Evaluation of sodium boiling models using KNS-37 LOF experiments

The computational codes used in the evaluation of the ESFR-SMART reactor performance and specifically their sodium boiling models are assessed using two KNS-37 LOF experiments, i.e. L22 and L29 tests, where boiling onset and two-phase flow regime up to dry-out occurred. The well-equipped KNS-37 experimental facility provided very valuable information for understanding the physical phenomena occurring in a 37-pin subassembly under LOF conditions, as well as experimental data to be used for computational tools validation. NATOF-2D, SAS-SFR, TRACE, ASTEC-Na, CATHARE-2 & CATHARE-3 and NEPTUNE_CFD codes have been used in this exercise in order to compare the various boiling models and conclude on the advantages and limitations of them based on the comparison against the experimental data. Beyond boiling onset, the various sodium two-phase flow approaches determine the ability of the code to correctly represent the rewetting and voiding phases as well as cladding dry-out onset. A simulation performed by a CFD approach (NEPTUNE_CFD code) considering liquid-vapor interfaces by an interface-tracking method is also shown and compared with the others approaches. Conclusions on each code performance are presented where the improvements needed to solve the issues encountered are included. This paper provides a first step in the process to investigate the required evaluation of the sodium two-phase flow models able to assess the safety of new SFR core designs (e.g. low void cores) under accidental conditions such as ULOF transients.

Paris MEM: a study protocol for an effectiveness and efficiency trial on the treatment of traumatic stress in France after the 2015-16 terrorist attacks

BACKGROUND

The Paris and Nice terrorist attacks affected a thousand of trauma victims and first-line responders. Because there were concerns that this might represent the first of several attacks, there was a need to quickly enhance the local capacities to treat a large number of individuals suffering from trauma-related disorders. Since Reconsolidation Therapy (RT) is brief, relatively easy to learn, well tolerated and effective, it appeared as the ideal first-line treatment to teach to clinicians in this context.

METHODS

This study protocol is a two-arm non-randomized, multicenter controlled trial, comparing RT to treatment as usual for the treatment of trauma-related disorders. RT consists of actively recalling one's traumatic event under the influence of the ß-blocker propranolol, once a week, for 10-25 min with a therapist, over 6 consecutive weeks. This protocol evaluates the feasibility, effectiveness, and cost-utility of implementing RT as part of a large multi-center (N = 400) pragmatic trial with a one-year follow-up.

DISCUSSION

Paris MEM is the largest trial to date assessing the efficiency of RT in the aftermath of a large-scale man-made disaster. RT could possibly reinforce the therapeutic arsenal for the treatment of patients suffering from trauma-related disorders, not only for communities in western countries but also worldwide for terror- or disaster-stricken communities.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trials (ClinicalTrials.gov). June 3, 2016. NCT02789982.

A single ascending dose study of epigallocatechin gallate in healthy volunteers

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the safety, tolerability and plasma kinetic behaviour of single oral doses of 94% pure crystalline bulk epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) under fasting conditions in 60 healthy male volunteers. In each group of 10 subjects, eight received oral EGCG in single doses of 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg, 800 mg or 1600 mg, and two received placebo. Blood samples were taken at intervals until 26 h later. The area under the concentration-time curve from 0 h to infinity (AUC(0-infinity)), the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of EGCG, the time taken to reach the maximum concentration (Tmax), and the terminal elimination half-life (t1/2z) of EGCG were determined. Safety and tolerability were assessed. In each dosage group, the kinetic profile revealed rapid absorption with a one-peak plasma concentration versus time course, followed by a multiphasic decrease consisting of a distribution phase and an elimination phase. The mean AUC(0-infinity) of total EGCG varied between 442 and 10,368 ng.h/ml. The according mean Cmax values ranged from 130 to 3392 ng/ml and were observed after 1.3-2.2 h. The mean t1/2z values were seen between 1.9 and 4.6 h. Single oral doses of EGCG up to 1600 mg were safe and very well tolerated.

[Painful bruising syndrome mimicking cellulitis of the leg]

BACKGROUND

Autoerythrocyte sensitization syndrome (painful bruising syndrome) is marked by spontaneous and painful ecchymotic bruising, without any biological abnormality, occurring in women with pathological mental profile. Sometimes, when the inflammation is severe, an infectious cellulitis or muscular compression may be suspected.

CASE REPORT

A 21-year-old woman was referred for the rapid occurrence of a diffuse and painful inflammation of the right leg, with fever. The leg was red, warm, with diffuse bruising. The foot was fixed in varus equin. The biological parameters were normal. Magnetic resonance imaging showed normal muscles but modifications in the subcutaneous fat, similar to an acute cellulitis. A cutaneous biopsy showed a moderate oedema of the dermis and erythrocyte extravasation. Antibiotics were inefficient on the pain and the aspect of the lesions. Because of the efficacy of saline serum injections on the symptoms and a pathological psychological profile, an autoerythrocyte sensitization syndrome was suspected. The skin test was negative. Psychiatric evaluation revealed a severe personality disorder associated with depression. The ecchymotic lesions disappeared with adapted psychiatric treatment.

DISCUSSION

Painful bruising syndrome occurs most often in young women with various psychiatric problems. The lesions are characterized by recurrent, painful, swollen and bleeding bruises in any part of the body. Fever, abdominal pain and external bleeding are possible. Haematological and immunological findings are usually normal. The histology of early lesions reveals oedema of the dermis and modest perivascular infiltrate, whereas extravasated erythrocytes appear later. The magnetic resonance imaging aspect of the lesions has never been described. Abnormalities of the subcutaneous fat are similar to those of acute cellulitis, expressing the inflammation process secondary to the ecchymoses. The syndrome results from complex somatic and psychological mechanisms. Many drugs were tried for the treatment of the disease, without any significant improvement.