the 3rd campaign of MMM in 2019 and an overview of the results are presented in this paper. An opportunistic cross-sectional survey of participants aged ≥18 years was carried out in May 2019. Hypertension was defined as systolic BP ≥140 mmHg and diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg or treatment for hypertension, statistical analysis followed the standard MMM protocol. In Hungary, 55 sites were set up in primary and secondary care facilities, in pharmacies, and in malls across all regions, in both cities and villages. Out of 2766 individuals screened, 1286 participants (46.5%) had hypertension. Out of 1869 participants not on antihypertensive medication, 389 (20.8%) had elevated BP. In the case of treated individuals (n = 897), 420 (46.8%) had uncontrolled hypertension. Almost every 2nd subject of the screened cohort had hypertension (treated and controlled, treated and uncontrolled, or untreated). In the untreated cohort, every 5th subject had elevated BP, whilst among patients on antihypertensive medication, every second had uncontrolled BP. By identifying almost one-third of the whole screened cohort with the possibility of newly diagnosed or uncontrolled hypertension, our results confirm the importance of BP screening campaigns.
May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Republic of the Congo
Authors: Ellenga-Mbolla Bertrand , Makani-Bassakouahou Jospin , Landa Christian Kouala , Monabeka Mary-Gaby , Ossou-Nguiet Paul-Macaire , Ngamami Solange Mongo , Sinomono Tony Eyeni , Bouithy Sabrine , Ikama Stéphane-Méo , Ngouma Arlette , Monabeka Henri G , Ngolo-Letomo Kivié , Beaney Thomas , Clarke Jonathan , Poulter Neil R
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to determine the proportion with hypertension among an opportunistic sample of the population of the Republic of the Congo. Screening was conducted during the period from 15 May to 15 June 2019. Participants included, consenting persons 18 years of age and over, from five cities: Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire, Oyo, Owando, and Ouesso. In total, 3157 participants were screened as part of the campaign. The mean age was 44.7 years (SD: ±14.9), and 47% were male. Based on the total participants, 881 (27.9%) were overweight and 447 (14.2%) were obese. A total of 583 (18.5%) participated in MMM 2017 or 2018 screenings. The proportion with hypertension was 33.5% (n = 1057), 42.6% of those were aware and 37.3% were taking antihypertensive medication. Of the participants on treatment, 62.4% were controlled (<140/90 mmHg). Overall, 23.3% of patients with hypertension were controlled. After imputation, the proportions with hypertension were 30.1% (n = 1475) according to standardized age and sex. Obesity (P < 0.001) and alcohol intake (P < 0.001) were associated with higher BP compared with normal weight and non-drinkers, respectively. With regards to the social disparities of the different regions of Congo, large scale screening is necessary, in order to report the real situation of hypertension. This will improve the overall management policy for this condition in our country.
May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Taiwan
Authors: Lin Hung-Ju , Pan Heng-Yu , Beaney Thomas , Partington Giles , Poulter Neil R , Chen Wen-Jone , Wang Tzung-Dau
Published: May 2021

To bolster the awareness of high blood pressure (BP) and to monitor the trend of hypertension control rate. Similar to May Measurement Month (MMM) 2017 and 2018 campaigns, we conducted the MMM 2019 campaign in 643 community pharmacies across Taiwan, and recruited adults aged 20 years or over in May and June of 2019. After filling in an anonymous questionnaire regarding medical history and lifestyle habits and having 10-min sitting rest, pharmacists took triplicate upper-arm BP readings on participants using an automated oscillometric sphygmomanometer. The means of the second and third BP readings were used as the screening BP estimates. Hypertension was defined if one of the followings was met: use of antihypertensive medications, systolic BP ≥140 mmHg, or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg. Controlled BP was defined as BP of <140/90 mmHg. Of the 24 851 participants enrolled (mean age, 55.8 ± 15.2 years), 12 427 (50.0%) were women. Among 12 351 (49.7%) participants with hypertension, 10 463 (84.7%) were aware of their high BP, and 10 142 (82.1%) received antihypertensive medications. While 59.2% of all hypertensive participants had controlled BP, the BP control rate was 72.0% in treated hypertensive participants. MMM campaigns offer a feasible way to monitor the trends in both awareness and control of hypertension. This nationwide annual BP screening campaign, from 2017 to 2019, demonstrated continued improvement in hypertension control in Taiwan.
May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Mauritius
Authors: Kowlessur Sudhirsen , Ori Bhoosun , Heecharan Jaysing , Xia Xin , Poulter Neil R , Beaney Thomas
Published: May 2021

Hypertension is a growing burden worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 1.13 billion people worldwide suffer from hypertension. May Measurement Month (MMM) is a global initiative of the International Society of Hypertension aimed at raising awareness of high blood pressure (BP) and to act as a temporary solution to the lack of screening programmes worldwide. We provide the results of the 2019 MMM (MMM19) edition in Mauritius. This cross-sectional survey of participants aged ≥ 18 years was carried out in May 2019. Hypertension was defined as systolic BP of at least 140 mmHg or diastolic BP of at least 90 mmHg or in those on antihypertensive medication. Blood pressure measurement and statistical analysis followed the standard MMM protocol. Screening was conducted by the Non-Communicable Diseases and Health Promotion Unit, which is under the aegis of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, mainly in workplaces and community centres, in both rural and urban areas across Mauritius. Of the 8262 individuals screened, after multiple imputations, 950 (14%) had untreated hypertension. May Measurement Month 2019 was the largest BP screening campaign undertaken in Mauritius. These results suggest that MMM19 is useful in the identification of potential patients with raised BP.
May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Argentina
Authors: Salazar Martin R , Garcia Vazquez Fortunato , Espeche Walter G , Marquez Diego , Becerra Pedro , Martinez Marissi Evangelina , Sorasio Viviana B , Staffieri Gustavo J , Kalbermatter Arnoldo , De Cerchio Alejandro E , Beaney Thomas , Partington Giles , Poulter Neil R , Marín Marcos J , Ennis Irene L
Published: May 2021

The Argentinean Society of Hypertension, in agreement with the May Measurement Month (MMM) initiative of the International Society of Hypertension, implemented for the third consecutive year a hypertension screening campaign. A volunteer cross-sectional survey was carried out in public spaces and health centres during the month of May 2019 across 33 cities in Argentina. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg based on the mean of the second and third BP measurements, or in those on treatment for high BP. A total of 94 523 individuals (53.9 ± 17.8 years old, 55 231women and 39 292 men), were evaluated. The age and sex standardized mean BP was 124.7/77.2 mmHg. Among participants, 34.7% were overweight (25-29.9 m/kg2) and 28.7% had obesity (≥30 m/kg2). Individuals identified as being overweight had BP 3/2 mmHg higher and individuals with obesity 6/4 mmHg higher than those with normal weight. The prevalence of hypertension was 52.5%. Although 81.1% were aware and 77.7% were on antihypertensive treatment, only 46.0% of all individuals with hypertension had their BP controlled. Moreover, 19.8% of those not on any antihypertensive medication were found with raised BP. The low level of control of hypertension generates the critical need for the development of community-based prevention strategies reinforcing strategies to increase the awareness and control of hypertension.
May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Malaysia
Authors: Chia Yook Chin , Devaraj Navin Kumar , Chook Jack Bee , Chew Ming Tsuey , Ooi Pei Boon , Mohamed Mohazmi , Draman Nani , Ng Wei Leik , Gani Abdul Hafiz Mohamad , Thiagarajan Nagammai , Zulghaffar Zafferina , Beaney Thomas , Day Emily , Poulter Neil R , Ching Siew Mooi
Published: May 2021

Despite hypertension remaining the leading cause of death worldwide, awareness of hypertension and its control rate is still suboptimal in Malaysia. This study aims to determine the proportion of both diagnosed and undiagnosed hypertension, awareness and its control rate during the yearly May Measurement Month (MMM) campaign that has been coordinated by the International Society of Hypertension. Participants aged ≥18 years were recruited at various screening sites namely universities, health facilities, shopping malls, and other sites. Participant’s socio-demographic, environmental, and lifestyle data were captured using a questionnaire. Three blood pressure (BP) readings as well as anthropometric measurements were obtained from all participants. The mean of the second and third BP readings was used in analyses. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg or taking antihypertensive medication. A total of 3062 participants were recruited. The proportion with hypertension in our study was 18.7% (n = 572). The proportion who were aware of their BP status was 63.2%. More than half (57.2%) of the hypertensives were on antihypertensive medication and 70.3% of those treated were controlled. In conclusion, in this BP screening campaign, one in five were hypertensive with almost two thirds aware of their hypertensive status. BP control among those who are taking medications was high at 70% but under 60% of hypertensives were on treatment. Hypertension screening programmes are important to promote awareness and control of hypertension as well as to reduce the devastating complications associated with this disorder.
Correlation of electrocardiographic criteria for left bundle branch block with intraventricular synchrony
Authors: Ventura A , Viola L
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

INTRODUCTION

About 30% of patients are nonresponders to cardiac resynchronization therapy. One of the reasons proposed is that these patients do not present a true left bundle branch block (LBBB) and for that reason they do not develop dyssynchrony in the left ventricle. New electrocardiographic criteria have been published to define a true LBBB. Synchromax is a non-invasive, simple and practical method that has been shown to have a high predictive value for detecting electrical dyssynchrony and a very good correlation with mechanical dyssynchrony.

OBJECTIVE

Correlate the electrocardiographic criteria of LBBB individually or grouped, with the presence of dyssynchrony.

METHODOLOGY

Patients with LBBB (Minnesota Code) were prospectively collected. Those with pacemakers were excluded. The following electrocardiographic criteria were analyzed individually and in association: a) QS image in V1; b) QRS duration: 120-149 ms, ≥150 ms; c) Monophasic complexes with Notching or Slurring in D1 and / or V6 (Notch / S); d) QRS axis in the frontal plane deviated to the left (≥ -30º). Synchromax curves and values were taken from all patients and classified according to the indices as Synchronous (<0.4), Intermediate (0.4-0.7) or Asynchronous (> 0.7).

RESULTS

Were included 46p; age 34-89 years; 27 men. Heart rhythm was sinus in 40p and atrial fibrillation in 6p. The underlying heart disease was: Ischemic: 20p, Dilated Cardiomyopathy: 4p, Valvular: 3p, Chagas: 1p, Hypertensive heart disease: 18p. The results can be seen in table 1.  

CONCLUSION

Of the LBBB electrocardiographic criteria analyzed in this study, QRS duration ≥150 ms and left axis deviation were the best predictors of dyssynchrony individually and in association. Table 1: ResultsQRS120/149QRS ≥150QSV1Notch/SLeftAxisQSV1+≥150Notch/S+≥150LeftAxis+≥150Nº Patients2917272625131110Synchronous5(17%)2(16%)3(11%)5(19%)1 (4%)2(15%)1(9%)0Intermediate6(20%)1(8%)4(15%)2(7%)2(8%)1(8%)1(9%)0Asynchronous18(63%)14(82%)20(74%)19(74%)22(88%)10(77%)9(82%)10(100%)Abstract Figure. synchronous and asynchronous LBBB
Correlation between body mass index and electrocardiogram parameters in healthy adults
Authors: Ben Mrad I , Azzabi H , Mzoughi K , Kamoun S , Ben Moussa F , Fennira S , Zairi I , Kraiem S
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a tool to evaluate cardiac function. Its interpretation depends on age, sex and race.

Aims

to evaluate the association between body mass index (BMI) and electrocardiogram parameters in healthy adults.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study that included apparently healthy volunteers aged between 18 and 65 years. Body mass index was calculated and standard 12-lead ECG was recorded for all participants. Subjects were classified into four groups according to BMI: underweight (<18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (18.5-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25-29.9 kg/m2) and obese (≥30 kg/m2). Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the relationship between ECG variables and BMI.

Results

 One hundred seventy-four apparently healthy volunteers (99 women and 75 men; age ranged from 18 to 65 years) were included in this study. The mean BMI was 26,36 ± 6,04 kg/m² with a minimum of 14,53 and a maximum of 49,27. Twenty-two (12,6%) subjects were in the underweight range; 53 (30,5%) in the normal weight range, 54 (31%) in the overweight range and 45 (25,9%) were obese. The results of our study showed a significant positive correlation between the ECG variables studied and the BMI except for HR and Sokolow index (table 1).

Conclusion

We concluded that BMI caused a significant modification in several ECG parameters in healthy adults. Increased BMI leads to lengthening of conduction times and ventricular repolarization. Largest investigation on the use of BMI-specific ECG norms is warranted. Table 1 ECG parameters BMI R-value P value HR -0,041 0,590 P wave duration 0,222 0,003 PR Interval 0,200 0,008 QRS duration 0,235 0,002 QT Interval 0,152 0,045 QTcorrected (QTc) 0,150 0,049 Sokolow index 0,102 0,182 Pearson correlation coefficients of various ECG parameters with BMI in the study population (n = 174)