bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capability-Based Operations and Sustainment  Aviation (COST-A) Technology Development
Authors:   Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Bates Preston ,   US Army, Baker Treven , Davis Mark , Cycon James , Bordick Nate , Pantelis Paul , Thompson Bruce
Published: October 2024

The U.S. Army traditionally has used a time-based, on-condition maintenance paradigm that relies on at-aircraft inspections and periodic in-depth phase inspections to determine condition and ensure airworthiness. The result is a significant maintenance burden, both scheduled and unscheduled, and excessive aircraft downtime. The objective of the Aviation Development Directorate-Aviation Applied Technology Directorate (ADD-AATD) and Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (SAC) Capability-Based Operations and Sustainment Technology-Aviation (COST-A) project was to develop and demonstrate an integrated set of high value diagnostics, prognostics, and system health management technologies that reduce scheduled inspections and preventive maintenance while enhancing safety. More than two dozen Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) technologies across six primary rotorcraft systems (propulsion, drive train, airframe/structural, rotor, electrical, and vehicle management) were matured to TRL-6. These technologies were integrated into a prototype laboratory on-board system built around the Integrated Vehicle Health Management Unit (IVHMU) currently installed in all UH-60 Black Hawk aircraft and successfully demonstrated to perform concurrently in representative simulated flight scenarios, using playback data from healthy and faulty components. These PHM technologies can enable the Army to transition to a condition-based maintenance (CBM) paradigm. This paper summarizes the overall Validation and Verification (V&V) approach, demonstration results, and additional details of technologies that demonstrated the most promise for near-term transition. COST-A work is on-going to further mature a subset of these technologies through flight testing.
Generalized Prognostic Algorithm Implementing Kalman Smoother
Authors:   GPMS, Bechhoefer Eric ,   Teknova AS, Schlanbusch Rune
Published: October 2024

The ability to prognosticate the future state of a mechanical component can greatly improve the ability of a helicopter operator to manage their assets. Fundamentally, prognostics can change the logistics support of a helicopter by: reducing spares, improving the likelihood of a deployment meeting its mission requirements, and reducing unscheduled maintenance events. A successful prognosis is based on applying a fault model and usage metrics (torque) to a diagnostic. This paper addresses a generalized fault and usage model through simplification of Paris' Law and the use of a Kalman Smoother. This state observer technique is a backward/forward filtering technique that has no phase delay. This allows a generalized, zero tuning model that provides an improved component health trend, and a better estimate of the current remaining useful life (RUL).
Machine Learning Algorithms for HUMS Improvement on Rotorcraft Components
Authors:   US Army, Wade Daniel ,   Avion Solutions, Lugos Ramon ,   RMCI Inc., Antolick Lance ,   Dynetics Inc., Albarado Kevin , Vongpaseuth Thongsay , Ayscue Jeffery , Wilson Andrew , Brower Nathan , Krick Steven , Szelistowski Matthew
Published: October 2024

The US Army Condition Based Maintenance program collects data from Health and Usage Monitoring Systems, Flight Data Recorders, Maintenance Records, and Reliability Databases. These data sources are not integrated, but decisions regarding the health of aircraft components are dependent upon the information stored within them. The Army has begun an effort to bring these data sources together using Machine Learning algorithms. Two prototypes will be built using decision-making machines: one for an engine output gearbox and another for a turbo-shaft engine. This paper will discuss the development of these prototypes and provide the path forward for implementation. The importance of determining applicable error penalty methods for machine learning algorithms for aerospace applications is explored. The foundations on which the applicable dataset is built are also explored, showing the importance of cleaning disparate datasets. The assumptions necessary to generate the dataset for learning are documented. The dataset is built and ready for unsupervised and supervised learning techniques to be applied.
Linear Inflow Model Extraction from High-Fidelity Aerodynamic Models for Flight Dynamics Applications
Authors:   Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rand Omri ,   University of Maryland, Hersey Sean ,   US Army Aeroflightdynamics Directorate (AMRDEC), Juhasz Ondrej , Khromov Vladimir , Celi Roberto , Tischler Mark
Published: October 2024

Modern aerodynamic analysis tools such as free wake models and CFD-based techniques, include fewer theoretical limitations and approximations than classical-simplified schemes, and represent the state-of-the-art in rotorcraft aerodynamic modeling. However, they are impractical or impossible to apply to many flight dynamics problems because they are not formulated in state-space form and are often computationally intensive. Inflow models that couple the accuracy of free wake or CFD and the simplicity and state-space form of dynamic inflow-type theory would be an important contribution to the field of flight dynamics and control. The objective of this paper is to present two different methods for the extraction of state-space linearized models from computed inflow data acquired from detailed aerodynamic free wake models. These methods are very general and applicable to any aerodynamic model, and are demonstrated with two different vortex wake models in hover for a rotor that is broadly representative of the UH-60.
Store Separation Modeling for Rotorcraft Applications
Authors:   Continuum Dynamics Inc., McKillip Robert , Quackenbush Todd
Published: October 2024

Recent work investigating store separation trajectories from rotorcraft has resulted in the development of a toolbox within a MATLAB computational environment that includes flow field effects from a full-span free wake model for the rotor system. The free wake analysis is coupled to the rigid body store flight dynamics model as a linked library, and is used to update the aerodynamic loads on the store as it moves away from the host aircraft. Auxiliary computational and visualization tools have been added to quantify safe separation events, and the toolbox has been validated with existing public-domain store separation tests conducted by the military. The toolbox contains the added feature of allowing for store separation analyses for accelerated flight maneuvers, potentially expanding flight limits for allowable ranges for safe store separation.
Physics-Based Aerodynamic Simulation Models Suitable for Dynamic Behavior of Complex Bluff Body Configurations
Authors:   Georgia Institute of Technology, Prosser Daniel , Smith Marilyn
Published: October 2024

The ability to accurately and rapidly predict tethered load instabilities and behavior is required if expensive flight test qualification flights are to be minimized. Tethered or slung loads are complex systems of systems, wherein the system and each constituent must be carefully classified, quantified, and modeled. A physics-based six degree-of-freedom simulation model, the Georgia Tech Aerodynamic Model for Bluff Bodies (GTABB), is under development, and has been adopted by the U.S. Army AMRDEC to support Army slung load simulations (FlightLab). An innovative feature of the GTABB model is that it can be informed using quasi-steady experimental test data, high-fidelity computations, or aerodynamic theory. This model is coupled with empirically-determined unsteady aerodynamic characteristics to provide a flexible, accurate, and extensible modeling and simulation framework. In this effort, unsteady aerodynamic refinements and computational cost reductions are demonstrated. A rigorous uncertainty quantification framework at both the system and component level, necessary for model certification, is established, along with examples. Model validation is extended to include correlations of full-scale flight test with a CONEX container, and comparisons with a complex configuration (truck) evaluated in a wind tunnel. The ramifications of predicting slung load behavior with and without helicopter degrees of freedom and wind are presented.
Airborne Flight Reporting System
Authors:   Praxis Technologies Inc., Stanzione Kaydon
Published: October 2024

This paper addresses the design, development, and operations of a portable wireless flight reporting system applicable for the unique characteristics of vertical flight aircraft. The Airborne Flight Reporting System™ (AFRS) provides an affordable, yet robust and FAA-compliant "black box" for a wide range of air vehicle platforms. AFRS provides mission-critical in-flight information to air and ground crews and posts enroute flight information useful to individuals vested in passenger and cargo transit. AFRS is also applicable to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and the FAA's NextGen and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) programs. AFRS is a Portable Electronic Device (PED) which is experiencing increased market expansion since the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has determined that airlines can safely expand passenger use of PEDs in airplane mode during all phases of flight. AFRS incorporates advancements in Global Positioning Systems, wireless sensors, and multi-modal communications, making it possible for all categories of general and corporate aircraft to have many of the features and advantages typically found in large commercial aircraft. The benefits of AFRS include improvements in flight safety, air-to-ground communications, early warning, evaluation of crew performance, and flight and maintenance transaction logs.
Mishap Analysis for BORES AoA
Authors:   Institute for Defense Analyses, Greer William , Schwartz Joshua
Published: October 2024

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) provided assistance to the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) Analysis Center (TRAC) in their Brownout Rotorcraft Enhancement System (BORES) Analysis of Alternatives (AoA). IDA conducted a thorough literature search and documented the historical (2000-2013) rotorcraft brownout incidents, loss of personnel and equipment, and associated equipment costs. In addition, IDA considered future estimates of possible brownout mishap mitigation along with estimated “breakeven” costs for the BORES sensor integration on the Army H-60 and H-47 series aircraft. This is the cost above which new sensors would be more than the savings associated with preventing future rotorcraft brownout incidents. These helped inform decision makers on the overall cost-effectiveness of the currently envisioned BORES as a function of the future force structure, flying hour (FH) rates, and operating environments.
Numerical Simulations and Measurements of the Wake from a Helicopter Operating in Ground Effect
Authors:   Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Sugiura Masahiko ,   Ryoyu Systems Co. Ltd., Sugawara Hideaki , Tanabe Yasutada , Matayoshi Naoki , Ishii Hirokazu
Published: October 2024

Helicopter downwash interferes with the ground when a helicopter takes off or lands, or makes hovering / taxiing flights in ground effect. By encountering this highly turbulent helicopter wake, two small fixed-wing aircrafts was rolled over in the United Kingdom. Driven by these accidents, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is investigating the helicopter wake structure in ground effect, especially in taxiing by CFD and flight test. The base CFD code is a structured grid solver, , which has systematically been developed for helicopter applications at JAXA. The rFlow3D is a highly versatile CFD code that can numerically simulate flows around helicopter in a wide range of Reynolds and Mach numbers, including rotor trim analysis with elastic blade deformations. On the other hand, in the flight experiment, JAXA's research helicopter H145 (EC145, BK117 C-2) conduct taxiing above a runway and its wakes are measured by LIDARs and ultrasonic anemometers. The characteristic wake structure variations with advance ratio are clearly shown in CFD and are supported by the flight experiment results indirectly.
Fatigue Failure of the EC225 Main Gearbox Bevel Wheel
Authors:   Airbus Helicopters, BESSON Jean-Marc , DELABIE Arnaud , POUX Julien
Published: October 2024

In 2012, two EC225 helicopter ditching occurred in North Sea with no injuries. These incidents were due to the failure of the main gearbox bevel wheel. The first part of this paper presents the studies performed by Airbus Helicopters in order to identify all the contributing factors, and to reproduce in lab the phenomenon up to the failure. The main driver underlined is a specific corrosion pits phenomenon which occurred on parts not subjected to corrosion due to the main gear box oil environment. The second part of this document gives the continuing airworthiness measures put in place for aircraft flying in hostile conditions. Finally a new design has been developed and certified. This new design takes into account all the knowledge of these incidents and guaranty a high safety level. This new design is already flying for most of our oil and gas customers.
A Historical Survey of Operational Effectiveness in Relation to Preliminary Design
Authors:   US Army, Scott Robert
Published: October 2024

A survey of rotorcraft design studies is presented with particular focus placed on operationally significant aircraft characteristics as they are expressed as design requirements. The requirements, assumptions, and results of the design studies are tracked against both the year of the analysis and the estimated projected technology year of the aircraft concept. The historical trends, if any, of operational requirements and their projected design impact are examined in light of possible future requirements and constraints.
Turbomachinery Blade Thermomechanical Interface Science and Sandphobic Coatings Research
Authors:   US Army Research Laboratory, Ghoshal Anindya ,   Applied Aviation Technology Development Directorate, Kerner Kevin , Murugan Muthuvel , Barnett Blake , Walock Michael , Pepi Marc
Published: October 2024

Gas turbine engines operating in hostile environment polluted with micron-sized solid particles are susceptible to blade surface damage. Commercial/Military fixed-wing aircraft engines and helicopter engines often have to operate over sandy terrains or in volcanic areas; on the other hand gas turbines in marine applications are subjected to salt spray, while the coal-burning industrial power generation turbines are subjected to fly-ash. The presence of solid particles in the working fluid medium has an adverse effect on these engines, both structurally and aerodynamically. Typical turbine blade damages include blade wear, sand glazing, Calcia-Magnesia-Alumina-Silicate (CMAS) attack, oxidation, plugged cooling holes, all of which can cause rapid performance deterioration. The focus of this research work is to simulate a single solid particle impact on typical turbomachinery material targets using non-linear dynamics analysis. The objective of this research is to understand the interfacial kinetic behaviors that can provide insights into the physics of particle interactions and to enable leap ahead technologies in material choices and sand-phobic thermal barrier coatings for turbomachinery blades. This paper outlines the research efforts at the U.S Army Research Laboratory (ARL) to come up with novel gas turbine engine protective coatings, and analysis methods to study particle impact effects at the surface of the coatings, and the integrity of interfaces between substrate and coating materials. The research effort intends to cover both nickel-based super alloys and ceramic matrix composites (CMC) for developing thermal and sandphobic coatings.
Overview of the Engine Inlet Barrier Filter Flight Test Efforts on the V-22
Authors:   Bell Helicopter, Simpson Daniel , Jr. Erasmo
Published: October 2024

This paper summarizes recent flight tests conducted at Bell Helicopter Textron with a Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey Advanced Technology Tilt Rotor (ATTR). The test and validation program developed a barrier-type engine air filtration system that significantly extends the engine performance for flight operations in austere environments such as sand, dust, and saltwater. The flight test program covered not only the broad flight envelope of the V-22, but also sand/dust environment flights at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM. Saltwater flights at Eglin AFB, Florida, were also executed with measurable success. This paper will discuss the entire engine air filter test program in all of its four phases and will include results for each of the phases. The V-22 readiness level stands to improve with the addition of this main engine inlet barrier filter system. A substantial savings in engine overhaul cost is anticipated over the life of the program.
Determination of Flight Loads for the HH-60G Pave Hawk Helicopter
Authors:   MERC, McGinty Robert ,   USAF, Lamb Steven , Wood Gregory , Brenna Jeff
Published: October 2024

This paper presents the testing and analysis methods used in determination of HH-60G flight loads using data gathered during a series of flight strain surveys. Analysis methods and results are emphasized here as most testing methods and data have been shared in previous forums. This is followed by a discussion of the resulting computed load values and their verification through comparisons to operational parameters such as aircraft weight, engine torque, and G-loads. It is found that computed loads and moments compare very well to flight conditions. For example, main rotor lift force correlates well to the product of aircraft weight and flight G's. When applied to finite element models, the computed loads also lead to strain predictions in good agreement with measured values. Development of these loads will allow the HH-60G program office to better address structural repairs, flight severities, and risk analyses.
Rotorcraft Tradespace Exploration incorporating Reliability Engineering
Authors:   University of Massachusetts, Bhattacharya Saikath ,   Army Research Laboratory, Spero Eric , Nagaraju Vidhyashree , Fiondella Lance , Ghoshal Anindya
Published: October 2024

Recently tradespace analysis and exploration has emerged as an important focus area within the Department of Defense (DoD) Engineered Resilient System (ERS) initiative, which draws upon engineering concepts, science, and design tools to produce trusted and effective solutions for a wide range of operational contexts. Most of the previous research on tradespace analysis, including those developed for rotorcraft, emphasize performance. However, non-functional requirements such as reliability, availability, and maintainability (RAM) have received minimal consideration, despite their direct influence on program level concerns such as operation and support (O&S) as well as affordability. This paper proposes a strategy to incorporate reliability engineering into tradespace analysis. We also develop a subsystem level reliability investment model, which is illustrated through a simplified example. Our results suggest that reliability investment could achieve significant savings over a system's lifecycle.
Development and Testing of the AW609 All-Engines-Inoperative Emergency Re-Conversion
Authors:   AgustaWestland Philadelphia Company, Wells Dan , Edwards Paul
Published: October 2024

The AgustaWestland AW609 recently completed the initial testing of the aircraft with all-engines-inoperative (AEI). The AEI condition was simulated by placing both engine control levers to the ground idle position effectively disengaging the engines from the proprotor system. The testing included handling qualities, proprotor RPM management and proprotor system loads while in airplane mode windmilling flight, VTOL mode autorotational flight and the conversion from airplane mode to VTOL while AEI. This paper will discuss the test planning, the development of the technique in the simulator, the results of that testing and the lessons learned which will be applicable to future tiltrotor testing.
ONERA S1MA Wind Tunnel Testing Capabilities of a Modern Tilt Rotor
Authors:   ONERA, Lebrun Frédéric , Munier Dominique , Decours Julien , Beaumier Philippe
Published: October 2024

The present paper aims at presenting the testing capabilities of ONERA S1MA wind tunnel used for the high speed tests of the ERICA concept of a European tilt rotor aircraft. These tests have been performed in May 2014 on a 1/5th scaled powered model. The whole high speed range has been covered, from M = 0.176 to M = 0.550, for both aircraft and conversion configurations. In order to complete the high speed tests successfully, several checks have been performed on this very complex model during the preparation phase. In addition, several means of monitoring have been used so as to operate the wind tunnel and the model safely. The experimental data gathered during the tests allowed the assessment of such a tilt rotor concept in high speed flight conditions.
Autorotation: Building a Live Man's Curve
Authors:   Flight Tests and Research Institute, Scarpari José ,   Technological Institute of Aeronautics, Andrade Donizeti , Otávio João
Published: October 2024

Research has been carried at the Brazilian Air Commands' Flight Tests and Research Institute and Technological Institute of Aeronautics in order to theoretically analyze, conduct flight tests and propose both design improvements and new requirements for aeronautical regulations aiming the increase of safety during autorotation flight of lightweight, single-engine helicopters. This paper presents a methodology to obtain risk-level curves for each flight profile, analyzing and quantifying influential factors, in order to indicate technical and operational alternatives to reduce such risks. Different influential factors are analytically and numerically analyzed following a flight test campaign such as longitudinal attitude; lateral attitude; pilot reaction time; and workload for the pilot to perform a safe landing in autorotation. At the end of this phase of the study, results and methodology applied confirm that the information about performance and handling qualities of autorotation flight from aeronautical standards and flight manuals are non-conservative and can induce pilots to flight within an unsafe flight envelope. A risk-level curve, named iso-workload diagram, is presented as an alternative tool for the unawareness of these risk areas by operators.
Impact of Obstacle Sensor Choice on Preliminary Unmanned Helicopter Design and Mission Performance in Obstacle Fields
Authors:   DLR, Dittrich Joerg , Adolf Florian-Michael , Schopferer Simon
Published: October 2024

Through combining environmental sensing by the use of LIDAR, RADAR, stereo vision and other similar ranging sensors with automatic online flight path generation, unmanned helicopters gain the capability of automatic low-level flight in the presence of obstacles. Depending on sensor and planner choice, travel times will vary considerably for missions that includes low altitude flight segments in obstacle avoidance mode. The choice of sensors and necessary processing computers will also affect equipment weight and can adversely impact helicopter performance with respect to payload capability. For the purpose of preliminary helicopter design, the relationship between mission performance of a helicopter system in obstacle avoidance flight and resulting ideal helicopter size has not been looked at in the past. Therefore a simple helicopter preliminary sizing code for helicopters below 250 kg MTOW has been implemented and tuned through collecting size and weight data from similarly sized known helicopter configurations. A set of known, flight tested or simulated sensor suites has been selected and their performance in a reference helicopter mission has been simulated using a scenario which is based on the widely used Obstacle Field Navigation benchmark. Flight durations and velocities from these simulations are then used for preliminary vehicle sizing. For a reference mission, different resulting helicopter gross weights for each of the applied environment sensor types are presented and discussed.
Towards Autonomous Emergency Landing for an Optionally Piloted Autogyro
Authors:   German Aerospace Center (DLR), Galisteu Danilo , Adolf Florian , Dittrich Jörg , Sachs Falk , Duda Holger
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we present the development of a system for automation of the emergency maneuver for an autogyro after engine power loss. The purpose of the system is to determine a safe and feasible trajectory from the initial condition in forward flight to a final position that is suitable for final approach and landing at a desired location. The flight dynamics of the autogyro is evaluated and a flight control system is developed for the unpowered flight. A simplified dynamic model is created for generation of the gliding trajectory from the starting point to a given final position and ground track, taking into account constant wind values. This model allows us to predict the vertical speed for a given vehicle state and, through optimization, to plan feasible trajectories with minimum altitude loss. Results for generation and tracking of the optimal trajectories are presented, showing good performance and the potential to be used with a sampling-based algorithm for real-time motion planning.
Simulations of Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines in complex operational conditions
Authors:   Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Tanabe Yasutada ,   Tokyo University of Science, Oe Harutaka ,   Ryoyu Systems Inc., Sugawara Hideaki , Aoyama Takashi , Uemura Yuta
Published: October 2024

A CFD/CSD coupling analysis code rFlow3D, developed in Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) originally for rotorcraft, has been applied to predict the airflows around horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) and validated with existing experimental data. It is used to simulate the flowfield around HAWTs in realistic complex operating conditions, such as yawed wind, atmospheric boundary layer inflow, rotor/tower interaction, and in the wake of an upstream HAWT. This paper will describe the results of the simulations for these representative complex flowfield around HAWTs.
Experimental Investigation of Fan Aerodynamic Performance for Fan-In-Wing Applications
Authors:   Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division, Bi Naipei , Sydney Anish , Kimmel Kevin , Haas David
Published: October 2024

The aerodynamic performance of a series of generic isolated fan configurations are experimentally investigated in the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division (NSWCCD) 8-by-10 foot Subsonic Wind Tunnel. The goal of this work is to develop a benchmark dataset that can enhance the fundamental understanding of the fluid dynamic interactions between a generic fan and wing for Fan-In-Wing (FIW) and embedded fan configurations These configurations have significant applications for aircraft as well as underwater systems. The research is performed in three phases; isolated fans in hover flow conditions, FIW configurations in hover flow conditions, and FIW configurations in transition from hover to forward flight. The present work (Phase 1) describes the model, facility, instrumentation, standalone test stand development, and results of the isolated fan wind tunnel tests. Five different fan configurations specifically tailored for understanding the various aerodynamic phenomena associated with FIW performance are tested to examine the effects of fan rotational frequency, blade pitch, blade twist, number of blades, and fan solidity. The results quantify how each of the fan design and operational variables significantly affect aerodynamic performance. For example, higher solidity fans are able to carry more thrust but are less efficient than lower solidity fans. Positively twisted blades achieve similar thrust levels to negatively twisted blades but are less efficient. In general, the results indicate that all of the design variables independently affect the inflow distribution on the blades and, therefore, the overall aerodynamic performance as well as the stall characteristics. The effects of these design variables on the full FIW performance, however, are expected to be different because of the mutual aerodynamic interaction between the fan and the surrounding wing. Therefore, the isolated fan test results will be used as a baseline for comparison with the full FIW configuration performance that will be investigated in Phases 2 and 3.
Sex and gender differences in the epidemiology, clinical features, and pathophysiology of trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias
Authors: Attorre Selene , Burgalassi Andrea , Vigani Giulia , De Cesaris Francesco , Romozzi Marina , Iannone Luigi Francesco
Published: October 2024

Emerging evidence suggests that primary headaches, classified as trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs), may exhibit sex and gender differences in clinical features, mechanisms, and treatment responses. While epidemiological and clinical gender-specific differences have been widely reported for cluster headache, limited evidence is available for other TACs. In this narrative review, we have analyzed the existing data on the influence of sex and gender on cluster headache, paroxysmal hemicrania, short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks, and hemicrania continua. Given the role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in migraine and cluster headache, sex and gender differences in the levels and function of CGRP in preclinical models and patients are reported. Future studies are warranted to elucidate the role of sex and gender in the complex interplay of genetic and neurochemical factors in TACs.
Utility of diffusion-weighted imaging in differentiating benign and malignant breast lesions
Authors: Johnson Allen , Sarawagi Radha , Malik Rajesh , Sharma Jitendra , Bhagat Abhinav
Published: October 2024

Background: Breast cancer presents a significant global health burden. An accurate differentiation between benign and malignant lesions is imperative for timely intervention. While dynamic contrast enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) is highly sensitive, its specificity is limited. This has led to the exploration of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in distinguishing between benign and malignant breast lesions.Objectives: The study aimed to explore the diagnostic utility of DWI in distinguishing between benign and malignant breast lesions.Method: Assessment of 38 breast lesions using DWI with a b value of 800 s/mm2, performed with 3 Tesla MRI. The diagnostic performance of two different region of Interest (ROI) placement approaches was compared to obtain a feasible cut-off value of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) to differentiate between malignant and benign lesions. The histopathological reports were used as the gold standard.Results: ADC values of malignant lesions were significantly lower than those of benign lesions (0.84 × 10−3 mm2/s vs. 1.54 × 10−3 mm2/s). The average ADC measured using a small-sized 2D ROI including the darkest part in the ADC map, performed better than the large 2D ROI covering the entire lesion.Conclusion: Using a cut-off value of 0.98 × 10−3 mm2/s, ADC obtained high sensitivity (90%) and specificity (88.9%) in distinguishing between benign and malignant breast lesions.Contribution: Utilising quantitative analysis of DWI with ADC value measurement, reliably distinguished between benign and malignant breast lesions in this cohort, especially when employing a higher b value of 800 s/mm2.
Early-Onset Graham-Little-Piccardi-Lasseur Syndrome with Cutaneous Lichen Planus – A Rare Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Mohanan Saritha , Raj R Remya , Bharathi K V , Suba P
Published: October 2024

Graham-Little-Piccardi-Lasseur syndrome (GLPLS) is a rare condition characterized by lichen planopilaris with scarring alopecia of the scalp and nonscarring alopecia of the axilla, groin, and pubis with keratosis pilaris. It usually affects middle-aged women more than men. The onset of scarring alopecia is usually reported in middle age. We report a case of GLPLS from South India, having early onset of alopecia in childhood, associated with cutaneous lichen planus.
Lingual Actinomycosis – A Rare Report of the Ray Fungus
Authors: Murthy Aravind Baskar , Sadhasivamohan Anusuya , Gandhi Ramya , Karthikeyan Kaliaperumal
Published: October 2024

Actinomycosis is an uncommon chronic suppurative infection caused by a Gram-positive anerobic bacteriumActinomycesisraeliiorActinomycesgerencseriae.Lingual actinomycosis is a rare form of actinomycosis with a prevalence of 3%. We report a case of a 16-year-old female, with an acute-onset painful ulcer with a yellowish-white slough over the left lateral border of the tongue preceded by a tongue swelling. There was a history of tongue bites before the onset of swelling. Histopathological examination was suggestive of lingual actinomycosis. The lesions resolved 3 weeks after treatment with amoxicillin and clavulanic acid combination, but the patient was advised to complete the 6-week antibiotic course. The patient did not have any new ulcers in the follow-up. The tongue is inherently resistant to bacterial adherence and infection, but a break in the integrity of the skin or the presence of devitalized tissue usually aids in the invasion of the organism into deeper structures. The disease is usually localized to the tongue but can also spread to jaws (osteomyelitis of jaws), lungs, heart, and brain and can lead to death. Although antibiotic therapy remains the mainstay of treatment, surgical excision has a profound positive effect on the antimicrobial treatment. It is worth considering actinomycosis as a possibility in suppurative, granulomatous, and suspicious lesions of the tongue.
Patch Test as a Helping Hand in Farmers with Hand Eczema
Authors: Ashwini D , Bangaru H
Published: October 2024

Background:

Farmers are particularly exposed to a large number of allergens including fertilizers, plant allergens, soil, and manure which may be aggravated by sun exposure. Hand eczema can cause significant morbidity affecting the patient’s occupational work. Patch test is an important diagnostic tool in differentiating between irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis and in the latter, to identify the culprit allergen causing hand eczema.

Aims:

This study aimed to identify the role of patch tests in hand eczema in farmers and to identify the common causative allergens of hand eczema in farmers.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty farmers aged 18 years and above presenting with hand eczema were enrolled in the study after taking approval from the institutional ethics committee. Patients who were pregnant, lactating, on systemic steroids, and immunosuppressants were excluded from the study. Patch test was done using the Indian Standard series of 20 allergens approved by the Contact Dermatoses Forum of India applied to the back of the patient. The first reading was taken at 48 h, 30 min after removal of the patch, and another reading was taken at 96 h. The results were interpreted according to the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group criteria.

Results:

Out of 50 patients, there were 28 males and 22 females. Hyperkeratotic eczema was the most common morphology (38%). The most common allergen was parthenium (44%) followed by potassium dichromate (22.7%) and nickel (9%).

Limitations:

A larger sample size would have helped to better substantiate the findings of the study.

Conclusion:

There is an undeniable relationship with the occupation of the individual wherein agriculturists and masons had the maximum predisposition. The most common cause of hand eczema in this study was parthenium in farmers and also other allergens played an important role such as potassium dichromate, nickel, and paraphenylenediamine.
Letrozole induced Necrotizing Cutaneous Vasculitis: A Rare Entity
Authors: Mohapatra Liza , Panda Soumya Surath , Nayak Manoj Kumar , Samal Kallolinee
Published: October 2024

Cutaneous small vessel vasculitis (CSVV) could be due to varied etiologies of which drug induced CSVV is a prime cause. It commonly presents as purpura but necrotizing lesions can be an uncommon presentation of the disease. Aromatase inhibitors like letrozole are newer drugs used in the management of breast carcinoma. There have been few reports of drug induced vasculitis secondary to letrozole. Herein, we report a case presenting with multiple purpura with ulcers and hemopurulent discharge over bilateral legs after letrozole intake for breast carcinoma. Patient was diagnosed with necrotizing CSVV due to letrozole based on history and clinico-histopathological correlation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of letrozole induced necrotizing CSVV from India.
A Clinico-dermatoscopic Study of Vulvar Dermatosis at Rural-based Tertiary Care Teaching Institute
Authors: Nair A. Pragya , Polra Rutoo Vipulkumar , Shah Mauli M. , Tandel Jinal Jainendrabhai , Ghoghara Priya K. , Dhanani Shree
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

The frequency and importance of vulval diseases are often underestimated due to the multifactorial nature of disease on the vulva. Dermoscopy can help provide clues for early diagnosis and insight into dermoscopic patterns. The present study was done with the objective to study the clinico-dermoscopic pattern of dermatosis and correlate the dermatoses with the age of the patient.

Materials and Methodology:

This was a prospective cross-sectional observational study conducted in the department of dermatology at a tertiary health care center over a period of 1½ year. All females with dermatosis affecting genital areas attending the skin outpatient department or ward were recruited after taking written consent. A detailed history was taken to collect demographic data. A thorough clinical examination and dermatoscopy were done. Descriptive statistics was used to depict the profile and dermatoscopic pattern.

Results:

Out of the 103 patients with vulvar dermatoses, 24 (23.30%) patients were in the age group of 41–50 years. A total of 43 (41.74%) patients had infective conditions, followed by 16 (15.53%) patients of papulosquamous group of disorders and 11 (10.67%) patients of eczema. Dermatoscopic findings had a surface scale in 40 (38.83%), vascular patterns in 22 (21.36%), red dots in 19 (18.45%), and structureless patterns in 13 (12.62%) with different vulvar dermatosis. In tinea cruris, out of 30 cases, 28 (93.33%) had surface scales, followed by 5 (16.67%) showing vascular pattern, whereas in lichen sclerosus et atrophicus, out of total of 10 cases, 8 (80%) had structureless pattern and 6 (60%) had vascular patterns.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Genital diseases represent a diagnostic challenge for clinicians. The use of dermoscopy improves the diagnostic accuracy by recognizing specific dermoscopic patterns.

Limitation:

Small sample size was the only limitation.
Early Systemic Sclerosis Presenting as Digital Tip Gangrene
Authors: Yadav Anil Kumar , Raizada Alpana , Khan Afzal Parvez , Mahla Vikash , Grover Chander
Published: October 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic connective tissue disease characterized by vasculitis, fibrosis, and autoimmunity. Based on the skin involvement, it is classified into diffuse cutaneous SSc and limited cutaneous SSc. We describe a patient presenting with bilateral digital tip gangrene after lifting heavy weights intermittently as the first symptom. On further investigation, he was diagnosed with SSc, making it a rare presenting complaint.
Radiation-induced Sweet’s Syndrome in a Case of Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Kumar Mohan , Patil Deena , Rithvik Karjala Reddy Girish , Chandel Surabhi
Published: October 2024

Sweet’s syndrome is a reactive dermatosis which usually presents as edematous papules and plaques, and very rarely vesicles. It is seen to be associated with various conditions such as autoimmune diseases, malignancy, infections, and drugs. Malignancy associated with Sweet’s syndrome is known to occur anytime during the course of the disease and also after treatment. Very rarely, it is seen during radiation therapy. Here, we are presenting a case of Sweet’s syndrome in a postsurgery and chemotherapy patient with breast carcinoma during radiation therapy.
Antimicrobial evaluation of root canal irrigants of natural sources with and without gamma radiation activation - An in vitro study
Authors: Yousri Hoda Raafat , Mahran Abeer Hashem , Hashem Ahmed Abdel Rahman , El-Batouti Amal A.
Published: October 2024

Aim:

The present study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial effectiveness of newly formulated root canal irrigants derived from natural sources. In particular, this study investigated how these irrigants’ antimicrobial properties were affected by gamma radiation activation.

Methods:

Fifty-three single-rooted extracted human teeth with straight canals were selected, fully prepared, and sterilized. The roots were then infected with Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans for 21 days at 37°C. Based on the irrigating solution utilized, the roots were divided into seven groups: Group I: chitosan irrigant, Group II: chitosan irrigant gamma irradiated, Group III: curcumin irrigant, Group IV: curcumin irrigant gamma irradiated, Group V: sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) 5% irrigant, Group VI: positive control (infected roots without treatment), and Group VII: negative control (uncontaminated roots). After cleaning and shaping, microbiological sampling was performed. The samples were then transferred to sterile centrifuge tubes containing 1 mL of saline to determine the microbial growth. Colony-forming unit counts were employed for assessing the antimicrobial action. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the percentage reduction in the microbial count from the initial count.

Results:

Group V and Group IV showed significantly higher values in microbial reduction than Group III and Group I. In addition, the results showed that Group II and Group III have significantly higher values than Group I.

Conclusion:

Natural irrigating solutions exposed to gamma radiation exhibited promising antimicrobial activity that is comparable to that of NaOCl and may be used as effective antimicrobial agents in endodontic treatment.
Carcinoid Heart Disease Associated with Primary Ovarian Carcinoid Tumor: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Ahmad Rawaha , Loke Ian , Saifullah Fizza , Zafar Hafsa , Abbasi Saddam Hussain
Published: October 2024

Primary ovarian carcinoid tumors, an extremely rare subset of ovarian malignancies (<0.1% of cases), typically manifest with abdominal pain and bloating. The occurrence of carcinoid heart disease (CHD) without classic carcinoid syndrome features is exceptionally uncommon. We report a 54-year-old female presenting with dyspnea and edema over months, lacking typical carcinoid syndrome signs. Initial assessments diagnosed heart failure, supported by elevated NT-Pro BNP, echocardiographic right ventricular dilation, and pulmonary/tricuspid valve regurgitation (normal left ventricular function). Right heart catheterization showed normal pulmonary/right ventricular pressures. Subsequent investigations (computed tomography thorax abdomen pelvis, 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid levels) strongly suggested carcinoid disease, confirmed by an octreotide scan revealing an octreotide-secreting ovarian carcinoid tumor. Surgical intervention included tricuspid and pulmonary valve repair, total abdominal hysterectomy, and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Primary ovarian carcinoid tumors, though rare, may lead to unexpected complications like CHD. Timely diagnosis and intervention are pivotal for optimizing patient outcomes in such cases.
Chiari Network: Cause of an Unusual Difficulty during Atrial Septal Defect Device Closure
Authors: Rashid Aamir , Rasool Vamiq , Sheikh Jan M. , Rather Hilal
Published: October 2024

We report an unusual difficulty in unscrewing and releasing the atrial septal defect device during device closure because of the entrapment of the delivery cable in the prominent Chiari network. We suggest careful pre- and intra-procedure transesophageal guidance in recognizing and managing this rare challenge.
Malignant Non-Odontogenic Tumors of the Oral Cavity – Single Institutional Retrospective Study of Three Decades
Authors: Tamgadge Sandhya , Anjali A. K. , Pereira Treville , Deshmukh Yash , Mehta Jayan , Kharat Shubham , Babu Cathy
Published: October 2024

Malignant non-odontogenic tumors of the oral cavity remain understudied in India, despite their global prevalence. This retrospective analysis examined cases from a single institution in Maharashtra between 1990 and 2021, focusing on patient demographics, clinical presentations, and histopathological features. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) emerged as the predominant malignancy, with epithelial malignancies accounting for 98.6% of cases. A slight male predominance was observed. Buccal mucosa was the most frequent site of occurrence, with tobacco chewing identified as the primary risk factor. This study underscores the need for increased attention to oral malignancies in routine medical examinations and calls for more comprehensive statistical analysis to inform clinical practice and public health strategies.
Powerscope Efficiency for Class II Malocclusion Correction: Case Reports
Authors: Kaur Rajdeep , Puri Geetika , Bhardwaj Indu , Kaur Gurpreet , Singh Manmohit
Published: October 2024

In day-to-day clinical practice, orthodontists face great challenges in the management of mild-to-moderate Class II malocclusion. Myofunctional appliances are usually used for Class II malocclusion correction having a mandibular deficiency in the growing phase. The fixed functional appliances evolved due to noncompliance of myofunctional and excellent results were achieved due to less patient cooperation in such cases. PowerScope, also called “noncompliance Class II correctors,” is the one innovation for such cases. Its one-size-fits-all design; offers the advantage of easy chairside installation, shortens the duration of treatment, gives predictable results, and is used in noncompliant patients. These case reports showed how PowerScope is efficient for correcting Class II division 1 malocclusion having a mandibular deficiency. Successful and stable results were achieved with improvement in mandible advancement, esthetic appearance, and facial profile.
Herbal Local Drug Delivery: A Narrative Review
Authors: Karale Akanksha Mohan , Waghmare Pramod , Dodwad Vidya M. , Kaur Avneet
Published: October 2024

Periodontitis is a complex and chronic inflammation of the periodontium and can be diagnosed clinically by gingival inflammation, attachment loss, and loosening of teeth. Both nonsurgical and surgical periodontal therapies are used to treat periodontal diseases. However, in some cases, solely mechanical therapy is ineffective, especially in inaccessible areas. Hence, in such cases, systemic and local drug therapy is well-advised adjuvant to scaling and root planning. Local drug therapy provides specificity at the site of infection. Various antimicrobial agents are used for local applications into periodontal pockets such as chlorhexidine and tetracycline; however, these drugs have certain adverse reactions. To overcome these unfavorable side effects, herbal extracts came into the limelight. Therefore, this review gives an insight into the properties and benefits of natural extracts used as local drug delivery for periodontal treatment.