bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic IL-1β-induced inflammation regulates epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition memory phenotypes via epigenetic modifications in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Li Rui , Ong Stephanie L. , Tran Linh M. , Jing Zhe , Liu Bin , Park Stacy J. , Huang Zi Ling , Walser Tonya C. , Heinrich Eileen L. , Lee Gina , Salehi-Rad Ramin , Crosson William P. , Pagano Paul C. , Paul Manash K. , Xu Shili , Herschman Harvey , Krysan Kostyantyn , Dubinett Steven
Published: January 2020

Chronic inflammation facilitates tumor progression. We discovered that a subset of non-small cell lung cancer cells underwent a gradually progressing epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) phenotype following a 21-day exposure to IL-1β, an abundant proinflammatory cytokine in the at-risk for lung cancer pulmonary and the lung tumor microenvironments. Pathway analysis of the gene expression profile and in vitro functional studies revealed that the EMT and EMT-associated phenotypes, including enhanced cell invasion, PD-L1 upregulation, and chemoresistance, were sustained in the absence of continuous IL-1β exposure. We referred to this phenomenon as EMT memory. Utilizing a doxycycline-controlled SLUG expression system, we found that high expression of the transcription factor SLUG was indispensable for the establishment of EMT memory. High SLUG expression in tumors of lung cancer patients was associated with poor survival. Chemical or genetic inhibition of SLUG upregulation prevented EMT following the acute IL-1β exposure but did not reverse EMT memory. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and methylation-specific PCR further revealed a SLUG-mediated temporal regulation of epigenetic modifications, including accumulation of H3K27, H3K9, and DNA methylation, in the CDH1 (E-cadherin) promoter following the chronic IL-1β exposure. Chemical inhibition of DNA methylation not only restored E-cadherin expression in EMT memory, but also primed cells for chemotherapy-induced apoptosis.
Increased 18F-FDG signal recovery from small physiological structures in digital PET/CT and application to the pituitary gland
Authors: Meyer Marie , Allenbach Gilles , Nicod Lalonde Marie , Schaefer Niklaus , Prior John O. , Gnesin Silvano
Published: January 2020

On conventional PET/CT, and under physiological conditions, the volume of the pituitary gland (PG) is small, and its metabolic activity is commonly comparable to the surrounding background level in 18F-FDG imaging. We compared the physiological 18F-FDG uptake of the PG in patients imaged with digital PET (dPET) and with conventional PET (cPET). Additionally, we performed phantom experiments to characterize signal recovery and detectability of small structures. We retrospectively included 10 dPET and 10 cPET patients and measured PG SUVmax, SUVmean and SUVratio (using cerebellum as reference). We imaged a modified NEMA/IEC phantom with both dPET and cPET (background activity 5 kBq/mL, and 3× and 5× higher concentrations in ∅2–20-mm spherical inserts). Mean recovery coefficients (RCmean) and signal-difference-to-noise-ratio (SDNR) were computed to assess lesion detectability. Patients imaged with dPET presented higher PG SUVmax and SUVratio (SUVR) compared to patients imaged with cPET (4.7 ± 2.05 vs. 2.9 ± 0.64, p = 0.004; and 0.62 ± 0.25 vs 0.39 ± 0.09, p = 0.029, respectively), while there was no difference for SUVmean (2.7 ± 1.32 vs 2.1 ± 0.44, p = 0.39). Thus, with a SUV readout scale of 0–5 g/mL, normal PG appeared abnormally hot with dPET, but not with cPET. Phantom evidenced higher RCmean in dPET compared to cPET. For both 3x and 5x measurements, lesion detectability according to size was systematically superior with dPET. In conclusion, patients imaged with dPET presented higher 18F-FDG physiological uptake of the PG as compared to patients imaged with cPET. These findings were supported by phantom experiments demonstrating superior signal recovery and small region detectability with dPET. Awareness of this new “higher” SUV of the normal 18F-FDG uptake of the PG is important to avoid potential pitfalls in image interpretation, notably in oncologic patients treated with immunotherapy, who are at increased risk to develop hypophysitis.
Measurement and State-Dependent Modulation of Hypoglossal Motor Excitability and Responsivity In-Vivo
Authors: Aggarwal Jasmin A. , Liu Wen-Ying , Montandon Gaspard , Liu Hattie , Hughes Stuart W. , Horner Richard L.
Published: January 2020

Motoneurons are the final output pathway for the brain’s influence on behavior. Here we identify properties of hypoglossal motor output to the tongue musculature. Tongue motor control is critical to the pathogenesis of obstructive sleep apnea, a common and serious sleep-related breathing disorder. Studies were performed on mice expressing a light sensitive cation channel exclusively on cholinergic neurons (ChAT-ChR2(H134R)-EYFP). Discrete photostimulations under isoflurane-induced anesthesia from an optical probe positioned above the medullary surface and hypoglossal motor nucleus elicited discrete increases in tongue motor output, with the magnitude of responses dependent on stimulation power (P < 0.001, n = 7) and frequency (P = 0.002, n = 8, with responses to 10 Hz stimulation greater than for 15–25 Hz, P < 0.022). Stimulations during REM sleep elicited significantly reduced responses at powers 3–20 mW compared to non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep and wakefulness (each P < 0.05, n = 7). Response thresholds were also greater in REM sleep (10 mW) compared to non-REM and waking (3 to 5 mW, P < 0.05), and the slopes of the regressions between input photostimulation powers and output motor responses were specifically reduced in REM sleep (P < 0.001). This study identifies that variations in photostimulation input produce tunable changes in hypoglossal motor output in-vivo and identifies REM sleep specific suppression of net motor excitability and responsivity.
Feasibility Study of MRI Muscles Molecular Imaging in Evaluation of Early Post-Mortem Interval
Authors: Sapienza Daniela , Asmundo Alessio , Silipigni Salvatore , Barbaro Ugo , Cinquegrani Antonella , Granata Francesca , Barresi Valeria , Gualniera Patrizia , Bottari Antonio , Gaeta Michele
Published: January 2020

Estimating early postmortem interval (EPI) is a difficult task in daily forensic activity due to limitations of accurate and reliable methods. The aim of the present work is to describe a novel approach in the estimation of EPI based on quantitative magnetic resonance molecular imaging (qMRMI) using a pig phantom since post-mortem degradation of pig meat is similar to that of human muscles. On a pig phantom maintained at 20° degree, using a 1.5 T MRI scanner we performed 10 scans (every 4 hours) monitoring apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), fractional anisotropy (FA) magnetization transfer ration (MTR), tractography and susceptibility weighted changes in muscles until 36 hours after death. Cooling of the phantom during the experiment was recorded. Histology was also obtained. Pearson’s Test was carried out for time correlation between post-mortem interval and MRI data. We found a significative inverse correlation between ADC, FA, MT values and PMI. Our preliminary data shows that post-mortem qMRMI is a potential powerful tool in accurately determining EPI and is worth of further investigation.
Author Correction: Longest terrestrial migrations and movements around the world
Authors: Joly Kyle , Gurarie Eliezer , Sorum Mathew S. , Kaczensky Petra , Cameron Matthew D. , Jakes Andrew F. , Borg Bridget L. , Nandintsetseg Dejid , Hopcraft J. Grant C. , Buuveibaatar Bayarbaatar , Jones Paul F. , Mueller Thomas , Walzer Chris , Olson Kirk A. , Payne John C. , Yadamsuren Adiya , Hebblewhite Mark
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Comparisons of different indices of low muscle mass in relationship with cardiometabolic disorder
Authors: Kim Ju Young , Oh Sohee , Park Hwa Yeon , Jun Ji Hye , Kim Hwa Jung
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Đakrông virus, a novel mobatvirus (Hantaviridae) harbored by the Stoliczka’s Asian trident bat (Aselliscus stoliczkanus) in Vietnam
Authors: Arai Satoru , Aoki Keita , Sơn Nguyễn Trường , Tú Vương Tân , Kikuchi Fuka , Kinoshita Gohta , Fukui Dai , Thành Hoàng Trung , Gu Se Hun , Yoshikawa Yasuhiro , Tanaka-Taya Keiko , Morikawa Shigeru , Yanagihara Richard , Oishi Kazunori
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Co/Cu-modified NiO film grown on nickel foam as a highly active and stable electrocatalyst for overall water splitting
Authors: Guo Zhengang , Wang Xiaofeng , Gao Yangqin , Liu Zhifeng
Published: January 2020

The development and utilization of low-cost and efficient electrocatalysts for overall water splitting is of great significance for future energy supplies.
Synthesis of potential prebiotic α-glucooligosaccharides using microbial glucansucrase and their in vitro fecal fermentation
Authors: Hu Xiuting , Song Liping , Yang Yuqi , Jin Zhengyu , Miao Ming
Published: January 2020

Novel α-glucooligosaccharides were synthesized by the acceptor reaction of Leuconostoc citreum SK24.002 glucansucrase with maltose and sucrose.
Rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of exocyclic α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds
Authors: Yang Jiaxin , Li Xiuxiu , You Cai , Li Shuailong , Guan Yu-Qing , Lv Hui , Zhang Xumu
Published: January 2020

A general and efficient approach for the synthesis of α-chiral cyclic lactones, lactams and ketones has been developedviaRh-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation.
Recent advances in the direct β-C(sp2)–H functionalization of enamides
Authors: Zhu Tonghao , Xie Shimin , Rojsitthisak Pornchai , Wu Jie
Published: January 2020

Recent advances in the direct β-C(sp2)–H functionalization of enamides, mainly including arylation, alkenylation, alkynylation, alkylation, acylation, sulfonylation, phosphorylation, and others, are reported.
Synthesis of new piperazinyl-pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxaline derivatives as inhibitors of Candida albicans multidrug transporters by a Buchwald–Hartwig cross-coupling reaction
Authors: Guillon Jean , Nim Shweta , Moreau Stéphane , Ronga Luisa , Savrimoutou Solène , Thivet Elisabeth , Marchivie Mathieu , Di Pietro Attilio , Prasad Rajendra , Le Borgne Marc
Published: January 2020

Two series of piperazinyl-pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxaline derivatives were prepared via a Buchwald–Hartwig cross-coupling reaction and then evaluated for their ability to inhibit the drug efflux activity of two Candida albicans transporters.
Probing the interaction effects of metal ions in MnxFe(3−x)O4 on arsenite oxidation and adsorption
Authors: Ouma Linda , Ofomaja Augustine
Published: January 2020

Modelling the interaction effects of manganese, and iron species in magnetite nanoparticles on trivalent arsenic adsorption and oxidation to less toxic pentavalent species.
A slight bluish-white fluorescence from E,E-2,6-bis(4-cyanostyryl)pyridine pristine crystals
Authors: Mochizuki Hiroyuki , Kusama Hitoshi
Published: January 2020

E,E-2,6-Bis(4-cyanostyryl)pyridine pristine crystals showed slightly bluish white emission: these were mixtures of two crystals emitting blue and yellow-green regions.
Heat transfer properties of Morpho butterfly wings and the dependence of these properties on the wing surface structure
Authors: Kawabe Mari , Maeda Hirotaka , Kasuga Toshihiro
Published: January 2020

The heat transfer properties of Morpho butterfly wings (red line) were higher than those of Cithaerias wings (blue line) due to their surface structure and emissivity.
Design, eco-friendly synthesis, molecular modeling and anticancer evaluation of thiazol-5(4H)-ones as potential tubulin polymerization inhibitors targeting the colchicine binding site
Authors: El-Naggar Abeer M. , Eissa Ibrahim H. , Belal Amany , El-Sayed Amira A.
Published: January 2020

In recent years, suppressing tubulin polymerization has been developed as a therapeutic approach for cancer treatment.
Correction: Lithium dendrite growth mechanisms in polymer electrolytes and prevention strategies
Authors: Barai Pallab , Higa Kenneth , Srinivasan Venkat
Published: January 2020

Correction for ‘Lithium dendrite growth mechanisms in polymer electrolytes and prevention strategies’ by Pallab Barai et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2017, 19, 20493–20505.
HbA1c may contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease even at normal-range levels
Authors: Chen Changxi , Zhu Zhongwei , Mao Yushan , Xu Yimin , Du Juan , Tang Xiaoping , Cao Hongbao
Published: January 2020

Previous clinical studies highlighted nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) as a hepatic facet of metabolic syndrome, which progresses toward Type 2 diabetes along with an elevation of HbA1c in the blood. Longitudinal observations were performed in a cohort of 2811 participants with no liver disease at inception. The rate of the conversion into NAFLD was 15.7% (440/2811), with a steady increase in prevalence observed in sub-cohorts with increasing HbA1c levels. Moreover, regression analysis indicated that HbA1c levels serve as the risk factors for NAFLD after multiple adjustments (odds ratio: 1.58, P-value < 0.004). When HbA1c-related molecular networks were investigated using natural language programming algorithms, multiple genetic/small molecular (SM) pathways were highlighted as connectors between the HbA1c levels and the development of NAFLD, including ones for nitric oxide, hypoxia and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). Our results suggest that increased levels of HbA1c may contribute to the progression of NAFLD either directly, by stimulating RAGE or indirectly, through the promotion of hypoxia and suppression of the release of NO. Further studies are needed to test the impact of HbA1c on the development of the chronic liver disease.
Recurrences in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Long-Term Observational Study
Authors: Pecorari Giancarlo , Riva Giuseppe , Bruno Gabriele , Naqe Nertila , Nardo Matteo , Albera Andrea , Albera Roberto
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Long-term outcomes of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) are poorly studied. The recurrence rate is heterogeneous, and the prognosis of relapses is uncertain. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the recurrence rate of SSNHL and to analyze the correlation with clinical and audiometric characteristics.

Method

Seventy-three patients with idiopatic SSNHL were evaluated. Clinical and audiometric features were recorded. Seventy patients (95.8%) had at least a 2-year follow-up, whereas 50 (68.4%) had a 5-year follow-up.

Results

Two- and 5-year recurrence rates were 5.60% and 10.34%, respectively. Mean time lapse between 1st episode and recurrence was 29.33 ± 26.60 months. About 70% of patients had a partial recovery at recurrence. The same ear was affected in 42.8% of patients, the contralateral ear was affected in 42.8% of patients, and recurrence was bilateral in 14.4% of cases. Recurrence correlated only with the presence of tinnitus during follow-up. However, the small number of participants with recurrence represented a limiting factor of our study.

Conclusions

Recurrences of SSNHL are rare events that can involve ipsilateral or contralateral ear. Further studies are necessary to identify predictors of recurrence.
Revised constraint‐propagation method for distribution interval state estimation
Authors: Ngo VietCuong , Wu Wenchuan , Lou Yining
Published: January 2020

State estimation affords real‐time network modelling facilitating distribution network (DN) operation and control, and is an indispensable component of distribution management systems. However, given the lack of real‐time measurements of DN, its observability relies heavily on pseudo‐measurements, which are associated with relatively large errors. So the pseudo‐measurements can be expressed as interval numbers. In such cases, interval state estimation models maybe useful. Using interval analysis methods, interval state estimations yield the upper and lower bounds of system state variables, but such conventional methods ignore correlations among interval numbers; the estimations are very conservative. Here, the authors develop an improved interval analysis method by combining the interval constraint‐propagation (ICP) algorithm with the Krawczyk–Moore test. Numerical tests of IEEE distribution systems at different scales showed that their method outperformed conventional ICP methods.
Gaia-DR2 extended kinematical maps
Authors: López-Corredoira M. , Garzón F. , Wang H.-F. , Sylos Labini F. , Nagy R. , Chrobáková Ž. , Chang J. , Villarroel B.
Published: January 2020

Context.In our Paper I, by using statistical deconvolution methods, extended kinematics maps ofGaia-DR2 data have been produced in a range of heliocentric distances that are a factor of two to three larger than those analyzed previously by theGaiaCollaboration with the same data. It added the range of Galactocentric distances between 13 kpc and 20 kpc to the previous maps.

Aims.Here, we investigate the dynamical effects produced by different mechanisms that can explain the radial and vertical components of these extended kinematic maps, including a decomposition of bending and breathing of the vertical components. This paper as a whole tries to be a compendium of different dynamical mechanisms whose predictions can be compared to the kinematic maps.

Methods.Using analytical methods or simulations, we are able to predict the main dynamical factors and compare them to the predictions of the extended kinematic maps ofGaia-DR2.

Results.The gravitational influence of Galactic components that are different from the disk, such as the long bar or bulge, the spiral arms, or a tidal interaction with Sagittarius dwarf galaxy, may explain some features of the velocity maps, especially in the inner parts of the disk. However, they are not sufficient in explaining the most conspicuous gradients in the outer disk. Vertical motions might be dominated by external perturbations or mergers, although a minor component may be due to a warp whose amplitude evolves with time. Here, we show with two different methods, which analyze the dispersion of velocities, that the mass distribution of the disk is flared. Despite these partial explanations, the main observed features can only be explained in terms of out-of-equilibrium models, which are either due to external perturbers or to the fact that the disk has not had time to reach equilibrium since its formation.
APEX observations of ortho-H2D+ towards dense cores in the Orion B9 filament
Authors: Miettinen O.
Published: January 2020

Context. Initial conditions and very early stages of star formation can be probed through spectroscopic observations of deuterated molecular species

Aims. We aim to determine the ortho-H2D+ properties (e.g. column density and fractional abundance with respect to H2) in a sample of dense cores in the Orion B9 star-forming filament, and to compare those with the previously determined source characteristics, in particular with the gas kinetic temperature, [N2D+]/[N2H+] deuterium fractionation, and level of CO depletion.

Methods. We used the Atacama Pathfinder EXperiment (APEX) telescope to observe the 372 GHz o-H2D+(JKa, Kc = 11, 0−11, 1) line towards three prestellar cores and three protostellar cores in Orion B9. We also employed our previous APEX observations of C17O, C18O, N2H+, and N2D+ line emission, and 870 μm dust continuum emission towards the target sources.

Results. The o-H2D+(11, 0−11, 1) line was detected in all three prestellar cores, but in only one of the protostellar cores. The corresponding o-H2D+ abundances were derived to be ~ (12−30) × 10−11 and ~ 6 × 10−11. Two additional spectral lines, DCO+(5−4) and N2H+(4−3), were detected in the observed frequency bands with high detection rates of 100 and 83%, respectively. We did not find any significant correlations among the explored parameters, although our results are mostly consistent with theoretical expectations. Also, the Orion B9 cores were found to be consistent with the relationship between theo-H2D+ abundance and gas temperature obeyed by other low-mass dense cores. The o-H2D+ abundance was found to decrease as the core evolves.

Conclusions. The o-H2D+ abundances in the Orion B9 cores are in line with those found in other low-mass dense cores and larger than derived for high-mass star-forming regions. The higher o-H2D+ abundance in prestellar cores compared to that in cores hosting protostars is to be expected from chemical reactions where higher concentrations of gas-phase CO and elevated gas temperature accelerate the destruction of H2D+. The validity of using the [o-H2D+]/[N2D+] abundance ratio as an evolutionary indicator, which has been proposed for massive clumps, remains to be determined when applied to these target cores. Similarly, the behaviour of the [o-H2D+]/[DCO+] ratio as the source evolves was found to be ambiguous. Still larger samples and observations of additional deuterated species are needed to explore these potential evolutionary indicators further. The low radial velocity of the line emission from one of the targeted prestellar cores, SMM 7 (~ 3.6 km s−1 versus the systemic Orion B9 velocity of ~ 9 km s−1), suggests that it is a chance superposition seen towards Orion B9. Overall, as located in a dynamic environment of the Orion B molecular cloud, the Orion B9 filament provides an interesting target system to investigate the deuterium-based chemistry, and further observations of species like para-H2D+ and D2H+ would be of particular interest.
Non-thermal desorption of complex organic molecules
Authors: Dartois E. , Chabot M. , Bacmann A. , Boduch P. , Domaracka A. , Rothard H.
Published: January 2020

Aims. Methanol ice is embedded in interstellar ice mantles present in dense molecular clouds. We aim to measure the sputtering efficiencies starting from different ice mantles of varying compositions experimentally, in order to evaluate their potential impact on astrochemical models. The sputtering yields of complex organic molecules is of particular interest, since few mechanisms are efficient enough to induce a significant feedback to the gas phase.

Methods. We irradiated ice film mixtures made of methanol and carbon dioxide of varying ratios with swift heavy ions in the electronic sputtering regime. We monitored the evolution of the infrared spectra as well as the species released to the gas phase with a mass spectrometer. Methanol (12C) and isotopically labelled 13C-methanol were used to remove any ambiguity on the measured irradiation products.

Results. The sputtering of methanol embedded in carbon dioxide ice is an efficient process leading to the ejection of intact methanol in the gas phase. We establish that when methanol is embedded in a carbon-dioxide-rich mantle exposed to cosmic rays, a significant fraction (0.2–0.3 in this work) is sputtered as intact molecules. The sputtered fraction follows the time-dependent bulk composition of the ice mantle, the latter evolving with time due to the radiolysis-induced evolution of the bulk. If methanol is embedded in a carbon dioxide ice matrix, as the analyses of the spectral shape of the CO2 bending mode observations in some lines of sight suggest, the overall methanol sputtering yield is higher than if embedded in a water ice mantle. The sputtering is increased by a factor close to the dominant ice matrix sputtering yield, which is about six times higher for pure carbon dioxide ice when compared to water ice. These experiments are further constraining the cosmic-ray-induced ice mantle sputtering mechanisms important role in the gas-phase release of complex organic molecules from the interstellar solid phase.
A low cost solution to monitor environmental parameters in industrial area perimeters
Authors: Patrascoiu Nicolae
Published: January 2020

The monitoring of environmental parameters in active industrial areas where there exist potential sources of pollution, and even more so in the area of decommissioned or closure mining activities, is very important from the point of view of prevention of environmental accidents. In this paper, we propose a solution for the monitoring of the environmental parameters with the local acquisition and processing of the data and the transmission of alarm signals to a higher hierarchical level through the use of radio communications. A flexible hardware structure and software development concept are presented to be integrated into the national air quality monitoring network.
Accident sites management using drones
Authors: Gamulescu Oliviu Mihnea , Rosca Sebastian Daniel , Panaite Fabian , Costandoiu Alin , Riurean Simona
Published: January 2020

Nowadays, finding a way to quickly respond to industrial accidents due to human errors or unforeseen situation is high, for example in the petrochemical industry where are handled with toxic and flammable substances, is a priority for the safe coordination of rescue teams based on-real time knowledge of the situation on the ground. Thus, the rapid identification of potential victims, the prevision of post-deflagration work space and the prevention of the new emergencies to limit damage should become a priority. In this paper we propose a quickly solution for rescue intervention based on use of the drone equipped with camera and sensors network capable of transmitting data in real time over the post-explosive environmental conditions to command center for the rapid identification of victims both in open and closed spaces. The paper presents the methods of using drones to explore and identify accident sites. There are modelled and simulated the control system and the image identification unit.
Assessing the impact sensitivity of explosives using the BHF-12A equipment
Authors: Rădeanu Cristian , Rus Daniela Carmen , Jitea Ilie Ciprian , Miron Claudia , Vasilescu Gabriel
Published: January 2020

The paper presents the results of the theoretical and practical research on the development of the technical and methodological infrastructure for assessing the safety parameter regarding the sensitivity to impact of explosives for civil use in order to increase the degree of security in their handling and use. The currently used method for determining the sensitivity to impact is based on the provisions of harmonized European Standard SR EN 13631-4. Expression of the results implies a particular experience of the research team, the conclusion of the test being in the form of a qualitative response reaction/non reaction to different energies (J) applied to the explosive samples, based on observed effects such as: smoke, explosion noise, flame / spark with or without combustion traces on the subassembly of the specialized test equipment. In order to carry out in good conditions the installation, use and maintenance of the specialized equipment for assessing the susceptibility of the tested substances to impact stimuli, the working procedure of the Department of Explosives and Pyrotechnic Products was elaborated and implemented, PL-04 working procedure with the designation “Working procedure for the installation, use and maintenance of BFH-12A type equipment designed to assess the sensitivity of test substances to impact stimuli”.
Considerations regarding the specific tests applicable to electric motors with type of protection flameproof enclosure „d” and type of protection increased safety
Authors: Fotău Dragoş , Rad Marcel , Sălăşan Diana
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this paper is to present the importance of the specific tests for electric motors with type of protection flameproof enclosure „d” and type of protection increased safety „e” designed to be used in explosive atmosphere.

Most of the equipment operating in potentially explosive atmospheres is represented by electric motors, which in most situations act on various other elements (e.g. pumps, valves, fans etc.).

Even if electric motors for explosive atmospheres are designed and manufactured following some of the same principles as the ones used for other electric machinery, they have certain particularities related to their field of use. Thus, a series of specific restrictions and tests are required to be considered in their case.

In order to verify explosion protection, the representative samples made available by explosion-protected equipment manufacturers are tested under the most unfavorable conditions that may occur in operation.
Increasing the occupational health and safety level by using specialized software
Authors: Morar Marius Simion , Păsculescu Vlad Mihai , Cioară Cristian Raul , Băbuţ Andrada Denisa
Published: January 2020

Worldwide, but also at European Union level, the mining industry is subject to legislative and technical restrictions. For mining coal from underground is used a complex network of horizontal, vertical and inclined mine workings aiming at transporting and exhausting coal at the surface. In every mine unit, very important is the ventilation network, used for ensuring the oxygen for workers, for diluting explosive and/or toxic gases and for exhausting heat and humidity form the underground. Coal mining involves the risk of spontaneous combustion which, besides methane accumulations and improper ventilation, represents the main source generating work accidents, sometimes resulting in human losses. The current article proposes an analysis of the potentially explosive and/or toxic atmosphere for a longwall with undermined coal bed and of the use of specialized software for increasing the underground safety level by mining ventilation improvement.
Modelling the occupational exposure of workers to certain hazardous chemicals
Authors: Păsculescu Vlad Mihai , Ghicioi Emilian , Păsculescu Dragoş , Suciu Mircea
Published: January 2020

Hazardous substances are considered to be liquids, gases or solids which are of risk for the health and safety of workers and they may be found in almost all workplaces, including in SME’s. Hazardous substances include chemical agents, but also biological ones, such as bacteria, viruses, mould etc. Most chemicals used in the industry present risk for the workers, depending on their physico-chemical properties. Directive 2012/18/EU is the legal act which regulates the chemical substances field within the Member States, regulation dealing with the control of hazards involving dangerous substances which may lead to major accidents. In Romania, Law 59 dated April 2016 on controlling the hazard of major accidents caused by hazardous substances evaluates “hazardous chemicals”, describing the risk for people and regulating concentrations of such substances. By using the commercially available Phast consequence modelling package, within this study were modelled leaks of several chemical substances used in the industry, in order to estimate their hazardous influence extent. The current article is a significant work on modelling of discharge and atmospheric dispersion of hazardous substances using state-of-the-art consequence modelling software. Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPG) are used as reference exposure levels within the present study. Output data of computational modelling are significantly influenced by input parameters. In this regard, the effects of the latter for ensuring robustness of the simulation and for identifying improvements have proven to be necessary.
Numerical simulation for determining detonation parameters of explosive substances using EXPLO5 thermo-chemical prediction software
Authors: Vasilescu Gabriel , Kovacs Attila , Gheorghiosu Edward , Garaliu Bogdan , Ilcea Gabriel
Published: January 2020

The article presents the theoretical and practical research results regarding the development of the IT and methodological infrastructure for assessing the parameters which define explosive substances. The software us intended for estimating, based on the chemical composition of substances, parameters which define such substances (detonation velocity, detonation energy, detonation pressure etc.), as well as for determining the probability of explosion. EXPLO5 is a specialized software which allows to solve thermo-dynamic equations between different reaction products in order to determine the balance composition, having incorporated a filtering algorithm for estimating Jones-Wilkins-Lee (JWL) state equations coefficients which are used for calculating the detonation energy of explosives. For the proper performance of pilot tests of numerical simulations upon certain representative types of explosives (civil use explosives and double-use explosives: civil and military) there have been taken into account the special characteristics of EXPLO5 provided by the EOS BKW (BKW standard with set of BKWN constants and BKW EOS modified with the set of constants and volumes BKWN-M) and EXP-6 EOS function which is based more on theoretical concepts.
Particularities regarding the evaluation of large equipment for explosive atmospheres
Authors: Pupazan Gabriela , Csaszar Tiberiu , Andris Adriana
Published: January 2020

For placing electrical equipment that is protected by pressurized casings type of protection on the European market and for its use in spaces classified as explosive atmospheres, they must be evaluated and tested in accordance to relevant standards. The paper aims at presenting the peculiarities regarding the evaluation of large-scale equipment for explosive atmospheres. The first part of the paper refers to general requirements for large electrical equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres. The requirements of pressurized casings type of protection and its technical principle of protection are shown in Part Two. As a conclusion, it has been pointed out that the disadvantage of energy consumed to provide protection to explosion provides the benefit of protection to explosion for large or complex structure equipment for which no other protection to explosion method can be applied.
The analysis of the technological and professional danger factors specific to the works of exploitation of useful rocks from quarries, which can generate risk of accident and / or technological breakdown
Authors: Kovacs Attila , Bordoş Sorin , Garaliu-Buşoi Bogdan , Miron Claudia , Stănilă Sorina
Published: January 2020

The exploitation of ore deposits or useful rocks, surface operations, implies the application of rigorous technologies regarding the configuration of the operating steps, the safety berms and the slopes, as well as the access ways to working front. The required measures to carry out drilling, shooting and evacuation activities involve both issues related to technological security and safety and health at work for the personnel involved in these activities, mining establishments being required to draw up appropriate instructions for the situation on the ground, covering both technological and SSH issues. In some situations, accidents or technological failures have occurred due to the failure of fully implement these provisions which, sometimes, have also resulted in human casualties. The paper aims at presenting 2 case studies to which INCD INSEMEX Petrosani carried out technical and scientific expertise for the produced events.
The use of numerical models as a modern tool in fire investigation
Authors: Şuvar Marius Cornel , Munteanu Laurenţiu , Nicola Aurelian
Published: January 2020

Investigating the fire type events is characterized by a high degree of complexity, due to the fact that it has to find answers to aspects coming from multidisciplinary fields: technical-scientific, legal, organizational, psychological, etc. The management of the findings, the analyzed samples, and the resulting data implies a series of complex activities, based on the use of advanced procedures and techniques.

Fire investigation aims to determine the source of ignition and all the components that contribute to define the cause of the fire, to assess the motivations of the involved persons and to decipher the mechanism of heat transfer or burning processes that describes the propagation and development of a fire.

Often, in order to understand the mechanism of the pyrogenic phenomenon, the following approaches are used in the current practice: technical-scientific expertises, reconstruction of the event on the field or in the laboratory, sample analysis, and, last but not least, computer simulations.

This paper aims to highlight the role of the numerical models used in the field of fire safety, respectively in the elaboration of the post-event, technical-scientific expertises, by presenting some results obtained from the computer simulations, used to substantiate the fire mechanism and to formulate the conclusions.
β-Blocker-Intoxikation – auch im Zeitalter von ECMO eine echte Herausforderung für die Notfall- und Intensivmedizin
Authors: Schäflein Nathalie , Wengenmayer Tobias , Bode Christoph , Busch Hans-Joerg , Staudacher Dawid , Duerschmied Daniel
Published: January 2020

Eine 38-jährige Frau beging in suizidaler Absicht eine Mischintoxikation mit führender β-Blocker-Intoxikation in letaler Dosis. Bereits bei Auffinden der Patientin bestand eine schwere Kreislaufinsuffizienz, die mit Katecholaminunterstützung nur ungenügend behoben werden konnte. Aus diesem Grund kam es rasch zu einer Reanimationssituation infolge pulsloser elektrischer Aktivität (PEA) bzw. Asystolie durch die induzierte Kardioplegie. Mithilfe von kardiopulmonaler (CPR) und extrakorporaler Reanimation (ECLS, extracorporal life support) sowie leitlinienadaptierter Therapie der Intoxikation, insbesondere Inotropiesteigerung, die über β-Rezeptoren-unabhängige Mechanismen erzielt wird, konnte die schwere Kardioplegie überwunden werden. Nach zunächst erfreulicher Entwicklung verstarb die Patientin im Verlauf an irreversiblen thrombembolischen Komplikationen.
Überwachung der Strahlenexposition im OP mit Echtzeitmessungen: Möglichkeiten und Grenzen
Authors: Pedraza de Leistl Maria Consuelo , Silber Martin , Knez Peter , Adili Farzin
Published: January 2020

Hintergrund Die Überwachung von strahlenexponiertem Personal erfolgt in Deutschland mit amtlichen Personendosimetern. Kommerziell erhältliche Echtzeitdosimeter (EZD) lassen sich als Strahlenschutzdosimeter verwenden. Sie werden über der Röntgenschürze getragen und zeigen im Sekundenabstand die aktuell gemessene Ortsdosis an. Diese zeitnahe Einschätzung der Strahlenexposition ermöglicht es dem OP-Personal, durch ein angepasstes Verhalten die eigene Strahlenbelastung während der Eingriffe zu reduzieren. Ziel unserer Arbeit war die Prüfung der Messgenauigkeit der EZD und die Bestimmung der Streustrahlung für einzelne Mitglieder des Operationsteams.

Material und Methoden In einem gefäßchirurgischen Operationssaal, ausgestattet mit einem C-Bogen, wurden Messungen der Strahlendosis des OP-Teams mithilfe eines EZD-Systems prospektiv durchgeführt. Zunächst wurde die Kalibrierung der EZD am OP-Tisch mit einem Wasserphantom überprüft. Danach wurden Messungen während gefäßchirurgischer Operationen durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse Die Messwerte der einzelnen EZD zeigten bei der Kalibrierung deutliche Abweichungen untereinander, deshalb wurde für jedes EZD ein Korrekturfaktor errechnet. Es wurden insgesamt 55 Eingriffe bei 53 Patienten untersucht. Die durchschnittliche Dosis für den EZD-Operateur bei der EVAR (endovascular aortic repair, n = 11) betrug 9 ± 9 µSv (Bereich 3,6 – 50 µSv) und bei der TEVAR (thoracic EVAR, n = 6) 35 ± 49 µSv (3,8 – 190,3 µSv). Bei den perkutanen transluminalen Angioplastien (PTA) der Beckengefäße und der unteren Extremitäten (n = 20) lag die durchschnittliche Dosis für den EZD-Operateur bei 7 ± 7 µSv (1,2 – 35 µSv) und bei den Angiografien der unteren Extremitäten (n = 12) bei 2 ± 3 µSv (0,2 – 15,9 µSv). Die Echtzeitdosimetrie lieferte Daten, die beim OP-Team mit zu einem veränderten Verhalten im Operationssaal führte.

Schlussfolgerung Da die bei der amtlichen Dosimetrie ermittelten Dosiswerte i. d. R. sehr klein sind, ist eine Optimierung des Verhaltens und damit des Strahlenschutzes mit diesen Dosiswerten nicht möglich. Die mit Strahlenschutzdosimetern ermittelten und in der neuen Strahlenschutzverordnung (StrlSchV) definierten Dosisrichtwerte sind dafür besser geeignet. Ein Vergleich der Messdaten, die mit den EZD ermittelt wurden, ist nur durch eine im Vorfeld vorgenommene Kalibrierung möglich.
Straight line closure of congenital macrostomia
Authors: Schwarz Richard , Sharma Digvijay
Published: January 2020

The results of patients operated on by Nepal Cleft Lip and Palate Association (NECLAPA) surgeons for congenital macrostomia were prospectively studied between January 2000 and December 2002. There were four males and three females with a median age of 10 years. Three had an associated branchial arch syndrome. In all patients an overlapping repair of orbicularis oris was done. Six patients had a straight line closure with excellent cosmetic results and one a Z-plasty with a more obvious scar. All had a normal appearing commissure. Overlapping orbicularis repair with straight line skin closure for this rare congenital anomaly is recommended.
A simple method for immobilising the upper limb following groin or abdominal flaps for soft tissue defects in the hand
Authors: Kamath Jagannath B. , Sahu Chitta Ranjan , Joshua Thangam Verghese
Published: January 2020

Abdominal and groin flaps are the main workhorse for soft tissue defects in hand injuries. A simple and easy method is being described for immobilising the upper limb following abdominal and groin flaps for soft tissue defects of the hand using commonly available clavicular braces. This is devoid of all the problems of immobilisation using the common methods such as adhesive plasters and pin fixators and has its own advantages.
Role of free tissue transfer in management of chronic venous ulcer
Authors: Reddy K. Murali Mohan , Reddy D. Mukunda
Published: January 2020

Most of the venous ulcers will heal with the treatment of primary venous problem. But a few patients will have refractory, recurrent chronic venous ulcers causing inconvenience to the patients in terms of loss of productive working hours. There is no standard method available for treatment of this chronic problem. Our modality of treatment includes wide excision of ulcer, ligation of incompetent perforators and coverage of defect with well vascularized tissue by free tissue transfer. We have analyzed this form of treatment in five patients with satisfactory result.
Forked fascio-cutaneous supraclavicular artery flap for burned shoulder
Authors: Alfano C , James Kanjoor Roy
Published: January 2020

Deep burns of the shoulder region quite often result in the exposure of the joint. Either a partially or completely exposed shoulder joint surrounded by burnt tissue presents difficulty for coverage by local tissues. A case of deep burn with partially exposed joint, where successful coverage was carried out by a local fascio-cutaneous supra clavicular artery forked flap is presented. The flap was based on two perforators from the peripheral distribution area of the supra-clavicular artery and proved to be a good flap in such circumstances
Plastic surgery in rural area: A report
Authors: Alfano C , Pawan Agarwal , Kain R , Raina V K
Published: January 2020

Most of our rural population does not seek the expensive specialist service of distant city hospitals due to social or financial reasons. Existing health system in rural area is not efficient enough to meet the health demands of such vast population. There is only one Government Plastic surgery unit covering the population of 40 lacs leading to huge backlog of patients waiting for reconstructive surgery. To evade this situation a team of Plastic surgeons from Government Medical College Jabalpur goes to rural areas twice a year and has operated in on nine occasions since last 4 years.

The activities and experiences of the last nine visits are reported here.
Nevus Sebaceous: Response to Erbium YAG laser ablation
Authors: Aithal Aithal
Published: January 2020

The potential of nevus sebaceous to undergo malignant change has prompted many physicians to undertake surgical excision of these lesions. Debulking surgery would leave an ugly scar, cosmetically not acceptable. Our aim was to find the therapeutic outcome and the final cosmetic appearance with Erbium YAG Laser ablation. A 19 year old boy with histologically proven Nevus Sebaceous over the forehead was taken up for ablation using Erbium YAG Laser. We also analyzed the post-operative results in another 6 patients who underwent Laser ablation of Nevus Sebaceous. All 7 patients did well, with no signs of recurrence. Also, all of them had a scar over the ablated area, which was cosmetically acceptable to them. Surgical excision with or without flap rotation, electro fulguration and Cryotherapy are other modalities to treat these lesions. However, they are either too expensive or leave a telltale scar. Erbium YAG Laser ablation is safe, effective and cosmetically acceptable in the treatment of Nevus Sebaceous.
Sweat gland tumor (Eccrine Porocarcinoma) of scalp: A rare tumor
Authors: Roshani R Rana , Sachin S Verma , Vinita A Puri , Amresh S Baliarsing
Published: January 2020

Eccrine Porocarcinoma is a rare neoplasm arising from sweat glands. It was first described by Pinkus and Mehregan as 'Epidermotropic eccrine carcinoma'. It may occur de novo or as a malignant transformation of an eccrine poroma. It is commonly found in older age group and in the lower extremities. Clinically, it may present as a verrucous plaque, polypoid growth or an ulcerative lesion of long duration. Local recurrence and metastasis to skin, lymphnodes, viscera, and bone may occur. Treatment is wide local excision. Metastatic lesions can be treated with chemotherapy.

We report a case of eccrine porocarcinoma of the scalp in a 50 years old female who presented to us with a bosselated, firm, painless, non-tender, freely mobile swelling over left fronto-parietal region of 12 years duration. It was excised and histopathological diagnosis was Eccrine Porocarcinoma. In literature, scalp porocarcinoma is a very rare tumor.
Bi-lamellar lower eyelid reconstruction with superficial temporal artery island flap and hard palate muco-periosteal free graft
Authors: Jacob V , Mokal N J , Deshpande S N
Published: January 2020

Three cases of single stage, bi-lamellar reconstruction of full-thickness, horizontal, lateral three-quarter lower eyelid defects using pedicled island flaps of adjacent vascular territories and hard palate muco-periosteal graft are being presented.

All cases were done for Basal Cell Carcinoma of the region. While the island flaps allowed for a simple, single stage reconstruction of the external lamella, the hard palate muco-periosteal graft, by virtue of its inherent resilience and a rich glandular component, took well and provided for a good functional and aesthetic result.

The follow-up ranged from 6 to 40 months and the final result has been oncologically, functionally and aesthetically satisfactory.