Dimensional Analysis and Optimization of IsoTruss Structures with Outer Longitudinal Members in Uniaxial Compression.

This study analyzes the buckling behavior of 8-node IsoTruss structures with outer longitudinal members. IsoTruss structures are light-weight composite lattice columns with diverse structural applications, including the potential to replace rebar cages in reinforced concrete. In the current work, finite element analyses are used to predict the critical buckling loads of structures with various dimensions.

[Carbon monoxide and cyanide gas poisoning in fires].

Acute poisoning caused by inhalation of carbon monoxide and other toxic substances is the primary cause of death in fires and may occur without signs of external injury. Life-threatening symptoms may arise immediately, as in cyanide poisoning, or over a longer period, as in carbon monoxide poisoning. Severe inhalation injury may also occur independently of systemic poisoning and should always be suspected in patients with soot on their face and in the respiratory tract, or hoarseness and wheezing.

Bronchial wheezing predicts inflammation and respiratory failure in fire smoke victims.

Background: Acute fire smoke inhalation injury involves inflammatory mediators whose roles are poorly understood. We carried out a prospective observational study of fire smoke victims to identify clinical and biochemical markers that may predict pulmonary dysfunction and investigated possible correlations between dysfunction and cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and blood.

Methods: Forty patients with respiratory and/or neurological symptoms following acute fire smoke inhalation had pulmonary function tests and blood gas analyses performed on admission, at discharge, and after 3 months.

Manual ventilation and open suction procedures contribute to negative pressures in a mechanical lung model.

Introduction: Removal of pulmonary secretions in mechanically ventilated patients usually requires suction with closed catheter systems or flexible bronchoscopes. Manual ventilation is occasionally performed during such procedures if clinicians suspect inadequate ventilation. Suctioning can also be performed with the ventilator entirely disconnected from the endotracheal tube (ETT).