bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autologous Dura For Dural Defect Repair: A Technical Note
Authors: Rai Survendra Kumar R , Dandpat Saswat K , Jadhav Dikpal , Bhambere Sagar , Bhatia Kushal , Gajbhiye Nikhil K , Goel Atul H
Published: February 2025

Background:

Quest for finding ideal graft material for covering dural defect continues. Dura mater (DM)/pachymeninges consists of two layers; hence possibility of splitting this layer has been explored.

Objective:

Microsurgical splitting of dura into two layers for covering the dural defect.

Materials and Methods:

Splitting of DM with number 15 surgical blade was carried out on ten cadavers. Splitting the dura into two distinct layers was possible in every specimen paving way for implementing in routine neurosurgical practice. This technique was implemented in covering accidental dural defects in seven cases with defects ranging from 1 cm to 3.5 cm. All cases were followed up for potential complications in the long run.

Results:

Harvesting autologous dural graft by splitting it into two layers was possible with number 15 scalpel in autopsy specimen and routine neurosurgical practice. All dural defects were repaired without any complication with follow-up of more than 1 year.

Conclusions:

Best replacement of dural defect is by dura itself. The technique of harvesting autologous dura by splitting into two layers is easy, inexpensive, and devoid of all graft-related complications found till date. Splitting of dura is technically demanding but possible in small- to medium-sized dural defects. This technique has inherent limitations arising due to the amount of surrounding dura available depending on the size of craniotomy and the size of the dural defect. This procedure cannot become a substitute for cases requiring the extensive sacrifice of the dura, especially during meningioma surgery. This technique emphasis value of good microsurgical techniques.
Clinicopathological Correlation of TERTp (Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Promoter) Mutation in Meningiomas
Authors: Nadeem Mohammed , Sravya Palavalasa , Beniwal Manish , Srinivas Dwarakanath , Santosh Vani
Published: February 2025

Background:

Identifying meningiomas that behave aggressively has proven challenging based on histopathology alone. Several authors have sought to supplement the World Health Organization (WHO) grading system with the use of molecular markers. Although some genetic alterations have been associated with prognosis of patients, it is imperative to validate such markers in different patient cohorts.

Objective:

To establish the utility of telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter (TERTp) mutation as a prognostic factor in meningiomas.

Methods:

This retrospective study included grade 1 and grade 2 meningiomas in patients aged greater than 18 years operated between 2010 and 2015 at our institute, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. They were studied for TERTp mutation.

Results:

Seventy-one patients fulfilled the above criteria. TERTp mutation was found in five patients (7.04%), while 66 patients had wild-type TERTp. Seventeen patients had recurrence during the follow-up period. All meningiomas with TERTp mutation recurred, while TERTp wild-type meningiomas harbored a 18.2% (12/66) rate of recurrence (P < 0.001). The presence of TERTp mutation was significantly associated with shorter progression-free survival compared to the wild type (28.20 months, versus 93.18 months, P = 0.003).

Conclusion:

Our report showed a 100% recurrence rate among TERTp mutant meningiomas in a previously unrepresented demographic cohort. This highlights the need for molecular markers as adjuncts to the current WHO grading system, which may help identify meningiomas with aggressive behavior among grade 1 and grade 2 tumors and thus tailor management. Further avenues for research include targeting telomerase for therapeutics.
The Connections of the Short Arcuate Fibers of the Frontal Lobe: An Anatomical Study
Authors: Shah Abhidha , Jhawar Sukhdeep Singh , Goel Atul
Published: February 2025

Background:

We present the anatomy of the short arcuate fibers (SAF) of the brain. This anatomy is not very well depicted in literature.

Aim:

The aim was to study the connections of the short association fibers of the frontal lobe of the brain.

Material and Methods:

Five formalin-fixed frozen cadaveric brains were studied by using Klinger’s method of white fiber dissection. The superficial gray matter was cored out and the connections of the SAF were studied. The SAF of each dissected frontal lobe were compared with the other specimens and the similarities and differences between them were recorded.

Results:

The SAF or the U fibers of the cerebral hemispheres have three distinct patterns of organization, namely, the intergyral fibers, the intragyral fibers, and the gyral–gyral linkages. The intergyral fibers are the deep connections of the SAF. The intragyral fibers and the gyral–gyral linkages are the superficial components of the SAF system. There were no significant differences found when comparing the right and left hemispheres. Constant gyral–gyral linkages were observed between the middle frontal gyrus and the precentral gyrus. The superior frontal gyrus apart from having connections with the middle frontal gyrus also had short arcuate connections with the precentral gyrus, the orbital gyri, and the inferior frontal gyrus.

Conclusions:

A study of the short association fibers gives an insight into the workings and connections of the cortical structures of the brain.
Diaphragmatic Myoclonus Effectively Treated with Lacosamide: A Very Rare Phenomenon of Belly Dancer Syndrome
Authors: Manorenj Sandhya , Naaz Bushra , Madhavan Manju
Published: February 2025

Diaphragmatic myoclonus, also called diaphragmatic flutter, has characteristic abdominal movements resembling those of a belly dancer; hence, it is also called belly dancer syndrome (BDS). BDS is characterized by high-frequency involuntary diaphragmatic contractions. BDS can occur due to a lesion anywhere in the pathway for diaphragmatic control, from the motor cortex to the neural supply to the diaphragm. Here we report a 21-year-old girl who presented with acute-onset abdominal movements of 5 days duration. Clinical examination showed abdominal jerky movements with preserved awareness. Electroencephalograms (EEG) showed polyspike wave discharges consistent with cortical myoclonus. These abdominal myoclonic jerks disappeared dramatically on treatment with lacosamide, a third-generation antiepileptic drug. There are few case reports of BDS in the literature with a cortical myoclonus origin instead of the widely described segmental myoclonus form. The case also highlights the efficacy of lacosamide in treating diaphragmatic myoclonus jerk in young adults.
A Clinicopathological Study of Angiogenesis in Meningiomas Using Immunohistochemical Markers
Authors: Mufeedha Abubaker , Aparna Govindan , Rajeev Mandaka P , Gomathy Subramaniam , Sathi Puthen Parambath
Published: February 2025

Background:

Meningioma is a neoplasm arising from arachnoid cap cells and an important group of tumors of the meninges. The extent of surgical resection is one of the most important factors predicting recurrence along with histologic grading which in turn depends on factors such as the tumor site, vascularity, and peritumoral brain edema.

Objectives:

We studied the relationship between Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, angiogenesis, and peritumoral brain edema (PTBE) in different grades and subtypes of meningioma.

Methods and Materials:

A cross-sectional study; comprising 48 confirmed meningioma cases. Immunohistochemistry was done using antibodies to VEGF, CD-105, and Ki-67. VEGF expression in tumor cells and endothelial cells was scored and microvessel density was calculated on CD105 stained slides. The MIB-1 labeling index was calculated to supplement the grading of the tumor. PTBE was classified from the MRI images.

Results and Discussion:

In our study, meningioma occurred in the age range of 24–78 years with a mean of 53.23 years. The study population included 66.7% females and 33.3% males with an F:M ratio of 2:1. Transitional meningioma was the predominant histological subtype. We observed increased VEGF expression in transitional and meningothelial patterns and decreased expression in fibroblastic meningioma. High MVD score was shown only by cases with grade III PTBE and all cases with grade 0 and grade I PTBE showed low MVD score.

Conclusion:

Microvessel density assessed by CD105 staining is increased in cases with peritumoral edema hence, it can be considered a marker for angiogenesis.
Acute Hemichorea–Hemiballismus in Patients with Tuberculous Meningitis: An Atypical Manifestation of Stroke
Authors: Garg Ravindra Kumar , Rizvi Imran , Kumar Neeraj , Gupta Priyanka , Tripathi Pooja , Arjun Bal KP , Parihar Anit , Malhotra Hardeep Singh , Pandey Shweta , Uniyal Ravi
Published: February 2025

We report two cases of tuberculosis meningitis patients developing hemichorea–hemiballismus during antituberculosis treatment. First, a 56-year-old woman experienced right-sided hemichorea–hemiballismus 3 months into treatment. MRI scans revealed a left thalamus and subthalamic infarct. After 10 days of continued treatment and corticosteroids, her movements subsided. Second, a 17-year-old female developed hemichorea–hemiballismus while on antituberculosis drugs and corticosteroids. MRI scans displayed ischemic lesions, optochiasmatic arachnoiditis, gyral enhancement, and a small tuberculoma. After shunt surgery and tetrabenazine treatment, she significantly improved and resumed daily activities. In conclusion, hemichorea–hemiballismus may paradoxically occur in tuberculosis meningitis patients, potentially linked to ischemic lesions in the thalamus and subthalamus.
Uniform Standard of Neurosurgery Training and Evaluation in India – Need of the Hour
Authors: Ramesh Vengalathur G.
Published: February 2025

At present, neurosurgery training and examination have varying standards between different universities/ institutes/hospitals. This has led to varying standards of neurosurgeons, their surgical skills, and employability as consultants in hospitals/institutes. We need to address this issue very seriously. There needs to be uniformity in the minimum standard of neurosurgical training and uniform pattern and standard of exit examination. This article deals with the problems in detail and possible solutions.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: A Retrospective Chart Review from a Tertiary Neuropsychiatric Facility
Authors: Sen Mahadev S , Kushwaha Suman , Dhamija Rajinder K , Singh Mridula , Dung Dung Aldrin A , Kumar Panda A , Chaudhary Rahul , Maheshwari Siddharth
Published: February 2025

Background and Objective:

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially fatal reaction to antipsychotic drugs. Our study aimed to describe the characteristics of NMS patients and identify the trends of symptom profile.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with NMS and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary health-care center between January 2017 and March 2023.

Result:

Out of 21 identified NMS cases, complete patient records were available for 12, revealing a male preponderance (76%) and an average age of 36 years. Rigidity and delirium were universally present in all patients. Almost all patients developed NMS secondary to atypical antipsychotics, with the most common being risperidone (44%) and bromocriptine administered in 94% of cases. Most patients (94%) showed improvement and were shifted out of ICU.

Conclusion:

Our findings provide valuable insights into the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of NMS in an ICU setting, especially in the context of atypical antipsychotics.
Reliability of Frameless Stereotactic Brain Biopsy for Complicated Lesions: Multicenter Experiences
Authors: Gocmen Selcuk , Haciyakupoglu Ersin , Acka Gokhan , Aponte-Mendoza Zuleyka , Onguru Onder , Tasci Mustafa , Kahraman Serdar
Published: February 2025

Background:

This study aimed to report our experiences with the safety and reliability of frameless stereotactic brain biopsy, including eloquent areas and small-sized lesions.

Materials and Methods:

We reviewed 88 consecutive cases of brain lesions diagnosed with neuronavigation-guided frameless stereotactic biopsy in two different neurosurgical institutes (Turkey and Germany). In addition to a standard technique, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–computed tomography (CT) fusion images were used to enhance the accuracy of targeting. To stabilize the navigation system on the target, the deviation from average accuracy was set at 1 mm with MRI alone. The deviation from average accuracy was 0.5 mm on fused MRI-CT images.

Results:

There were 43 males and 45 females with a mean age of 62 years. The lesion diameter was ≤2 cm in 24 patients and >2 cm in 64 patients. The lesion was in the eloquent region in 16 patients. Histopathological diagnostic success rate was 98.8%. Overall, 56, 21, 5, and 3 patients were diagnosed with glial tumor, lymphoma, abscess, and metastasis, respectively, and 1 patient each with acute myeloid leukemia, radiation necrosis, and nonneoplastic neuroglial tissue was observed as a pathological result.

Conclusions:

The frameless biopsy system is gaining popularity because it is reliable and has a low complication rate. It provides rapid and accurate pathological results even for deeply located or small (size ≤2 cm) lesions. The frameless biopsy systems were used safely with a very high diagnostic accuracy rate according to the learning curve.
Neurological Manifestations of Scrub Typhus: The Clinical Spectrum, Determinants, and Outcome
Authors: Majumdar Swaratika , Benjamin Rohit Ninan , Ralph Ravikar , Mahasampath Gowri , Abhilash Kundavaram P P , Samson Nathaniel , Sudarsan Thomas Isaiah , Prakash John AJ , Varghese George M.
Published: February 2025

Background and Objective:

Neurological involvement is reported in up to a quarter of patients with scrub typhus. However, prospective studies accurately describing clinical findings, temporal evolution, and rare syndromes are sparse. This study characterized scrub typhus-associated neurological syndromes, emphasizing neurological localization, clinical outcomes, and potential predictors.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective cohort study included patients admitted to a medical college hospital with scrub typhus during a 1-year period. Detailed clinical, laboratory, and radiological profiles and outcomes were documented and analyzed.

Results:

Among 198 patients included, whose median age was 47 years (range, 18–85 years), 48.5% were men. The mean duration of fever before presentation was 8.2 days. Neurological deficits attributable to scrub typhus were present in 31.3% of patients. The commonest syndrome was meningitis/meningoencephalitis (87.9%). Extrapyramidal disorders occurred in 10%, and cerebellar disorders occurred in 3%. Extrapyramidal disorders often developed during the acute stage and persisted into early convalescence. Ischemic stroke and new-onset peripheral neuropathies occurred in two and three patients, respectively. Parameters in patients with and without neurological manifestations were compared. Multivariate analysis revealed that male sex, headache, vomiting, and elevated creatinine increased the odds of neurological involvement. Myalgia and tachycardia reduced the odds of neurological disease. Overall mortality was 6.1%. Neurological involvement was not associated with poor outcomes.

Conclusions:

Neurological involvement was present in nearly one-third of patients with scrub typhus, with meningoencephalitis being the most common manifestation. Headache, vomiting, and elevated creatinine predicted neurological involvement, while myalgia and tachycardia were negatively associated.
Clinical, Biochemical and Molecular Characterization of Short-Chain Enoyl-CoA Hydratase (ECHS1) Deficiency
Authors: Devi Akella Radha Rama
Published: February 2025

Short-chain enoyl-CoA hydratase (ECHS1) (OMIM 602292) deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism caused by pathogenic variants in the ECHS1 gene. Features of encephalopathy, movement disorders, developmental delay, high lactate, seizures, and basal ganglia abnormalities were reported with this disorder. Exome sequencing is a powerful tool for the identification of Leigh-like disorders, especially in the absence of biochemical biomarkers. We describe an 11-month-old infant who presented with metabolic acidosis and developed movement disorder and was found to have elevated C4OH and basal ganglia lesion in the brain. Urine organic acids showed the presence of branch chain amino acid metabolites. Whole-exome sequencing identified a previously reported homozygous pathogenic variant in the ECHS1 gene (c.C518T (p.Ala173Val).
Meningiomas Following the Previous Cancer Therapies: Brief Report
Authors: Venkataramana N. K. , Madesh Mahendra , Venkat Bharggavi
Published: February 2025

Ionizing radiation is known to induce brain tumors such as meningiomas and gliomas over a time. Similar tumorogenic effects have been described with chemotherapeutic agents also. However, the literature is sparse regarding this entity. There has been some new understanding derived from the molecular studies regarding the mechanism of such tumorogenesis. To highlight such updates in the current knowledge is the objective. Two patients treated for malignancy in their childhood developed meningiomas in later part of their life. This highlights the possibility of developing meningiomas or other endocrinal tumors following the treatment for malignancy at a younger age. The need for long-term follow-up of these patients is the highlight of the report. Both the meningiomas were successfully removed surgically with favorable clinical outcomes. However, prevalence and risk projection need to be identified to plan the clinical management and long-term follow-up. Though meningiomas are known to be induced by previous radiotherapy, the exact mechanisms are not yet clear. Recent research indicates the genetic abnormalities and molecular abnormalities that can induce or evolve Meningiomas following radiotherapy. These tumors seem to form a distinctly different group molecularly and can be aggressive clinically. Understanding biomolecular pathogenesis is important to manage such patients adequately.
Neuropsychological Profiling of Colloid Cyst Patients: Domains Affected and Long-term Outcomes
Authors: Sainadh K , Joshua Shejoy , Manappat Ayesha Sagir , Cherkil Sandhya , Chacko Manas , Panikar Dilip
Published: February 2025

Background:

Colloid cysts are known to cause neuropsychological impairment. However, the specific domains that are affected and their outcomes following excision are not studied in the past. In the current study, we evaluated different neuropsychological domains that are involved in colloid cyst patients and how they fared on long-term follow-up after the excision.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort of sixteen colloid cyst patients managed in a tertiary care center were included in the study. The clinical presentation, largest cyst diameter, and the presence of ventriculomegaly using the Evans index were noted on an MR brain imaging preoperatively. The neurocognitive evaluation was performed by a neuropsychologist at the presentation and 1 month and 1 year after the excision.

Results:

The neuropsychological domains that were affected in colloid cyst patients are memory, rate of learning, verbal fluency, sustained attention, focused attention, information processing speed, auditory attention, and working memory. There was a clinically meaningful improvement in visual memory (P = 0.054) and logical memory (P = 0.058) in operated patients, while other parameters improved slightly. No significant change was noted in early and late postoperative neuropsychological assessments.

Conclusions:

Neurocognitive domains that are affected in colloid cyst patients are memory, rate of learning, verbal fluency, sustained attention, focused attention, information processing speed, auditory attention, and working memory. Visual memory and logical memory show sustained clinically meaningful improvement in long-term follow-up postsurgical decompression.
Forecasting Dog Bite Incidents: An Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Time Series Analysis
Authors: Asokan Dinesh , Bardeskar Joyce , Borode Minal , Mall Anjali , Pardeshi Geeta
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

This study, driven by the high incidence of dog bites in India and the fatality risk of rabies, utilised Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) analysis to forecast dog bite trends in a metropolitan tertiary care hospital.

Materials and Methods:

A record-based study with data from January 2019 to October 2023 at a Mumbai tertiary care institution employed the ARIMA model with SPSS to forecast dog bite cases from November 2023 to December 2024.

Results:

The ARIMA analysis showed a dip in dog bite cases before summer, reaching the lowest point in December 2024, followed by an increase in summer. This trend was consistent across total, Category III, unprovoked and stray dog bite cases.

Conclusions:

Proactive measures, such as vaccine procurement and cold chain maintenance for anti-rabies vaccines and rabies immunoglobulins, are essential during peak seasons to ensure preparedness and effective public health management.
Characterizations and models for the
$C_{1,r}$
class and quantum annulus
Authors: Pal Sourav , Tomar Nitin
Published: February 2025

For fixed

$0<r<1$

, let

$A_r=\{z \in \mathbb {C} : r<|z|<1\}$

be the annulus with boundary

$\partial \overline {A}_r=\mathbb {T} \cup r\mathbb {T}$

, where

$\mathbb T$

is the unit circle in the complex plane

$\mathbb C$

. An operator having

$\overline {A}_r$

as a spectral set is called an

$A_r$

-contraction. Also, a normal operator with its spectrum lying in the boundary

$\partial \overline {A}_r$

is called an

$A_r$

-unitary. The

$C_{1,r}$

class was introduced by Bello and Yakubovich in the following way:

$$\begin{align*}C_{1, r}=\{T: T \ \text{is invertible and} \ \|T\|, \|rT^{-1}\| \leq 1\}. \end{align*}$$

McCullough and Pascoe defined the quantum annulus

$\mathbb Q \mathbb A_r$

by

$$\begin{align*}\mathbb Q\mathbb A_r = \{T \,:\, T \text{ is invertible and } \, \|rT\|, \|rT^{-1}\| \leq 1 \}. \end{align*}$$

If

$\mathcal A_r$

denotes the set of all

$A_r$

-contractions, then

$\mathcal A_r \subsetneq C_{1,r} \subsetneq \mathbb Q \mathbb A_r$

. We first find a model for an operator in

$C_{1,r}$

and also characterize the operators in

$C_{1,r}$

in several different ways. We prove that the classes

$C_{1,r}$

and

$\mathbb Q\mathbb A_r$

are equivalent. Then, via this equivalence, we obtain analogous model and characterizations for an operator in

$\mathbb Q \mathbb A_r$

.
A bound on the
$\mu $
-invariants of supersingular elliptic curves
Authors: Gajek-Leonard Rylan
Published: February 2025

Let

$E/\mathbb {Q}$

be an elliptic curve and let p be a prime of good supersingular reduction. Attached to E are pairs of Iwasawa invariants

$\mu _p^\pm $

and

$\lambda _p^\pm $

which encode arithmetic properties of E along the cyclotomic

$\mathbb {Z}_p$

-extension of

$\mathbb {Q}$

. A well-known conjecture of B. Perrin-Riou and R. Pollack asserts that

$\mu _p^\pm =0$

. We provide support for this conjecture by proving that for any

$\ell \geq 0$

, we have

$\mu _p^\pm \leq 1$

for all but finitely many primes p with

$\lambda _p^\pm =\ell $

. Assuming a recent conjecture of D. Kundu and A. Ray, our result implies that

$\mu _p^\pm \leq 1$

holds on a density 1 set of good supersingular primes for E.
Design and Development of Tractor Front Three Point Linkage System
Authors: Kumar Yuvaraj , V Ashok Kumar , Perumal Solairaj , Gaba Rahul , Ramdebhai Karavadara , Subbaiyan Prasanna Balaji , M Kalaiselvan
Published: February 2025

Today’s agriculture demands increased productivity due to the higher cropping intensities. Agricultural field readiness for cultivation requires various operation in field resulting in delay in cultivation which lower down productivity. Therefore, field operation needs to be more efficient in terms of both input cost and time consumption. One way to achieve this is by performing multiple operations in a single tractor pass, utilizing the increased power available in modern Tractors. In some agricultural operations, implements need to be mounted on the front of the tractor. Therefore, designing a front three-point hitching system for the tractor is essential to meet various farming needs, allowing customers to perform multiple operations simultaneously. The use of a front three-point linkage better utilizes the potential of four-wheel drive, higher horsepower tractors.

This paper focuses on the comprehensive design process for developing and validating a front hitch system for both future and existing tractor designs. It describes the study of the Real-World Usage Pattern (RWUP) for the front hitch and the creation of a load block program for component validation. Multiple design iterations were conducted to meet CAE acceptance criteria and ensure design robustness. A new lab test was established and performed to assess the hitch’s lifting performance, durability, endurance, and track performance. The recommended design successfully passed physical validation and was implemented in the tractor. The front three-point linkage design achieved 20.25%-time savings and 15.15% fuel savings compared to traditional designs, with a cultivator at the front and a harrow at the rear during field operations, as per ISO-8759(4) and ISO 730 standards.
CogniGuardianRoadscape: Advancing Safety through AI-Driven Roadway Audits
Authors: Thangaraju Shanmuganathan , Nagarajan Meenakshi , Ganesan Maragatham , Raja Selvakumar , Sirotiya Aviral , Jasrotia Bhargav
Published: February 2025

The escalation of road infrastructure anomalies, such as speed breakers and potholes, presents a formidable challenge to vehicular safety, efficient traffic management, and road maintenance strategies worldwide. In addressing these pervasive issues, this paper proposes an advanced, integrated approach for the detection and classification of speed breakers and potholes. Utilizing a sophisticated blend of deep learning methodologies and enhanced image processing techniques, our solution leverages Object Detection to analyze and interpret real-time visual data captured through advanced vehicle-mounted camera systems. This research meticulously details the comprehensive process involved in the development of this system, including the acquisition and preprocessing of a vast, varied dataset representative of numerous road types, conditions, and environmental factors. Through rigorous training, testing, and validation phases, the model demonstrates remarkable proficiency in recognizing and classifying road imperfections, outperforming existing models in accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score metrics. The innovative approach underscores the potential of integrating cutting-edge machine learning algorithms with real-world applications to significantly enhance autonomous navigation systems and assist in the proactive maintenance of road infrastructure. Furthermore, the paper discusses the model's scalability and adaptability, emphasizing its potential application across a wide range of environments, weather conditions, and vehicular technologies. By providing a detailed analysis of the system's performance under varied operational scenarios, this research contributes valuable insights into the realm of intelligent transportation systems and smart city infrastructure development, the findings of this study not only pave the way for future advancements in autonomous vehicle technologies but also offer promising perspectives for the improvement of road maintenance and safety protocols. Looking ahead, the paper outlines a series of potential enhancements and areas for future research, including the optimization of the detection algorithm for increased efficiency and the exploration of its integration with other sensory data sources for a more holistic approach to road anomaly detection.
Experimental Characterization of Fabricated (310) and (210) Symmetrical Tilt High-Angle Grain Boundaries in Bicrystalline Copper Thin Films Using NaCl Substrates
Authors: Dish Nilabh , Gautam Abhay , Behera Rakesh , Banka Hemasunder , Chavan Pradeep
Published: February 2025

A novel sintering method of bridging the two mechanically polished and oriented single-crystals together face-to-face in a non- environmental controlled atmosphere to fabricate the bicrystal substrate of NaCl of macroscopic thickness, with a common zone axis and having planarity over large areas, has been developed. Epitaxial [001] bicrystalline thin face-centered cubic (fcc) metal film of surface-reactive metal-containing tilt grain boundary across the interface is first grown in high vacuum directly by flash deposition on initially fabricated [001] oriented bicrystalline substrate of NaCl. The [001] tilt boundary, thus produced, and is examined by electron microscopy to characterize grain boundary morphology and structure. The findings of some preliminary investigations are then presented. A distinct atomic structure is observed for 310 and 210 inclination. Both HAADF-STEM and Diffraction images reveal that such fabricated high-angle grain boundary accommodates minor deviations from the exact high coincidence density ∑=5 misorientation. The potential use of the present technique is extended to produce a wide variety of homophase bicrystals, containing grain boundaries at the midplane, normal to any crystallographic surface without the necessity of a separate bonding operation.
Optimizing Titanium Alloy Grade 7 Machining with Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Pasupuleti Thejasree , Natarajan Manikandan , Kumar V , Sagaya Raj Gnana , Krishnamachary PC , Silambarasan R
Published: February 2025

Electrochemical machining (ECM) is a highly efficient method for creating intricate structures in materials that conduct electricity, irrespective of their level of hardness. Due to the growing need for superior products and the requirement for quick design adjustments, decision-making in production has become more complex. This study focuses on Titanium Grade 7 and suggests creating predictive models utilizing a Taguchi-grey technique to achieve multi-objective optimization in ECM. The trials are structured based on Taguchi's principles, utilizing Taguchi-grey relational analysis (GRA) to simultaneously maximize several performance indicators. This entails optimizing the pace at which material is removed, decreasing the roughness of the surface, and attaining precise geometric tolerances. ANOVA is used to assess the relevance of process variables that affect these measures. The suggested predictive technique for Titanium Grade 7 outperforms current models in terms of flexibility, efficiency, and accuracy, providing improved capabilities for monitoring and control. In addition, the research investigates the use of Titanium Grade 7 in automotive applications, emphasizing its importance in industries that require strong materials for conditions that are prone to corrosion. The experimental validation confirms a strong correlation between the projected results and the actual performance, thereby confirming the effectiveness of the suggested approach.
Multi-Objective Optimization for Contemporary Drilling of Nimonic Alloy Using Taguchi-Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Pasupuleti Thejasree , Natarajan Manikandan , D Palanisamy , Silambarasan R , Krishnamachary PC
Published: February 2025

The objective of this research is to develop an optimization strategy for the Electrochemical Drilling process on Nimonic alloy material, taking into account various performance factors. The optimization strategy relies on the integration of the Taguchi method with Grey Relational Analysis (GRA). Nimonic is extensively utilized in aerospace, nuclear, and marine industries, specifically in situations that are prone to corrosion. The experimental trials are structured based on Taguchi's principle and encompass three machining variables: feed rate, electrolyte flow rate, and electrolyte concentration. This inquiry examines performance indicators like the rate of material removal, surface roughness, as well as geometric parameters such as overcut, shape, and orientation tolerance. Based on the investigation, it is determined that the feed rate is the primary factor that directly affects the intended performance criteria. In order to enhance the accuracy of predictions, multiple regression models are created and performance metrics are constructed. A validation test was performed to corroborate the findings acquired using the GRA approach. The test results demonstrate that the proposed strategy is markedly superior to earlier approaches.
Novel Test Method for Accelerated Fatigue Testing of Engine Camshaft
Authors: Chakraborty Abhirup , S Aravamuthan , K Karthikeyan
Published: February 2025

In some IC engines, fuel injection pump is driven by camshaft; thus, these camshafts are designed for bending and torsional loads. Conventionally, camshafts are built-to-specification. Typically, durability assessment of camshaft happens at engine level, this calls for proto or calibration engine to be made and available for testing. As there are limited number of engine level proto testing, the overall scatter in camshafts due to manufacturing/process variations is not possible to be covered. This poses a risk of camshaft failures in the final stages of product development. To mitigate this risk, a component level standard test method is needed for quickly validating design and manufacturing process of camshafts for second source suppliers.

The current paper discusses the process followed for arriving at a standard test setup and overcoming the challenges in terms of capturing the appropriate physics for camshaft failure during the engine level testing. Camshaft rear end experiences bending load due to FIP operation. The component level testing method is established by ensuring load and bending moment, and it is used for validating improvements done on manufacturing process and design quickly with confidence for design implementation approval for a test concern. To gain confidence on test outcomes, strain measurement is performed on camshaft with the proposed test setup and found to have more than 98% correlation with CAE results. This newly developed test methodology is added as a DVP requirement for all upcoming projects. It has benefited from time savings of around 120 days per project for camshaft testing.
Analysis and Refinement of Road Boom Noise in Electric Vehicle
Authors: S Nataraja Moorthy , Rao Manchi Venkateswara , Raghavendran Prasath , Selvam Ebinezer
Published: February 2025

Customers are expecting higher level of refinement in electric vehicle. Since the background noise is less in electric vehicle in comparison with ICE, it is challenging for NVH engineers to address even minor noise concerns without cost and mass addition.

Higher boom noise is perceived in the test vehicle when driven on the coarse road at a speed of 50 kmph. The test vehicle is rear wheel driven vehicle powered by electric motor. Multi reference Transfer Path Analysis (TPA) is conducted on the vehicle to identify the path through which maximum forces are entering the body. Based on the findings from TPA, solutions like reduction in the dynamic stiffness of the suspension bushes are optimized which resulted in reduction of noise. To reduce the noise further, Operational Deflection Shape (ODS) analysis is conducted on the entire vehicle to identify the deflection shapes of all the suspension components and all the body panels like floor, roof, tailgate, dash panel, quarter panel and doors at the problematic frequency. Based on ODS, the components having higher deflections at the problematic frequency is identified. Modifications are proposed to improve the dynamic stiffness of the structure at the problematic frequency and the contribution of each modification for cabin noise reduction is discussed. Solutions like tuned mass dampers (TMD) on suspension components are explored and the critical parameter which should be considered to get maximum reduction in noise with TMD is also discussed. With all the modifications, the noise levels are reduced by 5 dB (A) at problematic frequency. NVH criteria which should be considered related to suspension system to avoid boom noise concern in electric vehicle is also discussed.
Mechanical Design and Packaging Strategies of a Cell-to-Pack Battery for an Automotive Electric Vehicle Based on Economic & Sport Vehicle Requirements
Authors: K Barathi Raja
Published: February 2025

The world is moving towards a green transportation system. Governments are also pushing for green mobility, especially electric vehicles. Electric vehicles are becoming more popular in Europe, China, India, and developing countries. In EVs, the customer's range anxiety and the perceived real-world range are major challenges for the OEMs. The OEMs are moving towards a higher power-to-weight ratio. Energy density plays a crucial role in the battery pack architecture to increase the vehicle range. Higher capacity battery packs are needed to improve the vehicle's range. The battery pack architecture is vital in defining the gravimetric and volumetric energy densities. The cell-to-pack battery technique aims to achieve a higher power-to-weight ratio by eliminating unnecessary weight in the battery architecture. The design of battery architecture depends on the cell features such as the cell shape & size, cell terminal positions, vent valve position, battery housing strength requirements, etc. This work analyzed different LFP cell-to-pack architectures based on the production-ready battery cells to achieve optimized cost, vehicle range, structural rigidity, and safety to meet economic & sporty vehicle requirements.
Investigation on Heat Transfer Properties of Graphene Nanoplatelets Blended Distilled Water-Ethylene Glycol Mixtures in Battery Thermal Management System
Authors: S Palanisamy , Selvan Arul Mozhi
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the heat transfer properties of graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) blended with distilled water-ethylene glycol (DW-EG) mixtures, focusing on their potential application in battery thermal management systems (BTMS). Compared to other nanoparticles, carbon nanostructures exhibit higher thermal conductivity due to their low density and integrated thermal conductivity. The experimental findings are relevant in that compared with the base fluid, nanofluid samples had heat transfer capability. The physicochemical characteristics of investigated GNP were characterized using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), pH and UV–Vis spectrophotometry. The thermal conductivity and physical properties of graphene platelets having the specific surface area of 500 m2/g in the base fluid of Distilled Water-Ethylene Glycol (DW-EG 70:30) and 100 % vol. of Ethylene Glycol (EG 100) were determined after 120 minutes of sonication time. The graphene nanofluids with the platelet concentrations of 0.025, 0.05, 0.075, and 0.1 wt% were investigated for the dispersion properties. The stability of nanofluid was examined using a zeta potential and UV-visible spectrophotometer. According to the thermal conductivity facts, dispersed nanoparticles always improve the heat conductivity of the DW-EG 70:30s base fluid, with the greatest improvement occurring at a concentration of 0.1 weight per cent GNPs. The study suggests that the GnP-infused nanofluids exhibit excellent heat transfer performance, making them promising candidates for enhancing the efficiency of BTMS in electric vehicles, providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for thermal management.
Design and Development of Wave Spring to Eliminate the Synchronizer Ring Rattle in an Automotive Gearbox
Authors: K Barathi Raja , Senthil Raja T , Kumar Aneesh , R Manikandan , Ostwal Amit
Published: February 2025

Automotive powertrains are being refined to give good comfort to the occupants. With the refinement of the internal combustion engine, the NVH is improved, and other vehicle noises are surfacing in the vehicle cabin. One such noise is the synchronizer ring rattle noise from the gearbox. The synchronizer rings are assembled freely between the gear and the hub in the gearbox. The manufacturing variations in the gearbox shafts, bearing, and housing bore cause misalignment to the synchronizer ring assembly. This excites the synchronizer rings to rattle. The rattle noise increases when the synchronizer ring is positioned between two different shafts. This rattling reduces the life of the synchronizer. And the rattling noise causes discomfort to the occupants. This research work discusses the different dampening strategies for the synchronizer ring rattle. Higher rattle reduction can be achieved with the wave spring between the input and output shaft. However, the wave spring changes the dynamics of the synchronizer ring. The stiffness of the wave spring is critical to synchronize the speed difference and to achieve good gearshift quality for gear crash avoidance. The new design eliminated the synchronizer ring rattle and improved the life of the synchronizer ring.
Impact of Hydrogen Enrichment on Performance and Emissions Characteristics of a Compression Ignition Engine Operated in Dual Fuel Mode with Karanja Oil Methyl Ester-Tire Pyrolysis Oil Blend
Authors: Duraisamy Boopathi , Stanley Martin Jerome , Chelladorai Prabhu , Rajendran Silambarasan , Marutholi Mubarak , Madheswaran Dinesh Kumar
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for fossil fuels and the search for alternatives have the potential to reduce emissions and enhance energy security. Karanja oil and tire pyrolysis oil (TPO) are identified as promising substitutes. This study examines the performance and emission characteristics of a 5.2 kW, 1500 rpm, four-stroke single-cylinder compression ignition engine. The engine was tested using diesel, the optimal combination of Karanja oil biodiesel (KOME) and TPO (50:50% volume ratio), and this KOME-TPO blend with hydrogen supplied in dual fuel mode at flow rates of 10 lpm, 20 lpm, and 30 lpm, designated as H10, H20, and H30, respectively. The results indicated that BTE for H30 was the highest, reaching 32.21% compared to 30.52% for diesel at 5.2 kW BP. BSEC for H30 was the lowest at 11.18 MJ/kWh, compared to 11.80 MJ/kWh for diesel at the same BP. Emission analysis showed that smoke and HC emissions were significantly lower for hydrogen-enriched blends. At 5.2 kW BP, HC emissions for H30 were 15 ppm compared to 32 ppm for diesel, and smoke emissions were 38% for H30 compared to 67% for diesel. However, NO emissions were higher for hydrogen-enriched blends, with 1535 ppm for H30 compared to 1245 ppm for diesel at 5.2 kW BP. CO emissions were also lower for H30, recorded at 0.07% vol compared to 0.08% vol for diesel. This study demonstrates that blending hydrogen with KOME-TPO can effectively reduce HC and smoke emissions while enhancing BTE and BSEC, although further optimization is needed to manage NOx emissions. These findings suggest that hydrogen-enriched biodiesel blends offer a promising alternative to conventional diesel fuel, supporting sustainable energy use and reduced environmental impact.
Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Tannery Industry Fleshing Wastes Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: P Kanthasamy , Selvan Arul Mozhi , P Shanmugam
Published: February 2025

In response to rising emissions and pollutants, an alternative and environmentally friendly synthesis is gaining prominence on the energy sources. The leather industries generate substantial amount of waste and fleshing oil extracted from fleshing which is rich in lipids and presents a viable feedstock for biodiesel production. In this research work, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is used to optimize the conversion of leather fleshing oil into biodiesel using three parameters such as operating temperature, reaction time, and molar ratio. Experiments were carried out to determine the most optimal conditions and the response on yield (%) and viscosity (mm2/s) based on a 17-run Box–Behnken Design matrix. Stochastic model parameters such as R2 (0.9715 and 0.9793), adjusted R2 (0.9349 and 0.9527), predicted R2 (0.8327 and 0.7656), and high F-values (26.52 and 36.78) of both responses (yield and viscosity) were found to be statistically significant and warranted model adequacy. ANOVA and regression analysis resulted in significant two-way interactions among variables relating to response. The optimal conditions were predicted at 61°C, 180 minutes of reaction time, and a molar ratio of 10:1 generated a yield of 92.901% with the viscosity of 3.629. Experimental trails were conducted at the predicted conditions and found a maximum yield of 90.52% with the minimum viscosity of 3.46. The predicted and experimental results were reported to be in close agreement.
Study the Effect of Fasteners Coating Materials to Resolve the Leakage Issue in Steering Gear Assembly
Authors: Ayyappan Rakshna , Govindarasu Anbarasu , P Rajasekar , D Senthil Kumar
Published: February 2025

In commercial vehicle, Hydraulic Power Assisted Steering (HPAS) gear plays a vital role to utilize the hydraulic force to assist the steering application. HPAS gear consists of housing, sector shaft, side cover, worm shaft, valve housing and rack piston. Side cover assembly is connected with the housing assembly through bolts which is in exposure to high pressure working hydraulic fluid. Since, some of the bolts are exposed to the fluid environment in the inner surface of the housing, during high pressure running condition, torque relaxation in the bolt is observed which leads to the loosening of bolts and tends to hydraulic fluid leakage through bolts. The current phosphate coated bolts are getting relaxed and loosened due to the bolts that exposed to the oil environment which have insufficient coefficient of friction in the bolt head and thread. To overcome the bolt failure during high pressure hydraulic application, various bolt coating analysis is experimented to withstand the sufficient coefficient of friction in the bolt. The detailed comparison study is carried out for the bolts such as failure torque, load, frictional force, bearing stress and thread profile deviation. This paper deals with the failure analysis of bolts in a high pressure HPAS gear assembly and comparison study is carried out between analytical calculations and experimental validation.